I would go with:

Extremely Low - This would be low 20's down into the teens. For steep hills and strong headwinds.

Low - This would be low enough to tackle modest hills and headwinds.

Cruising - This would be a small gear-inch range in which I can comfortably ride in relatively flat terrain with little wind. Probably in the 60-75 gear-inch range for me.

High - This would be for modest downhills or tailwinds. Probably high 70's to 80's.

Very High - This would be for significant downhills or tailwinds.


I spend almost all of my time in the middle and foresee occasionally needing the lower gears. I don' foresee much need for the higher end of the spectrum. In fact, I try my best to ride my bike as a single-speed, only shifting when absolutely necessary. I used to shift with every little change in elevation or wind but now I find it more satisfying to simply work a little more by spinning faster or mashing harder.