Starting January 2026, every new two-wheeler sold in India will need to come with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), no matter the engine size. Furthermore, dealerships will also have to provide two

BIS-certified helmets

with each vehicle, one for the rider and one for the pillion. This was announced recently by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways as part of its push to improve road safety.Right now, only bikes above 125cc are legally required to have ABS. Smaller two-wheelers are fitted with Combined Braking Systems (CBS) instead. With the new rule, even budget scooters and motorcycles will get ABS by default, offering better safety for all riders.

But what is ABS and why is it important?

Anti-lock Braking System

is a feature that keeps your wheels from locking up during sudden braking. It helps maintain grip and control, especially on wet or uneven roads. Without ABS, a hard brake could send the bike sliding or flipping. With it, the system adjusts the brake pressure automatically, reducing the risk of a fall.

While the move will boost safety, it may also increase the price of some two-wheelers, especially entry-level bikes under 125cc. The extra cost of ABS hardware and two certified helmets could push up prices by a few thousand rupees. Speaking on the new helmet rule, Rajeev Kapur, MD of Steelbird Helmets and President of the Two-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association of India, said: "With this regulation, approximately four crore BIS-certified helmets will now reach Indian roads every year, directly benefiting both riders and pillion riders. This will drastically reduce the circulation of substandard or fake helmets, which were previously being distributed by some showroom owners. Now, with OEMs mandated to supply genuine Real BIS-certified helmets, such unethical practices will be eliminated."