Bike: What is the purpose of a larger front wheel?

Peugeot Cycles revives the trend of using differing tire sizes front and rear, and it’s no coincidence.

A larger front wheel compared to the rear is generally used in a bicycle configuration known as a “large wheel bike” or “front-wheel drive bike.” In this type of setup, the front wheel is bigger than the rear wheel, creating a difference in diameter between the two.

Using a larger front wheel offers several advantages:

1. Stability: The larger front wheel improves bike stability by increasing the distance between the steering axis (pivot) and the contact point of the wheel with the ground. This makes the bike less sensitive to disruptions and sudden movements, facilitating balance maintenance.
2. Comfort: The larger wheel better absorbs road irregularities, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. Shocks and vibrations are attenuated before reaching the cyclist, reducing fatigue and jolts.
3. Handling: The larger front wheel enhances the bike’s handling. It more easily overcomes obstacles such as potholes or curbs because it tends to roll over them more smoothly. This can be particularly beneficial in urban environments with frequent obstacles.
4. Steering: The larger front wheel also provides better control over steering. Due to its greater circumference, the front wheel can turn more slowly while maintaining the same linear speed as the rear wheel. This allows for more precise and stable turns.

It is important to note that this configuration with a larger front wheel is less common than the standard setup with wheels of the same size. It is mainly used in specific bike designs, such as vintage large-wheel bicycles (called velocipedes) or some types of electric-assist bikes. Most conventional bicycles have front and rear wheels of similar size.

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