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CFMoto's Next Leap into Active Aero Innovation
CFMoto, the Hangzhou-based aerodynamic advantages. winglets—some even mounted
Chinese manufacturer known for The system is actuated via on suspension elements—to
cost-effective bikes and engines electromechanical linkages, modulate downforce dynamically
shared with KTM, is stepping into l i k e l y t i e d t o t h e in various riding scenarios. But
high-tech territory with recently ECU—suggesting deployment n o p r o d u c t i o n B M W h a s
implemented an active system
published patent images. These could be tied to speed, riding yet. Similarly, Piaggio patents
designs reveal deployable m o d e , l e a n a n g l e , o r (likely for Aprilia use) outline
winglets hidden within the throttle/brake inputs. winglets that adjust attitude to
fairing, capable of extending and fine-tune downforce and yaw
retracting while the bike is in How It Stacks Up: CFMoto vs
motion—making it potentially the Lounge Competition assist, but again remain
first motorcycle with genuinely theoretical.
active aerodynamic surfaces CFMoto's innovation stands out
rather than purely decorative or i n t h a t t e c h n i c a l
fixed ones. i m p l e m e n t a t i o n a n d
deployment strategy seem
W h i l e a e r o f e a t u r e s o n
motorcycles are no longer more mission-driven, rather than
unprecedented—Moto Guzzi's conceptual.
V100 Mandello tourer already
uses semi-active wings to shift P o t e n t i a l B e n e fi t s :
a e r o d y n a m i c P e r f o r m a n c e M e e t s
comfort—CFMoto's patent Practicality
suggests a system focused If produced, this active winglet
squarely on performance, system could deliver several real-
emphasizing downforce, world advantages:
stability, and handling in a
· Front-end downforce at
sportbike context.
speed, improving traction
Patent Mechanics: Inside the under acceleration and
Winglet System braking.
An excerpt from the patent filing
· Enhanced stability,
(WO2022195387A2) describes especially resisting lifting
fairing-mounted movable panels Moto Guzzi's Mandello or instability at high speed
on both sides of the motorcycle:
Moto Guzzi's patented aero or under braking.
· Each winglet is housed system aims to reduce rider L e a n - a n g l e - a w a r e
within a pocket in the fatigue by redirecting airflow ·
upper fairing, above the away from the torso during c o n t r o l , a d j u s t i n g
bike's centre of gravity. touring—but at test rides, riders aerodynamic forces
p r e c i s e l y t h r o u g h
· In the rest position, the reported minimal real-world cornering transitions.
winglets are flush with the effect, questioning its efficacy
fairing; when activated, outside marketing claims. · Retraction at low speed,
they pivot outward, preserving agility in urban
creating lateral deflection. riding, stealthy styling,
and low drag when aero
· The design uses hinges load isn't useful.
oriented vertically or
slightly inclined, so that This system mirrors racing-
only the trailing edge derived intent—except it's fully
moves, while the front concealed until needed, unlike
edge remains flush during fixed fins that may increase drag
deployment. unnecessarily at low speeds.
· The concave shape and R i s k s & E n g i n e e r i n g
positioning beside the BMW Motorrad & Piaggio
tank help channel airflow Patents Challenges
away from the rider's torso BMW's active aero patents But passive consultations of
or direct it laterally for propose movable front and rear patent images and concepts
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LHR Motorcycle Magazine Issue 16 AUGUST 2025
