A MANUAL CONTROL VIEW OF MOTORCYCLE HANDLING

Motorcycle handling dynamics and rider control processes are investigated. Lateral-directional control by means of upper body lean and steer torque is analyzed. Rider dynamic response properties, alternative perceptual cues, and motorcycle equations of motion are summarized. The motorcycle degrees of freedom included are laterial velocity, roll angle, heading rate, and front fork steer angle. The resulting motorcycle motions are characterized by a low frequency capsize mode, and two high frequency modes involving weaving and front fork assembly wobble. A number of rider feedback loops (control response to perceptual cues) are reviewed to determine those which satisfy both rider-centered and guidance and control requirements. A representative multiple-loop rider/cycle system control structure is shown, which serves to quantify rider/cycle response and performance, and provide a basis for determining the effect on handling performance of changes in cycle design configuration. /Author/

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Proceedings of the Congress on Automotive Safety, July 16-18, 1973.
• Corporate Authors:

  National Motor Vehicle Safety Advisory Council

  400 7th Street, SW
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • Weir, D H
• Publication Date: 1973-7

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 18 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Control; Degrees of freedom; Driver performance; Drivers; Handling characteristics; Motion; Motorcycles; Motorcyclists; Perception; Personnel performance
• Uncontrolled Terms: Handling
• Subject Areas: Highways; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00095948
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Safety Council Safety Research Info Serv
• Report/Paper Numbers: Paper #73018 Proceeding
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 30 1975 12:00AM