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08 vs 09 ABS Brakes

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  #11  
Old 04-16-2009, 06:28 PM
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Originally Posted by keltonkrew
my 09 will kick in on the rough/washboard type road at stop signs....
Mine will too. Anyone know if this download applies to early '09s? I believe mine was built in June '08.
 
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  #12  
Old 04-16-2009, 06:57 PM
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I've never had any issues with mine and I have "used" the ABS on a couple of occasions. I have not felt anything unusual or the ABS activating on mine except when I was doing the panic stop thing.
 
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  #13  
Old 04-16-2009, 07:08 PM
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Dunno about the download. But the info about only using the front brake is clearly wrong. The only way that would be correct is if HD used a linked braking system (the front brake lever activating both the front and rear brakes).

The don't. And the advice is very, very wrong.
 
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  #14  
Old 04-16-2009, 07:43 PM
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It seems so much easier with out ABS. There have been so many topics on here about various problems. Are they really worth the trouble?
 
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  #15  
Old 04-16-2009, 07:52 PM
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They are when they work well ... which means not activating at all until a true panic stop.
 
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  #16  
Old 04-16-2009, 07:55 PM
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Thanks for the information. It does conflict with what I have been told.

I would like to know where you found this, or who told you.
 
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  #17  
Old 04-16-2009, 08:03 PM
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I find it hard to believe that ALL front brake and NO back brake will stop you quicker than ALL front brake and SOME rear brake.
 
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  #18  
Old 04-16-2009, 08:47 PM
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I heard someone say that the ABS has saved their life twice already. If thats the case they probably dont need to be riding at all anyway. Personally I havent gotten to ride one with it yet but I just ordered a new one with it so I hope its worth it. It cost me an extra $795.
 
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Old 04-16-2009, 08:48 PM
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Originally Posted by AUSTEX RKC
I have mixed feelings about the ABS on my 2008 RKC. I really like it when I get caught in the rain. But I have had it activate prematurely on downhill controlled stops or if there is a washboard at the intersection caused by heavy trucks. Scared the snot out of me couple of times. I will check with my HD dealer next time I’m there to see what they have to say about the download issue. As someone above indicated I don’t think ABS was offered until 2008 but I could be wrong.

GG
Then you really need to get the new download. There is a service bulletin for it, but its not considered a recall (not sure why not, it does seem to be a safety issue).

My only problem is getting the bike into the local shop,with it being spring its fully booked!
 
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  #20  
Old 04-16-2009, 09:38 PM
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My bike stops so much faster when you use both brakes (with or without the ABS working).

DEFINITELY use both brakes. ABS or non ABS.

The ABS on my 09 is total rubbish, and dangerous. I got sick of it scaring me so I pulled the fuse. It now is a 10 pound waste of frame space. I was thinking of pulling it out - if anyone needs a shiny $800 paperweight let me know.

Before I pull it out I should get the download and give it another chance I suppose.
 
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