1. What is Gear Ratio?

The gear ratio 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 revolution, affecting your pedaling efficiency and speed.

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 gear ratio means more distance covered per pedal stroke but requires more effort, while a lower ratio means easier pedaling but less distance per stroke.

3. Importance of Gear Ratio

Details: Gear ratio is crucial for cycling performance, helping riders choose appropriate gears for different terrains and riding conditions. It affects speed, cadence, and pedaling effort.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of teeth on your chainring and cog (both must be at least 1). The calculator will compute the gear ratio.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical gear ratio for road bikes?
A: Common ratios range from about 2.0 (e.g., 50/25) to 4.0 (e.g., 52/13), with variations based on terrain and rider preference.

Q2: How does gear ratio affect climbing?
A: Lower gear ratios (smaller chainring or larger cog) make climbing easier by reducing the effort needed per pedal stroke.

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

Q4: Should I use the same gear ratio for all rides?
A: No, optimal gear ratios vary based on terrain, fitness level, and riding goals (speed vs. endurance).

Q5: How can I change my gear ratios?
A: By changing your chainring(s) or cassette (rear cogs) to ones with different tooth counts.