1. What is Bicycle Cadence?

Cadence in cycling refers to the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the crank arms. It's a key metric for cyclists to measure pedaling efficiency and maintain optimal performance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( Speed \) — Bicycle speed in kilometers per hour
• \( Circumference \) — Wheel circumference in meters
• \( Gear Ratio \) — Ratio of chainring teeth to cog teeth

Explanation: The formula converts speed to distance traveled per minute, then divides by wheel circumference and gear ratio to determine crank revolutions.

3. Importance of Cadence

Details: Maintaining proper cadence (typically 80-100 RPM for road cycling) helps prevent muscle fatigue, improves endurance, and optimizes power output.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your cycling speed, select wheel size, and input your gear ratio (chainring teeth divided by cog teeth). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is an ideal cadence for cycling?
A: Most cyclists aim for 80-100 RPM, though this varies by discipline and individual preference.

Q2: How does cadence affect performance?
A: Higher cadences reduce muscle strain but increase cardiovascular demand, while lower cadences increase muscle load.

Q3: Should I use the same cadence for hills?
A: Many cyclists maintain cadence on hills by shifting to easier gears, though some natural variation is normal.

Q4: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides theoretical cadence assuming no wheel slip. Actual cadence may vary slightly due to terrain and riding conditions.

Q5: Can I use this for stationary bikes?
A: Yes, if you know the simulated "speed" and wheel circumference used by the stationary bike's computer.