2009 Honda CBR1000RR ABS released in Repsol colors
The 2009 Honda CBR1000RR ABS and non ABS equipped models have just been unveiled. The addition of Honda Combined ABS adds 11kg to the kerb weight (the standard model weighs 199kg), a continuation of the front fairing to cover the front power unit and a bulge in the black underseat cowl to house the systems ECU. The non-ABS model is largely unchanged mechanically, but, in the UK at least, it gets new colors, including an awesome tricolor HRC scheme while the Repsol replica is available on either bike. Additionally, the engine is now painted matte black. You’ll be able to tell the bikes apart because the ABS model uses bronze-painted calipers, while the standard version’s are black.
Honda’s optional C-ABS system (As used on the 2009 Honda CBR600RR ABS) is designed to boost both performance and safety, allowing riders to brake later and harder with more confidence. The company says:"A Super Sports ABS system must allow the rider to brake very close to the limit before activating, and when it does, the reduction in braking force must be very smooth in order not to unsettle the machine, or rider.
In addition the extreme pitching forward of weight under braking, which enhances the braking ability of the front wheel while reducing traction from the rear, calls for a very subtle and advanced system in order to provide an acceptable level of performance from a Super Sport braking system.
"Honda’s new electronically-controlled "Combined ABS" provides just this level of performance. All the basic ABS and CBS functions are provided, including the prevention of wheel lock, improved balance and easy operation. This is achieved without any compromise to stability during ABS operation. Pitching is minimised so that the bike keeps its normal position. Overall, sport riding performance is uninterrupted – cornering feel remains the same and controllability is enhanced."
Wes Siler. September 05, 2008 — Permalink
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I really want to see a comparison test between the abs and non abs identical bikes, be it the 1000's or the 600's, both on the street, and track. I'm curious if there will be any significant difference on the track, though I assume they're won't be.
Ben: I don't know that there'd be a huge out and out performance advantage. After all, WSB and MotoGP don't run ABS. What I do think it'll offer is increased confidence for average supersport riders, thus allowing them to fully exploit the bike's braking ability. It's probably really nice in the rain, too.
What I really want to know is how drastically the rear pedal applies the front brake. Honda's current CBS systems apply way to much front brake, eliminating your ability to drag the rear brake for stability at low speeds.
Wes, I know WSB and GP don't use ABS, and that's what is making it a curious decision to do on a supersport bike. Your point about regular riders being able to exploit the bikes brakes is probably accurate, but kinda scary when you think about squids overshooting a corner and ham fisting the brakes to save them.
There was an article on motorcyclenews that went into detail on how the new ABS system works, and I seem to recall that its no where near as bad as the linked brake system currently in use.
Here's the C-ABS system explained: Honda Combined ABS.
While it looks like it won't drag the front too much, I've had such negative experiences with the older CBS system that I won't trust it till I've tried it.
wes
why cant have the HRC and repsol in america AKA the worlds largest motorcycle market?
Personally, I'd love to have ABS available on all my bikes. You never really appreciate it until you have to use it.
There's no reason for street bikes to not have this as a standard fare.
Actually, without wanting to be a pedant (but going ahead and being one anyway) the Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Indian motorcycle markets are all far larger than the US.
Personally I'll be investing in a C-ABS equipped 'Blade next year. As a sportsbike rider and year-round, all-weather commuter, I've been waiting for a litrebike with the equipment to back me up when I run out of talent- I'm certainly man enough to admit that this happens from time to time. Honda are the one company who I'd trust to get this sort of system right.