From 2026, every new bike and scooter in India must come equipped with anti-lock braking system and two BIS-approved helmets

29 June 2025, New Delhi

In a strong move to curb two-wheeler accidents, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has rolled out major amendments to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. According to these changes, all new two-wheelers sold in India—regardless of their engine size—must have Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and must be sold with two BIS-approved helmets.

The ministry issued an official notification on June 23, 2025, stating that vehicle manufacturers will need to follow these rules within three months after they are officially published in the government Gazette. This move comes after increasing concerns over road accidents involving two-wheelers, often due to poor braking systems or lack of protective gear like helmets.

As of now, ABS is only required on bikes with engine capacity above 125cc. Smaller vehicles, like scooters and entry-level bikes, usually come with Combined Braking System (CBS). But under the new rule, even these lower-engine vehicles (with more than 50cc engine or a top speed of over 50 km/h) will have to be equipped with ABS that follows Indian Standard IS 14664:2010. These rules will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Another important part of the rule is that every new two-wheeler must be sold with two BIS-certified helmets—one for the person riding the bike and one for the person sitting behind. This is to make sure that both people on the vehicle are protected in case of an accident. However, people who are legally exempt under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act won’t be required to follow the helmet rule.

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The government has also asked the public to share their feedback or suggestions on these rules. People can send their comments within 30 days to the email ID: comments-morth@gov.in.

Road safety experts have praised the move, saying that ABS can help prevent skidding and loss of control during sudden braking, especially on slippery or rough roads. They also believe that making two quality helmets compulsory will help reduce serious head injuries and deaths in road accidents.

These new rules are part of a broader plan by the government to improve road safety in India. With two-wheeler riders making up a large number of road accident victims every year, this decision is being seen as a much-needed and timely reform.

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