As we have seen in recent times, Yamaha never stops innovating. Proof of this is the discovery of recent patent applications made by the Japanese brand, in which details about a front camera and its hardware are revealed. It is not just about integrating the camera into the front of the bike, but they have developed a system that allows the cover that protects the camera to be easily removed in order to clean it.
As for actual utility, while one might initially think that this camera, described as a “detection device,” would be part of a driver assistance system for lane monitoring or frontal collision alerts, there are other possibilities as well.
And it also seems quite possible that its real function is to control an automatic high beam system. Kawasaki has already implemented a similar system on its H2 SX SE, using a front camera to manage it, which automatically switches between high and low beam at speeds above 20 km/h at night.
Although this type of technology has been used in cars for quite some time, the step forward represented by current sensors makes it much easier to implement in motorcycles, where it is not yet so common.
The patents reveal a motorcycle with dual headlights and an electrically adjustable windscreen. Thanks to the arrangement of the headlights, which are in parallel, the camera can be mounted between them, which avoids the need for extra brackets or accessories and would simplify the process in general terms.
The electric windscreen provides security for the camera
Interestingly, the electric windscreen plays a crucial role in the safety of the system. To prevent the camera from being so exposed and protect it from potential damage, Yamaha engineers have designed a transparent screen that blends seamlessly with the front of the bike, preventing dirt, bugs and other elements from reaching the lens.
This screen is secured with two quick-release screws, making it easy to clean both inside and out. However, this poses a safety issue, as the cover could easily be stolen by thieves, and this is where the electric windscreen comes into play. In a perfect move by Yamaha, the cover screws are only accessible when the windscreen is in its highest position. When the bike is parked and turned off, the windscreen lowers, covering the screws and solving the safety issue.
Now we just have to wait and see when this new Yamaha with a camera will arrive and if, in fact, the system is on track to do what the patents suggest. What we do know is that an updated Ténéré 700 is expected by 2025, and that it could be the perfect candidate to equip it either as standard or as an extra.
