So, in the way that technology always has of racing ahead, with us mere mortals clinging to its coat tails, there's a new kid on the block. This is a motorcycle connected to MindSphere, a cloud platform recently launched by Siemens using advanced analytics and AI to gather data.

The idea of linking a motorcycle to the MindSphere platform was the brainchild of Czech motorcycle racer Petra Fuchsikova. It works via sensors, attached to her race bike beneath the bodywork, in 3D printed cases, which transmit information from the motorcycle and the external environment during racing training sessions. Once the data has gone to MindSphere via an app, it is analysed and the information gleaned is used to improve the set up and efficiency of the bike so that it can be honed for racing. This wealth of in-depth information gives the rider great, personalised feedback so that she can make technical, strategic and riding style improvements with the knowledge she has gleaned.

The app used to analyse the motorcycle data is called Fleet Manager, a  free component of MindSphere. It can create graphs to see what's been happening and therefore what can be improved.

Petra Fuchsikova explains: “At that moment, we can use MindSphere libraries and process the data using higher-order logic. For instance, we can use neural networks, machine learning, predictive analysis and others, which are embedded in the Siemens platform’s libraries,”

So is this the shape of things to come? Probably, things seem to be going that way whether we are on board with it or not, so do you think it will make racing more interesting taking motorcycles and racers to new heights and improving skill levels? I guess it's like VAR, does it make football better or worse taking the ref out of the equation, and getting 'smart' input, or do you prefer a raw  motorcycle race which relies in part on the skill and intuition of the racer in the moment?

The jury's out, what do you think? Let us know by emailing [email protected]

17/08/20 - Definitely for racing - at the moment manufacturer’s don’t even sell bikes set up for the owner..... unless you’re the same weight as the development rider!

17/08/20 - Who the hell has time for crap like that.....I am too busy enjoying the ride to be a primadonna youtube rider like most seem to be these days....

16/08/20 -  For racing, aye. For roads? AYE RIGHT!

16/08/20 - Usually only connected to the clouds, when riding in Wales......

16/08/20 - Hahaha haha... No.