German simulator specialist VI-grade GmbH is developing a somewhat revolutionary simulator rig in which the rider is offered a much more realistic driving experience. The system features a real motorcycle attached to the surface with hydraulic ramps, enabling the rider to lean and pitch the bike.
But this is not the plastic motorcycle you find at your local arcade hall. Instead, the tech company has developed a system that resembles riding forces by strapping eight cords to the rider’s back. The cords pull the rider in a different direction using actuators mounted under the simulator platform. Actions such as accelerating, braking, cornering, weather conditions and vibrations can be reproduced much better in this high-end simulator, giving the rider a more real-life experience, and giving scientists and developers the data they need to develop better motorcycles.
The buyers of this kind of technology are likely to be found among motorcycle manufacturers and MotoGP teams. Manufacturers could use the simulators to test different bike designs under different terrain and weather circumstances instead of shipping prototype bikes to different parts around the world to have them test-driven by pilots.
Professional motorcycle racing teams are also increasingly interested in simulators. During the last couple of years, E-sports and simulators have become handy tools for F1 and MotoGP teams to practice off the tracks, saving time and money in the process.
