Safety is above all, therefore, motorcycle manufacturers may soon be required to install emergency SOS call systems on motorcycles. Emergency call systems for cars and bikes have been around for a while, but they are not widely used so far. For example, the GM OnStar system automatically calls emergency services in case of an accident or breaking-in. A useful thing that can help, if there is no one around to call in for help.

The European initiative was called “eCall”. The main goal is to help all drivers who are in an emergency. Since April 2018, all new cars sold within the European Union will have to be equipped with an emergency call system. And this might come in handy when they mandate it for motorcycles as well.

BMW Motorrad is the first maker to introduce this SOS system on their motorcycles. Since 2017, they have started offering it as an option for some motorcycles. The system automatically sends signals via the mobile phone network module. It detects an accident, given its information from the lean angle, speed and acceleration sensors. The automatic SOS will last until the responders reach the spot. The automatic signal can also be cut off manually.

Similar systems exist in the US, Australia, Russia and other countries.