Importance of Wheelbase In Two Wheeler

A wheelbase refers to the distance between the two tyres of a bike, between the front and the real wheel. If we were to notice keenly, not all two wheelers have the same wheelbase and the distance between the two wheels of a bike are different for every model and type. For example, cruising bikes have a greater wheelbase in comparison to sports bikes or other varieties and in this article we are going to tell you about the importance of the same in two wheelers. 

Importance Of Wheelbase In Two Wheeler 

The following points will help you to understand the importance of a wheelbase in two wheelers. 

• Determines Stability 

One of the many advantages of a wheelbase is in determining the stability that it gives your bike. For two wheelers that have a long wheelbase or a greater distance between the front and the rear wheels have a greater ability of moving in straight lines on the road and changing directions is slightly difficult. Long wheelbase two wheelers are also able to perform better with speed, thus giving you agility and stability both. 

• Determines Agility 

In the way that a wheelbase determines stability, it is also a crucial factor in determining its reflex or ability to change directions. Two wheelers that have a shorter wheelbase are able to change directions quickly but it does not come equipped with the ability to move in straight lines. Therefore, you can quickly shift gears for a new direction, but cannot rely on your two wheeler to steadily move ahead in a straight line. Risks of accident or mishaps are increased in two wheelers with a shorter wheelbase. 

• Distributes Weight 

The wheelbase of a two wheeler is also responsible for the distribution of its weight. Two wheelers with a longer wheelbase are heavier because the higher concentration of the weight is towards the front. Hence, they tend to lean forward and continue to move along a straight line. In case of bikes with shorter wheelbases, the scenario is the opposite. Short wheelbase two wheelers tend to be light and compact that allows it to move around the corners at high speed. 

• Affects Manoeuvrability 

The best way of explaining how a two wheeler’s wheel base determines it performance is by highlighting the effect it has on manoeuvrability. Cruiser two wheelers like the Bajaj Avenger come with a longer wheelbase as compared to the Bajaj Pulsar and therefore, the manoeuvrability of the former is more stable but less agile than the latter with a shorter wheelbase. It suffices to say that smaller the wheelbase, greater is the agility, but lesser stability. 

Take Away 

Hopefully you are now aware of the importance of a wheelbase for two wheelers and how it affects the performance, weight and stability of your two wheeler. Whether long or short, a two wheelers’ wheelbase depends upon its manufacturing company and on factors such as the vehicle’s purpose, tyre size, design and the ground clearance. At the same time, you must also realize the importance of a two wheeler insurance as it is one of the first steps to giving financial stability to your bike against unforeseen situations; if not a complete punch of mechanical strength and stability. 

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.