Balancing forces on a bicycle wheel

HallsofIvy

The component of the bike's weight perpendicular to the ground is balanced by force of the earth on the wheels. Since the bike is on slanted ground there is also a component of weight parallel to the ground. That will be balanced by the friction force on the wheels which is transmitted to the brakes that prevent the wheels from turning.

HallsofIvy Recognitions: Gold Member Science Advisor Staff Emeritus	Balancing forces on a bicycle wheel The component of the bike's weight perpendicular to the ground is balanced by force of the earth on the wheels. Since the bike is on slanted ground there is also a component of weight parallel to the ground. That will be balanced by the friction force on the wheels which is transmitted to the brakes that prevent the wheels from turning.