As a keen motorcyclist, you’ll know how important it is to maintain your brakes. But what do you know about motorbike ABS systems? ABS systems improve the stability of motorcycles by helping to prevent your wheels from locking when you hit the brakes. In this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know about ABS systems, including how they work, and why they’re so important for your safety.
What does ABS stand for?
ABS is short for the term anti-lock braking system. ABS systems feature on cars and lorries to provide additional road safety, but they’re especially vital on two-wheeled road vehicles as they are less stable than four-wheeled vehicles.
As we mentioned, ABS systems prevent your wheels from locking when you brake. Keeping your wheels in motion provides extra stability when you’re braking and significantly reduces your motorcycle from toppling or tipping over.
How do ABS systems work on motorcycles?
ABS systems enhance motorcycle safety when you’re braking. Typically, magnetic sensors are installed on both motorcycle wheels to monitor your vehicle’s speed.
A metallic ring gear, or tone ring, is combined with these motorbike wheel sensors to generate an electrical signal. The signal is then sent to your motorbike’s ABS unit to communicate when your wheels are about to lock.
When this happens, the ABS system adjusts the braking pressure on the brake callipers to keep your wheels spinning and provide extra stability.
Motorcycle ABS systems are usually very effective, especially in these situations:
- When you have to brake on wet roads
- When you have to slow down swiftly at higher speeds and the braking distance is shorter than usual
- When you have to brake suddenly in an emergency
What is cornering ABS?
You usually find cornering ABS systems on high-end motorcycles. This type of system is also known as lean angle-aware braking or an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) based ABS. Cornering ABS systems are intricate and apply the exact amount of braking pressure to suit the situation.
Standard ABS systems can cause the motorbike to stand up or straighten when activated, which can cause you to steer wide, veer off the road or even topple over. However, as the name suggests, this type of ABS system can tell when you’re cornering on the road and apply the right amount of braking to improve stability.
Cornering ABS systems modify the level of braking that occurs mid-turn based on your speed and how much you’re leaning. As a result, you can brake if needed without the ABS straightening up your motorbike or adjusting your direction.
ABS vs non-ABS motorcycles
While ABS systems are an effective safety feature, there are still several motorcycles in the market without an ABS. Although not compulsory, they’re valuable for rider safety, particularly if you’re a beginner or you regularly ride in a bustling town or city with more potential hazards.
The pros of motorbike ABS systems for rider safety
Here are more reasons why ABS motorcycles are usually safer and more stable than non-ABS motorcycles:
- ABS systems can prevent your wheels from locking up and reduce your braking distance
- Having a motorcycle ABS can help to prevent you from overturning
- ABS systems have been proven to reduce crashes that result in injury
- ABS systems can reduce the risk of tyre skidding
- You don’t need additional training or a specialist licence to ride an ABS-fitted motorcycle
How ABS can affect motorcycle insurance
Another good thing about motorbike ABS systems is that many insurers see them as an official safety feature.
As motorcycle ABS can significantly reduce the risk of an accident, some insurance providers may offer you lower premiums if your vehicle is equipped with one.
The exact quote you’re offered will vary depending on your specific requirements, including your location, your experience, where your bike is stored, and your annual mileage. You should always double check your details are correct before committing to a motorbike insurance policy.
Stay protected on the road with suitable motorbike insurance from Devitt
Motorbike ABS systems generally improve rider safety, especially if you’re a slightly more novice rider or you regularly ride in busy urban environments. If your motorbike has an ABS installed, you could also be rewarded with reduced insurance premiums.
If you’re looking for motorbike insurance, we can help. We’ve been organising motorbike insurance for UK riders since 1936, so you’re in good hands.
Whether you ride for leisure, work or business purposes, we have a range of policy options to get you cover that suits your requirements.
Request a quote online or call our friendly team of specialists on 0345 504 0395. We look forward to hearing from you.
Disclaimer: The sole purpose of this article is to provide guidance on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Devitt Insurance Services Limited trading as Devitt accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein.