A cog is an individual metal gear found on the rear wheel of a bicycle. It features many small teeth that grip the chain as you pedal forward. Several cogs of different sizes are stacked together to form what is called a cassette.
The size of the cog determines how easy or hard it is to move the bike. A large cog makes it easier to climb steep hills, but results in a lower speed. Conversely, a small cog is harder to turn but allows you to go much faster on flat ground.
These parts are made of durable steel or aluminum to handle the constant pressure of the chain. Over thousands of miles, the teeth will wear down and become sharp or misshapen. For example, a rider shifts the chain onto a larger cog to make pedaling easier as the road tilts upward. This adjustment helps them keep their legs moving without getting too tired. It is the basic unit of a bike’s gearing.
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