embarassingly stupid question

[java]

All questions are good.

There are 9 cogs in the rear, and a triple crank up front, so you have 27 combinations, although using the smallest cog in the rear while on the largest crank in the front and vice versa (cross chaining), is not practical and can actually result in some unnecessary wear and tear to your cogs and chain.

Generally, the idea is to keep the angle of the chain in as straight a line is practical between the front cranks and rear cogs. As you become more familiar with your bike, you'll see that there may be some gear combinations you will seldom use, but if you find you need them, they'll come in handy!

Hope that helps

[staceysue]

Awesome! Thanks, Java. That's a relief.

I think I need to find a beginner diagram of a bike - find out what cranks and cogs are and how they work.

[tulip]

You could check out the books on bicycles in your local library or bookstore. There are several out there with good, basic information.

[jusdooit]

Go to http://www.coachlevi.com/cycling/com...-bicycle-gears. Good lesson on shifting. Also, www.terrybicycles.com/videos is a good resource. Hope these help. Don't be afraid to experiment. It will become second nature, I promise. BTW nice bike!

Cindy

[Possegal]

although using the smallest cog in the rear while on the largest crank in the front and vice versa (cross chaining)

I thought cross-chaining was smallest in front and smallest in back, or largest in front and largest in back. That is what throws the chain out of a straight line, not small/large or large/small. Or have I been wrong all this time? Which is always a very real possibility.

[SadieKate]

I thought cross-chaining was smallest in front and smallest in back, or largest in front and largest in back. That is what throws the chain out of a straight line, not small/large or large/small. Or have I been wrong all this time? Which is always a very real possibility.

Nope, you is right.

[Possegal]

Well there is a first time for everything I suppose.

[SadieKate]

Should you record this moment in history?

[maillotpois]

I think you guys just did.

[Possegal]

Print screen, frame, post on wall........... done.