Low Side High High Side Low

Low Side, High Side: Understanding Motorcycle Suspension Terminology

This article explains the often-confusing terminology of "low side" and "high side" in the context of motorcycle suspension, clarifying what each term means and the implications for rider safety and performance. Understanding these concepts is crucial for any motorcyclist, whether a seasoned pro or a new rider, to optimize handling and safety.

What is Low Side and High Side in Motorcycle Suspension? These terms refer to which side of the motorcycle contacts the ground first during a fall or slide. They are not directly related to suspension adjustments themselves, but understanding suspension setup is vital in preventing these types of crashes.

Low Side

A low side crash occurs when the motorcycle leans into the turn, and the lower side of the motorcycle (the inside of the turn) makes contact with the ground first. This often happens due to factors like:

• Excessive lean angle: Pushing the bike beyond its limits or exceeding the available grip.
• Loss of traction: Sudden loss of grip from factors such as rain, gravel, or oil on the road surface.
• Sudden braking: Applying brakes too aggressively while leaned over.
• Improper suspension setup: A poorly setup suspension can contribute to loss of traction and instability. For example, insufficient damping could lead to excessive lean angle.

The resulting low-side crash typically involves a slide across the road surface on the inside of the turn. The consequences can range from minor scrapes to severe injuries.

High Side

Conversely, a high side crash occurs when the motorcycle's outside (high) side makes contact with the ground first, usually while the motorcycle is recovering from a lean or during a sudden loss of traction that causes a rapid uprighting of the motorcycle. This is generally a more violent type of crash.

High-side crashes are often caused by:

• Sudden regain of traction: After a momentary loss of traction, the tire suddenly regains grip, causing the motorcycle to abruptly straighten up. This can throw the rider off balance.
• Incorrect throttle application: Abrupt throttle input while leaned over can lead to a loss of traction and a high side.
• Improper suspension setup: Again, incorrect suspension settings can contribute significantly to the bike's instability and increase the risk of a high-side crash. Overly stiff suspension can hinder the tire's ability to maintain contact with the road surface during transitions.

High-side crashes often result in more serious injuries due to the sudden and forceful ejection of the rider. The bike may also be launched violently, further compounding the risk.

Suspension Setup and Crash Prevention

While low-side and high-side crashes aren't directly defined by suspension settings, proper suspension setup is vital in minimizing the risk of both. Factors like:

• Spring rate: Correct spring rate ensures the suspension adequately responds to road imperfections without bottoming out or becoming overly harsh.
• Damping: Appropriate damping controls the suspension's rebound and compression, preventing excessive movement and maintaining tire contact.
• Sag: Proper sag ensures the suspension is correctly preloaded, allowing optimal performance across a wide range of riding conditions.

A well-tuned suspension provides better grip, stability, and responsiveness, helping the rider maintain control and significantly reducing the chance of a low-side or high-side crash. Consulting with a professional suspension tuner can greatly improve your motorcycle's handling and safety.

Conclusion: Understanding the difference between low-side and high-side crashes, and the factors that contribute to them, is crucial for rider safety. While proper riding technique is paramount, optimizing motorcycle suspension setup plays a significant role in preventing these potentially dangerous scenarios. Remember that regular maintenance and appropriate suspension setup are essential for a safe and enjoyable riding experience.