1. What is the Bicycle Speed Calculator?

This calculator estimates bicycle speed based on your cadence (pedaling rate), gear ratio, and wheel circumference. It helps cyclists understand how different gear combinations affect their speed at various pedaling rates.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( Cadence \) — Pedaling rate in revolutions per minute (RPM)
• \( Gear\ ratio \) — Chainring teeth divided by cog teeth
• \( Wheel\ circumference \) — Wheel size in inches
• 336 — Conversion factor to get miles per hour

Explanation: The formula calculates how far the bike travels per minute based on pedaling rate and gear ratio, then converts this to miles per hour.

3. Importance of Speed Calculation

Details: Understanding the relationship between cadence, gearing, and speed helps cyclists select appropriate gears for their fitness level and terrain, and maintain efficient pedaling rates.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your cadence in RPM (typically 60-100 RPM for most cyclists), gear ratio (e.g., 50/11 ≈ 4.55), and wheel circumference in inches (standard road bike ≈ 82-86 inches).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical cadence range?
A: Most cyclists maintain 80-100 RPM for efficient pedaling, though this varies by rider and terrain.

Q2: How do I calculate gear ratio?
A: Divide the number of teeth on your chainring by the number of teeth on your rear cog (e.g., 50 tooth chainring with 25 tooth cog = 2.0 ratio).

Q3: Where can I find my wheel circumference?
A: Measure the actual rolling diameter or consult bicycle wheel size charts (700c ≈ 2120-2140mm circumference).

Q4: Why use 336 in the formula?
A: This converts inches per minute to miles per hour (12 inches/foot × 5280 feet/mile ÷ 60 minutes/hour = 1056, then 1056/π ≈ 336).

Q5: Does this account for tire pressure or rider weight?
A: No, this calculates theoretical speed. Actual speed may vary due to tire pressure, rider weight, wind resistance, and road conditions.