BMW fills patent for adjustable width seat

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Motorrad is working on a unique idea, adjustable-width saddle as suggested by the new patent. Meaning the German company will develop a seat that’s adjustable for both width and height.

It is indeed a very simple idea and it’s surprising that no one ever thought of it. The market is filled with width-adjustable saddles for bicycles that accommodate a variety of posteriors, so why not have the same level of adaptability for high-end motorcycles?

Currently, adjustable-height seats and kits are widely offered by motorcycle brands, but when it comes to offering broader seats, we find none. Except for options available in accessories catalogs and with aftermarket suppliers. Meaning there’s a market for such offerings.

BMW Motorrad’s latest patent application reveals a very cheap and easy saddle with added capability. The pictures you see here are self-explanatory, depicting a three-piece saddle, shaped like foam. The front section is fixed, while the two behind it are movable. In standard mode, it appears like a normal seat, however, once the cover is stripped off, we see two back elements that can be pivoted from their respective outer front corners. So, the rear halves can be pushed outward by a couple of inches making the seat significantly wider.

The patent says, “on motorcycles, the seat bench forms one of the direct attachment points between man and machine, and therefore plays an important role when it comes to comfort.”

It is important to note that given the goal of a quick and easy adjustment, the main focus is on a version of the width-adjustable seat that uses threaded fasteners to fix it into place.

Further, the patent does suggest that other ideas are in consideration as well, saying, “a further aspect of the invention provides that the adjusting device can be actuated electrically and/or manually. Accordingly, the adjusting device comprises an electric motor and/or a mechanical mechanism, by means of which the two pivoting sections can be pivoted.”

It is further noted that BMW has been among the first car companies to develop active seat technologies. For instance, they were the first to offer massage seats, ventilated seats, not to forget the 5 Series’ active seat bolsters that tight their grip during hard cornering and offer a relaxed grip while cruising. Similar systems might someday be introduced to the BMW motorcycles as well.

Also Read: 2021 is BMW Motorrad’s best sales year yet