Honda is a pioneer in the incorporation of the airbag to the motorcycle. And for sample the GL1800 Gold Wing. Well, in view of the patents recently registered by the Japanese brand, it seems that the development of new airbag systems is being taken very seriously.
The Wold Wing’s airbag has proven to be effective in frontal impacts, especially since the rider is located in a low position with respect to the bike. But in side or rear accidents it loses effectiveness. And on more sporty motorcycles, when the driver is in a higher position, he tends to be thrown.
On the other hand, garments equipped with an airbag offer a high level of protection. But they are subject to a limited size as they are integrated into certain garments, whether made of leather or fabric.
In view of this, Honda is patenting various systems where the airbag is implemented in the motorcycle seat, surrounds the driver when it is activated, and accompanies him when he is ejected in an accident. There are several provisions, which suggests that a lot of money is being invested in its development.
For example, in one of the projects the airbag comes out of the front of the seat and completely surrounds the pilot. When riding the motorcycle, the inflation mechanism and power can be like that of a car, that is, very high. Which would allow time for it to inflate and heat seal before the user collided with something.
In another patent, the airbag deploys from the rear, trapping the driver.
There are several ways that the airbag can have when deployed, but they all share the idea of enveloping the driver as much as possible before being ejected in an accident.
These designs are in an embryonic stage. And at the moment they do not take into account a possible second occupant on the motorcycle. Be that as it may, Honda has declared on several occasions that by the year 2050 it intends to achieve zero fatalities in accidents on its motorcycles. An ambitious challenge that implies a great development and economic deployment. That is why we take it for granted that it is working in multiple areas: airbag, autonomous driving, etc.
