Gear case

A gear case, also known as a chain case or chainguard, is an enclosure for the bicycle chain and sprocket assemblages commonly employed by utility bicycles. It serves to protect the cyclist from being soiled or trapped in the chain rings and tends to fully enclose the drive train. It may also contain an oil bath to keep the chain lubricated. Modern examples are usually moulded in plastic. Similar devices may be found in connection with chains used on larger vehicles and machinery.

Gallery

Fully enclosed chain on a European city bike  Partially enclosed chain on a European city bike  Huffy Flaming Stack chain guard  BMX bike with a chain guard bolted to the frame  Crankset with an integrated chainguard bolted to the outside of the largest chainring

See also

• Luggage carrier

References

• bicycle glossary entry for "Chain case" from Sheldon Brown's website
• Sheldon Brown's bicycle glossary entry for "Gear case"
• Sheldon Brown's bicycle glossary entry for "Chainguard"

Bicycle parts
Frame	Handlebars Stem Head tube Headset Fork Seatpost Saddle Bottom bracket Fork end Suspension
Wheels	Tire Spoke Spoke nipple Valve stem Dustcap Quick release skewer
Drivetrain	Pedal Crankset Chain Cogset Derailleur gears/Hub gears Gear case Sprocket
Cabling	Shifter Bowden cable Cable guide Brake Ferrule
Peripherals	Basket Bell Bottle cage Fairing Cyclocomputer Kickstand Lighting Luggage carrier Mudguards Panniers Saddlebag Spoke card Reflectors Skirt guard Training wheels