The Future of Motorcycle Safety Technology

Motorcycle riders love the freedom, speed, convenience and often lower price points of their ride of choice. However, they are the first to admit that riding a bike poses serious dangers when compared to traveling in an enclosed vehicle. The motorcycle industry is doing its best to address this fundamental problem via technological advances that could improve motorcycle safety. Some of those ideas follow.

Motorcycle Safety Technology

Airbags

When Honda Gold Wings attempted to install airbags to protect riders in 2006, the manufacturers met with little success. Since a rider is almost fully exposed, the airbag offers minimal protection, except in a head-on collision. One possible option, created in Japan, is a type of “airbag suit” that is either attached physically or wirelessly to the bike. When the connection is broken, the airbag releases.

Anti-Lock Braking Systems

Bosch has pioneered an anti-lock braking system for motorcycles. According to data, these systems can drop accidents fatalities by over 30 percent. Harley-Davidson is also working on developing an ABS for motorcycles.

Lean-Sensitive Braking

Similar to ABS brakes, lean-sensitive braking lets the rider use full pressure on a brake when navigating a turn. Riders without this system, often inexperienced, often find themselves in accidents when attempting challenging turns. The updated technology promises to provide increased motorcycle safety for riders, even those with little experience.

Updated Lighting

Motorcycles decelerate more easily, offering advantages to riders who enjoy control. However, many bikers like to cruise or glide to a stop without even tapping the brakes. This maneuver confuses motorists approaching from behind and leads to rear-end collisions. A new type of light to be installed on some motorcycles would automatically engage whenever the bikes slow, even if the operators do not touch the brakes.

Smartphone and Bluetooth Connections

The Yamaha R1 first released Bluetooth accessibility, letting the driver do all types of tasks from a smartphone or tablet. Convenient options include documenting where the bike is parked and tracking routes.

Even with futuristic motorcycle safety technology and proactive riding measures, a driver might fail to avoid an accident through no fault of his or her own. If you need legal representation after a collision, contact our experienced Colorado motorcycle accident attorneys for a free consultation. We can protect your rights and pursue medical costs and other damages related to an accident.