Cycling Cadence Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the cycling cadence calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Cadence
cadence_rpm = round(speed_mpm / development_m)Gear Ratio
gear_ratio = round(chainring / cog * 100) / 100Development
development = round(development_m * 100) / 100Speed
speed_kph = round(speed_mph * 1.60934 * 100) / 100Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
speed_mph | Speed(mph) | 18 |
chainring | Chainring Teeth(teeth) | 50 |
cog | Rear Cog Teeth(teeth) | 17 |
wheel_circ_m | Wheel Circumference(m) | 2.1 |
speed_mpm | Derived value= speed_mph * 1609.34 / 60 | calculated |
development_m | Derived value= (chainring / cog) * wheel_circ_m | calculated |
How It Works
How Cycling Cadence Is Calculated
Formula
Cadence (RPM) = Speed (m/min) / Development (m/rev)
Where Development = Gear Ratio x Wheel Circumference
Optimal Cadence
Most cyclists are most efficient between 80-100 RPM. Professional road cyclists typically ride at 85-95 RPM.
Worked Example
Riding at 18 mph with 50/17 gearing and 2.1 m wheel circumference.
- 01Speed in m/min = 18 * 1609.34 / 60 = 482.8 m/min
- 02Gear ratio = 50 / 17 = 2.94
- 03Development = 2.94 * 2.1 = 6.18 m/rev
- 04Cadence = 482.8 / 6.18 = 78 RPM
Frequently Asked Questions
What cadence should I aim for?
Most riders are efficient at 80-95 RPM. Beginners tend to grind at 60-70 RPM but benefit from practicing higher cadence.
Is higher cadence better?
Higher cadence reduces muscle fatigue but increases cardiovascular demand. The optimal balance depends on the individual and the duration of effort.
How do I measure my cadence?
Use a cadence sensor attached to your crank arm, or count pedal strokes for 15 seconds and multiply by 4.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Cycling Cadence Calculator