The modal analysis of a motorcycle in straight running and on a curve

The vibrational modes (generalized) of a two-wheel vehicle are studied in several trim configurations. The modal analysis is carried out on a 3D non-linear mathematical model, developed using the natural coordinates approach. A special procedure for evaluating the steady state solutions in straight running and on a curve is proposed. The paper presents detailed results of the modal analysis for a production sports motorcycle. Furthermore, the influence of speed and lateral (centripetal) acceleration on stability, shape and modal interactions (coupling) is highlighted. Finally, consistency between the first experimental tests and simulation results is shown.