E-Bikes & Bikes Customised to You
The question of how many speeds you need on your bike can be a complicated one—or a very easy one—depending on how clearly you know what you need from your bike. Some bikes are ideal for slow weekend journeys to the farmers market or along a lake bike path. Others will take you uphill, downhill, and across some pretty tough terrain. If you already know you want to stick to your neighborhood, a single-speed may be all you need.
When you’re on the adventurous side, you should seek out a multi-speed bike for sale. From single speed bikes, to 3 speed cruisers, to multi speed beach cruisers, sixthreezero has them all. You can even customize your ride with upgraded tires and a frame painted in your favorite color. Let’s take a look at what you can gain from bikes with single, 3, or multiple gears – and why you should decide how you’ll use your bicycle before you seal the deal.
7 Speed vs 21 Speed Bikes
When considering the number of gears you need on a bike, most people will settle on either a 7-speed or a 21-speed. However, which bike you choose will depend on several factors, including your riding style.
In terms of how the number of gears affects the overall ride of the bike, a 21-speed is generally faster with smoother transitions and pedaling. The 7-speed is adequate for most riders, which is why many people choose the slower option. Because there are fewer gears and the bike's build is less complicated, 7-speed cycles tend to be cheaper than 21-speed options. However, before deciding on the more affordable model, consider your riding style.
Do you enjoy exploring the trails or racing over rough terrain? Or, would you rather take a leisurely ride through the city or on a morning commute? If you prefer rougher terrain and shorter rides, a 7-speed is an excellent choice; the bike can take the abuse. Alternatively, if you want a commuter bike, speed and comfort are likely high-priority attributes, so a 21-speed is best. As you weigh the pros and cons of the 7-speed and 21-speed, consider your own preferences. While some professional or avid cyclists might argue the merits of a 21-speed over a 7-speed, what ultimately matters is how you use the bike and how comfortable you are while doing it.
A Single Speed Bike
A single speed bike is just what it sounds like: two-wheelers constructed with just one speed, meaning you never have to switch gears. Pedal forward, and your bike goes forward; pedal backward and it stops. A single speed bike is perfect for anyone who simply wants to take their baby out for a spin for fresh air, a little exercise or both, and preferably on flat terrain. A single speed bike is uncomplicated, which makes it easy to ride. However, they are also slow, so if speed or climbing hills is your thing, then perhaps you should consider a different type of bike since you will develop a substantial sweat riding either. Here you can check out the whole lineup of sixthreezero single speed bikes.
A Multi Speed Beach Cruiser
Want to be able to traverse any terrain, dart in and out of any situation, go fast, climb hills and have a bike that answers any of your commands while still being comfortable and easy to ride? Well, then that’s easy: a multi speed beach cruiser is the best choice for you. With as many as seven speeds, your stocked two-wheeler can offer the precise speed for any situation, meaning your pedaling will be as easy as it can be while still generating the speed and movement you desire. Take a tour of all of sixthreezero’s multi speed beach cruisers.
Sixthreezero 3 Speed Bike Bestsellers
If you are more interested in cruising around town, you might not need either the 7-speed or the 21-speed. In fact, a 3-speed might be more than enough for you and your riding style.
A 3-speed bike often comes as a comfort or cruiser bike. The multiple gears allow for easy riding and decent speed, all while maintaining a relaxed riding experience. Some of the best 3-speed bikes at Sixthreezero include:
Bestselling Multi Speed Bike at Sixthreezero
If you are looking for the bestselling multi-speed bike at Sixthreezero, look no further than the Paven’Trail, a 21-speed beauty with adjustable suspension and comfort-first engineering. The bike has a lightweight, ergonomic frame with durable hybrid tires. While the bike was designed with experienced riders in mind, it is not intended for competitive riding or aggressive off-roading. Instead, this bike is ideal for everyday rides.
Are you ready to choose your next bicycle? If so, reach out to a local bike shop and talk to one of the experts on staff to find a bike with the right fit and personality for your style.
Bike Speed FAQs
Nailing down the number of speeds you need takes some time and consideration. How far do you plan to travel? Will there be hills? Some new riders may be uncomfortable with multiple gears, but still need them to travel over their desired terrain. Here are some things to consider as you decide between a simple single-speed and a more complicated 21-speed – and everything in between.
How many gears do you need on a bike?
Technically, you only need one speed. Hence, the single-speed bike. Don’t assume that just because a bike only has one speed that it can’t get you where you need to go. On the other hand, in order to relieve some of the legwork on inclines, you will need more than one gear on your bike.
What speed bike should you get?
The number of speeds you should get is based on how you’ll use it. As we mentioned above, single-speed bikes are ideal for people who want to go on leisurely rides on flat terrain. If you are going to be cruising around the neighborhood or going on casual rides in the park, stick with a single speed. On the other hand, multiple gears are necessary for off-road adventures.
As you go uphill and struggle to make progress, having multiple gears allows you to downshift and make the trek easier. On the way down, if you pedal and feel no resistance, you can upshift to a higher gear so you don’t lose control.
How many gears does a 7-speed bike have?
Speeds equate to gears. So, if a bike is a 7-speed, it has seven gear options.
Is it easy to change gears?
Yes! Most bikes have gear shifters on the handlebars. Thumb shifters have a lever on each handlebar that you can move up or down as needed. Grip shifters allow you to change gears by twisting the shifter forward or backward. Some bikes also let you control front gears and back gears on different sides of the handlebars (i.e. front gears using the right hand and back gears using the left hand).
Are more gears more expensive?
The more complex your bike is, the more parts are involved with keeping it running smoothly and safely. This can translate to a higher price tag. At the same time, your multi-gear bike lets you explore more types of terrain and destinations. Think of your gear investment as an investment in your future experiences.
How many speeds are on a bike for commuting?
For a daily commute, you may want to make sure you have at least 3 gears. Unless you’re on entirely flat terrain the entire way, you’ll want the option to shift up and down. You’re going to work, after all, you don’t want to show up sweatier than necessary. A 3-speed cruiser or city bike is a good fit for commutes up to 30 miles or so.
Thanks to sixthreezero’s outstanding cross-section of bike styles, as well as its unique customizer, you can be certain that the bike you buy is the bike you need. It doesn’t matter if you go with a single-speed bike or one with more gears: you’ll be riding in style and comfort. Start browsing for a women’s single-speed bike or a men’s single-speed bike if you’re a leisurely biker who’s not out to break a sweat. Check out our 3- and 7-speed models so you have the option to explore more trails. It’s up to you. Just don’t forget to choose a new seat and frame before you check out, so you can make your new two-wheeler truly your own. Still have questions about bike gears? Contact sixthreezero right now to get help. We know a thing or two about bikes and we’re happy to share.