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significantly lower centre of gravity compared to the previous model . The new high-capacity battery has successfully kept weight increase minimal while traction has been improved by pairing mechanical parts such as the clutch and flywheel with carefully tuned electronic control .
Sadly for trials fans wanting to get in on the electric action , Yamaha has stated that the TY-E 2.0 remains a prototype and as such there currently are no indications of when it may go into production or even how much it would potentially cost if it did .
POWER STEERING WITH MAGNETS ?
Yamaha has announced it is trialling an interesting new technology for its MX race machines this year . Set to be used in the Japanese MX championship this season , Yamaha ’ s trick new magnetic steer assist system aims to improve control and reduce rider fatigue in the MX environment . The system will be trialled by Australian rider Jay Wilson and the All Japan Yamaha Factory Race Team with both the YZ450FM and YZ250F motocrossers fitted with the unique new system . So what does it do ? In the most simple terms , Yamaha describes it is like adding power steering to a motorbike . This assistive intervention has the advantage of feeling completely natural . The
Magnetostrictive system already has a proven track record in detecting torque with Yamaha ’ s electrically power-assisted bicycles . The decision to use race conditions to develop electronic power steering for Yamaha motorcycles will deliver real-world R & D feedback . Yamaha plans to use the wealth of data it acquires in the harsh environment of top-level motocross competition to accelerate the system ’ s refinement . This is the first step by Yamaha into a new area of electronic assistance designed to improve motorcycle stability and agility . We ’ ll have to keep an eye on the Japanese MX season to see if they are onto something here . For now , we ’ re not convinced its necessary .
20 KIWI RIDER