40nni said:Homework Statement
If 2 bicyclists are cycling to the top of the same hill, and one bicyclist is using a gear that is twice as difficult as the other, is there a difference in work and power output between the 2 cyclists?
LowlyPion said:Which of bicyclists would you bet on?
40nni said:I forgot an important constraint to my question - that both cyclists reach the top simultaneously.
Given that constraint, I'd guess both exert the same power (both output the same work over the same time).
Where I get hung up though, is that the cyclist who is mashing the pedals would be exerting more force over the same distance compared to the cyclist who is spinning faster. I suppose the force by the spinner is greater than I perceive given the greater number of repetitions.
Anecdotally, mashing on a high geared singlespeed is tougher, but I suppose it's all how you train you legs.
Bicycle work refers to the amount of energy required to move a bicycle forward. It is a measure of the effort needed to overcome resistance and propel the bicycle forward.
Bicycle work is calculated by multiplying the force applied to the pedals by the distance traveled. This is known as the work-energy principle, where work is equal to force multiplied by distance.
The main factors that affect bicycle work include the weight of the rider and the bicycle, the terrain (such as hills or flat roads), wind resistance, and the gear ratio of the bicycle.
To improve your bicycle work, you can try reducing the weight of your bicycle and using lighter gear ratios. You can also improve your cycling technique and increase your fitness level through training.
The amount of bicycle work required is directly related to the speed at which the bicycle is traveling. As speed increases, more work is required to overcome air resistance and maintain the speed. This is why it becomes harder to pedal at higher speeds.