What is ABS in Bikes? Advantages and How Does it Work

Are you still riding an outdated bike with drum brakes? Braking abruptly can lead to the bike skidding and causing an accident. Switching to an anti-lock braking system (ABS)-equipped bike will eliminate this risk. ABS now comes as a standard feature in many bikes, providing you a safe and comfortable ride.

If you are new to the world of biking and are unaware of ABS and its utility, this article will help you understand more about this feature.

What is ABS in bikes?

An anti-lock braking system, or ABS, is an advanced safety technology used in vehicles such as cars and bikes. It prevents the vehicles from skidding on slippery roads when braking. ABS functions by preventing the wheels from locking up when applying sudden brakes  by keeping tractive contact with the surface.

How Does ABS Work in Bikes?

ABS's sole purpose is to keep the bike's wheels from locking up when applying brakes suddenly. This technology makes use of an electronic speed sensor to calculate the precise speed of the wheels and predict when they will lock.

ABS then adjusts the bike's braking pressure to avoid its wheels from locking up and becoming unbalanced. Another useful feature of this technology is that it shortens the distance required for braking.

Also Read: Top 10 Features To Look Out For In Your Brand New Motorcycle

Parts of ABS System

• Electronic Speed Sensor: This sensor's main job is to gauge the bike's acceleration and the velocity of its wheels. The electronic speed sensor is installed on the wheel hub.
• Toothed Disc: This component can be found on bikes with disc brakes. Its main function is to assist the speed sensor in determining the wheel's speed. 
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU): The ECU is placed underneath the riding seat of your motorcycle. In essence, it is a microprocessor running programs that control the ABS.
• Electrical Controller Valve: his component is fitted along with the ECU. Its job is to control the brake cylinder's pressure.

Advantages of ABS System in Your Bike

Some of the prominent advantages of ABS are listed as follows:

1. Increased Stopping Power: ABS technology in bikes is well-known for minimising the risk of wheel locking. It safeguards your bike from skidding, especially on slippery roads and during the rainy season. Riding a bike with this braking technology offers better control while lowering the risk of accidents.
2. Lower Insurance Premiums: What is the primary reason for your motor insurance company charging you a higher premium? The answer is accidental risk that generally leads to the filing of a claim. As ABS is considered better at preventing accidents, having a bike outfitted with ABS results in lower insurance costs.
3. Higher Loan Approval Chances: As stated above, bikes with ABS systems have a better resale value, thus making them more popular with financial institutions. A higher resale value gives your lender peace of mind that it can recover most of your outstanding bike loan amount by auctioning the bike. 
4. Improves Traction Ccontrol: Manufacturers of two-wheelers can incorporate traction control features right into their manufacturing processes thanks to ABS. This is because the architecture of ABS and advanced traction control technology are almost identical.

Also Read: 7 Tips To Maintain Your Two-wheeler In Excellent Condition

What is the Difference Between ABS and Non-ABS Bikes

Discover the key distinctions between ABS and non-ABS motorcycles, crucial for understanding their respective braking systems and safety features.

Aspect	ABS	Non-ABS
Braking Effect	Prevents wheel lock-up during braking, maintaining stability and control.	Relies on the rider's skill to modulate brake pressure, increasing the risk of wheel lock-up.
Effectiveness	Highly effective in diverse road conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents.	Less effective, especially in emergency braking situations or slippery surfaces.
Safety	Enhances rider safety by reducing the risk of accidents and maintaining stability.	May lead to skidding or loss of control during hard braking, potentially causing accidents.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to the added technology and components.	Often cheaper, as it lacks the additional ABS components and features.
Availability	Increasingly common in modern bikes, mandated by regulations in some regions.	Found in older or budget-friendly models where ABS is not a standard requirement.

How ABS System Improves Your Riding Safety?

• Enhanced Stability: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents wheels from locking up during braking, allowing riders to maintain control and stability even on slippery surfaces or during emergency stops.
• Shorter Stopping Distances: By preventing wheel lock, ABS helps motorcycles stop more quickly and effectively, reducing the risk of collisions with obstacles or other vehicles.
• Improved Steering Control: With ABS, riders can maintain steering control while braking, enabling them to navigate around hazards or adjust their path if needed.
• Reduced Risk of Skidding: ABS minimizes the risk of skidding, especially on wet or uneven roads, which can result in loss of control and potential accidents.
• Confidence in Braking: Knowing that ABS is actively working to prevent wheel lock inspires confidence in riders, allowing them to brake firmly without fear of losing control.
• Suitable for All Riders: ABS benefits riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced motorcyclists, by providing an additional layer of safety regardless of riding conditions.

Is ABS Installation Mandatory on a Bike?

ABS installation is not mandatory if you are riding a bike that was manufactured before April 2019. However, the government has issued a directive to the two-wheeler manufacturers requiring the anti-lock braking system to be installed on all bikes over 125 cc manufactured after April 1, 2019.

Conclusion

 Although ABS is an optional feature, you should still consider installing it on your bike.

The best step to have an ABS-equipped bike is to swap your old bike without ABS for a new one with ABS and finance it with a bike loan. Before applying for this loan, however, make sure you have read the lender's bike loan eligibility criteria. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does ABS cost?

The cost of ABS varies depending on the bike model and manufacturer. Generally, ABS-equipped bikes are more expensive than non-ABS counterparts, typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars more.

2. Is a bike safe without ABS?

While bikes without ABS can still be safe to ride, ABS significantly enhances safety by preventing wheel lock-up during braking, reducing the risk of skidding and loss of control, especially in emergency situations and on slippery surfaces.

3. Can we add ABS to a normal bike?

Retrofitting ABS to a non-ABS bike is technically possible but often expensive and complex. It requires significant modifications to the braking system and the addition of ABS components, which may not always be feasible or cost-effective.

4. What is the full form of ABS in bikes?

ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. It is a safety feature designed to prevent wheel lock-up during braking, enhancing stability and control for motorcycles.