Understanding Eddy Current Resistance

As eddy current is an electrical current in a conducting material that results from induction by a moving or varying magnetic field. On the M3, this is generated by the wheel passing through two opposing magnets. The flywheel (a conductor) passes through the magnetic field generated by the two powerful magnets. By varying how much of the magnetic field comes into contact with the flywheel, the amount of resistance will increase or decrease for the cyclist. This resistance system also allows the cyclist a smoother, quieter, and more predictable ride. If the flywheel is in less contact with the magnetic field, it is easier to ride. The more of the flywheel that comes in contact with the magnetic field (the higher the energy that is being generated with each turn) the more difficult it becomes to pedal.
Another major factor that plays a role in resistance is speed. The faster the flywheel turns, the more kinetic energy is being generated, and thus the more resistance is created.

Power=Force X Velocity

Power (amount of work being done is a given amount of time by the cyclist) = force (the amount of resistance) x velocity (the cadence the cyclist is pedaling). This is the same formula that all outdoor cycles follow. By pedaling faster the difficulty increases as the resistance increases. The same applies to the M3, at a ser gear the resistance can be increased or decreased by adjusting the cyclist’s cadence. In this way the M3 is very similar to outdoor cycling. The higher the gear, the higher the cadence the more power produced.