EU rejects ABS “off switch” proposal

**Bob** · 22nd October 2010, 23:42

(I relate this, as the NZ Gov't seems to fall in line with Europe/USA eventually)

The European Commission has rejected a proposal from FEMA (The motorcyclist’s federation in Europe) to allow the addition of an Off-Switch for ABS systems on motorcycles.

FEMA called for the addition, as ABS is not suitable for certain riding conditions, such as unpaved roads. The EU acknowledged this, but rejected the proposal as the number of citizens living in areas with a high percentage of unpaved roads is ‘negligible’.

**Gremlin** · 23rd October 2010, 01:24

so we'll just let those ones risk more then? Stupid... Lets hope the manufacturers make it easy enough to bypass and/or create an off switch. Ironic really, trying to increase safety, and they've just made it more dangerous.

**Corse1** · 23rd October 2010, 06:32

Hmm my ST4s ABS has off switch on LH bar...but never used it

**AllanB** · 23rd October 2010, 07:08

So are they making anti-lock compulsory over there then?

Can't wait for air-bag riding suits. In day-glow pink of course so they are more visible.

**Kickaha** · 23rd October 2010, 07:10

Originally Posted by AllanB

Can't wait for air-bag riding suits. In day-glow pink of course so they are more visible.

So we all have to dress like Honda riders?

**onearmedbandit** · 23rd October 2010, 07:31

Originally Posted by AllanB

So are they making anti-lock compulsory over there then?

.

Nah, I think you'll find it just means if it is equipped from factory it can't be switched off. Making it compulsory is still not on the agenda. Even in cars.

**YellowDog** · 23rd October 2010, 07:34

Originally Posted by Bob

(I relate this, as the NZ Gov't seems to fall in line with Europe/USA eventually)

The European Commission has rejected a proposal from FEMA (The motorcyclist’s federation in Europe) to allow the addition of an Off-Switch for ABS systems on motorcycles.

FEMA called for the addition, as ABS is not suitable for certain riding conditions, such as unpaved roads. The EU acknowledged this, but rejected the proposal as the number of citizens living in areas with a high percentage of unpaved roads is ‘negligible’.

So "the number of citizens living in areas with a high percentage of unpaved roads is ‘negligible"

AND if you don't live in an unpaved area, why on earth would you choose to ride in such an area?

This seems like the ususal case of dumb arses making the decision on a subject they know nothing about.

I have taken the ABS fuse out more than once

**Bob** · 23rd October 2010, 08:17

Originally Posted by onearmedbandit

Nah, I think you'll find it just means if it is equipped from factory it can't be switched off. Making it compulsory is still not on the agenda. Even in cars.

From reading the press release, it would appear that compulsory it is, for bikes above 125cc (learner-legal machines in Europe).

The following link gives a lot more detail:

http://www.fema-online.eu/index.php?...t01returnid=15

**onearmedbandit** · 23rd October 2010, 08:44

Originally Posted by Bob

From reading the press release, it would appear that compulsory it is, for bikes above 125cc (learner-legal machines in Europe).

The following link gives a lot more detail:

http://www.fema-online.eu/index.php?...t01returnid=15

From 2017 I see. And they are trying to ban any modifications to the power train that increases torque, power or top speed.

**MSTRS:Me** · 23rd October 2010, 08:56

The meek may inherit the earth, but the FacelessGreyMenInSuitsThatKnowBest will still be controlling things.

**Mental Trousers** · 23rd October 2010, 10:15

Originally Posted by onearmedbandit

From 2017 I see. And they are trying to ban any modifications to the power train that increases torque, power or top speed.

... that would include sprockets. So you're only allowed to run the standard front and rear sprockets. No more going up 2 teeth on the rear to get a bit more omph out of corners.

**onearmedbandit** · 23rd October 2010, 12:44

Originally Posted by Mental Trousers

... that would include sprockets. So you're only allowed to run the standard front and rear sprockets. No more going up 2 teeth on the rear to get a bit more omph out of corners.

Tyre valves will be banned as well, you'll have to get your pressures done by an authorised outlet that runs them at factory specs so you can't lower them for more grip.

**Swoop** · 24th October 2010, 19:09

Thank fuck for after-market manufacturers...

**Urano** · 24th October 2010, 20:37

Originally Posted by onearmedbandit

Nah, I think you'll find it just means if it is equipped from factory it can't be switched off. Making it compulsory is still not on the agenda. Even in cars.

actually abs is compulsory in cars from about ten years ago...
and they are talking about getting the esp compulsory for cars as well.

they are actually discussing about the possibility to make abs mandatory in bikes, and i'd be more than pleased about that, but the switch should be allowed.
anyway, it shouldn't be so difficult to put an aftermarket switch on the bar or, in the worst case, to pull out the fuse...

**BMWST?** · 25th October 2010, 18:21

Originally Posted by Mental Trousers

... that would include sprockets. So you're only allowed to run the standard front and rear sprockets. No more going up 2 teeth on the rear to get a bit more omph out of corners.

but lowering the gearing DECREASES top speed