Gear vs Non Gear Cycles: Which is Best for You?

Are you looking to get into the cycle game? Or better yet, looking to buy a brand-new cycle?

If so, you have probably come across two simple words: Gear Cycles and Gearless Cycles. Many people have a hard time choosing between the two configurations.

It might seem confusing at first, but it is much simpler.

Before you decide between geared bicycles and non-geared bicycles, you need to do a brief dive into their mechanism, benefits, and shortcomings.

Only then, you will be able to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Without wasting much time, here is everything you need to know about the Gear vs Non-Gear Cycles including their types, differences, advantages, and disadvantages.

Gear vs Non-Gear Cycles

Gearless Cycles

Gearless Cycles are also called Single Speed Geared Cycle or Non-Gear Cycle. These kinds of cycles have a single-gear ratio, where the speed depends solely on how fast the rider pedals.

In the non-geared cycles, the front chain ring (also known as a sprocket) is bigger than the rear chain ring.

The rider is solely responsible for the cycling speed of the bicycle. So, the rider needs to pedal faster for faster speeds and slower for slower speeds.

Interestingly enough, these cycles can be further divided into two types:

Types of Gearless Cycles

#1. Freewheel Cycles

These are the regular cycles.

As the name states, the freewheel cycles have a rear-wheel independent of the rear sprocket. These sprockets move independently with respect to the rear wheel.

Meaning, the back wheel is not fixed to the pedal.

With this, the rear wheel can move freely without the constant need for pedaling. It allows riders to cruise while riding downhill without the need for pedaling.

Freewheel cycles are commonly used as everyday cycles. These strike a good balance between features and affordability.

Anyone can ride the Freewheel bikes from beginner to veteran riders. These freewheel gearless cycles are typically recommended to kids, adults, and almost everyone.

#2. Fixed Wheel Cycles

Fixed Wheel cycles are also a type of Single Speed cycle. These are also called Fixie Bikes.

Here, the rear wheel depends on the rear sprocket. Meaning, the rear wheel only moves when the pedal is turning. If not, the cycle comes to a halt.

It does require good practice to ride.

The pedal responds to reverse pedaling motion for backward movement. It can even come to a complete halt if the rider stops pedaling.

These kinds of non-gear cycles are expensive compared to Freewheel cycles.

It is used for Indoor Track Racing Events. It is used by the veteran to professional riders. These gearless cycles are generally not recommended for beginners.

Gearless Cycle Advantages and Disadvantages

Gearless Cycles Advantages

Less Maintenance Cost: The working components are less compared to a geared cycle. Hence, the cost of maintenance is drastically low. Riders can easily address most of their problems at home.

Affordable: These kinds of cycles are very affordable compared to geared bicycles. If a bike model is available in both Gearless and Gear variants, the Gearless is comparatively more affordable.

Beginner Friendly: Single speed (especially Freewheel cycles) are easy to learn. It is a good gateway for any kids and adults looking for their first cycle. It can be a good choice for those looking to lose weight and exercise more.

Gearless Cycles Disadvantages

Difficulties during Uphill: It can be considered the major problem of the non-gear cycles. Uphill and sharp incline hills demand more force and energy from the riders. There is no mediator to magnify the rider’s pedaling force. Hence, the riders will have to spend more energy during uphill scenarios.

Tired on Longer Rides: It is also one of the major problems of a single-speed cycle. Longer rides on gearless cycles can cause stress and strain on your leg muscles. Plus, the riders will get tired on longer journeys. Hence, these cycles are usually not recommended for longer rides.

Geared Cycles

Geared cycles are also known as Multi-Speed cycles. It works with a combination of Shifters, Derailleurs, Sprockets, and Chains.

The riders will have complete control over the gear ratios, going either higher or lower.

A lower gear ratio is set when the front sprocket is smaller and the rear sprocket is bigger. It is used to pedal up a hill (or incline) at a slower pace. Moreover, the effort to climb uphill is drastically reduced.

Similarly, a higher gear ratio is set when the front sprocket is bigger and the rear sprocket is smaller. It is used for a few pedals to generate higher speeds and go faster.

Geared cycles help riders set their cadence (pedals per minute) depending on the terrains, riders, and various different conditions without causing any injury.

Geared Cycle Advantages Disadvantages

Geared Cycles Advantages

Compatible with Various Terrains: Geared cycles can be tuned to meet the rider’s needs. It can be done by adjusting the gear ratio as per need. Furthermore, it is suited for different types of terrain, and opens doors to different adventures!

Comfortable for Longer Rides: Unlike a Single Speed Cycle, the rider can set their own cadence. Due to this, a Multi-Geared cycle can be ridden for longer distances without any muscle strain or stress.

Geared Cycles Disadvantages

Expensive to Maintain: Geared Cycles are more expensive than Non-Gear cycles. It is comparatively more expensive to maintain and service. Also, the part replacements are always higher.

Learning Curve: Shifting between the gears is easy. However, the rider must go through a certain learning curve to choose an appropriate gearing ratio.

Gear vs Gearless Cycles: Which One Should You Buy?

Both Gear and Non-Gear cycles have their own quirks and features. Interestingly enough, both kinds of cycles have their own advantages and disadvantages.

However, choosing between gear vs non-gear cycle will depend on your needs.

Gearless cycles will be a perfect starting point for kids and beginners. It is easy to ride and affordable to buy and maintain.

It can be used as a good challenging point if you are looking to lose weight and exercise more. Especially since gearless cycles require more effort to ride.

You can buy Gearless cycles if those are your needs.

In sharp contrast, the Gear cycles can be the next step for those who already have certain experience in riding a bike.

It handles more terrains and adapts to different riding conditions. Riders will gain more experience from riding these cycles, taking their exercise to the next step.

However, it comes at an expensive cost to both purchase and maintain.

You can buy Gear cycles if those are your needs.

Difference between Gear and Non-Gear Cycles

Here is a quick table to summarize the difference between the gear and non-gear cycles.

Gear Cycles vs Gearless Cycles	Geared Cycles	Gearless Cycles
City Friendly	Yes	Yes
Uphill Capability	Yes	No
Long Distance Rides	Yes	No
Beginner Friendly	No	Yes
All-Terrain Capable	Yes	No
Learning Curve	Yes	No
Maintenance & Affordability	Expensive	Relatively Affordable
Weight Loss Assistance	Yes	Yes
Price	Expensive	Affordable

FAQs about Gear vs Non Gear Cycles

What is the benefit of gear cycles?

Gear cycles help riders set their cadence depending on the terrains, riders, and various different conditions without causing any injury. It works with a combination of Shifters, Derailleurs, Sprockets, and Chains which allows for quick flexibility and adaptability.

What is the benefit of gearless cycles?

Gearless cycles are simple to learn and ride. There are no complicated components, making these bikes beginner friendly and easier to maintain service.

Which cycle is best for kids and beginners?

Gearless cycles are best for kids and beginners.

Which cycle is better gear cycle or the normal cycle? Are gear cycles better than non-gear cycles?

Both geared cycles and non-geared cycles have their own pros and cons. It is not right to choose between them, as it can only be determined based on needs and requirements.

Which cycle is expensive, gear cycles or non-gear cycles?

Gear cycles are comparatively more expensive than Gearless cycles as it uses complicated components like Shifters, Derailleurs, and Multiple Sprockets. Moreover, it is expensive to maintain in the longer term.

Which cycle is better for weight loss and exercise?

Both geared and non-geared cycles are better for weight loss and exercise.

Which type of cycle is easier to maintain?

Gearless cycles are easier and more affordable for maintenance and care in the longer run.

Which type of cycle is the best for long-term use?

Riders will get more experience after long-term use. For this, geared cycles are the best choice, as it adaptable in multiple terrains and conditions to continue being fun.

What is the major difference between gear and gearless cycles?

The major difference between the gear and non-gear cycles is the use of gears to set cadence. It allows for better adaptability across multiple terrains and easier uphill performance.

Can you make gearless cycles into geared cycles?

Yes, it is possible to convert gearless cycles into geared cycles. However, the process can be expensive, complicated, and safety hazard, so it is generally not recommended unless done by a professional.