Q-Rings are oval chainrings with variable gear ratios that reduce dead spot and
optimize power delivery during the pedaling stroke.
The Q-Ring chainring has two distinct zones: one with an increasing gear ratio and another
decreasing gear ratio.
The increasing gear ratio zone is where the leg muscles, during the pedaling action,
pedaling, are capable of generating their full power. The Q-Ring chainring, at that specific moment,
, increases the gear ratio by 2.6 teeth compared to the
(if we use a 53-tooth Q-Ring chainring, in the zone of maximum
ovalization, it will be equivalent to a 55.6-tooth chainring) in order to make the most of
all the power we generate and avoid wasting energy. Immediately after
passing that specific point of maximum force, the gear ratio begins to decrease
progressively until it reaches its minimum gear ratio at the dead center (in this
case, the chainring will have decreased by 2.6 teeth. Using a 53-tooth Q-Ring chainring, at
top dead center, the gear ratio will be equivalent to that of a 50.4-tooth chainring). Past
top dead center, the gear ratio gradually increases again until the next point of
maximum effort.
During one complete revolution of the pedals, the Q-Ring chainring passes through two zones of
maximum gear ratio and two minimized dead-center zones, achieving
optimized power delivery, a moderate increase in pedaling cadence
as the pedal passes through the dead center zone, and a significant reduction in the
of dead spot on the knee and muscles.
Both the maximum and minimum ranges are proportional, and their increase and
decrease are progressive. The legs do not experience force spikes; rather, the pedaling motion, in
naturally becomes smoother and more harmonious, as the chainring helps the cyclist
modulate their force and apply it where it is needed. This perfect balance between the
extreme zones ensures that the bike’s mechanical components are not strained and perceive the
Q-Ring chainring as if it were round. The chain isn’t subjected to jerks, nor does the derailleur experience
harmful tension, ensuring perfect shifting precision.
The ratio between the maximum growth and shrinkage is proportional to the
the diameter of the chainring. This ratio increases as the chainring gets larger and decreases
with smaller gear ratios, adapting the oval shape to every moment and situation
of pedaling.
