Indian Motorcycling Scene is Shining Bright
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Introduction
The pride of an Indian when they get their first sports or adventure motorcycle is unsurmountable. But the same Indian does no justice to the machine by wearing its engine away in metropolitan traffic when they could actually be soaring from Manali to Leh or breezing in the Spiti Valley. With the recently concluded Bharat MotoGP, the Indian Motorcycling Scene is heating up.
The Market
India, with the world’s largest population, also is the largest manufacturer of motorcycles. From the Splendors to the Enfields till the Ducatis, you’ll find an Indian on two-wheelers of every sort. Due to which, the industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with more and more riders adopting the roadie mindset.
Currently, the Indian tourism market is estimated at 45.6 billion Dollars, of which motorcycling is an underwhelming 0.5%. In comparison to a global average of 5% occupancy, the Indian motorcycling travel market is trailing behind due to several reasons such as: unorganised rental market, poor infrastructure, safety concerns and regional sensibilities.
Indian Perception of Motorcycle Travel
Indian riders, like most of Asia, have traditionally viewed motorcycles as a mode of commuting rather than for leisure and exploration. However, this perception has been changing with more people joining the motorcycle culture, especially youngsters who have reshaped the perception of riding as a form of self-expression and escapade.
As more Indians are realising the potential for motorcycle travel, they are increasingly exploring their own backyard, Himalayas and even trans-border rides.
Some trends that have aided this growth are:
1. Growing popularity of adventure, electric and custom motorcycles
2. Rising demand for premium motorcycles
3. Increasing number of women riders
Access to Motorcycles Worthy of Tourism
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the availability of motorcycles suitable for tourism in India. Both domestic and international manufacturers have recognised the potential of the Indian Market, with the likes of BMW, Harley, Ducati and Triumph joining in the last 10 years.
Indian motorcycle brands such as Royal Enfield and Mahindra have rebranded themselves and gained popularity for their ruggedness, reliability, and affordability. Royal Enfield’s Himalayan has stood to be one of the most versatile home-grown bikes which can effortlessly take you to Himalayas and around the country. But if you have a knack for international craftsmanship, the BMW R 1250 GS is your go-to.
Where to motorcycle in India?
India is a treasure trove of stunning destinations. Being a tropical country, India lets you ride in every weather condition possible.
The Himalayan region, with its challenging mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Riders have left their bike prints through the scenic valleys of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir, conquering the high altitude passes and witnessing the mighty Himalayas.
The coastal regions of Goa and Kerala offer their palm-fringed beaches and serene backwaters, providing a laid-back ride along the coastline. However the most sought after rides are - Ladakh, Zanskar, Spiti, Mustang (Nepal), Sikkim, Bhutan, North East India.
Conclusion
India has all the ingredients to lead global motorcycle tourism: machinery, locations, community. Undoubtedly, we are also on a steep rise in spending power. But we harness the capacity to be global leaders. With the right steps in place, every Indian can experience the open road.
