In a message dated 6/2/02 7:46:53 AM Pacific Daylight Time, bikevint@tiac.net writes:
<< Actually this analysis is not correct - when the frame springs back all the energy that went to move the frame one way moves it back the other - and that movement is augmenting the pedal stroke - energy can't be wasted >>
As far as I can reason, the stored energy spent deflecting the frame is used in the frame returning to "normal". If you want me to buy the idea that this somehow augments the pedal stroke, you're going to have to build a case for it with a reasonable argument. The pedal stroke is occurring at 90 degrees to the frame flex. I don't see how it can possibly add to the bicycle moving forward.
<<Many of the best riding quickest feeling bikes are very flexible>>
That has not been my experience at all. I started building frames in a quest for a stiffer bike.
<<again, it is having the right flex that is important. >>
I agree with you completely on this with the caveat that "right" is
subjective and can vary a lot from rider to rider depending on a lot of
things.
Stevan Thomas
Alameda, CA