Choosing the right flywheel and toothed disc ratio is the key to improving riding efficiency and comfort. Whether mountaineering, long-distance riding, or fast tracks, each rider has different needs. So, how to choose the right flywheel and toothed disc ratio according to your riding needs? This article will analyze it in detail for you.
1.What is the flywheel and toothed disc ratio?
The flywheel (Rear Cassette) and the toothed disc (Crankset) are one of the most important components in the bicycle transmission system. The toothed disc is located at the handlebar, which is connected to the pedals and determines the power transmission during riding. The flywheel is located at the rear wheel and changes the resistance and speed of riding through different combinations of teeth. The tooth ratio of the flywheel and the tooth ratio of the toothed disc combine to determine your pedaling efficiency and riding difficulty during riding.
2. The relationship between the flywheel and toothed disc ratio
The tooth ratio of the flywheel and the toothed disc work together to form a transmission ratio suitable for the rider. For example, if the number of teeth on the front chainring is large and the number of teeth on the rear flywheel is small, the rider can pedal faster; conversely, if the number of teeth on the front chainring is small and the number of teeth on the rear flywheel is large, it is suitable for low-speed and high-torque riding when climbing.
3. How to choose the appropriate flywheel chainring gear ratio?
When choosing the gear ratio of the flywheel and chainring, the following factors should be considered:
(1) Riding purpose
Long-distance riding: If your riding is mainly long-distance flat roads, it is recommended to choose a larger chainring and a moderate flywheel gear ratio combination. For example, the front chainring can be 52/36T, and the rear flywheel can be 11-28T or 11-32T, which can balance speed and easy climbing.
Climbing and mountain riding: For climbing or mountain riding, a smaller chainring and a larger flywheel gear ratio are more suitable. For example, the front chainring can be 34T or 36T, and the rear flywheel can be 11-32T or 11-34T, which can help you easily cope with steep slopes.
Racing: For racing or fast riding that requires high speed, a larger chainring combination is an ideal choice. The front chainring can be 50T, 52T or larger, and the rear sprocket can be 11-25T or 11-28T, providing the high gear ratio required for fast riding.
(2) Riding environment
Flat road riding: If your riding environment is mainly flat roads, you can choose a larger front chainring (52T or 53T) and a smaller rear sprocket (11-25T or 11-28T). This combination is suitable for providing higher speed and lower pedaling frequency.
Mountain riding: In mountainous areas or environments with many slopes, a smaller front chainring and a larger gear ratio flywheel combination is more suitable. For example, the front chainring can be 36T or 38T, and the rear flywheel can be 11-32T or 11-34T. This combination makes it easier for you to climb.
(3) Rider's physical fitness and experience
Beginners: For beginners, it is recommended to choose a smaller front chainring (such as 34T or 36T) and a larger flywheel gear ratio (such as 11-32T). This can reduce resistance when climbing and help riders gradually adapt to different terrains.
Experienced riders: Experienced riders usually choose a higher gear ratio flywheel and chainring combination according to their physical fitness to improve speed and efficiency. If the rider is physically strong, he can choose a larger chainring (50T or 52T) with a smaller gear ratio flywheel (11-25T).
4. How to adjust the combination of flywheel and chainring gear ratio?
Different riding needs and riding environments may require different gear ratio combinations. The transmission systems of many modern road bikes allow riders to change cassettes or chainrings as needed. For example, 11-speed or 12-speed systems provide a wider range of gear ratios, allowing riders to more precisely adjust the efficiency and comfort of riding. According to personal needs, riders can change the rear cassette or front chainring to achieve a more ideal riding effect.
5. Summary
Choosing the right cassette and chainring ratio is not a simple matter. It needs to be decided based on the rider's riding needs, physical fitness, and riding environment. For long-distance riding, it is recommended to choose a larger front chainring and a moderate rear cassette ratio; for mountain riding, a smaller front chainring and a larger rear cassette ratio are required. With the increase of experience, riders can gradually adjust the gear ratio combination according to their needs to improve riding efficiency.