Bosch consolidates its motorcycle business

German company Bosch, a major supplier to the motorcycle industry with a componentry like anti-lock braking systems, will now pool all its motorcycle activities together into one business unit called “Two-Wheeler and Powersports.”

That means all its current business units like safety systems, powertrain technology and display instruments will fall under the one umbrella, with the objective to address the individual requirements of motorcycle manufacturers worldwide even more effectively.

Moreover, Bosch is looking to expand its product portfolio and strengthen its expertise in two-wheeler system solutions, with the business headquartered in Yokohama, Japan.

“Bosch technology for more efficiency and safety should be part of any car, and in the future, the same will go for motorcycles,” says Dr. Dirk Hoheisel, member of the board of management at Robert Bosch GmbH. “We are aiming to become a leading supplier in the motorcycle market, too.”

In addition to powered two-wheelers, it is planned that the new business unit will serve the market for special-purpose vehicles such as ATVs, personal watercraft, and snowmobiles.

Studies indicate that by 2021, more than 160 million two-wheelers will be produced annually – a third more than today.

“The portion of the market relevant for Bosch, which covers driving safety systems, powertrain technology, and displays and infotainment systems, will double over the next five years,” Hoheisel said.

As well as continuing to expand its anti-lock braking and stability control functions, the new business unit's portfolio will also include electronically controlled injection systems (a big focus on small-capacity motorcycles in Asia), powertrain components for electric two-wheelers and interfaces for connecting motorcycles with smartphones or tablets as well as connected cloud services.