Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: Physics of Riding Position, shock absorbers, arms and legs

Question
Dear Sir: I am looking for a physics explanation of why it occurs as
significantly easier to maintain traction and control of a dirtbike standing up
on pegs vs. sitting in the saddle. As detailed an answer as possible would be
highly appreciated.

Best,
David


Answer
I am not a physicist so I can't give you the detail you seek, but I think I can get you started.

Standing up allows the bike to lean more independently of the rider, so it does so more quickly--there is less weight to move, so it requires less effort. Standing up also allows arms and legs to work as additional shock absorbers for added control. Standing up also keeps the rider more "upright" from a human equilibrium standpoint, so perception and control should be better...though I'm mostly guessing on that one.

So, primarily, it's about keeping the bike independent from the rider for better and easier control.

Pat