BMW Motorrad introduces Automated Shift Assistant for ease of riding

In order to bring ease in riding long distances, BMW Motorrad has brought an interesting new feature for its motorcycles. The new Automated Shift Assistant eliminates the conventional clutch lever for two electromechanical actuators that automate both clutch and gear shifting actions. As a result, in the D mode, the motorcycle takes care of both clutch and gear shift actions, offering a seamless riding experience to the rider.

The system also allows for manual intervention, if the rider wants to take control. With the M mode, the rider can change gears with foot control in the conventional way. However, the system downshifts automatically if the rider fails to select the right gear for the engine rpms. In both D and M modes, the Automated Shift Assistant claims to deliver a seamless shifting experience with minimal jolts.

Since the ASA system is tuned in harmony with the boxer engine, it offers seamless shifting in all kinds of riding situations. In upshifts, the jolt associated with a manual transmission as well as the head nod while the transition happens is largely eliminated. Downshifts are also tuned to deliver minimal chassis disturbances, even in load conditions.

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Furthermore, the Automated Shift Assistant is calibrated across the riding modes of the engine for varied riding conditions. The system shows its advantages while working with features such as adaptive cruise control as well as forward collision warning as it takes care of both upshifts and downshifts without rider’s intervention. As a result, the ASA reduces rider fatigue and improves concentration over longer rides.

Speaking of its mechanicals, the clutch is operated with a electromechanical actuator, which is connected with a hydraulic connection between the clutch master and slave cylinders. The actuator is responsible for the right amount of clutch slippage, engage and disengage as per the riding conditions.

Like the clutch, the transmission is also controlled via an electromechanical actuator, which works on information basis revs of the transmission input shaft and clutch position. This information is transmitted to the transmission control unit that is closely linked to the engine control unit. Rider’s shift request, on the other hand, is transmitted through the conventional foot gear selector.