BIKE AND KIT
Mountain-bike gearing
Choose and use gearing that supports smooth climbing, chain retention and maintainable component ranges.
Reviewed · General UK planning guidance · Check current operator and manufacturer information
Understand the range
Low gearing helps sustainable climbing; high gearing rarely matters on technical descents.
- Compare chainring and cassette ranges rather than counting gears alone.
- Check derailleur capacity and component compatibility before changing sizes.
- Consider fitness, wheel size, load and local climbing.
Shift well
Reduce pedal force briefly during a shift.
- Select a lower gear before a steep ramp or technical obstacle.
- Avoid repeated cross-chain habits on multi-chainring systems.
- Do not force the shifter when the mechanism is obstructed or damaged.
Diagnose problems
Skipping can have several causes.
- Check chain wear, cable condition, hanger alignment and cassette wear.
- Stop after a derailleur impact that threatens the spokes.
- Use compatible replacement parts and correct adjustment procedures.
Useful official guidance
Rules, conditions and services change. Use these sources and the relevant venue’s current information before relying on a plan.
Spot something that needs updating? Tell us about a correction.