Linear-drag load curve for a spatially gated motor ($L=N⟨f⟩-\gamma u$)

With positive opposing load magnitude $L$ and positive viscous drag coefficient $\gamma$, steady contraction requires $L=N⟨f⟩-\gamma u$. A decreasing motor force curve and an increasing drag-magnitude line have a unique intersection for each load below the limiting stall force. Using $+\gamma u$ as the signed drag would instead make drag assist forward motion, reversing its physical role.