BMW Motorrad has launched the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) for some of its models, with the riding assistance technology removing the need for a hand lever to operate the clutch manually.
BMW Motorrad says the ASA delivers fast, rev- and load-adapted shift sequences and ‘. . . creates an even more direct connection with the powerful boxer engine, as the precise clutch actuation makes it even easier to control the riding experience via the throttle grip and gearshift lever.’
The ASA system works via two electronically controlled electromechanical actuators which operate the clutch and gearshift. The rider’s shift request is transmitted to the control unit via a gearshift lever sensor, which is actuated by the conventional foot-operated gearshift lever.
Additional sensors determine the revs of the transmission input shaft and the clutch position. These values are transmitted to the TCU (Transmission Control Unit), which is closely linked with the engine control unit, for modelling and control of the clutch, shift actuation and status.
The clutch is operated by an electro-mechanical actuator combined with a hydraulic system with a direct hydraulic connection between the clutch master and slave cylinders. The actuator regulates the required clutch slip, engages the clutch when changing gear and disengages it when stopping.
There are two modes for the rider – ‘M’ and ‘D’ – and the company says that in ‘M’ shift mode, gear changes can still be made by foot control, enabling the rider to decide when to change gears. In ‘D’ shift mode, shift points are automatically selected by the engine control unit.
In M mode, the rider can move the gearshift lever in the typical manner. If the revs in the desired target gear are within the maximum or minimum rev range, the shift is made directly. If the engine revs fall below a gear-dependent minimum speed, downshifts are also performed automatically in manual mode. This prevents the engine from stalling.
In D mode, the gears are changed automatically depending on riding mode, engine revs, throttle position and lean angle parameters.
ASA will be rolled out on new models bound for Australia, with further details to be announced later this year.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (June 2024)
26 June 2024