FAQ

Choosing the right Alugear chainring comes down to three things: your mounting standard, your drivetrain speed, and whether you run a 1x or 2x setup.

Shimano cranksets (BCD 110mm, 4-bolt asymmetric)

Shimano cranksets (BCD 110mm, 5-bolt symmetric)

SRAM cranksets (Direct Mount)

MTB cranksets (other)

BCD stands for Bolt Circle Diameter — the diameter of the imaginary circle that passes through the centre of each chainring bolt hole on your crank spider. It's measured in millimetres and determines which chainrings physically fit your crankset.

Common BCD sizes for road and gravel

• 110mm (4-bolt asymmetric) — Shimano R7000, R8000, R9100, R7100, R8100, R9200, and GRX cranksets
• 110mm (5-bolt symmetric) — Older Shimano cranksets (e.g., Ultegra 6700), some FSA and Rotor cranksets
• 130mm (5-bolt) — Older road cranksets (Shimano and others)

Common BCD sizes for MTB

• 104mm (4-bolt) — Shimano XT, SLX, Deore, and many others
• 96mm (4-bolt asymmetric) — Shimano XTR, XT (M8000+)

How to measure your BCD: Measure the distance between the centres of two adjacent bolt holes, then use this conversion:

Or simply count the number of bolts and measure the distance between any two adjacent ones. The product page for each Alugear chainring lists the exact BCD it fits.

All current Shimano 12-speed road cranksets — Dura-Ace R9200, Ultegra R8100, and 105 R7100 — share the same chainring mounting standard: 110mm BCD, 4-bolt asymmetric.

This means one Alugear chainring fits all three groupsets (for both 1x and 2x setups). You don't need to buy a groupset-specific chainring.

What you need to know

• 12-speed chainrings are not interchangeable with 11-speed. The mounting spider dimensions and chainring spacing are different between 11-speed and 12-speed Shimano cranksets. Make sure to select a chainring listed as compatible with 12-speed.
• The aero cover is crankset-specific. While the chainring itself is universal across R9200/R8100/R7100, the aero cover must match your specific crankset model (R9200 cover for Dura-Ace, R8100 cover for Ultegra, etc.), because the crank arm shape differs between groupsets.
• GRX has its own chainrings. GRX RX820 (12-speed gravel) also uses 110mm BCD 4-bolt asymmetric, but GRX chainrings are not interchangeable with road chainrings. Select the GRX-specific product when ordering.

SRAM uses two direct-mount chainring interfaces. Choosing the wrong one is the most common ordering mistake for SRAM customers.

Alugear chainrings are compatible with most power meters, but there are important exceptions depending on where the power meter is mounted.

The Alugear aero cover is designed to match the shape of your specific crankset. While Alugear chainrings are interchangeable across groupsets within the same BCD, the aero cover is crankset-specific.

Shimano Road (12-speed)

Shimano Road (11-speed)

Important notes

• The aero cover comes with 4 bolts included.
• The same cover works for both 2x chainring sets and 1x single-speed chainrings. The only difference is that for 1x setups, you need to add the 4 spacers (included with the cover) between the chainring and the cover.
• If you're ordering a complete aero kit (chainring + cover), everything you need is included.
• If you're ordering a chainring and cover separately, make sure to select the cover that matches your crankset model, not just your groupset generation.

What's included depends on the product you order:

Aero covers: Come with 4 bolts and 4 spacers included. You don't need to buy anything extra. The spacers are used when mounting a 1x chainring with the aero cover.

Aero kits (chainring + cover bundle): Everything is included — chainring, cover, bolts, and spacers. Ready to install.

2x chainring sets (without cover): Bolts are not included. You will need to purchase Alugear bolts separately. Check the product page for details.

1x chainrings (sold without cover): Bolts are not included. You will need:

• For 4-bolt BCD cranks (Shimano 110mm, 104mm, 96mm): Alugear nuts and bolts (size is also important) — available separately in our store.
• For SRAM 8-bolt Direct Mount: Uses the Torx bolts that came with your original SRAM chainring. These can be reused. Alugear also offers titanium replacement bolts for SRAM 8-bolt if you want an upgrade, or yours are worn out.
• For SRAM 3-bolt Direct Mount: Uses the 3 bolts from your existing chainring or spider. These can be reused.
• For Race Face Cinch: Uses the lockring from your existing setup.

Chainring offset is the distance the chainring sits outward or inward from the crank spider. It's measured in millimetres and affects your chainline — the alignment between your chainring and cassette. A positive offset moves the chainring closer to the frame.

Why it matters

• For 1x drivetrains: Offset is critical. A correct chainline reduces chain noise, improves shifting at the cassette, and minimises chain drop risk. The right offset depends on your hub spacing, drivetrain, and crankset.
• For 2x drivetrains: Offset is built into the chainring set design and generally doesn't need to be adjusted.

No. Shimano 11-speed and 12-speed chainrings are not interchangeable. The mounting spider interface dimensions and chainring spacing are different between the two generations. An 11-speed chainring will physically not fit on a 12-speed crankset, and vice versa.

When ordering, make sure to select the chainring that matches your drivetrain speed. Each Alugear product page clearly states which speed it's designed for.

Narrow-wide refers to an alternating tooth profile where each tooth alternates between a wider ("wide") and a narrower ("narrow") shape. This profile matches the alternating inner and outer links of a bicycle chain, gripping the chain more securely.

When you need narrow-wide: All 1x (single chainring) drivetrains without a front derailleur should use a narrow-wide chainring. The alternating tooth profile provides chain retention without requiring a chain guide, preventing the chain from dropping off the chainring during rough terrain or hard efforts.

When you don't need narrow-wide: 2x (double chainring) setups with a front derailleur should not use narrow-wide chainrings. The front derailleur cannot shift the chain properly across narrow-wide teeth. Alugear 2x chainring sets use a standard tooth profile designed to work with front derailleurs.

Chain compatibility: Narrow-wide Alugear chainrings work with all standard roller chains, including Shimano HG/HG+, SRAM Flat Top, and KMC chains. The narrow-wide profile is a chainring feature — it does not require a special chain.

Aero chainrings tend to produce more noise than non-aero models because of resonance. Since an aero chainring and its cover are made from a single piece of aluminium (or form a large, continuous surface), they can amplify vibrations from the chain and drivetrain — acting like a small speaker cone.

This is completely normal and not a sign of a defect or compatibility issue. The noise typically reduces slightly after a short break-in period as the chain and teeth bed in together. Proper chain lubrication and a well-adjusted drivetrain also help keep noise to a minimum.

We don't recommend it. Alugear 2x chainring sets are designed as matched pairs. The tooth ramps and pin positions — which guide the chain during front shifts — are optimised to work together. Mixing an Alugear outer chainring with another manufacturer's inner chainring (or vice versa) will result in different shift ramp rotations, leading to poor or unreliable front shifting.

For the best performance, use a complete Alugear 2x chainring set.

No. We do not recommend mixing chainring sizes outside of the combinations listed on our website. Non-standard pairings (such as a 54T outer with a 36T inner) exceed the effective range of the front derailleur and can result in poor shifting, chain drop, or mechanical failure.

Our 2x sets are designed in specific size combinations that fall within the front derailleur's capacity. Stick to the combinations listed on the product pages to ensure reliable shifting performance.

Round chainrings deliver constant resistance throughout the pedal stroke. They're the traditional standard and suit most riders.

Oval chainrings have a slightly elongated shape that changes the effective gear ratio during the pedal stroke — making it feel easier through the "dead spots" (top and bottom of the stroke) and slightly harder during the power phase. This can result in a smoother, more efficient pedalling feel, particularly at lower cadences or on steep climbs.

The right tooth count depends on your discipline, terrain, and fitness level. Here's a general guide:

Road racing / criteriums

• 2x: 52/36T, 50/34T (standard), or 54/40T (for stronger riders)
• 1x: 48T–54T

Gran fondos / sportives / hilly riding

• 2x: 50/34T or 48/34T (compact)
• 1x: 42T–48T

Gravel

• 1x: 38T–44T (depending on terrain difficulty)
• 2x: 48/34T

Time trial / triathlon

• 1x: 50T–62T
• 2x: 54/40T or 56/40T

Mountain bike (MTB)

• 1x: 30T–36T (depending on terrain and fitness)
• E-MTB: 34T–38T

General tips

• Going up in tooth count gives you more top-end speed but makes climbing harder.
• Going down in tooth count makes climbing easier but limits top speed.
• If you're between two sizes, choose the smaller one — it's easier on the legs and more versatile.
• Changing tooth count from your original chainring may require adjusting your chain length and front derailleur position (for 2x setups).

2x (double chainring) gives you two chainrings with a front derailleur for shifting between them. This provides the widest gear range and the most precise gear steps, making it ideal for road racing, sportives, and varied terrain where you want every gear at your fingertips.

1x (single chainring) uses one chainring with no front derailleur. It's simpler, lighter, and eliminates front shifting entirely. Combined with a wide-range cassette, 1x is popular for gravel, MTB, and riders who prefer mechanical simplicity.

Alugear chainrings are available in multiple colours as standard, including Black, Silver (natural aluminium), Red, Gold, Blue, Orange, Green and Purple. Select your preferred colour at checkout.

Additional colours such as Mocha and Steel are available for selected models — these are designed to complement specific bike colour schemes. Check the product page for colour availability on the specific chainring you're interested in.

Good to know

• The anodised finish is durable but may show minor cosmetic changes over time with exposure to UV and cleaning agents. This is normal and does not affect performance.
• Aero covers are available in all colour options.
• Bolts and nuts are available in multiple colours to match your chainring.

Alugear chainrings are CNC-machined from 7075-T6 aluminium, one of the strongest and lightest alloys used in cycling components. Exact weight varies by model, tooth count, and shape.

Weight information is listed in the "Specifications" section on each product page. For any questions about specific weights, email support@alugear.com.

All Alugear chainrings are precision CNC-machined from 7075-T6 aluminium alloy — the same grade used in aerospace and high-performance cycling components.

Why 7075-T6?

• High strength-to-weight ratio: Significantly stronger than the 6061 aluminium used in many competitor chainrings, allowing for lighter designs without sacrificing durability.
• Excellent wear resistance: Harder surface than standard aluminium, leading to longer chainring life.
• Precision manufacturing: Every chainring is CNC-machined in Poland from a solid billet of aluminium, not stamped or cast. This ensures precise tooth profiles and consistent quality.

The chainrings are then anodised for corrosion protection and a clean finish (available in multiple colours depending on the model).

Alugear offers two ways to get the aero look:

Aero Kit (bundle): Includes the chainring(s) and matching aero cover in one package, with all necessary bolts and spacers. This is the simplest option — everything is matched and ready to install.

Chainring + Cover (separate purchases): You can also buy a chainring and aero cover individually. This gives you more flexibility if you want a specific combination or already own one of the components.

Which is better value? The aero kit is typically priced as a bundle, so check both options on the product pages to compare. If you're buying both a chainring and cover for the first time, the kit is usually the most convenient and cost-effective choice.

Alugear accepts the following payment methods:

• Credit / debit card — Visa, Mastercard, American Express. Payments are processed securely via Shopify Payments with 3-D Secure authentication. Alugear does not store your card details.
• PayPal — Pay through your PayPal account.
• Bank wire transfer — Bank details are provided at checkout and in the order confirmation email. To speed up processing, email a payment confirmation to support@alugear.com with the subject line "Order payment confirmation — [your order reference]." Please note: if payment is not received within 7 working days, the order may be cancelled automatically.

All transactions are processed in EUR (or the currency displayed at checkout). Currency conversion rates and fees for non-EUR payments are determined by your bank or card issuer.

EU customers: Yes — all prices displayed in the store include VAT. The price you see at checkout is the final price. No additional taxes or duties will be charged upon delivery within the EU.

Non-EU customers (UK, US, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, and others): The prices shown on the website are your end prices from Alugear's side — VAT is not charged. However, you may be required to pay local import duties and taxes upon delivery, charged by your country's customs authority. These are separate from the product price and are not collected by Alugear. See our customs and duties FAQ for more detail.

After placing your order, it will move through these stages:

Yes. Alugear's online store is hosted on Shopify, which provides enterprise-grade security:

• All transactions are encrypted with SSL/TLS (you'll see the padlock icon in your browser).
• Card payments are processed through Shopify Payments with 3-D Secure (SCA) authentication, in compliance with EU PSD2 regulations.
• Alugear never stores your credit card details — all payment data is handled by PCI DSS-compliant payment processors (Shopify Payments/Stripe and PayPal).

Alugear ships worldwide from our manufacturing facility in Borek Szlachecki, Poland. All products are designed and manufactured in Poland and dispatched directly to you.

We ship primarily via FedEx International Service. Alternative carriers may be used for certain destinations.

Whether you're in Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, or elsewhere — we can deliver to you. If your country is not available at checkout, contact support@alugear.com and we'll arrange shipping.

The total time from placing your order to receiving it consists of two stages:

Total delivery time = Processing Time + Shipping Time

Processing Time (manufacturing): Up to 10 working days — your product is CNC-machined, finished, and quality-inspected after your order is placed.

Shipping Time (after dispatch)

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your delivery destination and the size/weight of your order. The exact cost is shown before you complete your purchase — no hidden fees are added after that point.

For EU customers, the price shown at the final checkout step includes the product price, VAT, and shipping. For non-EU customers, customs duties and import taxes are additional charges not included in the checkout total (see customs and duties FAQ).

If shipping options don't appear at checkout for your country, or you experience any issues, contact support@alugear.com before placing your order — we'll help resolve it.

Possible non-EU import charges

• Local import duties and customs tariffs.
• Import VAT, GST, or sales tax applicable in your country.
• Customs clearance or brokerage fees.
• Carrier handling fees, such as FedEx advancement-of-duty fees, typically €10–€25.

If you’re unsure about potential charges, we recommend checking with your local customs authority before ordering.

If you’re ordering from the United Kingdom, your parcel will go through UK customs upon arrival. Typical charges include:

US import charges on bicycle components can be significant:

Yes. VAT-registered businesses can order net of VAT once we've set your account up as a business account with a VAT exemption. This isn't applied automatically at checkout — we set it on your account first, so VAT is removed on this and every future order.

Ordering from outside the EU? Your order already ships without EU VAT; any local import VAT or duties are handled by your customs authority — see Will I pay customs duties?

Alugear accepts returns within 30 days of delivery, provided the product:

• Has not been installed, mounted, or used on a bicycle
• Is not damaged and is in original, resalable condition
• Is returned in its original packaging with all included accessories and hardware

How to return

1. Email support@alugear.com (or use our contact form) with your order reference and the reason for return.
2. Our team will provide a return authorisation and shipping instructions.
3. Ship the product to the address provided, at your expense, using a trackable shipping service.

Refund: Processed within 5 working days of receiving and inspecting the returned product. The refund covers the purchase price. Original shipping costs are non-refundable.

Exchanges: Alugear does not offer direct exchanges. To swap for a different size, colour, or model, return the original item and place a new order.

Alugear chainrings are built to last, but proper care extends their lifespan and keeps them performing at their best.

Chainring teeth wear gradually over time. Here’s how to tell when it’s time for a new one:

Converting from a double (2x) chainring setup to a single (1x) chainring can simplify your drivetrain, save weight, and improve ground clearance for gravel and MTB riding. Here's what's involved:

Things to consider

• Gear range: You'll have fewer total gear combinations. Choose your chainring tooth count carefully to match your typical terrain.
• Chainline: Alugear 1x chainrings are designed with the correct offset for each mounting standard. Verify that the offset matches your drivetrain and hub spacing.
• Front derailleur capacity: Not applicable with 1x — the narrow-wide tooth profile and, optionally, a chain guide provide chain retention.

No. Alugear spindles, although they may look similar to DUB spindles, are designed exclusively for Alugear cranksets (Vega and Stellar). They are not compatible with SRAM or any other manufacturer's crank arms. Using an Alugear spindle with a non-Alugear crankset can result in incorrect fitment and potential mechanical failure.

Yes — but it changes the chainline. Alugear Road and MTB spindles are physically interchangeable between the Vega (road) and Stellar (MTB) cranksets. However, each spindle is optimised for a specific chainline: the road spindle for road/gravel spacing and the MTB spindle for Boost/Super Boost spacing.

Swapping spindles between disciplines will shift the chainline, which may cause chain noise, poor shifting, or increased drivetrain wear. If you're considering this for a specific build, email support@alugear.com with your frame and drivetrain details — we'll confirm whether the swap works for your setup.

To switch from a Shimano crankset (which uses a 24mm spindle diameter) to an Alugear Vega crankset, you'll need two things:

1. Alugear Spider for 110 BCD chainrings — the Vega crankset uses a removable spider. You'll need our spider to mount 110 BCD chainrings compatible with Shimano drivetrains.
2. A DUB-compatible bottom bracket — Alugear cranksets use a 28.99mm spindle diameter (same as SRAM DUB). Your current Shimano 24mm bottom bracket is not compatible. You'll need to replace it with a DUB bottom bracket that fits your frame's shell standard (BSA, PF86, PF92, BB86, etc.).

Once you have the crankset, spider, and DUB bottom bracket, you can continue using your existing Shimano front and rear derailleurs, shifters, chain, and cassette — the chainrings will be compatible with your Shimano drivetrain.

If you need help selecting the right bottom bracket for your frame, email support@alugear.com with your frame model and bottom bracket shell type.

The Alugear spider is based on the Ultegra R8100 crank arm design. If you want to add an aero cover to your Alugear crankset running a Shimano drivetrain, you'll need the aero cover for R8100.

This applies regardless of which Shimano groupset you're using (Dura-Ace, Ultegra, or 105) — the cover fitment depends on the crankset shape, and the Alugear spider matches the R8100 interface.

Alugear provides a 1-year commercial warranty against defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase. If your product is found to be defective within this period, it will be repaired or replaced free of charge.

Installing an Alugear chainring on a Shimano crankset is straightforward and requires standard bike tools.

What you'll need

• Hex key (Allen key) set — typically 5mm for crank arm bolts
• Chainring bolt tool or hex key (varies by bolt type)
• Torque wrench (recommended)
• Clean rag and degreaser
• Threadlocker (blue Loctite) or grease for bolt threads

Basic steps

1. Remove the crank arm from the bottom bracket (follow Shimano's procedure for your specific crankset).
2. Remove the existing chainring(s) by unscrewing the chainring bolts.
3. Place the new Alugear chainring on the spider, aligning the bolt holes. Note the orientation — the chainring should be positioned with any markings or logos facing outward.
4. For asymmetric 4-bolt (110 BCD): the bolt holes are spaced unevenly, so the chainring can only mount in one orientation. Align the holes and ensure the chainring sits flush.
5. Install the bolts and tighten to the recommended torque (refer to the torque spec on the product page or in the included instruction card).
6. Reinstall the crank arm.
7. If running 2x, readjust your front derailleur height and limit screws as needed.

Torque specifications are listed on the product page. Detailed mounting diagrams are also available — look for the installation instruction link on the product page.

You don't need any specialised tools to install an Alugear chainring. Standard bicycle workshop tools are sufficient:

• 5mm hex key (Allen key) — for crank arm bolts (Shimano)
• 4mm hex key — for Alugear chainring bolts (bolt side)
• Torx T25 or T30 — for SRAM direct mount bolts
• Torque wrench — recommended for accurate bolt tightening. Over-tightening can damage threads; under-tightening can cause bolts to loosen during riding.

Alugear bolts use a hex 4mm / 5mm interface (bolt and nut sides) — no special chainring nut wrench is needed.

If you're installing a Race Face Cinch or similar direct-mount chainring, you may also need a lockring tool specific to your crankset. No proprietary or Alugear-specific tools are required.

We work with bicycle shops, distributors, and team managers worldwide. If you're interested in stocking Alugear products, here's how to get started:

The fastest way to apply is to complete our B2B application form. Prefer to do it manually? Follow these steps:

1. Register an account on alugear.com
2. Email b2b@alugear.com with:

• The email address you used to register
• Your active EU VAT number (for EU-based businesses)
• Your company name and website (if available)

1. We'll upgrade your account to a dealer account with access to dealer pricing.

Processing times for B2B orders: 15–25 working days (larger production batches require additional manufacturing time).

For questions about minimum order quantities, pricing tiers, or distribution opportunities, contact b2b@alugear.com.

Are you a professional or competitive cyclist? Alugear supports athletes and teams with sponsored products and pro-deal pricing.

If you're interested in a partnership, email b2b@alugear.com with:

• Your name, discipline, and racing level
• Your team (if applicable)
• Your social media or results page
• What products you're interested in

We review all requests and will get back to you with what we can offer.

Content creators, cycling influencers, and brand ambassadors who want to collaborate with Alugear are welcome to reach out.

Whether you create reviews, ride content, or social media posts about cycling gear, we'd love to hear from you. Email b2b@alugear.com with:

• Your name and platform(s)
• Links to your content / social profiles
• Your audience size and typical engagement
• What type of collaboration you have in mind

We'll review your proposal and respond with available options.