Motorcycle Cornering Improvement : An Aerodynamical Approach based on Flow Interference

Abstract: A new aerodynamic device, based on flow interference effects, is studied in order to significantly improve the cornering performance of racing motorcycles in MotoGP. After a brief overview on why standard downforce devices cannot be used on motorcycles, the new idea is introduced and a simplified mechanic analysis is provided to prove its effectiveness. The concept is based on the use of anhedral wings placed on the front fairing, with the rider acting as an interference device, aiming to reduce the lift generation of one wing. Numerical calculations, based on Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations, are performed on simplified static 2D and 3D cases, as a proof of concept of the idea and as a preparation for further analysis which may involve experimental wind-tunnel testing. The obtained results show that the flow interference has indeed a significant impact on the lift on a single wing. For some cases the lift can be reduced by 70% to over 90% - which strengthens the possibility of a realistic implementation.