Motorcycle challenge
Traffic jams are everywhere, and cars are jamming the streets … but if you ride a motorcycle, your may complete your journey through the busy streets in half the time!
Levels of difficulty:
Level 1 - Make a simple model of a motorcycle
Level 2 - As level 1, plus a spring motor to drive it
Level 3 - As level 2, plus handle bars that steer
Equipment: K’NEX set, plus a K'NEX spring motor.
Approach: What are the main features of a motorcycle? How could you build them into a K’NEX model? How big will your motorcycle be? For level 2, how can you attach your spring motor? Will you motorcycle run on two wheels, or does it need two wheels at the back and one at the front? For level 3, how can you add working handle bars to your model? Can they be fixed in one position, so that your motorcycle can race round in a circle?
Handy Hints (please click to view):
A2 - 3 ways to connect K'NEX rods and connectors
W5 - Wheels and tyres
W6 - Making rods turn with wheels or connectors
Teachers' Notes
The aim of the project is to build a working model of a motorcycle, with a working motor and steering.
Possible solution: See photo.
Before starting: If possible, look at a real example of a motorcycle, or photos of one.
Conclusion: Firstly, ask the children to explain what happens when you pull back the motorcycle and then let go. Where does the force come from to make the motorcycle go along? Then, for level 3, ask them to explain why turning the handlebars to the left makes the motorcycle turn to the left (the friction between the front tyre and the ground).
Copyright © Andy Shercliff 1996 and K'NEX User Group 2004
Website last updated 8 January 2025. Feedback 
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