http://www.bikebiz.com/news/read/science-of-cycling-explored-in-new-book-2/014955
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"Science of cycling explored in new book"
(10 posts)-
Posted 11 years ago #
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Sounds a little bit like Mike Burrows' Bicycle Design book. I only have the original edition though, and MB doesn't cover biomechanics beyond crank length and muscle recovery times.
Posted 11 years ago # -
Just got a copy. (Not a free review one!)
Looks pretty comprehensive on both machine and body.
From "Introduction"
"
Riding a bike is one of the most rewarding of human activities, whether it takes the form of those first tentative wobbles, a daily commute, occasional pleasure trips or the adrenalin rush of elite competition. Understanding the science of cycling is equally gratifying because it enhances both the interest in, and the sheer enjoyment of, riding.Cycling occupies a unique niche in the world. It satisfies concerns about the environment, sustainability, health and fitness - while giving millions of people the freedom to travel independently. These benefits would be mere anecdotes if it were not for the fact that thousands of scientists have studied almost every aspect of this seemingly simple activity. This book brings together their significant findings. Some were made in the nineteenth century and others as recently as this year.
A wide range of sciences is embraced in the book because cycling involves a surprisingly diverse array of disciplines. The fundamental principles of physics lead on to the magic of engineering and technology, which has led to the development of phenomenally efficient bikes. There are the mysteries of balance, stability and steering, as well as crucial explanations of aerodynamics. You, the rider, are also dissected and put under the microscope to reveal how you perform the ingenious and often underestimated trick of cycling.
"
Every school should have one (or two).
Posted 11 years ago # -
"
Cycling laws and regulations come and go but the laws of nature don't change, so cyclists and bikes must ride with them. Most of the fundamentals of science actually facilitate cycling and make it possible, although at least one does in fact make it harder. The key is to use science and technology to minimize the disadvantages and maximize the benefits so that cycling is easier. It must be reasonably easy because interest in cycling is booming to the point where bicycle sales far outstrip those of any other vehicle type. Cycling is not only a massively popular way to travel but has also become a political touchstone because of the impact that it can have on the environment, society and the individual. Where once world leaders waved imperiously from the steps of jetliners, they are now keen to be seen on a bike. So, health, safety, climate, and other issues fundamental to human existence are brought into this chapter, which lays down a broad, smooth track for the journey ahead."
Posted 11 years ago # -
"
Wednesday 17 JulyMax Glaskin
13.5 billion years of Cycling Science
6.00 pm, Waterside 3, The Watershed
Don’t panic, that’s the title of this illustrated talk, not its duration. From the Big Bang to those tiny little things that have fallen out of your hub gear, cycling is ruled by the laws of science. The task of the cyclist is to exploit those laws without getting caught – by harnessing physiology, engineering and technology.Want to ride faster, further, for longer? Want to stay safe mixing it with traffic? Want to save the environment one pedal stroke at a time? Learn how from a man who’s cycled over the Greater Himalaya, kick-started mountain biking in the UK, danced a bicycle duet for the Queen and written long words for New Scientist.
Twitter: @cyclingscience1
Facebook: CyclingScience
http://www.cyclingandscience.com"
http://www.bristolcyclefestival.com/talks
MIGHT be doing a similar talk in Edinburgh.
Posted 11 years ago # -
The book looked good when you showed it to us in peter's yard
Posted 11 years ago # -
I picked up a copy with half an idea of writing a review, but I'm not sure I like it (oo-er).
The good thing is that it does cover a lot of ground and has explicit references. The bad thing is that it often seems so superficial that it makes me want to run screaming to said references.
For instance, there's a section on chain efficiency with a lovely infographic in which there are two variables, so it actually tells you nothing much. On one page it states a particular pedal force and says that as a result, nobody needs to worry about frame flex. Whilst separately referencing cranks, the quoted force is vastly higher. So is the bit about frames hideously under-measured or are the differences between cranks grossly exaggerated?
etc. etc.
If I get around to writing it up properly, I'll post a link.
Posted 11 years ago # -
Whilst separately referencing cranks, the quoted force is vastly higher.
Are the scenarios different? The tensile strength or shear strength of a material and the crank design is governed by rare stuff like withstanding 10-foot drop offs. Frame flex is of greater interest in pedalling regimes, whether under sprint or constant conditions. In each case the impulse force applied at the pedal axle will of course be different.
Posted 11 years ago # -
With a book of cycling science I should easily be able to answer this question. Oh, wait...
;-)
Posted 11 years ago # -
I finally got around to a book review of this.
Good job it wasn't a free review sample :)
Posted 11 years ago #
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