Traveling a mile on a motorcycle carries a much higher risk of death or injury than driving the same distance in a car. US data combines all vehicle occupants in a trip to calculate the number of fatalities per vehicle mile; in 2006 US motorcyclists had a risk of a fatal crash that was 35 times greater than that of passenger cars, based on 390 motorcyclist deaths per billion vehicles miles and 11.1 car fatalities for that distance – NHTSA’s National Center for Statistics and Analysis (2007).
How does the motorcycle airbag work?
The concept shows an airbag system with an ejection seat. The designers say that the idea is that “the airbag deploys only if the motorcycle is traveling at a certain speed and various motion sensors, gyroscopes detect a sudden deceleration, acceleration (if hit from behind) or loss of balance that would not be correctable by a human.”
They go on to add that, “The belt system would secure the ejection seat to the rider and also secure the airbags wrapped around the rider. It would automatically unfasten in a crash that is not severe enough to warrant a system deployment (to allow the rider to jump off the bike) or if the rider tries to stand up from the bike while it is stopped.”
We asked people if they would use it
The concept has received mixed reactions on social media, with some being outright hilarious:
“Great idea if you’re going on a camping trip ! … have a few beers before you go , find your pitch on the site , pull brakes hard ….. Tada !!! You’re in bed” – Darren Butts
Another citing concerns like:
“Easier for thieves to hijack your cycle.
Pull you off and you’re nothing more but a giant marshmallow whilst helplessly watching your bike being ridden away.” – Vinh Thai
Many people think that it could actually be helpful if they can make it work. However, apart from a 3D animation video, there are not many details as to how the system would work.
On their website, the designers mention that they are looking for investors, engineers who can work with them to bring the idea to life. If that does happen, it could revolutionize motorcycle safety, and help prevent serious injuries during a crash.
