Under this tag you will find articles related to patents and intellectual property filings within the motorcycle sector. This includes technical innovations, new engineering solutions and indications of potential future models or systems.
The list below brings together all content in which patent applications or related documents are discussed — ranging from engine and chassis concepts to electronic systems and design solutions.
A granted patent by US corporation Polaris describes a connected helmet that monitors the rider’s condition and communicates directly with the vehicle. If the system detects increasing fatigue, it can issue warnings and subsequently intervene in vehicle functions.
A new Yamaha patent ostensibly focuses on the arrangement of the ABS unit, but in the process reveals details about a street-legal electric sportbike. The drawings build on the track study Proto BEV and point to a model with a beam frame, AC fast charging and dimensions close to the YZF-R7.
A newly surfaced Moto Guzzi patent reveals a hybrid powertrain combining the V100 Mandello’s 1042 cc V-twin with a powerful electric motor. The filings suggest the brand aims to fill the gap left by the discontinuation of its large cruisers in 2020.
Harley-Davidson has filed two new word marks for motorcycles: Deadwood and Low Bob. Whether these will actually become production models remains open, but the filings offer early clues about the future direction of the model lineup.
Zero Motorcycles previewed the next generation of its electric motorcycles with the Lompico Concept at EICMA 2025. Now design patents at the EU trademark office indicate that the study is heading for production.
Chinese design registrations reveal the Morbidelli T125WR, a new 125cc dual-sport motorcycle with a dedicated off-road chassis, DOHC single-cylinder engine and aluminum swingarm. The model marks a clear departure from Morbidelli’s existing 125cc platform.
Simplicity is considered one of the key selling points of electric motorcycles: twist the throttle and go, without having to worry about gear shifting or clutch operation. Honda is now taking a step in the opposite direction with a new patent, adding exactly this complexity back in. The goal is not an end in itself, but rather more precise control over power delivery, particularly in competition use.
Chinese brand Voge is working on a higher-spec version of the RR500S with a single-sided swingarm. A new patent reveals an integrated air duct designed to solve a problem known for roughly 40 years: inadequate cooling of the rear brake.
Ducati patent describes an electric motorcycle with 17,000 to 20,000 rpm, a position sensor on the gearbox and chain drive for a narrow build.
A new BMW patent reveals a completely enclosed, teardrop-shaped two-wheeler with an unusual stabilisation system. The Munich-based manufacturer appears to be continuing its work on a vehicle class positioned somewhere between motorcycle and car.
Autoliv, the world’s largest supplier of passive vehicle safety systems, has filed a patent for a novel chin strap system for motorcycle helmets. The technology is based on the retractor mechanism from automotive seatbelts and is designed to automatically adjust the helmet strap and lock it in place upon impact.
Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Zongshen has filed a patent for an unusual three-wheeler. The concept combines a classic trike mode with a tilting mode and uses two rear wheels instead of the now-common two front wheel configuration.
TVS Motor Company has filed a design patent in India for a café racer version of the Ronin. The concept is based on a factory custom unveiled in late 2024 and could expand the lineup in the 250cc segment.
Kawasaki has patented a hydrogen motorcycle with four pressure tanks. What the concept means technically and why the project is unlikely to become a production model.
A new patent from CFMoto provides detailed insight into the development of a lightweight electric sports motorcycle. The documents show a design clearly focused on weight reduction and compact construction.
Yamaha has filed a patent for a swing arm with variable geometry. The design is intended to enable targeted changes to traction and cornering grip while riding.
A recent patent from Honda provides insight into a very simply designed electric motorcycle. The design suggests a vehicle that is specifically designed for low cost and simple technology.
Zongshen has filed patents for servo-assisted wheel hub steering in motorcycles. The design is based on the Cyclone RA1000, whose chassis layout is to be extensively modified for this purpose.
BMW has filed a patent describing the use of so-called Flettner rotors on motorcycles. The aim is to generate variable downforce and reduce the disadvantages of conventional winglets.
A new patent from Aprilia suggests that aerodynamic leg wings from MotoGP could also be used on production motorcycles in the future. The solution aims to improve aerodynamics when riding in a straight line and provide additional stability when leaning into corners.
