ABS mandatory for all two wheels soon

While a notification has been issued, Morth will release a more detailed guideline regarding the ABS rule in the coming weeks

India has the largest number of victims of road accidents in the world, with a significant number involving two wheels. In 2022, about 75,000 victims were due to accidents involving two wheels. To deal with this problem, the Ministry of Road Transport and Autostrade (Morth) is planning to make the compulsory ABS mandatory for all bikes and scooters. This new rule should come into force from January 2026. Take a look at the details.

ABS mandatory for all 2 wheels

Starting now, ABS (ABS with single channel) is mandatory for both wheels with a 125 cc and higher engine capacity. This rule can also be applied according to the power of 11 kW (about 15 HP) or more. Any two wheels with a power-pasus ratio of 0.1 kW/kg or the more it should be equipped with ABS.

For two wheels lower than 125 cc, a combined braking system (CBS) was obliged. These entry-level models constitute most of the two-wheeled sales in the country. While a configuration of the CBS has its benefits, safety can be more robust with the abs. Studies have shown that ABS can reduce two -wheeled accidents up to 33%. This means a significant reduction in fatal accidents and injuries related to accidents involving two wheels.

The data available with the government reveal that a significant number of accidents involving two wheels are caused by brake related skidding. This is where the abs can play its role and prevent injuries and victims. Especially when the ABS is made mandatory for all bikes and scooters in the country.

Cost of the ABS update

Single channel abdominals will likely be made mandatory for all 2 wheels in the country. In this case, the cost of the bikes and entry-level scooters can see an increase of about 6,000 RS at 10,000 RS. However, with large volumes, the OEM can be able to reduce the cost of updating ABS per unit. The best 2 -wheeled sold under 125cc include artists of the caliber of Hero Splendor, Honda Shine 100, HF Deluxe, Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter, TVS XL and Honda God.

It remains to be seen if the government takes some measures to prevent a price shock in the entry-level commuters segment. The current GST rate of 28% can probably be relaxed to compensate for some extent the cost of updating the AB. The leaders of the sector such as Rajiv Bajaj have often criticized the GST rate of 28% on entry-level commuters. A GST rate of about 12% to 18% can make commuter bikes more accessible.

Two helmets with each new 2 wheels

Morth is also planning to make two certified helmets mandatory with each new sold on two wheels. One for the pilot and one for the cyclist. This is again a decision based on data on road accidents. A significant percentage of victims involving two -wheeled accidents is due to head injuries.

However, this helmet rule will further increase the cost of commuter bikes. While the intent is good, the government should not ignore the practical needs of low -income groups and buyers attentive to the budget. Reduce Gst further from the current 28%, it could help buyers absorb the increase in the price with the two mandatory helmets when it comes into force.