As a prototype, Yamaha builds an electric motorcycle that keeps its balance by itself. The Advanced Motorcycle Stability Assist System AMSAS is designed to prevent falls at low speeds.
The system consists of two electric servomotors, one on the steering head and one in the front wheel. The motorcycle keeps itself in balance through precise interaction with steering movements and minimal movements of the front wheel forwards and backwards; which works even when stationary.
When it was introduced, the AMSAS was installed in an electrically powered motorcycle that roughly corresponds to the dimensions of the R3. Parts of the drive technology jut out unattractively over the lower part of the fairing and massively restricted the ground clearance. This will definitely not go into series production.
The AMSAS is only active up to 5 km/h, with a faster motorbike the gyroscopic forces of the wheels are already sufficient to stabilize the ride. Mid-range motorcycles are already being equipped with six-axis gyro sensors, also known as IMUs (inertial measurement units) for the purpose of controlling cornering ABS and lean angle-dependent traction control. The AMSAS is also controlled with the data from the IMU.
The AMSAS only makes sense for top-of-the-line motorcycles or those with a high seat height – travel enduros or fully faired touring machines. With such high-end machines, it’s particularly embarrassing to fall over at low speeds, such as when parked in front of the bike bar. AMSAS might prevent such embarrassment with discreet interventions.
