Remember the screeching sound and skidding of your bike when applying hard brakes? Yes! This is because a few years ago, most bike makers had drum brakes in place, which were more prone to skidding on sudden braking. However, nowadays, two-wheeler makers use the anti-lock braking system (ABS) in bikes instead of the conventional drum brakes. These brakes are noted for improved grip and maintaining good balance while riding. Moreover, motorcycle ABS systems have been shown to lower road accident numbers. This page provides detailed information on ABS brake systems in bikes.

ABS, which stands for anti-lock braking system, is a safety feature incorporated into motorbikes to prevent wheel lockups in heavy braking situations. When the wheels of a scooter or motorcycle lock up, the rider is not able to control the vehicle, which can lead to sliding and accidents. ABS is a key safety element in motorcycles, protecting against potential slips and improving overall grip for riders.

An ABS system in bikes protects its wheels from locking up when braking, thus prevents your bike from slipping or falling during an emergency. Here's how ABS work in bikes:

• ABS consist of three primary components: the wheel speed sensor, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit), and the disc brakes.
• The wheel speed sensor continually tracks the wheel rotation and alerts the ECU if it senses a wheel lock-up.
• The ECU controls the brakes to keep them from locking up. In other words, it continuously releases and applies the brakes until the wheel gains traction. Everything happens in milliseconds.
• ABS ensure that the wheels maintain sufficient traction and continue to rotate despite hard or sudden braking.
• It enables a smooth and controlled stop, lowering the risk of skidding and improving the two-wheeler riding experience.

The majority of prominent bike manufacturers feature ABS as standard or optional equipment. Riders can enjoy bikes with anti-lock braking systems without being worried about skidding or losing control during sudden braking, avoiding serious situations.

ABS was previously confined to bigger vehicles, such as buses and cars. However, with a growing number of bike mishaps, manufacturers have begun to include ABS in bikes as a standard function to increase safety on the roads and provide the rider with better control, despite the road condition.

ABS is mandatory in India for bikes with engines classified at 150 cc or higher. Although ABS has added costs, it is worthwhile because it can rescue you from a possible accident. As a result, ABS is one of the most important components of bike safety equipment.

In recent years, the ABS system in two-wheelers has now become a standard safety feature, providing numerous benefits to riders. Here are some of the benefits of ABS in bikes:

1. Enhanced safety: It improves safety by preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing riders to control the bikes in slippery conditions. It can help to reduce the likelihood of an accident.
2. Decrease in stopping distances: It minimises stopping distances, allowing the rider to react faster in a sudden braking situation.
3. Better control: It allows the rider to brake more smoothly and gain control over the situation.
4. Reduced wear and tear: Without an ABS, the bike rider must release the brake manually to decrease the possibility of the wheels locking. It can lead to irregular tyre wear and put more strain on the brakes. ABS reduce the amount of wear and tear by identifying lockups automatically and adjusting the braking pressure.
5. Prevent stop pie: Bikes not having ABS can result in the popping of rear wheels on sudden breaking, known as stop pie. ABS in bikes can prevent this stop pie by providing improved traction and control, even in adverse weather conditions.
6. Improved confidence: It offers the rider the trust they need to stop swiftly and safely, which leads to a more enjoyable ride.
7. Increased loan approval probability: ABS-equipped bikes are supposed to have longer lifespans. These bikes often have a better resale value than bikes that have conventional braking systems. Even in circumstances of loan failure, the lender can offer a relatively higher price at auction. Therefore, getting funds to buy an ABS bike is comparatively easy.

Here are the key components of ABS in bikes:

• Wheel speed sensors

  They are fixed to the bike's wheels to detect the speed of the wheel. When the wheel of the bike is about to lockup, it sends signals to the ABS control unit to adjust the braking pressure.

• Toothed disc

  Typically, located inside the disc brake, the toothed disc helps the sensors detect the wheel speed.

• Electronic control units (ECU)

  The signals sent by the ABS sensors are received by the ECU, which regulates brake pressure, and avoids wheel lockup. It is commonly found underneath the bike's seat.

• Valves/Modulator

  Located at the brake callipers, valves control the pressure at the brakes.

• Pump

  Some ABS units have a pump to quickly raise brake pressure in the event of unexpected braking.

• Actuator

  The actuator physically regulates the pressure of the brakes and works alongside valves to prevent the wheels from locking up. It is controlled mostly by the ECU.

Although ABS has been tested and verified, there is still disagreement concerning its usefulness. Here are some common misconceptions concerning ABS in two-wheelers:

Conclusion

Although ABS is not a mandatory feature and does not incur any penalties for not having it if your bike has this feature, the safety on roads while sudden braking can be significantly improved. However, always remember that if you think that ABS will help you prevent accidents, no matter how rashly you drive your bike, you are mistaken. Also, it is essential that you have bike insurance in place to be prepared for any unfortunate incidents. Research bike insurance details and documents required for bike insurance thoroughly before purchasing a bike insurance plan for comprehensive benefits.

FAQs About the ABS system in bikes

ABS is always recommended since it prevents the vehicle's wheels from lockup and allows the rider to maintain good control at all times.

ABS is safe in bikes. In fact, it is an important safety component on a two-wheeler.

The purpose of ABS is to avoid skidding caused by wheels seizing up due to rapid braking.

No, anti-lock braking systems are not required on all motorbikes and scooters in India.

Due to the level of safety, it provides, the government recently made ABS compulsory in India for motorcycles with engines of 150cc or more.

ABS servicing periods in motorcycles and scooters vary depending on the brand and model. Please refer to the owner's manual or the maker's website for recommended servicing intervals.