Investigate the elastoplastic deformation behaviour of a motorcycle frame under different mechanical load configurations

This study investigates the elastoplastic deformation behaviour of a motorcycle frame under quasi-static mechanical loading. We present a novel test rig to analyse the mechanical integrity of a motorcycle frame under four different load configurations. These four load configurations reproduce longitudinal forces, lateral forces, torques and bending moments that act on the frame in normal operation as braking, acceleration or cornering. Additionally, the four load configurations represent loads that act on the frame in the most frequent crash scenarios in urban areas, such as a motorcycle’s frontal or inclined collision against a car. We conducted three repetitions of each load configuration with a frame from a motorcycle, especially for the urban area. The compliance of the measured load–displacement curves is rated by an objective assessment method. All tested frames show a similar elastoplastic deformation pattern; specifically, the longitudinal tubes are pressed outside, and fractures occur predominantly at areas of welding spots while the inner part remains scarcely deformed. The load–displacement curves, mechanical failures, weak points and deformation behaviour of the frames can be used in future to validate a numerical model of a motorcycle frame and improve the crashworthiness of a motorcycle frame. Highlights Novel experiments on the elastoplastic characterisation of motorcycle frames Multidirection deformation and failure behaviour Motorcycle frame as protection for sensitive components such as batteries Approach to validate deformation patterns and mechanical resistance of simulation models Validation of the test reproducibility by compliance assessment of measurement data.