Clueless with questions

[RTL]

Hi everyone, I'm thinking of getting a 2B license after I graduate but I have quite a few questions of riding in Singapore.

Not particularly keen on scooters but plan to commute to work/gym so storage space is gravitating me towards a scooter or a cruiser for comfort.

 

Storage:

Are scooters the best option for storage or will travel bags attached to a bike suffice for helmets/stuff?

 

Riding Clothes:

I've read several threads and spoken to some friends that ride but I'm still unsure of what gear would be the most efficient.

I've seen those plastic looking types of armour that's sort of collapsible, riding suits, armoured jackets etc but rarely see anyone in Singapore wearing anything besides a jacket or just a helmet.

Given the weather in Singapore and jacket needed to wear at the driving school, what is the recommended protection?

I'm thinking of maybe a mesh and waterproof suit but want something that's easy to put on/off and store, since I'm in Australia I am currently shopping around to see if prices might be better back home or not.

 

Helmet:

I've read that as long as the safety approval is on the helmet anything goes?

I wear glasses and with Singapore's weather what's the comfortable option?

Full helmets with visors, half helmets with prescription goggle inserts, switch back to contact lenses?

Seen some interesting helmets like the proteus foldable helmet and Reevu for wider angles of viewing.

 

Theft:

Total nubcake question, what is there to prevent someone from simply wheeling off your bike or loading it up a lorry?

 

GPS:

I'm assuming there is no way to use a GPS with the noise and rainy weather, or is there something that can be integrated with a helmet/bluetooth?

Maybe google glass will get some app developed.

 

Maintenance:

Is there a place to learn proper basic maintenance? Not particularly confident of just looking on the net as a reference and reading on the forums, it seems that self maintenance is an important factor as opposed to cars.

 

License:

Given the number of people switching up to something more powerful, is it cheaper to stick with 2B since there should be plenty of 2nd hand stuff?

 

Eh, driving in all white isn't against the law impersonating police is it:) ?

[SGGH]

Different Bike overview:

 

I ride Sports Bike - SP, CBR 400 = Bad for storage space, nowhere to put helmet, need to bring it around. However best handling and speed with adequate brakes.

 

Then I rode Phantom - good speed, low bike but dislike the handling. Storage okay, as you can put a 40L box, that can fit 2 helmets. Brakes is okay too.

 

Then I rode a Cub X1 - normal speed, poor braking system, I skidded because of that. Can put a box for storage.

 

Now I riding a Kymco Grand Dink 15 Scoot - lousy speed, good storage and sizeable for people to see you, but poor at lane splitting and overtaking. but okay brakes.

 

Riding Cloth - Depends on how racer you are.

 

For me anything goes, but minimum covered shoes, jeans, and a waterproof jacket for rain and shine, best equipped with a good glove. You will need waterproof bottom as well in case of wet weather. If you got big storage space, u can get a covered crocs for wet weather.

 

Some people prefer top jacket with metal platting as they encounter accident or see people accident before.

 

Helmet - i'll recommend a fullface. Strongly recommend. Protect the most precious, but the heat and the blind spot might hinder you. However, I still think a FF is good. if it's open face, then anything also can. get those with removable sponge, so you can wash them.

 

Theft:

There's Clutch Lock, brake lock for that, but I don't really recommend as u might forget and move off. that's it for your pocket. I rather you pay for 3rd party(with fire and theft) insurance.

 

GPS :

don't think it's really needed. Just read your map early, plan your route and find the way. If you follow GPS, accident might happen as you will make last minute turns and viewing on the GPS. too dangerous.

 

Maintenance:

It's the usual 12 point checks,

1) EO Dip Stick

2) Front and Rear Brakes

3) Throttle Free Play

4) Clutch

5) Tires

6) Chain Slacks

7) Signals

8) Suspension leakage

9) Lights

10) If you are going to for 2stroke, check your 2T

11) if you are scoots running on belts, check your mileage, 3k change belts and rollers.

12) If you encounter engine not running, check your fuel and the engine switch.

Scooters are harder to maintain especially those running on belts.

 

License: Easy on the pocket? 2B but if you look for thrill+ ability to brake? 2A and above. Don't spend all your money on 2B if u intend to up your ride.

 

Lastly, I doubt so.

 

Whatever it is, safety first. And always remember, most of them are blind. especially to riders. and even idiot riders.

[RTL]

Thanks for the reply!

I'm not too concerned with bike looks just function and from the threads a used phantom seems optimal.

Willing to splurge a bit on safety, full face helmet seems to cover accident prone areas.

Is it better to wear gear over your office clothes or keep the clothes in a bag and change later to avoid smelling like the outdoors?

Full riding suit vs jacket and textile pants which would be easier to store and be easier on the wallet?