An experimental approach characterizing rear bicycle derailleur systems part I: Performance test

Abstract

The derailleur system on a bicycle serves the same purpose as transmissions in motor vehicles: they provide different speed ratios for different situations. Cyclists can choose between speed and labour-saving by moving shift levers to complete a series of mechanical motions that change gears. Therefore, the shifting performance of the derailleur system is very important in designing derailleur system components. This paper proposes a systematic procedure for arranging the design steps for the derailleur system. It promises that the derailleur system components will integrate well and operate effectively. The performance test indices in the present paper can be used to judge the shifting performance during the period of shifting gears. Many design and manufacturing imperfections in products can also be found using the experimental results from performance test. Experimental procedures provide an environment that replaces subjective human 'feel' tests used in the past.