[python] Stability with lean disturbances?

  • From: ebooth@xxxxxxxx
  • To: python@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
  • Date: Sat, 26 Feb 2005 16:24:21 -0600

Dear all, 

I have been following the steering dynamics thread with interest, and I have a
question. When one rides a Python-style bike, how does one maintain stability
when the lean angle is perturbed (e.g. by a crosswind pushing you a few degrees
to one side)? 

Some thoughts:

Clearly, a DF's self-stabilization under these circumstances happens through
lean-steer. Positive trail causes the leading half of the front wheel to "fall"
in the direction one leans the frame, initiating a turn in that direction. Since
the Python has negative trail, it should not lean-steer this way; its front
wheel should, if left to its own devices, slew away from the tilt (IMO: those
who have Pythons can double-check).

While the riderless situation is a contrived one, this still begs the question
of how a Python and its rider can stay upright if the lean angle is perturbed.
Of the two Python stability mechanisms identified (hanging-pendulum and
pulled-front-wheel), can either one (or both) prevent the bike/rider combo from
tipping over? 

TIA,

Eric
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