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Yes, the static friction increases, but not so much as to match the torque from the chain. It lags behind. The difference of the two torques provides the angular acceleration of the wheel.UMath1 said:So I think my issue is a conceptual one. It was my understanding that as you increase the torque of the chain, you increase the force the wheel applies to the ground thereby increasing the force of static friction. So the issue was that since the force of static friction continues to rise as the more torque is applied, it continues to match the torque of the chain.
As Chet remarked, a cyclist with cleats could in theory apply so much torque to the pedals that the rear wheel skids, but my guess is it would require superhuman strength.