num_pages: 192
description: Every July hundreds of thousands flock to the Champs-lyses in Parisand millions more to their televisions and computersto witness the dramatic conclusion of the grueling three weeks of the Tour de France. There is no better measure of the worldwide love of the bicycle. But of the 1.2 billion cyclists traversing the worlds roadways and trails few of us take the time to consider the science behind the sport. The simple process of getting about on two wheels brings us in touch with a wealth of fascinating science and here journalist Max Glaskin investigates the scientific wonders that keep cyclists in their saddles. Cycling Science tours readers through a wide variety of topics from tire rolling resistance and the difference between yield strength and ultimate strength to the importance of aerodynamics and the impact that shaved legs have on speed. Each chapter explores a different subjectfundamentals strength and stability materials power aerodynamics and the human factorand is organized around a series of What is the ideal frame shape? What is the biggest source of drag? What keeps a bicycle from falling over? How much power can a cyclist produce? Which muscles does cycling use? Each question is examined with the aid of explanatory diagrams and illustrations and the book can be used to search for particular topics or read through for a comprehensive overview of how machine and rider work together. Athletes have much to gain from understanding the science of their sports and Cycling Science will be a must-read for cyclists of all stripesprofessionals recreational riders and anyone seeking to enhance their enjoyment of cycling.
language: English
title: Cycling Science: How Rider and Machine Work Together
publisher: University of Chicago Press