Are aftermarket silencers legal in India?

No — most aftermarket silencers aren’t legal unless they meet noise and pollution rules set by the RTO and have proper approvals. Using a silencer that’s too loud or not approved can lead to fines.

What is the permissible noise limit for motorcycle exhausts in India?

All motorcycles must keep their exhaust noise below 80 decibels when measured from 2 meters away.

Can police seize my motorcycle for using an aftermarket silencer?

Yes. If your silencer is too loud or doesn’t have RTO approval, the police may fine you (₹500 to ₹10,000), take your bike, or even destroy the silencer.

Is there any legal way to install an aftermarket silencer in India?

Yes — you can legally use an aftermarket silencer only if it’s approved by the RTO, does not exceed noise limits, and meets pollution standards. Silencers offered as official accessories by the motorcycle maker are usually safe.

Do slip-on exhausts require special permission in India?

Yes — even slip-on silencers or any exhaust changes require RTO approval. Just being sold as ‘legal for street use’ doesn’t remove the requirement.

Are there any brands/models that offer legal aftermarket or OEM-approved silencers?

Yes — some brands such as OEM accessory lines from established motorcycle manufacturers offer silencers that are pre-approved and meet noise/pollution rules.

Will changing the silencer affect the bike’s warranty?

Yes — if you install a silencer that isn’t from the bike’s manufacturer or isn’t approved, you might lose your warranty. Always check with your bike maker first.

What are the penalties for using a modified or illegal silencer?

Penalties may include fines (usually ₹1,000 to ₹10,000), vehicle seizure, confiscation of the silencer, and possible legal action for repeated violations.

Is there any emission requirement for aftermarket silencers in India?

Yes — all silencers must meet the applicable Bharat Stage (BS) norms emission standards. It is illegal to remove a catalytic converter or otherwise tamper with parts that control pollution.

Why are aftermarket silencers so popular if most are illegal?

Aftermarket silencers are easy to buy because they’re sold like any other product—but being able to buy one doesn’t mean it’s legal to use on public roads. Many buyers don’t verify compliance or approvals.

Discover the Journey of Hiran Narayanan: From Founder to Content Writer at Bikeleague India

Hiran Narayanan

CTO & Founder at Bikeleague India

Hiran Narayanan is a front-end developer and an SEO specialist by profession in his own company, Squarebraket Innovations. At Bikeleague India, he is the CTO & Web developer, Motorcycle technical content writer, and SEO specialist with over 10+ years of experience in the field of motorcycling in India.