Is a Yaris Really That Slow?

[Yaris Hilton]

Oh, I know there are sport motorbikes that will do 170+. But proportionately a lot more of their power is spent overcoming aerodynamic drag at high speeds than with a supercar. Or put another way, the Cd of a bike and rider is higher than the car's.

[djct_watt]

Originally Posted by Yaris Hilton

Oh, I know there are sport motorbikes that will do 170+. But proportionately a lot more of their power is spent overcoming aerodynamic drag at high speeds than with a supercar. Or put another way, the Cd of a bike and rider is higher than the car's.

Ding ding ding! We have a winner! Somebody here either actually knows what they are talking about here or is knowledgeable in physics. Motorcycles are great at quarter mile runs and absolutely OWN performance in the 0-130MPH or so range. 130+ and they lack the torque to overcome drag. Notice that if you have a power limited top speed, you will always top out at your torque curve's peak, and not your HP peak in your powerband. However, acceleration is greatest at the HP peak.

Acceleration is created by torque applied over time, or in other words, power. Gearing is what turns that time applied energy into instantaneous torque, which is why torque does not always determine fastest acceleration. Top speed (power limited) is determined by the maximum instantaneous torque that be created vs aero drag. And yes, most bikes, like the ST1100 will EASILY EASILY EASILY do 125. And yes, that kind of power at those kinds of speeds, and racing in generally SHOULD ALWAYS be kept off the streets. We were all young and stupid once, but we learn better from out mistakes. I do not advocate street racing in anyway. Not to excuse it, but I-5 from LA to SF (400 miles) and a sore rear end on a very uncomfortable sport bike = myself turning temporarily insane and wanting to get there quickly, although in the end, I had to stop for gas 4 times which actually slowed me down. And I'm pushing this off topic again. SORRY!!!!!!!!

Back to the topic, for what it is, the Yaris has more than enough power. It's good the way it is. The only thing that would be nice is a 6th gear on the tranny for a higher overdrive ratio. If automatic, then yeah, another 15-20 HP would be great. . . although not necessary. When the 1NZ gets redone, which it is overdue for, it should see a power bump. Hopefully they bring the direct injection technology to the line. It would boost power and fuel efficiency.