1. What is Gear Ratio?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: A higher gear ratio means more distance covered per pedal stroke but requires more effort. Lower ratios make pedaling easier but cover less distance per stroke.

3. Importance of Gear Ratio

Details: Gear ratio is crucial for determining pedaling efficiency, speed potential, and climbing ability. It helps cyclists choose appropriate gearing for different terrains and riding styles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of teeth on your chainring and cog. Both values must be positive integers (typically between 20-60 teeth for chainrings and 10-50 teeth for cogs).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical gear ratio for road bikes?
A: Common ratios range from 2.0 (50/25) for climbing to 4.5 (54/12) for sprinting.

Q2: How does gear ratio affect speed?
A: Higher ratios allow higher speeds at the same cadence but require more power to turn.

Q3: What's the difference between gear ratio and gear inches?
A: Gear inches incorporates wheel size while gear ratio is purely based on tooth count.

Q4: Why do some bikes have multiple chainrings and cogs?
A: Multiple gears allow riders to maintain optimal cadence across varying terrain.

Q5: How do I choose the right gear ratio?
A: Consider your fitness level, typical terrain, and whether you prioritize speed or comfort.