What is a Traction Control?
Cuts power to the rear wheel automatically if it starts to spin faster than the front, preventing a slide.
Simplified animation — not to scale.
In plain English
Traction control compares front and rear wheel speed constantly. If the rear starts spinning noticeably faster than the front, a sign of wheelspin, the system intervenes by cutting ignition, fuel or throttle to bring it back under control.
“An invisible co-pilot with faster reactions than any human, gently reining in the throttle before a slide gets out of hand.”
How it works
Wheel speed sensors feed data to the ECU many times a second. When the calculated slip ratio between front and rear exceeds a safe threshold, the system reduces engine output, via ignition retard, fuel cut or throttle closure, until grip is restored, then hands control back to the rider.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠TC warning light flashing unexpectedly on grippy roads
- ⚠System failing to activate on genuinely slippery surfaces
- ⚠Inconsistent or jerky intervention
- ⚠Fault code logged relating to wheel speed sensors
£100–£500
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by bike, region, and parts brand.