Blind spot detection Archives

2024 Honda Africa Twin To Feature Radar-Assist Technology

In a fierce showdown set for 2024, Honda’s iconic Africa Twin is gearing up to challenge BMW’s highly anticipated R 1300 GS in the competitive open-class adventure motorcycle market.

the next-generation Honda Africa Twin to feature radar-assist technology.
latest type-approval documents also confirmed the introduction of direct fuel-injection.

As both manufacturers vie for dominance, riders can expect groundbreaking advancements and cutting-edge technologies from these two renowned giants.

BMW has confirmed the imminent launch of its much-sought-after R 1300 GS in September of this year. Building on the success of the R 1250 GS, this latest iteration promises revolutionary construction and on-board innovations, signaling a significant leap forward in the world of adventure bikes.

On the other hand, Honda’s Africa Twin follows a different approach, placing an emphasis on off-road capability over on-road touring and raw power. Despite their distinct focus, these formidable machines will undoubtedly attract similar groups of adventurous enthusiasts, creating an exciting competition for customer loyalty in 2024. The stakes are high, and the stage is set for a remarkable showdown.

Amid the buzz and anticipation, evidence has emerged supporting the development of an extensively updated Africa Twin. Honda has discreetly filed type-approval paperwork for its 2024 model, which intriguingly carries the model code “SD14.” This move signals the manufacturer’s determination to deliver a game-changing offering that will challenge BMW head-on.

While specific details about the new Africa Twin remain scarce, Honda’s recent patent filings have shed some light on potential enhancements. Notably, the company is working on incorporating front and rear radars into the bike’s design, akin to rivals such as KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure, Ducati’s Multistrada V4, and the upcoming BMW R 1300 GS.

These radars, either offered optionally or as standard, are poised to improve rider safety and experience, ensuring the Africa Twin keeps pace with the rapidly evolving adventure bike segment.

Among the most thrilling developments is the prospect of a direct fuel-injected version of the Africa Twin’s SOHC engine. This innovation aims to elevate performance, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions, underscoring Honda’s commitment to environmental consciousness and engineering excellence.

Furthermore, enthusiasts and experts alike are buzzing about the intriguing possibility of a supercharged Africa Twin. If realized, this extraordinary advancement could propel Honda’s champion to new heights, rivaling the formidable powerhouses represented by KTM’s big V-twins and Ducati’s Multistrada V4 range, all without requiring the development of an entirely new engine.

Kawasaki First to Adopt Bosch Advanced Rider Assistance Systems

Kawasaki will be the first to fully adopt the Bosch Advanced Rider Assistance Systems.
The suite of systems helps to ensure safe following system, avoid forward collision and provide blind spot warning.
Which model has not been revealed.

There were intense speculation that the Ducati Multistrada 1260 Grand Tour or new KTM 1290 Super Adventure would debut advanced rider systems. But it turned out that Kawasaki will be the first to adopt the Bosch Advanced Rider Assistance Systems.

The Multistrada 1260 Grand Tour was unveiled at the Ducati World Premiere 2019 while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure wasn’t ready for EICMA 2019. Now it’s said the 2021 Multistrada V4 and the upcoming KTM will feature such systems.

Kawasaki has since announced that one of their models will feature the Bosch Advance Rider Assistance Systems. The set of electronics include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), forward collision warning and blind spot detection. The system was adopted from Advanced Driver Assistance Systems for cars.

According to Bosch, the three systems are active at all times, scanning for potential hazards. We can agree that our attention can sometimes be distracted or get lulled into a sense of contempt.

The system is fed by data from a pair of mid-range radars up front and behind the bike. With the cruise control activated the ACC will have the bike maintain a safe distance to the vehicle in front.

As for the forward collision warning system, it will detect brake lights on the vehicle up ahead and warns the rider with a visual as well as aural cues.

Blind spot detection works like in some upscale cars by inserting a warning light in the rearview mirror. (A great feature for sportbikers.)

Kawasaki did not mention which model will feature these new systems, but our guess is the new 1400GTR since it’s a sport-tourer and the Euro 5-compliant model hasn’t been revealed yet.

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