1. What is a Bike Speed Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates bicycle speed based on pedaling cadence (RPM), tire size, and gear ratio.

Purpose: It helps cyclists understand how different gear ratios and cadences affect their speed for training and equipment selection.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( S \) — Speed (miles per hour)
• \( RPM \) — Pedal revolutions per minute
• \( TD \) — Tire diameter (inches)
• \( GR \) — Gear ratio (unitless)
• 1056 — Conversion factor combining inches to miles and minutes to hours

Explanation: The formula calculates how far the bike travels per pedal revolution based on tire circumference and gear ratio, then scales it to miles per hour.

3. Importance of Speed Calculation

Details: Understanding speed helps cyclists optimize gear selection, maintain efficient cadence, and plan training sessions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your pedaling RPM (typically 60-100 for most cyclists), tire diameter (common sizes: 26", 27.5", 29"), and gear ratio (chainring teeth ÷ cog teeth).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical cycling RPM?
A: Most cyclists maintain 60-90 RPM, with competitive riders often using 80-100 RPM.

Q2: How do I find my gear ratio?
A: Divide the number of teeth on your chainring by the number of teeth on your rear cog.

Q3: Why is tire diameter important?
A: Larger tires cover more ground per revolution, directly affecting speed at any given RPM.

Q4: Does this account for rider effort or hills?
A: No, this calculates theoretical speed based on gearing. Actual speed depends on power output and terrain.

Q5: What's the 1056 constant?
A: It combines conversion from inches to miles (63360) and minutes to hours (60): 63360/60 = 1056.