PAP Wonders... Drivetrain - Straight or Mixed?

PAP Wonders... is a new segment here in Pinta At Padyak. We will be wondering and discussing bikes, bike setups and other bike-related topics. In our first issue, we will be talking about the bike drivetrain. For an introduction on the bike's drivetrain, click here.

When we talk about a bike's drivetrain, common sense dictates that a straight groupset is the gold standard. A straight groupset is where all the components of the drivetrain (cranks, derailleurs, cassette, shifters and brakes) are all from the same series. By having a straight groupset, we can have the smoothest coordination between the different components for an efficient operation.

An example of a straight groupset. Pictured above is a 10-speed Dura-Ace groupset (Special Anniversary Edition).

Parts of a Bicycle: Part 5 - The Cockpit

We talked about the drivetrain of a bike in Part 4. We learned about the mechanisms that drive the bike forward. Here in Part 5, we will be talking about the cockpit. The cockpit is what connects you - the rider - to the bike. These are the contact points and related components on your bike. These include the stem, handlebar, seatpost, saddle and pedals.

Front view of the cockpit. 

Parts of a Bicycle: Part 4 - Drivetrain

From Part 3, we learned about the wheels of a bicycle. The wheels transfer the movement to the road. In this article, we will be talking about the Drivetrain of the bike. The Drivetrain is the main mechanism of the bike. It transforms the pedaling motion to the rotation of the wheels.

The Drivetrain is the main mechanism of the bike.

The Drivetrain is composed of the shifters, crankset, cassette/cogs, chain, front derailleur, rear derailleur and brakes. The big names of drivetrain manufacturers are Shimano, Sram and Campagnolo. These companies have different series for their components. Having all components from the same series is called having a "Groupset" or a "Gruppo". Although one can mix and match different components from different groupsets or different brands, there may be occasions where these would not be compatible.