4 Innovations in Motorcycle Safety Features

a lone motorcyclist driving down a country road on a sunny day, motorcycle operator wearing a helmet, leather jacket and gloves

Avid riders will tell you that motorcycles provide a sense of exhilaration unlike any other type of vehicle on the road. While you're enjoying the unique ride, it’s important to be as protected as possible. New innovations are helping to make it safer to enjoy a good long ride. Here are some of the latest motorcycle safety features:

1. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

In an emergency situation, braking assistance can mean the difference between safely moving past an obstacle and losing control of the motorcycle. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help prevent your brakes from locking and your tires from skidding. Designed with wheel-speed sensors, the ABS automatically engages to deliver more control of steering in an emergency situation. ABS can help riders come to a more controlled stop to help avoid crashes. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, bikes with ABS have 31% fewer fatal crashes than those without it.¹

2. Stability and Traction Control

Powering around a curve on two wheels requires a specific balance of acceleration and braking. Too much of one or the other can throw the bike out of control. New motorcycle stability and traction control systems can analyze the lean data to help eliminate overpowering or over-braking through turns in some vehicles.²

3. Improved Lighting

Motorcycles are smaller than most cars, which can make them tougher to see on the road. LED lighting on your motorcycle can play a big role in enhancing rider safety and providing greater visibility to help prevent collisions.³ These adaptive LED headlights are designed to pivot to help expand illumination while cornering, are included on some models and also are available as aftermarket purchases.

4. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)

Motorcycles balance on two tires, so tire pressure is an important part of bike performance. Tire pressure monitoring systems put tire pressure information right in front of the rider. When tire pressure is low, you'll know it quickly without having to stop and check it. With proper tire pressure, you can be back on the road with better handling and traction.⁴