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Different surfaces can create frictional forces that will vary the speed of a bicyclist

Image from: http://users.rcn.com/icebike/

Friction = a force that opposes motion that would have occured if there where no friction

2 types:

1. Static (not moving) Ff (max) =µsFN

2. Kinetic (moving) Ff (max) =µkFN

For more information on friction: http://www.saburchill.com/physics/chapters/0008.html

When Commuting on your Bicycle you would want to consider the different surfaces that you will be traveling on:

Asphalt = smooth = fast
Snow = rough = slow
Ice = slippery = fast but unstable (WATCHOUT!)

Image from: Image from: http://www.tylerbicycleclub.com/BicycleHistory.html

Other frictional forces to consider:

Images from: http://www.specialized.com/SBCEqSuperSection.jsp?minisite=10080&ssid=Tires

Road bike tires are useful on smooth flat surfaces

Mountain bike tires are helpful in rough terraine and will help keep you on your bike

Helpful Hints to Reducing Friction:

Information from: http://www.madsci.org/posts/archives/jan2000/947776240.Ph.r.html

Reducing the amount of sliding, through geometry (big wheel, small axle)
Reducing the amount of sliding friction, through lubrication (oil or grease)
Reducing the amount of unevenness, (big wheels or several wheels)