Groupsets

A groupset comprises all the mechanical parts for your bike – so basically everything except the frame, fork, wheels, handlebar, seatpost and saddle.

You can buy a complete groupset or the individual components and there’s some possibility to mix and match between groupsets, although many items are not inter-compatible.

When you buy a new bike, a bike brand will often sub in some cheaper parts with a groupset, so you might for example get a crankset that’s from a different level or even a different brand from the rest of the groupset.

The components of a full groupset are:

  • Crankset (also called the chainset)
  • Bottom bracket (the bearings in the frame on which the crankset spins)
  • Brake levers/shift levers, usually combined
  • Rear derailleur
  • Front derailleur
  • Cassette (the gear sprockets at the rear of the bike)
  • Chain
  • Brakes