Does a higher gear mean higher effort in TR?

Training
5

Plenty of discussion (more than most care to read :stuck_out_tongue: ) in the mega thread below:

Usually you want to consider applying the gearing in a way to mimic your event needs. The rule of thumb is to try to match the flywheel inertia to the majority of your events. Over-simplified summary below:

  • Flat and Fast Road Riding = Use Higher Gearing and Faster Flywheel Speed
  • Hilly Road and/or Off-Road Riding = Use Lower Gearing and Slower Flywheel Speed

Those are just one consideration. Here are others:

  • You simply prefer a specific gearing for “feel”. This may differ from prior experience, rider weight as it pertains to feel outside and other reasons.
  • Trainer and drivetrain noise and vibration is usually lower with lower gearing as well.
  • Chain line and potential drivetrain wear are also valid considerations.
  • Ramp Testing is usually best performed in a gear similar to what you plan to use for training. Making big changes can impact the test results and the training afterwards. Consistency, if possible, is a good plan.
  • Even the Tacx Neo and it’s unique “virtual flywheel” can feel different in different gears when compared to other trainers with real, physical flywheels.
1 Like