A Definitive Guide to Motorised Two Wheelers

Impact of IoT on Two Wheeler Usage and Services

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Overview

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a system in which physical devices are connected to the internet through sensors and software, allowing them to collect and exchange data. In motorized two-wheelers, IoT enables motorcycles and scooters to connect with smartphones, cloud servers, and service networks. This connectivity has transformed two-wheelers from purely mechanical vehicles into digitally integrated mobility systems.

Today, IoT features are found in commuter motorcycles, premium sport bikes, electric scooters, adventure motorcycles, and commercial fleet vehicles. These features improve safety, convenience, maintenance planning, and overall riding experience.

Historical Development of Connected Two-Wheelers

Connected technology in two-wheelers began with digital dashboards and optional GPS tracking devices in the early 2010s. Premium brands such as BMW Motorrad introduced connected ride systems with integrated navigation and ride data. Ducati and KTM added smartphone connectivity features in performance motorcycles.

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BMW Motorrade
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Ducati / KTM Smartphone connectivity feature

As technology became more affordable, mid-range motorcycles and scooters also began offering connected features. Yamaha introduced Bluetooth-enabled dashboards in models such as the MT-15 and R15. TVS launched the SmartXonnect system, allowing riders to access navigation and call alerts. Hero MotoCorp introduced connected features in the Xpulse 200 and other models.
The rise of electric two-wheelers accelerated IoT adoption. Vehicles such as the Ather 450X, Ola S1, Bajaj Chetak EV, Harley-Davidson LiveWire, NIU electric scooters (China), and Super Soco models integrate advanced connectivity systems as standard equipment.

IoT Applications in Commuter Motorcycles

In commuter motorcycles, IoT features focus on practicality and convenience. Examples include:

  • TVS SmartXonnect (TVS Apache series) – turn-by-turn navigation, ride analytics, crash alerts
  • Hero Xpulse 200 4V – Bluetooth connectivity and navigation
  • Yamaha Y-Connect (R15, MT-15) – call/SMS alerts, ride history
  • Honda RoadSync (select models) – voice-assisted navigation
  • Bajaj Pulsar N series – connected instrument cluster.

These systems allow riders to receive notifications, track fuel efficiency, and monitor service schedules using smartphone applications.

IoT in Premium and Performance Motorcycles

Premium motorcycles use IoT for advanced rider assistance and performance monitoring. Examples include:

  • BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide – GPS navigation, ride data logging, emergency call systems
  • Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) – smartphone pairing and performance tracking
  • Kawasaki Rideology App – riding logs and vehicle status monitoring
  • KTM MyRide – music control and connectivity features
  • Harley-Davidson LiveWire – real-time diagnostics and OTA updates

These systems often integrate with traction control, riding modes, lean-angle sensors, and advanced safety electronics.

IoT in Electric Two-Wheelers

Electric two-wheelers rely heavily on IoT because battery and software management require continuous monitoring. Examples include:

  • BMW Motorrad ConnectedRide – GPS navigation, ride data logging, emergency call systems
  • Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) – smartphone pairing and performance tracking
  • Kawasaki Rideology App – riding logs and vehicle status monitoring
  • KTM MyRide – music control and connectivity features
  • Harley-Davidson LiveWire – real-time diagnostics and OTA updates

In these vehicles, the Battery Management System (BMS) tracks charging cycles, temperature, and range estimation. Users can check battery percentage and vehicle location remotely through mobile applications.

IoT in Adventure and Touring Motorcycles

Adventure motorcycles use IoT to enhance navigation and long-distance riding safety. Examples include:

  • BMW GS series – integrated navigation and ride modes.
  • Triumph Tiger series – Bluetooth connectivity and ride tracking.
  • Honda Africa Twin (newer models) – touchscreen display with smartphone integration.
  • Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 (new generation) – navigation-enabled dashboard.

These systems support route planning, terrain-based riding modes, and long-distance ride monitoring.

IoT in Fleet and Shared Mobility Two-Wheelers

IoT plays a critical role in commercial fleet operations and shared mobility services. Examples include:

  • App-based scooter rental platforms in Europe and the United States.
  • Delivery fleets using connected motorcycles for real-time tracking.
  • Electric scooter-sharing systems in Asian and European cities

IoT enables:

  • Remote vehicle locking and unlocking.
  • Real-time location tracking
    Predictive maintenance alerts.
  • Usage analytics and route optimisation

Fleet operators use telematics data to reduce downtime and improve operational efficiency.

Core Components of IoT Systems in Two-Wheelers

Across all categories, connected two-wheelers generally include:

  • Telematics Control Unit (TCU)
  • GPS tracking system
  • Speed and engine/battery sensors
  • Embedded SIM or wireless module
  • Cloud-based data platform
  • Mobile application interface

In advanced systems, over-the-air (OTA) software updates allow manufacturers to improve performance and fix issues remotely.

Effect of IoT on Usage Patterns

IoT has changed how riders interact with their vehicles. Riders can now monitor ride statistics, check vehicle health, locate parked vehicles, and receive crash alerts. Electric two-wheelers allow remote battery monitoring and charging updates.

Connected features also encourage safer riding behaviour by tracking speed patterns and braking intensity. In fleet services, IoT has enabled subscription-based mobility and app-controlled rentals.

Benefits and Challenges

BENEFITS

Benefits include improved convenience, enhanced safety, better maintenance planning, and support for electric mobility systems. Riders gain greater awareness of vehicle performance and usage.

Challenges

Challenges include higher vehicle costs, cybersecurity risks, dependence on network coverage, and concerns about user data privacy. Manufacturers must ensure secure data transmission and system reliability.

Conclusion

IoT has significantly transformed motorized two-wheelers across commuter, premium, electric, adventure, and fleet categories. From navigation-enabled commuter motorcycles to fully connected electric scooters and performance bikes with ride analytics, IoT has expanded the functional role of two-wheelers beyond transportation. As connectivity becomes standard worldwide, motorized two-wheelers are increasingly integrated into digital mobility ecosystems.

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Impact of IoT on Two Wheeler Usage and Services
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