Yamaha Niken: Unveiling the Futuristic Twin-Wheel Three-Wheeler
Yamaha introduced the Niken three-wheeler at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, and it quickly garnered attention with its unique twin front wheels. Originating from the Japanese phrase “two swords,” the Niken remains a marvel of engineering. This article explores the technology, design, and key features that make the Yamaha Niken so intriguing.
The Core Technology Behind the Niken
The Yamaha Niken embraces the Leaning Multi-Wheel (LMW) technology, which diverges from the conventional two-wheel motorcycle design. Primarily, this technology enables the front wheels to lean like a bicycle during turns, mimicking the lean angles of motorcycles with traditional single front wheels.
Central to the design is the Ackermann steering geometry, a complex mechanism that ensures each front wheel turns inward at a steeper angle than the outer wheel when cornering. This significantly enhances stability and control. The combination of this technique and parallelogram steering link ensures the front end behaves naturally, allowing for lean angles of up to 45 degrees.
Unique Design Philosophy of the Niken
The Niken is not merely a curiosity; its design philosophy aims to bridge the gap between cars and motorcycles. The inverted 41mm forks on each wheel perform dual roles, with the leading fork managing steering while the trailing fork acts as the suspension, providing 110mm of travel. The bike’s hybrid frame comprises a cast steel steering head and a cast aluminum swingarm, with a 15mm extension for added stability and a 50-50 weight distribution.
The twin front wheels are small 15-inch units fitted with meaty 120-section radial tires, while the rear wheel is a larger 17-inch alloy shod with 190-section rubber. Yamaha’s choice of Bridgestone Battlax Adventure V-rated tires, designed for maximum lean angles, reflects their commitment to ensuring the Niken’s performance under various conditions.
Electronic Wizardry and Practical Features
Powering the Niken is an 847cc inline-three liquid-cooled engine, similar to the MT-09 streetfighter, generating 115PS and 87.5Nm. The engine’s counterbalance helps minimize vibrations, and a 6-speed transmission equipped with a slipper and assist clutch along with a quickshifter creates a smooth riding experience. The quickshifter facilitates seamless upshifting, ensuring efficient performance.
The motorcycle is fitted with a two-mode adjustable traction control system, a pairs of 298mm discs with radial calipers, and a 282mm disc at the rear. While ABS is standard, the twin discs provide strong braking power. Electronic controls like cruise control and an electronic clutch further enhance convenience and safety. With a 18-liter fuel tank, the Niken is claimed to offer a range of about 300km, satisfying touring enthusiasts.
Popularity in the Virtual World
The Niken gained virtual fame by being introduced as a playable vehicle in popular online multiplayer games. In PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, the Niken is one of the many vehicles available to players. Similarly, Death Stranding features a visually similar three-wheeled motorcycle, though its design and functionality deviate from the real-life Niken, showcasing how its unique form has captured the imagination of many.
In conclusion, the Yamaha Niken is more than just a quirky motorcycle; it is a revolution in motorcycle design. From its innovative LMW technology to its user-friendly electronic wizardry, the Niken offers a unique riding experience that balances traditional motorcycle performance with modern conveniences. As it continues to inspire similar designs and gain recognition in the virtual world, the Niken remains a standout in the motorcycle industry.