CeramicSpeed Bicycle Drivetrain

dezeen reports: [edited]

Danish company CeramicSpeed has developed what could be the world's most efficient bicycle drivetrain.

The Driven drivetrain has no chain or derailleurs, making it more than 99 per cent efficient. The prior drivetrain to beat was a Shimano Dura-Ace at 97.8 per cent efficiency — or 98.37 per cent when upgraded with CeramicSpeed parts.

The Shimano Dura-Ace, like the drivetrains on most bikes, is driven by a chain. While there are many advantages to chains, they eventually stretch and wear.

In contrast, CeramicSpeed's system is connected by a carbon-fibre shaft, which turns 90 degrees from the rear wheel and pedals. On either end of the shaft are 21 low-friction ceramic bearings, which transfer torque from the rider's pedalling through the drive shaft and onto the rear cog.
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