Roland Sands Yamaha MT-09 Faster Wasp unveiled (with video)

The ever popular and acclaimed Yamaha MT-09 has gone under the knife with Roland Sands Design (RSD), resulting in this special one-off Faster Wasp custom concept.

With the reveal, Yamaha further added that this custom is hinting at its newest model based on the MT-09 that will debut at EICMA 2015 this month.

Back to this RSD special, it joins the Yamaha brand’s range of Yard Built custom machineries that are usually followed closely by production model. This RSD-built special follows the footsteps of Shinya Kimura’s Faster Son custom concept (the XSR700 preview) and the Deus Eau Rouge (XJR1300 Racer preview), and it now charts a new chapter in the Yamaha Faster Sons trilogy.

It is plain to see that the Roland Sands Yamaha MT-09 Faster Wasp is more than just a tribute to the famed black and yellow speed-block donned on Kenny Roberts Senior’s legendary TZ750 race bike. Underneath the bespoke aluminium bodywork and is the MT-09’s acclaimed 847cc in-line triple and lightweight aluminium frame. Also exclusive to the Wasp are a whole host of cycle-part updates that are not found on any production model.

Being an RSD creation, it sports plenty of the design firm’s signature elements and traits. These include the hand-fabricated aluminium petrol tank, tail section, intake scoops, radiator covers, front number board and front mudguard fender. The custom also sports a prototype Clarity timing cover, rearsets, rear brake reservoir and case guards, plus chain guard, timing plug, axle sliders and fuel cap.

Sources believe most of these will likely be available as official, or RSD, accessories for the incoming new Yamaha model. Other notable bits and pieces include the Wasp’s forged aluminium wheels, Two Bros Racing stainless steel header with an RSD Slant muffler, Renthal sprockets, Performance Machine radial brake calipers, an RSD radial brake master cylinder and Spiegler brake lines, as well as a custom leather seat is made by the Bitchin Seat Co.

Also primed are a set of RSD Nostalgia handlebar risers plus Renthal Fatbar handlebars with RSD Traction grips. The chassis is further enhanced too thanks to Öhlins fork cartridge kit and rear shock tasked at providing better bike control.

You can check out more of the Roland Sands Yamaha MT-09 Faster Wasp in the video we’ve attached at the top or by browsing the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below.
Roland Sands Design Yamaha MT-09 Faster Wasp

Sources: YouTube, MCN and Visordown
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Shell Malaysia launches #ShellSelamatSampai campaign

Shell Malaysia initiates #ShellSelamatSampai safety campaign for motorcyclists and youths.

Shell Malaysia kick-started a brand new road safety campaign last weekend called the #ShellSelamatSampai campaign.
The campaign was officially launched in the Sungai Buloh Shell Station, Shah Alam last weekend by Datuk Seri Saripuddin Kasim, Secretary General of Transport Ministry. Also present here were Datuk Azman Ismail, Managing Director of Shell Malaysia Trading and Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, Chairman of Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).
The #ShellSelamatSampai campaign was designed as a comprehensive road safety movement to drive road safety awareness and behavioural change among motorcyclists and youth – the highest at-risk groups for road fatalities. It is also designed to drive road safety behaviour by holistically reaching youths and motorcyclists across three strategic environments: secondary schools, universities, and the community.
Partners involved in this program include the Ministry of Education; Road Safety Department (JKJR); Road Transport Department (JPJ); Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM); Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS); Public Works Department (JKR); plus a series of participating secondary schools, colleges and universities as well.

In secondary schools, #ShellSelamatSampai will build knowledge and provide practical training on road safety as an official extracurricular programme of the school. Colleges, on the other hand, sees the programme conducting “road safety bootcamps” on campus, which will include opportunities for students to learn defensive driving techniques and have their motorcycles inspected by JPJ.
Shell Malaysia’s Datuk Azman states:
“With #ShellSelamatSampai, we are building on our legacy and long-standing relationships with government and private sector partners to reach a new generation so that everyone can enjoy safer journeys on the road.”
More information about the #ShellSelamatSampai campaign and its activities are available online at Shell Malaysia’s official website, shell.com.my.

Image credits: Ogilvy PR
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TESTED: 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon – “True Italian Spirit”

The updated 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon was recently launched earlier this month.

Styling updates together with internal changes have turned the 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon into a more premium package.

We travelled to Italy to experience the updated Icon that is now safer and more comfortable without sacrificing any of the fun factors.

There are not that many things in life that most folks consider as ‘complete’. And yet when they are found, it brings a level of joy only known to the beholder no matter how big or small that thing may be.
From a simple delicious pack of nasi lemak with a whole egg inside or listening to the world’s most perfect song (it’s ‘Paranoid Android’ by Radiohead, if you’re wondering), this very feeling is massively difficult to replicate on a machine like the motorcycle.

It takes more than just a beautiful-looking machine with an impressive list of specifications to pull off this feat. The formula needs to be just right in order for things to blend in perfect harmony and this requires more than just fabricating machines and internal combustion engines. You need spirit, joy, passion, people, lifestyle, and most important of all, a pleasure to the senses.

There’s no denying that Ducati is one of the companies that runs on passion and our recent trip to Bologna, Italy really showed us their true colours not only in manufacturing some of the world’s most impressive motorcycles but also showcasing how these bikes were made to represent their lifestyle filled with fun, adventure, and the embodiment of the free-spirit.

Our task was to test out the updated 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon together with 30 journalists, influencers, and Ducati enthusiasts from around the globe. To showcase their latest addition into ‘The Land of Joy’ segment, the scene was set two hours away from Bologna; in the heart of Borgo San Luigi of Siena, Italy.

Upon arrival, we only had a moment to rest and get ready for a ride into town which is probably the last thing this particular motoring journalist wanted after 15 hours of flight time, 3-hour layover, and another 2 hours spent on the bus. Little did we know that the ‘magic’ of Italy together with the new 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon set the stage for one breathtaking moment where everything just ‘clicked’.

It was only a short 10km ride up to Colle di Val d’Elsa for a short film showcasing the story behind the Ducati Scrambler and the new Icon but riding out from the hotel when the sun was setting with dust flying up from the gravel road couldn’t have been more epic.
That perfect moment was more than enough to school me into believing that the 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon is more than just a bike. It was a lifestyle vessel meant to be experienced at its finest.

Two different riding routes were planned for us on the very next day where we tackled the winding hill road of the world-famous Chianti Hills in the heart of Tuscany and an even more stunning panoramic route through Casole, Sovicille, and back up again through Monteriggioni.

Judging by the looks of the new 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon, not much difference can be seen apart from little bits and pieces here and there and this is exactly what the Scrambler design theme had in mind.
The previous generation was already impressive for most folks but it was lacking something that I couldn’t really comprehend beforehand. This can be translated to a touch of premium-ness which is what the new Icon has in abundance.

Upon inspection when compared side by side with the 2015 Scrambler Icon, all of us definitely noticed these said changes that not only elevated the 2019 machine but pulling off a timeless look but also maintained its modern classic appeal. Changes such as its new front headlamp with Daytime-Running Lights and a cool-looking ‘X’ feature really did set the tone for a good day of riding.

Other new external changes which add up to a more ‘premium’ package to the 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon include:

Beefier aluminium side panels
LED indicators with auto turn-off feature
Styling updates for the wheels, exhaust headers, and muffler
New black gloss finishes for the engine cases

All of these cosmetic changes collectively present a refreshed Scrambler Icon not only pays homage to the original but also tastefully brought it over in the future where younger riders are able to appreciate its positive vibes with a huge dose of Italian culture, spirit, style, and the thirst for adventure on and off the beaten track.

The Ducati Scrambler design team also took the liberty to improve the bike’s overall riding experience by working on making the already versatile bike even more comfortable. Once on the saddle, most of us quickly praised its new flatter seat that offered better positioning and the presence of a hydraulically-operated clutch (now adjustable like the brake lever) really made changing gears superbly easy. Other changes towards comfort include a wider flat handlebar and new ergonomic switches.

The display looks exactly like the one found on the previous gen has also been updated with two new features which I personally welcomed with open arms; a gear indicator and fuel gauge!
These may be modern features but catering to the free-spirited riding community, the last thing bike owners would want to worry about is how much fuel is left by peeking into the tank and sloshing the bike around for signs of petrol.

The day’s ride covered over 140km around different roads in locations with views most of us can only relate to watching epic promotional videos and Hollywood movies. A host of internal upgrades also gave the new 2019 Ducati Scrambler Icon a great riding experience that offers comfort, fun, agility, as well as safety. The suspension package has been revised which seemed excellent to some media members but a bit on the softer end for some.

No complaint in this department as the bike is meant to tackle a variety of road condition such as city streets and minor off-road excursions. The addition of a six-axis IMU (inertial measurement unit) and Cornering ABS taken straight from the Ducati Panigale superbike series, the Scrambler Icon is now safer than ever.

There’s no traction control or an easy way to turn off the ABS for a more exciting ride on gravel but the new Icon is able to perform easily provided that the throttle is managed in a proper manner (that, however, did not stop some of us from having some flat track-like fun during the off-road photoshoot session).

The 2019 Icon still retains its 803cc L-Twin Desmodue Euro4-compliant engine which offers smooth response and linear torque through the gears. Tackling the winding hill sections was great fun and worry-free as one only needed to stick in third gear throughout. Speed is always there when you need it and punching it into fourth and fifth easily took us to exciting speeds which were thoroughly enjoyed by the whole lot.

Other aspects of the Icon have been retained from the previous generation in which the Ducati design team figured that the new updates are capable of bringing out the best of the hardware already on offer in the recent years.
The Icon was never meant to be a full-fledged off-road machine but thanks to specs like the Pirelli MT60 rubbers and more, the latest-generation Scrambler will not be able to stop those with the heart to explore and venture into slightly rougher terrains. Beach race, anyone?

All in all, the new Ducati Scrambler Icon is the true representation of the Italian culture, spirit, and adventurous lifestyle for those who seek something exciting and bold yet youthful with power to match.
Having met the people and explored the wonderful roads of Tuscany, this particular rider finally understands that the Scrambler Icon is not just a bike but a true statement of passion and joy in a culture that demands to be free.

It was sad to leave Italy after such a wonderful experience as a voice inside slowly reminded me that this opportunity might never surface again but the feelings can always be experienced when the bike is made available in Malaysia sometime next year.
As for pricing, the current generation is priced at RM55,900 (recommended retail price sans road tax & insurance) and we expect a slight hike for the 2019 model considering all the extra bits fitted onto it like the Cornering ABS plus more.

While Ducati is known for some of the world’s most impressive motorcycles ever made like the Ducati Panigale V4, the true form of #Joyvolution is represented the most in the Ducati Scrambler range. No other Ducati can evoke such emotions, pleasure, and sense of enlightenment of the true Italian spirit that is the Land of Joy brought to you only by the Scrambler.

Ducati Malaysia launches THREE new bikes! From RM60,900

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Super73 enters e-motorcycle foray with new C1X concept

E-bicycle brand Super73 signals intent to break into e-motorcycles segment with its new C1X concept.

Brand’s first entry into e-motorcycle space.

All-electric with Level 2 battery charging (80% in 1 hour).

120km/h top speed and 160km range.

Production and sales by 2023.

If you’ve never heard of Super73 before, here’s a quick back-story: It’s a California-based start-up with a knack for making really cool e-bicycles developed through the fusion of “motorcycle heritage with youth culture.”
Up until recently, the bulk of their products and creations still employ pedal power in their DNA. With the C1X concept that the firm just unveiled just a few days back, they’ve now taken a huge leap forward.
Unlike its current offerings, the Super73 C1X concept harnesses a right-hand throttle twist instead of pedal power, plus a host of motorcycle-esque ancillaries (brakes, suspension, lights, etc.) to become a proper motorcycle instead of a bicycle-motorcycle hybrid.
This means that the eventual production version will warrant a motorcycle license, insurance, and registration to acquire and own.
“A large number of our customers were interested in stepping up to a motorcycle after owning a Super73, so this ‘step up’ model could keep riders within the brand beyond e-bikes,” said Super73 regarding the drive to create the C1X concept e-motorcycle.
Essentially, the C1X is a Honda MSX-sized runabout designed for “urban exploration and highway connectivity.”  It boasts a compact 51-inch wheelbase with 15-inch wheels front and aft, and a seat height of 31 inches – roughly 787mm.

Super73 didn’t reveal specific details and data apart from the promise that the C1X will be ‘extremely lightweight’. Besides the compact dimensions mentioned earlier, said promise is further fuelled by a unique powertrain package.
An unspecified electric motor is integrated into the rear swingarm – similarly to a modern scooter – promising reduced chain slack, which draws power from a battery pack housed in the frame. Super73 also states that the latter is a Level 2-rated unit, allowing for 80% charge in an hour’s time.
In terms of performance and range, Super73 states that their aims for the C1X concept are a 75mph (approx. 120km/h) top speed and minimum range of 100 miles (approx. 160km).
Though still a concept, Super73 says that development to turn the C1X concept into production is well underway, and the firm is set on meeting its 2023 market arrival deadline. A final sale price wasn’t revealed either, but Super73 are taking reservations now with US$73 (approx. RM306.60) deposits.

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KTM To Develop A Track Only RC890?

KTM is said to be working on a new concept motorcycle specifically built for track days.
According to Speedweek, they managed to track down a prototype, an 890cc two-cylinder motorcycle.
This is not the first time a KTM engine has been turned into a track-only machine, as Kramer Motorcycles developed GP2 890 R with the 890 Duke engine.
*Kramer GP2 890 R
However, the images shown are not a motorcycle built by Kramer; instead, reports suggest this is a bike built 100% by KTM.
In 2014, KTM was rumoured to produced a slightly lower spec of the MotoGP RC16 machine for the mass market.
Sadly, the idea was opposed by KTM CEO, Stefan Pierer.
“f you want to build a racing motorcycle as close as possible to the MotoGP version, it costs so much money that nobody can or will pay for it,” he said.
Nevertheless, the track-only prototype still gets us feeling excited even though we have yet to know when will the motorcycle be made for the public.
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Dominar Rides Takes Owners On An Adventure To Rimba Valley Motocamp

Following the success of Dominar Rides to Ipoh, the journey continues with a new group of Dominar owners, to a new location.
The focus of the Dominar Rides is to have a new experience for each ride and to enable a different group of owners to share the experience.

This time around, the participants of the second ride enjoyed a tricky ride to Rimba Valley Motocamp, located at Janda Baik, Pahang.
As usual, the riders got together at Circle Cafe, Kelana Jaya, for a light breakfast and briefing.

Upon arrival at the cafe, every rider is obligated to take the Covid-19 screening test to ensure the safety of everyone.
The convoy rolled out at 9.30 am and made a quick stop at the famous BHP Karak petrol station before continuing to Genting Sempah.

The ride up to Rimba Valley Motocamp allows all riders to test out the Modenas Dominar D400 capabilities going through tight corners and uneven terrain.

Interestingly enough, the riders were able to experience a short ‘off-road’ with their Dominar upon arrival at Rimba Valley before Captain Nik Huzlan led them to the campsite for lunch.

The adventure did not stop there as owners of the first-generation Dominar were given a chance to test out the new Dominar D400 UG.

The host, Capt. Nik also took a few riders for a knee-deep river-crossing challenge with the new Dominar D400 UG located about a kilometre away from the camp.
Despite the short route from KL to Janda Baik, it was quite an adventure for the rest of the convoy. And one that will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Meanwhile, the next Dominar Ride will take a new batch of owners on an adventure to Pengkalan Balak, Melaka on the 27th of November.
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800 Classic Motorcycles Is Up For Grabs At Bonhams Online Summer Sale

Bonhams has listed more than 800 classic motorcycles ahead of their three-day Summer Sale’ auction set to take place on the 2nd to 4th of July.
Among the long list of classics, motorcycles include a Honda VFR750R (RC30), Vincent HDR 1000 Black Shadow, 1979 Mike Hailwood Replica Ducati 864 and Brough Superior.

According to reports, Bonhams will also auction off some memorabilia, spare parts and project bikes.
There is also a list of affordable bikes available, including a Honda Monkey, Yamaha TZR 250, Yamaha FZR600, and Honda VFR400R (NC30).
If you feel lucky and have some money lying around, head to Bonhams.com to check all of the 800 motorcycles available.
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Dunlop Introduces New Trailmax Raid 50/50 Trail Tyre

Dunlop, one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, has launched its latest 50/50 trail motorcycle tyre, the Trailmax Raid, derived from the company’s rally raid programme.

The new Trailmax Raid is the most off-road capable tyre in the Dunlop lineup.
The new tyre combines Dunlop’s touring, adventure, and off-road experience and knowledge to offer superior on-road and off-road performance.

Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid tyre features tread blocks similar to those found in Dunlop’s D908 RR rally raid tyre, providing excellent traction on loose terrain.
Compared to the Trailmax Meridian, launched three years ago, the Trailmax Raid is specifically designed for riders who demand regular off-road performance.
The Dunlop Trailmax Raid will be available in three front sizes, covering 19- and 21-inch wheel sizes, and in six rear sizes, covering 17- and 18-inch wheel sizes.
The company plans to launch the initial sizes on 1 March 2023, with the remaining sizes arriving by the second quarter of the year.

According to Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, the Trailmax Raid offers an ideal 50/50 tyre that excels in various conditions.
Furthermore, the tyre delivers superior performance on wet roads, providing exceptional braking and traction on a range of surfaces, unlocking more versatility than riders might expect from a trail tyre.
The launch of the new tyre strengthens Dunlop’s trail offerings, providing riders with an opportunity to experience superior on-road and off-road performance. Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid is an excellent tyre for riders seeking a true 50/50 tyre that performs on and off the road.
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Ducati Scrambler drives record sales

Ducati Scrambler boosts Ducati’s recent record-setting sales figures.

Ducati revealed recently that its sales figures have spiked rapidly in recent months, with the firm successfully delivering 7,309 units to its customers. This sees Ducati marking a 29% increase year-on-year, setting a new all-time record for the brand as well in the process.
The firm also recorded a 10% growth since the start of the year, selling 17,881 motorcycles between January to April. Compared to its performance in the same period last year, the Bologna-based brand has grown just slightly by 1%. Still, growth is growth, and this are healthy signs indeed.

Unsurprisingly, Ducati has credited much of this rapid growth down to the introduction of its new Ducati Scrambler model range. The Scrambler has proven to be a winner in its Italian home market, where it charted 69% of its overall bike sales in the first quarter alone.
Has the brand found a winning strategy with the Ducati Scrambler? Well, the figures indeed suggest so. In fact, the Scrambler has also boosted sales for the brand in other European markets as well, increasing by 54% in Spain, 52% in Germany, 50% in the UK, and a 13% in France.

At the rate things are going, industry experts believe Ducati could be on its way to chart a record-breaking year in its business history. Previously, the brand’s all time record sales month was set when it delivered 6,500 bikes back in May 2012.
Source: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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TVS Working On Royal Enfield 650 Rival

TVS is said to be developing a new 600-750cc motorcycle to rival the popular Royal Enfield 650 twins.

TVS plans to rival Royal Enfield with its own 650cc motorcycle.
The development is rumoured to be underway and with the help of Norton Motorcycles.

*Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650

Although there is no official confirmation from TVS regarding the development of this new motorcycle, it is rumoured that the company is already working on it.
The new flagship is expected to have a twin-cylinder motor, with power and torque output potentially exceeding that of the Royal Enfield 650 twins, which produce 47 hp of max power and 52 Nm of peak torque.
*Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
The body style of the new TVS flagship is still up in the air, with the company possibly launching multiple body styles simultaneously, or starting with a single offering such as a roadster.
Based on market response, TVS may consider other body styles such as scrambler, cafe racer, and ADV similar to what Royal Enfield is doing with its 350 and 650cc range.
*Royal Enfield Hunter 350
TVS will need multiple products in the 600-750cc segment to compete with rivals like Royal Enfield, who are consistently expanding their portfolio in this space. After the recent launch of the Super Meteor 650, Royal Enfield plans to add other 650cc bikes such as Shotgun 650, Himalayan 650, and Classic 650.
It is unknown whether TVS will develop this new motorcycle on its own or seek collaboration with another entity. TVS acquired British brand Norton Motorcycles in April 2020, and it is likely that they will use Norton’s expertise for their upcoming motorcycle.
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BMW Motorrad Malaysia Launches the G 310 R

BMW Motorrad Malaysia officially launched the much awaited G 310 R lightweight.
The G 310 R is slated to conquer the 300-400cc market.
Brand standing and an unprecedented price point seen as the potential catalysts.
The most anticipated BMW motorcycle, the G 310 R has been officially launced!
BMW Motorrad Malaysia chose the best setting to launch the baby Motorrad at none other than the prestigious BMW Motorrad GS Trophy Southeast Asia Qualifier.

The 313cc, single-cylinder G 310 R has been priced at a market-busting price of RM 26,900 (with 6% GST, on-the-road, without insurance). Judging from the level of interest shown and price point, it is to dominate the 300 – 400cc.
But the G 310 R isn’t intended to be a mere entry-level model. Instead, it’s a premium lightweight motorcycle that’s practical for our Malaysian roads and motorcycle buying crowd.

The engine is newly developed with TVS Motor Company with performance, environmental concerns and fuel savings. Liquid-cooling, dual overhead cams, four valves and electronic fuel injection, gives it 34 bhp at 9,500 RPM and 28 Nm of torque at 7,500 RPM. BMW claims a dry weight of only 158.5 kg.
The frame is tubular steel, robust and torsionally stiff. The front wheel is suspended by upside-down forks while the aluminium swingarm is connected directly by a spring strut.
A 2-channel ABS is standard on the G 310 R. The front is stopped by a single 300 mm disc, gripped by a radially mounted 4-piston caliper. The rear brake consists of a 2-piston caliper clamping a 240 mm disc.
As per BMW’s philosophy on environmental care, the G 310 R’s engine is mapped to the Euro 4 emissions standard, which includes a closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter. Fuel consumption is a frugal 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres.
The BMW G 310 R is priced at RM 26,900.00 (with 6% GST and on the road, without insurance).

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Brembo Builds Eco-Friendly, High-Performance Brake Pads

Brembo is ready to go green after successfully producing high-performance brake pads that are less harmful to the environment.

Brembo Greenance brake pads is less harmful to the environment.
Features lower non-renewable materials.

According to Sebastinio Rio, Chief Operating Officer of Brembo, the approach made is by reducing the use of non-renewable materials in construction and using eco-friendly manufacturing methods.
“We are adding a reduction in wear, so that is a green aspect as we are reducing consumption.
“Meanwhile, we have removed some components such as copper and nickel to maintain those components as green.
“Plus in the manufacturing process we have cut something like 60% energy consumption. It’s a combination of a green product and a green process,” Rio told MCN.

Interestingly, while saving the environment, the Greenance brake pads also claimed an increase in stopping power thanks to better heat resistance.
According to Brembo, the Greenance pads also meet European safety standards and feature NUCAP Retention System. Nevertheless, Rio stated that the company’s green efforts would continue to evolve.
“We are still working on trying and making our products more green every time.
“We are now having a look at recyclability, aluminium is recycled. We are working in a different environment with a reduction of waste and the utilisation of water in our factory, and the consumption of energy,” he added.
(Source: MCN)
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New Yamaha XSR GP model in the pipelines

New Yamaha XSR GP model reportedly in development, poised to see brand’s ‘Sport Heritage’ range grow.

Yamaha XSR GP nameplate trademark application has been filed in Europe.

All signs point towards a special retro GP-themed special of said MT-based modern retro.

XSR 900-based offering tipped to be first to debut using this new and special ‘GP’ nameplate.

Sources suggest it will feature racy hardware plus special colourway to meet its GP theme.

Without doubts, the Yamaha XSR ‘Sport Heritage’ range has seen the Iwata-based factory hit a relative sweet spot globally with fans. Now, it seems that this modern retro spin-off of the MT naked bike range is set to grow as Yamaha are reportedly developing a new ‘GP’ iteration of which.
According to US two-wheeled title CycleWorld, it reports that Yamaha has filed for trademark rights on the “XSR GP” nameplate in Europe on April 21, and all signs point towards a proper launch and introduction sometime later this year.
Though said trademark application didn’t reveal much, Yamaha’s recent effort of introducing special editions celebrating its 60th anniversary in Grand Prix racing does offer some indications of what the upcoming XSR GP might look like.

The most likely candidate to debut the XSR GP name first is a derivative of the XSR 900, which in itself is a spin-off of the MT-09 triple-cylinder naked. We can likely expect Yamaha to brim this GP edition of the XSR 900 with much of the hardware found in the up-specced MT-09 SP, namely the Öhlins rear shock and DLC-coated KYB fork, and perhaps said naked’s slightly shorter swingarm assembly.
Besides that, the adoption of a special colourway is also expected, perhaps mirroring the aforementioned 60th anniversary specials that feature white paint, gold wheels, and the brand’s signature “speed block” retro racing graphics – either in red or yellow.
Given how the Yamaha XSR spin-off range includes a 125cc, 155cc, 700cc and 1,000cc iterations based off the MT-125, MT-15, MT-07 and MT-10 respectively, there’s also a chance that we’ll see these versions of the XSR GP besides this purported MT-09/XSR 900-based version.
In all likelihood, we can expect the first Yamaha XSR GP to debut later this year at either the returning Intermot show in Cologne, Germany, or perhaps the annual EICMA show in Milan, Italy.
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Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will be hosting the inaugural South East Asian Motorcycle Business Forum 2013. The event is scheduled to take place in conjunction with the upcoming Malaysian MotoGP race weekend in October.
SIC CEO Datuk Razlan Razali states that the one-day forum will focus itself towards the global business of two-wheeled motorsports, aiming to develop ways to drive the industry further. Moderating the conference will be Fox Sports presenter Steve Dawson. Keynote speakers include LCR Honda Team CEO and principal Lucio Cecchinello, Honda Repsol Team principal Livio Suppo, Honda Racing Corporation executive vice president Shuhei Nakamoto, and Red Bull Rookies Cup spokesperson Peter Clifford.

Repsol Honda Team riders Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa will be making special appearances in an exclusive session, followed by the appearance of Malaysian Moto3 star Zulfahmi Khairuddin.
The forum will be held on 9 October andregistration is now ope, priced affordably at RM300. Also available for delegates is a VIP Treatment at the Malaysian MotoGP, packaged at just RM950. More information and details are available online at SIC’s official webpage.

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Triumph Nails 2022 Baja Aragon With The Tiger 900 Rally Pro

Triumph Motorcycles showed class at the 2022 Baja Aragon by winning the Trail category with Ivan Cervantes aboard the Tiger 900 Rally Pro.

Ivan Cervantes rode the latest generation Tiger 900 Rally Pro.
The Trail category is a new class introduced alongside Trail-Max for the 2022 edition.

It was a maiden win for Triumph in the new Trail category, which saw Cervantes take home the winners medal riding the Tiger 900 Rally Pro.
Although the Baja Aragon was Cervantes’ second appearance with the Tiger 900 Rally Pro, it was his first rally-style competition with the middleweight adventure bike.

“We came to the Baja Aragón with a clear goal, which was to win the new Trail category on the Tiger 900 Rally Pro.
“Our greater ambition was to finish as high as possible in the overall rankings, where people have been amazed at the pace we have taken with the Trail. We are proud to have done a great job, and I believe we have given everyone a lot to talk about.” said the 40-year-old Spaniard.
The Trail category was new for 2022 along with Maxi-Trail, which saw Joan Pedrero win the event riding on board the Pan America 1250.
The Baja Aragon isn’t just a platform for Triumph to test out the Tiger 900 Rally Pro but also signalling the company’s intention to enter off-road racing. Also, it is in line with the company’s soon-to-be launch motocross and enduro range.

“Once again proves that Triumph is here in off-road racing – and is here to stay. We chose this race because in the future we plan to come here with the Enduro project, and of course we plan to succeed.” added Cervantes.
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MMS dirt busters of Festival Belia 2014

We spent a day getting down and dirty with the Malaysian Motocross Series (MMS) during last weekend’s Festival Belia 2014 in Putrajaya.

MMS is organised by Malaysia Freestyle Motocross Extreme (FMX Malaysia) in partnership with the Total Quality Motocross Club (TQMX). The series is endorsed by the Ministry of Youth & Sports (Kementerian Belia & Sukan), with the support of the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM).

According to one of the series’ key organising figures, Norazmi Misrin, the mission behind MMS as a series is to provide Malaysian dirtbike talents a proper talent development platform, and to encourage other youths into competitive racing instead of just riding motocross bikes only for fun.

MMS has seven different competition categories, each designed to meet a certain known criteria based on rider skills or bike class. The categories include:
1. Cub Cross – A class for modified Cub bikes with a capacity of 135cc and below.
2. CKD – A class solely for locally assembled production dirt bike models (i.e. Kawasaki KLX150 and Demak DTM 150).
3. Endurance – 60-minute enduro
4. Veteran – Riders aged 40 and above
5. Junior – For youths ages 16 and below competing on bikes no larger than 80cc
6.Novice – For youths ages 30 and below with minimal racing experience
7. Expert – For highly experienced riders

Minus the Endurance class, most of the other categories will race for roughly 12-minutes with an additional two laps at each race.
To race, interested youths can participate for a relatively low cost. Firstly, participants will need to acquire an MAM-issued racing license. Depending on category, participants will only need to fork out an entry fee payable to the organisers priced anywhere between RM50 to RM100 for each race weekend.
Finally, riders will need to pass all the organisers inspection processes that covers all aspects including bike modifications, whilst full and certified riding gears are a compulsory requirement.

Last weekend was the series second round of a scheduled six planned for the 2014 season. Besides Putrajaya, MMS’ calendar includes races in Johore, Malacca, as well as the purpose-built Sepang International Motocross Track in SIC.
From what we can observe, the series is indeed growing, especially this year with the presence of support from the private sector, namely from names such as Alpinestar and Iktikatraya. Norazmi Misrin did stress a number of times that the series can grow even further provided more support from NGOs and the private sector comes in.We’d like to believe so in the matter as well.
More information regarding MMS can be obtained via FMX Malaysia on Facebook or TQMX’s Facebook page as well.
Check out our comprehensive gallery of the dirt-busting action from MMS@Festival Belia 2014.
Malaysia Motocross Series (MMS) 2014 Round 2 @ Festival Belia 2014
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Now this is a custom BMW R nineT!

The BMW R nineT has been a symbol of the brand’s Heritage line and a lot of owners around the globe have been putting their own personal touches to call the bike their own. For one particular AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building winner, the garage has taken it to a whole new level with this custom BMW R nineT and it is out of this world!

Hailing from Russia, Zillers Garage was commissioned by BMW Motorrad Russia for this particular build. From the great mind of Dmitry Golubchikov, he wanted to incorporate the world of aviation into this particular custom bike and the results do not disappoint. Not even one bit.

Based on a 2016 BMW R nineT, everything was customised excluding the engine, final drive arm and some parts of the bike’s four-section frame. All in all, Zillers Garage took around 10 months to complete this masterpiece thanks to all its modern-retro aluminium bodywork which were all hand-formed like a champion.

Slammed low to the ground, Dmitry went to a lot of lengths in figuring out the correct lines for this particular custom machine. The inclusion of a functional cockpit (thanks to a Motogadget Motoscope mini speedometer), all form and function were designed to look sleek and seamless which go hand in hand with the bike’s form, front to back.

The best feature in our opinion? That slammed body doesn’t require any side or centre stand, it can sit (or stand) on its own! Zillers Garage incorporated a few buttons that control a pneumatic system that can lower the bike and rest it on the belly pan when parked and raise the bike up when it’s time to hit the roads.

Other outstanding features include:

Custom 18-inch ‘turbine’ wheels
3D-printed air boxes
Custom hydraulic clutch & brake master cylinders
Muted monochrome grey paintwork

Enjoy looking at the photos and take your time with them, the details are too beautiful to just give them a once-over. Outstanding job, Zillers Garage, and Dmitry Golubchikov!

Credit: Zillers Garage Facebook

The new BMW R 18 cruiser is finally unveiled!

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Paulo Goncalves dies in Dakar Rally crash

The Dakar Rally 2020 mourned the lost of Paulo Goncalves of Hero Motosports Rally Team as he passed away after succumbing to injuries suffered in an accident in Saudi Arabia. The veteran rider who was the runner-up back in 2015 crashed his rally machine in Stage 7 at the 276km mark. The organisers of the Dakar Rally have released a statement regarding the tragic incident.

“Paulo Goncalves, racing on motorbike no. 8, has passed away from a fall sustained 276 kilometres into today’s special. The organisers received an alert at 10:08 and dispatched a medical helicopter that reached the biker at 10:16 and found him unconscious after going into cardiac arrest. Following resuscitation efforts in situ, the competitor was taken by helicopter to Layla Hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead. The entire Dakar caravan would like to extend its sincere condolences to his friends and family.”

Goncalves was highly regarded as one of Dakar Rally’s legendary riders where he made his mark back in 2010 when he first entered the gruelling competition. He never missed an opportunity to compete each year and his best highlights were back in 2015 when he finished in an outstanding second place.

Goncalves was sitting at 46th in the overall standings before the incident. He was 40 years old. Rest in peace, Paulo Goncalves. Teams, riders, and organisers agreed to cancel Stage 8 in order to pay respect to their fallen friend and brother.
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Ducati draXter concept debuts in Verona expo

Extreme and racy-looking Ducati draXter concept bows in annual Verona Motor Bike Expo.

Last year, Ducati made its presence felt during the annual Vero Motor Bike Expo when it showcased a series of Scrambler-based design concepts penned by some of the biggest names in custom motorcycle building. This year, Ducati again arrived in style, this time debuting this radical and extreme Ducati draXter concept bike during the annual show held last weekend.

As you can tell by its name, this concept is based on the new XDiavel belt-driven cruiser model that is hitting showroom floors this year. The concept however sees the XDiavel transformed into a drag racing bike. The concept was done styled and designed in-house by the Advanced Design division of the Ducati Design Centre.

The Ducati draXter concept sports several radical modifications from its XDiavel basis. The suspension and brakes comes straight off the brand’s flagship Panigale superbike. It also sports an enormous Termignoni exhaust that exits at the underside of the bike.

Completing the drag racer looks is an ultra-wide section slick rear tyre from Pirelli, as well as decals with a racing number of ‘90’ – denoting Ducati’s 90th anniversary celebrations this year.
Though radical, this alternate outtake of the Bologna-based brand’s new belt-driven cruiser looks enticing indeed. Sadly though, the chances of this concept being replicated into the production XDiavel seem highly unlikely.
Ducati draXter concept

Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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Police Rider Killed in Road Accident with Car

A police rider was killed in a road accident with a car.

Witnesses reported the driver of the car swerved into the path of the policeman.

Motorcyclists in Malaysia have to face such dangerous situations everyday.

Lans Korporal Mohamad Hanis Bin Zainudin, the police officer with the Unit Rondaan Bermotosikal (Motorcycle Patrol Unit) has passed away today after being involved in a road accident yesterday.
The accident happened in Kulai, Johor. Witnesses stated that a car from the opposite lane had cut across the officer’s path to enter the Shell petrol station. Being already at a short distance from the car, the officer couldn’t avoid and slammed into the front left door of the vehicle.

The impact threw the policeman off his bike. A video taken at the accident scene showed that the entire front portion of his Kawasaki Ninja 250 was smashed.
He was rushed to the hospital and listed as critical. However, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away this morning at 10am.
We wish to convey our condolences to his family.
Unfortunately, L/Kpl Mohamad Hanis will not be the last to die because due the impatience and indifference of other motorists towards motorcyclists. This writer himself encounter at least three close calls per day while commuting on his motorcycle.

But what truly makes us mad are certain groups and individuals who never fail to blame motorcyclists for every single accident which involves a motorcycle. To us, these people are both myopic and selfish. Sure, not every motorcyclist is an angel, but surely not every cause of accident is attributable to the motorcyclist. We really want to hear what they think of Allahyarham L/Kpl Mohamad Hanis’ demise.
Source:

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Chris Pfeiffer 5 greatest videos

German stunt riding ace Chris Pfeiffer announces retirement at age 45.

Four time World Stunt Riding Champion and world-renowned German stunt rider Chris Pfeiffer has announced his retirement.

The 45-year-old announced his retirement on his official Facebook page recently with a heartfelt message to fans. With the announcement, Pfeiffer ends his 20-year-long career in the stunt business that has seen him chart some memorable highs along the way. Since 1996, Chris Pfeiffer has been thrilling his fans all over world, having toured in performed in more than 90 countries.

Pfeiffer, who began riding from the tender age of just 5 years old, achieved plenty of milestones as a stunt rider. Besides his four World Stunt Riding champion’s title garnered in 2003, 2007, 2008 and 2009, Pfeiffer was also crowned as the European Stunt Riding champion in 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008. Pfeiffer also holds a world record for the longest ever longjump (bunny hop) without a ramp over 33 people lying down next to each other.

Besides being the poster-boy of stunt riding, it has been said that Chris Pfeiffer was also one of the key people responsible in re-popularising naked street bikes in recent times. One of the most essential tools of his trade is the BMW F800 series. Pfeiffer is known to have used custom versions of the now-discontinued BMW F800 S since 2006 before switching over to the newer and lighter F800 R version.

The marriage between BMW Motorrad and Chris Pfeiffer could not be any more perfect, with the famed German manufacturer even creating a special limited edition version of the F800 R named after him – the BMW F 800 R Chris Pfeiffer. The model, of which just 68 units were made, came with a custom paintwork plus the addition of an Akrapovič exhaust unit as well.
Of course, his retirement announcement seems like a good enough excuse to head over toYouTube and remind ourselves just how impressive Pfeiffer’s skills are. But, worry not as we’ve taken the time to compile a few of his greatest hits, including one where he performed using a BMW Motorrad electric scooter.
1. Chris Pfeiffer rides BMW Tower, Munich, Germany

2. Chris Pfeiffer rides Akrapovič HQ

3. Chris Pfeiffer in Georgia, Tbilisi

4. Chris Pfeiffer in Romania

5. Chris Pfeiffer performing stunts with BMW electric scooter

Sources: Visordown, AutoEvolution, RedBull, YouTube, Facebook
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10 Steps to Be a Better Rider

We’ve published many riding tips previously.

Here, we sum them up as 10 Steps to be a Better Rider.

Keep these tips in mind everytime you ride.

We’ve published a number of riding tips previously, from avoiding target fixation to braking to body positioning and so forth. To sum them all up, plus adding a few more, here are 10 steps to be a better rider.
Again, as we’ve mentioned many times before, you have to “check” your riding at all times not only to be able to go faster, but more importantly, to be safe. Being safe means you can continue to ride forever.
1. Be attentive

Don’t daydream. Always evaluate your surroundings, speed and space. Be proactive in spotting potential danger – if you find yourself in close call situations all the time, it could pretty well mean that you’re not on top of things.
2. Look further up the road

Not looking far enough could also be attributed to losing concentration. The human vision will default to a view of just a few centimetres in front when a person doesn’t focus on anything in particular. When that happens, reaction time is increased. Additionally, peripheral vision is reduced, and you can’t spot that car swerving into your lane quickly enough.  So, keep your eyes up and look ahead as far as possible while continuously scanning to keep your vision and mind active.
3. Maintain a wide vision

As we mentioned above, keep your vision wide by scanning the road back and forth – imagine a forward-looking radar. A wide vision helps to slow things down at any given speed. Sure, zeroing down your vision is fun at speed, but you’ll feel overwhelmed when something unexpected occurs. Keeping your vision wide also avoids from getting surprised from the sides. Finally, a wide vision helps to avoid target fixation as it allows you to spot a route of escape.
4. Body positioning

Seat yourself back a bit by leaving 2.5 cm (1 inch) between the tank and your crotch. You will feel that the steering is lighter, and your upper body will have a more natural bend. Being natural results in better comfort too. Remember to clamp the sides of the fuel tank with your knees and inner thighs to free up the torso. And keep ride with the balls of your feet on the footpegs.
5. Relax!

There are still too many riding with straight arms. Keep them loose. Loosening up the arms loosens up your grip on the handlebar, besides your torso, shoulders, neck and back. The benefits are increased comfort, the bike handles better, and more control. The bike handles better because you allow it to do what it’s supposed to. Riding tense means you’re fighting the bike.
6. Be smooth
Image credit: MotoGP
Notice how smooth professional riders transition from accelerating to braking to turning and back to accelerating? Being smooth avoids feeding extra forces into the bike which causes instability. Being smooth also means that you’re not cramming too many inputs at one go for example, grabbing the brake while downshifting and turning. Here’s a little secret: A smooth rider isn’t afraid of worn tyres or slick road conditions.
7. Ride in the rain
Photo credit cycleworld.com
Speaking of slick road conditions, riding in the rain teaches you the necessity of being relaxed and smooth with your controls. Besides that, you’ll also discover how much your bike and tyres are capable of. All our Editors love riding in the rain!
8. Practice your braking

We’ve written about this before: Don’t treat your brakes as an on/off switch. Instead, find an empty road or parking lot and practice your braking technique. Find how much pressure you need to slow the bike down to a desired speed. Discover how much distance you need to bring the bike to a complete stop from certain speeds. Find how much pressure it takes to trigger the ABS and how it feels when the system activates. Learn to steer the bike when ABS triggers. Know how the bike feels like when a tyre skids. Don’t forget to practice trail braking, too. Last but not least, clamp your knees on the tank when you brake and leave your arms loose.
9. Ride a dirt bike

We can’t stress this enough. Riding a dirt bike teaches you the real basics of throttle control, braking, body positioning, rider inputs, traction and everything else you can shake a stick at it. We understand that many are concerned about safety when riding in the dirt, but guess what, you don’t have to jump like Gabit Saleh in order to ride in the dirt. Just go to Most Fun Gym or Moto Maniac and ask to practice on a flat piece of ground. (That’s what we do.) You’ll be surprised how much better you can after that!
10. Enrol in an advanced riding school

This goes without saying. We think probably less than 1% have done so and that’s what contributes to the exceptionally high number of motorcycle accidents in Malaysia (among other causes). There are so many to choose from that could fit your budget and type of bike you ride.
BONUS
Attend a trackday. You don’t have pressure yourself into riding at Azlan Shah’s pace. Who said you have to, by the way? Go to the track and have fun riding around in a controlled environment while you practice your skills. You can even make new friends who are faster and lead you around the track.
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Aveta Enters The “Supermoped” Arena With The All-New SVR180 – 16.8HP, RM9,998

Aveta Malaysia has officially launched the new SVR180, dubbed “the ultimate supermoped”, the new motorcycle is available for a recommended selling price of RM9,998.

The SVR180 is Aveta’s first “supermoped” in Malaysia.
Features a 175cc single cylinder engine that makes 16.8hp and 15.5Nm.

Features a front fascia that looks like it took inspiration from Kawasaki’s Z1000; the SVR180 features a 175cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine capable of producing 16.8hp at 8,500rpm and 15.5Nm also at 8,500rpm.
Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission with a final chain drive.

On paper, the SVR180 makes less power than the SYM VF3i, although the latter has a slightly bigger displacement with 183cc compared to Aveta’s 175cc.
Nonetheless, the SVR180 pumps out 1.4hp and 1.7Nm more than the Yamaha Y15ZR.
Other notable features on the Aveta SVR189 include a fully digital instrument cluster, LED headlamp with daytime running light (DRL) function, front and rear disc brakes, USB charging port and radiator guard.
Despite pushing to make ABS compulsory among kapcai’s in Malaysia, the Aveta SVR180 misses out on this feature.

Also, the Aveta SVR180 runs on 17-inch wheels with 90/80 at the front and 120/70 at the rear. The frame is suspended by a telescopic fork and a monoshock at the back.
While the brochure might tell you that the new moped is equipped with a small 3.8L tank, we can assure you it’s not, as the company informed us that the SVR180 features a 6.6L tank instead.
The Aveta SVR180 comes in four exciting colours; red, blue, cyan and black.
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SOHC Versus DOHC: What Are the Differences?

We often see the terms SOHC or DOHC in motorcycle spec sheets.

What do they mean?

And how do they influence engine performance?

The terms SOHC and DOHC are usually seen on spec sheets. Some car owners even stick large “DOHC” vinyl on their vehicles.
What’s a camshaft?

But before we go further, let’s understand the function of a camshaft.
Camshafts are cylindrical shafts that carry oblong-shaped cam lobes in four-stroke engines. The lobes push on the poppet valves to open them in time with the engine’s intake and exhaust strokes. The valves are then closed by the valve springs when the taller cam lobes turn away. (NOTE: Desmodromic valve actuation don’t have return springs on the valves.)
Camshaft assembly – Credit depositphotos.com
The camshaft’s rotation is driven off the engine’s crankshaft via a chain, belt or gears. Road motorcycle engines usually employ the chain which is kept inside the engine block as it’s lubricated by the engine oil and quiet. Certain Ducati models still employ the belt cam drive (also called timing belt like in cars). Gear driven cams are usually used in racing motorcycles for their exactness in executing their timing, reliability in a high stress environment and being too loud for road bikes.
What are SOHC and DOHC?

SOHC stands for “single overhead camshaft” while DOHC represents “double overhead camshaft.”
As the names suggest, an SOHC engine is served by a single camshaft which carries the intake and exhaust cam lobes. A DOHC engine, on the other hand, has one camshaft dedicated to intake and one for exhaust.
“Overhead” here means that the camshaft is located on top of the valves and certainly on top of the engine block.
Pros and Cons of SOHC
Since one camshaft carries all the lobes for intake and exhaust. However, do remember that the combustion chamber is round thus valve placement will be compromised. The best valve configuration keeps the valves closer together, but having four valves per cylinder with from one camshaft would mean spacing any two valves much further apart.
As such, an SOHC engine usually carries a maximum of three valves per cylinder (although there are four-valves-per-cylinder SOHC engines), but is usually limited to two valves.
An SOHC setup is much simpler and lighter as there are fewer parts. However, spark plug placement is compromised as the space directly on top of the combustion chamber has already been taken up by the valves. Therefore, the spark plug needs to be placed at the side of the combustion chamber. This puts a limit on high RPMs as the flame front could only reach so far before the piston moves down and the expanding gas losses its pressure. At higher RPMs, the piston is moving so fast that some of the air-fuel mixture isn’t fully burned and kicked out. Consequently, an SOHC engine could not produce higher horsepower due to lower engine revs.
As such, an SOHC engine is usually tuned for low-RPM and midrange torque.
Pros and Cons of DOHC
The intake and exhaust camshafts are placed further apart. All the valves could be kept closer together as the cam lobes can be placed closer to each other. It also means that the camshafts can be made shorter for a more compact engine block.
Since the two camshafts are spaced further apart, the spark plug can be placed between them and directly in the centre of the combustion chamber. As opposed to placing it at the side, a centrally located plug has the better chance of burning most if not all of the air-fuel mixture.
Consequently, DOHC engines can be revved higher and produce more horsepower in the process.
The two camshafts also give engineers more flexibility in spacing them to angle the valves for optimum combustion chamber shape, besides intake- and exhaust-tract designs.
But perhaps more importantly these days are variable valve timing (VVT) and variable valve lift (VVL) technologies. Utilizing them is easier, therefore virtually exclusive, to DOHC valvetrains (apart from SOHC VTEC).
The cons of a DOHC engine include higher maintenance as there are more parts involved.
Last note: OHV
There are also OHV (overhead valve) engines where the valves are on top of the combustion chamber, but the cams reside in the crankcase. The cam lobes push on thin cylindrical shafts called pushrods which in turn push on a rocker arms that actuate the valves.
This type of setup is usually used on low-revving engines due to the inertia of many moving parts. Also, it’s difficult to have more than one valve each for intake and exhaust, unless more cams are installed on the other side of the engine.
Therefore, the OHV setup usually resides in cruisers such as Harley-Davidsons and Indian Motorcycles.
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PETRONAS Sprinta Lubricant and PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team Looking Forward to More Success in 2020

PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (PSRT) achieved a level of success that other MotoGP teams could only dream of, and the new PETRONAS Sprinta lubricant is a key component.
Looking back to the 2019 season, the team won both the Independent Team and Rookie of the Year Award picking up a total of six pole positions and seven podium finishes. In fact, PSRT secured fourth overall in the team standings, behind three factory teams and in front of another three – all in their debut year as a satellite team.

The Malaysian energy company introduced PETRONAS Sprinta engine oil at the Dutch TT, also known as “The Cathedral of Speed.” Characterised by long, sweeping corners, riders hold the throttle open for longer periods of time compared to other tracks. As such, engine oil performance must be at its utmost importance.

PETRONAS Sprinta was formulated to provide a good flow of power and protect the engine at the same time — not an easy task. First, the bike must finish the race to register a great result and not exceed the FIM-stipulated number of engines.

Use of the new oil achieved immediate change and results.
Frenchman Fabio Quartararo captured his first pole position at the third round in Jerez but failed to finish. He would follow up with another pole in the seventh round in Catalunya and went on to pick up his maiden podium in the premier class. However, apart from the mistake at the first round in Qatar, the gear lever falling off at Jerez, and second place at Catalunya, results at other rounds were eighth, seventh, eighth and tenth respectively.

However, since the introduction of the new PETRONAS Sprinta at Assen in June, Quartararo’s performance was much more consistent, picking up a third place in Austria followed by second place finishes at San Marino, Thailand, Japan and Valencia – ultimately cementing his name as a top MotoGP rookie.

As for the 2020 season, both Quartararo and his teammate Franco Morbidelli will ride the full-factory A-spec Yamaha YZR-M1s. The engine will produce more power, thereby requires top-of-the-line lubrication. Remember, in order to score top results, the bike has to finish the race first and this is where PETRONAS with Ultraflex will play a critical role.

The engine oil has since been adopted for road use, called the PETRONAS Sprinta with Ultraflex, and was introduced during the PETRONAS Sprinta Festival, leading up to the Malaysian MotoGP. It was also revealed at the PETRONAS pavilion during the GP.

So, there you have it. The new PETRONAS Sprinta with Ultraflex was developed and proven on the track. If it could protect a 260+ bhp MotoGP engine during the heat of competition, imagine the kind of protection it provides to your engine.
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Khairul Idham will debut in Moto3 World Championship

Khairul Idham Pawi gets an early birthday present when Honda Team Asia announced the Malaysian will make his debut in the Moto3 World Championship as a wildcard at Motorland Aragon this 27th September.
The news came three days after the youngster signed a four-year contract to ride for Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd alongside reigning FIM Asia Road Racing Championship Champion, Zaqhwan Zaidi.

Turning 17-years old this September 20, Khairul is set to battle the world’s best Moto3 riders, including compatriot, Zulfahmi Khairuddin and Asia Dream Cup champion, Hiroki Ono.

Khairul has proven himself a worthy candidate for the wildcard slot base on his performance in the Moto3 Junior World Championship. Although 2015 marks his debut year in the MotoGP feeder series, Khairul has impressed by bagging three podiums from the first six races and is currently ranked third overall with 80 points, 26 points adrift leader, Aron Canet.

“I’m so happy to debut in the World Championship at Motorland Aragon. Honda gave me a wildcard and I will try to do the best for Honda Team Asia and my family. Than you Honda and Boon Siew Honda for this opportunity,” he said.
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Moto Morini To Roll Out X-Cape And Seiemmezzo 650 In India

Italian motorcycle company, Moto Morini is set to introduce four new models in India.

Moto Morini is bringing the X-Cape and Seiemezzo 650 to India.
Both are powered by a liquid-cooled 649cc DOHC parallel-twin that delivers 60HP and 56NM.
Key features include fully adjustable Marzocchi front forks, Brembo brakes, dual USB charge ports, and more.

The company made headlines in recent months since the introduction of the new middleweight adventure motorcycle, the X-Cape 650.
The mid-sized ADV was also recently launched in Malaysia, under local distributor, MForce Bike Holdings.

However, Moto Morini will now expand its reached to India with the introduction of the X-Cape 650, X-Cape 650 X, Seiemmezzo 650 Street and Seiemmezzo 650 Scrambler.
In addition, Moto Morini will also set up a new manufacturing facility in India as well as distribution network for the Asian region.
We’re particularly familiar with the X-Cape 650 and X-Cape 650 X as both model runs with 649cc parallel-twin engine capable of pumping 60hp @ 7,000rpm and 56Nm.
The X-Cape 650 will take on Aprilia’s Tuareg 660 and Yamaha Tenere 700 in India. While the brand is considered new in some part of the world, the X-Cape 650 comes with an affordable price tag compared to its rival.

Despite the lack in power, the X-Cape features premium components, including 50mm inverted Marzocchi forks, adjustable KYB rear monoshocks, Brembo brakes and a full-colour TFT display.
Meanwhile, the Seiemezzo 6 brings retro styling and the same 650cc parallel-twin mill but retuned to produced just 54hp with a higher rev range.
Similarly, it boast components like KYB suspension, Brembo brakes and dual-channel Bosch ABS.

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Asia Talent Cup 2016 Round 5 – Ogura and Kunii triumphs

Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016 Round 5 roars in the Twin Ring Motegi in support of MotoGP.

Round 5 of Asia’s only Moto3 feeder series, the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016, got underway last weekend in the Twin Ring Motegi circuit. Round 5 of the series was held as the support event to the weekend’s Japanese MotoGP round.

The weekend in Japan saw the series’ young Japanese riders shining at home. It began with Qualifying early on Saturday morning where Yuki Kunii stole pole position. Kunii later converted his prime starting position into a race win as well.

Kunii led an all-Japanese podium result in Race 1 as compatriots Kazuki Masaki and Ai Ogura finished second and third respectively. Thailand’s Somkiat Chantra, who entered the weekend with the lead in the title race, settled for sixth and held a slim lead before Race 2 on Sunday.

Charged from Saturday’s podium finish, Ai Ogura improved his form and pace come Race 2 on Sunday and took a deserving victory here while pole-sitter Kunii faltered. Masaki again scored third place while compatriot Ryusei Yamanaka finshed ahead in second to complete yet another all-Japanese podium in Race 2.

Chantra was able to elevate up the order into fourth, but it did little at stopping Ogura from overtaking him in the championship lead. The latter Japanese leads the standings now with 160 points while Chantra has been relegated into second place with 153 points. Yamanaka also edges up into third with 144 points.

With five rounds completed, the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016 will now focus all efforts on its upcoming season finale. Round 6 will take place in support of the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP weekend in the Sepang International Circuit from Oct 28 to Oct 30.

With a three-way battle for the title, there’s still hope of seeing the series’ first non Japanese title winner. Besides Chantra, Indonesians Andi Izidihar and Gerry Salim also hold strong mathematical chances of capturing the title from Ogura and Yamanaka.
Suffice to say, the last two races in Malaysia later this month will be one for all to watch.

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Honda PCX Electric and PCX Hybrid Unveiled

Honda has unveiled the PCX Electric and PCX Hybrid at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017.

Both bikes are slated to be sold in Asia from 2018.

Honda is pushing hard to meet the datelines set by certain countries to go electric.

While we were on the edge of seats and cheering our hearts out for our favourite racers in the 2017 Shell Malaysia MotoGP, Honda has launched the new PCX Electric and PCX Hybrid scooters at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show.
Honda says that both bikes will go on sale beginning 2018 across Asia.

The Honda PCX Electric is a fully-electric scooter featuring a high-output motor developed by Honda. However, its most novel feature is the Honda Mobile Power Pack, which consists of two detachable lithium-ion battery packs. Can’t find a charging station? Remove the Power Pack and bring it to a plug point.

The Honda PCX Hybrid, conversely, uses Honda’s newly-developed and original hybrid system specifically for motorcycles. The compact hybrid system employs a high-output battery and the AC generator (ACG) similar to the starter-type Idling Stop System in the current petrol-powered Honda PCX 150.

Both PCX Electric and PCX Hybrid look similar to the petrol PCX, except for a few differences.

Honda is pushing hard to go electric to meet the datelines set by many countries to prohibit the production of internal combustion engines within the next decade or two, in the interest of reducing greenhouse gases which contribute to global warmin. Honda Motor President and CEO Takahiro Hachigo added that the PCX Electric is part of Honda’s goal to increase production of EVs to two-thirds of all vehicle production by 2030.

In Asia, India is leading the way to go electric, having proposed 2030 as the dateline, while China will complete their EV infrastructure by 2022. Malaysia, on the other hand, is still stalling.

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MSC 2015 Rd. 1 – Mixed fortunes for Prince Lubricants Racing Team

Prince Lubricants Racing Team ends season-opening Malaysia Superbike Championship 2015 (MSC 2015) weekend with mixed results but remains as strong as ever.

It was a day of mixed fortunes for all three riders in the Prince Lubricants Racing Team. Nevertheless, all three riders managed to garner plenty of valuable lessons and points as the weekend comes to an end, especially for rookie Superstock (B) rider Linggam Rammoo.

Linggam’s campaign appeared promising following his sixth place category ranking after yesterday’s qualifying, placing 15th on the Superstock category’s large grid of 41 bikes. However, things did not go as smoothly as planned during both Race 1 and Race 2.

“In the first race was challenging for me. My starting was not so great, which was why I dropped down a few places. My main concern for the first race was to finish the race and return back safely,” said the 30-year-old Superstock rookie. He added, “I also had a small issue with my shifter as I could not downshift properly.” Linggam ended Race 1 is 20th overall, and 12th in the Superstock (B) category.

“In Race 2, I was much more prepared for the race start, but my starting position wasn’t ideal on the far left in 13th. I couldn’t fend off all the other bikes coming up from the right, so I did more chasing up the order here,” described Linggam in regards with his second race. With a more prepared mind, Linggam was able to keep up with the pack, and would eventually improve on his Race 1 performance here, finishing 15th overall and 6th in the Superstock (B) category.

“I am happy and I had a lot of fun this weekend. Furthermore, the data showed that I have a chance in keeping up with the top three guys in my category,” said Linggam when asked on how the weekend was overall. Besides addressing the issue with his bike’s downshifting, Linggam further added, “My next concern is to improve my fitness level further as I discovered that I began to feel slightly exhausted towards the tail-end of the race.” One thing for sure is that Linggam is definitely enjoying a good start to his professional racing career with the Prince Lubricants Racing Team.

The team’s youngest rider, Ian Dublin, also had quite a tough day on his hands. Despite the 14-year-old qualifying strongly in third, mechanical issues and mistakes saw him settling for a fourth place finish in Race 1 of the Open 250 class. “I couldn’t do much as I was already pushing the bike to its limits. I am not entirely happy with, but given the situation, I have accepted it.”

Ian’s weekend came to a premature end after low-siding out of turn 14 and contention in Race 2 whilst fighting for position. While unhappy with his DNF, the youngster was relieved to have gotten out of it unscathed. “I learnt a lot today despite finishing fourth in the first race and crashing out in the second. That’s racing,” admitted the youngster.

When asked on what were the issues he and team intends to address before Round 2, Ian said, “We partly know that the issues lies in the engine tuning and mapping, so we just need to fine-tune this and hopefully the bike will perform optimally again.”

The team’s lead rider, Colin Robin, also had quite an eventful day. Amongst the three, Colin was the only rider that had to deal with racing in two different weather conditions. A late-morning thunderstorm delayed much of the day’s scheduled first half, forcing many in Colin’s Superbike category to adapt their setup and change to wet tyres for the first race.

Colin, who started from fifth on the grid, would eventually settle with a 13th place finish in Race 1. “I didn’t enjoy Race 1 too much. I decided to go for the points and stay upright here. I know I should’ve pushed harder, but at the end of the day, sometimes its better to just pick up some points for the year,” said the 50-year-old Aussie veteran who competes in the premier Superbike (A) class.

In describing the conditions, Colin said, “It was greasy, but it wasn’t that bad. Other guys were going fast, which proves you could indeed go faster, so it was really up to me.” Fortunately for Colin, the weather conditions improved for Race 2 as it stayed clear and dry, allowing the Aussie to climb back up the order.

“I enjoyed Race 2. My finishing position wasn’t as good as I wanted it to be, but I still had an enjoyable race,” said Colin. He also shared that he had the pace to keep up with the lead group in Race 2, but admitted he took a little more time acclimatising to the setup and conditions at the start of the race.

“I had some nice slides, especially in Turn 10. But, I got to do something about this. Sliding isn’t fast, but its fun!” the Aussie cheerfully shared about some of his best moments in Race 2. As a racer, Colin ends the weekend on a strong note, and further shared that his attention will be focused on getting his race bike setup properly once more to combat the aforementioned sliding ‘issues’.

As a coach, Colin was more or less upbeat with the performance of student-teammates Linggam and Ian. “I know he had some issues with downshifting, but his improvements in both races is great. I’m happy to see him progressing well,” shared Colin in regard with Linggam’s results.

Colin continued, “I think we need to see how we can get better tuning and drivability in Ian’s bike. Ian’s a good rider, but for some reason, the other bikes just seem to come up easily,” expressed Colin on the performance of his other student, Ian Dublin. Colin further added, “We got to find something in his bike definitely.”
Check out our photo gallery below of the Prince Lubricants Racing Team in action over the weekend during MSC 2015 Round 1. More on our official BikesRepublic.com Facebook page as well.
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Another Mystery Video showing Top Speed of the Modenas Pulsar RS200!

It was only a few days ago when we posted a video received via our email showing the top speed run of the 2017 Modenas Pulsar NS200. This time around, we got our hands on yet another video of its fully fairing twin brother in action, the Modenas Pulsar RS200.

Those looking to get into the big bike scene without breaking the bank can opt for the aggressive yet smooth Pulsar RS200. Although the 200cc single-cylinder engine sounds like a slightly bigger choice compared to some high end kapcais or mopeds available in the Malaysian market, we truly believe that the Modenas Pulsar RS200 will indeed give a nice riding experience to most new and veteran bikers alike.

The video confirmed our theory that both the Bajaj-powered Modenas Pulsar RS200 and NS200 can reach a top speed of over 150km/h.  In the previous video showing the top speed run of the naked NS200, we can see that the bike maxed out at 152km/h and it’s the same case with the RS200. No surprises here considering that both bikes have the same 200cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, fuel-injected engine with liquid cooling.

We also noticed in the video that the RS200 seemed to require less effort to reach that top speed as compared to the video of the naked NS200. The biggest factor contributing to this assumption and observation has to be the RS200’s aerodynamics especially the front fairing. CLICK HERE to check out the top speed run of the Pulsar’s naked variant, the NS200.

We’ve tested both bikes and the review will be posted very, very soon. In the meantime, enjoy this video of submitted to us of the RS200 in action. Want to know more about the Modenas Pulsar RS200? CLICK HERE!

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Malaysia’s First MotoGP Rider in 2019

Hafizh Syahrin is slated to be Malaysia’s first MotoGP rider in 2019.

He will join the Petronas Sprinta Racing team next year, managed by the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

SIC CEO, Datuk Razlan, is confident Hafizh will do better next year.

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is determined to groom Hafizh Syahrin for the big time: MotoGP.
As was reported earlier, Hafizh Syahrin’s long-time team Moto2, Petronas Raceline Malaysia had split ways for the 2018 Moto2 season (click here for our report). Hafizh will join the Petronas Sprinta Racing Moto2 team next year. The team is managed by SIC.
SIC’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Razlan Razali has expressed the intention of having Hafizh in MotoGP with Dorna and MotoGP teams. “We have expressed our interest with Dorna and also discussed the matter with a number of MotoGP teams this past week,” he said.
Datuk Razlan Ramli, courtesy of gpmalaysia
But the 2018 slots have all been taken. “There are still slots available for new satellite teams in 2019,” added Datuk Razlan.
Datuk Razlan is confident that Hafizh will do better with Petronas Sprinta Racing, before making the leap to the top class.
The fact that Malaysian racers, including Hafizh, have traditionally done well in wet weather is not lost upon Datuk Razlan, “We also need them to do well in dry races. Hafizh has done well (in mixed weather races) here at and this is what we want.”
Hafizh at SIC, courtesy of Pescao55
Datuk Razlan believes Hafizh will do better in 2018 as Petronas Sprinta Racing (read: SIC) will provide him a better bike and mechanics.
The target for Hafizh Syahrin is to finish in the overall top five in the Moto2 class next year. Syahrin is currently in 11th this season, with one race to go. He had finished 9th overall in 2016.
Difficulties saw Hafizh finishing last Sunday’s Shell Malaysia Moto2 race in sixth, after qualifying in tenth.
This report is adapted from Sepang Circuits Facebook post. You could visit their Facebook page by clicking here.
And 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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Motonation wants to take the best Malaysian custom bike builder to Germany!

Image source: Motorcycle USA
Motonation will be organising a special contest for custom bikes this December during their mega carnival from 1 to 3 December 2017 at PICC.
The bike builder with the best custom bike will win a fully-sponsored trip and entry into the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building 2018 next year in Cologne, Germany.
AMD INTERMOT’s very own showmaster will attend the big event in December to choose the best custom bike. Registration is open until 20 November 2017.

That’s right, folks. Our friends over at Motonation has plans to fully sponsor one bike builder with the best custom bike to the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building 2018 which will be held in Cologne, Germany in conjunction with the INTERMOT show.

How is this possible, you ask? Well, Motonation will be organising their mega motoring carnival this December at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC). The three-day event from 1 December 2017 to 3 December 2017 will see a huge gathering of manufacturers, companies and enthusiasts all under one roof for anything and everything related to motoring.
Image source: Biker Net
Motonation has invited the AMD Showmaster himself, Neil Blaber, to judge all the custom motorcycles and the best bike will be chosen to compete in the AMD World Championship next year in October. This is achievable thanks to the official partnership between Motonation and AMD INTERMOT.
Image source: Motorcycle USA
The contest for the best custom bike is open to ALL custom builders in the country. All you have to do is showcase your best stuff in the form of a tricked out two-wheeler and if you’re chosen as the winner, Motonation will fully sponsor your trip to Germany next year which includes bike transportation, flight and hotel stay. Not bad, right?
Image source: Rusty Knuckles
Each bike entry requires a small contest registration fee of RM350. This will also include a 6m x 3m space in the main hall where you can not only showcase your bike but also your proud workshop.

Interested? Hurry up and register by 20 November 2017. How? Send an email containing photos of your bike to amd@motonation.com and they will reply the email with the official form for you to fill. To know more, you can contact Mr Zizi directly at +6011-37314683. In addition, you can also head over to the Motonation Official Facebook page or their official website. Hurry, hurry, HURRY!
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Voge Valico 525 DSX Adventure Motorcycle Lands In Europe

After successfully penetrating the European market with a beginner-friendly naked and neo retro motorcycle, Voge, a premium sub-brand of Chinese motorcycle manufactuer, Loncin, now breached out to middleweight capacity adventure bike, with the all-new Valico 525 DSX.

Voge Valico 525 DSX is an A2-compliant adventure motorcycle.
The Valico 525 DSX will go up against Honda’ CB500X and Benelli’s TRK 502 X.

The Valico 525 DSX features a 494cc parallel-twin with liquid-coole and fuel-injected engine that makes 47hp on tap, similar to the Honda CB500X.
That said, the Valico 525 DSX is designed as a A2-compliant motorcycle making it a suitable option for younger riders.
Similar to modern day ADV machine, the Voge Valico 525 DSX is fitted with inverted front forks with long-travel suspension at the front and adjustable monoshock at the rear.
However, while the rest of its competitors features alloy wheels, the Valico 525 DSX gets tubeless wire-spoke wheels measuring 19-inch front and 17-inch at the back.

In addition, the motorcycle also equipped with traction control and ABS – which can be switched off for off-road riding – selectable Eco and Sport mode and a full colour 7-inch TFT display with built-in navigation system.
This inadvertently puts the Voge Valico 525 DSX as a strong contender in the 500cc category, going up against the CB500X and Benelli TKR 502 X.
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New Benelli TnT 135 mini-moto launched – from RM7,990* (with video)

BKM expands line up after launching new Benelli TnT 135 mini-moto from RM7,990 (basic without GST).

Benelli Keeway Motorcycles Sdn Bhd (BKM) expanded its range of offerings for the local market after launching its latest addition, the new Benelli TnT 135 mini-moto. The model was presented during a swanky press launch held in the Hard Rock Café, KL earlier today.

The Chinese-owned Italian brand’s newest offering is set to take on the growing local mini-moto segment by storm. Fuelling this are the TnT 135’s stylish design, big bike-like specs and hardware plus its affordable pricing scheme.

Though small in size, the Benelli TnT 135 is brimmed with features more akin to bigger bikes. Highlights here include the digital instrument panel, full-LED lighting all-round, and an electric starter just to name a few.

Underneath its stylish exterior that’s akin to an MV Agusta, the TnT 135 underpins a lattice design steel tube chassis with a steel double-sided rear swingarm. Also primed here are big bike-like hardware such as 41mm upside down front forks, followed by a laterally-mounted single rear shock with pre-load adjustability.

Anchors, on the other hand, come in the from of a 220mm front disc grabbed by a dual-piston caliper and a 190mm rear disc grabbed by a single-piston caliper. It also rolls on 12-inch aluminium alloy wheels front and aft wrapped in Metzeller tyres, not forgetting its rather decent 7.2-litre tank size.

Matching the sporty looks and chassis hardware is a sprightly oil-cooled four-stroke 134.7cc (135cc) SOHC single-cylinder engine primed with four valves, twin-spark ignition, and electronic fuel injection. The Euro 4-compliant powerplant outputs a healthy figure of 13hp @ 9,000rpm and peak torque of 10.8Nm @ 7,000rpm too.

A five-speed manual transmission with a chain drive setup sends both power and torque to the rear wheel to bring this mini-moto’s claimed dry weight of 121kg up and about. We had a quick test-ride shortly after the launch and the powertrain felt perky indeed.

BKM will offer just two colour options – red and white – and had earlier opened the bike up for pre-orders. To date, the firm has received close to 200 orders already. On top of that, the first 200 customers will also receive a special free gift in the form of an exclusively designed GIVI M60.0 Skid Off Road motocross helmet worth RM371.
Locally assembled (CKD) in BKM’s Rawang-based facility, the Benelli TnT 135 also benefits with full EEV certification. As a result, BKM has set a very affordable basic selling price of RM7,990 sans GST, road tax and registration costs.

Said price includes BKM’s one-year or 10,000km warranty plan plus a free service package within the first 10,000km too. Buyers can also opt for BKM’s three months or 3,000km extended warranty plan by registering their bikes online.
With its arrival, the compact, stylish, promisingly fun and highly affordable Benelli TnT 135 mini-moto will rival strongly against long dominant Kawasaki Z125 Pro. Check out more images in the galleries we’ve prepared below.

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CONFIRMED: More 950 Triple Range On Its Way From MV Agusta

*Lucky Explorer 9.5

MV Agusta CEO, Timur Sardarov has confirmed that an all-new range of 950cc motorcycles is on the way.
The Italian firm CEO revealed the upcoming plans after an exclusive interview with Britain’s publication, MCN.

According to the reports, the new 950 range will use the 931cc three-cylinder motor found in the near-production Lucky Explorer 9.5 adventure motorcycle.
“The 950 product that we’re building is state-of-the-art.
“The 950 as an engine will also migrate into other platforms too, in a different spec.
“This is an adventure-spec engine, and you will see a more sporty, naked – there will be different variations,” said Sardarov.

Sardarov also unveiled that the current 800cc range will also receive the 950 treatment.
“The Superveloce, F3 and Turismo Veloce, are all going to migrate to 950.
“We will have an 800 and 950,” he added.
MV claimed that the 950 makes 121hp @ 10,000rpm and 102Nm @ 7,000rpm and able to reach a max speed of 250km/h.
Interestingly, the migration is made possible because the new engine shares the same overall dimension as the existing 798cc triple, making it possible for the new motor to be fitted with the same trellis frame and mounting points.
During the interview, Sardarov was also able to confirm that the new 9.5 adventure motorcycle would only arrive after April 2023.
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Can-Am Spyder RS – Why you should buy one!

Most don’t understand that the purpose of a Can-Am is not practicality or to satisfy transportation needs, and most are quick to dismiss it as a complete sham of a bike.

Don’t let the three-wheels fool you for the Can-Am isn’t as easy to ride as it looks, and it requires basic riding skills, and neither is it something you buy for daily use. Carrying a princely asking price starting from RM113,786, why then does one buy a Can-Am when equally priced bikes and cars are decent enough if not better?

After riding it for a few days, I did have a lot of initial scepticism, but now I admit to missing it. Though it is inconvenient and you will get stuck in traffic and worse if the weather turns on you, but it is still an incredibly fun toy.

There was never a dull moment with the Can-Am, even when running errands around the city, and on highway cruises, the Can-Am kept entertaining. It does become a labour of joy especially with our temperamental weather. And with the heat coming from the radiator ducts located by your legs, it won’t be long before the heat overwhelms you. Not to mention the heightened self-consciousness from all the stares the Spyder attracts.

The 998cc Rotax V-twin generates up to 106hp and 104Nm of torque, giving an ideal mix of heavenly high-revs and torque-rich goodness. Combined to a five-speed semi-automatic gearbox with upshift/downshift buttons located at the left handle bar, the powertrain balances power with a decent fuel economy. The delivery is not entirely smooth, and there is a quiver of vibration transferring up from the seat, creating some discomfort at moderate speeds of 70-90km/h.

However the real spectacle for most motorists is seeing how one corners with the Spyder. Basically, you have to shift all your weight to one side of the bike so that the inner wheel does not lift up – something that is bound to happen when cornering too fast and remaining seated in the centre. While the front and rear tyres (Front:165/65/14, Rear:225/50/15) generate brilliant amounts of grip, some effort is needed to loosen them up and it gets tiresome after a while. Besides that, the Spyder is relatively easy to handle.

There is also very little wind resistance, meaning you have to brace when cruising at higher speeds between 120km/h – 160km/h. Any faster and it becomes too uncomfortable. But the biggest hurdle comes when managing tolls as the Spyder is too wide for most bike lanes. Despite this and contrary to popular belief, I only had to pay toll once under pressure from a persistent booth attendant. The Spyder also requires a car-sized parking lot, which means paying for shopping mall parking fees after circling around to find one.

Brimming with safety features, the Spyder RS packs electronic wonders like stability control, traction control, anti-locking brakes, power steering and a digital security system. All of which combined, offers the best electronic safety net a three-wheeler can offer. Convenience comes from a 44-litre storage bin up front to store ample amounts of personal items. You could increase storage with the side saddlebag kit, but it is a RM8,225 option.

Life with the Can-Am Spyder RS was undoubtedly good and once you acclimatise to all the stares, questions and picture taking, mastering its tricky handling becomes second nature. Its 25-litre fuel tank averages up to 150km of travelling distance at high speed cruising, but each fill-up wont cost you more than RM23. While not exactly practical, the Spyder RS is undoubtedly one of the most fun toys money can buy.

So why then should you buy one? It is quite simple actually, because if you are considering one, there is a pretty good chance that you have more money than 70% of Malaysians. The Can Am will provide hours of fun, is more unique than a Ferrari, and with the abundance of storage space, you can probably load it with more things than you could in any supercar. Plus there is no better feeling than taking a long distance cruise with the wind blowing in your face, something that nothing else can offer. If that does not convince you, try it out for yourself.

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Yamaha is planning their own 250cc inline-four motorcycle?

The 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R was just launched earlier this month in Indonesia and while that news is making waves around the world, Yamaha wants a bit of that pie. Which pie? A spot in the 250cc inline-four sports bike market.
We’re not quite sure where the rumour started but sources have indicated that the past few months of teasers for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R have awakened something from Yamaha and the possibility of their new entry-level four-banger, the Yamaha YZF-R25M.

It seems that the world has developed a growing amount of interest for smaller capacity multi-cylinder motorcycles, and we’re not blaming them. The new Ninja ZX-25R alone offers great riding experience, especially from the sound alone.

While the Yamaha YZF-R25M is still very much in the dark, folks are also talking about another manufacturer planning to jump on this bandwagon – Honda. How are they going to do so? We’re still not sure but there has been word on a possible Honda CBR250RR-R, an enhanced version with more than two cylinders. Sweet.

How and when these will all go down is very much uncertain. If Kawasaki is able to sell loads of the Ninja ZX-25R (and possibly win races at major racing series like WorldSBK), it won’t be long before competition arrives. Brace yourselves, the next great battle of Japan is coming. How exciting.
Win a BMW G 310 R with Sime Darby Motors!

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FIRST LOOK: 2023 KTM 890 Adventure

KTM brings new updates to the 890 Adventure for 2023, focusing on comfort, adjustability and fresh graphics.

KTM 890 Adventure updated with new features for 2023.
The middleweight adventure bike now equipped with a new front windscreen inspired by the KTM 450 Rally.

The KTM 890 Adventure has been known for its off-road prowess since its introduction in 2021, replacing the 790 Adventure.
However, for 2023 it gets a refresh from the Austrian factory.
Firstly, the 2023 890 Adventure gets a new and reinforced front fairing which KTM claimed is explicitly designed to carry a larger GPS device.

In addition, the saddle can now be adjusted to a lower setting, 825mm to be exact and can even get down to 800mm with a seat-lowering kit. That said, shorter riders can now enjoy the 890 Adventure to the fullest.
Meanwhile, the WP 43mm Apex forks now come with rebound and compression adjustability that can be adjusted easily from the top caps.
KTM also revised the rear shock to meet the adventure-riding demand.

KTM also updated the electronic package with a new ABS, which is now linked with the riding modes—as such, turning on the ‘Off-Road’ or ‘Rally’ mode will automatically engage the ‘Off-Road ABS’ settings.
Other notable improvements for 2023 include a new screen inspired by the 450 Rally, which offers better protection from road debris and improves aerodynamics. Also new on the 2023 890 Adventure includes a new aluminium engine guard and a tank protector.
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Triumph Premium Flagship Store opens in PJ

Malaysian Triumph fans and enthusiasts can now rejoice as the famed British bikes brand and its exclusive Malaysian distributor Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd (via Motradic Sdn Bhd) opened its first ever Triumph Motorcycles Premium Flagship Store this week.

Present to launch the new full-fledged 3S outlet were Fast Bike’s COO Razak Al-Malique (@ Malique Fast Bikes), Deputy Finance Minister YB Datuk Haji Ahmad Bin Haji Maslan, as well as Triumph UK’s head of export sales Peter Huckin. Also present were representatives of Triumph Singapore and Thailand, as well as a few notable figures from the Malaysian motorcycle industry.

Located strategically in No 3, Jalan 13/1, Section 13, Petaling Jaya, the new outlet occupies a space measuring 11,000 square feet in total. Inside, the outlet houses a large sales showroom showcasing the complete range of Triumph motorcycles available for the Malaysian market, and it is complimented further with a fully-equipped service centre boasting five service bays and a spare parts store. Besides that, the outlet also features a boutique selling a full range of official Triumph merchandises and gear, and also houses a one-stop centre for various biking gears, accessories, and merchandises from renowned brands such as, Givi, Alpinestars, Rizoma, and many more.

In conjunction with the new premium outlet’s inauguration, Fast Bikes also introduced a brand new model for the Malaysian market, the Triumph Tiger Sport. A MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) singing ceremony was also held between Triumph Motorcycle representatives of Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand with the aim of improving after-sales for the brand’s customers in the represented nations.

With the store’s opening, Fast Bikes have stated its intent to expand the Triumph brand rapidly in Malaysia. The firm states that it has begun accepting dealer enquiries and have already conducted several dealer interviews. At present, the PJ outlet will be supported by Fast Bike’s Kampung Pandan branch whilst a third located in Penang is being planned.

Triumph Tiger Sport

Newly introduced for the Malaysian market during the premium outlet’s opening is the Triumph Tiger Sport. The adventure-styled sports bike model is powered using Triumph’s signature 1,050cc triple engine that churns out 123hp and 104Nm of peak torque.

Highlights in the specification sheet include a six-speed transmission, single-sided aluminium alloy swingarm, inverted 43mm Showa front forks, twin floating 320mm front disc brakes with four-pot callipers, as well as a LCD instrument panel.

The Triumph Tiger Sport is now available for viewing and purchase the new flagship PJ store, carrying a starting retail price of RM85,900.
Check out the gallery below to see more pictures of Triumph’s new flagship outlet and the new Tiger Sport.

Triumph Premium Flagship Store Launch
Triumph Tiger Sport
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Victory Motorcycles get Akrapovic exhausts

Victory Motorcycles announced that it has chosen Akrapovic as the aftermarket exhaust supplier for its cruiser range, which includes the Gunner, Judge, Hammer S, Hammer 8-Ball, Vegas 8-Ball and the High-Ball. The Akrapovic exhausts, which come with a two-year warranty, will only be available in two colour choices – either matte black or chrome.
Matte Black
Uroš Rosa, the CEO of Akrapovic said, “This is a very a significant event for all of us here at Akrapovic, and we are extremely proud to be the performance exhaust of choice for Victory Motorcycles’ cruiser category.” “We have a history of creating innovative exhaust solutions using the latest technology, and it is this philosophy that we see in this collaboration. Victory Motorcycles has breathed new life into the American V-Twin cruiser market with its pioneering range of bikes, and we are delighted to align our own unique exhaust knowledge with them.”
Chrome
“Akrapovic will give part of its world and a whole new character to each and every bike fitted with one of its exhaust systems, and, through the performance, quality, design, technology, and unmistakable sound that we deliver with each exhaust system, all Akrapovic-equipped Victory Motorcycles cruisers will be bikes that stand out from the rest,” he said. Victory Motorcycles’ head of parts, apparel and accessories, Andreas Geisinger, on the other hand, said that he is very excited to work with Akrapovič on this exclusive exhaust line for our Victory Motorcycles line up. “Akrapovič, with their well-known class-leading quality and performance levels, goes perfectly with Victory Motorcycles’ push to produce machines with ‘Modern American Performance’. These handmade exhausts are like works of art.” That said, we know that you can’t wait to hear how the Akras sound on the Victory cruisers, so jump to the video below and feast your ears.
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BMW To Introduce Advanced Facial Recognition System To Unlock/Start A Bike

BMW K 1600 B, Mj. 2022
BMW is set to launch its latest motorcycle security feature using advanced facial recognition technology.

the system will be use to unlock and start a motorcycle.
the system will also notify owners in case of any attempt to start or move the bike.

The system, known as iFace, will use a combination of 3D facial mapping and infrared iris-cornea scanning to unlock and start the bike. The iFace system is set to be introduced on BMW’s boxer-engined bikes later this year.

When a rider is not wearing a helmet, the system uses a stripe projection to create a 3D map of the rider’s facial features. The system takes into account the depth and contours of the face, creating a virtual model that is then used to unlock and start the bike. For riders who wear a helmet, the system uses infrared iris-cornea scanning to recognize the rider’s eyes. A polarisation filter is used to cut through dark-colored visors and lenses, ensuring the system works in any light conditions.

The iFace system also includes notifications that are sent to the rider in case of any unauthorized attempts to start or move the bike. This feature operates like the Ring doorbell system, alerting the rider of any suspicious activity.
Although facial recognition technology has become more commonplace in recent years, the use of the technology in the context of motorcycle security is a new development. BMW’s iFace system is set to be unveiled at a motorcycle show in autumn 2023. While the technology has the potential to offer enhanced security for bike owners, some may be concerned about the reliance on the technology to protect their bike from theft.
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