loh geer
Noun, Verb
Low gear is a bicycle gear ratio used for climbing steep hills or for increased control when descending.
Example usage: I switched to low gear to make it easier to climb this hill.
Most used in: Areas with steep hills and mountains.
Most used by: Mountain bikers and commuters.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Cog, Granny Gear, Easiest Gear, Lowest Gear,
What is Low Gear?
Low gear is a term used in cycling to describe the lowest gear of a bicycle, which is often used for climbing hills. Low gear is usually the smallest chainring in the front and the largest sprocket in the rear. It is designed to give the cyclist more leverage and torque for climbing steeper hills. Low gear can also be used for descending, as it allows for more control and a lower speed.
Statistics show that in the United States, the number of people cycling continues to grow each year. In 2017, 45 million people rode a bicycle at least once, a 3% increase from 2016. This increase in cycling numbers is likely due to the many benefits that cycling provides, such as improved physical and mental health, reduced pollution, and increased access to transportation.
Low gear is an important part of cycling and can be used to make cycling easier and more enjoyable. It can be used to help cyclists climb hills, descend safely, and enjoy their cycling experience. Low gear can be a great tool for cyclists and can help them get the most out of their ride.
The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Low Gear'
The cycling term 'low gear' has been in use since the late 19th century, originating in the United Kingdom. The term was first used in reference to an early type of bicycle called the Penny-Farthing, which featured two large wheels, one in the front and one in the back. The Penny-Farthing had two gears, the lower gear being used mainly for uphill riding and the higher gear for downhill and flat ground.
In the early days of cycling, the gears of the Penny-Farthing bicycle were referred to as the 'high gear' and the 'low gear'. This terminology was eventually adopted by cyclists all over the world, and 'low gear' or 'low gear ratio' is still used to describe a bicycle's gear set up.
The term 'low gear' is still used today by cyclists to refer to a gear set up that is designed for use on uphill terrain. Low gear setups are usually characterized by a low gear ratio, meaning that the bike can be pedaled at a lower cadence and produces more torque, allowing the rider to climb hills more easily.
The term 'low gear' is an integral part of cycling terminology and has been in use for over a century. It is a testament to the importance of gear selection in cycling, and its use is likely to continue for many more years to come.
