IAM: ABS should be compulsory for large motorcycles

A leading motoring group has called for anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to become a compulsory component of all new motorcycles sold in the UK.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has suggested that a wider adoption of ABS could help riders to avoid needing to make motorbike insurance claims following accidents, while also keeping them safe from injuries.

According to a report from the organisation, braking can throw up a number of dangers for motorcyclists at present, with the need to stop suddenly or a failure to brake on slippery roads cited as key causes for serious accidents.

This serves to increase the vulnerability of bikers on Britain's roads, with the risk of being killed or injured in an accident while using motorcycles calculated as being 50 times higher than for car owners.

The IAM's warning coincides with European parliamentary debates over potential new regulations to enforce ABS as standard on all new motorbikes over 125cc by 2017.

Both the IAM and Federation Internationale de l'Automobile have backed this principle, but called for the date to be brought forward to 2015, in order to deliver safety benefits to road users as early as possible.

Neil Greig, director of policy and research at the organisation, said evidence from parts of Europe where ABS on large bikes is widespread shows that it can help to reduce fatality rates.

He noted that while there remain some concerns over the long-term reliability of ABS on bikes, due the system's exposure to the elements, benefits could still be delivered via "carefully crafted legislation".

"Compulsory fitment will bring down unit costs and allow all riders to enjoy the safety benefits," Mr Greig added.

According to a report issued by the IAM earlier this month, motorcyclists can further improve their safety on the roads by doing their utmost to ensure car owners have seen them and are aware of their intentions.