First use of ABS

Hi guys,

Yesterday I used the ABS for the first time as a car crossed in front of me at an intersection. That was the first time that ever happened in my life and I hit the brakes as hard as I could (not out of panic) and the bike acted like it was sucked down to the ground without loss of control. Amazing. If I had done that with my 1990 VFR I probably would have lost control. (pretty sure) ,car passed and I went through the intersection with no problem.

I know now that ABS is way more important than I thought it was. (was a dry day)

 

Glad to know it work and you are here to tell us :thumbsup:

 

^^^Yea. What he said.

I know some of the old school or track guys don't see a need for it. But for a guy like me who ain't draggin elbows and knees, its probably an option I'd like to have.

 

Fix it for you Pliskin :tongue:

 

Glad you're OK man. That's why the safety guys recommend finding an empty parking lot and practicing panic stops.

 

Hey Jimwww,

I saw in a total control book that you should practice those full abs stops. I have done it a few times in both corners and straights. Just like anything else, you (and I) will get used to it if we do it a bunch. It's scary as hell the first time but 'gear up' and go give it a few tries. We have a staight stretch not far on the Rez. No one on it all day. Plus it has a 90 degree at one end with no gravel. The first time I had my feet out and I was only doing 35 or so. But once you've leaped that hurdle, you will feel it and getting all over 60mph without panic.

Practice!!

 

I call bull shit. People don't drive like that in Vancouver! I have used my ABS a couple times now in the rain. Once in Surryevo and once in New Wreckminster. I love ABS even though I know I "can" stop very minimally faster, in a car, without ABS, using threshold braking. But that is in a controlled environment and in real life....who knows. ABS is good stuff. Glad you made out OK.

We should meet sometime for a ride. I know you city folk think Chilliwack is a long way away, but I have been known to ride or drive into YVR for a cuppa Joe when someone is flying through.

 

Hi Randy.. Chilliwack is not far for me. I was just in Abby today. I travel for work all over lower mainland.

It was weird though - no emotional panic when I hit the brakes - I just hit them and did not expect it to slow down so fast with so much control. I freak out more in steering in corners than when this happened. First time I have ever had to brake that hard. It was the first day to that I actually had fun riding. (see thread FIRST RIDE) Each day I ride things get better. My confidence gets better and watching Twist of the wrist 2 video helped enormously.