Is the ABS Anti-lock Braking System on a Motorcycle Really Important? And is TCS Really Necessary?
These are the most frequently asked questions. There's no doubt that more and more people now place significant importance on the safety features of small-displacement commuter vehicles, especially for potential users of 125cc scooters. Whether the vehicle is equipped with ABS has become a key factor in their purchasing decisions.
So, is the ABS system really that important for these small-displacement scooters? The answer is yes! Simply put, the ABS system helps you modulate the brakes. It consists mainly of components like the ECU, wheel speed sensors, and solenoid valves. The ECU is the brain of the ABS system, capable of detecting and judging whether the wheel is locked within milliseconds. It calculates the appropriate braking force and releases the brakes accordingly, performing this process dozens of times per second. This prevents the tires from locking and helps avoid skidding accidents.
What does it mean when people say motorcycles are equipped with dual-channel or single-channel ABS? Dual-channel ABS means that both the front and rear wheels have ABS, while single-channel ABS only prevents the front wheel from locking. Under excessive braking force, the rear wheel can still lock up.
Currently, Bosch's ABS system is widely regarded as the best by both the industry and motorcycle enthusiasts, known for its smooth activation and effective braking performance. The only downside is its higher cost. However, more and more domestic brands are developing and integrating motorcycle ABS systems. Generally, in terms of safety and usability, there aren't many major issues, so there's no need to worry too much.
TCS stands for Traction Control System. To fully implement TCS, an important component called the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) six-axis sensor is required. Currently, only the CFMOTO 800MT comes equipped with this. While many models now claim to have TCS, most manufacturers are only using software programs derived from the ABS system.
In simple terms, when the rear wheel of a vehicle spins or slips, the system cuts off the throttle abruptly. This is relatively safe when driving in a straight line, but during a turn, the sudden loss of power could make the situation worse.
Additionally, when trying to escape from a difficult situation, if the TCS cannot be turned off, the system's logic prevents the rear wheel from slipping, leaving you with little power to use. As a result, this type of TCS is generally not as important for safety as ABS.
European and Japanese regulations require that models above 125cc must be equipped with ABS, which is why you'll see Honda's Cubs and PCX equipped with single-channel front-wheel ABS.
Over the past six months, more domestic brands have launched small-displacement models with ABS systems. According to the editor's statistics, there are now more than ten models available, and more will be released soon. If you haven't found one you like yet, it's worth waiting a bit longer.
ABS is like wealth-while you can get by without it, having it makes a big difference. Safety features are not a reflection of your driving skills, but many small scooter users have fallen off their bikes not because of speeding, but due to the absence of ABS. Always remember, safety features are your last line of defense. Don't assume that riding a vehicle equipped with these features means you're invincible.