Good info - but on the 10 speed to do a wheelie it would be the small sproket on front and big sprocket in rear. I know you know this - just reversed in the post. The smaller sproket in front allows the pedals to turn more revolutions compared to the wheel in the rear - just like 1st gear on your car.

 

So you're saying that adding 8lbs at each wheel would equate to adding 320lbs of passenger weight (or other form of load) & not the static weight of 32 lbs? Does the weight gradually become greater (to a factor of ten) as speed increases? Do you have any literature or links that could help explain this?

The reason I ask is because my Ronals are roughly 8lbs heavier than my stock wheels. Frankly, 320 lbs would have a noticeable affect on acceleration (I have a friend that's 275 and believe me....I notice a difference when he's in my car ). However, I didn't experience any appreciable loss of acceleration after my new wheels and tires were mounted. This is why I'm curious about the info and would like to read up a bit more. I appreciate your help.

Thanks,
Kean

 

Kean,

There are too many factors to formulate an accurate equation less than a page long. Which way does the formula err? It depends on where the weight is concentrated. If the center portion of your wheel is heavy and the outer rim is comparatively light, then the formula would err to more of a "passenger weight" penalty. On the other hand, your wheel is a featherweight and you use a 30 lb tire, the formula would err to the other side. Tire weight plays a big part because it's the furthest from the center - hence it has the most effect on energy required to start it spinning. But then you can break that down as well - is the tire's weight more concentrated in the sidewall or in the belt system?

It's a rough formula, in some cases darn rough. It is word of mouth around here, and I have no literature to back it up. I share it because it makes sense in my experience with heavy wheels compared to light wheels. On my first set of new wheels on my car, it felt like Nel Carter was hiding in the cargo bay. When I went to the lightweights, she left to pursue other ventures.

If it doesn't jive in your case, simply disregard it and enjoy your car. I could have better described it as "It's a rough formula, yes, but the trend it exposes makes sense."

 

Thanks Dexter. I hope I didn't come off the wrong way. I was just curious.

- Kean

 

Of course not. Feel free to ask anything and be sceptical of everything. I won't take it personally.

 

You got the right idea, but hate to burst your bubble as your bike gearing examples are completely backwards. All you Physics majors should read the chapter on Centripetal Acceleration. Technically, Centrifugal is not "real" but we all use the term!!