the-BA : Downhill racer

A lot of people have bikes; they’re a decent form of transport over short distances. But they can also be used for some pretty extreme sports. Downhill racing is a good example – careering down a steep hill at ridiculous speeds trying desperately not to get a face full of dirt. As 2001 Senior National Mountain Bike Champion, Oli Beckingsale, says: “If you have the need for speed, nerves of steel and reactions quicker than a rattlesnake, this is the sport for you!”

Have you ever wondered what specific features different bikes need?

You might like to …

• investigate different bikes for different purposes (for example, BMX, mountain bike, racing bike); find out what differences there are; find out what materials are used and why
• carry out tests to investigate the difference in ‘grip’ etc. of different wheels/tyres
• investigate the effectiveness of protective gear (helmets; knee pads; elbow pads) used in downhill mountain biking, or street BMXing
• find out about testing methods for bike safety (for example, find out about British Standards used by bike manufacturers); design and make testing machines for one or more bike part (for example, front forks; seats; frame strength)
• investigate the health benefits of cycling; find out what muscles are used when cycling; compare how much energy you use when cycling, compared to walking or running
• investigate how gears or brakes work and design your own system.

Further links:
http://www.descent-world.co.uk/

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