BQ 23 (Spring 2008)

Vol. 6, No. 3

Comfort AND Speed

In this issue, we debunk the myth that comfort and speed are an either-or choice. When a rider’s body vibrates, heat is generated, and the necessary energy no longer is available to drive the bicycle forward. We test how much fork blades flex, and find significant differences based on shape and geometry of the fork.

We continue our research into aerodynamics by looking at drafting and different rider types. A commuter in street clothes has more than twice the air resistance of a track pursuit rider! And when drafting, not only the following rider, but also the leader, obtain an aerodynamic benefit.

Al Tietjen takes us back a century, when his family lost its fortune on the development of the Chainless Hill-Climber, a shaft-driven three-speed bicycle. We look at similarly revolutionary drivetrains today. A photo feature of a 1930s Vélostable recumbent shows another revolutionary idea that has yet to take over the mainstream.

A more practical article shows how to make a custom LED taillight and how to integrate a rotating light switch into your stem. We also look at shimmy and how to cure it.