Advanced braking system announced by Honda

Honda has announced it is pushing ahead with the development of an electronically controlled combined braking system, developed specifically for sports bikes.

Honda hosted over 150 motorcycle experts from across Europe at the LUK Driving Centre near Baden-Baden recently, primarily to discuss varied safety issues concerning motorcycling.

As well as this, current and future initiatives highlighting Honda's continued commitment to progressing motorcycle safety were demonstrated. These included the new electronically controlled combined advanced braking system (ABS) for sports bikes.

Traditionally, the design of sports bikes has meant that the application of 'combined' or ABS braking systems has not been practical. The short wheelbase of a sports machine caused it to 'pitch' under heavy braking.

Additionally, there were concerns over the weight of such a system being placed on sports bikes, possibly leading to a drop in performance.

Honda's new 'brake-by-wire-control' system, with an innovative stroke simulator, employs the advantages of both 'combined' and ABS systems in one package to specifically address the requirements of a sports bike, provide stability and deceleration, whilst enabling the rider to maintain control.

On the road, all the basic functions of ABS and CBS are provided, including the prevention of wheel lock, improved balance, stability and ease of operation.

Advanced braking systems are just one area in which Honda is addressing motorcycle safety.

In 2006, after 15 years of development, Honda launched the world's first air-bag system on its GL1800 Gold Wing, marking a breakthrough in motorcycle safety that has been recognised across the globe with Honda receiving major awards for innovative safety technology.

Honda is a supporter of the EU's targets for traffic fatality reduction. Further details of Honda's new electronically controlled combined ABS system developed specifically for sports bikes will be released later in the year, but details of the full Honda motorcycle range can be found here.