Michigan Scientific designs and manufactures standard and custom force and torque transducers for measuring real-world loads, benchmarking designs, validating new concepts, and verifying FEA/CAE models in motorcycle applications. Michigan Scientific also offers complete instrumentation packages, strain gauge services, system calibration, and slip ring and telemetry solutions for data transfer from rotating components.
Wheel Force Transducers
Michigan Scientific Wheel Force Transducers (WFT) measure the actual forces exerted by the wheel on the road, capturing how effectively that torque translates into forward motion. WFTs provide independent output signals for vertical, lateral, and longitudinal forces as well as camber, steer, and torque moments. The robust IP67 design is ideal for the harshest track and off-road measurements as well as non-spinning applications to monitor and control laboratory test rigs.
Handlebar Torque Measurement System
The HBT Handlebar Torque Measurement System measures the steering effort torque and steering angle on motorcycles and ATVs while maintaining the proper function of the handlebars
The HBT can be mounted to steering handlebars or an ATV shaft by replacing or mounting to the existing handlebar clamps. Michigan Scientific can design and manufacture a mounting system to fit customer requirements. The anti-rotation restraint for the steering angle sensor is secured to a stationary reference on the motorcycle.
Custom Transducers
Engine Torque
One of the most crucial measurements in the motorcycle drivetrain, engine torque output can be measured before it’s transmitted through the gearbox. Michigan Scientific can apply strain gauges to the primary gears to allow engineers to quantify engine output and understand how effectively it translates into drive force.
Output Sprocket Torque
Obtaining transmission output torque measurements provides insight into power transfer from the gearbox to the final drive system and reflects how much usable power is delivered by the transmission. The torque measured at the crankshaft primary gear can be compared to the torque at an instrumented output sprocket to calculate the efficiency of the transmission system.
Rear Sprocket Torque
The rear sprocket is the final stage in the final drivetrain before the tire touches the pavement. Michigan Scientific can strain gauge the rear sprocket to measure the torque as it’s transferred from the chain or belt to the rear sprocket, giving insight into the final stages of power delivery within the drivetrain. By comparing output and rear sprocket torque, power losses due to chain tension, alignment, or friction can be identified.
Additional Motorcycle Testing Solutions
Michigan Scientific develops custom transducers for specialized applications and has instrumented complex motorcycle systems including clutch torque, shift fork, and handlebar transducers. Our team designs these solutions to integrate into existing assemblies, ensuring accurate data collection without compromising functionality.
Learn more about the Michigan Scientific TR1D-SL1 Shift Lever Peg Transducer for measuring bidirectional applied loads.
Michigan Scientific TR3D Three Axis Load Cells can be utilized for frame to engine force measurements.
Contact Michigan Scientific today to learn more about how our measurement solutions can help advance your motorcycle testing.