Hybrid technology has been established in the automotive industry for years, but it has been a rarity in motorcycles until now. Now Yamaha has officially unveiled its first hybrid drive system: the Series Parallel Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). In a recently published video, the manufacturer shows how the system works and what possibilities it offers. The test platform shown is based on a modified Yamaha XMAX, suggesting that it could be the first market-ready hybrid scooter or motorcycle of this type.
KTM North America has announced a recall for certain Husqvarna and GasGas models. The reason for this is possible material defects in a specific front brake caliper that was only installed in certain model years and models. According to the company, the irregularities affect a batch of brake calipers from a supplier. Specifically, there is a risk of a crack developing in the upper guide pin holder, which could impair braking performance.
Showa and Nissin, both subsidiary brands of Hitachi Astemo, have developed a new product that was first presented at the end of last year and went somewhat under the radar at EICMA. It is an innovative system in which the fork and brake caliper are made from a single block. This design is said to offer several advantages, including lower weight, better heat dissipation and increased rigidity.
With the new Bimota KB998 Rimini, a revolution in the aerodynamics of superbikes could be imminent. For the first time, Bimota is using an adaptive wing concept in which winglets automatically adjust their position depending on the riding situation in order to optimize aerodynamics. The aim is to maximize downforce depending on the situation - for example during acceleration to avoid wheelies or when braking to keep the front stable on the road. On long straights, on the other hand, the winglets are designed to minimize drag in order to increase top speed.
Electric motors continue to impress with their high power density. Enormous horsepower figures can be achieved with compact dimensions. A current example of this is the new in-stroke motor from Donut Lab, which was presented at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2025 in Las Vegas. With a weight of just 40 kg (88 lbs) and an output of almost 1,000 hp (around 735 kW), the motor impressively demonstrates how much potential there is in small, electric drives.
In Sakura, Japan, an inconspicuous factory facility will play an important role in Honda's strategy in January 2025: the pilot production of solid-state batteries. This technology is seen as a promising step towards solving the biggest challenges of current lithium-ion batteries. The aim is to make future generations of electric vehicles - including electric motorcycles - lighter, cheaper and more powerful.
Honda is working on a further development of its technologies for motorcycles, especially for the Gold Wing, one of the best-known models in the touring segment. Recent patent applications indicate that Honda is working on a system of lidar, radar and camera technologies to enable 360-degree monitoring. This combination could provide the Gold Wing with numerous new rider assistance systems.
The companies Michelin and Brembo are pooling their know-how in a new partnership to make braking processes safer and more efficient. They are combining their expertise in the fields of tire development, brake technology and software solutions. The aim of this collaboration is to use intelligent technologies to increase vehicle performance and improve safety and comfort standards.
Honda has announced a recall in the USA for certain Africa Twin models from the 2022, 2024 and 2025 model years. The reason for this is a software problem in the Fuel Injection Electronic Control Unit (FI-ECU), which can lead to engine hesitation or unclean acceleration under certain circumstances. This could increase the risk of an accident.
In 2024, Kawasaki has launched two recalls with the hybrid models Ninja 7 Hybrid ABS and Z7 Hybrid ABS. The first recall in September related to a problem with the ECU (engine control unit), while the second recall in November concerns a completely different problem. The recall originated in the US. However, as motorcycles are usually manufactured in one factory for worldwide sale, other markets could also be affected.
During the off-season, motorcycles are often left unattended for long periods of time and are therefore exposed to an increased risk of theft. Comprehensive protection is particularly important during this phase, and this is where the SizzApp tracker comes into play: the compact GPS device enables continuous monitoring of the motorcycle and combines various security and convenience functions in a single device.
This year's EICMA brought an impressive variety of new models, innovative engine concepts and futuristic concept bikes. From the V4 engine from CFMoto and a new V3 concept with electric compressor from Honda to the completely newly developed F 450 GS from BMW - there were a number of new products that attracted a lot of attention. This article summarizes the most important highlights.
At EICMA 2024 in Milan, Honda is unveiling a pioneering engine concept for future large-volume motorcycles. The world's largest motorcycle manufacturer is relying on a completely newly developed three-cylinder four-stroke engine with a unique feature: an electric compressor that enables flexible torque control independent of the engine speed. This development could have a significant impact on the future of powerful combustion engines.
Ducati has unveiled a new V2 engine which, at just 54.4 kg, is the lightest two-cylinder ever produced by the Borgo Panigale-based brand. With variable valve timing (IVT), DLC-coated rocker arms and hollow valve stems, Ducati promises that this engine offers high versatility in two power variants - 120 and 115 hp.
Kawasaki has identified a serious problem with its new hybrid models Ninja 7 and Z7 for model year 2024 and has halted sales and initiated a recall. The reason for this is a faulty control unit (ECU), which can lead to dangerous shifting behavior in certain situations. The recall affects around 1,150 motorcycles, which is around one percent of the total production volume.
Harley-Davidson has initiated a voluntary recall in the USA for almost 42,000 motorcycles from the 2024 model year. The Street Glide and Road Glide series and their CVO versions are affected. The reason for the recall is potential damage to the wiring harness, which could lead to an electrical failure. Such a problem could occur while riding, which significantly increases the risk of an accident.
Technological progress does not stop at the motorcycle sector. Next year, numerous new assistance systems will be launched on the market to make the riding experience safer and more comfortable. But what is behind them and how useful are these innovations really? A closer look reveals which systems await us and how they work.
The world of motorcycle technology is all about progress and innovation. Can-Am, known for its recently launched electric motorcycles Origin and Pulse, is now working on another technical innovation: a smart helmet that will offer a variety of modern functions. The helmet, which is currently still in the patent phase, could soon be an addition to Can-Am's new electric motorcycles.
Aerodynamic winglets have been an integral part of modern supersports bikes for several years now, having established themselves in MotoGP. Now another technical concept from motorsport appears to be coming to the roads: so-called “downwash ducts” on the lower side panels of motorcycles.
Suzuki, a name that has long been synonymous with excellence in the world of motorcycle racing, surprised the motorsport world at the end of 2022 with its decision to withdraw from the MotoGP World Championship. This news came as a surprise to fans and experts alike, especially as Suzuki had just won the title with Joan Mir in 2020 and also finished 2022 strongly with two victories in the last three races. However, despite these successes and a promising future, the Japanese company decided to leave racing behind.