#Yamaha radar linked brakes

[ijustwant2ride]

Motorcycle News: National Motorcycle Day and Radar Braking for Motorcycles.

Radar-Linked Brakes are a new safety innovation for motorcycles that use radar technology to help riders be safer Did you know there was a United States National Motorcycle Day?

Up Shift – National Motorcycle Day?!?!!! Did you know there was a United States National Motorcycle Day?  I did not until after it happened this year.  Turns out that the second Friday of each is now National Motorcycle Day. Do any other nations celebrate Motorcycling with a special day of recognition? My Take – I like this idea and the possibilities it could have for exposure of our passion.…

[autoexplored]

Yamaha's Motorcycle Revolution: Adaptive Cruise Control and Radar-Linked Unified Brake System

Adaptive Cruise Control and Radar-Linked Unified Brake System: In the ever-evolving landscape of motorcycle technology, Yamaha has once again pushed the boundaries by integrating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the groundbreaking Radar-Linked Unified Brake System (UBS) into their latest models. These innovative features not only redefine the riding experience but also elevate safety,…

[sbknews]

New TRACER 9 GT+ Sport Touring model from Yamaha

Featuring a higher specification together with a premium finish, the new 2023 NIKEN GT is one of Yamaha’s most sophisticated Sport Tourers and benefits from a range of advanced new engine, chassis and electronic control technologies that are designed to elevate the quality of every ride. Ride at the cutting edge Yamaha Sport Touring models give riders across the globe the chance to live their dreams and explore the roads of life whenever they feel the need to escape from the everyday realities. Whether it’s a weekend break or an ambitious long distance tour, the TRACER 9 range has the performance, comfort and versatility to satisfy every rider’s lust for travel. The very special formula of a high-torque 890cc CP3 engine, lightweight aluminium chassis, natural ergonomics and a luggage-ready design makes sure that these bikes are ready to get up and go whenever required. Now Yamaha are ready to take the TRACER concept into an exciting new dimension with the most sophisticated Sport Tourer ever manufactured by the company. Building on the strengths of the existing models, the new TRACER 9 GT+ comes with a range of best-in-class technology that is designed to transform every ride by providing a previously unimaginable degree of versatility and control. Featuring fully integrated cutting edge electronics including a millimetre wave radar, Adaptive Cruise Control, radar-linked Unified Brake System, electronic suspension and intelligent riding modes – as well as connected TFT instruments and fully integrated for Garmin navigation – the new TRACER 9 GT+ is ready to introduce a new era of control that will take the Sport Touring experience to the next level.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) TRACER 9 GT+ is the first Yamaha to be equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and this advanced new system offers all the advantages of cruise control together with the ability to automatically maintain a fixed distance from the vehicle ahead. With a conventional cruise control system if the rider is getting closer to a vehicle in front, they need to deselect the system or apply their brakes – which automatically disengages the system. However, with the new ACC system an inbuilt millimetre wave radar constantly measures the distance from the vehicle immediately ahead of the TRACER 9 GT+. The ACC automatically controls cruising speed, deceleration and acceleration to suit the road situation as it evolves. The ACC is adjustable, and when the machine is in motion its rider can select one of four different following distance options to suit their individual preferences, displayed as one bar for shortest following distance, and four bars for the longest following distance. ACC offers a number of advantages, including reducing rider fatigue by requiring fewer rider inputs, as well as ensuring improved ride quality by maintaining a constant following distance, and also promoting smooth traffic flow. When the ACC system is active the new 7-inch TFT meter displays a green icon (with grey for standby) and shows between 1 and 4 white bars beneath a car icon to confirm the selected following distance. When the ACC determines that the rider is too close to the vehicle in front or if it senses that the machine’s current acceleration/deceleration status will soon lead to the rider getting too close, rider intervention request icon appears on the meter to notify the rider that appropriate action is required to avoid following too close. ACC operates between 30 km/h and 160 km/h – in 1st & 2nd gears from 30 km/h, in 3rd & 4th gears from 40 km/h, and in 5th & 6th gears from 50 km/h. Speed can be increased and decreased in either 1 km/h or 10 km/h increments by pushing once or holding down the adjustment switch. ACC is deactivated by braking or gripping the clutch lever for more than 1 second, or rolling forward the throttle twist grip, beyond the throttle stop. This easy to understand ACC status is shown in all screen modes including navigation mode and provides an additional rider aid that is designed to enhance the riding experience, particularly on busy highways.

Additional ACC functions As well as maintaining a pre-selected following distance, ACC also features ‘cornering assist’ whereby it inhibits speed increases when the system detects that the machine is cornering, and if the radar detects a vehicle ahead it will also limit the level of acceleration when following. The ACC’s ‘passing assist’ accelerates the TRACER 9 GT+ more smoothly than normal when it senses that the bike’s flasher is turned on and the motorcycle is performing an overtaking manoeuvre. ACC is also integrated with the engine, and electronic suspension, and in order to maintain the pre-selected distance to the vehicle ahead, the engine braking and brakes are activated – in that order – to slow the bike. At the same time the electronic suspension’s damping force is adjusted to reduce excess pitching when brakes are applied to maintain chassis stability. With its ability to intervene automatically and adjust levels of speed, throttle opening, engine braking, braking and suspension when following a vehicle – as well as when cornering and overtaking – the sophisticated ACC provides a natural and seamless riding experience. Used for the very first time on a Yamaha, this best-in-class electronic technology takes highway comfort to a whole new level. The easy to operate ACC reduces the rider’s mental and physical inputs and gives enhanced comfort and convenience for an unrivalled ride quality, making the TRACER 9 GT+ Yamaha’s ultimate Sport Tourer.

TRACER 9 Radar-linked front/rear assisted Unified Brake System As the flagship model in Yamaha’s Sport Touring line, the TRACER 9 GT+ has been chosen to debut a range of innovative new best-in-class technology – including the motorcycling world’s first ever radar-linked Unified Brake System (UBS). The new system is an active design that offers increased controllability by using data from the millimetre wave radar and the 6-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) to assist and regulate front and rear braking forces, via the Bosch hydraulic unit that optimises control and bias of the braking system. There are three main elements to the radar-linked Unified Brake System that operate only when the BC (Brake Control) is turned ON. Firstly, brake assist intervenes when the system detects that a collision is imminent. Secondly, front/rear brake assistance adjusts braking forces to both wheels for stable deceleration. And thirdly, cornering brake control automatically adjusts braking force to inhibit tyre slippage when the machine is leaned over. The radar-linked, Unified Brake System constantly analyses following distance data from the millimetre wave radar. If the system calculates that the rider’s braking inputs are insufficient to prevent a collision with the vehicle ahead it will increase brake pressure to the front and rear wheels to help slow the TRACER 9 GT+. The previously described ACC system will also automatically slow the TRACER 9 GT+ when a pre-selected following distance is reached, but as soon as the rider applies the brakes the ACC is deactivated – and at this point the radar-linked Unified Brake System will intervene if it determines that the rider’s braking inputs are not sufficient to prevent a collision. The system provides additional braking assistance and will only intervene when the BC is turned ON and the rider is braking – it is not a collision avoidance system. The second element is the front/rear assisted Unified Brake System that adjusts front/rear braking force distribution. When only the front brake is used by the rider the hydraulic unit automatically applies braking force to the rear wheel, with the degree of intervention calculated using IMU data related to changes in acceleration and lean angle. When the only the rear brake is used the system will sometimes – but not always – apply additional braking force to the front wheel via the hydraulic unit depending on the brake pedal input and IMU data regarding the bike’s attitude. The third element is the cornering brake control. This is in effect a ‘cornering brake control’ system that takes into account machine running data from the IMU and instantly adjusts the rider’s braking forces to inhibit tyre slippage. The radar-linked Unified Brake System is linked to the electronic suspension, and as well as assisting and regulating front and rear braking forces it also adjusts front and rear suspension damping to maintain chassis stability. ABS always operates whether the BC is turned ON or OFF.

TRACER 9 GT Millimetre wave radar Both the new Adaptive Cruise Control and the radar-linked Unified Brake System use data from the new millimetre wave radar that detects the distance of the vehicle immediately ahead of the motorcycle. Weighing only 200g, this compact, integrated radar unit is situated behind a new protective cover at the front of the TRACER 9 GT+. New 7-inch full colour TFT meter TRACER 9 GT+ riders have a choice of three different screen themes with the new full-colour TFT high luminosity meter. Each screen theme is designed to convey a different feeling to suit different riding styles and varying personal preferences. With options giving a clean, contemporary look, a stripped down sports style with or a visual identity inspired by Yamaha’s Jin-Ki Kanno development ideal, there is a visual theme to suit each rider. In all three meter themes the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is featured prominently, enabling riders to instantly see the system’s distance setting and selected cruising speed. New smartphone connectivity For an enriched riding experience smartphone connectivity comes as standard on the TRACER 9 GT+. A Communication Control Unit enables riders to link their smartphone with the machine using Yamaha’s free MyRide app. The connection can be made via USB*, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth®, and once connected the rider can view information on incoming calls, emails and messages on the TFT instruments. Riders and passengers can also listen to music and respond to calls with a Bluetooth®-connected headset*, adding a new dimension to every ride, whether long distance touring or commuting to work. TRACER 9 GT+ riders can also view a range of menus and functions using the new ergonomic controls on the left handlebar, and when the bike isn’t moving its new high luminosity 7-inch TFT screen is able to display everything from weather reports to detailed notifications. *Not included with the TRACER 9 GT+.

New Garmin full-screen navigation capability Garmin full-screen navigation can be easily installed, all the rider needs to do is connect their smartphone via the free MyRide app and download the Garmin Motorise app**. A full-screen navigation window can be opened on the connected TFT instruments, and the TRACER 9 GT+ rider can select from a choice of different types of routes – such as fastest, shortest, highway and more – and spoken turn-by-turn directions can be sent to a paired Bluetooth®-connected headset*. Map data is downloaded to the smartphone and so the rider can still access navigation even when the smartphone signal may be temporarily lost in certain locations. Navigation functions include real time traffic, estimated time of arrival, and alternative routes to avoid congestion. Other useful functions are the distance that can be ridden with the remaining fuel, and real time updates display local weather information as well as the weather situation at the chosen destination, and a weekly weather forecast. Garmin Motorise also includes rider alerts that provide information on potential hazards such as sharp bends – and prevailing speed limits are displayed. There’s also a PhotoReal junction view that is automatically displayed in a split screen format when approaching a junction, giving information on the best lane to use for the next exit. The Garmin Motorise app can be operated by a joystick and home button on the left handlebar while the machine is stationary – but the app is locked and cannot be operated when the motorcycle is moving. *Not included with the TRACER 9 GT ** Garmin Motorise requires a subscription service agreement. New 3rd generation quickshifter integrated with ACC Unlike conventional cruise control systems which disengage when a rider uses the clutch or shifts gear, TRACER 9 GT+ riders can change gear using the new 3rd generation quickshifter even when the ACC is active. This new cutting edge Sport Tourer is the first Yamaha to be equipped with the 3rd generation quickshifter that gives an even wider range of functionality by allowing clutchless downshifts when accelerating and clutchless upshifts when decelerating. For example, if the rider is cruising with ACC active at 100 km/h in 6th gear and is then automatically slowed by a car in front, the rider can downshift to suit the reduced riding speed without the ACC disengaging. Similarly, when cruising downhill with ACC in a lower gear the rider can shift up to reduce engine braking without losing ACC. In order to retain a natural riding feeling the 3rd generation quickshifter will not operate in certain situations where engine rpm is extremely low or high, and also when the machine is neither accelerating nor decelerating. In these circumstances the quickshifter icon on the new TFT instrument meter will indicate whether or not the quickshifter can be used, and once the speed or rpm is changed the system will resume operation.

Integrated KYB electronically controlled ‘KADS’ semi-active suspension The TRACER 9 GT+ is equipped with the most advanced electronic control technology to be found on any production Yamaha motorcycle, underlining Yamaha’s commitment to the Sport Touring category. The new generation KADS (KYB Actimatic Damper System) electronically controlled suspension system has been developed jointly with KYB and is designed to provide exciting sports performance together with an extremely comfortable ride. This fully integrated front and rear suspension system is governed by the 6-axis IMU which monitors various sensors and automatically adjusts the damping forces via the Hydraulic Unit (HU) and Suspension Control Unit (SCU). KADS can be set in Sport or Comfort mode and is able to adapt itself to a wide variety of riding styles by constantly adjusting damping forces to suit the prevailing riding conditions. By analysing IMU data including the bike’s lean angle and acceleration, this sophisticated suspension system delivers a high quality ride with unmatched roadholding and elevated feelings, providing levels of confidence that confirm the TRACER 9 GT+ as Yamaha’s ultimate Sport Tourer. Like every other electronic system featured on this highly capable motorcycle, the KYB suspension is fully integrated to always ensure stable handling performance, and it operates in conjunction with the ACC, front/rear assist Unified Brake System, as well as the radar-linked Unified Brake System and brake control. The electronically controlled suspension’s handling characteristics are also affected by the Integrated riding modes selection, and damping settings are instantaneously adjusted via a solenoid to achieve a smooth and comfortable ride in a variety of load and riding conditions.

Integrated riding modes TRACER 9 GT+ benefits from a refined D-Mode (the engine character selection) that is now fully integrated with the machine’s 6-Axis IMU and comprehensive suite of lean-sensitive rider aids. Previously D-Mode (the engine character selection) has operated completely separately to the various electronically controlled rider aids which required individual adjustment. This new system is more intuitive, being much easier to understand and use on-the-fly. The rider has the option to select one of four integrated riding modes options: ‘Sport’, ‘Street’, ‘Rain’ or ‘Custom’ – all of which now work in conjunction with the engine character selection (D-mode), the traction control, slide control, lift control and electronic suspension’s damping control to ensure enhanced controllability in a wide variety of riding situations. The ‘Sport’, ‘Street’ and ‘Rain’ selectable options feature embedded factory settings with different intervention levels to suit different conditions, and these pre-set modes have been developed by Yamaha’s designers using feedback from test riders. The fourth ‘Custom’ option enables the rider to manually select their own intervention settings for the various electronically controlled rider aids, and save it as their tailored mode. New ergonomic handlebar switch clusters Newly designed handlebar switch assemblies employing a joystick and home button enable the rider to operate the wider range of functions, including smartphone connectivity and navigation. Both the right and left side clusters feature a clear, logical layout and simple design – and their ergonomic layout gives smooth thumb movement for easy and intuitive operation. The switch clusters are back-lit for easier identification and use in the dark. Refined height-adjustable rider’s seat and new seat cover material The height adjustable rider’s seat is upgraded with new padding and a revised shape for increased comfort. While a new leather-style cover is used to enhance the overall feeling of quality and pride of ownership of this flagship Sport Tourer. It’s now a more comfortable and refined place to spend a long day’s ride. Read the full article

[jesusvasser]

First Drive: 2019 Toyota Avalon

DEL MAR, California — Jimmy Durante Boulevard just north of San Diego is the perfect stretch of pavement to experience the 2019 Toyota Avalon.

Like the street’s eponymous comedian/entertainer, the all-new fifth-generation sedan has a schnoz that only the Great Schnozzola could appreciate.

“My nose isn’t big. I just happen to have a very small head,” the funny man used to say.

If you compare the Toyota flagship’s new grille with the nose of a fighter jet, well it definitely looks small. But if you parked it next to a Lexus LS, its spindle grille would look tiny.

Premium XLE and Limited trims of the 2019 Avalon feature a large slotted grille that’s as wide as the 805 Freeway, while sporty XSE and Touring models get a big, piano black mesh one. Hybrids get both plus grille shutters to help cool the engine.

Head on, the grille appears to smile like a Cheshire cat with Triple-J LED headlamps for eyes above its side air intakes. Limited and Touring models get slim LED lenses and LED cornering lamps.

Behind the big grin, the sedan packs a trusty 3.5-liter V-6 engine that offers 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive.

The Avalon Hybrid receives a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that offers 176 hp and 163 lb ft of torque. There are two electric motors that produce an additional 118 hp, for a combined system output of 215 hp.

Toyota has built the Avalon in Georgetown, Kentucky since 1994 and the new look is a departure from the more conservative styling of the past.

My most recent memory of the Avalon was as a passenger in the back seat of a third generation model. It was a weekend ride from Central Park West to the Hamptons.

A friend’s step dad drove and when he pulled up in it, I was surprised he wasn’t driving a Mercedes-Benz or at the very least a Lexus. The conservative tastes and low-key profile of the car made it the perfect generic vehicle for big cities like Manhattan or Tokyo.

I recall it was a smooth ride, the legroom was exceptional, but the car itself was pretty much all beige on beige.

Today the Avalon is longer, lower, and wider—and its looks are louder than ever. It measures 195.9 x 72.8 x 56.5 inches (L x W x H). The flashy, four-door has long creases along its flanks and the rear end looks like a samurai swung several deft blows at it with his blade.

Automobile’s design critic Robert Cumberford might call it “tortured steel.” Toyota says it’s a “Technical Beauty” that’s made for consumers in their mid-thirties or younger—and the result is a somewhat daring and bold, sci-fi sedan for the 21st Century.

The gas-only 2019 Avalon is available in the aforementioned XLE, Limited, XSE, and Touring trims, while the Avalon Hybrid makes do without a Touring variant.

In addition to their grille, the sportier versions are distinguishable by quad exhaust tips and black spoilers on the trunk lid. Depending on the trim, wheels are available in four styles and range from 17 to 19 inches in diameter.

Inside, base model Avalons have rubbery, standard issue Toyota steering wheels while the better grades get leather wrapped two-toned ones that feel heartier as well as suede trimmed door inserts and plenty of soft touch materials.

There’s also Yamaha wood or aluminum trim available as well as cognac leather seats—opt for the yak and you will not be disappointed.

Out on the road, steering is loose and predictable, and feels only slightly stiffer in sport mode. There are three drive modes to choose from—normal, eco, and sport (Touring gets a fourth—sport+.) There’s a sport tuned exhaust available with engine sound enhancement and an intake sound generator for the Touring trim. It’s also an option for the XSE V-6 model if you don’t mind the sound effects.

Wireless smartphone chargers are available—provided you don’t use an Android. Instead, the Avalon is Amazon Alexa enabled and Apple CarPlay biased. It features a 9-inch touch screen with volume and tuning controls. There are five USB ports and a 14-speaker JBL audio system with 1,200 watts is available that sounds superior to the standard 8-speaker system.

Standard safety goodies include pre-collision with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, steering assist, blind spot monitor, and more. The electric parking brake with brake hold is standard on all models and is extremely handy at traffic lights.

All 2019 Avalons ride on the new and wider Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform with a multi-link rear suspension. Its available Adaptive Variable Suspension provides a comfortable ride for the Touring trim, which gets fancy shocks jacked from the latest Lexus LS.

Batteries for the hybrids are located under the rear seats and it increases the sedan’s overall weight, which varies from the 3,560-pound XLE up to a hefty 3,715-pound Limited Hybrid.

Prices start at $36,395 for a base 2019 Avalon XLE and go up to $43,095 for the Avalon Touring. Going hybrid adds $1,000 to the sticker, making the Avalon Hybrid a great bargain for the gas sipper crowd.

The 2019 Toyota Avalon XLE Hybrid offers 43/44 mpg (city/highway) versus 22/31 mpg for a gas only Avalon XLE. With fuel prices in the SoCal area hovering above the $4 a gallon range, the Avalon Hybrid should sell well in the Golden State. All versions of the 2019 Avalon go on sale in May.

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