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Explore the essential contributions of each sub-team and gain insight into the expected responsibilities of each role along with the technical and administrative skills members develop through their work at Washington Superbike.
The Aerodynamics Team is dedicated to optimizing Superbike's performance through innovative design and engineering. We primarily focus on creating aerodynamic fairings, bodywork, mudguards, and wing elements to minimize drag and enhance straight-line speed while generating downforce to ensure superior grip during high- and low-speed cornering. Additionally, we design advanced cooling systems to maximize the efficiency of the powertrain throughout the competition.
Throughout the quarter, members are expected to attend weekly meetings, work parties, and workshops to collaborate on the design and manufacturing of bike components. Generally speaking, members dedicate 5-10 hours to team-related activities.
Technical skills taught and utilized within this team includes 3D modeling and design (CAD), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques, 3D printing, comprehensive data evaluation, and the engineering and manufacturing of composite materials.
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The hardware division within Washington Superbike's electrical team focuses on designing, building, and testing the critical electrical systems that power our race bike. This includes working on battery management systems, power distribution, motor controllers, PCB design, and high-voltage safety systems.
Team members gain hands-on experience with circuit design, PCB layout (Altium), soldering, debugging, and system integration, while also learning about embedded systems and power electronics. The team’s work ensures the bike operates reliably under race conditions, balancing power delivery, safety, and efficiency.
The Powertrain Team is responsible for designing and manufacturing the battery assembly, motor and motor controller that gives the bike the ability to move. Throughout the quarter, members work on optimizing battery efficiency and thermal management, both of which are essential for ensuring the longevity and range of the bike.
Throughout the academic year, members can expect to dedicate 5-10 hours weekly to both collaborative meetings and independent tasks, with most of the work being completed during work parties.
Technical skills taught and utilized by this team include SolidWorks, mechanical and battery pack design, battery testing, electrical engineering fundamentals, and high voltage training. Furthermore, members gain hands-on experience in manufacturing and design testing.
The Structures Team is responsible for the design, analysis and fabrication of structural components of the bike. Primarily, they're focused on the development of the front and rear suspensions, forks, and the frame, all of which are essential for ensuring overall structural integrity, safety, and performance which allows the bike to withstand the stresses of high-speed racing while maintaining stability.
Throughout the academic year, members can expect to commit 5-10 hours weekly to both collaborative meetings and independent tasks, with workload intensifying during the manufacturing and testing phases.
Technical skills taught and utilized by this team include SolidWorks and ANSYS as members acquire proficiency in CAD modeling and structural analysis. Additionally, they gain hands-on experience in manufacturing, such as machining and welding.
The Business Team at Washington Superbike plays a key role in securing the finances and materials needed to build our competitive bikes. This team creates and foster relationships with sponsors, and ensures that our technical staff have the resources to bring their innovative designs to life.
Members of the Business Team gain vital skills in strategic communication, time management and leadership, making this role ideal for those interested in being at the intersection of engineering and business.
If you're interested in being in the middle of where technical meets financial, then join the Business Team.
The Marketing Team focuses on fostering engagement and visibility both within and outside the University of Washington through the management of social media channels, organization of fundraisers, and the coordination of events. Additionally, the Marketing Team contributes to internal team dynamics by planning team bonding activities, designing merchandise, and supporting other initiatives that strengthen our organization’s culture.
Given the flexible nature of the team's responsibilities, the workload varies on a weekly basis. Members have the autonomy to select tasks that align with their interests and skill sets. On average, members dedicate approximately 2-3 hours a week to their responsibilities.
Graphic design, website maintenance, photography, videography and project management are all technical skills that marketing members have the opportunity to explore and develop.
The Business & Marketing Director takes knowledge from a current undergraduate career at the Foster School of Business to provide a STEM-based RSO with the resources to learn the necessary soft skills that will allow students to make an impact.
The Operations Director of Washington Superbike oversees the entire team, making sure that high level goals, budgets, and schedules stay on track. They also run general meetings, keep up with each sub-team's progress, and step in where needed to keep morale and productivity high.
The role also bridges both the technical and business sides for the team, working closely with the B&M Director, who manages business and marketing efforts, and the Technical Director, who leads the engineering teams. Together, they coordinate resources, timelines, and priorities so the team can efficiently meet its milestones.