Introduction
Welcome to Moto32, a complete open-source motorcycle control unit designed as an alternative to the Motogadget M-Unit Blue.
What is Moto32?
Moto32 is an ESP32-S3 based control unit that manages all electrical systems on custom motorcycles. It provides 8 MOSFET-protected outputs for controlling lights, horn, ignition, indicators, and other accessories - all from a single compact unit.
This project is perfect for:
Custom Motorcycle Builders
DIY Electronics Enthusiasts
Makers & Hackers
Students & Educators
Why Moto32?
The commercial Motogadget M-Unit Blue is an excellent product but costs several hundred dollars. Moto32 provides a similar feature set at a fraction of the cost, with the added benefits of:
- Complete transparency: Full schematics, BOM, and firmware source code
- Customization freedom: Modify hardware and software for your exact needs
- Learning opportunity: Understand how motorcycle control units work
- Community support: Active development and user community
- No vendor lock-in: You own and control everything
- Future expansion: Built on ESP32 platform with endless possibilities
Key Features
Hardware
- ESP32-S3 MCU: Powerful dual-core processor with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 8 Protected Outputs: MOSFET channels rated for automotive loads
- USB-C Programming: Easy firmware updates without external programmers
- Automotive Protection: TVS diodes, fuse protection, and robust design
- Compact Form Factor: Optimized PCB layout for motorcycle installation
Firmware Capabilities
- Configurable I/O Mapping: Define which input controls which output
- Short Circuit Protection: Detect and respond to output faults
- Bluetooth Configuration: Wireless setup via smartphone (in development)
- Custom Logic: Implement turn signal auto-cancel, hazard lights, etc.
- CAN Bus Support: Future integration with modern motorcycle electronics
Documentation & Support
- Complete Schematics: Full circuit diagrams with component values
- Detailed BOM: Part numbers and suppliers for every component
- 3D Models: STEP files for enclosure design and mechanical integration
- Assembly Guide: Step-by-step instructions with photos
- Example Firmware: Working code to get started immediately
Project Status
What Works
- ✅ All 8 MOSFET outputs functioning
- ✅ USB-C programming and serial communication
- ✅ Basic input/output firmware
- ✅ Power supply and regulation
- ✅ PCB design validated
In Development
- 🔧 Advanced firmware features (auto-cancel, timers, etc.)
- 🔧 Bluetooth smartphone app for configuration
- 🔧 CAN bus communication support
- 🔧 Over-current detection and protection
- 🔧 Comprehensive testing and validation
Roadmap
- 📋 Production-ready firmware v1.0
- 📋 Mobile app for iOS/Android
- 📋 Enclosure design and mounting solutions
- 📋 Wiring harness templates for popular motorcycles
- 📋 Video tutorials and build guides
How It Works
Moto32 acts as the central electrical control hub for your motorcycle:
graph LR
A[Battery 12V] --> B[Moto32 Unit]
C[Handlebar Switches] --> B
B --> D[Headlight]
B --> E[Tail Light]
B --> F[Turn Signals]
B --> G[Horn]
B --> H[Ignition]
B --> I[Accessories]
B --> J[Starter Relay]
B --> K[Fuel Pump]
Input Side: Receives signals from handlebar switches, sensors, and other inputs. The ESP32 monitors these inputs and executes control logic.
Processing: The ESP32 firmware interprets inputs and determines which outputs should be active. This can include simple switching or complex logic (e.g., turn signal auto-cancel based on lean angle).
Output Side: Activates MOSFET switches to power lights, horn, ignition coil, fuel pump, and other loads. Each output is protected against short circuits and overcurrent.
Getting Started
Ready to build your own Moto32? Here's what you'll need:
- Order PCBs: Use PCBWay to order professionally manufactured PCBs
- Source Components: Get all parts from the detailed BOM
- Assemble: Follow the assembly guide to solder components
- Program: Install firmware using the firmware guide
- Test: Bench test all outputs before installation
- Install: Mount in your motorcycle following installation guide
Community & Support
Moto32 is an open-source project that thrives on community contributions:
- GitHub Repository: github.com/jaksatomovic/motogadget-clone
- Issues & Bugs: Report problems via GitHub Issues
- Feature Requests: Suggest improvements and new features
- Pull Requests: Contribute code, documentation, or improvements
- Share Your Build: Post photos and experiences to help others
License
Moto32 is released under the MIT License, which means:
- ✅ Free to use for personal or commercial projects
- ✅ Modify and adapt as you see fit
- ✅ Distribute your changes
- ✅ No licensing fees or restrictions
The only requirement is attribution - please credit the original project when sharing or building upon it.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to PCBWay for sponsoring PCB fabrication and supporting this open-source project. Their high-quality manufacturing and excellent customer service make projects like this possible.