The revolution of connected motorcycles: a new era for motorcyclists

In the world of automobiles, the connected revolution has been underway for several years now. But what about motorcycles? The rise of new technologies such as Internet connectivity, GPS navigation, and voice recognition is also set to transform the riding experience for motorcyclists. In this article, we propose to explore these innovations that contribute to the upheaval of the motorized two-wheel sector.

Internet and connectivity: when motorcycles connect to the network

As with cars, Internet connectivity is now an integral part of modern motorcycles' equipment. Manufacturers are betting on this technology to provide riders with an increasingly high level of comfort and safety.

Connected functions at your fingertips

With an internet connection directly integrated into their machines, motorcyclists can now access a multitude of services in real-time. Among them are:

• GPS navigation, to facilitate travel and avoid any routing issues
• weather information, useful for anticipating road conditions
• regular updates regarding traffic conditions to smooth out traffic and avoid congestion
• real-time monitoring of vehicle performance

These features are valuable assets for drivers, who see their riding experience optimized and secured.

Integration into the motorcyclist's digital ecosystem

Beyond the services offered by manufacturers, Internet connectivity also provides motorcyclists with the possibility to connect their two-wheelers to their own electronic devices. Thus, it is common to see users pairing their smartphone or smartwatch with their motorcycle to:

• access their favorite applications while on their vehicle
• trigger certain actions remotely, such as turning on or locating the vehicle
• communicate with other motorcyclists via dedicated platforms
• share their rides, speeds, and other driving statistics with an online community

The possibilities offered by interconnectivity of electronic devices continue to expand and help create a new way of enjoying the thrill of motorcycling.

Navigating with ease thanks to integrated GPS

Another key element of this connected revolution in the world of motorcycles: the integration of GPS navigation systems directly into the handlebars or in the displays. The advantages of such a device are multiple:

• better visibility of navigation information, which no longer needs to be checked on a secondary screen like that of a smartphone
• considerable time savings for motorcyclists, as guidance is now integrated into their route
• an alignment between weather data and driving, allowing the device to propose routes adapted to the current weather conditions

Some brands even go so far as to develop their own specific navigation solutions for their two-wheelers. Notably, the German manufacturer BMW Motorrad, which offers its Navigator system with integrated mapping and automatic updates.

Voice recognition: when the motorcycle obeys the voice

The latest flagship element of this connected revolution, voice recognition is also beginning to establish itself among two-wheel drivers. If this type of technology was previously reserved for car drivers, it is now also finding its place in motorcycles.

Forget manual controls

With voice recognition, motorcyclists can now control their vehicle without taking their hands off the handlebars, simply by giving voice commands to a built-in "personal assistant" in their helmet or directly on the motorcycle. It is thus possible to:

• dictate an address and update their route
• make a phone call or send a voice message
• adjust audio playback, volume, or music playlists

This technology provides both comfort and safety benefits, as it allows the rider to remain focused on their driving while having access to a range of important information.

Towards ever more efficient personal assistants

Current voice recognition solutions for two-wheelers are still improvable, but we can expect these devices to quickly gain in reliability and precision. Major mobile technology providers are actively working on developing personal assistants dedicated to motorcyclists, capable of taking into account their specific needs and evolving with their expectations.

Ultimately, the connected revolution clearly appears as a key element in the future of the motorcycle world. The various innovations mentioned in this article already offer numerous prospects for improving the riding experience of motorcyclists and promise even more impressive technological advancements in the years to come.