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Bicycle Gearing Options: What You Actually Need (And What You Don’t)
Wait, How Many Gears Do I Need?
If you’ve ever walked into a bike shop and heard someone say, “This one has 27 gears!” like it’s a sports car with turbo boost, you might assume that more gears automatically mean a better ride. But here’s the thing: most riders don’t use all their gears. In fact, many cyclists stick to just a handful, no matter how many cogs and chainrings they have.
So, what actually matters when choosing bicycle gearing options? Follow along as we break it down in a way that won’t make your head spin faster than a freewheel on a downhill.
Gears vs. Gearing Range: The Real MVP
The number of gears (like 7, 10, 21, or some other oddly specific number) is less important than the gearing range—which determines how easy or hard it is to pedal in different situations.
Think of gearing range like the volume knob on your speakers:
- A wide range is like having a volume that goes from a soft whisper to a rock concert—great for tackling big hills and fast flats.
- A narrow range is like your neighbor’s TV volume—consistent, predictable, and best for chill rides on flat terrain.
If there's one takeaway, note this: a bike with 7 speeds and a wide range can actually be more useful than a 21-speed bike with a narrow range. It’s all about having the right gears for the riding you actually do.
Single-Speed, Internal Hubs, and Derailleurs—Oh My!
There’s more than one way to set up bicycle gearing, and each has its perks.
Single-Speed: The Low-Maintenance Champ
- No shifting, no derailleurs, no headaches.
- Best for flat city riding, bike messengers, and people who believe in leg day.
- Meet our Wythe Single Speed/Fixie.
Internal Hub Gears: The Sneaky Smooth Operator
- Gears are tucked inside the hub, safe from dirt and grime.
- Easier shifting, even when stopped (great for city traffic).
- Typically found in 3, 5, or 8-speed setups with good range.
- Meet our internally geared bicycles.
Derailleur Gears: The Classic Climber
- External gears with multiple chainrings and cogs.
- Great for hilly rides and high-speed cruising.
- Requires slightly more maintenance (but worth it if you love versatility).
- Meet our bicycles with derailleurs.
Choosing the Right Bicycle Gearing Options for You
Let’s be real—you don’t need Tour de France gearing for a ride to the coffee shop. The best setup depends on:
✔ Terrain – Hilly? Get a wide-range setup. Flat? Fewer gears might be better.
✔ Maintenance – Hate fixing stuff? Internal hubs or single-speed could be your best friend.
✔ Riding Style – Speed demon? You’ll want high gears. Casual cruiser? Keep it simple.
At the end of the day, the best bicycle gearing options are the ones that make riding feel fun, effortless, and perfectly suited to where and how you ride. Because a bike with the right gearing isn’t just easier to pedal—it makes every ride way more enjoyable.
Not sure what bike is right for you? Let us help you in 4 easy questions.
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