Bowden cable

Invented by Frank Bowden, a bowden cable is a type of flexible cable used to transmit mechanical force or energy by the movement of an inner cable (most commonly of steel) relative to a hollow outer cable, generally a spiral steel wire with a plastic outer sheath.

The linear movement of the inner cable is generally used to transmit a pulling force, although for very light applications over shorter distances a push may also be used.

Uses

• bicycle brake and gear shift cables
• photographic shutter release cables
• automotive clutch and throttle cables
• motorcycle throttle, clutch and (now rarely) brake cables
• remote hi-hats in drum kits