Is Harley-Davidson Adding Automatic Emergency Braking for its Bikes?

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), which scans the road and automatically deploys the brakes when a vehicle suddenly stops or slows down, might be the next safety feature that Harley-Davidson will add to its motorcycles.

This is because Harley-Davidson (HD) has filed a patent application for this system to use in its motorcycles. Automatic Emergency Braking works by utilizing different cameras, sensors, and LIDAR (or RADAR) to quickly scan the road for possible hazards. It then uses all the data it gathers to analyze if a collision is possible, and applies the brakes if the driver fails to react on time.

Despite its potential, AEB can also carry its own set of risks. One of these is applying the brakes suddenly without any warning. This can be dangerous, because it can cause riders to lose their balance, or possibly get thrown off the bike.

To make it safe, Harley-Davidson has added more sensors in seats, grips, and even cognitive sensors in the instrument panel and helmet. These will keep track of the rider's response level, and check whether he/she is paying attention.

Once the sensors determine that the rider is ready, it then activates the AEB. However, if the rider isn't ready yet, then different warning indicators will alert him/her in the form of warning lights on the mirrors, vibration on seat or from the handlebars, and audio and visual cues. The AEB might also apply the brakes in short intervals--just enough for the rider to notice the change in speed. If there's still no response, then the system will activate the AEB.

Harley-Davidson hasn't revealed which of its models would be fitted with the technology yet. Still, the fact that HD is working on it shows that it may happen sooner--or later. It's only a matter of time.