FRIE-whee-uhl
Noun, Verb
Freewheel is a type of bicycle drivetrain that allows the rear wheel to rotate without propelling the bike forward.
Example usage: I switched to a freewheel so I can coast when I don't need to pedal.
Most used in: Mountain biking and cycling in hilly areas.
Most used by: Experienced cyclists who need to use their gears strategically.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
What is a Freewheel?
A freewheel is a type of bicycle drivetrain component. It is a device on the rear wheel that allows the bicycle to coast without the pedals turning. It is an integral part of the drivetrain and is connected to the rear hub. When the cyclist stops pedaling, the freewheel will disengage and the bike will coast.
A freewheel is an important component for cyclists, allowing them to rest their legs when coasting or going downhill. It can also help cyclists conserve energy and keep a more consistent speed. This is especially useful for long rides and races, where conserving energy can be the difference between a good and bad performance.
The freewheel has been around since the late 19th century, and it is estimated that over 90% of all bicycles now have a freewheel installed. It is an essential part of the bicycle's drivetrain, and without it, the cyclist would have to continuously pedal if they wanted to move forward.
The freewheel is an important part of the bicycle's drivetrain, allowing the cyclist to rest and conserve energy. It has been around for over a century and is now an essential part of the bicycle for many riders.
The History of the Cycling Term 'Freewheel'
The term 'freewheel' first appeared in the cycling world in the late 19th century in the United Kingdom. The term was originally used to describe a specific type of gear system that allowed the cyclist to coast without pedaling. It was a revolutionary development in cycling technology that allowed cyclists to rest their legs while still moving forward.
The concept of the freewheel was first patented in 1868 by William Van Anden. His invention was a single-speed freewheel that used a ratchet and pawl mechanism. This mechanism allowed the cyclist to coast, but it was limited to one gear and did not allow for shifting between gears. The first multi-speed freewheel was invented by William Reilly in 1874. His invention allowed for shifting between multiple gears, giving cyclists more control over their speed and the terrain they could ride on.
The freewheel revolutionized cycling and made it easier and more enjoyable for riders. It allowed cyclists to rest their legs while still moving forward and gave them more control over their speed and the terrain they could ride on. The freewheel is still an important part of modern cycling and is used in all types of bicycles today.
