Harley-Davidson Australia finally confirms that the electric LiveWire being released next year around the world will arrive in Australia and New Zealand in late 2020.
The bike made its European debut at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan overnight where tech details were released.
However, there was nothing new that we had not heard when we inspected the production version at Harley’s 115th anniversary celebrations inMilwaukee in August.
Unfortunately, there is still no mention of theall-important price, battery charging time or range.
HD Vice President of Product Planning and Portfolio Marc McAllister said the bike would be the first in “a portfolio of electric two-wheelers from Harley-Davidson” by 2020.
The new facility, serving as a satellite of the Willie G. Davidson Product Development Facility in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2018.
“This new R&D facility in the heart of Silicon Valley will help us deliver on those plans and demonstrate our commitment to lead the electrification of the sport,” Matt said.
Matt at the 115th party
The new R&D centre will initially focus on electric vehicle research and development, including battery, power electronics and e-machine design, development and advanced manufacturing.
In March, Harley-Davidson acquired a stake in American electric dirt bike company Alta Motors.
KTM Australia says the new 790 Adventure and R models will arrive here in June 2019, several months before its major new mid-mid-sized competitor, the Yamaha Ténéré 700.
The 790 Adventure is not the only new product from KTM on display at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.
They also feature the new 690 SMC R (arriving in March 2019), 690 Enduro R (April), 1290 Super Duke GT (February) and SX-E 5 mini electric trail bike (December).
The much anticipated 790 Adventure is powered by KTM’s new-generation LC8c 799cc in-line twin-engine with 70kW of power (95hp) and weighing in at only 189kg.
KTM claims 400km of range from the 20-litre tank. And it should all be smooth riding with two balancer shafts and long service intervals of 15,000km.
Suspension is, of course, WP, with 43mm forks, 200mm of travel, 233mm clearance and an 850mm seat height, compared with the Ténéré 700 at 880mm.
The engine sits in a CroMo steel frame with an open-lattice swingarm.
Finally, a manufacturer has provided an easy-to-adjust handlebar. It can be set in six different positions with a 30mm adjustment range making it comfortable no matter what size the rider and whether standing or sitting.
Instruments are in a 5-inch TFT display with a wide range of configurable information. The display varies according to light and the rev counter blinks to indicate when to shift.
Electronic rider aids include traction control, cornering ABS, and an off-road mode with a smooth throttle response.
Other tasty features are LED lighting, steering damper and hefty 320mm twin discs with four-piston radially mounted callipers.
Factory accessories include an up/down quickshifter, heated grips and cruise control, as well as the usual protection parts and luggage.
790 Adventure R
The R model adds longer-travel 240mm suspension, Karoo 3 dirt tyres, 48mm WP XPLOR forks, upgraded shock and different bodywork.
1290 Super Duke GT
1290 Super Duke GT
KTM engineers have tweaked the 1301cc 75° V-twin LC8 engine from the 1290 Super Duke R and revised resonator chambers, titanium inlet valves and a new mapping.
The result is only an kilowatt of power to 130kW, while torque is actually down 3Nm to 141Nm.
KTM has also added and up/down Quickshifter.
Electronic rider aids include lean angle sensitivity for braking power and traction control and different ride modes – including the optional ‘Track’ mode.
There is a new aerodynamic windshield developed in a wind tunnel with multiple height positions and improved one-handed adjustability.
The new 6.5-inch TFT full-colour screen is claimed to be visible in direct sunlight and has a variety of menus chock full of info.
KTM MY RIDE smartphone connectivity allows the rider to use phone functions (navigation, phone, music) via an app through the bike’s screen.
Cosmetically it now has a Duke family appearance and a new LED headlight with daytime running light and tank spoiler-mounted LED cornering lights.
The latest generation WP semi-active chassis has “deeper analysing sensors” to adjust to surface conditions with a switch to select damping for Comfort, Street and Sport.
There are two new storage compartments on the side of the tank for a mobile phone, wallet, etc. One side has a USB charging socket.
Heated grips come standard.
690 Enduro R
690 Enduro R
The 690 Enduro R returns in 2019 with several updates.
One of the best for long-range touring is the addition of two balancer shafts to smooth out the LC4 single.
It also now gets the super-duper fully-adjustable WP XPLOR suspension.
There are two changeable rider modes (off-road and street), cornering ABS and traction control.
Styling is now sharper and slimmer, with a redesigned seat.
690 SMC R
690 SMC R
Also returning for 2019 is the R supermotard version with an advanced electronics package and 6kW more power to 55kW and 73.5Nm of torque.
It also features two balancer shafts and dual-spark cylinder head.
KTM promises improved rider ergonomics, multiple electronic rider aid systems and new WP suspension.
Rather than new models or a radical V4-powered Fireblade as widely tipped, Honda showed up at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan with a range of updated CB models including a more off-road-oriented CB500X (pictured).
2019 CB models
2019 Honda CB500X
Honda’s mid-sized CB range has been very popular in Australia for years, especially the more recent 500 models.
Leading the charge with desirable updates is the 2019 CB500X all-roader now with better dirt capabilities.
It features increased suspension travel, more clearance, a 19-inch front wheel and a more aggressive tyre tread.
Meanwhile, the CBR650R replaces the CBR650F with more power, updated “Fireblade” styling, 5kg weight-loss, a more sporty riding position and a new LCD instrument panel.
The CBR500R also looks sportier redesign and the engine has been revised for better response in low-to-mid-range revs.
CB500F and CB650R now come with an assist/slipper clutch, a more powerful twin-cylinder engine and and cafe-racer styling.
2019 Fireblade
The 2019 Fireblade gets an upgrade in its electronics package.
For example, traction and wheelie control are now separate so you can adjust them separately; ABS now has less intervention above 120km/h for 15% more deceleration; and the ride-by-wire throttle reacts faster for more engine braking and power delivery.
But that’s it for the updates, unless you consider new paint. The base model comes in black and silver or red and white, while the SP tricolour has darker blue accents.
We may have to wait another year for the rumoured V4 model.
There is no word yet from Honda Australia on when these updated models will arrive in Australia or pricing.
We expect they may hold off until floor stock is cleared.
Aprilia has cleverly taken half a Tuono engine and made what they call an RS 660 Supersport twin concept machine.
It is powered by two cylinders from a Tuono/RSV4 1100 engine as a 660c parallel twin.
“This configuration was chosen for its compact nature and efficiency, the extremely low level of heat transmitted to the rider and for the freedom that it leaves the designers to create a sleek and lightweight frame and suspension,” Aprilia’s press release says.
The Austrian company says the RS 660 project is aimed at younger riders and shows the supersport market may not be quite dead yet.
They say it will also be the “development base for a wider range that intends to make Aprilia a key player in an extremely strategic market segment in Europe, but also in Asia and the American market”.
Although not mentioned, we should expect to see it in Australia to compete against the very popular mid-sized naked sector led by the Yamaha MT-07.
RS 660 aero
Aprilia says the Concept RS 660 was developed out of a “series of aerodynamic studies” in a wind tunnel.
With fuel economy top of mind and emissions regulations tightening, motorcycle manufacturers are looking for ways to compete and aero remains one of the biggest hurdles to motorcycles, even more so than big, bulky cars.
Aprilia’s Concept RS 660 features a unique “variable front section” which can adjust air flow direction to vary downforce.
RS 600 has a large saddle and a comfortable riding position to suit most rider sizes.
It is supported by a lightweight aluminium frame and swingarm with the engine as a stressed element.
The right arm of the swingarm has a curved shape to accomodate the exhaust, while the shock absorber mount is mounted directly to the swingarm with no linkage to reduce weight.
Cardo Systems and Ducati have partnered to produce branded PackTalk communicators for Ducati dealerships. Guess what color they are.
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CARDO PARTNERS TO PRODUCE DEDICATED PACKTALK UNITS FOR DUCATI
Partnership Builds On Cardo’s Commitment to Integrate Motorcycles and Communicators
Milan, Italy (Nov. 6, 2018) –Cardo Systems, Ltd. the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, and Ducati Motor Holdings S.p.A. manufacturer of the world’s most attractive motorcycles, have partnered to produce dedicated PACKTALK units, designed in the classic Ducati red for the 2019 riding season. The collaboration represents the next evolution of Cardo’s commitment to integrate motorcycles and communicators.
“Ducati’s motorcycles are among the world’s most coveted bikes and the company is second to none in terms of innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. These are also qualities we admire and remain committed to implementing them in every product we design and produce,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO.“Ducati is a world-class brand, and an ideal partner to help further our commitment to integrate industry leading communication systems with motorcycles.”
PACKTALK products are powered by Cardo’s proprietary and pioneering mesh technology (“DMC”) and give riders the ability to enjoy the company of their riding companions like never before by remaining seamlessly connected with up to 15 riders. Riders can also enjoy a safe riding experience utilizing Cardo’s unique natural voice-command by simply saying, “Hey Cardo” with the desired action to the always-on system and it reacts instantaneously. No other product in the market offers such seamless voice command technology, in 8 different langugaes. Users will have instant access to their mobile device, GPS and music. Plus, riders will enjoy world-class sound for the best riding experience possible thanks to Sound by JBL.
In October, Cardo Systems and Bosch SoftTech announced the integration of the Cardo ConnectiOS and Android smartphone application into Bosch SoftTech mySPIN for two-wheelers. The award-winning technology enables convenient use of Cardo Connect on motorcycles and other two-wheelers for a whole new connected riding experience without compromising safety.
Cardo Systems PACKTALK units will be available exclusively through Ducati official networkworldwide in spring of 2019.
After seeing first hand the lengths that KTM have gone to in order to make the dimensions of their new 75-degree offset crank-pin 790 cc parallel twin as minimalist as possible, and then sampling how strong and linear the performance of the 435-degree firing interval engine is myself over many kilometres of fanging the 790 Duke, I am dying to see just how well this engine will translate in to the 790 Adventure, but unfortunately we are going to have to wait until its June 2019 arrival to sample it!
KTM 799cc Parallel Twin – LC8c
KTM quote 95 horsepower at 8000 rpm and 88 Nm at 6600 rpm for both 790 Adventure models. This is 10 hp down on the 790 Duke, but the claimed 88 Nm torque is marginally higher while at 6600 rpm, that peak twist arrives 1400 rpm earlier than the 790 Duke.
LC8c cylinder head
The incredibly small engine packaging (only fractionally larger externally than the 375cc single in the 390 Duke), gives KTM the room to fit a long swingarm and more space for the fuel cell.
Fuel tank extends down the sides of the KTM 790 Adventure
The small engine dimensions also allow for plenty of ground clearance while maintaining a reasonable seat height.
KTM 790 Adventure
Clearance on the 790 Adventure is 233 mm while the 790 Adventure R has 263 mm of clearance.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Seat height on the Adventure is adjustable between 830 and 850 mm while the saddle on the 790 Adventure R is a taller 880 mm.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Both are also claimed to tip the scales at 189kg without their 20-litre fuel cells being topped up.
KTM 790 Adventure Fuel cell
Thus we can extrapolate that the 790 Adventure weighs in at 204kg fully fuelled and ready to ride.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Again those slim and compact engine dimensions have played their part in keeping the fuel low with the tank extending down alongside the engine, similar to what we once saw in the 990 Adventure models some years ago.
KTM 790 Adventure R
KTM claim a fuel range as high as 450 km from the new bikes and while this might be possible when being nursed, realistically a rider will more likely able to count on a 350+ km range in most touring duties.
KTM 790 Adventure
Predictably, KTM owned WP provides the suspension for both bikes.
KTM 790 Adventure WP Shock
Inverted 43 mm forks on the Adventure grow to more premium 48 mm XLPOR forks in the R.
KTM 790 Adventure and Adventure R forks (Right)
Suspension travel at both ends is 200 mm for the Adventure and 240 mm on the R.
KTM 790 Adventure
Both bikes roll on an 18-21 inch spoked rim combination.
KTM 790 Adventure R
Easily adjusted from the left bar-mounted menu switch, the KTM 790 Adventure has different ride modes to enable riders to explore the full potential of the bike.
KTM 790 Adventure
Street, Offroad and Rain riding modes, along with the optional Rally mode (standard on the R), alter the behaviour and feeling of the engine.
KTM 790 Adventure and Adventure R feature radial mount four-piston calipers and 320 mm discs up front and 260 mm rear
Changing a ride mode changes the throttle response, the traction control level and, depending on the mode, the peak power.
KTM 790 Adventure
The KTM 790 Adventure is also equipped with the state-of-the-art TFT display. Easily readable in all conditions, the full color, 5″ screen’s configuration is variable and automatically adapts to changes in environmental light.
KTM 790 Adventure
The main information is arranged in a position where the rider can immediately see it, while additional displayed information can be chosen by the rider with the integrated KTM MY RIDE system is integrated. This allows pairing with a smartphone for receiving (or rejecting) phone calls, listening to music and, using the optional app, navigating with on screen turn-by-turn directions along with audio prompts.
For 2019 Triumph are boasting a better than ever Street Twin, with a significant improvement to power, higher spec’ equipment and a higher quality of finish, as well as improved rider comfort and technology.
Triumph are boasting an improved Street Twin in 2019
First launched in 2016 the Street Twin has gone on to become of the brand’s strongest sellers in the Bonneville range, offering a modern affordable custom classic, blending technology with a retro theme and strong accessibility for a wide range of riders.
2019 Triumph Street Twin
2019 Triumph Street Twin updates
Up 9.8hp to 64hp, 18% more peak power
Red line now 500rpm higher
80Nm of accessible torque
New Brembo four-piston front brake caliper
New higher-specification cartridge front forks
Improved rider ergonomics
New Road & Rain riding modes
New cast aluminium multi-spoke wheels with machined detailing
New contemporary logo
New premium instrument styling
Improved finish and detailing
2 new inspiration kits – Urban Ride and Café Custom
High Torque Bonneville
The 900cc High Torque Bonneville engine benefits from a significant upgrade in 2019, delivering 9.8hp more peak power, taking the total up to 64hp, 18% more than its predecessor.
A revised engine now boosts power by 10hp and raises the rev limit by 500rpm
This upgrade also brings a higher redline, up 500rpm to 7500rpm, with peak torque of 80Nm delivered low down in the rev range from just 3800rpm. Twin upswept silencers were also chosen to deliver an unmistakeable British Twin soundtrack.
2019 Triumph Street Twin
To deliver the higher power and performance, the engine updates include a new magnesium cam cover, new lightweight crankshaft, dead shafts and balance shafts, new mass optimised clutch cover and new lighter clutch.
Fueling is handled by a single throttle-body and RbW
The standard ride-by-wire brings also offers optimised control from a single throttle body, while liquid-cooling delivers low emissions and fuel efficient riding. High service intervals of 10,000 miles (16,000km) also reduce the Street Twin’s cost of ownership.
Improved ergonomics & chassis
The new 2019 Street Twin also represents a step forward in handling and rider and pillion comfort, now including a new Brembo four-piston front brake caliper, for better bite and feel for greater control.
A new Brembo radial mount four-piston caliper is now featured, alongside cartridge forks
New higher spec cartridge front forks have also been added, with 120mm travel, aiming to deliver a more comfortable ride.
Dual rear shocks and a Brembo rear caliper are also featured on the new Street Twin
On top of the higher specification equipment, the Street Twin improves rider ergonomics with a more comfortable seat-to-peg riding position. A 10mm increase to the seat foam thickness also increases both rider and pillion comfort, improving longer distance rideability.
Greater seat cushioning is also featured, with a 10mm thicker seat
First class technology
The 2019 Street Twin boasts a host of advanced rider technology, including the new Road and Rain riding modes, which adjust the throttle map and traction control settings for the optimum riding experience in all conditions.
The Street Twin boasts a host of electronics, including RbW, Ride Modes and Traction Control
Traction control is also fitted and switchable via the instrument menu, optimising the delivery of the Street Twin’s torque when traction is compromised. ABS is likewise standard fitment for enhanced rider safety and control, with a torque-assist clutch bringing a lighter touch and feel to the clutch.
ABS is standard fitment to the Brembo brake systems
A longer LED rear light incorporated into the minimal tail set-up offers a distinctive rear light pattern, while an immobiliser is fitted as standard, with transponder incorporated into the key, for maximum security. A USB charging socket located under the seat also offers convenient charging of personal electronic devices.
An LED tail light and underseat USB connection are also standard
A new optional Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) accessory is also now offered and ready for fitment.
Contemporary custom style
The Street Twin’s custom character has been enhanced with more contemporary details and touches, the most noticeable being new cast aluminium, multi-spoke wheels with machined detailing.
Machined cast aluminium wheels
The new Street Twin logo, features on the new side panel and provides a more contemporary look compared to the previous model.
New Street Twin badging
There is also an upgrade to the instrumentation with a new bezel complete with metallic Bonneville embellisher, plus a new dial face with a premium translucent silver finish and more integrated warning lights.
The dash has also been updated for a higher quality feel
Several other enhanced details across the bike include new brushed aluminium headlight brackets, new premium foil decal tank badge, new seat materials, leather inspired dual-material construction with tactile feel and durable finish and new machined headlight detailing.
A number of other details have also been improved across the tank, headlight mounts and headlight machining
These new features join the Street Twin’s distinctive custom looks and features including contemporary black engine finish, signature ‘Bonneville’ finned head and header clamps, single throttle body with aluminium finisher, twin upswept brushed stainless-steel silencers, compact headlight with Triumph bulb cap badge, sculpted fuel tank, minimal mirrors and stylish indicators.
2019 Triumph Street Twin
The new Street Twin will be available in three paint schemes: Matt Ironstone; Korosi Red; Jet Black.
2019 Triumph Street Twins
Customisation platform
Triumph’s Street Twin has become a popular starting point for custom builds around the world, with Triumph’s accessory range also offering 140 dealer-fit options for easy customisation. This range includes a range of custom inspired parts, including silencers from Vance and Hines, Fox rear shocks, bench seats, fly screens, rear mudguard removal kits, and compact bullet LED indicators.
A wide range of accessories are available for the Street Twin
Triumph have also announced a set of two inspiration kits for the Street Twin, which can be fitted as a complete set. The stripped-back Urban Ride kit and the contemporary urban custom style Café Custom kit.
Brushed 2 into 2 exhaust system with twin brushed silencers
Final drive
O ring chain
Clutch
Wet, multi-plate assist clutch, cable operated
Gearbox
5-speed
Frame
Tubular steel cradle
Swingarm
Twin-sided, tubular steel
Front Wheel
Cast aluminium alloy multi-spoke 18 x 2.75in
Rear Wheel
Cast aluminium alloy multi-spoke 17 x 4.25in
Front Tyre
100/90-18
Rear Tyre
150/70 R17
Front Suspension
KYB 41mm cartridge forks with cartridge damping, 120mm travel
Rear Suspension
KYB twin shocks with adjustable preload, 120mm rear wheel travel
Front Brake
Single 310mm disc, Brembo 4-piston fixed caliper, ABS
Rear Brake
Single 255mm disc, Nissin 2-piston floating caliper, ABS
Length
2,090 mm
Width (Handlebars)
785 mm
Height Without Mirrors
1,114 mm
Seat Height
760 mm
Wheelbase
1,415 mm
Rake
25.1 º
Trail
102.4 mm
Dry Weight
198 Kg
Instruments
LCD multi-functional instrument pack with analogue speedometer, engine rpm, odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, range to empty indication, service indicator, clock, 2x trip, average & current fuel consumption display, traction control status display, TPMS ready & heated grip ready – controlled by a handlebar mounted scroll button.
Fuel Consumption
3.9/100km
CO2 Emissions
89.0 g/km
2019 Triumph Street Twin – Headlight
2019 Triumph Street Twin – Rear Shock2019 Triumph Street Twin – Mirror2019 Triumph Street Twin2019 Triumph Street Twin2019 Triumph Street Twin – Adjustable levers2019 Triumph Street Twin – Headlight2019 Triumph Street Twin2019 Triumph Street Twin2019 Triumph Street Twin
Husqvarna Motorcycles has unveiled the production Svartpilen 701 flat tracker as well as the Vitpilen 701 Aero retro sports bike concept and the EE 5 electric minicycle at EICMA in Milan.
Vitpilen 701 Aero retro concept
Svartpilen 701
Husky calls the Svartpilen 701 a “street explorer”, but it is inspired by flat-trackers which are all the rage, especially since Indian Motorcycle unveiled its FTR 1200 recently.
Svartpilen means “black arrow” in Swedish and, like the Vitpilen (white arrow), it is powered by a lightweight 692.7cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with 56kW (75hp) of powerand 72Nm of torque.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701
There is no word yet on when it will arrive in Australia but the Vitpilen 701 sells for $17,500 (+ORC) which is a tall order for a single-cylinder bike in this market.
The lightweight trellis frame is made with high-grade chromium molybdenum steel, the suspension is fully-adjustable WP and brakes are Brembo brakes with Bosch’s latest switchable ABS.
It has ride-by-wire throttle, slipper clutch and Up/down quickshifter and a big range of dedicated Husqvarna accessories.
Svartpilen 701
Vitpilen 701 Aero Concept
Husky describes this as “a modern faired sport bike with an innovative design approach that pays its respect to the past”.
Again it is powered by the 692.7cc single.
EE 5
Europe is literally buzzing with small electric motorcycles, so Husky has jumped on the bandwagon with the EE 5 mini trail bike.
They say it has the latest in high-quality componentry, a 5kW motor, six ride modes, 907Wh lithium-ion battery, quick charging, and WP suspension.
Unlike most tangible concepts coming out of EICMA, Bosch is outlining its plans for the future of motorcycling with a comprehensive three-step safety concept, a vison, if you will. Firstly, by keeping the bike stable in braking situations and acceleration; secondly, by realizing predictive safety and comfort functions with innovative surround-sensing; and thirdly, by connecting the bike with its environment. Learn more about Bosch’s vision for the future of motorcycling from our visit to the Renningen Bosch facility.
EICMA 2018: Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business continues to gain speed
Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business is still on course for growth: sales are forecasted to rise more than 20 percent in 2018 compared to 2017
Dirk Hoheisel: “Bosch continues to invest in dedicated motorcycle and powersports technologies, aiming at becoming the market leader.”
Being shown to a wide audience for the first time – surround sensing technologies are making their way from car to motorcycle
Accident-free riding: Bosch tackles this challenge with a comprehensive three-step safety concept
More information about the solutions for motorcycles can be found here
Milan, Italy – Bosch’s Two-Wheeler & Powersports business unit continues to gain momentum in the global motorcycle and powersports market. Bosch’s motorcycle technology sales for 2018 are forecasted to rise more than 20 percent compared to 2017. According to Bosch’s estimate, the business unit´s sales will continue to grow twice as fast as the market, heading towards the target of one billion euros of sales in 2020, generated by assistance, powertrain, electrification, and connectivity systems. Major growth is forecasted in India where Bosch supplies market-specific motorcycle powertrain and safety solutions to comply with the ABS and Bharat Stage 6 emission regulation as well as local market trends. Bosch continues to invest in a constantly growing market. The global demand for two-wheelers is forecasted to grow annually by more than four percent from 2017 to 2022, reaching 122 million bikes by 2022 (source: Freedonia). In 2018, Bosch has set up a dedicated Two-Wheeler & Powersports team in ASEAN, one of the Top 3 motorcycle markets in the world besides China and India, to address the local market needs. “Bosch continues to invest in dedicated motorcycle and powersports technologies, aiming at becoming the market leader,” says Dr. Dirk Hoheisel, Executive Board Member at Robert Bosch GmbH.
Bosch’s vision is to make the mobility of the future accident-free, stress-free, and nearly emissions-free – and this goes for motorcycles as well. Safety is one of the most pressing challenges in the motorcycle market. The fact is, motorcyclists are still the most vulnerable road users. Their risk of dying in an accident is up to 20 times higher than for car drivers. Bosch is tackling this with a comprehensive three-step safety concept towards accident-free mobility. Firstly, by keeping the bike stable in braking situations and acceleration; secondly, by realizing predictive safety and comfort functions with innovative surround-sensing; and thirdly, by connecting the bike with its environment.
Comprehensive safety concept: three steps towards accident-free mobility
Bosch has made motorcycle riding safer with assistance systems such as ABS and MSC. According to Bosch accident research, around one-third of powered two-wheeler accidents with injuries could be avoided with MSC. Now Bosch goes one step further by building a virtual safety shield for motorcycles. A new safety package for motorcycles, comprising adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot detection is being shown at EICMA to a wide audience for the first time. These electronic assistants are always vigilant and, in emergencies, they respond more quickly than people can. According to Bosch accident research estimates, these radar-based assistance systems could prevent one in seven motorcycle accidents. The technology underpinning these systems is a combination of radar sensor, brake system, engine management, and human machine interface. Giving motorcycles radar as a sensory organ enables these new motorcycle assistance and safety functions while providing an accurate picture of the vehicle’s surroundings. As a result, these assistance functions not only increase safety, they also enhance enjoyment and convenience by making life easier for riders. “The motorcycle of the future must be able to see and feel,” says Geoff Liersch, Head of the Bosch Two-Wheeler and Powersports business unit.
More safety, more enjoyment
Assistance systems alone are not enough to make roads safer. Bosch’s vision for the future is to prevent accidents happening in the first place. According to estimates by Bosch accident research, motorcycle-to-car communication could prevent nearly one-third of motorcycle accidents. Up to ten times a second, vehicles within a radius of several hundred meters exchange information about vehicle types, speed, position, and direction of travel. Long before drivers or their vehicles’ sensors catch sight of a motorcycle, this technology informs them that a motorcycle is approaching, allowing them to adopt a more defensive driving strategy. If a crash is unavoidable, the eCall system will trigger the rescue chain to support the rider as soon as possible. “We will continue to develop new technologies to make motorcycle riding safer without reducing enjoyment,” says Geoff Liersch, Head of Two-Wheeler & Powersports.
The evolution of electromobility for city riding
Another major challenge for the motorcycle market is urbanization. Today, 55 percent of the world’s population lives in urban areas, a proportion that is expected to increase up to 70 percent by 2050 (source: UN). However, as populations grow, so too does the urban landscape with congested roads, higher noise levels, and poorer air quality. To cope with these challenges worldwide, Bosch offers electromobility solutions for nearly all vehicle segments – from eBike systems up to solutions for commercial vehicles. For the electrification of light vehicles on four, three, or two-wheels, for all performance classes between 0.25 and 20 kW, Bosch provides not only highly efficient mobility solutions for the urban environment but also a unique riding experience for the individual riders. As a part of Bosch’s integrated eScooter system, an app integrates vehicle information, connected functions, and social networking. Riders can easily manage trips with the app focusing on the riders’ needs for the specific situation. In addition, Bosch is not only electrifying personal vehicles, but also vehicles used in commercial applications. Electromobility is playing an increasingly important role in the fast and flexible delivery of goods within cities. The Bosch 48 V central drive system is also used to power the Ligier cargo three-wheeler, which delivery services use to carry letters and parcels the last mile to their destinations in urban areas.
The Cardo Freecom 4+ unveiled at EICMA 2018 features a host of premium features at a decent price. We hope to get some for testing as soon as possible.
Begin Press Release:
Cardo Systems Unveils All-New Freecom 4+ Setting Again New Standards for Bluetooth Communications Systems
The company continues its tradition of innovation, delivering the world’s 1st Bluetooth Communicator with JBL-Sound, Natural Voice-Command Operation, and a razor-thin Control Wheel
Plano, Texas (Nov. 6, 2018) – Cardo Systems, the global market leader in wireless communication systems for motorcyclists, today unveiled the Freecom 4+, an all-new scion of its immensely successful Freecom Bluetooth Communicators line – packing high-end technology, at a mid-range price point. Cardo’s Freecom 4+ is the first-ever Bluetooth system to deliver top-end Packtalk features such as JBL-sound, real natural voice-command operation, and a razor-thin analog wheel. Together with state-of-the-art four-way rider-to-rider, rider-to-passenger, and single-rider intercom, the Freecom 4+ is the best equipped and best performing Bluetooth communication system anywhere.
“We are excited to offer top-end technology at an affordable price point for the consumer,” said Dr. Abraham Glezerman, Cardo’s founder and CEO. “With its best-in-class sound, truly natural voice operation and the innovative razor-thin wheel, FREECOM 4+ underscores again our ongoing and firm commitment to developing the industry’s best solutions and providing consumers with communication systems that perform extremely well for virtually any riding style.”
The FREECOM 4+ sports a cutting-edge aerodynamic and ergonomic design, plus comes loaded with new technology including two features only available through Cardo: Sound by JBL and truly natural voice-command operation. Developed specifically for Cardo, Sound by JBL now also gives riders the highest standard of audio quality. Freecom 4+ single sound profile offers the purest sound designed and perfected in JBL’s Los Angeles audio labs. Natural voice-command operation allows riders to simply say, “Hey Cardo” without having to press any buttons, and the always-on device reacts instantaneously. The big safety benefit: hands always remain on the handlebar, including activation of Apple’s Siri and “OK Google” by voice-command.
FREECOM 4+ ($249.00 MSRP)
The FREECOM 4+ represents all of PACKTALK’s premium features in a Bluetooth system to create the best Bluetooth communication device in the world. Connect one to four riders with up to 3/4 mile range, experience Sound by JBL and easy-to-use natural voice-command operation, Bluetooth 4.1, and universal connectivity.
Freecom 4+, like all Cardo units, is IP-67 waterproof, not simply water-resistant, and feature a two-year warranty and a U.S.-based customer-support system.
and “OK Google”