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leads to loss of traction and stability, resulting in loss
of control.
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) has been
developed to enable riders to use the motorcycle
braking force to the fullest possible amount in
emergency braking or under poor pavement or
adverse weather conditions.
ABS uses hydraulics and electronics to limit pressure
in the brake circuit when a special sensor mounted to
the wheel signals the electronic control unit that the
wheel is about to lock up.
This avoids wheel lockup and preserves traction.
Pressure is raised back up immediately and the
control unit keeps controlling the brake until the risk
of a lockup disappears. Normally, the rider will
perceive ABS operation as a harder feel or a pulsation
of the brake lever and pedal.
The front and rear brakes use separate control
systems, meaning that they operate independently.
Likewise, the ABS is not an integral braking system
and does not control both the front and rear brake at
the same time.
If desired, the system can be deactivated from the
instrument panel, using the "Customising Riding
Modes: ABS setting page 108" function.
Warning
With the ABS system deactivated, the vehicle
maintains the characteristics of the standard braking
system, therefore the use of only one of the brakes
reduces the motorcycle's braking efficiency. Never
use the brake controls harshly or suddenly; as you
may lock the wheels and lose control of the
motorcycle. When riding in the rain or on slippery
surfaces, braking capacity is significantly reduced.
Always use the brakes very gently and carefully when
riding under these conditions. Any sudden
manoeuvres may lead to loss of control. When
tackling long, high-gradient downhill road tracts, shift
down gears to use engine braking. Apply one brake
at a time and use brakes sparingly. Keeping the
brakes applied all the time would cause the friction
material to overheat and reduce braking power
dangerously. Tyre inflation pressures below the
specified value will reduce braking efficiency, and
compromise steering precision and road holding on
bends.
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