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

ree-ah mek

Noun, Proper Noun

Rear Mech is short for rear derailleur, which is a device used to move the chain between sprockets on a multi-geared bicycle.

Example usage: I need to adjust the tension on the Rear Mech to get the chain to shift properly.

Most used in: Mountain bike and road cycling communities.

Most used by: Experienced cyclists who regularly maintain their own bikes.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 2/10

Also see: Derailleur, Rear Derailleur, Rear Gear Mech, Rear Gear Mechanism,

.

What is a Rear Mech?

A rear mech, also known as a rear derailleur, is a component of a bicycle drivetrain. It is responsible for shifting the chain between different sprockets on the rear cassette. It is typically actuated by a shifter on the handlebars, and is connected to the shifter by a cable.

The rear mech is an important component for anyone looking to upgrade their bike or build a custom drivetrain. It is available in many different sizes and styles, from entry-level to high-end models. It is also a popular component to upgrade, as it can greatly improve the performance of a bicycle.

In the U.S., over 60 million adults ride bicycles, and the demand for bicycle parts and components is increasing. Rear mechs are among the most popular components to purchase, with over 1 million sold in the U.S. each year.

.

The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Rear Mech'

The term “rear mech”, which is a short form of “rear derailleur”, is a staple part of cycling jargon. It is used to describe a type of bicycle component that is used to change the gear ratio of the bicycle. The rear mech was first used in the late 1950s in the United Kingdom, and has since become an important part of cycling technology.

The rear mech is a device that is operated by the rider’s feet. It is connected to the chain of the bicycle and allows the rider to change gears while riding. The rear mech uses a combination of springs, pulleys, and levers to move the chain between different gears. This allows the rider to adjust the gear ratio of the bicycle, which can be used to increase or decrease the speed of the bike.

Since its introduction in the 1950s, the rear mech has become a crucial part of cycling technology. It is now used on almost all modern bicycles, and is an essential component for any cyclist who wants to be able to adjust their gear ratio while riding. It is also an important part of competitive cycling, as it allows riders to adjust their gear ratio to suit the terrain they are riding on.

The term “rear mech” has been part of cycling jargon since the 1950s, and is now a fundamental part of cycling technology. It is an essential part of any cyclist’s arsenal, and is used to change the gear ratio of the bicycle while riding.

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