This work describes the evaluation of the aerodynamic forces acting upon a road going sport motorcycle (modified for racing purposes) during a high speed, high lean angle cornering manoeuvre using commercial computational fluid dynamics software.
The subject of motorcycle cornering aerodynamics is currently one not widely covered in literature. The research presented in this paper aims to provide a basis for investigations into the improvement of motorcycle cornering performance through aerodynamic modifications.
Results were obtained through steady-state RANS simulation, using the k-epsilon turbulence model, of the vehicle during a cornering manoeuvre at a constant speed of 38 m/s with the lean angle varying from 45 to 55 degrees from vertical. This manoeuvre was analysed in 1 degree intervals.
Large lift forces were observed, with centre of pressure located near the front of the motorcycle, which increase as the motorcycle leans further. The effect of drag on yaw and pitch moment, due to the motorcycle's orientation, was found to be substantial compared to aerodynamic side-forces developed. Modifications of windscreen and bellypan are presented to show methods of influencing the magnitude of developed lift and side-force.