Re: [CR]Inch Pitch Drive Systems - Newbie Questions

(Example: Framebuilders:Pino Morroni)

In-Reply-To: <004601c7d0dd$63983de0$6600a8c0@WERNE1>
References: <004601c7d0dd$63983de0$6600a8c0@WERNE1>
From: "Mark Fulton" <markfulton5@mac.com>
Subject: Re: [CR]Inch Pitch Drive Systems - Newbie Questions
Date: Sat, 28 Jul 2007 00:18:42 -0700
To: Tory Werne <twerne@bellsouth.net>
cc: CR BikeList <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>

Hi Tory,

Yeah, I'm old enough to remember inch-pitch stuff. My track racing career peaked in 1949 and 1950. First, let's clear up one thing: it's "skip tooth" not "skip link." Now then let's consider your questions.

1. I don't know if you should "care" about block or roller chains, but maybe you should know the difference. Look at the photo in the third eBay item, the inch-pitch roller chain. A block chain looks pretty much like that but with solid, shaped steel blocks replacing the rollers and inner links.

2. Block chains are stronger than roller chains. Roller chains are lighter and require less pedal force due to reduced friction.

3. Because they're stronger, block chains were better on the track. Remember we're talking fixed gear drive here. Track racing requires starting sprints from a dead stop. Ever present, however slight, chain slop combined with sudden pedal impact could snap the weaker roller chain. Improved chain materials has made current roller chains stronger. And freer spinning ability means current roller chains are quicker and faster that the old block chains.

4. That I can't answer.

5. In those days, if we could only afford one bicycle. We trained on the road, replacing the block chains with roller chains, on our track bikes. The roller chains were way cheaper. So yes, you'd have seen inch-pitch on the road in 1949. If you looked quick.

One final note; of the two cogs pictured only the first one looks suitable for a block chain the "lumps" between the teeth on the second one look like they could interfere with the blocks. I don't remember the blocks being relieved enough to clear those "false teeth."

I hope this helps a little.

Mark Fulton I remember lots of other stuff too, and don't you forget it. Redwood City California