I often wonder what the future will hold for motorcycling, seeing that the last few years have been so incredibly forward thinking in relation to innovation and, especially safety.
BMW is taking that to a whole new dimension with it’s Vision 100 motorcycle prototype.While certainly not for production as of 2024, BMW suggests that by 2030, the concept may be integrated into new motorcycle designs.
The vision just doesn’t apply to the motorcycle itself, but to smart clothing and glasses instead of a helmet complete with retinal head’s up display.
VISION NEXT 100: The motorcycle of the future.
“Glasses in place of a helmet, smart clothing, full balance without a kickstand: Only three of the many inventions that could become standards for riding a motorcycle and add a new dimension to the sense of freedom in an increasingly digitised world. And the best thing about it: this vision vehicle is already here. Introducing the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100.”
As Edgar Heinrich, head of design at BMW Motorrad stated, “The motorcyle provides my escape from everyday life. From the moment I climb on board, I experience nothing but absolute freedom.”
The Vision 100 features leading, even bleeding-edge technologies, with self-balancing, emission-free drive unit, and a Flexframe that “allows steering manoeuvres without the joints we are familiar with today. If the handlebars are moved, the entire frame changes shape and facilitates the change in direction. The frame actually stiffens as speed increases.”
Data glasses instead of a helmet are envisioned. The ‘glasses’ and the motorcycle are engaged in a direct exchange of relevant information which the visor only displays directly into the driver’s field of vision in case of hazards – or if the driver requests information.
Amazingly, the display shows the current angle of lean and the ideal lean for the turn, so that the rider can then correct this. If the rider fails to react or does too late, the motorcycle corrects itself. When the rider lowers his gaze below the natural viewpoint, a menu opens where he can trigger each function using finger gesture control. If he lowers his gaze even more, the map view opens, showing the rider his selected route.
Most amazingly, while this is a concept vehicle, BMW created a working prototype utilizing only today’s technology.
When I compare this to some manufacturers whose motorcycles still haven’t changed their engine engineering in at least fifty years, it begs the question as to how those manufacturers will remain in the marketplace. Motorcycling is on the cusp of some massive changes. Changes that will make the sport safer, less intimidating and attract new, younger riders to the sport and lifestyle of motorcycling.
What do you think?
Leave a comment, and thanks for coming.
Ciao.
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