Compatibility & Standards
How to Check Cassette, Chain, Chainring, and Derailleur Compatibility
Matching the number of rear sprockets is not enough to establish drivetrain compatibility.
Updated August 29, 2026
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Velopedia Guides
Bicycle buying, inspection, service, and specification guides
Practical guidance for evaluating used bikes, understanding archived data, solving compatibility questions, and working on modern bicycles.
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Compatibility & Standards
How to Identify Bicycle Wheel and Tire Size
A tire marked “26 inch,” “28 inch,” or “700” still may not fit the wheel in front of you.
Updated August 29, 2026
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Buying & Inspection
Inspecting a Used Bike Bottom Bracket and Frame Shell
A complete bike and a bare frameset expose different evidence. On a complete bike, check for play, rough rotation, a loose crankarm, and movement between the cups and frame.
Updated August 15, 2026
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Buying & Inspection
Checking Drivetrain Wear Before You Buy
A drivetrain can shift neatly on a repair stand and skip as soon as the rider pushes on the pedals.
Updated August 15, 2026
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Practical guidance is one part of bicycle knowledge for the life of the bike. Discover bicycles in the Archive, use Guides to understand them, then keep a physical bike’s record in My Garage.