India’s Premium Bike Craze Shifts Into High Gear—22% Market Share by 2030

Image Source : ET Auto

India’s twowheeler landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with premium motorcycles—defined as those above 150cc—expected to command 22% of the market by FY2030, up from 19% last fiscal, according to Crisil Intelligence.

Market Dynamics

Premium motorcycle volumes surged to 23 lakh units in FY25, surpassing preCovid levels by 22%.
In contrast, economy motorcycles saw their market share shrink to 46% from 62% in FY2019, with volumes falling to 56 lakh units from 84 lakh.

Demand Drivers

Rising disposable incomes, aspirational buying behavior, and increased global exposure are fueling the shift toward higherend models.
Young urban consumers are gravitating toward performance, style, and techenabled features, even amid broader economic uncertainty.

SupplySide Catalysts

The number of premium motorcycle models available rose to 35 in FY25 from 23 in FY2019, offering greater choice and personalization.
Manufacturers are investing in design, safety, and emission compliance, making premium bikes more attractive and futureready.

Challenges for EntryLevel Segment

Weak rural demand and a steep 65–70% price hike in economy models—due to BSVI norms, safety upgrades, and commodity inflation—have dampened affordability.
Sales of entrylevel motorcycles recovered to only 67% of prepandemic levels last fiscal.

Outlook

The premium segment is poised to ride ahead, driven by macroeconomic tailwinds and evolving consumer preferences, while the economy segment faces structural headwinds.

Sources: Times Now, Republic World, Rediff Money, Outlook Business, ABP Live, Devdiscourse, Crisil Intelligence