A jockey wheel is one of the two small plastic pulleys found on the rear derailleur of a bicycle. These tiny wheels guide the chain as it moves between the different gears on the rear cassette. The top wheel is the guide pulley, while the bottom one maintains the tension on the chain.
They usually feature teeth that interlock with the chain links to ensure a precise and quiet shift. For example, if your jockey wheels are covered in thick grease and dirt, your gear changes will feel sluggish. They rotate thousands of times during a single ride, so they require high-quality bearings to stay efficient.
You can tell they need replacing when the teeth become sharp and pointed like a shark’s fin. They are small components, but they play a massive role in the smooth operation of your drivetrain. Keeping them spinning freely is the secret to a professional-sounding bike.
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