How does a single speed freewheel help the bike glide without the rider pedaling?

The single speed freewheel, through its unique internal mechanism, ensures that the bike glides smoothly when the rider is not pedaling. The core component of a single speed freewheel is the ratchet mechanism, an exquisitely designed mechanical structure that allows the sprocket (also called the gear train) to engage with the flywheel as it rotates forward, transmitting force to drive the bicycle forward. However, when the rider stops pedaling or pedals backwards, the ratchet mechanism exhibits its unique sliding function.
First of all, the ratchet mechanism is a mechanical device with one-way meshing function. While pedaling forward, the rider transmits power through the chain to the sprocket (gear train). At this time, the ratchet teeth mesh closely with the teeth on the sprocket, forming a stable transmission system. This meshed state ensures that the force exerted by the rider on the pedals can be effectively converted into forward power of the bicycle, allowing the rider to smoothly drive the bicycle forward. When the rider stops pedaling or pedals backwards, the ratchet mechanism performs its unique sliding function. Due to the one-way meshing nature of the ratchet teeth, when the sprocket (gear train) attempts to rotate in the opposite direction, the ratchet teeth will immediately disengage from the sprocket. The sprocket (gear train) is free to rotate in reverse direction and is no longer restricted by the locking constraints of the ratchet teeth. Therefore, when the rider does not pedal or pedals backwards, the bicycle can still maintain a sliding state without the need for the rider to continue to exert force.
In this process, the ratchet mechanism plays a vital role. Due to the one-way meshing nature of the ratchet teeth, they allow the sprocket to rotate freely in one direction while being locked in the other. Therefore, when the rider stops pedaling, the ratchet teeth remain engaged with the sprocket, but due to the special design of the ratchet mechanism, the sprocket (gear train) can continue to rotate freely backwards (in the coasting direction). This mechanism ensures that the bike experiences no resistance while gliding, thus maintaining a smooth gliding experience.
In addition, the sliding function of the single speed freewheel is also affected by other factors, such as the tightness of the chain and the lubrication of the sprocket. If the chain is too tight or too loose, or the sprocket is poorly lubricated, it may affect the sliding effect of the single speed freewheel. Therefore, when using a single speed freewheel, cyclists need to regularly check and adjust the tightness of the chain, and keep the sprocket clean and lubricated.
In short, the sliding function of the single speed freewheel is achieved through its internal ratchet mechanism. This mechanism allows the sprocket to transmit power to drive the bike forward when pedaling forward, but is free to rotate reversely to coast when not pedaling. This design makes the single speed freewheel very suitable for riding scenarios that do not require frequent speed changes, such as urban commuting, leisure riding, etc. At the same time, it also provides cyclists with a simpler and more direct riding experience.