Yamaha R1 2023 Brake control system (BC)

The brake control system regulates hydraulic brake pressure for the front and rear wheels independently when the respective brake lever or brake pedal is applied and wheel lock is detected. There are two settings, BC1 and BC2.

BC1 is standard ABS, which adjusts brake pressure based on vehicle speed and wheel speed data. BC1 is designed to engage and maximize braking when the vehicle is upright.

Regarding ABS, operate the brakes as you would conventional brakes. When the brake control system engages, a pulsating sensation may be felt at the brake lever or brake pedal as the hydraulic unit rapidly applies and reduces brake pressure. In this situation, continue to apply the brake lever and brake pedal to allow the ABS to work—do not “pump the brakes” as this will reduce braking effectiveness.

Always keep a sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead to match the riding speed even with ABS.

The ABS performs best with long braking distances.
On certain surfaces, such as rough or gravel roads, the braking distance may be longer with the ABS than without.

BC2 incorporates standard ABS and in addition regulates braking power when cornering to suppress lateral wheel slip.

The brake control system is not a substitute for the use of proper riding and braking techniques. The brake control system cannot prevent all loss of traction due to over-braking from excessive speed, or lateral wheel slip when braking on slippery surfaces.

The ABS hydraulic unit is monitored by the ABS ECU, which will revert the system to conventional braking if a malfunction occurs.

The ABS performs a self-diagnosis test when the vehicle is started and reaches a speed of 10 km/h (6 mi/h). During this test, a clicking noise may be audible from the hydraulic control unit, and a vibration may be felt at the brake lever or pedal, but this is normal.

Be careful not to damage the wheel sensor or wheel sensor rotor; otherwise, improper performance of the ABS will result.