Motorcycle riding has a long history in the U.S., with many riders following the family tradition that has been handed down from parents to children regarding both bike ownership and enjoyment from the hobby. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are still one of the biggest causes of injury and deaths on the road. However, new advancements in technology mean that bikers have access to a wide variety of safety features and upgrades to minimize the effects of any harmful risks and hazards. Motorcycle accidents can easily lead to death, which is what has to be avoided at all costs.
Let’s check out some of the best way tech has improved motorcycle safety. Obviously, there are many others that are going to be worth mentioning. However, these are quite important for all people riding a motorcycle.
#1. Modern Safety Helmets
Every sensible biker knows that it’s imperative to wear a helmet when riding as they can be the difference between life and death. With being one of the biggest points of focus when it comes to motorcycle safety gear, today’s helmets are constantly advancing regarding safety, effectiveness, and technological abilities.
Today, you can find an assortment of new, innovative motorcycle helmets that come complete with handy features such as in-ear Bluetooth communication capabilities, satellite navigation, and heads-up displays (HUD) in the visor. New technologies are expected so do be sure you keep your eyes on the market.
#2. Motorcycle Lights
When riding both at night and during the day, visibility is one of the biggest concerns for motorcyclists. Even a small hole in the asphalt at high speeds can lead to a tragic accident. Therefore, ensure your lights work, and if you are riding during dusk, dawn or at nighttime, wear a high-visibility jacket or tabard. This means you will be spotted sooner rather than later, allowing other people on the road to avoid you in the event a problem appears. However, it is still hard to spot a biker at nighttime even when wearing a jacket. This is where adaptive headlight technology comes in as they offer a strong beam of light that projects onto the road. Therefore, other road users can see you more clearly, and you can also keep an eye on the roads and whether there are any debris, etc. to dodge.
#3. Innovative Jacket Technology
Protective motorcycle jackets are rapidly advancing, and today there is an abundance of sturdy materials and protective padding to choose from, as well as innovative features to ensure the rider is under maximum protection. What you wear while you ride your motorcycle is incredibly important. If you do not have body protection even minor collisions can cause serious injuries.
A collaboration between bike manufacturer Ducati and clothing brand Dainese has resulted in a revolutionary motorcycle jacket. It is designed to wirelessly connect to a control box located on the motorcycle in the event of an accident, which inflates airbags to protect the rider. Although this isn’t a completely new idea, similar past products required the rider to become detached from the bike before deflating, and this does not always happen in a motorcycle accident. Adapting to real road conditions helped in manufacturing a product that is much more helpful.
#4. Semi-Active Suspension
Technology hasn’t only made its way into the motorcycle clothing and accessory market. It’s also shaping the way motorcycles are manufactured. For example, take the semi-active suspension. While this has long been a standard for four-wheeled vehicles, it is a new development in motorcycle manufacture. Therefore, newer motorcycle models feature suspension improvements that allow for a far more stable, adaptable ride over any terrain. As a result, riders are more confident and in control.
What have modern technology advancements improved your motorcycle safety? Is there anything you’d recommend which isn’t listed above? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. We all need to help each other in order to learn and stay as protected as technology allows it.
Kidal Delonix is a contributor to Mr. Hoffman's blog. The views and opinions are entirely his/her own and may not reflect Mr Hoffman's views.
