Understanding the crash (Motorcycle racing)?

Question

I have never had a problem getting back on the bike, usually I know what went wrong. I would like your opinion on what happens during a tank slapper accident. Having been on the recieving end of a few of these painfull incidents. I have always put it down to the front wheel not being able to cope with the power going through the rear, pushing the front sideways and forwards at the same time. causing the bounce in the tyre and forks. and the familiar high side that follows.

I have been given an option that tries to claim its nothing but wind resistance and just one of those things. this I think is rubbish. any thoughts or definative answers.

Also whats your opinion on trying to lift the front wheel to avoid the slapper. Never been able to avoid the crash myself. either by More, or less power.

Answer 1

think about gyro action in the wheels and engine

Answer 2

Tricky to say.

Question one: Tank Slapper: Yeah, ill go with the idea of the front tyre getting pushed by the rear. I think the confusion lies as to how it happens. Even on the track, you can have a bad surface or debrit on the track causing the front to start to tuck. If you are on the power, it can then save the tuck but put the tyre in all rotten shapes.

The "good" news ( I use the word lightly ) is a highside will normally only happen if you keep the gas on... after the slapper.

The Highside: Normally leaving the bend, too much too soon and wallop! The worst thing to do in a pre high side, is too shut the throttle off. If you are only teasing the throttle, it should keep the drift on smooth track. With the throttle shut off, it will find itself ( the rear wheel ) not in line & and then can even sometimes, kick the front out of place and turn into another tank slapper !

As for the idea of it just been wind resistance ! Who told you that one mate? What a load of SHlTE!!!

Lets talk to our friend Carlos and see what he says about the weather: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=lgQ4ylB2Zm...

This ( cool ) video has both your problems in one!

Starts as just a little power slide, then he shuts off, this makes the front tuck, then the power comes back and kicks him up the butt.

Great crash explained, for a great question.

Answer 3

Hey Proc

I'm guessing there's a couple of things you guys have to worry about damaging that a female rider doesn't! LOL

I don't have a sensible answer, but wanted to say "ooooouuuchi" to the Checa footage - nice link Wiggysan!

Answer 4

i dont see how you could try lifting the forks as the back end becomes light and compresses the forks so they would be impossible  to lift it up