Safer and Faster Riding with Bosch's Motorcycle Stability Control for Ducati

Photo by Bosch as posted on Revzilla.com.

Riding a motorcycle just got a lot safer, thanks to the new Ducati stability control system developed by Bosch.

Stability control is a relatively simple system, where a computer works with sensors to recognize loss of traction, then automatically intervenes to stop the skid using the brakes and the engine; according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it's estimated that stability control can eliminate one-third of fatal car crashes.

Stability control has been commonplace in automobiles for a while now, and recently it’s been making its way onto motorcycles via anti-lock braking and traction control systems. Whereas a car only moves in two dimensions (back and forth or left and right), a motorcycle has more options, like roll, yaw, and pitch.

The stability control systems found in motorcycles monitor and compare the individual wheel speeds, and notices if one wheel loses traction or the brakes lock up. When this happens, the system acts accordingly: it will cut the throttle or brake pressure to remedy the situation. What's more is that the Bosch system works even when the motorcycle is leaning into a turn.

"A five-axis accelerometer monitors lean angles and attitude," according to an article on Wired about Bosch's new system. "Data on acceleration, deceleration, yaw, roll, pitch, lift, and relative wheel speeds is collated and processed hundreds of times a second. If a problem is detected, the system does its work via Bosch’s ninth-generation motorcycle antilock braking system."

The system is able to alleviate pressure and maintain grip if a rider applies more brake than the available traction can handle, and can also redirect the braking force to the optimal wheel. The bike's performance is optimized in real time and updates by the hundredth-second, working seamlessly to provide the maximum braking force the bike can handle at a given angle of lean in a given condition.

The latest models to feature Bosch's Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) and ABS with linked braking systems are the 2015 Multistrada and 1299 Panigale. Bosch's stability control on these Ducatis will not only keep riders safer in emergency situations but allow them to ride safely at faster speeds, too.

Check it out in action:

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Tips to Safe Motorcycle Driving

Here's what the Maryland DMV has to say about Motorcycle driving safety tips.

Whether it's a quick trip to the corner market for a few things, or a two-week touring trip with friends, there are plenty of things you can do to ensure your motorcycle driving is safe and enjoyable.
It would be nice if the road was always smooth, and without bumps, but those bumps, potholes, breakdowns, lost riding moments and more are out there. The best way to avoid trouble from these instances is to be prepared. You can also improve your own safety, as well as that of your passengers and vehicle, by not only following the laws and rules of the road, but also by knowing them well and always practicing courteous and calm driving.

Safe From the Start

The best way to start off right and ensure you have a smooth ride, and to anticipate problems that may occur, is to prepare and pack for your trip, bringing water, extra clothing, a map of the area you're driving, or other items that might be necessary, depending on your trip. You should also be sure you have some safety basics, particularly a first-aid kit, and a charged mobile phone if possible.
It is also important to make sure that your bike is well-maintained and checked, and that all fluids and major systems, including braking and lights, are in working order. You cannot predict and prevent all vehicle failures and breakdowns, but you can reduce the risk by maintaining your motorcycle.
Next, you will need to make sure that you, as the driver, and any passengers are properly seated on the bike. This means sitting squarely on the center of the seat with feet on foot-pegs and hands holding handlebars or the rider. Also, make sure you and passengers are always wearing protective helmets. It may not be the law in every state, but it is common sense for safety.

Defensive Driving

One of the most obvious things you can do to make sure your driving is safe is to practice defensive driving. This does not mean you have to drive extra slow, but you should use extra caution at all times, and remember that other vehicles are not just other cars and trucks, they are people. Defensive driving consists of a few basic driving tips that are intended to help keep you focused on the road, raise your awareness of your surroundings, and prepare you for a fast reaction to avoid a crash.

A List of Defensive and Safe Driving Skills and Practices

• Avoid distractions, including mobile phones and other devices, which can divert your attention, even with hands-free functionality.
• Aim high when looking out over the handlebars at the road.
• Keep your eyes moving, meaning don't just stare at the road ahead; check mirrors and other views frequently.
• Leave yourself an out; this means anticipating what would happen if you had to swerve or slam on the brakes.
• Position both hands firmly but comfortably on handlebars.
• Never drive while feeling drowsy or sleepy; pull over at a rest stop or other safe place to take a break and get some real rest.

Courtesy is Cool

It is easy to get caught up in rushing yourself, as well as other motorists, when riding. It is important to remember that although you may be late, or another driver may have cut you off or otherwise disregarded the rules of the road, riding is no race or competition.
One of the biggest causes of accidents is vehicles following each other too close. The general rule of thumb for driving is one car-length, but it never hurts to extend the buffer between yourself and the vehicle or vehicles in front of you, especially on a motorcycle. This can also help you maintain a smoother ride that saves fuel and wear and tear on your bike. If you are spinning out every start and constantly hitting the brakes, you are accelerating too fast and following too close.
Courteous driving also consists of allowing other motorists to merge into traffic by giving them the space to do so. Similarly, if you are merging, maintain a safe speed, but do your best to quickly accelerate to the flow of traffic.


For more information about safe driving, refer to the National Safety Council (NSC).

If you're headed out on the road with your motorcycle, come visit Pete's Cycle for repairs, gear, parts and much more to help you on your way to the open road.

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7 Tips For Riding In Traffic

Think of the last time you were stuck in heavy traffic. Vehicles surrounding you, cutting you off all while your trying to monitor closing speeds, read street signs, anticipate traffic signals, and keep track of pedestrians. It can be overwhelming, and that’s exactly why street-riding newcomers crash and burn while riding in congested areas. Being a motorcyclist means that you have to be able to process multiple different tasks and be able to react to each of them correctly. Not being able to do so could turn you into roadkill, so here are 15 strategies for dealing with traffic-choked streets.

Watch drivers heads and mirrors

Watching the head movements of drivers through their windows in an excellent way to anticipate sudden moves. Majority of drivers will move their head left or right before making any sudden lane changes (even if they don’t check their mirrors).

Trust your mirrors, but not totally

Your bikes mirrors can be lifesavers, but they don’t always tell the entire story even if adjusted properly. In heavy traffic always make sure that your checking over your shoulder before making a lane change, if preformed quickly it will add rear-view and blind-spot knowledge to your info-gathering tasks.

Never get between a vehicle and an off-ramp

This may sound simple, but drivers who decide to exit at the last second kill plenty of riders every year. The simple rule is to never position yourself between a vehicle and an off-ramp. Passing on the right is generally a no-no, but in this day and age can be necessary. If you do so make sure it’s between exits or cross streets.

Cover your brakes

In traffic you must react extra quick, which means not fumbling with the brake pedal. Minimize reach time by always keeping a finger or to on the brake lever and your right toe close to the rear brake pedal. So when a cellphone toting 10^th grader flies across your lane to snag a burrito from Taco Bell you’ll be ready!

Be noticed

Make sure riders and pedestrians can see you, even from a distance. Ride with your high beams on during the day (turning them off when sitting behind someone a light), and wear brightly colored gear, especially your helmet and jacket.

Be ready with power

In traffic, ride in a gear lower than you normally would so your bike is ready to jump forward instantly if asked. Doing so gives you the option of leaping ahead instead of being limited to just using the brakes when that pick-up suddenly moves over. The higher revs may also alert more cagers to your presence.

Practice the scan

Constantly scan your environment while riding. Check your left, right, blind spot, and the road ahead. This will make you more aware and allow you to react quickly. Being stuck in one area for a long time only focusing in front of you is asking for trouble.

Pete’s Cycles reminds you to be safe on the road and gear up with protective equipment that will make you more visible on the road. We would like thank the motorcyclistonline.com for the helpful information. Stay Safe!    

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Ethanol and Combustion Engines--Not a Good Mix

This week's post affects all ATV and motorcycle riders, since it is about the increasing amounts of ethanol being mixed into our gasoline. It is about fuel and how our engines react to that fuel--this is a topic dear to Pete's Cycle and all our riders. 

According to a recent American Motorcyclist Association press release, "The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has publicly acknowledged that ethanol in gasoline can damage internal combustion engines by increasing exhaust temperatures and indirectly causing component failures." To make a long story short, this is not good news for ATV and motorcycle owners who use fuel from the pump.

The Federal Trade Commission has recently proposed a rule that would require more labeling at the gas station for fuel blends and mixtures over 10% ethanol. However, the proposed rule would exempt the new EPA’s E15-approved label (15% ethanol, 85% gasoline).

The AMA is clear that this is not really a solution. The AMA claims that:

• the proposal will cause more confusion given the introduction of E15
• E15 can cause engine and fuel system failure; and can void manufacturer's warranties
• gasolines with higher than 10% ethanol are bound to enter the marketplace with greater frequencies

The AMA press release cites language from the EPA. According to the EPA: “[e]thanol impacts motor vehicles in two primary ways. First … ethanol enleans the [air/fuel] ratio (increases the proportion of oxygen relative to hydrocarbons) which can lead to increased exhaust gas temperatures and potentially increase incremental deterioration of emission control hardware and performance over time, possibly causing catalyst failure. Second, ethanol can cause materials compatibility issues, which may lead to other component failures.”

Another issue is where the label will be at the pump. To play a part in this issue, the AMA says that June 2^nd is the deadline for comments.

Here is what the AMA recommends:

1) To submit comments, please copy the prewritten comments below (on their website here).

2) Then go to https://ftcpublic.commentworks.com/ftc/autofuelratingscertnprm/. 3) Once you are on the site, paste the pre-written comments in the ‘Comments’ field box. Before submitting, please complete the rest of the fields.

Read the AMA press release here.

http://www.cycleworld.com/2014/04/19/ama-epa-acknowledges-ethanol-damages-engines/

If you have any other information, please visit Pete's Cycle website or post a comment on this blog. Thanks.

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Maryland Motorcycle Skill and Safety Courses

Local Skill and Safety Courses for All Types of Riders

Just bought a cycle? Thinking of buying one, but worried that you might not be able to safely ride it?  Want to get your Class M motorcycle license? Are you an experienced rider, but still think you can improve your skills?...or, know anyone who fits the above description?

Thankfully, our area has quite a few places to take safety courses, get your motorcycle license, or just become a better rider.

Most institutions/colleges listed below offer the:

·        Basic Rider Course (BRC)—for beginners

·        Alternate Basic Rider Course (ABRC)—for experienced riders seeking to get licensed

·        Basic Rider course 2—for experienced riders wanting skill enhancements

Here’s a list of the best places to go:

For Montgomery College’s Motorcycle Safety Program…click here.

For the The Rider School at Howard Community College…click here

For the courses at Anne Arundel Community College…click here.

For the courses at Cecil County Community College...click here 

For the courses at Harford Community College...click here

Last but not least, for the courses at the Department of Motor Vehicles…click here.

Now let me test your knowledge of Maryland’s motorcycle laws. So here’s a question—In the state of Maryland, does the law require a helmet for off-road riding? And what is the minimum age for someone to operate an off-road machine? The answer to question one is No. Maryland does not require a helmet for off-road riding. For question 2, the answer is 12. If you found that you didn’t know the answer to both of these questions, Pete’s Cycles recommends that you click here to learn more about state laws.

 

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