Osymetric Oval Chain Rings

When I received two yellow packets of Osymetric chain rings, both displaying that they have wins at the Tour De France, I was looking forward to fitting and trying these chain rings. The fitting, though daunting for some, seemed to be very easy to set up once I’d come to terms with the fact that there is no way to have chain clearance on the front mech when in the high end of the cassette and on the inner chain ring! With that in mind and the chain drop catcher fitted I was looking forward to getting on the saddle and trying them out.

Chris Froome used to swear by these chain rings, and with 4 Tour de France wins to his name, and a questionable second place to Wiggins (he should have been alowed to take the win), that should be a good recommendation.

When I finally got on the road with them, the difference from using these to your standard round chain rings was amazing; the rings almost propel your foot forward, keeping the steady motion of a smooth cadence. It was deliberate and noticeable, both in terms of the action and the result. After around 2 months of usage, with my legs getting used to them, I’m sold on using these strangely shaped rings— they are really great to use.

The science says several things, but the basic thing is that they stop your legs from feeling as tired as they used to get and are even better while climbing uphill—and in North Yorkshire we have a few!

The look of them is ok; its no classic Campagnolo chain ring look but its quite nice, with matt black and the white writing across the front of the outer chain ring. Aesthetically they don’t look out of place, and they even add to the overall look of quality on a good bike. I haven’t had any technical issues with the chain rings, despite some testing rides in the Dales and across the Vale of York. I’ve had no chain throw or problems changing gear; they can sound a little noisy, but so can most chains and chain rings when not lubed correctly. And in operation they do what they’re designed for, so a little noise is worth it.

In conclusion, they have made my cycling more enjoyable and my average speed has increased a little. The cost of the chain rings are expensive at £115 for the outer and £95 for the inner, but if you fancy trying them and have the spare dosh then I’d give it a go you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Keep Riding and Keep Smiling!

P.S. Don’t forget to wave at other cyclists — it’s obligatory!