Motorcycle Airbags as Lifesavers

Motorcycles are popular vehicles because they are fast, convenient, and cool. But this comes at a price: they are dangerously prone to accidents. Indeed, motorcycles are more likely to be involved in road accidents compared to any other type of vehicle. That is why many researchers are finding ways in order to make motorcycles safer.

One solution is the fuel-tank mounted motorcycle airbag similar to the ones used in automobiles. Because accidents happen very quickly and the rider might not have time to instinctively react to protect himself, a motorcycle airbag that is deployed quickly can be a lifesaver by absorbing the force of the rider. Sensitive crash sensors that are mounted on the front wheel transmit data to the airbag's electronic control unit. The unit activates the airbag's inflator. All this action happens in just a fraction of a second.

Motorcycle airbags were first conceptualised and tested in the early 70s. Two decades later, tests showed that airbags are effective in lessening a thrown-out rider's trajectory and velocity. Additional tests also indicate that these safety devices can lower the risk of head injuries by 83 percent.

Another type of motorcycle airbag being developed is one that can be worn, the inflatable jacket. The rider wearing the jacket tethers the garment to the motorcycle. If a collision causes him to be thrown over and the tether is disengaged, the jacket will automatically inflate within a fraction of a second. In addition to the jacket's foam padding, this provides a cushion for the rider when he crashes on the ground.

Although these technologies are still uncommon in the market, their lifesaving potential cannot be ignored. Soon, they may become requirements and may be applied to other similar vehicles such as ATVs, jet skis, and go-carts.