Abstract Summary
An analytic theory is developed that determines the conditions for sagittal plane rotation (referred to as a “pitchover”) of a mountain bike and rider. The model assumes a rigid geometry of the bike and rider, but energy loss is approximated using a variable coefficient of restitution. Two configurations are considered: 1) braking on a smooth slope and 2) front wheel impact due to a change in slope. The results are consistent with qualitatively well-known characteristics, for example, that posterior/inferior location of the rider center of mass mitigates the possibility of pitchover.
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