How to test for functioning ABS

[D_W_L]

I've been considering a change to a smaller bike and one of features, that I have never had, that is important to me is ABS. My question is, how can ABS be tested when doing a test ride? Testing the rear rear is, obviously, pretty straight forward ... apply full pressure to the pedal and wait for the ABS action to engage. What about the front though? While testing someone else's bike, applying full pressure to the brake lever presents a risk that I would like to avoid. Any thoughts on testing the front. Thanks.

Dave

 

[Alberto]

not a problem to test front wheel ABS... just find flat even dirt/sandy road and grab brake lever.. wet asphalt is good too

 

[Al st1100]

ABS light should go on with key on, bulb check mode. Most will go off after starting. If there is a problem in the system the light will stay on. On my BMW the brake warning light flashes till it sees' both wheel speed sensors working then the light goes off. So if the light works and doesn't stay on it's safe to say it's operating normally.

 

[Alberto]

as I got a question, it really was about how to try working ABS, not just test it)

 

[dduelin]

ABS is self diagnostic. If the ABS light goes off the system is ready to engage when needed. If you insist on checking it then press hard on the brake pedal. If the pedal pulses the front ABS will engage when needed.

 

[SMSW]

Testing someone else's bike's ABS can be problematical if you want more than the bike's diagnostic system to tell you it works. Make sure you and the owner know who is responsible should you drop the bike and who foots the bill for any repairs.