The registration of bikes in Mumbai is still to catch up with pre-Covid levels. In 2022, there were 1.2 million bike registrations in the city, 12% lower than the pre-Covid year of 2019. This is even though the number of private car registrations in Mumbai increased by 37% in 2022.
There are a few reasons for this.
- Rising fuel prices: The price of petrol and diesel has grown steadily in recent years, making it more expensive to own and operate a motorcycle.
- Improved public transport: Mumbai’s public transport system has been enhanced in recent years with the introduction of the Mumbai Metro and the expansion of the BEST bus network. This has made it a more attractive option for commuters, reducing the demand for motorcycles.
- Changing work patterns: The rise of remote working has meant that many people are no longer commuting daily. This has reduced the need for motorcycles, as people no longer rely on them for transportation.
- Increased awareness of road safety: There has been a growing awareness of the dangers of road traffic accidents in recent years. This has led some people to choose safer modes of transport, such as cars or public transport.
- Changing lifestyle trends: The rise of e-commerce and food delivery services has meant that people are less likely to need to own a motorcycle for transportation. They can now order food and other items online, delivered to their door.
It is still being determined when bike registration numbers in Mumbai will return to pre-Covid levels. However, they will likely continue to catch up once public transport improves further and bike costs decrease.
In addition to the reasons mentioned above, the following factors may also be contributing to the decline in bike registration in Mumbai:
- The rise of e-scooters and e-bikes: E-scooters and e-bikes are becoming increasingly popular in Mumbai. These vehicles are more affordable than traditional bikes and do not require a driving license.
- The increasing congestion in Mumbai: The city faces a severe traffic problem. This is making it difficult and time-consuming to commute by bike.
- The growing awareness of the environmental impact of cars: More people are becoming aware of the environmental impact of cars. This is leading some people to choose to bike instead.
Here are some things that motorcycle manufacturers can do to increase motorcycle registration in Mumbai:
- Offer more fuel-efficient models: The rising fuel cost is a significant factor in the decline of motorcycle sales in Mumbai. Manufacturers can offer more fuel-efficient models to attract buyers looking to save money on fuel costs.
- Develop more affordable models: The high cost of motorcycles is another major factor in declining sales. Manufacturers can develop more affordable models to attract buyers on a tight budget.
- Improve the safety features of their motorcycles: The rising awareness of road safety is another factor discouraging people from buying motorcycles. Manufacturers can improve the safety features of their motorcycles to make them more appealing to buyers concerned about safety.
- Promote their motorcycles more effectively: Manufacturers need to do a better job promoting them to potential buyers. They can do this through advertising, public relations, and social media marketing.
- Partner with local businesses: Manufacturers can partner with local companies to offer discounts and promotions to their employees. This can help increase their motorcycles’ visibility and generate interest among potential buyers.
Motorcycle manufacturers can help increase Mumbai’s motorcycle registration by taking these steps.
In addition to the above, manufacturers can also consider the following:
- Develop new models that are specifically designed for the needs of Mumbai commuters. It includes models with smaller engines, better fuel efficiency, and more storage space.
- Work with the city government to improve the infrastructure for motorcycles, such as by building more dedicated motorcycle lanes. This would make it safer and more convenient for people to ride motorcycles in the city.
- Educate potential buyers about the benefits of owning a motorcycle, such as its affordability, fuel efficiency, and manoeuvrability. It could help overcome some of people’s negative perceptions about motorcycles.
By taking these steps, motorcycle manufacturers can help to make motorcycles a more attractive option for commuters in Mumbai.
Conclusion
The registration of bikes in Mumbai will likely return to pre-Covid levels shortly. The city’s public transport system is improving, the fuel cost is rising, and the way people work is changing. These factors are all likely to continue to discourage people from buying bikes.
However, some things can be done to encourage people to buy bikes. The city could introduce incentives for people who buy bikes, such as tax breaks or subsidies.
It could also improve the city’s infrastructure by building more cycle lanes. If these measures are successful, it may be possible to reverse the decline in bike registrations in Mumbai.
