What is ABS and Why You Should Have It in Your Bike

About ABS and How Does It Work?

Gone are the days when bike manufacturers used to install drum brakes in bikes. These drum brakes are not suitable for sports and all-terrain bikes. The major demerit of using drum brakes is that a bike may slip or skid as it does not have a wheel locking system. Therefore, the ABS has introduced.

An Anti-Lock Braking System is a new age technology that prevents the wheels of a two-wheeler from locking when you apply a brake. The purpose of ABS is to control your bike from skidding or falling during an emergency braking situation.

The ABS has electronic sensors that detect the wheel locking before it happens. Therefore, when you apply brakes, ABS comes into action and acclimate the braking pressure to prevent the locking of wheels. This process also helps to maximize the performance of a bike's braking system.

Importance of Installing ABS in Bikes 

Keeping road safety in mind, ABS was initially installed only in heavy-duty vehicles like premium buses, trucks, and pick-ups. Later on, bike manufacturers started installing ABS in two-wheelers to improve their on-road safety.

Although it is more expensive than the traditional drum brakes, there is now a huge demand for ABS-installed bikes among buyers. Moreover, the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) have mandated the installation of ABS in bikes with an engine capacity of up to 150cc.

Benefits of ABS in Bikes 

Here are some of the major benefits of ABS in bikes-

1. Better Control

Improved bike balancing and controlling techniques will make you feel secure and comfortable while riding a bike. Therefore, it is a great idea to invest in ABS as it will give you better control over your ride in situations like emergency braking. 

Bikes installed with ABS have better control when you stop in a straight line and have to regulate speed properly. Therefore, the ABS helps you not lose control and ensure a safe ride. 

A bike rider with good handling skills will be safe even on rough terrain. He/she will know how to tune with braking, accelerating, and handling. However, ABS plays a vital role in enhancing your emergency braking system. In case the bike does not have ABS, you might lose control or end up crashing. 

Moreover, you must have a two wheeler insurance . It will give financial protection to you and your bike from several risks, including collision damages.

2. Reduction in Stopping Distance

Bikes with ABS have better stopping distance than traditional braking systems. You can reduce stopping distance significantly with the help of ABS and avoid life-threatening situations. The absence of ABS means the bike would continue running for a few more meters even after you apply brakes. Therefore, ABS plays a vital role in scrubbing off speed. 

However, it may take you some time to react in an emergency and apply the brakes. The bike keeps on moving during this reaction time. Therefore, you must know the right stopping distance as it will make the ride stress-free and safe. 

3. Prevent Stoppie 

Sometimes, you are simply trying to stop the bike and suddenly the rear wheel comes up. It happens when the bike does not have ABS fitted. Thus, ABS helps in preventing stoppie. Bikes with ABS offer more traction and control on the ride even in bad weather and road conditions. ABS sensors automatically get activated, and the chances of a stoppie become less. 

Moreover, many two-wheeler companies offer bike insurance policies to shield your bike from several damages, such as tyre damages. You can buy a tyre protection add-on cover with your comprehensive bike insurance policy to get compensation for the repair or replacement cost of tyres in case of any damages. 

The ABS technology in the bike measures the wheel speed continuously and gets activated the moment you apply the brakes. A rider never realises its importance until an emergency hits him/her. Therefore, it is recommended to invest in ABS technology as it ensures safety while riding a bike. 

Conclusion 

There are many incidents where ABS technology has saved the life of bikers by reducing the braking distance and preventing the bikes from skidding. However, no matter how technologically equipped your bike is, you must ride it within the speed limit and with the right bike insurance policy. Also, do not forget that it is mandatory to have at least a third-party bike insurance policy for all bike owners in India.