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Shifting and Understanding Your Gears

Understanding Your Gears

  • Front Gears (Chainrings – Controlled by Left Shifter)
  • Typically 2 or 3 chainrings.
  • Big chainring (outer): Harder to pedal, good for speed and flat/downhill roads.
  • Small chainring (inner): Easier to pedal, good for climbs and starts.

  • Rear Gears (Cassette – Controlled by Right Shifter)
  • 7 to 12 gears.
  • Biggest cog: Easiest to pedal (low gear).
  • Smallest cog: Hardest to pedal (high gear).
When to Shift

Before a Hill

  • Shift to easier gears just before the climb starts.
  • This keeps your cadence smooth and avoids grinding under pressure.
Mid-Climb

  • If you need to shift on a hill, ease up on pedal pressure momentarily to make it smoother and prevent chain skip.
At the Top of a Hill

  • Shift into a harder gear as you crest the hill to regain speed on the descent.

On Flats

  • Aim for a gear that allows you to pedal comfortably at 80–100 RPM (cadence).
  • Use small adjustments with the rear gears to stay in your rhythm.
Before Stopping

  • Downshift to an easier gear right before you stop, so it’s easier to start rolling again.
With Wind or Group Rides

  • Headwinds or tight pacelines may require lower gears to maintain cadence.
  • Downshift slightly when drafting to reduce sudden accelerations.
Where to Shift
Urban or Stop-and-Go Riding

  • Stay in the middle front gear with easy-to-middle rear cogs.
  • Quick shifting is key—anticipate stops and go for smoother starts.
Trail or Gravel Riding

  • Keep cadence steady. Use easier gears for climbs and technical sections.
  • Shift before obstacles to stay in control.
Long Road Rides

  • Use the big front chainring and adjust the rear as terrain changes.
  • Shift proactively on rolling hills—upshift on downhills, downshift before the next climb.
Shifting Techniques

  • Pedal smoothly while shifting—avoid stomping.
  • Shift one gear at a time on the rear for gradual change.
  • Front shifting makes a bigger difference—use it for major terrain changes.
  • Try not to shift both front and rear at the same time (unless experienced).
Avoid Cross-Chaining

  • Cross-chaining wears your drivetrain faster and shifts poorly:
  • Avoid big chainring + big rear cog
  • Avoid small chainring + small rear cog
Signs You Should Shift

  • You’re spinning too fast with no resistance: Shift to a harder gear.
  • You’re struggling to turn the pedals: Shift to an easier gear.
  • Your pedaling feels jerky or inconsistent: Adjust rear gears.
Bonus Tips

  • Practice shifting on quiet roads or parking lots.
  • Clean and lube your chain for smoother shifting.
  • If the chain skips or won’t shift, your derailleur may need adjustment.

MHBC is supported by your membership dollars. Join or donate to MHBC today to enable us to continue to educate the Greater Memphis Area about Bicycle Safety and Awareness.

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