Anatomy of a bicycle

A bicycle or bike is just a human-powered vehicle driven by pedals. It has two wheels which are attached to a metal or in some cases hard plastic frame, one in the front and the other on the back.

History of a bicycle

The bicycle was introduced for the first time in Europe in the 19th century. Today their number exceeds one billion worldwide. Used as the main mode of transportation in some areas of the world, especially in the Netherlands and China. They have also developed as a very popular form of entertainment and recreation. Other fields of human activities that have been adopted are physically adult, children `s toys, police and military applications, cycle sports and courier services. Thus, during the period of time humble bicycle has taken a number of papers!

The basic configuration and shape of a traditional bicycle has changed very slightly since the first chain-driven model was developed in 1885. However, some subtle details have been made better with the increased use of improved equipment and materials technology. Using modern technology has made possible the production of specialized designs for different types and uses of the bicycle.

Parties and construction of a bicycle Typical

Wheels – This is the most important of any vehicle. The initial wheels used in a center of wood with a steel shaft, wooden beams and a tire iron that is installed on the outside. The wheels used today have a metal core, light metal wire, a metal of the rim to hold the spokes and a tire pneumatic rubber on the outside. Another important part of the wheel are the bearings which allows free movement of the center shaft.

Marco – most bikes used today is the diamond frame. It `s made up of two triangles, the front and rear. The front triangle has the top tube, head tube, seat tube and down tube. head tube is the part that contains the headset bearing to allow smooth steering, the top of the tube is connected to headquarters and the down tube connects the head tube and bottom bracket. The rear triangle has the seat tube, paired braces and pods.

Drivetrain – Is on the pedals, which rotates the crank arms, which in turn are attached to a sprocket and gear that drives the chain and Rear Wheel makes the turn.

Seats and direction – the direction is possible with the handle that turns the front wheel. The seats are saddles on the top of the frame. The seats can be designed for comfort or to cycle smoother and faster.

Brakes – uses the brakes on modern bikes are either rim brakes that uses compressed tablets Wheel 2 sides and stopping it, internal hub brakes that have pads inside the hubs and Disc Brakes. Braking in bicycles is manually operated by pressing the Brake Levers on the handlebars installed on both sides.

Suspension – the system is built to make the experience smoother cycling.

Accessories – Parts as mudguards to avoid spray from puddles, chain guards to keep clothes from oils, is needed to keep the bike upright while parked have become permanent features of a bicycle. Other accessories like front baskets, rear racks, space for head lamp, pump, helmets, etc. toolbox are also available upon request.

The use and development of bicycles have affected humanity in a bigger way than it seems. Has affected history in both industrial and cultural fields. In the early years, bicycles and its construction depends on the existing technology, more recently, technology in turn has given forth ideas in different areas.

About the Author

This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/bicicleta.php
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for www.PoloMercantil.com.br