BMW Motorrad’s newly introduced Automated Shift Assistant, also referred to as ASA, represents an advanced technical solution aimed at making the motorcycling experience better by ensuring comfort. By automating clutch engagement and gear transitions, it elevates the riding experience without sacrificing the emotional connection associated with shifting in the BMW gear system. This automated shift assistant is a natural progression and technical advancement from the BMW Motorrad Shift Assistant Pro.
Automating clutch control and gear shifting delivers a totally new riding experience.
The Automated Shift Assistant stands out due to its smart design, utilizing two electromechanical actuators to manage clutch operations and shifting in a standard six-speed transmission. Since a manual clutch lever isn't necessary with the BMW gear system, starting, stopping, and riding in general becomes effortless and more enjoyable. This allows riders to concentrate more on the experience, thanks to the ASA's quick and automatic gear shifts based on rev speed and load. The Automated Shift Assistant fosters a stronger connection to the robust boxer engine, as accurate clutch management enhances control over riding enjoyment through the throttle grip and gear shift lever with a BMW gear system.
In “M” shifting mode, the rider engages gear changes using the footshift lever with the BMW gear system and determines the timing for shifting. If the RPM in the rider's chosen gear falls within the upper or lower acceptable limits, the shifting is done manually by the rider. However, when the RPM dips below a gear-specific minimum, the system automatically downshifts in manual mode to prevent engine stalling.
The Automated Shift Assistant truly comes into its own in “D” shift mode. It performs automated gear transitions with extreme precision and minimal disruption to traction, leading to more efficient acceleration of the motorcycle within the BMW Gear system. For instance, when upshifting, the shifting jolt produced by the traditional manual transmission is largely avoided, eliminating the risk of helmet contact between the rider and passenger. And, thanks to the powerful boxer engine, riding off is also easy on off-road terrain and on inclines with improved motorcycle control. In 'Dynamic' mode, the emphasis is on riding enjoyment.
The ASA isn’t just about enhancing performance; it's designed to amplify comfort for the rider. By seamlessly automating the gear-shifting process, it reduces rider fatigue, making long journeys or intense rides much more manageable. Whether you're cruising through the city or navigating winding roads, the Automated Shift Assistant offers an intuitive experience, giving you the freedom to focus entirely on the road ahead.
Downshifting is very smooth to create as little disruption as possible in the suspension. Different riding modes optimize shifting and, combined with adaptive cruise control or front collision warning, bring the future of motorcycling alive today. Riding with the Automated Shift Assistant is also more relaxed, as operating the clutch lever and throttle twist grip needs less concentration, allowing the rider to focus on the riding situation.
Two electronically controlled electromechanical actuators control the clutch and gearshift mechanism, simplifying riding off and automating shifting. The rider's requested gearshift is transmitted to the control by a gearshift lever sensor, actuated by the conventional footshift lever. Additional sensors determine the rev speed of the transmission input shaft and the clutch position. These values are transmitted to the TCU (Transmission Control Unit), which is closely linked to the engine control unit, for clutch modelling and control, shift actuation and status control. The clutch is actuated by an electromechanical actuator combined with a hydraulic system with a direct hydraulic link between the clutch encoder and slave cylinder. The actuator regulates the required clutch slip and actuates the clutch during shifting, and opens it when stopping.
No need for clutch control by the rider
Dynamic and comfortable shifting for an even more intense motorcycling experience
Automated or manual shifting selection
Automatic adjustment of the shifting action to the rider’s desire for a more dynamic riding style in automated D mode.
Avoidance of engine stalling caused by poor gear shifting.