Wear analysis of bicycle chain joints
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.28985/1526.jsc.01Keywords:
Chain Drive, wear, bicycle drive, tribology, sustainability, track bike, e-bikeAbstract
The rapid electrification of bicycles has fundamentally transformed drivetrain dynamics, leading to significantly higher loads on mechanical components such as chains. Unlike in traditional bicycles, where wear and efficiency losses primarily concerned competitive riders, the widespread adoption of e-bikes and other high-performance bicycles has made these issues critical for everyday cycling. Increased torque and sustained power assistance place unprecedented mechanical and tribological demands on drivetrains, making durability, friction reduction, and efficiency vital considerations for both manufacturers and users. As a result, research and testing methods that were once used mainly for industrial chain applications are increasingly relevant for the cycling industry. This study addresses these emerging challenges by adapting proven methodologies from mechanical and automotive engineering. Through controlled laboratory testing, bicycle chains and lubricants can be evaluated under standardized conditions that replicate real-world usage scenarios. Such testing does not only enable precise comparisons between different chain and lubricant systems but also provides insight into the fundamental wear mechanisms and efficiency losses occurring under varying loads, speeds, and environmental conditions. The approach supports the tailored design of drivetrain components for diverse cycling applications, including urban e-bikes, high-speed track bicycles, and rugged mountain bikes. By bridging disciplines, this work paves the way for innovations that enhance performance, reliability, and sustainability in modern cycling. A model procedure is presented here based on three exemplary high-speed track-bike scenarios. The focus is on the implementation of the experimental strategy and the derivation of the methodology.
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