The automated shift assistant (ASA)
The new BMW Motorrad automated shift assistant – abbreviated to ASA – is an innovative technical solution to simplify motorcycling, at the same time making it more comfortable. Automating clutch control and gear shifting intensifies the riding experience without foregoing the crucially emotional dynamics of the shifting action itself. This automated shift assistant is the logical and technical evolution of the BMW Motorrad shift assistant Pro.
Automating clutch control and gear shifting delivers a totally new riding experience.
More enjoyment, less stress
The automated shift assistant cannot fail to impress with its clever functional design whereby two electromechanical actuators automate clutch control and shifting of the conventional six-speed transmission. There is no need for a manual clutch control lever, which makes starting, stopping and manoeuvring a breeze. There is also greater focus on the riding experience per se with the automated shift assistant (ASA) due to its fast, rev speed- and load-based gear changes. The automated shift assistant also creates an even more direct link to the powerful boxer engine, as precise clutch control makes it even easier to control riding enjoyment using the throttle grip and gearshift lever.
“M” shift mode
In “M” shift mode, the rider changes gear, as before, using the footshift lever. They can therefore decide when to shift gear. If the rev speed in their preferred gear is within the maximum or minimum rev speed, then the shifting action is performed directly. If the rev speed drops below a gear-dependent minimum rev speed, then downshifting is also automatic in manual mode, which prevents the engine from stalling.
“D” shift mode
The automated shift assistant truly comes into its own in “D” shift mode. Perfectly executed automated gear changes with smooth interruption of traction result in efficient acceleration of the motorcycle and contribute to increased riding stability. 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 much easier on off-road terrain and on inclines with improved motorcycle control. In 'Dynamic' mode, the emphasis is very much on riding enjoyment.
Relaxed riding with full control
Downshifting is also very smooth to create as little disruption as possible in the suspension. Different riding modes guarantee perfect 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 and can be experienced more intensely, as operating the clutch lever and throttle twist grip needs less concentration, without the rider losing control of the riding situation.
Electromechanical actuators for the clutch and gearshift mechanism combined with ingenious electronic control.
"Transmission Control Unit
Transmission Control Unit
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, actuates the clutch during shifting, and opens it when stopping.
Benefits of the automated shift assistant (ASA) at a glance
- 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.
