MoRTH Mandates ABS for All New Two-Wheelers from 2026 – Helmets for Rider & Pillion Also Compulsory.
In a major stride towards road safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has officially announced that Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) will be mandatory on all new two-wheelers sold in India starting April 1, 2026. This regulation is set to significantly impact both consumers and two-wheeler manufacturers, especially considering India’s massive base of sub-125 cc motorcycles and scooters.
Currently, ABS is only mandatory for two-wheelers above 125 cc, while smaller capacity vehicles are equipped with Combi-Braking Systems (CBS). The new mandate brings even entry-level two-wheelers into the safety net of ABS, ensuring uniform braking safety standards across segments.
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According to government data, two-wheelers account for nearly 44% of road accidents in the country. Notably, almost 45% of bikes sold are under 125 cc, making them a critical segment to target for safety enhancements.
ABS ( Anti-lock Braking System) works by preventing wheel lock-up during sudden braking, especially on slippery or uneven roads—a frequent hazard across Indian cities and highways. Studies suggest that ABS can reduce accident-related fatalities by up to 40% in two-wheeler crashes.
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Impact on Consumers and Pricing
While safety is paramount, the addition of ABS could lead to a price increase of Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000 for entry-level models. However, most industry experts agree that the trade-off for enhanced rider protection is worth the marginal cost hike.
For urban and semi-urban commuters relying on scooters and affordable bikes like the Hero Splendor, TVS Radeon, or Honda Activa, this regulation ensures better stability and safer emergency braking—especially during monsoons or on poorly maintained roads.
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Most major manufacturers—Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Bajaj, and TVS—have welcomed the move. They’ve already begun strategizing for dual-channel ABS rollouts on 150 cc+ variants, with plans to extend ABS integration across their entire lineup well ahead of the deadline.
