The examples below explain telemetry methods in general. CU CAN Bike is an engineering prototype; available channels, accuracy and track-analysis features require validation. The site's interactive lap is simulated.
What is motorcycle telemetry?
Motorcycle telemetry brings measurements from a bike together so a rider or engineer can understand what happened during a ride or track session. The useful part is the relationship between signals: where the bike was, how its speed changed and what the available inputs show at the same moment.
A data logger records measurements for later review. Telemetry can also involve sending them elsewhere, but a system does not need continuous live transmission to support post-session analysis. Local recording and live connectivity answer different needs.
What should a motorcycle data logger record?
Start with a question, then choose the channels that can answer it. GPS, ECU data and motion sensors describe different parts of the ride. None replaces all the others.
- GPS: position and speed estimates give a session its route context. Accuracy and reception affect comparisons between nearby racing lines.
- ECU or vehicle signals: engine speed, throttle position or other values may be available through a supported connection. Availability varies by motorcycle and ECU.
- Motion sensors: an inertial measurement unit measures acceleration and angular rate. Derived estimates require calibration and validation; they are not automatically direct measurements of grip or rider movement.
- Session context: record the bike setup, tyres, conditions and rider notes so differences between laps have an explanation.
GPS lap timer or motorcycle telemetry logger?
A GPS lap timer helps answer how long a lap took and where speed changed. A logger with compatible vehicle inputs can add evidence about what accompanied that change. More channels help only when they are reliable, synchronised and relevant to the question.
For example, a falling speed trace can show deceleration, but it does not prove the rider applied a particular brake pressure. That needs an appropriate measured channel. Avoid treating an inferred event as a sensor reading.
How to review a track session
Choose a repeatable section and a clear question, such as why exit speed varied. Compare representative, unobstructed laps before drawing conclusions from a single fastest lap.
- Check the recording for missing samples, GPS problems, incorrect units and time offsets.
- Align laps by distance or a consistent track reference using analysis software that supports it.
- Compare approach speed, the deceleration phase, minimum speed and the return to acceleration.
- Read any available throttle or brake channels alongside speed; label absent measurements honestly.
- Write down one testable observation for the next session, then compare it under similar conditions.
Check data quality before choosing hardware
Ask which channels are supported on your exact bike, how timestamps are aligned and how data is retained when connectivity is unavailable. Request evidence of measurement accuracy, sample rates and environmental suitability for the intended installation.
A high advertised sampling rate cannot make an unavailable ECU signal appear. Likewise, a detailed map does not establish precise racing-line accuracy. The full chain—source, sensor, mounting, timing, recording and analysis—determines what conclusions you can trust.
Where CU CAN Bike and CUPlatform fit
CU CAN Bike is CU Automation's motorcycle telemetry engineering prototype, aimed at bringing bike response, position and motion into a synchronised session. Hardware qualification, environmental testing and end-to-end track algorithms remain work to validate.
CUPlatform is the software layer for supported vehicle history and analysis. The moving track marker and racing traces on this website are interface simulations, not recordings from a validated Bike deployment. For a beta discussion, share your motorcycle, ECU, intended use and the measurements you need.
Questions before you start
Can I start with GPS alone?
Yes, for questions about lap time, route and speed estimates. It cannot by itself measure throttle position, brake pressure or suspension travel. Decide whether those extra channels are necessary for your use.
Does telemetry need mobile coverage?
Post-session analysis can use a logger that records locally and transfers data later. Live remote viewing needs a suitable communication link. Confirm both behaviours on the system you evaluate.
Will a data logger make me faster?
It can help you identify patterns and test changes, but it does not guarantee a faster lap. Good data, rider feedback, comparable conditions and careful interpretation all matter.