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[grc]

hogasm,

If I remember correctly, drive-by-wire (throttle control) has been around on cars since the very late '80's.  I think BMW had it first, back in '88 or '89.  Initially there was no financial benefit, so it only showed up on more expensive vehicles where the cost could be buried more easily.  As computers and electronics became smaller, less expensive, and more reliable, these types of controls became available on a broader selection of vehicles.  Now we have drive-by-wire braking and steering, in addition to throttle control.  One of the vehicles my employer produces even has the ability to sense an impending collision, reduce throttle, and even apply the brakes with no input from the driver.  

My issue with all of this on a Harley is twofold.  1.) I enjoy riding bikes because the experience is direct and immediate, unlike the typical modern automobile which has had all the fun (and skill requirements) removed.  I know how to apply throttle properly depending on conditions (let's see, how about WOT immediately after starting the bike, or during a rainstorm - duh!), as well as proper braking technique, and would prefer to handle those things myself.  2.) My experience with H-D indicates that they cannot be trusted to properly implement new (to them only, old hat to the rest of the world) technology without screwing it up.  Their p-poor EFI implementation damn near got me killed shortly after buying my SEEG; I'm quite sure I don't want to give them another shot at me using drive-by-wire.

Jerry

[Rhino]

So I heard not only will some models have the fly by wire, but all of them will have a new, totally different non interchangable ECM too.
Rhino

[Ironhorse]

So I heard not only will some models have the fly by wire, but all of them will have a new, totally different non interchangable ECM too.
Rhino

And so it continues.

[grc]

So I heard not only will some models have the fly by wire, but all of them will have a new, totally different non interchangable ECM too.
Rhino

The two go together, drive-by-wire requires either a separate electronic controller or a new ECM to process the input from the throttle grip sensor and whatever other sensors they wish to monitor such as temp, and then provide an output signal to the throttle actuator.  A new ECM would be the less expensive and most logical solution.  Non-interchangeable is something I'll have to see personally to believe, since I've never seen anything yet that can't be replicated or defeated by the aftermarket.  For instance, the ECM's on the '05's were supposed to set codes if you added a tuning device like a TFI or PC.  It took those folks no time at all to come up with "stealth" models of their equipment so the ECM wouldn't be able to detect them. 

Jerry

[theslash]

makes my 06 ucse worth more money
after the problems start.   

[hogasm]

hogasm,

If I remember correctly, drive-by-wire (throttle control) has been around on cars since the very late '80's.  I think BMW had it first, back in '88 or '89.  Initially there was no financial benefit, so it only showed up on more expensive vehicles where the cost could be buried more easily.  As computers and electronics became smaller, less expensive, and more reliable, these types of controls became available on a broader selection of vehicles.  Now we have drive-by-wire braking and steering, in addition to throttle control.  One of the vehicles my employer produces even has the ability to sense an impending collision, reduce throttle, and even apply the brakes with no input from the driver. 

My issue with all of this on a Harley is twofold.  1.) I enjoy riding bikes because the experience is direct and immediate, unlike the typical modern automobile which has had all the fun (and skill requirements) removed.  I know how to apply throttle properly depending on conditions (let's see, how about WOT immediately after starting the bike, or during a rainstorm - duh!), as well as proper braking technique, and would prefer to handle those things myself.  2.) My experience with H-D indicates that they cannot be trusted to properly implement new (to them only, old hat to the rest of the world) technology without screwing it up.  Their p-poor EFI implementation damn near got me killed shortly after buying my SEEG; I'm quite sure I don't want to give them another shot at me using drive-by-wire.

Jerry

I wonder if this is Harley's way of meeting EPA standards for 2008 or a way of keeping the aftermarket guys out of the picture for awhile?

It scares me that the ECM would have more control of my scoot than I would. If it would have the control like the vehicle that you mentioned then when the ECM takes control then you are left helpless as to what avasive action you can do in any situation.