Bye‑Bye MRT Crowds: Hello, Two‑Wheel Freedom
Are you already losing your mind trying to squeeze into the MRT every dawn, only to end up in a sad, cramped bag of morning–commute misery?
And can you’t dream of buying a car without breaking the bank?
A motorcycle might just be your hero.
Why a Bike Makes All the Difference
- Own Your Commute: Forget the train schedule—take your own pace.
- Free Parking: Those tiny wheels fit into spaces that buses and cars hate to ask for.
- No More Cabin Fever: You won’t feel like a sardine in a metal box.
- Eco‑Friendly & Cost‑Effective: You’ll save on fuel and maintenance.
Famous Riders So You Won’t Be the Only One
From the elite DPM to the Minister of Finance, Lawrence Wong, a genuine master of the road—he was seen revving up his classic Royal Enfield on August 14, 2022, side‑by‑side with a charity convoy to raise money for the Singapore Children’s Cancer Foundation.
So if you want to ride like the big names, keep your feelings fresh, and still save on parking, just hop on a motorcycle and join the club.
Getting Your Own Bike: A Rough, but Rewarding Ride?
Picture this: you’re eyeing a shiny new bike, but before you even gear up, you’re staring down a big number on your wallet—$11,000 COE, thanks to that soaring market as of August 2022’s first bid.
It’s a journey that’ll test your patience and your patience will test your patience, but if you’re a bike enthusiast, you’ll already know the sweet spot worth the entire hustle.
Why the Cost Climb?
- COE: the cap on how many of those bikes you can drag around.
- Demand is sky‑high, supply? Not so much.
- And hey, the price is just a part of the grin you’ll get when you finally hit the road.
The Road Ahead
Sure, it’s a bit of a stretch—your dream bike is out there but grinding up that price tag might feel like climbing a steeper slope than the one your bike’s flat tires would have taken.
Still, just a quick shoutout: every biker who’s actually been out on the road says, “We’re all in this, and it pays off, mate!” So grab your helmet, put a smile on your face and let’s roll.
Ready?
Time to lace up, tune that engine, and get ready to feel the wind—your own bike is waiting. Let’s ride!
Getting a motorcycle licence in Singapore
Why Singapore Drivers Favor Private Tutors Over School‑Bred Courses
When you’re learning to steer a car in the Lion City, a lot of people choose a private driving instructor instead of enrolling in a formal school. The secret sauce? It’s cheaper and the lesson plan is a bit more relaxed and “you‑get‑what‑you‑want” at every turn.
But if you’re chasing a motorcycle licence, the plot thickens. The only roads to a Class 2B licence go straight through the government‑mandated driving schools listed below.
1⃣ Bukit Batok Driving Centre – Bukit Gombak
Known for a laid‑back vibe and solid coaching, the centre’s got a nice blend of street‑smart experience and official training.
2⃣ ComfortDelGro Driving Centre – Ubi
ComfortDelGro, the biggest name in transport services, offers a polished instruction style that’s great for those who want the “best of both worlds”.
3⃣ Singapore Safety Driving Centre – Woodlands
Safety first, always! The Woodlands centre is a thoughtful choice if you prefer lessons centred around rigorous safety standards and hands‑on skill building.
At the end of the day, whether riding the streets in a car or revving a motorcycle, Singapore’s learning curves are as diverse as its food hawker stalls. Pick your path wisely, and enjoy the ride!
Class 2B Syllabus
The Road to Moto Mastery: From 200cc to Full‑Throttle Freedom
What’s Behind the “Class 2B” Badge?
The Roadmap: Theory + Practical
| Lesson | What You’ll Learn | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Theory | Basic Theory Test (BTL) and Riding Theory Test (RTT). | Even if you’ve already scored high, these classes help you bridge the gap between chalk and throttle. |
| Practical | Obstacle courses (plank, slalom, crank, figure‑eight, e‑brake) plus real‑world road riding. | You’ll master the drills before tackling the open road. |
Rule of Thumb – You can start practical lessons before you absolutely ace the theory, but you’ll need at least that BTL before you can order a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL).The PDL is your golden ticket: without it, you’re stuck on the learning track and can’t book the Traffic Police Practical Test.
Lesson Flow: No ‘Skip the Obstacle’ Option
After You’ve Mastered All the Steps
Bottom Line
Think of it as a fun, slightly stressful, but strictly structured journey. You’ll go from beginner to confident rider in a clear progression—one year at each level, a dash of theory, a handful of obstacle challenges, and the ultimate ride‑off. Pack your helmet, grab your boot straps, and let the road adventure begin!
Prices of Class 2B courses
Getting Your Four‑Wheel Green Card: A Friendly Guide
When it comes to motorcycle training, the price tags across the three major schools are pretty tight‑rope‑ish. The real question? Pick the one that sits no more than a handful of minutes from your pad and you’ll save yourself the hassle elsewhere.
Once you do that, you’ll notice that the daily cost difference is negligible – just $1‑2 per lesson – so don’t hop on a two‑hour commutes bus simply to shave off the pennies.
Your big sweet‑spot is how fast you breeze through the coursework. Showing up alert, well‑fed, and refreshed guarantees you’ll tackle those lesson blocks faster than a caffeinated squirrel on a skateboard.
Average Prices for a 2B Licence
A motorcycle fee for a class 2B licence hovers around $900–$1,000 on average.
BBDC – Ball‑Blazer Do’s Centre
- Enrollment (1‑year validity): $58.85 + modest $3 fee
- Eyesight & photo: $1.82 + $6.42
- Theory lesson: $17.12
- Theory practice: $3.21
- Theory eval: $5.35
- Peak circuit lesson: $29.96
- Off‑peak circuit lesson: $25.68
- Peak road lesson: $40.66
- Off‑peak road lesson: $36.38
- Peak stage‑8 lesson: $62.06
- Off‑peak stage‑8 lesson: $59.92
- TP Simulation: $23.06
- Expressway Riding (1st booking): $0
- Expressway Riding (subsequent bookings): $40.66
- BTT & RTT: $6.50 each
- Practical test: $33 + extra $46.01
BBDC’s curriculum sets you up for four theory and 14 practical courses before the Traffic Police (TP) test. Going all off‑peak, you’re looking at a minimum spend of $611. In reality, many folks reach the higher end of the spectrum, bumping up to $900.
CDC – City‑Drive Czar
- Enrollment & theory (valid for a year): $163.18
- Eyesight & digital photo: $1.82 + $6.42
- Circuit training (Mon–Fri): $25.68 / 28.89 (Sat/Sun)
- Road practical (Mon–Fri): $36.38 / 39.59 (Sat/Sun)
- Road practical stage‑8: $55.64 / 58.85
- Circuit revision (Mon–Fri): $19.26 / 22.47 (Sat/Sun)
- Road revision (Mon–Fri): $36.38 / 39.59 (Sat/Sun)
- Internal eval fee: $6.42 / $7.49
- Simulator training: $26.54
- RTT & BTT: $6.50 each
- TP test: $44 + $69.55
- Expressway riding (1st booking): $0
- Expressway riding (2–4): $36.38
Expect to shell out at least $900 for a Class 2B licence at CDC – and those numbers usually climb well beyond that in practice.
SSDC – Sydney‑Speed Authority
- Enrollment + first 7 theory lessons: $181.90
- BBT & RTT: $6.50 each
- Circuit orientation: $21.40 / 23.54
- Peak circuit lesson: $27.82
- Off‑peak circuit lesson: $25.68
- Simulator: $23.94
- Peak road lesson: $38.52
- Off‑peak road lesson: $36.38
- Road revision (either time): $36.38 / 38.52
- Circuit revision (either time): $10.70 / 12.84
- Individual road lesson: $55.64 / 57.78
- Expressway riding: $36.38 / 38.52
- TP test: $33 + $53.50
While the policy states you’ll tackle a minimum of eight practicals, the typical student tally is sky‑high: 21 lessons (15 circuit + 6 road) bring the total cost into the neighbourhood of $1,069.
Bottom Line
All three schools charge in the same ballpark, so the choice diminishes to where the school sits relative to your home and your stamina for turning up ready. Pick the nearest, bring your best self to class, and you’ll see that the real cost is how long you take to reach the finish line.
Motorcycle COE price
Motorcycles vs. the COE Madness
When you ignore the COE (Certificate of Entitlement), a brand‑new Class 2B bike can be yours for under $10,000. Pretty sweet deal, right?
But, oh boy, once that COE enters the scene, things change fast.
COE: The Big Money Grabber
- August 2022: First bid sees the COE shoot up to $11,000—a mind‑boggling jump from the $3,000+ range we’d seen back in 2019.
- It’s a rough time for riders: the COE alone can triple what you’d pay for the motorcycle if you’re watching that number closely.
And What About Cars?
By comparison, you’d have to pay roughly 80,000 for the COE of a category A car. Even a budget-friendly ride could land you a total price of around $100,000. So, even on a shoestring, a motorcycle still comes out cheaper if you factor the COE in.
Bottom Line
Motorcycles might look affordable at first glance, but the COE can make you feel like you’re dialing up a new price tag. Still, for the average rider, it’s almost always cheaper than buying a car, even when you’re just rolling around on a budget model.
Popular motorcycles in Singapore
Ride the Singapore Streets Like a Pro
New to the two‑wheel scene in Singapore? No worries, you’re in the right place. Below is the low‑down on the most popular Class 2B bikes you’ll see cruising the island.
Top 10 Popular Brands & Their Second‑hand Prices
- Yamaha – $7,000 – $14,000
- Honda – $500 (COE ending) – $9,500
- Suzuki – $2,800 (COE ending) – $14,000
- Piaggio/Vespa – $6,500 – $14,000
- KTM – $10,000 – $19,600
- SYM – $2,500 – $10,000
- BMW (Class 2A & Class 2) – No current listings
- Adiva – $6,000 – $15,000
- Kymco – $1,700 (COE ending) – $15,000
- Triumph (Class 2A & Class 2) – No current listings
Why Those Old‑School Rides Aren’t on the List?
Models like the Kawasaki KRR‑150, Honda NSR150SP, and Honda Phantom are classics that have slipped out of the fresh‑sale market. If you crave one of these nostalgic beauties, you’ll need to hunt them down on the second‑hand scene.
Bargaining 101 – Don’t Let Them Bite Your Wallet
Most sellers will throw out a higher price when you first ask. Do a quick Google search, check out what similar bikes are selling for, and then walk away. Negotiation is a rite of passage for anyone purchasing gear or accessories. Remember, the aim is a fair deal that makes you feel like you’re getting a real crash‑course into scooter ownership.
Happy riding, and may your throttle be smooth and your COE filings hassle‑free!
Where to buy brand new motorcycles in Singapore
Singapore’s Moto‑Minded Hotspots
Looking for a brand‑new cruiser or a pre‑loved two‑wheel wonder? Singapore’s streets are peppered with dealers who are ready to crank you up. Below is a slice of the big players – and a reminder that many “moto tiams” (those quirky motorcycle repair shops) also trade on the side.
- Unique Motorsports – They’ve got everything from sleek sports bikes to rugged adventure models.
- A.S. Phoon – A name that’s as solid as a motorcycle’s frame.
- United Cycles – Got your name written on their shop sign? You might just find your dream bike.
- Boon Siew – Champion of the local used‑bike scene.
- Guan Hoe Cheong Trading Co. – If you need a reliable bike that won’t jump the gun.
- Southern Motor – A breeze of southern comfort for the rider.
- Comfort Cycle – Because a comfortable ride is the ultimate goal.
- Sin Boon Motor Co. – The place to get a second-hand killer without breaking the bank.
- Soon Hin Motors – Likely to offer you a quick spot on the highway of life.
- SGBikeMart – All your needs in one convenient parking annex.
And that’s just scratching the surface! There are countless motorbike shops across the island – many of the local “moto tiams” are happy to flip a bike when the opportunity knocks. So next time you pass by a shop, ask for a quick test‑ride; you never know when you’ll stumble upon your next ride‑happiness.
Where to buy second hand motorcycles in Singapore
Why a Second‑Hand Class 2B Might Be Your Best Move
Graduated from Class 2B? Congratulations—you’re officially a rider now. But if you’re still a rookie, you’ll probably drop your bike like it’s a hot potato. That’s not a great feeling, especially after dropping a $20,000 piece of steel on the pavement.
So, why is buying a used Class 2B a smart idea? Let’s break it down.
Here’s the Lowdown:
- Save Your Wallet: New bikes cost a fortune, and you’ll probably get more scratches than a seasoned pro.
- No Surprise Repairs: A used bike is usually already on your pain‑control list—just take it for a test ride first.
- Feel the Thrill of the Hunt: Shopping for a used bike is like dating—there’s a chance to find a gem that’ll fit you like a glove.
How to Score a Deal Without Paying Extra
Picking a private seller beats dealer pricing hands down. Dealers often mark up the price to cover their overhead, and that extra money can eat into your fun budget.
When you go solo with an individual seller, you have more room to negotiate:
- Ask for a pre‑ride trial—if it’s out of tune, you can walk away.
- Check for past accidents or mechanical issues.
- Get the seller to drop the price, and maybe they’ll throw a spare key on the side.
Popular Spots for Finding Used Bicycles
- SGBikeMart – The go‑to marketplace for serious riders.
- SingaporeBikes – A community hub with a wide selection.
- SGBikez – Known for quality listings and active sellers.
- Carousell – Buy it, sell it, trade it—great for finding hidden treasures.
- Heng Motor Enterprise – Trusted dealer turned marketplace.
- Gumtree – Find deals that others are unloading; sometimes you’ll get a steal.
Final Thought
When you’re fresh-out-of‑Class 2B and you know one thing—we’re all going to fall off our bikes at some point—give yourself a fair chance. A pre‑owned bike can give you the confidence to ride, while keeping your wallet happy. Happy hunting!
Preparing to buy a second hand motorbike
Buying a Second‑Hand Motorbike: Why It’s a Smart Move
If you’re looking to save a few bucks on a motorcycle, used bikes are usually a win. They’re just the ones that’ve already rode a few thousand miles. But hey, just because they’re cheaper doesn’t mean they’re trouble‑free – you’ve got to play detective before you hit the road.
Top Things to Check Before You Buy
- Check the Condition: Look for rust, dents, or missing parts. A bike that looks like it survived a car rally probably won’t be happy in the city.
- Mileage Matters: High mileage can mean more wear, but it can be a good deal if the bike’s been well maintained. Don’t just buy the lowest number – ask for service history.
- Maintenance Records: A documented history is like a roadmap. If the previous owner kept up with oil changes and brake checks, you’re on the right track.
- Test the Engine: Give it a bumpy ride, check for unusual noises, and make sure the throttle responds smoothly.
- Brake & Tire Checks: Worn brakes are a safety hazard, and tires that are flat or cramped can indicate little care.
- Paperwork & Ownership: Ensure titles, registration, and insurance are all legitimate. No blue lights or green stamps – just clean, legal proof.
Extra Tips to Save Even More
Try to buy during the rainy season or after a month’s worth of closes – dealers often lower prices when inventory piles up. Look for “under‑priced” bikes: if the price looks too good to be true, double‑check the mechanics.
Keep It Fun, Keep It Safe
Buying a used bike is a bit like dating – it’s all about compatibility. Make sure the bike feels good under your hands, fits your riding style, and has a potential for future upgrades. With a little vigilance, you’ll be cruising on a bike that’s both wallet‑friendly and road‑ready.
Check how many years of COE there are left
COE: The Real Price Tag That’s Eating Your Wallet
What the Heck is a COE?
The Certificate of Entitlement (COE) is what Singapore’s government puts on top of every motorbike’s price. Think of it as an extra habit that says, “You can own this bike for only a certain number of years.” The sooner it expires, the cheaper the bike, and vice versa.
Why the COE Makes Shopping a Rollercoaster
- First‑hand bikes: The COE cost is baked into the sticker price, so you get a whole bill for the dented frame and that shiny new seat.
- Second‑hand bikes: You’ll often see the COE listed as a separate line item, and it can actually cost more than the bike itself. Picture paying a fortune just for the document that says you’re allowed to ride the motorcycle for the next few years.
- Price volatility: As the COE expiry date slides close, prices can shoot up or plummet faster than a biker’s heart rate on a steep uphill.
So, How Do You Survive?
Here are some survival tips for navigating this wild COE terrain:
- Check the COE timetable: Look up the remaining years before the COE lapses. Even a year difference can change your budget.
- Plan ahead: If you’re grabbing a second‑hand bike, negotiate the COE cost—think of it as haggling over the price of the bike’s legal license.
- Time it right: Buying right before a COE harvest can save you a lot of cash. The market often dips just before the COE batch expires.
- Keep an eye on trends: The COE price has a crazy churn, so stay updated on the latest market dynamics to avoid paying a premium you didn’t need.
Bottom line: When you’re eyeing a bike, remember the COE isn’t just paperwork—it’s a major part of the cost equation that can make buying or selling feel like a jungle gym. The next time you spot that sticker price, make sure you’re looking at the COE number too—if you don’t, you might end up paying more than you bargained for!
Checking the condition of the bike
Bring a Road‑Pro Pal Into the Mix
If you’re brand new to the bike‑bike life, strap along a seasoned rider who can point out the fine print—both literally and figuratively—while you’re poking around the bike. Think of it like having a seasoned tour guide who’ll call out the hidden ride‑hazards before they’ve even bothered you.
Take That Test‑Ride (and Don’t Stop Until You’re Satisfied)
Most sellers will let you circle their parking lot. Treat this as your opportunity to “feel the beast” and sniff out any wobble in acceleration or engine jitters. If the bike feels a bit gas‑inhale‑and‑release, it might be a sign something’s off.
Ask for the Cold‑Start Showdown
When the rev‑up feels like a nervous puppy, that’s a hint the battery’s might be on its last leg. Don’t shy away from asking the shop owner to give you a cold‑start test—if it cracks up, it’s time for a new battery.
Don’t Forget the O‑H‑Brien Essentials
- Brake Pads: If they’re squealing like a banshee, it’s time for a facelift.
- Tyres: Punctures, flat spots, or deep tread wear are all red flags.
- Chain: A stiff chain signals a greasing or replacement job.
- Lights: A flickering halo means an electrical gremlin is at play.
Anything that’s past its prime or sounding like a disgruntled choir needs a replacement before you turn the key. After all, a smooth, safe bike ride is all about riding into those sunny vibes without worrying about any sly mechanical surprise.
Negotiate
The Great Price Jigger: Why Online Sellers Hike Prices
Ever scrolled through an online store, saved a cool deal, and then—boom!—the price jumps out of nowhere? You’re not the only one. Most sellers love to inflate their listed prices because they’re banking on the fact that you’ll dig into your budget and try to negotiate. It’s a classic “price‑hike, sale‑save” dance that keeps their shop thriving.
What’s Behind the Hike?
- Expectation of Negotiation: Sellers set a higher baseline so they can offer a “discount” and still feel like they’re making a profit.
- Perceived Value: A higher upfront price makes the final price look more affordable in comparison.
- Customer Psychology: Buyers often feel they’re getting a good deal when the price drops, even if the “discount” isn’t a real bargain.
How to Navigate the Price Maze
- Do your research: Check a few similar listings to see a realistic price range.
- Use it as a negotiation anchor: Ask for a “small discount” citing your comparison.
- Set a budget and stick to it: Sometimes walking away is the best deal.
Bottom Line
Online sellers love to raise prices for the thrill of negotiation. Knowing why they do it—and how to play along—means you can snag real savings instead of falling victim to the price‑pump drama.
Make sure the seller has fully paid for the bike
Don’t Let COI Sneak a Slice of Your Wallet
Buying a bike on the black market of finance can get messy. If a seller tags their ad with “COI” (that’s short for Cost of Interest), they’re basically saying: “I bought this bike for you on autopay and now want the rest of my debt settled.” And trust me, when dealers bring debt into the equation, that interest is usually sky‑high.
Why “COI” is a Red Flag
- Hidden charges: The loan’s interest is often baked into the sale price, so you’re paying more than you expected.
- No credit check: The dealer will usually skip your credit score, which means they’ll offer you the steepest rate.
- Risky transfer: If the dealer defaults, you could end up stuck with a bike that’s effectively unusable.
The Cash‑Cash Wins
Paying in cash is like giving yourself a hurdle to jump over—less debt, more freedom. For a few bucks extra up front, you can snag a cheaper bike and sidestep the interest that would otherwise eat a chunk of your wallet over time.
So next time you spot a “COI” tag, think of it as a sneaky invitation to a high‑interest trap. Keep your hard‑earned cash out of the deal, and you’ll not only save pennies but also avoid a future headache. Happy biking!
Apply for motorcycle insurance
How to Get the Right Insurance When Buying a Bike Directly
Buying a bike straight from a seller means you’ll need to sort out your own insurance. If you don’t have coverage in place, you won’t be able to take your shiny new ride home on the day you become the proud owner.
Step‑by‑Step: Find a Deal That Won’t Break the Bank
- Start by screening a few insurers. Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Shop around until you snag a plan that fits your budget.
- Check the coverage details. Make sure it covers both the bike itself and any liabilities that could pop up after you hit the road.
- Ask for a discount. Some companies offer savings if you bundle policies or if you’ve had no claims in the past.
- Get a copy in writing. Keep the fine print handy so you’re sure the policy covers everything you need.
Once you’ve locked in a good insurance plan, you’ll be able to jump on your new bike the very day you sign over ownership—no excuses, just wheels and joy!
Buy a helmet
Hey, Don’t Ride Helmetless!
Got a free helmet from the seller? Lucky you! If not, go grab one right now—trust me, you’ll want to protect that hard‑hat brain on the road back home.
Why It Matters
- Safety first: A helmet keeps your head safe if you hit a pothole or twist your bike on a sudden stop.
- No DIY haircuts: Greasy tickets to the ER for a scalp injury? Not a good look.
- Peace of mind: Ride with confidence knowing you’re covered.
Bottom line: if the helmet’s not on the cheap or you’re DIYing a “freebie” deal, buy one before you head out. Riding a helmetless bike is like playing a game of “Oops‑I‑Did‑That” with your life—luckily, you can win the safe one instead.
Motorcycle rental in Singapore
Ready to Ride? The Low‑Down on Singapore Bike Rentals
Ever thought about swooping around Singapore’s streets on a motorcycle but felt you’re a little stuck with the car‑culture? It’s actually easier than you think—you can rent a motorbike from various local shops and start dodging traffic in no time. Here’s a quick guide to the best places to grab a bike and how much they’ll cost you.
Why Rent a Bike?
- Flexibility – Pick up the bike on a whim, ride it, and drop it back when you’re done.
- Cost‑Effective – For short trips or a weekend of fun, you’ll save pennies compared to owning.
- Local Experience – Get a real insider’s feel for traffic, wind, and blue‑sky rides.
Top Rental Companies & Their Price Tiers
Unique Motorsports
- Honda Wave 125 – $360/month (min 3 mo) / $320/month (12 mo) / $290/month (24 mo)
- Yamaha YBR125 – $450/month (min 3 mo) / $400/month (12 mo) / $360/month (24 mo)
Ban Hock Hin
- Yamaha Fino – $50/day, $40/day for 2 days, $30/day for 3‑10 days, $310 for 2 weeks, $415/month
- Yamaha FZ16 – $60/day, $45/day for 2 days, $35/day for 3‑10 days, $330 for 2 weeks, $450/month
- Piaggio MP3 125 – same hourly rates as the FZ16
Stark Holdings Inn Bike Leasing
- Yamaha R15 – $34.24/day, $216.14/week, $483.64/month
- Yamaha FZ16 – $23.54/day, $146.59/week, $430.14/month
- KTM Duke – $34.24/day, $216.14/week, $590.64/month
AloRide
- Honda Wave – From $350/month
- Yamaha YBR125 – From $330/month
- Piaggio Fly 150 – From $340/month
How to Get Started
- Choose your model – Honda for economy, Yamaha for performance, or Piaggio for a unique vibe.
- Decide on duration – Daily for a quick sprint or monthly for a longer adventure.
- Reserve online or pop into the shop – most locations accept walk‑ins too.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
So, if you’re ready to let the wind in your hair but still want to dodge reckless drivers, backpacking the grid is as easy as a rental on the spectrum above. Grab a motorcycle, hit the road and enjoy Singapore’s streets with a fresh perspective!
