Jump to content

# Dynamo question...

## Recommended Posts

Hi all,

I was just wondering if using a dynamo on a bike wheel, for example, would make it more difficult for the biker to move a certain distance. Basically my thoughts are that you are using chemical energy in your body, converting that into mechanical energy to make the bike move, and then the dynamo is converting some of that mechanical energy into electrical energy. So would that mean that the biker has to do more work to move the same amount of distance with a dynamo attached as opposed to without one?

Thanks,

LF

##### Share on other sites

Basically yes. For the dynamo to work it must have extra energy put into moving the bike.

However, whether the cyclist has to put that in is another matter; if they were mainly travelling downhill and not pedalling, energy would be transferred from the GPE I think.

##### Share on other sites

it would indeed require more energy, not least of all because its extra weight also, although a Dynamo without a load (youre not taking power) is easier to turn than when under a load.

## Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

## Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

## Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×

• #### Activity

• Leaderboard
×
• Create New...

## Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.