Honda develops an innovative solution for sidecars
Honda, a renowned automobile brand, is working on an innovative project aimed at solving some of the common challenges associated with motorcycle sidecars. This concept is based on an electric-assist sidecar designed to improve maneuverability and stability, thus addressing the main difficulties faced by drivers using such equipment.
History of sidecars
Initially attached to bicycles, sidecars became popular in the early 20th century, allowing motorcycles to carry more passengers and cargo. However, with the advent of affordable automobiles like the Ford Model T, sidecars began to lose their popularity. Although they were widely used until World War II, the emergence of cheaper, mass-produced cars in the 1950s almost eliminated their need. Today, sidecars are rarely seen on the road, and few motorcyclists have experience with them. However, their handling problems are well-known.
The imbalance caused by the sidecar leads to asymmetrical handling. During acceleration, traction only occurs on one side wheel, creating a steering effect that the driver must compensate for. Braking is even more complex, especially if the sidecar wheel is not equipped with a braking system, which can cause the bike to veer off. Additionally, in corners, the vehicle’s behavior changes significantly due to the uneven weight distribution and the inability to lean the bike, a crucial element for safe and effective riding.
Honda’s electric solution
Honda’s new proposal, presented through a patent, aims to mitigate or eliminate many of these issues with an electric-assist sidecar. The idea is similar to existing projects for electric trailers for cars and bicycles, where the wheels have their own propulsion and braking systems, adjusting to the load and movement requirements. In the case of the sidecar, Honda proposes installing load sensors on the two supports connecting the sidecar to the bike. These sensors send information to a control unit located in the sidecar itself, which activates an electric motor responsible for driving the side wheel.
Thus, when the bike accelerates and the sensor detects a deviation, the sidecar’s motor activates to balance the forces. Similarly, during braking, the system detects the opposite deviation and adjusts the braking of the sidecar wheel to maintain stability.
Improving cornering
In corners, the system also intervenes automatically. In a right turn, the sensors perceive the deviation and brake the sidecar wheel to help pull the bike into the turn. In left turns, the process is reversed, with the sidecar wheel accelerating to compensate for the bike’s lean. Although this system does not allow the bike to lean as in normal riding, it promises much more stable handling compared to traditional sidecars.
The future of sidecars
Although Honda’s innovation is still at the patent stage and there is no guarantee it will reach the market, the development of this concept demonstrates the brand’s commitment to finding solutions to longstanding engineering challenges. The question is whether there is a sufficiently large market to justify large-scale production of electric-assist sidecars. However, for motorcycle enthusiasts and those looking for a more versatile transport solution, this proposal could bring a fresh breath to the two-wheel industry.
