Embarking on an Indian motorbike adventure is an exhilarating prospect. However, many aspiring riders find themselves lost in a maze of information when trying to figure out the process of purchasing a bike in India. If you’re dreaming of exploring India on two wheels but are overwhelmed by where to begin, you’re in the right place. We understand the challenges and have compiled a straightforward guide to help you navigate buying your perfect India Bike and kickstart your epic journey.
New or Used India Bike: Weighing Your Options
Once you’ve decided to buy an India bike, one of the first major decisions is whether to opt for a brand-new motorcycle or a second-hand one. Both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your priorities and circumstances.
The Appeal of a Second-Hand India Bike
The most significant advantage of purchasing a second-hand India bike is speed. The transaction can be incredibly quick. Walking into a dealership and riding away on a used bike can be a matter of hours, making it a convenient choice for travelers eager to hit the road without delay.
However, buying used also comes with potential drawbacks. Negotiating price is almost always necessary, and if you’re unfamiliar with the local market, especially as a foreigner, you might end up overpaying. More importantly, the history of a second-hand bike is often unknown. Unless you possess mechanical expertise, there’s a risk of buying a motorcycle with hidden problems. It’s crucial to have any used bike thoroughly inspected by a trustworthy mechanic before finalizing the purchase.
The Benefits of a Brand-New India Bike
Choosing a brand-new India bike offers a different set of advantages, although it requires more patience. The most considerable downside is the time it takes to complete the process. Registering a new motorcycle and obtaining the Registration Certificate (RC card) can take a significant amount of time, potentially up to 60 days.
A brand new Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle, a popular choice for touring India.
Despite the waiting period, buying new provides considerable peace of mind. The price of a new bike is fixed and transparent, eliminating the risk of being overcharged. You also have the assurance of a brand-new machine, minimizing the immediate risk of mechanical failures. Manufacturers like Royal Enfield often provide warranties, such as the 24-month or 30,000km warranty that came with my Himalayan, along with complimentary services for initial kilometers, reducing early maintenance costs.
Royal Enfield and Other India Bike Brands
When considering which India bike to buy, the brand is a crucial factor. Royal Enfield currently dominates the Indian motorcycle market. Their widespread presence translates to readily available workshops and spare parts throughout the country. The Royal Enfield Bullet remains a highly popular model, renowned for its ease of repair and spare part availability.
While the Royal Enfield Himalayan, like the one I own, is a fantastic touring machine, sourcing spare parts in remote areas can be more challenging compared to the Bullet. For Himalayan owners venturing into less accessible regions, carrying essential spare parts is advisable. Jawa motorcycles re-emerged in the Indian market in November 2018 and are quickly gaining popularity, posing a strong challenge to Royal Enfield. However, for established reliability and nationwide support, Royal Enfield remains a safe and dependable choice for now.
Inside a Royal Enfield showroom in India, showcasing various models of India bikes.
India Bike Registration for Foreigners: What You Need to Know
A critical point for foreign buyers is that you cannot register an India bike in your own name. This necessitates finding a local individual willing to register the motorcycle in their name on your behalf. To protect your ownership rights, you should then arrange a notarized document clearly stating that you are the actual owner and bear responsibility for the vehicle.
While anecdotal accounts exist of foreigners managing to register bikes in their own names, these methods are not widely known and may not be entirely legal or straightforward. It’s generally safer and more practical to follow the established procedure with a local registrant and a notarized ownership document.
Insuring Your India Bike
Before you can legally ride your India bike, securing insurance is mandatory. Reputable dealerships like Royal Enfield often facilitate this process. The Royal Enfield Insurance Program, for instance, allowed me to insure my motorcycle through Aditya Birla Insurance Brokers Limited for a year.
It’s important to note that standard Indian insurance policies are typically valid only within India. If you plan to ride your India motorcycle into neighboring countries, you’ll need to acquire third-party insurance locally, often at border crossings. Border officials will usually guide you to insurance providers if it’s a mandatory requirement. If not explicitly requested, the decision to purchase additional insurance for cross-border travel rests with you.
With insurance secured, you’re ready to explore India on your new India bike! Adventure awaits.
