Technical Advantages

A conventional round chainring maintains the same effective gear ratio throughout each pedal revolution, even though the rider's available strength changes as the pedals turn.

Because the gearing must be manageable during the weaker beginning of the downstroke, the rider is left undergeared as their strength increases.

CrownRing addresses this limitation with two effective gearing regions, timed to make better use of the rider's changing strength.

Its specially shaped chainring begins with lower gearing, then progressively increases the ratio during the stronger portion of the downstroke.

Making Better Use of Your Force

A smaller round chainring makes pedaling easier, but also reduces the distance the chain travels with each revolution.

CrownRing can begin with the easier gearing of a smaller chainring while producing greater overall chain travel through its changing radius.

As the rider's strength increases, the crown raises the effective gearing, allowing more chain to be drawn during the stronger portion of the downstroke.

This makes it possible to use the rider's additional strength to contribute to forward motion without requiring a higher starting ratio.

Timing Matters

CrownRing maintains its lower effective gearing through the first 90 degrees of the downstroke.

During the second 90 degrees, the crown progressively increases the gearing, reaching its maximum near 135 degrees before returning toward the lower ratio.

This concentrates the increase in gearing where the rider is better able to use it, rather than distributing the change evenly throughout the stroke.

Different Riders, Different Crowns

Not everyone pedals the same way. Some riders prefer a fast cadence, while others apply greater force at a slower pace.

CrownRing offers different crown sizes to accommodate these differences.

• Crown 1: A modest change in gearing, suited to riders who prefer a faster cadence.
• Crown 2: A moderate change in gearing, intended for everyday riding and varied terrain.
• Crown 3: A larger change, intended for riders who favor slower, more powerful pedaling.

The objective is not to force everyone into the same pedaling style, but to provide gearing that better matches the individual rider.

A Natural Pedaling Experience

Prototype riding has shown that CrownRing's changing gearing can feel surprisingly natural.

The crown does not produce a sudden bump or jarring transition. Its effect is progressive, a smooth change that can go largely unnoticed when properly matched to rider and style.

The rider pedals without needing to learn a new technique or consciously adjust to the changing gearing.

Want to Know More?

For detailed geometry, timing, calculations, and test observations, visit the Engineering Reference.