🚴 Bike Cadence Calculator
Convert road speed and gearing into pedaling cadence to target efficient RPM ranges on climbs, flats, or time trials.
Typical road speeds range from 20–40 km/h.
700c road wheels ≈ 700 mm, 27.5 MTB ≈ 690 mm, 29er ≈ 735 mm.
Common road setups: 50/34, 52/36, 53/39.
Smaller cogs = harder gear; larger cogs = easier gear.
Cadence
73 rpm
Wheel rpm 243
Speed reference
32.0 km/h (19.9 mph)
Gear ratio 50:15
Gear metrics
Gear inches 91.9 • Development 7.33 m/rev
| Scenario | Estimated Cadence (rpm) | Suggested Gear Change |
|---|---|---|
| Maintain same speed with slightly harder gear | 70 | Add 2 teeth to front chainring (higher gear) |
| Maintain same speed with easier gear | 63 | Subtract 2 teeth from rear cog (lower gear) |
How to Use This Calculator
Enter your target speed
Use current ride speed or planned race pace.
Set wheel diameter
Use manufacturer specs or measure tire diameter in millimetres.
Enter gear teeth
Chainring and cassette teeth determine gear ratio and cadence.
Analyze cadence outputs
Adjust gearing to stay within optimal cadence ranges for efficiency.
Formula
Cadence (rpm) = Wheel RPM × (Rear Teeth ÷ Front Teeth)
Wheel RPM = (Speed (m/s) ÷ Wheel Circumference (m)) × 60 • Wheel Circumference = π × Diameter.
Gear Inches = Wheel Diameter (inches) × (Front ÷ Rear) • Development = Wheel Circumference × (Front ÷ Rear).
Cadence guidance: endurance riding 80–95 rpm; time trials 95–105 rpm; climbing may drop to 70–85 rpm depending on gearing and gradient.
Cycling Tips
Monitoring cadence prevents muscular fatigue and optimizes cardiovascular efficiency. Use this calculator to select gears that support sustainable RPMs on varied terrain.
Cadence training ideas
- Spin-ups: 5×1 minute at 110 rpm with easy gearing to improve leg speed.
- Low-cadence strength intervals at 60–70 rpm on steady climbs or ergometer.
- Track cadence with power meter or cadence sensor for real-time feedback.
Bike fit considerations
- Ensure saddle height allows smooth high-cadence pedaling without rocking hips.
- Consider compact chainrings or wider-range cassettes if cadence drops on climbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cadence should I aim for?
Most riders perform best between 85–95 rpm, with elite racers often spinning over 100 rpm on flats.
How do I convert mph to cadence quickly?
Use this calculator or memorize typical combinations for your drivetrain (e.g., 50×17 at 20 mph ≈ 90 rpm).
Does wheel size include tire height?
Yes—diameter should include tire height (outer diameter). Measure axle to ground × 2, or use manufacturer specs.
Can I use it for indoor trainers?
Absolutely. Enter virtual speed and gearing to calibrate trainer workouts or Zwift sessions.
What about fixed gear bikes?
Fixed gear bikes have direct drive—cadence equals wheel rpm calculated here. Adjust for single gear selection.