Based on the linear form of uncontrolled bicycle dynamic equations, sensitivity of weave and capsize speed with respect to design parameters are calculated. Analyzing sensitivity curves, significance of design parameters along with the way how stable speed range is changed is found. Among 7 significant parameters out of 25, head angle is the most dominant parameter followed by front wheel diameter, mass, moment of inertia demonstrating the importance of front side design in bicycle stability. Procedure for predicting stable speed range using sensitivity information is investigated. When a single parameter is changed, the stable range is determined by that parameter, meanwhile when multiple parameters are changed, stable range is determined by adding up all contributions from each parameter. Using an experimental bicycle with variable configuration, the weave speeds at nominal design and changed configuration that gives lowest value of weave speed are measured. The comparison between the measured and predicted value of weave speed shows good correlation, which demonstrates the validity of the sensitivity based stability analysis. (Author/publisher) For this paper, other papers and posters presented at this Symposium see http://bicycle.tudelft.nl/bmd2010/
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