Motorcycle specifications HondaGL 1800 GOLDWING avec AIRBAG 2011 The first motorcycle AIRBAG

A big first for Honda, which is presenting the first motorcycle equipped with an AIRBAG. This is no longer a project or a utopia, but a reality that will arrive in 2007; and it's the sumptuous 1800 Goldwing tourer that has been chosen as the standard-bearer for this technology.
After a study of 2-wheeler accidents, it was found that a head-on collision occurred in the vast majority of accidents. Honda therefore launched a program to create a system for absorbing energy during impact. The manufacturer began developing this system in the 90s, and a prototype was installed in a Goldwing 1500 at the end of that decade. It was also adapted to a prototype of the big Silverwing scooter in 2004, and finally made operational on the GL 1800, which appeared in 2007.

The system comprises the airbag itself, an electronic control unit and a series of sensors.

- The airbag is similar to that used in automobiles. Positioned in a housing on top of the fuel tank, it inflates on impact using pressurized gas housed in a cylinder. The bag is secured to the motorcycle by 2 straps, and its characteristic shape prevents the rider from sliding down either side.

- The electronic control unit constantly receives information from the sensors on the fork tubes and compares it with the data stored in its memory. For greatersecurity, the information transmitted is processed independently for each sensor. Any significant change in data triggers airbag inflation.

- Dual sensors are mounted on each fork leg. Located at the optimum point for impact detection, these 4 elements can be adapted without the need to modify the fork.

- In the event of a frontal impact, the airbag deploys and absorbs kinetic energy in approximately 0.15 sec.

Honda's AIRBAG system increases your bill by just over 2 plates. A substantial sum in absolute terms, but one that won't be felt much on a machine costing over €30,000 in 2009 - that's almost 12% more on the bill. The price of exclusivity, safety, or the panache of a forerunner?

M.B - manufacturer's photos