Since wheelies have always been awesome and will remain so.
The realm of motorcycles is currently amidst a full-blown tech renaissance From radar-assisted cruise control to features sensitive to bike performance nuances, modern motorcycles are equipped with more computational capabilities than certain laptop computers. Each passing month seems to introduce another rider assistance feature, sensor, or aerodynamically enhanced component aimed at helping riders achieve greater speed, safety, and intelligence while riding.
The newest inclusion to the expanding array of motorcycle technology is active winglets. Particularly, Kymco's take on them . Yes, that Kymco .
The Taiwanese company, renowned primarily for scooters and the odd innovative concept, is currently exploring adjustable aerodynamic features aimed at keeping the front wheel grounded when accelerating intensely. As reported recently, story from Cycle World 's Ben Purvis The system employs electrically controlled winglets that change their position based on the intensity at which you twist the throttle. This adjustment aims for increased downforce, reduced unexpected wheelies, and improved stability when cornering hard.
It's smooth. It’s ingenious. It's quick. And indeed, it all adds up perfectly, particularly as MotoGP machines are beginning to resemble aerial combat vehicles rather than traditional motorcycles.
However, purely for amusement, let's turn this concept upside down. What if rather than pushing the front downward, these winglets were engineered to raise it up? Picture a bicycle that intentionally assists you in performing a wheelie—the kind done with style and flair. The winglets would swing upwards when you start, lifting the front end towards the heavens as though reacting to an order fueled by Red Bull: " Send it .”
A preinstalled dope spinning attachment. An electronically managed mischievous toggle. A genuine continuous wheelie function. I'm into it.
Kymco's Supernex electric superbike features an active aerodynamics system aimed at keeping the front end stable...yawn.
Before anyone gets overly enthusiastic (or upset, appalled, etc.), let me clarify: This scenario isn't real. The genuine design from Kymco prioritizes performance and safety, drawing inspiration from MotoGP to boost rider confidence when pushing limits. Its purpose is maintaining grip on the front tire to enable stronger acceleration rather than showcasing stunts.
However, the thought experiment is too appealing not to consider. Plus, I adore my wheelies (and really, everyone should).
Nearly all modern superbikes come with factory-fitted winglets.
In theory, this concept isn't completely outlandish. Aerodynamics has some surprising capabilities. If downforce can hold the front wheel down, why not reverse it? Essentially, these wings resemble inverted aircraft wings designed to press the motorcycle onto the road and generate downward force. However, orienting them upwards or allowing them to function akin to an ascending plane might conceivably produce lift at the front end.
Lifting the front end enables a wheelie. Therefore, using the appropriate formula or code along with internal servos designed for this purpose, one could develop an Anti-Anti Wheelie mechanism or a Wheelie Ease feature. Many high-performance vehicles currently offer features like wheelie control, launch control, and drifting modes. Adding a playful "wheelie assistance" option would not seem out of place these days.
Nevertheless, the main discussion point isn't actually centered around winglets; instead, it revolves around the future direction of motorcycles. Even though these technologies are impressive, many riders may never find themselves needing them during typical rides. Features like adjustable winglets, six-axis inertial measurement units, and semi-active suspensions are all fantastic additions, yet they might be excessive for an ordinary leisurely weekend ride.
This encapsulates the irony of contemporary motorcycling. Despite having access to the most sophisticated motorcycles available, we often find ourselves trapped in congestion, navigating rough roads, or trailing behind a delivery vehicle at modest speeds. The technological advancements are impressive—yet, just how frequently do we get to take full advantage of them?
I'm a confirmed pro at executing wheelies.
So, too, is solusikaki.com's Executive Editor Jonathon Klein.
To some individuals, this aspect is actually appealing. They enjoy the fact that their bicycle is more advanced than them, providing support during challenging situations. However, for others, this feature is excessive. They long for the unfiltered, traditional experience offered by less sophisticated devices. These people prefer setups without digital displays or electronic sensors—just human, vehicle, and perhaps an unreliable tire selection.
Variety of preferences for various people.
Nevertheless, you have to acknowledge Kymco's innovation. The active aerodynamics is precisely what one would anticipate from them. Ducati or Aprilia —Not exactly known as a scooter powerhouse. Yet, they’re really pushing boundaries with their innovations. If they were to turn those winglets upside down and create a dedicated wheelie bike for everyone? Count me in for testing it out! Wheelies are one of my favorite things, so I usually attempt them whenever I lay hands on a new bicycle.
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Source: Cycle World