The Dancing Chain

by Frank J Berto
The Dancing Chain cover
Good Books rating 4.47
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Technical
  • ID: 6215
  • Added: 2025-11-06
  • Updated: 2025-11-06
  • ISBN: 9781892495211
  • Publisher: Cycle Publishing
  • Published: 2000-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Dancing Chain offers a unique perspective on the history of the bicycle, focusing on the development of the lightweight derailleur bike and its gearing system. Unlike other books on the subject, it delves into the technical innovations and advancements that have shaped modern cycling. /n/n This book is a must-read for cycling enthusiasts and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and sport. It provides a comprehensive look at how the bicycle has evolved over time, from its early designs to the latest developments in racing and mountain biking.

Reviews
road.cc · 2021-05-15
recommended 4.70

The book is recognized as the best technical treatise on the subject, highly recommended for its detailed and informative content.

In this review, the book is recognized as the best technical treatise available on the history and development of the derailleur bicycle. The reviewer highly recommends it for its detailed and informative content, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the technical aspects of bicycle history. The book's comprehensive approach and depth of information are particularly praised, making it a valuable addition to any cycling enthusiast's library.

Quick quotes

    Best technical treatise: The Dancing Chain by Frank J Berto

    The thing that makes it so great is that it isn't just a ...

    The Dancing Chain is exactly the kind of thing a mechanically oriented bike fan would like to read.

road.cc · 2018-02-04
exceptional 4.50

The book is a high-quality reference with exceptional coverage of its technical subject matter. Its specialist nature might limit its audience.

This review highlights the book's exceptional quality as a reference guide, particularly for its technical depth. The reviewer appreciates the detailed coverage but notes that the book's specialist focus might make it less accessible to a broader audience. They emphasize the book's value for those interested in the technical aspects of bicycle history, praising its comprehensive approach. However, they acknowledge that the niche subject matter might not appeal to everyone.

Quick quotes

    This is a high-quality reference book and fully deserves an 'exceptional' score.

    It's a shame its rather specialist and technical coverage of ...

    The thing that makes it so great is that it isn't just a ...

Goodreads · 1999-11-01
comprehensive 4.20

The book is praised for its detailed history of the derailleur bicycle and its gearing system. Readers appreciate its technical depth and comprehensive coverage.

This review on Goodreads highlights the book's detailed history of the derailleur bicycle, which is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of modern bicycle development. The reviewer appreciates the technical depth and comprehensive coverage, making it a valuable resource for those interested in bicycle history. The book is noted for its ability to explain complex technical details in an accessible manner, making it enjoyable for both casual readers and enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    The history and development of the derailleur bicycle is the story of the modern bicycle and the gadget that makes it the derailleur gearing system.

    The Dancing Chain is exactly the kind of thing a mechanically oriented bike fan would like to read.

    The thing that makes it so great is that it isn't just a ...

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