Rotor's oval chainrings allow the cyclist to position an oval shaped ring to an optimal position relative to their pedal stroke for best efficiency, reducing or eliminating the so-called dead spot in a full pedal revolution. This is a proven technology, and the Q-Ring is quite effective for many cyclists, though not all. Rotor builds multiple positions to offset the ovality of the Q-Ring, and an experienced bike fitter can work with a cyclist to test and discover the best Optimum Chainring Position (OCP) for their stroke and physiology. A powermeter, while not truly required, is the best tool to determine the optimal OCP.

The Q-Ring Outer Chainrings listed here are Rotor's Aero Shimano for the 11-speed Asymmetric 110mm BCD, 4-arm cranksets. These rings are sculpted to work only with the 5800, 6800, 9000, R8000, R9100 crankarms, but technically the rings themselves can be used with 9, 10, or 11 speed drivetrains. We highly recommend use only with 11-speed, as the relative position of the chainrings in these crankarm designs don't work as well with 9 or 10 speed front derailleurs and shift indexing. Various models of Rotor Q-Rings offer different OCP options. Rotor classifies them as 1-5 and the chainrings are marked for proper mounting. These Aero Shimano 11 rings features three OCP positions, 2, 3, and 4 on these, which feature 10% overall ovality.

Precision CNC machined from T6-7075 aeronautic-grade aluminum alloy, the rings are inherently stiff, especially in this design. Rotor uses their own shift gate and ramp system and are engineered to be paired with specific sized inner Q-Rings for best shifting performance and results. We have found that cyclists who already have a refined bike fit can self-determine their optimal OCP on their own if they use a powermeter and computer to track the power output, cadence, speed, and heart rate. First use your standard round chainrings to define your current baseline information. It is best to use a trainer for your first series of tests so you can easily duplicate your efforts with fewer variables as you change OCP positions, but then you should transition to outdoor use on a ride or course you can truly match ride for ride, shift for shift. Usually the trainer will eliminate one of the positions, so you will likely only need to work with your outdoor baseline, then two OCP options.

If you current powermeter or self-diagnosis indicates to you that you are losing efficiency in the pedal stroke, or if you simply want to experiment with performance gain options, Rotor's Q-Rings are a great way to explore and maximize efficient power in your pedal stroke. We have sold Q-Rings for over a decade and many cyclists and triathletes have embraced the system to their satisfaction. We strongly encourage minimizing "feel" and embracing data, but don't discount what your body tells you. Always give yourself a few weeks of controlled rides to get used to the feeling and changes in muscle interaction, as well as the shifting performance. If you are patient and smart about how you adopt the Q-Rings, you are more likely to get the most significant benefits.

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