dee-ray-lur
Noun, Plural
Derailleurs are components of a bicycle drivetrain that enable chain movement from chainring to chainring.
Example usage: I need to adjust the tension on my rear derailleur.
Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists who frequently shift gears.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 2
Also see: Shifters, Gear Levers, Gear Mechs,
What Are Derailleurs?
Derailleurs are the devices used on bicycles to change gears. They allow cyclists to optimize their pedaling speed and efficiency by providing multiple gear ratios to choose from. Derailleurs are typically used on most modern bikes and are available in both mechanical and electronic formats.
Derailleurs consist of two main components: the derailleur itself and the shifter. The derailleur is a metal arm with a spring-loaded mechanism that moves the chain from one gear to another. The shifter is the device used to control the derailleur, usually a lever or knob on the handlebars. When the lever is activated, the derailleur moves the chain to a different gear.
Derailleurs are an essential part of any cyclist's setup and have become increasingly popular in recent years. According to the Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, sales of derailleurs have increased by almost 10% in the last year. This shows that more and more cyclists are recognizing the value of having multiple gears to choose from.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, having a good derailleur is essential for getting the most out of your ride. By allowing you to choose the right gear for any situation, derailleurs can help you maximize your efficiency and performance on the bike.
.The Origin of Cycling Term 'Derailleurs'
Derailleurs is a cycling term used to refer to the gear-shifting system of bicycles. The term was first used in the early 1900s in France, and is derived from the French term dérailleur, which translates to 'derailer'. The first derailleurs were designed and patented by a Frenchman named Paul de Vivie in 1905, although the idea of a gear-shifting system for bicycles had already been discussed in France as early as 1868.
The original derailleur system was a simple pulley system that allowed riders to shift between two different gear ratios. This system was further refined in the 1930s and 1940s, with the introduction of a front derailleur and a rear derailleur. The front derailleur allowed for a wider range of gear ratios, while the rear derailleur allowed for more precise gear shifting. Both of these innovations are still used on modern bicycles today.
The term 'derailleurs' is now a commonplace term in the cycling world, and is used to refer to any type of gear-shifting system. It is an essential part of any bike, and is used to help cyclists control their speed and climb hills more easily. The term has been in use for over a century, and is an important part of the language of cycling.
