The Government’s decision to de-regulate oil and gas prices in the country will result in petrol becoming more expensive by at least Rs.3 a litre. This move could indirectly give the sales of economical, commuter bikes in the country a boost, considering Indian buyers are very fuel efficiency conscious.

Naresh Rattan, Vice-President (Marketing and Sales), HMSI -

The overall mindset of the Indian two-wheeler buyer is transfixed towards the fuel-efficiency of the bike. Any increase in fuel prices has a psychological effect on the buyer

A Pune based Bajaj dealer -

The demand for our Discover 100 has gathered pace over the last few days. People who were earlier keen on going in for the Discover 135 are settling for the 100

Many Hero Honda and Bajaj dealers report surge in inquiries for economical commuter bikes ever since the Government had announced its plans to de-regulate fuel prices.

Milind Bade, General Manager (Marketing and Sales), Two-Wheelers, Bajaj Auto Limted (BAL)

People are very sensitive towards fuel price hikes and we are expecting their decision to be influenced. However, we also believe that this change in preference will be momentary

From the above mentioned facts one thing is clear. Tthere will be an increase in the sales of the commuter segment of bikes due to the impending fuel price hike. But, for how long will the effect of the fuel price hike last in terms of the effect on sales of premium segment of bikes, is anybody’s guess.

Source – BS Motoring