India to Mandate ABS & Dual Helmets for All New Two‑Wheelers from Jan 2026
Jun 22, 2025
From Jan 2026, All New Bikes & Scooters in India Must Come with ABS & Dual Helmets
🔧 What’s Changing & Why It Matters
India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has ruled that, starting January 1, 2026, every new two-wheeler in India—including scooters and motorcycles of any engine size—must be equipped with Anti‑Lock Braking System (ABS). Plus, dealers must include two BIS‑certified helmets with every sale—one for the rider, one for the pillion.
🛑 Why This Matters
- Safety first: Two-wheelers account for around 44 % of all road deaths, with many involving head injuries or skidding brakes.
- ABS saves lives: Studies show it can reduce crash risk by 35–45 %, by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking.
- No more excuses: Until now, only 125 cc+ bikes needed ABS—leaving smaller scooters unprotected.
🪙 What It Means for Buyers
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Price | Expect a ₹2,000–6,000 price rise, especially on entry-level models |
| Model updates | Brands like Hero, Bajaj, TVS, Honda, Suzuki will retrofit ABS even in 100 cc bikes |
| Dealers’ role | Sellers must hand over one helmet for the rider and one for the pillion |
