Jz88 has been invited, along with other major brands of folding bikes in Singapore, to share feedback regarding the ‘Foldable Bicycle Trial on Trains and Buses’ that ends on 24 Nov 08.
If you have anything to said, feel free to post your comments here:
1) What is good about the trial?
2) What is not so good about it?
3) How would you suggest for improvement?
The meeting will be on this Friday, so post your comment before Thursday if you want your view to be included.
a post from sfgat in 1998 regarding the emerging trend of folding bikes, it is applicable for Singapore today as more and more Singaporean discovered the advantage and flexibility of a folding bike recently.
“My (collapsible) is beautiful, and I’m really proud of it,” says Marianne Skoczek, 37, publications manager for the Peninsula Humane Society. “It’s changed my life. Now I jump onto CalTrain whether or not the bike car (which holds a limit of 24 full- size bicycles) is full. Or if I visit my family back East, I can check it as luggage and pay no surcharge (airlines usually tack one on for full-size, crated bicycles.)”
That’s the essential charm of collapsibles. Where full-size bikes often face restrictions on mass transit, folders bound past all barriers by just changing into an accessory to tuck under your arm.
Skoczek’s road to happiness is typical of many owners. She hadn’t ridden much since her bike was stolen in college. For years, she endured horrendous auto commutes. A light bulb clicked on when she found out about folders. Her bike is now a vital tool for reaching work and running errands. She also finds it strong and comfortable enough for long recreational rides. Her record, so far: 60 miles.
We received a request from LTA. LTA would like to gather feedback from folding bike cyclists about the trial to allow foldable bicycles on board trains and buses, which commenced on 24 May 08. Attached is the survey form. Cyclists may return the survey form to Terence at terence_koah(at)lta.gov.sg by 12 Jun 2008.
http://app.lta.gov.sg/corp_press_content.asp?start=1933
Update <2008-12.15>
The size limited for folding bike dimensions has been enlarged to allow practical all the folding bikes listed her: at the bikes so
A six month trial to bring foldable bicycles on trains and buses
1 The Land Transport Authority (LTA), SMRT and SBST will launch a six-month trial to allow foldable bicycles on board trains and public buses during off-peak hours.
3 This trial is one of the several initiatives announced during the Land Transport Review to meet the transport needs of diverse groups of people. It recognises the increasing trend of people cycling for sports and recreation, cycling around the neighbourhood, or cycling to key transport nodes like MRT stations.
It is encouraging to read the views of the SMRT and SBS Transit:
7 Ms Kang Huey Ling, SMRT’s Director, Station Operations, said, “We are happy to work with LTA on this trial. At SMRT, we support cycling as a viable travel option by linking cycling with public transport. We encourage passengers with foldable bikes to be considerate to their fellow passengers so that everyone can enjoy a pleasant travel experience.”
8 Mr Gan Juay Kiat, Chief Operating Officer, SBS Transit Ltd, said, “In supporting this trial, we hope to help a new group of commuters to use public transport as they pursue healthy and fun living. It is a move that is in line with SBS Transit’s green charter in supporting healthy and green living. We hope that through this trial, all commuters will learn to be more accommodating and share the limited space available on board buses and trains with one another. While we support the trial, we are also mindful of potential implementation problems. For instance, onlstance, only foldable bicycles le bicycles of a certain size are allowed on board our buses and trains. Commuters with bicycles that are larger will not be allowed on board. Cycling enthusiasts may also be turned away when the bus is crowded as bringing a bicycle on board during such instances may pose a safety hazard to all passengers. In cases like these, disagreements may occur and we seek the co-operation and understanding of all passengers so as not to cause unnecessary service delays and inconvenience to others.”
GENERAL GUIDELINES
a) Cyclists are responsible for the safe carriage of their foldable bicycles and must stay in the vicinity of their foldable bicycles at all times.
b) Foldable bicycles should be folded at all times in the MRT / LRT stations, bus interchanges / terminals and on trains and buses.
c) Foldable bicycles should not exceed 114 cm by 64 cm by 36 cm when folded.
d) The wheels of the foldable bicycles should be wrapped up if they are dirty or wet.
e) Protruding parts likely to cause injury or dirty/damage property to be covered up.
f) Foldable bicycles should not block the aisles and doors or impede commuter movement at any time.
g) Foldable bicycles should be carried in an upright position.
h) Only two foldable bicycles are allowed on each bus at any one time.
i) When travelling by SMRT / SBS Transit station staff and bus drivers may disallow foldable bicycles if the actual situation within an MRT/LRT station, bus interchange/terminal or on board a train/bus does not permit foldable bicycles to be admitted safely and without inconveniencing other commuters.
Cyclists of foldable bicycles may approach SMRT / SBS Transit staff if they require any assistance.
The public can share their views on this trial by contacting LTA via 1800 2255-582 (1800 Call-LTA), feedback@lta.gov.sg or SMS 77582 “77LTA”.