My bike is either too heavy or too light to pedal, what should I do?

The gear ratio of a bicycle is optimal for its intended use when all gears can be used as needed for different situations. If, regardless of the situation, the lightest gears are too light or the heaviest gears are too heavy, it may be time to adjust the gear ratio.

Changing the rear sprocket is often the easiest way to alter the gear ratio. There are usually several options for rear sprockets, and replacing the sprocket rarely requires any other changes. However, this procedure may require replacing or shortening the chain. The smaller the rear sprocket, the higher the gear ratio (pedaling becomes harder).

Replacing the front chainring may be necessary if you wish to make a larger adjustment to the gear ratio. This almost always requires replacing or shortening the chain, as well as possibly changing the chain guard or other related components. The larger the front chainring, the higher the gear ratio (pedaling becomes harder).

For further information, spare parts and replacement work, we recommend contacting a knowledgeable bicycle shop. You can find our distributors here.