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Best Gear Ratio For Hill Climbing Road Bike (2025 Update)

Choosing the right gear ratio for climbing hills on your road bike can make a huge difference in your cycling performance and enjoyment. With the many options available, it can be tricky to determine what gear ratio is optimal for conquering steep ascents. When selecting gears for hill climbing, there are a few key factors to take into account before making a purchase.

First, consider the steepness and length of the hills you’ll be attempting to climb. Steeper and longer climbs will require lower gear ratios to help you spin up the hills at an efficient cadence without gassing yourself. Think about the average grades and distances of the climbs in your cycling routes or races.

It’s also important to consider your own fitness level and cycling strengths. Strong climbers can push higher gear ratios and remain in the saddle during climbs. Weaker climbers will need lower gear ratios to grind up hills without standing up. Analyze your current climbing ability and choose gear ratios that match your skills.

Finally, factor in the weight of your bike and riding kit. Heavier bikes and loads will require more gear reduction to maintain momentum during climbs. Make sure your gear ratios compensate for the total weight you’ll be propelling uphill.

Choosing the optimal gear ratio for conquering hills on your road bike is not always straightforward. With some reflection on the hills you ride, your abilities, and your bike’s weight, you can select gear ratios that will help you improve your climbing efficiency and stamina when the road tilts skyward. What gear options have you found best suited for climbing on your road bike?

10 Best Gear Ratio For Hill Climbing Road Bike

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The ECOTRIC electric bike is ideal for adults who want a powerful, shock-absorbing, and versatile mode of transportation.
2
The electric bike is ideal for adults who want a foldable, powerful, and long-range mountain bike with dual shock absorbers.
3
The Vivi Electric Bike is ideal for adults who want a powerful and long-lasting electric mountain bike with speed and control.
4
This product is ideal for mountain bikes, providing a range of gear ratios with lightweight aluminum construction.
5
This product is ideal for bicycles that require a square crankset with 7 or 8 speeds and 170mm length.
6
This product is ideal for road bikes with Shimano and Sram Standard HG hub drivers, offering 11-speed cassette options.
7
The electric bike with a 350W motor, power assist, and dual disc brakes is ideal for trail riding.
8
The product is ideal for adults who want a powerful and versatile electric bike with fat tires, suspension, and dual motors.
9
The product is ideal for cycling and improving performance on the road or in competitions.
10
Ideal for adults commuting on an electric bike with removable battery, 21-speed gears and 350W motor.
The ECOTRIC electric bike is ideal for adults who want a powerful, shock-absorbing, and versatile mode of transportation.
The electric bike is ideal for adults who want a foldable, powerful, and long-range mountain bike with dual shock absorbers.
The Vivi Electric Bike is ideal for adults who want a powerful and long-lasting electric mountain bike with speed and control.
This product is ideal for mountain bikes, providing a range of gear ratios with lightweight aluminum construction.
This product is ideal for bicycles that require a square crankset with 7 or 8 speeds and 170mm length.
This product is ideal for road bikes with Shimano and Sram Standard HG hub drivers, offering 11-speed cassette options.
The electric bike with a 350W motor, power assist, and dual disc brakes is ideal for trail riding.
The product is ideal for adults who want a powerful and versatile electric bike with fat tires, suspension, and dual motors.
The product is ideal for cycling and improving performance on the road or in competitions.
Ideal for adults commuting on an electric bike with removable battery, 21-speed gears and 350W motor.

1. Ecotric Fat Tire Electric Mountain Bike

The mountain e-bike with a 500W rear motor is the perfect weekend adventure companion for off-road cycling enthusiasts. Whether you're camping, hunting, fishing, or cycling on rugged trails or mountain roads, this rocket electric bike is designed to provide strong driving force and help anyone get on the road, regardless of their physical ability. With a default factory maximum speed of 23.6 Mph, this bike can easily be adjusted to a higher speed by following the instruction manual.

This powerful e-bike comes with a 36V/12.5AH removable lithium battery, which provides large capacity endurance enough for long distance expeditions and round trips. The battery can be removed and taken to your home or office for charging, and the charger is included. The charging time is approximately 6-8 hours, and the full charge ride endurance ranges from 30-54 KM (18.64-33.55 Mile), depending on whether you use pedal assist power or throttle power more.

The e-bike has four working modes to choose from: Pedal Assist Mode, Fully Electric Mode, Pedal Mode, and Booster Mode. In Pedal Assist mode, the motor will assist you with a moderate amount of power as you pedal the bicycle. In Fully Electric Mode, twist the throttle in any increments of power you desire to power the motor of the bicycle. In Pedal Mode, pedal the bicycle normally as you would any bicycle. In Booster Mode, the Ebike will travel at 6 km/h (3.73miles/h), making it easy to push.

The bike is designed for comfortable adventure cycling experience with its lightweight but strong enough aluminum alloy frame, coupled with suspension front fork to effectively absorb vibration. The 26*4.0 " puncture resistant tires are enough to help you conquer any tough road conditions, whether mountain, snow, or beach. It is equipped with an S900 LCD display, which can display cycling data and charge mobile phones. The bike also features a SHIMANO 7 speed drive system for smooth gear shifting.

The bike comes with an 18-month warranty against manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship on its frame, battery, motor, controller, and display. Original Batteries are warranted to be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of 18 months from the date of purchase as follows: full replacement during the first 12 months, while replacements needed during months 13-24 are prorated as per this schedule. Shop with confidence and get ready for your next adventure with this powerful mountain e-bike.

2. Vivi Foldable Electric Mountain Bike – Power & Portability.

The Foldable Electric Bike with Powerful 48V 500W Motor is an excellent choice for those who love to ride in style and convenience. It is equipped with a high-speed brushless motor that delivers a powerful mountain climbing performance, making it perfect for hills, gravel, city streets, and side streets. With speeds of up to 20mph, this electric bike will get you to your destination quickly.

The bike features a premium configuration with double shock absorption that offers a comfortable riding experience on bumpy roads. The front and rear disc brake design ensures sensitive braking with quick heat dissipation, while the Shimano 21-speed transmission system provides strong climbing ability. The bright LED headlights are equipped for night driving, and front and rear fenders are provided free of charge.

The VIVI Folding Electric Bicycle adopts a lightweight aluminum alloy collapsible frame for quick folding and easy storage. The rims are made of double-walled Aluminum Alloy to offer greater durability and a faster ride with less drag. The bike also features a detachable waterproof line design, making it easy to replace accessories.

With 26″ strong anti-slip tires, the bike provides excellent traction, allowing you to easily ride over gravel, rain, dirt, sand and enjoy the ultimate e-bike adventure. The thumb throttle is conveniently located for easy acceleration.

The bike offers three working modes: Ebike, Assisted bicycle, and Normal bike. With the LED smart meter button, you can select three-speed modes of assisted bicycle and ebike. It promises a range of 44-50 miles when riding in assisted mode or 22-25 miles when riding with full power. You can also choose to turn off the power to enjoy the fun of a normal bike.

The Electric Bike comes with one year warranty on the electric motor, battery, and charger. It arrives 90% assembled, and you only need to assemble the front wheel, handlebar, and pedals. In case of any issues, you can contact the manufacturer for installation video or customer support. They are always ready to help and will reply to you within 24 hours.

3. Vivi Mountain Cruiser – Ebike For Adults.

The VIVI M026SH electric mountain bike is a powerful and efficient mode of transportation. With an upgraded 500W high-speed brushless motor, it can reach a maximum speed of up to 20 mph. The SHIMANO 21-speed gears and 3-level assist feature make this bike perfect for daily commutes on city streets or uphill journeys.

This electric bike is equipped with a long-range 48V/374.4 Wh lithium-ion battery that can cover a distance of 25-50 miles on a single charge. The battery is removable, allowing for flexible charging options – either directly on the bike or indoors. It can be fully charged in just 5-6 hours.

The VIVI M026SH is made using high-quality materials, including an aluminum frame and professional mountain bike tires that provide excellent grip and rolling characteristics. The high-strength fork suspension ensures that small obstacles or uneven terrain are easily dealt with. The dual disc brakes and bright LED headlight make this electric bike ideal for daily commuting, ensuring a safe and hassle-free ride from home to any destination.

The redesigned VIVI M026SH e-bike comes with a cruise control system and 3-level assist LED meter. The cruise control system can be activated to set your speed, allowing you to ride at your own pace without twisting the throttle or pedals. The throttle on the handlebars allows for easy switching between working modes, including E-bike Mode, Pedal Assist Mode, Normal Mode, and Walk Assist Mode (Boost Mode).

VIVI provides efficient service and offers a 6-12 month warranty against manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship of the frame, battery, motor, controller, and LED display. The VIVI M026SH e-bike is also 85% pre-assembled, making assembly quick and hassle-free.

4. Ultra-Light Mtb Cassette – Vg Sports

Introducing the VG Sports 11 Speed Bicycle Flywheel – a high-quality accessory for all kinds of bicycles. With 11-46T cogs that range from 11-46T, this flywheel is designed to provide a smooth and efficient ride.

Crafted from nickel-plated high strength steel, this flywheel boasts superior hardness and wear resistance. It is also highly resistant to rust, thanks to its all-round protection electroplating layer. This makes it perfect for use in all kinds of weather conditions, whether you're climbing mountains, traversing muddy terrain, or dealing with heavy rainfall.

The carrier material of this flywheel is made from ultra-light aluminum alloy, which features a hollow design that reduces the weight of your bicycle and makes riding easier. The exquisite split structure of the flywheel is also designed for your convenience, making it easy to disassemble and clean.

As a professional manufacturer of bicycle accessories, VG Sports prides itself on producing high-quality products that are suitable for all kinds of bicycles, including mountain bikes, road bikes, commuter bikes, and racing bikes. This flywheel is compatible with both mountain and road bikes. If you have any questions about this product, VG Sports is always available to provide quality service and caring answers.

Invest in the VG Sports 11 Speed Bicycle Flywheel today and experience a smoother, more efficient ride on your bicycle!

5. Shimano Tourney A073 7/8-Speed 170mm 30/39/50t Square Crankset Black

The 7/8-Speed compatible chainring set is a must-have for avid cyclists looking to enhance their riding experience. The set features SG-X Steel chainrings that are designed to offer exceptional durability and performance. The chainrings are meticulously crafted to ensure they can withstand the rigors of daily use and deliver smooth, reliable shifting.

Compatibility is a key feature of the 7/8-speed chainring set. It is designed to work seamlessly with 7 or 8-speed drivetrains, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of bikes. This compatibility ensures that cyclists can enjoy the benefits of the chainring set irrespective of the type of bike they have.

The chainring set is equipped with a square taper JIS, which is a widely used standard that ensures easy installation and maximum compatibility. This feature also ensures that the chainring set is compatible with a variety of bottom brackets.

It is important to note that fixing bolts are not included with the chainring set. However, compatible bolts are widely available and can be easily sourced from bike stores or online retailers.

6. Ultralight Road Bike Cassette – Jfoyh 11 Speed

This 11-speed cassette for road bikes is a reliable and high-quality product designed to enhance your cycling experience. With four different cog sizes available (11-28T, 11-32T, 11-34T, and 11-36T), you can choose the perfect fit for your bike. It is important to note that this cassette is only compatible with HG (HYPERGLIDE) freehub body and not with XD/XDR freehub body, so please confirm before purchasing.

This cassette is made of durable and ultra-light chromium molybdenum steel and aviation-grade aluminum alloy. The rainbow series is coated with electroplating technology, which makes the surface bright and beautiful. The CNC hollowed-out ultra-light design provides the ultimate cycling experience for those who love cycling. The weight of the cassette varies depending on the cog size: 11-speed 11-28t Silver weighs 7.6oz (217g), 11-speed 11-32t Silver weighs 8.0oz (226g), 11-speed 11-34t Silver weighs 8.4oz (239g), and 11-speed 11-36t Silver weighs 8.6oz (246g).

The cassette comes in its original gift box packaging and makes for the perfect gift for yourself or your cycling enthusiast friends. You can even view the product video with a real shot unboxing to see the product up close. The company takes pride in offering excellent customer service, so whether you have questions before or after purchasing, feel free to contact them, and they will answer as soon as possible.

Upgrade your cycling experience with this high-quality, durable, and ultra-light 11-speed cassette for road bikes.

7. Swagtron Bandit: The Ultimate Trail E-Bike.

The kids' electric fat-tire mountain bike by EB-6 offers a unique experience of pedaling manually or using the electric motor for a little extra boost. It comes with high-volume 4-inch tires mounted to 20-inch rims, providing maximum traction and a smooth ride, similar to a real fat bike for kids.

With 7-speed Shimano gears, the rider can easily shift between gears, making it easy to conquer a variety of terrains. The durable 6061-series aluminum frame ensures longevity while the battery can be safely locked into place for added safety.

The EB-6 features a Shimano MF-TZ21 freehub, allowing for a smooth coast even after the rider stops pedaling. The dual lever-actuated disc brakes put control and safety at the rider's fingertips, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.

At EB-6, their team prioritizes customer satisfaction, which is why they offer all-star customer service. For any questions or concerns about your electric bike, their US-based support team is available via call, email, or chat online.

8. Smlro Dual Motor Fat Tire Electric Bike.

The Accinouter Smlro is a versatile electric bike that is perfect for those who love the thrill of adventure. Equipped with a powerful 2000W motor, this bike can easily reach a maximum speed of 35MPH. The 1000W brushless front motor and 1000W rear motor provide smooth and efficient power delivery, making it easy to ride even on steep hills.

The bike features 26-inch fat tires that are puncture-resistant and 4 inches wide, allowing you to ride on any terrain. The front suspension ensures a comfortable ride, whether you're cruising around town or exploring off-road trails. With the Accinouter Smlro, the possibilities for adventure are nearly limitless, from rocky roads and sandy beaches to snowy suburbs and country lanes.

The Accinouter Smlro offers superior performance in three riding modes: electric-only mode, human-only mode, and pedal assist mode. The bike's 48v 22.4 mAh removable battery provides a battery range of 40-50km in electric-only mode and 60-90km in pedal assist mode. The Shimano 21-speed gear motor gives you more riding options and a customized riding experience. The double disc brakes and lighting system ensure your safety while riding.

The bike also features a smart digital LCD display that shows your speed per hour, total distance ridden, and remaining battery power. The 5-speed mode provides more options than the normal mode, giving you greater control over your riding experience.

The Accinouter Smlro comes with a range of accessories, including a shelf, fender, lock, pump, and controller bag. The bike also comes with a 12-month warranty for the battery, charger, motor, and controller. If you have any questions or concerns, the company offers 24-hour customer service to ensure that you have the best possible experience with your new electric bike.

9. Shimano 105 Fc-R7000 Crankset Black, 175×53/39

This high-quality crankset boasts an arm material made of durable aluminum, ensuring long-lasting use and reliability. It comes in three different arm lengths, including 170mm, 172.5mm, and 175mm, providing a personalized fit for optimal comfort and performance.

The chainring sizes available for this crankset include 34/50 and 36/52t, allowing for versatility and adaptability depending on your cycling needs. The bolt circle diameter is 110mm asymmetric, which is a standard size for most road bikes.

With four bolts included, this crankset is easy to install and maintain, making it a great option for both seasoned cyclists and beginners alike. Whether you're an avid rider or just getting started, this crankset is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, dependable addition to their bike. Experience the difference in performance and durability with this top-of-the-line crankset.

10. City Cruiser – 350w Electric Commute Bike

The city ebike is an excellent choice for adults who want to enjoy a safe and smooth journey. It comes equipped with a powerful 36V 350W high-speed brushless motor that can provide strong electric power with speeds reaching up to 20mph. Additionally, the ebike has professional Shimano 21-speed gears, front and rear Tektro disc brakes, and unique brake sensors on brake levers to ensure your safety while riding.

The city ebike is designed with a removable 36V 10AH hidden battery that can reach a long range up to 35-50 miles per charge (PAS mode), and a full charge takes just 4 hours. You can charge the removable battery on/off the ebike by your convenience. The battery built-in BMS protection system provides overcharging protection and ensures safety during use.

The lightweight aluminum alloy frame, Kenda 26-inch tires, and adjustable aluminum alloy suspension fork make the city electric bike perfect for commuting. It can provide smooth rides on different road surfaces, making it an ideal choice for daily transportation.

The HOTEBIKE city electric bicycle has three riding modes – Pure Electric Mode, Power Assisted Mode, and Normal Bike Mode. With the LCD smart display, you can choose the pedal assist power (0-5 levels) according to your needs. Additionally, the ebike comes with an LED headlight with a USB charging port, front and rear reflectors, making it safe to ride at night.

Please note that the bike and battery will be sent separately for this adult electric bicycle. Most assembly was finished before shipment, and the electric system is assembled, so you just need to assemble the fork, front wheel, handlebar, saddle, and pedals, which is easy following the video and instructions. You can check the video on the Amazon page. The city ebike comes with a one-year warranty for the motor, battery, and controller. Please keep the original bike box for 30 days, as only the original package box will be accepted when returning the bike.

Best Gear Ratio For Hill Climbing Road Bike FAQs

Can I use the same gear ratio for hill climbing and flat riding on a road bike?

While it is possible to use the same gear ratio for both hill climbing and flat riding on a road bike, it may not necessarily be the most efficient or practical option.

For hill climbing, a lower gear ratio is typically preferred as it allows you to maintain a steady cadence while putting less strain on your muscles. On the other hand, for flat riding, a higher gear ratio is usually more efficient as it allows you to maintain a faster speed with less effort.

Using the same gear ratio for both scenarios may result in either inefficient pedaling on hills or slower speeds on flat terrain. It is recommended to have a range of gear ratios available on your road bike to be able to adjust to different terrains and riding conditions.

Ultimately, the choice of gear ratio will depend on your personal preferences, fitness level, and the specific terrain you will be riding on. It is always a good idea to experiment with different gear ratios to find what works best for you.

How can I modify my road bike's gear ratio for better hill climbing performance?

If you're struggling with hill climbing on your road bike, you may want to consider modifying your gear ratio. The gear ratio refers to the relationship between the number of teeth on the chainring (the front gears) and the cassette (the rear gears).

To improve hill climbing performance, you'll want to increase the gear ratio. This means using a smaller chainring in the front and a larger cassette in the back. A standard road bike usually has a 53/39 tooth chainring and an 11-28 cassette. You can consider switching to a compact crankset with a 50/34 tooth chainring or even a triple crankset with a 30 tooth chainring for the steepest of climbs. Additionally, you could swap out your cassette for one with a wider range of gears, such as an 11-32 or 11-34.

Keep in mind that modifying your gear ratio may require a new chain and derailleur to accommodate the changes. It's best to consult with a bike mechanic to ensure proper compatibility and installation.

How do I know what gear ratio to use for hill climbing on my road bike?

When it comes to hill climbing on a road bike, choosing the right gear ratio can make a big difference in your performance. To determine the appropriate gear ratio for hill climbing, you need to consider a few factors.

Firstly, the steepness of the hill is a crucial factor. The steeper the hill, the lower the gear ratio you will need. The aim is to maintain a steady pedaling cadence (around 60 to 80 revolutions per minute) without putting too much strain on your muscles.

Secondly, your fitness level and strength play a role in determining the gear ratio to use. If you are a beginner or have low fitness levels, you will need a lower gear ratio to climb hills comfortably.

Lastly, the weight of your bike and any gear you are carrying can also affect the gear ratio you need for hill climbing. If you are carrying a lot of weight, a lower gear ratio will be necessary to compensate for the added load.

In summary, for hill climbing on a road bike, choose a gear ratio that allows you to maintain a steady pedaling cadence, takes into account your fitness level, the steepness of the hill, and the weight you are carrying.

How does gear ratio affect hill climbing performance on a road bike?

Gear ratio plays a crucial role in hill climbing performance on a road bike. When you're climbing uphill, the resistance on the bike increases, and you need more power to overcome it. The gear ratio determines how easily you can pedal and how much force is applied to the wheels. In general, a lower gear ratio makes it easier to pedal but provides less force to the wheels, whereas a higher gear ratio requires more effort to pedal but gives more force to the wheels.

In hill climbing, a lower gear ratio is preferable as it allows you to maintain a steady pedaling cadence while putting less strain on your legs. This means that you can conserve your energy and sustain your effort for a longer time. On the other hand, a higher gear ratio may cause your legs to fatigue quickly, making it difficult to maintain a consistent pace.

Overall, choosing the right gear ratio for hill climbing depends on your fitness level, the steepness of the terrain, and your personal preferences. However, it's essential to have a good understanding of gear ratios and their effects to optimize your road bike performance.

Is it better to have a wider or narrower gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike?

The optimal gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike depends on the rider's fitness level, the steepness and length of the hill, and the bike's weight. Generally speaking, a wider gear ratio is better for hill climbing as it allows the rider to maintain a consistent cadence while pedaling uphill. This means that the rider can keep their legs spinning at a comfortable and efficient pace, without having to push too hard or strain their muscles.

However, a wider gear ratio also means that the rider may lose some speed on flat or downhill sections of the road, as they won't be able to pedal as fast. On the other hand, a narrower gear ratio may be better for riders who are particularly strong or experienced, as they can handle the extra effort required to pedal uphill in a higher gear. Ultimately, the best gear ratio for hill climbing will depend on the individual rider and their specific needs and preferences.

Should I choose a lower or higher gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike?

When it comes to hill climbing on a road bike, the gear ratio you choose is crucial. A lower gear ratio makes it easier to climb uphill because it requires less effort to pedal. On the other hand, a higher gear ratio makes it harder to climb uphill but allows you to go faster once you've reached the top.

So, which gear ratio should you choose? It depends on your fitness level, the steepness of the hill, and your personal preference. If you're a beginner or don't have a lot of experience with hill climbing, a lower gear ratio is a good choice. It will help you maintain a steady cadence and conserve your energy for the rest of your ride.

If you're a more experienced cyclist and have strong leg muscles, a higher gear ratio may be more suitable. This will challenge you more and help you build strength and endurance.

Ultimately, it's important to experiment with different gear ratios and find what works best for you. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly. With practice and patience, you'll be tackling hills like a pro in no time.

What are some common mistakes people make when choosing a gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike?

One common mistake people make when choosing a gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike is assuming that a lower gear is always better. While it is true that a lower gear can make climbing hills easier, choosing a gear that is too low can actually make the climb more difficult. This is because a gear that is too low can cause the rider to spin their legs too quickly, leading to fatigue and reduced efficiency.

Another mistake is choosing a gear ratio based solely on the steepness of the hill. While it is important to consider the grade of the hill, it is also important to take into account the rider's strength and fitness level. A gear ratio that is too high can be just as challenging as a gear ratio that is too low, especially for inexperienced riders.

Lastly, some riders may overlook the importance of cadence when choosing a gear ratio. Maintaining a consistent cadence (pedaling rate) is crucial for efficient climbing. Choosing a gear ratio that allows for a comfortable and consistent cadence is key for successful hill climbing on a road bike.

What gear ratio is best for hill climbing on a road bike?

When it comes to hill climbing on a road bike, the ideal gear ratio is subjective and depends on various factors such as your fitness level, the steepness of the climb, and the length of the climb. However, a general rule of thumb is to have a lower gear ratio to make the climb easier and prevent putting too much strain on your legs.

For beginners, a gear ratio of 1:1 (39 teeth chainring with a 39 teeth cog) or 1:1.5 (39 teeth chainring with a 26 teeth cog) is recommended for steep climbs. This will allow you to spin the pedals at a moderate cadence and maintain a steady pace without exhausting yourself. On the other hand, if you are an experienced cyclist with strong legs, a higher gear ratio of 1:2 (39 teeth chainring with a 19 teeth cog) or 1:2.5 (39 teeth chainring with a 15 teeth cog) may be more suitable for you.

Ultimately, the best gear ratio for hill climbing on a road bike is the one that you feel comfortable with and allows you to climb efficiently without putting undue strain on your legs.

What gear ratios do professional cyclists use for hill climbing on road bikes?

The gear ratios used by professional cyclists for hill climbing on road bikes are typically determined by a number of factors, including the steepness of the grade, the length of the climb, and the rider's individual strength and preferences. In general, however, most pro cyclists will opt for a relatively low gear ratio when tackling hills, as this allows them to maintain a consistent cadence without putting too much strain on their legs. This usually means a small chainring up front and a larger cassette in the rear, which provides a wide range of gearing options to suit different terrain and riding conditions. Some pro cyclists may also use a compact crankset, which offers a smaller chainring and thus a lower gear ratio than a standard crankset. Ultimately, the gear ratios used by professional cyclists for hill climbing on road bikes will depend on a variety of factors, and will be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each individual rider.

What is the ideal gear ratio for steep hill climbs on a road bike?

When it comes to steep hill climbs on a road bike, the ideal gear ratio will depend on a few factors, such as your personal fitness level, the grade of the hill, and the length of the climb. Generally, a gear ratio that allows you to maintain a cadence of around 80-90 revolutions per minute (rpm) is considered ideal for steep hill climbs. This means that you'll want a gear that is easy enough for you to maintain a high cadence without feeling like you're grinding your pedals, but not so easy that you're spinning your wheels without making much progress up the hill.

For most riders, a gear ratio of 34/28 or 34/32 is usually sufficient for most steep hill climbs. However, if you're a stronger rider with good climbing skills, you may be able to get away with a slightly harder gear ratio. It's always a good idea to experiment with different gear ratios on different types of climbs to find the one that works best for you.

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