When using something like bicycle gearing, is there any energy loss from gear to gear? I'm trying to come up with a list of negatives for the use of chain driven gears.

Energy is always lost.

It's inescapable.

I was hoping someone would have a more definite answer.

Yes, from friction... but afaik the few alternatives have more friction.
Don't think there are any good negatives for chain driven gears tbh.
They're a simple and effective mechanism to create leverage in situations where no better alternatives exist.

That's what I was thinking. Thanks.

exmple: i think on average on a rear wheel drive vehicle you lose about 15% of your fly wheel horsepower in the drive train, its would be the same on a bike, you lose energy through the gears, maybe not 15% though

This post was edited by rustypwner on Jul 21 2012 03:36pm