Poor sportbike integridy disappoints me

[High_Revs_17]

All of us have seen countless times on the street when broken aluminum clip-ons, aluminum footpegs, & aluminum foot controls keep a rider stranded waiting for a tow from a somewhat simple get off that otherwise could able the rider to ride the bike home if they were intact. Why aren't these components made of steel? If they were at least there's a strong chance they would survive a slow to moderate speed crash and can be bent back enough to assume temporary usage till they're replaced. A few extra pounds on a street bike is worth the extra security, and they'll be cheaper to produce!

[CBRBob]

It's a matter of leading edge tech and salespeak. If you can advertise that your 1000cc bike weighs less than your competitions bike, it sells. Just like advertising more hp or top speed. The other thing is if the bike actually does weigh less, it will perform better, less weight=more hp and better handling etc. Thats why you don't see Duhamel on a 475lb 600RR, even the Buells would be beating him then
The downside to this is decreased longevity and less crash-worthyness. Compare the bodywork thickness of a mid 90's sportbike to a current gen bike. It's probably half as thick. We see F2/3's crash and are back on track next session. We see current R6 and G1ks lowside and have the frames bend/break. The price of "progress".

[High_Revs_17]

Originally Posted by CBRBob

It's a matter of leading edge tech and salespeak. If you can advertise that your 1000cc bike weighs less than your competitions bike, it sells. Just like advertising more hp or top speed. The other thing is if the bike actually does weigh less, it will perform better, less weight=more hp and better handling etc. Thats why you don't see Duhamel on a 475lb 600RR, even the Buells would be beating him then

The downside to this is decreased longevity and less crash-worthyness. Compare the bodywork thickness of a mid 90's sportbike to a current gen bike. It's probably half as thick. We see F2/3's crash and are back on track next session. We see current R6 and G1ks lowside and have the frames bend/break. The price of "progress".

Well the first half was a given, but thanks anyway Bob. If I was Miguel's weight I'd probably be faster too! lol

That's very interesting regarding the plastic's thickness...something the magazines fail to mention.

[Cakes206]

Its all about saving weight and keeping costs down for mass production. And besides, if everyones rear sets and clip ons never broke, they'd never make any money from selling extras.

[High_Revs_17]

Originally Posted by Cakes

if everyones rear sets and clip ons never broke, they'd never make any money from selling extras.

It's a conspiracy damnit!