What do all those Numbers mean on a Chain Set?

Jeff Howlett wants to know what all those numbers are all about when he sees a chain set. We explain what all those numbers mean, he is asking about a triple chain set, but we explain about normal double chain sets and the compact versions. If you need to know about chain set teeth here is what they mean.

Question: How do you read crank set specs for example what's the difference between 42/32/22 and 44/32/22?

Hi Jeff,

These numbers are the amount of teeth on the chain rings, so with a 44/32/22 the outside or biggest chain ring has 44 teeth and so this is the biggest gear. The 32 being the middle ring and the 22 is the smallest, so it is the smallest geared chain ring.

A double chain set are normally 53/39, with the variations of possibly 52 on the outside and perhaps a 42 on the inside. Then there are compact chain sets, these are usually 50/34 or 48/ 32 or 46/30 or another variation of those chain rings.

The chain rings that you are asking about sound as though they would be for a mountain bike or a long distance touring bike that you need to carry lots of equipment. Those low gears with the 22 tooth chain ring are great for this or very steep climbs or very sticky mud which is hard to ride through. The other two rings are for normal use on steady climbs or on the flat, with a triple you have many gears to choose from and many are the same gear ratio.

To answer your question as to what is the difference between 44/32/22 and 42/32/22, the answer is only 2 teeth on the large chain ring, which isn't a big difference, 2 teeth on the smaller chain rings would make a big difference but on the big rings you would notice this difference only on the flat or going down hill. If the gear is too small then you spin your legs too much, especially on a descent. The 2 tooth difference on a 44 or 42 is hardly noticeable, unlike between a 52 and a 54 tooth chain ring on a road chain set, this can make a big difference. For a flat time trial or triathlon this 2 tooth difference can be the difference between winning and losing the race, for a small chain set it's not such a big deal. I hope this helps?

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