I've got a Schlumpf 29" unicycle with the Schwalbe Big Apple tire. It's
a sweet ride and I can cruise at a pretty respectable speed -- not 20
mph like I've seen mentioned, but 14-15 mph for reasonable distances.
However, I'm not thrilled with the tire. If the road is tilted then I
have to struggle to ride straight -- typically I stick my hip out in
the direction the road tilts and stick my shoulders out the other way,
but that's not particularly comfortable.
I have similar problems when I try taking a corner at high speed.
My theory is that the problem is an imbalance between how easily the
tire turns and how much I need to lean. Leaning the unicycle causes the
unicycle to turn. Leaning the unicycle is also necessary when turning
in order to counteract the 'centripetal force' (http://xkcd.com/123/).
At around 8-10 mph on my Schlumpf 29" these forces are balanced, but at
higher speeds I need to lean more to counteract the increasing
centripetal force, but I can't lean more because then I will turn more.
This either makes me feel out of control on turns, waving my arms
madly, or it forces me to slow down.
So...
I'm looking for a 29" tire that is less sensitive to side slopes and
has a higher 'natural turning speed'. Or, I'm open to other theories on
what the problem is (gyroscopic effect?) and possible solutions. I'm
happy to be able to ride nice and fast in a straight line, but I may
occasionally need to go around corners.
--
Bruce Dawson
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Bruce Dawson's Profile: http://www.unicyclist.com/profile/1299
View this thread: http://www.unicyclist.com/thread/69962
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