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Copyright
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(Copyright © 1976, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing) |
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Abstract
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This paper describes the precise nature of the control responses required of motorcycle operators in turning, stopping, avoiding collisions, and surmounting an obstacle. Two experienced motorcycle drivers carried out each of the four maneuvers. Their performance was recorded by two cameras, one mounted beside the motorcycle's path of travel and one mounted at the rear of the motorcycle.
RESULTS of the tests indicate that turning a motorcycle involves achieving a close coordination between the motorcycle's angular velocity and the roll angle. Neither the operator' body angle nor body position was substantially involved in producing the motorcycle roll required to maintain balance through a turn. The shortest stopping distance was achieved by maximum application of the rear brake to the locked position and controlled application of the front brake. Modulating application of the rear brake or controlling it to prevent the rear wheel from locking produced longer stopping distances. Stopping distances on dry pavement were not appreciably different from those obtained when the surface was wet. In collision avoidance it was found that slowing the motorcycle allowed more time to achieve a greater turning arc and thus a greater change in lateral position. The greatest danger in braking maneuvers was locking the rear wheel. Surmounting an obstacle in the motorcycle's path required a quick application of the throttle to reduce the load on the front wheel, and rising on the foot pegs to keep from being thrown from the seat as the rear wheel strikes the obstacle. |