LET RADAR MIND THE GAP
Social distancing for bikes
BMW have joined the growing list of bike manufacturers working to release a radar-guided cruise control function. Following Ducati’s news over a year ago that they were working on the technology, and spyshots showing a similar system used by KTM and BMW themselves, the brand have released details of how their system will work.
Keep your distance
The Active Cruise Control (ACC) system has been developed with Bosch and will allow the rider to set not only a cruising speed but also a distance from the vehicle ahead, which is detected using a radar sensor at the front of the bike. The radar unit uses this information, plus yaw rate and current vehicle speed to calculate the likely path the motorcycle will take in the next 100m and then, if necessary, modulate speed.
Both the distance to the car in front and maximum vehicle speed can be set in three stages at the touch of a button and will be displayed on the dash. The system incorporates ‘curve speed control’, which manages your speed in a turn to maintain a ‘comfortable lean angle’. As you lean further, the bike limits its interventions to avoid unsettling the rider. This feature will also prevent unexpected acceleration while you are leaning in a bend if, for example, the radar loses sight of the vehicle ahead (BMW say the radar’s capability is limited while you’re cornering).
Fair warning
If the system is unable to operate, a symbol on the dash will let you know that you are in full control. There is also a second warning to let you know you are in a situation where emergency braking may be necessary because the braking capabilities of the system are limited for safety reasons. BMW say that the rider will take an active role in the effectiveness of the system by riding in the centre of their lane, making lane changes and overtakes clear (the system reacts to the use of indicators) and adopting a calm riding style. Where BMW have a slight advantage over their rivals is that they have been using similar tech on cars for years. It isn’t yet known when the system will arrive or which models will receive this technology but mockup images from BMW feature their touring focused R1250RT and the K1600GT.
However, the R1250GS is the firm’s biggest seller and their main rivals are intending to fit similar units to their adventure bikes, so there’s a good chance BMW will offer it as an option across most of their popular range.
• ‘They’ve been using similar tech on cars’