Absolute Black OVAL RaceFace boost chainring for SHIMANO HG+ 12spd chain

Why RF our oval chainrings work
Our traction Oval chainrings work because a rider does not produce power evenly through a pedal stroke; they maximize the part of the stroke where power is produced and minimize resistance where it isn't. Oval rings make the spin cycle a lot smoother and are easier on legs while climbing. Believe it (or not), but a round chainring doesn't transfer torque to your rear wheel as smoothly as an Oval one. You will actually feel your stroke to be more "round" with an Oval shape than with a round chainring.

Why it matters
Traction, Traction and Traction. With oval rings rear tire traction improves greatly on loose and slippery terrain. Smoother power delivery to your rear wheel means that you will be able to maintain better, constant cadence; get less stress on the joints (knees) and therefore be able to keep certain level of effort for longer. This results in higher average speed. Moreover, 11 studies made by various Universities in the World show that using oval chainrings human legs utilize more muscle groups (compared to round one), but each of them to lesser degree. Load from pedaling an oval chainring is spread over greater muscle mass which in effect gives you the feeling of fresher and more relaxed legs. It is world's finest oval chainring backed by tens of thousands of customers.

The importance of timing and shape with oval chainrings
The oval chainring movement across all cycling disciplines is growing rapidly, led by absoluteBLACK, the world leaders in this important product category.

However, not all oval chainrings share the same performance characteristics as absoluteBLACK. The 'clocking' (timing) and shape of the oval are the most crucial parts of any oval chainring design, absoluteBLACK spent three years in design development and have perfected both timing and shape design elements - ensuring the ride quality of absoluteBLACK oval ring will be different and superior to ovals from other brands (as many abosluteBLACK customers already realised).

Where most other brands retain the same timing (position of the crank arm relative to the oval) and shape of the oval across all their sizes - because it's cheaper and less time consuming. absoluteBLACK believe that each different size ring requires a bespoke, optimised, perfect pedalling solution. So that is what we do - for every chainring absoluteBLACK make. For example, the smaller the chainring size, the bigger the ovality has to be to help climb steeper hills more effectively. We keep our exact Patent Pending data a secret, to ensure we get the best possible absoluteBLACK advantage over other brands, and you get the best possible ride experience.

The chainring has a mark on the backside that you need to line up with the center of the crank arm to achieve the main/recommended position. Once this is done use BB key to lock the lockring. If you wish to try more aggressive setup, rotate the chainring from main position clockwise by one notch on the splines. This will rotate oval by further 22deg. We do Not recommend second position for beginners. Before you start experimenting with the clocking of the ring, make sure you ridden minimum 5 months in the main position first.

Our main/recommended clocking position is a fantastic setup for everyone. However some more seasoned riders may like a bit more aggressive clocking position. RaceFace oval chainring allows you to change clocking position by 22deg both ways from initial setup. This is the only chainring in our line offering this adjustability.

It is ideal for 1x 9/10/11 system and Singlespeeds!. Oval (elliptical) chainring does not compromise the work of clutch mechanism in rear derailleur(video at the bottom). It also does not require chain tensioner when using in Singlespeed application. It is the most advanced oval chainring currently on the market.

The most advanced, Patent Pending narrow/wide tooth profile on the Market guarantee minimum 12 months of excellent chain retention capabilities! We mean it. Always use a new chain with a new chainring.

Chain options

• 10 or 11spd chain for geared bike or 6-8 spd for SS. If used in 1x9 drivetrain - 10spd chain must be used to obtain the performance. (yes - 10spd chain will work great on 9spd cassette)

Chainguide needed?

• No. But if you want one then chain guide should have 2 teeth more capacity than nominal oval ring size.