These are instruments displayed in high resolution via a liquid crystal display that uses thin-film transistors (TFTs)!
How is this different from a conventional instrument meter?
I want to know more!
You got it, let’s take a look.
1.About TFT LCD Meters
Let’s take a look at the TFT LCD meter featured on the CBR1000RR SP.
Now, compare it with our more traditional display.
I don't really see the difference...
If I had to say, maybe it’s more colorful?
Exactly!
That’s actually quite a major turning point.
Compared to previous displays, there are four main advantages to TFT LCD meters:
(1) Thanks to the higher resolution, the display is now easier to see even in direct sunlight or at night
(2) The ability to present a large amount of information in a clear and easy-to-understand layout
(3) The ability to present information in full color
(4) High scalability
I kind of get the idea, but why were conventional displays
not able to be designed flexibly in layout?
That’s a good question!
I guess you could say that while the previous displays looked like typical digital clocks, the TFT LCD meters now have screens that resemble tablets.
Tablets can display more content and integrate with more devices, right?
Huh, I guess that’s it!
It didn't look that different to me, but it turns out it can do so much more now!
Exactly!
Now, let’s take a look at what features the TFT LCD meter has.
2.TFT LCD Meter Functions
I heard that TFT LCD meters are highly scalable; what does that mean?
Just like a traditional instrument cluster, the TCT meter can display information from the motorcycle’s sensors, but it’s designed so that the display content, functions, and connected devices can be added or modified via software.
For example, by linking with the smartphones that are ubiquitous these days, you can display your destination in an easy-to-understand way.
What’s more, a software-enabled meter can improve its display and features over time through updates even after you buy the bike.
So, since riders can add features even after buying their motorcycle, that means they don’t have to replace the meter every time a new model comes out—their TFT LCD meter can always keep up with the latest specs.
That’s a pretty great feature!
When we say it’s highly scalable, we don’t just mean that it has more connections to things other than the vehicle itself.
Thanks to the fact that it now integrates more easily with the various electronic controls on the motorcycle, there are even more things you can do.
Is there really more?
What else can you do with these things?
You can now customize the settings to suit your riding style.
While the mode-switching feature has been available for some time, you can now adjust the vehicle settings to your liking with even finer customization.
- On the vehicle settings screen of the TFT LCD meter, you can not only switch riding modes but also adjust
various electronic control settings, such as suspension and ABS.
The image on the left shows vehicle settings that can be adjusted via the TFT LCD meter.
That’s pretty cool!
It’s great that you can enjoy a single motorcycle in so many different ways.
I want to get out there and try out different ways of riding, too.
Please customize the screen layout to suit your situation.
This is an important feature for a comfortable and safe ride.
Got it!
3.Summary
Did my explanation help you understand how TFT LCD meters work?
It did!
I didn’t know much about TFT LCD meters before, but now I understand that they play a crucial role in ensuring riders’ safety, comfort, and enjoyment!
I'm excited to get on my bike and ride!
That's great!
Please note that some of the features mentioned here aren't available on all TFT LCD meters.
Also, make sure to schedule maintenance on your TFT LCD meter so you don't miss any service appointments and can enjoy riding your motorcycle safely!
I can’t believe they're so helpful!
TFT display meter, you're an incredible thing.
I’ve been seeing more and more motorcycles with TFT LCD meters lately—what exactly are they?