TWO AND THREE WHEELERS

Version No.

Prerequisite

To help students to acquire knowledge about the two and three wheeler
vehicles.
To enable students to understand the working of various components of two
and three wheeled vehicles and their features.
Expected
On completion of this course, the students will be able to
1. Acquaint with basic understanding of two and three wheelers.
Outcome:
2. Identify and demonstrate the working of various components of two and
three wheelers.
Unit I
Introduction
9
Development, Classification & layouts of two wheelers (motorcycles, scooters, mopeds) and Three
wheelers, applications & capacity goods & passengers, study of technical specification of Two &
Three wheelers.
Frames & Body: Types of frame, construction, loads, design consideration, materials, Types of three
wheeler bodies, layout, RTO regulations, aerodynamic, aesthetic & ergonomics considerations for body
work, side car.
Unit II
The Power unit
8
Selection of engine for two wheeler & three wheeler, Design considerations for two wheeler & three
wheeler power plants, special systems requirements for lubrication, cooling, starting. Recent engine
developments.
Unit III
Transmission and steering system
10
Transmission Systems : Clutch special requirements, different types used in two & three wheelers,
need of primary reduction, selection of transmission - gear transmission, gear shift mechanism, belt
transmission, automatic transmission (Continuous Variable Transmission - CVT, Epicyclic), final drive
& differential for three wheeler, wheel drive arrangement.
Steering : Steering geometry, steering column construction, steering system for three wheelers,
Unit IV
Brake and suspension system
10
Brake, Wheel & Tyres: Design consideration of brake, types of brakes disc, drum, braking mechanism
mechanical, hydraulic & servo, wheel types - spokes, disc, split, special tyre requirements for two &
three wheelers.
Suspension requirements, design considerations, trailing & leading link, swinging arm, springs & shock
absorbers.
Unit V
Performance and maintenance
8
Road Performance: Handling characteristics, driver & pillion seating arrangement, ergonomics &
comfort, road holding & vehicle stability, riding characteristics, safety arrangements, Racing bikes
special requirements.
Maintenance: Preventive & brake down maintenance, factors affecting fuel economy & emission.
Objectives:

Proceedings of the 21st Academic Council of VIT [30.11.2010]

165

Text Books
1. Newton Steed, "The Motor Vehicle", McGraw Hill Book Co. Ltd., New Delhi
2. Service Manuals of Manufacturers of Indian Two & Three wheelers.
References
1. " Encyclopedia of Motor cycling, 20 volumes ", Marshall Cavensih, New York and London, 1989
2. " The Cycle Motor Manual ", Temple Press Ltd., London, 1990.
: Quiz/Assignment/ Seminar/Written Examination
Mode of Evaluation
Recommended by the Board of Studies on:
Date of Approval by the Academic Council:

Proceedings of the 21st Academic Council of VIT [30.11.2010]

166