Freddie wrote:
yeah agree the pedals still move circular but the force around that circle is different on oval rings than non oval ones, especially on more aggressive oval rings (naturally that's the point of them).
if P/S measures how smoothly power is transmitted throughout a circular revolution, it assumes (rightly or wrongly) that the aim is to apply power equally throughout, whereas oval rings aim differently i.e. to take advantage of peak arcs and quickly pass through the dead spots. clearly P/S of 100% is unachievable and below 50% is more realistic but if that theoretical P/S aim is indeed correct, then would P/S on oval rings always be lower, all other things being equal? the ability for 100% smooth power on oval rings is diminished because different forces apply at different parts of the arc, not necessarily a bad thing...
similarly, if T/E measures the force applied to push forwards, should T/E not benefit from oval rings, all other things equal, since the dead spot that reduces the T/E score is reduced by the oval ring?
therefore, do oval rings see lower P/S and higher T/E?
understand this raises the debate about circular vs oval rings and may be better suited to one of those forums but if you remove that wider argument, does this stack up? I may be wrong and this may all be taken account of within the formulae but the shape of the drive mechanism should have an impact on the smoothness and torque, perhaps?
thanks re edge tip, must have missed it in the myriad of menus of the 520!
It just changes the leverage ratio, or gear ratio at certain points of the pedal stroke. Or in another way, it allows you to move through the weakest part of the pedal stroke quicker.
Here's always the million dollar question.... is that a limiting factor to power output? Maybe at very high intensities (300%+) and high RPM. Specific muscular strength isn't normally a limiting factor. It's metabolic output and the supporting processes. We often focus too much on the motor, and not enough on the power plant.
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