Abs os no abs
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 2,047
Likes: 72
From: Northwest Louisiana
I'd spring for it if I were buying a new bike (as mentioned, price also includes security feature). Most HDs have barely adequate brakes, so I'll take all the help I can get.
Yes, when ABS engages it feels different than what you're used to. But it's been around for decades in cars, so it shouldn't be that big of an adjustment.
Yes, when ABS engages it feels different than what you're used to. But it's been around for decades in cars, so it shouldn't be that big of an adjustment.
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
From: Tampa, FL
I've ridden other motorcycles with ABS and if they ever activated, I didn't know it. (my Triumph Sprint, a friend's BMW, a another friend's Gold Wing) My 2011 Road Glide had ABS...and I wish it hadn't. The Harley ABS engaged far too easily and a couple of times really scared the crap out of me. When I got my Fat Bob, I chose not to get ABS.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 4,082
Likes: 11
From: Long Island, NY
There was a post (it may have contained a poll) and at one point it was running like 90% for ABS.
Some of the sport bikes have adjustable ABS, which permits the rider to control when he wants it to activate based on conditions and riding style.
Some of the sport bikes have adjustable ABS, which permits the rider to control when he wants it to activate based on conditions and riding style.
Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2011
Posts: 1,311
Likes: 1
From: -
That could be a feature I could like, a on/off switch for ABS: on when raining, off otherwise.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,666
Likes: 133
From: TEXAS
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Tourer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 312
Likes: 0
From: NC
Stopping wide body aircraft on a snowy or very wet short runway is a challenge. I can't imagine trying to stop without ABS in adverse conditions. EVERY commercial airliner you or your family flies on is equipped with ABS. It is on ALL the time, regardless of conditions. I assure you, it has saved many lives.
No, we usually don't ride our scooters in deep snow or heavy rain, but, I would go for the option in a heartbeat. ABS is absolutely the fastest (and likely safest) way to stop your motorcycle in an emergency.
Skidding your tire(s) only increases your stopping distance.
Why would you want to turn the system off on dry pavement?
Experience? How many of us have crashed or laid a Harley down on pavement to avoid a collision? Not an experience I want to chalk up. I have ridden MX for decades. No problem laying one down, but, a 700# Harley is not something I want to say "I've been there done that".
ABS is simply another safety feature. Like migrating from drum to disc brakes.
No, we usually don't ride our scooters in deep snow or heavy rain, but, I would go for the option in a heartbeat. ABS is absolutely the fastest (and likely safest) way to stop your motorcycle in an emergency.
Skidding your tire(s) only increases your stopping distance.
Why would you want to turn the system off on dry pavement?
Experience? How many of us have crashed or laid a Harley down on pavement to avoid a collision? Not an experience I want to chalk up. I have ridden MX for decades. No problem laying one down, but, a 700# Harley is not something I want to say "I've been there done that".
ABS is simply another safety feature. Like migrating from drum to disc brakes.
Last edited by Roadrider18; Jan 27, 2012 at 06:31 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 640
Likes: 1
From: southern cali
ALL the evidence shows that it is definitely worth it. Reviews say that HD's latest ABS version is the best its ever offered. Question= Why not take advantage of the latest technology? Youtube HD ABS Brakes and check out some of the videos, you'll be convinced. Be safe.