Illustrative Performance Characteristics of Modern Motorcycles

This Demonstration shows motorcycle performance calculated from simplified dynamometer characteristics and gearing.

The calculation of dynamic motorcycle performance is of considerable interest to many motorcycle riders. The laws of rectilinear motion with mechanical propulsion in the presence of wind and road resistance are well known, requiring the solution of an ordinary differential equation. Considerable additional insight is provided by considering gearing to suggest approximate engine and road speed ranges for optimal gear changes.