ABS in Bikes: Everything You Need to Know

ABS in bikes is the acronym for Anti-lock Braking System. It is a critical safety feature in a motorbike that helps in keeping the rider and the pillion safe from the various hazards that they may be exposed to while riding. ABS can help you avoid a potential fall that may occur due to skidding on the slippery roads.

So, if you are wondering what an anti-lock braking system is in bikes, how it works and what its benefits are, then this guide is just for you, as we cover different aspects of it that you ought to know. Read on!

What is an anti-lock braking system in bikes?

As the name implies, the ABS bike system is a safety device that keeps the bike wheels from locking up in an emergency or when you abruptly apply the brakes. When the wheels or tyres of the motorbike lock up, there is a high chance that you may lose control of the bike, and you may end up skidding and potentially getting in an accident.

So, the ABS bike system plays a critical role in preventing bike skidding due to sudden braking and thus preventing mishaps.

How does an ABS work on a bike?

Now that you know what ABS in a bike is, it would also help to understand how ABS works in a bike. Its working is quite simple, and it is explained below:

• There are three main components responsible for the efficient functioning of the ABS system: ECU (electronic control unit), disc brake, and wheel speed sensor.
• The wheel speed sensor constantly monitors and tracks the rotation of the wheel and sends a signal to the ECU if it detects a wheel lock-up.
• The ECU modulates the brakes and prevents them from locking up. In other words, it applies and releases the brakes constantly until the wheels gain traction again, and all these happen within milliseconds.
• The ABS system ensures that the wheel has enough traction to keep it rotating despite sudden braking, and it allows you to have more control over the bike and bring the bike to a stop smoothly.
• Thus, it significantly reduces the possibility of an accident and gives you an enhanced riding experience.

So, now you know what ABS does in a bike, let's look at the benefits of the ABS system.

Advantages of ABS in bikes

Nowadays, most two-wheeler models available in Nepal from the reputed manufacturers like Bajaj Auto have an ABS braking system in them. It offers several benefits, including:

• Better safety

The ABS bike system prevents the wheels from locking up during emergency braking, allowing you to have full control over the vehicle and avoid skidding off the road, especially when you're riding on slippery or wet road surfaces. Thus, it helps mitigate a mishap that can potentially be fatal.

• Quick stopping

When you apply sudden brakes in a bike that does not have an ABS system, it takes time for the bike to come to a complete halt. But the ABS system reduces the stopping distance by a significant margin, allowing you to react quickly in an emergency and avert a collision or an accident.

• Improves your confidence

The anti-lock braking system in bikes gives you the necessary confidence to apply brakes and stop quickly and safely, resulting in a more enjoyable and safe riding experience.

• Reduced wear and tear

Another significant benefit of ABS in a bike is that it significantly reduces the strain on the braking pads and the wheels. Thus, it also helps increase the lifespan of the braking pads and tyres, saving a lot of money on tyre replacements.

What is dual-channel ABS on a bike?

You already know the benefits of ABS in a bike, but now let’s explore what dual-channel ABS is. Dual-channel ABS is one of the types of ABS in bikes, and its working is quite similar to a single-channel ABS.

However, the difference is that in bikes like Bajaj Pulsar N160 that have a dual-channel ABS system, there are two separate and independent braking channels, one for the front wheel and the other for the rear wheel. This helps in increasing the motorbike’s braking efficiency, giving you a smooth and more efficient braking experience.

Final Word

Although not all bike models in Nepal come with an ABS system, and there is no risk or penalty for not having it, having this feature certainly improves your safety on the road. However, remember, if you think that ABS will prevent accidents no matter how rashly you ride, then you are mistaken.

You must ride responsibly and avoid overspeeding and overtaking for your own safety. Do your due diligence and research the different bikes with ABS systems carefully. Choose the model that perfectly suits your riding style, intended purpose, and budget. Happy riding!