Numerical simulation of the aerodynamic effects of downforce-generating wings on trailing motorcycles: stability and safety considerations
Braulio Gutierrez Pimenta·Ana Luisa Maldonado·Luís Paulo de Queiroz Moreira·A. Derosa·Roberto F. Bobenrieth Miserda
Abstract This study investigates the aerodynamic influence of a wing-equipped motorcycle on a pursuing motorcycle under close-racing conditions. Numerical simulations using RANS with the k – $$\omega$$ SST model were carried out for several relative longitudinal and lateral positions. The results show that the aerodynamic wake of the leading motorcycle affects the trailing one through two independent mechanisms: the turbulent low-pressure wake, which facilitates drafting, and the coherent wingti