A gear case, also known as a chain case or chainguard, is an enclosure for the
bicycle chain and
sprocket
A sprocket, sprocket-wheel or chainwheel is a profiled wheel
A wheel is a rotating component (typically circular in shape) that is intended to turn on an axle Bearing (mechanical), bearing. The wheel is one of the key components of the whe ...
assemblages commonly employed by
utility bicycles. It serves to protect the cyclist from being soiled or trapped in the
chain rings and tends to fully enclose the drive train. It may also contain an oil bath to keep the chain
lubricated. Modern examples are usually
moulded in
plastic
Plastics are a wide range of synthetic polymers, synthetic or Semisynthesis, semisynthetic materials composed primarily of Polymer, polymers. Their defining characteristic, Plasticity (physics), plasticity, allows them to be Injection moulding ...
. Similar devices may be found in connection with chains used on larger vehicles and machinery.
Gallery
See also
*
Luggage carrier
References
bicycle glossary entry for "Chain case"from
Sheldon Brown's website
Sheldon Brown's bicycle glossary entry for "Gear case"
Bicycle parts
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