Foreword¶

On rare occasion in life one must halt everything in order to focus on one monumental task of great importance. Few really comprehend the inordinate amount of time, effort and sacrifice that goes into a dissertation. This paper was such an endeavor.

Around the world millions of people ride their bikes daily, yet the secrets that make the magic of bicycling possible have never been fully understood or entirely quantified. This work brings us closer to that goal. The melding of man and machine that allows for transportation and gratification has always been somewhat of a mystery. This compilation delves into the foundations of bicycling and investigates why it’s possible.

These principles, when fully understood, will greatly enhance our understanding and perhaps change the world as we know it... at least the bicycling world.