When we think of the key parameters that contribute towards enhancing a two-wheeler’s performance and efficiency, we often tend to think of increasing the engine’s power output and/or reducing the vehicle’s weight. Those two factors are critical, of course, but another very important factor – especially when it comes to bigger, faster two-wheelers – is aerodynamics. As speeds increase, the vast majority of the engine’s power is spent in overcoming wind resistance, and with improved aerodynamics, OEMs benefit from higher performance levels combined with improved fuel economy. Here, we take a closer look at how motorcycle aerodynamics work, and the key factors that affect its efficacy.
HOW IT WORKS
In the context of powered two-wheelers (PTWs), aerodynamics is the science (and art!) of designing the vehicle in a way that minimises wind resistance at higher speeds. This is usually accomplished by adding a full or a partial fairing that optimises air flow around the vehicle and its mechanical components, thereby reducing drag. However, in addition to achieving reduction in drag, designers must also pay attention to cosmetics – the vehicle must also look good – as well as ergonomics, so that it remains easy and comfortable to operate.
Most motorcycles, but especially ‘naked’ bikes (which do not have any sort of fairing), have pretty poor aerodynamics since the engine, all components and of course the rider himself are all fully exposed and hence create ‘drag.’ Scooters, which have full bodywork that covers the engine and other mechanicals, can have better aerodynamics but these often do not travel fast enough for aerodynamics to become a very big factor in their overall performance. Also, unlike cars (which can have a fixed coefficient of drag), two-wheelers have another factor that affect their aerodynamics – the rider. How the rider sits on a two-wheeler, his height, weight, posture and the way that posture keeps changing during acceleration, braking, cornering and other manoeuvres, means that a two-wheeler’s aerodynamics keep changing all the time.
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