Commoners’ Ride, Bicycle More Expensive

September 7, 2026

It’s true that the middle and lower middle classes have adopted scooters, scooties, and motorcycles as two-wheeled vehicles, but millions of laborers, workers, and those living in poverty still rely on bicycles. The idea behind this is that bicycles are available at very low prices, don’t put much strain on their pockets, and don’t have to worry about fuel after purchasing them. Now, signals are coming from Ludhiana, considered the hub of the bicycle industry, that bicycles too are going to become more expensive. They will no longer be available at affordable prices. Simply put, bicycle manufacturers expect prices to rise by up to 150 rupees in the coming days.

Manufacturers cite the reason as the steel used in bicycles has become more expensive by 5,000 rupees per ton. The prices of tires, tubes, and chemicals have also risen. The prices of raw materials and essential inputs used in bicycle manufacturing are constantly rising. Therefore, bicycle manufacturers are losing profits at current prices. Manufacturers have no choice but to raise bicycle prices. A meeting of the G-13 Bicycle Manufacturing Association was held in Ludhiana.

Bicycle manufacturers stated that rising raw material prices have disrupted their production costs. If this continues, they will be forced to increase prices. It should be noted that prices have not yet been raised, but it has been virtually decided to increase prices starting September 10th. The bicycle industry was not in the mood to increase prices under the current circumstances, but due to rising manufacturing costs, the poor will now have to spend more to afford their ride.

Recently, the prices of cars and other two-wheelers have risen. Buyers are already determined to tolerate a 4,000-5,000 rupee price fluctuation, but a poor person thinks twice before even buying a bicycle. On the one hand, there’s the country’s wealthy class, whose style is unique.

It’s said about car buyers that the more expensive and larger the car, the more prestigious it is. Many customers in this class are quick to purchase expensive cars, even on loan or EMI. However, even buying a bicycle is difficult for the poor. Unfortunately, their difficulties are only going to increase.