How Does ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) Work in Motorcycles?

Imagine riding your motorcycle after work hours for the breeze and the peace, with the road stretching endlessly ahead. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a dog with the attitude of a stuntman jumps across the road. You slam on the brakes. What now?

Now, the after-braking situations can be different for motorcycles with or without ABS. Without ABS, your wheels lock up and you either skid on the road uncontrollably, like a scene from a typical South Indian flick, all in a dramatic slow motion.

But with ABS, the technology takes the charge, giving you control over the motorcycle and saves you from a deadly crash.

Which situation would you prefer? We know which side we are inclining!

ABS is a lifesaver in most emergency situations and hence, now made a staple in most modern cars and motorcycles.

Now, let’s understand the magic behind the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) on motorcycles and how it keeps your bones and life in the safe zone.

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What is an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)? 

The Anti-Lock Braking System is a safety feature designed to prevent wheel lock-up during panic braking. It ensures stability and control of the machine, especially in emergencies or on wet surfaces. While it is not 100 per cent safe, it reduces the chances of accidents. 

ABS works by using speed sensors, ECU, brakes and a hydraulic modulator. The wheel speed sensors are located on each tyre and monitor the rotational speed of the wheels in real-time. During panic braking, in both bikes and cars, the wheel speed sensors continuously monitor the speed of the wheels and if the ECU detects a major drop in wheel speed, it comes into action to intervene in the situation.

After that, the hydraulic modulator adjusts the brake pressure by quickly releasing and reapplying the brakes multiple times per second. In some cases, it can be around 20 times per second. This action prevents the wheel from locking up while maintaining braking efficiency.

By preventing a wheel lock-up, ABS ensures the tyre maintains contact with the road and provides better traction so that the rider can handle the motorcycle smoothly even while pressing the brakes during panic situations. It avoids potential skids and crashes.

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Common issues with ABS

The working condition of ABS also depends on the condition of brake pads and tyres. When tyres are properly inflated and in good condition, ABS works best. Weather conditions also affect the effectiveness of ABS. 

Types of ABS in motorcycles 

There are mainly two types of ABS motorcycles in the market: the one which has ABS only in the front wheel is called Single-Channel ABS and the other that comes with ABS in both the front and rear wheels is called Dual-Channel ABS. The Dual-Channel ABS bikes offer more safety, performance and reliability.

There's also a cornering ABS available on high-performance motorcycles. This one relies on a lean-angle sensor present in the motorcycle's ECU, which works in tandem with the front wheel's slip sensor to prevent wheel lock-up while braking in a corner. Cornering ABS is similar to the traction control system available for the rear wheel on motorcycles.

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Common Myths about ABS

Most people think that ABS amplifies the effectiveness of braking on all surfaces. However, that's not the case. ABS only works to a limited extent and doesn’t work on snow or loose gravel; this is where you need grippy tyres and lots of skills.

In some cases, brakes work better without ABS, which is why premium motorcycles give you options to switch ABS modes. There is also a myth that a rider doesn’t need to press the brake completely if they have an ABS motorcycle. However, the rider needs to apply the brakes correctly for the maximum effectiveness of ABS.

ABS has a tendency to increase the braking distance and that is why riders should also practice safe braking by engaging both the front and rear units, trying to not engage the ABS. Using both brakes efficiently can help with shorter yet safe braking distances.

We can conclude that ABS is a game-changer for the rider and the machine’s safety. It minimises the risks of sudden braking, allows more controlled braking in panic situations and improves the overall riding experience.

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