Study on modal and harmonic response analysis by modifying motorcycle chassis using finite element method

Abstract

Motorcycle chassis is one of the most important structures in the design of a motorcycle. Excessive vibration occurs in chassis is undesirable as it may lead to structural failure and discomfort among riders. This study aims to model the motorcycle chassis and carry out dynamic analysis to understand the behaviour of the chassis under vibration. Modelling of chassis was conducted based on Seri Perlis motorcycle, which is characterised by double cradle frame. In dynamic analysis, the modal and harmonic response analysis were employed in this study of the motorcycle chassis and the material used is low carbon steel. Both modal and harmonic response analysis were conducted using Ansys. The results show natural frequencies for six mode shapes and the steady-state response of the chassis under the engine weight excitation revealed that the deformation under z-axis orientation was more prevalent. From this study, the dynamic behaviour of the chassis was understood and improvement of the chassis can be made in the future.