BMW Australia considers blanket ABS

BMW Motorrad USA recently announced that it would offer ABS or anti-lock brakes on all its motorcycles as a standard feature in 2012, a move that has been widely applauded by both industry and media in the country.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) David Strickland said, "We commend BMW for taking the lead to improve motorcycle safety. Motorcycle fatalities and injuries have been on an upward trend for the past ten years and ABS and other safety technologies can help reduce these tragedies."

The move will put pressure on some of BMW's rivals in the USA but the move to offer ABS as standard on all motorcycles does not extend beyond the USA. But this could change...

The Bikesales Network understands that BMW Motorrad Australia is considering the implementation of a similar safety push by offering ABS as a standard feature on all its motorcycles within Australia, but has not yet made a final decision.

The German company first introduced ABS on motorcycles in 1988 on the BMW K-series bikes, and now offers race ABS and traction control as standard on its some of its models, including its hero bike, the S 1000 RR.

While the standard fitment of ABS on motorcycles is being considered by many governments, including the European Union and even the Australian state of Victoria, manufactures taking the lead on safety issues is a positive move for riders.

Anything that improves rider safety has got to be a good thing, and whether you agree or disagree, you  can let us know your opinion in the comments section below.

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