Do you need a 1000cc Motorcycle In Singapore? 

Honda ADV150 owner here. I crossed the border into Malaysia for the first time with my bike a few weeks ago and I honestly cannot imagine doing it in a larger Class 2 bike. Scooters really reign supreme in city-start-stop traffic.

Class 2A : just right for balance of both.... Happy riding, ride safe.

I used to ride a R1200R (2015) for about 2+ years before moving onto a car, and I couldn't be happier with my bike. It's the heaviest bike I've ever had, and I'm pretty sure I'm smaller size and less strong than the guy in the video. But I've never had any real problems handling my bike. Oh, and my bike was heavier than stock cos I added 3 storage boxes to it - 1 top and 2 side boxes. My bike never went across the Causeway at all. All her mileage was done in Singapore. I always parked tail-in because it's easier to warn traffic behind you that you're stopping soon to park and oncoming traffic will know to give you some space since they now know you're coming to a stop soon. It's in their interest to move aside so they can keep going rather than being held up by you. Many SG drivers are selfish and time-conscious. So use that to your advantage. Exiting a carpark going down a slope.....never ever ride past the card reader. If you really find yourself in the same situation as shown in the video, don't even try to reverse the bike. Just put in gear, turn off engine, get off the bike, tap your cashcard, get back on and go. Because you know you can't push the bike in reverse. It's not your arms pushing, it's your legs. And you're pushing with your legs getting little contact with the ground. If you get off to use your arms, then you might as well go tap the reader since you're already getting off. Much faster, easier, and more comfortable. I also had a Katana 750 back in the mid-90s, and a CB750 around 2008-2010. From small bikes to big bikes, I've had roadsters (aka street bikes), sports bikes, sports tourers, scooters and cruisers (aka choppers). No trail bikes cos not my thing. But I did try riding my friend's KTM around campus. Super light compared to my bikes. Class 2B, 2A and 2 all got their own pros and cons. But also, you need to learn how to adapt to the differences of riding each class of bike. Even within the same class, different types of bikes will present different challenges, handling characteristics, etc etc, so to be able to fully enjoy the bike you ride, you need to know how to adjust yourself. I'm not claiming to be an expert on big bikes, or saying that I'm more experienced than the guy in the video. But I'm just trying to say that for me, I don't have the same issues/grumbles/complaints that he has about riding a Class 2 bike in Singapore. If you really like a certain big bike, and you can afford it, go for it after doing your due diligence. I know for a fact that the respective authorised agents for Harley and BMW do have test bikes for prospective buyers to test ride, so if you're concerned about the weight, you can consider checking them out to help in your decision-making.

Happened to a friend. Finally got a Class 2 and saved up enough to buy dream big bike, then planned to sell his old kapcai. A few commutes on the big bike later, and he was back on his kapcai. That kapcai that he got years ago when he first got his 2B is still the bike he rides 90% of the time, an actual practical mode of transport. His big "dream bike" ended up being just a toy to enjoy on weekends.

Totally agree. Too many times I struggled to find parking or get in/get out of parking with a class 2 bike.

I recently downgraded from a 650cc touring bike to a 250cc maxi scooter. One of my best decisions. I travel to and fro KL almost every single day and automatic bikes are a life saver.

You forgot to mention 1 very important point. The maintenance of class 2 bike. If it’s a daily rider, class 2b bike is 4x cheaper to perform the oil change as it only uses 1l compare to 4l for class 2 machine.

Absolutely objective point of view and advice.. Thanks Amos 🙏

Super 4 is light and punchy enough. For Singapore roads, it's more than adequate. Used to ride an FJR too and encountered the same problems as you. But on Malaysian highways it's a bliss to ride, 150, 160 cruise control, windshield up and super stable, I didn't even feel the thrill of speed. Now I'm back to a lighter bike, Kawasaki z900rs. It's Super 4 upsized that's all. Think iI'll stay with that for a while.

2:00 . Biggest nightmare when riding a Class 2 bikes. Especially a big or tall one like the Africa Twin. Even on a colder day, you're bound to sweat from the anxiety. 😂😂

i think getting a class 2 bike is every riders ultimate dream, only when u get one than u know all the disadvantage.its a good video though 👍

I ride around Manila on a Scrambler 1200, same sentiments too, challenging to get through traffic but I try to manage. Eventually I got used to it but when I go back to a small bike, it’s so much fun.

Im riding a 1200gs now, its a great bike but a struggle to move around in Singapore. Used to ride cb400x. I miss that bike because its so easy to move around for daily city ride. Good fuel mileage, good manoeuvring.

went from a Class 2B bike up to a Class 2 Blackbird and STX1300... then came to pretty much the same realization as you said in this video. Been riding a 150 scooter for the past 12 years ever since. Not going back to Class 2 unless its like a T-max or X-ADV scooter type.

I've ridden 2 different Class 2 bikes in Singapore on short stints while visiting and I could feel the anxiety when he goes down the slope towards the auto ticket gantry. Impossible to back out, hard to u-turn safely on a tall heavy bike, cars coming up behind you blocking you in, and I would say about 50% of the time the gate wouldn't work for me (double-checked my NETS card correctly inserted, has balance etc). Glad to see this is not an unusual occurrence! I thought I just had bad luck.

I ride a R6 and ffs everything mentioned in the video is exactly what I feel rn. Just to add on, maybe specifically for higher cc sport bikes.. it's almost Impossible to keep within sg speed limits even on expressways, the heat will creep in on the thighs unless you go fast. It's a pain to ride big bikes in Singapore, must cross border to really appreciate the larger displacement.. I also ride an aerox as my daily and I couldn't agree more with you, scooters are really a game changer in city riding 🤣

100% right. The problem in Singapore is the cost of owning a vehicle. It is difficult to own 2, one for local rides and one for long distance ride. I owned a VFR400R, a Pegaso 650 and a ST1100 in Singapore before shifting to cars due to family reason. Out of the 3, my favorite one was the ST100. It was big but light as soon as I was moving due to the very low CG. Finding suitable parking spaces was most challenging. But it was able to do everything. Later in Thailand, leaving in Bangkok, I bought a NMax which I found is the perfect tool for squeezing into the traffic (a lot more packed than in Singapore) but this machine starts to feel limited on highway and make you feel vulnerable. Later I rented a Xmax in Singapore. That could be the ideal size for Singapore. Pretty small but with enough power and presence to feel alright on the expressways. Main limitation of scooters is the suspension and riding position that make them tiring, at least to me. Over the past few weeks I have been riding a 390 Duke. 400cc bikes could be the sweet spot between fun and reason. But going Malaysia and beyond, I would want a big bike.

I’ve been riding my ducati scrambler 800 for over 1.5 yrs now - and it’s perfect for Singapore as well as riding touring from Singapore to say phuket or Bangkok (done it). I didn’t take the 1100 as it heats up fast at traffic lights. When you consider the sports bike - yes it’s overkill and overheat. Any large ADV bike - definitely hard for Singapore. But the BMW R9 scrambler or anything similar makes perfect sense.

This is a good video ! thank you so much

Even with all the disadvantages mentioned in the video, I really really loved my AT and Tracer. I've never thought of downgrading to a smaller bike. With owning a big bike, you just have to be mindful of where you stop and how you park.

I personally believe in keeping within your budget. I noticed riders going way beyond what they can afford,when it comes to buying C2 bikes. Repairs are so costly, that oftentimes you'll be spending in the 4 digits. Keep the cost low so you can enjoy riding the bike worry free.

Thanks for the very truthful video

Ty for the info 👍

My rule of getting any bike - you must be able to carry it up at least 3 times.. and able to ride it comfortably for average long distance (400Km) without much stress. The rest is individual preference depends what you want it for. I choose ADV as I usually ride for touring and less daily commute. For Spore, I would strongly propose for Scooter unless you are those who like to playing with clutch/gears. 😅

I used to own 3 Class 2 bikes. I love the FZ1S for city commute. I hate the Super Tenere when I accidentally dropped the bike at the carpark. 😅

This is definitely the case for Class 2 adventure / sport tourers. Some Class 2 bikes are really small though, like my wife's Triumph Speed Twin. Easy to lane split, plenty of power and very maneuverable even in heavy traffic. But the heat, I could probably roast a chicken on the side with that bike.

The short answer is definitely no. Most of the time a Class 2A bike is more than enough, so someone would have to think very carefully if they’re ready to pay for the increased road tax, increased sticker price, less efficient engine and all the other things you mentioned in the video. Maybe owning for a year or two just to experience the thrill of it, impress your family & friends and all the looks you’ll get from the public, but most people just downgrade back to a simple 2B scooter or bike for daily commutes because it’s more practical.

For all the Singaporean buddy, get a scooter like XMAX or Forza. It can cater both world (here in Malaysia both are 250cc). Owning 2nd bike in Singapore a tricky situation hence 1 bike that can do both is the answer. Here in Malaysia, XMAX going to Siam is increasing like hell😂 so sure can one!

Ideally biker enthusiast need x2 bikes. 1 for SG commuting, the other for touring adventure outside SG. 🤭 However, it is expensive here in SG to own 2 bikes. I own class 2b to class 2a to class 2 all these years after passing classes of bike license. Now back to class 2a bike. In reality, I ride in SG aka city riding 90% of the time daily riden. So I find class 2a, for me just nice la... I did the reality checked to remind myself... ✌🏽

Having the same problems with my GSA in SG. Thats why i always have to plan if I want to ride my GSA in SG, which parking to go for, will ban those especially gantry with slope, but for me I still keep my Xmax which mainly for work and SG ride.

In my opinion uh, 2A bikes are good enough to bring in SG plus if you plan to cross boarder or plan to start on track, it shouldn't be much of an issue as well. The way I see it. Class 2 for me is for like Long Touring Or Tack usage heh.

Agree with everything being said . I had bikes from every class. My next bike is probably class 2a scooter for easy riding. Class 2 was fun when it’s moving but you have to stop a lot of times. That is not fun.

i agree with u, a small bike would be soooo much easier, but sometimes having the power to overtake is sooo much better.... so i think a 2A bike is more suitable for singapore, but where u park 4 mins $2.25 sia

The love hate of riding class 2. haha hot and sibei expensive to maintain. Glad made the switch to scooter (XMAX) best decision ever.

2A is indeed ideal but I still love my Tmax for city riding

Great vid! Guess I’ll be keeping my 2A bike for now.

Thanks for the video. Was deciding between a Yamaha Tracer 7, Tracer 9, and Niken and though I was already heavily leaning towards the 7, this video has helped nail it down. I ride almost everyday and plan to do some touring and feel these bikes fit the task well enough. Though everyone says the CP3 engine is really nice, I think I'll settle with the CP2 since my priorities are daily riding in Singapore rather than the touring capabilities or sporty riding with the bigger bike. (plus I think the squinty lights from the T7 looks better). On top of that, there are plenty of comparisons on the net that shows the recent Tracer 9 has some quirks like wind buffeting issues, tendency to stall, overly stiff suspension, and much more that the smaller brother does not appear to have.

Thx Amos. I'm on an S4 and midst of my Class 2 license. Was thinking if a big cc bike suits my daily ride to office work. I'll keep in mind the opinions on this video.

I was thinking of upgrading from my 400x to a class 2 bike, but might get a zx4rr instead. More power, with better suspension and brakes, all the tech and quickshifter as standard, but still light and nimble to get around SG traffic.

The gantry problem is real. Happend a handful of times to me. Sweat man! 🥵

For leisure rides, absolutely. I ride a 1000cc sportbike to work the past few years, it was great in smooth traffic. Until you get stuck in heavy traffic in a scorching hot Sunday in May. Your balls are already medium rare by the time you reach the first traffic light. The amount of traffic lights in Singapore, trust me when I say your 1000cc bike isn’t happy and will let you know it’s feeling by further cooking of your inner calves. Then there’s the parking, some places have such a narrow parking slot that you wonder if the one drawing the outlines of the slot have some prejudice against riders. You then also worry that the people who parked beside you will accidentally leave their signature on your beautiful ceramic coated bike. The weight of the bike is also a huge concern. I’m a strong male and once stationary dropped my bike. Never once had I called an object a fat b*tch. It was fully pumped with petrol and it took so much of me to lift it up that I had to order 2 double mcspicy after to replenish my energy from that maneuver. Won’t wish that on my worst enemies, especially if they are built like weasel. Did I also mention that they are thirsty af? They will demand more meals than your actual gf/wife or both. Your smiles card is called a smiles card for a reason, because you always feed it generously with points. The traffic lights in Singapore. I can tell you I’ve never used the 6th gear before. In heartland and city area, you can get by from A to B in 1st gear. In the expressway, 4th gear can potentially get you into a lot of trouble in regards to the law and your life of course. Finally, I got myself a second sportbike because I’m shameless like that as I love sportbike but a smaller 125cc one. It felt like a toy in terms of how light it weighs. I felt like I was abusing it just by sitting on it. In conclusion, 1000cc is Overkill with a capital O. Even 600cc is overkill to me. In my humble opinion, 400cc is perfect as it has more than enough power to provide you with a lot of fun. 1000cc is for you to flex and shame those Honda civics that thinks they can outrun you. It’s great to get chicks and a lovely night ride around the country and some photoshooting. But never ever ride it to work, at that point if you do you’re just a psychopath. Hope this helps anyone who wants to get a 1000cc bike as their only bike.

Quite a few years back, I owned and rode a Rocket III Classic. Super comfortable, Very stable, Mega HOT!!! At the same time I still have a, even today, an old BMW R1200C, which has very unfortunately been handed a death sentenced by NEA even though it more than meets the emission requirements. While both are large by Class 2 bike standards, both handle very well with low center of gravity, the Rocket is a behemoth compared to the BMW. For day to day city use, I miss my previous bike a Class 2A Super 4 Spec III. Easy to lane split, park almost anywhere, just about enough power to get out of sticky situations in SG, and even for short forays across the Causeway.

Getting stuck at a downslope gantry really sucks big time. For me, riding MT09 on SG roads is the perfect bike for me. Nimble enough for lane filtering, plenty of power to siam sticky situation and you can move your bike to park like a 2B bike. But my previous bike TMAX, albeit super comfy, i am super nervous when lane filtering and its so much heavier compared to MT09 even though its 530cc vs 847cc.

If you were to get a class 2, a scooter is a viable choice. Yes its just 500+cc in general but they are one of the agile bikes compared to the non scooter counterparts. Though not as comfortable as touring or adventure bikes, they can provide a comfortable tour.

no need. overkill. but the safety aspects plus point. now 2A bikes also have good safety tech. 2B slowly catching up!

Yeah. So I've been riding literbikes for nearly 2 decades now. R1 to FZ1, and they're hot. And so I have a maxi-scoot for my commuter ride. LOL... it's also a class 2 Maxi scoot. But it's still a lot better than a literbike for the local roads

Agree, if you need abit more power class 2a is good enough.

I'm from penang ..Same struggle bro..i totally loath riding in the island..traffic is horrendous..too many traffic lights and too many narrow lanes..luckily, in malaysia, it doesn't cost much to own another smaller 'kapcai' (underbone) as a 2nd bike

I got 2 & 2b bikes but i tend to use my CRF1100 daily because of its comfortability and my work distance.. est 600km in 1 full tank really save me alot of hassle from going to the petrol station. 😅

Agree with you 100%... Plus highest maintenance, lower mileage, higher road tax and insurance...

Riding CBR600F2 is just nice not too big not too small

This video reminds me why I sold my FZ1. I am always worried when exiting a carpark on a slope

adv 160 here. i think if planning for city riding. scooter/dct motorcycle are dream due to traffic stops and tight roads. yes 1000cc are nice but consider the location etc.. even im gonna buy a higher cc i probly go for a maxxi scoots or xadv i mean yes its 700+cc but the comfortability of dct/automatic in city

i love my xsr900. It's small and cute yet powerful.

Mid cc class 2 bike best compromise. Not too big, easier to maneuver.power is there when you need it. Can do it all

I’m also thinking for changing current on Vespa GTS 300. What are your thoughts on Zontes 350E? I know most swear by Xmax but I recently saw Zontes quite good reviews. Only thing I am concerned about is reliability as it’s a China bike

You needed an even bigger bike with reverse! EG BMW 1600,goldwing

I will say yes. In SG context, it really depends on which class 2 bike you riding. I travel at least 50km daily and is riding NC750X; previously was on Super4 Revo but the cost of NC is cheaper and easier to maintain. Due to it's height, lane splitting with NC750X is so much easier compared to Super4. Parking is never a problem for me because I have the habit to disembark and park the bike. Bigger bikes are more visible to other road users so the likelihood of them "bullying" you is reduced. With the lack of small bikes agility, you are likely to ride more safely as well. ***BTW, if anyone planning to get big bike, please don't install the big ass side boxes and road hog when lane splitting just because your ass too big cannot pass through :D

❤what u showed is totally agreed..hey bro do more facts video pls..on how sg Road like..ur point is good

Any experience with a FJR in Singapore condition or touring up North? Is it good for daily ride? Can't decide if i should bump up to C2 or get another smaller C2A bike. TIA...

Class 2B a bit too soft for the casual trip to the North. Once i get 2A, will get a bike then. I'd say best balance. Class 2 will take next time, but the bike not necessary 😂

woah! same thing happened - down slope on a carpark exit and it wouldnt read the card. Luckily a friend was just opposite the carpark and saw me, he helped. I would have sweat right down to my balls otherwise. at that moment I realised having big bikes sometimes sux.

NC750x I feel is the best Class 2 bike for SG after having ridden RSV4 and a FZ1s for few years now.

Riding in SG is simply just for fun , as a hobby, pastime. Big bikes, no problem at all.

if you earn half decent salary then just go get it. you do spend more without a doubt (depending on brand) BUT every single ride and every single start of the bike is just so enjoyable. i rode my class 2 for 4 years as a daily and love every single day of it. Oh ya go get a full system for +bonus

No Need: require (something) because it is essential or very important rather than just desirable.

Min 4:23...where to get the foam back rest on the box? Thanks in advance!

Absolutely needed, so u can ride to Genting fast aa not like cb500x taking 6hrs to reach there 💀 plus u can tapau geng2 LC135 with top box on highway...

I would love to ride in singapore ine day the road seems nice

great video! was about to get my class 2 license when i saw the lta implementing stricter rules so i guess ill stick to 2a. with more power comes more responsibilities..i think ill just get a xmax or a 2a scooter with just enough power to get out of sticky situations and comfort.

Wah now idk if I should just buy a class 2a bike or take my class 2 in 3 months time....

I think size and weight is a matter of getting used to it. Each bike has their own character. You need to ride your class 2 bike on a daily basis, you will get used to it. Your skill will improve overtime as well.

Is the class 2 easy and fun but I don't want to ride a far places in Singapore I do delivery rider only near at my house.

hi, wheres that place where you watched the sunset?

For Singapore roads, a super 4 is extremely perfect. If well taken care of, that bike will be perfect in every single condition. But boring la after a while 😅

To answer the title, yes

what mic do u use on the bike

My friend used to ride NC for daily commute to work but after he switched to cb1000r, he only ride occasionally and taking public transport to work…

Will you be.doing a touring video on.a class 2B bike?

haven't even touched on getting stuck at checkpoints. my calves got a workout thanks to being stuck there on my Super Tenere 😢

2a just nice best of both world

Get X-ADV750 la scooter class 2, can use to tour also

where is that place at the end of the video?

There are very light class 2 bike around... Mostly supermotos... lighter than most 2A bikes.

Are big bikes cost just as crazy as cars in Singapore?

Next video idea, is cafe, sports, adventure, or scooter best for sg daily riding?

My MT-07 I feel is just nice. Lighter weight than most class 2 while having good braking power and acceleration. Of course scooters like xmax are more convenient but they are scooters.

Where was the last location at?

😂 agree. at the end of the day kapcai with basket at front and box behind most functional

some bikes are lighter though, like the newer S1000R are even lighter than older CD400s. maybe 600-800 cc is another option?

Short answer: No need but it’s a good experience!😊

Every biker has a dream bike in their mind when they take their class 2b. Usually that dream bike is a class 2 bike.

Taking my class 2 now, but gonna just stay on 2A bikes in SG. I used to own a Nmax but after awhile, the ride quality just becomes a bit boring in my personal opinion.

Just nice the worst thing to happen (stuck in downslope gantry), happens in this video hahaha. AT is my dream bike but I can barely push my 400x up when this happens. If I've alrdy went over the hump, gg... 😂

cannot lah.. if you are going up north maybe ok lah.. but if you drive around metro and stuff like that.. then better off with a scooter or small cc bike..

What did you ride?

The most vivid memory I have that prompted me to get a class 2: I was overtaking a Malaysian bus on lane 1 with a pillion, and then, the bus started cutting into my lane. Pressing on the horn did nothing. Not sure whether to brake or to accelerate, I chose to accelerate, and with the meagre power a class 2B can afford, I barely made it out. That is why I ride a class 2. Personally, will never go back to 2B for safety reasons.

If you don't have saddle bags or panniers, a big bike isn't necessary. If you don't do adventure (off road), a big bike isn't necessary. If you don't ride up to Malaysia for touring, big bikes isn't necessary. If you don't do touring but need the two-up option, a big bike isn't necessary. If you can't get to max gear for cruising 80% of the ride and need to stop often for traffic lights, then big bikes isn't necessary.

Sold my tracer900 to ride with my super4 in Singapore. Never left Singapore w my bike before haha

I used to ride 2 bikes.St1300 and aerox. Honestly,im happier with the aerox. St1300,hot weather plus hot engine,traffic jam = All the best good luck.