Motorcycle Safety Tips for Singapore Riders

Dense traffic, sudden rain and pedestrians stepping out make Singapore's roads demanding for motorcyclists. Riders have little protection in a crash, so good habits and good gear matter. These tips are general guidance. Check the Traffic Police and Land Transport Authority (LTA) for current rules.

Defensive riding

1. Keep left unless you are overtaking.
2. Never drink and ride. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous.
3. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead so you can react to sudden braking.
4. Avoid weaving between lanes. Sudden lane changes are hard for other drivers to predict.
5. Take care when overtaking a line of vehicles. Make sure you can see far enough ahead and have space to return to your lane.
6. Observe speed limits and slow down for wet roads, bends and poor visibility.
7. Slow down for bends, especially unfamiliar ones.
8. Expect pedestrians. People sometimes dash across, so cover your brake near crossings and bus stops.
9. Ride visibly. Assume drivers have not seen you, especially at junctions and when they are turning.

Protective gear

1. Helmet: Helmets are mandatory for riders and pillion passengers in Singapore, and must meet the certification standard recognised here. Check for the certification mark, and note that standards get updated, so confirm what applies when you buy. The helmet should fit snugly and the visor should be clear and undamaged. Replace a helmet after any hard impact.
2. Gloves: Good gloves improve grip and protect your hands in a fall.
3. Jacket with armour: Choose abrasion-resistant material with shoulder and elbow protection and reflective panels for night riding. Ventilated options suit the climate.
4. Sturdy shoes or boots and long pants: Shorts and slippers offer almost no protection.

Wet roads

Rain makes road markings, manhole covers and painted lines slippery.

1. Roll the throttle gently. Sudden acceleration can make the rear tyre lose traction.
2. Brake early and smoothly, using both brakes progressively.
3. Slow down before corners and leave extra space for a skid.
4. Increase following distance, as stopping takes longer.
5. Check your tyres. Worn tyres lose grip quickly in the wet.

Other habits

• Maintain your bike: brakes, tyres, lights and chain.
• Do not copy reckless riders you see on the road.
• Avoid riding when tired.
• Consider a refresher course if you have been off the bike for a while.