osymetric.

osymetric has been getting a decent amount of media coverage lately.  competitive cyclist put up a well-rounded (pun intended) article about the rings, you should definitely take a peak at it.

then bike radar put up an article as well.  osymetric chainrings are designed to give you more power through the pedal stroke by increasing the gear ratio on the down stroke, where the most power is put down.  I don’t think it’s really a question of, “does it work,” as it is a question of, “does it for for me”.  most of the pros aren’t riding rotor q-rings or osymetric chainrings, they’re on standard 130bcd round rings.  competitive cyclist reports back that sram cranks may have to be ground down and shaved to fit the chainrings in, along with heavy modification of the front derailleur to perfect shifting.  shimano is suppose to be a bit better, apparently.  oh, and they’re 230 euros for a pair…ouch.  they’re now also sold on osymetric usa for $300USD.

read the competitive cyclist article, and/or the bike radar one regarding osymetric chainrings.  embrocation cycling journal has also made quite a compelling article.