So while weight is not the only factor, it is a factor.
In the bridge analogy, the forces that are referred to below are static
forces. In riding a horse the forces from the rider are more along the
lines of dynamic forces. While one might be able to build a bridge out of
tooth picks, paper stips and flour that would hold a loaded semi trailer,
it is doublful that this bridge would hold up to a 100 mph wind while the
semi sit in the middle.
>Generally speaking, a smaller horse can carry a higher percentage of its
>body weight than a larger one (in much the same way that...all other
>things being equal...a shorter bridge can suppport more weight than a
>longer one), but this is still a gross generality and I would never dream
>of trying to put a number on it.
>
>If you want to know if your horse is a weight carrier...look at the way
>it is built...don't put it on a scale.
>
>kat
>Orange County, Calif.
Truman Prevatt
Sarasota, FL