From Dec 1, tighter regulations will be implemented on the use and
sale of electric bicycles, or what is known as power-assisted
bicycles (PAB), on Singapore roads.
The revised rules, announced yesterday by Singapore's Land
Transport Authority (LTA), follow the European Standard EN15194 and
aim to improve road safety for PAB users and others.
The measures include PABs having a maximum weight of
20kg.
The agency also announced that with immediate effect, the fines for
first time offenders will be raised to $300, up from $100.
LTA's press release stated: "Special attention is being paid to
PABs because they are currently allowed on public roads, and hence
there are significant safety concerns... In addition, models which
comply with the standard are harder to illegally modify."
The EN15194 standard is in use in 33 countries across Europe and in
Australia.
The LTA said that PABs that have been approved under the current
requirements and affixed with a blue seal will still be allowed on
public roads.
From Feb 1 next year, only electric bicycles which comply with the
new requirements will be approved and given orange seals.
WELCOME MOVE
Two electric bike distributors told The New Paper they welcomed the
move.
Mr Jason Koh of MKP Bikes said the power and speed is sufficient
for the average person.
His company sells electric bikes with prices ranging from $1,400 to
$5,000.
Said Mr Koh, an operations manager: "Hopefully, this will put an
end to illegal modifications that allow electric bikes to reach
speeds above 60kmh. At such speeds, you might as well ride a
motorcycle."
Mr Chris Kuah, managing director of Xiao Dao Electric Bicycles,
said keeping the weight of the PABs low will reduce impact in any
collision.
Those who modify their bikes for speed and power choose heavier
frames, forks and wheels for more stability.
But only a minority customise their PABs in Singapore, said Mr
Kuah, who has been in the business for eight years.
He said: "I saw the trend for lighter and reliable electric
bicycles overseas where they adopt the European standard. So I was
prepared.
"It was only a matter of time that Singapore would follow
suit."
Aside from getting rid of stock which do not adhere to the new
regulations, there is one concern that may affect sellers.
Said Mr Koh: "It's going to be a problem sourcing for electric
bicycles below 20kg. Most electric bicycles that are produced are
just under 30kg. Also, a lighter electric bicycle may not be
suitable for heavier riders."
Mr Kuah also hopes the authorities can give a 5kg allowance, so
that there is a 25kg limit instead.
1,280 The number of notices issued for offences
involving the use or sale of non-regulation power-assisted bicycles
from January to October this year. There were only 11 notices in
2008, said the LTA.
TNP