I understand how centrifugal force works. But I am informed that when a motorbike is cornering it is centripetal force that keeps the machine and rider (hopefully . ) shiney side up.!
I have tried google to understand this but TBH it goes over my head. Can anybody explain to me in dunce type language how centripetal force works.?
Centrifugal force is the force acting outwards due to circular motion (of bike or any other object). Centripetal force is the tension in the string preventing the stone (or other object) from flying outwards away from centre of rotation.
In the case of the M/C, having the weight of the rider and bike inwards and downwards from the point of contact with the road applies a rotational force opposite to the centrifugal force. Small riders lean further in!
And when you have done that, explain to us which is better: synthetic oil or dino.
As I understand it, if you swing a ball around on the end of a string, centrifugal force tries to hurl the ball outwards. Centripital force is the string that stops it from going outwards. Which I guess would be the traction of the motorcycle tires. But there is no end (literally) of variations on the theme.
Great idea for a thread by the way. I had thought of raising the possibility before when looking at the aircraft discussion thread. Here is a pic of my latest project (long term, little progress of late times), a Harley WLA engine in a Norton Featherbed frame. Upsets the purists on both sides.
I was always taught that centrifugal force doesn't actually exist, only centripetal force which is preventing the body from moving in a straight line which it is want to do.
I am thinking of getting a bigger bike though. Not because I want to go faster. (Even a Hornet is far quicker and capable than I will ever be.) It's just that bigger bikes are more 'planted' on the road and are easier to ride. Especially if you have some totty on the back.
I was always taught that centrifugal force doesn't actually exist, only centripetal force which is preventing the body from moving in a straight line which it is want to do.
Paul
Yes, I was taught that at school along with "every force has an equal and opposite reacting force".
Both exist.
Got four bikes taxed and a failed hip. Very unhappy.
I've got a 250 ohv twin BSA Sunbeam scooter (in pieces) which I intend to restore in the future. One problem is likely to be sourcing a new white/grey rubber floor mat. Colin
Bloody typical, a bike thread is started just as I have had to call it day after 40 odd years of biking , knees and back have forced it on me. Can't even face carrying on with my Kettle project and not being able to use it so that's just gone as well. At least I can keep in touch making bits for others as I've done for a few years and seriously consider the unthinkable of getting a scooter for knocking about on, I HATE cars with a passion, won't use the wife's unless I really have to.
Some riders who used Tritons said that counter-steering was required, even if they did not realise it at the time, since the frame was too stiff. Personally I have only ridden one for a few miles.
Counter-steering is worth trying. You won't fall on the floor.
Geoff – I like the little Honda. Like all popular bikes, they were everywhere and then disappeared overnight.