The Ultimate Guide to Cycling in Singapore: Everything You Need to Know About Bicycles, Accessories, Clothing, Racks and More

 

Ever since the COVID cycling boom and the Government's decision to encourage cycling by building more infrastructure and park connectors, cycling in Singapore is becoming increasingly popular as a mode of transportation and for leisure. If you're new to cycling, or are thinking of using a biycle for transportation, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about cycling in Singapore, including information on bicycles, accessories, clothing, racks, and more!

1. Choosing the right bicycle

When it comes to cycling in Singapore, the type of bicycle you choose will depend on your intended use. Singapore is a pretty flat island, so almost any bicycle will work. That said, some types of bicycles may be a better fit for you than others. For commuting, a commuter bike or a road bike bike is a great options. Commuter bikes are typically more utilitarian and can hold a variety of racks for carrying stuff. On the other hand, a road bike is generally faster which saves you energy and time when getting from place to place. Here are some factors that you may wish to consider when looking at bicycles:

• Size: Make sure to get a bike that is the right size for your height and inseam.
• Gears: If you plan on cycling in hilly areas (like if you commute involves going through thomson road), a bike with multiple gears may be beneficial. Otherwise, a single speed would be a good choice for you too.
• Price: Bicycles can vary greatly in price, so it's important to set a budget and stick to it. When working out how much to spend on a bicycle a good way to go about it is to calculate how much you would be saving on transport and go from there!

2. Essential Bike Accessories

This heading is a little bit of a misnomer because all you need to cycle is a bike and the power of your legs. That said, some items would be good to haves, including:

• Helmet: A helmet is a must-have for safety and legal reasons especially if you intend to go int he road. Make sure to choose one that fits properly and is certified by the appropriate safety standard. We recommend our award wining helmets from ABUS. We carry a wide range of ABUS helmets in our store that you can try on!
• Lights: Singapore has a law that requires cyclist to have a white light at the front and a red light at the rear of the bike. To learn more about the bicycle light requirements of Singapore check out our article only bike lights in Singapore.
• Locks: Invest in a good quality lock to secure your bike when you're not using it. We like the quality of the locks from ULAC and have a bunch of different bicycle lock varieties for you.
• Water Bottle Cage: Singapore's weather can be hot and humid, so it's important to stay hydrated while cycling.

3. Clothing and Footwear

The type of clothing and footwear you choose for your commute by bicycle will depend on your personal preference and style. In Singapore, we only either have sun or rain, so remember to use sunblock and keep a poncho or raincoat around with you at all times just in case! You don't necessarily have to wear lycra but there are a few other things to things to keep in mind:

• Breathable fabrics: Look for clothing made from breathable fabrics to help keep you cool and comfortable.
• Padded shorts: Padded shorts can help to reduce discomfort while cycling. This one in particular have been a game changer for us.
• Closed-toe shoes: Choose closed-toe shoes to protect your feet while cycling. We have been guilty of wearing flip flops or slippers to cycle. Don't be like me and end up having a wound on my big toe as a result of wanting to avoid a collision.

4. Bike Racks and carriers

To us, bike racks are as close to a must have as can be because they relief your shoulders of carrying weight and are super practical and useful.Your options for racks typically are

• Front Racks: These are great for attaching a basket. The drawback is that they make your steering a little heavier which may be a little bit of a pain in the butt
• Rear Racks: These attach to the rear of your bike and can typically take a lot more weight, with multiple options such as baskets, panniers and even a child seat!

5. Tips and Tricks for cycling in Singapore

• Plan your route: Singapore is a small country with a good cycling infrastructure, but it's always a good idea to plan your route in advance to avoid busy roads and hilly areas (whenever possible)
• Use Park Connectors if it makes sense: Singapore has an awesome park connector system with more that are up and coming, so make sure to use them when it is to your benefit.
• Check the weather forecast: Singapore's weather can be unpredictable with rain coming out of no where. Make sure to check the forecast before you head out for a ride unless you don't mind getting wet.

Conclusion

Cycling in Singapore is a great way to get around, stay active, and explore the city. With the right bike, accessories, clothing, and racks, you can enjoy a comfortable and safe cycling experience. Remember to follow the rules of the road and always wear a helmet. Happy cycling!