Technical aspects Motorcycle

1 technical aspects

1.1 construction
1.2 fuel economy

1.2.1 electric motorcycles


1.3 reliability
1.4 dynamics
1.5 accessories

technical aspects

a suzuki gs500 visible frame (painted silver).


construction

motorcycle construction engineering, manufacturing, , assembly of components , systems motorcycle results in performance, cost, , aesthetics desired designer. exceptions, construction of modern mass-produced motorcycles has standardised on steel or aluminium frame, telescopic forks holding front wheel, , disc brakes. other body parts, designed either aesthetic or performance reasons may added. petrol powered engine typically consisting of between 1 , 4 cylinders (and less commonly, 8 cylinders) coupled manual five- or six-speed sequential transmission drives swingarm-mounted rear wheel chain, driveshaft or belt.

fuel economy

motorcycle fuel economy varies engine displacement , riding style. streamlined, faired matzu matsuzawa honda xl125 achieved 470 mpg‑us (0.50 l/100 km; 560 mpg‑imp) in craig vetter fuel economy challenge on real highways – in real conditions. due low engine displacements (100 cc–200 cc), , high power-to-mass ratios, motorcycles offer fuel economy. under conditions of fuel scarcity 1950s britain , modern developing nations, motorcycles claim large shares of vehicle market.

electric motorcycles

very high fuel economy equivalents derived electric motorcycles. electric motorcycles silent, zero-emission electric motor-driven vehicles. operating range , top speed limited battery technology. fuel cells , petroleum-electric hybrids under development extend range , improve performance of electric drive system.

reliability

a 2013 survey of 4,424 readers of consumer reports magazine collected reliability data on 4,680 motorcycles purchased new 2009 2012. common problem areas accessories, brakes, electrical (including starters, charging, ignition), , fuel systems, , types of motorcycles greatest problems touring, off-road/dual sport, sport-touring, , cruisers. there not enough sport bikes in survey statistically significant conclusion, though data hinted @ reliability cruisers. these results may partially explained accessories including such equipment fairings, luggage, , auxiliary lighting, added touring, adventure touring/dual sport , sport touring bikes. trouble fuel systems result of improper winter storage, , brake problems may due poor maintenance. of 5 brands enough data draw conclusions, honda, kawasaki , yamaha statistically tied, 11 14% of bikes in survey experiencing major repairs. harley-davidsons had rate of 24%, while bmws did worst, 30% of needing major repairs. there not enough triumph , suzuki motorcycles surveyed statistically sound conclusion, though appeared suzukis reliable other 3 japanese brands while triumphs comparable harley-davidson , bmw. 3 fourths of repairs in survey cost less us$200 , 2 thirds of motorcycles repaired in less 2 days. in spite of relatively worse reliability in survey, harley-davidson , bmw owners showed greatest owner satisfaction, , 3 fourths of them said buy same bike again, followed 72% of honda owners , 60 63% of kawasaki , yamaha owners.

dynamics

racing motorcycles leaning in turn.

different types of motorcycles have different dynamics , these play role in how motorcycle performs in given conditions. example, 1 longer wheelbase provides feeling of more stability responding less disturbances. motorcycle tyres have large influence on handling.

motorcycles must leaned in order make turns. lean induced method known countersteering, in rider momentarily steers handlebars in direction opposite of desired turn. practice counterintuitive , therefore confusing novices – , many experienced motorcyclists.

with such short wheelbase, motorcycles can generate enough torque @ rear wheel, , enough stopping force @ front wheel, lift opposite wheel off road. these actions, if performed on purpose, known wheelies , stoppies (or endos) respectively.

accessories

various features , accessories may attached motorcycle either oem (factory-fitted) or aftermarket. such accessories selected owner enhance motorcycle s appearance, safety, performance, or comfort, , may include mobile electronics sidecars , trailers.