Big Steps in Motorcycle Safety

The Future of Motorcycle Safety: Why New Tech Makes Riding Even Better

If you ride a motorcycle, you've probably heard it a thousand times: “Motorcycles are dangerous!” Usually, it’s from someone who has never twisted a throttle in their life. Sure, riding a bike comes with risks—so does eating gas station sushi. But just like sushi lovers know where to go for the best (and safest) experience, riders know that the right gear, training, and awareness make all the difference. And now, thanks to some impressive new technology, motorcycles are getting even safer without sacrificing an ounce of freedom.

Motorcycles with Car-Like Safety Features? It’s Happening.

For years, safety advancements in vehicles have focused on cars, trucks, and SUVs. Meanwhile, motorcyclists were left to rely on skill, experience, and maybe a guardian angel. But Indian Motorcycles has decided to change the game with a lineup of bikes featuring cutting-edge safety technology.

For 2025, the Indian Chieftain and Challenger come equipped with a safety suite that includes Blind Spot Warning, Rear Collision Warning, and Tailgate Warning. Sound familiar? That’s because these features are usually found in modern cars. But now, they’re making their way to two wheels—where they’re arguably needed even more.

Blind Spot Warning: Your New Best Friend

Every rider knows the “head check”—that quick glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. It’s a crucial habit, but now, Indian’s Blind Spot Warning system adds an extra layer of security. The system uses a small but highly visible indicator on the inside edge of the teardrop mirrors. If something—say, a car, another bike, or an overly ambitious squirrel—is lurking in your blind spot, you’ll get a visual cue.

Unlike the tiny, sometimes easy-to-miss lights on car side mirrors, this system provides a clear, noticeable alert without being intrusive. It’s the kind of safety feature that, once you use it, you’ll wonder how you ever rode without it.

Rear Collision Warning: Saving Your Bacon from Distracted Drivers

Ever been stopped at a red light, glancing nervously in your mirrors, hoping that the driver behind you sees you? Unfortunately, too many riders have stories about being rear-ended by inattentive drivers. Indian’s Rear Collision Warning system helps combat this common hazard by using a rear-mounted Bosch sensor to detect vehicles approaching too quickly.

If a car is closing in too fast, the system flashes the saddlebag-mounted brake lights to grab the driver’s attention. It won’t eliminate all rear-end collisions, but it significantly reduces the risk. Considering that motorcycles lack the crumple zones of cars, this could be a literal lifesaver.

Tailgate Warning: Because We’ve All Had That One Aggressive Driver Behind Us

Nothing makes a rider more uneasy than an impatient driver tailgating their rear tire like they’re trying to draft in MotoGP. Indian’s Tailgate Warning system gives riders a heads-up when a vehicle is following too closely. A two-stage indicator on the RIDE COMMAND infotainment system lets the rider know if someone is creeping up too aggressively.

Sure, we could always rely on the age-old technique of tapping the brake lever to flash our lights, but having a dedicated system monitoring our six gives us more peace of mind. Plus, it lets us focus on the ride rather than constantly checking the mirrors for that one guy in an SUV who’s “in a hurry.”

Bike Hold Control: No More Hill Start Struggles

Ever tried starting on an uphill with a heavy touring bike, only to feel that heart-stopping moment of rollback? Yeah, it’s not fun. Indian’s new Bike Hold Control functions like a hill-start assist system, holding the brakes for a few seconds so riders can get rolling without the dreaded backwards slide.

It’s especially useful for loaded-down touring bikes like the 2025 Indian Challenger, which tips the scales at 842 pounds. The last thing you want is to roll back into an impatient tailgater’s bumper. With this system, taking off from a steep stop is as easy as twisting the throttle and going—no panic required.

Technology Meets Freedom

Some riders might scoff at the idea of safety technology on a motorcycle. “I don’t need gadgets telling me how to ride!” they might say. And sure, there’s no substitute for skill and experience. But here’s the thing—these systems aren’t riding the bike for you. They’re just another tool in your arsenal, like a good helmet or a quality set of riding gloves.

Motorcycling is about freedom, but it doesn’t have to mean recklessness. The more tools we have to keep ourselves safe on the road, the more we can enjoy the ride. And let’s be honest—if technology can help prevent accidents without taking away from the thrill of riding, why wouldn’t we use it?

A Future of Safer Riding

The 2025 Indian Motorcycles safety suite is just the beginning. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovations aimed at keeping riders safe. Maybe one day, motorcycles will have adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist. Until then, these new features are a huge step forward.

So, the next time someone tells you that motorcycles are “too dangerous,” you can tell them about the latest safety advancements that are making riding better than ever. Then, twist the throttle, hit the open road, and enjoy the ride—because now, it’s safer than ever before.

…and if you ever need a Central Coast motorcycle accident attorney, we’re here to give you a free consultation.