Does anyone know the advantages and disadvantages of using a 19 inch rim instead of a 21 inch rim like most off road motorcycles have for the front wheel.
I noticed that BMW used to use 21 inch front rims on the early model 'air head' GS models, but went to a 19 inch front rim on later 'oil head' models.
As far as I know a 21 inch front rim is better off road because it's larger diameter lets it cover ruts and potholes better.
What are the differences in gyroscopical forces? The smaller wheel would be turning faster for the same distance, so does this generate greater forces to hold the bike up at lower speeds?
Another theory I heard was that the smaller diameter wheel lowers the centre of gravity somewhat, but I assume that would also depend on frame geometry.
Thanks
I noticed that BMW used to use 21 inch front rims on the early model 'air head' GS models, but went to a 19 inch front rim on later 'oil head' models.
As far as I know a 21 inch front rim is better off road because it's larger diameter lets it cover ruts and potholes better.
What are the differences in gyroscopical forces? The smaller wheel would be turning faster for the same distance, so does this generate greater forces to hold the bike up at lower speeds?
Another theory I heard was that the smaller diameter wheel lowers the centre of gravity somewhat, but I assume that would also depend on frame geometry.
Thanks