Foldable Bike in Singapore: Things you should know
Foldable bicycles have become an integral part of Singapore’s commute and transport scenes over the years as cycling has become more popular. Many Singaporeans have made the switch to these convenient and stylish modes of transports. A lot of bicycle shops in Singapore have started selling these instead of traditional bikes because of their new popularity. Seeing someone riding a foldable bike in Singapore has become a norm. Many popular brands like Birdy performance folding bikes, Reach GT packable road bikes and Iruka commuter bikes are being brought in by bike shops in Singapore.
Though folding bikes have become popular, there are still many questions that Singaporeans have about them. These include the laws about riding a foldable bike in Singapore and where they are allowed. If you are a cyclist who is looking to change to a folding bike, there are a few things you’ll need to know first. Read on to find out more about folding bicycles in Singapore.
LTA Rules for Bicycles
Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport for first-last mile commuting in Singapore. They are also the safest option out there. No risk of a battery exploding or going above a safe speed limit. It is for these reasons that they also have less strict rules compared to an e-bike or PMD.
LTA has laid out a set of rules for all cyclists to follow. Whether you are riding a folding or non-folding bicycle, you must adhere to these rules.
Firstly, folding bikes are allowed on roads, footpaths and shared paths (e.g. park connector networks, cycling paths). This means you can ride your folding bike almost anywhere that has a pathway. Unlike PMDs and e-bikes, you won’t need to dismount and push your bike on footpaths. The speed limit for footpaths is 10km/h and 25km/h on shared paths. Cyclists must follow these speed limits for their safety and the safety of those around them.
The maximum weight of your foldable bicycle cannot exceed 20kg, and maximum width must be within 70cm. As folding bikes are allowed on footpaths, it is a must to meet the size and weight requirements to reduce injury.
When cycling on the road, you will need to follow all the traffic signs and rules that motorists do. Travel in the same direction as the flow of traffic and keep to the left side of the lane. It is also mandatory for cyclists to wear a helmet when cycling on the road. Cyclists who want to cycle their folding bike on roads will need to attach front white light and rear red light to their bicycle. Make sure that you turn on your front and rear lights when cycling in the dark. The lights will make you more visible to cars when on the road. Cycle in a single file on single-lane roads and during bus operational hours. Otherwise, cycling two abreast is allowed.
Guidelines for Public Transport
Many cyclists are planning to switch over to folding bikes in Singapore for several reasons. One of the main ones is that they make daily travelling more convenient. With a foldable bike, you won’t need to worry about locking up your bike or planning a complicated travel route. You can ride your bike to the nearest MRT station or bus stop, fold it up and roll it with you as you continue your commute. Taking your foldable bike onto a bus or MRT is hassle-free. Here are a few things you need to know beforehand.
Foldable bicycles/personal mobility devices must not exceed 120cm by 70cm by 40cm when folded. They must be folded at all times in the MRT/LRT stations, bus interchanges/terminals and on trains and buses. Cyclists are not allowed to ride the folding bikes within the MRT stations and bus interchanges. Fold them and roll them when you are in either of these places.
Wrap up the wheels of your foldable bicycles if they are dirty or wet. Protruding parts likely to cause injury or damage property must be covered up or retracted (e.g. handlebars and bicycle pedals). Each person can only have one foldable bicycle with them on a bus at any one time. Furthermore, foldable bikes are not allowed on the upper deck of a bus or the staircase leading to the top level.
On top of that, if you plan to commute with your foldable bike in Singapore, you should be responsible for the safe carriage of it. You should hold or carry foldable bicycles and keep it close to you, lowering the amount of space it takes up. Your foldable bicycle should not block the aisles and doors or prevent other commuters from moving. Practice proper etiquette when travelling with your foldable bike.
Mighty Velo The Folding Bike Specialists
So now you know more about the laws and guidelines about foldable bikes in Singapore. With this new knowledge, you might be wondering where to buy your folding bicycle. There are many bike shop in Singapore that sell folding bikes. But none know more about them than us, Mighty Velo!
We’re more than just a bicycle shop; we have been folding bike specialists for over 15 years and have sold many different folding bikes, including the Strida and Brompton bikes. We prioritize our customers and will make sure to assist you in finding the right folding bike. Whether you’re into gravel riding, road cycling, or just want a bike or even a folding tricycle for exercise, we’ve got you covered!
Mighty Velo is the official distributors for Pacific Cycles in South East Asia. We carry the Birdy, Reach GT and IF Move performance bikes and the CarryMe folding bike and CarryAll folding tricycles. Furthermore, all our folding bikes are made in Taiwan, built to be quality folding bikes that are great for commuting, leisure riding and more!
Our team of highly skilled and well-trained mechanics offer quality service and maintenance works. Better than any other bike shop in Singapore. We provide 2-years warranty on frame and a 1-year warranty on parts for all our folding bikes.
So why wait any longer? Check out our folding bikes at shop.mightyvelo.com. For more enquiries, email us at hello@mightyvelo.com.