Motorcycles have been around for centuries, and they’ve always been a popular choice for those who want to ride fast and hard. But recent advances in motorcycle safety technology mean that you don’t have to be a daredevil to enjoy riding a motorcycle. There are now many safety features that you should know about if you want to ride a motorcycle safely. Here are new motorcycle safety technology you should know:
- Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
Anti-Lock brakes use sensors that detect your speed and deceleration and then apply the brakes more forcefully than normal. The result is fewer skids during braking. If used properly, ABS helps avoid accidents caused by sudden brakings, like when turning or changing lanes. Most vehicles come with ABS as standard equipment, but not all motorcycles do. It’s recommended that you get an aftermarket system installed on any motorcycle.
- Electronic Control Module (ECU)
The ECM controls everything from throttle response to ignition timing to how much fuel goes into the engine. There are different types of ECUs available so read the manual before installation. Some models will require reprogramming and calibration to work correctly.
- Electronic Tire Pressure Monitors
Tire pressure is one of the most important aspects of safe cycling. Many riders prefer to monitor tire pressure themselves using their smartphones because it gives them peace of mind knowing exactly what pressures their tires are at all times. Others choose to pay professionals to check their tires every time they go out.
- Automatic Clutch and Shift
Automatic transmissions can take skill to operate, but this feature makes things even easier as it allows you to floor the gas pedal instead of having to shift gears and use your clutch. They’re also great for off-road riding since they allow you to change speeds without stopping.
- Electronic Throttle Control
This control uses electronics to regulate the amount of air intake to determine the desired RPM for each cylinder, allowing for improved performance and increased fuel efficiency.
- Adaptive Headlights
These headlights automatically adjust depending on whether or not you’re driving at night or day, using low beams in daylight hours. In contrast, high beams are used at night when visibility is limited. This reduces eye strain and improves safety.
- Airbag Clothing
Some clothing has become a thing thanks to airbags and other safety devices. When a crash occurs, these clothes inflate quickly to help absorb some of the impact force until emergency services arrive.
- Anti-theft Technology
Riding a bike down the street shouldn’t leave anything valuable behind. GPS systems prevent thieves from tracking where your bike happens to be located at any moment. Other options include anti-motorcycle batteries as well as alarms and immobilizers.
- Backup Sensors
Backup sensors warn drivers that someone is backing up towards them and give them a chance to stop. These sensors aren’t mandatory, though, depending on the manufacturer.
- Helmet Technology
Helmet designs have changed over the years and continue to evolve today. Features such as headlight cameras improve vision, increasing rider awareness of potential hazards. Head-up displays increase situational awareness by displaying critical information from dashboards mounted monitors.
- Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
An IMU constantly detects movement and translates it into digital data through inertial sensors. Combined with satellite navigation, GSM networks, and social media, we now have many tools available to us that notify us of real-time traffic and road conditions.
- Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Warning System
If you’ve ever been sideswiped by another vehicle while attempting to enter the lane, or if you’ve driven a car where you couldn’t lean far enough away from the steering wheel before an accident could occur, then you needn’t worry about being involved in a similar situation on two wheels. The next generation of vehicles will come equipped with lane departure warning systems.
In conclusion, the list above is only a sampling of all the new technological advances featured within auto and motorcycle engineering. Overall, there’s no denying that modern motorized vehicles offer a sense of thrill and adventure, especially because every year brings newer, more exciting models to add to the mix – all designed to make our lifestyles much simpler and safer than ever. A Colorado motorcycle accident attorney can discuss the latest innovations with you, schedule a safety inspection, and help you understand how they might protect you before purchasing.
