young hands holding a young plant
young hands holding a young plant

Bicycles have played a crucial role in human transportation and leisure for more than two centuries, symbolizing freedom, adventure, and sustainability. A thought-provoking video by Veritasium, titled “Most People Don’t Know How Bikes Work,” prompted me to delve deeper into the scientific principles underlying bicycle functionality and consider incorporating a bicycle lesson in a science or physical education class. Did you know that your bicycle is, in essence, solar-powered? Your bike moves when your muscles convert chemical energy into mechanical energy for pedaling. This chemical energy originates from digested sugars, which are transformed from the sun’s energy through photosynthesis. Join me as we embark on a journey to explore the captivating science behind bicycles, from the physics of balance and stability to the influence of aerodynamics on cycling efficiency.

The Physics of Bicycling
Balance and Stability: The gyroscopic effect and the caster effect both contribute to a bicycle’s stability. The gyroscopic effect however is much smaller than most people think. The gyroscopic effect occurs when a rotating wheel resists changes to its orientation, making the bicycle more stable at higher speeds. The caster effect, on the other hand, involves the bike’s steering axis being tilted back, so that the contact point of the front tire trails behind the steering axis. The effect of this configuration is that the front wheel turns on its own into a turn and effectively makes itself upright. The same caster effect also naturally returns the bike to its straight position after a turn, contributing to overall balance.

Friction and Traction: Tire contact with the ground is essential for maintaining balance and control while cycling. Tires with proper pressure and tread can maximize friction and traction, improving a cyclist’s ability to navigate different terrains and weather conditions.

Bicycle Anatomy

Frame Geometry: Frame geometry affects a bicycle’s handling, stability, and comfort. Factors such as head tube angle, wheelbase, and bottom bracket height all contribute to the overall ride experience. A well-designed frame can improve a bike’s responsiveness and stability, making it more enjoyable and efficient to ride.

Wheels and Tires: Wheel size, tire pressure, and tire tread all play significant roles in a bicycle’s performance. Larger wheels can provide a smoother ride, while smaller wheels offer quicker acceleration and maneuverability. Tire pressure and tread influence grip, rolling resistance, and the ability to navigate various surfaces.

Gears and Drivetrain: The gear system of a bicycle impacts speed and efficiency. By changing gears, a cyclist can maintain a consistent cadence (pedal revolutions per minute) while adjusting to different terrains and inclines. This allows for efficient power transfer and energy conservation during a ride.

Aerodynamics and Cycling Position

Air Resistance: Air resistance is a major factor affecting cycling speed and energy expenditure. As a cyclist rides faster, the air resistance increases exponentially, making it more challenging to maintain high speeds.

Body Position: A cyclist’s body position can significantly reduce air resistance and improve efficiency. By lowering the torso and tucking in the elbows, a cyclist can reduce their frontal area, decreasing drag and conserving energy.

Bicycle Design: Modern bicycle designs have evolved to optimize aerodynamics and reduce drag. Features such as aerodynamic tubing, integrated cables, and streamlined components all contribute to minimizing air resistance and enhancing overall performance.

Human Physiology and Cycling Performance

Muscular System: The major muscle groups involved in cycling include the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Each muscle group plays a specific role in the pedaling motion, generating power and propelling the bike forward.

Energy Systems: The human body generates energy for cycling through both aerobic and anaerobic systems. Aerobic energy production relies on oxygen and is sustainable for longer durations, while anaerobic energy production occurs without oxygen and is typically utilized during short, high-intensity bursts. Understanding how these systems work and training them effectively can improve cycling performance and endurance.

Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and nutrition are crucial for optimal cycling performance and recovery. Consuming an appropriate balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats can provide the necessary fuel for a ride, while staying hydrated helps maintain body temperature, supports muscle function, and aids in recovery.

Bicycle Safety Science

Helmet Technology: Helmets play a critical role in protecting cyclists from head injuries. Modern helmets are designed with energy-absorbing materials, such as expanded polystyrene foam, which help dissipate the force of an impact, reducing the risk of injury. Innovations in helmet design continue to improve safety and comfort for cyclists.

Visibility and Lighting: Ensuring visibility is essential for cyclist safety, especially when riding in low-light conditions or at night. Reflective materials, high-visibility clothing, and strategically placed lights can help make a cyclist more visible to motorists, reducing the risk of accidents.

Braking Systems: Different types of bicycle brakes, such as rim brakes, disc brakes, and drum brakes, function to ensure safe stopping. Each braking system has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors such as weather conditions, bike type, and rider preference. Understanding how these systems work can help cyclists make informed decisions about their bicycle components and maintenance.

Putting It All Together

Bicycles are not just simple machines; they are marvels of science and engineering. Understanding the principles behind balance, stability, aerodynamics, and human physiology can help enhance our biking experience and maybe even improve overall performance. By appreciating the science behind bicycles, we can continue to enjoy the freedom, adventure, and sustainability they provide while remaining safe and efficient on the road or trail.

What follows is a short lesson idea for a physical science, engineering, or physical engineering class. It isn’t fully flushed out, so you can make it work with your students. If you seek a specific lesson plan or lab write up plan, let me know!

Title: Exploring Bicycle Physics: An Outdoor Lesson on Turning and Stability

Objective: To help students understand and experience the principles of bicycle turning, balance, and stability through hands-on activities involving bike riding.

Safety: Encourage caution and care, have students on the bikes wear helmet and knee pads and experiment safely, trying specific approved moves at slow or moderate speeds.

Grade Level: 6-12

Key Activities:

  1. Observing a bicycle naturally turning into a lean or correcting itself to stay upright gliding down a hill. (Ensure the bicycle has a soft place to fall/crash at the bottom, or a person to intercept it.)
  2. Introduction to the physics of bicycles, focusing on steering, balance, and stability.
  3. Steering and Counter steering: Students try steering movements and different body position while navigating a course. (Caster Effect)
  4. Turning Stability: Students explore the relationship between speed, turning radius, balance, and stability while cycling around circular courses of varying sizes. (Gyroscopic Effect/ angular momentum conservation)
  5. Discussion and Reflection: Students share their observations and experiences in a form of your design, relating them back to broader physics principles such as the gyroscopic effect, caster effect, or conservation of angular momentum.

By LaraL