Starting April 1, 2027: A Bold New Safety Initiative

SINGAPORE – Mark your calendars! From April 1, 2027, every newly registered motorcycle in Singapore will be required to come equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). This groundbreaking move, announced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), aims to significantly enhance the safety of motorcyclists, their passengers, and all road users.

Leading the Charge in Asean

With this regulation, Singapore is set to become the first country in the ASEAN region to mandate ABS for new motorcycles. The LTA emphasizes that this technology is crucial for preventing wheel lock-up during braking, ultimately improving stopping power and control. The result? A dramatic reduction in the likelihood of skidding or sliding.

No Retrofits Necessary for Existing Bikes

Worried about compliance? Don’t be! Existing motorcycles without ABS won't need to undergo retrofitting. As of the end of 2024, approximately 50% of Singapore's 147,883 motorcycles were already outfitted with this essential safety feature.

A Gracious Transition Period

The LTA has announced an 18-month transition period for retailers, allowing them to clear stocks of motorcycles lacking ABS while bringing in new models. Mr. Rex Tan, president of the Singapore Motor Cycle Trade Association, states that this timeframe is "a reasonable adjustment" for businesses.

Backed by Evidence and Growing Concerns

The push for this initiative aligns with escalating concerns about motorcycle safety. In 2020, a World Health Organisation study revealed that motorcycles equipped with ABS experienced a staggering 37% lower fatal crash rate. Shockingly, Singapore reported a 20.8% rise in fatal motorcycle accidents in 2024 compared to the previous year, with deaths among riders and passengers spiking by 25%.

Political Support for Safety Regulations

In a related discussion, Bukit Batok MP Murali Pillai, now serving as Senior Minister of State for Transport, called for new safety regulations in Parliament amid rising motorcycle-related fatalities.

Setting Global Standards

ABS is already a requirement for motorcycles in numerous countries like Europe, Brazil, India, Japan, and Australia. With Singapore joining the ranks, this bold step sets a new benchmark for motorcycle safety in the region. Stay tuned as the landscape of motorcycling in Singapore transforms for the better!