Anti-Wheelie System, Controls and Lighting: ARAS to the Aid of Motorcyclists

The group of motorcyclists, like pedestrians, is among the most vulnerable on the road. The risk of fatality is 17 times higher than that of a car driver, making their accident rate a significant concern. According to data from the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT), 299 motorcyclists lost their lives on Spanish roads in 2023, a worrying figure for the sector, the highest in years. The year 2024 was no better, with 300 fatalities - 289 on motorcycles and 11 on mopeds - and a high percentage on interurban roads. The numbers do not look promising for 2025 either. Up to May 6th this year, 81 fatalities have already been recorded on Spanish interurban roads, compared to 82 in the same period of 2024.

To ensure the safety of these users, they themselves must pay special attention to the condition of their motorcycle, the road, and their gear. Appropriate clothing - visible colours, reflective materials, and protective gear - a certified helmet, and gloves are fundamental. The DGT also promotes the use of airbag vests, the latest in passive safety. However, active safety also plays a crucial role in assisting motorcyclists.

Technology and electronics are now a plus in modern motorcycles. There are well-known systems such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS) or combined braking systems (CBS); others include traction and stability control, adaptive lights, or side visibility assistance; as well as systems shared with cars like adaptive cruise control, lane change assist, or blind spot detection. Specific to motorcycles is the 'anti-wheelie' system, which prevents motorcycles from lifting their front wheel off the ground during acceleration or their rear wheel during sudden braking. When the system detects a potential lift, it intervenes by regulating engine power or acting on the braking system to maintain stability.

All these are advanced rider assistance systems, or ARAS, designed to make riding a modern motorcycle a safe activity. These systems were highlighted by the director of the DGT's Road Safety Observatory, Álvaro Gómez, alongside the secretary-general of the National Association of Two-Wheel Sector Companies (Anesdor), Jose María Riaño, and the director of the Prevention and Road Safety Area of the Mapfre Foundation, Jesús Monclús, during a presentation yesterday at the DGT headquarters in Madrid. The launch of an informative campaign was announced, which will be available on the communication channels of the three organisations - websites and social media. The campaign includes a guide with information on the operation and benefits of ARAS and a series of ten dedicated videos to be released weekly. The videos feature Dani Pedrosa, a three-time World Motorcycle Championship winner in the 125cc and 250cc categories, and Ramón Forcada, a mechanical engineer and technical director in several MotoGP teams for over 30 years.

Both motorcycle experts clearly and simply explain the technological solutions incorporated in new motorcycle models, how they are applied, and how they can assist two-wheel users during riding.

"We need to raise awareness of the advantages of having these devices activated during riding, which have been mandatory for vehicles registered since last July," highlighted Álvaro Gómez. "We believe these systems can reduce serious and fatal accidents by approximately 30%, saving around 150 lives and preventing 1,000 hospitalisations annually," concluded Jesús Monclús.