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[Ninjette Newsbot]

Öhlins releases aftermarket semi-active electronic suspension

As revealed earlier in spy shots, Öhlins unveils its aftermarket upgrade for BMW R 1200 GS—sportbikes are surely not far behindAs expected based on the spy shots shown in our story here, Öhlins has released its aftermarket semi-active electronic suspension system for the BMW R 1200 GS in Europe. Interpreting data from the bike’s sensors via its CAN bus line, the suspension is able to vary its damping rates according to the motorcycle’s speed. Utilizing two TTX-style shocks with modified damping circuits (the R 1200 GS’ Telelever front suspension uses a conventional shock to control spring and damping rates) electronically adjusted via motors controlled by the system’s own ECU, the Öhlins system monitors the bike’s speed and changes it to the next stiffer setting in the BMW ESA Modes when required. For example, when speed exceeds 80 kph (50 mph) while riding in Comfort mode, the Öhlins ECU switches the suspension damping to a firmer Normal setting. If speed then exceeds 120 kph (75 mph), the system switches to the even-firmer Sport setting. As speeds decrease, the system reverts back to the softer settings—making the Öhlins suspension setup the first “intelligent� semi-active suspension available to the public.

With Öhlins demonstrating on the Ducati Multistrada 1200S that it can do the same thing with a conventional telescopic fork, you can bet it’s only a matter of time before the company extends its offerings to include the latest sportbikes that come equipped with the required sensors.




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