Equations for designing Novikov gear pairs with 3 - 5 pinion teeth for high gear ratios were obtained and they were numerically analysed using an electronic computer. The main calculated results were shown in the for:n of figures. For testing of both the tooth profiles and the running performance, Novikov gear pairs with Z₁=3, Z₂=27, a helix angle of about 22° and a center distance of 84.32 mm were made using a hobbing machine and two kinds of fly tools. The proposed contact markings were obtained at the designed center distance. When the trial-made gear pairs were tested at a pinion speed of 2000 rpm, a power transmission efficiency of about 99% was obtained at tangential loads in the range of 1500 to 3000 N. This efficiency is higher by about 4% than that of gear pairs with involute profiles with much the same size as that of the Novikov gears.