# Cycling energy expenditure and efficiency

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cycling-energy-expenditure-and-efficiency
> Updated: 2026-11-03T17:00:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Research into cycling highlights how caloric expenditure is influenced by body weight, intensity, speed, and terrain. For individuals weighing between 60 kg and 80 kg, hourly calorie burns can range from approximately 250 to over 650 calories depending on the level of effort.

Comparative studies indicate that cycling is a highly energy-efficient form of movement. Data suggests a cyclist consumes roughly five times less energy per gram of body weight per kilometer than a walker, demonstrating higher efficiency than various other modes of transport and biological movement.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-03: Cycling efficiency and calorie expenditure compared to walking

Cycling is five times more energy-efficient than walking per kilometer. Calorie burn varies by intensity, ranging from 200 to 700 calories per hour depending on speed.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cycling-efficiency-and-calorie-expenditure-compared-to-walking

### 2026-10-10: Calorie burn during cycling depends on weight and intensity

Calorie burn during cycling depends on weight and intensity, ranging from roughly 250 to over 650 calories per hour depending on individual factors.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/calorie-burn-during-cycling-depends-on-weight-and-intensity

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Cite as: Cycling energy expenditure and efficiency. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cycling-energy-expenditure-and-efficiency