ABS on Honda Sports Cars (CBRs): Try to believe it

2023 Author: Nicholas Abramson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-09-01 00:15

ABS was one of the new additions to Honda's sports range in 2009. Both the "small" CBR600RR and the "big" CBR1000RR incorporate C-ABS as an option of fabric. It's about a ABS with front and rear combined braking. Honda was the first brand to develop a system advanced enough to dare to incorporate it into its sports bikes. It is one more sample that the wing brand's commitment to safety is decided and ABS occupies a very important place in that strategy, which is why it is expanding throughout the Honda ranges.

I confess that when I found out about the introduction of ABS in this year's CBR I was surprised. And even more when they told me that the system is not disconnectable. Honda must be very sure of the system it has developed. It must be taken into account that CBRs are not beginner motorcycles, but sports motorcycles, so a large part of the public that buys them are people with experience. The truth is that I was skeptical at first about.

After the presentation, I began to see the tests that were being done and I the unanimity was surprising of people who tested the motorcycle by abandoning their previous reluctance. Even some riders who have tested the bike praised how balanced and stable its combined braking and the "almost magical" way he acts ABS. In fact, in some tests I saw that the bike was able to cut the braking distance to the testers.

The system is clearly more designed to improve road safety for drivers more than to be used in circuit. Anyway, given the efficiency it shows on good flat asphalt, such as the circuits, it would not seem too far-fetched to use it on the track, especially in rainy conditions. But this is not the case in the debate, as a large majority of CBR buyers do so for use on public roads.

And with all my skepticism in tow, I had the opportunity a few weeks ago to test the live C-ABS of the Honda sports. So sure were Honda of its operation that they watered a stretch of asphalt and invited us to test it without stabilizers on the bike. I had to make several passes since the first contradiction came between what the head ordered and what the hand did. It was clear to me that you had to accelerate fully and when you got to the wet area, hit the brakes unceremoniously. Many years of motorcycling training made it impossible to obey the order to stop hard on wet asphalt. Curious behavioral education, what some psychologists would say.

After several attempts progressing little by little, I already managed to brake fully and without fear in a wet area (as you can see in the photo) and I was able to check the benefits of this C-ABS. Nothing like any ABS you've tried before - no stick bouncing or exaggerated intrusions. The bike brakes balanced and constant at all times, without any bouncing and without noticing anything strange. In fact, the feeling remains that emergency braking is converted into normal braking.

Nothing is noticeable. Few sensations have to be explained. I discover myself before the work of the Honda engineers who have created a true marvel. Try to believe. And once tested, I can tell you that my idea of ABS on the bike has changed. If I was already a supporter before, I have become unconditional. If I bought a CBR now, I am clear that I would order it with the C-ABS, even if it was not disconnectable.