Riding a Bicycle Uphill: How Much Torque Is Needed?

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The discussion centers on the torque required for riding a bicycle uphill and the feasibility of using a hydraulic transmission system. Torque output varies based on rider weight and pedal length, with typical human energy output being around 100 watts at 90 RPM. The conversation suggests that conventional bike gearing is simpler and more efficient than a hydraulic system, which would add weight and complexity. An experienced cyclist can generate sufficient torque for steep climbs, often facing issues like lifting the front wheel instead of lacking torque. Ultimately, while innovative ideas are explored, traditional gearing remains the preferred method for uphill cycling.
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how much is the turk that a usual person enter over the bicycle pedal ? ( the range )
i want to know . is it enough to ride a bicycle through drastic uphill bye foot power? or use some booster to drive better . i want to design a hydraulic transmition for bicycle . do i have to use pressure booster to increase the force on rear wheel or the 1:1 transmited turk is enough ?
 
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Welcome to PF, Ahad. I'm afraid that your question is a little vague. The torque that you provide depends upon both your weight and the length of the pedals (lever arms). The gearing system determines the torque/speed ratio. Generally speaking, it works the same way as in a car. You start in low gear for acceleration, and then gradually shift up until you reach your desired speed.
 


I think that maximum and typical energy outputs for humans are relatively standard. Perhaps you could take the energy and back calculate the torque based on the angular velocity?
 


in my opinion, its going to be real hard to beat the simplicity of the conventional bike gear. With a hydrostatic system, you will have more mass on the bike, from the system to generate, transfer, and possibly cool the fluid, along with the mass of the fluid. plus, I suspect, slippage will further reduce the efficiency. Interesting idea, though

dr
 


Agreed. It would make a cool conversation piece, but the space and weight that such a system would require would be better occupied by a motor.
 


The real question is how much torque can a turk generate?

http://weslowery.files.wordpress.com/2009/07/turk-745163.jpg
 
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An experienced bicyclist can produce ~100 watts continuously at ~ 90 RPM.Bob S
 


"The real question is how much torque can a turk generate?"
You can torque the torque but can you worque the worque?
 


I don't think you know what you're torquing about

dr
 
  • #10


I see that this thread is getting twisted...
 
  • #11


Danger said:
I see that this thread is getting twisted...

Hey wait a moment! :rolleyes:
 
  • #12


the bad jokes keep going round and round

its almost "tau" much

dr
 
  • #13


I think with a mountain bike you can produce way more torque than you need. I tried going up a STEEP hill once, and the limiting factor was the front wheel coming off the ground, not the lack of torque...
 
  • #14


That's a wheely wheely serious problem.
 

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