How to Choose the Best Cadence for Cycling 2022?

How strong is a cadence for cycling? Is it better to go for a high or low frame rate? How to measure cadence on the bike? You may have asked yourself some of these questions while riding a bike, especially when you can’t find your ideal pace.

Pedalling is the foundation of cycling, and the speed at which you do it influences your training and progress. The cadence interprets this speed and allows the cyclist to vary it to his advantage. Knowing how to control your pedalling rate is directing the energy you expend to get the most out of each pedal stroke.

Pedalling Cadence: What is it and how to measure it?

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Pedalling cadence is the number of times per minute the pedal completes a full revolution. The best Cadence for cycling is measured in revolutions per minute (rpm) and is a primary measure of training used worldwide.

Cadence sensor – The measuring device

To know how fast you pedal, you must install the cadence sensor or cadence meter on your best Cadence for Cycling bike.

It is a small device usually installed on the inside face of one of the crank arms. The latest generations of sensors are integrated into the component itself or the pedals, such as those from Garmin. This sensor measures the rpm of pedalling thanks to an inside electronic accelerometer.

There are several cadence sensors: some are installed on the crank arm, others are integrated into the pedals or in the crank axle, and some even attach to the chainstay.

The sensor can transmit cadence data via Bluetooth or ANT+ connection to a compatible bike computer. It can also be transferred to a mobile phone via an application. They are available for free.

Benefits to measuring your Pedalling Cadence?

Cycling while monitoring your pedalling cadence is recommended for all cyclists, whatever their level. It’s not just for professionals. Here are several reasons to install a cadence meter on your bike:

You will improve your rhythm.

Knowing your cadence will give you a benchmark against which you can improve your pedalling. In this way, you exploit the maximum energy of each pedal stroke. You can increase or decrease your pace depending on the number of revolutions per minute (rpm) that the cyclo-meter indicates.

Working with objective data in real-time is always an advantage to progress as a cyclist.

You will tire less

By Optimizing your best Cadence for Cycling, you will make better use of the energy you transmit while pedalling. You will save your strength and avoid problems such as sudden drops in performance, dreaded fatigue, etc.

You will improve your physical condition.

Saving your strength will allow you to finish your training session or course with less fatigue. This aspect speeds up recovery and improves your physical condition in the medium and long term. To do this, you need to know how to interpret cadence data.

You must know how to change from a slow pace to an intermediate or fast one, depending on the route and your fitness level.

Inexpensive and easy to interpret

Buying the Best Cadence Sensor for Cycling is not very expensive. From 10 euros, you will find reliable devices ready to be paired by Bluetooth with an application. You can download it from major app stores. In addition, installation is quick and easy.

For Best Cadence for Cycling, we recommend those from brands such as Taope or Sigma, a German brand. The latter brand can be associated with their mid-range and high-end bicycle cyclo-computers.

Sigma cadence sensor

Slow or fast Pedalling, which is better (low or high Cadence)?

It is one of the most frequently asked questions about pedalling and cadence. We can tell you that there is no specific answer, just like there is no ideal cadence.

The correct pedalling cadence depends on each rider and their fitness, type of ride or training (beginner, endurance, explosive), or bike mechanics (chosen drivetrain, weight, etc.). There are many factors to consider, so the cadence should be tailored to these.

In any case, we can give you some indications so that you can adapt your optimal cadence.

Effective cadence and effective cadence: definition and differences

There are two clear goals when working with the best Cadence for Cycling and pedalling cadence: finding the effective and effective cadence.

The effective rate is when we expend less energy to generate the same watts. The best Cadence for Cycling is the cadence at which we can develop the most power.

You can use a potentiometer to determine your actual and ideal cadence accurately. It is recommended but not essential.

Below we help you understand and try the three cadence levels to consider in your preparation.

Levels of Best Cadence for Cycling – low, medium, and high

Determining intervals or cadence levels in rpm can be a good starting point for interpreting the data and specifying your efficient and effective cadence.

Low cadence (50 – 70 rpm)

Low cadences tend to always be in the 50-70 rpm range. More prolonged or challenging gear ratios are used, using the large chainring combined with medium and small sprockets.

Riding at a low cadence involves working on strength and pedalling techniques. On a physical level, a cadence of this type involves more fibres and muscle groups.

In practice, it is also a technical resource for pedalling more efficiently on flat terrain or light climbs in good condition. Always, of course, with a medium-high level of fitness. This best Cadence for Cycling requires a high intensity of effort.

Average cadence (70 – 90 rpm)

In this cadence interval, we mainly work on aspects such as resistance and speed. We can say that it is the pace of long-distance, long races. The intensity is moderate to work resistance and high to explore your speed limits.

High cadence (90 – 110 rpm)

Finally, a high pedalling rate improves explosiveness, power, and top speed. You can pedal at low, medium, and high intensities in this segment.

At low intensity, we opt for a short and fluid workout, which promotes recovery or warming up. At medium intensities, power and explosiveness are worked on (choice of medium intensity). And at high intensities, maximum speed and power are called upon.

By moving through this best cadence for the Cycling pattern, you can begin to interpret rpm. It will allow you to plan your preparation and work on all facets to improve your general physical condition (endurance, explosiveness, and speed).

And remember, demand and planning are crucial to getting the most out of Best Cadence for Cycling training.