The Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) system, which includes ABS, traction control and linked brakes, also limits engine torque to deny gratuitous wheelies and controls front wheel braking force to mitigate or prevent rear wheel lift.

The device can also be fitted to other powered two-wheelers (PTWs).

An array of sensors combine with a central computer that analyses the bike’s pitch and lean angles 100 times per second to detect anomalies and react as quickly as possible.

Among its safety-enhancing effects is a reduction in the self-righting tendency experienced when braking mid-corner. Grabbing the front brake on PTWs without MSC can cause the bike to ‘sit up’ and run wide, potentially into another lane or off the road entirely.

The aim of the system is to reduce fatalities and serious injuries among motorcyclists. Another key effect of MSC is to reduce the likelihood of a ‘low-side’ accident where the bike falls over sideways under cornering lean as the front tyre loses traction – usually as a result of braking. MSC limits the amount of brake force to help prevent a crash.

In a press release Bosch states: “Just like ABS, MSC cannot suspend the laws of physics. In particular, extreme misjudgement of the riding situation and major errors on the part of the biker can still lead to an accident.

“Nonetheless, the system supports bikers in borderline situations, helping them get more out of their motorcycles, while keeping them much safer at the same time.”