Two-wheeled telematics goes mainstream

TU-Editor

19th May 2015

In among a raft of race-track developed technology, the Italian motor cycle manufacturer has applied a mobile phone operated telematics package to allow customers to extract the best performance out of their pride and joy.

For while the head Aprilia Performance Ride Control (aPRC) offers programmable traction control, wheelie control, launch control, adaptive suspension and level selected anti-lock braking system (ABS) settings grab the headlines, it’s the Aprilia Multimedia Platform (AMP) that promises a new level of rider engagement and safety on a machine that boasts up to 210HP depending on model.

Listed as an accessory, this transforms a smartphone into an on board multifunctional computer and the link between the vehicle and the Internet and on, Aprilia claims, is a window to the future and lays the foundation for a new way of looking at communication on two wheels. communication between the bike and smartphone allows the phone smartphone to change the settings on the RSV4, as well as receive tips in real time on how to improve your performance on the track in complete safety.

Some of the more prominent features of AMP are:

· Active electronic setup:this is road version of the the “corner-by-corner” electronic management used in racing. Using the GPS, the system recognises the position of the bike at any given time on the track and automatically changes the electronic adjustments (traction control, anti-wheelie, engine mapping, etc.), accessing a database of parameters recommended by Aprilia Racing. The rider can set the electronic controls up according to preferences, turn-by-turn, adjusting the control parameters at every point on the circuit.

· Immersive virtual telemetry:the smartphone records the data from the engine and, using a sophisticated and realistic engine graphic, illustrates user performance. The lap reference is indicated by the “ghost” bike image and the performance relative to it can be downloaded to a database which collects all the laps made by Aprilia customers on each circuit.

· Adaptive race assistant:this provides advice in real time to safely achieve the best lap times. It uses the Aprilia Racing Department simulation technology to establish the ideal lap for each track, considering the various grip and rider skill levels. The application compares rider performance in real time and assists by immediately indicating the need to brake or accelerate.