Government Issues Notification to Mandate ABS, 2 Helmets in All 2-wheelers

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a draft notification that amends the Central Motor Vehicles Rules to mandate the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for all two-wheelers manufactured from January 1. The amendment also makes it compulsory for OEMs to supply two helmets to consumers at the time of purchase.

An ABS is a safety feature that keeps the vehicle’s wheels from locking up during hard braking. It helps to maintain control, especially on wet or bumpy roads. While ABS is already mandatory for two-wheelers above 125cc, lower-capacity models are currently equipped with a Combined Braking System (CBS).

The draft notification mandates that “vehicles of category L2 [two-wheelers] manufactured on and after January 1, 2026, in case of all models, shall be fitted with Anti-lock Braking System conforming to the IS14664:2010.”

Alongside the ABS regulation, the draft also mandates two BIS-certified helmets with every new two-wheeler purchase to improve the safety of the rider and passenger. Currently, only one helmet is required.

“At the time of purchase of the two-wheeler, three months from the date of commencement of Central Motor Vehicles (---- Amendment) Rules, 2025, the manufacturer of the two-wheeler shall supply two protective headgears conforming to specifications prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards at the time of purchase of a two-wheeler,” the notification said.

While mandating ABS and two helmets will add to the safety of lower-capacity budget scooters and motorcycles, these are expected to result in a considerable increase in the cost of two-wheelers. This comes at a time when entry level two-wheelers are struggling to post a comeback.