Stop-start system lowers fuel consumption

"Automatic stop-start has been seen mainly in the car segment until now," said SKF's Franco Ferro. "Although a relatively new solution it is becoming increasingly common across model ranges, because of the fuel saving advantages it delivers. With the launch of the StopGo solution, we are now bringing this technology to the two wheeler segment. This advance reaffirms our commitment to providing sustainable solutions and helping our customers and end-users reduce their carbon footprints." According to Ferro, the StopGo's design allows it to be customised as a ready-to-fit unit which can be assembled easily by both oems and as a retrofit for a range of motorcycles and scooters already on the road. The system can be applied to a variety of vehicles, independent of engine size. When the vehicle has stopped, the system automatically detects the lack of motion and after a predetermined, but programmable, interval shuts off the engine. The system immediately restarts the engine as soon as the throttle is opened. The StopGo is a three-in-one integrated sensor-bearing system that performs bearing, speed sensing and stop-start functions. The unit fits into the hub of the front wheel, in the same way as a standard bearing, and is connected by a standard connector to a mating unit attached to the engine electronics. As well as sensing the speed for the stop-start function, the module provides normal speed data for digital tachometers, which are becoming more preferred than analogue systems in new motorcycles and scooters. In addition, SKF says it offers weight savings of up to 60% compared with conventional front wheel bearing and speed sensing mechanisms.