With the increasing traffic on Indian roads, most urban commuters are switching to two-wheelers for faster travel. These vehicles, whether modern electric bikes, dependable motorcycles, or vintage scooters, have emerged as the preferred mode of transportation for millions of city dwellers.
The reason behind this switch is not only traffic congestion, but also urban lifestyle, environmental demands, and affordability, among other factors. Keep reading to understand why urban commuters are switching to two-wheelers.
Top 8 Reasons Why Urban Commuters Prefer Two-Wheelers
Here are some of the reasons why most urban commuters are switching to two-wheelers:
1. Affordable and Accessible
One of the primary factors driving the increase in two-wheeler use among city commuters is affordability. Two-wheelers are extremely popular in many Indian cities due to their low initial and ongoing costs compared to cars, and often even public transportation.
According to government data, the two-wheeler market in India has grown by double digits every year, with small to mid-sized cities accounting for around 30% of the modal share. Two-wheelers are seen as an essential first step towards individual mobility and independence by middle-class and lower-class urban dwellers.
2. Helps Beat the Traffic
Anyone who has visited cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, or Mumbai is aware that traffic congestion poses a significant environmental and economic burden. Compared to cars or buses, commuters can traverse congested streets much more effectively with two-wheelers.
According to reports, electric bikes and scooters enable riders to navigate narrow lanes and bypass traffic, reducing travel time during rush hours. This reduces indirect costs, such as fuel and lost productivity, as well as frustration.
According to recent traffic studies, a single car occupant can cause up to eleven times as much congestion during peak hours as a bus passenger. Two-wheelers offer a practical substitute that significantly increases commuter flexibility without overcrowding the roads.
3. Rising Demand for Electric Two-Wheelers
Environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, and supportive government policies have increased the demand for electric two-wheelers. According to recent data, India's E2W market surpassed 1.14 million units in 2024 alone, representing an astounding 33% YoY growth.
In 2021, yearly sales were only about 150, 000, to put that into perspective. The electric two-wheeler market share increased from 0.4% in FY21 to 6.1% in FY24, and analysts predict that it may reach 20% by 2030.
Government subsidies, lower GST rates, and an expanding network of charging stations are all contributing to the further acceleration of the transition to electric bikes. The primary benefits mentioned by urban commuters include cost-effectiveness, reduced fuel consumption, and environmental benefits.
4. Cost Savings and Low Maintenance
Beyond the initial purchase price, the ongoing economics of two-wheeler ownership remain high in demand. Electric two-wheelers, to be more specific, require less servicing, no engine repairs, and benefit from lower running costs since electricity is cheaper than petrol. Commuters save substantially on gas, parking fees, and road taxes.
5. Environmental Friendliness
Unlike cars that run on petrol or diesel, electric bikes don't emit any tailpipe emissions. This results in a significant decrease in air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and urban noise when transitioning to electric two-wheelers (E2Ws).
All of these are significant contributors to poor city air quality and public health issues. Not only is riding an electric two-wheeler a wise personal choice, but it's also a socially conscious one.
6. Ease of Parking
Car owners deal with parking issues daily, particularly in congested city centres. Two-wheelers are compact enough to be parked in much smaller parking spaces, and e-bikes can even accompany commuters into buildings. Reduced parking demand further helps declutter urban streets and enhances access for everyone.
7. Government Initiatives and Public Policy Support
Multiple government-led initiatives are designed to promote electric and traditional two-wheelers as a solution to rising urban congestion and pollution. Reduced registration costs, GST rebates, and FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) subsidies all incentivise urban commuters to switch.
Cities are also investing in green corridors, improved cycle paths, dedicated two-wheeler lanes, and, in some cases, integrated multimodal mobility to support the growing demand for two-wheelers.
8. Urban Lifestyles and Young, Diverse Riders
People who value time, flexibility, and affordability, such as students, delivery people, busy working professionals, and even small business owners, are abundant in modern cities. Data indicates that both men and women are adopting two-wheelers at an increasing rate, with distinct usage patterns.
For instance, women use two-wheelers for shopping, errands, and education, while men use bikes to reach their office or perform their job roles. Due to their versatility, two-wheelers appeal to a wide range of people, including homemakers, students, entrepreneurs, and senior citizens who want to remain mobile.
How to Keep Your Two-Wheelers Safe on Roads?
Here are the ways you can maintain the safety of your two-wheelers:
With increased vulnerability to road accidents and theft, urban two-wheeler riders must consider robust insurance options. Comprehensive bike insurance protects riders from third-party liabilities, damages, natural disasters, and theft. Moreover, choosing an insurer with a high claim settlement ratio helps ensure timely and hassle-free coverage when you need it most.
Timely maintenance is necessary to keep your bike prepared for adverse weather and road conditions. A well-maintained bike is less prone to the risks of accidents, thereby saving on your bike insurance premium.
Regular maintenance ensures that all bike components, including brakes, batteries, and the engine, are in good working condition. Thus, you can enjoy a smooth riding experience and save on costly repair bills.
The urban commute is being rapidly reshaped, and two-wheelers stand at the centre of this transformation. The switch is not just trend-driven but rooted in clear economic, practical, and environmental benefits.
Whether you’re looking to save money, improve your health, or do your bit for the planet, hopping on an electric two-wheeler has never made more sense or been more rewarding for urban commuters.