TL;DR
The Indian government may delay the 2026 ABS mandate for sub-125cc two-wheelers due to industry concerns over cost and component availability.
The Indian government is reportedly evaluating a proposal to postpone the January 1, 2026, deadline for mandating anti-lock braking systems (ABS) on all two-wheelers up to 125cc. Discussions are ongoing with industry bodies and technical agencies, as manufacturers have raised concerns regarding increased costs, availability of necessary components, and market sensitivity.
Current safety regulations already require ABS for two-wheelers exceeding 125cc, while smaller engine vehicles typically use combination braking systems. Extending ABS requirements to the entry-level segment would represent a significant shift in braking technology for a large portion of the domestic market.
Two-wheeler manufacturers have communicated to the government that mandating ABS across all models could elevate the retail price of many commuter-focused motorcycles. They are seeking additional time to secure a stable supply of cost-effective ABS modules and thoroughly test the system's performance on lightweight two-wheelers, which are frequently operated in dense, low-speed urban traffic conditions. The government is expected to publish the final notification after concluding its assessment of cost-effectiveness and technical testing.
