Airbags on every motorcycle?

As technology advances in the motorcycle world, we see the emergence of two-wheelers that are faster, more modern and technologically advanced than ever before. But as the performance of two-wheelers improves, it is also necessary to improve their safety. In fact, in recent years, a lot of technology has emerged in the field of protective equipment and it can also be said that motorcycles themselves are becoming safer.

Modern motorcycles are equipped with many active safety features. Technologies such as ABS and traction control not only improve the driving experience, but also make it a much safer activity for us.

The implementation of airbags in the motorcycle world is not new. In fact, anyone can go to the nearest motorcycle retailer and easily purchase an airbag vest. However, the idea behind Autoliv is different.

The Swedish company plans to create an airbag system mounted on a motorcycle, which means that the airbag will basically be part of the vehicle, just like cars. This is expected to be particularly useful in situations where the motorcyclist is thrown over the handlebars, which can lead to injuries to the trunk and lower limbs.

Of course, this idea is not revolutionary either, because several brands are currently working on similar technology, including Yamaha, and the Honda Gold Wing, for example, has been equipped with an airbag since 2006. Without a doubt, however, this is not a mass solution used in the motorcycle industry. The Swedes want to change that.

Autoliv also revealed that it has conducted numerous virtual simulations and experiments have shown that an airbag fitted to the front of a motorcycle can further reduce injuries to the head, neck and chest. The company is working with the road safety organization MIROS to further develop safety technology for two-wheelers.

The airbag system should remain compact and compatible with a wide selection of two-wheelers. It consists of crash sensors, an ECU with an algorithm that decides whether to deploy an airbag, and of course an airbag module with a gas generator.

It's worth noting that this isn't Autoliv's first two-wheel adventure. The Swedish company has already entered the bicycle market with its technology, collaborating with another Swedish brand, namely helmet manufacturer POC. With the growing popularity of e-bikes and high-speed scooters, an airbag helmet can go a long way towards preventing injury in the event of an accident.

When it comes to motorcycles, Autoliv is partnering with the Italian helmet brand Airoh to bring airbag helmet technology to the world of motorcycling.