Starting January 2026, all new motorcycles and scooters sold in India—regardless of engine size—must be equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), as mandated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Alongside this, dealerships will also be required to provide two BIS-certified helmets with every new two-wheeler—one each for the rider and pillion.
This landmark safety regulation is aimed at curbing the high number of fatalities and injuries associated with two-wheeler accidents. Government data indicates that a large share of these incidents involve braking-induced skidding and head trauma, both of which ABS and proper helmet use can significantly mitigate.
While the decision has been lauded by road safety experts and advocates, concerns are emerging from two-wheeler manufacturers, particularly regarding the cost impact on entry-level models. Models below the 125cc segment—especially the popular 100cc commuter bikes starting around ₹60,000 (ex-showroom)—will need hardware upgrades such as a front disc brake and ABS, which could lead to a price hike in the range of ₹6,000 to ₹10,000.
Brands like Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Bajaj, TVS, and Suzuki, which dominate the entry-level segment, will need to update several models to comply with the new mandate. Currently, many of these offerings sit around the ₹1 lakh mark (ex-showroom) and are priced aggressively for cost-conscious consumers.
Despite industry reservations, the government maintains that the long-term safety benefits far outweigh the incremental costs. The ministry is expected to issue comprehensive guidelines and a phased implementation plan in the coming months to facilitate a smooth transition.
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