BWM, the German auto and motorcycle manufacturer, has announced its intention to make anti-lock braking systems (ABS) standard on all motorcycles in the 2012 model year. BMW cites studies proving that motorcycles with ABS are easier to stop quickly in an emergency situation, especially on slick or wet pavement.
Anti-lock braking systems were invented in 1929 for use on aircraft and were first used in automobiles in the 1970's. BMW was the first to install the system in a motorcycle in 1981.
Anti-lock brakes prevent wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking. The system uses sensors to tell when a wheel is about to lock up and then automatically instructs the brakes to apply and release pressure, called pumping, many times per second.
Many industry experts believe that safety technology like ABS could help to improve motorcycle crash and fatality rates. A recent Governors Highway Safety Association report on motorcycle fatalities in 2010 shows that motorcycle deaths are on the rise.
However, some motorcycle enthusiasts believe that anti-lock technology takes away from their control and experience. Some experienced riders may be able to stop their bike quickly in an emergency without ABS. Studies with motorcycles on tracks in Europe have found that motorcycles with ABS have shorter stopping distances than other models. The shorter stopping distance could be life saving in a crash situation.
The Insurance Institute For Highway Safety is a group from the insurance industry that believes making ABS standard on motorcycles could be a huge improvement to motorcyclists' safety.
A recent study by the IIHS found that motorcycles with anti lock brakes are 37 percent less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than motorcycles without anti-lock brakes.
The IIHS has recently made a formal request that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration require all motorcycle manufacturers to make ABS standard on all models. The group says the regulation is necessary because many manufacturers are reluctant to start installing ABS.
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