A two-wheeler’s wheelbase never seems to catch attention but is actually an important component of the vehicle. The wheelbase is nothing but the distance between the front and the rear wheels of the two-wheeler. If noticed carefully, not all vehicles have the same distance between the tyres, which means the wheelbase varies by the type and model of the two-wheeler.
As you might know, sports bikes or vehicles designed for trekking purposes have a shorter wheelbase than those made for cruising applications. In this post, we discuss the significance of wheelbase in two-wheeled vehicles and try to understand how it affects vehicle design and performance.
Why is the Wheelbase Crucial in Two-wheelers?
Here is why the wheelbase is an important part of two-wheeled vehicles.
Determines Agility
The wheelbase of a two-wheeled vehicle is crucial in deciding how agile it is. It helps determine its capability to change directions. Two-wheelers with a shorter distance between the wheels can change directions fast but cannot run in a straight line.
This means you can shift gears quickly to go in a new direction but cannot expect the vehicle to move steadily in a straight line. The risk of unfortunate events is higher when two-wheelers with a smaller wheelbase are ridden at high speeds.
Determines Stability
Significant use of a vehicle’s wheelbase helps in deciding how stable it is. A scooter or bike with a larger wheelbase can effectively move in a straight line but finds it somewhat difficult to change the direction. This type of vehicle shows a greater ability to perform with speed, giving you a mix of stability and agility.
Distributes Weight
A two-wheeled vehicle’s wheelbase is also responsible for its weight distribution. Motorcycles with a longer wheelbase have a higher weight concentration at the front and are heavier. This is why these vehicles easily lean forward and move straight.
On the other hand, two-wheelers with a shorter wheelbase tend to have the opposite situation. This type of vehicle is lighter and compact and can move around the corners even at high speeds.
Influences Manoeuvrability
One of the most significant ways the wheelbase affects vehicle performance is through its effect on manoeuvrability.
Cruiser bikes have a longer wheelbase than regular bikes, giving the former more stable manoeuvrability but lesser agility than the latter with a shorter wheelbase. This makes it clear that the shorter the wheelbase, the higher the agility but reduced stability.
What Type of Wheelbase is Best for Your Two-wheeler?
Both short and long wheelbase have their own pros and cons. A longer wheelbase gives the two-wheeled vehicle better stability on the road, allowing it to move smoothly on a straight line and change directions with minimum hassle.
On the other hand, a vehicle with a shorter wheelbase can be easily moved in different directions but has lesser stability on the road. Under high speeds, the two-wheeler can wobble, but a longer wheelbase prevents this.
Because of these reasons, drag racing bikes generally have a longer wheelbase. Such a design also ensures a weight distribution that keeps the vehicle forward-biased. This will ensure that it can keep moving in a straight line and keep it from going into a wheelie. On the contrary, speed racing bikes have a shorter wheelbase, making the vehicle light, compact, and easy to move around corners at high speeds.
When you compare a few bike models, it is easy to understand the effect of the wheelbase on the bike’s dynamics and its significance and purpose in the vehicle design. The longer the wheelbase, the better the stability on the road, while a smaller wheelbase translates to better manoeuvrability. Your choice of wheelbase depends on what seems to be the most important for your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
You should now understand the importance of wheelbase for two-wheeled vehicles and how it affects your vehicle's stability, handling, and performance.
While the wheelbase for a two-wheeler depends on factors like ground clearance, tyre type, and application, you should pay attention to your use and preferences while deciding on your new vehicle and the two-wheeler insurance to go with it.
Read more -
