What is a derailleur hanger and why does it break?

If you've ever had a weird shifting issue after a minor tumble, you've probably searched for what is a derailleur hanger while staring at your rear wheel in confusion. It's one of those tiny, unassuming parts of a bike that nobody notices until it's either bent, cracked, or completely snapped off. Basically, it's a small piece of metal that acts as the bridge between your bike frame and the rear derailleur—the part that actually moves your chain between gears. ...

February 26, 2026 · 6 min · Nuñez Nigel