Re: [Phys-l] Bicycle question

[Brian Whatcott <betwys1@sbcglobal.net>]

At 04:20 PM 8/25/2006, Michael Edmiston, you wrote:

> The website I referenced earlier has a section under bicycle science
> called "counter-intuitive."  It agrees with some others writing on this
> thread that motorcycle riders might first turn the handlebars in the
> opposite direction they want in order to make the quickest turn.  The
> site I referenced implies this is also true of bicycles.
/cut major developments/
> Michael D. Edmiston, Ph.D.

Off-topic interlude.

   ....which reminds me of one sunny weekend, long ago, when I met with
a friend to cycle ten miles or so to a place called Meriden, which
pleased to think itself the center of England, however measured.

Along the way, after several pleasing bike games, my friend warned
 me that the stunt he was about to show me was very dangerous (it is!).

He crossed his hands, so that his right hand was on the left handle
and vice versa.   He proceeded for a few seconds, then warned me again.

I am however, slow to heed warnings.... and my first attempt had the
 usual result. I was not hurt much, I'm pleased to say.

Talking of vehicular mishaps, did I tell you about riding a horse
whose owner warned me of the mare's only blemish on a sunny
temperament? - She would  roll in water, if she were allowed to
reach down to sip.
 We crossed the North Fork of the Red River.....and here,
I stepped off as the phase angle reached 1.5 radians.


Brian Whatcott    Altus OK    Eureka!