ABS on Ebikes - LOVE OR HATE!
I recently had the opportunity to test out the new Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 ABS eMTB equipped with the latest anti-lock braking system from Bosch and Magura. Mountain bike enthusiasts may recall previous attempts at implementing ABS technology on bikes, which were unsuccessful in delivering performance comparable to the best disc brakes. However, this latest iteration promises to change all that.
The ABS system works by using feedback loops within the brake system to prevent the front wheel from locking up and losing traction when braking hard. This is achieved through pressure sensors on the brake lines and speed sensors on the brake rotors, which communicate with an algorithm to determine the optimal line pressure for maximum stopping force. This happens in the blink of an eye when you slam on the brakes, unbeknownst to the rider.
Bosch and Magura have teamed up to offer mind bending braking control with their latest ABS system, which is available only as original equipment on Bosch e-bikes. The second-generation design is 55% lighter and 77% smaller than the original, making it less intrusive and adding only 400g to the overall weight of the bike.
The ABS system is hardwired into the power supply and includes speed sensors on both rotors to detect skidding or rear wheel lift. However, only the front braking is modulated by the ABS system. The system offers four modes that customize the braking characteristics for Cargo, Touring, Allroad, and Trail bikes, with Trail being the performance mountain bike option.
During my test ride, I found that the ABS system performed impressively, providing mind bending control and stopping power. The Magura brake lever is long and sits a little far from the bars to be comfortable, however it uses a parallel piston with a large oil volume designed specifically for the demands of the ABS system. The callipers feature sensors mounted next to each brake caliper, which are hardwired into the system, and a second, smaller rotor that bolts on top of the standard brake rotor, which fits any standard 6-bolt hub. The brain of the system is mounted on the back of the left-hand fork leg, and it has the front brake hose running through it.
In conclusion, the latest ABS system from Bosch and Magura delivers impressive results and promises to change the game for e-bike braking technology. Although it is only available as original equipment on Bosch e-bikes and adds weight to the bike, the benefits in terms of control and stopping power are well worth it for riders who maybe dont have years and years of brake modulation practice. We found in our tests that it can remove a variable from your riding, meaning you can concentrate on having maximum fun.
In this short video you can see full front brake on a loose fire road, where it does not lock up and lets you do a little endo before setting you back down.