Question

Why spokes are needed for bicycles?

Answer 1

Step 1:Spokes

In bicycles, spokes connect the hub in the center of wheel to the rim.

Step 2:Need for spokes

1. Addition of spokes contribute to increase in moment of inertia of wheel, as it is a function of m and r² .
2. If torque is applied then change in angular velocity with which wheel is revolving is reduced. As torque=Moment of inertia X Angular acceleration.

From above relation we got that Angular acceleration is inversely proportional to Moment of inertia (As M.O.I increases, angular acceleration decreases)

1. This will provide smooth ride experience of bicycle.
2. Spokes help in transfer of loads between the rim and the hub of wheel, which are caused by weight of rider and bicycle.

Hence for smooth ride experience and less jerky ride spokes are used in bicycles.