Can I use this calculator for a bike with an internal-gear hub?

Yes, Sheldon Brown's site provides a separate internal-gear calculator that lists hubs from 1902 Sturmey-Archer to modern models, allowing speed and development calculations for hub-based gearing.

What if my sprocket or chainring size isn't in the stock lists?

You can enter custom tooth counts under the custom sprockets section for chainrings and sprockets not covered by the listed manufacturers.

How do I print the gear reference for use while riding?

Clicking calculate generates a small output page designed to be printed and taped to the bicycle's handlebar stem for quick reference during rides.

Does the calculator support wheel size measurements beyond diameter?

Users can input wheel diameter or circumference; the tool will compute development and speed metrics based on the entered wheel measurement.

SportsTool Review

Bike Cadence and Speed Calculator

Provided bySheldon Brownsheldonbrown.com

The Bicycle Gear Calculator supports wheel and drivetrain inputs and outputs gearing tables with speed values at mult...

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Screenshot of Bike Cadence and Speed Calculator on Sheldon Brown — sheldonbrown.comOpen the live tool →

About this tool

What Bike Cadence and Speed Calculator does

The Sheldon Brown Bicycle Gear Calculator determines speed and cadence by processing chainring, sprocket, wheel, and crank length inputs. Users receive gear ratios, gear inches, and development metrics, with output tables showing speed at multiple RPM levels. The site offers two calculators: a standard derailleur gear calculator and a separate internal-gear calculator covering hubs from 1902 Sturmey-Archer to modern models. Results can be printed as handheld references, and the tool accommodates custom sprocket configurations for less common setups.

Step by step

How to use the Sheldon Brown Bike Cadence and Speed Calculator

1
Select either the derailleur or internal-gear calculator tab based on your bike's drivetrain type
2
Enter at least one chainring tooth count and at least one sprocket tooth count, or choose a stock cassette from the listed options
3
Input wheel diameter or circumference, and optionally crank length for development calculations
4
Click calculate to generate two output pages: a full-size table and a compact reference card for handlebar mounting

Is it right for you

Best for

Cyclists building a custom bike or evaluating existing gearing who need detailed speed-cadence mapping across multiple RPM ranges and appreciate the ability to print a compact reference for on-ride use.

Limitations

Calculator interface appears dated with faint field outlines on mobile devices
Results require JavaScript-enabled browsers and may need popup adjustments for dual output windows
Cassette selection is current only through February 2018 for major brands, with some older models no longer listed

Questions

Bike Cadence and Speed Calculator FAQ

Can I use this calculator for a bike with an internal-gear hub?: Yes, Sheldon Brown's site provides a separate internal-gear calculator that lists hubs from 1902 Sturmey-Archer to modern models, allowing speed and development calculations for hub-based gearing.
What if my sprocket or chainring size isn't in the stock lists?: You can enter custom tooth counts under the custom sprockets section for chainrings and sprockets not covered by the listed manufacturers.
How do I print the gear reference for use while riding?: Clicking calculate generates a small output page designed to be printed and taped to the bicycle's handlebar stem for quick reference during rides.
Does the calculator support wheel size measurements beyond diameter?: Users can input wheel diameter or circumference; the tool will compute development and speed metrics based on the entered wheel measurement.

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