Brake a component used to slow or stop the vehicle. Used as a safety component for better control of vehicle on road. In 2wheelers, there is a provision to keep both front and rear brake separate. Good and proper braking of front and rear wheels is required to stop vehicle efficiently in a shorter distance.
Combined Braking System or CBS is a system where both front and rear brakes are combined in such a way that when we apply one brake, braking force is applied on both wheels. Many of the times we apply only one brake which results skidding or poor control of vehicle and high braking distance. CBS helps us in this situation making both the wheel stop using one brake. In CBS when front brake lever is squeezed, Braking force is applied to front wheel only. But in case of squeezing rear brake lever, braking force is distributed between both rear and front wheel resulting an effective braking. CBS is a patented technology of Honda Motor Company but now due to safety reason it is adopted by other manufacturers too. CBS can work with both mechanical and hydraulic brake system with different arrangements in the vehicle.
Antilock Braking System or ABS is also a safety feature which is used in automobile for effective braking. As name itself describes “antilock” it prevents locking of wheel when brake is applied. When brake is applied wheel locks causing instability and sometimes uncontrolled skidding while driving especially on slippery roads. In ABS Braking force is applied and released instantly. When the wheel begins to rotate again, the pressure is reapplied and braking continuous. This cycle repeats preventing locking and skidding of wheels making controlled braking.
In ABS System, ABS Control Unit (ECU) detects the tendency of wheel lock from wheel speed sensors which are installed at both wheels. When wheels are about to lock, the control unit sends signals to the Modulator according to the preset control map and modulator controls the brake caliper fluid pressure (braking force) making continuous application and release of brake.
In present days, many manufactures have implemented C-ABS i.e. combination of both Combined Brake and Antilock Braking System. In this system ABS control unit controls locking of wheels as well as it also controls distribution of braking force on both wheels even when only one brake is applied.