1. What is Gear Ratio?

The gear ratio is a measure that compares the number of teeth on the chainring to the number of teeth on the rear cog. It determines how many times the rear wheel turns for each pedal revolution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gear ratio formula:

Where:

• Chainring Teeth — Number of teeth on the front chainring
• Cog Teeth — Number of teeth on the rear cog

Explanation: A higher ratio means more distance per pedal stroke but requires more effort, while a lower ratio offers easier pedaling but less distance per stroke.

3. Importance of Gear Ratio

Details: The gear ratio affects your bike's acceleration, top speed, and pedaling efficiency. Choosing the right ratio depends on your riding style, terrain, and physical strength.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of teeth on your chainring and rear cog. Both values must be positive integers (typically between 20-60 for chainrings and 8-30 for cogs).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical BMX gear ratio?
A: Most BMX bikes use ratios between 2.0 and 3.0, with 2.5-2.8 being common for street/park riding.

Q2: How does gear ratio affect riding?
A: Higher ratios are better for speed and flat terrain, while lower ratios help with acceleration and technical riding.

Q3: Can I change my gear ratio?
A: Yes, by changing either your chainring or rear cog (or both) to get your desired ratio.

Q4: What's the difference between gear ratio and gear inches?
A: Gear inches also factors in wheel size, while gear ratio is purely about the teeth count relationship.

Q5: What ratio is best for beginners?
A: Beginners often prefer ratios around 2.4-2.6 as they offer a good balance between speed and control.