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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marc-marquez-back-on-a-bike-poised-for-return-in-texas/ | MotoGP: Marc Marquez back on a bike, poised for return in Texas? |
Injured MotoGP star Marc Marquez is back on a bike for training. Can he return in time for this weekend’s race in Austin, Texas?
MotoGP ace Marc Marquez has returned to train on a bike for the first time.
This is his first on-track training since his recent bout of double-vision (diplopia).
Paddock rumours speculate a possible early return in time for this weekend’s round in Texas.
Record-setting seventh MotoGP title may still be within reach this year.
Six-time MotoGP title winner Marc Marquez is eager to return and make his bid for this year’s title. Proof of which came yesterday after he took to his Instagram and posted an IG Story of him training on a bike once more – his first on-track training following his recent injury.
As reported prior, Marquez endured another round of double-vision (diplopia) caused by a massive high-side suffered during Sunday morning’s Warm Up for the Indonesian GP. It not only forced him out of said race, it also side-lined him out of last weekend’s round in Argentina.
Screenshot from Marc Marquez’ Instagram.
Judging from his aforementioned IG Story post, his vision has healed enough to allow on-track training aboard a Honda CBR600RR. Marquez didn’t reveal much apart from a follow up IG Story posting stating “It’s time to breathe and decide.”
Paddock rumours indicate his intent to return quickly, perhaps in time for this weekend’s Round 4 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas – a venue he both truly loves and holds a near-perfect record at.
Fuelling this further is the fact that, after three rounds, the MotoGP title race is still an open fight with no clear favourite just yet. Presently, Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro leads the tables following his maiden win – and Aprilia’s first in the modern MotoGP era – in Argentina last weekend.
Indeed, a record-setting seventh MotoGP title is still within reach for Marc Marquez this year, so as long as he returns to his wining ways aboard the fully reengineered Honda RC213V – a bike he seems to be struggling at adapting to – and avoid any further injuries…
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-desmosedici-gp17-a-closer-look/ | Ducati Desmosedici GP17 – A Closer Look |
The latest Ducati Desmo GP17 is one of the fastest bikes on track.
Casey Stoner showed it’s incredible potential on Day 1.
‘Mysterious box’ under the rear tail said to be possible new jet exhaust propulsion system
First bike to break the 2-minute barrier during Sepang MotoGP Winter Test 2017
During the MotoGP winter test a couple of days back, we were invited by the main sponsor on the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, Shell Malaysia, to the Ducati Garage Tour to have a look at what it’s like for the team and bikes in the highest level of motorcycle racing in the world.
Although the visit was short and sweet, we got the golden opportunity to look at the most wildly discussed MotoGP bike that’s planned to compete in the 2017 season. We are of course referring to the top speed missile, the Ducati Desmosedici GP17.
From the outside with all of its Ducati colours, the bike does not look all that that different. In fact, the colours are quite similar when compared to the design used last season. What intrigued us the most was the back end of the GP17, the exhaust.
As seen last week during the Ducati private test session, there was a mysterious box right under the tail of the bike. The presence of the black carbon fiber box offsets the exhaust to the right and most of us have been cracking our brains on what could be the content of this mysterious compartment.
Just a few days ago, Ducati filed a patent on what seems to be a jet exhaust system for motorcycles that works in a similar fashion of an exhaust found in jet fighters like the F22 Raptors. That leaves the rest of the world freaking out thinking that the new Desmosedici might use a jet-style exhaust to compensate the effects of the banned winglets.
During the Sepang winter test itself, Casey Stoner managed to set the fastest lap in Day 1 on board the GP17. Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso opted for the older GP16 at first but later in the day, we noticed that Dovizioso hopped on his own GP17 and set the second fastest time of the day. Only Stoner and Dovizioso managed to break the 2-minute barrier of SIC in the first day, both did so while riding the Desmosedici GP17.
We did not really see much of Lorenzo with the new GP17. Based on what Stoner commented previously, Lorenzo needs time to get used to the unique characteristics of the Desmosedici after having spent years on a very different Yamaha M1. Based on time sheets, we can see that Lorenzo is making great improvements and we’re confident he will be a contender for the MotoGP crown.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ktm-890-duke-r-also-appears-at-eicma-2019/ | 2020 KTM 890 Duke R Also Appears at EICMA 2019 |
2020 KTM 890 Duke R
The 2020 KTM 890 Duke R was also launched at EICMA 2019.
Updates to the bike refines what the 790 Duke was bad at.
The new bike weighs only 166 kg, dry.
The 2020 KTM 890 Duke R was also launched at EICMA 2019.
While looking almost identical, the 890 Duke R is what the 790 Duke should’ve been and more.
Starting from the engine, KTM increased both bore and stroke to 90.7 mm and 68.8 mm. Doing so ups power to 120 bhp and 99 Nm of torque, from 105 bhp and 87 Nm.
As with other new KTMs the 890 Super Duke R also receives front and rear WP Apex suspension. The Austrian manufacturer chose to bin the 790’s J. Juan front brake calipers, too. In their place are now Brembo Stylema calipers that have so far been seen on bigger bikes only.
Cornering traction control, ABS are present and motor slip regulation (MSR), thanks to an inertial measurement unit (IMU), along with the “supermoto mode” to drift the rear wheel. The up and down quickshifter is optional, of course.
The bike weighs only 166 kg, dry despite the revisions. KTM dubs it the “Super Scalpel.”
No price yet but it’s expected to cost more than the old bike. Another thing is we wonder if it’ll debut in Malaysia. Although the 790 Duke was super cheap overseas it became rather expensive when it reached our shores.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-gs-surpasses-500000th-mark/ | BMW GS surpasses 500,000th mark |
BMW Motorrad marked a major milestone a few days ago after its 500,000th GS enduro model rolled off its production line.
Fittingly, the bike that broke the mark happened to be a R1200 GS. Motorrad’s top selling model nameplate has been around for more than three decades now. Since its introduction in 1980, the GS range has been regarded by many as the bike that perfectly merged off-road and daily street riding capabilities at once.
Unlike the first GS, which came powered by a 798cc boxer-twin with 50hp, the R1200 GS that rolled off the line recently featured a 1,170cc boxer-twin with 125hp. It also came primed with a set of semi-active electronic suspension, traction control, and ABS brakes that symbolises BMW Motorrad’s commitment towards continuing success and rider satisfaction.
Source: Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/highlights-kuala-lumpur-bike-week-2019/ | HIGHLIGHTS: Kuala Lumpur Bike Week 2019 |
The Kuala Lumpur Bike Week 2019 organised by Red Garage Malaysia and supported by Tourism Malaysia concluded last Saturday with great success as thousands of bikers and enthusiasts from all over Malaysia and neighbouring countries gathered at Bandar Malaysia, KL (the old Sungai Besi airport).
Machines of all makes, shapes, and sizes made their way to the old airport base for the usual bike week activities; catching up with good friends and family, sitting down for some good food, rocking it out with several bands who performed throughout Friday and Saturday, as well as other fun-filled activities for the whole family.
It was a sight to behold as Red Garage Malaysia not only conducted a successful bike gathering but also celebrated their 10th anniversary in organising such an amazing event. MCs from across the country and other neighbouring factions all came and showed their support for the masses.
Even those without bikes came with their families to join in the festivities from adoring all the fine bikes and cars to hot air balloon rides. Hundreds of fellow riders joined in the Saturday evening ride around KL with the message to fight against racism because as we all know, bikers don’t see colour and we love everyone.
With that being said, enjoy our photo gallery highlighting the 10th-anniversary KL Bike Week 2019 organised by Red Garage Malaysia and supported by many. Our biggest congratulations to Red Garage for putting on quite a show for everybody!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/sic-officially-launches-2016-shell-malaysian-motogp/ | SIC officially launches 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP |
2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP officially launched by SIC.
The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) marked the official launch of the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP race weekend yesterday in a special ceremony held in Nu Sentral, Kuala Lumpur.
Present here was SIC CEO Dato’ Razlan Razali, as well as Shell Malaysia’s Local Senior Downstream Representative Huzani Husain. The latter’s presence once again marked the leading oil and gas firm’s continued support for the annual motorsport event.
This year, the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP weekend runs from Oct 28 to Oct 30 where it stands as the 17th round in the 2016 season’s 18-round calendar. As always, SIC has kicked things into high gear and fans can expect plenty of on- of off-track excitement as always.
Shell Malaysia has also kicked off its own promotional program through its specially designed and limited edition Shell Advance lubricants pack. (Click here to know more and how you can win free tickets to the race weekend too!)
Mega MotoGP Carnival and more
Just like last year, SIC will host yet another round of its Mega MotoGP Carnival throughout its Mall Area. A total of 80 booths have been confirmed and features a number of big names and brands from the two-wheeled industry.
Highlights here include manufacturers such as BMW Motorrad, Kawasaki, Ducati, Yamaha, KTM and Honda. These manufacturers’ presence will be bolstered further by the presence of other related names such as title sponsors Shell, GIVI, Shark Helmets and Red Bull.
Other long-running activities such as the meet-and-greet with riders remains a mainstay. However, SIC have gone to the extent of organising two special additions – the ‘Watch the Race from the Sky’ program plus the Rockaway Festival 2016.
The latter sees SIC tying up with Livescape in hosting the nation’s longest-running and most celebrated rock n roll music festival. The first phase of the concert’s line up has been announced and includes both local and international acts such as Wolfmother, Scorpions, One Buck Short, Alleycats and many more.
Fast-selling tickets
Just like last year, SIC ramped up its early bird promotional ticket sales throughout the year with tickets selling out fast. Dato’ Razlan confirmed that the circuit has already marked a 20% improvement in its ticket sales figures at this point compared to its performance in the same period last year.
“Our aim is to have more than 150,000 spectators throughout the scheduled three days. For the moment, we look set to achieve this target,” said the executive during the launch’s press conference. He further added, “If all goes well, tickets may be sold out a week before the event!”
Dato’ Razlan also keenly pointed out s few tickets are already SOLD OUT, namely the F Grandstand and Club Suite, are all sold out. He even added that both the dedicated VR46 and Marc Marquez Tribune areas are selling out fast as well.
Prices and where to buy
With what we’ve just mentioned, tickets are selling out fast and it is best to get your while you still can. Prices start from as low as RM42.40 for the C2 Covered Hillstand, from RM116.60 for the K1 Grandstand, from RM212 for the Main Grandstand, and from RM318 for the Premier Roving Pass.
The Marc Marquez and VR46 Tribune areas, on the other hand, are priced from RM265 and RM169.60 respectively. For supporters of the home team, tickets for the Drive M7 SIC Racing Team Tribune are priced from RM74.20 each as well.
Fans wishing to rock out to the two-day Rockaway Festival 2016 that runs from Oct 29 to Oct 30 only need to pay an additional RM100 only. Exclusively offered to all ticket holders, this one-time ‘top-up’ fee grants access to both days of the festival.
You can purchase your tickets, as well as garner more information, through SIC’s dedicated ticketing e-store by clicking this link:
SIC MotoGP E-Ticketing Portal
Alternatively, you can also call the circuit’s dedicated ticketing hotline at:
+603-8778 2222
2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP launch @ Nu Sentral
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-ducati-superleggera-v4/ | FIRST LOOK: Ducati Superleggera V4! |
We were first presented with leaked specs for the Ducati Superleggera V4 earlier this week and we were simply stunned by the number of goodies this bike packs from its 234hp and 152kg superlight weight. Now, we got our hands on a super delicious photo of the mega superbike with biplane wings!
Nicknamed “Project 1708”, the Ducati Superleggera V4 carries the looks that might split opinions, especially with those ‘larger than life’ aero fairings (said to be taken from the Ducati Desmosedici GP16 MotoGP bike) but rest assured that they’re there not just looks but offer proper downforce, 50kg to be precise when going at 270km/h.
The wings on the GP16 looked incredibly smaller than the Superleggera V4
While the other Superleggeras introduced in the past carried more resemblance to the factory’s efforts in WorldSBK, the Ducati Superleggera V4 pays homage to a world where bikes are purely prototypes designed for one thing and one thing only; pure performance. That world is MotoGP and with the Superleggera V4, it will bridge the gap closer between MotoGP and street-legal superbikes like the Honda RC213V-S.
Coming in at just 152kg (that’s a whole 20kg lighter than the Ducati Panigale V4 R), the Superleggera V4 comes with a host of extremely juicy carbon fibre bits from its full-frame to BST wheels. It will also present a number of titanium components like camshafts and fasteners that help to cut the weight down even further.
Brace yourselves, the Ducati Superleggera V4 is coming and it will be a sensation not to be missed. It better be considering that only 500 units will be built and sold at $100,000 a pop (RM406,000). Stay tuned for more updates.
Ducati Panigale V4 Superleggera specs leaked – 234hp, 152kg!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/exclusive-tyre-knowledge-sharing-session-at-pirelli-tyre-seminar/ | Exclusive tyre knowledge sharing session at Pirelli Tyre Seminar |
The Pirelli Tyre Seminar was conducted yesterday at Passion Shop Malaysia located in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur.
The exclusive and free workshop focused on basic tyre knowledge, functions, and other useful information to dealers and bikers.
Things such as tyre types, fitment and proper repairs helped participants gained some practical and real-world understanding.
The folks from the legendary tyre manufacturer Pirelli conducted a very special seminar yesterday to a group of motorcycle enthusiasts. Organised at the grand Passion Shop Malaysia located in Sentul (right next to GIVI Point), two groups consisting of dealers and bikers where presented with some very useful knowledge about Pirelli motorcycle rubbers.
Carried out by Pirelli Asia’s very own tyre specialists and engineers Mr Soo and Mr Justin, the seminar focused on the basic fundamentals of motorcycle tyres, types, constructions, functions and many more. We were fortunate enough to join the afternoon session which ran for almost three hours.
Both Pirelli masters were more than keen to share their knowledge to everyone in the seminar. With the tagline “Power is nothing without control”, Mr Koo took the floor to explain how the major Italian tyre manufacturer not only produces a variety of premium tyres for motorcycles but also cars, trucks and even bicycles.
Yesterday’s clinic focused on basic tyre knowledge, major functions of tyres, tyre classification, tyre construction plus many more. The three-hour long seminar offered great interaction between the Pirelli experts and consumers plus sellers alike.
If you’re not familiar on how good Pirelli tyres really are, you would be amazed to know that they’re already in collaboration with Ducati in which all new production bikes are fitted with Pirelli rubbers as standards. The same goes for a lot of other manufacturers around the globe including the latest one which is MV Agusta.
To know more about the newly-formed partnership between Pirelli and MV Agusta plus their limited edition 2018 MV Agusta Brutale 800 RR Pirelli edition, CLICK HERE.
Image source: WorldSBK
Pirelli is able to achieve this thanks to the latest tyre-manufacturing technology which transmits over to their successful participation in all sorts of motorsports from Formula 1, WorldSBK to Malaysia’s very own Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSC).
There are a number of factories around the world producing all sorts of rubbers for the global market but only four plants are dedicated to producing only motorcycle tyres which are Germany, Indonesia, China and Brazil. The most amazing factory can be found in Germany where all the high-performance Pirelli rubbers are made using automated robots with zero human interaction from start to finish.
With the life-long motto of “We race what we sell, we sell what we race”, Pirelli assures that their products are nothing but the best. Their motorsports involvement have proven to be successful and together with 145 years worth of experience, those same levels of dedication and technology are made available to anyone who prefer nothing but the best.
We were also enlightened by a few eye-opening information such as how tyres work under different riding conditions, what causes them to malfunction which can result in tyre failures and bulging, and most importantly, how to repair a punctured tyre using the method recommended by professionals.
This is considered by all attendees as very informative due to the fact that Pirelli focuses a lot more than just producing premium-grade tyres but also how to properly maintain and the right techniques to fix them up in case of unfortunate punctures.
Based on what we’ve been informed, basic emergency tools such as the tyre puncture plug kit aka “cacing” or “tyre worm” or even inner tyre patches are only good for emergencies and temporary uses; NOT A PERMANENT FIX. The main reason is because these ‘tyre worms’ can actually cause more damage than the original puncture if done wrongly whereas inner tyre patches are still exposed to the elements from the existing hole in the tyre.
This will ultimately make the tyre patch inefficient after short period of time and cause more damage to the inner carcass thanks to outside factors such as rain and debris that can damage the steel wires. A lot of research and development have been invested by Pirelli to ensure that their products always perform at optimum levels even after being properly treated for minor damages.
On the subject of tyre repairs, both Pirelli experts informed us that there is a way to repair punctured tyres properly and that is by using several key methods including a needle-like rubber patch that looks like a mushroom or umbrella. This awareness is slowly but surely being transformed into general knowledge for motorcycle owners and workshops alike because at the end of the day, none of us want to jeopardise our precious lives over a simple yet ineffective tyre repair methods.
NOTE: Tyre punctures can only be repaired successfully IF AND ONLY IF the damage is sustained in the middle part of the tyre, specifically 25% on either side starting from the middle. Any further and you’ll be advised to change the tyre for safety reasons.
One of the things that Pirelli proudly offers is a five-year manufacturer’s warranty for all of their tyres. Based on their calculations, they made sure that each and every tyre will be able to perform optimally once fitted onto your precious bikes. This is provided that during the period of time from production to shipping and delivery to the dealers, proper methods of storage are implemented.
NOTE: You can tell the ‘age’ or when the tyre was manufactured based on a circled four-digit code which tells the week and year. For example, a tyre with a four-digit code of 2417 means that it was made in the 24th week (around June) in the year 2017.
Even if somehow your properly fitted and mint-condition Pirelli tyres suffer from any damage or failure, you can file for a claim and they will do their best to provide the best after-sales services to their customers.
Photo source: bikebandit.com
On a side note, you can help prepare yourselves in case of any motoring-related emergencies through some of our valuable tips. To know more, CLICK HERE.
Before the seminar ended, a stream of questions were presented to the two individuals and they were generous enough to cater to our every enquiry from what all tyre markings mean on the side wall, suitable sizes, high-performance Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa, shelf life of tyres and many more.
Based on our personal experience in attending the Pirelli Tyre Seminar, we’ve managed to learn a lot of things that are sadly unknown to some dealers and workshops. By equipping the consumers with the right tyre know-how from choosing the right set of rubbers to proper maintenance and repair works, Pirelli together with Passion Shop Malaysia is doing the right and respectable thing by organising this complimentary eye-opening lesson.
There will be more to come from Pirelli and Passion Shop Malaysia. To know more, head over to the official Passion Shop Malaysia Facebook page. Did we mention that the seminars are FREE OF CHARGE?
Additionally, you can also head over to the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) today for the fifth and final round of the 2017 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship from 8.00am to 7.00pm. Entrance to the Main Grandstand is free! Or you can watch it live in the link, below.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-to-bring-back-electric-assist-centerstand/ | BMW To Bring Back Electric-Assist Centerstand |
Powered-assisted centre stand was an option back in 2004 with the BMW K 1200 LT, which combines electrics and hydraulics to allow for easier lift.
However, the latest patent application has confirmed that the German marquee is set to bring back the electric centre stand but with improved features.
According to Cycle World, the component works like a conventional centre stand but minus the effort. Therefore, it differs vastly from the slow, push-button-operated system on the K 1200 LT.
While we understand that an electric-powered centre stand is not a priority for modern motorcycles, some would appreciate such innovation, typically riders who need help to lift a 300kg beast.
Also, if it’s relatively cheap to develop and does not affect the price tag, we’d say go for it.
The patent tells us that the power comes into play when the stand touches the ground after you push it down with your foot. That said, the conventional way of applying the centre stand still applies in this case.
The system also allows the stand to be retracted manually without waiting for it to retract electrically.
Nevertheless, similar to other patents, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the system will be incorporated into production bikes anytime soon. However, with BMW expected to debut a range of heavyweight motorcycles, there is a possibility that the system could be adopted earlier than expected.
(source: Cycle World)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bikesrepublic-com-ep-1-custom-harley-davidson-ducati-part-1/ | BikesRepublic.com Video Series Ep 1 – Custom Harley-Davidson & Ducati Part 1 |
We explore the world of custom culture in the first episode of the BikesRepublic.com video series!
Hello folks! Yes, we’ve heard your cries for more videos, and we’ve recently teamed up with a few partners in getting the BikesRepublic.com video series produced.
In this first episode, the BikesRepublic.com team have decided to explore the world of custom culture, and what better way to start on this with our friends from Beautiful Machines.
If you didn’t know already, Beautiful Machines have been around for a while now and have recently moved to its new home in the Sunway district. You can find out more about the cracked local builder in our previous feature by clicking here.
Back to our feature video and in this first part, we delve deeper into the wild, eclectic and sometimes borderline illegal world of building bespoke bikes. We had a chat with Beautiful Machine’s head honcho Guan to find out more about this movement that has rapidly grown here in Malaysia.
Also featured is a special bike that the Beautiful Machines were building at the time of filming called ‘Monster’. Watch the video and see what our chief editor Keshy Dhillon and junior editor Thoriq Azmi discover with Beautiful Machines.
A photo posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Sep 24, 2016 at 12:28am PDT
And just so you know, we also got to ride a few of Beautiful Machine’s other creations just to grab a feel of the custom life – that will be the centre of focus in Part 2.
In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the pilot episode of the BikesRepublic.com video series. Let us know your thoughts and comments in the comment boxes at our official YouTube and Facebook pages as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-zeppelin-will-remain-as-a-concept-motorcycle-tvs-motor-company/ | The Zeppelin Will Remain As A Concept Motorcycle – TVS Motor Company |
After months of speculation, TVS Motor Company has officially confirmed that the company has no plan to bring the Zeppelin concept to production.
The excitement over the Zeppelin is still existing despite the concept motorcycle was first unveiled back in 2018.
Despite the Zeppelin still making the news to this day, there have been no developments about the motorcycle from TVS.
In the latest update, TVS Motor has confirmed that the Zeppelin will remain as a concept via the company official Instagram page.
The Zeppelin was showcased as an entry-level cruiser that featured a first-of-its-kind hybrid powertrain by combining a 220cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired to a 1200W regenerative assist motor.
The motorcycle also comes equipped with a unique Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), a patented system by TVS.
While the news might come as a surprise, there is still a good chance that TVS has other plans in the future.
We might see a different kind of cruiser soon enough.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-sold-53183-bikes-in-2019-1-4-increase/ | Ducati sold 53,183 bikes in 2019 – 1.4% increase |
It was a tough financial year for some manufacturers last year, but Ducati managed to close the sales figures off on a positive note as they report a total sale of 53,183 units – a 1.4% increase compared to 2018 when they sold 53,004 bikes. A small growth is still a growth nonetheless, but manufacturers will need to hunker down for 2020 thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Celebrating a turnover of € 716 million in 2019 (RM3.416 billion), Ducati shows significant signs of profit growth in operations as well as sales per bike figures. The most popular models? Unsurprisingly, two particular divisions which are always at the top: the Panigale and Multistrada families.
What’s even more amazing is that the Panigale range has been labelled the best-selling super sports bike in the world for the second year in a row with a market share of 25%. The Multistrada saw a record-breaking sale since 2003 when the 950 S and 1260 Enduro were launched. Malaysia is no exception as more and more Ducati models are seen regularly on roads, from the Monster to Hypermotard, even the Scrambler Ducati.
2020 looks to be a difficult year for everyone but the Italian manufacturer plans to kick things off with the 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 as well as the possible upcoming of the Streetfighter V2 and the Multistrada V4. Expect these bikes to make their official appearances at the end of the year at EICMA 2020 IF the show decides to go on when the COVID-19 pandemic dies down.
Ducati to reorganise production lines in Italy
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/no-longer-compulsory-to-display-road-tax-mot/ | No Longer Compulsory To Display Road Tax – MoT |
Private vehicles owned by Malaysians are no longer compulsory to display their ‘road tax’ effective today, according to transport minister, Loke Siew Fook.
That said, all motor vehicle licenses including driving (motorcycle) license are now accessible via the MyJPJ app.
According to Loke, the move is part of the ministry’s efforts to digitise JPJ’s services.
“This will be done in stages, with the first phase involving individual private vehicles, including motorcycles, owned by Malaysians,” he said.
However, vehicles owned by private firms, foreigners, commercial vehicles and public service vehicles will continue to display their ‘road tax’.
“I welcome all drivers and vehicle owners to transition to the digital platform. With this, the congestion and long lines at JPJ counters will be reduced,” he added.
Also, physical driving licenses are still required for foreigners, holders of learners and vocational licences.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-ducati-streetfighter-v4-s-dark-stealth-unleashed/ | 2021 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S Dark Stealth unleashed |
The 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 and V4 S just entered the Malaysian market as the Italian premium bike manufacturer introduced its latest rendition, the 2021 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S Dark Stealth. In other words, the ‘Fight Formula’ just got even more badass than before.
We’re probably guessing that the Ducati design team was tasked to make the Streetfighter V4 S even more aggressive and what better way to do so than a menacingly looking stealth-out machine. At first glance, we’re definitely sold with the outcome. Is it better than the iconic Ducati Red? Well, you’ll be the judge.
Everything else in terms of specs is similar to the Streetfighter V4 S model, which is essentially a Panigale V4 S sans the front fairing. Other unique features include a higher and wider handlebar, 178kg (dry), and 208hp from its 1,103cc Ducati Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine.
One thing is for sure, those biplane wings definitely look awesome against the Dark Stealth backdrop. It won’t enter the Malaysian market anytime soon, but the Red models are available from RM115,900 for the standard Streetfighter V4 while the V4 S will set you back at around RM14,900.
More details in the link, below.
2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 official price revealed – From RM115,900
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-malaysia-set-rock-malaysian-motogp-2017/ | KTM Malaysia set to Rock Malaysian MotoGP 2017 |
KTM Malaysia is set to set the Malaysian MotoGP 2017 ablaze in READY TO RACE Orange.
KTM Malaysia is also offering the KTM MotoGP Fan Package.
Expect to see the latest KTM motorcycles plus Meet & Greet session with top KTM riders.
It’s the best time of the year for motorcycle racing fans in Malaysia and around the region. No, not Christmas, but it’s the Malaysian MotoGP.
The Malaysian MotoGP has without doubt grown over the last 3 years to capacity crowds and this year is no different. But what will make the difference is what KTM Malaysia has in store for fans and visitors.
KTM’s signature orange-coloured pavilion at the Malaysian MotoGP has always been one of the biggest crowd pullers. Not only do they display the latest road-going models, but also the dirtbikes and off-roaders that have conquered the world. Visitors are allowed to get up close to touch, feel and even smell these awesome machines, what more to selfie with them.
Additionally, KTM-branded riding gear and wear, called Powerwear, and KTM’s proprietary motorcycles accessories, called Powerparts will be displayed in all their grandeur.
Visitors could expect to see the latest 250 Duke, 390 Duke (click here for our first ride and here for our review), RC 250 and RC 390, 1290 Super Duke R, 1290 Super Adventure S, 1290 Super Adventure R, 1050 Adventure Travel Pack, 1290 Super Duke GT, 250 EX/C-F, 350 EX/C-F, 450 EX/C-F, 250 SX-F, 450 SX-F and many more. The latter two bikes are the same as those ridden by Gabit Saleh to multiple Malaysian motocross wins and the 2016 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship.
Visitors will also be able to catch a glimpse of the RC Cup racebike and replica of the RC16 MotoGP racer, ridden by Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith.
As such, fans can expect meet-and-greet sessions with the FIM Supermoto Champion, RC Cup riders and, Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP riders (subject to the riders’ schedule and availability). KTM Malaysia is in the midst of working with SIC and Dorna for Gabit Saleh to perform a stunt show at the starting grid and front straight on race day, so stay posted!
KTM Malaysia has offered the Fan Package, which includes a ticket for the KTM Tribune in the Main Grandstand, limited edition T-shirt, cap, bag, raincoat and flag.
As many as 500 KTM fans will mass at the KTM Tribune and turn it into a sea of READY TO RACE Orange. There is nothing better than being in the company of people who share the same passion and cheering for the same riders. The KTM Tribune faces the starting grid and paddock, ensuring a great view of proceedings throughout the day, be it for the support classes, Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP.
KTM Malaysia will also host a myriad of activities at the Tribune. KTM fans can look forward to gifts and lucky draws.
You may also refer to KTM Malaysia’s official Facebook page for more information.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/last-unit-ducati-1098r-troy-bayliss-limited-edition-for-sale-rm90000/ | Last unit Ducati 1098R Troy Bayliss Limited Edition for sale – RM90,000 |
After Troy Bayliss won the 2008 World Superbike Championship crown, Ducati decided to honour the legend by releasing the Ducati 1098R Troy Bayliss Limited Edition model. There were only 500 units built and now, there’s one right here in Malaysia that’s up for sale. Unregistered, zero mileage.
===FRIDAY SHOPPING SPREE===VALUE FOR MONEY -LAST UNIT• TROYBAYLISS – RM90,000.00• PANIGALE 959 CORSE- RM87,900.00•…
Posted by Speed House MY on Khamis, 22 Oktober 2020
If you go to Ducati Petaling Jaya right now, there’s one up for offer at only RM90,000, a steal considering its rarity and specs back when it was introduced in 2009. Fitted with 1,198cc L-Twin engine, it is said that the Ducati 1098R Troy Bayliss Limited Edition produces around 180hp and 134Nm of torque.
That’s a big number even by today’s standards and combined with a dry weight of only 169kg, you know it’s a big deal rolling around town on this beauty. The white/red/blue colour combo was designed by the legendary Aldo Drudi together with the iconic #21 representing Troy Bayliss during his reign in WorldSBK.
At only RM90,000, you’re not just riding any normal Ducati superbike, you’re riding a legend. A legend that won three WorldSBK titles at the hands of Troy Bayliss. It will be a long time before you’ll see another one going up for sale, so you better be quick and head over to Ducati Petaling Jaya to know more.
While you’re there, you can also check out the recently arrived Ducati Streetfighter V4, Scrambler 1100 PRO, Panigale V4, and Panigale V2. All very sexy bikes, all worth every Ringgit.
2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 official price revealed – From RM115,900
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-soars-to-new-heights-in-2015/ | BMW Motorrad soars to new heights in 2015 |
BMW Motorrad records another stellar year in 2015 after achieving total sales of 136,963 units worldwide.
German marque BMW Motorrad starts its 2016 on a high note after ending yet another stellar year in 2015. The firm marked its fifth consecutive all-time best sales year in last year, delivering a total of 136,963 bikes worldwide. Said figure is a 10.9% increase over its 2014 sales figures, and it seems things aren’t slowing down just yet for the BMW Motorrad marque.
BMW negated to mention which specific model is driving its global sales in 2015, but we reckon this could be fuelled by either the BMW R1200 GS series or the acclaimed BMW S1000RR supersports series. The latter model was leading the brand’s sales rise in the American market in 2015, where it recorded a 9.3% growth with deliveries totalling at 16,330 units in the USA.
On a global scale though, it looks rather unlikely that the S1000RR has outsold the R1200 GS series. However, we also reckon that the former’s two siblings, the BMW S1000R streetfighter and S1000XR adventure sport, may have been selling in high numbers too throughout 2015.
One thing we are certain of is that BMW Motorrad’s growth will continue over the next several years thanks to the debut of its baby model, the new BMW G310R. The new entry-level naked, which is made in India with partners TVS, will likely see BMW Motorrad gaining more customers worldwide from this segment.
The G310R will perhaps have the same positive effect on BMW Motorrad as what Austrian rivals KTM had when first introduced its small-capacity models range – which, are incidentally made in India too. KTM’s move to go big by going small saw it reach sales figures never before seen in its history back in 2012, and BMW Motorrad will likely replicate that success with the G310R and its rumoured siblings.
Source: BMW Motorrad via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/pirelli-250cc-300cc-race-series-announced-for-msc/ | Pirelli 250cc & 300cc Race Series announced for MSC |
Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSC) welcomes new and affordable Pirelli 250cc & 300cc Race Series for newbies.
Open to 250cc & 300cc production machines
Affordable entry fees (from RM250* per round)
Amateurs and newbies welcomed
AAM-sanctioned series
Image credit: SBR Trackdays & SIC
Good news for avid amateur and newbie racers, the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSC) has announced a new category just for you this year called the Pirelli 250cc & 300cc Race Series.
Essentially, this is the existing MSC Open 250cc Category that has been revised to mirror a similar entry-level category as featured in the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) series. This category is organised by SBR Trackdays and is supported by Pirelli Malaysia.
Image credit: SBR Trackdays & SIC
Presently, both Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and SBR Trackdays are in the midst of finalising the class’ full technical regulations. However, BikesRepublic has been informed that the category is open to production bikes powered by liquid-cooled four-stroke 250cc single- and twin-cylinder engines only and bikes with 300cc single-cylinder engines only.
Additionally, spec-tyre rule will be applied here as well just like other classes in the MSC. All bikes will race using Pirelli Supercorsa SC2 tyres as the tyremaker is using the category as a platform for its product development as well. SBR Trackdays and SIC will announce the full technical regulations as soon as it is finalised.
Image credit: SBR Trackdays & SIC
SBR Trackdays’ aim with this class is to provide a proper avenue for racing enthusiasts to enjoy themselves under safe racing conditions at the track; instead of using the street to showcase their talent in racing. SBR Trackdays’ spokesperson Joe Lee further added:
“We are fully committed to this programme as we aim to have this race series on a long-term basis as it will provide the opportunity for more teams, workshops, privateers to show their talent and for motorsports brands to showcase their products’ performance.”
Image credit: SBR Trackdays & SIC
A total of 5 championship rounds will be held across three weekends alongside the main MSC 2016 program. Each round features two 8-lap races whilst each weekend will have one 30-minute Free Practice run and one 30-minute Qualifying session as well.
Entry fee stands at a very affordable price of RM250* per round or RM1,193** for the entire season. Riders will also need to apply for an AAM Motorsports Competition License to race in this category. Here’s the basic calendar and rundown given to us by SBR Trackdays for a better understanding:
Pirelli 250cc & 300cc Race Series Rundown
Round 1 & 2
July 22 – July 24
1x Free Practice (30 mins)
1x Qualifying (30 mins)
Race 1 – 8 laps
Race 2 – 8 laps
Race 3 – 8 laps
Race 4 – 8 laps
Round 3
Sept 17 – Sept 18
1x Free Practice (30 mins)
1x Qualifying (30 mins)
Race 1 – 8 laps
Race 2 – 8 laps
Round 4 & 5
Dec 2 – Dec 4
1x Free Practice (30 mins)
1x Qualifying (30 mins)
Race 1 – 8 laps
Race 2 – 8 laps
Race 3 – 8 laps
Race 4 – 8 laps
Entry Fee
RM250* per round
RM1,193** per season
(*6% GST not included)
(**6% GST included)
Both SBR Trackdays and SIC are expecting an entry list of up to 30 riders for this new category this year. Teams and riders who wish to race in the Pirelli 250cc & 300cc Race Series will need to register with SBR Trackdays through the following contact:
Ms Shirin Aziha
Event Director, SBR Trackdays
+6013-2029037
shirin@sbrtrackdays.com
(Image credit: SBR Trackdays & SIC)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/mss-bikes-2014-rd-1-pictures-happier-times/ | MSS Bikes 2014 Rd.1 in pictures – Happier times |
Despite the weekend’s tragic outcome, there were plenty of happy moments prior to the incidents in and around the Sepang International Circuit’s paddock.
Like what we have noted in the previous article, racing is in the blood of the gifted few. Here is a collection of pictures that perfectly describe why some choose to fulfil their need for speed as a form of life achievement, and the very reason why we at BR choose to continue to do what we do best – documenting these moments.
MSS Bikes 2014 Rd.1 in Pictures by Adam Muza
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-ktm-450-rally-production-racer/ | New KTM 450 Rally production racer |
To celebrate the marque’s unrivalled 13 Dakar rally wins, Austrian brand KTM have made a production version its 450 Rally race bike for 2014.
Christened as the 450 Rally Replica, the bike features a new frame, a revised rear suspension unit, and primed with a single-cam 450cc fuel-injected engine. The powertrain is then laced further with an Akrapovic Titan exhaust system to round things off.
Other features include multiple fuel tanks (35 litres in total) with front and rear fuel pumps, as well as a carbon fibre front tower that promises to grant riders with increased view and better forward vision. The 450 Rally Replica has a seat height of 927mm and has a claimed dry weight of 145kg.
As its predecessors, production versions of the Austrian brand’s Dakar-winning bikes would only be produced in extremely small numbers. The 450 Rally Replica base model without the Race Pack option is priced in Europe starting from €24,000. Sources also report that in order for you to purchase, you would have to attach your ‘racing resume’ together with the purchase order.
Source: KTM via Visordown and Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cfmoto-papio-xo-2-breaks-cover/ | CFMoto Papio XO-2 Breaks Cover |
CFMoto has revealed a second version of its Papio minibike series – the Papio XO-2.
The new model features a retro scrambler styling, in contrast to the sporty look of the previous model, Papio XO-1.
Powering the Papio XO-2 is the same 126cc air-cooled engine.
Both models share the same 126cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 9.4 horsepower and is paired with a six-speed gearbox. While the Papio XO-1 is available only in the US, the retro-styled XO series could be exported to other markets, with an official announcement expected this summer.
*CFMoto Papio XO-1
The Papio XO-2 has a high-mounted front fender, a one-piece seat, and a pillion grab rail, which gives it the look of a 1980s Dakar racer. The handlebars are taller and wider than those on the XO-1, and the footpegs are lower and farther forward, resulting in a more upright riding position.
The bike has more deeply treaded tires for off-road use, and the bellypan has been removed to add more ground clearance. The twin headlights and mirrors carry the same XO design theme as the XO-1, with an “X” shape hidden inside one headlight and an “O” in the other.
The Papio XO-2 has the same dimensions as the XO-1 in terms of wheelbase, length, and weight, but it is wider due to the longer handlebar and taller due to the more upright riding position.
CFMoto has been expanding its Papio range rapidly, with the electric version, Papio Nova, already available in China and expected to reach export markets in 2023. The Papio XO-1 joined the lineup last month, and the XO-2 is likely to follow with an official announcement this summer.
While the export plans for the retro XO models have yet to be announced, they may be unveiled at international shows later this year and could hit markets outside China in 2024.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bajaj-plans-to-sell-high-end-electric-bikes-in-india/ | Bajaj Plans To Sell High-End Electric Bikes In India |
Bajaj Auto hopes to venture into the premium electric bike segment with the help of their Austrian partner, KTM.
The Chetak electric scooter is Bajaj’s first attempt at electric two-wheelers.
The Chetak is currently on sale in 27 cities in India.
Currently, the Indian motorcycle company already has its own electric scooter on sale in India, namely the Chetak.
The Chetak is doing pretty well in terms of sales volume, with over 14,000 units delivered to customers across the country while 16,000 bookings are in the pipeline as of June 2022.
Despite the initial sales was only for Pune and Bengaluru, but due to the high demand, the Chetak electric scooter are now available at 27 cities across India.
However, the next step for Bajaj is to foray into the high-end electric bikes, as confirmed by Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director Bajaj Auto.
“We are in discusiion with KTM, there is a joint work going on where we are looking at platforms for high-end electric motorcycles.
“The plan is on our radar and will be announced at the right time,” he said.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-vietnamese-company-is-turning-mattresses-into-motorcycle-seats/ | This Vietnamese company is turning mattresses into motorcycle seats! |
Difficult times bring out the best in people. And that could not be more true for a Vietnamese startup called Ru9.
Ru9 is a self described “sleep company”. A company that specialises in mattresses that provide excellent support for those with back problems.
If you’re wondering what Ru9 stands for, it’s actually a play on words.
“Ru Ngu” simply means to lull to sleep in Vietnamese, while 9 derives from Cloud 9.
So why in the world are you reading about a company that deals in mattresses on a motorcycling website?
Well, during the pandemic, the company recognised the efforts of the country’s front liners, especially the delivery riders called ‘shippers’ in Vietnam.
And a lot of these ‘shippers’ get their rest by taking a nap on their motorcycle. Check out the video below to see what we are going on about:
So this is where Ru9, standing true to its principals of getting a good rest, came up with the brilliant idea of turning mattresses into motorcycle seats as part of its latest campaign called “Thank You Shippers – Cảm Ơn Shippers”. A campaign to express appreciation to the delivery riders in Vietnam.
According to the company, a motorcycle is a resting place for delivery riders between the chaotic rides to find a peaceful moment. One of the most common sights in Saigon is to see a man with his feet dangling over the handlebars in a comfortable position, under shade.
But that can’t be very comfortable.
“To shippers, a motorbike is essential. They even spend more time on bike seats than on the bed at home. Therefore, we wanted to use our expertise to upgrade their bike seats, in order to make sure they can have a better rest amongst the nonstop rides,” – said Trang Dang, CEO of Ru9 (you can read about how she started up Ru9 after a slipped disc incident, here).
And so, as a sleep company, Ru9 wanted to make these short naps more comfortable.
Working with its craftsmen, the company turned its high-quality mattresses into comfortable motorcycle seats. And these seats will be given to 50 randomly chosen delivery riders.
On top of that, a further 50 delivery riders in Ho Chi Minh city will be randomly chosen to be gifted a Ru9 foam mattress, while any delivery rider will get a sweet discount on Ru9 mattresses.
Difficult times does bring out the best in companies and its people, indeed.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-jorge-martin-claims-sprint-race-win-at-le-mans/ | MotoGP: Jorge Martin Claims Sprint Race Win At Le Mans |
Jorge Martin has delivered a stunning performance at Le Mans, winning the French GP sprint race and claiming victory for Pramac Ducati.
The race saw a mixture of success and disappointment for the home crowd as reigning MotoGP champion Francesco Bagnaia made a brilliant start and led into turn one from Jack Miller, only for Martin to take the lead by lap four.
Miller, using a medium front tyre that had caused many riders to crash in practice, suffered an early exit at turn seven.
Meanwhile, Martin’s lead over Brad Binder was up to 1.5 seconds, and Bagnaia, who was all over Marc Marquez, regained a podium spot by overtaking Marquez with a brave move at turn one.
The race was a huge disappointment for Fabio Quartararo, the 2021 world champion, who made brilliant progress from 13th to eighth prior to his crash at turn nine with four laps remaining.
Quartararo’s crash was a major letdown for the home crowd.
At the front, the top three remained unchanged as Martin took his first win of 2023, with Binder and Bagnaia completing the podium at 2nd and 3rd place.
Meanwhile, Luca Marini takes 4th place ahead of Marquez who struggled at the end.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/car-on-federal-highway-motorcycle-lane-causes-accident/ | Car on Federal Highway motorcycle lane causes accident |
Not again. Unfortunately, it has happened again and it’s a bit closer to home as we here at Bikes Republic plus thousands of other motorcyclists use this particular stretch of motorcycle lane on the Federal Highway. Another car was caught using the designated lane for motorcycles but this time, going the wrong way!
Kereta masuk lorong motosikal Lebuhraya Persekutuan..
Rakaman dari GoPro helmet kes kemalangan berlaku pada 19 Ogos 2020 l/kurang jam 1530hrs-1600hrs di Lebuhraya Persekutuan menghala Mid Valley. Sebuah kereta dikesan melalui lorong motosikal sehingga berlaku kemalangan kecil terhadap seorang penunggang motosikal. Minta sesiapa yg mempunyai sebarang maklumat berkaitan kereta tersebut,sila inbox kami. Harap maklum..#inforoadblock
Posted by Info Roadblock JPJ/POLIS on Jumaat, 21 Ogos 2020
We’re not too entirely sure how this happened but the incident took place near the Mid Valley Megamall area. The unfortunate Yamaha YZF-R15 rider was riding on the motorcycle lane while his action camera was recording when suddenly a motorcycle and a car came out the wrong way of the poorly lit ‘tunnel’.
It was raining at the time and catching the rider by surprise, the rider had no option but to bail off the road and onto slippery grass. This led to him losing control and hitting the wall outside of the tunnel, where another rider managed to stop safely to avoid the oncoming traffic caused by the car coming from the other side.
A white Toyota Vios was the culprit and this incident is literally death waiting to happen. A lot of motorcyclists who frequent the Federal Highway rely heavily on the motorcycle lane (every part that’s open for use) to get to their destinations safely and away from the congestion on the main road.
With such a small margin of error thanks to road’s width, physical condition, and poorly lit areas (even after the ‘renovation’), to come across a car coming at you is just insanity. Hopefully, the authorities are able to apprehend the culprit and find out what and how the hell it had happened.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/rieju-rs3-125-nkd-introduced-to-european-market/ | Rieju RS3 125 NKD introduced to European market |
SPANISH bike maker Rieju has released a naked version of its RS3 125 learner sports bike. Capitalising on an ever-growing bikes segment in Europe, the naked RS3 is set to compete against competitors such as the Yamaha YBR125.
Ironically, a Yamaha-Minarelli sourced four-valve liquid-cooled engine producing 14.8bhp powers the RS3 NKD. Weighing in at just 120kg, the power output should give the featherweight naked a very punchy power delivery. Specs on the RS3 125 NKD include a multi-function digital instrumentation display, 41mm Paioli inverted forks, a wavy 300mm front disc brake by Galfer, as well as cast alloy swingarm.
Priced in the UK at £2,899, expect the Rieju RS3 125 NKD to give both its European and comparably affordable Japanese rivals a run for their money.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mat-rempit-dies-injures-another-person-illegal-race/ | Mat Rempit Dies, Injures Another Person in Illegal Race |
Rempit crash (Pic for display purposes only) - Courtesy of Sarawak Voice
A Mat Rempit died while a “spectator” was seriously injured in an illegal race.
The PDRM are now hunting for the other two “racers.”
The videos show the accident and aftermath.
A Mat Rempit killed another motorcyclist and injured another during an illegal race in Kota Bahru, Kelantan on Saturday (18th August 2018).
As shown the video, a large crowd had gathered to spectate an illegal race. Two bikes blew by followed by a third a few seconds afterwards. The third bike then struck a pedestrian who had stepped onto the “track”.
The motorcyclist, Norazrin Azizan Abdul Aziz, 26, died while receiving emergency treatment at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM) in Kubang Kerian. The pedestrian, Mohd. Azhan Baharudin, 25, had both his legs broken and is now lying unconscious at the same hospital.
The Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) are now hunting for the other two illegal racers. Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (Jabatan Siasatan dan Penguatkuasaan Trafik) Director, Datuk Sharul Othman Mansor said that the two were complicit in causing the death of Norazrin and bodily harm to Mohd. Azhan.
He continued, “The two motorcyclists are wanted for investigation under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.”
Datuk Sharul made the announcement at a media conference codenamed as “Operasi Samseng Jalan (Operation Road Hooligans)” which he headed at Seremban last night.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-malaysia-opens-first-dealership/ | Ducati Malaysia opens first dealership |
Ducati Malaysia (Next Bike Sdn Bhd) have begun their new nationwide expansion plan recently by opening its first dealership in Sungai Buloh. Present to launch Ducati Welly Sungai Buloh were Ducati Asia Pacific commercial director Pierfrancessco Scalzo, accompanied by Naza Two Wheels Division vice president Nik Danial Nik Mahmood.
Ducati Welly Sungai Buloh is operated by newly appointed official dealer Ngo Yoke Kwang (Welly), and it features the full range of Ducati models available for the Malaysian market. The showroom handles the sales of official Ducati merchandise, performance parts, as well as genuine spare parts. The centre also features a dedicated service centre capable of servicing five bikes simultaneously by authorised Ducati technicians with the accompanying use of authorised Ducati specials tools as well.
With the opening of its first dealership, Ducati Malaysia states that plans are underway to expand the brand further within the country. The firm is looking into other key areas such as Penang, Kelantan, Johor, Kuching, and Hartamas.
In conjuction with the launch of Ducati Welly Sungai Buloh, Ducati Malaysia also unveiled its latest offering, the Ducati Multistrada 1200 ABS China Adventure. Limited to just 50 models, the China Adventure edition features a centre stand and comes equipped with side panniers as well. Prices for the bike will start from RM95,888.
The bike was released in conjunction with the upcoming first ever Ducati Strada China Adventure. The trip has been scheduled to start from August 27 until September18 September. Spanning over 23 days, the trip will take 14 bikers on a 5,168km journey across North Eastern China, starting from Tianjin and ending in Dalian.
More information regarding Ducati’s upcoming expansion plans as well as Ducati Strada China Adventure are available online at Ducati Malaysia official website and social media pages.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/video-samsung-smart-windshield-for-motorcycles/ | Video: Samsung smart windshield for motorcycles |
Samsung smart windshield system aims to make riding safer.
South Korean consumer electronics marque Samsung looks set to make motorcycle riding even safer after showcasing the Samsung smart windshield system recently.
The aim of this innovative hands-free suite, which by the way is still a prototype, is to allow riders to interact with their smartphone without having to take their hands off the handlebars and eyes forwards.
The Heads-Up Display (HUD) system used by the suite isn’t a new thing, but the way Samsung integrated the smartphone-based communications and interacting with the notification system is.
Ideally, Samsung aims for its smart windshield module to be installed in the vehicle first. Then, it will connect wirelessly with a smartphone via a dedicated app, which in turn will relay selected notifications in the main display.
This system would allow riders to check their notifications such as text and social messages, emails and incoming phone calls whilst a bar-mounted control allows the rider to respond using predefined patterns. This includes text message responses that most would use in situations as such like “I am driving” or “Call you back in 5 minutes” are amongst many presets users can select to reply.
On top of this, the Samsung smart windshield prototype is also able to project GPS navigation prompts too, which should aid riders who prefer to use popular smartphone navigation apps.
Presently, Samsung hasn’t confirmed any plans to implement this revolutionary piece of tech in the mass market just yet, but this working Samsung smart windshield prototype indicates that it would not take the firm long to do so.
P.S., do check out our review of the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge smartphone by clicking this link.
Source: Samsung via AutoEvolution / YouTube
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-jorge-lorenzo-had-ulterior-motive-with-yamaha/ | MotoGP: Jorge Lorenzo had ‘ulterior motive’ with Yamaha? |
It seems that some folks think that Yamaha’s MotoGP test rider, Jorge Lorenzo, had ulterior motives when he quickly signed a test ride contract with Yamaha soon after retiring from racing. Although he made it clear that it was his time to quit racing after a fruitless time with Repsol Honda, his move back to Yamaha seemed to have brought a lot of theories, including Yamaha Racing’s managing director, Lin Jarvis.
According to an interview between Lin Jarvis and Speedweek.com, “Jorge wanted to do tests and a race this year. But I think he had an ulterior motive. He also wanted to find out if he was still interested enough to return to racing. I think he had a very strong interest in finding out if he would still be fast enough, comfortable and competitive and if he could regain his old confidence with the Yamaha.”
Currently, Jorge Lorenzo has only signed a one-year deal as a test rider for Yamaha. He was hoping to get a feel of the Yamaha M1 which has brought him many victories in the past. A few wildcard entries were planned for the five-time world champion, but with the season cut short, Dorna has decided that there will be no wildcard entries for the 2020 season.
If Lorenzo really wants to get back into racing, Jarvis has made it clear that there’s no place for him to do so in the foreseeable future. With the factory team has agreed upon the likes of Fabio Quartararo and Maverick Vinales until the end of 2022 plus Valentino Rossi’s decision to continue racing beyond 2020 (hopefully with Petronas Yamaha SRT), another manufacturer might be more suitable – Ducati.
So far, Ducati has only signed Jack Miller in their factory squad while the other three spots are still being considered by the Italian manufacturer with the likes of Andrea Dovizioso, Francesco Bagnaia, and possible newcomer, Jorge Martin.
We’re still not sure what the future of MotoGP will look like or whether Jorge Lorenzo will come out of retirement, but one thing is certain, he won’t do so with Yamaha. Stay tuned for more MotoGP updates.
Image source: MotoGP
MotoGP: New 2020 calendar released – What about Malaysia?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/modenas-dominar-d400-launched-in-malaysia-from-rm13788/ | Modenas Dominar D400 Launched in Malaysia. From RM13,788 |
After much enquiry and waiting, Modenas has launched the Dominar D400 tonight.
Priced at an ultra-competitive special introductory price of RM13,788 (for a limited time only), it is set to shake up the sub-400cc market.
Check out our full review by clicking on this link.
18th April 2018, Pullman Bangsar – The much-anticipated Modenas Dominar D400 has been launched tonight. The 373cc naked bike is termed as a “sport-tourer” by Modenas and Bajaj Auto. It is priced at a competitive introductory price of RM13,788 (basic selling price inclusive of 6% GST) for a limited time only.
The Modenas Dominar D400 features:
A 373cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC, four-valves, engine.
Engine is electronically fuel-injected with Digital Triple Spark ignition.
6-speed transmission with slipper clutch.
Dual-LCD displays; one main LCD and a smaller LCD on the fuel tank.
Backlit switchgear on both sides of the handlebar.
Dual-channel ABS for front and rear disc brakes.
Conventional telescopic forks.
Monoshock rear suspension.
As the Dominar D400 is termed as a sport-tourer, the bike’s ergonomics are geared toward comfort: Upright seating position, footpegs placed forward and lower, comfortable seats, supple suspension.
In the aspects of safety, the bike features a dual-channel ABS system for both the front and rear wheels. a dual-channel ABS means that while the system is activated for one locked wheel, some brake pressure is also applied to the other wheel for chassis stability. A single-channel ABS, on the other hand, only performs its duty on that single locked wheel while still allowing the non-locked wheel to continue spinning freely – the large speed difference may cause the non-locked wheel to get “out of control.”
Modenas felt that it was the right time to introduce the model, based on their success with the Pulsar RS200, Pulsar NS200 and V15. Those bikes have sold well beyond Modenas and Bajaj Auto’s projection – 4,500 units have thus been sold since their introduction in May 2017.
The Modenas Dominar D400 had undergone some long distance journeys, according to Dinesh Kulkarni, Vice President, Bajaj Auto Limited. “The Dominar D400 successfully completed one of the world’s longest motorable journeys, the Trans-Siberian Odyssey covering 15,000 km in 53 days. The journey from Uzbekistan to Russia through six countries was successful without a single breakdown.”
We had the opportunity to test the Dominar D400 during our visit to Bajaj Auto’s factory (please click here for our first impressions) and actually test ride in Malaysia prior to the launch, so please click here for the full review.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto3-juanfran-guevara-announces-retirement-age-22/ | Moto3: Juanfran Guevara announces retirement at age 22 |
Moto3 rider Juanfran Guevara has officially announced his retirement from the world of motorcycle racing.
The decision was made due to the pressures revolving motorcycle racing and funding to continue further.
The 22 year old Spaniard has decided to focus on his career in business and studies.
One of the world’s top Moto3 riders has sadly made decision to retire from motorcycle racing earlier today. 22 year old Juanfran Guevara made the announcement via an official press release today despite the fact that he is still in the provisional entry list for 2018 together with his current team, RBA BOE Racing KTM.
This is sad news indeed considering that he only entered Moto3 for only one season and ended it with a respectable 11th overall finish despite being a rookie. Thanks to the pressure of racing at one the world’s highest levels paired with how difficult it is to find funding have led to Guevara’s final decision. The official press release can be read below.
“It was a very hard and thoughtful decision that I made with the help, first of all, of my family, of all the directors of the Fan Club commission and some of the main sponsors who have supported me throughout this years. My passion for the world of motorcycling has not changed at all, but different economic reasons, and mainly personal ones, have given rise to this irrevocable decision.
I have decided to focus my career on the business world, studies that I have been combining all these years while racing in the Motorcycle World Championship. A point has arrived where I believe that in this way I will be able to grow more as a person and also dedicate more time to different projects that I have been developing over the last few years and that until now I have not been able to defend as they deserve.
Everyone who is or has been in this world, knows everything that has to be sacrificed in order to give 100% in the circuits. I want to dedicate more time to my family and to recover, in a certain way, friends and people that I have neglected.
I want to thank the RBA-BOÉ Racing Team for their understanding and I wish you good luck in your next seasons in the Motorcycle World Championship. Thanks for the support and for trusting me during these years.
Also thank to TeaMMurcia for being with me from the first moment and look after my management from the beginning until today. Thanks to all the sponsors who have bet for me since I started my career as a pilot in the Regional Championship of the Region of Murcia, accumulating more than 40 podiums in national championships, achieving the second place in European Championship and taking my name across the different continents through the Motorcycling World Championship, reaching a dream such as climbing to a MotoGP podium.
Lastly, and for me the most important thing, you are all those fans who have worn the 58 on all circuits as a symbol of support. The Fan Club will be part of me throughout my life. You have been the reason why I have given more to this issue. There will never be enough words to thank you for everything.
I close a stage of my life that took with me a multitude of moments, and above all, wonderful people that I will never forget. To all of you, my parents and Miguel, THANK YOU. “
All the best to you and your future endeavours, Juanfran!
Image source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rent-a-treeletrik-e-bike-from-only-rm9-99-day/ | ‘Rent’ a Treeletrik E-Bike from only RM9.99/day |
“Why buy when you can subscribe?” That’s what Treeletrik Malaysia is saying about their latest promotion where you can rent either the T-70 or T-90 electric motorcycle or ‘e-bike’ from as low as RM9.99 per day.
It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything new from Treeletrik but this new ‘rent-a-bike’ campaign organised by them will most likely pick up some attention to their range of eco-friendly electric motorcycles.
The six-month subscription plans are as follows:
T-70 – RM360/month (RM12/day) RM360 deposit + RM50 registration fee
T-90 – RM600/month (RM20/day) RM600 deposit + RM50 registrations fee
There are also the 12-month subscription plans where the daily rates will be lower to around RM9.99 for the T-70 and RM18 for the T-90.
Launched back in 2017, the Treeletrik T-90 was priced at RM10,494 when you want to buy it brand new. If you ever had any doubts about the capabilities of this electric scooter, renting it for a day or two might help iron out all the issues that have been clogging your mind when it comes to e-scooters.
The Treeletrik bike rent program also offers full maintenance, comprehensive insurance, and other benefits when you refer to others who are interested to rent the e-scooters. Each bike has the capability to travel between 80-100km on a full charge and they’re legal to use on the road.
As of now, only 300 units are slotted for the rent program. For more information, head over to the Treeletrik E-Bike official Facebook page to know more.
KTM electric scooter to go into production by 2022
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-hypermotard-950-gets-euro-5-updates-new-graphics-for-sp-version/ | Ducati Hypermotard 950 Gets Euro 5 Updates, New Graphics For SP Version |
Ducati has updated the Hypermotard 950 range to meet the Euro 5 regulation standards while introducing an all-new livery for the SP.
The Bologna-based manufacturer took some time to introduce the revised Hypermotard after focusing 2020 on the all-new Monster and Multistrada V4.
However, Ducati could not pick a better time to reveal the updated hooligan machine as the Italian marquee about to kickstart its 2021 WorldSBK campaign.
Despite the transition to Euro 5, the Testastretta 11-degree twin-cylinder engine continues to splash 114hp at 9,000rpm and 96Nm at 7,250rpm.
Meanwhile, the SP received a new colour scheme and graphic inspired by Ducati racing DNA in MotoGP.
Apart from the updated graphics, the SP is 2kg lighter and 20mm higher seats than the Standard and RVE variants.
The SP also comes with the top of the range Ohlins suspension, Marchesini forged wheels and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) EVO as standard.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/toc-automotive-college-launches-superbike-technician-course/ | TOC Automotive College Launches Superbike Technician Course |
TOC Automotive College (TOC) has always been Malaysia’s premier automotive college.
TOC has just launched their Superbike Technician Course.
Registration for the course is open and will begin in July 2018.
Also unveiled was TOC’s bike that will be entered into the Malaysian Superbike (MSBK).
If you own a vehicle long enough, you may encounter the difficulty in finding a mechanic or technician you could truly trust, based on the accuracy in dealing with your vehicle’s problems in a correct and prompt manner.
Indeed, we wrote an article about “nightmare mechanics” not too long ago (please click here for the article).
Bad Mechanics: Horror Stories for Your Bike
Truth is, this quagmire doesn’t only exist for us bikers but for workshop operators and manufacturers, as well.
It is that vacuum that TOC and the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) want to see filled, by signing a partnership. Through this partnership, students who had undergone TOC’s Superbike Technician Course will find almost instant employment among the MMSDA’s 5,000-member workshops. Nothing is worse than not being able to find a job after spending thousands of Ringgit for education.
The signing of this partnership also connects readily with the Bina Bakat (Building Talents) program. TOC understands that there exist individuals who are passionate about automotive technology but are unfortunately unable to bear the costs of education. Hence, successful applicants will undergo training with up to 100% loan until they begin their journey in the workplace.
Adelaine L.K. Foo, CEO and founder of TOC said in her speech, “Alongside the growth of the four-wheel market, there should be fair competency through improved skillsets given to the motorcycle scene, which also contributes to a large part of the automotive industry.”
“One of the common challenges I have come across which resonates well with me as a parent, is the financial struggle for single parents putting their children through higher education,” she continued. “Through this collaboration, one of our main objectives is to help ease the financial burden and raise the quality of higher education at the same time.”
Chairman of MMSDA, Wee Hong says, “The support of the Bina Bakat Program has increased the opportunity for our industry to have a greater access to quality skilled talents, something which had been lacking before.”
He further added, “MMSDA and TOC share a collective passion and dedication to delivery excellence towards the motorcycle industry. Through this partnership, not only will we see updated and improved facilities for conducive learning but also the increased employment of qualified and skilled technicians with our members and partners.”
The Superbike Technician Course runs for 18 months with 3 levels of academic and career development opportunities. The students will be exposed to real-world experience during industrial training with TOC’s partners during the course.
Adelaine stressed the importance of sending the students out for industrial training, “We can’t have for example a student who graduate wtih a degree in all expects of automotive engineering or maintenance but has never lifted a single spanner.”
This augurs well for motorcycle owners throughout Malaysia as we will have well-trained and experienced mechanics handling our pride and joy.
At the same time, TOC also unveiled the TOC Malaysian Superbike Championship (MSBK) race bike. The team was set up with the assistance of Most Fun Gym’s (MFG) chief instructor and Malaysian GP legend, Oh Kah Beng.
TOC already has a School of Motorsport division and will now see the inclusion of motorcycle racing. “We want our students to experience the immediacy of racing. Fixing stuff under the tutelage of their lecturers is one thing but being pushed by a third-party race team manager is quite another,” said Sebastian K.L. Foo, who is in charge of operations at TOC.
The technicians for the motorcycle race team will also undergo a riding course with MFG. Oh Kah Beng said, “The technicians should feel what a bike does, besides how the components perform in order to easily relate to what the riders tell them. That way, they could fix handling characteristics and problems much easier and faster during a race.” (Please click here to see how we also trained at MFG.)
We were also given a tour of TOC’s facilities afterwards. It was apparent that TOC has the latest machinery, testers and tools utilized in the industry. The Resource Centre (library) was similarly well-stocked. The students are also trained to maintain a clean working environment. A single drop of oil on the workshop floor invites a stiff reprimand. It is also mandatory for students to maintain good personal hygiene and appearance.
“The students may be taken aback to our strict policies such as workplace cleanliness, attendance and passing marks at first, but many have come back to thank us for preparing them, after they’ve gone out to the workplace,” said Adelaine who guided us through the tour.
We also came across groups of students dressed in shirts and neckties. “They’re undergoing the Service Advisor training module. They take turns to play the role of angry customers and techniques to address customer issues correctly.”
“As for the Superbike Technician Course, we’ve purchased eight new motorcycles for the students to work on. They weren’t sponsor,” stressed Sebastian further.
Application for the first batch of the Superbike Technician Course is open for its first intake in July 2018. Please visit www.toc.edu.my or www.facebook.com/TOC.edu/ for more information.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/vespa-lxv-150-3v-e-review-retro-cool/ | Vespa LXV 150 3V i.e. review – Retro cool |
The lovable and iconic Vespa LXV 150 3V i.e. shows us why old is gold, even in this current modern age.
Vespas are cool. Period. No arguments about that. In fact, we have one in our humble little office, an older LX 150 model to be precise, which has proudly and reliably served one of our colleagues through thick and thin. In many ways than one, our colleague’s LX 150 is indeed a gem in its own right.
However, stricter emission laws means that the days of the carburetted LX 150 are pretty much numbered. Which then brings us to what appears to be its replacement, the LXV 150 3V i.e. On the surface, things look like business as usual with the more modern LXV 150 3V i.e.
Fans and purists alike will appreciate the fact that the distinct and iconic retro design lines Vespas are known for are retained here – no surprise here. What really went well with our Maroon-coloured test unit featured here are the various shiny chrome brightworks it adorns.
No matter at which angle you look at it, there’s plenty of shiny chrome that catches the eye on this LXV 150 3V i.e., adding a big boost of nostalgia especially amongst many older-aged admirers who lived through the era when shiny chrome was all the rage on Vespas.
What is certain though is that the LXV 150 3V i.e. is a natural-born charmer. Ride it around a KL’s more posh or up-scale neighbourhoods and you’ll find yourself turning into quite the attention magnet – even with a silly-looking full-face helmet on as our test-rider did.
If ever you needed to look cute to impress the ladies, then this Maroon-painted retro moped, with its appropriately matching retro tanned leather seats, and shiny chrome trims, will effortlessly aid you in this feat.
Underneath though, the LXV 150 3V i.e. is anything but old as it boast some of the most modern inner workings that parent company Piaggio Group currently possess in its arsenal.
The most essential of elements here is its perky 154.8cc three-valve air-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine, primed with a modern and appropriately greener electronic fuel injection system. The latter is what justifies the ‘i.e.’ bit in its nameplate, which stands for ‘iniezione elettronica’ – Italian lingo for electronic injection.
Peak power of 11.7hp comes at the higher rev-band circa 7,500rpm, whilst peak torque 12Nm comes at a slightly lower bad of 5,000rpm. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a CVT-type automatic transmission, a fairly common powertrain layout amongst many scooters of this size.
While speed isn’t its core mission, the powertrain does have enough oomph enough to bring the LXV 150 3V i.e.’s 114kg kerb weight up to decent speeds in a fairly smooth and steady manner of delivery.
But this powertrain does have a reputation for unreliability, especially under our challenging hot and humid weather conditions. In fact, our test unit’s electronics went wonky twice on us during its weeklong period with us. Unlike carburetted iterations, which can be easily kick-started, this fuel-injected LXV 150 3V i.e. is crippled in this situation.
Nevertheless, this issue disappears should you maintain and ride the LXV 150 3V i.e. in a sane and proper manner. Furthermore, the comfort levels of this fuel-injected Vespa LXV 150 3V i.e. is greater thanks to the less vibrations and harshness levels it possess as a result of a series of cleverly engineered and improved engine mounts.
Things does get even better on the move, like the fact at how easy it is to manoeuvre this scooter’s 114kg kerb weight. Helping this cause is the compliant suspension setup it boast. Primed up front is a single arm with helical spring and single double-acting hydraulic shock absorber assembly, whilst the rear gets single shock absorber hidden in the streamlined aft section that offers four adjustable preload settings.
Again, a fairly common setup amongst many similar-sized scooters and mopeds, but the Vespa’s unit is one of the most comfortable ones we’ve come across so far. Complementing the LXV 150 3V i.e.’s compliant and comfortable suzzies is the highly compact overall dimension. Suffice to say, navigating through urban traffic obstacles is a relative breeze, and one need not require the same skills set as a professional courier rider to master it.
It truly does feel like a bike that almost anyone, novice and experts alike, can simply hop on and go.
How does the Vespa LXV 150 3V i.e. fare out as a daily rider? The answer is a bit of a ‘yes’ and ‘no’. Besides the electronics’ tendency to go wonky, there is also that small 7.5-litre fuel tank. The under-seat storage is also fairly limited, but it will still hold a medium-sized open-face helmet or two skull-type retro styled types.
However, if you were looking for a daily or weekend runabout that looked cool without trying too hard, with a fairly easy to ride characteristics, and one that does not possess an intimidating stance, then the answer is a solid ‘yes’. Because there is simply nothing else out there that comes close to what an icon the Vespa has become, even in this more modern LXV 150 3V i.e. form.
All you need to do next is to meet the LXV 150 3V i.e.’s premium starting price tag of RM11,658 (nett price sans insurance and options).
If that’s too rich for your taste, then perhaps the more ‘basic’ Vespa LT that recently debuted in our market could be the choice for you.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/if-you-own-the-2021-panigale-v4-heres-a-series-of-tutorial-on-how-to-optimize-your-machine/ | If You Own The 2021 Panigale V4, Here’s A Series Of Tutorial On How To Optimize Your Machine! |
Thankfully we are not the one to tell you how to get the most out of your 2021 Panigale V4. Instead, Ducati has taken the extra effort to tell you the proper way of doing it.
Ducati will publish seven videos on the company official website and their official YouTube channel with Ducati Official Tester Alessandro Valia and Ducati Superbike Development Team Leader Carlo Ricci Maccarini.
The video, shot from the paddock of the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, tells us how to properly utilize the electronic controls to improve performance, especially on the track.
The seven videos focus on:
Product Overview
Product Novelties
Cornering ABS Settings
Cornering ABS Front Only
Ohlins Electronic Suspension Control
Ducati Traction Control EVO 3
Riding Mode Settings
The first six episodes have been published on YouTube, with the last episode to be made available soon.
Check out the first six tutorials below and who knows? You might understand your beloved VR better after this.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/syed-saddiq-wants-go-jek-in-malaysia/ | Syed Saddiq Wants Go-Jek in Malaysia |
Youth and Sports Minister YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman wants motorcycle ride-hailing service Go-Jek to begin in Malaysia.
He says it will provide much needed jobs to Malaysian youths.
The decision will be made during the Cabinet meeting on 21st August.
Youth and Sports Minister YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman wants motorcycle ride-hailing service Go-Jek to begin in Malaysia.
He said that such service would help Malaysian youths in having jobs, adding that it is not enough for the government to organize programs or build race tracks.
“They want jobs. That is a more pressing issue,” he said in a video posted via Twitter.
Syed Saddiq said that he had brought Go-Jek’s founder Nadiem Makarim to meet with Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahatir Mohamad and Transport Minister Anthony Loke on August 19th.
The presentation was “accepted kindly” and the discussion will be finalized in the upcoming Cabinet meeting on 21st August.
The minister stressed that he would like to create “hundreds of thousands” of job opportunities for motorcyclists.
Go-Jek is based in Jakarta, Indonesia and is the direct competitor to Grab Ride in a number of Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore and home base Indonesia.
Grab on other hand, originated in Malaysia.
The minister’s recommendation is good, in our opinion, as many have taken up motorcycle-based food delivery jobs such as Food Panda, Grab Food, and so forth.
On the flip side, it will contradict what YB Anthony Loke’s decision to ban motorcycle ride-hailing service. He had issued an order to ban Dego Ride last year and did not allow Grab Ride to go ahead.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/zulfahmi-khairuddin-gets-wildcard-entry-arrc-2016-finale/ | Zulfahmi Khairuddin gets wildcard entry in ARRC 2016 finale |
National WSSP rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin secures wildcard entry for this weekend’s ARRC 2016 season finale.
Another national rider who isn’t sitting idle in his off-season is World Supersport (WSSP) rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin. The 25-year-old Banting native secured a wildcard entry to this weekend’s FIM Asia Road Racing 2016 (ARRC 2016) season-finale at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand.
“I am looking forward to pitting my skills against the best riders in Asia. For me, this is a great opportunity to hone my race craft as part of the off-season preparations for the 2017 season. Racing against the riders in the ARRC will certainly keep me on my toes,” said Zulfahmi in regards to his wildcard entry.
This weekend, Zulfahmi Khairuddin will trade the hot seat of his Orelac VerdNatura WSSP team’s Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R for a similar machine under the BikeART Racing Kawasaki team in the series’ SuperSport 600 class. This also sees him teaming up with veteran ARRC ace and compatriot Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman.
Making it a truly special affair is the fact that this wildcard entry marks Zulfahmi’s first ever appearance in the regional championship series. Unlike the rest of his compatriots, Zulfahmi was lucky enough to graduate straight into the world 125cc and later Moto3 championship after racing in the Malaysian Cub Prix.
With that in mind, Zulfahmi further added, “The team has set no targets for me. As a wildcard, I think they view this as an opportunity to test the limits of their machine without dealing with the pressure of winning the Asian title. For me, I just hope to hold my own against the front group.”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-maverick-vinales-signs-two-year-deal-with-yamaha/ | MotoGP: Maverick Vinales signs two-year deal with Yamaha |
The pre-season MotoGP test session is not for another week and already Maverick Vinales is the first to strike a deal with Yamaha which will see the young Spaniard racing for the factory squad until the end of 2022.
This newly signed agreement confirms that Yamaha is confident with Maverick Vinales and his abilities to carry them forward not only the upcoming seasons but also be the front runner is winning back the championship and developing the ever-growing Yamaha YZR-M1.
Although many people would tend to think that it’s way too early for any rider or manufacturer to cement such an agreement this early, it does make sense in many ways. For one, Vinales finished last season in the third position in the championship, which also saw him as the top Yamaha rider despite a lot of that limelight falling on a certain rookie by the name of Fabio Quartararo.
Vinales also scored six wins in the past three seasons compared to Rossi who only bagged one in the same period. Vinales also secured 19 podium finishes (six more than Rossi) and nine pole positions (eight more than Rossi). As of now, most of you will probably agree with the Yamaha factory team to extend such a deal to Maverick and no other riders.
As for Valentino Rossi, his decision to continue racing in MotoGP will be based on how he performs in the first few races of 2020. If both Rossi and Yamaha feel that they are still a competitive package, Rossi too might see a contract extension going into 2021.
While Quartararo looks like the perfect candidate to replace the legendary Italian rider in the factory squad, Quartararo had different circumstances going into his first MotoGP season with relatively nothing to lose and no pressure to perform.
Having said that, Yamaha agrees that the young Frenchman is a wonderful match with the Yamaha M1, and it would make total sense to keep him on one, no matter the team.
Image source: MotoGP
MotoGP Malaysia 2020 tickets now on sale!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-y15zr-v2-doxou-and-yamaha-nvx-doxou-launched-record-11836-yamaha-bikes-at-yamaha-gen-blu-festival-2019/ | Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Doxou and Yamaha NVX Doxou Launched, Record 11,836 Yamaha Bikes at Yamaha Gen Blu Festival 2019 |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) launched the limited edition Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Doxou and Yamaha NVX Doxou.
They were unveiled at the Yamaha Gen Blu Festival 2019.
The festival entered the Malaysian Book of Records with the largest number – 11,836 – of Yamaha motorcycles in one place.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) launched the limited edition Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Doxou and Yamaha NVX Doxou at the Yamaha Gen Blu Festival 2019. The festival also saw the biggest attendance of 11,836 Yamaha motorcycles in one place thereby earning a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records.
The Y15ZR V2 Doxou and NVX Doxou represent not only lines of limited edition motorcycles, but also a complete lifestyle. That’s because the Doxou family encompasses a complete collection of official apparel and merchandise.
Additionally, each owner receive exclusive premium gift set which consists of specially-designed Doxou headphones and keychain. But more importantly, he/she also receives an exclusive certificate inscribed with the specific bike’s chassis and engine numbers. Great collector’s item and resale value, eh?
The Y15ZR V2 Doxou is priced at RM 8,868 (selling price) and will be available from dealers beginning mid-August. Pricing and availability of the NVX Doxou will be announced at a later date.
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Meanwhile, the Yamaha Gen Blue Festival 2019 was a huge success. Apart from seeing the largest get-together, there were also a wide array of activities for both Yamaha owners and their families.
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The attendees came in through convoys organised in different regions of the country.
To begin, the Yamaha Gallery showcased the 40 years of HLYM’s electrifying growth and success in Malaysia.
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Bikes displayed include legends that ruled the Malaysian roads such as the RX-100, RX-Z, SRZ110, TZM150, 125Z, before progressing to the new bikes. There were also race classic race bikes such as the YZF-750, TZ-250, YZR-500.
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HLYM also set up test rides, a bike clinic, NVX Challenge race, special sale of merchandise besides parts and accessories.
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There was also a hotly contested custom bike competition. It was divided into different categories. The entries were dazzling. There were YZF-R25s dressed up like superbikes, a YZF-R15 which looked exactly like a YZF-R1M complete with wide tyres and Akrapovic race exhaust, Y15ZRs that were completely kitted out; superbly restored RZ-350LC Eddie Lawson Edition; the list goes on and on.
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Many vendors also made their presence, providing a whole range of products and services.
Lucky draws were carried out by Hong Leong Yamaha throughout the day. A lucky soul went home with the Grand Prize of an MT-09.
Don’t despair if you missed this great event. Be prepared for an even bigger one in 2020. (But first, look out for the HLYM Malaysian MotoGP convoy!)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysian-couple-returns-home-global-honda-rs150r-honeymoon-ride/ | Malaysian couple returns home from global Honda RS150R honeymoon ride |
Malaysian couple Mohd Alfishahrin Zakaria and Diana Latief has returned home to Malaysia late yesterday after completing their epic global Honda RS150R honeymoon ride.
The newlyweds spent over six months riding the Honda RS150R supercub across 25 countries which ended in London, England.
The couple was welcomed by family members, friends and representatives from Boon Siew Honda, GIVI Malaysia, PEMADAM and many more upon their return yesterday just in time for Malaysia Day.
After six months on the road riding across 25 countries, Malaysian newlyweds Mohd Alfishahrin Zakaria and Diana Latief has finally returned home to Malaysia late yesterday just in time for Malaysia Day. The couple took the Honda RS150R supercub for a trip of a lifetime around the world.
Friends, family members and even officials from Boon Siew Honda, GIVI Malaysia and PEMADAM (Persatuan Mencegah Dadah Malaysia) were all present at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Arrival Hall to welcome back the couple after spending over half a year riding across the globe on a 150cc moped.
The trip which started on 8 April 2017 was officially completed on 31 August 2017 on Malaysia’s Independence Day when they flew the Malaysian flag in the heart of London to mark their momentous achievement. There is only a handful of people who has achieved this globetrotting feat but to do so while riding a 150cc cub is something extra special.
When asked about their experiences, both Alfie and Diana commented on how good the Honda RS150R withstood the numerous batteries and challenges while riding across 25 countries. Being ridden in temperatures ranging from -10° all the way to a blistering 50°, the only issue that they had with the moped was one single tyre puncture.
They’ve also commented that Switzerland was hands down the most beautiful country they’ve ever seen with the best scenic view whereas India presented the most challenges from its rough terrains to world famous traffic congestions.
The couple also informed us how surprised they were when it comes to countries like Iran. While they were told that the country was filled with danger, it was a completely opposite experience from them as they met the nicest people there who took them into their homes, offered them food and even showed them around town.
They were offered the best hospitality from complete strangers even though there was a big gap in communication where the Iranians they met spoke very little English.
All in all, the couple symbolises the true spirit of Malaysians and riding. Even before the trip ended, they are already thinking of other international bike journeys such as going for Hajj. For now, they’re super excited to get some good rest and have some Malaysian nasi lemak in the morning.
A huge congratulation to Alfie and Diana for completing such an awesome feat and Happy Malaysia Day to everyone from us here at Bikes Republic and our sister site, Motomalaya.net!
To know more about their adventures on the road, you can check out their Facebook pages by clicking HERE for Alfie’s and HERE for Diana’s.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-introduces-new-colours-for-2019-honda-wave-alpha-and-2019-honda-beat/ | Boon Siew Honda Introduces New Colours for 2019 Honda Wave Alpha and 2019 Honda BeAT |
Boon Siew Honda gives the 2019 Honda Wave Alpha and 2019 Honda BeAT new colours.
The Wave Alpha is the current leader in the small capacity cub segment.
The 2019 BeAT is the third generation BeAT automatic scooter.
Boon Siew Siew Honda has launched new colours and striping for the 2019 Honda Wave Alpha and 2019 Honda BeAt.
2019 Honda Wave Alpha
The Wave Alpha is the current leader among the small capacity cub segment in Malaysia. This is due to Honda’s brief in producing it as the motorcycle for the masses.
For 2019, Honda updates the bike with new colours and graphics to appeal to both the matured as well as the younger audiences.
The model is offered in two variants. The first features cast wheels and a front disc brake. The other variant features spoked wheels and drum brakes on both ends.
The new colour schemes for the disc brake variant are Pearl Megallanic Black with yellow striping, Vivacity Red and Pearl Nightfall Blue.
As for the spoked wheels variant, the colour schemes are Vivacity Red, Pearl Megallanic Black and Pearl Nightfall Blue.
The disc brake model is priced from RM 4,516, while the spoked wheels model is from RM 4,275 (basic selling prices excluding road tax, insurance and registration). The new Wave Alpha is available from today onwards.
2019 Honda BeAT
This is the third generation BeAT after being first introduced in 2016. The BeAT is popular for its great looks and fuel economy, as well as storage space.
Its powered by a 108cc, PGM-FI fuel-injected engine. Power is fed to the rear wheel via a V-belt.
The new BeAt is now equipped with a sidestand sensor which incapacitates engine start and accidental acceleration. The engine also cuts out when the sidestand is lowered. Additionally, the model also features Combi Brake System which activates both brakes to increase braking power besides stabilizing the bike under hard braking. A Smart Lock System assists with being stationary on a slope – more like a manual Hill Start Assist system in the larger bikes.
There are four new colours for the 2019 BeAT: Vivacity Red, Space Magenta Metallic, Pearl Nightfall Blue and Pearl Megallanic Black.
Boon Siew Honda prices the BeAt from RM 5,365 (basic selling price excluding road tax, insurance and registration).
The new BeAT will be available from next week onwards.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tested-2017-ktm-rc-390-test-review/ | TESTED: 2017 KTM RC 390 test & review |
The 2017 KTM RC 390 was introduced last year in October together with the 2017 KTM RC 250.
A lot of major updates have been integrated such as Ride-by-Wire, slipper clutch, and chassis just to name a few.
Priced at RM29,800 (basic price with GST), the 2017 KTM RC 390 is indeed a good choice for track days and weekend rides on mountain roads.
Not me…
Rewind the clock back to 2014 and I’m reminded of a very different time and place. After a few years of teaching at one ‘international university’, my beloved yet very old Modenas Karisma decided to give its last breath. After years of service, the old boy just couldn’t take anymore.
Rather than spending big amounts of cash to repair the discontinued model and repeat the whole drama all over again, I decided that it was time to get a brand new bike. One particular shop in Kota Damansara which sells KTM and Vespa somehow got in touch with my wife (with the help of another family member) and we were there the very next day to witness all the goods at hand.
Motoaladdin, Kota Damansara
I ended up buying a 150cc Vespa Primavera instead which I thought was a wrong move for the first few weeks of ownership (got the Akrapovic full system exhaust a few weeks after to make things better). At the back of mind, the KTM RC390 sitting right in front of the shop was constantly calling my name and I’ve been thinking about the bike ever since.
Last year, KTM introduced the updated 2017 KTM RC 390 together with its smaller sibling, the RC 250. At a price of RM29,800 (basic price with GST), the bike was back in my mind and we got to test it out earlier this month. Honestly, we were pretty excited about the idea. We’ve tested the 2017 KTM 390 Duke as well as the new 2017 KTM 250 Duke and we were pushing ourselves to the limit on how different the new RC 390 is compared to its naked brothers.
First and foremost, there’s nothing major about the exterior apart from updated body panels, colour schemes and new side exhaust. This new exhaust setup does provide better ground clearance so for those who live in areas with gigantic speed bumps shouldn’t have to worry too much about owning this baby.
The sitting ergonomics have been primed for a more supersport riding position which indicates that the new RC 390 is good for track riding instead of everyday travels. The aggressive stance is enhanced with a wider and slightly higher handlebar which we found to be very good for flicking into endless corners and weaving in and out of heavy traffic.
Nonetheless, it’s not exactly the best handlebar positioning for either road or track riding purposes but it is adequate so that it performs fairly well in both riding scenarios. As the riding ergonomics is leaning more towards the trackside, the new RC 390 is perfect for beginner riders who want to try track riding but requires a few modifications and setups for more advanced riders.
The updated chassis works surprisingly well in all riding conditions. Overall, it offers a very smooth ride with very little vibrations that’ll make most riders uncomfortable after a few kilometres. Paired with an updated 373cc, single-cylinder Euro4 engine, getting it up to highway speeds (and beyond) is nothing short of amazing.
There is, however, a major drawback to its 44hp 373cc engine. Its radiator has been improved for better cooling performance but the cooling fan attached to it makes such a loud noise that it can drown the sound of the engine when idling. Another issue when it comes to heat that the RC390 generates a tonne of it and you’ll definitely feel the heat rising up your legs especially at traffic lights. The solution? Ride hard and ride fast.
It is possible to get the new RC 390 just above the 170km/h top speed mark but once the engine reaches its RPM limit, the cut-off will retard the bike’s engine power and you’ll feel a surge of heaviness pulling you back. The experience is quite abrupt and will catch you by surprise for the first time but it’ll also teach you that this bike does not need to be pushed to its limits especially in track riding situations. It’s the corners where this baby shines bright like a diamond.
The front WP Suspension 43mm inverted front forks have been primed with racing DNA as it carries the same diameter as KTM’s only superbike, the RC 8. Some would say that it’s a bit on the softer end as it’s been tuned for more road riding situations but the compression and rebound rates are wonderful enough when going through corners.
Sadly, they’re not fully adjustable so lighter riders around the 70kg mark (and below) will benefit more from the current setup. The good news is that it syncs very well with the bike’s overall power delivery across the entire RPM range. This is also assisted by a brand new Ride-by-Wire system that works like a charm in modulating throttle responses. No delays in power delivery and not too abrupt, either.
The braking package has also been improved with a few things like a bigger 320mm front disc paired with a ByBre radial four-piston caliper and dual-channel ABS. Adjustable brake and clutch levers are thrown in as standard to allow for more versatility and the braking feel plus feedback are sublime. Not many entry-level sport bikes can offer the same feeling and hard braking is one of the things that truly excite us when riding the new RC 390.
With a very light bike to begin with (147kg dry), heavy braking from high speeds presents no drama from the front end but it does tend to get the rear very light. Brake a bit harder and you’ll find the rear tyre lifting from the ground but that’s the normal life for a track rider and the RC 390 ticks that box with a smile.
There is, however, a major drawback when it comes to its rear brake. We found out that it was quite soft and almost useless upon heavy braking so a change in braking style and weight distribution had to be considered to slightly tame the beast before heading into corners. To forget the rear brake altogether is not advisable as it can help with better stopping performance so stabilising the bike by shifting your body weight to the rear end might help a bit in this particular situation.
This does require a lot of practice and finding the right weight balance will help greatly in optimising the bike’s braking performance. As much as road riding is concerned, dual channel ABS come as standard and it works brilliantly as well. It’s hardly noticeable while riding in normal situations but will come into play when needed.
You can choose to turn the entire ABS off with the help of a secret third button on the dash (the same one found on the previous model) for better riding experience on the track. The bike will, however, remind you by stating “Not Legal!” when the ABS is turned off so only use this trick in the tracks, not the streets.
There’s also the new addition of a slipper clutch which is a welcome one into the new RC 390 package. It works great in reducing wheel hops and preventing rear wheel lockups. Again, it helps to make the new RC 390 fun for the track and the street. It also helps to increase the overall safety when combined with the bike’s ABS system so novice riders won’t be too intimidated with the bike’s performance.
All in all, we enjoyed our time with the 2017 KTM RC 390 but in all honesty, it’s not a bike we would want to ride every day of the week. The price is affordable enough as a fun package for track days and weekend rides up mountain roads but a trip to and from the office after a hard day of work will make you even more tired.
This can all be avoided if you have a strong core strength plus enough knowledge and experience of riding using the lower part of your body. As beginner riders tend to put all their weight on their arms, all the pressure and load will make you tired very fast so you’ll definitely feel all the aches and pains the next morning after a day’s worth of riding.
The 2017 KTM RC 390 is indeed worthy choice to play around in the track as a step up from the 250s before making your way up to supersport and superbike. As far as we are concerned, the RC 390 will turn you into a better rider when paired with the right riding knowledge.
2018 KTM 790 Duke coming soon to Malaysia?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/10-reasons-you-should-attend-california-superbike-school-malaysia/ | 10 Reasons You Should Attend California Superbike School Malaysia |
California Superbike School Malaysia visited us the second time.
The school is the premier advanced motorcycle riding course.
Spread over two days, students go home as better riders.
If there is one riding school that stands out head and shoulders above the rest, it is the California Superbike School (CSS). So, we decided to outline the 10 reasons you should attend as the first part of our coverage.
Founded by guru Keith Code nearly forty years ago, the school had instructed thousands of students who went on to enjoy riding even more while being safer at that.
CSS then opened a branch in Australia to cater to the APAC region.
They had visited Malaysia last year for the first time and were back again in 2019. They were hence called California Superbike School Malaysia (CSSMY). We wish to thank SBR Trackdays and California Superbike School Malaysia for this unprecedented opportunity to attend Level I and Level II at the Sepang International Circuit.
We came away more than just impressed. We were amazed at the improvements as bikers, but even more impressed at the level of professionalism put forth by both SBR and CSSMY.
So, here we go. 10 reasons.
1. The Art of Cornering
Every biker lives for corners. Regardless of type of motorcycle, we lust for the twisty stuff. Additionally, it doesn’t matter if just sweeping through a corner or dragging an elbow, motorcycling is all about cornering.
Unfortunately, the act of cornering sometimes scares riders or causes crashes because riders are not armed with the right knowledge and skills. Cornering a bike is as much as about safety as it’s about enjoyment. That is why cornering is an art, as much as it is science.
CSSMY breaks cornering down to minute details to build your skills one step at a time. Soon it becomes second nature and you don’t have to over-analyze everytime the road goes less than straight.
2. It’s not about speed
The CSSMY instructors never once mentioned speed or lap times. Instead, they teach you the correct basics of riding and cornering, then allow you to build your confidence and speed naturally.
In that sense, it doesn’t matter if your lap times are good enough to put you on front row of the MSBK grid, or if you’re touring around on SIC for the first time.
CSSMY is simply unlike other schools that tell keep pushing participants to “Open, open, open” like they’re hookers, then throwing them into the deep end of the pool. That kind of school resulted in crashes and people getting hurt (we were there!).
3. It’s not about what you ride
While 99% of the bikes during CSSMY were sportbikes, the school doesn’t restrict the type of bike you ride (with the exception of underbones and bikes under 250cc, of course).
In fact, I’ve seen pictures of participants riding cruisers in CSS USA. So, it doesn’t matter if you ride a Ducati V4 R or Yamaha Tracer 900 GT or Triumph Tiger 800 XRx or a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy.
The focus is on cornering and riding skills.
4. It’s not about your equipment
You look over and you see a bike running slick tyres, Öhlins suspension and race-spec brakes but they mean almost nothing in CSSMY. While it’s great that the rider brought a specific bike to learn on in the school, no participant feels pressured that they must have the latest and baddest techo wizardry.
Again, it’s about the rider. One can have the best bike on the planet, but it’s nothing without the rider.
5. Easy to understand classes, drills and debriefs
Rather than inundate students with techno babble and physics lectures, the school formulates teaching methodologies that are easy to understand and remember. Of course, students may raise technical questions and the instructors are more than happy to oblige.
The classes started with questions from the instructor, followed by answers from the students and they were discussed. The discussions were laid back with plenty of fun and laughs.
Out on the track, an instructor will ride ahead of us and use pre-determined hand signals to remind us of the specific drill.
Back in the pits, we’d sit down with the on-track instructor and work through what we learned in the classroom and track session. He would suggest corrective measures in the next session.
6. Small instructor/student ratio
Only three students are assigned to each on-track instructor. That way, the instructors can pay more attention to each student.
7. All positive
The instructors do not berate the students for their mistakes, instead it’s always about positive reinforcement. A student may have totally cooked the entire session, but the instructors were always there to suggest ways to improve.
Would you prefer to hear, “Why didn’t you open?! You must open!!!” or “Don’t worry about it, follow me in the next session and see what I do”?
8. All instructors ride the same way
We noticed that all the instructors ride almost exactly alike, in terms of how the steered their bikes, body positioning, head positioning, cornering lines, braking, reference points, etc.
This was not only an awesome sight but it’s fair to the students. It means that a student attached to one instructor isn’t getting less or more from another. Instead, they learn what was taught to the letter.
9. Skills can be applied anywhere
Conducting the courses at the racetrack provides the safest environment. The skills taught in CSSMY can be applied any time you ride because they cover the fundamentals of steering, throttle control, vision, braking, body positioning, etc.
10. Improvements that are measurable
All of us started the course with some level of uncertainty, self-doubt, fear. Some didn’t know what to expect. Some just wanted to survive.
But it was easy to see that everyone had improved and were genuinely relaxed by the middle of the second day. The riders who had struggled every lap were now riding at steady paces. Those who feared corners leaned over further. And those hotshots went even faster but looked more natural than all contorted on their bikes.
That’s because CSSMY had accepted our fears and shortcomings and took positive steps in overcoming them in an objective-based method.
Conclusion
The California Superbike School Malaysia has to be attended by every biker. We owe it to ourselves, our riding buddies and the community at large that we upgrade our riding skills. You will find riding is so much more pleasant and safer, in addition to going home feeling that you’ve achieved the best thing in your life.
CSS Malaysia will be back next year so start saving!
Please stay tuned for this writer’s personal experience in the California Superbike School Malaysia.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/shell-cup-round-3-japan-dominates-malaysia-surprises/ | Shell Cup Round 3 – Japan dominates, Malaysia surprises! |
The third round of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, or better known as Shell Cup now, saw some dramatic wheel to wheel action you would not expect to see of teenage riders. The third race of the season took place at the Zhuhai International Circuit in China.
The Japanaese of course dominated again but only in practise and qualifying. Friday’s practise took place in sweltering heat with an ambient temperature of 40 degrees celsius and track temperature of 62 degrees celsius.
There were two practise sessions on the day and interestingly all riders took an amazing four seconds off their lap times on the second practise. Expectedly,the Japanese riders were the pace setters with the top four places going to Kaito Toba (race winner at Sentul) in first, Yuta Date (winner in Qatar) in second, Ayumu Sasaki and Takuma Kunimine.
Malaysian riders Shafiq Ezzariq and Ibrahim Norrodin made it into the top 10 classification during free practise one but in free practise two, Malaysia was represented by Helmi Azman, Shafiq Rasol and Adam Norrodin.
Qualifying on Saturday however saw a very different final grid line up. Some of the riders experienced mechanical problems while some were not happy with the set up of their bikes, this led to a mixed starting grid.
For the first time, 13 year old Japanese rider Ayumu Sasaki, who is also the youngest rider on the grid, took pole position followed by experienced riders Kaito Toba in second and Takuma Kunimine in third. Race favourite Yuta Date came in fourth. The top seven spots in qualifying saw a Japanese washout while Malaysia took over from the Japanese from eight place onwards.
Arguably Malaysia’s most experienced rider Adam Norrodin who raced in Spain’s CEV series took eight place with Helmi Azman just a hundredth of a second behind him in ninth. Female Thai rider Muklada Sarapuech took tenth while eleventh to fifteenth place was utterly dominated by the Malaysians. An obvious improve in performance from the Malaysians.
Race one, which took place on Saturday, however was a nail biting dramaful event. With 12,000 race fans showing up at the circuit to watch the race, Malaysian rider Adam Norrodin took a surprise lead at the start, leaving everyone in his wake.
Adam held on to the lead for two laps of the 15 lap race. At the end of lap two however, Toba had increased his pace and by the end of lap three, had opened an astonishing two second lap over the rest of the pack.
Sasaki, who was determined to win the race and who regards Date as his closest competitor, then took over the lead and held on to it for much of the race, occasionally getting into a dice up with Toba. Date held on to third place comfortable, silently watching the two up front, waiting for his moment.
The battle really heated up five laps from the end of the race with Toba and Date challenging Sasaki for the lead. It was a drama filled fairing to fairing race for the three racers, but Sasaki made a mistake on the last corner, and this gave the other two riders the opportunity they needed to slip past with Date seemingly set for the win. Toba however, slipstreamed Date at the last second, and took the win by tenth of a second.
Adam Norrodin, who was seemingly set for his first podium of the race, came home in sixth place after unsuccessfully challenging the two Japanese riders who finished in fourth and fifth – Ryo Mizuno in fourth and Takuma Kunimine in fifth.
Following close behind Adam was Shafiq Rasol in seventh, Helmi Azman in eight, Shafiq Ezzariq in ninth. Rounding up the Malaysian contingent was Nazirul Bahauddin in 14 and Adam’s brother Ibrahim Norrodin in 17 place.
The third round of the Shell Cup continues on Sunday with Race 2 with the starting grid following yesterday’s qualifying results.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/toc-automotive-college-provides-funding-for-superbike-technician-course-students/ | TOC Automotive College Provides Funding for Superbike Technician Course Students! |
TOC Automotive College provides funding for students interested to pursue the Superbike Technician Course!
The Bina Bakat option funds up to 100% of the course fees.
Bina Bakat students only repay after they have secured employment after completing the course.
Education is one of the most important aspects of modern life, if not the most important. Lives are built based on education, and goals too are achieved through good education. Unfortunately education sometimes is out of reach for the regular person due to accessibility issues such as the costs associated with education.
While there are many scholarships available in the market, these are usually reserved for top tier students with near perfect results. Options are not as great for others, and that is what TOC Automotive College aims to change through a special financing program called TOC Bina Bakat Program.
Launched at the beginning of 2018, the TOC Bina Bakat Program which translates to Building Talents Program in English, works to provide financing to students who need it the most. It offers both apprenticeship programs and loan repayment plan for students where an education loan is provided for the enrolled courses and the students will only need to make the repayments through a monthly deduction from their salary or allowance. This deduction will only take place once the student obtains apprenticeship or a permanent job placement.
“With living costs increasing steadily, more parents and students find themselves struggling to pay for tertiary education cost. Our role as the pioneering educator in Malaysia’s automotive industry is committed towards overcoming external challenges which could deprive higher learning opportunities among the younger generation. Through the TOC Bina Bakat Program, we hope to bridge the financial differences and provide easier access to quality education for everyone,” said Adelaine Foo, Founder of TOC Automotive College.
Foo further added, “TOC Bina Bakat Program strikes long term mutual benefits for students and TOC’s Industry Partners as these students will be groomed in the very organization they hope to secure permanent placement with, be it in after sales-service or in the technical area.”
The TOC Bina Bakat Program also applies to the recently introduced Superbike Technician Course, which aims to provide certified training to students who want to pursue a career in superbike maintenance. What’s more is that TOC Automotive College has partnered with the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA), and through this partnership students who have undergone TOC’S Superbike Technician Course will be able to find almost instant employment among the MMSDA’s 5,000-member workshops.
Students who are interested to pursue this course will be able to secure a 100% loan to finance their education, repayable only when they secure a job.
Click here for more information regarding TOC Bina Bakat Program and the Superbike Technician Course.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gallery-ducati-werideasone-malaysian-leg-kicks-off-in-style/ | Gallery: Ducati #WeRideAsOne Malaysian leg kicks off in style |
Sights from the Malaysian leg of the first ever Ducati #WeRideAsOne global ride that painted Kuala Lumpur red with the sounds of roaring Desmo L-twins.
Malaysian leg of first ever Ducati #WeRideAsOne global event takes off brilliantly.
Ducati Malaysia amongst 224 dealers worldwide taking part in this new global initiative.
Over 100 Malaysian Ducatisti from all over peninsular took the streets of KL and paint it red.
#WeRideAsOne sees the Ducati brand gathering Ducatisti worldwide for a day of riding fun.
Now a new annual fixture for Ducatisti worldwide, the event will be held every first Saturday of May.
Held on May 7, the inaugural Ducati #WeRideAsOne initiative was organised by dealers and Ducati Official Clubs worldwide. The event reached its climax through a special parade that saw Ducatisti ride through their cities, painting them in the brand’s signature shade of rosso plus the sounds of Desmo L-twins roaring.
Altogether, 224 dealers plus the support of 120 Ducati Official Clubs worldwide made #WeRideAsOne possible. The result saw more than 13,000 Ducatisti taking to the streets of their respective cities and painting them red. These included Florence, Paris, Miami, New Delhi, Rome, Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, Valencia, New York, Dubai, Singapore, Seoul, Hangzhou, Bangkok and Ingolstadt.
Kuala Lumpur was amongst the cities taking part in this global event too, with the Malaysian leg of which organised by Ducati Malaysia (Next Bike Sdn Bhd). This follow on from the firm’s recent mass gathering effort held at SIC during Ramadhan.
Over 100 bikes from all corners of the peninsula, as well as its three main dealers (Penang, Sungai Buloh and Petaling Jaya) took part in this big ride out that coincided with the on-going Hari Raya Aidil Fitri festivities.
Adding to the affair too was the presence of local celebrity Alif Satar amongst the participants.
Of course, the stars of this show were the prized bikes each and every Ducatisti brought forth, and it included multiple generations and variations of the brand’s core offerings like the Monster, Multistrada, Panigale, Hypermotard and Scrambler too.
Aptly, as you can see from the featured images, the Malaysian leg of the Ducati #WeRideAsOne initiative successfully achieved its aim of gathering passionate Ducatisti for a day of riding joy and happiness – just as it did in other participating cities worldwide.
Following on its success, Ducati says it will now add the #WeRideAsOne event into its calendar as a fixed annual event held every first Saturday of May.
Images: Ducati Malaysia (Next Bike Sdn Bhd)
Additionally, it also goes without saying that #WeRideAsOne also stands as a ‘warm up’ to the World Ducati Week, which marks its post-pandemic return this year at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli from 22 to 24 July at the Misano World Circuit ‘Marco Simoncelli’.
If you’ve got the means and funds to travel to Italy for that, tickets for that can be purchased online through the the Ducati website.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/triumph-speed-94-and-94r-special-editions-90s-throwback/ | Triumph Speed 94 and 94R special editions – 90s throwback |
New Triumph Speed 94 and 94R celebrates original model’s initial production initiation in 1994.
British bikes maker Triumph took the wraps another special series of its Speed Triple naked not too long ago. Christened as the Speed 94 and Speed 94R, these two models celebrates the anniversary of the original Speed Triple’s production initiation 21 years ago.
Both are bult based upon the brand’s current Speed Triple, sporting aesthetic enhancements inspired by the original 90s era Speed Triple models. The most notable of which is the exclusive offer of having both in either Racing Yellow or Jet Black signature paint schemes.
Other enhancements include the a graphite finish painted subframe, followed the exhaust silencer and filler cap finished in black, as well as a colour-matched fly screen, seat cowl, and belly pan. Completing the 90s era styling are the original Speed Triple logos using the original type face seen as seen in 1994 adorned on both the Speed 94 and Speed 94R are. Rounding things off here is a special commemorative Speed Triple 94 plaque placed on the tank.
As you can already guess, the Speed 94 variant retains much of the stock Speed Triple’s essences and features. The Speed 94R, on the other hand, gains with several extra items such as fully-adjustable Ohlins suspension, followed by the adoption of Brembo Monobloc disc brakes, and Pirelli Supercorsa tyres rounding ¬ items lifted from the current Speed Triple R.
Triumph announced that the special commemorative Speed Triple 94 and 94R will begin sales in the UK starting this month.
Source: Visordown and Autoevolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/vehicle-entry-permit-required-for-foreign-vehicles-entering-malaysia/ | Vehicle Entry Permit Required for Foreign Vehicles Entering Malaysia |
Singapore vehicles entering Malaysia will need Vehicle Entry Permits - Photo credit The Straits Times
The Road Transport Department of Malaysia is implementing the Vehicle Entry Permit system for foreign-owned vehicles to enter the country.
It will be implemented in three phases.
Phase one covers vehicles entering from Singapore.
The Road Transport Department of Malaysia (JPJ – Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan) will require all foreign owned vehicles to register for a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) to enter the country. The system will be implemented from October 2019.
The department will issue the VEP via an online “simple three-step action.” They also added that the program will be implemented in three phases.
Phase one commences from 1stOctober 2019. It covers vehicles entering from Singapore through Bangunan Sultan Iskandar and Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar in Johore. The VEP-RFID tag can be installed or collected at four designated areas in Johor Bahru:
Gelang Patah Southbound R&R;
Plaza Angsana open carpark;
Pandan R&R;
Lima Kedai Toll Plaza.
Phase two involves foreign-owned vehicles entering Malaysia from Thailand, while phase three covers vehicles entering through the Malaysia-Brunei border. These two phases will be implemented “in due course.”
Each VEP is valid for five years (RM 25), although drivers can apply for a one-off permit which costs RM 10.
The RTD aims to avoid cloned vehicles from entering and being sold in Malaysia. Additionally, it prevents vehicles with outstanding summonses from leaving the country.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-repsol-honda-launches-2018-honda-rc213v-indonesia/ | MotoGP: Repsol Honda launches 2018 Honda RC213V in Indonesia! |
The Repsol Honda MotoGP squad headed down to Indonesia to launch the 2018 Honda RC213V latest livery.
The presentation was done at the 2018 Jakarta International Expo.
Both Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa were present for the launch to meet and greet their Indonesian fans.
Days after the official MotoGP pre-season test in Thailand, the Repsol Honda team flew straight to Indonesia to officially unveiled their latest 2018 Honda RC213V livery. The presentation was done in conjunction with the Jakarta International Expo where both Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa collectively stole the show with their presences.
Although the livery looks quite similar to the ones used by the team last year, the 2018 machine has several key updates upon closer inspection. Based on the official photos provided by the folks over at MotoGP, the 2018 Honda RC213V has an updated aerofairing, thumb-operated rear brake, and a much sharper SC Project side exhaust to name a few.
According to the 2017 MotoGP world champion, “It’s a real pleasure to once again be in Indonesia for our team launch because this is an important country for Honda and MotoGP. We’ve been here in Jakarta on many occasions, so it already seems very familiar to me! There are a lot of fans who make us feel very welcome, and it’s good to be able to reward their support by coming here and dedicating some time to them.”
“We’ve already done two tests this winter, and they both went quite well. We’ll also work hard in Qatar, in order to put it all together and be ready for the coming season. We want to fight at the front again this year, and to put on a good show for our fans here and around the world,” added Marquez.
As for the fastest man during the pre-season test in Buriram, Pedrosa stated “When you see how many people in Jakarta love MotoGP, it’s easy to understand why we came here again for our team launch. From a rider’s point of view, it’s great to see the fans enjoying our sport so much, and to share our own passion.”
“We also had another very good welcome just a few days ago in Thailand, where we had a positive test. So far everything seems to be going well enough, though we’ll understand better where we really are when we’re in Qatar, where the conditions will be quite different. I’m proud to start another season with the Repsol Honda Team, and I’m ready to give 100% to try and fight at the top,” added Pedrosa.
The boys will now need to prepare for the final pre-season test in Qatar on 1 March 2018 where they’ll finalise their 2018 race machines under the floodlights of the Losail International Circuit. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Source: MotoGP
MotoGP: Repsol Honda testing CARBON FIBRE swingarm?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-benelli-leoncino-800-and-2020-benelli-leconcino-800-trail-launched/ | 2020 Benelli Leoncino 800 and 2020 Benelli Leconcino 800 Trail Launched |
The 2020 Benelli Leoncino 800 and 2020 Benelli Leconcino 800 Trail were launched at EICMA 2019.
Both share the same engine and frame.
The Trail has a 19-inch front wheel.
As expected, the 2020 Benelli Leoncino 800 and 2020 Benelli Leconcino 800 Trail were launched at EICMA 2019.
Pictures of the bike were leaked a couple of months back, but they didn’t indicate that there will be two variants. Both bikes share the same engine and frame platform. They are powered by a754cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin which produces 81.6 bhp at 9,000 RPM and 67 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM. It’s power may not be as high as its contemporaries but the 2,500 RPM spread of power between maximum torque and horsepower shows that the engine has a wide powerband — “flexible” as we usually call it.
Both “Lion Cubs” (that’s what “Leoncino” means) use Benelli’s signature steel trellis frame.Stopping duties are handled by Brembo (instead of Benelli) monobloc brake calipers and 320 mm discs up front. ABS is standard.
The base version feature 17-inch wheels front and rear, while the Trail sees a 19-inch front and 10mm more suspension travel. The Trail’s most significant design cue are the twin upswept exhaust pipes.
The Leoncino pair are rather heavy. The base, street-oriented variant tips the scales at 220 kg, while the Trail is 224 kg.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-yamaha-ego-solariz-launched-hong-leong-yamaha-malaysia/ | 2017 Yamaha Ego Solariz Launched by Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia |
Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia (HLYM) just released another addition in their scooter line-up, the 2017 Ego Solariz
Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia (HLYM) recently launched a brand new scooter and also their first new bike of 2017, the Yamaha Ego Solariz. Primed with 125cc air-cooled, four-stroke SOHC engine, the power plant also comes with Yamaha’s Blur Core Technology.
The Ego Avantiz packs a maximum power of 9.4hp at 8,000rpm with maximum torque of 9.6Nm at 5,500rpm. Equipped with electronic fuel injection, the scooter promises more power and better fuel efficiency when paired with its 4.2 liter fuel tank and overall 94kg weight.
All the power is transferred down to the 14-inch rims via a CVT gearbox with belt drive that is quite common and effective mode of power delivery for most scooters in the market today. The all-new Ego Solariz also comes with front telescopic fork and rear monoshock suspension attached to the swingarm. Braking is done with the help of a single front hydraulic disc and drums at the back.
Storage is also available for the Ego Solariz as it comes with a 10-liter underseat storage. A trip to the nearby shops will be hassle-free with the storage available in the Solariz. The meter also comes with an “ECO” indicator which will tell the rider if the scooter is running at its highest efficiency to get the most mileage each and every time.
With a modern look and design, the bike is especially suited for new young riders who just obtained their riding license. The initial design is very modern with a touch of aggressiveness to appeal to the younger crowds. HLYM labels the Ego Solariz as versatile, purposeful and stylish that is all bundled up at an affordable package.
Customers will have a choice of a few attractive colours to select from Red, Blue, Brown and Magenta. The 2017 Yamaha Ego Solariz is priced at RM5,548 (basic with GST). Visit any of the Yamaha showrooms nationwide for more details.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-valentino-rossi-fit-race-mugello-weekend/ | MotoGP: Valentino Rossi Fit to Race in Mugello this weekend |
The medical representatives from FIM, Mugello Circuit and MotoGP have all declared that Valentino Rossi fit race this weekend in the Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley, Mugello.
The news was a big sigh of relief for Rossi’s fans after having suffered significant injuries when the Italian was involved in a major motocross incident a few days ago.
Valentino Rossi’s injuries included major trauma to the chest and stomach together with bruised liver and kidneys.
Image source: Michelin
MotoGP royalty Valentino Rossi has been declared fit to race at this weekend’s Gran Premio d’Italia Oakley. The FIM medical director, Dr Giancarlo di Filippo together with the Chief Medical Officer of the Autodromo Del Mugello circuit and MotoGP Medical Director all gave the thumbs up for the Italian’s hometown hero to race in front of his home crowd this weekend.
Most of you might have heard that a few days back, Rossi was involved in motocross incident which lead to some substantial injuries that included trauma to the chest and stomach region of the nine-time MotoGP world champion. They were even news spreading around stating that Rossi even suffered a couple of broken ribs in the process.
Even more worry came after the Movistar Yamaha squad released a few press releases stating that their star Italian rider is going through some major treatments and rehabilitation but nowhere in the press release stated on Rossi’s physical recovery time or even if he’s going to be able to race in Mugello this weekend.
A huge sigh of relief was sent out by his legion of fans when it was announced that Rossi will be fit to race in arguably one of the most anticipated race venues in the MotoGP calendar. With all that being said, we’re still not very sure if his injuries will affect his overall performance this weekend. Only time will tell if there’s any major effect when ‘The Doctor’ gets on board his beloved Yamaha M1 in today’s Free Practice session.
The next question that comes in mind is what will Rossi’s special helmet look like this year and whether it will give him that extra push to go win his first race of 2017 in front of his home crowd. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Image source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/11-things-to-do-at-the-sepang-circuit-during-motogp/ | 11 things to do at the Sepang Circuit during MotoGP |
Image by Sepang Circuit
1. Visit the Shell Advance Ride Thru Service booth
Are you riding to Sepang to watch the race? Then be sure to visit the Shell Advance booth at the PA1 parking lot ride opposite the main entrance (Welcome Centre). Buy any Shell Advance motorcycle lubricant and you will get a free engine service, free engine filter, free food and drinks, and you stand a chance to win other great goodies. Check out the video we created at last year’s Shell Ride Thru Service so you know what to expect!
Getting a free service for our Vespa at the Shell Advance Ride-Thru Service at Sepang Circuit!
Posted by Bikes | Republic on 28hb Oktober 2016
2. Don’t have a ticket to watch the race? Then visit the Shell Advance Ride Thru booth – again!
Yes that’s right. Shell Advance Malaysia wants to give you free tickets to the Shell Hillstand to watch the race. All you have to do is buy a Shell Advance AX7 or Ultra and service your bike at the Ride Through Service! So if you do not have tickets, this is your chance.
3. Get ready to shop!
The Malaysian MotoGP is the best time to buy merchandise of your favourite team or racer. There will be plenty of Valentino Rossi merchandise on sale, and at great prices too. So bring your wallet, and make sure there is a load of cash in it.
4. Visit the HJC booth to check out a special helmet
Of course there are going to be other helmet brands there too, and you should visit them too, but HJC Helmets is known to make some amazing helmets and are among the most affordable in the market right now. The latest helmet models are a unique line that include a few Marvel superheroes. But the latest design is one that will grab the attention of cartoon lovers with a design from the Cars 3 cartoon series. Don’t miss out the intricate details of the new HJC helmet.
5. Get up close and personal with the amazing Kawasaki H2R
The Kawasaki H2R needs no introduction, it is alien in comparison to regular bikes. Made of carbon fibre, the supercharged motorcycle is capable of hitting 400km/h. But it looks like it going really fast even while standing still. Marvel at this engineering masterpiece at the Kawasaki booth. Read more about this amazing machine here!
6. Check out the vast array of KTM bikes
Don’t let this team photo fool you, KTM makes motorcycles for track riders, adventurers and daily commuters.
KTM Motorcycles are becoming more and more popular now, and they are among a few manufacturers that have a complete range of motorcycles from dirt bikes to everyday commuters. There is a KTM motorcycle for everybody. And if you are a fan of the marque, there is also plenty of official merchandise to buy.
7. Stay hydrated with Red Bull
Over the years, the Red Bull marquee has built a reputation as the most happening booth during MotoGP thanks to its party like atmosphere. It is also the only booth during MotoGP that allows alcohol. So visit the Red Bull marquee, watch the race live, cool down with the air-conditioned tent. And if alcohol is not your thing, then simply load up on the Red Bull energy drink.
8. Take lots of selfies with the models
Where ever there are fast bikes there are bound to be plenty of beautiful women, and that is the case during MotoGP as well. There will be a long line of guys waiting to get a selfie with the gorgeous models, and they oblige with a smile. Just make sure your wife or girlfriend is not with you though.
9. Check out the new BMW bikes
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has a prominent booth just at the entrance to the grand stand area. And just like KTM, they have a complete range of motorcycles the fits almost all budgets. From the extremely loveable G310R, to the outrageous BMW HP4 Race that costs an astonishing RM520,900. Read about both the bikes here!
10. Win various goodies
A number of booths will be giving away free merchandise in return for something. Givi for example was giving away a very cool coin box after you like their Facebook page. We also know other stands are also doing the same, so keep a look out for all the free stuff on offer.
11. Watch the race!
This is a no-brainer. We are at the second last race of the season, and Spaniard Marc Marquez is leading the championship again. In second place is Andrea Dovizioso who still has a good chance of winning the championship provided something happens to Marquez, which is unlikely. There is definitely going to be good action to watch at the race. Also, our local boys Adam Norrodin, Hafizh Syahrin, Khairul Idham Pawi as well as wildcard rider Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin will all have plenty to prove at their home race. So whatever you do, no matter how many hot models there are to take photos with, or how many free goodies there are – do not miss the race!
See you there!
By the way, have you heard that Petronas wants to give some lucky people a year’s worth of engine lubricants? You can be one of those lucky people too by taking part in a simple contest. For more information on the contest, you can visit www.mymesra.com.my/pengejarimpian
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-italjet-dragster-gp500-coming-in-2024/ | The Italjet Dragster GP500 Coming In 2024 |
What first started out as a concept will now make it’s way into production as Italjet has confirmed that the whacky Dragster GP500 is coming in 2024.
powering the Dragster GP500 is a single-cylinder 450cc liquid-cooled engine.
the Dragster GP500 is equipped with motorcycle-style conventional foot shift.
In a move that is sure to excite scooter enthusiasts, the forthcoming Dragster 500GP promises a thrilling ride with its eye-catching design and enhanced performance.
Inspired by its 125cc and 200cc predecessors, this new model incorporates the distinctive trellis frame cues, but takes things up a notch with a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine.
While die-hard fans may long for the blue haze of the original Dragster’s two-stroke motor, the 43bhp engine and six-speed gearbox, complete with motorbike-style foot shift, should provide enough power to distract even the most nostalgic riders.
The smaller-capacity versions’ hub-steering front end has been replaced by USD forks, and braking duties are now handled by twin 230mm front discs equipped with ABS-enabled Brembo calipers.
One notable departure from convention is the positioning of the new engine under the bike’s seat, rather than on the rear wheel as typically seen in scooters. The final drive is delivered by a chain to the impressive 160-section 15-inch rear wheel.
These design choices are expected to give the Dragster 500GP a motorcycle-like feel, making it stand out from traditional scooters.
Weighing in at just 180kg, the Dragster 500GP is poised to become the ultimate maxi-scooter in terms of handling and performance. Its nimble nature and boosted power make it a force to be reckoned with in the scooter market.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/modenas-ct-115s-the-most-promising-model-since-kriss/ | Modenas CT 115S: The most promising model since Kriss |
When national motorcycle manufacturer Modenas unveiled the Kriss 110cc underbone in December 1996, it was off to a good start, becoming one of the most popular four-stroke ‘Kapcai’ motorcycles in a few years. In fact, the model held almost 50 per cent of the market share by the year 2001.
Believe it or not, a total of 99,800 units were sold the year it made its debut itself, thanks to factors like its affordability, reliability, spare parts availability, and also good performance. It’s design was also not too bad for its time.
However, after the Kriss was discontinued, things were not looking very promising for Modenas. Almost every model that succeeded the Kriss, including the Kriss SG, Kristar, and the CT Series were unable to replicate the level of success the Kriss achieved.
According to the guys at Modenas’ product planning department, the Kriss’ successors were struggling purely due to the design which was rather traditional. As newer models with scooter-inspired styling cues became all the rage as time went on, younger buyers were going for rivals that looked simply more futuristic.
It was not that Modenas bikes were unreliable or they were lacking in the performance department. They were just lacking the visual appeal to attract young bike owners, who make up a majority of the moped market in Malaysia. Realising the change in market trend, the brand introduced the Ace 115 in 2012, which is doing quite well in the market at the moment.
In an effort to keep the momentum going, Modenas has unleashed the CT 115S which will be replacing the CT 100 and CT 110, and we were lucky enough to get our hands on the new model two days after it was unveiled.
Targeted towards riders aged between 16 and 35 years old, the Modenas CT115S is powered by a 115cc four-stroke, carburetor engine which produces a maximum output of 8.8hp at 9,000rpm and 8.1Nm of peak torque at 5,000rpm. The engine is paired with a four-speed transmission.
Fitted with a 4.8-litre fuel tank, the Modenas CT 115S also comes with a few notable features such as a five-step adjustable Monoshock suspension, a 12V electrical charging socket under the seat for owners to charge devices like smart phones (first in class) , a trailing rear swing arm, front disc brake, and an electric starter.
As much as the design of the bike is concerned, Modenas has nailed it with the CT 115S. Built from scratch at the Modenas’ plant in Gurun, Kedah, the CT 115S is basically the sportier variant of the CT range, featuring an improved, more aerodynamic design than the CT 100, which was launched two years ago. Featuring a sharp, bold and modern design, the CT 115S is arguably the best looking Modenas to roll out of the factory to date. Available in two colours, the bike looked good from any angle we looked at it.
In terms of riding experience, the 115cc engine powering the bike did a good job in delivering power seamlessly, and churned out decent amount of torque. Throughout our stint at the Elite Speedway, never once did the bike showed signs of struggling, even while being ridden by lanky riders. Complementing the smooth engine was the smooth gear-shifting, which added to an enjoyable riding experience.
Handling wise, the CT 115S was very agile, allowing us to change directions and manoeuvre it as we wished without breaking a sweat. Even in terms of build quality, Modenas has done a good job as it didn’t feel cheap, and had no unnecessary vibration while riding.
As nice as the CT 115S was, there are a couple of things which could have been better in our opinion. Firstly, the bike’s seat is ideal only for small and medium sized riders. If it was slightly wider, it would be nice for big sized individuals. Besides that, the handlebars could have been positioned slightly higher as well, in order to appeal to taller riders. These minor hiccups aside, things were fine and dandy with the CT 115S.
Overall, the CT 115S is a testament to the fact that Modenas is serious about what they are doing, and shows that a lot of thought and effort has gone into the bike. For a product that is 100 per cent Malaysian, it is definitely up there among the Japanese. Besides that, the fact that it costs slightly more than RM5,000 makes it a very attractive proposition, compared to some of its rivals that ask for at least a couple of thousand Ringgits more.
Specifications
Engine: Four-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder
Transmission: Four-speed
Max power: 8.8hp at 9,000rpm
Max torque: 8.1Nm at 5,000rpm
Fuel system: carburetor
Ignition: Kick-start and electric starter
Cooling system: Air-cooled
Length: 1970mm
Width: 725mm
Height: 1084mm
Seat height: 750mm
Dry weight: 99kg
Fuel tank capacity: 4.8-litres
Price: Below RM4,998 (excluding insurance and road tax)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-introduces-updated-n-max-400-scooter/ | Yamaha introduces updated N-Max 400 scooter! |
Yamaha Malaysia may have just introduced the new NVX (which in all honesty, is a fantastic looking bike and superb value for money, click here to read about the NVX), but on the global front, Yamaha has just introduced another awesome looking scooter, the X-Max 400.
It is an update to the previous X-Max 400 with some styling and technical upgrades. In line with the current motorcycling fashion, the headlights offer LED tech and so does the rear.
The front now features new dual-clamp forks with 4.3 inches of travel, a feature mostly found in regular motorcycles, and houses 15-inch wheels with 120/70 sized tyres. The rear now offers twin shocks with 3.6 inches of travel and 13-inch wheels with 150/70 tyres.
As for stopping power, dual front disc brakes with 267mm rotors cover the front, while the rear is handled by a single 267mm rear disc. ABS is offered as standard on the X-Max 400, and it also comes with a parking brake as a standard feature.
The overall weight is down by 5 kilograms, with a new total overall weight of 210kg’s. The seat height is also taller than before and the undersea storage area has also expanded. Yamaha says that it can now fit two full-face helmets. There is also new storage space up front by the leg shields.
The updated Yamaha X-Max 400 also features other goodies like the aforementioned twin LED headlights and LED taillight, an adjustable windscreen, adjustable handlebars and a keyless ignition system, the latter is also offered as standard on the new NVX.
But though the new Yamaha X-Max 400 is a fantastic looking bike with plenty of awesome features, the sad reality is that there is very little to no chance at all of it being offered in Malaysia.
With our licensing structure making it difficult and expensive for regular commuters to obtain the B full license required for bikes above 250cc, Yamaha Malaysia (Hong Leong Yamaha) will find very little reason to offer it in Malaysia if sales is going to be mediocre.
It is for that reason that bike makers like Yamaha, Kawasaki and Honda are currently focusing on bikes 250cc and below as there are more people with B2 license rather than B full.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-magical-marquez-wins-wet-german-gp/ | MotoGP: Magical Marquez wins wet German GP |
Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez wins challenging and rain-hit German MotoGP in Sachsenring.
Mother nature once again wreaked havoc as Round 9 of the 2016 MotoGP championship got underway in Sachsenring for the 2016 GoPro German Grand Prix.
The weekend got off to a relative dry start, but torrential downpour on Sunday incubated yet another drama- and incident-filled raceday for all three races. Here’s what transpired.
MotoGP
Despite scoring pole position, Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez didn’t have the initial advantage with the wet race start that ensued. Marquez struggled with his wet weather spec factory Honda RC213V initially and dropped down as low as 14th on lap 18.
However, the Repsol Honda team’s gamble at pitting Marquez in earlier than the rest to swap for a dry weather-spec machine paid off brilliantly. With slick tyres and carbon brakes primed, Marquez was able to capitalise on the drying track conditions in the second half of the race.
Aiding the Spaniard here was the bad gamble taken by the initial lead group of riders. Comprised of title challenger Valentino Rossi, Andrea Dovizioso, Jack Miller and Scott Redding, their move to stay out longer on their respective wet weather machines proved disastrous and allowed Marquez to catch up easily.
Marquez eventually won the flag-to-flag race and kept yet another 100% course record,this time in the Sachsenring circuit as he charted his his fifth MotoGP race win in a row there. Taking a sensational second place finish after using a similar strategy as Marquez’ was British rider Cal Crutchlow astride the satellite LCR Honda machine.
Factory Ducati rider Andrea Dovizioso eventually clawed his way back up the order to snatch third place away from Scott Redding. Astride the Octo Pramac Yakhnich team’s satellite Ducati machine, the latter Brit reluctantly settled for fourth place.
The weekend was disastrous for the Yamaha-powered teams, especially for leading factory riders Rossi and defending champion Jorge Lorenzo. Rossi settled for eighth as a result of the bad race strategy gamble he took. Lorenzo, on the other hand, struggled for pace all weekend again after qualifying 11th qualifying and finished the race in 15th place.
With the season at its halfway point now, Marc Marquez has the advantage. he leads the standings with 170 points amassed so far and holds a huge 48-point lead over Lorenzo in second with 122 points. Rossi is a further 51 points down in third with 111 points.
Moto2
Though MotoGP benefitted with improved weather conditions in the second half of its race, both the supporting Moto2 and Moto3 classes were plagued with rain, causing plenty of incidents and riders crashing out. Coming out on top here though was defending class champion Johann Zarco yet again.
Astride the Ajo Motorsports Kalex machine, the Frenchman stole what would’ve been a sweet home race victory for German rider Jonas Folger astride the Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex machine who eventually settled for second. Spaniard Julian Simone completed the podium after finishing third astride the QMMF Racing Team’s Speed Up machine.
With the season halfway done, Zarco looks on course to defend his Moto2 title with 151 points scored so far. He is 21 points clear of Spanish rider Alex Rins in second with 126 points. Britisih rider Same Lowes, on the other hand, ranks third with 121 points – 30 points down from Zarco.
For Malaysian rider Hafizh Syahrin, Germany proved to be a struggle too big for him. Nevertheless, Hafizh finished in a respectable seventh place after starting from 11th. Having collected some valuable points, Hafizh now sits seventh in the standings with 69 points scored so far.
Moto3
Hailed as Moto3’s undisputed king of the wet in Germany was Malaysian rookie rider Khairul Idham Pawi astride the Honda Team Asia machine.
Click here and find out how this 17-year-old native of Perak heroically rode from his 20th place starting position and took his second career Moto3 win with a scarcely believable gap of 11.131 seconds
Flanking Khairul on the podium were Italian riders Andrea Locatelli astride the Leopard Racing KTM machine in second and pole-sitter Enea Bastianini who finished third astride the Honda-powered Gresini Racing Team’s machine.
L-R: Fenati, Binder and Navarro during the 2016 French GP held a few rounds back.
Despite a dismal eighth place finish, Red Bull KTM Ajo’s South African rider Brad Binder leads the Moto3 standings still with 159 points. Estrella Galicia 0,0 Honda rider Jorge Navarro is 47 points down in second with 112 points, followed by Romano Fenati of the KTM-powered Sky Racing Team VR46 team in third with 93 points.
Round 10 – Austria
MotoGP will go on a 25-day summer break before kicking off its second half by returning to the famed Red Bull Ring (formerly the A1 Ring) for the NerGairdini Austrian MotoGP weekend. Round 10 will also be the debut stage for the factory-backed KTM MotoGP team and its KTM RC16 GP machine.
The Austrian GP will be held from August 12 to August 14. As usual, broadcasts of raceday on Sunday begins with Moto3 at 5pm*, Moto2 at 6:20pm* and the premier MotoGP class’ running at 8:00pm*.
(* Local Malaysian times)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-eicma-2014-new-yzf-r1-r1m-mt-09-tracer/ | Yamaha @ EICMA 2014: New YZF-R1 + R1M and MT-09 Tracer (with mega gallery) |
Yamaha took the wraps off new 2015 YZF-R1 and R1M supersports, as well as the 2015 MT-09 Tracer in EICMA 2014.
Yamaha’s long awaited YZF-R1 full-model-change was finally unwrapped at this year’s EICMA 2014 show in Milan, Italy. The biggest surprise here was the addition of a track-only special YZF-R1M version alongside it as well.
Next came the MT-09 (also known as the FJ-09) Tracer dual-sport. Essentially, this is the clothed dual-sport off-shoot of the brand’s acclaimed MT-09 triple. Here’s the details we managed to gather.
2015 YZF-R1
The wait is now over, and what a beauty this 2015 YZF-R1 is. All-new, the 2015 R1 is a giant leap forward inside and out. As far as the exterior design goes, only words such as ‘cutting edge’ and ‘futuristic’ cuts the mustard here.
The most key highlight here is the unconventional headlamps arrangement. Gone is the previous R1’s traditional nose-mounted unit in favour of a pair of LED daytime running light strips instead, giving it a clean, minimalistic look. Illumination comes mainly from a pair of main beams that are now integrated and hidden into front cowling, flanking the newly designed air intake. Also revised here are the side mirrors, having LED blinkers integrated in them as well.
Underneath this bold new exterior sits a new CP4 crossplane engine developed by Yamaha, rated at 200hp without ram-air assistance. The mill features titanium fracture-split con-rods, a 10.5-litre airbox, a titanium exhaust, as well as a slipper clutch unit.
However, 2015 R1’s real game changer lies in its vast array of electronics. The list includes traction control, slide control, launch control, wheel-lift control, and the ever-important ABS brakes. Aiding all these systems is a new six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) that ties all the aforementioned systems together to give the R1 a better understanding of the bike’s movement’s on both the road and track.
Keeping weight and mass down to a minimum are the cast magnesium wheels, and rear sub-frame made of magnesium as well. Other notable new features include the new TFT digital instrument panel, as well as an optional CCU or Communication Control Unit that grants riders to download GPS data or upload ride settings.
Here the 2015 YZF-R1’s specs:
Engine
Engine Type: 998cc, liquid-cooled inline 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valves
Bore x Stroke: 79.00 x 50.9mm
Compression Ratio: 13.0:1
Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
Ignition: TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Transmission: 6-speed w/multiplate slipper clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Chassis
Suspension / Front: 43mm KYB® inverted fork; fully adjustable; 4.7-in travel
Suspension / Rear: KYB® Single shock w/piggyback reservoir, 4-way adjustable; 4.7- in travel
Brakes / Front: Dual 320mm hydraulic disc; 4-piston caliper, UBS ABS
Brakes / Rear: 220mm disc; UBS ABS
Tires / Front: 120/70ZR17M/C
Tires / Rear: 190/55ZR17M/C
Dimensions
L x W x H: 2,055 x 691 x 1,151 mm
Seat Height: 856 mm
Wheelbase: 1,420 mm
Rake (Caster Angle): 24.0°
Trail: 101.6 mm
Fuel Capacity: 17 litres
Wet Weight***: 199 kg/ CA model 200 kg
Check out the mega gallery we’ve arranged at the end of this post and marvel at the new 2015 YZF-R1 in all its glory.
YZF-R1M
If the road-going 2015 YZF-R1 we just detailed above wasn’t manic enough, then perhaps the special track-only YZF-R1M variant would rebuff any doubts. Yamaha proudly proclaims this YZF-R1M to be the closest thing there is to its YZR-M1 MotoGP bike.
Retained is the road-bike’s 200hp CP4 in-line four-cylinder screamer, but the R1M gains further with Ohlins ERS semi-active suzzies, carbon fibre fairings, as well as a ‘robust’ GPS-powered data acquisition system. In R1M form, all the road-going R1’s impressive electronics are put to its maximum potential through the aforementioned six-axis IMU, tailoring its responses to rider inputs via the engine, suspension, and brakes.
CCU is standard-equipped, allowing riders to download telemetry and GPS data wirelessly, as well as the ability to upload settings back into the on-board computer.
Here’s how Yamaha explains is electronics package in the R1M:
• Power Delivery Mode (PWR), similar to the earlier “D-Mode” system, lets the rider choose from four settings of throttle-valve opening rate in relation to the degree of throttle-grip opening to best match their riding conditions.
• Variable Traction Control System (TCS) with lean angle calculating the differential in front to rear wheel speed as well as the lean angle, it helps prevent rear wheel spin when exiting corners. As lean angle increases, so does the amount of control…with ten separate settings (off and 1-9) enabling the rider to dial in the exact level of control needed.
• Slide Control System (SCS), the first of its kind on a production motorcycle comes directly from the YZR-M1. It works in tandem with the IMU, where, if a slide is detected while accelerating during hard leaning conditions, the ECU will step in and control engine power to reduce the slide. This too can be adjusted by the rider. Four settings (1-3 and off).
• Lift Control System (LIF): IMU detects the front to rear pitch rate and the ECU controls engine power to reduce the front wheel lift during acceleration. Four settings (1-3 and off).
• Launch Control System (LCS), limits engine rpms to 10,000 wide open throttle. It maintains optimum engine output in conjunction with input from the TCS and LIF systems to maximize acceleration from a standing start. Three settings (1-2 and off).
• Quick Shift System (QSS) cuts engine output so riders can up-shift without using the clutch and closing the throttle, for quicker lap times, also with three variable settings (1-2 and off).
Here are the YZF-R1M’s specifications:
Engine
Engine Type: 998cc, liquid-cooled inline 4 cylinder DOHC 16 valves
Bore x Stroke: 79.00 x 50.9mm
Compression: Ratio 13.0:1
Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
Ignition: TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Transmission: 6-speed w/multi-plate slipper clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Chassis
Suspension / Front: 43mm Öhlins electronic suspension w/ inverted fork; fully adjustable; 4.7-in travel
Suspension / Rear: Öhlins electronic suspension w/ single shock w/piggyback reservoir, 4-way adjustable; 4.7-in travel
Brakes / Front: Dual 320mm hydraulic disc; 4-piston caliper, UBS ABS
Brakes / Rear: Dual 220mm hydraulic disc; UBS ABS
Tires / Front: 120/70ZR17M/C
Tires / Rear: 200/55ZR17M/C
Dimensions
L x W x H: 2,055 x 691 x 1,151 mm
Seat Height: 861 mm
Wheelbase: 1,405 mm
Rake (Caster Angle): 24 º
Trail: 101.6 mm
Fuel Capacity: 17 litres
Wet Weight***: 200 kg
Yamaha plans to produce just 500 examples of the YZF-R1M that will be sold to exclusive buyers worldwide starting next year.
MT-09/FJ-09 Tracer
After it was leaked online several weeks ago, the FJ-09 ( called MT-09 in Europe) Tracer. This touring friendly variation of the MT-09 triple-cylinder naked gains a centre stand, a 12-volt socket, soft panniers, as well as adjustable handlebars and screen.
The Tracer boasts a larger tank over the naked as well, holding up to 18-litres ¬– 4 litres more than the naked base bike. Features carried over from the MT-09 naked include the Ride-by-Wire electric throttle, adjustable riding modes, traction control, and ABS. Additionally, touring accessories are also available with the MT-09 Tracer such as panniers, making it an even more desirable sport-tourer.
Yamaha MT-09 (FJ-09) Tracer’s full specification:
Engine
Engine: Type 847cc liquid-cooled inline 3-cylinder, DOHC, 12 valves
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 59.1mm
Compression: Ratio 11.5:1
Fuel Delivery: Fuel Injection
Ignition: TCI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Chassis
Suspension / Front: 41mm fork; adjustable preload and rebound damping; 5.4-in travel
Suspension / Rear: Single shock; adjustable preload and rebound damping; 5.1-in travel
Brakes / Front: ABS, Dual hydraulic disc, 298mm
Brakes / Rear: Hydraulic disc, 245mm
Tires / Front: 120/70-ZR17M/C
Tires / Rear: 180/55-ZR17M/C
Dimensions
L x W x H: 2,159 x 950 x 1,346 – 1,374 mm
Seat Height: 846 or 861 mm
Wheelbase: 1,440 mm
Rake (Caster Angle): 24°
Trail: 99.6 mm
Fuel Capacity: 18 litres
Fuel Economy**: 5.35 litres/100km
Wet Weight***: 210 kg
Check out the mega gallery below for more pictures.
2015 Yamaha YZF-R1
2015 Yamaha YZF-R1M
2015 Yamaha MT-09 (FJ-09) Tracer
Sources: Asphaltandrubber (Link 1, Link 2, Link 3) and Visordown (Link 1, Link 2)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-kawasaki-ninja-zx-25r-coming-to-indonesia-in-april/ | 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R coming to Indonesia in April |
PT Kawasaki Motor Indonesia is setting up for a monstrous Kawasaki Bike Week 2020 at Pantai Karnaval Ancol, Jakarta where they’ll be taking the opportunity to launch one of the most highly anticipated 250cc street bike of this generation, the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R.
Kawasaki Indonesia has been teasing the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R for months now and it has now been confirmed that it’ll make its first public appearance in the country on 4 April 2020 at Kawasaki Bike Week 2020.
Complete specs of the Ninja ZX-25R have yet to revealed as only a number of points have been shared since its global debut. What we do know is that it’ll run a 250cc inline-four DOHC engine that redlines at a whopping 17,000rpm with horsepower figures expected to be around 55-60hp.
Other interesting specs about the new 2020 ZX-25R apart from its 250cc inline-four DOHC liquid-cooled engine are:
New steel trellis frame
Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS)
Showa SFF-BP front forks (Separate Function Forks – Big Piston)
Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)
Power Mode Selector + more
The 250cc street bike market is probably one of the most lucrative segments here in Asia (apart from small capacity cubs and scooters). The Malaysian scene can be considered as slightly saturated with a number of options to choose from different manufacturers but the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R will probably blow the competition out of the water as the only inline-four option in the segment (IF it is reasonably priced).
There’s still no news on whether it’ll arrive here on our shores, but we’ll try to keep you guys updated once we have the details. For now, we have to figure out who to ask regarding the matter, we’re guessing that Kawasaki Motors Malaysia might be able to help if it’s brought in as a CBU unit. Stay tuned for more news.
Modenas to assemble Kawasaki bikes in Malaysia?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-300cc-cruiser-spotted-in-china/ | Harley-Davidson 300cc Cruiser Spotted In China |
It has been two years since the news broke out about Harley-Davidson announced a collaboration with the Chinese brand Qianjiang Motor (QJ Motor).
The agreement sees the two produce a small-displacement and affordable motorcycle for the Asian market.
Fast forward to 2021, a new image of a cruiser recently made its way online, and it looked suspiciously familiar.
Dubbed the Qianjiang SRV300, the motorcycle is scheduled to be on sale in China but will be rebadged as a Harley-Davidson for other Asian markets.
According to reports, the SRV300 is powered by a 296cc V-twin capable of producing 30hp and was inspired by Harley’s Iron 883 with a teardrop tank, single-seat, round headlamps and extended rear fender.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/revived-italian-volt-to-roll-out-first-production-unit-in-q1-2022-147hp-199nm/ | Revived Italian Volt To Roll Out First Production Unit In Q1 2022 – 147HP, 199Nm |
Italian Volt gained attention when it first unveiled the Lacama electric motorcycle concept back in 2017.
However, the electric motorcycle startup wasn’t able to get it going for more than four years despite running numerous design studies and prototype tests of the Lacama.
Nevertheless, following Tazzari EV’s acquisition in January this year, the Italian Volt Lacama project is back on track after displaying the bike at EICMA 2021.
Interestingly, despite running late a few years into the game, the Lacama still boast a 15.1kWh capable of reaching 201km range in a single charge.
The Lacama makes 147.5hp and 199Nm from its liquid-cooled electric motor and capable of a reaching a max speed of 200km/h.
Meanwhile, handling and stopping power is handled by top-spec Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes.
While the specs sound exciting, the Lacama might come with a staggering price tag as the 2017 concept was priced at USD38,000 (RM159k).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/all-new-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-breaks-cover-sharper-than-ever/ | All-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R breaks cover – sharper than ever! |
The veil is finally lifted over the sharper new fourth generation Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R supersports with new looks, new chassis and more power.
After what seemed like an eternity, the all-new fourth generation Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R has broken cover in Spain during a special press presentation. Making this a really sweet affair is the fact that the newly revealed Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a completely new bike from the ground up. Though it looks rather similar to the bike it replaces, the 2016 model’s striking new livery masks its revisions well indeed. Crucially, the revised design sports enhanced aerodynamics thanks to a larger top fairing flanked by intakes for improved high-speed stability and reduced vibrations. There’s also a new front mudguard with a stepped design that directs air to the radiator for improved cooling. Crucially, very few parts from the outgoing bike is retained in this newer version as well.
Besides the revised exterior, the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R also has a brand new twin-spar chassis made of cast aluminium to boot underneath. The headstock is now mounted closer to the rider for improved weight over the front for greater stability and turn-in ability. There are also resonance chambers in the frame that helps reduce intake noise while the swingarm is now 15.8mm longer.
Crucially, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R also gains with a heavily upgraded powertrain as well. It starts with a new and lightened cylinder head and crankshaft with the former further enhanced with straighter, wider and polished intake and exhaust ports. Additionally, the exhaust ports are now made of titanium, whilst the cam profiles have been revised and re-optimised to balance out torque and high-end power. Furthermore, the pistons have been shortened and lightened, gaining with revised crowns plus thicker cylinder walls and a rerouted cooling system. These revisions now grant the liquid-cooled DOHC 998cc in-line four-cylinder screamer with 16 valves a higher output of 207hp developed at 13,000rpm, with peak torque also raised to 113.5Nm developed at 11,500rpm. Completing the package are new titanium exhaust headers that are similar in size to Kawasaki’s WSBK race bikes, plus a new titanium silencer as well, not to mention a Euro 4-compliant triple catalyser setup too.
Making their production bike debut in the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R are the 43mm Showa Balance Free Front Forks, which is paired with the brand’s Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock. The new forks offers increased ride comfort, braking stability and an improved front-end feel, via independently adjustable compression and rebound damping. The fork also boasts a race-derived compressed nitrogen gas canister that keeps a more constant pressure inside each tube as well. Next up are the new brakes supplied by Brembo. Up front, the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R gains with range-topping Brembo M50 cast aluminium monoblocs mounted radially, followed by a pair of new and larger 330mm rotors plus braided hoses. The rear, on the other hand, gains with a 220mm single rotor setup with a single piston caliper and braided lines. Unlike the outgoing bike, the new setup sees the front units enlarged by 20mm with the petal rotor design replaced with rounded rotor shapes too. Now comes the final bag of tricks – the electronics. Primed on board is a new Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), followed by the Sport-Kawasaki TRaction Control (S-KTRC), Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), Kawasaki Engine Brake Control (KEBC). Completing things are the Öhlins electronic steering damper plus a new power mode selection. Overall, the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R does boot an impressive array of new hardware and metal, with Kawasaki proclaiming it to be the closest thing to a factory superbike it has ever produced. Most importantly, much of these changes were made to ensure Kawasaki can still have a highly competitive World Superbikes Championship (WSBK) race machine in the coming years. 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R specifications
Engine
998cc Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke inline four, DOHC, 16-valve
Bore & Stroke
76.0 x 55.0mm
Compression Ratio
13.0:1
Power
207hp @ 13,000rpm (with ram air effect)
Torque
113.5Nm @ 11,500rpm
Chassis
Twin spar, cast aluminium
Tyre Sizes
Front: 20/70ZR17Rear: 190/55ZR17
Suspension
Front:43 mm inverted Balance Free Front Fork with external compression chamber, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out springsRear:Horizontal Back-link with BFRC lite gas-charged shock, piggyback reservoir, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out spring
Brakes
Front:Twin semi-floating 330 mm discs, dual radial-mount Brembo M50 monobloc calipersRear:Single 220 mm disc, single-bore pin-slide, aluminium piston
Wheelbase
1,440mm
Length
2,090mm
Width
740mm
Height
1,145mm
Seat Height
835mm
Kerb Weight
206kg (ABS)
Fuel Tank
17 litres
2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Sources: MCN / Visordown / Moto.it ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) / YouTube
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/benelli-appoints-new-distributor-malaysia/ | Benelli Appoints New Distributor in Malaysia |
M Force Bike Holdings as the new distributor
New assembler, distributor and after-sales service for Benelli
Italian bike brand Benelli announced today that the company has officially appointed Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd as the new distributor of Benelli’s motorcycles in Malaysia effective on 1st February 2017. Under the agreement, Mforce Bike Holdings will be the assembler, distributor and providing after-sales service and spare parts for all Benelli’s products sold in Malaysian market.
Those who are in the know will quickly notice that Mforce Bike Holdings is also handling SYM motorcycles here in Malaysia. The National Sales Manager of Mforce Bike Holdings, Mr. Asri Ahmad assured that all existing Benelli’s owners will continue to enjoy all the benefits and value added services provided by the company. In addition, all nationwide Mforce service centers will provide after-sales service to all Benelli’s motorcycles sold from March onwards.
Mforce Bike Holdings plans to increase Benelli’s products range in Malaysia. There are a few new products launches in pipeline including Leoncino 500, 302R, TRK 502 and many more. Apart from the superbike series, Mforce Bike Holdings is looking forward to introducing Benelli’s first ever moped in April 2017. The 150cc super moped is equipped with 6 speed, water cooled, and fuel injection engine to comply with EURO standard. This newly developed model has been rigorously tested for 20,000km and definitely meeting Malaysian expectations for a super moped.
Mforce Bike Holdings is also going to focus more on making the brand more recognisable in Malaysia. Plan such as promotional events, exhibitions and marketing tools are in the works and will be implemented to ensure that the brand will thrive here in the country.
For futher information, you may visit Benelli’s official website or Facebook page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-mv-agusta-f4-claudio-unleashed-rm345280/ | 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio unleashed! RM345,280 |
The final edition of the F4 superbike has been released in the form of the 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio.
Clad in carbon fibre goodies with gold accents, the F4 Claudio pushes out 212hp and 115Nm torque.
Only 100 units will be sold with a price tag of $83,000 for the US market (RM345,280).
As we all come to sadly realise, the flagship from MV Agusta is coming to the end of its line and the premium Italian bike manufacturer is sending it off with a bang thanks to this final edition of the F4. The 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio pays homage to its great lineage and also to its creator, Claudio Castiglioni.
This rare and beautiful beast will only have 100 units for the global market consumption and those who are interested in the 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio better be prepared to buy quickly as well as buy big considering its hefty price tag of $83,000 for the US market (around RM345,280).
Representing the ultimate combination of pure performance and art in motion, the MV Agusta F4 Claudio is packed with the latest technology and firepower courtesy of the Varesini company. Equipped with the same engine found in the F4 RC, this special edition is able to produce a whopping 212hp and 115Nm of torque from its 998cc inline-four engine.
This translates to 212hp and a maximum RPM of 14,200rpm which propels the 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio to a top speed of 302km/h! MV Agusta is able to achieve this thanks to the addition of a very fine full-system dual-tipped race exhaust produced by exhaust expert, SC-Project.
As part of the model’s huge farewell, the MV Agusta Reparto Corse division decided to take it a few notches by introducing new head intake and exhaust ports to the already powerful engine. This, in turn, improves the bike’s overall fluid dynamics, reduction in friction, and even more power thanks to the addition of DLC-treated cams as well as shift forks. Now that’s smooth.
Enough about the internals, let’s drool over the exterior design, shall we? Clad in a very sexy carbon fibre bodywork, the black and gold accents go superiorly well with its full carbon fibre wheels and golden suspension package courtesy of shock-absorbing master guru, Öhlins.
With all of the race kit combined, the 2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio weighs only 175kg (dry) and this screams massive acceleration, agile handling, and downright ‘in your face’ power-to-weight ratio. As for stopping power, MV Agusta doesn’t cut corners with Brembo’s latest dual 320mm Stilema four-piston monobloc radial calipers.
Other specs include:
IMU-assisted traction control system with eight levels
Integrated ignition – injection system MVICS
MV EAS 2.0 (Electronically assisted Shift up & down)
Two-channel Bosch 9 PLUS ABS with race mode
Rear Wheel Lift-up Mitigation
Full Ride by Wire throttle
Multiple titanium parts
The question now is with MV Agusta bidding farewell to the F4 line-up, will there be a brand new superbike to be introduced by them anytime soon? Well, that’s an answer we might have to wait, say around the year 2020? Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
MV Agusta Presents Dragster 800 RR Pirelli
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/year/2021-suzuki-gsx-s1000-now-available-at-local-dealership-rm76900/ | 2021 Suzuki GSX-S1000 Now Available At Local Dealership – RM76,900 |
Together with the Burgman 400, the next generation Suzuki GSX-S1000 has also landed in Malaysia.
Despite no official announcement from Suzuki Malaysia, the GSX-S1000 is available for RM76,900 (according to local dealership).
Six years after the first generations, the Suzuki GSX-S1000 returns in 2021, with all the latest upgrade.
For 2021, the GSX-S1000 received major styling, electronic and engine upgrade.
Styling
The overall look of the new all-new GSX-S1000 now stands out with the futuristic overlapping hexagonal LED headlight at the front.
According to Suzuki, a part of creating a futuristic look, these new hexagonal lights display a wider and brighter light.
The motorcycle also displays a sleeker and slim silhouette that continues from the 19L tank to the tail.
Electronic
The 2021 GSX-S1000 boast a host of riding aids which includes:
new ride-by-wire throttle
Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS)
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS)
Suzuki Clutch Assist
Traction Control with five modes
Digital LCD dash
Suzuki also threw in a quickshifter system as standard.
Engine
Despite the apparent styling updates, the most extensive upgrades focused on the 999cc engine.
Now Euro 5 compliant, the 2nd-gen GSX-S1000 offers 150hp @ 11,000rpm compared to the 143hp found on the 2015 model.
The new motorcycle also received a new intake, new exhaust camshaft, new valve springs, clutch and airbox.
The 2021 Suzuki GSX-S1000 is now available for viewing at authorized Suzuki dealership.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-face-lifted-bottpower-xc1-render/ | Meet the new face-lifted Bottpower XC1 render |
Our favourite Buell-powered café racer from Spain, the Bottpower XC1, gets face-lifted.
Spanish firm Bottpower recently released new renderings of what appears to be an updated version of its XC1 café racer model.
Known as the ‘version 3’, the refreshed café racer gains a new face thanks to a newly-added handlebar fairing, accompanied by a restyled fuel tank and redesigned tail section.
The refreshment sees it drawing inspiration from older and newer thoughts. The unique part about the XC1 café racer is its ability to be transformed into the XR1 flat-tracker version as well by just swapping a few components here and there.
Bottpower however retained the model’s original Buell-sourced Thunderstorm 1,203cc V-twin heart that offers roughly 100hp on tap.
This particular version’s outlook differs from what we last saw, but it definitely sates our taste buds here at BR. Furthermore, Bottpower is known for customising each of its bikes to a customer’s specific taste and requirement, so the previous design is still available to order.
Source: Bottpower via Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-kawasaki-ninja-zx-25r-launched-in-indonesia-from-rm28k/ | 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R launched in Indonesia – From RM28k |
After months of anticipation, the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R has finally been launched in Indonesia. Due to all the COVID-19 commotion, the production model has been pushed to 2021 instead of 2020 but as they say, better late than never (hopefully not too late for it to come to Malaysia, though).
The official launch showcased four different colour options with two different variants up for grabs, which are the base 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R and the Ninja ZX-25R Special Edition (SE). Four colours were introduced – Metallic Spark Black, Candy Plasma Blue + Black, Pearl Flat Stardust White + Black (SE), and Lime Green/Ebony (SE).
The differences between the base model and the Special Edition are the additions of selectable riding modes, quick-shifter (both ways), and traction control as standard for the SE. Sweet. As for pricing, the Indonesian market will be selling the base Ninja ZX-25R at IDR 96,000,000 (around RM28,318) while the SE will set them back at IDR 112,900,000 (RM33,302).
As for the engine, Kawasaki Indonesia has confirmed that the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R’s 249cc inline-four DOHC engine produces a staggering 50hp at 15,500rpm (51hp with ram air) and 22.9Nm of max torque at 14,500rpm. In other words, you will some good times when you rev this baby hard.
Other specs include:
Power Mode Selection (Full or Low)
New race-inspired Trellis frame
37mm front Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP)
Horizontal back-link rear suspension
Dunlop GPR300 radial tyres
LCD instrument display
180kg (182kg for SE)
15-litre fuel tank
We finally have a clear idea of what the pricing is like for what’s arguably one of the most interesting motorcycles of 2020. Will it come to Malaysia? We sure hope so. It’s just a matter of Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Japan) ironing out all the issues between Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) and national bike manufacturer, Modenas.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-popular-yamaha-y15zr-gets-updated-visuals-rm8998/ | The Yamaha Y15ZR Gets Updated Visuals – RM8,998 |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM), the sole distributor of Yamaha motorcycles here in Malaysia, has introduced the updated 2023 Yamaha Y15ZR which now comes in four exciting new colours for the local market.
Yamaha Y15ZR now comes in four exciting colours.
The Y15ZR continue to feature 150cc single-cylinder SOHC engine that makes 15.4hp and 14.4Nm.
Those who are interested should be glad to know that these four new colour options are Matte Green, Yellow, Silver, and Orange. These new offerings for the 2020 Yamaha Y15ZR are already available at all authorised HLYM showrooms nationwide with the recommended selling price of RM8,998 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration).
As a bonus, each new purchase of the 2023 Yamaha Y15ZR will come with a complimentary Yamaha disc lock worth RM100 for added safety and peace of mind. Like the price, the specs for the very popular Yamaha 150cc moped remains unchanged.
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End of preview. Expand
in Dataset Viewer.
TLDR
- website: bikesrepublic
- num. of webpages scraped: 6,969
- link to dataset: https://huggingface.co/datasets/wanadzhar913/crawl-bikesrepublic
- last date of scraping: 10th September 2023
- status: complete
- pull request: https://github.com/huseinzol05/malaysian-dataset/pull/291
- contributed to: https://github.com/huseinzol05/malaysian-dataset
- Downloads last month
- 45