In a landmark move to enhance road safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that from January 1, 2026, all new two-wheelers sold in India, irrespective of engine capacity, must come equipped with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS). In addition, dealerships will be required to provide two BIS-certified helmets with every new purchase, one for the rider and one for the pillion.
Currently, ABS is mandatory only for two-wheelers with engine capacities above 125cc. With the new mandate, this safety feature will be made compulsory across the board, including for scooters and motorcycles in the entry-level segment. ABS prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, significantly reducing the risk of skidding or losing control, especially in emergencies or on slippery surfaces. Studies have shown that ABS can reduce accident risk by 35 to 45 percent.
The decision is driven by alarming road safety statistics. Two-wheelers accounted for 44.5% of all road accident fatalities in India in 2022, with many of these deaths attributed to head injuries and loss of vehicle control during braking. To further address these concerns, the government has also made it compulsory for dealerships to supply two BIS-certified helmets at the time of delivery. Presently, only one helmet is mandatory.
All the budget-friendly bikes and scooters in the 100-125cc range, which constitute the majority of two-wheeler sales in India, may see a price increase, depending on the hardware upgrades required for compliance, such as the addition of front disc brakes and ABS systems.
The ministry is expected to release detailed implementation guidelines and technical standards soon to ensure a smooth rollout of the new rules. These regulations will apply only to vehicles manufactured and sold from January 1, 2026, onwards.