I have a 2014 C-ABS Blade purchased July, and presently hibernating while I do a few winter jobs on it. I have read many many threads on here regarding the ABS and it's reported issues. They prompt a question which I'm not sure I've seen addressed, or maybe just not found..... Has anyone enhanced their front ABS module or rear brake cylinder/master reservoir "heat shields" by adding either purposeful self adhesive exhaust heat shield (which due to it's thickness might contact the downpipes but should even then I imagine, be fine) or maybe with just self adhesive aluminium, or even better, gold tape (much thinner and probably maintaining clearances to downpipes)? And now, having prompted the question, what is the general opinion of the worth of such action or enhancement? Looking at the existing Honda "heat shields" they seem to present a shield purely by their physical existence/position but not in any way by their capability to reflect heat away from the brake components (primarily from the exhaust). And if heat is in any way a contributor to the issues that are reported with ABS wouldn't this make sense? And lastly, are there any other significant "shields" whose existence I've missed? And please.......do not suggest I either by pass the C-ABS or pull it's fuse, it's why I bought the bike....... Mike
I applied self adhesive heat reflective tape to the heat shield after I carried out a full bleed of the c-abs system. I had no issues for just over 2 and a half years before the issue reappeared (Lever back to bar and not caused by feathering the front brake during filtering). Prior to applying the reflective tape, it last for 2yrs before the issue reappeared. Here is the product I used; https://www.heatshieldproducts.com/automotive/heat-shield-tape-and-fasteners/cool-foil-tape
I used gold reflective tape and motul racing fluid, like Barry it was ok for a good while but issues returned
Thanks, clearly you all "got there" before me, but I appreciate the info. I may still give it a try as nothing ventured, nothing gained. I will continue my searches on forum as really very educational for me. Thanks to all. Mike
Understood. I'll persevere, I think the ABS should be a good unseen (or rather unfelt) rider protection and I will try to fit a little heat protection to keep it working as it should. I'm still reading the many many threads on this subject. What I have never seen so far, and I think it does not exist, is what the "fault" incidence is as a percentage of the total combined C-ABS sales. I think if Honda seemingly don't embrace the issue as existing then this data won't be available anywhere. Frustrating for a thru and thru Honda bike buyer like me. I have the C-ABS on my CBR600F, and it is completely invisible to the rider. When a Transit decided to turn left very late literally right in front of me it worked, the one and only time to date, exactly as it should. Will carry on reading........................................ Mike
My understanding goes on front surface of front abs motor cover directly behind downpipes, and if possible on brake lines feeding it in proximity to downpipes. Seems to be two alts, either slightly thicker exhaust heat shield (sort of stuff that sticks on inner fairings close to pipes or muffler) or self adhesive heat reflective gold or aluminium tape. If one has standard rear muffler, heat shield on rear brake master cylinder also a candidate. I've not done it so no recommendation. The tape probably could be got on with no touch to downpipes (only issue then would be adhesion with the high temps) whereas the thicker heatshield I think would likely touch downpipes. Most appear designed for 850 degrees or so, so not sure that I don't favour that route personally although pipes can get that hot. I'm seriously considering trying one or other if possible without major strip down. There is a pic of one members bike somewhere on here with heat shield material on front cover. Mike
Here is how close the heat shield sits next to the exhaust down pipes. I applied the heat reflective tape after doing a complete bleed of the c-abs unit and didn't have a repeat of the issues until 2yrs later which is when your meant to flush the full system anyway. All bled and cleaned last time I did it
