Last updated: February 2024
Key Takeaways:
- Motorbikes are generally cheaper than cars in Singapore, considering purchase price, maintenance, and running costs.
- Motorcycles can be more cost-effective than public transport and offer greater flexibility.
- Safety is a concern with higher accident risks; proper gear and insurance are essential.
- Cheap secondhand motorcycles range from $1,500 to $4,000, while new ones start at $5,000, excluding COE.
- COE prices significantly affect the overall cost of owning a motorcycle.
Are Motorbikes a Cheap Alternative in Singapore?
In the bustling city-state of Singapore, motorbikes present an affordable and nimble alternative to cars. With lower purchase and maintenance costs, they offer a cost-effective solution for daily commuting. However, potential riders must weigh the trade-offs, including safety risks and weather exposure. This guide examines the financial implications of motorbike ownership in Singapore, from initial costs to the impact of the Certificate of Entitlement (COE).
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Question: Are motorbikes cheaper than cars in Singapore?
Answer: Yes, motorbikes are generally cheaper than cars in Singapore when considering the initial purchase price, ongoing maintenance, and running costs. However, the total cost of ownership can be influenced by factors such as the COE, insurance, and safety gear.
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Are motorcycles or cars cheaper?
With a few exceptions, motorbikes are generally less expensive and more cost effective than owning a car.
The cost of maintaining, repairing, and insuring a motorbike is evaluated because it is generally cheaper than that of a car.
However, you must examine the numerous advantages and disadvantages of having a motorbike; for example, you have less space for carrying people or other goods and Singapore’s weather may either be very hot or rainy for some months.
Are motorcycles cheaper than public transport?
Having a motorbike undoubtedly saves money especially if you’re residing in Singapore. You can also go around traffic more easily and faster.
Parking is not a major issue at all when you own a motorcycle. The only drawbacks would be our humid weather and an increased chance of injury when accidents happen.
However, just make sure that the motorcycle you choose in Singapore is a commuter model, preferably something about 125 CC that uses fuel at an average of 50 to 60km per liter.
However, if it is at 180 CC and above, you will get around 40km or less per liter of fuel.
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Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in Singapore?
Is it safe to ride a motorcycle in Singapore? - Motorbike Cheap Singapore
On the road, Singapore's image as a relatively secure city-state is well-deserved. In Singapore, over 3,500 motorcycle accidents occur each year, with roughly 500 resulting in serious injuries.
Although vehicle accidents are more common, motorcycle accidents have a higher probability of resulting in catastrophic casualties. The most prevalent serious injuries caused by motorcyclists in Singapore are bone fractures and head injuries.
The number one technique to ensure your safety on the road while riding a motorbike in Singapore is to ride a current sport motorcycle equipped with an anti-lock braking system at lower speeds.
Wear fluorescent clothes to increase your visibility, and make regular stops to clean your high-quality helmet when rains block your view. The smartest thing you can do to protect yourself is to get good motorcycle insurance.
How do you know if you can afford a motorcycle?
Motorbike Cheap Singapore (Image Source)
A second hand motorcycle should cost between $2,000 and $8,000 depending on the cc, while a new 2B motorcycle should cost from $4,500 onwards before taking into account COE.
You should also consider the cost of insurance and safety equipment, since these will significantly increase your final spend.
Knowing your financial situation before you begin provides you an immediate indication of how much you can spend on your first bike.
Purchasing your first motorbike may be a thrilling yet daunting experience.
Knowing what to look for and how much to spend might make it much easier to get the best bike for you. Consider your finances first, and then prioritize buying something comfy.
Because your first bike is unlikely to survive forever, prioritize comfort and rideability over appearances.
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How much is a motorbike in Singapore?
As a newbie rider in Singapore, you're probably interested in some of the most popular bike models.
You will have the option of purchasing a brand new bike from a dealer or a used bike from an independent seller or dealership.
Here is a table with some of the most economical 2B models registered in April 2022, as well as their costs (with COE):
| Motorcycle Model | Est. Price (with COE) |
|---|---|
| Yamaha T155 | $14,520 |
| SYM Jet 14 200I ABS | $12,814 |
| Lambretta V200 Special Flex CVT ABS | $13,000 |
| Honda Hornet 2.0 ABS Manual | $12,700 |
| Piaggio Medley S 150 | $13,700 |
| Yamaha Aerox 155 CVT | $15,000 |
| Royal Enfield Classic 350 | $13,600 |
| Honda Revo X Manual | $11,600 |
| Yamaha FZX ABS Manual | $12,400 |
| Yamaha T150 | $15,000 |
| Yamaha Aerox 155 Connected | $15,700 |
| YAMAHA MT 03 ABS | $20,400 |
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How long does it take to get a motorcycle license in Singapore?
Motorbike Cheap Singapore (Image Source)
Many Singaporeans prefer private driving instructors over driving schools while learning to drive a car since it is less expensive and the curriculum is less rigorous.
If you want a motorbike license, your sole choice is to enroll in one of the following driving schools for a Class 2B license:
- Bukit Batok Driving Centre (Bukit Gombak)
- Singapore Safety Driving Centre (Woodlands)
- ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (Ubi)
Class 2B is the basic motorcycle license that allows you to ride bikes up to 200 CC.
One year after obtaining your Class 2B license, you will be entitled to enroll in the Class 2A class, which allows you to ride motorcycles up to 400 CC.
Meanwhile, one year after receiving your 2A license, you can already enroll in a Class 2 course, which allows you to ride all motorcycles.
Currently the TP test date is fully booked by at least 3 months, therefore it could take at least 4 months before you can go on the road when you pass on the first try.
What is the most expensive motorcycle in Singapore?
The most expensive motorcycle in Singapore is the Ducati 1299 Superleggera, which was sold at an astronomical price of close to $300,000!
This luxury superbike packs an impressive array of features and performance, including a liquid cooled 1,198cc Superquadro, producing an incredible 224 horsepower and 98.1 nm of torque, along with a powerful six-speed transmission.
It also has a special passenger foot peg assembly, Brembo braking system, and an electronic adjustable suspension system.
All this makes the Ducati 1299 Superleggera Singapore's most expensive motorcycle, and a dream for many diehard biking fans!
Motorcycle COE cost in Singapore
Motorcycles may be rather affordable if COE is not taken into account. Without a COE, a brand new entry-level Class 2B motorcycle may cost less than $6,000.
However, when COE is taken into account, the picture changes. COE costs for bikes (CAT D) are now sky expensive, hovering around the $10,900 mark for the first bidding round in January 2023.
That's more than triple what it was in 2019. Still, it's a lot less expensive than obtaining four wheels: the COE for category A is a staggering $60,761, so even a low-cost car would put you back at least $90,000.
Is Motorbike Cheap in Singapore?
To summarize, motorbike prices in Singapore vary depending on the model, where you buy it, and whether it is a new or used motorcycle.
However, if you are a wise and practical consumer, motorbikes in Singapore will not cost you too much.
As a result, you will consider more than just the motorbike itself. When you buy a motorbike in Singapore, you must also acquire safety gear and equipment in order to be fully qualified to ride all through the city.
Overall, we hope we have provided you with the information you seek regarding the purchase of a motorbike in Singapore.
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