Re: [CR]evolution of chainring bolts

(Example: Bike Shops)

Date: Sat, 19 Nov 2005 17:31:22 -0800
From: "Chuck Schmidt" <chuckschmidt@earthlink.net>
To: CR List <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: Re: [CR]evolution of chainring bolts
References: <111920052014.1207.437F879E000A4480000004B7220699849903019B09010C9B0E00@comcast.net>


Tom Martin wrote:
>
> How did the current chainring bolt come into it's current form?
> The reason I ask is I've skinned my knuckles for the xxxx,000 th time. Yes, the appropriate way to remove or tighten chainring bolts is to put the chain on the largest ring. But what if you are assembling the rings off the bike, outside of the factories what have all sorts of fixtures to hold the inside nut thingy with 2 slots on either side.
> Each time, I've wondered who designed this type of nut/bolt for that specific apllication, and why??
> And how come there hasn't been a more suitable alternative that would make much more sense?
> Am I crying over spilled milk?
>
> Tom Martin
> Oakland CA


>From the Campagnolo Timeline at <http://www.velo-retro.com>: "1958 - The Record 5-pin cotterless crankset is introduced; 151mm bolt circle, 44 tooth minimum chainring, pedal dust caps, relieved spider and raised pedal lip. Also introduced are the Record one-piece alloy, small and large flange hubs (oval holes in flanges, oil hole clip and open "C" on quick release lever changed to closed "C"). Patent is granted on hollow chainring bolts with Allen key hole and crank bolt cover with Allen key hole."

Tullio designed it, patented it; very light and designed for ease of assembly. The design has certainly stood the test of time. I always plan where I place the Allen wrench in relation to the crank arm and use that for leverage, with one hand grasping both the wrench and the arm. Never skinned my knuckles doing Campagnolo chainring bolts in 30 years.

I believe Tullio was the first to use Allen bolts on a bicycle; 1951 on his Gran Sport rear derailleur. If there was a better idea for chainring bolts I would think someone would have come up with it in the past 46 years, right?

Chuck Schmidt South Pasadena, Southern California

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