High-Performance Track Chainrings

Introduction

Available in the standard 144 BCD track format, Kappstein track chainrings are developed first for professional track cycling, where drivetrain efficiency, stiffness, precise chain engagement and structural stability under high sprint loads are critical.

The range includes two professional Elite configurations and the Ruphus ProLine. Elite ProLine and Elite Classic share the same professional-grade low-drag, high-stiffness architecture, while offering two different chain systems: 1/2" × 11/128" and 1/2" × 1/8". Ruphus ProLine uses the narrow ProLine chain system with a more open structural and design-oriented chainring architecture.

Manufactured in Germany from CNC-machined 7075-T6 aluminum, Kappstein track chainrings are engineered for stable power transmission, low friction and long service life under demanding track conditions.

Kappstein track chainrings have been developed and tested in professional track cycling, including cooperation with Germany’s FES Institute for Research and Development of Sports Equipment. Kappstein drivetrain components have been used by national teams and international championship riders.

Engineering Focus

Kappstein track chainrings are developed from drivetrain geometry and system behaviour rather than by incremental styling changes to conventional tooth forms. The engineering focus includes:

·       Chain engagement behaviour
·       Load distribution across the tooth profile
·       Reduction of chain-tooth sliding friction
·       Chain-interface geometry
·       Structural stiffness under high sprint loads
·       System-level drivetrain interaction

The result is a track drivetrain platform designed for consistent engagement, high structural stability and efficient power transmission under real racing loads.

Technology Overview

·       Round-Teeth Technology – modifies chain-tooth contact geometry to reduce unnecessary sliding during engagement and power transmission.

·       ProLine Chain Engagement Geometry – optimized for 1/2" × 11/128" chains used in the Kappstein ProLine track drivetrain system.

·       Classic Chain Engagement Geometry – optimized for 1/2" × 1/8" track chains while retaining the same professional Elite architecture.

·       Precision CNC Manufacturing – supports high stiffness, repeatable geometry and durability across the full tooth range.

Learn more about:

→ Round-Teeth Technology
→ Our Technology

Elite Low-Drag Architecture

Elite ProLine and Elite Classic share Kappstein’s low-drag web architecture. The internal web is shaped to combine high lateral stiffness with reduced aerodynamic exposure, particularly for the large chainring sizes used in modern track racing.

Both Elite versions are developed to the same professional engineering level. The difference is the chain interface — not the engineering grade.

Product Selection

Elite ProLine

The Elite ProLine is the narrow-chain version of Kappstein’s professional Elite platform. It combines the low-drag Elite web architecture with ProLine Chain Engagement Geometry for 1/2" × 11/128" chains.

·       Professional competition
·       Low-drag web architecture
·       High stiffness for sprint loads
·       1/2" × 11/128" ProLine chain system
·       Recommended with Kappstein ProLine track sprockets

Elite Classic

The Elite Classic provides the same professional Elite architecture for riders who prefer the traditional 1/2" × 1/8" track-chain format. It retains the low-drag web design, high stiffness and professional racing focus of Elite ProLine, but uses a wider chain interface.

For riders who prefer the more substantial feel and traditional compatibility of a 1/8" track chain, Elite Classic provides the same professional-grade chainring architecture without requiring a switch to the narrower ProLine chain system.

·       Same professional engineering level as Elite ProLine
·       Low-drag web architecture
·       High stiffness for sprint loads
·       1/2" × 1/8" traditional track-chain system
·       Recommended with Kappstein Classic track sprockets

Ruphus ProLine

The Ruphus ProLine uses the 1/2" × 11/128" ProLine chain system and Round-Teeth Technology, but with a more open structural concept developed around the distinctive Ruphus mechanical and visual design.

·       High-performance track and fixed gear use
·       1/2" × 11/128" ProLine chain system
·       More open structural design than the Elite low-drag architecture
·       Performance combined with a distinctive industrial-design character

Quick Selection Guide

Applications

·       Professional track cycling
·       High-power sprint and endurance track racing
·       High-performance fixed gear applications
·       Track training and velodrome use

System Recommendation

Elite ProLine / Ruphus ProLine

·      Kappstein ProLine track sprocket
·      High-quality 1/2" × 11/128" chain

Elite Classic

·      Kappstein Classic track sprocket
·      High-quality 1/2" × 1/8" track chain