Yes, Rotor has been the pioneer and global benchmark for Q-Rings oval chainrings since 2001. The philosophy behind Rotor: a non-circular chainring whose oval shape alters pedalling torque by reducing resistance at the dead centres of the pedal stroke and amplifying the push phase. Independent studies confirm efficiency gains of 3 to 5 per cent for certain rider profiles. Rotor offers its Q-Rings in several OCP (Optimum Chainring Position) sizes to customise the oval shape to suit your body type.
Yes, the Rotor Power sensors (2INPower and INPower) have a claimed accuracy of ±1 per cent. The 2INPower measures left and right power separately via two gauges built into the crankset. The INPower measures only the left side, with the right side extrapolated (Single Leg Power). Rotor ’s power meters are ANT+ and Bluetooth compatible and synchronise with all training platforms. Their key advantage is that they measure power directly at the bottom bracket, without any error accumulation associated with the pedals or cranks.
Yes, Rotor was founded in Madrid (Spain) in 1999 by Pablo Carrasco. The brand first made a name for itself with its oval chainrings, before going on to develop complete groupsets (Uno and Kaptor). Rotor Uno is a 1x13-speed mechanical-hydraulic groupset offering an alternative to Shimano and SRAM. The brand is present in WorldTour teams through its cranksets and power metres.
Rotor (ALDHU, VEGAST) cranksets are compatible with Shimano (BBRight, BSA, PF30) bottom brackets via adaptors. The BBRight Rotor standard (30 mm) requires a specific adapter on frames with a BSA bottom bracket. The DUB SRAM cranksets (30 mm) use the same axle diameter. The Rotor 13-speed cassettes are only compatible with the Rotor Kaptor rear derailleurs.
Rotor Uno is the first groupset to offer 13 speeds with a single chainring, providing a wide range of gear ratios without a front derailleur. The Rotor 13-speed cassette (10–52 teeth) offers a range comparable to a conventional 2x11 double chainring setup. The drivetrain is both hydraulic and mechanical, with no battery to recharge. This system is highly popular amongst gravel riders and competitors looking to simplify their drivetrain. Its drawback is that the proprietary cassette requires a dedicated freehub body.
Rotor ’ oval chainrings are not suitable for all cyclists and a period of adjustment is required. Generally speaking, cyclists who use a ‘push technique’ (thigh-driven) when pedalling benefit most from Q-Rings. Cyclists who use a ‘round’ pedalling technique (pulling through the entire pedal stroke) benefit less from oval chainrings. The adjustment period is 2 to 4 weeks. A postural analysis and an indoor test (using a power meter) can help to objectively assess the individual benefit.
The OCP (Optimum Chainring Position) defines the orientation of the chainring oval in relation to the crank arm. Rotor recommends starting at OCP3 (mid-position), then adjusting according to how it feels. OCP positions 1–2 shift the point of maximum force to the start of the pedal stroke. OCP positions 4–5 shift it to the end of the pedal stroke. This adjustment is made using a simple tool (chainring screw) and takes 5 minutes.
Yes, the Rotor range has expanded into gravel cycling with the Kaptor groupset and oval Q-Rings chainrings for gravel. The Rotor gravel chainrings are compatible with 110 BCD and are available in oval or circular shapes. The Uno 1x13 groupset is particularly well-suited to gravel riding due to its wide range of gear ratios. Rotor also offers gravel-compatible cranksets with integrated power meters.
Rotor ’s BBRight bottom brackets use standard bearings that are easily accessible and can be replaced without special tools. Clean and relubricate every 3,000–5,000 km, depending on conditions of use. Removing the crankset requires the specific ‘ Rotor ’ spanner (BCD 130 or 110 depending on the model). Rotor publishes maintenance videos on its website and YouTube channel.
Rotor Offers a 2-year warranty on all its components (cranksets, power meters, cassettes). The SAV Rotor is available via authorised retailers. In the event of a manufacturing fault with a power meter, Rotor will carry out a repair or replacement. Wear-and-tear parts (chainring spacers, bearings) are generally not covered by the warranty.
