MoRTH plans outcome-based safety norms for two-wheelers
The Centre is preparing revised two-wheeler safety rules centred on braking performance and stopping distance, rather than mandatory ABS or CBS technologies. The approach could give motorcycle and scooter makers more engineering flexibility, subject to stakeholder consultation.
What happened
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) · MoRTH plans performance-based two-wheeler safety norms focused on measurable braking outcomes and stopping
Why this matters
Two-wheeler makers may gain more scope to partner with braking, tyre and sensor suppliers on performance-led safety systems rather than standardized technology mandates.
What to watch
- Publication of the draft notification, including vehicle categories, engine-capacity thresholds and implementation dates.
- Exact test protocol: dry versus wet braking, laden mass, road surface, speed, stopping-distance threshold and repeatability requirements.
- Whether existing ABS/CBS mandates are withdrawn, grandfathered, or retained as a deemed-compliant pathway.
- Comments from SIAM, two-wheeler OEMs, brake-system suppliers and road-safety groups during consultation.
- Homologation capacity, test-lab accreditation requirements and transition provisions for current models.
- OEM announcements on revised variants, brake configurations, pricing or launch timelines.
- Map each two-wheeler portfolio by segment, brake architecture, price point and expected cost exposure under current ABS/CBS requirements.
- Ask OEMs and dealers whether savings from technology flexibility would be passed to consumers, used for feature upgrades or retained as margin.
- Monitor component suppliers for commentary on ABS, combined-braking systems, disc brakes, tyres, sensors and validation-service demand.
- Stress-test entry-level motorcycle and scooter sales forecasts under three outcomes: no price increase, partial cost pass-through and tighter-than-expected performance thresholds.
- Prepare dealer messaging around certified braking performance, since removal of a familiar technology label could require more customer education.