Come April 1, 2027, all new motorcycles registered in Singapore must come fitted with anti-lock braking systems (ABS).
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) says this follows months of industry discussions aimed at improving rider safety. However, riders with older bikes won’t need to retrofit anything and their bikes remain road legal.
ABS technology helps prevent wheels from locking during hard braking, reducing skids and giving riders better control in emergencies.
Around half of Singapore’s motorcycles already have ABS as of late 2024, but this rule ensures every new bike will have it, CNA has reported.
“The industry has about 18 months to clear existing stocks and bring in ABS-equipped models,” said LTA, adding that Singapore will be the first ASEAN nation to make ABS compulsory for all new motorcycles.
The move comes amid rising concern over road safety. Fatal accidents involving motorcyclists jumped more than 20% in 2024.
A World Health Organization report shows ABS-equipped motorcycles have 37% fewer fatal crashes, strengthening the case for the rule.
Senior Minister of State for Transport Amy Khor had previously said that LTA was carefully weighing costs, reliability, and rider readiness before introducing the mandate.
Malaysia is ahead on this front. Starting January 1, 2025, all motorcycles above 150cc sold in the country must have ABS.
The move follows a two-year feasibility study by the Transport Ministry, aimed at tackling the rising number of motorcycle-related fatalities in Malaysia.