Cycling is gaining its popularity, with growing number of individuals participating in the sport. It influences various aspects of our lives, impacting not only individuals’ motor and functional abilities but also physical and mental well-being. Moreover, it fosters a connection with nature and social interaction. In addition to road cycling, an increasing number of individuals are embracing the mountain biking. Despite distinctions between these two cycling disciplines, it is noteworthy to observe different factors that influence cycling during the activity and their consequences in both disciplines. Bicycles first appeared in Slovenia around 1880, but discussions about mountain biking did not start until the early 1970s. The first mountain bike was put together in 1977 and given that name. Mountain biking is different from road cycling in terms of bike type and terrain. My master’s thesis primarily focuses on mountain biking. In this cycling discipline, two types of bikes are used: bikes without rear suspension, which are usually lighter, and full-suspension bikes, which have excellent traction with the ground and, as a result, provide a more comfortable ride. I examined whether riding on a bumpy road is less strenuous for a cyclist on a full-suspension bike compared to a bike without rear suspension. For this purpose, an experimental comparison of accelerations was also conducted with both types of bikes. In the experiment, the cyclist rode both types of bikes. This experiment can serve as a basis for the development of a methodology for monitoring cycling performance over obstacles. In addition, an analysis of riding in a specific case and their impact on acceleration was conducted. This specific case can also be used as an illustrative example in teaching physics related to energy conversions.
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