Robotic Motorcyclist Targets Performance, Safety Improvements

Yamaha Motor Co. is developing a human-like robot to help develop better motorcycles in the future. Nicknamed “Motobot,” the android is designed to autonomously steer, accelerate, brake and shift an unmodified Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle.

The robot has an internal data analysis system that processes information from its own sensors and inputs from the motorcycle’s existing electronic control units. The bike is fitted with outrigger skid pads as a safety precaution.

By year end, Yamaha aims to have Motobot ride on its own at speeds as high as 60 mph in a straight line, complete a slalom course and to be able to negotiate high-speed turns. Within two years, the company hopes to complete a lap on a racetrack at 120 mph.

Yamaha also is planning a next-generation robot that will use artificial intelligence to run on complex racetracks and improve its performance over time. This would allow the humanoid drivers to find the best racing lines to take around a track, make decisions based on track conditions and improve their response to other drivers, according to the company. 

Yamaha expects Motobot to eventually to be able to beat the world’s top motorcycle drivers in head-to-head competition, including nine-time MotoGP champ Valentino Rossi, who rode a Yamaha YZR-M1 to victory this year.

Yamaha envisions adapting Motobot for other vehicles, such as snowmobiles and personal watercraft boats.