This paper explores the transient behavior of an induction motor–gearbox–load system during startup and braking, emphasizing the impact of key dynamic parameters such as inertia, torque, and gearbox ratio. A comprehensive mathematical formulation is developed to analyze transient time, leading to the derivation of an optimal gearbox ratio that minimizes acceleration and deceleration durations. Both analytical and graphical evaluations reveal that deviations from this optimal ratio significantly extend transient times, increasing energy losses. The findings demonstrate that high-speed induction motors deliver superior transient performance while maintaining compact size and reduced weight. Moreover, the study shows that optimization calculations can be simplified without sacrificing accuracy, improving computational efficiency. These insights contribute to the optimization of electromechanical drive systems, enhancing their dynamic response in real-world applications.