In a major move to enhance road safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) will be mandatory for all new two-wheelers sold in India starting January 1, 2026.
This regulation will apply to all engine capacities, including entry-level scooters and motorcycles under 125cc. So, Lets know about this in detail.
Why Is ABS Being Made Mandatory?
India has one of the highest rates of road accident fatalities in the world, and two-wheelers account for nearly 45% of these deaths. A significant number of these accidents are caused by brake-related skidding, especially during sudden stops or on slippery roads.
ABS helps prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the rider to maintain control and avoid crashes. Studies show that ABS can reduce two-wheeler accidents by up to 35%, making it a life-saving technology.
What’s the Current Rule?
As of now, ABS is only mandatory for Two-wheelers with engine capacity above 125cc, Or those with power output above 11 kW (15 hp), Or a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 kW/kg or more.
For smaller bikes and scooters, a Combi Braking System (CBS) is currently required. But starting 2026, single-channel ABS will likely become the new standard across the board.
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Will This Make Two-Wheelers More Expensive?
Yes, but only slightly. Adding ABS hardware could increase the cost of entry-level two-wheelers by ₹6,000 to ₹10,000. However, with mass production and localization, manufacturers may be able to reduce this cost over time.
To ease the burden on budget-conscious buyers, the government is also considering reducing the GST rate on commuter bikes from the current 28% to 12–18%.
Two Helmets to Be Mandatory Too
In addition to ABS, MoRTH will also require two BIS-certified helmets—one for the rider and one for the pillion with every new two-wheeler sold. This move addresses the high number of head injuries in two-wheeler crashes and aims to promote safer riding habits.
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