The launch of two new 250cc motorcycles on Tuesday has reignited debates about road safety and the increasing number of motorcycle-related accidents in Bangladesh. According to the Road Safety Foundation, 2,003 motorcycle accidents claimed 2,097 lives in the first 10 months of 2023, marking a 21% increase in accidents and a 19% rise in fatalities compared to the same period last year. Most of these incidents have been attributed to reckless driving.
Despite these alarming statistics, motorcycle manufacturers are persistently introducing high-powered models. In October, Indian brand Royal Enfield launched four 350cc models in Bangladesh through its distributor Ifad Motors. These motorcycles, priced between BDT 3.4 lakh and BDT 4.35 lakh, were unveiled in a grand ceremony. Their aggressive marketing strategies, including a 24-hour pre-booking ultimatum, stirred significant online buzz.
On Monday, Suzuki followed suit by introducing its Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF 250 models at Aloki in Tejgaon, Dhaka. Priced at BDT 3,99,950 and BDT 4,49,950, respectively, these motorcycles also come with special editions, which cost an additional BDT 15,000. They will be available in showrooms starting Tuesday.
The launch ceremony was hosted by Suzuki Bangladesh’s brand ambassador, actor Siam Ahmed, and attended by notable figures such as Romo Rouf Chowdhury, Managing Director of Rancon Group, and Farhana Karim, Managing Director of Rancon Holdings Ltd.
While these launches offer enthusiasts new options, they also draw criticism for contributing to the “speed race” among young riders, raising concerns over road safety and the increasing fatalities linked to high-speed motorcycling.
