Is ABS a Must-Have Motorcycle Safety Feature?

When it comes to the safety features that are offered on new motorcycles, some manufacturers include ABS as a must-have feature. However, that’s not always the case.

Many motorcycles don’t have ABS, which may be problematic for riders who are out riding on uneven terrain or in tight spaces when an accident is unfathomable. The ability for motorcycles to have ABS has been around for quite some time, but not all manufacturers have chosen to include it in their models.

In the past, it was thought that riders had to pay a hefty price for ABS, but that changed in the last few years. Nowadays, ABS is a normal feature on many new motorcycles, and there are no longer any extra costs associated with it.

We all know there are many reasons why ABS is beneficial for motorcycle safety, but one of the major ones would be the ability to reduce brake fade under hard braking conditions. Brake fade is when your brakes become less responsive over time and are less effective at slowing your motorcycle down during a stop.

Does ABS make motorcycles safer to ride? Is it worth the investment?

This is a very common question, and there are many different opinions on the matter. ABS takes away some of the unpredictability in motorcycle braking and allows riders to brake more consistently without the possibility of skidding. It also means that you can stay on top of your motorcycle when it’s being leaned over or when it’s tipping to one side.

The comfort issue isn’t something that’s purely related to ABS, but there is a difference between how you will feel on your bike with brake fade and how you will feel with ABS.

What is ABS on a motorcycle?

ABS is an acronym that stands for the Anti-lock Braking System. A motorcycle’s ABS works by preventing the wheels from locking up while braking. Essentially, it allows the motorcycle to continue to steer and go where it’s supposed to go while stopping safely and reducing skidding on the surface below.

How do a motorcycle’s ABS work?

Most of you are probably wondering how a motorcycle’s ABS works and if it does a good job at reducing skidding. Well, the answer is yes! It does help by allowing even braking over the entire surface on which you’re riding, especially if your brakes have been overheated from an accident or heavy use. Wheels can lock up under extreme braking conditions, which is why ABS was created in the first place.

Most of the motorcycle ABS systems you might find on the market today use EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution). Although it’s not as common as it once was, many motorcycles still use EBD. Some newer vehicles even use an advanced version of EBD that some riders prefer as PTV (Positive Torque Vectoring).

This technology works by keeping your motorcycle traveling straight in case you begin to lose control due to skidding. It also means that you will continue to steer your motorcycle in whatever direction it’s going in, including when it’s leaning or tipping to one side.

Misconceptions about ABS and motorcycle safety

ABS isn’t always a must-have safety feature. ABS is required in many states, but there are still motorcycles (and most vehicles) that don’t have ABS. That’s because it’s a very expensive option to include in your motorcycle, and it can also be limited by many automakers, who choose not to include it for many different reasons.

For example, some people believe that you can only ride a motorcycle with ABS if you are very experienced and know exactly how it all works. On the contrary, you don’t need to be an expert to pull off safe riding with the help of ABS, even if you don’t have it on your motorcycle.

Is it safe for a beginner to learn on a motorcycle with ABS?

Although it’s not required, learning how to ride on a motorcycle with ABS is still recommended, especially if you’re just getting started. It’s important for riders who are just learning to understand the difference between braking with and without ABS.

It will also help them get used to riding on their bikes and not falling, which is common when you’re starting. Overall, learning how to ride is easier when you have ABS, as opposed to not having this safety feature included in your bike.

Check out our list of 10 Best Sports Bikes for Beginners

Can I install ABS on my bike?

ABS is typically only an option that motorcycle manufacturers include in their models. When you buy a new motorcycle, you might likely be able to add it on if you contact the dealership. If ABS is not included in your model, it might be possible to purchase additional parts so that you can install it yourself.

However, if you already have ABS on your bike, finding a replacement part may prove more difficult than expected. You can also always find a source for used parts that’s willing to sell you an aftermarket part, but this will take longer than just installing the original part outright.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide on Selling your Motorcycle in 2021

Are ABS motorcycles worth the extra cost?

If you’re just starting with riding motorcycles, then you may not have a huge budget to work with. If you have to choose between buying a motorcycle without ABS or one with it, the safe bet will be to buy a model with this safety feature. That way, you will be able to enjoy all the benefits it brings and stop your motorcycle in an emergency if necessary.

If you’re already well-versed in riding and don’t need an extra braking tool under your belt, then a model without ABS may be ideal for your needs.