Advanced Braking Systems (ABS) For Motorcycles - Do They Matter? - In 2015, we (that's Trevor and myself as Right To Ride) wrote an article about mandatory braking systems which were to be introduced from 2016 – i.e. new motorcycles of more than 125 cc equipped with an enhanced ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), whereas the incorporation of anti-lock or combined brake systems for motorcycles under 125 cc would be left to the choice of the vehicle manufacturer (for the time being anyway). In 2011 the European Commission and Parliament argued that ABS would reduce casualties by … [Read more...]
BMW – Motorcycling In The Future
Global - BMW Motorrad has anticipated the future of motorcycling with its concept VISION NEXT 100. BMW Motoradd state that, "Glasses instead of a helmet, light clothing, full balance without a stand: just three of a great many aspects which could become standard in motorcycling and give that feeling of freedom a new dimension in an increasingly digitalised world." Apart from its looks - design - materials used - electronic functionality - designer speak and a certain nowadays understanding of freedom on a motorcycle, "Freedom means experiencing the environment with all … [Read more...]
Dim Views
Northern Ireland - A few years ago I wrote a paper in response to an EU Commission “bright idea” to introduce “Daytime Running Lights” also known as “DRL” for all vehicles. The Commission’s objective was to increase the conspicuity of road users in order to reduce road casualties. MAG Response to European Commission Daytime Running Lights Consultation September 2006 pdf 204kb Then, the Commission had put out a consultation paper asking for considered opinions and comments in order to gain support for the proposal. The questions posed were the following: Is the … [Read more...]
Crossing the Centerline – Or Not
USA - Today, the numbers have changed, at least in the western states. Now, the majority of crashes are out in the country, and motorcyclists are more often at fault. Typically, a motorcyclist either does something dumb, or can’t control the motorcycle, and crashes into something. One scary scenario is with the motorcyclist going wide in a right-hand curve and colliding with an oncoming vehicle. An example of this occurred on the Olym pic Peninsula northwest of Seattle, where a novice rider was out with some friends on a group ride. According to newspaper reports, “…the … [Read more...]
Shake Rattle And Roll
UK - Warning Systems For Motorcycles In that brief moment of panic before a crash, Oh Shit! is the cry of many a rider and it refers to those 2 seconds before a crash. This is the point in time where even the most experienced rider freezes – because they have never been confronted with that situation before. One of the solutions on the table to reduce crashes is speed warning systems for motorcycles [i]. But the most important element about warning systems is the time factor. Findings from the Hurt report (1981) [ii] tell us that the typical motorcycle accident … [Read more...]
