In a landmark move to enhance road safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) will be mandatory for all new scooters and motorcycles manufactured after January 1, 2026. This new rule marks a significant upgrade from the earlier regulation, which applied only to two-wheelers with engine capacities above 125cc.

ABS Now Mandatory for All Scooters and Motorcycles

Previously, only two-wheelers with engine capacity above 125 cc were required to be equipped with single-channel or dual-channel ABS. However, under the updated safety norms, all two-wheelers, regardless of engine size, must now come fitted with ABS from 2026 onwards. This includes entry-level scooters and commuter motorcycles under 125cc, which form a major chunk of India’s two-wheeler market.

Dealers to Provide Two Helmets with Every Two-Wheeler Sold

In addition to the ABS mandate, the government also plans to make it compulsory for vehicle dealers to provide two ISI-certified helmets with every new two-wheeler purchase. This step aims to promote the use of protective headgear and curb fatalities caused by head injuries.

Two-Wheelers Account for Nearly Half of Road Accidents in India

According to MoRTH data, two-wheelers were involved in 44.5% of total road accidents reported in 2022. A large number of these incidents resulted in head injuries, underscoring the urgent need for safer braking systems and helmet usage.

The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has reported that over 1.96 crore two-wheelers were sold in FY25, making India one of the world’s largest markets for motorcycles and scooters.

What is ABS in Motorcycles?

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is a crucial safety technology that prevents wheel lock-up during sudden or hard braking. By modulating brake pressure in real time, ABS allows the rider to maintain steering control, reducing the risk of skidding, particularly on wet or slippery roads.

Key safety benefits of ABS include:

  • Shorter stopping distances
  • Improved vehicle stability
  • Reduced chances of crashes due to brake lock-up
  • Enhanced control in emergency braking situations

Several studies have shown that motorcycles equipped with ABS experience 35% to 45% fewer accidents compared to those without it.

Conclusion: A Step Forward in India’s Road Safety Mission

With mandatory ABS on all scooters and motorcycles from 2026 and the helmet rule for two-wheeler dealers, India is taking a major step toward reducing road accidents and fatalities. These measures are expected to save thousands of lives annually and encourage the adoption of safer, smarter two-wheeler mobility.