Speed & Cadence Calculator
Calculate your cycling speed from cadence and gearing, or find the exact cadence you need to hit a target speed. Optimize your pedalling efficiency for any gear combination.
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Understanding Speed, Cadence & Gearing
Your cycling speed is determined by three factors: gear ratio, wheel circumference, and cadence (pedalling rate). The gear ratio is calculated by dividing the number of teeth on the front chainring by the teeth on the rear cog. A higher ratio means more distance per pedal revolution - but also more effort.
Cadence, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), is how fast you turn the pedals. Professional cyclists typically maintain 85-100 RPM, while recreational riders often pedal at 60-80 RPM. Finding your optimal cadence improves efficiency, reduces fatigue, and helps you ride faster with less effort.
Cadence Zones Explained
Economy Zone (60-70 RPM)
- • Use case: Easy spinning, warm-up, and active recovery
- • Muscle demand: Higher force per pedal stroke, lower cardiovascular load
- • Best for: Short climbs and low-intensity riding
Tempo Zone (80-90 RPM)
- • Use case: Endurance rides and steady training
- • Muscle demand: Balanced effort between muscles and cardiovascular system
- • Best for: Long distance and sportive riding
Race Zone (90-100 RPM)
- • Use case: Sustained high-intensity efforts and racing
- • Muscle demand: Lower force per stroke, higher cardiovascular demand
- • Best for: Time trials, criteriums, and group rides
Sprint Zone (100-120 RPM)
- • Use case: Short bursts, sprints, and attacks
- • Muscle demand: High neuromuscular coordination required
- • Best for: Sprint finishes and interval training
Common Gear Combinations & Speeds
| Gear | Ratio | Speed @ 80 RPM | Speed @ 90 RPM | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 34/28 | 1.21 | 12.3 km/h | 13.8 km/h | Steep climbing |
| 39/21 | 1.86 | 18.9 km/h | 21.2 km/h | Moderate climbing |
| 50/17 | 2.94 | 29.8 km/h | 33.6 km/h | Flat cruising |
| 52/14 | 3.71 | 37.7 km/h | 42.4 km/h | Fast flats / descents |
| 52/11 | 4.73 | 48.0 km/h | 54.0 km/h | Sprinting / downhill |
* Speeds calculated using 700×25c tire (2,111 mm circumference)
Cycling computers & drivetrain tools
A GPS head unit plus the drivetrain tools you'll want when you start chasing cadence and gearing changes.
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Wahoo
Wahoo ELEMNT Bolt V3 GPS Bike Computer
GPS bike computer with color display, smart-device sync, and ANT+ / Bluetooth sensor support - ideal for measuring real-world speed, cadence, and wheel calibration.
$349.99
View on Amazon
Park Tool
Park Tool CC-3.2 Bicycle Chain Checker
Go/no-go chain-wear gauge for 5-12 speed chains that reads 0.5% and 0.75% elongation. The standard drivetrain-maintenance tool; use alongside our chain length and gear ratio calculators.
$12.95
View on Amazon
Crankbrothers
Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool
19-function bike multi-tool with hex, Torx, screwdriver, and chain breaker. The go-to ride-along tool for saddle height, seatpost, and on-the-road adjustments.
$34.06
View on Amazon
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