Riding Style Question

[fastdruid]

Originally Posted by ophic

Just to add another factor, the FZ1 is also less aerodynamic - so the greater drag could account for the few feet difference.

While I would agree that it is less aerodynamic I thought 60mph was the point at which wind resistance actually made a difference, Given that it's still partly faired is it really likely to make an appreciable difference?

Druid

[ophic]

Originally Posted by fastdruid

While I would agree that it is less aerodynamic I thought 60mph was the point at which wind resistance actually made a difference, Given that it's still partly faired is it really likely to make an appreciable difference?

Druid

Wind resistance doesn't suddenly cut in at 60mph. It increases in proportion to the square of the speed. 3 feet in 113 - thats about 2.5% - yeah I reckon it could make that much difference. But its probably a combination of factors, eg wheelbase length, weight distribution, even handlebar position would put the rider's weight further back and create more drag.

[yorkie_chris]

Weight being further back having a large effect on weight transfer under braking too.

Originally Posted by Amanda

*** I'm loving the fact that I actually created a serious thread that has had a massive debate and discussion ***

Aargh! Bad, bad, bad... Look what you have gone and done.

Originally Posted by yorkie_chris

Weight being further back having a large effect on weight transfer under braking too.

Which may affect the maximum force that can be applied through the front tyre. Part of that equation is tyre deformation and the size/shape of the contact patch.

Very generally, it would seem that maximum braking effort is achieved where there is close to 100% weight transfer to maximise the potential of the front tyre, but the bike resists going over which in itself limits maximum braking potential regardless of what the tyre and brakes may have in reserve.