Lifestyle

6 Things to Know Before Getting a Motorbike License in S’pore

2018-05-08 , 12:33 pm

Last Updated on 2023-07-01 , 3:35 pm

Unlocking the Freedom of the Road: Getting Your Motorcycle License in Singapore

Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about breezing down the bustling streets of Singapore, embracing the wind, and mastering the power of two wheels beneath you? Well, you’re not alone. But getting your motorcycle license in Singapore, also fondly referred to as the bike license or motorbike license, is an adventure in itself, and it’s certainly not as straightforward as it might seem. Here’s what you need to know before you embark on this exhilarating journey to gain your Singapore motorcycle license.

Taking the First Steps: The Motorbike License Process

The first hurdle you’ll face in your quest to attain a motorbike license in Singapore requires your undivided attention: attending all the prescribed lessons at a designated driving centre. You might be wondering, “Can I take private motorcycle lessons in Singapore?” Sadly, they’re not a thing. At the driving centre, you’ll need to sit through seven theory lessons and master seven practical ones, with each step being monitored and approved by seasoned instructors.

Learning to Ride: Not Quite Like Cycling

Don’t be fooled by the deceptive simplicity of cycling – gaining a bike license in Singapore is a whole new ball game. With your left hand controlling the clutch, your right hand juggling the throttle and front brake, your left foot busy shifting gears, and your right foot mastering the rear brake, it’s a dance of coordination, agility, and quick thinking. If your psychomotor skills are a bit rusty, it’s high time you polished them – or risk becoming a real-life blooper reel on the road.

Suiting Up for Your Singapore Bike License Lessons

There’s a strict dress code you’ll need to adhere to while taking your motorcycle license lessons. No, you can’t distract your instructor with your sartorial flair. It’s not about being chic, it’s about being safe. Covered shoes, long trousers or jeans, and a sleeved shirt are a must. Not to mention protective elbow and knee guards, plus a shared helmet – unless you prefer bringing your own, which could be a better option considering the questionable aroma of the communal one.

The Final Challenge: Passing the Test

You might be surprised to know that the passing rate for the motorcycle riding test, similar to the car driving test, hovers around 60%. It’s physically demanding, with one instructor assessing 4-5 aspiring riders on the road. While you might think this could make your mistakes less noticeable, the flip side is that a single error can potentially cost you the test, given the higher stakes when riding a motorbike.

The Thrill and Challenge of Being a Biker in Singapore

With your bike license, you’ll become part of a brave breed that dares to navigate the concrete jungle, just slightly above cyclists in the road hierarchy. You’ll likely find yourself cautiously clinging to the leftmost lane, your heart pounding as you maintain a steady 50 kilometres per hour, with larger vehicles causing your motorcycle to shudder in their wake.

And remember, as a motorcyclist, your body is the first line of defence. Your trusted steed of metal might seem tough, but in case of an accident, it’s your flesh that bears the brunt of the impact. This might make that dress code from your lessons seem much less irksome, and you’ll find yourself geared up like a knight heading into battle each time you hit the road.

With these considerations in mind, the thrill of getting your motorcycle license and hitting the road has its fair share of trade-offs. But, once you’ve tasted the freedom of riding, you’ll realize it’s worth every bit of the effort. So, gear up, stay safe, and enjoy the ride!