5 Essentials for Motorcyclists in Singapore

Motorcyclists in Singapore face two distinct “seasons” (rain and sun). Here are five essentials for motorcyclists in Singapore!

1. Muc-Off Wash, Protect & Lube Kit

The first step to being a motorcyclist is to know your ride. It’s essential to wash, maintain and care for your bike. I love Muc-Off, and having this kit helps me do all three!

There are three types of lube – dry, wet and all-purpose – from Muc-Off. Generally, I will use the wet, and the all-purpose lubes as these are the better ones to serve Singapore’s dynamic weather changes.

How often should you reapply lube to your motorcycle chains? It is best to apply them after riding, once a week. The chains would have expanded after a ride, allowing the lube to coat the chain better (as compared to applying it on cold chain). Depending on the ride, you should also reapply lube after a heavy downpour.

Want to know how much it costs to own a motorcycle in Singapore? Read more here.

Knowing how much to reapply will take some trial and error. Too little will cause you to have a rough ride and noisy chains. Your sprockets will wear out faster. However, too much lube will cause a slick sound. Take some time to learn your ride, and it will thank you soon!

Get the Muc-Off Wash, Protect & Lube Kit here.

2. Motorcycle Raincoat

As a rider in sunny (and rainy) Singapore, being adaptable to weather changes is a must-have skill to stay safe. Every rider should always have a set of raincoats in their essentials to immediately change by the roadside when the weather goes bad.

Acknowledge your visibility on the roads and people’s visibility of you during adverse weather conditions. This increases the chances of accidents. Being more visible on the streets will help to reduce the risks. You can activate hazard lights on your motorcycle (wherever possible), lower down your motorcycle gear, and practice intermittent braking to ensure effective braking. Also, use your rear brakes conscientiously, as your ride is more prone to aquaplaning.

Not only that, consider getting a raincoat that increases your visibility on the roads. On highways, motorcyclists are one of the most, if not the most, vulnerable road users. Avoid raincoat colours such as white and black. Choose colours such as bright yellow and have reflective strips.

Get the Motorcycle Raincoat here.

3. UV Sun Protection Compression Arm Sleeves

Hot, hot, hot! Singapore’s getting hotter by the day. Did you know that our arms and legs are also vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays other than our face? It would help if you always put on sunscreen. I have pretty oily skin, and my sunscreen of choice is the Cosrx Aloe Soothing Cream. I put at least two fingers’ worth of sunscreen on my face and more on my arms.

It does get a little tedious, but you can also wear extra layers of clothes to cover your arms. However, it gets impractical due to heat, and instead, I wear arm sleeves. When worn right, arm sleeves absorb your sweat, leaving your skin dry and cool.

Get the UV Sun Protection Compression Arm Sleeves here!

4. Essentials – Tools

Now, this gets a little controversial. With minimal space on your ride, nobody would be inclined to keep a complete range toolbox with tools. But when you’re in a sticky situation…

Hence, it’s great to have a compact tool set. From loose bolts to changing spark plugs, you don’t need a fancy kit. All you need is just a 16 in one! Get your Olyeem Motorcycle Portable 16 in 1 Cycling Multifunctional Repair Tool Set!

5. WD40

This is an iconic essential for any motorcyclist. It’s a definite staple for most people at home, and this is super useful to ensure joints are well lubricated. However, do note that this is not sufficient to lubricate your chain. I usually use this to clean my chains instead during my motorbike washes. The nozzle also dislodges any dirt in between the rings of my chain.

It’s also a great mild lubricant for your signal light buttons and keyholes (e.g. ignition).

Get WD40 here!

Bonus: Xiaomi Mi Portable Electric Air Compressor 1S

The nearest air pump might not be convenient to get to. Sometimes, we’re just a little forgetful or lazy to do some maintenance over the weekends. Having this Air Compressor from Xiaomi does the trick!

It’s excellent for motorcyclists and drivers, especially when you feel like your tyres need some air. It’s a handy tool to have in your box or boot. Note that the Air Compressor does get a little hot – that is okay!

Get the Xiaomi Mi Portable Electric Air Compressor 1S here!

So there you have it! 5 (+1) essentials that motorcyclists should have in their box. Ride safe on the roads!