While motor vehicles come equipped with critical safety devices, including airbags, seatbelts, backup sensing systems and head restraints, most motorcycles lack this life-saving protection. As a result, a number of motorcyclists are injured and killed each year in tragic accidents. Studies show, however, that antilock braking systems on motorcycles can help to reduce the risk of accidents and could save peoples’ lives on the road. In fact, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety reported that motorcyclists riding bikes that have ABS technology have a 31 percent reduced risk of being involved in a fatal motorcycle accident than those who are riding bikes that are not equipped with the braking system.
Antilock braking systems sense when wheels are about to lockup and reacts by reducing brake pressure. Once the wheels have regained traction, brake pressure returns to normal. Cars that have this technology can avoid hydroplaning, or going into an avoidable skid. When the wheels of a motorcycle lockup, on the other hand, the results can be catastrophic, according to Consumer Reports. The motorcyclist may lose his or her balance altogether, fall or crash into another vehicle. Antilock braking systems allow bikers to apply the brakes in any situation without the fear of skidding, sliding or falling off of their bikes.
A number of mid-size motorcycles already come standard with antilock braking systems. Yet, many people argue that the technology should expand to all motorcycles, especially bikes that are most commonly bought by new riders. Antilock braking systems not only benefit bikers who are used to completing more advanced maneuvers and take high-risks when it comes to riding, but it can also help low-risk bikers who may be more cautious.