Improving Motorcyclists' Braking Performance: The Integrated Brake System

Two motorcycles were used in these tests, each of which could be operated in both integrated and separated braking modes. The motorcycles had engine displacements of 400 cc and 1100 cc. The braking test was performed by 24 riders, nine of whom were instructors in motorcycle rider courses.

It was found that, on both dry and wet pavements, decelerations were significantly greater in the integrated braking mode than the separated mode when foot brakes alone were used and there were no significant differences in the frequencies with which wheels were locked between these modes. However, there was a consistent trend of fewer lockups in the integrated mode. When both brakes were used on the larger motorcycle significantly greater mean deceleration was attained in the integrated than separated mode but this was accompanied by significantly more wheel lockups in the integrated mode.

The results indicated a significant advantage in braking performance with integrated brakes for the motorcycle rider course instructors and the other riders. This advantage could be expected to reduce stopping distances of motorcycles and, thus, their involvement in accidents.