2022 Ducati Panigale V4 Breaks Cover – New SBK Gearbox, 215.5HP

Ducati 2022 model release continue by unveiling the updated 2022 Ducati Panigale V4.
The Borgo Panigale factory has made numerous improvements for the Panigale V4, aimed at refining the riding ergonomics and power.

Visually, the 2022 Panigale V4 gets a redesigned winglet, and despite appearing smaller, it produces the same 30kg of downforce at 270km/h.
Ducati also improves the engine heat distribution by revamping the belly pan, which now features two air slots on either side and a series of air slits at the bottom.

Despite the minimal changes, the improved cooling efficiency pushes the Desmosedici Stradale peak power to 215.5hp @ 13,00rpm and 123.6Nm @ 9,500rpm.
Other major changes include getting the SBK gearbox from the Panigale V4 R, whereby its first, second and sixth gear is made taller to allow for better gear transition. The new transmission also helps the Panigale V4 to achieve an extra 5km/h top speed than the 2021 Panigale V4.

Nonetheless, replacing the stock exhaust with a full-system Akrapovic race exhaust will help bump the peak power to 225hp and reduce the weight by 5kg to 190.5kg from its 195.5kg curb weight.
The new Panigale V4 also gets a 5mm longer suspension travel front fork which is said to help improve the front-end feel.
Meanwhile, the Öhlins semi-active suspension available on the 2022 Ducati Panigale V4 S now adopts Öhlins NPX 25/30 pressurized fork, which is fitted into the Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based electronic control system.

The pressurized system managed the compression in the left leg of the fork with a 25mm piston, while a 30mm piston managed the extension in the right leg.
The swingarm pivot was also raised by 4mm to increase the anti-squat effect during acceleration.

Interestingly, to help the rider’s ergonomic, Ducati has made big changes to the fuel tank shape and material to allow riders to have better grip during braking and turning.
Ducati has also restyled the 5″ TFT display that now features two LED shifter lights at the top.

Most importantly, the 2022 Panigale V4 continues to offer 6-axis IMU, which include:

cornering ABS
traction control
slide control
wheelie control
engine brake control
up/down quickshifter
brake-to-slide feature

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Chinese-Built Excelle 450 Rally Ready To Hit The Trail

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Excelle is ready to make the jump in the adventure-capable motorcycle with the 450 Rally (ZF450LS).

Excelle 450 Rally is the company’s first attempt at a highly-specialized segment.
The 450 Rally makes 52.3hp and 44Nm.

The sister brand to Kolove paraded the Dakar-inspired motorcycle in a recent event in which they also revealed the upcoming 800RRR and 800R motorcycle.
Despite no official statement regarding the 450 Rally specifications, Excelle claimed that the 450 Rally makes 52.3hp @ 9,000rpm and 44Nm @ 7,000rpm.

 According to reports, the 450 Rally features a dual-wing beam steel frame suspended by a 49mm KYB fork and damping-adjustable KYB shock.
In addition, Excelle will offer its customers two different suspension packages to suit their heights and needs.

Meanwhile, the Excelle 450 Rally features a 15L fuel tank, but customers can increase the range with an additional 16L under-seat fuel cell.
Weighing 154kg, the 450 Rally is heavier than KTM’s Rally Replica but is more affordable thanks to its USD6,100 (RM28.2k) price tag.
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MotoGP: Joan Mir signs with Suzuki for 2019 and 2020!

Joan Mir has signed a two-year deal with the Suzuki MotoGP factory team.

The 2017 Moto3 world champion will be riding the Suzuki GSX-RR for the next two seasons alongside Alex Rins.

The current Moto2 rookie is already gaining podium finishes in the intermediate class.

It has been quite a turbulent MotoGP silly season with a number of high profile jumps. From Jorge Lorenzo signing with Honda to Andrea Iannone getting an Aprilia seat, the next hot piece of news confirms Moto2’s Joan Mir moving up to Team Suzuki Ecstar for the next two seasons.

The 2017 Moto3 world champion has been causing quite a storm this season in Moto2. With a couple of podiums under his belt as an intermediate class rookie, ‘Miracle Mir’ caught the attention of the Suzuki factory squad and they are convinced that the 20-year-old would be a good fit for their Suzuki GSX-RR.

Paired with Alex Rins, Mir would be replacing the outgoing Andrea Iannone who will continue his MotoGP efforts with the Aprilia factory squad. Although Iannone has given the Hamamatsu factory team their first ever back-to-back podium finishes since their return to the premier class, the deal with Mir has been done with a brand new direction in mind.

According to Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Project Leader, Shinichi Sahara, “As a team, we have always tried to look forward to long-term development plans, which includes also making some bets on young riders that we feel can be an investment for the future. We did it in our debut year in 2015, we did it again in 2017 when we signed the debutant Alex Rins, who has been confirmed also this year, and we are further confirming this with the agreement with Joan Mir.”

Team Manager Davide Brivio stated “Joan Mir is only 20 years old now, already a World Champion with an impressive 10 wins last year and he has already proven several skills. He is fierce, he is witty, he is nice and he can be very fast. All the characteristics that we like to search for in a young rider, who wants to join us not only for the prestige of a factory machine in the top class but most of all because he believes in our racing project.”

“Suzuki management encouraged us to pursue the ‘young rider philosophy’ and with Joan, I think we found the perfect protagonist for this role. With Alex and Joan, we have two very talented riders and our target is to create a strong team for the future,” added Brivio.
Image source: MotoGP
MotoGP: Danilo Petrucci gets Ducati factory seat for 2019

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Will The Aprilia Shiver And Dorsoduro Be Reborn As The 660?

Aprilia has hit colossal success ever since the introduction of the RS660 end of last year and the recent launched of the Tuono 660.
Sharing the same 660cc platform, Aprilia seems to be proud with the new unit (now Euro 5) which is also scheduled to power the upcoming middleweight adventure bike, the Tuareg 660.
*Aprilia RS 660 2021
The RS660 borrows styling cues from the established RSV4 1100 while the Tuono 660 (you guessed it right) drawn from its bigger sibling, Tuono 1100.
However, to progress, the Italian marque looks set to axe two models from its Noale factory, the Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro due to Euro 5 emission.
*Aprilia Dorsoduro 900
Both Shiver and Dorsoduro are the only models with Euro-4 engine, and that means if Aprilia plans to continue putting this in every dealer in Europe, it has to be Euro-5 compliant.
It is impractical for Aprilia to update the 900cc V-Twin engine to comply with Euro-5 and the fact that they are preoccupied with the 660cc unit, shifting their focus anytime soon do not add up.
Which brings us to the question, will Shiver and Dorsoduro be born again with the same 660cc Euro-5 platform?
The RS660 is a middleweight sportbike however unlike the dedicated supersport segment, the RS (an acronym for RennSport) is not designed for competition; instead, it is made for the street.
*Aprilia Tuono 660 2021
Meanwhile, the Tuono 660 provides a much comfortable riding ergonomics with taller handlebars and fall within the ‘naked’ sports motorcycle.
With the two 660 portrayed as a street machine, there is very little room for Shiver and Dorsoduro to make their mark again.
Personally, Shiver and Dorsoduro had an incredible run, and if Aprilia decides to bring back either one of these, it might not be anytime soon.
At the moment, let us enjoy the new revolution of the Noale factory via the RS, Tuono and the upcoming Tuareg 660.
By the way, we heard the RS600 may be launching soon in Malaysia!
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BMW Developing Illuminated Winglets

BMW is making strides in motorcycle technology with the development of illuminated winglets, according to their latest patent.

This innovation could potentially be incorporated into future BMW Motorrad models, including the M 1000 RR and M 1000 R.
The illuminated aero is aimed at reducing weight whilst enhancing visibility.

Currently, BMW’s S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR motorcycles feature turn signals integrated into their mirrors, eliminating the need for additional protrusions on the sides of the bike.
However, this solution adds weight and cost. By utilizing the winglets as turn signals, BMW aims to reduce weight and improve cost-efficiency. The LED strips in the winglets have a lower and more forward mass distribution, providing a slight advantage in terms of weight distribution.

The illuminated winglets serve a dual purpose, combining daytime running lights (DRLs) and turn signals. When the turn signals are not in use, the DRLs remain illuminated, turning off on one side only when the turn signal is activated.
This arrangement enhances visibility, especially in low-light conditions, making the motorcycle more noticeable to oncoming traffic. The wider separation of the DRLs defines the bike’s widest part, allowing for easier estimation of its speed.

In addition to the lighting elements, BMW’s patent also includes a projector light mounted on the lower surface of the winglets. This light is designed to project a puddle of light onto the ground, similar to the puddle lights found in cars. This feature enhances visibility when stopped, providing a better view of the surface on which the motorcycle’s sidestand is placed.
The patent even suggests the possibility of incorporating a transparent liquid-crystal display into the projector light, allowing for customizable patterns to be projected onto the ground.

While the primary purpose of the winglets is aerodynamic, BMW’s lighting innovation could prove to be more advantageous for riders in terms of safety. With the combination of enhanced visibility and the projection of light onto the ground, these illuminated winglets could offer significant benefits to motorcyclists in the future.
(source: Cycle World)
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Work as a rider for a year with AEON & get a FREE bike!

The COVID-19 pandemic and Movement Control Order (MCO) have caused many people to lose their jobs, but there’s one company who’s looking into offering some help via a very unique job offering. AEON is looking for delivery riders from those who have had their work terminated due to these circumstances and it actually sounds like a very good deal.

With more and more people turning to online to get their daily goods, there’s a sudden surge ordered products and not enough manpower to handle the deliveries. AEON wants to kill two birds with one stone by offering a one-year contract for folks who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 and get all those deliveries done in the best possible way.

The best part is that after the one-year contract is done, the delivery riders can keep their provided bikes for FREE! There are some terms and conditions applied like proving that one has lost their job due to COVID-19 or MCO, not owning any bikes or cars, and other stuff but it’s actually a sweet deal if you meet all the basic requirements.

Training will be provided by AEON and for those who are interested to apply, you can head over their official recruiting site by CLICKING HERE to read all the requirements, terms, and conditions plus download the application form. It’s not much, but it is indeed something. Kudos, AEON!
Where to ride after MCO? Kuala Langat, Selangor!

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KTM European Q1 Sales Increase Surprised CEO

KTM unit sales in Europe increased by 10% in Q1 2019.

They moved a total of 261,000 bikes in Europe.

The result surprised even KTM CEO Stephan Pierer.

KTM unit sales in Europe increased by 10% in the first quarter (Q1) of the year. The result even took KTM CEO Stephan Pierer by surprise.
The Austrian giant moved 261,000 bikes in that period of time. In fact, the results not only the CEO but also us. There are many external forces that seem to force motorcycle sales down in the EU at the moment such as Brexit and political tensions. He also added that the news was “sensational.”
Given the buoyant news, Pierer wants to look to the future, which includes electric bikes. The manufacturer already has an electric in the Freeride E-XC but will sure tap into the non-offroad market as well. “E-bikes have become a huge market. As a large manufacturer, you have to there.”
Adding to the news, he also hopes that KTM can maintain the momentum and set a new target of selling 400,000 bikes worldwide by 2022.
They have has launched a number of new models recently, including the 790 Adventure, 790 Adventure R and 1290 Super Duke GT. We wonder how these models contributed to the number.
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BMW F 800 R – Test Ride

The BMW F 800 R, not the most popular of the BMW bike line up like the 1200 GS or 1000 RR but still a bike one should consider if you are looking at bikes about the RM60,000 range. Comes with that distinct headlight and performance that could actually surprise many riders even though its not the top of the range from the company from Munich.

The engine is a watercooled 798cc parallel-twin with a dry-sump system. Power is rated at 87hp @ 8000rpm and 86Nm @ 6000rpm. Its a very docile below 4000rpm but at the same time have enough power to strut along with the city traffic.

It is also very smooth from all the way down at 1500rpm however as soon as you get close to 5000rpm things start to get a bit too buzzy. While most parallel-twins have this buzziness at the top end of the rev range, the F 800 R engine develops this earlier at about 5000rpm and it goes away as soon as you pass 6000rpm where the max torque comes in and you suddenly feels a stronger surge of acceleration.
Not much of a problem if you are riding spiritedly and utilising the whole rev range all the way to the redline, but it does get to you if you have to stay in between 5000 to 6000rpm once in a while negotiating in traffic. The buzz or vibration could be felt mostly on the hands through the handlebar and it actually gets annoying and numbs your hands if you stay there too long.

Fortunately thanks to the tall gearing that happens very seldom and I noticed that I tend to use it as a marker for me to shift up through the gears. And on the highway you are just barely above 4000rpm on sixth gear to cruise at 110kmph.
Transmission wise the F 800 R uses a six-speed manual transmission with a wet multiplate cable operated clutch. The gearbox is actually integrated into the engine crank case thus making things more compact and lighter.
You can actually see how compact things are and if not for the ABS module on top of the gearbox there would be big gaping hole in the middle of the bike.

Moving on to the chassis department, the F 800 R comes from the budget end of a premium make. So while the fork maybe conventional and the rear monoshock suspension comes with minimal adjustment, its held together by a nicely designed bridge type cast aluminium chassis.

As with the compact engine and gearbox configuration, BMW also move the 16L fuel tank from on top of the engine to under the seat. This gives the bike a lower center of gravity and helps with the handling. The big thing on top of the engine is basically the airbox.
So as mentioned though its one of the lowest in the BMW price list, the bikes rides like no budget machine. Even the quality of parts and fit and finish is top notch, it is a BMW.

Sitting position is slightly forward while the seat is low at 800mm (755mm for low seat or 825mm on the high seat), the foot pegs are quite high up so the rider’s legs are a bit crunched up. Slightly cramped in the saddle but it’s comfortable, my hands didn’t get tired even with the slightly forward riding position as it usually would on some bikes. There is a steering damper but the handlebar still moves effortlessly.

At about 177kg, the bike feels light to be thrown around and size wise it does not feel bulky. The instrument panel uses analogue gauges fro the RPM and Speedometer while the rest like fuel and mileage are digital, all easy to read especially the gear indicator.

I would say if you are new in biking and you want to go off with a BMW, this bike is a safe bet. Friendly in the traffic and you can have a blast in the hills. Could even use it as a commuter but not really as a touring bike. Its got good mileage, good build, handles pretty good and instant recognition thanks to the brand. You will be able to own it for a while before trading up. Experienced riders would also enjoy it but not all will go for it.

The bike I tested had an optional Akrapovic slip-on and gives a nice rumble and a few pops on downshifts to this quiet bike. Price starts at RM63,455.00

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Weekend Ride: Restaurant Lot 85, Jalan Durian Daun, Malacca

Best known for their asam pedas, specialty is asam pedas daging tetel (beef asam pedas).

About two hours from Kuala Lumpur.

Tired of going to the same place over and over again for your weekend rides? Well, Bikes Republic is starting a brand new segment called “The Weekend Ride” focusing specifically on great riding destinations to go to for the Sunday rides or even the entire weekend. Our first destination? Restaurant Lot 85 located on Jalan Durian Daun, Malacca.

Located just 10 minutes from Dataran Pahlawan, the restaurant is known for its superb asam pedas daging tetel. From the outside, it looks like a normal eatery by the side of the road but never judge a book by its cover. Their main focus is mixed rice with a variety of side dishes to choose from but since it’s Malacca, they do have a variety of asam pedas to choose from. If you don’t fancy asam pedas or mixed rice, they do serve an awesome beriyani rice and also chicken rice. CLICK HERE to read the reviews on Facebook.

There are several routes to choose from when heading to this lovely destination. The fastest way would be to take the PLUS highway E2 route down South until you reach Exit 231 towards Ayer Keroh and Bandaraya Melaka. From there, it’s about 13km to the restaurant which will take about half an hour. In that route, you will pass a few great places to visit before lunchtime like Zoo Melaka, Taman Buaya dan Rekreasi Melaka, World’s Bees Museum and many more before heading over to the lunch haven.

After a great lunch, there are many other places worth visiting before heading home. Have sweet tooth or just looking for an awesome way to cool down after lunch on a hot day? Well, start your engines and take a 15-minute ride towards Pantai Klebang and you can try their famous (some say it’s legendary) coconut shake.

Everyone loves a good coconut shake and if you don’t, then maybe a short stop over at Klebang Original Coconut Shake will change your mind. Too overrated?  There are many (SO MANY) other great coconut shake shacks to choose from to excite any taste buds. CLICK HERE to read the reviews on their official Facebook page.

We here at Bikes Republic will be bringing you great riding destinations every week to fill your weekends up with riding destinations. Great destinations create good stories and good stories are always fun to hear, so share your riding stories with us on our Facebook page, tag us on our Instagram page, hashtag your posts with #bikesrepublic, or simply email us at social@bikesrepublic.com if you have amazing stories to share.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more great riding destinations.
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Triumph TR6 Trophy from The Great Escape on Display

The scene of Steve McQueen’s character jumping over the Stalag Luft III fence on a motorcycle is immortalised in The Great Escape.

The bikes used in the shooting were actually Triumph TR6 Trophies.

One of the bikes is now on display at the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience facility.

The 1963 film, The Great Escape, had always been lauded as one of the best war movies of all time. But that scene of Steve McQueen’s character nicknamed “The Cooler King” jumping over the POW camp’s 12-ft. high fence on a Triumph TR6 Trophy turned The Great Escape into one of the best bikie movies, too.

There were actually three bikes used in the movie; they were all Triumph TR6 Trophies, dressed up as BMW R75s used by the Wehrmacht (German Army) as there were very few running R75s around at the time and the escape scene needed a bike that’s lighter, faster and handled better. The TR6R Trophy fitted the fill to perfection so the producers got a few and prepared them spec- and aesthetic-wise for the film.

However, all three Triumphs disappeared after filming, just as both the Easy Rider bikes in 1969 (and you thought missing jet engines was impossible). But this particular bike was traced to being sold to a farmer, who used it… of all things… to herd cows. You’d probably imagine him yelling “There is no escape!” to his bovine subjects.
Dean Shepherd bought it from another farm worker who inherited it after the farmer’s demise and restored it to its original state in the film.
The Great Escape bike is now displayed at the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience near Triumph Motorcycles Ltd.’s HQ in Hinckley, Leicetershire. It will then be displayed at the Salon Privé Concours de Elegance at the Blenheim Palace near Oxford. According to Auto Classics, the bike will be entered into the Class B event for exceptional motorcycles built between 1940 and 1979. (Please click on this link to learn more about the visitor centre.)
Triumph Motorcycles will open Visitor Experience Centre and factory tour

Bikes Republic will be travelling to the UK to visit Triumph Motorcycles Ltd.’s HQ and the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience in October this year, and we truly, sincerely, hope to see The Great Escape TR6 Trophy there! (Otherwise our Editor will throw a tantrum.)
The TR6 Trophy has a soul successor in manufacturer’s current modern classic lineup in the shape of the Bonneville Street Scrambler. It was so fun to ride that we swore we were overcome by the visions of Steve McQueen’s jump and were tempted to jump it over a few roadside railings. Just kidding.

(Please click on this link to learn more about The Great Escape and the Triumph Bonneville Street Scrambler.)
TESTED: Triumph Street Scrambler – “Escapism”

Oh, one more movie trivia before we end: Chris Pratt’s character rode the Street Scrambler in 2015’s Jurassic World.

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GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 (Day Five – Part 1)

The GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 Explorers left Cambodia behind for Vietnam on Day Five.

Downtown traffic was the main concern as we neared Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam proved to be another contrasting experience.

13th November 2017, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – It’s time for the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 to leave Cambodia (for the time being) as we pushed forward to Vietnam.
The weather stayed clear all morning, thankfully, but the downside was it was starting to get hot by 8am as we prepared to head out from the Phnom Penh Hotel.
Apart from crossing the great Mekong River at Naek Loeung, the rest of Cambodia was uneventful, to put it succinctly. with more small towns interspersed with paddy fields along the way. Traffic was moderately heavy with the usual mopeds, large SUVs, among those huge Peterbilts and Mack trucks, and of course, more mopeds. It may look like there are many curves and corners along the way, but it was straight in reality.
Courtesy of GIVI Explorer and Nikkasit
Still, am just happy to be here to see a whole different country.

And that notion brought along a surprise as we reached the Cambodia-Vietnam border crossing at Moc Bai.
Just as with the border crossing from Thailand, there were a number of casinos on the Cambodian side, and they were called glamourous names such as those in Las Vegas. We didn’t get to find out if “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas,” tho’.

The Moc Bai Border Crossing consists of beautifully constructed buildings in the traditional Vietnamese style. The administration building was no doubt modern, but it was unmistakably Vietnamese. We stopped to wait for the organizers to sort out the paperwork, while we took photographs with the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 banner, to stamp the evidence that “we were here.”

Then as we were running around with our cameras and our phones, the marshals announced, “Okay, let’s go!” What? Wait, that was just like 20 minutes. We waited for almost an hour to cross into Cambodia a few days prior.

I noticed a blue and yellow Honda CBR600RR among us for the first time. It had a loud exhaust, semi-slick tyres, but no mirror and he was way up front of the pack.
It turned out that he was our guide to the hotel from the border. The Vietnamese authorities prohibits the entry of overseas motorcycles, unless you’re guided by a government-designated guide.
So nevermind, since we’ve only 100 kilometres to go to Ho Chi Minh City.

We were swallowed up by packs of mopeds soon enough. Well, “pack” isn’t the correct word, but swarms would be accurate.
Before I proceed further, please allow me to state on record that this isn’t a criticism of the way people ride and drive in their own countries. Instead, it serves as one of the episodes in the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
We had been briefed earlier by Joseph about the traffic in Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City. I’ve seen pictures and documentaries about Vietnam, so I made an offhand joke with a few guys that we might be surprised to find a local sitting on one of the boxes when reach the hotel.

Right in the thick of it, it was disconcerting at first, but conditioning, survival instinct and defensiveness kicked in as the mopeds crossed right in front of us, or overtaking one another without checking behind or alongside, etc. The duty to avoid them and stay save therefore fell squarely on the shoulders of each Explorer. Still, that didn’t mean being aggressive, instead one should be assertive. Oh yes, there’s a huge difference between the two.
Anyway, most of us started to struggle further along, including the hardworking Marshals who were getting overwhelmed. They had nominated me as their assistant marshal after the first day, so we did what I we could to open a path for the rest of the convoy.
But most of us started to get an inkling of something was wrong as we kept riding in the same traffic for two hours without getting anywhere. Worse of all, there wasn’t even a split second to check out the sights.

Remember the guy on the CBR? With no mirrors and being prone on the tank, he couldn’t look behind to see where we were. He had been briefed back at the border crossing to take another route (Joseph and Giorgio are familiar with Ho Chi Minh City) to avoid the gridlock, but he had guided us down the very route we had wanted to avoid.
So, we ended up covering 25 kilometres in two hours.
However, all of us made it to the Merperle Crystal Palace Hotel safe sound and that was what mattered the most.
It had taken us the better part of a day to cover the 289 kilometres from Phnom Penh. By comparison, that distance (minus 3 kilometres) was the same as travelling from the Rawang R&R to the junction of the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (the new Penang Bridge). But, that’s what an adventure is: Experiencing something totally different from everyday norms.
Click here for Day Five (Part Two) of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
Click here for Day Four of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
Click here for Day Three of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
Click here for Day Two of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
Click here for Day One of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017.
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Limited Edition Bimota Tesi 3D Is Up For Sale In The UK – RM179,000!

The Bimota Tesi 3D made its appearance in 2007 and quickly garnered attention due to its unusual design scheme.
When the Tesi 3D production came to a close, Bimota celebrated the event by producing a Naked Edizione Finale version limited to 45 units.

However, three limited-edition units are now up for sale in England with the price of GBP31,995 (RM179,000).
Not only that, but the used motorcycle dealership also offering a two-year, unlimited mile warranty with every purchase of the Tesi 3D includes a certificate of authenticity.
The mighty Ducati 1098 engine powers the Tesi engine with the unit, clamped between two machines aluminium plates, with all other components mated to these plates, including front and rear swingarms.

The front swingarm is mated to the plate on both sides, and an Ohlins shock attached to the right in a cantilevered position.
The handlebar’s shaft is connected to horizontal shafts on each side that steers the front wheel, for a hub centre steering setup.
The Limited Edition Tesi 3D will surely be a great addition to every collectors and motorcycle enthusiast.
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UK police arrest Sean Emmett

Retired British grand prix and superbike rider Sean Emmett has been arrested by UK police upon arriving in Heathrow airport for the death of his wife. (Lead Image: Speedweek)

In the past months, controversy surrounded the retired racing personality due to the ‘suspicious’ circumstances of his wife (pic above, 7 Days in Dubai), Abigail ‘Abbie’ Emmet’s death. Previous news reports indicated that she fell from a hotel window in Dubai, UAE back in February 19 during their honeymoon shortly after the couple got hitched in Cape Town, South Africa.
Since then, Dubai police confiscated Sean’s passport during their investigation of the incident. It was only up until last month that the gulf state returned Sean’s passport after reporting the case as a suicide, allowing him to return back to the UK. Shortly before boarding his flight, Sean tweeted “Oh yes!!! It’s been a long while coming. See you all in Blighty my lovelies x x x”, attaching the following photo as well.

However, Sean’s celebration of finally returning home was cut short after Surrey police immediately arrested him upon arrival in Heathrow, pending their investigation of Abbie’s death. The man remains in custody while inquiries continue and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage,’ said a Surrey police spokesperson regarding the matter.
Sources: BBC News, Twitter and Visordown
Images: Abbie – 7 Days in Dubai, Sean – Twitter and Speedweek
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FIRST RIDE: 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS

The folks from Modenas and DRB-HICOM recently organised a media test ride to Port Dickson and Melaka for media members and influencers to test out their latest 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS. Launched earlier this month, the NS200 now comes with an added enhanced safety feature that is the front ABS (anti-lock braking system).

Priced at RM9,655 (basic price without road tax, insurance & registration), we were curious to see if the addition of a front ABS unit makes any positive difference for the already popular Modenas model brought in from India thanks to their partnership with Bajaj Auto. We’ve already tested the first-gen Pulsar NS200 together with its full-fairing brother, the RS200 in the link, below.
TESTED: 2017 Modenas Pulsar RS200 & NS200 – “The Dynamic Duo”

First and foremost, the 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS is about RM400 more compared to when the first model was launched back in 2017. We’ve also been informed that everything else about the 2020 model is the same as the previous-gen, apart from the addition of the front ABS unit.

With that being said, we quickly got on the road to see for ourselves. Starting with the engine, its 200cc single-cylinder DTS-i engine has enough power to move around swiftly. Despite having a bit too linear torque range, the NS200 is peppy at the throttle and quick to go through the gears despite having only 200cc to play around with.

The underbelly exhaust is a nice touch to its overall façade and we understand why the model is very popular here in Malaysia as it carries a very ‘big bike’ aura thanks to its design and dimensions. However, it is a bit too quiet as you are only drowned by the sound of the engine revs most of the time.

Going through trunk roads from Sepang to Port Dickson was quite fun, to be honest. The stock MRF tyres paired with its telescopic front forks and rear Nitrox monoshock gave a fun and confident riding throughout the day (and it got better as the day got hotter). Some folks would feel that the tyres might be a bit too stiff for their liking but for us, it’s fine.

We managed to push the NS200 ABS close to its top speed when the roads cleared up and we got around 145km/h with all our gears in tow. That’s pretty impressive for a 200cc street naked bike but somewhere above 130km/h, the front end started to get a bit ‘floaty’ and slightly sketchy. We figured that this can be remedied by simply adjusting the rear pre-load to your desired riding situation.

Moving on the only new part of the 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200, the front ABS. Having ABS is a good thing to have in case of emergencies where you need to brake hard and fast. The system will avoid your front tyres from locking up, ensuring that you slow down fast enough in a safe and manageable manner. The Modenas R&D team were gracious enough to demonstrate that for us (you can see it once we upload our full video soon).

All in all, the 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS is still one of the best entry-level street bikes that you can buy for under RM10,000. Paired with a good design, tough engine, and enjoyable riding experience, it’s definitely a good deal. A lot of folks will agree, just ask any of the thousands of NS200 owners here in Malaysia.

Why I prefer the Modenas Pulsar NS200 – A Personal Perspective

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FIRST LOOK: 2022 SYM Husky ADV 150

Along with the adventure motorcycle segment, the urban adventure scooter is also showing an upward trend.
Taiwanese scooter company, SYM is the latest manufacturer to join in the fight with the all-new 2022 Husky ADV.
With 150cc displacement, the Husky ADV is a direct competitor to the Honda ADV 150 which is priced at RM11,999 in Malaysia.

The liquid-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC engine on the Husky makes 14.4hp @ 7,500rpm and 14.5m @ 6,000rpm as compared to the Honda’s 14.6hp and 13.8Nm.
Nevertheless, the Husky ADV boast some interesting features, which includes a large 15-litres tank, bigger than its cousin, the SYM Maxsym TL500 that offers a 12.5L tank.

The Husky is also equipped with a full LED light setup including a neat-looking DRL (daytime running light) and a full-colour TFT instrument display that features an auto-dimming function.

It also comes with a conventional suspension setup, with telescopic forks at the front and mono-shock at the rear.
Braking is done by a 260mm front disc and 233mm rear disc paired to a dual-channel ABS as standard.

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2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i introduced with new graphics – RM5,542!

SYM Malaysia has launched the updated 2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i ready with new graphics.
The new graphics scheme is available in three different colours; Red, Blue, and Yellow.
The 2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i is priced at RM5,542.20 (basic price with 0% GST).

SYM Malaysia has officially unveiled the latest 2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i which comes ready with a refreshed graphics scheme. Sym’s most popular cub has been updated and will be available in three different colourways; Red, Blue, and Yellow.

Launched back in 2016, the Sport Rider 125i took the market by storm with its beautiful design, impressive specifications, and an affordable price to match. Powered by a Euro3-compliant 123cc single-cylinder fuel-injected engine, Sym’s kapcai is able to produce 9.5hp at 8,000rpm and 10.8Nm of torque at 5,500rpm.

All the power and torque is transferred down to its rear wheel via a four-speed gearbox which offers impressive acceleration and a more economical fuel consumption. Paired with its 4.2-litre fuel tank, the 2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i is able to go travel quite a distance before needing to stop for refuelling.

Taking inspirations from the world of superbikes and performance naked machines, the Sport Rider 125i comes ready things like tubular framework, sporty exhaust muffler, a stylish panel meter with an analogue and LCD combination, and many more.

SYM Malaysia has priced the new 2018 Sym Sport Rider 125i at RM5,542.20 (basic price with 0% GST). To know more, head over to any of SYM Malaysia’s authorised dealers located across the country.
Sym launches 185cc 2018 Sym VF3i – RM7,988!

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Next-Gen Modenas Dominar D400 Officially Available In Malaysia – RM13,997

The second-generation Modenas Dominar D400 was finally unveiled in Malaysia and is priced at RM13,997. The new Dominar received a series of significant upgrades over its predecessor.
The main headlamp now features split LED banks with increased lighting, the forks are now 43mm diameter upside-down units, and the rear monoshock is softer for more touring comfort.

Its 373.3cc single-cylinder engine is uprated to produce 40 PS (39.4 hp) at 8,650 RPM and 35 Nm of torque at 7,000 RPM.

Those figures take the bike into the KTM 390 Duke territory while gases exit through a new exhaust system with dual silencers.
Riding experience further enhanced with an assist and slipper clutch for smoother downshifting and corner entries.

While Modenas retains the split LCD cluster, the secondary display now features gear indicators, small yet relevant aspects that was greatly missed on the previous generation.

The new Modenas Dominar D400 are available in Charcoal Black and Savannah Green.

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Ducati V4 Superbike caught on video!

Belgian-based motoring media MaxxMoto has released a video of what seems to be the new Ducati V4 superbike doing some runs in a test track.
The upcoming V4-powered Ducati production superbike carries a soundtrack similar to the Ducati Desmosedici GP bike or even the Honda RC213V.
It can also be assumed that the new Ducati will be using the “big bang” engine firing sequence which carries a very unique riding experience compared to usual V4 engine configurations.
Image source: MCN

A recent report released by Belgian-based motoring media MaxxMoto shows that they have been keeping a very close eye on the upcoming Ducati V4 superbike. In their latest video, it seems that they’ve managed to catch a glimpse of the four-cylinder Ducati Panigale replacement ripping through the test track.
Image source: Jakusa Design
In the video link below, the soundtrack released by the new V4-powered Ducati machine sounds quite close to a slightly watered-down Ducati Desmosedici GP bike or the Honda RC213V-S. Based on what we already know, we can assume that Ducati’s upcoming superbike will be running the “big bang” cylinder-firing sequence.

Another point that’s worth adding is the fact that Ducati’s latest V4 power plant is the lovechild between its Superquadro and Desmosedici engine blueprints with Desmodromic valve technology, of course. Check out our first report by clicking HERE.

We’re confident that more details of the bike will be released soon. For the true unveiling, we might just have to wait until the end of the year when they finally pull the covers off the Ducati V4 superbike in this year’s EICMA show come November.

If we’re lucky, there’s also the news on the bike being launched next month at the MotoGP Misano round. To know more, CLICK HERE.

Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more Ducati updates.
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BMW Motorrad chart record sales again

BMW Motorrad ends first half of 2016 with new all-time sales record with 80,754 delivered.

German motorcycling powerhouse BMW Motorrad celebrated yet another record breaking sales performance as it ends the first half of 2016. The firm delivered a total of 80,754 motorcycles and maxi-scooters worldwide during this period.
Said figure marks a healthy 3% increase compared to the figures in charted during the same period in 2015. Having successfully delivering over 80,000 units in this six month period for the first time in its history, the firm looks set to achieve it goal of charting a new all-time retail high for the year.

In its press statement, BMW Motorrad highlighted that much of this was fuelled by growth in a number of major European markets. These include Spain (+22.6 %), Italy (+6.9 %) and France (+5.6 %).
Its biggest sales increase however was recorded in the Chinese market where it charted a whopping 74.3% growth with 2,388 units delivered in total. Closer to home, BMW Motorrad also saw highly positive sales growth in Thailand where sales rose up by 62.6%.

Leading the German brand’s charge here is none other than its flagship go-anywhere adventure bike, the BMW R1200 GS. With the current model in its fourth year of sales, its supply increased 3.8% this year with 14,630 units delivered.
The higher spec BMW R1200 GS Adventure also recorded a sales growth of 12.5% with 11,732 units delivered in the first half of 2016. BMW Motorrad further noted that the R1200 GS Adventure made up 44.5 % of all boxer GS motorcycles sales this year.

Coming in third were the sales of the BMW S1000 XR adventure sport model with 5,480 units delivered. Its sibling the BMW S1000 RR superbike, on the other hand, came in fourth with sales totalling 5,291 units during this period.

For the second half of 2016, BMW Motorrad reckons sales will continue its healthy pace of growth. At the same time, the firm in banking on additional stimuli from an upcoming new and second model from its “Heritage” line, not forgetting the highly anticipated market launch of the new entry-level roadster – the BMW G310R – in October.
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CFMoto Unveil New Race Livery For The 250SR

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto has just unveiled a new race livery for the 250SR.
For 2021, the quarter-litre motorcycle is clad in glossy orange and blue panels, including an orange seat cowl and mock carbon fibre tank.

Despite just a colour change, the 250SR looks sportier and aggressive than the previous race livery.

Nonetheless, the specifications remain unchanged as the motorcycle continues to be powered by a 249.2cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine capable of producing 27.6hp and 22Nm.

Other features include:

KYB USD fork
KYB monoshock
all-LED lighting
TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity

Currently, the CFMoto 250SR is available in Malaysia for RM15,800.
(Source: BikeDekho)
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Yamaha Y16ZR Gets Updated Visuals For 2022 – RM11,118

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) introduced three new colours for the 2022 Yamaha Y16ZR.

The Yamaha Y16ZR remains as the only moped in its class to feature assist/slipper clutch.
Due to current economic situation, the 2022 Y16ZR is priced slightly higher than the previous model.

The Y16ZR now features in Glacier White, Phantom Neon & Flaming Silver and is already available at Yamaha’s authorized dealership across the nation with a new recommended price of RM11,118 a slight increased from the previous RM10,888.

Aside from the new visuals, the Yamaha Y16ZR continue to offer the same specifications including the same liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 4-valve, SOHC 155cc engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) capable of producing 17.7 hp@9,500 rpm and 14.4 Nm @ 8,000 rpm.

The Y16ZR is also the only motorcycle in its class that comes with an assist/slipper clutch which improves gear changing while reducing the probability of a clutch slip.
Although without Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), the Y16ZR packed with a 2-pot calliper at the front paired to a 245mm front disc.

HLYM also claimed the motorcycle can now achieve a range of 256km with a 5.4L fuel tank.
Other exciting features:

full LED lighting
negative-faced LCD digital panel
smart key function
12V DC socket

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MotoGP: Ducati Officially Unveils 2021 Desmosedici, Lenovo As Title Sponsor

Ducati MotoGP has presented its 2021 factory Desmosedici during the team’s official presentation with Lenovo as title sponsor.
The Italian outfit will start the 2021 MotoGP world championship with two new riders, Jack Miller and Francesco Bagnaia, replacing Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci last season.

The GP21 features a more dominant red, including the now painted aero winglet, which was in standard carbon black displayed last season.
Ducati also continues partnership with long-time sponsors, Audi, Givi, Flex-Box, and Riello.
*Jack Miller #43
For 2021, Ducati once again fields six machines on the track, with Miller and Bagnaia leading the pack alongside Pramac’s Johann Zarco and Jorge Martin and Avintia’s Enea Bastianini and Luca Marini.
#Pecco Bagnaia #63
Bastianini and Marini will kickstart the 2021 season with the GP19.
Luigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse, expect big things coming from the two new riders.

“The start of a new season is always a special moment, and this year even more, as we have a completely new team. We have two new riders with us, Jack Miller and Pecco Bagnaia. Both are extraordinarily talented, they’re young, but they already have a lot of experience on our bikes.
“Jack (Miller) and Pecco (Bagnaia) have great potential, and I think that together we can fight not only to defend the Constructors’ Title won in 2020, but we can also aim for the Riders’ Title,” he said.

Meanwhile, Miller and Bagnaia could not contain their excitement after witnessing the GP21.
“The emotions I felt seeing my all-red Desmosedici and wearing my new suit for the first time were incredible! I still have to realize that I’ll be part of the official Ducati Team this year.
“It’s taken a long way to get this far, and finally being “in red” gives me a great sense of satisfaction, but also the right motivation to continue working with commitment and dedication towards my future goals,” Miller said.
“This will be a significant season for me because, for the first time, I’ll be wearing the colours of an official team. I’m proud to have achieved this first goal, and this year I will set my sight on even greater results,” explained Bagnaia.
Miller and Bagnaia will taste the new GP21 during the official pre-season testing in Qatar next month.
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MV Agusta & Lewis Hamilton release MV Agusta F4 LH44 Limited Edition

Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has renewed his contract with MV Agusta and has confirmed it with the release of the limited edition MV Agusta F4 LH44.
Inspired heavily by Lewis Hamilton’s taste and preference in terms of design and performance, the super limited F4 LH44 comes with a host of enticing upgrades.
Only 44 models will be manufactured and the price is said to be around the RM200,000 mark.

After the recent news regarding F1 star Lewis Hamilton renewing his contract with Italian premium bike manufacturer MV Agusta, they’ve have confirmed it with the release of the new and very limited MV Agusta F4 LH44 superbike.

The MV Agusta F4 LH44 comes with a brand new graphics which suits the taste and style of Lewis Hamilton’s when it comes to bikes. Apart from the beautiful facade, the limited edition F4 is also fitted with MV Agusta’s race kit package which claims to bump up the bike’s power output to a whopping 212hp.

Another big addition that is easily noticeable is the SC Project titanium race exhaust which replaces the stock but stunning four-pipe undertail exhaust. The single canister exhaust is not just for show as it has some similarities to the spec exhaust used by Leon Camier’s bike in WorldSBK.

The overall suspension package has received an overall super premium upgrade as well. At the front, a set of Öhlins NIX 30 TiN-coated forks has been fitted where as a single Öhlins TTX 36 shock takes care of the rear. A very good option if you feel like tearing up the track as fast as Lewis in his F1 race car.

How limited is this MV Agusta F4 LH44? Well, only 44 will be produced. The price of the bike has not been finalised just yet but based on reliable sources, we won’t be surprised if it hits the RM200,000 mark.

WHAT A BIKE.
Source: MV Agusta

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Knight Rider Returns! As… Moped Rider

The Knight Rider returns!

As Moped Rider.

The hilarious video is for a German online marketplace.

Remember that 80’s show Knight Rider?
Yeah, the one with the fancy black Pontiac Firebird called KITT that talks? Starring David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight whose the car’s driver, the pair fights dastardly criminals all over the United States.
KITT was an almost indestructible advanced crimefighting vehicle featuring a self-aware artificial intelligence, “TURBO BOOST” which gave a sudden kick (usually used to jump over obstacles), and serious weaponry.
The series ran from 1982 to 1986, but it turned the “Hoff” into a bona fide celebrity.
Well, guess what?
The Hoff and KITT are back. Er… mostly.

In this commercial for the mobile.de online marketplace, Michael Knight and moped KITT fight a couple of bank robbers, complete with POWER BOOST and MEGA BOOST for a greater kick. We won’t spoil it for you but Knight did use the MEGA BOOST function.
Fans will recognise the 80’s wardrobe and hairstyle, besides the cheesy action and camera work. But the video was a whole lotta fun and hilarious.
Hasselhoff said during an interview, “I’m just kind of synonymous with making fun of myself and having fun.”
Unfortunately, the commercial is only available in German (The Hoff is German, anyway) although the action takes place in the States.
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2018 Harley-Davidsons Have Arrived at Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya

More of Harley-Davdison’s 2018 lineup have arrived at Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya.

There are three Softails and one Sportster.

Harley fans will now have a wider choice to choose from.

More long-awaited 2018 Harley-Davidson models have arrived at Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya today.
The new arrivals will give those who are interested in the thumping V-Twins of Milwaukee more choices to choose from. Most are from the Softail family but there is also a new Sportster, they are:
SOFTAIL SLIM
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim

The Softail Slim is harked as a raw, vintage style Harley.
Blacked-out styling, ready for customization.
New LED headlamp.
All-new Softail frame that’s lighter and stiffer for better handling and comfort.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Now 16 kgs (35 lbs.) lighter than last year’s model.
Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine which produces 149 Nm of torque.
Low-slung seat at 650 mm when laden.

SOFTAIL LOW RIDER
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Low Rider

Low-slung and stretched stying of 70’s choppers.
Same iconic look of the Dyna Low Rider but on the all-new Softail frame.
New LED headlamp.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Cast alloy wheels.
Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine with 149 Nm of torque.
665 mm seat height when laden.

SOFTAIL HERITAGE CLASSIC
2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Heritage Classic

True nostalgia cruiser and original bagger.
Electronic cruise control.
Detachable windscreen.
LED headlamp.
Lockable and sealed soft saddlebags.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
New high-performance forks and rear monoshock.
Milwaukee-Eight 107 cubic inch (1753 cc) engine with 149 Nm of torque or Milwaukee-Eight 114 cubic inch (1868 cc) engine with 161 Nm of torque.
680 mm seat height when laden.

ROADSTER
2018 Harley-Davidson Roadster

The most aggressive-looking Sportster.
Harley calls it the “tucked in” look.
1200cc air-cooled Sportster Evolution engine with 103 Nm of torque.
Blacked-out styling for a more sinister look.
“Slammed” handlebar for a more sporty riding position and new gauge.
New upside-down cartridge forks.
Dual floating front brake discs.

As you can see, the new Harley-Davidson models are not only drop dead gorgeous to look at, but the Motor Company have taken many steps to bring them on par with contemporary motorcycles as well. So, make your way to Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya to view these awesome bikes. You may also check out their Facebook page and official website.

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MAEPS, Serdang – The track that has it all

Moving on from the storm-tossed experience last month in Teluk Intan that led to the cancellation of the CP130 and CP115 finals, the 2015 PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship returns with Round 8 at a brand new host venue.
Scheduled to be held over two days from October 17 to 18, 2015, Round 8 will take place at the Malaysia Agro Exhibition Park (MAEPS) in Serdang, Selangor. This marks the third time in Cub Prix’s 22-year-history where a street race (temporary track) is held in Selangor. The other two previous venues were Banting and Sungai Buloh.

According to Cub Prix’s Operations Chief, Shafry Azizan, crafting a temporary track out of the land available at MAEPS had been a dream come true. “Because Cub Prix races on temporary circuits, we are often constrained by the existing lay of the land. At the same time, we had to ensure that there are enough challenges in each track to fulfil the requirements of an exiting race. Therefore, the Operations team had been particularly excited about the MAEPS venue because we are able to pack in 10 different types of corners to test the riders and the teams,” he said.

At 1.110km long, the MAEPS temporary track will feature a 335m front straight. The final sprint from the last turn to the finish line is measured at 237m. “If the riders are close enough at the exit of Turn 10, there may be a window of opportunity to take advantage of the slipstream. The long straight is made even more challenging with a change of elevation, stressing more on the bike’s ability to deliver quick power. Suspension will also be a key factor here,” Shafry described.

While the emphasis is on the top end of the bike at the front straight, the back end of the track brings together a series of interesting corners rarely seen in street racing. “Turn 3 to Turn 8 may well be the most critical part of the race. The planning team believes that this is where the race will be won and lost. The riders will first enter a tight chicane that is a huge test of rider skill. Exiting the chicane, they will then rush into two sweeping corners that calls for rolling speed and smart riding. Here, the track is wide enough for overtaking opportunities. So the riders must race smart to protect their racing line,” he elaborated.

In the title chase so far, only the Wira class has been sealed by Md Harith Farhan Baharin of team Kozi Yam Honda Racing. Harith won the title in Teluk Intan. In the CP115 class, Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin, has carved out a 34-point advantage over Motul Yamaha YY Pang’s Tengku Amirul Haffiruddin. The premiere CP130 class will see a battle royale between two brothers. Championship leader Ahmad Fazrul Sham is spoiling for the first title of his career leads with 95 points followed by his elder brother Ahmad Fazli Sham who is chasing for the third title of his career.
Round 8 of the 2015 PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship is free for the public and will be completed with a host of fun and interesting activities for all in the family.
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Honda teases new 2021 Honda Forza 750!

Earlier this month, Honda teased us with a date and a name, 14 October 2020 and Forza. A couple of weeks went by and they’ve dropped another teaser. This time, we can finally confirm the model that they’ll be launching and it’s going to be the all-new 2021 Honda Forza 750. That’s right, it’s a super scooter!

Starting the teaser video with a huge and very unmissable ‘750’ on the screen, the clip quickly turned to other highlighted specs of this new maxi-scooter. These things include a push-start button like the ones found in the brand’s four-wheel selection, a big-ass rear LED taillight, one sweet-looking full-colour TFT screen, and the iconic Forza-like front end appearance.

As for the engine, our best guess would that the 2021 Honda Forza 750 will run is the 745cc V2 engine found on the current Honda X-ADV 750. This, however, will be re-tuned to meet with the requirements of the Euro5 emission regulations, which also means that the power figure will be off slightly.

We also highly suspect that this bad boy will also come with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) package and also a final-chain drive just like the X-ADV. More details will be out soon but for now, we’ll just have to wait for its official launch this October 14th. Hold on to your horses, fellas.
Written by: Sep Irran
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2018 Yamaha X-Max 125 Debuts in Europe

2018 Yamaha X-Max 125 shows great looks and promise

The X-Max 125 is a worldwide best-seller

Part of Yamaha’s “MAX” scooter family

Yamaha has unveiled the new X-Max 125 scooter ahead of the release of their 2018 model line up.
While we do not see the X-Max in Malaysia, the model has sold more than 140,000 units worldwide.
The 2018 model will be EU-4 emissions compliant, hence the 125cc, single-cylinder engine is fed by electronic fuel injection which has low fuel consumption. Such prospects would make the X-Max popular in our country, due to the rising fuel prices.

Both the X-Max 125’s brakes feature ABS as standard. But it goes beyond that, as there is also traction control.
Yamaha has also upgraded the 2018 X-Max 125 to be even more practical. Case in point is the underseat storage space which could accommodate two full-face helmets. That large screen is adjustable, so are the handlebars. It also has a 12V power outlet, like in the NVX, which is fast becoming a pre-requisite.
Speaking of the NVX, the X-Max 125 also uses the Yamaha Smart Key as the former’s. The X-Max’s distinctive dual LCD instruments panels remain.

Yamaha has also started to imbue its family of scooters with a sense of familial ties through the design of their headlights and tail lights. One could instantly tell their make with just one glance.
Will the X-Max 125 ever make it here? Who knows. But it does show that Yamaha is serious about the scooter market.
But if you really want a scooter, check out the Yamaha NVX we tested recently. Click here to read the review of the NVX.
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Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 coming to Malaysia in 2023?

Can we expect to see both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 launched in Malaysia in 2023?

Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd confirms intentions to launch Gixxer SF250 and Gixxer 250 duo.

However, this will take at least another year, so expect both sometime in 2023 instead.

Both share similar bones and 250cc SOHC single, the latter offering 26HP and 22.6NM.

				Suzuki Gixxer SF 250

				Suzuki Gixxer 250

Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd has been on a roll since its re-establishment late last year. Though there has been much hype with the recent launch of its 150cc offerings, plenty of fans are left waiting for the introduction of its quarter-litre duo, specifically the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250.
During a recent press ride and Berbuka Puasa session held by the firm just before the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri holidays, we’ve gotten an indication as to when both will debut locally. The good news here is that both are indeed coming, the bad news here being when – sometime next year.
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
That’s right, according to Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd management, they’ll need at least another year to properly introduce the Gixxer SF 250 and its Gixxer 250 naked twin. As to an exact date, Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd has kept mum about this too, but we reckon this will happen in 2023 nonetheless.

Both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 are mechanically identical as they share the same 249cc single-cam (SOHC) single-cylinder heart that delivers 26HP and 22.6NM. Aptly, both are set apart by their different styling and ergonomics – full-faired and sport in the Gixxer SF 250 versus a more upright riding lesser-faired Gixxer 250.
Aptly, both will have their sights set on rivalling against a number of offerings – the recently refreshed KTM 250 Duke being one of which. Apart from that, little else was disclosed, meaning we’ll need to wait a little longer before we see both quarter-litres debut locally.

On a more immediate timeline, Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd did confirm that ABS-equipped versions of the recently launched 150cc trio – the GSX-R 150, GSX-S 150 and Raider R150Fi – will happen soon.
This, of course, greatly depends on how the local firm, as well as its Japanese principals, manage the on-going ABS sensor shortage that’s plaguing various manufacturers on a global level.
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Electric powered Honda CB125R coming real soon?

Patent files shows Honda is working on an electric-powered motorcycle based on the CB125R.
The patent drawings show a small electric power plant that matches the form and purpose of the CB125R.
The bike is already 75% production ready, which means a global debut is not too far away.

Electrification is the future, and there is no doubt about that. Our prediction is that almost every form of transportation will be electric powered in about 100 years.
Honda for one is already working on patenting such technologies, and though we have had electric motorcycles for a while now, this is interesting because it marks the possible arrival of an electric powered 125 sized motorcycle from Honda.

How do we know this? Well the internet is a abuzz with news about Honda filing patents on a new electric motorcycle that looks a lot like the existing CB125R.
From the patent drawings seen here, it is probably safe to assume that the electric powered CB125R is already in its final R&D form somewhere in a Honda lab.

The internet is speculating that the electric power plant will be small and lightweight and perhaps even ‘dinner plate sized’.
This is not too far fetched considering the CB125 itself is a compact lightweight motorcycle.
Having a small lightweight electric power plant means it will fit right into the form and purpose of the CB125R.
Other than the obvious change in power plant, the rest of the CB125R’s frame, suspension and braking systems look unchanged.
Of course this is all we can tell from the renderings, but you can be sure that there will be lots of small adaptations inside the frame to accommodate the electric engine and batteries.

We hear you asking about performance and range and charging periods, but all we know so far is that Honda has filed patents and with all patents, performance and range specifications are kept secret.
But you can safely assume that power won’t differ much from the 125cc engine. This is because the overall chassis and related parts are also designed to handle a certain amount of power and torque.
Any more and the frame won’t be able to handle it. Redesigning the frame doesn’t make sense due to the cost factors involved.
And so, because 75% of the electric CB125R is production ready, it won’t take more than a year or so for the final product to reach global markets. Watch this space!
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MotoGP: Jorge Martin to join Pramac Ducati in 2021?

It was recently announced that current Pramac Ducati rider, Jack Miller, will be moving up into the factory squad for the 2021 MotoGP season and that has left a vacant spot in the satellite team. A bunch of names has been rumoured to fill in but none more visible than current Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 rider, Jorge Martin.

It seems that his manager and Pramac Ducati are already in the ‘advanced talks’ stage and if it is all finalised, Jorge Martin will be partnering with the other Pramac Ducati rider, Francesco Bagnaia. Getting a seat on this team might just be one of the best ways to make the move up to MotoGP as Ducati is looking into fast-tracking their Desmosedici development with hopes of more victories.

With that being said, we might just see four Ducati Desmosedici GP21 with the same specs next season being piloted by Jack Miller and Andrea Dovizioso on the factory squad as well as Miller and Bagnaia in the satellite team. It’s certainly an interesting deal considering that Martin is also being targeted by the likes of KTM and Honda.

There are also talks of KTM’s Pol Espargaro changing factories from KTM to Repsol Honda, with the possibility of Alex Marquez being placed in the LCR squad. If this is true, we’re looking at a very MotoGP silly season with major shifts taking place in several factory teams.

Even the outgoing Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) is having his sights on the Aprilia Gresini seat if Andrea Iannone isn’t able to file for an appeal regarding his current ongoing ‘doping’ issues and suspension from racing. Stay tuned for more MotoGP updates.
MOTOGP: Jack Miller gets Ducati factory seat for 2021

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HAFIZH BATTLES ON AT MUGELLO

Malaysian Moto2 rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah has continued to improve at the sixth leg of the MotoGP in Mugello, Italy. Hafizh shows signs of recovery when he posted 19th fastest in the second and third free practice sessions respectively. He first sliced off 0.7seconds off his lap times in the second free practice with 1’53.952s and went 0.3 seconds faster in the third free practice to bring his fastest time to 1’53.445s.

However, Hafizh is still not satisfied with his laptimes, especially because he is still having issues with tyre selection. On top of that, Hafizh is still not fully recovered from the fever which has sapped him of his physical strength.
“I had a better run this session but I am not happy with the small improvement of my lap times. I believe that I can go qiucker but the mixed feelings I have with the tyres choice has affected my riding performance. I keep experiencing slides here and there from the rear end and pushing hard makes me really nervous,” said Hafizh.

Team manager Barry Leong attributed these tyre problems to the uncertain Italian Tuscan weather. “The temperature did not provide a consistent reading and is causing confusion for our team engineers. There is more uncontrollable sliding on the rear tyres and this problem must be looked into before the Qualifying to ensure that Hafizh continues to stay consistent in the points rankings. We need to work out the balance between the tyres and the tarmac temperature,” said Barry.
GRAN PREMIO D’ITALIA TIM
Date: May 30, 2015
Round 6
Circuit: Mugello Circuit, Italy
Session: Free Practice 3
Weather: Cool and Dry
Air Temp: 21C
Ground: 35C
Best Lap: 1:53.445s
No. of Laps: 19
Position: 19
Moto2 Free Practice 3 Results
1. Tito Rabat (SPA) 1’51.820s
2. Sam Lowes (GBR) 1’52.014s
3. Johann Zarco (FRA) 1’52.034s
4. Thomas Luthi (SWI) 1’52.511s
5. Luis Salom (SPA) 1’52.540
Selected
19. Hafizh Syahrin (MAS) 1’53.445s

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Zontes Completes 3-Cylinder Engine Development, To Launch New Bike Range Soon

Zontes is prepping to launch a new range of motorcycles after completing development of its triple-cylinder engine.

Zontes officially completes its triple-cylinder engine development.
The new project was announced back in June 2021.

The Chinese motorcycle manufacturer announced its ambitious plans back in June 2021. The announcement was a part of the company effort to take on the likes of Yamaha and Triumph with its own triple-cylinder powertrain.
With a number of Chinese brand already penetrating the big bike segment, Zontes also wants a piece of the cake after spending much of its time on the lower end of the engine range with its 310cc motorcycles.
Nevertheless, Zontes is ready to climb up the scale after completing the new engine development and showing it off to the public as proof.

Frankly, we like at what we are seeing as the new engine is more of an innovation instead of tracing existing design from other manufacturers.
Also, this is a proof that Zontes is working on something solid, further hinting its plan to become a new contender in a segment that features established line up.
As for which models that could feature the new engine is still unclear but looking at other Chinese counterpart including CFMoto and QJ Motor, we assume one of the new model could be an adventure-type motorcycle.
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Suzuki GSX-S750 Gets New Colour Scheme For 2021

Suzuki has been making waves this past few months after launching several 2022 models.
The Hamamatsu-based company recently unveiled the GSX-S1000, GSX-S950 including a new generation Hayabusa.

Suzuki has updated the GSX-S750 with a new white and fluoro yellow colour scheme in the UK to ensure the current model stays relevant.
However, underneath the skin, the GSX-S750 maintains the same 749cc inline-four engine that makes 113hp @ 10,500rpm and 81Nm @ 9,000rpm.
Suzuki is likely to introduce an updated version of the GSX-S750 in the coming months, given the comprehensive updates done on the GSX-S1000 and Hayabusa.

Meanwhile, Suzuki rumoured to introduce an all-new GSX-R1000 and GSX-S1000T later this year.
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MotoGP: Alex Rins signs with Suzuki

Moto2 standings leader to ride the GSX-RR in 2017 and 2018.

Pic from MotoGP.com
The nearly man of motorcycle racing, Alex Rins, will be moving up a class next year regardless of how his current campaign in the 2016 Moto2 championship ends. The 20-year old Barcelona native has been signed by Team ECSTAR Suzuki to ride the GSX-RR in MotoGP for 2017 and 2018 alongside mercurial Italian rider Andrea Iannone, thus filling the final factory seat left open.
Since making his world championship season debut in Moto3 in 2012, Rins has proven to be a quick rider. He scored his first podium in only his fourth race and went on to finish his inaugural season fifth overall. In 2013, he was involved in a season long battle for the title with the late Luis Salom and current Suzuki rider Maverick Vinales and while Rins was favoured to win the championship, a 24th-place finish in the penultimate round in Japan torpedoed his chances and he finished second.
After finishing his last three championship seasons second, third and second Rins is off to MotoGP in 2017 – Pic from MotoGP.com
This was the beginning of a series of near misses for Rins, who ended his 2014 Moto3 campaign in third as he watched teammate Alex Marquez claim the title. A switch to Moto2 in 2015 with the Pons team brought instant success with ten podiums, including two wins, in his maiden season and rookie of the year honours. He also finished second in the standings though the gap to eventual champion Johan Zarco was 118 points.
Rins is currently leading the 2016 Moto2 table ahead of Sam Lowes and defending champ Zarco – Pic from MotoGP.com
This year Rins has been going well again and after seven races, he’s leading the Moto2 championship standings ahead of Sam Lowes and Zarco. Signing off on his lower category career with a championship title would be the ideal way to graduate to MotoGP but there are still 11 races to run in 2016.
Suzuki team manager, Davide Brivio, said “Alex Rins is a young rider who is a proven talent, always fighting within the top positions of the World Championship since his debut in every class. This makes him the type of rider who we want to support for the future and by paring him with Andrea Iannone, we believe they can form a strong team to compete at the maximum level.”
The Suzuki GSX-RR will be Alex Rin’s ride in 2017 alongside ‘The Maniac’ Andrea Iannone – Pic from Suzuki Media
Suzuki have been quicker in 2016 with a third place podium finish in France to show for it – Pic from Suzuki Media
By signing Rins, Team ECSTAR Suzuki will say goodbye to Aleix Espagaro, who was the first rider they signed for their return to MotoGP. With all the factory seats filled, the 26-year old Spaniard may have to look for a ride with a customer team, with Marc VDS probably offering the best prospects as Tito Rabat looks set for a return to Moto2 following his dismal results in the premier class this year.
Aleix Espgaro will be the second rider to wave Suzuki goodbye at the end of 2016, though he isn’t leaving by choice – Pic from Suzuki Media
Will Alex Rins be able to compete against the likes of Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi next year? That’ll depend on the Suzuki but judging from his Moto3 and Moto2 results, it’ll only be a matter of time before the young Spaniard becomes a regular podium finisher and race winner.
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Triumph Factory build-off – Bobber vs Scrambler

The format of pitting two teams against each other in a “build-off” has been around for many years – and always results in some fantastic motorcycles. When those two teams are comprised volunteers from within the Triumph business, tasked with creating the ultimate Bonneville customs then the sparks will truly fly.

In May 2014 volunteers were invited to join two teams in a build off to celebrate the iconic Bonneville. With the Bonneville chosen by many of the top contemporary custom builders and the base for countless specials around the world, the challenge was clear – use our in-house talent, craftsmanship, skills and passion to create a pair of jaw-dropping custom Bonnevilles. Each team was given a brand new Bonneville as a base to bring their dreams alive with a deadline to unveil both bikes in Milan on the 4th November 2014. Each bike would be showcased on the Triumph website and the winner will be the team who earns the most shares across Facebook, to be announce at Motorcycle Live, Birmingham, on the 26th November 2014.
Welcome to the new Triumph Factory Custom build-off. Welcome to Bobber vs. Scrambler.
TFC1: The Bobber

The Bobber. Instantly the name invokes images of clean lines, minimal equipment and a stripped-back riding experience. For Team TFC1, a group who count three Bonneville customs and a chopped V8 pickup amongst their own personal vehicles, this was definitely the route they wanted to follow. However, a traditional Bobber wouldn’t cut it for these passionate enthusiasts. The team’s desire was to take the Bobber ethos and really push the boundaries.A twin tubular hardtail frame with a single-sided rear end. A contemporary girder front end running twin Fox Factory shocks with remote handlebar adjustment. A reverse cylinder engine with completely reworked internals. Just three examples of the incredible engineering that the team have integrated into the showstopping TFC1: The Bobber.

With a low, sinuous stance, The Bobber is simply too much to take in at first glance. Completely redesigned girder forks, eliminating all of the traditional poor handling and lack of damping issues associated with this design,  four pot caliper and wire wheel combine a complete hybrid of modern design and classic style. The startling single-sided hardtail rear is an engineering marvel in its own right, and the reverse cylinder engine presents the bespoke bell mouths to the rush of oncoming air and allows the elegantly simple exhaust to snake out and create the rear lines.
Stepping closer brings even more detail to drink in. The bonding of the frame elements, using a bespoke adhesive created by partners ThreeBond, gives a clean, weld free finish with incredible beauty yet unparalleled function. The traditional solo seat that utilises a purpose-built Fox shock absorber and linkage, allowing the rider to adjust comfort at the flick of a lever. The minimal lines of the Radianz LED light incorporated into the seat pan are just another example of the team’s perfect attention to detail.

Nowhere is the obsessive attention to detail more apparent than in the final details that you don’t see. A challenge of customising any contemporary motorcycle is the numerous electronics, sensors and looms that need to be integrated into the build. The Bobber is no different, and presented a number of challenges to the team. The initial thought of abandoning the stock EFi system and reverting to flat slide carburettors seemed at odds with the desire to build the ultimate contemporary Bonneville, so the team developed a plan to incorporate all of the modern electronics. Key to the plan was a ’69 Bonnie US Export tank. The tank was split in two, with one half being used for the electrical components and the other being used for fuel.  Start and kill buttons were added to the dummy half, which now contained a shortened loom and bespoke electronics board, along with a Motogadget speedo.  A Motogadget keyless ignition also handles the starting requirements. The other side of the tank houses the fuel, the fuel injection pump and filters and is finished with a pop up fuel cap.

Also out of sight – within the striking reverse cylinder engine – are hours and hours of re-engineering, modifiying the repositioned cam chain tensioners and oil ports, rerouting oil ways, and modified cam timing for the contra-rotating camshafts. Even the exhausts have been subject to this attention, with the twin wall construction allowing them to maintain the brushed finish without discolouring due to temperature. Countless other details combine with these incredible engineered elements to create TFC1: The Bobber – a Bonneville that echoes Triumph heritage whilst providing a breath-taking showcase for our contemporary custom excellence.
TFC 2: The Scrambler

As the custom scene continues to expand globally, so do the vast variety of custom Scrambler-style bikes. The original Scramblers were designed as purposeful, powerful, aggressive off-road versions of a stock road bike. Desert Sleds, Flat Trackers and Scramblers all fed into the DNA of what defines a true Scrambler. And this was the code clearly adopted by Team TFC2. Their interpretation of the  Scrambler would become the modern expression of this desire for performance, handling and off-road ability – THE Scrambler.
Straight out of the crate and before their donor Bonneville had even reached the build bench the team defined a design ethos based on take mass out and boost power as their recipe for success. This approach was to be coupled with geometry and suspension travel closely related to a modern competition moto-crosser to deliver an agile chassis that would provide a perfect match for the uprated power plant. First to receive attention was the existing steel frame – sacrificed in exchange for a bespoke aluminium and titanium chassis with aggressive geometry and purposeful stance. The aluminium frame also acts as a conduit to hide components such as the throttle linkage and cables. Coupled to the aluminium frame is an exquisite titanium sub-frame, hand-welded in-house before being finished with shot blast and masked welds.

The beautiful bare chassis is finished with a slight departure from the lightweight obsession. The repurposed Speed Triple swingarm is heavier than a conventional unit, but has been inverted and finished to perfection to provide another staggering detail and a clear visual Triumph cue. Incorporating the swingarm created the need for a monoshock conversion, bringing the bike closer to its modern motocross inspiration and a collaboration with Nitron Racing Systems delivered a perfectly tuned rear shock along with a bespoke set of front forks.
The Scrambler’s elegantly aggressive poise is further enhanced by the unique composite bodywork. Very early in the process the team proposed the possibility of a carbon fuel tank – but weren’t convinced of the feasibility of the idea. Ace Fibreglass and Carbon stepped in, working with the team to produce a full carbon tank, along with additional bodywork and battery tray. The tank itself weighs in at under a third of the original steel part, contributing significantly to the team’s mantra – lose weight, boost power.
With The Scrambler now weighing in at significantly less than the donor bike, the team turned their attention to the second part of their intent – boost power. The head was skimmed and ported prior to the addition of large valves and Daytona throttle bodies, teamed with a modified set of spun aluminium inlet trumpets. Still seeking more from their modified twin the team engineered a one-off set of high lift cams, with a Daytona profile. Overall the engine mods are predicted to give a 25% increase in overall power –bringing the bike to life and giving the drive to match the new chassis.
To ensure the drive gets to the dirt, The Scrambler is finished with 17 inch Kineo wheels shod with a 180 section rear and 130 section front tyre. Why 17 inch front wheels? Well the team figured the option to fit a pair of super sticky slicks would turn the ultimate Scrambler into an outrageous Supermoto style track tool – which is no bad thing.
TFC2: The Scrambler. More power. Less weight.
Job done.
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2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 launched in Japan – now with ABS

Yamaha Motor Japan unveiled its latest 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 which comes in three new colour options and graphics as well as the addition of dual-channel ABS as a standard feature. With this, the non-ABS version of the R25 has come to an end, which will slowly be followed by markets around the globe.

These three new colour options are Yamaha Blue, Dark Grey Metallic, and our personal favourite, Cyan. This colour is also available on the latest updated Yamaha Y15ZR, a very popular 150cc cub here in Malaysia.

Going back to the new ABS addition, the dual-channel ABS makes sense considering that its naked sibling, the Yamaha MT-25, already has that feature as standard. For the local market, you can get the MT-25 at RM21,500 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration) which is around RM1,500 more than the current Yamaha YZF-R25 offering.

The rest of the specs for the updated YZF-R25 remains the same, including its 250cc parallel-twin engine which produces 35hp at 12,000rpm and 23Nm torque at 10,000rpm. If you happen to be in Japan right now, you can get the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 at JPY654,500, which is around the RM25,600 mark.

For now, you can check out our official review of the 2020 Yamaha MT-25 in the link, below. Stay tuned for more updates.

TESTED: 2020 Yamaha MT-25 – “Rush of Darkness”

Written by: Sep Irran
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CONFIRMED: New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 To Break Cover In 2023

Royal Enfield is about to unleash an all-new Himalayan 450 that is set to rival the KTM 390 Adventure.
The rumours have been making their round for quite some time now but it has been confirmed that a more powerful Himalayan will be set to debut in the first quarter of 2023.
According to reports in India, Royal Enfield decided to develop a slightly bigger Himalayan after customer feedback suggested the current Himalayan 411 is a bit underpowered due to its weight.
As the name suggests, the Himalayan 450 will carry a 450cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine capable of producing 40hp and has more low-end grunt and better mid-range power. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission.

Looking at the image render provided by BikeWale, the Himalayan 450 shares a very similar build-up with the 411 including a circular headlamp, frame, tall handlebars and long suspension travel.
The 450 is expected to carry the same tire configuration with a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear.
Interestingly, the 450 will also feature tubeless spoke wheels, something you usually find on a bigger and pricier adventure machine.
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Ducati Malaysia’s Special “Red Weekend” Promotion

Ducati Malaysia kick starts 2017 with a very special ‘Red Weekend’ 2-day sales and discounts

For those Ducati fans and enthusiasts out there, this weekend is probably the best weekend to head on over to Ducati showrooms in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya to participate in their first sale event of 2017 dubbed “Red Weekend”.

The event will only last this weekend and what better way to spend these two days than to try your hands on some Ducati bikes at the Ducati Kuala Lumpur showroom and also the Naza Automall Petaling Jaya. One of the major highlights of this weekend event is the test ride session for all the new bikes from Ducati like the Panigale 959, Monster 821, Multistrada 1200 Enduro, Hypermotard 939 and a couple of Ducati Scramblers.

Apart from all the amazing machines on display, the promotion also consists of Ducati’s merchandise, apparels, spare parts and other accessories. If a bargain is what you’re looking for, the Red Weekend sale is where it’s at.

Since it is a weekend, Ducati has prepared live music entertainment for everyone to just chill and relax while enjoying the food and beverage specially prepared for all guests. If you’re early, there’s even some ‘kambing golek’ for you to feast on. Family members can tag along as well while fellow bikers stock up on some new gear or even a new Ducati bike to take home!

To Ducati enthusiasts who are not located in Kuala Lumpur or Klang Valley, there will be other showrooms that will participate in this weekend very soon. The participating outlets are located in Penang, Sungai Buloh and Johor.

Those of you who came for the Red Weekend event around noon at Naza Automall in PJ got to witness something very special. There was a prize giving ceremony for the grand prize winner from the Merdeka Autofair ‘Spend and Win’ Contest. The prize? A brand new Ducati Panigale 1199 ABS with WSBK Livery!

There were also five Vespa S125s given away to other consolation winners as well. So please, spend your weekend the awesome way with Ducati during their ‘Red Weekend’.

Photo Gallery Ducati Malaysia “Red Weekend” Event @ Naza Automall, PJ

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Euro 5 Emission Standard: Why do We Need It?

Euro 5 emission standard begins in 2020.

But what are emissions?

How do they impact our daily lives?

This article should’ve been published some time back, but there’s still time since the Euro 5 emission standard takes effect from 2020. Surely, you’ve seen the “Euro 5” term in reviews and new model launches.
What are “emissions”?
An internal combustion engine turns fuel to energy which turns the wheels. But the burning of fuel releases by-products, but the six most polluting ones are:

Carbon dioxide,
Carbon monoxide,
Sulfur dioxide,
Nitrogen oxides,
Lead,
Particulate matter,
Hydrocarbons.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is the primary product when the carbon in fuel isn’t combusted completely, since carbon is 60% to 90% part of fuel (petroleum is hydrocarbon). Internal combustion vehicles contribute the largest amount of CO2.
CO2 has long been proven as a greenhouse gas, which traps infrared radiation escaping from the surface of the earth and causes the atmosphere to heat up. In other words, it makes the world hotter and hotter. Such phenomenon is demonstrated on our planetary neighbour Venus. Its atmosphere is so hot it can melt lead (lead’s melting point is at 327.5 degrees Celsius).
Atmosphere heating leads to climate change as in mega droughts in one location, abnormal rainfall in another. The ice caps will eventually melt, causing worldwide megafloods. No, we didn’t get that from disaster movies, but from documentaries.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
CO is colourless, odourless and tasteless gas, unlike in movies.
Although CO is not common is large quantities in ambient air, it can be poisonous even to healthy individuals. Prolonged exposure or exposure to elevated levels can lead to:

Visual impairment,
Reduced work capacity,
Reduced manual dexterity (muscular, skeletal and neurological functions to produce small and precise movements, like using the fingers to grab your motorcycle keys).
Poor learning ability,
Difficulty in performing complex tasks,
Individuals with cardiovascular disease may get angina pectoris (severe chest pain leading to shoulders, arms, neck).

You see, our blood cells called Hemoglobin (no, not the antagonist in Spider-Man) is an iron compound which carried oxygen (O2) from the lungs to tissues. It then transports CO2 back to the lungs to be expelled. Hemoglobin has a 240 time more affinity (attraction to) CO than to oxygen. As our total Hemoglobin is finite, the amount available to transport oxygen is reduced.
In worst cases, CO leads to death. Exposure to CO in enclosed spaces will first lead to drowsiness, fainting and death. The victim’s skin will turn flush red.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
SO2 is part of the family of sulfur oxide gases (SOx). The kicker is these gases dissolve easily in water and form acids. Sulfur is prevalent in all raw materials including crude petroleum, coal and metal ores such as aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, iron.
So, combustion of fuel produces SOx gases. These gases mixes with water vapour, other gases and particles in the atmosphere to become sulfates. Know the term acid rain? This is how it’s made.
Short-term exposure leads to breathing problems or asthma, while those with asthma may have breathing difficulties. Long-term exposure leads to aggravation of cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness and alternations to the lungs’ defences.
Nitrogren Oxides (NOx)
NOx is the general term for a group of highly reactive gasses that contain nitrogen and oxygen in varying amounts. Many among them are colourless and odourless. The form when fuel is burned at high temperatures, as in the combustion process. In fact, NOx is the largest form of emissions from combustion (up to 90%).
The most common form known nitrogen dioxide can be seen above our cities on certain days as that reddish-brown layer, which is also called smog. It’s the product of NO2 mixing with ground-level ozone and particles in the air.
It gets worse that blocking out a clear blue sky.
Short-term exposures (less than 30 hours) may lead to changes in airway responsiveness and lung function in those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses. It may also increase respiratory illnesses in children.
Long-term exposures to NO2 may lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and may cause irreversible alterations in lung structure.
It destroys the environment, too. NOx is also a precursor to acid rain and ozone.
Increased nitrogen introduction to land and wetland ecosystems can lead to changes in plant species composition and diversity. Direct input to aquatic ecosystems leads to excessive algae growth which depletes dissolved oxygen and increases toxins harmful to aquatic life.
Particulate Matter (PM)
General term for mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some are large enough to be seen as dust or dirt. Others are only detectable with an electron microscope.
There are two sources of PM:

“Primary” particles are formed through combustion process and emitted directly into the atmosphere. Examples include black carbon (soot) and dust from roads.
“Secondary” particles are formed in the atmosphere from primary emissions. An example is carbon soot from automobiles.

Particles smaller than or equal to 10 µm (micro metre or millionth of a metre) can be ingested into the lungs and cause health problems. They aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, and have long been associated with irregular heartbeats and heart attacks. Short-term exposures can also be associated with health problems.
Conclusion
These are just the basics! It’s so easy to forget about how polluting it is when we twist that throttle. But that’s what emissions standards are for: They’re there to specify lower emissions for the betterment of our planet and lives.
These emissions standards give rise to emissions control components such as the catalytic converter. So, you might want to think twice before you “de-cat” your bike or car.
That’s it for now, we’ll see what Euro 5 stipulates and how it impacts the motorcycle manufacturers and consumers.
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Castrol Malaysia Kicks Off Hari Mekanik Malaysia 2022 on March 18

Castrol Malaysia is back for the fourth consecutive year to celebrate Castrol Hari Mekanik Malaysia (HMM) on March 18, 2022.
For 2022, Castrol will kick off the annual event with a unique theme, ‘The Game Changer’, in honour of our local heroes who saves vehicle owners’ life on day to day basis.
Hari Mekanik Malaysia is an extension of Castrol’s effort in paying tribute to the mechanics in Malaysia that served as a backbone of the brand for many years.
According to Castrol Malaysia, the HMM 2022 will be a fully virtual event experience that includes a media contest, jersey giveaways, and engagement with KOLs.
HMM 2022 will also be recognized as the most significant campaign ever as the event will collaborate with the English Premier League (EPL).
Regarded as the most-watched football league globally, the EPL is broadcasted in 212 territories to 643 million homes, with a TV audience of 4.7 billion.
The aim is to explore the dynamics of mechanics and footballers as kindred spirits who share the same drive and hard work to strive for success and achieve their goals.
Castrol hopes the new collaboration could alleviate the love and respect that Malaysian have for our mechanics.
Castrol Malaysia will also giveaway exclusive Catrol X EPL merchandise, including jerseys, caps, and flasks.
Participants will need to snap a photo of themselves in their favourite football jersey or Castrol t-shirt with their car or bike and the background of any Castrol-branded workshop.
Participants will need to post the photo on Facebook or Instagram with the caption of thanking their mechanic. Most liked Facebook and Instagram posts with the hashtags #CastrolHariMekanik and #CastrolEPL will win an exclusive Castrol X EPL merchandise.
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Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Rd 4 in Sepang – Saturday

Tricky weather greets Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup grid leading up to Rond 4 in Sepang.

The Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Round holds its inaugural race weekend in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this weekend. Running along with the weekend’s Malaysian Super Series event, two races will be held, each lasting 14 laps.
Things got off to a good start early on Friday morning’s Free Practice 1 session (FP1). Conditions were excellent and all riders got to put in valuable lap times around the 5.5km-long circuit.

Topping the time sheets in FP1 was the pint-sized 14-year-old Japanese rider Ayumu Sasaki. Sasaki topped FP1’s time sheet with a fastest lap time of 2:19.371 on the championship’s Honda NSF250R race bikes.
Pressure is on for the seven Malaysian boys racing on home turf though. FP1 saw Pasir Gudang youngster Fakhrusy Rostam clock in the session’s third fastest time at 2:19.966 – just 0.595 off Sasaki’s pace.

Elsewhere down the order, the soft-spoken Malacca native known as Shafiq Rasol claimed the session’s fifth fastest time at 2:20.600. Despite engine troubles, Helmi Azman managed to clock in the session’s tenth fastest time with a timing of 2:21.993 – a respectable feat given the circumstances.

As always, Sepang’s regular late afternoon storm rolled in as predicted, bringing Friday afternoon’s Free Practice 2 (FP2) session to a brief halt. Nevertheless, Sasaki once again proved his riding prowess here, clocking in 2:19.902 to top the time sheets.

Taking advantage of the slightly damped conditions, Shafiq Rasol improved his timing in this session. FP2 saw Shafiq improve from fifth in FP1 to claimed the session’s second fastest time at 2:20.608 – just 0.706 off of Sasaki’s best time in FP2.

Rain returned once again to challenge the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup grid during Saturday’s late morning Qualifying practice. Primed with rain tyres, riders took to SIC’s black top and gave their very best efforts.
Unfortunately, Helmi Azman and Japanese rider Tsubasa Yoshida suffered falls, with Helmi high-siding whilst tackling Turn 1. Suffice to say, the wet weather conditions proved to be a handful for the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup’s riders given the slower lap times.

Pulling the biggest surprise here was Thai rider Nakarin Atiratphuvapat. The Thai snatched pole position after clocking in the session’s fastest time of 2:29.323. Not far off the pace was championship leader Yuta Date who clocked 2:29.392 to qualify second on the grid. Despite shining through both FP1 and FP2, the tiny wonder that is Sasaki only mustered the session’s third fastest time of 2:29.402.
For the Malaysian camp, it was a mixed of high and lows. The biggest improvement of the weekend so far came from Adam Norrodin’s performance. Despite less than ideal practice times, Adam took full advantage of the partially wet circuit to qualify fifth on the grid with a fastest time of 2:29.953.

Adam is the only Malaysian rider to qualify in top 10 and will start on the second row of the grid. Just missing out on a top 10 spot was Shafiq Rasol, where his best time of 2:31.371 only landed him in 11th place. Just behind him on the fourth row of the grid.
Elsewhere down the order, Helmi Azman qualified in 13th, while Shafiq Ezzariq and Ibrahim Norrodin qualified 16th and 17th respectively. Rider Nazirul Bahauddin, on the other hand, could only settle for the grid’s 21st slot.

The weekend’s first race, which is Round 4, is scheduled to take place later on Saturday afternoon at 2:45pm. Race 2 will be held tomorrow on Sunday at 1:15pm. Both races will last for 12 laps each.
Watch this space later on for updates and race results. In the meantime, you could also check out the extensive gallery below of snapshots taken by the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup’s official photographer, Mauro Talamonti.

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Hong Leong Launches New MT-09 from RM 47,388

MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

The Yamaha MT-09 has been a popular choice for those who wanted an aggressive big bike since its launch.

The new MT-09 has been facelifted and given a number of performance enhancing features.

Priced from an attractive RM 47,388 (inclusive of 6% GST but not on-the-road).

The Yamaha MT-09 has been a popular model for those who seek an aggressive bike and exciting riding experience ever since it was launched in Malaysia a few years back, and a facelift or upgrade has been expected to be forthcoming.

Well, wait no more because Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) has launched the new Yamaha MT-09 tonight. Dato’ Jim Khor, the Managing Director of HLYM calls the new bike, “The Ultimate Street Fighter.”

Looking even more aggressive and radical than when its predecessor first hit the roads., the new model was inspired by its bigger brother, the MT-10.
Dato’ Jim continued, “Arrival of the new MT-09 marks another significant milestone for Yamaha towards its aspiration of becoming the desired lifestyle and recreation motor vehicle brand.

The engine is still the proven liquid-cooled, 847cc, inline-Triple but has now been hotted up with:

Quickshifter
Assist & slipper clutch
Traction control
Front and rear ABS
Fully-adjustable front and rear suspension (inclusive of compression and rebound damping).

The most striking features of the new MT-09 however, are the new LED headlights and taillights, leaner and sharper overall styling and components. HLYM will offer the new MT-09 in two colours called Night Fluo (Grey) and Tech Black. It will be available from Yamaha Big Bike authorized dealers from February 2018.

HLYM has set the selling price at a competitive RM 47,388 (inclusive of 6% GST but not on-the-road).
HLYM also previewed the Yamaha Xmax 250 during the event. It is slated to be officially launched in March 2018, and no price has been provided yet.

PICTURE GALLERY

				MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

				MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

				MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

				MTN850-A MTN850 MTN EUR RUS 2017

				MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

				MTN850-A MTN850 MTN EUR RUS 2017

				MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018

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