Two-wheelers to get ABS and CBS by April 2018

In November 2014, we had reported that the Government of India could make anti-lock braking systems (ABS) mandatory on two-wheelers. Later, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), which is under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, proposed that two-wheelers with engine capacities more than 125cc should be equipped with ABS.

Now, the road transport ministry has issued a draft notification making it mandatory for all new models of two-wheelers with an engine capacity of more than 125cc will have to be equipped with ABS from April 2017. Existing models will have to be fitted with the system by April 2018.

ABS prevents the wheels of a vehicle from locking up and skidding on hard braking. It helps in reducing braking distances and improves stability on braking.

The notification also makes it mandatory for all new models of bikes with an engine capacity of less than 125cc to be equipped with combined braking system (CBS) by April 2017. Existing models will have to be equipped with the feature by April 2018.

In a bike equipped with CBS, on depressing one of the brake levers, both front and rear brakes are applied.

With the addition of ABS and CBS, the government is trying to cut down the number of two-wheeler accidents in the country.

Source: ET Auto