Comfort & Convenience · 2 min read
Reverse Assist Explained
Moves some heavy motorcycles backwards at controlled walking speed. The system may use an electric drive motor, starter motor or transmission arrangement depending on the motorcycle.
In plain English
Reverse or 'walking' assist is a low-speed manoeuvring aid found on some heavy motorcycles. On electric motorcycles it typically works by running the drive motor in reverse at strictly limited speed; on some petrol motorcycles a starter motor or a dedicated transmission arrangement provides forward and reverse walking assistance. It is not a reverse gear for normal riding.
How it works
The rider selects reverse or walking assist from a dash control, usually with the motorcycle stationary and the brake applied. The system then commands a slow, torque-limited output — through the drive motor, starter motor or a dedicated mechanism depending on the motorcycle — while the rider steers and controls speed with a switch or trigger. Available speed, gradient and duration are limited by the manufacturer, and the aid may be inhibited on steep slopes, at higher temperatures or under other specific conditions.
Useful for backing a heavy motorcycle out of a parking bay, off a slight incline or through a tight space without pushing it by hand. It moves the motorcycle at little more than walking pace and stops as soon as the rider releases the control.
How reverse assist varies between motorcycles
Depending on the motorcycle, this feature may:
- •Electric motorcycles: usually reverse the drive motor at very low commanded torque.
- •Some petrol motorcycles (for example large tourers): use a starter-motor-driven or dedicated transmission arrangement for forward and reverse walking assist.
- •Control method, maximum speed and slope limits vary by manufacturer.
What the rider still controls
- •Engage only from a stop, on suitable ground, with the brake within reach.
- •Steer, balance and brake the motorcycle yourself — the aid does not do this for you.
- •Check surroundings and any bystanders before and during use.
- •Release the control immediately if the motorcycle behaves unexpectedly.
What reverse assist is not
- •It is not a reverse gear for normal riding.
- •It is not exclusive to electric motorcycles.
- •It does not manage balance, steering or braking for the rider.
When it may not be available
- •On steep slopes beyond the manufacturer's limits.
- •When system, motor or battery temperatures are outside the permitted range.
- •With certain faults, low state of charge, or ride-mode restrictions.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: July 2026