A man riding what appeared to be a modified e-bike along Tiong Bahru Road has sparked concern online after he was allegedly seen vaping while travelling on the road without a helmet.
The incident, which was uploaded to social media and circulated through the SG Road Vigilante community page, quickly drew criticism from netizens who questioned whether the vehicle complied with Singapore’s strict regulations on Power Assisted Bicycles (PABs) and road safety rules.
According to the post, the incident allegedly happened at around 12.10pm on May 27. Dashcam footage captured the rider travelling on the road wearing slippers and casual clothing, without any visible protective helmet.
The rider also appeared to be operating the vehicle without a visible rear licence plate, which raised additional concerns among online commenters.
Large E-Bike Sparks Questions Online
In the footage, the rider was later seen stopping at a traffic junction before allegedly taking out a vape device and smoking while waiting for the traffic light to change.
The video quickly gained traction online, with many Singaporeans expressing frustration over what they described as increasingly reckless behaviour involving modified e-bikes and illegal devices on public roads.
Some commenters claimed the vehicle looked unusually large for a typical e-bike, with one netizen remarking that it appeared “bigger than a 125cc motorcycle”. Others alleged that some riders may be modifying their bikes to bypass regulations while still enjoying speeds similar to motorcycles.
Several people also pointed out that riders of modified e-bikes may be avoiding costs typically associated with motorcycles, such as insurance, road tax and driving licences.
The incident comes amid heightened public attention on road safety in Singapore, especially involving personal mobility devices and Power Assisted Bicycles.
Authorities Tightening Rules On Non-Compliant Devices
Singapore authorities have been stepping up enforcement efforts against illegal and non-compliant mobility devices in recent years following multiple road accidents and fire incidents linked to uncertified devices.
The Land Transport Authority recently reminded the public that it will become an offence from June 1 to keep non-UL2272 certified e-scooters in Singapore.
UL2272 certification is an internationally recognised fire and electrical safety standard for motorised mobility devices. PABs in Singapore are also required to comply with EN15194 technical standards.
Authorities have also been working closely with Singapore Customs and the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority to detect individuals importing unapproved PMDs and PABs into the country.
Under current regulations, first-time offenders caught with non-compliant devices can face fines of up to S$2,000, up to three months’ jail, or both. Companies and non-individual offenders may face fines of up to S$4,000.
The latest incident has once again reignited discussions over enforcement, road discipline and the growing presence of modified mobility devices on Singapore roads, with some netizens calling for stricter checks and harsher penalties against offenders.