Government Rule ABS Mandatory for Bikes: India’s Game-Changing Safety Rule from January 2026

Introduction & Background Context

In June 2025, India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) announced a transformative safety regulation: from January 1, 2026, all new two-wheelers regardless of engine size must be equipped with Anti‑Lock Braking System (ABS) and include two BIS‑certified helmets with every purchase (ndtv.com, indiatoday.in). This marks a significant step in making ABS mandatory for bikes across all segments. Previously, ABS was only mandatory for bikes above 125 cc, while smaller ones used CBS (Combined Braking System) (bikewale.com). ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

This enhancement responds to alarming statistics: two-wheelers are involved in nearly 44–45 % of all road fatalities in India, often from skidding accidents and head injuries (ndtv.com). Studies show ABS can cut such crash rates by 35–45 %, making this a crucial leap for rider safety (ndtv.com). ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

Government Rule: ABS Mandatory for Bikes – Full Breakdown

Which Government Authority Issued the Rule?

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)—a key agency under the Government of India—is the primary body responsible for formulating and implementing transport policies, including road safety norms. MoRTH issued the directive making ABS Mandatory for Bikes manufactured and sold in India from January 1, 2026. ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

What Are the New Government Rules?

Here’s a complete breakdown of the government’s official mandate:

1. ABS Compulsory for All New Two-Wheelers
   • Applies from: January 1, 2026
   • Covers: All engine capacities (including under 125 cc)
   • Applies to: Scooters, motorcycles, mopeds—every two-wheeler category
   • Systems allowed: Single-channel or dual-channel ABS
   • Goal: Minimize wheel lock-up and reduce skidding-related accidents
2. Mandatory BIS-Certified Helmets
   • 2 helmets must be provided with every new bike sold
   • 1 for the rider + 1 for the pillion
   • Helmets must be certified by BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)
   • This rule ensures buyers and pillion riders are legally protected and ride-ready
3. Applicable to:
   • All newly manufactured two-wheelers sold from Jan 2026
   • Not retroactively applicable to older or already registered vehicles
4. Detailed Guidelines Expected
   • MoRTH has stated that detailed technical and operational guidelines for OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), dealers, and helmet manufacturers will be released soon. This will cover:
     • Certification processes
     • Helmet types allowed
     • Compliance and penalties for non-adherence
     • Possible concessions or transitional deadlines for low-end vehicle makers

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Why Did the Government Make ABS Mandatory?

The government took this step based on alarming accident data:

• In 2022, 44.5% of road fatalities involved two-wheelers
• The majority were caused by:
  • Skidding during emergency braking
  • Head injuries from improper or no helmet usage

By mandating ABS and certified helmets:

• The government expects a 35–45% reduction in fatal two-wheeler crashes
• Improves India’s road safety metrics as per the National Road Safety Policy

Legal Implications & Enforcement

• This rule will be enforced under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), 1989, which is periodically updated by MoRTH
• MoRTH will notify manufacturers and dealers under Section 110 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which empowers it to regulate the construction, equipment, and maintenance of motor vehicles
• Dealers and manufacturers failing to comply may face fines, suspension of license, or vehicle disqualification

Impact on Bike Buyers and the Industry

• Manufacturers must now redesign entry-level models like Splendor, Platina, and Shine 100 to include ABS
• Bike prices will increase by ₹2,000–₹10,000 depending on brand and configuration
• Helmet manufacturers and retailers will see increased demand
• Buyers will no longer need to separately purchase helmets after vehicle delivery

What This Means for Riders

Is ABS Mandatory for Bikes in India?

Yes. Starting 1 Jan 2026, every new motorcycle and scooter sold in India must have ABS, either single-channel or dual-channel—a big shift from the previous engine-based mandate. ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

Why ABS Over CBS?

ABS prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, particularly on wet or slippery roads, enabling riders to maintain control and shorten stopping distances—benefits CBS can’t fully match (ndtv.com). ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

Two Helmets Included

Dealers now must provide two BIS-certified helmets with every new bike—one for the rider and one for the pillion—addressing the alarming rate of head injuries in two-wheeler accidents (indiatoday.in). ABS Mandatory for Bikes.

Impact on Pricing & Market

• Price bump expected: Entry-level 100–125 cc bikes will see prices rise by ₹2,500–₹10,000, driven by the cost of ABS hardware and helmet bundling.
• GST dialogue ongoing: Industry players are lobbying for reduced GST rates to ease the cost impact.
• Long‑term benefits: Safety improvements are expected to save thousands of lives annually, fostering stronger compliance and trust among riders.

Suggested Authoritative Sources

• Times of India, Economic Times, Autocar India, NDTV Auto, India Today, Team-BHP
• Official MoRTH notifications (check the government website for full guidelines)
• International studies: IIHS, Swedish Road Administration, European Commission

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