In a landmark decision poised to significantly enhance road safety across the nation, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) will be mandatory on all new bikes and scooters sold in India starting January 1, 2026. This crucial mandate extends to two-wheelers of all engine capacities, a move previously limited to models above 125cc.
Beyond the ABS directive, a complementary safety measure will also come into effect: dealerships will be legally obligated to provide two Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)-certified helmets – one for the rider and one for the pillion passenger – with every new two-wheeler sale.
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A Critical Step Towards Reducing Road Fatalities
India, unfortunately, has one of the highest rates of road accidents globally, with two-wheeler users accounting for a disproportionately large number of fatalities. Government data highlights that brake-related skidding and head injuries are primary contributors to these tragic incidents. The new regulations directly address these critical areas.
ABS is a proven safety technology that prevents wheels from locking up during sudden or hard braking. By modulating brake pressure, it allows the rider to maintain steering control, drastically reducing the risk of skidding and loss of balance, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces. Studies consistently show that ABS can reduce two-wheeler accidents by a substantial margin, some suggesting a reduction of up to 35-45%.
The accompanying mandate for two BIS-certified helmets aims to tackle the issue of head injuries, which are often fatal in two-wheeler crashes. By making two certified helmets compulsory, the Ministry aims to foster a stronger culture of safety for both the rider and the pillion, ensuring proper head protection from the moment a new vehicle leaves the showroom.
Impact on the Indian Two-Wheeler Market
While the move is unequivocally hailed by road safety experts and advocates, it is set to bring about notable changes in the highly competitive Indian two-wheeler market. Major manufacturers like Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, and Suzuki, who have a significant presence in the sub-125cc segment, will need to update their product lines to comply.
This widespread adoption of ABS, particularly in entry-level models, is expected to lead to a price increase. For two-wheelers currently priced around the ₹1 lakh (ex-showroom) mark, the addition of ABS hardware could translate to a slight increment. The most significant impact is anticipated in the entry-level 100cc motorcycle segment, where ex-showroom prices typically start from around ₹60,000. Here, the inclusion of a front disc brake along with a single-channel ABS could see prices rise by approximately ₹6,000 - ₹10,000.
Manufacturers are currently evaluating the precise cost implications and preparing for the necessary engineering and production adjustments to meet the January 2026 deadline. While the added cost might be a concern for some budget-conscious buyers, government officials emphasise that the long-term benefits in terms of lives saved and injuries prevented will far outweigh the initial price adjustment.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is expected to release comprehensive guidelines and timelines in the near future to ensure a smooth and effective rollout of these crucial new regulations. As India revs up for 2026, the focus is clearly on making every two-wheeled journey safer.
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