Honda recently patented its new anti-topple technology for the Gold Wing. And if you thought that’s impressive, the bikemaker has already bettered it with a ‘jump control’ rider aid. No, that’s not the official name, but we call it that because the system lets you fly around on your motorcycle, albeit in a controlled manner. It’s not a system you’d see on every Honda motorcycle, however.

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The Honda Jump Control Works Via A Front Camera System

Honda Africa Twin CRF1100L riding shot
Honda

According to the patent, the system works via a nose-mounted camera and an image-processing computer. The two, together with the IMU, understand the slope up front and decide how much intervention is needed, depending on the mode you choose. Speaking of which, there are three modes - A, B, C - where A has the highest intervention and C the least. So when in A mode, the rider aid will cut power as you approach the slope to help you stay in touch with the tarmac.

The B mode is a bit smarter, as it lets you jump but cuts power or applies the rear brake on its own to keep the motorcycle in control. Meanwhile, the IMU monitors the horizontal tilt and intervenes accordingly to keep the motorcycle as flat as possible. We also believe there will be different settings that will let you control the air time distance. Finally, the C mode has the least intervention, so you can fly around higher, further, and even land on the rear wheel. It will kick in if things go south (according to the sensors), though.

2022 Africa Twin
Honda

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From the patent, it’s safe to say this will come in pretty handy for you if you have no prior jumping experience. Or even for mildly experienced folks who have jumped, but are afraid to progress upwards. Not to mention, if the calibration is on point, even experienced riders can leave it in the C mode and enjoy life–similar to a well-calibrated wheelie control or traction control.

Which Honda Motorcycles Could Feature The Jump Control?

Red 2023 Honda CRF300L Rally in the woods
Honda

The usual contenders would be Honda’s off-road-specific offerings, the Africa Twin, and the CRF300 Rally. We believe the former will be the first to feature this tech, considering Honda has already patented a front camera system on it, albeit for active rider aids. If so, this will give the ADV an upper hand against its rivals, which it desperately needs. Meanwhile, the patent shows the Dakar-spec CRF450 Rally, so it’s likely the system will first debut on racers, then the road-going lineup. In related news, Honda is also working on an autopilot system that will even do the turning for you!