What is ABS in Bikes: Features & Benefits Explained

ABS or anti-lock braking systems have become a mandatory addition to bikes recently. With the modern development of technology and other mechanisms, bike makers have focused on including ABS rather than drum brakes to provide complete safety to riders.

Are you curious to know more about ABS in a bike? Then, keep reading this article to find out its features, benefits, and functioning procedure.

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What Is ABS in Bikes?

An anti-lock braking system is a safety measure for bikes. It helps a driver to avoid skidding his/her bike while braking. Previously, bikes usually included brake shoes, expanding and touching the drum lining when drivers brake. This came with a large risk of skidding a bike as it is not working on the principle of wheel locking.

On the other hand, this risk is much lower with ABS. This is because it can stop the wheels from locking up while braking. As a result, your bike can maintain tractive contact with the road’s surface, reducing its chances of skidding.

How Does ABS in Bike Works?

Now that you know what ABS in a bike is, you must be wondering about its operating procedure. This braking system is much more secure and safe for riders. Installed in the rear wheel of a bike, this braking system comprises three parts, including an ECU kit, Brakes and Wheel Speed Sensors.

The speed sensors in an ABS are mapped in a specific way. It enables a driver to monitor the wheel's lock-up. These sensors are therefore connected to the Electronic Control Unit. It allows the wheels to roll for some distance and then lock in regular intervals every time a driver applies the brake. It is, therefore, a much preferable alternative to drum brakes and is commonly seen in most premium bikes.

What Are the Features and Importance of ABS in Bikes?

Now, if you wish to know the features of the ABS in a bike, it is associated with a safer way of braking. The braking system in a bike can decelerate or decrease a vehicle's speed without stopping. In ABS, the system is different from a traditional braking system. A feature that differentiates it from other braking systems is its ability to prevent its wheels from locking immediately after braking. This helps the driver to maintain more control over the vehicle.

Previously, ABS was only installed in bigger vehicles like cars and premium buses. However, considering the rising number of road accidents, the automobile industry also decided to install ABS in bikes. Even though the technology and its installation can be complicated and more expensive, it is much more preferable to bike lovers because of the extra security.

The Regional Transport Office (RTO) makes it mandatory to install ABS in bikes that come under the category of having a 150 cc engine. This makes it evident that ABS is extremely important for bikes and bike lovers.

What Are the Benefits of ABS in Bikes?

The following benefits of ABS have made it highly popular among automobile lovers.

1. Stopping distance

One of the major benefits of this system is its ability to control the braking and maintain some distance instead of abruptly stopping. The rider can therefore manage the bike and prevent any skidding.

2. Control on slippery surfaces

Bikes with ABS have minimum risk of skidding or losing control on a slippery surface. ABS allows it to avoid locking instantly after applying the brake.

3. Reduced road accidents

As riders have better control over braking, the rates of road accidents reduce with ABS. There is no more skidding or losing control of a vehicle because of abrupt braking.

What Are the Differences Between ABS and Non-ABS Bikes?

Now that you know what an anti-lock braking system is, here are some differences between ABS and non-ABS bikes. This will help you evaluate the reasons for choosing a bike with ABS.

Factors	Non-ABS Bikes	ABS Bikes
Control on braking	While applying the brake it stops abruptly and reduces the control over the bike for a period and the wheels get locked, resulting in skidding	The wheels will not get locked instantly while applying the brake. It uses the software logic to sense the locking time of the wheel for better control.
Wheel locking	Break shoes expand and touch the drum lining and cause friction while applying the brake. It results in sudden brake with wheel locking.	Speed sensors in ABS determine the wheel's speed and other sensors determine when a wheel is about to lock. It adjusts the braking pressure to avoid wheel locking and it locks after moving a certain distance
Risks of accident	Higher risk of accident, slipping, and skidding in bad road conditions and when the rider loses control of the bike.	Lower risks of accidents, as the rider has greater control over the bike. Fewer chances of skid

How to Use ABS on Bikes Effectively?

Even if you are aware of how ABS works, you might not be able to utilise its benefits if you are unable to use it properly. However, you can follow the tips listed below for using ABS on your bike effectively.

Start with pressing the rear brake lever while pulling in on the front brake lever. However, make sure not to do it abruptly.
Increase the braking pressure of your vehicle instantly after the braking pads are engaged.
If you are performing a full braking manoeuvre, set the vehicle straight up to ensure a full contact patch of the tyres. Then, apply the brake on a straight course within the range of ABS.
If braking in bends, gently increase the braking pressure to prevent the front wheels from slipping or pulling on sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which ABS bikes are best in India?

If you are looking for reputed bikes with ABS, you can purchase models like Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0, TVS Apache RTR 160 or TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.

Can I install ABS on my bike?

Technically, it is possible to install ABS in an old bike. However, the process is complicated and time-consuming. In this process, you will have to make some space between the engine hood, replace brake lines, ECU, etc.