Test: Together with the Rotor 2InPower crank, we also had the opportunity to test the popular Rotor Q-Rings. The manufacturer promises better performance, increased performance, reduced fatigue and less strain on the knees.
Rotor Q-Rings – How is an oval chainring supposed to ensure a round kick?
In order to be able to answer this question, we first have to take a quick look at how the Rotor Q-Rings work. Due to the oval shape, the chainrings have a larger gear ratio in the area of the largest lever, i.e. at the point in time when the maximum force is applied, and thus prolong the pressure phase. In the area of the so-called dead center of the crank arm, where the least pressure can be applied to the pedal, the dead center is overcome more quickly with a smaller gear ratio. This system promises a significantly higher efficiency, since you can get more out of every step. Because in the phase in which you can put more force on the pedal, this is also used directly and phases with less force can be overcome more quickly. As a result, the force introduced is distributed much more evenly and you get a rounder kick.
Rotor Q-Rings - Optimum setting with the help of the Rotor App
The Rotor Q-Rings offer every rider the opportunity to be adjusted to their individual needs. There are five different positions that can be selected. If you have a Rotor 2InPower crank, you can use your own Rotor app and carry out a detailed analysis of the pedaling movement. The analysis software can easily be downloaded from the usual app stores. Then you only have to connect the 2InPower power meter via Bluetooth to your smartphone, for example. The app determines the forces introduced within a 360° rotation. This results in a recommendation for the correct positioning of the Q-ring in the shortest possible time. The next step is to mount the Q-ring in the recommended position and repeat the test. Normally, the software now confirms the selected position based on the new measurement data. This really is engineering at the highest level.
Those who prefer to trust their feelings or are not equipped with a suitable rotor power meter can just as easily find the right position with a few test rides. Starting from a standard position, you work your way towards the perfect setting over the rides. Many riders have already gotten used to the new chainrings after a short ride. However, we do not recommend changing from round to oval chainrings during the high season, but rather to wait for the next preparation phase. Unfortunately, for this reason we were not able to test the Q-Rings together with the Rotor 2InPower at the German Time Trial Championships, as the time for an adjustment would have been too short. Nevertheless, we did a few rides with the Q-Rings beforehand and the pedaling actually felt smoother after a while. However, we cannot judge with our possibilities whether you can actually save or get more watts with the oval chainrings. But what you can say for sure is that with the Rotor Q-Rings you can quickly achieve a nice, even kick.
Rotor Q Rings vs Biopace
Oval chainrings have been around since the 80s. Shimano tried their luck with the Biopace system - and failed. A biomechanical design flaw nullified the theoretical benefit and is still ingrained in the minds of many cyclists today. Unfortunately, because the Rotor Q-Rings have achieved the goal set at the time...
Basically, the idea behind the development of the Biopace was similar to that of the Rotor Q-Rings. However, it was designed the other way around and therefore could not prevail. The function can be seen in the diagram above.
