Bike Travel in Singapore

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Bike Travel

Even die hard cyclists should steer clear of riding on Singapore's roads. Nonexistent bike lanes, a lack of shade, and aggressive drivers combine with blazing heat and energy-zapping humidity to make bikes a hazardous mode of transportation. Nevertheless, they are an excellent way to rub shoulders with locals and explore Singapore's parks at your own pace. The East Coast Parkway, Sentosa Island, Bishan Park, and Pasir Ris Park, close to Changi airport, have special tarred lanes (that you'll share with roller bladers), which are ideal for leisurely rides. If you want something more challenging try mountain biking at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve or the tiny island of Pulau Ubin. Bike trail maps are available at visitor centers.

You can rent bikes and protective gear, along with baby baskets, at park kiosks. These usually open 8-8 on weekends and public holidays, and 9-6 at other times. Prices vary, but generally bikes can be rented for S$7 per hour. Stay on the designated tracks and keep to the left but pass on the right. In all parks there's a speed limit of 15 km/h, which is 9 mph. These parks are among the few areas where Singaporeans can master bike riding, so be patient with unsteady learners.

Bike Rental

Comfort Bicyle Rental (18 Pulau Ubin. 6545-3232). Leisure @ East Coast Pte. Ltd. (Beach Cabana) (Car Park C3, East Coast Park (Next to McDonald's). 6448-7120). Our Family Corner (Car Park E2, East Coast Park. 6443-3489). Parks Resort Enterprises (Bishan Park, next to skating rink (section between Bishan and Marymount roads). 6451-5905). Pasir Ris Beach Resort (Pasir Ris Park. 6583-4723). SDK Recreation (Siloso Beach, Sentosa Island. 6272-8738).

Bikes in Flight

Most airlines accommodate bikes as luggage, provided they are dismantled and boxed; check with individual airlines about packing requirements. Some airlines sell bike boxes, which are often free at bike shops, for about $20 (bike bags can be considerably more expensive). International travelers often can substitute a bike for a piece of checked luggage at no charge; otherwise, the cost is about $100. Most U.S. and Canadian airlines charge $40-$80 each way.

Trishaws

Bicycle-rickshaws, known as trishaws, number a few dozen. They're favored only by tourists, and were last used as bona fide local transport in the 1960s. You can find them near Raffles Hotel, on Stamford Road in front of the Singapore History Museum, and at Bugis Junction. Bargain for the fare; you shouldn't pay more than S$25 for a 45-minute ride. The best time to take a rickshaw ride is 7 PM or later, after the rush hour.