Bike Gear Ratio Speed Cadence Calculator Comparison

Speed Calculation Formula:

\[ Speed = \frac{Cadence \times Chainring \times Wheel\ Circumference \times 60}{Cog \times 100000} \]

Cadence:

RPM

Chainring Teeth:

Cog Teeth:

Wheel Size:

Speed:

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1. What is Bike Gear Ratio Speed Calculation?

The bike gear ratio speed calculation determines how fast you'll go based on your pedaling cadence, gear ratio, and wheel size. It helps cyclists understand how different gear combinations affect their speed at various cadences.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

\[ Speed = \frac{Cadence \times Chainring \times Wheel\ Circumference \times 60}{Cog \times 100000} \]

Where:

\( Cadence \) — Pedaling rate in revolutions per minute (RPM)
\( Chainring \) — Number of teeth on front chainring
\( Cog \) — Number of teeth on rear cog
\( Wheel\ Circumference \) — Distance traveled per wheel revolution in mm
60 — Converts minutes to hours
100000 — Converts mm to km

Explanation: The formula calculates how far the bike travels with each pedal revolution based on the gear ratio, then scales this up to km/h based on cadence.

3. Importance of Gear Ratio and Cadence

Details: Understanding gear ratios helps cyclists maintain optimal cadence (typically 80-100 RPM) across varying terrain. Proper gear selection prevents fatigue and improves efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your cadence (RPM), chainring and cog tooth counts, and select your wheel size. The calculator will show your speed in km/h for that gear combination.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical cycling cadence?
A: Most cyclists maintain 80-100 RPM for road cycling. Mountain bikers may use slightly lower cadences (60-80 RPM) for technical terrain.

Q2: How does gear ratio affect speed?
A: Higher gear ratios (big chainring/small cog) produce more speed per pedal stroke but require more effort. Lower ratios are easier to pedal but produce less speed.

Q3: Why does wheel size matter?
A: Larger wheels cover more distance per revolution, increasing speed for the same cadence and gear ratio.

Q4: What's a good gear ratio for climbing?
A: For steep climbs, ratios around 1:1 (e.g., 34T chainring with 34T cog) or lower are recommended to maintain cadence.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides theoretical speed. Actual speed may vary due to factors like tire pressure, rider position, wind, and road surface.