Singapore is currently touted as one of Asia’s best cities to ride a bike.
And I can understand why.
From its futuristic skyline, exciting tourist attractions and tranquil parklands, this vibrant metropolis is raising the bar when it comes to being a bike-friendly destination.
My brother lives in Singapore and I often keep an eye on what is happening there. I have been watching with interest as Singapore’s works to implement its intelligent transportation vision – of which cycling is a major focus.
Like most capital cities, Singapore boasts an extensive network of dedicated cycling paths, lanes, and connectors that cover both urban areas and scenic routes. This infrastructure ensures cyclists can travel safely and conveniently throughout the city.
The city’s urban planning emphasizes sustainable transportation options, including cycling. Well-designed bike lanes are integrated into the city’s infrastructure, making it easy to navigate and explore different neighborhoods by bike. Some local favourite routes include the Park Connector network, a 300km tangle of cycle paths, and the Rail Corridor, a 24km bicycle path in the footprint of an old railway, and the Eastern Coastal Loop.
Also, Singapore’s well-maintained roads and bike paths are designed with safety in mind. They have separated bike lanes and clear signage to reduce the risk of accidents between cyclists and other road users and as anyone who has been there will know, Singapore is active in enforcing speed limits, and positive social behaviour.
Singapore has introduced various bike-sharing programs, providing locals and tourists with easy access to rental bikes for short trips around the city. Despite having some issues in the past, these programs are promoting cycling as a viable mode of transportation and usage is projected to boom.
Singapore’s relatively compact size allows cyclists to cover significant distances within a short period. This compactness makes it convenient to use a bike for daily commutes and recreational rides. The other drawcard is that cyclists can enjoy a mix of scenic routes including urban landscapes, waterfront paths, and lush green spaces. This makes cycling both enjoyable and is a great way to see more of the city beyond just the main tourist attractions – which are all easily accessible by bike!
The Singaporean government has actively promoted cycling as a sustainable transportation option. Initiatives such as car free Sundays, car free zones, the Car-Lite movement and investments in cycling infrastructure demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the cycling experience.
The city hosts various big-ticket sports events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix and it is not often you get a chance to ride along a legitimate F1 circuit pit lane! They also have a full cycling calendar offering events from leisurely rides to competitive races. These events foster a strong cycling community and encourage people to embrace biking as a lifestyle.
But still some issues to iron out…
Last year Singapore conducted a cycling review and as part of a discussion on safe cycling on roads, there was a proposal to register bikes and licenses for cyclists. This idea was met with intense public resistance – so it will be interesting to see what happens there.
There are also other issues need to be addressed, such as vehicle-cyclist conflicts, too many heavy vehicles and food deliveries hogging the road, and an over-focus on policing cyclists and issuing them with tickets and infringement notices.
A Today Online news report cites a lack of etiquette, disregard for the laws and ‘a need to exhibit showmanship’ as a few of the main reasons for accidents.
So, there are definitely a few more things to iron out!
But overall, it is great to see Singapore heading in the right direction.
Change is not easy.
But it is encouraging to see the Lion City taking action to be a more cycle-friendly city in the future.