USERS of motorised bicycles here are supposed to use only models approved by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), but checks found unapproved models being sold in at least three shops here.

In these shops in Geylang and Bukit Merah, models without the LTA seal of approval were available.

To protect themselves, the shopkeepers claimed that these machines 'were for export only'; one even hung signs saying 'export' to make the point.

But when approached by a Straits Times reporter masquerading as a potential customer, the shopkeepers offered these two-wheelers for sale.

One of them, who declined to be named, admitted he sold unapproved bicycles because his customers - mainly the elderly - preferred them to the approved models.

He explained that the elderly, some of whom have knee problems, want models in which the motor chugs on even when they stop pedalling - a big plus for when they need to go up slopes.

But as LTA rules require this motor 'cut-off' feature, those who buy unapproved bikes risk being caught.

LTA rules also require the power to be cut off when the bicycle hits 25kmh, but some of the unapproved models can reach 30kmh.

Those selling the approved models complain that demand for them is low.

A seller in Joo Chiat said: 'There is no demand for approved bicycles. People aren't afraid to buy illegal bicycles.'

Another seller in Joo Chiat, who wanted to be known only as Madam Ong, said the illegal models were popular because they were bigger and could carry goods.

There seems to be no appreciable difference in price between the approved and unapproved models.

They cost between $800 and $1,500.

A 41-year-old man who called himself Moses was seen riding a vehicle which did not require pedalling. He said he was unaware that his machine would probably fail an inspection.

He said: 'The shop is selling, so many people have bought already. I thought it's ok.'

For more The Straits Times stories, click here.