RFID installation still active for 400cc scooter riders, just needs LTO verification
Over the weekend, social media was on fire with complaints from riders, particularly those on 400cc and above scooters, about what many perceived as unfair treatment when applying for an RFID for use on expressways.
Some claimed that SMC Tollways, more specifically its AutoSweep, was no longer allowing 400cc scooters to get an RFID, let alone use the tollways. We at MotoPinas.com reached out to SMC Tollways for clarification. According to the company, the social media claims were inaccurate.
Not stopped, just needs to verify first with LTO
With the rise in popularity of entry-level big bikes in the market, operators like SMC Tollways cannot verify every unit on their own and must rely on the registration documents presented by riders. Unfortunately, some riders have found ways to bypass the system, like using Photoshop or other editing apps to misrepresent their motorcycle or scooter’s displacement. This is especially common among riders of maxi-scooters that fall just short of the 400cc threshold.
To prevent entry of scooters or motorcycles with falsified documents, SMC Tollways told MotoPinas.com that their current policy requires riders to submit a copy of their vehicle registration along with their contact information. The company then coordinates with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to confirm the actual displacement. Once verified, owners are contacted again to schedule RFID installation.
How to spot the not 400cc?
Motorcycles like the KTM 390 series, which is based on the Bajaj Dominar 400, are actually 373cc but are “rounded up” to 400cc on registration documents. How this happened remains unclear. Other motorcycles and scooters have done the same, even if their actual displacement falls short of 400cc.
The simplest way to verify a bike’s true displacement is to check the official manufacturer specifications online, preferably from the brand’s international website to avoid any Philippine-specific adjustments. Another method is to inspect the engine block itself, as many manufacturers, particularly Japanese brands, stamp the actual displacement directly on it (see photo above).
In short, if your bike is under 400cc, trying to bypass the rule for an RFID isn’t worth the trouble.
