This Yamaha Bike Can Move And Steer WITHOUT A Rider

Yamaha has developed a new prototype system which it says will help mitigate two-wheeler accidents. Called Advanced Motorcycle Stabilisation Assist System (AMSAS), it has been designed as an accessory kit consisting of a steering actuator and a drive actuator, for enhanced control in tricky situations. So what is it exactly and what does it mean for the future? Read on to find out…

Why AMSAS? 

Yamaha has set a target of reducing the number of fatal motorcycle accidents to zero by 2050. To that end, and based on the analysis of motorcycle crash data, the bikemaker has developed the AMSAS system which thus far helps balance the bike without toppling over, but in the future will also study traffic patterns in real time to protect against possible mishaps . 

How AMSAS works

The AMSAS system has currently been tested on a modified Yamaha R25, though the bikemaker claims it can be applied on all existing Yamaha bikes with minimal changes to the frame and structure. The system comprises a drive actuator mounted on the redesigned front wheel and a steering actuator mounted on the handlebar of the test bike. Both of these work in conjunction with a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) to reduce instability, at speeds of 5kmph and below. In a nutshell, this helps the rider keep the bike stable at slow speeds without necessarily putting their feet on the ground. Besides, the mechanism works as promised, with the bike holding its line and speed even with the rider’s hands away from the handlebar, as seen in the video: 

AMSAS’ aim is to work hand-in-glove with a an existing radar-linked combined braking system that constantly monitors possible accident causes, such as sudden braking or lane-changes by vehicles in front, sudden acceleration by vehicles behind, as well as approaching obstacles. When active, the system assists with defensive manoeuvres, as well as adaptive braking. This system is currently seen as a feature on the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+. 

What it means for the future

Radar-based navigation is already available on bikes such as the Ducati Multistrada V4. Besides, Yamaha has previously showcased the MotoBot, an autonomous robot capable of riding a motorcycle, and Motoroid, a self-balancing two-wheeled prototype. Both these concepts bring to the fore Yamaha’s experience with autonomous systems, and AMSAS, in its final form, aims to be a middle ground of sorts between the two. That said, a desi EV company, Liger Mobility,  has already cracked the code with regards to a self-balancing scooter, called Liger X, which it unveiled at the Auto Expo 2023.

With all this in mind, the idea of a motorcycle system which doesn’t just forecast but can actively minimises chances of accidents doesn’t seem too far removed from reality.