Why does a motorcycle sit up and run straight under heavy front braking?
This article, which is in two parts, explains why:
• Part A: This gives a non-technical description of what happens;
• Part B: This gives a more technical description of what happens, and why it happens.
Those interested in ‘what happens’ should read Part A; and those who want to know ‘why’ it happens should also read Part B. Part A: In this article I want to explore why a motorcycle leaning over in a bend sits abruptly upright and runs straight, if the front brake is applied hard.
Correct application of SYSTEM allows the Rider to approach the bend at an appropriate speed determined by analysis of the Limit Point and application of the Safe Stopping Rule. (I.E. ‘can I stop on my side of the road in the distance I can see to be clear?’)