Maybe I used the wrong terminology BUT ... Pedals ARE levers >> Power or work = F x D.
Math is math. There is nothing wrong with my math as stated. 5/ 165 = 3%.
You can wizz around all the hell you like with 18 GI or whatever, I will prefer 75 avg rpm.
What is gained in force is lost in distance.

You noticed that Usain Bolt won 9 gold medals with LONG strides??