Cadence (cycling)

Sigma Sport BC 1606L Cyclocomputer displaying cadence
Bicycle cadence graph

In cycling, cadence is a measure of rotational speed of the crank, expressed in units of revolutions per minute (r/min or rpm). In other words, it is the pedalling rate at which a cyclist is turning the pedals. Cadence is directly proportional to wheel speed, but is a distinct measurement and changes with gearing. In other words, the gearing changes the ratio of the crank's rotational speed (cadence) to that of the drive wheel's rotational speed.