Novelty Gallery: Motorcycle Decorative Patterns from China and Beyond

Author: Wang Xin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-07-01
Features: Motorcycles are widely used, agile, and lightweight modes of transportation. They were invented by the German Daimler in 1885. Early motorcycles were also known as "machine bicycles." The advancement of motorcycles to their current level of sophistication is the result of continuous development in science and technology over history, as well as the relentless exploration by generations of scientists and engineers. Most early motorcycles, like bicycles, lacked rear suspension and relied on spring seats. In 1910, the Indian motorcycle used a frame with a rear swingarm supported by leaf springs. To enable motorcycles to travel at high speeds on rough roads, designers improved the front wheel suspension. Before 1910, various front forks such as truss, leading, and telescopic were used. Later, inspired by aircraft structures, the hydraulic shock absorber telescopic front fork eventually emerged. Early motorcycles directly connected the rear wheel to the engine to propel the vehicle and start the engine, but speed was limited. By 1906, the introduction of intermediate shaft transmissions and multi-plate clutches helped modernize motorcycle development. Today, motorcycles can cruise in the city at extremely low speeds and accelerate to over 161 kph. Abandoning contact ignition also eliminates one routine maintenance task for motorcycles. The invention of transistor electronic ignition in 1960 solved the ignition problem for high-speed racing engines. Motorcycles with only foot-start mechanisms are rarely seen today. In 1960, Honda equipped its larger motorcycles with electric starters, and this trend quickly gained popularity. In the early days of motorcycles, transmitting engine power to the rear wheel was a challenge. Flat belts, V-belts, shafts, and roller chains were all used, but eventually, chains proved to be a lightweight transmission tool with significant advantages: they are cost-effective and can handle high power output from the engine.