Experiments and conclusions drawn
This is a very interesting question that everyone is wondering because a normal bicycle has only 2 sides in contact with the extremely small ground. Theoretically speaking, these two touchpoints are not capable of making a bicycle stand upright without falling over. So, before we answer that question, let’s do two simple little experiments.
Take a nail, use your thumb and index finger to rotate the nail body, and let it rotate on the tabletop, the nail will rotate vertically on the table on the tip until it stops spinning before falling. Then take a metal coin and flip it to spin, the coin can also spin on the table until the spin stops.
These two facts tell us a scientific principle: the fast-rotating objects all tend to keep the direction of the axis of rotation, which in physics it is called the torque conservation theorem.
Why bicycle not fall when moving?
Through the two experiments and the above theorem, we can partly understand the reason that why a bicycle does not fall when it is being ridden by someone. When the front and rear wheels of a bicycle are rolling, which are two objects that rotate at a fast speed, they also tend to keep the reel constant, thus preventing the bike from falling over.
Another factor that also plays an equally important role in balancing the bike during movement is the bike driver. The person sitting on the bicycle can sometimes make the bike lean to one side and lose its balance, then just holding the handlebar firmly can adjust the position of the front wheel; Moreover, the upper body of the person sitting on the bicycle also constantly changes position to keep the bike balanced, the movements of adjusting the position are because the driver is used to becoming a reflex.
Above are the reasons that play a necessary role that the bike may not fall over while traveling. In the process, they combine well together to make the process of cycling easier.
Why does it fall?
Contrary to when cycling, when the bicycle stops and the wheels stop spinning, there is no tendency to keep the shaft and the bike will fall easily. If you want to keep the vehicle from falling, you must have excellent vehicle balance skills. One good example is a circus performer who can perform an amazing repertoire on a stationary bicycle because they have mastered balance techniques.
So, why bicycle does not fall?
In short, bicycles are a familiar and interesting way to travel. By learning about the mysteries and questions related to it, you can both acquire more knowledge about it and gain useful knowledge about the field of Physics. Of course, you can also easily answer the question “why does a moving bicycle not fall over.”
