Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

Gur shif-turs

Noun, Noun Phrase

Gear shifters are the controls used to change the gear ratio of a bicycle.

Example usage: I shifted up my gear shifters to make it easier to pedal uphill.

Most used in: Cycling communities across the world.

Most used by: Professional and recreational cyclists.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 4/10

Also see: Derailleurs, Shifters, Gear Levers, Gear Selectors, Cassette Shifters,

What are Gear Shifters?

Gear shifters are an essential component of any bicycle. They are used to change the gear ratio of the bike, allowing the rider to adjust the pedaling resistance to their preference. Gear shifters are usually located on the handlebars of the bicycle and can be either mechanical or electronic.

Mechanical gear shifters are the more traditional type and are operated by a lever or trigger mechanism. The rider can use these levers to manually shift the chain from one gear to another. Electronic gear shifters, on the other hand, are operated by a motor and can be activated with a push of a button.

Gear shifters are an important part of the cycling experience, as they allow riders to customize their ride and make it more comfortable. According to the National Bicycle Dealers Association, the average mountain bike has between 18 and 27 gear ratios, while the average road bike has between 14 and 25 gear ratios.

Using gear shifters allows riders to adjust their pedaling resistance to the terrain and conditions they are riding in. This helps to make the ride more enjoyable and efficient, as the rider can choose the gear that best suits their needs. With the right gear shifters, a cyclist can make the most out of their ride.

.

The Cycling Term 'Gear Shifters': Its Origin and History

The term 'gear shifters' has become a common term used by cyclists to refer to a device that changes the gear ratio of a bicycle. This device is used to change the speed of the bike and make it easier to climb hills. But where did this term come from and when was it first used?

The term 'gear shifters' first appeared in the early 1900s in England. It was used to refer to the handle that was used to shift the gears on a bicycle. The handle was usually located near the front of the bike and connected to the gear system. This handle was used to move the chain between different sprockets, thus changing the gear ratio.

The term 'gear shifters' has since become a common term used by cyclists to refer to the device that changes the gear ratio of a bicycle. Today, gear shifters are found on almost all bicycles and are used to make it easier to climb hills or to increase the speed of the bike. This makes cycling a much more enjoyable and efficient activity.

The term 'gear shifters' has been in use for over a century and is still used today to refer to the device that changes the gear ratio of a bicycle. Its origin dates back to the early 1900s in England, and it has since become a common term used by cyclists all over the world.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER