How Does a Bike Stay Upright?

By Ben Hyde and Abbie Johnston

The biker firstly clips into the bike.

When the bike is stationary no forces are being created therefore it is unstable.

To build angular momentum on the bike you must create a starting speed by pedaling

Most balance at low speed is achieved by the rider, using steering corrections.

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At higher speeds the cyclists body and postioning help to balance the bike.

As the bike gains speed angular momentum is created.

Angular momentum: When all the particles want to move in the same direction

The faster the bike goes, the harder it is the destabilise the bike. The force of angular momentum increases.

Still dont get it?

Gimbal

Spin axis

Rotor

Gyroscope Frame

A bicycle wheel works in the same way as a gyroscope. The gimbals are pushed outwards allowing the gyroscope to remain stable in any postion.

No Angular Momentum

CAUTION! Falling may occur.

HAHAHA!

W4N K3R