Gears allow for a constant rate of pedal action, or cadence, to produce different speeds. They are useful for traveling over varying terrain. The cyclist can keep the same force on the pedals, and produce different revolutions of the rear wheel. A little terminology is helpful when riding: The gear sprockets attached to the pedal crank arm are called chainrings. The gear cogs on the rear wheel are called rear gears, or sprockets. So, for example, pedaling when the chain is on a chainring of equal size as a rear gear sprocket produces a 1:1 gear ratio--each revolution of the chainring is equal to one revolution of the rear sprocket. Using a larger chainring and a smaller rear sprocket produces a much higher gear ratio--each turn of the chainring produces multiple turns of the rear sprocket, meaning that the bike will travel faster if the cyclist can sustain the force. A cyclist will change into lower gears (lower gear ratios) when traveling up slopes, and pop up into higher gears (higher ratios) when traveling on the flats or going downhill.
Tips & Warnings
Mountain bikes typically have two shifter types: the grip shift and the shift levers. Grip shifts are simple and streamlined. You twist away from you to go up a gear, towards you to downshift. The levers are typically two-fold on each handlebar, the thumb shift shifts up, and the finger shift shifts down. Both are good systems, but the grip shift is more prone to accidentally shift while cycling, as you pull on the handles.
Get the right accessories for your riding style. Lightweight, pedals, cranks and gear cogs, and XT derailleurs make for a better ride.
Mountain bikes typically have two shifter types: the grip shift and the shift levers. Grip shifts are simple and streamlined. You twist away from you to go up a gear, towards you to downshift. The levers are typically two-fold on each handlebar, the thumb shift shifts up, and the finger shift shifts down. Both are good systems, but the grip shift is more prone to accidentally shift while cycling, as you pull on the handles.
Get the right accessories for your riding style. Lightweight, pedals, cranks and gear cogs, and XT derailleurs make for a better ride.
Always wear a helmet. In rocky terrain, or off road, consider knee pads and other protective gear. Always break using the rear brake first when slowing, especially when traveling down hill.
Article Written By Benjamin Williams
Ben Williams is an award-winning reporter and freelance writer based out of Colorado. He has written for conglomerates of newspapers and magazines, supplying news, features, editorial and opinion. While running an Energy Services and Consulting firm, he now writes for multiple websites including the news site, Examiner.com.
