Motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles typically employ one or more powered or driven wheels to facilitate rolling or otherwise linear movement in a generally horizontal direction. A power assembly (such as an electric motor or a combustion engine) typically controls (via, e.g., a drivetrain) rotation of a motorcycle wheel's axle, which may in turn control rotation of the wheel thereabout. Traditionally, at least a portion of a motorcycle's power assembly (e.g., the chain or belt that connects the wheel's axle to a combustion engine or electric motor, the motor itself, etc.), as well as its brake assembly, are disposed within the circumference of at least one of the motorcycle's wheels, near the wheel's hub, and adjacent to the wheel's axle.
The placement of a power or brake assembly within the circumference of a wheel, however, can lead to various disadvantages. For example, when a component of a power or brake assembly (e.g., the chain or belt that connects the wheel's axle to a combustion engine or electric motor, the motor itself, brake pads, brake cabling, etc.) is disposed within the circumference of the wheel, this component may be exposed to whatever conditions the wheel moves through. This is particularly problematic for vehicles that are intended to move through treacherous conditions or water.
In addition, when some or all of a power or brake assembly is located within the circumference of the wheel, the power or brake assembly may limit the maneuverability of the motorcycle since the wheel may be unable to rotate 360 degrees without entangling the engine's powertrain, electric motor wires, brake cabling, etc. This is particularly problematic for vehicles intended to perform highly maneuverable functions, such as autonomous motorcycles or other two-wheeled robots.
Additionally, human drivers and robotic encoders often have difficulty balancing motorcycles, especially when the vehicle is moving slowly or is stopped. Difficulties associated with balancing motorcycles may become a particular concern for autonomous or driverless motorcycles.
As such, the instant disclosure identifies and addresses a need for improved powered or driven wheels and balancing controls for motorcycles that make use of the same.