Riding a motorcycle is fantastic; you no longer have to squeeze onto the MRT, nor do you have to wait in bumper-to-bumper traffic (thanks to lane-filtering). What’s more, owning a motorcycle is way cheaper than owning a car in Singapore. They are also less expensive to maintain and run on a day-to-day basis thanks to their small engines that consume less fuel, and in turn, they are also greener for the environment. And lastly, they are a lot of fun to just ride. Bikers describe the feeling close to flying! Motorcycles are a small and efficient vehicle to get you around Singapore.
Yet, the laws in Singapore are somewhat restrictive, and as a beginner biker, you are only allowed to hop onto Class 2B motorcycles, that is, under 200cc motorcycles. So, whether you have already passed the tests for Class 2B license, or are preparing for it, it is a good idea to narrow down your options on which bike you will own soon. You have two options. One, you can buy a brand new motorcycle that costs as little as S$10,000 without the COE of around S$4000. Two, you can buy a used motorcycle that is a lot cheaper but does come with a few issues that occur over time.
It is generally recommended that you buy a used motorcycle as your first motorcycle since you are more likely to drop the bike during your learning phase. Still, the decision lies on you. If you want to ensure that you get the best motorcycle and don’t mind spending some more, then you can never go wrong with a brand new one. But there are so many motorcycles in the market: Italians, Japanese, Austrian, and even Indian motorcycles. It can be a bit confusing. Hence, here is a shortlist of the best Class 2B motorcycles that you can buy right now.
Vespa LX150
To commence the list, there is Vespa LX150. The only scooter in this list. This Italian scooter combines the rich heritage of the brand with modern technology, and has retro styling that has stood the test of time. And it comes in a variety of vivid colors too. This scooter is cheap, fun, and very easy to ride thanks to the CVT gearbox that does not require you to change the gears, unlike motorcycles. Now, you will not be getting any performance out of this as the engine only makes around 12.9 bhp of power and 12.8 Nm of torque, which is enough for city rides and commutes.
Bajaj Pulsar NS200
Next up is the Bajaj Pulsar NS200, a street-oriented performance motorcycle hailing from India. This nimble bike boasts of a class-leading perimeter steel frame that is smooth to handle, and styling that is quite attractive. The 200cc water-cooled, fuel-injected motor makes 23 bhp and 18.3 Nm and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox providing quick acceleration that is only beaten by KTM 200 series. Although, note that the parts and service of this bike are on the higher side due to its performance-oriented nature.
Honda CB190R
Similarly, the CB190R from Honda is another street-oriented performance motorcycle that can compete with Pulsar NS200. It is easy to ride, but the best thing about it is that it is a Japanese motorcycle. So this means that it is smoother and more reliable than its competitors. It comes with a 190cc engine making 15.5 bhp and 15 Nm, mated to a 5-speed transmission. Plus it is attractive and comes with LED headlights and blinkers that its competitors lack. So if you are looking for a street bike that is easy on your wallet but stylish enough, then this is the ideal choice for you.
Aprilia SX125
Most people look at supersports or naked bikes as their first bikes, but there is one type of bike that they never consider: supermotos. And Aprilia SX125 is one. This street-ready dirt bike is fun and exciting, and perhaps no other bike comes close to it in those regards. It comes with a lightweight chassis housing a 125cc motor that makes 15 bhp and 11 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Sure, it is small, but the long-travel suspension and nimble frame make it a thrilling ride nonetheless. And you can also push this bike to its limits without worrying about breaking the law!
Yamaha YZF-R15 v3.0
Next up is a supersport, Yamaha YZF-R15 v3.0. This lightweight motorcycle with a delta-box frame is matched with a powerful 155cc engine that makes 19 bhp and 14.7 Nm of torque, a 6-speed transmission, and a slipper clutch. What’s more, the engine also has a variable valve actuation system to make the riding experience efficient. This is the perfect bike if you want something that looks like a liter-class bike. But is also easy enough on your wallet. Do note that the committed riding position might not be fit for longer rides.
KTM RC200
Lastly, there is the KTM RC200—the most exciting Class 2B motorcycle in Singapore. It is also the most expensive, but its fans argue that every penny is worth it. This motorcycle’s 200cc engine is based on the same platform as that of NS200. But it is tuned more aggressively to provide 25 bhp of power and 19.5 nm of torque. It is also lightweight, and the handling is unparalleled in its class thanks to the steel trellis frame. It also comes with a fully digital instrument cluster and a high-end suspension system. Including the inverted WP forks on the front. If you are passionate about motorcycles and want to upgrade to higher-capacity one in the next few years, then KTM RC200 is perfect for you. As it gives you the right training and discipline to handle the bigger bikes.
Riding a motorcycle is fun, and has many benefits. All you have to do is find the right one for you. And you will keep finding excuses to get on your motorcycle. It is also a bit risky, so always remember to ride within the legal limits. Remember to wear the best safety gear you can afford. Before you know it, you will be on your way to getting a Class A license so you can upgrade to a bigger bike!
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