Mass cycling event in Singapore a little expensive, no?

Nice to see a cycling event like the OCBC Cycle Singapore happening February 22nd 2009 but wah lau eh, the entry fees!

I understand if you are charging for the professional races but $34 to $63 for a 20km leisure ride? Isn't that a little expensive for a mass riding event? Is the LTA charging ERP for bikes that day or what?

The 40km event costs between $58 to $93 and the 50km Super Challenge category ($156 early bird) requires qualification even. It's not like that's a century ride or something really far, but there you go.

Meanwhile, those of us regular riders with less-than-deep pockets can ride from the F2 Carpark at East Coast Parkway, all the way to Changi Village, a very pleasant and FREE 17km ride. 34km if you ride both ways, plus get some really nice breakfast at Changi Village hawker centre.

I am undecided about participating. I might do so, just for the novelty of it, and if they really close ALL the roads on the route. Not that I haven't ridden on the roads myself but it would be nice for the wife to experience it without her being terrified by the traffic.

Of course, I have to confess that I spend $90 on my night cycling light alone, so who am I to talk about prices, right?

I do like playing with the crank on their website though. That one still free.

Discussions elsewhere:

-Cycling in Singapore blog
-Togoparts forums
-Red Sports
-HWZ (LOL: "knnbccb, the goodie bag got gold one")