Bicycle Calorie Calculator

by
Reviewed by: David Chen, Exercise Physiologist, CPT

This calculator uses the Metabolic Equivalent of Task (METs) system to estimate caloric expenditure based on intensity, body weight, and duration.

Welcome to the most accurate bicycle calorie calculator. Simply input your body weight, cycling time, and average speed to estimate the total calories burned during your ride. This tool is essential for tracking fitness goals and optimizing training intensity.

Bicycle Calorie Calculator

Estimated Calories Burned

—

Calories (kcal)

Detailed Calculation Steps

  • Input values will be validated and used to determine the correct Metabolic Equivalent of Task (METs) value based on speed.
  • The calculation will be performed using the formula: Calories = (METs × 3.5 × Weight(kg) × Time(min)) / 200.
  • The final result will be displayed above.

Bicycle Calorie Calculator Formula

The standard formula for estimating caloric expenditure using METs is:

Calories Burned (kcal) = (METs × 3.5 × Weight(kg) × Time(min)) / 200

The METs value changes based on the average cycling speed:

  • < 16 kph (Leisure): 4.0 METs
  • 16 – 19 kph (Light): 6.0 METs
  • 19 – 22.4 kph (Moderate): 8.0 METs
  • 22.4 – 25.6 kph (Vigorous): 10.0 METs
  • > 25.6 kph (Racing): 12.0 METs

Formula Source: Based on the Compendium of Physical Activities and general exercise science principles. Source of Calculation Coefficients and METs Values (ACSM/Compendium)

Variables

  • Weight (kg): Your current body weight, a key factor in determining energy consumption.
  • Cycling Time (Minutes): The total duration of the cycling activity, including rest periods.
  • Average Speed (kph): The average intensity of your ride, which translates directly to the METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) value used in the formula.

Related Calculators

What is a Bicycle Calorie Calculator?

A Bicycle Calorie Calculator is an estimation tool designed to determine the number of kilocalories (kcal) burned during a cycling session. It relies on standard physiological data and established exercise science formulas, specifically the Metabolic Equivalent of Task (METs) system, to provide an accurate estimate.

The calculation factors in three main components: your body mass, the duration of the activity, and the intensity, which is usually approximated by the average speed. Since the energy required to move a mass increases proportionally with that mass and the effort applied, these calculators offer a reliable benchmark for fitness tracking and dietary planning.

How to Calculate Bicycle Calorie Burn (Example)

  1. Identify Inputs: A 75 kg person cycles for 60 minutes at an average speed of 21 kph.
  2. Determine METs Value: An average speed of 21 kph falls into the Moderate intensity category, corresponding to a **METs value of 8.0**.
  3. Apply the Formula: Calories = (8.0 × 3.5 × 75 kg × 60 min) / 200.
  4. Calculate Result: Calories = (1,260,000) / 200.
  5. Final Burn: Estimated Calories Burned = 630 kcal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this calculator 100% accurate?

No. This calculator provides a strong estimate based on average human physiology. Actual calorie burn can vary based on individual metabolism, terrain (hills/flat), wind, and drafting, which are not factored into the basic METs formula.

Why is weight so important for calorie calculation?

Weight is crucial because the primary work done during cycling involves moving your body mass. A heavier person requires more energy (calories) to move the same distance and speed compared to a lighter person.

How can I increase the calories I burn while cycling?

You can increase your caloric expenditure primarily by increasing the intensity (higher speed/METs value) or the duration (Time). Incorporating hills or headwind riding also significantly boosts the burn.

What is the METs value used in the formula?

METs stands for Metabolic Equivalent of Task. It represents the ratio of the working metabolic rate to the resting metabolic rate (1 MET = 1 kcal/kg/hour). It is a simple way to assign an energy cost to an activity based on its intensity.

V}

Leave a Comment