Thursday, August 31, 2006

Radius vs Speed may = G Forces

While riding over the years I had sensed G-forces, but had always dismissed it. I've been studying a book we'll be adding "Mastering Mountain Bike Skills" by Brian Lopes, and it turns out to be a real thing. Doubling your speed quadruples your side force. As the side forces increase, more stress is put upon your tires and wheels. A powerful side force on a low-pressure tire can cause it to be "shoved" over, and debris can be picked up. I had wondered how I was collecting some small twigs and grit inside my tires, now I know. Pretty cool!

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