Which bike has the best ABS: scientific test

MCN is about to scientifically test the braking performance of a selection of ABS-equipped bikes. Which do you think will perform best, and worst, out of:

• BMW S1000RR – has a phenomenally sophisticated ABS system that will not only stop the front wheel locking, but – in race mode – allow a certain amount of rear wheel slip so you can back it into corners. As you do

• Honda Fireblade with C-ABS – this blew MCN away when we tested it last year. It’s incredibly smooth and allows ordinary riders to brake like national level racers.

• BMW’s K1300S – the ABS is a generation behind the S1000RR’s, but MCN’s testers say it has phenomenal braking performance because of its long, low chassis and Duolever front end.

• Yamaha XJ6 ABS – budget, older generation ABS system

• Harley Electra Glide Ultra Limited – heavy bike with older-generation ABS

• Honda Civic diesel car – typical family hatchback with typical car ABS.

Conditions look like being cold and damp.

So, what’s the predicted running order? And, for extra points, how many metres will the bikes take to stop from 70mph, given that the Highway Code says it should be 75m?

Futher reading:
BMW | S1000RR | Honda | Fireblade | BMW | K1300S | Yamaha | XJ6 | Harley | Electra Glide Ultra Limited | Motorcycle insurance