The right braking technology is of significant importance to motorcyclists in two respects, because only the reliable technology of the brake system combined with the rider's acquired skills can diffuse critical riding situations.
In dangerous situations which occur suddenly, even practiced motorcyclists tend towards overbraking the front wheel or causing the back wheel to lock. So a modern anti-lock brake system or ABS system in bikes is therefore part of the safety equipment of any high-quality motorcycle, mainly dual channel ABS bikes. This is why BMW Motorrad, the world's first manufacturer to do so, fits ABS in all its models as standard.
Regardless of whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, having an ABS system in bikes makes braking easier and safer in the wet, in emergency situations, when you’re riding with a passenger and when you’re carrying luggage, having a dual channel ABS bike is even better. This gives the rider the optimum stopping distance reducing the risk of falling due to the wheels locking.
Depending on the motorcycle type, various ABS systems in bikes are used: standard ABS or ABS systems in bikes with a partially integral function fitted. Both systems reliably prevent the wheels from locking in an emergency braking situation by means of electronically controlled hydraulics. To do so, wheel sensors measure the speed at which the front and rear wheels are rotating, and so can immediately identify if either wheel is locking up. The sensors forward the measuring impulse to a processor, which activates a pressure modulator in the hydraulic brake circuit of the front or rear wheel. The actuated pressure modulator reduces the brake pressure in a fraction of a second and then increases it again. This ensures that there is always precisely the required level of brake pressure available on the brake system of the corresponding wheel in the control range of the ABS to stop the wheel from reaching the locking limit.
The BMW Motorrad Integral ABS works with a brake servo in the version I-ABS I. An electrically operated hydraulic pump assists the brake pressure here generated by the brake lever and cylinder. For models built since 2007, a new, more finely regulating system is fitted, which works without a brake servo (I-ABS II). With partially integral brake systems, the handlebar lever applies the brakes to both wheels, while the footbrake lever only acts on the rear wheel brake. Dual channel ABS systems enhance this setup by ensuring both wheels are managed independently yet synchronously, offering even more reliable stopping power. These ABS systems in bike setups are a clear gain in safety compared to conventional brake systems, as frequently described in motorcycle tests.
The control electronics and the hydraulics of the brake servo and antilock brake system are housed in the central pressure modulator of the integral brake. A total of three processors ensure the highest possible level of safety of the system. Two microcontrollers control the control system in parallel, while a third monitors the process. Every time the ignition is switched on, the system carries out a self-test, during which the ABS indicator lights flash in the cockpit. They are automatically switched off as soon as the speed sensors transmit a corresponding signal and the system works without faults. With dual channel ABS, the level of redundancy and safety rises significantly, helping riders brake confidently even in unpredictable conditions.
For off-road use, the ABS systems in bikes can, on suitable models, simply be switched off by pressing the ABS button during the self-test. This is especially useful when riders want full manual control. However, for most scenarios, especially road riding, dual channel ABS remains the gold standard for effective, balanced braking on both wheels.
An obstacle that suddenly appears can cause any rider to brake on reflex. If this happens in a corner, another hazard is added to the mix: the wheels lock and the motorcycle "rears up", making it almost impossible to keep control. The ABS system in bikes is designed to reduce risks like these, especially in panic situations. ABS Pro takes it further, reducing abrupt changes in steering force even where there is fast braking activity going on. This means the motorcycle remains under control even during brake maneuvers at a banking angle.
ABS Pro is an innovative improvement: in addition to drawing on the data measured by a conventional ABS system in bikes, it constantly monitors the motorcycle's banking angle. This makes it possible to delay the build-up of brake pressure and maintain control through the turn.