Q rings

Here's me tuppance worth.. I tried a second-hand compact set to see if they might help with a knee issue and perhaps help seated climbing a bit on the steeper stuff. Seemed to be easier pushing over the top of the pedal stroke when seated on climbs and, strangely, accelerating on the flat in the saddle. The biggest difference I found was also quite un-expected, and that was the feel when out of the saddle - felt much smoother and more 'natural' for want of a better word and wasn't something i'd remembered hearing of before I tried them (have since). I found it immediately noticeable - up a short 15-19% stretch - more so than the difference when seated, but no idea if/how it might feel to others. I don't think i'd be tempted to go back to round rings if I could avoid it - the only fly in the ointment is that they're not cheap at retaill but seem to come up on classifieds/eBay regularly enough that i'm not overally concerned. All this is completely personal opinion of course, but i'd say definitely worth a try if you can. HTH

When on holiday in Spain a few years back, I hired a bike with elliptical Q-rings fitted.  I cycled a lot of hills/small mountains.  I was very happy and was surprised how well I managed the climbing.

That said, because it was a completely different bike to my normal set-up, it is very difficult to make any kind of real comparison.

But I was happy enough that when my current chainrings need replacing, I'll probably give Q rings (or possibly Dovals) a go.

I'm sure someone else will have a more qualified perspective, and the internet is awash with reviews.