gear ratio

noun

, Machinery.

1. the ratio of the rotational speeds of the first and final gears in a train of gears or of any two meshing gears.
2. the ratio of the diameters of the pitch surfaces of any two meshing gears or of the numbers of their teeth.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gear ratio¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

When one asks about a fixed gear, Pérez nimbly darts through the narrow shop to give them advice on tire size and gear ratio.

From Outside Online

Unfortunately, larger tires will also reduce a vehicle’s effective gear ratio.

From Outside Online

The most suitable gear-ratio for any rider will depend upon his personal physique and the nature of the country in which he rides.

From Project Gutenberg

When the central pinion is held stationary the hub is driven at a less speed than the chain-wheel; the gear-ratio is 100 : 76.2.

From Project Gutenberg

In expressing the gear-ratio, the normal speed will be denoted by 100.

From Project Gutenberg

The gear ratio is such that one turn of the handle will turn the chuck five or six revolutions.

From Project Gutenberg

The gear-ratio of a two-speed gear is the ratio of the high to the low gear.

From Project Gutenberg