If you’ve ever wondered how modern vehicle’s automatic braking systems compare with the braking systems of vintage and racing cars, you’re in the right place. Here’s a brief overview of a few non-ABS techniques, so you’ll have a better understanding of— and appreciation for — the advantages of ABS.
Trail braking
This technique is commonly used when driving on a track, to improve lap times. It involves continuous braking while the vehicle turns a corner. Driver 61 provides the following steps to successfully complete a trail brake.
Brake in a straight line at maximum force. Slightly before the turn, start easing off the breaks and begin to turn into the bend. Reduce the braking pressure as you increase the steering angle. Adjust the braking to balance and stabilize the vehicle as it completes the final stage of rounding the corner.
Cadence braking
For vehicles without ABS, cadence braking is used to pause the vehicle on slippery surfaces. It involves gently applying and releasing the brakes in a rhythm, to prevent the wheels from locking up while still allowing you to steer as you travel on an icy or wet road.
Threshold braking
Another technique used on non-ABS vehicles, threshold braking enables you to maximize braking pressure without locking up the wheels. As Top Gear puts it, this technique involves braking right up until the point before the wheels lock up.
ABS braking
ABS systems automatically combine threshold and cadence braking to enhance the vehicle’s traction and give the driver more steering precision on slippery services. When braking a vehicle with this system, avoid pumping the brakes since this will deactivate the ABS technology. Keep your foot firmly pressed on the brake pedal and gradually decelerate until the vehicle comes to a halt. Make sure to brake and steer when rounding a turn on a slippery road. Watch the video above for an illustration of how ABS vs non-ABS systems compare.
News Sources: Drivingfast.net, Driver 61, TopGear
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