E-bikes combine modern tech with traditional cycling, offering an efficient, enjoyable ride. One of the most essential parts of riding is understanding the gears and shifting system. In this guide, we’ll help you understand lower and higher gears and how to use them to maximize your e-bike experience.

What Are E-bike Gears?

E-bike gears work much like those on a regular bike, adjusting pedaling resistance to match different terrains and speeds. The gears are controlled by a shifter system on the handlebars. They help you:

• Start smoothly from a stop
• Climb hills more easily
• Maintain a steady speed on flat roads
• Increase speed when descending

Understanding Lower vs. Higher Gears

The terms lower gear and higher gear refer to the gear’s impact on pedaling effort and speed:

1. What is a Lower Gear?

• Lower gears are designed for easier pedaling but produce less speed.
• They are achieved by engaging the larger sprockets in the rear cassette or the smaller chainrings in the front.
• In a lower gear, the chain is on a larger rear cog, which means the pedals turn more easily, making it suitable for:
  • Climbing hills: Helps maintain momentum and reduces the effort required.
  • Starting from a stop: Makes it easier to get the bike moving from a standstill.

2. What is a Higher Gear?

• Higher gears make pedaling harder but allow for more speed.
• They are engaged by shifting to the smaller sprockets in the rear cassette or the larger chainrings in the front.
• In a higher gear, the chain is on a smaller rear cog, allowing you to pedal at a lower cadence but with more force, making it ideal for:
  • Flat roads: Helps you maintain a steady, faster pace.
  • Downhill rides: Allows you to increase speed without “spinning out,” where the pedals turn too fast without adding power.

How to Use E-bike Gears Correctly

Here’s how to use the shifter system to transition smoothly between lower and higher gears:

1. Start with a Lower Gear

When starting your ride or accelerating from a stop, use a lower gear. This makes it easier to begin pedaling and keeps your movements smooth and controlled.

2. Shift to a Higher Gear as You Speed Up

Once you gain momentum or ride on flat roads, gradually shift to a higher gear. This maintains your speed and makes pedaling efficient. For faster riding, like on flat terrain or downhill sections, a higher gear helps you maintain speed without excessive effort.

3. Adapt to the Terrain

• For uphill climbs, shift to lower gears before reaching the slope to maintain a steady cadence.
• For downhill rides or when approaching flat stretches, shift to higher gears to boost speed and maintain a comfortable rhythm.

On a Shimano gear system bike, the 8th gear is typically the highest gear in an 8-speed cassette. This means:

• 8th gear corresponds to the smallest sprocket in the rear cassette.
• It is a higher gear, making pedaling harder but allowing for greater speed.
• It’s ideal for flat roads or downhill sections where you want to maintain or increase speed with less frequent pedaling.

Conversely, 1st gear on an 8-speed Shimano system would be the lowest gear, corresponding to the largest sprocket and making it easier to pedal, which is better for climbing hills or starting from a stop.

Why Proper Gear Use Matters

Using the right gear at the right time offers several benefits:

• Efficient Energy Use: It minimizes strain on your muscles and reduces battery consumption.
• Consistent Cadence: Correct gear shifting helps maintain a smooth pedaling rhythm, preventing fatigue.
• Increased Range: By using gears efficiently, you can extend your e-bike’s battery life and overall range.