5 Indian Bike Makers Riding the Innovation Wave

“It’s not about the ideas; it’s about making them happen.”

India was once at the forefront of two-stroke engines that powered the middle-class man, but today even liquid cooled twin-cylinder engines are affordable. The switch from the halogen lamp to LED lights and analogue to digital odometers are among the noteworthy innovations that are becoming standard across the two-wheeler segment. If innovation in biking technology was not enough, even bike insurance has gone tech savvy. No paperwork and a few clicks of buttons will insure a bike online. Talk about breaking barriers!

Every year we see a facelift of previous year models with changes ranging from cosmetic to mechanical. Manufacturers have a sense of urgency to innovate and launch new products that are better than their previous counterparts. However, some of the bike manufacturers are above the rest when it comes to innovation. Read on to find out!

Here are 5 Indian bike manufacturers that are riding the innovation wave!

1. Royal Enfield

It is one of the world’s most renowned two-wheeler manufacturing company, which has made owning a Royal Enfield a style statement. This luxury bike has been an epitome of innovation for two-wheelers. The change in metal inside the engine from iron to aluminium and development of non-friction engine has ensured that bikes have optimal fuel combustion. Moreover, the recent launch in India of the Anti-lock braking system (ABS) in their Himalayan model is a cutting-edge advancement. The surprising factor here is that the cost of ABS version bike is just Rs. 11,000 more than its non-ABS version.

2. Hero MotoCorp

Being the world’s largest two-wheeler maker company, Hero MotoCorp is leading the wave of innovation in two-wheeler technologies. It’s low purchase and maintenance cost, and high mileage engines are the reasons why Hero has been the number one two-wheeler manufacturer for the past 15 years. The latest innovation includes an electronic immobiliser and engine start-stop system. The company is also likely to introduce scooters that will be equipped with integrated braking systems, allowing one break to handle both front and rear wheels. These innovations will provide customers new ease in handling their bikes and avoiding accidents.

Apart from these innovations, there are a few things that look out for your best interest on the road. Sure, you enjoy the adrenaline rush and cool wind in your hair while riding your hero motorbike. But, what happens when you come across any unforeseen situation on the road? At this time only a comprehensive hero bike insurance would come to your rescue.

3. Bajaj Auto

Bajaj has been a household name for a long time in India; from Chetak scooter to high-end performance sports bike like Dominar Moniker. With features like large contoured tank, rear infinity lights, auto headlamp with full LED, and many others, it is one of the best-selling bikes in its range segment. Bajaj has also initiated the use of DTS-Si and DTS-i in their lineup for 100 cc bikes, making affordable bikes more efficient and powerful.

4. TVS Motor Company

Founded in 1978, TVS was the first company to launch India’s first two-seater moped. From moped to launching country’s first ABS bike the Apache RTR series, TVS has completely transformed its production in the wave of innovation. Recently TVS launched Apache RR310 bike with an engine that was co-developed with BMW features. It has dual-channel ABS, suspension kits, KYB, and EFI that has taken innovation to new heights in Indian markets.

5. Mahindra Two-Wheelers

Being new in the market of bike makers that was dominated by many major brands, Mahindra is steadily making its mark. Its innovative technologies like adjustable height seats, find me lamps, Anti-theft alarm, engine immobilizer and the remote flip key has made Mahindra two-wheelers a good choice for bike riders. The exceptional range of scooters offered in the Gusto range with 124.6cc 4 stroke engine, chargeable battery are a delight. Slowly and steadily, Mahindra is becoming a household name for two-wheelers.

Two-wheelers have come a long way since the past decade due to consistent innovations led by consumer buying behaviour. Bikes that were once highly expensive are affordable today due to localisation and a recent surge in technological wonders. Travelling isn’t far behind either. Two-wheelers that were once used to commute in cities no longer restrict themselves in that segment. More people are opening up to adventure and are exploring the world on two wheels. Long-voyages on two-wheelers are the new hype, and to protect their bikes on these trips people are also opting for bike insurance to ensure the safety of their bikes. Seeing all these changes, one can say that, bikes have become better, and it is a fact.