The Physics of Motocross

What is the purpose of tapping the brakes when going over a jump?

• To transfer rotational energy to the bike

• To increase the speed of the bike

• To maintain balance while in the air

• To perform a trick

What does tapping the brakes do to the rotational energy of the bike?

• Transfers it to the whole body of the bike

• Increases its speed

• Reduces the rotational energy

• Has no effect on the rotational energy

How does tapping the brakes help in controlling the bike?

• It rocks the bike back over

• It increases the height of the jump

• It stabilizes the bike in mid-air

• It prevents the bike from flipping

Which of the following choices do motocross racers use to stay upright in the air?(More than one answers)

• Rotational Energy

• Vertical Momentum

• Horizontal Energy

• Angular Momentum

What does Ryan Sipes do intuitively when he needs to rock the bike back over?

• Tap the brakes

• Increase the throttle

• Lean forward

• Jump off the bike

What type of energy is stored in the flywheel of a motorcycle?

• Rotational energy

• Kinetic energy

• Potential energy

• Thermal energy

What happens when you tap the brakes on a motorcycle?

• Rotational energy is transferred to the bike

• The bike slows down

• The bike accelerates

• The bike loses balance

What is the purpose of rocking the bike back over?

• To regain balance after going too high

• To perform a trick

• To increase the height of the jump

• To prevent the bike from flipping

Rotational analog of linear momentum that remains conserved?

• Vertical Momentum

• Inertia

• Vertical Resistance

• Angular Momentum

What is the role of the front swing arm caliper in controlling the bike?

• To maintain vertical inertia

• To increase the speed of the bike

• To provide stability during jumps

• To prevent mechanical failures