Key Takeaways
- Bosch is celebrating its 30-year anniversary of introducing the first production-ready anti-lock braking system (ABS) for motorcycles in 1995.
- The company has steadily improved its ABS technology over the years, with subsequent developments including compact ABS 9, lightweight ABS 10, and enhanced ABS 10 package for high-performance motorcycles.
- Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) was introduced in 2013, which builds on ABS by adding a high-frequency inertial measurement unit (IMU) and wheel-speed sensors to analyze the bike’s dynamics.
- According to Bosch Accident Research, if every motorcycle were equipped with ABS combined with MSC, more than 30 percent of injury-related accidents in Germany could be prevented or reduced in severity.
- Bosch has worked to bring these technologies to more riders, including introducing MSC versions for smaller-displacement bikes in 2023.
Introduction to Bosch’s Milestone Anniversary
Bosch is celebrating a milestone platinum anniversary in 2025, marking 30 years since the introduction of the first production-ready anti-lock braking system (ABS) for motorcycles. The company began adapting its car ABS, which launched in 1978, for motorcycles in 1986. After years of development, the breakthrough came in 1995 with the Kawasaki GPz1100, the first production bike equipped with Bosch ABS. This system prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, helping riders maintain steering control on slippery surfaces or during panic stops.
Evolution of ABS Technology
Bosch, which was founded in 1886 as a Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering, has steadily improved its ABS technology since its 1995 debut. In 2007, Bosch opened a dedicated center of competence for two-wheeler safety in Japan, which grew into a global hub with specialized engineers. Subsequent key steps include the development of compact ABS 9 in 2009, lightweight ABS 10 for smaller bikes in emerging markets in 2016, and an enhanced ABS 10 package for high-performance motorcycles in 2018. These advancements have enabled Bosch to provide more effective and efficient braking systems for motorcycles, enhancing rider safety and performance.
Introduction of Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC)
Another substantial leap forward arrived in 2013 with Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC). This advanced system builds on ABS by adding a high-frequency inertial measurement unit (IMU) and wheel-speed sensors. It analyzes the bike’s dynamics—lean angle, pitch, and roll—up to 100 times per second. This allows safe braking and acceleration control even when leaned into a corner, where traditional ABS could cause problems. MSC protects riders during vulnerable moments, including hard braking in bends or dynamic maneuvers. It also enables extra features, such as rear-wheel lift control, vehicle hold control for hill starts, and rear-wheel slide control for track performance.
Impact of ABS and MSC on Motorcycle Safety
According to Bosch Accident Research, if every motorcycle were equipped with ABS combined with MSC, more than 30 percent of injury-related accidents in Germany could be prevented or reduced in severity. This highlights the significant impact of these technologies on motorcycle safety. Geoff Liersch, who heads Bosch Two-Wheeler & Powersports, emphasized the company’s mission to make riding safer through innovation, precision, and intelligent technology. By bringing these technologies to more riders, Bosch aims to reduce the number of accidents and enhance overall safety on the roads.
Global Adoption of ABS and MSC
Thirty years after the first ABS-equipped bike, Bosch’s work has transformed motorcycle safety from an optional add-on to an essential feature. ABS has become a global safety standard, with the European Union requiring it on new motorcycles over 125cc starting in 2016, and India following in 2018. Singapore is taking the lead by mandating ABS on all new motorcycles, regardless of displacement, beginning April 1, 2027. This makes it the first country worldwide to apply the rule across all segments, reflecting a sharper focus on rider protection amid higher accident rates in some regions. As regulations continue to evolve, it is likely that more countries will adopt similar standards, further enhancing motorcycle safety worldwide.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, Bosch’s 30-year anniversary of introducing the first production-ready ABS for motorcycles marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to enhancing rider safety. The subsequent developments of compact ABS 9, lightweight ABS 10, and enhanced ABS 10 package, as well as the introduction of MSC, have transformed the motorcycle industry. As the company continues to innovate and improve its technologies, it is likely that we will see even more advanced safety features in the future. With the global adoption of ABS and MSC, riders can expect more stable, predictable handling motorcycles in emergencies, while ongoing regulations ensure these life-saving technologies reach more motorcycles worldwide.