Cycling Miles Per Hour Calculator

Cycling MPH Formula:

\[ MPH = \frac{(Cadence \times Chainring)}{Cassette} \times Wheel\ Size \times Constant \]

Speed:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Cycling MPH Calculation?

The cycling MPH calculation estimates your speed based on pedaling cadence, gear ratio, and wheel size. It helps cyclists understand how different gear combinations affect their speed at a given pedaling rate.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cycling speed formula:

\[ MPH = \frac{(Cadence \times Chainring)}{Cassette} \times Wheel\ Size \times 0.003 \times 60 \]

Where:

\( Cadence \) — Pedaling rate in revolutions per minute (RPM)
\( Chainring \) — Number of teeth on front chainring
\( Cassette \) — Number of teeth on rear cassette
\( Wheel\ Size \) — Diameter of wheel in inches
\( 0.003 \) — Conversion constant (inches to miles and minutes to hours)

Explanation: The formula calculates how far the bike travels with each pedal revolution based on gear ratio and wheel circumference, then converts this to miles per hour.

3. Importance of Cycling Speed Calculation

Details: Understanding speed calculations helps cyclists optimize gear selection for different conditions, maintain efficient cadence, and estimate ride times.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your cadence (typical range 60-100 RPM), chainring and cassette tooth counts, and your wheel diameter (common sizes: 26", 27.5", 29" for mountain bikes, 700c ~27" for road bikes).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical cycling cadence?
A: Most cyclists maintain 80-100 RPM for optimal efficiency, though this varies by rider and discipline.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical speed without accounting for factors like wind resistance, tire pressure, or road conditions.

Q3: Why does wheel size matter?
A: Larger wheels cover more distance per revolution, directly affecting speed at any given cadence and gear ratio.

Q4: What's the effect of changing cassette or chainring?
A: Larger chainrings or smaller cassettes increase speed at same cadence, while smaller chainrings or larger cassettes make pedaling easier but slower.

Q5: How can I use this for training?
A: Use it to find gear combinations that let you maintain target speeds at your preferred cadence.