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What is Traction Control in a Bike? Complete Guide

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Riding a bike has a thrill that matches no other. People who love to ride a bike will rarely enjoy any other vehicle. The machine has the freedom to move and, of course, the freedom to ride with speed. Riding a bike gives the kick that undoubtedly is unmatched by many. One big concern that many people have when it comes to riding a bike is the danger mainly because of road conditions, speed and the weather. Due to these issues, bike manufacturers have added many features and one of these and the most important one is a traction control system. If you are wondering what traction control in bikes, then let us discuss it in detail

What is traction control in bikes and how does it work?

When you own a vehicle, your comprehensive bike insurance is what ensures your finances are safe in case of damage or theft. The insurance will help you recover the financial loss, if any. For your own safety, you need to ensure that the bike has safety control features. The traction control of a bike is a system that aims to ensure that the bike does not lose balance and slide out of control. The system does this by monitoring the speed and accordingly adjusting the output of the engine power to prevent the wheels from slipping. This comes in handy for the rider on a slippery surface or a wet one, where traction maintenance can be tough and can cause slipping and accidents.

When brakes are applied suddenly, accelerate too much or ride on a slippery surface, the rear wheel can spin faster than the front one or the front wheel can lift off the ground. In either case, the bike will lose traction and the chances of crashing are high. When the system of the bike senses a loss in traction, it will intervene in certain ways. It can do this either by fuel injection, reducing the power of the engine or applying brakes. What the system does can vary depending on the situation, but the ultimate goal is to ensure that the bike stays in control and there is a balance between the two wheels. This all is done by the system of the bike, and in most cases, the rider does not even come to know. If there is an accident, the two wheeler insurance can take care of the damage to the bike, but the traction control system will ensure the safety of the rider and will avoid damage to the bike, making it very important.

Why do you need a traction control system in a bike?

Now that we have understood what traction control is in bikes, we need to also know why it is so important and why we need it. There are many advantages of the system and some of these are as follows:

1. Avoids Skidding

The bike can go out of control and slide and this happens mainly when the wheels get locked. This happens when the surface is wet and slippery or you apply the brakes too hard. The system regulates the pressure of the brake and avoids skidding. This ensures the rider has control and does not lose grip avoiding accidents.

2. Avoids Drifting

The bike can lose direction when the rear wheel of the bike slides sideways. This can happen when the surface is uneven due to sand, water or gravel or when the bike turns very fast. In this case, the traction control intervenes, reduces the engine speed and applies brakes. In this way, the bike stays stable and the bike does not lose balance by maintaining the line.

3. Keep the front wheel on the ground

When the bike hits a pothole or when there is too much acceleration, the front wheel of the bike can lift off the ground. This will result in a loss of balance. The traction control ensures the bike stays balanced and the front wheel stays on the ground.

What types of traction control systems are there?

While it is important to know what traction control is in the bike, it is equally imperative to understand the types of traction control. When it comes to financial safety we all should know that when it comes to two wheeler insurance, it is important to have comprehensive bike insurance and not only mandatory third party bike insurance as per law. The traction control system is for safety and thus, one should know the difference between a predictive traction control system and a reactive one. The main difference is their reaction and response to a loss in traction.

1. Reactive System

One of the most basic and common traction systems in bikes is known as the reactive system. After the traction is lost, the system senses the same and works on correcting it at the earliest. Sensors work to sense the wheel rotation and speed of the bike and do the necessary intervention as per the requirement. This kind of system is adjustable and one can decide to turn it off as well if needed.

2. Predictive System

This is the most advanced type of traction system as they can prevent the loss of traction before it happens and thus, attempt to stop it completely. Like the reactive system, they also use sensors to determine the speed and the wheel rotation. As these are more advanced, they also detect the angle of the pitch, lean angle, deceleration acceleration, etc. By doing so and using AI and different algorithms, it determines the ideal power that should be used and then does the necessary intervention.

How to effectively use the traction system?

To ensure safety, one needs to use the traction system most effectively. Some of the ways to do so are:

1. Adjust the traction control as per the riding style

2. Understand the traction control system of the bike

3. Do not ignore the lights and alert system of the bike

4. Ride properly and follow basic techniques for safety

5. Maintain the bike and ensure it is serviced regularly

Traction Control Bikes in India

Traction control is a safety feature that prevents wheel spin during acceleration, particularly on icy surfaces. It adjusts the power output to give the wheels better grip and stability thereby increasing rider safety.

• Safety Enhancement:

Reduces the chances of losing control during acceleration.

• Improved Riding Experience:

It instils confidence in riders, again, in cases of adverse weather.

Popular Bikes in India with Traction Control

Insurance Considerations

• Two Wheeler Insurance:

Investment protection on a bike loaded with features.

• Third party Bike Insurance:

Mandatory insurance as per Indian law; includes damages paid to the third party during accidents.

• Comprehensive Insurance:

Suggested policy to avail additions that include damages to your vehicle and your injuries.

Conclusion

Safety is of utmost importance while riding a bike. For the bike, one should have comprehensive bike insurance and for the safety of the rider, all safety features should be in place. The traction control is one of them. Now that we have answered all basic aspects and you know what traction control is in the bike, you know how important it is. Always compare your two wheeler insurance and the safety features of your bike to ensure you are safe and so is the bike.

FAQs

1. What is Traction Control in a Bike?

Traction control in a bike is the safety technique to stop the rear wheel from spinning during an acceleration. It compares the wheel speeds and applies power reduction on the engine or brakes when detecting that one side's wheels are spinning faster than the others; doing so enhances stability and improves control while riding.

2. How Does Traction Control Affect Two Wheeler Insurance?

Having traction control on bikes can result in a decrease in insurance premiums, which are usually regarded as lower risk by the underwriters.

3. Is Traction Control Standard in Third-Party Bike Insurers?

Third-party traction control is not provided under third-party two wheeler insurance. You will need comprehensive insurance for your bike's features.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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