Traction control

Traction control (TC) is an electronic system that limits rear-wheel spin. Wheel-speed sensors, often shared with ABS, compare front and rear wheel speeds; if the rear turns noticeably faster, the engine control unit reduces power by retarding ignition, cutting fuel or closing the ride-by-wire throttle.

Simple systems react only after spin starts. More advanced lean-sensitive systems use an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to know the lean angle and adjust intervention in corners, and some allow a set amount of slide for racing or off-road use.

Most bikes let you choose levels or switch TC off. On gravel and in sand, a lower level or an off-road mode often works better, as some wheelspin helps the bike move forward. On wet tarmac, use a higher setting.