TRAVERSE Issue 43 - August 2024 | Seite 37

TRAVERSE 37

NEWS

BMW AUTOMATED SHIFT ASSISTANT

With the new Automated Shift Assistant ( ASA ), BMW Motorrad presents an innovative technical solution that makes riding simpler and more comfortable . True to the motto " Simplify your ride ", the riding experience is further enhanced by the automation of the clutch and gearshifting , without sacrificing the emotionally important dynamics of shifting .
The Automated Shift Assistant features a clever functional design in which two electromechanical actuators automate the clutch and gearshift of the sixspeed transmission , which is the main difference to a conventional shift assistant . There is no need for a hand lever to operate the clutch manually . Starting , stopping and manoeuvring are made easy with the Automated Shift Assistant .
Riding with the Automated Shift Assistant also becomes more enjoyable thanks to fast , rev- and loadadapted shift sequences and the resulting precise gear changes . The rider ' s workload is reduced , which makes riding even more enjoyable . In addition , the Automated Shift Assistant 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 .
In ' M ' shift mode , gear changes can still be made by foot control , allowing the rider to decide when to change gears .
In ' D ' shift mode , the Automatic Shift Assistant really comes into its own . Shift points are automatically selected by the engine control unit . In both " M " and " D " modes , the rider benefits from perfectly executed gear changes with a smooth interruption of traction . The result is efficient motorcycle acceleration and increased riding stability .
When shifting up , for example , the jolt associated with a classic manual transmission with a manual clutch is largely eliminated , as is the risk of helmet contact between rider and passenger .
Downshifts are also designed to be as smooth as possible , minimising chassis disturbances . Specific characteristics of the automated shift function are assigned to the different riding modes to ensure perfect shift behaviour in each riding situation . In combination with Active Cruise Control or front collision warning , the networking of functions also brings the future of motorcycling to life .
In difficult riding situations , using the clutch and throttle takes a lot of concentration . If you are travelling with luggage and perhaps a passenger , using the clutch and gearshift takes up resources . The rider remains in control and has more freedom in every riding situation with the Automated Shift Assistant . Riding becomes a more relaxed and enjoyable experience .
The powerful boxer engine enables almost effortless pulling away on uphill gradients , for example , thanks to automated clutch operation , which also pays dividends in terms of better vehicle control off-road or on difficult surfaces .
Riding pleasure takes on a whole new meaning when you choose the automated D mode . Optimally selected gear changes create a new riding sensation with a more intense driving experience . The right gear is automatically selected according to the rider ' s individual riding needs , resulting in a harmonious and extremely smooth driving experience .
The Automated Shift Assistant is the logical and technical evolution of the BMW Motorrad Shift Assistant Pro . Two electronically controlled electromechanical actuators operate the clutch and gearshift , enabling easy starting and automated gear changes . The rider ' s shift request is transmitted to the control unit via a gearshift lever sensor , which is actuated by the conventional footoperated 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 to 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 .
In manual shift mode " M ", the rider can move the gearshift lever in the desired direction in the usual way . 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 shift mode " D " the gears are changed automatically depending on the riding mode , engine revs , throttle position and lean angle parameters . Gears are shifted according to the riding situation and dynamic requirements .
TRAVERSE 37