7 Tips for Effective Braking in a Motorcycle with ABS

As we all know that ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is used as a safety equipment to maintain the stability of a vehicle while braking on a slippery surface and emergency braking. Now Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is also planning to make the technology compulsory with two-wheelers in a phased manner, starting from the performance and entry-level-performance segments.

But could only adding the technology is enough to make the Indian roads safer? Think once again, we should also know that how to use that new technology. So, here we are with few tips for using brakes in a motorcycle equipped with the ABS to make it even more safe and effective.

1) The first and the most important rule for using an ABS equipped braking system is brake with thought in mind that you did not have the ABS.

2) Start braking with the foot (rear) brake most of the time if possible.

3) First pull the lever to engage the brake pads, after that you can increase the pressure quickly in significant amounts. In short, pull the lever quickly, but not abruptly.

4) Always disengage the clutch and try to brake on straight course within the control range of your ABS while performing a full braking maneuver.

5) Sometimes, the rear wheel of motorcycles loose their grip while braking and ultimately, the vehicle loses its stability. So, always notice the movement of your rear wheel when performing a full braking maneuver and reduce the braking pressure on the front system quickly, if the rear wheel lifts-up.

6) Front wheel of your bike could slip to the side while braking on a bend, so increase the braking pressure gradually to prevent the action.

7) Know about the ABS system of your motorcycle, as the behavior of the systems can vary in certain circumstances depending on the ABS manufacturer and the type of motorcycle. Various manufacturers also provide different ABS modes for different riding conditions.

Some of the modern ABS like Bosch's generation 9 motorcycle ABS Plus comes with intelligent technology, which supports the driver to facilitate braking at full power in all emergency braking situations when traveling in a straight line and rear-wheel lift-up control. However the best preparation for emergency braking with ABS is practice. If you will practice to use the braking system within the ABS control range, it will definitely help you to use the ABS to its full potential in an emergency condition, avoiding a serious accident.

Watch the following video to know why the ABS should be mandatory with two-wheelers-