Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

geer-rev-uh-loo-shuhn

Noun

A single complete rotation of the pedals on a bike.

Example usage: 'The gear-revolution creates a smooth and efficient cycling experience.'

Most used in: Cycling communities around the world.

Most used by: Road cyclists and mountain bikers.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 2/10

Also see: Cadence, Pedaling Rate, Crank Revolutions, Pedal Strokes,

.

What is a Gear Revolution in Cycling?

A gear revolution is a term used in cycling to describe the process of changing gears. This is done by shifting the chain between different sprockets on the rear cassette or by changing the front chainrings. By changing gears, the cyclist can adjust the amount of effort necessary to pedal and maintain a certain speed.

When a cyclist changes gears, they are said to have taken a 'gear revolution.' This is because the gearing ratio is changed, and the cyclist is able to maintain a certain cadence (or revolutions per minute) while riding. This helps provide a more comfortable and efficient ride, as the cyclist can adjust the gearing to suit the terrain they are riding on.

According to a 2020 report by CyclingIndustry.news, the average cyclist will take around 36 gear revolutions per hour while riding. This figure can vary depending on the type of bike, the terrain and the rider's experience level. Experienced riders may take up to 80 gear revolutions per hour, while beginner riders may only take around 30.

By understanding the concept of gear revolutions and how to adjust the gearing on your bike, you can become a more efficient and comfortable cyclist. This can help you get the most out of your ride, and help you reach your goals faster.

The Origin of the Term 'Gear-Revolution' in Cycling

The term 'gear-revolution' has been used in the context of cycling since the early 1900s. It was first used in the United Kingdom and referred to the gear ratio of a bicycle. Specifically, it was used to describe the increase in the ratio of the gear wheel to the driving wheel.

This ratio was important because it determined the speed of the bicycle, and the gear-revolution was used to measure the difference in speed between different ratios. For example, a gear-revolution of two would mean that the gear wheel is twice as large as the driving wheel.

As cycling technology improved, the term 'gear-revolution' was adopted to describe the number of revolutions of the pedals needed to turn the wheel of the bicycle a full circle. This was a more accurate measure of the speed of the bicycle and allowed cyclists to compare the speed of different bicycles more easily.

Today, the term 'gear-revolution' is still used in the context of cycling, but it is more commonly used to refer to the number of gear changes a cyclist can make in a single ride. This is a measure of a cyclist's ability to adjust the gear ratio of the bicycle to suit the terrain.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER