YAMAHA’S SCI-FI TUNING SIMULATOR FROM THE FUTURE

It’s not easy to set up a motorcycle, but Yamaha's just unveiled a clever bit of technology which could make it a lot easier.

Featuring a ‘functioning’ throttle and brake and gear controls, the Motolator (moto-simulator) makes it super easy to try out any number of different bike configurations, and allows Yamaha to adjust the seat height, footpeg positions, handlebars (both width and height), and even the size of the fuel tank to suit an individual rider on the fly. It’s a seriously clever bit of kit.

There are a few different uses for the technology, but its ability to assist with research and development of new models is surely its most valuable asset. The Japanese factory will be able to tinker and tweak bike layouts to find the perfect ergonomics for upcoming models (without having to build new prototypes from scratch each time). It’ll also be great for race teams. They’ll be able to quickly work out exactly how to get the best fit for their riders before they’ve even turned a wheel on track. Just think of the time and money Yamaha will save.

At this stage we’ve got no idea if the general public will get the chance to try it out for themselves. Instead, if you want a bespoke machine you’ll have to splash some serious cash and hit up the high-end manufacturers who do things in a slightly more traditional way (MV Agusta’s a good example). But because of the time it takes to do it properly, it works out very expensive. The Yamaha Motolator has the potential to change all that – but first let’s see what the factory does with it.