Module Title MOTORCYCLE CHASSIS DESIGN AND DYNAMICS

Module Code 6MV501 Pre-requisite

(where
appropriate)
Motorcycle
Chassis
Engineering or
Equivalent
Date of Approval March 2012
Module Level 6
Credit value 20
Total Number of
Learning Hours
200
Key Words
(10 words
maximum)
Chassis Performance, Dynamics and Analysis, Tyre
Modelling, Innovation Aspects.
Module Delivery Online/Distance Blended/Face to
face
Work-based
learning
Mode (Please tick
as appropriate)


Module
Description
(200 words max)

The modern motorcycle is a complex piece of equipment,
capable of extremely high performance in a number of areas,
not just in terms of top speed.

The modern motorcycle engineer must be able to understand
the forces and stresses generated by the extremes of rider
expectation and input, coupled with the power and torque
outputs developed.

Module Learning
Outcomes

On successful completion of the module, students will be able
to:

1. Critically review, consolidate and extend the application
and analysis of motorcycle dynamics concepts.
2. Design and critically evaluate chassis concepts and use
analytical methods in the investigation of the installation of
drive-train components and the stresses generated.
3. Design and critically analyse the operation of motorcycle
suspension systems and predict ride behaviour and
handling performance.
4. Critically review and analyse the innovative approach to
motorcycle chassis and suspension design at the cutting
edge of chassis technology and systems

Module Content

Vehicle Ride
Kinematics and dynamic analysis of suspension systems;
suspension modelling, measurement of suspension forces;


gyroscopic effects, procession, interaction with engine
rotational forces.



Vehicle Handling
Analytical models for cornering and braking at a range of
speeds and on a variety of surfaces, counter-steering effects,
acceleration and braking, braking stability; steering systems;
effects of geometrical changes, effects of weight transfer and
cornering forces

Stress Analysis
Torsional chassis stress, suspension stresses under cornering,
braking and acceleration conditions; Chassis flex and lateral
stiffness considerations

Tyre modelling
Tyre properties and behaviour; tyre forces and moments,
contact velocity and displacement; tyre models, discussion of
coefficients of friction; on and off-road design principles.

Innovation aspects
Modern technologies, manufacturing and machining
techniques, composite / extruded / cast / tubular chassis
systems. Joining methods and structural considerations.

Module Learning
and Teaching
Methods
Learning & Teaching Methods (as defined in the QAA
indicative list See Guidance Notes):

The module will be delivered through lectures, group tutorials
and supervised demonstrations.
Lectures 24 hours
Tutorials 12 hours
Demonstration 12 hours
Guided independent study 152 hours
Total 200 hours

Activity Type Percentage Category
Scheduled learning and
teaching activities
24% 1
Guided independent study 76% 2
Placement/study abroad 0% 3
Total 100%


Module
Assessment
Method

Formative Assessment (0%):
This is designed to give students some indication of their
progress and levels of understanding and will be used
throughout the module. It will be achieved by setting students
time constrained tutorial tasks followed by individual feedback



Summative Assessment (100%):
CW: 70% : Learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4 to be assessed
An assignment of nominal length 3000 words which covers
aspects of chassis design and innovation, power-train
installation considerations and chassis dynamics.

EX: 30%: Learning outcome 3 to be assessed
A time constrained 3 hour exam covering aspects of
suspension design, analysis and behaviour

Reading list Link to ASPIRE
Cocco, G. (2005) Motorcycle design and technology -
how and why. Nada
Cossalter, V. (2006) Motorcycle Dynamics. 2
nd
Ed.
Lulu.com
Robinson, J. (1993) Motorcycle tuning chassis.
Butterworth Heinemann
Noakes, K (2007) Motorcycle Road and Racing Chassis
Designs: A Modern Review of the Best
Independents Veloce publishing ltd
Foale, T (1988) Motorcycle Chassis Design: theory and
Practice Osprey