Originally Posted by
DrIsotope
The single biggest force a cyclist has to overcome is wind resistance. The moon has no atmosphere, so that is off the table. The rider then only needs to overcome minimal rolling resistance, and account for equally minor mechanical losses. According to
the calculator here, a combined rider + bike of 150kg, unrestrained by drag, requires just 176W to maintain 60m/s (117mph.)
Interesting. But that calculator didn't have a radio button for "moon suit".
I would imagine things quickly go non-linear at the near orbital speeds some of these guys are projecting. Even 117 mph is probably beyond the assumptions of that calculator. I'm projecting the mechanical losses will be more than "minor" at that speed.
Definitely need special wheels and tires. Ran my ebike up to 53 mph open loop speed while on a bike stand. Thought that sucker as going to vibrate right out of the garage.