Downhill wrote:Thanks Jules, that sketch matches my current understanding.
Next question: If the C of G is normally supposed to be over centre line, why does the rider extend his knee to the inside of the corners? Is it to counteract the centrifugal force in order to keep the bike just a little more upright through the corners?
(Admittedly when you're on the bike you have to "do", not "think". But when off on the bike, it's worth trying to develop a better understanding of the forces and techniques involved).
Yup. The "knee-down" style was invented by a bloke called Paul Smart (BIL to Barry Sheene) while riding a crap bike with no ground clearance. It keeps the bike more upright for the same turning radius on a motor-bike.
On a pushy, the inside knee must be bent to ensure the pedal is up. Pedal down on the inside will give you pedal strike and brown undies.