“132 Pounds of Downforce at 93 MPH”: Australian Mechanic Creates Tilt Wing Motorcycle With Revolutionary Offset Steering System

The world of motorcycle design is often punctuated by incremental changes, but occasionally, a truly revolutionary concept emerges. The Kejashi tilt-wing motorcycle, conceived by South Australian mechanic Kent Shillitoe, is one such innovation. This motorcycle not only challenges conventional design but also endeavors to solve a problem long associated with high-speed cornering. By introducing a tilt-wing mechanism, Shillitoe aims to exploit the aerodynamic benefits typically reserved for Formula One cars, thereby enhancing the motorcycle’s stability and downforce without compromising its agility.

The Genesis of a Radical Idea

Shillitoe’s journey toward creating the Kejashi tilt-wing motorcycle began with a simple observation: Formula One cars achieve extraordinary speeds around corners due to their superior downforce. This downforce is a result of their aerodynamic designs, which push the car onto the track. In contrast, MotoGP bikes, despite their speed, suffer from a lack of similar aerodynamic downforce. Shillitoe pondered whether a motorcycle could harness downforce akin to that of an F1 car, thus giving birth to the idea of a tilt-wing motorcycle.

Observing the limitations of existing MotoGP winglets, which often create adverse effects when leaned into a corner, Shillitoe envisioned a wing that could remain level during cornering. This would allow the motorcycle to maintain downforce without pushing it outward. The Kejashi motorcycle’s design incorporates a large wing at the front, strategically placed to provide the necessary grip and stability.

“If you could keep the wing level, you’d get all the downforce and nothing pushing you towards the gravel trap.”

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Innovative Steering System

The Kejashi motorcycle’s steering system is as innovative as its tilt-wing design. Departing from traditional motorcycle steering, Shillitoe developed an offset, trailing steering system. The handlebars and forks are disconnected from the typical steering head and mounted on a trailing arm. This arm extends from a point well in front of the motorcycle’s fairing.

When initiating a turn, the entire steering column and wheel move laterally, offsetting the bike’s weight towards the inside of the turn. This unique configuration reduces the lean angle required for cornering, making the motorcycle more stable and easier to handle. Shillitoe likens the experience to riding a Can-Am Spyder, where the offset wheel mimics the effect of a secondary suspension system.

“Offsetting the weight toward the inside of the turn, that’s what the GP guys are trying to do with their bodies.”

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The Challenges of a Tilt-Wing

Incorporating a tilt-wing into a motorcycle presents several challenges, not the least of which is the added weight. However, Shillitoe managed to keep the bike’s weight close to its original by removing unnecessary components. Despite being built from steel, the prototype weighs only slightly more than the standard model.

One of the most notable features of the tilt-wing design is its visual obstruction. The wing, positioned in front of the rider, can obscure vision when riding straight. However, Shillitoe compares this to the HALO device on a Formula One car, which drivers quickly adapt to. The aerodynamic drag, while present at high speeds, is offset by the significant downforce generated, improving stability and control.

“According to my calculations, at 93 mph, there should be about 132 lb of downforce.”

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The Future of the Kejashi Motorcycle

While the Kejashi tilt-wing motorcycle is a prototype, its potential applications are intriguing. Shillitoe envisions its use in time attack events or hill climbs, where its unique design can be fully exploited. He hopes that with further development, the motorcycle could incorporate advanced materials like carbon fiber to improve its performance.

Shillitoe’s ambition is to see the Kejashi system adopted by manufacturers with greater resources, enabling the production of a super-rigid, lightweight frame. The offset wheel could act as a secondary suspension system, potentially revolutionizing motorcycle design. As he awaits the opportunity to test the motorcycle on a track, Shillitoe remains optimistic about its capabilities.

“I’ve got dreams that it’ll go somewhere, but I don’t know! I can’t hype it up too much ’til I’ve actually proven it properly.”

The Kejashi tilt-wing motorcycle represents a bold leap forward in motorcycle design, challenging the norms and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. As Shillitoe prepares to test his creation on the racetrack, the question remains: Will this innovative design set a new standard for motorcycle performance, or is it destined to remain a fascinating prototype? The world of motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly awaits the answer.