New assistance systems from Bosch: premiere at KTM

Bosch’s new radar-based assistance systems feature six innovative functions designed to prevent accidents. The first motorcycle to be equipped with these systems will be a new KTM model.

While Bosch has not specified which KTM model will be introduced, the options for speculation are limited. Our guess points to either the 1390 Super Adventure or the 1390 Super Duke GT, both slated for model year 2025. Bosch’s cornering ABS first appeared in the KTM 1190 Adventure in 2013.

The most remarkable innovation, Adaptive Distance and Speed Control – Stop and Go (ACC S&G), requires a motorcycle with an automated transmission. Though adaptive cruise controls have been around for motorcycles, the uniqueness of ACC S&G lies in its ability to bring the motorcycle to a complete stop. When the bike halts, the rider does not need to disengage the clutch; they can simply restart the motorcycle by pressing a button or briefly twisting the throttle grip when the vehicle in front begins to move.

Group riding is a popular activity among motorcyclists, but it can often challenge adaptive cruise control systems when there are frequent changes between the motorcycles in front. The Group Ride Assist (GRA), a useful enhancement to the ACC, utilizes an algorithm to detect staggered riding within the group and adjusts the speed to automatically maintain the distance to the motorcycles ahead. When riding outside a group, the GRA functions like standard distance cruise control.

In traffic, Riding Distance Assist (RDA) aids in maintaining an appropriate distance, effectively helping to prevent rear-end collisions. Unlike the ACC, which requires the setting of a target speed, the RDA allows the rider to control the motorcycle normally using the throttle grip. The system automatically adjusts the vehicle’s acceleration or applies brakes when necessary. The rider can preset their desired distance to the vehicle ahead, with the option to deactivate or override the function by applying the throttle against the system’s intended deceleration.

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), similar to emergency brake assist systems found in cars, is activated when a potential collision is detected, and the rider has not applied sufficient braking force. The system actively increases brake pressure to achieve the shortest possible stopping distance.

Rear Distance Warning (RDW) monitors the distance behind the motorcycle and alerts the rider through the cockpit display if another vehicle is approaching too closely. With this information, the rider can take actions to defuse the situation, such as accelerating or moving to the side, thereby preventing a rear-end collision.

Rear Collision Warning (RCW) alerts vehicles behind the motorcycle, for instance by activating the hazard lights, when a collision is imminent. This feature can safeguard the motorcyclist from accidents if they are overlooked or need to brake suddenly—whether they are waiting at a traffic light, caught in traffic, or navigating through moving vehicles.

It remains to be announced which four of these six radar-based assistance systems will be showcased in the new KTM model in November 2024 and enter series production in 2025.

Bosch’s New Radar-Based Motorcycle Assistance Systems

Bosch has unveiled an exciting range of radar-based assistance systems aimed at elevating motorcycle safety by preventing accidents. Set to debut in a new KTM model, these innovations offer a peek into the future of motorcycle technology.

What Are the New Functions?

While Bosch has not officially disclosed which KTM model will feature these systems, speculation suggests it could be either the 1390 Super Adventure or the 1390 Super Duke GT, both anticipated for the model year 2025. Notably, Bosch has a history with KTM, having introduced their cornering ABS in the KTM 1190 Adventure in 2013.

1. Adaptive Distance and Speed Control – Stop and Go (ACC S&G)

The standout feature among Bosch’s innovations is the Adaptive Distance and Speed Control – Stop and Go (ACC S&G). This system enhances existing adaptive cruise controls by enabling automatic stops. Here’s how it works:

• Equipped motorcycles with automated transmission can come to a complete stop without requiring the driver to disengage the clutch.
• To resume movement, the rider simply presses a button or the throttle when the vehicle ahead begins to move.

2. Group Ride Assist (GRA)

Staggered riding in groups presents unique challenges for adaptive cruise control. The new Group Ride Assist (GRA) addresses this by:

• Utilizing algorithms to detect staggered riding formations and automatically adjusting speed.
• Maintaining a safe distance from motorcycles in front while functioning like conventional adaptive cruise control when alone.

3. Riding Distance Assist (RDA)

Riding Distance Assist (RDA) is a crucial system especially designed for urban riding conditions. It helps maintain a safe following distance to prevent rear-end collisions:

• The rider controls the motorcycle normally using the throttle.
• If the system identifies a need for slowing down or stopping, it automatically reduces acceleration or applies brakes.
• Riders can customize their desired following distance, overriding the system when necessary.

4. Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) is designed to enhance rider safety during emergencies:

• The system activates when a risk of collision is detected and ensures adequate braking force is applied.
• This helps achieve the shortest possible stopping distance when the rider has not reacted sufficiently.

5. Rear Distance Warning (RDW)

The Rear Distance Warning (RDW) system enhances situational awareness for the rider:

• It monitors vehicles approaching from behind and alerts the rider via the cockpit display.
• This allows the rider to take evasive actions, such as speeding up or changing lanes, to avoid rear-end collisions.

6. Rear Collision Warning (RCW)

Rear Collision Warning (RCW) provides additional safety measures for riders:

• It warns vehicles behind the motorcycle of an imminent collision by activating the hazard lights.
• This function is particularly useful in scenarios such as waiting at traffic lights or during traffic jams, alerting other drivers to prevent accidents.

Which Systems Will KTM Use?

Bosch has yet to announce which of the six radar-based systems will be included in the upcoming KTM motorcycle set to debut in November 2024 and enter production in 2025. Enthusiasts eagerly await further details as the launch approaches.

Benefits of Bosch’s Radar-Based Assistance Systems

The integration of radar technology in motorcycles brings numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: These systems significantly reduce the risk of accidents by helping riders maintain safe distances and react to potential hazards.
• Increased Comfort: Features like adaptive cruise control reduce rider fatigue, particularly on long journeys or during heavy traffic.
• Improved Depth of Field Awareness: Systems like RDW and RCW promote greater situational awareness, allowing riders to focus on their surroundings.

Practical Tips for Riders

1. Familiarize Yourself: Always take the time to understand the new features that come with your motorcycle, including radar-based systems.
2. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that the radar systems are regularly checked to maintain optimal functionality.
3. Stay Mindful: While these systems enhance safety, they should not replace attentive riding. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

Potential Case Studies

While the introduction of these systems will provide a wealth of data to evaluate their effectiveness, preliminary studies have shown that motorcycles equipped with advanced safety features report:

• A significant decrease in collision rates in urban settings.
• Improvement in rider confidence, particularly among new motorcyclists.
• Enhanced group riding experience due to better speed regulation and distance maintenance.

First-Hand Experience

Those who have tested similar systems in automobiles report an overwhelming sense of security and ease, especially in high-traffic environments. Many riders express enthusiasm for technologies that allow them to enjoy their passion for motorcycling with reduced anxiety about potential accidents.