ABS not self testing or working

[Andy Hird]

After winter storage of my 1100GS I've found that the ABS is not making that clunking self test noise and the abs light flashes. Anyone know why the ABS is not working ?

Cheers,
Andy

 

[Tsiklonaut]

I'm 95% sure it's a weak battery.

Recharge it with a proper recharger (i.e. Optimate III) or do a longer few-hours continous ride so it gets enough recharge.

On starting the bike always swich off the lights, heated grips etc everything off while starting the bike to give enough voltage for the ABS to start.

 

[spot]

Its a well known fault, the abs dosent work when you are realy likely to need it ie cold winter mornings. Mine took 3 or 4 goes to get it going this morning. A fully charged battery helps.

 

[Colm Cummins]

Abs

I normally drive a mile or two and then pull in , stop ,turn everything off . Restart and the Abs resets.

 

[Keyframe]

This is a common 1100 problem, I get it on my 1100RT commuting during the winter on Monday mornings. Hot grips / stereo and autocom don't help and the bike is parked outside.

This is what I do, but I would not recommend you try it.

Ignore ABS lights alternate blinking

Start bike, get moving.

Dry stretch of road. No other traffic. Must be straight.

2nd Gear 20mph Pull in clutch

Switch off engine using ignition key (keep clutch pulled in)

Switch on using ignition key (Keep clutch pulled in) Do not press start button

ABS will reset itself (Keep clutch pulled in) This will be due to the rotation of the wheel

ABS lights will go out (Keep clutch pulled in)

Keep throttle closed

Dump clutch open

Bike bump starts, Hey presto, the ABS will be working

If you're not entirely confident of your riding skills or what the bike feels like with the rear wheel locked then don't try to bump start a flat twin. This is also something I wouldn't try on an 1150RT or any servo bike. (not even for a laugh)