Motorcycles feature different sorts of frames. A single cradle frame is quite a common type of bike frame or chassis. What is a Single Cradle Frame in Motorcycle? This content reveals details about the single cradle bike frame including its components, purpose, advantages, differences, etc.
Single Cradle Frame in Motorcycle
This type of frame is quite like the frame of a bicycle. In some bikes, you may notice a solidly built bicycle frame. Steel tubes of various diameters, as well as strength ratings welded together, form such a frame. Various components of a motorbike are actually held together in this structure. Manufacturers also call them single-downtube frames. Whether the engine on the bike is a stressed member or not actually determines whether a frame is cradle-type or not. It actually holds the engine in place using a single cradle with a single spine.
Advantages and Characteristics of the Single Cradle Frame
- It is made of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel, which is strong enough, lightweight, and weldable.
- It has one steel tube going down to support the engine.
- The frame is of a very simple and basic type.
- It is also a cost-effective option and hence comes at a cheaper price. So, used in budget-friendly bikes.
- The frame serves as a bed for the engine. The steering head is attached with 2 tubes. 1 of those tubes are at the top of the engine while the other is in the down slot.
- Able to provide good balance, cornering, and stability.
What is the Difference Between Diamond Frame and Cradle Frame?
Let’s find out the basic difference between the 2 types. Firstly, a cradle frame actually “cradles” around the engine. On the other hand, a diamond frame suspends the engine from the frame. It actually has a shape that looks like a diamond or backbone.
What are the Differences Between Single Cradle Frame and Double Cradle Frame?
| Single Cradle Frame | Double Cradle Frame |
| Features one steel tube to support the engine. | Offers two tubes going down to cradle the engine. |
| Also known as single-cradle or single-downtube chassis | AKA double-cradle or double-downtube chassis. |
| Comparatively less strong. | Offers more strength than its counterpart. |
| Rigidity is also less. | More rigid as well. |
| Production cost is low. | Production cost is not very much higher but relatively more than the Single cradle frame. |
| The weight is lighter. | It has a bit heavier weight than the single cradle. |
However, both are a bit old-school model and not enough suitable for optimum performance.
