Title: How a rear steering system may improve motorcycle dynamics

Authors: Fabiano Maggio, Vittore Cossalter

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Padova, Via Venezia 1, 35131 Padova, Italy. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Padova, Via Venezia 1, 35131 Padova, Italy

Abstract: This research investigates how motorcycle dynamics may be improved by applying a steering system on the rear wheel. The study is carried out using a widely validated multi-body model of motorcycle and rider. Two types of rear steering systems are compared: a self-steering wheel coupled with a spring-damper assembly and a controlled steering wheel, whose steering angle is governed accordingly to a first-order relationship between front and rear steering angle. In general, any rear steering system transfers energy from weave mode to wobble mode. Thus, both solutions stabilise high-speed weave, but increase instability when braking. The passive system shows unexpected reactions when accelerating in cornering condition, whereas the active system is almost neutral.

Keywords: motorcycle stability; weave mode; wobble mode; 2WS motorcycle; steering systems; rear steering; motorcycle dynamics; motorbikes; vehicle design; multi-body modelling; braking.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.2008.019090

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 2008 Vol.46 No.3, pp.328 - 346

Published online: 28 Jun 2008 *

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