Well the story confirms what was posted elsewhere, that this one done to accelerate testing of safety systems for all motorcycles. plus I can imagine the benefit of testing any changes to a motorcycle including more radical geometry changes.

Now if we go the idea of self driving why does it have to be a traditional motorcycle. How about a two wheel pod complete with stability wheels when stopped? Need a ride, hail a service using these and it can be done very cheaply. the self driving self service revolution need not be confined to four wheeled vehicles