When to use this calculator
Estimate bicycle speed from cadence, gear ratio and wheel circumference. Assumes no wheel slip and direct gearing. Use measured rolling circumference.
Explore the pace, splits & race time calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Lap Count Calculator: Find the number of laps needed to reach a target distance.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Cycling Cadence Speed: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Cadence (rpm) | 80 |
| Front chainring teeth (integer) | 50 |
| Rear sprocket teeth (integer) | 20 |
| Wheel circumference (m) | 2.1 |
| Result | 25.2 km/h |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Speed = cadence × front/rear × circumference × 60/1000.
- The result is 25.2 km/h, rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Assumes no wheel slip and direct gearing. Use measured rolling circumference.
Use matching distance units and decimal minutes. A constant-pace plan does not forecast how terrain, conditions or fatigue will affect a race. A split is a time over a chosen reference distance.
Frequently asked questions
How do I read a result of 5.5 minutes per kilometre?
It means 5 minutes 30 seconds per kilometre, because 0.5 of a minute is 30 seconds.
How do I use the cycling cadence speed calculator?
Enter cadence (rpm), front chainring teeth (integer), rear sprocket teeth (integer), wheel circumference (m). The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Speed = cadence × front/rear × circumference × 60/1000.
What should I check before using the result?
Assumes no wheel slip and direct gearing. Use measured rolling circumference.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
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