While high-performance sports motorcycles are all about powerful engines and lightweight platforms, suspension plays a crucial role in ensuring that these machines are capable of achieving fantastic lap times. After all, what good are 200 hp if we can’t navigate the curves at incredible speeds? In addition to all the R&D that goes into engines, frames, and brakes, improving the performance of suspension components is something that keeps engineers and enthusiasts busy.
Needless to say, Öhlins is one of the most respected brands when it comes to suspension – whether for cars, motorcycles, off-road vehicles, or even bicycles. As such, it is not surprising that Öhlins is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to all things suspension-related. Case in point: the new SmartEC3, their latest semi-active suspension system designed for top-of-the-line superbikes. The brand-new system is not just a concept either. In fact, it made its debut at the 2023 EICMA on the 2024 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
So yes, the Honda Fireblade SP is the first and so far the only production motorcycle to feature Öhlins’ brand-new SmartEC3 system. So, what makes it so special? Well, for starters, the SmartEC3 combines world-class suspension components with top-of-the-line electronic controls. If Öhlins’ manually adjustable suspension systems are already considered some of the best in the world, imagine what they could do if they could react to the rider’s actions, the terrain, and the braking and acceleration forces at any given moment. In fact, this is where the “Smart” in SmartEC3 comes in.
The Öhlins engineers have created a setup that continuously optimizes damping based on the bike’s behavior and rider input. In total, the SmartEC3 offers four semi-active suspension algorithms consisting of Sport, Track, Rain, and Manual. All of these settings can be selected in real-time and adjust the suspension’s performance according to the rider’s preferences.
The way it works is through the sophisticated Öhlins Objective Base Tuning Interface, or OBTi. The system facilitates suspension adjustments that take into account braking, weight transfer, and acceleration. Inspired by MotoGP rear ride height devices, the system improves cornering grip as well as optimizes traction during braking and strong accelerations. Specifically, OBTi adjusts weight transfer during acceleration by lowering the motorcycle’s center of gravity. This improves traction on the rear wheel while avoiding wheelies. Meanwhile, the updated algorithms can also adjust suspension settings based on the rider’s weight, suggesting preload and optimizing damping for better performance.
