ATC or not ?

[mcrider64]

I have a '13 Stelvio that I ride almost always on the street. Recently I had the rear wheel break loose in a corner while leaving a stop light. I had the ATC turned off at the time. I have since enabled the ATC in hopes that it will prevent any more close calls. Can anyone tell me if this system is designed to be left on all the time or is it for use off road only? Is there any argument for or against leaving it on all the time?

 

[AlanNZ]

I have ATC on all the time except when I am riding on metal or loose surface roads when I want to spin the rear wheel to control the bike. I leave ABS on always although this has given be a few frights on metal - when I don't think I'm going to stop.
Alan NZ.

 

[scottmastrocinque]

I have a '13 Stelvio that I ride almost always on the street. Recently I had the rear wheel break loose in a corner while leaving a stop light. I had the ATC turned off at the time. I have since enabled the ATC in hopes that it will prevent any more close calls. Can anyone tell me if this system is designed to be left on all the time or is it for use off road only? Is there any argument for or against leaving it on all the time?

Why in the world, would you buy a bike with ABS and Traction Control, and then turn either off? That makes about as much sense as buying a new car, and then removing the airbags. The reason those controls are there, is for experienced off-road riders who know how and when to use wheel spin to effect changes in direction, thrust, and bike position and we don't want the safety electronics to override our throttle commands to the ECU or braking system. I can already tell by your question itself, that this is not you. Don't feel bad, it's not most Stelvio riders either. Dirt riding is nothing like street riding. The mechanics, physics, riding techniques, and throttle manipulation are totally different. Do yourself a favor, turn them both on and don't turn them off again. They are there to add safety to the motorcycle and protect you. I am very glad that you are ok! Safe riding.

One more thing! Remember, no electronic braking or traction control system can overrule the laws of physics. Your tire has a finite amount of traction which is constantly being used for accelerating, cornering and braking and multiple combinations thereof. Don't be fooled thinking that these systems will protect you from foolish riding technique!

Best Wishes.

 

[mcrider64]

Why in the world, would you buy a bike with ABS and Traction Control, and then turn either off? That makes about as much sense as buying a new car, and then removing the airbags. The reason those controls are there, is for experienced off-road riders who know how and when to use wheel spin to effect changes in direction, thrust, and bike position and we don't want the safety electronics to override our throttle commands to the ECU or braking system. I can already tell by your question itself, that this is not you. Don't feel bad, it's not most Stelvio riders either. Dirt riding is nothing like street riding. The mechanics, physics, riding techniques, and throttle manipulation are totally different. Do yourself a favor, turn them both on and don't turn them off again. They are there to add safety to the motorcycle and protect you. I am very glad that you are ok! Safe riding.

One more thing! Remember, no electronic braking or traction control system can overrule the laws of physics. Your tire has a finite amount of traction which is constantly being used for accelerating, cornering and braking and multiple combinations thereof. Don't be fooled thinking that these systems will protect you from foolish riding technique!

Best Wishes.

You are correct, I am not an experienced dirt rider. I rode dirt bikes in my youth but not so much anymore. My Stelvio is the first bike I have ever owned with Traction control. I have only owned it for a few weeks and am still learning my way around it. The ATC was turned off when I got the bike used, and I live in AZ where the roads are clean and dry most of the time. I don't feel bad about my lack of knowledge, I only seek to get the most out of my new bike. It's the first bike of it's kind that I've owned but certainly not my first bike. ABS I have experience with, ATC not so much.

Thanks for your input.

 

[scottmastrocinque]

Oh Hell. I apologize. Not sure how I managed to come across so crappy but sometimes you just step right in it. Didn't mean to be a ...

Anyway, I really wanted to provide a potential answer for your question, not an authoritative one. Public apologies.

 

[mrEnke]

Regarding ABS on street vs dirt:

 

[decotriumph]

I have a '13 Stelvio that I ride almost always on the street. Recently I had the rear wheel break loose in a corner while leaving a stop light. I had the ATC turned off at the time. I have since enabled the ATC in hopes that it will prevent any more close calls. Can anyone tell me if this system is designed to be left on all the time or is it for use off road only? Is there any argument for or against leaving it on all the time?

Unless you were really giving it a lot of throttle, it sounds like you may have hit some spilled diesel fuel or sand at that intersection. Both can be a ride excitement enhancer!