New Motorcycles in Singapore Must Be Fitted with Anti-Lock Braking System from 1 April 2027

Hadisur Rahman, JadeTimes Staff

H. Rahman is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Business

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Image Source: RYAN CHIONG

Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) has announced that starting from 1 April 2027, all newly registered motorcycles will be required to have an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). The new regulation aims to improve road safety and reduce the number of fatal motorcycle accidents.

Under the new rule, existing motorcycles without ABS are not required to be retrofitted. As of end-2024, about half of all motorcycles in Singapore already have ABS. To allow for adjustment, the industry will have an 18-month transition period to clear existing stocks and import or produce ABS-equipped models.

ABS is a braking safety technology that prevents wheels from locking up under hard or sudden braking. By modulating brake pressure, it helps to maintain stability and control, reducing the risk of skidding. Studies show that motorcycles fitted with ABS have a significantly lower fatal crash rate compared to those without.

The change comes as Singapore saw an increase in motorcyclist fatalities and pillion rider deaths in recent years. In 2024, fatal accidents involving motorcyclists rose by 20.8 percent, and fatalities among motorcyclists and their pillion riders increased by 25 percent compared to 2023. The LTA says this regulation is aimed at protecting motorcyclists, pillion riders, and other road users.

This ABS mandate will make Singapore the first country in ASEAN to require ABS on all newly registered motorcycles. The LTA added that the measure follows industry consultation and study into its impact, including cost, readiness, and effectiveness.

Motorcycle manufacturers and dealers will need to adapt to the requirement. The transition period is intended to help them manage existing inventory and ensure that new motorcycles sold from the implementation date comply.

Overall, the regulation is part of broader efforts to raise vehicle safety standards, reduce risk on the roads, and safeguard both motorcyclists and the public.