Elistan

Prototype CBR600RR with linked "brake by wire" and ABS specifically tuned for supersport applications.

http://world.honda.com/news/2008/2080609Combined-ABS/

So what you will about your opinion of the impact on performance, but developing such a technology is pure Honda DNA.

freq

Nice.

Penforhire

I like the idea. We need to feel the implementation. I also liked BMW's servo-assist idea but it was horrible in reality.

This is a good intermediate step on the way to fully electric brakes (non-hydraulic). There are prototype systems for cars already and the claimed benefits include less unsprung weight, less total weight, less time to maximum clamping force, and no hydraulic fluid at end-of-life disposal. I'll bet the downsides right now include seriously wooden feel. Hmm, not to mention loss of braking if you have an electrical glitch (I think current prototypes have a cable back-up system)!

samerthehammer

this is an interesting development. does anyone think that the difference between electric brake and hydraulic brakes will be similar to throttle cable and drive-by-wire?

aeonracer

It just bugs me to think that my throttle, and now brakes, are going to be controlled by a computer. Better system? Maybe, but its really going to hurt when one or the other (or both) have a failure...

None the less, its a cool idea.

s.hasan546

i think its a gr8 thing esp. for those people who pick up a 600 for their first bike and end up high siding off of it.

Apollo

Not a big fan. I bet it'll brake way better than I can, but still. I want brake fluid and a line. Electronic throttle, I can accept. Anything goes wrong, and it goes into safety mode, I can still brake and shut power. Electronic brakes go??? What do I do while heading towards the corkscrew at Laguna Seca at over 100? No thanks.

Chris S

I think ABS would be a great addition as long as it's defeatable, but I don't like the idea of brake-by-wire at all (and I'm perfectly OK w/ DBW). Traction control will be an even more valuable addition to sportbikes IMO.