How this cycling calculator works
The calculator solves the classic speed–time–distance triangle: enter any two values and it returns the third. Ride 20 miles and it took 1 hour 20 minutes? That is 15 mph. Know you hold 14 mph and want to ride 90 minutes? That is a 21-mile route. Everything runs in your browser — nothing is uploaded or stored.
Calorie estimates use MET values from the Compendium of Physical Activities, the same research standard used in exercise science. Cycling at 10–11.9 mph is roughly 6.8 METs; 12–13.9 mph is 8.0; 14–15.9 mph is 10.0; and 16–19 mph is 12.0. The formula is METs × body weight in kilograms × hours. It is an estimate — wind, hills, drafting, and bike type all shift real-world burn — but it is accurate enough to plan training and fueling. For the full math, read our guide to calories burned cycling.
What is a good cycling speed?
Context is everything. On flat pavement with no wind, most beginners average 10–14 mph, steady recreational riders hold 15–18 mph, and trained racers cruise above 20 mph. Gravel, mountain terrain, city traffic, and cargo loads all pull those numbers down — a 12 mph gravel average can represent harder work than 17 mph on smooth tarmac. Our guides on calculating cycling speed and training zones show how to benchmark yourself properly and get faster.
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