The road is wet. Suddenly, an unexpected obstacle appears. The moment of shock combined with too timid braking can now be just as dangerous as slamming on the brakes: if you overbrake the front wheel, you inevitably risk falling. The anti-lock braking system can help by preventing the wheels from locking up during heavy braking and when braking on slippery surfaces. „Slamming on the brakes“ loses its terror, and the rider retains control of the bike.

Harley-Davidson is therefore offering numerous models that were previously available with an optional anti-lock braking system as standard with ABS from the 2009 model year onwards. The system works hand in hand with a high-performance braking system from Brembo. In the control range, it is noticeable as a slight pulsation on the brake lever – alerting the rider to the lack of traction. Unlike various other anti-lock braking systems in the motorcycle sector, the Harley-Davidson ABS is not an integrated system, so the rider can still modulate the front brake independently of the rear brake.

Great care was taken in the design of all ABS components to ensure that the system could be installed discreetly and virtually invisibly in Harley-Davidson models. The speed sensor was integrated into the wheel bearings and the ABS module is hidden from view. In VRSC models, for example, it is located above the radiator.

ABS will be available ex-factory on all VRSC models—the V-Rod, Night Rod Special, and the new V-Rod Muscle. In addition, all Touring models—the Road King, Road King Classic, Street Glide, Electra Glide Standard, and Ultra Classic Electra Glide—now come with ABS as standard.

So what are you waiting for? Head to your authorized H-D dealer now for an extensive test ride.