Steel tubes used in bicycles and cycle rickshaws are the main structural element that can
provide movement and load-bearing capacity for everyday use. Such tubes are used in the
building of the framework for cycles, handlebars and other support mechanisms where strength
and durability are necessary. Vibration resistance and load-carrying capacity have made it
necessary to use these materials in the production of small vehicles.
To achieve optimum performance, it is important to look into the certification of pipes on the
basis of Bureau of Indian Standards IS 2039 (Parts 1 to 3): 1991. The standard addresses
matters concerning the composition of materials, strength, dimensional tolerance, and test
methods. Consequently, the use of certified tubes will ensure the strength, stability, and usability
of manufactured tubes.
What is IS 2039 (Part 1 to 3): 1991
This is the Indian Standard for steel tubes used in bicycles and cycle rickshaws. It mentions the
manufacturing quality to ensure strength, durability, and safe usage in transportation
applications. As per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards), these steel tubes are:
- Tested for load-bearing capacity
- Evaluated for dimensional accuracy
- Assessed for flattening and bend performance
- Checked for surface quality
BIS Approval Eligibility for Bicycle and Rickshaw Steel Tubes
BIS authorisation under IS 2039 (Part 1 to 3): 1991 is required for businesses involved in
manufacturing, importing, or supplying structural steel tubes for cycles in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the rickshaw frame tubes are covered
under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the products to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified welded steel tubes for bicycle frames.
Testing and Inspection Requirements
To ensure consistent quality of steel tubes used in bicycles and cycle rickshaws, the Bureau of
Indian Standards outlines the minimum requirements under IS 2039 (Part 1 to 3): 1991. This
certification ensures that manufacturers produce tubes with adequate strength, dimensional
accuracy, weld integrity, and durability for safe use in transportation applications.
The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for the steel tubes for bicycles are listed below:
BIS License Process for Bicycle Frame Tubes

The BIS Authorisation process ensures that high-strength steel tubes for cycles meet the
required standards for efficient operation. This process is set by the Bureau of Indian Standards
(BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for chemical composition, silica content, moisture content, fineness, compressive strength, and other physical performance parameters.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted along with test reports, technical documents, and factory details. Foreign manufacturers must also submit AIR-related documents.
- Factory Inspection: The Bureau of Indian Standards officials inspect the manufacturing units to verify the production process, safety measures, and quality control system.
- Grant of BIS License: Upon successful verification of all requirements, BIS grants the certification license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, the manufacturer can use the ISI mark on the product with a CM/L number, confirming that the product meets BIS standards.
Required Documents for IS 2039(Part 1 to 3): 1991 approval
| Document Category | Documents Required |
|---|
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable),Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirement | Appointment of Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) for BIS coordination and compliance in India |
The Foreign manufacturers are required to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and takes care of all rules and compliance work in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
After the manufacturer obtains a BIS license, the ISI Mark for steel tubes for bicycles must be
written clearly and permanently either on its packaging or on the product. The marking should
also include key information, such as the manufacturer’s identification and licence number
(CM/L). This ensures the product complies with all safety and quality standards. Additional
details are provided below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 2039(Part 1 to 3): 1991 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks License (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
how long is BIS License Valid for cycle rickshaw steel tubes?
| particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillane | BIS may inspect factories and test samples periodically |
| Annual Fees | Annual license fee must be paid regularly |
| Compliance | Continuous compliance with BIS requirements is necessary |
| License Format | BIS is shifting towards a 10-digit license number format |
| Non-Compliance Risk | May lead to suspension or cancellation of license |
How much dose bis license cost for bicycle frame tubes?
The cost of BIS Approval for micro silica includes charges for application, inspection, license, testing, and marking. These fees are paid to BIS as per Scheme I guidelines.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
|---|
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees can vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
Steel tubes used in the manufacture of bicycles and cycle rickshaws affect the safety, longevity,
and performance of the final product. Meeting IS 2039 (Part 1 to 3): 1991 helps in ensuring that
the strength requirements are met by the tubes, thereby minimizing problems like bending or
structural failure of the frame. Such adherence extends the lifespan of the product and
increases safety for the users in daily transportation. azards.
The BIS certification process will be granted to a company only after the assessment process
has been completed. EVTL India provides valuable assistance for companies in this regard by
helping them with their compliance requirements, arranging lab tests, and making applications
to BIS authorities.