1. What is a Bicycle Gear Ratio Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the gear ratio of a bicycle by comparing the number of teeth on the chainring to the number of teeth on the cog.

Purpose: It helps cyclists understand their gearing setup and make informed decisions about gear selection for different riding conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( GR \) — Gear ratio (unitless)
• \( Chainring \) — 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 revolution, while a lower ratio provides easier pedaling for climbing.

3. Importance of Gear Ratio Calculation

Details: Understanding gear ratios helps cyclists optimize their pedaling efficiency, speed, and climbing ability for different terrains.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of teeth on your chainring and cog. Both values must be positive integers (typically 20-55 for chainrings, 11-34 for cogs).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good gear ratio for climbing hills?
A: Lower ratios (1.5-2.0) are better for climbing, achieved with smaller chainrings or larger cogs.

Q2: What gear ratio is best for flat terrain?
A: Higher ratios (3.0-4.5) are better for flats, achieved with larger chainrings or smaller cogs.

Q3: How does gear ratio affect speed?
A: Higher ratios allow greater speed per pedal revolution but require more effort to turn.

Q4: What's the difference between gear ratio and gear inches?
A: Gear inches incorporates wheel size, while gear ratio is purely based on teeth count.

Q5: Should I change my gear ratios for different riding styles?
A: Yes, road cyclists typically use higher ratios than mountain bikers who need more climbing ability.