Static Charge in Bicycle Frame

Abstract

WHILE riding a bicycle recently I was overtaken by a thunderstorm, and took shelter beneath a convenient tree after propping the machine against a wall. When the rain had ceased, in the course of about fifteen minutes, I re-mounted, with my hands upon the handles in the usual manner. The handles are of composition, resembling vulcanite or a similar non-conducting material, the pedals are shod with rubber, and the leather saddle completes the insulation of the rider from the frame. Upon exchanging my grip of one of the handles for the bar, I felt the effects of a static charge which was sufficiently startling to endanger equilibrium for the moment. I do not suggest that the pneumatic tyre, which successfully insulates a vehicle from the earth, adds a new terror to locomotion, for even a timid rider in traffic would hardly be endangered, but it would be interesting to know if this phenomenon has been observed before, either on cycles or motor-cars.