What is a Trellis Frame on a bike? What is the purpose of a trellis? Moreover, What is the benefit of trellis? What are the negatives of trellis frame? Is Trellis frame good? What are the differences between Trellis Frame and Cradle Frame? This content is all about the trellis frame of motorcycle.
What is a Trellis Frame Motorcycle?
A trellis frame is a type of motorcycle or bike frame. The word “Trellis” means mesh or structure. Manufacturers build it by arranging intricate networks of tubes in a lattice-like pattern. In other words, it features a number of straight ‘tubes’ in the shape of numerous ‘triangles’. They use aluminum or steel as the primary element to manufacture it. The structure of this frame ensures necessary structural integrity. It controls the overall weight of the bike. With a rare combo of strength and lightness, it has gained immense popularity. In other words, a trellis frame connects the steering head to the swingarm pivot directly. The constructors use metal tubes and arrange those in triangulated reinforcement.
What are the Advantages of a Trellis Frame?
No doubt a series of advantages make the trellis frame highly popular throughout the motorcycling world. The list of pros include:
Strength: There is no compromise regarding the strength of this frame. It can withstand difficult riding conditions. This is a robust frame thanks to its lattice-like structure.
Lightweight: One of its major benefits is its lightweight nature. Although it doesn’t compromise strength, it is lighter than many other frame types. Thus, it offers an agile & responsive motorcycle. The rider can easily handle the bike.
Controlling and Rigidity: Additional rigidity ensures the stability and proper handling of the bike. The frame is designed in such a way that it ensures precise control.
Performance: It enhances the acceleration, cornering, and responsiveness of the bike. Overall, the bike provides optimal performance.
Vibration Damping: It dampens the engine vibration. Hence, both the rider and the pillion enjoy a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Easy Manufacturing: Trellis frames feature a simple and straightforward manufacturing process. Hence, there is an increased efficiency in the production process.
Easy Maintenance: With more accessible access to various elements, the trellis frames’ maintenance task is also easier. Thus both rider and mechanic enjoy conveniences.
What are the Disadvantages of a Trellis Frame?
There are some key negative points of this type of frame. You may not like but you will have to face the following consequences:
Engine Reinforcement: All sorts of engines are not compatible with the trellis frame. Some engines need additional reinforcement to comply. In those cases, the designing and manufacturing face complexity. Moreover, an increased cost and weight will also occur.
Less Aerodynamics: The alluded frame design makes the bikes have less aerodynamics. It doesn’t only affect the bike’s top speed but also impacts fuel consumption. Thus, speed lovers may try to avoid such a frame for the sake of better speed.
Less Space: Users will have less space for additional accessories. Because the design of a trellis frame minimizes the space. So, customization lovers may face issues while accommodating their motorbikes.
Cost: With special construction and materials used, the manufacturing cost is higher for the mentioned frame. Thus the bike’s overall expense increases. As a result, Bikers with a budget issue can’t afford those bikes.
Trellis Frame vs Cradle Frame
A Trellis frame weighs less than the cradle-type frame. It ensures that the engine receives enough support. By the way, the trellis frames are more costly than the cradle frames. With being able to provide more strength and a lightweight nature, manufacturers use the trellis frame in the most modern-type street motorcycles.
