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Auto Racing/power weight ratio

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Expert: - 1/8/2010


Question
Hi,
some motorcycles have higher power to weight ratio than others despite having less net power. For example bike 1 weighing 147 kg and producing 14.5 PS of power has a power-weight ratio of 98 PS per ton. Bike 2 weighing 122 kg producing a power of 13.5 PS has a power-weight ratio of 110 PS per tonne. But still the bike 1 manages to beat the bike 2 in 0- 60 kmph and 0-100 kmph timings. Why is it so? Shouldn't the bike 2 be faster than bike 1?

Answer
You are confusing power to weight with speed. I can take a very heavy car and gear it to run faster than a lighter car. Its all in the way the power is aplied to the ground that matters when speed is concerned. Aerodynamics also factor in as well as coefficent of friction.

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Matt Lyons

Expertise

I am considered an expert in drag race chassis construction and tuning. I also have general knowledge of performance engines with small block chevies being my specialty.

Experience

I have worked in the automotive aftermarket as a builder, designer and seller of race components. I worked for Moroso Performance for seven years as an engineer and product manager. I currently am the owner of Lyons Performance LLC, a shop that specializes in American manufactured race products.

Organizations
NHRA, IHRA, SEMA,ASE, Alpha Omega Theta Fraternity

Publications
Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords

Education/Credentials
BFA-New York Institute of Technology, Marketing

Awards and Honors
1998 SEMA best new product Award -Racing Vacuum Pump

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