How to Use Bike Gears: A Complete Guide for 6- and 18-/21-Speeds

Introduction to Bicycle Gear Shifting

Knowing how to properly use your bike's gears is essential for pedaling efficiently, reducing fatigue, and preserving your bike's components. Whether you have a 6-speed city bike, or an 18- or 21-speed mountain bike, this guide will help you master the art of shifting.

6-Speed Gearbox: Simplicity and Efficiency

How It Works

The 6-speed gearbox is typical of city bikes and features a single shifter on the right handlebar that controls the rear cassette. It's the ideal solution for those who ride in cities like Florence, where the climbs are moderate and simplicity is an advantage.

When to Change Gear

  • Low gears (1-2): Perfect for starts, steep climbs like the one towards Piazzale Michelangelo, or when riding against the wind
  • Medium gears (3-4): Ideal for cycling on flat terrain in the historic center of Florence
  • High gears (5-6): Excellent for descents or when you have the wind at your side along the Arno

Practical Advice

  • Always change gear while pedaling , but reduce the pressure on the pedals slightly when changing gear.
  • Anticipate your gear change: downshift before tackling a hill, not during.
  • Avoid changing gear while stationary: you risk damaging the gearbox

21-Speed Gearbox: Maximum Versatility

How It Works

The 21-speed system combines 3 front chainrings (left shifter) and 7 rear sprockets (right shifter). This setup offers 21 different gear combinations, perfect for mountain bikes and trekking bikes that tackle varied terrain.

The Three Anterior Crowns

  • Small chainring (1): For steep climbs and difficult terrain - maximum ease of pedalling
  • Medium chainring (2): For general use on flat ground and moderate climbs - the most used
  • Large crown (3): For high speeds on flats and downhill - maximum power

The 7 Rear Sprockets

  • Large sprockets (1-3): Agile gears for climbing
  • Medium sprockets (4-5): Balanced gears for flat terrain
  • Small sprockets (6-7): Hard gears for speed

The Golden Rule: How to Combine Gears

Recommended Combinations

  • Steep climb: Chainring 1 + Sprockets 1-3
  • Moderate climb: Chainring 2 + Sprockets 2-4
  • Plain: Crown 2 + Sprockets 4-6
  • Downhill/speed: Crown 3 + Sprockets 5-7

Combinations to Avoid

Avoid cross chain , i.e.:

  • Crown 1 (small) + Sprocket 7 (small)
  • Crown 3 (large) + Sprocket 1 (large)

These combinations cause premature wear of the chain and components.

Perfect Gear Shift Technique

  1. Always shift while pedaling - never while stationary
  2. Reduce pressure on the pedals when changing gear
  3. Shift one gear at a time - avoid multiple jumps
  4. Anticipate the terrain - scale before the climb, not during
  5. Maintain a steady cadence – about 60-80 pedal strokes per minute
  6. Mainly use the rear derailleur for fine adjustments
  7. Change the front chainring only for significant changes in slope

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Shifting under stress: Damages the gears and chain
  • Looking at the gear shift while pedaling: Dangerous in city traffic
  • Always using the same gear: It tires muscles and joints
  • Changing too late: Loss of rhythm and increased fatigue

Gearbox Maintenance

To keep your gearbox running efficiently:

  • Clean your chain and sprockets regularly
  • Lubricate the chain every 100-200 km
  • Check the tension of the gear cable
  • Have your transmission checked at the workshop at least once a year.

Conclusion

Mastering gear changes completely transforms the riding experience. Whether you're riding a 6-speed city bike around Florence or an 18- or 21-speed mountain bike through the Tuscan hills, remember: anticipate the terrain, always pedal through the gear changes, and maintain a consistent cadence .

Need a gear overhaul or personalized advice? Stop by Cicli Sergio Bianchi in Florence: our specialized workshop is available for maintenance, adjustments, and technical advice.