The HighWire Bicycle is an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to experience the law of “center of gravity” in dramatic fashion. The force of gravity acting on an attached counterweight will offset the force that causes the system to tip.
Location
The HighWire Bicycle is located on the 3rd floor of the west building; it rests precariously on a guide wire suspended across an open expanse of the Discovery Center’s LEED Gold Certified building. After being strapped onto the bike, the rider mounts the bicycle for a “ride”; they peer down to the floor approximately 20 feet below.
Ride Times
Always open!
Please note that all riders must be at least 48″ tall and be able to sit on the bike with their feet flat on the pedals.
The Science of the Ride
The bicycle trip starts with the visitor riding backward out of a controlled loading area. They ride approximately 25 feet across the 1st floor and return to the platform. As the bicycle tips, the straight bar from which the counterweight is suspended swings upwards. Gravity pulls the counterweight back towards the ground causing the bar to correct the bike and put it in a vertical, stable position on top of the cable. The HighWire Bicycle is fitted with many safety features including a seat harness and safety net. Visitors riding the bicycle must be a certain height to touch the pedals (sample seat near the front desk) and weigh no more than 250 pounds.
Ticket Prices
- Members: $2.00
- Non-members: $3.00