Enter your chainring teeth, cog teeth, and wheel diameter into the calculator to determine your cycling gear ratio.

Cycling Gear Ratio Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the gear ratio for cycling.

Gear Ratio = (Chainring Teeth / Cog Teeth) * Wheel Diameter

Variables:

  • Gear Ratio is the ratio used to determine the mechanical advantage in cycling
  • Chainring Teeth is the number of teeth on the chainring
  • Cog Teeth is the number of teeth on the cog
  • Wheel Diameter is the diameter of the wheel in inches

To calculate the gear ratio, divide the number of chainring teeth by the number of cog teeth and multiply by the wheel diameter.

What is Gear Ratio Calculation?

Gear ratio calculation is essential for cyclists who want to optimize their performance. The gear ratio determines how hard or easy it is to pedal, affecting speed and effort. A higher gear ratio means more speed but harder pedaling, while a lower ratio makes pedaling easier but reduces speed. Understanding and calculating the correct gear ratio ensures efficient energy use and enhances overall cycling experience.

How to Calculate Gear Ratio?

The following steps outline how to calculate the gear ratio using the given formula.


  1. First, determine the number of teeth on the chainring and the cog.
  2. Next, measure the diameter of your wheel in inches.
  3. Use the formula from above: Gear Ratio = (Chainring Teeth / Cog Teeth) * Wheel Diameter.
  4. Finally, calculate the gear ratio by plugging in the values.