To facilitate your preparation for the ebike / Power-Assisted Bicycle (PAB) – Mandatory Theory Test, we break down the handbook into bite-sized information in the form of questions and answers (QnA).
This makes learning less overwhelmed. In addition, it also helps to increase knowledge retention.
Module 1: General information on Active Mobility Devices in Singapore
The 3 broad categories of Active Mobility Devices are:
- Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs)
- Bicycles
- Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs)
There are a few types of paths and roads where you can ride, depending on the type of devices:
- Footpaths. Typically paths beside roads and within housing estates but excludes shelter walkways or pedestrian-only paths.
- Cycling paths. Paths marked with “cyclists”, “bicycle” and “PCN”.
- Roads. Except for expressways and road tunnels.
This is Part 2 of the bite-size lesson. If you have not read Part 1, please click here.
1.3 Bicycles
1- What are the 2 categories of bicycles?
- Motorised bicycles, also known as Power Assisted Bicycles (PABs), and more commonly known as ebike in Singapore.
- Non-Motorised bicycles, also known as conventional bicycles
2- What is the key difference between PABs and conventional bicycles?
PAB is equipped with an electric motor to assist with pedalling.
3- If I own a conventional bicycle and I cycle on the road, do I need to take the PAB theory test?
No. The PAB theory test is only applicable to PAB.
4- How can you differentiate between a legal PAB and an illegal PAB?
PABs need to be type-approved, sealed and registered at an LTA-authorised Inspection Centre before use.
A legal PAB can be identified by the orange seal affixed to its frame.
5- Do you need to register a PAB before use?
Yes. All PABs must be sealed and registered at an LTA-authorised Inspection Center before use.
6- Do I need to affix a number place (ie license plate) on the PAB?
PABs must have a clearly visible number plate affixed on the rear of the PAB.
7- Can I affix the number at the front or side of the PAB?
No. In addition, the number plate and the lettering must be meet LTA requirements.
8- If I will not be riding my PAB on the road, do I still need to take the PAB theory test?
Yes. You need a PAB Theory Test Certificate to ride a PAB at all times.
9- What is the minimum age to take the PAB theory test?
16 years old.
10- What is the minimum age to ride a PAB?
16 years with a PAB Theory Test Certificate.
11- Can I fetch my 15 years old child to school on a PAB?
No. The minimum age of a PAB pillion rider is also 16 years old.
12- Do the pillion rider need to take the PAB theory test?
No. The PAB theory test is applicable to rider.
Having said that, the pillion rider must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet (if riding on road).
13- Can I ride my PAB on roads?
Yes.
14- Can I ride my PAB on cycling paths?
Yes.
15- Can I ride my PAB on footpaths?
No.
16- What is the certification or standard required for PAB?
EN15194
17- What is the maximum unladen weight of PAB?
20kg
18- What is the maximum width of PAB?
70cm
19- What is the maximum speed of PAB?
There is no maximum speed of PAB but the motor assist must cut off at 25km/h.
Having said that, you have to keep the maximum speed limit of the road and paths.
20- Are the maximum weight (20kg) and width (70cm) applicable to conventional bicycles?
Yes. As long as you are riding your conventional bicycle on cycling and footpaths, the limits apply.
21- Can I ride my conventional bicycle on footpaths?
Yes. You have to meet the weight, width and speed limits.
22- Can I ride my conventional bicycle on cycling paths?
Yes. You have to meet the weight, width and speed limits.
23- Can I ride my conventional bicycle on roads?
Yes. You have to meet the speed limits. Please be reminded that if your conventional bicycle does not meet the weight and width limits, you cannot use it on footpaths and cycling paths.
24- Do I need to wear a helmet when riding on roads?
Yes. Regardless of whether you are riding a PAB or conventional bicycle, it is mandatory to wear a helmet when you are riding on the road.
25- Is there a minimum age to ride a conventional bicycle?
No. In addition, no adult supervision is required.
We hope the ebike / Power-Assisted Bicycle (PAB) – Mandatory Theory Test | Part 2 has been helpful to you. We will release the remaining lessons progressively.
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Source: Power-Assisted Bicycle – Official Handbook for Mandatory Theory Test, Version 1.0, April 2021, Land Transport Authority
You can download the full handbook here.
Disclaimer
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, we do not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness and expressly disclaims liability for completeness, accuracy, timeliness, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information and materials contained on this post for any purpose.