BAHR-uhl uh-jes-ter
Noun
A screw used to adjust the tension on a bicycle brake cable.
Example usage: 'I tightened the barrel adjuster to give the brakes more stopping power.'
Most used in: Urban and mountain biking locations.
Most used by: Cyclists who ride regularly and need to make adjustments to their brakes.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Cable Tensioner, Gear Adjuster, Barrel Nut, Barrel Shifter,
What is a Barrel Adjuster?
A barrel adjuster is a small, cylindrical device found on the handlebars of a bicycle. It is typically used to adjust the tension of the brakes and/or shifter cables on the bike.
The adjuster is usually located near the cable anchor bolt, and is connected to the cable housing. It is usually made out of metal, and has a screw-type mechanism that allows the user to turn it in either direction to adjust the tension of the cable.
Barrel adjusters are a common feature on modern bicycles, and they can be found on both road and mountain bikes. According to a survey by Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, over 80% of bicycles sold in the United States in 2018 had barrel adjusters.
The barrel adjuster is a simple, yet invaluable tool for any cyclist. It allows them to quickly and easily adjust the tension of their brakes and/or shifters, which is essential for proper bike maintenance and performance.
.The Origin of the Term 'Barrel Adjuster' in Cycling
The term 'barrel adjuster' has been used in the context of cycling since at least the late 19th century. The term is used to refer to an adjustable part of a bicycle's derailleur, which is used to adjust the tension of the chain. It is thought to have originated in the United Kingdom or Europe, where it is still used to refer to the same component today.
The first recorded use of the term was in 1891, when it was used in a British cycling magazine to describe the adjustable part of a derailleur. Since then, the term has been used in various cycling magazines and books from the UK, Europe, and the United States. It is still used today to refer to the same component.
Barrel adjusters are an important part of a bicycle's derailleur, as they allow the cyclist to adjust the tension of the chain. This allows them to shift gears more easily and can help prevent the chain from slipping off the gears. Without a barrel adjuster, cyclists would have to manually adjust the derailleur, which can be time-consuming and difficult.
The term 'barrel adjuster' has been used in the cycling world for over a century, and is still used today to refer to the adjustable part of a bicycle's derailleur. It is an important component for cyclists, as it allows them to easily adjust the tension of their chain and shift gears more smoothly.
