ROAD NEWS
HONDA ADDS VOICE CONTROL
L ike many other brands trying to integrate useful technology into their lineups , Honda has announced the launch of its own bespoke app for owners which brings in a host of useful features for the brand ’ s 2021 model year machines . The app , called RoadSync , is free to download from the app store and allows riders of the 2021 X-ADV , Forza 750 Scooter and CB1000R to tap into their bike directly via Bluetooth and add extra functionality including voice commands , navigation , music control and even the weather forecast .
On the move all functionality is operated through a combination of voice commands and a four-way toggle switch located on the left handlebar , meaning the rider doesn ’ t need to fumble around with their smartphone and can leave it safely stowed away . Currently , the only other model currently with the potential to use the app is the Forza 350 scooter , on which it is offered it as an optional extra , but we expect Honda will slowly roll out the functionality throughout the range as each model is updated .
HONDA ROADSYNC HIGHLIGHTS
NAVIGATION Google Maps provides the navigation base for RoadSync with directions given to the rider by voice communication . Up to five pre-set favourite places can be stored while there is also the option to set a destination through voice commands .
CALLS Up to five frequent contacts can be stored and contacts can be selected by voice search . For incoming calls , the system announces the name of the caller to the rider .
MESSAGES There are five default Quick Messages stored within the app , all of which can be personalised . Riders can voice-search a contact , then voice-input an SMS message to be sent in text form . Incoming messages are converted to voice feedback and relayed to the rider . Supported message apps include WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger , making it highly useful considering the popularity of those platforms over traditional text messaging .
MUSIC Riders can pre-select a favourite music app ( Google Play Music , Spotify , Amazon Music , etc ) in the RoadSync settings before setting off on their ride .
WEATHER The day ’ s local weather forecast can be checked for the following hour , three hours or five hours ahead . When using Navigation a detailed forecast for the rider ’ s destination is also available .
24 KIWI RIDER