The Average Cycling Speed: An In-Depth Analysis

Google Maps, with its vast amount of data and advanced algorithms, provides us with a unique insight into the average cycling speed of riders. Let's break down the factors and scenarios that contribute to these figures and explore what these estimates really mean for different types of cyclists.

Estimation on Google Maps

When you first use the cycling feature on Google Maps, it estimates your average speed at around 8 miles per hour. This is a reasonable estimate for a casual rider on a Walmart mountain bike, pedaling at an easy pace during a ride. Google Maps adjusts these estimates based on your past performance, making future estimates more accurate.

Pre-Gravel Bike Riding Experience

Befor buying a gravel bike this spring, my average speed was around 8 mph. This includes occasional stoplights and other interruptions. My latest purchase significantly improved this statistic. The new gravel bike, with hard narrow tires and a non-suspension design, allowed me to increase my speed significantly. Additionally, my improved fitness levels contributed to a noticeable increase in my average cycling speed.

Current Riding Performance

With the help of a speedometer on the handlebars, I can maintain a speed of around 11.5 mph as which Google Maps estimates my overall average speed. On smoother and flatter surfaces, I can push my speed up to 15 or 18 mph with some exertion, taking short breaks when needed. Sprinting on a smooth, flat surface, I can even reach speeds of 21 or 22 mph.

Considering the Average Cyclist

I consider myself an average cyclist using an average bike. I am not a new rider or a weekend warrior, but I am also not a dedicated enthusiast with a top-of-the-line carbon road bike. Dedicated cyclists in such conditions can easily cruise at speeds above 20 mph throughout their rides.

Mathematics Behind Average Speed Estimation

To derive a more concrete figure, let's use some basic calculations. With a fixed gear bike at medium gearing of 60 gear-inches and a comfortable pedaling cadence of 60 RPM, the average speed can be estimated as follows:

Distance per minute: 3600 x π inches per minute or roughly 11300 inches per minute. Convert to Miles per Hour: 11300 inches per minute divide; 63360 (inches in a mile) times; 60 (minutes in an hour) asymp; 10.7 mph.

This calculation provides a baseline for casual riders on average bikes, taking into account pedaling speed and gear ratios. However, this is a relatively low estimate, especially for pro cyclists or more experienced riders in optimal conditions.

Concluding Thoughts

The average cycling speed varies greatly based on the type of rider, the condition of the bike, and the terrain. While Google Maps gives us a rough estimate, it's important to recognize that this number can vary significantly. For an accurate understanding of your own riding speed, use devices like a speedometer, and consider factors such as your fitness level, the bike type, and the weather conditions.

Therefore, based on the factors discussed, any speed in the mid-teens (13-15 mph) can be considered a good estimate for average cycling speed, with 15 mph being a neat and practical average number to use.