A bicycle frame has been analysed as a three-dimensional framework and stresses and deflections predicted using a finite element computer program. Theoretical results for simple loading case were compared with strain gauge measurements in laboratory tests.
More complex loading cases representing common cycle racing situations were analysed. The largest stresses in the frame were bending stresses. Stresses in the region of 300—400 MN/m2 were predicted in the down tube and right chain stay during starting and stresses of about 250 MN/m2 at the front of the top tube and down tube during severe braking.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
SharpeA.Bicycles and tricycles, 1896 (Longmans Green, Cambridge, MA). Reprinted 1977, MIT Press.
2.
WhitF. R.WilsonD. G.Bicycle science, 1974 (MIT Press, Cambridge, MA and London).
3.
WatsonR.GrayM.The Penguin book of the bicycle, 1978 (Penguin London).
4.
AmosA. R.A preliminary investigation into cycle frame design, 1977, BSc project report, Department of Mechanical Engineering, UMIST.
5.
AdeyefaB. A.1978, Determination of load deflections and stresses in bicycle frames, 1978, MSc Dissertation, UMIST.
6.
SodenP. D.AdeyefaB. A.‘Forces applied to a bicycle during normal cycling’, J. Biomech., 1979, 12, 527–541.
7.
KyleC. R.EdelmanW. E.‘Man powered vehicle design criteria’, presented at the 3rd Int. Conf. on Vehicle System Dynamics, Blackburn, Virginia, USA, 12–15 August, 1974.
8.
HoesM. J. A. J. M.BinkhorstR. A.Smeekes-KuyeA. E. M. C.VissersA. C. A.‘Measurements of forces exerted on pedal and crank during work on a bicycle ergometer and different loads’, Physioleinchl. Arbeitsphysiol., 1968, 26, 43–94.
9.
WongY. S.Computer aided design of bicycle frames, 1979, BSc project report, Department of Mechanical Engineering, UMIST.
