Bike Cadence Calculator
Calculate cycling cadence (RPM) from speed and gear ratios, or find optimal speed for target cadence
Calculate Bike Cadence
Current cycling speed
Rim diameter (common: 26", 27", 28", 29")
Tire thickness (common: 23-35mm for road, 35-60mm for hybrid)
Number of teeth on front chainring (common: 34-53)
Number of teeth on rear cog (common: 11-34)
Calculation Results
Consider increasing cadence for better efficiency
Versatile for various terrains
Training Cadence Zones
Calculation Formula
Cadence from Speed
cadence = (speed × 60) / (π × total_wheel_diameter × gear_ratio)
gear_ratio = chainring_teeth / cog_teeth
total_diameter = wheel_diameter + (2 × tire_thickness)
Example Calculation
Given: 25 km/h, 28" wheel, 23mm tire, 50/16 gearing
Total diameter: 711.2mm + 46mm = 757.2mm
Gear ratio: 50/16 = 3.125
Result: ~83 RPM
Cadence Guidelines
Common Gear Ratios
Cadence Tips
Higher cadence reduces muscle fatigue
Smooth circular pedal stroke is key
Gradually build up cadence over time
Practice different cadences in training
Use appropriate gearing for conditions
Understanding Bike Cadence and Performance
What is Bike Cadence?
Bike cadence is the speed at which you turn your pedals, measured in rotations per minute (RPM). It's a fundamental metric that affects your cycling efficiency, power output, and endurance.
Why Cadence Matters
- •Higher cadence reduces muscle strain and fatigue
- •Improves cardiovascular efficiency
- •Allows for better power distribution
- •Enables sustained performance over long distances
The Formula Breakdown
cadence = speed / (wheel_circumference × gear_ratio)
Components:
• Speed: Your cycling velocity
• Wheel circumference: Distance traveled per wheel rotation
• Gear ratio: Mechanical advantage from gearing
Pro Tip: Most professional cyclists maintain 90-110 RPM during races, while recreational cyclists typically ride at 60-80 RPM.
Optimizing Your Cadence
Beginners (50-70 RPM)
Focus on smooth pedal strokes and gradually building endurance before increasing cadence.
Intermediate (70-90 RPM)
Work on developing higher cadence while maintaining power output for improved efficiency.
Advanced (90+ RPM)
Fine-tune cadence for specific disciplines and conditions, balancing power and endurance.