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 comfortable. Automating clutch control and gear shifting intensifies the riding experience without foregoing the emotional dynamics of shifting. The automated shift assistant is the logical and technical evolution of 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 is impressive with its clever functional design where two electromechanical actuators automate clutch control and shifting of a conventional six-speed transmission. There is no need for a manual clutch control lever, which makes starting, stopping and maneuvering a breeze. This allows a greater focus on the riding experience with the automated shift assistant (ASA) due to its fast, rev speed- and load-based gear changes. The Automated Shift Assistant creates a 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 using the footshift lever and can decide when to shift gears. If the RPM in the rider's preferred gear is within the maximum or minimum RPM, then the shifting action is performed directly by the rider. If the RPM drops below a gear-dependent minimum RPM, then downshifting is 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. Precisely 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 easy on off-road terrain and on inclines with improved motorcycle control. In 'Dynamic' mode, the emphasis is on riding enjoyment.
Relaxed riding with full control
Downshifting is very smooth to create as little disruption as possible in the suspension. Different riding modes optimize 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, as operating the clutch lever and throttle twist grip needs less concentration, allowing the rider to focus on 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 and actuates the clutch during shifting, and opens it when stopping.
Benefits of 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.
