Technology

According to its own statements, 24M, a US company based in Massachusetts, has developed innovative battery technology that has the potential to fundamentally change electric mobility. The technology promises not only a significantly higher range of up to 1,000 miles (approx. 1,609 km), but also lower costs, increased safety, and flexible applications—including for electric motorcycles.

At the Japan Mobility Show 2025, Suzuki is showcasing a wide range of concepts and studies, ranging from alternative drive systems to an anniversary model of the GSX-R1000R. The manufacturer is thus demonstrating its strategy of offering both traditional sports motorcycles and modern solutions for sustainable mobility.

Just under ten years after entering MotoGP, KTM has taken another significant step in its motorsport history. The new 850cc engine concept for the 2027 season was tested on the test bench for the first time in Mattighofen, Austria. The reason for this is the upcoming technical regulations that will apply in the premier class from 2027.

Yamaha has filed a patent that addresses a well-known problem with electric motorcycles: many motorcyclists find the switch to electric drive less exciting because they miss the typical engine noise and vibrations of a combustion engine. A novel technical solution is intended to compensate for this disadvantage.

The Chinese brand Benda is attracting increasing attention with its unusual engine configurations. While the company has only recently entered the US market, where it mainly offers 300cc to 500cc V2 models, Benda is showing much more innovation on its domestic market. At the recent CIMAMotor trade fair, Benda presented not only a radical hybrid concept with a 250cc boxer engine, but also a completely newly developed inline six-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1700cc.

TVS Motor has acquired the renowned Italian development company Engines Engineering (EE) and will use the company as a global center of excellence (CoE) for design and development in the future. The aim is to further expand its own expertise in the field of modern vehicle technologies and in the development of premium and electric motorcycles.

In the world of motorcycles, the return of forced induction is a rare event. After Kawasaki set a milestone with the Ninja H2, things remained quiet on the supercharger front for a long time. While the Ninja H2R continued to be considered the most powerful production motorcycle with a supercharger, the field seemed to be left to other manufacturers. However, recent technological changes have brought movement to the scene: Honda introduced a fully electric supercharger with the V3R, and Yamaha developed its own solution with the E-Turbo. Now KTM is also entering the stage – with a novel, electrically assisted supercharger system that combines elements of both technologies and, according to the patent, is intended to offer a middle ground between classic superchargers and modern electric drives.

With a novel approach to extending the range of electric motorcycles, KTM is pursuing a solution that aims to enable greater flexibility and everyday usability. Based on current patent applications, the Austrian manufacturer is working on a modular system that can be attached to the rear of the motorcycle like a top case. Depending on the variant, the compact additional box will contain either a mini combustion engine, a fuel cell, or additional batteries.

Even though the FIM MotoE World Championship will take a break at the end of the 2025 season, Ducati is continuing to push ahead with the development of alternative drive technologies. The focus is on the V21L prototype – an electric motorcycle that has not only been tested in MotoE, but has now also been unveiled with solid-state batteries for the first time. The new development stage made its debut on September 8, 2025, at the IAA Mobility in Munich.

Despite subdued demand for electric motorcycles, CFMoto is continuing its development in this area. New patent applications show that the Chinese manufacturer is working on a fully electric sports motorcycle that stands out from previous designs thanks to its unusual frame construction and special battery concept.

In motorcycle racing, precise management of tire pressure and temperature is playing an increasingly important role. In MotoGP in particular, tire pressure is constantly monitored – if it is too low for a prolonged period, penalties are imposed. This is where Honda's latest patent comes in: a newly developed rim and brake system designed to minimize heat transfer to the tires.

A motorcycle that smells like French fries and is powered by a tractor engine—what initially sounds like a crazy DIY project is actually the result of years of work by 22-year-old student Alex Jennison. Using a 1999 Harley-Davidson Softail frame as a basis, he has created an unusual vehicle that runs on biodiesel made from frying oil. Jennison is currently on a 1,900-kilometer tour along the US West Coast with his homemade creation to raise awareness of the practicality of alternative fuels.

Continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been the standard in many side-by-sides and UTVs for years – from work-oriented utility vehicles to high-performance models such as the Polaris RZR or Can-Am Maverick X3. The technology, which originated in automotive engineering and was even used in Formula 1, allows engine speeds to be kept constant, thereby optimally controlling efficiency and power output. However, there has been one major drawback up to now: the transmission ratios of a CVT defined at the factory cannot be changed during operation – unless complex modifications are made.

In recent years, the topic of aerodynamics in motorcycle construction has changed significantly. Winglets, i.e., small wings on the fairing, were long considered an exclusive feature of racing motorcycles such as those in MotoGP or high-priced superbikes. However, these distinctive attachments can now also be found on production bikes of various displacement classes – from 1000cc super sports bikes to sporty 400cc models. Even in the accessories trade, retrofittable winglets are available for almost every motorcycle.

A new patent from Sweden is causing a stir in the world of motorcycle safety. Airbag Inside Sweden AB, also known as Mo'Cycle, is pursuing a goal with its innovative airbag system: to offer maximum protection for motorcyclists without it being visible from the outside. Unlike conventional protective clothing, the outfit looks like normal everyday clothing—until the moment an accident happens.

Honda is continuing to push ahead with the electrification of its motorcycle portfolio and has recently filed a patent for a fully electric superbike that is visually and technically reminiscent of the well-known Fireblade. For the development, Honda is utilizing technology and experience from the successful Mugen Shinden project, which was created specifically for the TT Zero at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto has filed patents for a new type of handlebar and footrest adjustment system. The focus is on a system that allows the rider's seating position to be adjusted to different requirements at the touch of a button. CFMoto is thus picking up on a concept that was previously pursued by Damon Motors, among others, but has not yet been implemented in series production.

In the world of traditional motorcycles, groundbreaking innovations are usually expected from established manufacturers or specialized development departments. But this time, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is causing a stir: The university's Electric Vehicle Team (EVT) has created a unique motorcycle with a hydrogen fuel cell that is expected to deliver around 300 hp (220 kW). The aim of the project is to explore new possibilities for emission-free mobility on two wheels and to make the results available as an open research platform.

Honda continues to develop alternative transmission technologies. New patent documents filed with the Japan Patent Office (JPO) show the well-known Honda CB1000R with the E-Clutch system. This semi-automatic clutch solution makes motorcycling more accessible to newcomers and those returning to the sport, as the clutch operation is electronic and does not require a conventional clutch lever.

Honda is continuing its move toward automated clutch technologies and expanding its range of E-Clutch models. Following on from the already familiar CBR650R, CB650R, and Rebel 250 models, the CL250 and Rebel 250 will also be equipped with the E-Clutch in future. Although these two models are not currently available in Europe, Honda's move underscores the importance the manufacturer attaches to automated clutches.