Dual-Channel ABS: What It Means For Your Vehicle’s Safety

Road accidents are a significant public health concern in India. During the year 2021, a total number of 4,12,432 road accidents were reported in the country, claiming 1,53,972 lives and causing injuries to 3,84,448 persons. Unfortunately, the worst affected age group in Road accidents is 18-45 years, which accounts for about 67% percent of total accidental deaths.

In an attempt to make roads safer, The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways announced that ABS and CBS will become mandatory features in two-wheelers by April 1, 2019.

Working for commuters’ safety, the automotive industry is working day and night and introducing new features that enhance driver protection. A dual channel is one feature that prevents the wheel from locking up during hard or sudden braking, which may cause accidents.

Key Highlights 

• Dual-channel ABS prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, improving control and road safety.  

• Mandatory since 2019, ABS or CBS is required on all new two-wheelers in India.  

• System includes sensors, ECU, HCU, and brake pads to monitor and control braking pressure.  

• Benefits include shorter stopping distance, better stability, and reduced skidding in emergencies.  

• Affordable bikes with dual-channel ABS include Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and TVS Apache RTR 200 4V.  

Let’s Understand What are Anti-lock Braking Systems?

ABS refers to the Anti-lock braking system basically designed to prevent the wheel from locking up during hard or sudden braking which may cause skidding , loss of control or accidents.

The ABS functions through speed sensors located on each wheel. It continuously monitors the speed of each wheel, and if a wheel is turning significantly slower than the others, indicating potential lock-up, the sensor sends a signal to the ABS control unit.

The control unit then actuates the brake hydraulics, causing the disc brake to activate and deactivate quickly. This process lasts only fractions of a second and causes a slight vibration in the brake pedal, a sign that the ABS is working.

The 3 Types of ABS Configurations

1. Single-Channel ABS: This type of ABS is commonly used in small vehicles and motorcycles. It uses a single sensor to detect the wheel's speed and a single valve to control the brake pressure for all wheels.

2. Dual-Channel ABS: Dual channel ABS stands for dual channel anti-lock braking system. It is a safety feature on modern vehicles that prevents wheel lock-up and skidding during heavy braking.

3. Multi-Channel ABS: Divided into three types based on the number of wheel speed sensors and pressure-release valves: Four channel-four sensor, Three channel-four sensor, Three channel-three sensor

Now We’ll Dive Deeper Into Dual-Channel ABS

Here are the components of ABS.

• Speed Sensors: The speed sensors are located at each wheel of the vehicle and are responsible for monitoring the speed of the wheels.

• Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU): The HCU is the main control unit of the ABS system. It consists of valves and pumps that control the pressure of the brake fluid.

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU): The ECU is the brain of the ABS system. It processes the data from the speed sensors and sends signals to the HCU to control the pressure of the brake fluid.

• Brake Pads: The brake pads are responsible for stopping the vehicle. They apply pressure on the rotors to slow down or stop the vehicle.

The 4 Benefits of Dual-Channel ABS

1. Enhanced Braking Performance

By preventing wheel lockup during hard braking, ABS empowers drivers to maintain control of their vehicles in critical situations, reduces stopping distances, and enhances overall safety on the road.

2. Improved Vehicle Stability

When a vehicle travels at high speed, and brakes are applied suddenly, the wheels can lock up, causing the vehicle to skid. ABS prevents skidding by maintaining traction between the wheels and the road surface and improves vehicle stability.

3. Reduced Stopping Distance

ABS reduces the vehicle's stopping distance by preventing the wheels from locking up and allowing the driver to brake harder without losing control of the vehicle.

4. Prevention of Wheel Lock-Up

ABS prevents lock-ups and skidding, even in slippery conditions. Anti-lock brakes have been proven to save lives in some situations by helping drivers keep control of a vehicle.

5 Most Affordable Bikes With Dual Channel ABS

1. Bajaj Pulsar RS200

Price: ₹1.72 lakhs

Initially created with single-channel ABS, the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 was updated to feature the dual-channel ABS during the BS6 transition. This ride integrates enhanced safety with a sporty style, making it one of the leading bikes under 2 lakhs with dual channel ABS. This bike comes with a 199.5 cc engine and a six-speed manual transmission.

2. TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

Price: ₹1.49 lakhs

Another strong contender in this category is the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. The most recent version comes equipped with dual-channel ABS and is renowned for its performance-oriented features. It is highly customisable through its adjustable levers and front suspension. This bike features a 197.75 cc engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and a racing track-inspired instrument cluster that enhances its sporty look.

3. Yamaha YZF-R15 V 4.0

Price: ₹1.85 lakhs

The Yamaha YZF-R15 version 4.0 is distinctive because of its functionality and sporty design. This motorcycle has a 155 cc engine, Track and Speed riding modes, and a dual-channel ABS system that help enhance the riding experience.

Dual channel ABS has brought significant change in the automotive industry in terms of safety ,having dual channel ABS in your vehicle not only enhances safety but also gives peace of mind and sense of comfort while driving.