Some effects of crosswind on the lateral dynamics of a bicycle

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Abstract

The bicycle, being unstable at low speed and marginally stable at high
speed, is sensitive to lateral perturbations. One of the major lateral
perturbations is crosswind, which can lead to accidents and fatalities.
Here we investigate the effect of crosswind on the lateral dynamics and
control of the bicycle in a wide range of forward speeds and various
crosswinds, by means of computer model analysis and simulation. A low
dimensional bicycle model is used together with experimentally
identified rider control parameters. The crosswind forces are obtained
from a recent experimental study. Analysis and simulation show that
crosswind decreases the stability of the bicycle and is clearly a safety
issue.