2008 Changes Press Release

[zenwhipper]

Its for the Europe models it looks like.

Press Release here

PRESS RELEASE

2008 Minor and Colour Changed Models

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. Page 1 of 7

YAMAHA 2008 MINOR AND COLOUR CHANGE MODELS

In addition to the new motorcycle models being introduced by Yamaha for 2008, the FJR1300A

and FJR1300AS feature a number of significant technical changes. And, the FZ-Series gets a

new addition to the family, the FZ1 ABS. Details are described below.

Furthermore, many of the current models feature new colour schemes. Please find them listed

below. New colours are shown in bold/Italic.

Sport Touring

FJR1300A/FJR1300AS

The FJR1300A and the FJR1300AS are regarded as being two of the most refined, capable and

dynamic models in the sport touring class. For 2008 these sophisticated models feature a range

of improvements to the engine, chassis and braking systems which enhance their legendary

continent-crossing potential, making them the leading choice with serious long-distance riders.

New 3-mode ABS system with linear solenoid valve

In a move which is designed to reduce overall weight and also enhance the feel at the brake

lever and pedal, both the FJR1300A and AS models are equipped with a new ABS system for

2008.

The most significant change is that the new system is a 3-mode ABS, compared to the 2-mode

design used on the ’07 models. Whereas the 2-mode system is designed to operate in either a

pressurised or depressurised mode, the new 3-mode system operates in a pressurised, or

pressure holding, or depressurised mode. Or, in simple terms, the ’07 2-mode ABS design

operated with the brake fluid pressure being either ‘on’ or ‘off’, while the new 3-mode system

has pressure ‘on’ and ‘off’ modes, together an additional ‘pressure holding’ state.

The compact new hydraulic unit in the latest 3-mode system is also controlled by an ECU, and

is equipped with a solenoid valve system in place of the ’07 model’s Flow Control valve (FCV)

system. The advantages of the new 3-mode ABS are smooth and linear fluid pressure control,

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. Page 2 of 7

and it delivers improved feel at the brake lever and brake pedal while the ABS is activated, and

the whole system is smaller and lighter than the previous design.

Reduced unsprung weight

Unsprung weight is reduced by the use of new active wheel sensors featuring a magnetic rotor,

compared to the ’07 system which utilised passive sensors with sintered steel rotors. To match

these changes to the new ABS sensors and rotors, the front and rear wheel hub design is

modified accordingly.

New throttle pulley

For improved driveability and a more accurate and intuitive feel, the 2008 FJR1300A/AS are

equipped with a new-shape throttle pulley. Whereas the previous pulley was of a counterprogressive

design, the new pulley is a conventional circular type which delivers a linear

relationship between throttle input and butterfly valve operation.

Scratch-resistant screen coating and modified mounts

The adjustable screen on both models features a hard new coating which helps to keep the

screen in good condition for optimal visibility – and for reduced vibration and to minimise weight,

a newly-designed integrated screen mounting system is used for 2008.

New handlebar grips

For better feel and improved comfort, both models are equipped with new handlebar grips that

are manufactured from a different rubber compound.

Black instrument panel

The 2008 FJR models both feature a new black-coloured instrument panel cover.

FJR1300AS-specific changes:

Reshaped left-side handlebar switch

For a better feel and improved operability, the left-side handlebar switch on the FJR1300AS has

been redesigned, and features a modified hand shift lever for up-shifting, as well as a reshaped

passing light switch.

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. Page 3 of 7

Lighter YCC-S assembly

In addition to the significant weight savings made by the new 3-mode ABS system and the

lightweight wheel sensor rotors, the FJR1300AS also benefits from a new control unit on the

YCC-S chip-controlled shift system

Available colours for both FJR1300A and FJR1300AS:

Graphite

Silver Tech

Midnight Black

 

[jwilly]

They forgot to mention that the 03 models are still the lightest and fastest!!

JW

 

[Bike Effects]

They forgot to mention that the 03 models are still the lightest and fastest!!
JW

They always seem to do that, don't they?

 

[Lake Powell]

They forgot to mention that the 03 models are still the lightest and fastest!!
JW

They always seem to do that, don't they?

You know Captain, you want the raven.....

(how ya been?)

 

[SkooterG]

Good techy data on the changes, especially the ABS. Thanks for posting.

 

[charismaticmegafauna]

Good techy data on the changes, especially the ABS. Thanks for posting.

Yea, but --

New 3-mode ABS system with linear solenoid valveIn a move which is designed to reduce overall weight and also enhance the feel at the brake

lever and pedal, both the FJR1300A and AS models are equipped with a new ABS system for

2008.

The most significant change is that the new system is a 3-mode ABS, compared to the 2-mode

design used on the ’07 models. Whereas the 2-mode system is designed to operate in either a

pressurised or depressurised mode, the new 3-mode system operates in a pressurised, or

pressure holding, or depressurised mode. Or, in simple terms, the ’07 2-mode ABS design

operated with the brake fluid pressure being either ‘on’ or ‘off’, while the new 3-mode system

has pressure ‘on’ and ‘off’ modes, together an additional ‘pressure holding’ state.

The compact new hydraulic unit in the latest 3-mode system is also controlled by an ECU, and

is equipped with a solenoid valve system in place of the ’07 model’s Flow Control valve (FCV)

system. The advantages of the new 3-mode ABS are smooth and linear fluid pressure control,

Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. Page 2 of 7

and it delivers improved feel at the brake lever and brake pedal while the ABS is activated, and

the whole system is smaller and lighter than the previous design.

What's that mean in 'layman's terms'? Is 'pressure holding' like 'power brakes'? Does the U.S. of A. get the same as Euro?

Can someone explain this a little simpler -- just how does it differ (in operation) from previous?

I do get "...smaller and lighter than the previous..." -- but, am a little 'in-the-dark' about the rest.

 

[Groo]

These will probably manifest themselves in the 2009 models here in the US of A.

Interesting that they've acknowledged their f* up on the throttle pulley and gone away from the counterprogressive one... and back to the good old linear version.

 

[YooperDick]

These will probably manifest themselves in the 2009 models here in the US of A.

I'm not too sure. There is a very brief reference to a new ABS system at the Yamaha-motor web site.

Would have been nice to read a little more than the marketing folk thought appropriate.

 

[Constant Mesh]

The U.S.A model gets the same ABS system. On the old system the electric solenoid valves were two way devices -- either energized or off. The new system uses three position solenoid valves where there are three electrical/position states. For instance there may be 0 amps, 3 amps, or 5 amps flowing to the solenoids. Each of these would correspond to the three possible physical positions of the solenoid valve. Sounds like they deleted the brake fluid flow control valves in the old system.

The new system is closer to what is used in autos.

From the Yamaha Canada site:

All new ABS system for 2008. The ABS or Anti Lock Braking System now features a linear controlled 3 position system (Vs 2 position in the past), an ECU integrated compact hydraulic unit and a new active type wheel sensor with a new magnetic rotor. The benefit is a reduced weight and better lever feedback feeling when the system is operating.

So it appears that the ABS electronics are now integrated into the pump/valve assembly. The earlier ABS electronics were separate and located near the engine ECU module under the seat.