Title: Trends of electronics in motorcycles

Authors: S. Ishii, H. Maruyama, S. Nishida, M. Ikeda

Addresses: Research and Development Division, Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd, Kami-mura, Japan. ' Research and Development Division, Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd, Kami-mura, Japan. ' Research and Development Division, Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd, Kami-mura, Japan. ' Research and Development Division, Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd, Kami-mura, Japan

Abstract: In the 1970s the application of electronics to motorcycles did not progress as rapidly as in automobiles. This was due to the many hindrance factors such as packaging and locational restrictions, water- and dust-proof capability, and also the effect on the vehicle cost and weight of available electronic control units. However, recent improvements in the performance of various sensors and control technologies, along with miniaturisation and lower costs, have permitted the application of control units to motorcycles. Now electronic devices are being gradually introduced into motorcycles in such areas as telltale, engine control and cruise control. In future, varied demands of electronification will necessitate and accelerate such electronic control applications in the motorcycle field, with its requirements for higher and more reliable performance including maintenance-free capability, contribution to ride comfort and broader information applications.

Keywords: motorcycles; motorcycle electronics; sensor technology; control technology; electronic control applications; motorbikes.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1988.061494

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1988 Vol.9 No.3, pp.351 - 360

Published online: 26 May 2014 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article