Introduction Page: 1 of 1

Welcome!

The Science of Cycling is the second in a series of three planned sports science resources. These sites focus on the science behind popular spectator and recreational sports.

While the Science of Cycling is a large Web site (there are over 20 pages in six main sections, 20 audio and video clips, interactive javascripts, and lots of images), it is really only an introduction to an enormous and fascinating topic.

You'll also find information on the history and unique culture of cycling. We felt it was imporant to include these elements because these contributions will help you better understand the topic.

Our understanding of cycling was greatly enhanced by the people we interviewed. U.S. Women's cross-country champion Ruthie Matthes helped us understand the competitive aspects of the sport, while frame builder Paolo Salvagione assisted in our understanding of bicycle frames and the materials they are made of. The Exploratorium's Paul Doherty helped explain the physics and forces behind the sport of cycling. To learn more about these individuals check out the "participants" section.

The Science of Cycling was a team effort. Many thanks to Noel Wanner who assisted with the writing and created a number of the activities and sidebars. Thanks to volunteer Brian Bernard who assisted with some technical writing and formulas. Ron Hipschman provided an activity and two excellent interactive javascripts. David Barker helped create the animations found on the site.

Additional thanks to Tim Tumbleson at PowerBar for his assistance with this project. Logan Kelsey of Vertical Productions provided great action footage. Libor Karas and Bill Teel at Cannondale provided some great images and video. Julie Washnock at Pearl Izumi sent us a great image of Ruthie Matthes on short notice. Kurt Liebert and "Bicycle"--the only band in the world that tours by pedaling--helped bring music to the site. For more information on these individuals and organizations, please visit the "credits" and "references" sections.

We hope you enjoy the Science of Cycling!

Jim Spadaccini
The Exploratorium

Introduction Page: 1 of 1