freewheel
IPA: frˈiwiɫ
noun
- a device in a transmission that disengages the driveshaft from the driven shaft when the driven shaft rotates faster than the driveshaft.
verb
- (of a gear) To continue spinning after disengagement.
- (of a cyclist) To ride a bicycle without pedalling, e.g. downhill.
- (of a motorist) To operate a motor vehicle which is coasting without power, e.g. downhill.
- (by extension) To operate free from constraints.
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Examples of "freewheel" in Sentences
- This device locks the freewheel mechanism.
- A freewheel mechanism could be ordered in 1934.
- As the sport grew, a freewheel become much more popular.
- The four speed transmission featured a freewheel mechanism.
- This becomes a problem when the freewheel needs to be removed.
- Without a freewheel the rear wheel would drive the pedals around.
- The freewheel would continue to be a feature of Rovers until 1955.
- The number in the brackets indicates the number of cogs on the freewheel.
- The remaining capstans are permitted to freewheel in the unwind direction.
- Today, it is rare to find a freewheel on a bicycle with more than seven speeds.