Online bicycle tool
Bike Gear Ratio & Development Calculator
Use the free HILITE bike gear calculator to compare derailleur drivetrains, the Rohloff SPEEDHUB and Pinion gearboxes. Enter wheel circumference, cadence, chainrings, cassette or sprockets to calculate development, speed and overall gear range.
Development is the distance travelled during one complete crank revolution. It provides a useful basis for comparing climbing gears, cruising gears and the gaps within different drivetrain systems.
Preset tyre sizes are approximate. Measure the actual loaded wheel circumference for a more precise result. The calculator supports planning; current manufacturer limits and component compatibility remain decisive for a final build.
Gear ratio and development calculator
Compare derailleur, Rohloff and Pinion gearing with your wheel circumference and cadence.
Development chart
Metres per crank revolutionDetailed gear table
| Gear / combination | Ratio | Development | Speed |
|---|
Understanding bicycle gearing
Development describes how many metres the bicycle travels during one complete crank revolution. A lower value makes steep climbs easier; a higher value provides more distance per revolution at speed.
Measure the actual wheel circumference
ETRTO presets are practical estimates. For a more accurate result, mark one full loaded wheel revolution on the ground and enter the measured distance in millimetres. Tyre model, pressure and load all affect circumference.
Compare range and useful steps
The widest range is not automatically the best choice. Terrain, luggage, cadence, wheel size and the gaps between gears determine which setup feels appropriate.
Technical limits remain decisive
The calculator provides planning values. Component compatibility, permitted sprocket ratios, torque limits and current manufacturer instructions must be checked before a build is approved.
Technical reference values: Pinion, Rohloff.
Compare Pinion, Rohloff and Gates · Discuss your setup with HILITE