Components

Bicycle components are the individual parts that make up a bike, often categorised into the frameset, the drivetrain (gears and power transfer), the wheelset, and the finishing kit (touchpoints like saddles and handlebars). In 2026, the industry is dominated by "groupsets"—pre-packaged collections of drivetrain and braking parts

The drivetrain transfers your pedalling power to the rear wheel. High-performance models in 2026 almost exclusively feature 12-speed or 13-speed electronic shifting

Key Drivetrain Parts:
- Crankset: The arms and front chainrings you pedal.
- Cassette: The cluster of gears on the rear wheel.
- Derailleurs: The mechanisms that move the chain between gears.
- Bottom Bracket: The bearing system the cranks rotate around.

Frameset & Steering (The Chassis)

Frame: The "skeleton" of the bike, typically made of carbon fibre for performance or aluminium for durability and value.
Fork: Holds the front wheel. Mountain bikes use suspension forks
Cockpit: Includes the handlebars, stem (connects bars to fork), and grips/bar tape.

Braking Systems

Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The 2026 standard for road, gravel, and mountain bikes, offering superior stopping power and modulation in all weather.
Mechanical Disc/Rim Brakes: Now mostly found on entry-level models or specific "classic" builds.

Essential

Saddle & Seatpost: Modern upgrades include dropper posts for mountain bikes
Pedals: Options range from flat pedals (e.g., Wolf Tooth Waveform) to clipless systems that lock your shoes to the bike for efficiency.
Tyres: High-performance setups now favour tubeless systems to reduce punctures and allow for lower, more comfortable air pressures.