What is a normal cycle/single-speed cycle or a gearless cycle?
Normal cycles/single-speed cycles or gearless cycles have a single-gear ratio. The speed of the cycle in the case of a normal cycle depends upon how you pedal. This is also a major reason that limits the speed at which you can ride a single-speed or gearless cycle.
Normal cycle/single speed cycle or gearless cycles are further categorized into two types:
- Freewheel cycles are also called Regular cycles where the back wheel is not fixed to the pedal.
- Fixed wheel cycles, also called Fixie bikes where the back wheel is hard connected to the pedal.
What are the advantages of a normal cycle/single-speed cycle or a gearless cycle?
- Normal cycles have ease of use.
While using normal cycles, all you have to do is enjoy the ride. No hassles of changing the gears. Single-speed cycles are normal cycles that are simple to use.
- Gearless cycles are cheaper as compared to geared cycles.
Simple to use, normal cycles don’t have a ton of parts. Fewer parts mean lower production costs. This makes them cost less when compared to the geared cycles.
- Single-speed cycles have low maintenance.
As discussed above, normal cycles have fewer components. This helps to reduce the chances of wear and tear on the bike’s parts. Normal cycles or single-speed cycles are simple in their functioning and come with a simple design. Hence repairing and sustaining it becomes easier when compared to geared cycles. In case you’re looking to buy the safest and lightest single-geared cycles for your kids, Tru Bikes is your one-stop solution.
- Single-speed cycles are apt for very small kids.
The starting cycling journey of a kid needs to be hassle-free. A single-speed cycle enables them to pursue the joy of cycling without having to worry about the complication of changing gears. Gearless cycles are best for 4-6 years old kids.
What are the disadvantages of a normal cycle/single-speed cycle or a gearless cycle?
Let’s discuss the cons of normal cycles, single-speed cycles or gearless cycles.
- Normal cycles are a bad option for hilly regions.
When thinking of riding on hilly terrain, single-speed bikes don’t come in handy. It’s difficult to ride especially while climbing the hill as the force required to pedal is more and it becomes physically draining.
- Normal cycles are not an apt option for adventure lovers.
Single-speed cyclists have to depend on the pedal to increase the speed of the single-speed cycle. No gears mean that there are speed limitations. So if you are someone looking for an adrenaline rush, single-speed cycles or gearless cycles are not for you.
- Normal cycles can cause injuries, especially when undertaking long journeys.
Pedaling determines the speed in the case of gearless cycles. Traveling hilly terrain or longer distances means the leg muscles are constantly exposed to stress. This can increase the chances of muscle injury due to prolonged pedaling.
What is a geared cycle?
Geared cycles let you combine different sets of gears.
- With lower gears, you can ride more quickly when cycling uphill without wearing out your legs.
- Similar to this, you can pedal more quickly and easily if you’re cycling on a level terrain using larger gear ratios.
What are the advantages of a geared cycle?
The answer to this largely depends upon how you are going to utilize your cycle.
- Geared cycles are the best options for recreational riding.
Geared bikes are outstanding for extended road trips, off-road riding, bike hiking, and navigating mountainous terrain. In case you’re looking for a comfortable and adventurous riding journey for your kids, Tru Bikes have several premium geared cycles for your kids aged 6-8 years and also geared cycle for 7-11 years.
- Geared bikes are essential for cyclists living in hilly cities.
If you are living in hilly cities with uneven terrain, then geared bikes are your best bet for daily commutes.
- Geared bikes are apt for senior citizens.
People with health problems or senior citizens can ride a geared bike with ease. Geared bikes can help to reduce the burden on the system of people having bad leg or heart restrictions. As we all know cycling is a good for kids health as well as for senior citizens’ health
- Geared bikes prevent muscle injuries.
You can easily sustain your pedal rotation with a geared cycle. If you manage to sustain the cadence between 60-90 rpm, this can result in driving at an optimum speed thereby avoiding any muscle injury.
What are the disadvantages of a geared cycle?
Every coin has two sides. Geared cycles have their own share of disadvantages.
- Geared cycles have a lot of moving parts.
There are a lot of moving parts in a geared cycle. Not to forget the numerous cogs that must work together. If one of the parts shows some issues, the drive may not function smoothly.
- Geared cycles are high on maintenance.
As discussed in the above point, geared cycles have a lot of moving parts. Hence, it’s important to invest in timely proper servicing and routine maintenance.
- Geared cycles are costly compared to normal cycles.
There’s no doubt that a geared cycle is flexible yet complicated. Hence, it is highly priced when compared with regular cycles.
Let’s have a brief glimpse of single-speed Vs geared bikes in a tabular form.
| Geared cycles | Gearless cycles |
| Geared cycles are costly. | Gearless cycles are cost-effective. |
| Geared cycles have more components and bike parts. | Gearless cycles have fewer bike parts. |
| The speed of the cycle can be increased or decreased by changing the gears. | The speed of the normal cycles can be increased or decreased by the speed of pedalling. |
| Geared cycles have high maintenance. | Gearless cycles have low maintenance. |
| Geared cycles are apt for hilly terrain or long journeys. | Gearless cycles are not apt for hilly terrain or long-distance journeys. |
| Geared cycles are the best option for senior citizens, people with certain physical medical conditions and adventure lovers. | Gearless cycles are the best option for kids starting their cycling journey. |
| Geared cycles are flexible and complex. | Gearless cycles are simple in function. |
Which is best gear cycle or non-gear cycle?
A bike with gears is more versatile and more complex than a bike without gears, hence its cost is higher. A multi-speed bike is an excellent option for you if you’re aggressive, seeking speed, and prefer better comfort. A single-speed bike, however, has a straightforward design that makes maintenance and repairs much simpler.
Trying one out is the best way to decide if a fixed-gear bike is good for you. A note of caution: The first time you try a fixed-gear bike, make sure you don’t try it in traffic. It would be better to get accustomed to how it handles. Instead, make sure you practice driving in a safe and protected environment.
Whether looking for geared or gearless cycles, Tru Bikes has several premium kids’ bicycle options for you to explore.
