Visually, you can see the evolution of the sportbike through time, with models trending smaller and sleeker. This ongoing reduction in size and weight is reflected in the magnetic technology that makes using them possible. The magnetic materials required to operate a motor and eventually a rare-earth “mini” motor have changed over time, but it’s fair to say that modern sportbikes are a testament to the increasing strength of magnets throughout history.
History of Stronger Magnets in Motorcycles
First, let’s walk down a fraction of the timeline that made motorcycles possible. In 1917, Japanese researcher Kotaro Honda (sound familiar?) discovered that adding cobalt to steel alloyed tungsten tripled magnetic strength. Next, in 1931, Tokushichi Mishima demonstrated that a “two-phase material” made of iron-cobalt needles inside a nickel-aluminum matrix could create even stronger magnets. Ultimately, his research led to the development of Alnico magnets, which are permanent magnets made of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. They can also include copper, iron, and titanium. From the 1940s on, stronger and stronger Alnico magnets were used. In the 50s and 60, ceramic magnetic materials came on the scene. Then, in 1966, Dr. Karl Strnat of the US Air Force Materials Lab developed the more expensive and more powerful samarium-cobalt alloys. Next on the timeline, General Motors, Sumitomo Special Metals, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences came up with rare-earth magnets made of neodymium, iron, and boron. This is ultimately what made today’s small starter motors in bikes a reality and even the norm.
Apex Magnet: Let’s Motor!
If you’re interested in any of the magnets mentioned above — ceramic, samarium cobalt, or neodymium — you can find them on our website. Regardless of your industry, auto or otherwise, we’re more than happy to help you in selecting the most appropriate type, size, and shape for your unique application.
