The motorcycle anti-lock braking system (ABS) was designed to prevent wheels from seizing up, or locking, thereby avoiding skidding and collisions. Anti-lock brakes are widely available as either standard equipment or an option for motorcycles. An ABS uses computer technology to sense when a wheel is about to lock up, and causes the brakes to automatically pump themselves while the driver applies steady pressure to the brakes. These actions work together to prevent a motorcyclist to slow or stop without skidding.
There is some question as to whether anti-lock brakes have any advantage over non-ABS bikes on dry roads. However, strong evidence shows that, in slippery conditions, motorcycles with ABS make straight and controlled stops while the non-ABS bike spins out.
On certain surfaces such as gravel or snow, braking distance may be increased by anti-lock brakes. However, at these instances, vehicle control is still improved by the presence of an ABS.
Anti-lock brakes may be particularly beneficial to a new motorcycle owner; many experienced riders find it easy to stop their non-ABS motorcycle in less time than an ABS bike by efficiently using front and rear braking while on dry pavement. Since many motorcyclists are not this experienced, and because emergency response is instinctive, bikes with anti-lock brakes are a wise safety precaution.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Green Bay or Appleton, contact our Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyers at Hupy and Abraham at 920-882-8382 or toll free at 800-800-5678. Ask about your FREE book and DVD: The Ultimate Guide for Auto Accident Victims and Valuable Information Insurance Companies Don’t Want You to Know!