Cycling Calorie Burn Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the cycling calorie burn calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Use the Cycling Calorie Burn Calculator

Formulas Used

Calories Burned

calories_burned = met_value * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200 * duration_min

Calories per Minute

cal_per_minute = met_value * 3.5 * weight_kg / 200

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
weight_lbsBody Weight(lbs)170
met_valueCycling Intensity6.8
duration_minDuration(minutes)60
weight_kgDerived value= weight_lbs * 0.453592calculated

How It Works

Cycling Calorie Burn (MET Method)

Calories = MET x 3.5 x Weight(kg) / 200 x Duration(min)

Cycling MET Values

IntensitySpeedMET Leisure<10 mph3.5 Moderate12-14 mph6.8 Vigorous14-16 mph8.0 Racing16-19 mph10.0 Fast racing>20 mph12.0

Worked Example

A 170 lb person cycling at moderate intensity for 60 minutes.

weight_lbs = 170met_value = 6.8duration_min = 60
  1. 01Weight = 170 x 0.4536 = 77.1 kg
  2. 02Calories = 6.8 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 60
  3. 03= 6.8 x 3.5 x 77.1 / 200 x 60 = 551 kcal

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories does cycling burn?

A moderate-pace cyclist (12-14 mph) burns roughly 400-600 calories per hour depending on body weight.

Is cycling good for weight loss?

Yes. Cycling is a low-impact, high-calorie-burn activity that is easy on joints and sustainable long-term.

Does indoor cycling burn the same calories?

Indoor cycling can burn comparable calories if intensity is matched. Wind resistance outdoors adds a small additional energy cost.

Ready to run the numbers?

Open Cycling Calorie Burn Calculator