ABS or anti-lock braking system was first introduced in cars in the 1970s, and now it is a common feature in most vehicles. However, motorcycles were a different story. It took a while for ABS to become a standard feature in motorcycles, mainly due to the resistance from bikers who believed it was an unnecessary addition.
The primary purpose of ABS is to help the rider brake effectively in tricky situations. But how exactly does it work?
The technical details are beyond the scope of this article, but in simple terms, ABS works by measuring the speed of the wheels. If a lock-up is detected, the brake pressure is released for a split second before reapplying the pressure.
This process is repeated until the rider releases the brake lever or the vehicle comes to a stop.
If you have ever driven a car with ABS and had to brake hard, you would have felt a pulsating feeling on the brake pedal. This pulsation is the ABS releasing and applying the brake pressure. By doing so, the tires regain traction and allow the driver to maintain the braking force.
The same principle applies to motorcycles. The ABS system on a motorcycle detects when one or both wheels are about to lock up and momentarily reduces the braking force to prevent a skid. It does this by monitoring the speed of the wheels, the brake pressure, and other variables.
The benefits of ABS on a motorcycle are numerous. For instance, ABS can prevent a crash in tricky conditions, such as wet or slippery roads. Riders who don’t practice their braking skills or don’t have experience braking in these conditions can rely on ABS to help them stop faster and maintain control.
ABS also increases rider confidence, allowing them to brake harder and with more control, knowing that the system is there to help. This confidence can ultimately prevent accidents from occurring.
In addition, ABS reduces the stopping distance, which is especially critical in emergency situations. An ABS-equipped motorcycle can stop faster and more safely than a non-ABS motorcycle, reducing the risk of collisions.
Furthermore, ABS can prevent the accidental locking of the wheels, which can cause the rider to lose control and crash. The system can also improve stability when braking, making the motorcycle less likely to skid or slide.
Research conducted by the Monash University Accident Research Centre found that ABS-equipped motorcycles had a 33% reduction in all motorcycle injuries, a 39% reduction in severe injuries, and a significant reduction in fatalities.
Since November 1, 2019, motorcycles sold in Australia are required to have ABS fitted as standard.
This brings Australia in line with other markets worldwide, including Europe and Japan, where mandatory bike ABS is already in place.
In conclusion, ABS is a critical safety feature that can prevent accidents and save lives. It is essential for riders to understand how it works and practice their braking skills to make the most of this technology.
The most significant benefit of ABS is its ability to help riders brake effectively in tricky conditions.
ABS works by measuring the speed of the wheels and releasing brake pressure for a split second if a lock-up is detected.
This pulsating feeling on the pedal or lever can allow the tyres to regain traction and maintain braking force.
The benefits of ABS for motorcycles are many.
1/ First, it can prevent crashes in tricky conditions, especially when the road is wet or slippery. Since most riders do not practice braking regularly, ABS can compensate for a lack of practice and expertise, allowing the rider to stop faster.
2/ Second, ABS can increase rider confidence. Riders can rely on ABS to help them brake, but it is essential to remember that it cannot save them in every situation. However, just having the confidence that they can brake hard can prevent accidents.
3/ Third, ABS can improve safety. Many accidents have happened because riders did not brake hard enough for fear of locking a wheel. ABS can help riders brake hard with confidence and prevent accidents from happening.
4/ Fourth, ABS can shorten stopping distances, leading to a significant decrease in stopping time. While non-ABS bikes can out-brake ABS-equipped motorcycles in the right hands, most riders do not have racer skills, and they do not practice their braking technique.
5/ Fifth, ABS can prevent accidental wheel locking, which can cause serious accidents. By controlling the brake pressure, an ABS-equipped bike can offer more stability when needed.
