When you apply the brakes on your two-wheeler all of a sudden, especially when you’re at a considerable speed, your wheels may lock up, leading to uncontrollable skidding. This is extremely dangerous since such an event can lead to disastrous consequences like crashes or accidents.
The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is a unique safety feature that is designed to ensure that the wheels of a bike don’t lock up under hard braking. The system eliminates tyre skidding by keeping the wheels of your bike rotating, which prevents loss of friction between the tyre and the road surface.
How Drum Brakes & ABS Works in Bikes?
An ABS brake for bikes consists of a host of different sensors that constantly calculate various parameters such as the vehicle’s speed and the propensity for the wheels to lock up.
When you apply the brakes on an ABS-equipped bike, the sensors in the wheels, upon detecting an imminent wheel lock-up, constantly adjusts the braking pressure. These micro adjustments to the braking pressure happen very quickly and within seconds, preventing skidding and wheel lock-ups.
Generally, the Anti-Lock Braking System in bikes is only offered in two-wheelers that feature disc brakes. This is simply due to the fact that ABS is easier to implement and is more effective in a disc brake system than a drum brake system.
Parts of ABS
A typical ABS bike brake system consists of four major components - the electronic speed sensor, the electronic controller valve, toothed disc, and the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). Here's more in depth information on these components.
1. Toothed Disc
This tiny metal disc is located within the brake rotor and helps the electronic speed sensor determine the wheel speed.
2. Electronic Speed Sensor
Located inside the wheel hub, the speed sensor receives input from the toothed disc to measure the speed and acceleration of the wheel.
3. Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
The ECU is a microprocessor that is generally located under the seat of a bike. The processor receives data from the electronic speed sensor and sends signals to the electronic controller valve upon detecting loss of traction or an imminent wheel lock up.
4. Electronic Controller Valve
The electronic controller valve is responsible for modulating the brake pressure in accordance with the signal received by it from the ECU.
Importance of Anti-Lock Braking Systems in Two-Wheelers
The importance of an anti-lock braking system cannot be stated enough. It offers multiple advantages to the rider and has saved countless lives. Here are a few reasons why the ABS braking system in a bike is said to be very important.
1. Works Even on Slippery Surfaces
Anti-Lock Braking System in bikes prevents skidding and wheel lock ups even when you’re driving over slippery road conditions.
2. Eliminates Worries
With an anti-lock braking system, you don’t have to worry about braking hard under emergency situations. The system will ensure that you maintain control and stability of the bike even when you apply brakes all of a sudden.
3. Lowers Insurance Premiums
Since the Anti-Lock bike brakes enhance the safety level of the bike, insurers tend to offer lower insurance premiums for bikes equipped with it.
4. Reduces the Stopping Distance
Seeing as the anti-lock braking system allows you to brake harder without losing control of the bike, it ultimately reduces the distance required to bring the bike to a complete stop.
Conclusion
Considering the condition of roads and traffic in India, the Anti-Lock Braking System in bikes is a must-have feature. There have been many instances where the system has saved lives by preventing crashes and accidents.
Equipping your bike with ABS is not enough. It is equally crucial to protect it with a comprehensive bike insurance plan. A two-wheeler insurance plan covers damages to your vehicle and third parties as a result of an accident. That’s not all. It also covers damages due to fire, theft, and natural calamities as well.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive insurance plan for your bike, Bajaj Markets can help you land onto one immediately. Simply head on over to the website, browse through the multiple offerings, choose the one that you’re comfortable with, and make the premium payment. You will get your two-wheeler insurance plan instantly.
FAQs
Do all two-wheelers come with an Anti-Lock Braking System?
No. Not all two-wheelers feature ABS. This is something that you should keep in mind when shopping for a two-wheeler.
Do I have to pay extra for the ABS braking system in a bike?
Yes. Usually bikes that are equipped with an ABS come at a slightly higher cost compared to the same bike without the ABS feature. But the benefits offered by this braking system far outweighs the slight increase in cost.
Can I choose not to have an Anti-Lock Braking System in a bike?
In India, all two-wheelers above the engine cubic capacity of 125 cc are mandatorily required to possess an Anti-Lock Braking System. If you don’t wish to have this feature on your bike, you would have to purchase one whose engine capacity is either 125 cc or lower.
Will the Anti-Lock Braking System in a bike work even on a surface with water?
Yes. A vehicle’s Anti-Lock Braking System will work on wet surfaces and surfaces with water.
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