Motorcycles are so much more than just a mode of transportation; there’s a connection to the great outdoors, the feeling of exhilaration, and a sense of freedom when maneuvering through tight spaces that four-wheel drivers can only dream of. The allure of leaving the world behind in a rush of wind creates a magnetic pull that beckons bikers to the open road.
And while that feeling can be exhilarating, it also comes with a certain level of risk. But that’s where exciting new technologies come into play. Innovation is not only helping enhance motorcycle safety, but it also has the potential to lower premiums. Here are some of the latest tech advancements that can add a layer of protection for easy riders.
Heads-Up
Taking your eyes off the road to check the GPS is dangerous for any driver, including motorcyclists. After a decade of starts and stops, helmets with heads-up displays (HUD) are making it to market, led by Australian company Forcite. Some even combine the tech we’re accustomed to in cars — Bluetooth music and GPS navigation — with the ability to talk directly with other riders who have in-helmet audio. No matter what you’re driving, at 60 mph you’re traveling about 90 feet per second, so glancing down at your phone for three seconds is like navigating the length of two bowling lanes with your eyes closed. The HUD keeps your eyes on the road ahead, where they should be.
Theft Prevention
More than 50,000 motorcycles were stolen in the U.S. in 2022. There are scores of anti-theft devices available, from super-hard chains to alarms that can dial your phone and disable the ignition. While lower-cost items like brake caliper locks and chains can help deter theft, you’re more likely to get a discount on your insurance premium — up to 10 percent — with an immobilizer or GPS theft tracker.
Cameras
When things go wrong on the road, video can establish what — or who — actually caused the accident. Cameras can be added to watch both the front and back of your bike and record to a micro-SD card. Some connect with the ignition so the camera starts and stops when you do. There are also helmets available with built-in cameras that can be more practical if you own more than one bike.
Anti-lock Braking
Manufacturers such as BMW, Ducati, Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki offer anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Similar to auto ABS, this feature can help prevent wheels from locking up when braking. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, ABS has been shown to significantly reduce fatal crashes. Plus, having ABS and other safety features on your bike could garner a discount of anywhere between 5% and 25%.
Collision Avoidance
The next level of tech is bringing collision avoidance technology — long available in autos — to motorcycles. Now, lane departure warning, vehicle proximity warning, and autonomous braking are slowly making their way to the marketplace for motorcycles.
From wearable airbag jackets that inflate on impact to advanced digital braking controls, tech is helping reduce the risks for riders. And while these features can keep you safer on the road, not all will decrease insurance costs. We Insure can give you expert advice on which technologies can help throttle back your premiums. And because We Insure works with multiple carriers, your local agent can match you with the carrier that best fits your needs — and your bike. Reach out to your local We Insure agent today.
Sources
https://techcrunch.com/2023/06/23/forcite-seeks-the-smart-helmet-success-that-skully-squandered/
https://www.bosch-mobility.com/en/solutions/assistance-systems/advanced-rider-assistance-systems-2w/
https://motofomo.com/motorcycles-with-cornering-abs-imu/#Motorcycles%20with%20Cornering%20Abs
https://www.motorcycle.com/products/the-5-best-motorcycle-cameras
https://www.expertreviews.co.uk/action-cameras/1416563/best-motorcycle-camera
