Abstract: A vehicle braking apparatus is capable of suppressing time lag at the time of activating an ABS, reliably detecting wheel slippage at a wheel even on a low ? road surface, and performing a brake operation to stop the vehicle without causing stroke variations in a brake actuating unit. A vehicle braking apparatus includes a hydraulic modulator for generating hydraulic pressure applied to a brake caliper which is connected to a master cylinder via a main brake path, and a pressure sensor for detecting hydraulic pressure applied to the brake caliper. When the ABS is activated, the hydraulic pressure applied to the brake caliper is reduced to a pressure reduction target value based on the detected pressure. A normally-open electromagnetic valve lies in the main brake path. The brake path pressure on each side of the valve is equalized by means of the hydraulic modulator before opening the electromagnetic valve.

Abstract: A hydraulic motorcycle brake system includes an accommodating member for the hydraulic connection of two master brake cylinders to the front-wheel brake and rear-wheel brake having several pressure channels for the front-wheel circuit and rear-wheel brake circuit, and allowing manufacture in a simplest possible manner, and a pair of wheel brake connections connectable to the rear-wheel brake and front-wheel brake open into a lateral surface of the accommodating member, the wheel brake connections being arranged between a pair of pressure connections that are connectable to the two master brake cylinders.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for installing between a master cylinder and a brake line includes a housing having an internal bore, an inlet port, a passage, and an outlet port. A reciprocating piston is movable within the bore. A locking lever is coupled to the reciprocating piston for actuating the reciprocating piston. A fastener having an internal fluid passage for providing fluid communication between the passage and the master cylinder secures the housing to the master cylinder. The locking lever is moveable between a first position, wherein the hydraulic fluid can flow freely between the master cylinder and the brake line for engaging and disengaging the vehicle brake and a second position, wherein the hydraulic fluid is prevented from returning to the master cylinder for maintaining the vehicle brake in an engaged state.

Abstract: A master cylinder assembly includes a housing and a cover coupled to the housing, defining a reservoir adapted to contain fluid at a level. The cover includes an aperture. A sight glass is received within the aperture and adapted to indicate the fluid level. The sight glass has a top portion, bottom portion, and middle portion between the top and bottom portions. The top and bottom portions each have a perimeter sized to be received within the aperture and to seal the reservoir. The middle portion has a reduced perimeter. The sight glass is movable between a raised position where the bottom portion is received within the aperture, sealing the reservoir and a lowered position where the top portion is received within the aperture, sealing the reservoir. The middle portion allows fluid flow through the aperture when the sight glass is moved from the raised position to the lowered position.

Abstract: A brake support structure for effectively utilizes a space is disposed so as to be hardly visible in appearance. In addition, the brake support structure protects the pipes. A brake support structure includes a vehicle frame having rear frames extending from main frames with a swing arm having a front end pivotally supported on the rear frames and a rear end for rotatably supporting a rear wheel. Brake pipes are connected to a brake caliper for braking the rear wheel. An upper cross member interconnects the rear frames and is disposed near the swing arm. The brake pipes extend between the upper cross member and the swing arm.

Abstract: When a vehicle speed sensor is provided as a separate unit, the vehicle sensor should be removed when a vehicle wheel is changed. A brake caliper is fitted to an upper stay and a lower stay formed at a lower part of the front fork supporting the front wheel. The sensor stay is fitted to the inside of the lower stay in the vicinity of the brake caliper. A sensor cover is fastened integrally in an overlapping manner to the outside of the sensor stay. A projection formed on the sensor cover overlaps with a fitting bolt of the brake caliper. Thus, it is not possible to remove the brake caliper without first removing the sensor cover. Further, a vehicle speed sensor is sandwiched by the sensor stay and the lower end of the sensor cover and the three members are fastened together.

Abstract: In an integral brake system having antilock braking and including at least one brake actuating element, one front wheel brake, and one rear wheel brake, the antilock braking may optionally be selectively deactivated for the front wheel brake.

Abstract: A mechanism for placing a hand operated rear-wheel brake lever of a motorcycle on the left handlebar of the motorcycle. A steel wire is routed from the right foot brake pedal by an extension to a small lever found under the clutch hand lever on the left handlebar. When the lever is pulled inward, the wire pulls the right foot brake pedal up, activating the hydraulically operated braking system of the motorcycle's rear wheel without the rider having to use his/her right foot. Riders who engage in racing or who are traveling at high speeds have greater precision in their ability to brake the rear wheel of their vehicle.

Abstract: A device is provided which improves the brake feeling on a motorcycle which uses a front-rear interlocking brake system. In the motorcycle braking device, which is equipped with an ABS, a brake caliper for a rear wheel works in conjunction with brake operation for a front wheel. When the ABS is active on the side of the front wheel, which is braked by a front wheel brake actuating unit such as a brake lever, the braking pressure ratio between the brake caliper for the front wheel and the brake caliper for the rear wheel is different from that when the ABS is inactive. A process is disclosed for setting an appropriate braking pressure at the rear wheel brake caliper based on a predetermined map of the relationship between the front wheel master cylinder pressure and the rear wheel brake caliper pressure, depending on the control mode.

Abstract: To enable a trouble diagnosis of braking-input-side pressure sensors even in a state where a braking input side and a braking output side are interrupted from each other. In a brake device of a vehicle in which a braking input side which generates a liquid pressure by manipulating a brake manipulation portion and a braking output side which supplies the liquid pressure to a brake caliper are made to be communicated with each other or being interrupted from each other by way of a first electromagnetic open/close valve, and the brake device includes a hydraulic modulator which adjusts the liquid pressure of the braking output side by operating an electrically-operated motor, the brake device includes a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor for detecting the liquid pressure of the braking input side, and a trouble diagnosis of the pressure sensors is performed in response to detection values of the pressure sensors.

Abstract: A slip control system is provided for a single-track motor vehicle, including devices for detecting the wheel revolution of the front and rear wheel of the motor vehicle, devices for detecting a tilting position angle of the motor vehicle, as well as devices for influencing the driving and/or braking forces acting upon a wheel of the motor vehicle. In addition, devices are provided for storing type-specific tire data, and the devices for influencing the driving and/or braking forces acting upon a vehicle wheel are constructed such that the influencing of the driving and/or braking forces takes place as a function of the type-specific tire data, in particular the different geometries of the front and rear wheel tires.

Abstract: A dual function handlebar mounted actuator has first and second function operating devices arranged for activation by movement of a hand operated lever arrangement. The first and second functions operating devices are linked so that a combined first and second function can be activated and the first and second functions are a clutch and a brake function. The actuator has a lever movable between a first and a second position, and a master cylinder having a piston with the lever moving towards the second position to drive a piston from its initial position thereby increasing pressure in the master cylinder. By releasing the lever the pressure within the master cylinder is arranged to return the piston towards its initial position and the piston being returned fully to the initial position upon movement of the lever to the first position.

Abstract: In a motorcycle provided with an antilock brake system, a front fork supporting a front wheel of a motorcycle is supported to be rotatable by a head pipe which is located at the front end portion of a body frame of a motorcycle, a handle-bar is secured to an upper end portion of the head pipe, master cylinders attached to the handle-bar are connected to hydraulic wheel brakes, respectively, via brake pipes. An antilock brake system includes an ABS-unit for antilock control disposed in an intermediate portion of the brake pipes. The ABS-unit is disposed immediately behind the head pipe and between a pair of body frame components disposed on both lateral sides of the motorcycle body and extending, from the head pipe, obliquely downward and backward, while extending outward in directions opposite to each other in the width direction of the motorcycle body.

Abstract: A combined brake system and method, for a two-wheeled motor vehicle, is capable of synchronizing a braking operation of either a front or rear wheel with a braking operation of the other wheel. The brake system enables a rider to perform braking operations in which the rider feels no little or no discomfort. The system includes a pair of hydraulic pressure modulators for supplying hydraulic pressure, generated by an electrically-operated actuator, to front and rear brake calipers, respectively. A controller electrically controls each hydraulic pressure modulator in response to a riding condition for the vehicle and in response to a braking operation applied by the vehicle operator.

Abstract: A brake system includes a front and a rear wheel brake circuit which are independent of each other. Each circuit includes: a master cylinder connected to a brake caliper through the main brake line; a hydraulic pressure modulator which causes an electrically-operated motor to generate hydraulic pressure; and a normally-open electromagnetic on-off valve. When the two brake circuits are moved in response to operation of a braking operation unit in one circuit, in the brake circuit for which a braking operation unit was operated earlier, the electromagnetic on-off valve opens so that the brake caliper is operated by use of hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder. In the other brake circuit, the electromagnetic on-off valve is closed so that the brake caliper is operated by use of hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic pressure modulator. The braking system uses simple wheel braking mechanism and piping, and concurrently reduces electric current consumption.

Abstract: A reduction in size, weight and cost of a brake system of a motorcycle provided with a circulating-type ABS is achieved by a brake system provided with a circulating-type ABS and a by-wire-type brake system. In the brake system, solenoid valves, hydraulic pressure sensors, accumulators and pumps are integrated into a unit, and concurrently stroke simulators are attached to the unit as separate bodies.

Abstract: A linked brake system for motorcycles includes front and rear wheel brakes, an actuating device by which the front and rear wheel brakes can be operated simultaneously, a control system for controlling brake pressures at the front and rear wheel brakes, and wheel rotational speed sensors for measuring the wheel rotational speeds of the front and rear wheels as well as for determining a reference deceleration approaching the actual vehicle deceleration and for detecting running conditions in which a lock-up tendency exists at at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel. The wheel rotational speed sensors is connected to the control system. Upon an operation of the actuating device, the control system operates the front and rear wheel brakes with a set brake pressure ratio, provided the reference deceleration is less than a set deceleration.

Abstract: A braking device for a motorcycle, in which front wheel braking means is operated in conjunction with a braking operation on a rear wheel, eliminates a rapid change in front/rear braking force distribution at the time of a rear wheel braking operation so as to consistently allow a rider to feel a smooth braking operation. Braking force distribution characteristics on the rear and front wheels are previously set for each vehicle speed. When the braking operation on the rear wheel is performed, a brake caliper on the front wheel is controlled so as to maintain braking force distribution characteristics corresponding to a vehicle speed when the operation is started.

Abstract: A target wheel cover adapted for use in a motorcycle having an anti-locking braking system with a target wheel disposed on a hub of a wheel of the motorcycle, the target wheel cover comprising a cover being configured to be disposed over the target wheel wherein the cover has an exterior finish that matches the wheel of the motorcycle.

Abstract: An hydraulic ABS system for motorcycle is installed between the wheels and the corresponding braking levers. The system respectively includes two hydraulic circuits respectively comprised of a pressure increasing circuit and a pressure releasing circuit, and an electric control unit where a plurality of control zones are established. The front and rear wheel braking levers respectively provide two braking signals that separately or simultaneously control the respective braking forces of the front and rear wheels. Via calculated slip rates, the operation of pressure increasing and releasing circuits are further timely controlled to achieve an optimal braking.

Abstract: When a method for operating a reference speed judges that an ABS control is being executed, the method judges whether the ABS control is being executed to a front wheel or not. When the method judges that the ABS control is not executed to the front wheel, the method considers that the lifting of a rear wheel does not occur, and makes the reference speed follow the fastest wheel speed VRH. When the method judges that the ABS control is being executed to the front wheel, and further judges that a reference body deceleration is a predetermined value or more, the method considers that the lifting of the rear wheel has occurred, and makes the reference speed follow a speed VRM. The speed VRM is a wheel speed calculated in accordance with the following formula: VRM=&agr;VRL+(1−&agr;)VRH (0<&agr;<1), where &agr; character VRL indicates the slowest wheel speed, and a character &agr; indicates a default.

Abstract: A hydraulic ABS system for motorcycle is installed between the wheels and the corresponding braking levers. The system respectively includes two hydraulic circuits respectively comprised of a pressure increasing circuit and a pressure releasing circuit, and an electric control unit where are established a plurality of control zones. The front and rear wheel braking levers respectively provide two braking signals that separately or simultaneously control the respective braking forces of the front and rear wheels. Via calculated slip rates, the operations pressure increasing and releasing circuits are further timely controlled to achieve an optimal braking.

Abstract: To provide a technique capable of detecting lifting of a rear wheel of a two-wheeled vehicle correctly and rapidly. An estimated vehicle speed is generated by selecting the larger one of wheel speed Vf, Vr of a rear wheel and a front wheel, and attention is paid to an estimated vehicle deceleration which is computed based on the estimated vehicle speed and it is judged that lifting of the rear wheel has occurred when a degree of lowering of the estimated vehicle deceleration is a predetermined value or larger.

Abstract: To prevent an operational feeling from deteriorating due to an operation of the other brake operating member under a superior braking condition caused by one brake operating member in a vehicle brake control device in which a pair of brake operating force transmission systems are connected to a single wheel brake, each of brake operating force reducing means capable of weakening the brake operating force transmitted to the wheel brake is arranged at both brake operating force transmission systems.

Abstract: In a brake control method for a motorcycle which includes a front master cylinder, front wheel cylinders hydraulically connectable to the front master cylinder, a rear master cylinder, a rear wheel cylinder means hydraulically connectable to the rear master cylinder and a hydraulic pressure pump, when only the front master cylinder is operated, brake pressure fluid is supplied to the front wheel cylinders, the fluid pressure pump is driven to supply discharging pressure fluid to the rear wheel cylinder and, when only the rear master cylinder is operated, brake pressure fluid is supplied only to the rear wheel cylinder.

Abstract: An ABS return control device for retracting an expander piston to an ABS non-operation position by turning a crank mechanism by a servomotor includes a first procedure of driving the servomotor with a position precedent to a turning limit. At the turning limit, the movement of the crank mechanism is limited by a stopper member. A target angle and a second procedure of driving the servomotor by updating the target angle with the turning limit is further disclosed. The ABS return control device permits reduction of a conventional actuator in size and weight by controlling the kinetic energy of a positioning member of the crank mechanism turned by a servomotor at the time of collision against the stopper member.

Abstract: To provide a front wheel and rear wheel interlocking brake system having a simple structure, which is capable of automatically performing brake control of the front and rear wheels on the basis of the running state of the motorcycle. A front wheel and rear wheel interlocking brake system is provided for a motorcycle in which a front wheel brake and a rear wheel brake, each being hydraulically operated, are provided on a front wheel and a rear wheel, respectively. The brake system includes a front wheel side actuator for applying a hydraulic pressure to the front wheel brake. A rear wheel side actuator is provided for applying a hydraulic pressure to the rear wheel brake. At least one operating member is operated by a driver. An operated amount detecting member is provided for detecting the operated amounts of each brake operating member. A control member is provided for receiving and calculating each of operated amounts detected by each operated amount detecting member.

Abstract: A brake assembly for a motorcycle provided with a hydraulically actuated front brake and rear brake for a front wheel and a rear wheel, respectively, including a first brake actuating device and a second brake actuating device, for applying hydraulically pressure to the front and rear brakes; and an electronically controlled braking system, having a first hydraulic system extending from the first brake actuating device connected to the front brake, and a second hydraulic system extending from the second brake actuating device, connected to the rear brake, with an electronic control device receiving detection values for each of the first actuation amount detection device for detecting an actuation amount of the first brake actuating device, and a second actuation amount detection device for detecting an actuation amount of the second brake actuating device, subjecting them to computation, and outputting control signals to a hydraulically controlled actuator based on the result of the computation, and actuating

Abstract: A motorcycle chassis embodies novel techniques, geometries, and configurations to provide enhanced performance, including new techniques to enhance braking performance. A first feature facilitates the application of braking force to each wheel in proportion to its traction capability. Maximum deceleration rates are provided prior to wheel lockup. A second feature applies liquid cooling to a brake disk. Liquid cooling eliminates brake fade caused by overheating of the brake pad material. Aerodynamic control features in concert with unique component arrangement better protect the rider from wind forces and also reduce aerodynamic drag. Narrow steering bars enclosed by bodywork and deep leg notches in the fairing contour largely remove rider induced air flow trips. The leg notches serve to brace the rider during deceleration, unloading his wrists from much of the braking force. An exhaust system routed over the engine permits a totally smooth body undercarriage to reduce aerodynamic drag.

Abstract: A mechanical anti-lock braking apparatus for intermittently releasing pressure applied by a brake shoe to a wheel being braked includes a control member, a power input for causing the control member to rotate with the wheel around a rotational axis, and a control input for changing the position of the control member relative to a follower connected to the calipers or brackets to which the brake shoe is mounted. The control member and/or the follower has a shape which causes the follower to oscillate as the control member rotates, with the relative position of the control member and follower determining the magnitude of the oscillations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling brakes using a reciprocating cut valve actuated by an expander piston that is moved via a crank pin on a crank shaft. The cut valve cuts off caliper pressure and adjusts the volume and pressure of an output hydraulic chamber to effectuate antilock braking. When changing from antilock braking to normal braking, the movement of the expander piston is controlled by repeatedly changing a crank angle of the crank pin during specified time intervals. The rate of increase in caliper pressure can be set according to (1) detected brake operation which is detected from a present crank angle and a target crank angle and (2) the frictional state of the road surface which is estimated from vehicle acceleration/deceleration.

Abstract: In a motorcycle provided with a brake, a link supporting brake caliper is fitted to a wheel axle such that it is free to oscillate, an oil chamber being provided which enlarges or contracts according to the oscillation of this link, and which is connected to a pressure passage supplying oil pressure to the brake caliper. An electromagnetic valve is provided for opening and shutting this pressure passage, and a mechanism for detecting a pre-lock condition of the wheel. By shutting the electromagnetic valve when a pre-lock condition is detected, oil pressure supply to the brake caliper is shut off, and rise of braking pressure is prevented. If the pre-lock condition persists after the oil pressure has been shut off, the oil chamber is enlarged by varying the oscillation angle of the link so as decrease the braking pressure and prevent the wheel from locking.

Abstract: An antilock brake system for motorcycles, which ensures that after travel on a curve has been definitely recognized, a modified antilock brake system is activated which adjusts itself dynamically to the degree of tilt reached. The antilock brake system monitors travel on the curve and the degree of tilt with two acceleration sensors and supplements the monitoring circuit by an auxiliary circuit which causes the ABS control, through control signals, to maintain the braking pressure on the front wheel even before the anticipated lockup pressure is reached.