Using computer aided design for simulation of rigidity and stability the properties of a single-side support configuration for a motorcycle's rear swing arm were analysed at the layout stages. To begin with, comparative static analyses were made of the rigidity of of the arm component between a conventional double-arm configuration and a newly designed single-arm set up. Next, simulations were conducted to check high speed stability and cornering properties at comparatively low speed. The results showed that, in order to keep the weight of the single-arm configuration the same as the conventional double-arm system and maintain at least the same response properties. Arm rigidity should be investigated as an index of the variable rate of the yaw angle of the axle, rather than as an index of the lateral force at the point of contact between the tire and the road surface. Moreover, it was shown that the stability potential of the motorcycle may increase, as a result of the design properties of a single-side supported swing arm. The insight gained from these analytical results is now being applied to the development of a variety of mass produced single-side supported swing arms.
Samenvatting