ABS on 2007 GS

[dd1150A]

I have recently swapped my 2004 GS for a 2007 model. The old bike had ABS and so does the new one but it's the latest generation without the servo assist.

I have noticed that the new bike's rear ABS is a lot more 'sensitive' then the old one.

I often use my rear brake in conjunction with the front when I come to stop at trafic lights or junctions. The rear ABS on the new bike frequently kicks in, even in the dry, sometimes if I only 'touch' the rear brake.
I can't say that my riding style has changed with the new bike, it's how I've always used my brakes but never had this issue on the old bike. I only got the old bike to activate the ABS when I was realy hard on the rear brake and if I locked the rear wheel.

I was wondering if anybody else has noticed this and if it is 'normal'. If anyhting I would have expected the new bike's ABS to be less sensitive. Is it something I should have checked by the dealer before the warranty runs out?

Cheers,
Daniel

 

[Slowdown]

I thought the same. So now i don't use the rear brake, unless i'm going really slowly, or am off road.


I'm still on the same pads after 25000 miles, so I suspect it's more rider style than an inherent problem.

 

[Pathologic]

Linked brakes

I am sure one of the techies will be along to confirm, but I recall that the 2007 models have partially linked brakes, so applying the front brake applies some force to the back. You can feel this if you apply the back brake yourself at the same time and it feels like the ABS, but I don't think it is. Next time it happens try only using the back brake and see if you still feel the clicking. Please make sure it is safe to do this

You could try RTM I think it is in there.

Regards,

Path.

 

[dd1150A]

I am sure one of the techies will be along to confirm, but I recall that the 2007 models have partially linked brakes, so applying the front brake applies some force to the back. You can feel this if you apply the back brake yourself at the same time and it feels like the ABS, but I don't think it is. Next time it happens try only using the back brake and see if you still feel the clicking. Please make sure it is safe to do this

You could try RTM I think it is in there.

Regards,

Path.

thank Path, I shall try that (applying rear brake only) but that will just confirm what you said. Which means that I will have to either change my habits if I wanted to avoid the ABS clicking or just get used to it.

Even if the brakes are linked I can't see why you shouldn't be able to apply more pressure on the rear to bring the bike to a more controlled stop without the ABS 'clicking'.

I wanted to check that it's not an issue more than anything else and it's yet another 'feature' that adds 'character' to the bike.

 

[Martin S]

I wanted to check that it's not an issue more than anything else and it's yet another 'feature' that adds 'character' to the bike.

I hope its a 'feature' because my 2008 also does it

 

[wheelnut]

I hope its a 'feature' because my 2008 also does it

+1 for my 2009!

 

[billynomates]

As explained in the 1200 Haynes manual 5.16

Operation of the front brake lever applies both front brakes and the rear brake,whereas operating the rear brake pedal applies the rear only.

The ABS features an adaptive brake force distribution system that changes the proportions of front to rear brake power according to load on the wheel,thus ensuring good stability.

The system also takes into account the additional loading of Luggage and or passenger.

Hope this helps
ian

 

[GSmonkey]

Yep - noticed the same when moving from an 04 machine to an 07. Haven't changed my riding style, I just let it kick in, normally during a downshift.

 

[Nice 'n' Fat]

I noticed the same on a courtesy bike I had

I didn't like it