LTA whips out intensified e-bike regulations

First-time offence fees have been tripled.

The LTA is bearing down on requirements for power-assisted bicycles (PABs). According to their announcement, errant users and retailers will meet heavier penalties. Special attention is being paid to these vehicles since they are given the liberty to use public roads.

As it stands, PABs must meet basic technical requirements before they are approved by the LTA such as construction that should be similar to conventional bicycles, and an electric-only power source that only cuts in when the rider begins to pedal. But beginning 1 December, LTA will roll out more tighter regulations, like a 20 kg maximum device weight, as well as other specifications that will align with European Standard EN15194.

With EN15194, PABs will undergo more thorough and rigorous testing. Moreover, bikes that pass the testing requirements of EN15194 are harder to modify illegally.

Retailers may submit applications for type approval of which models meet the new requirements from 1 December, and PABs that qualify will be affixed with an orange seal. LTA will approve PABs per the old requirements only until 31 January 2016. From 1 February, only PABs that meet new requirements will be approved and sealed. Those approved under current requirements and affixed with a blue seal, however, are still allowed on public roads.

Further, heavier penalties are being put in effect immediately as the number of offences involving the use or sale of non-compliant PABs has skyrocketed in the past few years. In 2008, only 11 notices were issued, but between January and October 2015 alone, the number of notices issued has surged to a jaw-dropping 1,280. 

To nip this in the bud, LTA is hiking the composition sum for first offenders to from $100 to $300, starting immediately. Subsequent violations will face fees of $500, from the current $200. Repeat offenders may also be charged in court and have their PABs seized. Meanwhile, retailers that illegally modify or sell non-compliant PABs will continue to be charged in court. This is only the beginning, though, as LTA is looking into further making amendments to current legislation.

LTA will disseminate brochures and posters detailing the key changes in the technical requirements to assist retailers and buyers alike. 

“Tightening the technical requirements for PABs and the penalties for errant users and sellers is part of our holistic strategy to make roads and paths safer for all users. The other key pillar of the strategy is to put in place a clear set of rules and norms for cyclists and users of PABs and Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs),” said LTA.

In this regard, LTA completed an online survey to seek the public’s feedback. Focus group discussions are also in the cards in the coming weeks to enable LTA to better understand views about the use of footpaths and cycling paths. Cyclists as well as PAB and PMD users can look forward to the revamped rules and norms for the safe use of paths and roads by cyclists and users of PABs and PMDs in the first half of next year.