Unlocking the secrets: Factors that impact bike loan interest rate

Factors that affect bike loan interest rate in india
25 December 2023

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Long story short: Discover the key factors affecting bike loan interest rate in 2023. Get the insights you need to make informed decisions.

Times have changed, and even a person with a limited salary can fulfil their dream of owning a motorcycle. Yes, only through the means of bike loans provided by the banks. So loans are now an integral part of our financial aspects of a person these days. But to avail of a loan for your motorcycle nowadays is daunting as it requires a lot of paperwork and other guidelines. However, the bike loan interest rate is one significant and crucial factor in bike loans. Various factors can affect the loan interest rate both positively and negatively. So, Let’s break down the positive and negative factors that can affect bike loan interest rates in India in 2023:

Positive factors affecting bike loan interest rate

High Credit Score

Maintaining a credit score above 750 is advantageous as it can reduce interest rates. Lenders perceive individuals with elevated credit scores as less hazardous borrowers.

Stable Income

Having a consistent and verifiable source of income, such as steady employment or business revenue, can be advantageous when negotiating lower interest rates.

Large Down Payment

Providing a significant initial payment decreases the sum required to be borrowed, leading to potentially favourable loan terms and a reduced interest rate.

Positive factors affecting bike loan interest rate in India
Positive factors affecting bike loan interest rate in India

Loan Tenure

Choosing a shorter loan tenure may result in reduced interest rates. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that the monthly EMI (equated monthly instalment) will be higher.

Relationship with the Lender

Customers with a positive track record of financial transactions with a bank or financial institution may be eligible for preferential interest rates.

Government Policies

From time to time, the Indian government or the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may implement policies to encourage the uptake of loans for specific categories of vehicles, such as motorcycles, by providing subsidies or reduced interest rates.

Negative factors affecting bike loan interest rate

Low Credit Score

A credit score below 650 is considered low and can adversely affect an individual’s financial standing. Such a score may lead to higher interest rates or loan rejection, indicating a higher credit risk.

Unstable Employment

Frequent changes in employment or inconsistent income may result in lenders perceiving you as a high-risk borrower, which could result in elevated interest rates.

High Loan Amount

Obtaining a substantial loan in proportion to one’s income may result in elevated interest rates, thereby augmenting the lender’s exposure to risk.

Long Loan Tenure

Choosing a lengthier loan term may decrease your monthly equated monthly instalment (EMI). However, it may also increase the overall interest expense incurred during the loan’s tenure.

Negative factors affecting bike loan interest rate in India
Negative factors affecting bike loan interest rate in India

Low Down Payment

A reduced initial payment results in an elevated loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, increasing the interest rates the lender charges due to the heightened risk involved.

Market Conditions

In the event of unfavourable economic conditions characterized by high inflation rates and stringent monetary policies, interest rates will likely experience a general increase.

Type of Bike

Certain bicycles, particularly those of high-end or imported varieties, may incur elevated interest rates owing to their high cost and perceived risk.

Negative Credit History

Instances of prior defaults, delayed payments, or a track record of missed payments may lead to elevated interest rates or the denial of a loan application.

Market Competition

The presence of competition among lenders may result in reduced interest rates; however, it may only sometimes be advantageous for borrowers, particularly if lenders adopt more stringent risk assessment criteria.

Regulatory Changes

Alterations to lending regulations or state or national policies can affect interest rates and loan conditions.

Is a motorcycle loan interest tax deductible?

In India, motorcycle loan interest is usually not tax-deductible. Unlike home loans or education loans, which may provide tax benefits under specific sections of the Income Tax Act, motorcycle loans are personal loans. Therefore, the interest paid on them is not eligible for income tax deductions or exemptions.

Which bank is low interest for a bike loan?

Different factors, such as your credit score, loan amount, tenure, and current market conditions, can affect which bank offers the lowest interest rate for a bike loan. Additionally, interest rates on bike loans can fluctuate over time.

What is the standard bike loan interest rate in India?

Bike loan interest rates in India vary depending on several factors, including the lender, the applicant’s creditworthiness, the loan tenure, and the prevailing market conditions. Interest rates for bike loans in India range from 9% to 24% annually.

How to finance your dream bike with a bike loan?

Check out this article by clicking this link How to finance your dream bike with a bike loan.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, We have discussed all key factors affecting & impacting bike loan interest rates, whether positive or negative. Let’s conclude about these facts in a nutshell.

Positive Factors

  1. A strong credit score, typically above 750, positively lowers interest rates.
  2. A steady and verifiable regular job or business income can work in your favour.
  3. Making a larger down payment reduces the amount you need to borrow, resulting in a lower interest rate.
  4. Opting for a shorter loan tenure can lower interest rates.
  5. Existing customers with a good history of financial transactions with a bank may receive preferential interest rates.
  6. Occasionally, RBI may introduce policies to promote loans for certain types of vehicles, including bikes, by providing subsidies or lower interest rates.
  7. While competition among lenders can lead to lower rates, it may only sometimes work in your favour if lenders have stricter criteria for risk assessment.

Negative Factors

  1. A low credit score, typically below 650, can result in higher interest rates.
  2. Frequent job changes or irregular income may make lenders view you as a risky borrower, leading to higher interest rates.
  3. Borrowing a significant amount relative to your income can increase interest rates, increasing the lender’s risk.
  4. Opting for a longer loan tenure may reduce your monthly EMI. Still, it can result in a higher total interest cost.
  5. A smaller down payment means a higher loan-to-value ratio, leading to higher interest rates.
  6. If economic conditions are unfavourable, with high inflation rates and tight monetary policies, interest rates may be higher.
  7. Certain bikes, such as high-end or imported models, may have higher interest rates.
  8. Previous defaults, late payments, or a history of missed payments can result in higher interest rates.
  9. Changes in lending regulations or policies at the state or national level can impact interest rates and loan terms.

If you have any other doubts or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com. We are always eager to help and assist you. Also, here are several social media platforms of Bikeleague India to raise your suspicions.