High performance braking for racing motorcycles

An optimal braking strategy for racing motorbikes is proposed. It is shown that aerodynamic effects help avoiding a stoppie during the first phase of braking, while, once the velocity has dropped below a critical value, a change of braking strategy is needed. The performance of a front-only braking are analyzed and a strategy for the rear wheel braking modulation is presented. Simulations show that the use of the rear brake can improve the overall stopping distance. Finally, the role of the front suspension on braking dynamics is thoroughly discussed and a possible strategy for semi-active suspension control is outlined.