Prices Up by ₹35,000! Why Every 400cc Bike is About to Get Ruined on Wednesday

The countdown to the single biggest change in Indian automotive industry since 2020 has officially begun. According to leaked Ministry documents dated March 29, 2026 an the strict BS7 (Stage II) emission norms are confirmed for immediate implementation starting April 1, 2026.

This means you have less than 48 hours to buy your favorite, high-performance 350cc – 400cc machine before it gets significantly more expensive, or worse, discontinued.

1. Why This norm is “Shocking”: The Tax Loophole is Closing

The BS7 Stage II norms are not just about cleaner exhaust; they change how engines are classified for taxation.

• The Tax Hike: For the last year, many 400cc bikes, like the KTM RC 390 and Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, exploited a tax loophole to avoid a ₹30,000 “Cess” designed for “high-displacement performance” machines.
• The Loophole: Brands avoided the tax by slightly reducing the bore, but BS7 counts the original displacement potential, making 400cc bikes up to ₹35,000 more expensive from April 1!

2. Buy Now: The 350cc “Cess” Danger Zone

While the main focus is 400cc, the 350cc category—dominated by Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Honda CB350—is also under threat.

• The Change: Government data shows that many 350cc engines already meet the emissions of a typical 400cc, so from April 1, they will also be reclassified. Expect a mandatory ₹15,000 price increase on every new Bullet or Classic starting Wednesday.

BS7 Stage II Panic: Prices on April 1

3. More Viral News for March 30: Mahindra XEV 9S Range Confirmation

While bikes panic, Mahindra is celebrating.

The News: The Mahindra XEV 9S just received its official range certification: a massive 683 km (Real-World). Pre-bookings open tomorrow (March 31) for ₹21,000. If you want an EV that will cross India, book it immediately.

4. Toll Tax Hiking Warning

NHAI has confirmed that all national highway toll rates will increase by 5% starting April 1, 2026.