Two bikes, different wheel diameter

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Chiomina
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    Diameter Wheel
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the impact of different wheel diameters on the speed of bicycles when riders exert the same effort. Participants explore various factors affecting speed, including rolling resistance, wind resistance, and the relationship between wheel size and performance, while keeping other parameters constant.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that larger wheels may roll easier and have less rolling resistance, potentially affecting speed.
  • Others argue that wind resistance is a significant factor that may overshadow the differences caused by wheel size.
  • It is noted that rolling resistance and wind resistance may be comparable at certain speeds, with wind resistance becoming dominant at higher speeds.
  • Some participants propose that the same effort will result in the same work done, regardless of wheel size, leading to similar speeds.
  • There are discussions about the definition of "effort" and its implications for the question posed by the original poster.
  • A few participants mention the importance of gear ratios and how they relate to wheel size and rider efficiency.
  • One participant suggests conducting experiments with bikes of varying wheel sizes on different surfaces to gather data.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between wheel size and speed, with no clear consensus reached. Some believe that larger wheels provide advantages, while others maintain that effort and work done are independent of wheel size.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the complexity of factors influencing speed, including rolling resistance, wind resistance, and rider effort, indicating that the discussion is nuanced and context-dependent.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in cycling dynamics, physics of motion, and the effects of mechanical design on performance may find this discussion relevant.

  • #31
I think you will find that wind resistance at v^2 while the power to overcome it varies as v^3
 

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