sprok-it
Noun
A wheel or gear with teeth that meshes with another toothed wheel or gear.
Example usage: 'The sprocket on my bike is malfunctioning.'
Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists of all skill levels.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Cog, Chainring, Drive Ring, Cassette,
What is a Sprocket in Cycling?
A sprocket is a toothed wheel used in the drivetrain of a bicycle, which is located between the chain and the rear wheel. The sprocket is driven by the chain, which turns the sprocket and in turn drives the rear wheel. The sprocket is typically made of metal, and usually has teeth that mesh with the chain.
Sprockets are important in cycling because they are the mechanism that allows the cyclist to transfer power from the pedals to the rear wheel. The sprocket’s teeth grab the chain and propel it forward, which in turn drives the rear wheel. The size of the sprocket determines how much power is transferred and how quickly the bike accelerates. A larger sprocket will transfer more power, but will require more effort from the cyclist to turn it.
Sprockets come in a variety of sizes and styles, and the type of sprocket used can vary depending on the type of cycling. Road bikes typically have a larger sprocket, while mountain bikes often have a smaller one. The number of teeth on a sprocket can also vary, with a smaller number of teeth providing more acceleration and a larger number providing more speed.
Sprockets are an important component in cycling, as they are the mechanism that allows the cyclist to transfer power from the pedals to the rear wheel. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, and the type of sprocket used can vary depending on the type of cycling. Knowing the right size and type of sprocket for your bike is essential for optimal performance.
.The Origin of the Word 'Sprocket' in Cycling
The word 'sprocket' dates back to the early 19th century and was first used in the context of cycling in 1868 to describe a wheel with teeth around the circumference for engaging a chain. The term is thought to have originated in the United States and is derived from the Middle English word 'sprokets' which means 'something small and round'.
The first sprockets were made of wood and were used to connect the pedals of a bicycle to the rear wheel. Later, they were made of metal and used to connect the chain and the rear wheel. Today, sprockets are used in a variety of cycling applications including drivetrains, derailleurs, and gear shifting.
The use of the word 'sprocket' in cycling was popularized in the 20th century when the first mass-produced bicycles came onto the market. The word is now widely used to refer to any wheel with teeth that engages a chain for the purpose of power transmission.
