Looking to change my gears

It would be helpful if you told us your current gearing (# teeth per chainring and # teeth per cassette sprocket).

I'm guessing you have a freehub and cassette, but go here and verify:
sheldonbrown.comk7.htmlOpen ↗

If you do, it's easiest to just replace the whole cassette with one that has a larger low gear sprocket than your current cassette. Here is an example of your choices in cassettes: sheldonbrown.comk7.htmlOpen ↗

As a newb, be aware that you may also need to replace your chain. A stretched chain will not work well with a new cassette.

Yes it is a freehub and cassette. Thanks for your info.

warriorcliff77 said:

Newb here,
I have an early 90's Miele Volta, which is a 7speed. I'm curious about getting a larger 1st gear for climbing hills.(if possible) Or should i look into a smaller front chainring?

If you can, indeed, simply change the inner chainring to a smaller one (i.e., if your crank has a 110BCD), then that is what I would recommend you do, first ...

Otherwise, I would change the cassette/freewheel to one with a 28t-or-larger largest cog.

Since you didn't state what your current gearing actually is ... it is hard to know how much latitude there is in amending the current drivetrain.

I'll get my gearing info this evening and post back tomorrow. Are 7speed "parts" still available?