OCBC CYCLE 2023: More than 7,300 cyclists take to the street

Registration for OCBC Cycle 2023 closed Monday with 7,308 participants.

The event is set to take place on 6 & 7 May this year.

More than 300 slots had been added to the initial 7,000 to cater to the added enthusiasm.

The 100km virtual ride and Mighty Savers® Kids & Family Ride were both sold out more than a month ago, soon after the early bird registration had ended.

70 per cent are brand new participants

OCBC Cycle 2023 is into its 15th iteration, on the back of increased interest in cycling, cultivated during the pandemic.

Said Koh Ching Ching, Head, Group Brand and Communications, OCBC Bank, “We are excited to bring back the full-scale OCBC Cycle. We would like to thank the 7,308 cyclists who have signed up and the various government agencies – Sport Singapore and the Land Transport Authority, who enabled the road closures in the heart of the city. OCBC Cycle has brought together people from all walks of life for a day of fun on wheels on closed expressways and city streets. We are gearing up for a safe and unforgettable day of cycling fun.”

More than half of this year’s event participants registered within the first three weeks after the launch of registrations in February.

More first-timers also signed up, with 70 per cent of registrations coming from first time participants, signalling the rising interest in cycling as a preferred sporting activity among Singaporeans.

Virtual categories to stay

The virtual rides, which were introduced during the pandemic in 2020, continue to be popular for cyclists who prefer to complete their event with family and friends over multiple rides and on their preferred routes.

The 100km virtual ride was sold out one month before the closure of registrations.

Speedway championships are back

The Speedway Championship is also back, with elite club competing on a closed road circuit along Stadium Drive.

This is the second year that the event is back, after being put on hold in 2020. This year there are a total of 22 teams battling for the titles among the local club, corporate and female championships. Allied World Racing, the club defending champions, are back with the same speed, energy and excitement that saw them win last year.

SG Bikes to provide bicycles

SG Bikes will also be deploying 200 bicycles for those who wish to take part but do not own a bicycle. this is the fifth year that they are doing so.

The presence of bike-sharing services at the event has allowed OCBC Cycle to be more accessible to over 4,000 cyclists who do not own a bicycle

On-site race pack collections

Pack collection will be taking place on-site again at the OCBC Arena and participants will be able to shop for cycling gear and equipment from Sunday Shades, Shimano and Key Power Sports. So don’t forget to bring your credit card along.

Participants will be entitled up to $250 discount when they purchase bicycles or cycling equipment from Happy Owl Cycle, an authorised dealer for Brompton, online, or via their physical store.