Shell Malaysia Launches Two New Variants of Shell Advance AX7

Shell Malaysia's Kenji Chai with the new 'made for Malaysia' Advance AX7

Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd has launched two new variants of Shell Advance AX7 semi-synthetic motorcycle engine oil.

They are the Shell Advance AX7 10W-30 and Shell Advance AX7 15W-50.

Both are priced at RM 33.90 for a 1-litre pack.

Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd has launched two new variants of Shell Advance AX7 semi-synthetic motorcycle engine oil.
The new Shell Advance AX7 10W-30 and 15W-50 are both priced at RM33.90 per 1-litre pack (recommended retail price) and complement the existing Shell Advance AX7 10W-40.
According to Shell Lubricants Marketing General Manager May Tan, the popular Shell Advance AX7 now offers three viscosity grades (in addition to the Shell Advance AX7 10W-40).
“This enables motorcyclists to choose a premium semi-synthetic engine oil from Shell Advance that best suits their riding needs,” she said.
All three grades feature Shell’s proprietary Active Cleansing Technology that provides complete protection for your bike. The benefits include:

33% cleaner engine;
29% better protection at high temperatures;
3 km further in travel distance per litre of fuel;
36% better wear protection against industry limit; and
No power loss even after 12,000 km of travel.

The new, thicker Shell Advance AX7 15W-50 promises smoother power delivery and better protection for engines that run for long periods under high stress conditions.
The new and thinner viscosity Shell Advance AX7 10W-30 provides excellent engine protection and offers better fuel economy, enabling your motorcycle to go for up to 3 km further compared to mineral oils.

The existing Shell Advance AX7 10W-40 has a well-balanced formulation that meets the needs of almost all types of motorcycles in daily riding conditions. It is ideal in providing the necessary protection for frequent stop-and-go traffic conditions.
However, it is advised that consumers follow OEM recommendations on the viscosity grade and quality rating of engine oils, as stated in the respective owner’s manual for optimal performance.
The new products are blended and packed in Malaysia and come with ‘Made for Malaysia’ front labels that identify them as genuine Shell Advance products meant for sale in Malaysia.
The new front label can be peeled to reveal a unique QR code for quick product authentication, while the label at the back features product information in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
“This is part of a strategic investment by Shell Malaysia to protect the interests of both motorcyclists and trade partners by enabling them to clearly identify official and genuine products. The presence of counterfeit and unauthorised products in the market is affecting customer confidence. The on-going introduction of the new ‘Made for Malaysia’ Shell Advance range is a key step to address this issue,” added Tan.
For information on the new Shell Advance AX7, visit www.shell.com.my/advance or call the Shell Customer Service Hotline at 1300 88 1808.

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Ducati Malaysia Extend A Helping Hand For Flood Victim In Yan

Ducati Malaysia with Amah Ehsan Care has extended a helping hand for all the victims of the flood tragedy in Yan, Kedah.
The contributions consist of towels and other necessities in an effort to ease the burden of all those affected by the recent flood tragedy.

Several villages and residential areas around Gunung Jerai in Yan, Kedah were hit by floods believed to be caused by “kepala air” surging from the waterfall areas at the foot of the mountain almost two weeks ago.

The incident also caused a swift overflow to residential areas while causing damage to roads and houses.
The flood tragedy has claimed four lives and affected about 1,000 houses in Yan and Kuala Muda districts.
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2020 MV Agusta Rush 1000 — 209 bhp and Radical to the Extreme

The 2020 MV Agusta Rush 1000 is definitely extreme.

Its unique SC Project exhaust system gives it 209 bhp and 116 Nm.

It beats the Ducati Streetfighter V4 by 1 bhp.

MV Agusta is nothing if not for their radical bikes, but the 2020 MV Agusta Rush 1000 is an extreme.
The manufacturer says that it’s a tribute to the drag racing scene. But without an elongated swingarm and lowered body stance, it’s more of a streetfighter. Even then, it looks like its stylists were given the free hand to go bonkers.

The Rush 1000 is based on the Brutal 1000RR but MV gave specialist exhaust makers SC Project the task of producing a unique system. Instead of being routed out the side, the dual tips exit behind the frame and just above the rear tyre.
Fitted with the pipes, the engine liberates 209 bhp and 116 Nm of torque, placing it well in the hypernaked category. In fact, it is the most powerful against the 208 bhp Ducati Streetfighter V4 and 197 bhp Kawasaki Z H2.
There’s plenty of carbon fibre to bring its weight down to 185 kg, dry. That disc-like rear wheel cover is carbon, hiding a forged-aluminium wheel.

Front brakes are Brembo Stylema 4-piston calipers gripping 320 mm discs. Öhlins electronic suspension is rightfully fitted.
No price yet, but it’s definitely going to be expensive. We wonder if MV Agusta will make a more “regular” version to challenge the Streetfighter V4.
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Honda builds 300-millionth bike

Legendary Japanese motorcycle maker Honda reaches milestone after building its 300-millionth motorcycle.

Japanese bikemaker Honda has a glorious history to continues to this day, having supplied the planet with a wide variety of motorcycles since 1955. Perhaps what founder Soichiro Honda did not anticipate after becoming Japan’s biggest bikemaker was how far the red wing marque would grow worldwide.

Recently, Honda made the announcement that it has successfully built its 300-millionth bike. Yes, you read that right: 300-millionth. And just in case you were wondering as to how many zeroes are in that figure, it is 300,000,000.
That figure covers all types and models that bear Honda’s red wing logo: superbikes, scooters, mopeds, scramblers, etc. And just to fill you in on more facts, Honda motorcycles are built in 32 facilities located in 22 different countries (ours included).

Honda also revealed that its 300-milionth unit happens to be one of its most celebrated model nameplates ever, the Gold Wing. The lucky model was produced in the firm’s Kumamoto factory in its homeland of Japan.
In celebration of that, we’ve put up a special gallery of images of the Gold Wing model and its history released by Honda below.
With the way things are going for the red wing marque, it looks set to produce maybe another 300-million units for at least another 50 years or so.
Honda Gold Wing history
Source: Asphaltandrubber and Autoblog
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MotoGP: First round in jeopardy as Austin declares “state of disaster”

The Coronavirus or COVID-19 is really, REALLY putting a threat on the current season of MotoGP. The opening round saw only the Moto3 and Moto2 teams battling it out while the next round in Thailand has been postponed to possibly at the end of the year and now, it looks like the first premier class won’t even see the light of day in Austin, Texas.

The Austin-Travis County leaders have officially declared a “local state of disaster” in order to cope with the current spread of the Coronavirus in the state as well as the country. Circuit of The Americas (COTA) falls under that area and all events that expect a crowd of more than 2,500 people will need to ‘assure Austin Public Health that mitigation plans for infectious diseases are in place.’

Travel restrictions from countries like Italy will also be a determining factor in understanding how all of this will play out. According to Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna, he’s determined to make sure that the 2020 season will see 20 rounds for all categories. Dorna is also looking into possibly running several rounds in the same venue with fewer travel restrictions (like Malaysia) and also the prospect of running the races without the attendance of fans in the grandstands.

Everything is currently in the dark at the moment as the folks over at Dorna are cracking their heads in determining the best possible step in ensuring that MotoGP continues in the safest possible manner for everyone involved, including fans.
Thai govt suspends MotoGP round in Buriram

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Jonathan Rea to MotoGP in 2019?

Multiple WorldSBK world champion Jonathan Rea is currently in talks to join MotoGP in 2019.
Several factory teams have extended their offers towards the 31-year-old rider.
Rea is also in talks with his current Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK as his contract ends at the end of the season.

The world of MotoGP is getting a huge buzz of gossips this time around with the possibility of multiple WorldSBK world champion Jonathan Rea finally ready to jump ships over to MotoGP. It seems that his side is already in talks with a few factory teams as we speak.

The 31-year-old rider racing for the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) has been poached for a number of the years in making this monumental move to MotoGP. He is regarded as a dominant force in Superbikes with three back-to-back wins the past three seasons and well on his way to his fourth.

Rea’s manager Chuck Aksland has revealed that they’re currently in discussions with Kawasaki regarding a possible contract renewal as his present deal ends at the end of 2018. Offers from other manufacturers from the MotoGP have presented themselves once again and they too are being considered.

Rea has stated several times that he will only make the MotoGP jump if the “package is right”. This means that if the team is highly-competitive with impressive results, Rea might just end his career in WorldSBK. Plus, we feel that it has to be a factory team or nothing at all for Rea.

Any decisions will only be confirmed in the next two weeks during the Acerbis Czech WorldSBK Round in Brno which is scheduled from 8 to 10 June 2018. For MotoGP factory seats, one seat from Repsol Honda, Ducati, Aprilia, and Suzuki have yet to be confirmed. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
WorldSBK: Jonathan Rea wants factory MotoGP bike?

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2019 BMW S 1000 RR will come with MotoGP technology?

The 2019 BMW S 1000 RR is said to be equipped with some very interesting MotoGP-inspired technology.

No news of the next-generation BMW superbike is out yet but Gulf Althea BMW Racing Team boss confirms that they might get it for the upcoming season.

Some say that it’ll carry a counter-rotating crankshaft used in MotoGP bikes, updated electronics and a power boost.

There’s no surprise that the world of superbikes is getting more and more advanced as days go by and manufacturers around the world are prepping themselves for the next generation race-inspired sports bikes. BMW Motorrad is no exception and the next-generation BMW S 1000 RR might be the best one yet.

As of now, there are only rumours and news going around online regarding the new BMW S 1000 RR and nothing more. However, the WorldSBK folks over at Gulf Althea BMW Racing Team have stated that they will be using the new 2019 machine in the upcoming season. Oh, goodie…

Team boss Genesio Bevilacqua recently confirmed this in an interview with GPOne stated a few things about continuing their race effort with the German manufacturer. This is mainly due to the fact that the new 2019 BMW S 1000 RR will only be able to be delivered to them sometime in February which is cutting it quite close to the season opener.

In other words, the new BMW superbike is well on its way for us fans here in the streets but they might have to fast-forward a few things if they’re planning to continue their racing division in WorldSBK (preferably during the post and pre-season testing sessions, of course).

No other news apart from one, a very interesting one. The 2019 machine is said to be incorporated with a race-inspired part, the counter-rotating crankshaft. This MotoGP-inspired tech is not found in many street bikes and machines like the Ducati Panigale V4 has begun incorporating them in the power plant.

This technological marvel assists in increasing the bike’s overall agility and ability to change directions efficiently. The counter-rotating crankshaft creates a torque that also helps with keeping the front end on the ground during accelerations and cutting down rear-wheel lifts under heavy braking.

Other expected upgrades include a brand new electronics package and a significant power upgrade for its already top-of-the-line 999cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke in-line 4-cylinder engine which produces a whopping 199hp and 113Nm of torque.

Experts in the field also expected the technology embedded in the super awesome BMW HP4 Race to trickle down to the next-generation BMW S 1000 RR. Expect the new bike to be unveiled at the end of the year during EICMA 2018. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Ten Innovations by BMW Motorrad

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All-new Ducati Monster 1200 R revealed + video and mega gallery

Meet the Monster of all Monsters, the all-new Ducati Monster 1200 R.

After initially teasing it last week, Ducati has finally taken the wraps off its latest creation, the all-new 2015 Ducati Monster 1200 R.

The new super-naked was revealed exclusively during the Volkswagen Group Night just before the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show opened its doors. And, as previously reported, Ducati will hold an exclusively global press test-ride on road and track in less than two weeks time.
Monster 1200 R
Built based upon the Ducati brand’s current generation Monster 821 and Monster 1200 naked series, the all-new R version packs more power and a sharper chassis package, and it now stands as the Bologna-based brand’s most powerful naked bike ever produced. Here are all the details we’ve managed to garner thus far.

Underneath the tubular steel trellis frame chassis design, the new Ducati Monster 1200 R is powered using its new 1,198cc Testastretta 11° DVT L-twin primed with DVT (Desmodromic Variable Timing) variable valve timing system as found in the Multistrada 1200 DVT. However in the Monster 1200 R, the liquid-cooled mill with four valves per cylinder now develops a whopping 160hp at 9,250rpm and 131.4Nm of peak torque at 7,750rpm. The mill is paired with a six-speed transmission complete with a hydraulically controlled wet multi-plate clutch with slipper action on over-run.

The increased power figure was made possible thanks to the presence of new and larger oval throttle bodies, larger 58mm exhaust ports and its compression ratio raised up to a rate of 13:1. Despite this, Ducati have also made the bike compliant with EURO 4 emissions standards, making the super-naked’s mill one of the most greenest ever produced by Borgo Panigale.

Weighing in at 207kg (180kg dry), the new Ducati Monster 1200 R also packs plenty of enhanced features as opposed to its standard Monster 821 and Monster 1200 siblings. It boasts three selectable riding modes, as well as the complete Ducati Safety Pack suite comprised of three-level ABS brakes plus an eight-level DTC traction control system.

Specific to the Ducati Monster 1200 R are several ‘racy’ features and bits. These include the adjustable Öhlins suzzies all round, followed by an Öhlins adjustable steering damper, carbon fibre front fender, lightweight three-spoke forged Marchesini wheels shod in Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP rubber, R-badged sports seat plus a specially designed passenger seat cover, billet machined footpegs, as well as the pentagonal-shaped twin-silencer exhaust.

The new Ducati Monster 1200 R is available exclusively in either Ducati Red or Thrilling Black paint schemes only, and is scheduled to hit European dealer showrooms first sometime early next year at a still undisclosed price tag.

With the facts and figures just presented, the new Ducati Monster 1200 R has ensured the Ducati brand’s presence in the ever-growing performance naked segment – an area it has been absent in since the demise of its 1098 Streetfighter model. It will now go toe-to-toe against the likes of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 RR.
Check out the gallery below to see more of Borgo Panigale’s all-new super-naked in all its glory.
2016 Ducati Monster 1200 R
Sources: Asphaltandrubber ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) / Visordown / MCN
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Project Rushmore: Harley’s revamped 2014 line up

American bikes maker Harley-Davidson may not have a new model or two in its 2014 range, but the brand have opted to give some well-deserved upgrades for its touring range under its ‘Project Rushmore’ initiative.

It appears that the initiative’s aim was to modernise its 2014 models, priming them with improvements such as LED headlights and tail lamps for models such as the Electra Glide Ultra Classic and Tri-Glide. The Road King and Street Glide series on the other hand is further upgraded with new and modern dual halogen lights as well. All the brand’s tourers are now equipped with its new Reflex ABS system as well.

Furthermore, H-D have also added Voice Recognition technology in the Street Glide, Tri-Glide, Electra Glide Ultra Classic. Following this are touchscreen music and navigation functions, a waterproof ‘Jukebox Shelf’ to store mobile devices with streaming capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, as well as the all-important USB port. As far as infotainment goes, H-D are taking a step towards the future.

Also new is the ‘Slipstream Vent’ equipped in the fairings of the Glide, Tri-Glide, Electra Glide Ultra Classic that reduces buffeting and increases comfort. The passenger seat and panniers have been redesigned, followed by the addition of a button-operated fuel cap, and a rework of the brake discs’ layout that makes the wheels stand out better.

Next comes the Electra Glide Limited, Electra Glide Classic, and Tri-Glide’s use of H-D’s new 1,690cc ‘Twin-cooled’ V-twin engines, suggesting the use of water or liquid cooling system – something many of us have long suspected.

Other changes under the Project Rushmore initiative include the redesign of the Fat Bob that now features a restyled tail with LED tail lights, and the addition of ABS brakes for the Sportster line. Check out the gallery below for a closer look at H-D’s upgraded and revamped 2014 models.
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Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Rd 4 – Shafiq Rasol scores podium!

Shafiq Rasol lands podium finish on home ground in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Rd. 4 Race 1.

The wait is finally over as rider Shafiq Rasol finally became the first Malaysian rider to clinch a podium finish in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup. Making it a sweeter affair, Shafiq landed his first podium in the series on home grounds in the Sepang International Circuit.

Winning the action-packed and dramatic race was Japanese rider Kaito Toba. His fellow countryman and championship leader Yuta Date, on the other hand, took third.

For Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, it was Indonesia all over again. Despite clocking in pole position earlier on, Nakarin crashed heavily early on in the race, taking out Ayumu Sasaki in the process as well. This then created a gap for the remaining riders to slug it out amongst each other.
Despite the strong challenges and little wiggle room, Malaysian rider Shafiq Rasol took advantage of the situation, storming into the lead pack after starting from 11th. From then on, Shafiq fought his way up into second, holding the position until the last lap to keep Yuta Date at bay in third.

The biggest winner however was Kaito Toba. The first lap and first turn furball saw him taking advantage of the situation, and rightfully earned his spot in the lead despite starting in fourth on the second row.

Toba shared, “For me, the most difficult point was the circuit back straight. Positioning here was crucial, and I kept this is my mind for my race strategy”. During the two-month break from the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, Toba also shared that he kept his fitness level up with alot of physical training, plus several stints racing in MiniGP and motocross.

His counterpart Date, on the other hand, had zero riding time throughout the month of August. He aded, “I did have a few stints riding motocross and trial bikes at the end of June, but throughout August, I concentrated more in the gym.”
Perhaps the no riding month may have led to the difficulty faced by championship leader Date for leading into the weekend’s race. Despite having a go in Sepang during testing just a fortnight back, Date shared that he could only get the rhythm of the track after racing against the pack today. He added, “what were difficult for me were circuit’s parabolic turns. Only during the test’s mock race did I get to formulate a racing line properly.”

“I feel much more confident to take the fight against these guy (Toba, Date) in tomorrow’s race,” said the soft-spoken Shafiq Rasol following his podium finish. Rest assured, Shafiq’s feat in Race 1 has raised the benchmark higher for the Malaysian encampment in the series.

Race 2 will flag off tomorrow at 1:15pm. As the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup runs alongside the Malaysian Super Series weekend, entrance is free, and members of the public are welcomed to spectate and support their favourite riders.
We will be covering tomorrow’s race as well, so check out this space for the latest results and updates. In the meantime, check out the extensive gallery below for more. Alternatively, you could also check out these images and more on the official BR Facebook page as well.
Additionally, full race result can be obtained by visiting the official Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup website here

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Suzuki Italy Teases with Special GSX-R1000 Model

Special Suzuki GSX-R1000 - Courtesy of Suzuki Motorcycle Italia

Suzuki Motorcycle Italia posted a picture of a “special” GSX-R1000.

The hashtags seemed to suggest it will appear at the San Marino GP this weekend.

We hope it is a homologation model for WSBK in 2019.

Suzuki Italy had done a naughty thing by posting a picture of a special carbon-clad GSX-R1000 on their Facebook page along with #spotted #staytuned #motogp #2019 hastags. It’ll probably give Suzuki fans sleepless nights.
It seems to be a special edition Gixxer, by the looks of it since it is fitted with carbon-fibre fairing, lever guards and racing style windscreen. Plus, judging from the hashtags, it will probably break cover during this weekend’s San Marino MotoGP and is a 2019 model in accordance with the #2019 hashtag.

But of course, it may not be a high-volume production bike, instead it would very well be a limited production, high-end homologation model for the World Superbike Championship. Remember that WSBK is productions-based, hence manufacturers need to produce a certain number of homologation models in order to be eligible in the series. Being production based also means that the race bikes has to be as close to the bikes you and I can buy, so manufacturers build these special models with as close as they are to racing specs. Case in point: The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR with titanium connecting rods and finger follower valve actuation.
Other manufacturers have followed such path for example the Ducati 888 SPS, Ducati 916 SP/SPS, Ducati 1199 Panigale R, Yamaha YZF-R1M, Aprilia RSV4 APRC Factory, the aforementioned Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR, Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2, and many more.
Let us hope that Suzuki does build this special model, instead of being a one-off for the San Marino GP and reclaim the World Superbike Championship title they won in 2005 with Troy Corser.
Stay tuned.
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Insight: Aprilia Racing Team Gresini @ Sepang Test 2

Five minutes with Aprilia Racing Team Gresini rider Alvaro Bautista and Aprilia Racing’s manager Romano Albesiano trackside at the Sepang International Circuit.

As many of you would know by now, the MotoGP fraternity are back in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this week for the second MotoGP pre-season tests. This would be a critical time for most outfits, especially for the returning Aprilia Racing team.

Thanks to our friends in Aprilia Malaysia (Naza Premira), we were given exclusive access and the opportunity to speak with Aprilia Racing Team Gresini rider Alvaro Bautista, and Aprilia Racing’s manager Romano Albesiano at the end of Day 2 yesterday. Here’s what we managed to garner.

Alvaro Bautista
Tell us how Day 2 went for you.
Well, today was not a really good day for us. We did test a lot of items for the bike, but we didn’t find a good setup. In the end, we just had to come back to the base setting. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, I had mechanical problem with the bike, so I couldn’t ride in the last hour. It has not been an easy day for me and the team, but this is normal because with the limited time we had with this bike, these kind of things happen. We have to keep pushing and keep working, and try to get a good pace for the start of the championship.

How was the new electronics suite working for you so far?
Well today, we were focused on the frame setting and different items in the rear of the bike. Yesterday, we tried different solutions for the electronics. As far as the electronics go, I am quite happy as we did a good job yesterday. It’s a small step, but we’re always moving forward. For sure we have to improve, especially in the first touch of the gas, but I am happy with our work here.
How about the chassis? Any progress from yesterday in today’s tests?
Not really. We tried yesterday with a different stiffness levels in the frame, but we didn’t find something good. So, we stayed on our base from last year’s bike. At the moment, I we have not found anything positive here.

What will be your area of focus for tomorrow’s session?
Basically, we will stay on the same frame, and we will concentrate to try different setups in the suspension and geometry. We will also try in the long run tomorrow afternoon to see how the bike works with a lot of laps. That’s basically the plan for tomorrow.
What do you personally hope to achieve tomorrow?
Well, I’d like to improve my corner entry as it was something I struggled a lot with in the last test. But, with the same frame and geometry, it is quite difficult. I don’t think we can find a solution tomorrow, but we will work towards it anyway.

How has the experience been for you with the Aprilia family this year?
I am quite happy! I have worked in the past with them when I won the world 125cc championship with them, I was fighting for the world 250cc championship as well with them. I am quite happy. I like working with Aprilia because working with a factory is always very nice. I know this decision will be hard because we do not have a lot of reference. The important thing is the fact that we have confidence in each other. I trust in Aprilia, Aprilia trust in me, and I think we can do a good job.

When we spoke to Alvaro yesterday evening, the Spaniard seems upbeat despite the daunting challenge he’s facing. The story is far grimmer for his Italian teammate, Marco Melandri.
Since the first Sepang test earlier this month, Marco has been struggling to adapt to the Aprilia RS-GP machine, resulting in the team bringing what they call a ‘hybrid’ SBK-GP race bike. The idea was to give Marco a more familiar base to work with, but as the timing sheets on Day 2 showed, it wasn’t enough.

To get a clearer insight, we also managed to speak with Aprilia Racing’s manager, Romano Albesiano, about how things fared for the Italian outfit on Day 2. Here’s what we garnered.

Romano Albesiano
Share with us your thoughts about today’s progress.
I would say that we are on schedule. We believe now that our potential lie in the midfield. Every aspect of our motorcycle can be improved for sure, because its totally new and we have no experience in MotoGP. We can improve the engine, transmission, the chassis is always in development, so are the electronics. But we are identifying many areas for development, so it looks good to us.
Share with us the decision to bring Marco Melandri back into MotoGP from SBK.
We brought Marco back into MotoGP because we trust him and we believe he is a fantastic rider. He is also a very experienced rider, and we believe he can help us in developing the bike, which is really the main idea. I choice has always been to bring him into MotoGP. Honestly, he’s having some difficulties, more than what we expected initially. But we are working together with him in order to rectify the problems.

Can you share with us some of the goals and targets you’d wish to achieve with the team prior to the season opener in Qatar?
This is a difficult one. My target is to develop day by day, to improve the bike every time, to understand, to get more knowledge, and the most reasonable target would be for us to be able to fight for tenth position from the mid-season onwards. That’s the most reasonable target for us.
Share with us what will you focus on with tomorrow’s test.
Tomorrow, with Alvaro, we will come back to the best configuration he tested with in the first test. Tomorrow morning, we will try to get a few good lap times. In the afternoon, we’d like to run a race simulation, and it’ll be the first time we would do so. With Marco though, we are still trying to understand some changes in the chassis to make him more comfortable on the bike.

Tell us about the ‘hybrid’ SBK-GP bike you’ve brought down for Marco.
We brought a bike which is more or a less Superbike, in order to help him start from something he’d know very well. This helped us today in helping him understand about the new bike. But tomorrow, we will be back on the RS-GP bike, and Marco will work with the team using the MotoGP bike.
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KPNHEP Confiscated Fake Engine Oil in Raid

KPDNHEP officers and fake oil - Photo credit Nur Aisyah Mazalan for Kosmo Online

The Johor Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) raided a distribution company for attempting to sell fake engine oil.

A total of 4,524 bottles were confiscated.

The company touted the fake product at RM 10 cheaper than market prices.

A distribution company in Kawasan Perindustrian Selatan, in Senai Johor was raided by the Johor state’s Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (Kementerian Perdagangan Dalam Negeri dan Hal Ehwal Pengguna – KPDNHEP) for attempting to sell 4,524 bottles of fake engine oil worth RM 45,692.20, yesterday.
The department’s chief of enforcement, Zubir Hamsa said that the success of the raid was due to the department’s intelligence efforts following the tip off by the brand owner.
Six workers and the company’s proprietor were present during the raid.
The operation netted the aforementioned number of 1-litre bottles in 377 crates. The department also discovered that the company was attempting to distribute the fake lubricants at RM 10 cheaper than the market price. The stock has not been distributed to retailers.
According to the KPHNHEP, the packaging of the bogus products looked very similar to the genuine items. They added that only the brand owner and KPNHEP can spot the difference(s).
All items were confiscated under Section 8(2)(c) of the Trade Description Act 2011.
In our opinion, low lives who sell fake motorcycle items should be incarcerated for life, since it involves the safety of motorcyclists.
Source: Kosmo! Online
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Hear the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R roar!

Kawasaki Indonesia has been teasing the crap out of everyone with short clips revolving around the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R. The latest that was posted regarding the re-emergence of the legendary and iconic 250cc inline-four sports bike is probably the most exciting of them all; the sound of the engine revving through the gears.

Launched just a couple of months ago at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, no one (apart from Kawasaki themselves) knows what is the actual power and torque figure of the new 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R. The previous generation ZX-25R which was unveiled about 30 years ago was a game-changer that produces around 45hp.

The new model is expected to churn out somewhere between 55hp-60hp and 45Nm of maximum torque with the redline set at 17,000rpm! Those figures are quite exciting to hear and watching the video of the engine being put through its paces is even more exhilarating, to say the least.
It’s even more amazing to know that the new ZX-25R also comes standard with the Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) where you can also hear in the video.

Other interesting specs about the new 2020 ZX-25R apart from its 250cc inline-four DOHC liquid-cooled engine are:

New steel trellis frame
Showa SFF-BP front forks (Separate Function Forks – Big Piston)
Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC)
Power Mode Selector + more

We’re still pretty much in the dark regarding the bike’s overall specs, price, and availability but one thing is for sure; Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) will probably be swimming in money if they are able to bring this new model in as soon as possible together with a competitive pricing package. Anybody interested? We are!

Here it is! The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Inline-Four Sportbike

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Art of Speed Kota Bharu 2019 ready to rock!

Heads up, boys and girls! The Art of Speed Kota Bharu 2019 has rolled into the state capital of Kelantan. The event that celebrates everything art in the automotive culture will be held today and tomorrow (March 22nd-23rd) together with the Kelantan Art & Culture Festival Volume 2 2019.

The two-day art extravaganza will take place at the Stadium Sultan Muhammad IV where it’ll be spearheaded by the folks from Art of Speed Malaysia, 405 Industries, and Rachun Motor Club. Everyone who is interested in custom bikes, classic cars, food and drinks (everyone loves this!) plus live music can come on down and have a ball with these lovely lads.

The amazing ‘White Angel’ custom machine built by Muhammad Khalid Musa of The Rusty Factory from Ipoh will also make a special appearance at #AOSKB19. This amazing custom BMW R75/6 won both the judge and public choices in its first show entry. This beautiful rolling art on wheel was also declared champion in the ‘New Frame Only’ category just last month at the prestigious Bangkok Motorbike Festival 2019!

Other exciting events that will take place tomorrow (March 23rd) would be the ‘March of the Mods’ by the Kelantan Mods Gengs and many beautiful merchandises plus rare collectible items up for sale. So get dressed, start up your vehicles, and make your way to the Stadium Sultan Muhammad IV now!

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KTM BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 Announced – Limited To Just 290 Units, RM198k

KTM and German tuning company BRABUS continued their partnership for 2023 with the introduction of the BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23.

KTM announced second collaboration with German tuning experts, BRABUS with the 1300 R Edition 2023.
The 2nd-generation motorcycle continue to crank 180hp and 140Nm.

Unveiled in Hanoi, Vietnam, the BRABUS 1300 R Edition 2023 is an evolution of the original 1300 R introduced last year.
Limited to just 145 units in Superblack and another 145 in Stealth Gray, the BRABUS 1300 R Edition 23 is again build based on the KTM 1290 Super Duke R EVO. Similar to last year’s model, the 1300 R Edition 23 features a number of bespoke BRABUS components including carbon fiber and CNC-machined parts.

That said, the BRABUS 1300 R Edition 2023 looks similar to the original except for a few modifications mainly by adding more carbon fiber components including the headlight trim and air scoops.
Completing the changes are new BRABUS Monoblock Z forged wheels with platinum black finish.

Powering the beast is the same 1,301cc LC8 V-Twin engine that makes 180hp @ 9,500rpm and 140Nm @ 8,000rpm. Meanwhile, WP supplies the semi-active APEX suspension and steering damper.
Priced at EUR42,500 (RM198k), all 290 units will be sold only via an online pre-order site which opens on February 16,2023.

Fun fact, the previous BRABUS 1300 R sold out in just under two minutes.
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Did You Know Harley-Davidson Made Small Capacity Bikes?

Photo credit 2stroke.nl

Harley-Davidson may be famous for heavyweight V-Twin cruisers, but they used to make small capacity bikes, too.

The small bikes were result of Harley buying over Aermacchi.

Who knows if the Motor Company will produce small capacity bikes again.

Think about Harley-Davidson motorcycles and your mind creates a slideshow of large-sized, heavyweight, iron horses that create micro earthquakes with their signature rumble.
But, did you know that Harley-Davidson actually produced small capacity bikes in their 100+ year old history? Yes, they did. Some worked, some were goofy, but all are gone.
However, there are rumors that the Motor Company will start producing smaller bikes again. The motorcycle buyer demographic has shifted over the years to smaller, cheaper and easier to ride bikes, so the mutterings may turn out to be true.
Let’s take a look at a few of them.
1948 Harley-Davidson S-125
Photo credit Dream Machines
Not everyone could afford and handle a Panhead, so the Motor Company decided to make a more accessible bike. The S-125 was a direct copy of the 1938 DKW RT125 two-stroke. Well, Harley didn’t “copy” the DKW illegally, instead the design was given to the USA a part of Germany’s war reparations.
As such, the same bike is seen as the BSA Bantam in Great Britain, Minsk in the USSR, Yamaha YA-1 in Japan. But it was also produced almost everywhere including Poland and Italy.
1958 Harley-Davidson Topper
Photo credit yesterdays.nl
The Topper was a rebadged DKW. It was powered by a 165cc, air-cooled two-stroke which needs to be started by pulling a cord, like you would a lawnmower. Sold until 1965, the first generation used the “Scootaway Drive” CVT. However, the belt fell prey to road grime and other contaminants, causing it to slip constantly. So, the updated 1961 model came with a sealed final drive.
1961 Harley-Davidson Sprint 250
Photo credit Pinterest
Harley bought an Italian company called Aeronautica Macchi, better known as Aermacchi. The result was a slew of lightweights. The bike was fun, according to classic motorcycle aficionados, but Harley fans didn’t like it.
1966 Harley-Davidson Bobcat
Photo credit Ride Apart
The Bobcat is the successor to the S-125. It had a novel feature of one-piece molded seat, tank and rear fender. Harley didn’t make many Bobcats but its styling influenced the “boattail” Low Rider, XLCR Sportster, Triumph X75 Hurricane and Spanish Bultacos and Ossas.
1971 Harley-Davidson Snowmobile
Photo credit oldmotodude.blogspot
Yes, it isn’t a motorcycle per se, but Harley is a motorcycle manufacturer. The American Machine and Foundry Corportation (AMF) owned both Harley and hence Aermacchi at the time. Besides the boom for mini bikes, the 70’s was also a boom time for snowmobiles. It started out with a 398cc two-stroke, before going up to 433cc. Nearly 10,000 were made by the time it went out of production in 1975.
1973 Harley-Davidson Shortster
Photo credit 2stroke.nl
That isn’t a typo, you read it right – Shortster. It was the Motor Company’s entry into the minibike craze during the time (read: Honda Monkey), besides introducing the brand to kids. Harley’s plan didn’t work, of course. Folks flocked the cheaper and more reliable Monkey.
1974 Harley-Davidson/Aermacchi RR250 Grand Prix Racer
Photo credit raresportbikesforsale.com
Four-time Grand Prix World Champion Walter Villa worked with Aermacchi to develop this 250cc two-cylinder two-stroke. He beat out Yamaha in the Italian GP at Monza in 1974 and 1975.
1975 Harley-Davidson SS350

The SS350 was a two-stroke single, the last from the Harley-Aermacchi venture. Harley’s involvement in the lightweight market was also coming to an end, having being beaten by the Japanese manufacturers.
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2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 launched at AOS 2019 – RM122,500

The Art of Speed Malaysia 2019 hosted the launch of the new 2019 Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 earlier today for the very first time here in the country. The model focusing on top-end performance paired with enhanced agility marks the new wave of Harley-Davidson bikes for the Malaysian market.

Designed to look like an all-out dragster with tasteful hints inspired by modern fighter jets, the FXDR 114 is not just powerful but also super pleasing on the eyes thanks to its modern take of the iconic Harley-Davidson façade.

Based on the new Softail platform introduced just last year, this very model holds the pinnacle of H-D performance-oriented cruisers in the ever-expanding line-up of next level models. The biggest highlight of the FXDR has to be its Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-Twin engine, which happens to be the most powerful powertrain offered in the Softail chassis.

We’re talking somewhere in the ballpark of 90hp and 158Nm of torque readily available from as low as 3,500rpm. The 1,868cc engine paired with the forward-facing air intake inspired by the World Champion Screamin’ Eagle / Vance & Hines drag machines makes the FXDR 114 one menacing looking bike.

H-D even came up with an all-new 2-into-1 exhaust designed specifically to bring out the best of what the FXDR 114 has to offer. It not only provides the iconic rumble of a H-D machine but was also designed to maximize lean angle when carving through mountain roads.

The FXDR also made use of a lot more aluminium parts and composite components to further cut its weight down to a more dynamic 303kg (kerb weight). H-D also made sure that the world of drag bikes can be seen clearly in the FXDR with its inverted front forks, massive intake and exhaust, clipped tail section, and many more.

A very modern-looking LED headlamp enhanced with a speed screen helps to cut through the air better making it even more aerodynamic. The whole sleek outlook is carried further onto its fuel tank which is able to carry 17.7 litres worth of fuel.

As for riding comfort, H-D assures that the FXDR 114 has that in abundance with the addition of the Softail monoshock rear suspension with single coil-over shock and internal free piston technology and inverted 43mm front forks with a single-cartridge internal fork damping capability.

Those who are interested in getting one should also know that Harley-Davidson has priced it at RM122,500 (without insurance) and all FXDR units registered before 30 November 2019 will also get a complimentary Screamin’ Eagle titanium muffler and RM4,200 merchandise voucher. Six different colours are up for grabs; Vivid Black, Black Denim, Industrial Grey Denim, Wicked Red Denim, Bonneville Salt Denim, and Rawhide Denim.
Visit the nearest Harley-Davidson authorised showrooms across Malaysia to know more.

Harley-Davidson Sportster Special Deal at Art of Speed 2019

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River’s Indie Electric Scooter Launches in India

Indian electric two-wheeler startup River has just launched its newest model, and it’s a game-changer. The Indie electric scooter has hit the Indian market with a bang, and it’s already causing a stir among two-wheel enthusiasts.

The River Indie electric scooter stands out from the crowd thanks to its 55 liters of storage space.
The Indie boasts an electric motor output of 6.7 kilowatts and a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity.

This premium electric scooter is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and it’s set to take the Indian electric vehicle market by storm.
The Indie is an SUV in the world of electric scooters, according to River, and it’s easy to see why. It’s been designed with practicality in mind, and it comes with a host of features that make it stand out from the crowd. One of the most impressive features is the 55 liters of storage space, with 12 liters in the front glove compartment and 43 liters under the saddle. The flat floorboard allows for even more storage space, and the footrests up front are a thoughtful addition.
But it’s not just about practicality. The River Indie electric scooter also boasts impressive performance specs. It’s powered by an electric motor with an output of 6.7 kilowatts, or around nine horsepower, and it’s powered by a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity. River claims a range of about 120 kilometers, or 75 miles, on a single charge, with a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour, or 56 miles per hour. While the scooter takes a while to charge, it’s well worth the wait.

But what really sets the River Indie apart from other electric scooters is its styling. The rugged, boxy design gives it a unique look, and the square-shaped LED headlights and built-in crash guards add to its distinctive appearance. The full-color TFT display and two USB charging ports are a nice touch, and the reverse parking assist feature is a welcome addition.
Of course, all these features come with a premium price tag. The River Indie retails for Rs 1,25,000, or around RM6.7k, but it’s worth it for the quality and versatility of this electric scooter.
For now, the Indie is only available for pre-order in Bengaluru, but it’s expected to hit other parts of India soon.
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PGM V8 – Meet the 2000cc V8 monster naked bike from Australia

The PGM V8 is the latest 2000cc V8 monster naked bike that has been created in the land obsessed with V8 power, Australia.
Pat Maloney created the PGM V8 after retiring from a successful life in Superbike World Championship and Formula 1.
The engine is created by joining two Yamaha YZF-R1 engines together which generates a powerful 334hp and 214Nm of maximum torque.

In a place where the general population and motorheads are almost obsessed with the V8 engine configuration, it’s not a surprise when someone decides to stuff it into a motorcycle chassis. That’s exactly what happened a couple of years back when Pat Maloney created the PGM V8 which is arguably one of the world’s most powerful production motorcycles.

Pat Maloney is known for being an outstanding mechanic back in his glory days of the Superbike World Championship and also Formula 1. What’s even more amazing is the fact that Maloney was one of the people responsible for bringing the Petronas FP1 three-cylinder beast into life.

Now operating his very own Maloney’s Maltec Performance Engineering shop in Victoria, it was only logical for him to start building his own monster in his backyard. In Australia, the PGM V8 is not the first V8-powered motorcycle ever built. That title goes to Drysdale V8 and Aurora Hellfire OZ26 but the love for V8s has never faded in the land down under.

Looking at the overall looks, it is certainly not the best looking bike in the world but all that carbon-fibre madness makes up quite a lot. What lies under the hood however is indeed a thing of beauty. Maloney took two cylinder banks from the Yamaha YZF-R1 produced sometime between 2000 to 2010 and created the 2.0-litre 90° V8 joined a flat-plane crankshaft inside bespoke engine cases.

This resulted in the PGM V8 being able to produce a monstrous 334hp at 12,800rpm and around 214Nm of maximum torque. All that power is driven down to the rear wheel via a custom gearbox which had to be engineered to accommodate with the unique engine configuration.

To keep the weight relatively down (even though the PGM V8 has a wet weight of 242kg), a set of Marchesini forged alloy wheels and an Akrapovic titanium full system exhaust have been incorporated. As for the suspension, a set of top-shelf Ohlins were used alongside some Brembo beauties to make sure that everything stays relatively connected and stable to handle all that power.

Interested to get one of your very own? Get ready to drop some serious cash as it is priced at a whopping $180,000 (around RM718,380 after direct conversion). As for the top speed, you are presented with a question “How brave are you?” As for the sound, you can check it out for yourself in the video, below.

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BMW Motorrad sold over 175,000 bikes in 2019

BMW Motorrad recorded yet another stunning annual sales figure back in 2019 when they managed to deliver a total of 175,162 bikes to customers around the globe. That’s a slight 5.8% increase compared to the previous year where BMW registered 165,566 units in 2018.

According to Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, “2019 was another very successful year for BMW Motorrad in spite of a number of challenges. We achieved a sales record for the ninth time in succession. I would like to thank our customers all over the world most sincerely for the great trust they have placed in us again in 2019.”

“The 2019 sales figures clearly show that our motorcycle growth strategy is taking effect. This success was achieved due to the market launch of seven new models as well as the powerful BMW Motorrad product portfolio. We will expand our product range with emotional and innovative new products in 2020, too. We have already given a preview of our highly anticipated BMW R 18 in 2019.”

BMW Motorrad did especially well for the range-topping adventure models, the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure as well as the R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure. They’ve recorded a staggering 59,000 units+ registered around the globe and it’s partly because of all the new tech featured on the bikes, like the ShiftCam Boxer engine.

Their portfolio for bikes below 500cc was also well received with over 20,000 units of the G 310 R and G 310 GS sold worldwide. Their mid-range models like F 750 GS and F 850 GS also saw strong popularity with over 29,000 units sold.

The figures for their 1,000cc range like the 2019 BMW S 1000 RR were not publicly released but we’re pretty sure that they did massively well thanks to all the updates and strong competition in WorldSBK and so on. 2020 looks to be their toughest yet to follow considering the amount of success they’ve had in the past few years.

Carbon fibre frame – the future of BMW Motorrad?

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Sepang International Circuit to close for upgrades

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) announces temporary closure for upgrades and resurfacing works from February to May 2016.
Image credit: Shell
The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) management have announced that it will close the circuit for several months in 2016 to accommodate its upgrading and resurfacing works. The circuit will be closed from February 15 until May 8.
According to the circuit’s press statement, the works will involve the entire length of the 5.54km-long circuit, and is a mandatory requirement in ensuring that the course continues to be homologated to meet with FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A circuit standards. The circuit last underwent an upgrade back in 2007.

SIC did shed some light into what specific areas are being upgraded as well. Besides resurfacing the circuit’s entire 5.54km length, upgrades will be performed towards the drainage system, as well as the kerbs and the run-off area tarmac. The work will also involve a rebuild of the gravel bed area at Turn 1 and Turn 15.

The circuit is expected to resume its regular operation and business as soon as the revamp in completed in May.
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Storm Pulse: the all-electric touring bike

Dutch students unveil groundbreaking electric-powered Storm Pulse experimental touring bike.
  When it comes to making electric vehicles, be it two- or four-wheels, the one constant issue here is range. As cool as they are, electric powertrains are bogged down by limited range as far as present tech levels are concerned.  However, a recent development by a group of Dutch students from the Eindhoven University of Technology is hoping to change that. Meet their creation, the Storm Pulse experimental electric touring bike.  According to its creators, the Storm Pulse has a claimed maximum travel range of 236 miles (approx. 380 kilometres) on a single charge. In comparison, that’s nearly two-and-a-half times that of the Harley-Davidson Project Livewire demonstrator that we test-rode earlier this year, and just 25 miles (approx. 40km) short of the groundbreaking Tesla Model S electric car’s maximum range.  The Storm Pulse’s long distance ability was made possible thanks to the adoption of a 24-cartridge battery pack rated at 28.5kWh. Stacked below a faux tank where the engine is traditionally mounted, the battery pack can be recharged up to 80% in just 38 minutes according to the Storm Pulse’s creators.  The electric motor generates 35Kw, which equates to approximately 47hp, and is capable of propelling the Storm Pulse’s claimed weight of 340kg up to speeds rapidly. The 0–100km/h sprint takes just 5 seconds whilst top speed has been claimed at 100mph, or approximately 160km/h.  Should 340kg sound a little too heavy, each of the battery pack’s 24 cartridges can be removed individually to reduce weight further for a much sportier ride, but that comes at the price of shortening the distance of course. Other notable details of the Stom Pulse include the bike’s specially designed aluminum frame, Hossack forks and custom shocks.  The Dutch university students behind the Storm Pulse project are set to put the prototype through its paces soon. One of the planned trials include an ambitious 80-day ride around the world as well. You can check out more and follow the progress of the Storm Pulse via its creators’ official site, www.storm-eindhoven.com. Now this is one student project that deserves more than just an A+ credit rating!
Sources: Storm Eindhoven / Visordown / Business Insider Australia
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Modenas to launch new 300cc scooter on 19 November 2020

Modenas has announced that they have something special planned on 19 November 2020 and judging by the teaser photo, the new bike will most likely be the new 2021 Modenas Elegan 250 or a completely different 300cc maxi-scooter.

We’re not sure which way this will play out, but a new 250cc scooter from Modenas will target a much bigger audience that won’t have to upgrade their driver’s licenses to B full. On the other hand, a more powerful rendition will pull in a different crowd into the mix, but that will be confirmed next week.

Fans with eagle eyes can see that the front-end design and headlight setup resemble the Kymco X-Town 300i, a very sweet-looking scooter. Equipped with a 276cc single-cylinder SOHC engine that produces around 24hp and 25Nm of torque, which is slightly more powerful than the 250cc Elegan.

If this is indeed a Kymco X-Town 300i rebadged with Modenas logos, you can expect specs like adjustable brake lever, full-LED headlights with DRLs, mid-range dual-disc brakes, 14-inch front wheel (13-inch rear), 12.5-litre fuel tank, large under-seat storage, and more.

For now, we’ll just have to wait for its official debut on 19 November 2020. We’re big fans of maxi-scooters here at Bikes Republic and we’re confident that Modenas will launch something that’s both interesting as well as affordable to the masses. Stay tuned for more updates.
MV Agusta Superveloce 75 Anniversario unleashed – 75 units only

Written by: Sep Irran
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Over 200 classic motorcycles caught fire in Austrian museum

We woke up today with sad news from Austria as over 200 classic motorcycles caught fire at the Top Mountain Crosspoint Motorcycle Museum yesterday. Regarded as Europe’s highest altitude museum aka “the highest motorcycle museum in the world” at 2,175 metres above sea level, it houses one of the most valuable motorcycle collections on the continent.

Around 230 historic bikes ranging from over 100 brands like Brough Superior, Vincent, Matchless, Sunbeam, and many more were tragically engulfed in flames and we are gutted just to read about it, even here in Malaysia.

It is feared that most of the bikes displayed in the exhibition area have perished in the fire which was reported at 4.00 am and firefighters are still investigating the cause of it all. Looking at the video, the building itself may have suffered significant damages and the poor bikes most likely didn’t stand a chance.

The museum was founded back in 2016 by twin brothers Alban and Attila Scheiber, who wanted to share their love and passion for motorcycles via their very impressive collection. The museum even housed some classic cars like Porsche, Ferrari, and Aston Martin, but their fates have yet to be determined.

Luckily, no human casualties were reported by the authorities. Our deepest condolences to the owners.
Image credit: Mandy Kainz
350,000th Ducati Monster delivered to customer

Written by: Sep Irran
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Armotia Due – the all-electric 2WD supermoto and enduro

Due X

Armotia Due twins could be electric-powered 2WD supermoto and enduro bike for the near future.
Without any doubts, electric power is the way forward for bikes, and it won’t be long before it replaces petrol in powering even supermoto and enduro bikes like this Armotia Due R and Armotia Due X twin.

Though somewhat of an alien name in the two-wheeled scene, the Italian-based Armotia brand name is the result of the three-year development of founders Antonio Ranalli and Andrea Andreucci.

				Due X

				Due R

Both the Due R supermoto and Due X enduro share the same air-cooled electric motor unit that kick out 15hp from the energy stored in a 5.1kWh battery pack. Besides that, both bikes also feature two-wheel-drive (2WD) setups that, theoretically, would offer greater traction. This would no doubt prove handy especially when tackling changing terrains and surface conditions.

Besides the powertrain, both the Due X and Due R share the same oval steel trellis frame chassis construction, as well as the pair of 41mm inverted front forks and fully adjustable Bitubo rear monoshock.

Another notable shared feature are the brakes. The package is comprised of a 260mm floating front disc grabbed by Brembo twin-piston calipers plus a smaller 220mm floating disc at the rear grabbed by a single-piston caliper.

As these are a pair of Italian bikes, they boast rather attractive designs to say the least. Fuelling that further is the smartphone-esque digital instrument display offering rich amounts of data.
However, as the old saying goes, looks can be deceiving. In the case of the two Armotia bikes, it’s the seemingly low performance figures that don’t match up to its styling. The supermoto has a claimed top speed of merely 88.5km/h and it gets lower in the enduro at 80km/h.
Still, this is something that is interesting to look forward should it hit the market. But even that is something that remains to be seen as reports suggest that the firm hasn’t set either a target release date or pricing schemes.
Armotia Due X

				Due R

Armotia Due R

				Due X

Sources: Asphaltandrubber / Visordown
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Cub Prix: Round 6 will introduce new race category – Yamaha NVX Challenge!

The sixth round of the 2017 Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix will see another race category added to the series which is the Yamaha NVX Challenge.
20 new young racers will battle it out for the rest of the Cub Prix season on board the newly-launched 155cc 2017 Yamaha NVX scooters.
The first ever round will be this weekend on 5 and 6 August 2017 which will be held in Jasin, Melaka.

The sixth round of the 2017 Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix will see a seventh race category added to the other race classes which is the Yamaha NVX Challenge. A group of 20 young racers will battle it out on board race-kitted Yamaha NVX scooters which were previewed in the previous Cub Prix round held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS), Selangor.

The sixth Malaysian Cub Prix will run its course this weekend on 5 and 6 August 2017 in Jasin, Melaka. This will be the first time that the race series will be including a scooter category using the newly-launched 155cc 2017 Yamaha NVX.
The young riders chosen to race in the new 2017 Yamaha NVX Challenge (Photo source: Malaysian Cub Prix)
To know more about the Yamaha NVX scooter, CLICK HERE.

20 new teenage hopefuls will be taking to the track astride the recently-launched Yamaha NVX 155 scooters, all hoping to follow in the footsteps of current Malaysian international riders such as Khairul Idham Pawi, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah, Adam Norrodin and Zulfahmi Khairuddin.

“The Yamaha NVX Challenge will run on the same format as the two existing mono-brand classes. In view of the short preparation time for the riders between the selection and the race, Hong Leong Yamaha had organised a private training session to help the first-time competitors adjust to the rules and conditions of racing on a track,” said Ron Hogg, Director of Safe Aim Mutual Sdn Bhd.

“Cub Prix is all about talent identification and development. The introduction of this new class is in response to increasing interest among youths in the sport of motorcycle racing.”

Fans of the Yamaha NVX 155 can watch the bikes performing on track this weekend at Bandar Jasin Bestari in Melaka this weekend. Spectator entry is free.

To check out the Yamaha NVX scooter in the MotoGP Movistar Yamaha and Monster Yamaha Tech 3 colours, CLICK HERE.

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Rossi Sheds Light On Enduro Crash

Rossi explained his enduro crash

Comeback at Motorland Aragon is out

Hope to be back in Motegi

Racers always have this advice: When in doubt, give it gas. But perhaps life has a sense of irony, because it seems that bad injuries happen when they’re riding slow, instead.
Many a times have we seen a crash where a rider was flung metres into the air and then down the track, only to get up and walk away unharmed, while his bike self-destructed by tumbling itself into pieces of carbon fibre and metal biscuits.

Yet, we’ve also witnessed innocuous-looking crashes when for example, the tyres slid out from underneath the rider but he had to be stretchered off into an ambulance.
Triple World Champion, “Mr. Perfect” Wayne Rainey’s tragic lowside at Misano in  turned him into a paraplegic, and the late Nicky Hayden was fatally hit by a car while cycling on public roads.

And it’s the same for Valentino Rossi, although thankfully not as bad as the other two gentlemen.
He wasn’t racing when he had his enduro crash, “Unfortunately, I was with all my friends on an enduro bike, making a tour around the centre hills behind Urbino in the countryside. It’s a thing that I’ve done since I was 18 together with my father for a long, long time. Very close to the end, in one downhill section at very low speed, I lost the steering, and to not crash I put my foot on the ground. But it was a bit downhill, and all the weight of the bike went on my leg and it broke.”

Speaking during the Misano round, Rossi knows his hopes of returning to the track in three weeks after his surgery is unrealistic and has to concede the Aragon round as well. Rossi had suffered a similar injury in 2010. A broken leg a Mugello caused his to miss three rounds – resulting in his first missed races of his entire career. Jorge Lorenzo won his first MotoGP title that year.

It’s from that experience which Rossi drew his conclusion from. “I learned from the other time that in this phase of the recovery, you have to live day by day. It depends very much on how the leg feels, how much pain there is. We’re already working and we’re trying to come back as soon as possible though. The next race after Misano is Aragon, but I think it would have been very hard to be back for there because it’s 22 days after the injury – just three weeks.”
Rossi also added that he’ll be back in Motegi.
We first reported about Rossi’s accident here, and Michael Van Der Mark replacing Rossi at Motorland Aragon here.
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Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” Rides to Cherating

The fifth edition of the Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” took the owners from Kuantan to Cherating, Pahang.

The riders had lots of fun at the beaches.

They also took plenty of pictures and videos for the #motography and #motographymalaysia initiatives.

In this fifth edition of the Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” initiative, the owners rode from Kuantan to Cherating for fun and games.

The ride is part of the onging #Motography and #MotographyMalaysia initiatives which encourages Modenas Dominar 400 owners to submit photographs and videos of their travels. The footages can then be used by all Dominar 400 owners who wish to travel to those same exotic locations.

The riders grouped at Restoran Aliff for breakfast. Later, they were briefed on the day’s programmes and routes, and were soon flagged off. The first #Motography stop was at Pantai Teluk Mak Nik, or better known as Monica Bay.

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At the beautiful destination featuring sand and surf line by casuarina trees, the riders went ahead to place their bikes for their best shots. The shots were then uploaded to the #motography social media site. The best shot wins prizes, by the way.

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Moving on, the convoy rode to Warung Aziz Satar for lunch and refreshments.

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The riders then travelled to another location at the Cherating beach for a five-a-side beach football match.

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Finally, each rider partook a glass of fresh coconut water to bring this fifth “Explore the Unexplored” edition to a successful end.

Please follow us at BikesRepublic.com and www.facebook.com/DominarMalaysia/for more up-to-date updates.
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FIRST LOOK: 2024 BMW CE-02

BMW Motorrad continues to make strides in electric mobility with the launch of its latest e-vehicle, the BMW CE 02.

Positioned as an eParkourer, this dynamic and innovative electric vehicle caters to the needs of urban dwellers, offering a unique blend of style, performance, and practicality.
The BMW CE 02 breaks away from traditional categorizations, standing as neither an e-motorbike nor an e-scooter.

Instead, it represents a fresh approach to urban mobility, designed to captivate the younger generation. With its nimble and robust build, the CE 02 is tailored for the city and urban environments, boasting large wheels for both durability and thrilling rides across various terrains.
Sporting a progressive design, the CE 02 showcases new proportions and ample opportunities for personalization. The sleek black frame, wheels, front fender, and triple clamp fairing harmonize with the contrasting granite grey metallic matt engine cover. Additionally, the CE 02 is available in the vibrant HIGHLINE version, featuring gold-anodized forks and a captivating tape design with Petrol as a contrasting color.

Power and efficiency are at the heart of the BMW CE 02. With two performance variants available, riders aged 16 and above can experience the thrill of the CE 02’s maximum power output of 11 kW (15 hp). For riders with an AM driving license, a 4 kW (5 hp) version, limited to 45 km/h, provides a suitable option. With a top speed of 95 km/h and a range exceeding 90 km (11 kW version according to WMTC), the CE 02 delivers both agility and endurance for extended urban adventures.

Weighing just 132 kg (11 kW version) or 119 kg (4 kW version) and featuring a low seat height of 750 mm, the CE 02 is designed with playful handling in mind. Maneuvering through crowded streets becomes a breeze, enhancing the overall riding experience.

The BMW CE 02 offers a range of riding modes to suit different preferences. The “Flow” and “Surf” modes come as standard, providing optimal setups for urban cruising and dynamic riding experiences, respectively. For those seeking an even more spirited ride, the “Flash” driving mode is available as part of the HIGHLINE optional equipment or as an original BMW Motorrad accessory.

Charging the CE 02 is convenient and efficient. The eParkourer comes with an external charger featuring a 0.9 kW charging power, enabling quick and easy charging at standard household sockets. For faster charging, a 1.5 kW quick charger is available as part of the HIGHLINE optional equipment or as an accessory (11 kW version only).
The BMW CE 02 boasts a robust chassis, featuring a double-loop tube frame made of tubular steel for enhanced rigidity. Telescopic forks and a single-sided swingarm ensure a comfortable and stable ride. Equipped with disc brakes and BMW Motorrad ABS, the CE 02 offers reliable and safe deceleration.

The cockpit of the CE 02 features an easy-to-read TFT display, providing essential information such as riding speed and battery charge status. A USB-C charging port is also included, allowing riders to power their smartphones on the go. By utilizing the BMW Motorrad Connected app, riders can monitor the charging process and access other vehicle information through their smartphones. In the HIGHLINE variant, the app can be safely controlled via the handlebar keypad, enhancing convenience and safety.
The new BMW CE 02 sets new standards in urban electric mobility.
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Modenas Plans To Launch The Rebadge Kawasaki Ninja 250 End Of Q1 2022

Modenas is set to rebrand a range of Kawasaki’s bike range, starting with the Ninja 250.
This was confirmed by the Chief Executive Officer of Modenas Roslan Roskan, during the company track day event held at 3StonePark, Glenmarie, earlier today.
According to Roslan, the Modenas Ninja 250, which was previously unveiled in late 2019, will roll out at the end of Q1 2022.

Currently, the current plan is to rebadge a series of models ranging from 250cc up to 650cc. However, the scenario is still under evaluation by both parties.
Moreover, we were told that Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) would also send a representative from Japan who will be appointed as the Chief of Marketing (CMO) to smoothen the collaboration between Modenas and Kawasaki further.
Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) was previously announced as the new distributor of Kawasaki brands in Malaysia, including a range of bikes, after-sales, and customer support.
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Fuel Injection – What is it?

Image source:Magneti Marelli
A guide to understanding how your bike’s fuel injection system works over carburettors.

Image source:Magneti Marelli

Fuel injection has been around on bikes for quite a while now, and it’s not going away. Given the right information, properly set-up fuel injection can deliver the correct amount of fuel at any time, under any conditions.
Image source:sibirskyextreme.com
The mechanics of fuel injection are pretty simple, a pump delivers pressurised fuel to the injectors, positioned in the throttle bodies through which air to the engine. The injectors are roughly spark plug shaped, and contain a solenoid-operated valve which, when activated by the bike’s electronic brain (the ECU), opens and allows a pressurised squirt of fuel into the airflow.
The amount of fuel injected is determined by the length of time the valve stays open. The valve’s movement is measured in thousandths of a millimeter, and the opening time measured in milliseconds.

The clever part is how the ECU decides how long the injector’s valve needs to be open. It does this by measuring a whole load of engine parameters – throttle position, engine speed (RPM), engine temperature, intake air pressure, which gear the bike’s in, plus any number of others depending on how advanced the system is – then calculating how much fuel is needed by comparing the values to masses of pre-determined criteria.

For example, if the engine is running at 80 deg, on three-quarters throttle, in fifth gear, at say 7,523rpm and it’s a cool day outside, the ECU cross-references all that data with the pre-programmed information and knows just how long to open each injector for. That pre-programmed data is known as a ‘map’, and it’s this that gets changed when a bike is tuned with an aftermarket add-on like a Dynojet Power Commander, Yoshi EMS box and the like.

The information comes via sensors attached to various bits of the bike. Occasionally – although not often – these will fail, and a warning will be displayed either with a flashing light on the instrument panel or a failure code on the bike’s LCD display.

The more information the system has to work with, and the faster it can be dealt with, the more precise the fuel delivery. We’ve seen a shift from the early 16-bit processors to those that are more powerful recently, enabling faster processing of more data. But bikes have a long way to go to match the car world because they have yet to need complex systems, although it won’t be long if emissions laws keep getting stricter.

				The 2002 Yamaha YZF-R6 still used carburettors.

				The 2007 Yamaha YZF-R6 featured a fuel injection system.

So is fuel injection always better than carburettors? If manufacturers get everything right then fuel injection is better every time reckons most race teams. It gives greater control over fuelling to keep emissions in check. From a tuning point of view the only exception I can think of is the early Yamaha R6. Tuned, pre-injection R6’s used to make more power than the tuned injected ones. Part of the reason is that the engine has basically been retrofitted with injectors rather than designed around it.

That example aside, fuel injection has other advantages over carburettors. From a tuning point of view, it’s a lot easier to adjust fuel injection than it is to repeatedly strip, adjust and rebuild a set of carburettors. Just plug in a laptop and do it with a few simple keystrokes. You need to know exactly what you’re doing, but the same applies to carburettors – only a different set of skills are required.

The other advantage fuel injection has over carburettors is its physical size. Four injectors, their throttle bodies and fuel supply take up far less space than a bank of carburettors. This gives manufacturers far more scope for angling the inlet tracts as vertical as possible, so gravity can give the incoming fuel/air an added boost.

It also gives more flexibility for the positioning of the airbox and fuel tank, used to great effect first by Honda on their CBR600RR’s and Fireblade, whose fuel tanks inhabit the space where, some years ago an airbox and a bank of carburettors would sit. Nowadays all modern sportbikes follow this type of arrangement.
Honda RVF750 RC45
V-configuration engines benefit too, notably Honda’s V-fours, which always struggled for space between the cylinders. Back in the ‘90s, the RC45 had to be injected as there wasn’t enough room to fit big enough carbs. There was another advantage; the space between the V-fours motor’s cylinders is one tremendous heat trap, and fuel sitting in the carburettors’ float bowls would vaporise. Fuel injection’s pressurised supply solves this problem.
Image source: dragzine.com
Fuel injection is only as good as its map, some are horribly wrong and none are right everywhere. This is because manufacturers hands are tied by strict regulations. A rich mixture flattens the exhaust note, so some bikes run rich where the noise test is carried out. People think Power Commanders are only relevant to modified bikes, but every fuel-injected bike can have its map improved.
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Triumph Bonneville T120 Diamond Edition and Triumph Bonneville T120 Ace Café Launched

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched two limited-edition models today, namely the Triumph Bonneville T120 Diamond Edition and the Triumph Bonneville T120 Ace Café.

The Bonneville T120 Diamond Edition celebrates the 60th anniversary of the 1959 Bonneville T120.

The Bonneville T120 Ace Café celebrates the birthplace of café racers, on the other hand.

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched two limited-edition models today, namely the Triumph Bonneville T120 Diamond Edition and the Triumph Bonneville T120 Ace Café.
Both are special commemorative models and were launched as a pair earlier this year. Although they  are Bonnie T120 twins, each boasts distinctively different stylistic cues, lending to that good twin/bad twin adage.
The duo are powered by the 1200cc, liquid-cooled, HT (High Torque) parallel-Twin which features a 270o crankshaft spacing.
Triumph Bonneville T120 Diamond Edition – From 74,900

It’s called the Diamond Edition because it commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Bonneville, which made its appearance in 1959 Bonneville T120. The “T120” name is hallowed in Triumph’s history as it was the first bike to hit 115 mph (185 km/h) in stock form and 120 mph (192 km/h) with slight modifications.
Highlights:

Premium one-off Snowdonia Whie and Aluminium Silver “Union Flag” on the gas tank.

Unique T120 Diamond side panel branding.
Chrome 4-bar Triumph badges on the gas tank.
Chrome cylinder head cover, cooling fins, crankcase covers, badges and chain guard.

Only 900 will be built.
Each owner will receive a special certificate signed by Triumph CEO, Nick Bloor.
Only 4 units are available to customers in Malaysia.

Triumph Bonneville T120 Ace Café – From RM 75,900

The legendary Ace Café in London is considered the birthplace of the café racer. Legend has it that the riders there will challenge each other to race on a street circuit and return to the venue before a song ends on the jukebox. Hence, probably why the bike is “blacked out” for that mean, stripped down, hopped-up and “Head Down – Hold On” attitude.
Features:

One-off Matt Storm Grey paint scheme with racing stripes.
Ace Café logo on the front mudguard and side panels.
“Head Down – Hold On” detailing on the fuel tank.

Blacked-out detailing throughout.
Black four-bar Triumph badge on the gas tank.
Black bench seat.

Only 1,400 units will be built.
Each owner will receive a special certificate signed by Ace Café Managing Director Mark Wilsmore and Triumph CEO Nick Bloor.

Please check out Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia’s website for more information.
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Moto Guzzi Malaysia Welcomes Idon Pang as Head of Aftersales

Moto Guzzi Malaysia wants to provide the best aftersales service.

Their well-equipped workshop is fully operational.

Well-known aftersales guru, Idon Pang will soon join the workshop as Head of Aftersales.

Moto Guzzi Malaysia is serious about providing the best aftersales service to their customers through their official aftersales centre, called GB Workship (GB stands for Goh Brothers). They have invested heavily into having a well-equipped workshop and they will soon have a complete ensemble of experienced hands to carry out maintenance and repairs.

Fans of Moto Guzzi and Piaggio Group brands should already be familiar with the name Idon Pang. Idon is passionate about motorcycles and aftersales in particular. But the more important point is that he brings much technical experience in the maintenance and repairs of Moto Guzzi motorcycles, something that many Guzzistas in Malaysia could look forward to.

We caught up with him at GB Workshop, Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s official workshop for a short chat.
Bikes Republic (BR): When did you start your career in motorcycles?
Idon Pang (IP): My career started 10 years ago with another brand. During the hiatus of Aprilia distributorship and being an Aprilia owner myself, I noticed a shortage of spare parts. I made arrangements to have the parts imported into the country. I also bought up some of the parts to continue with servicing most of the Aprilias during that time. So, I was a spare part peddler then (laughs).

When Naza took over the Aprilia brand, they were looking for a person who could handle Aprilia aftersales. They saw some other values that I could bring to the table which was motorcycle sales, as well. I did that for a while, I set up Naza Primera, which is what Aprilia and Vespa Malaysia is today.
I took a short break after that, as I got into an accident and needed time to recuperate. I didn’t attach myself to any company during that time.
Instead I worked with a finance company in providing hire purchase facilities; I was with Aeon (Credit). I helped them to set up the Easy Payment Program.
After that, I was offered to set up a Vespa dealership in Kota Damansara which was Motor Aladdin. Did a bit of KTM also. But aftersales was my key – not only for Vespa and KTM – but for all types of motorcycles. That’s when I started having mixed brands coming to Motor Aladdin.
I eventually parted ways with my partners there and took up a few projects here and there, including Shell being one of them. I was doing Masterclass for Shell and Bikes Republic.
BR: What kind of knowledge or experience will you bring to Moto Guzzi?
IP: When I spoke to Juan Chow Wee, we knew that this was going to be a challenging brand. It was just like when Naza acquired Aprilia (distributorship). The global numbers are not as high as other brands. We know we have our work cut out for us.

The advantage I have with Goh Brothers is starting the aftersales from scratch. Aftersales is my niche. Laying out the blueprint for the aftersales for this brand will eventually reflect in sales figures.
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2021 Triumph Trident 660 officially unveiled!

As far as middleweight naked bike goes, the latest 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is certainly one of the most highly anticipated motorcycles for the coming year. Officially launched today, the Trident offers class-leading tech and impressive handling at a very competitive price package.

For the Malaysian market, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has confirmed that it will arrive here sometime in the first quarter of 2021 (very fast work, fellas!). Pricing for the UK market sits at £7,195, which is around the RM38,750 mark. Now, that’s impressive.

In terms of firepower, the all-new Trident comes with a 660cc three-cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled engine that produces a respectable 80hp at 10,250rpm and 64Nm of torque at 6,250rpm. This package offers a punchy power delivery throughout its rev range together with a unique triple-cylinder soundtrack.

A six-speed manual transmission handles all the power delivery to its rear wheel and that is further enhanced with the presence of an assist/slipper clutch. There’s also the addition of a ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, and switchable traction control for even greater riding efficiency across the board.

As for its looks, the 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is definitely a bike that would be turning heads. A minimalist roadster paired with Triumph’s iconic triple muscles is contemporary yet timeless at the same time. This whole look is tied together with its five-spoke wheels (17-inch aluminium), elegant swingarm, and many more.

Other highlighted specs include:

14-litre fuel tank
Front Showa 41mm upside down separate function forks (SFF)
Rear Showa monoshock RSU, with preload adjustment
Front 310mm twin discs + Nissin two-piston sliding calipers with ABS
Rear 255mm single disc + Nissin single-piston sliding caliper with ABS
Multi-function instruments with colour TFT screen
My Triumph Connectivity System (turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro, phone & music control via Bluetooth)
Handlebar mounted switch cubes
189kg (kerb weight) + more

There are over 45 dedicated Triumph optional parts and accessories to further elevate its riding experience, which also includes a bi-directional quickshifter. Service interval? Every 16,000km. Very impressive, indeed.

Customers can choose between four striking colour options – Silver Ice/Diablo Red, Matt Jet Black/Matt Silver Ice, Crystal White, and Sapphire Black. If it’s going to arrive in the first quarter of 2021 here in Malaysia, it’s safe to say that you can place your bookings with Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia soon.

GIVI Malaysia launches two new helmets – From RM230

Written by: Sep Irran
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2022 Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory Now In Malaysia – RM73,900

New for the Malaysian market is the 2022 Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory, priced at RM73,900 as announced by local distributor, Didi Group.

Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory brings higher power and better specs.
The Tuono 660 Factory features the all-new 659 cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with a 270-degree crank.

In terms of power, the Tuono 660 Factory is rated at 100hp, a 5hp increase from the base Tuono 660 but the peak torque remains unchanged at 67Nm.
That said, the Tuono 660 Factory also gets a shorter gear ratio for its gearbox plus all the electronic riding aids and APRC suite just like the RS 660 (traction control, wheelie control, cornering ABS, selectable riding modes, quickshifter, auto-blipper, etc.).

Despite the higher power than the base model that was introduced back in 2021, the Tuono 660 Factory is RM4,000 cheaper, making it very desirable among brand loyalists in Malaysia.
Also, thanks to weight-saving improvements, including using a lithium-ion battery, the Tuono 660 Factory is 2kg lighter.

The suspension is upgraded with a fully-adjustable 41mm Kayaba front fork and Sachs rear shocks.
Other notable features include:

dual 320mm disc (front)
single 220mm disc (rear)
Brembo calliper
Aprilia LED (with bending light function)

The 2022 Aprilia Tuono 660 Factory is only available in the Factory Dark colourway.
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TTS Performance X Kardesign Unveils The SuperBusa – 372hp, 250Nm

The Suzuki Hayabusa needs no introduction. The hyperbike from Hamamatsu factory in Japan holds the title as “The World’s Fastest Production Motorcycle” when it was introduced in 1990.

TTS Performance teamed-up with Kardesign to built a supercharged Hayabusa.
The ‘SuperBusa’ makes a whopping 372hp and 250Nm.

Fast forward to 2022, the Hayabusa is now in its 3rd generation, introduced by Suzuki in 2021, the new Busa makes less power and torque than its predecessor but makes up in rideability and refinements.
Modern riding aids also makes the new Hayabusa is easier to ride not just a high speeds but also at lower rev range.
However, for those who wants the 3rd-gen Hayabusa to shake the world as it did back in the 90s, TTS Performance might have something in store just for you.

The UK-based motorcycle performance company has teamed up with Kardesign to unleashed a “supercharged” version of the Hayabusa.
Dubbed the SuperBusa, the motorycle recently showcased to the public at the TTS 40th Anniversary Bash.

Fiitted with Rotrex C30—94 superchargers, the SuperBusa makes a whopping 372hp and 250Nm.
In addition, the SuperBusa also features Rotobox carbon fibre rims, single-sided swingarm, larger brake disc and upgraded suspension.

According to reports, TTS Performance plans to build 40 units of the SuperBusa, with each one will be made to order and individually numbered.
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We need this 2021 Yamaha Tracer 7 GT here in Malaysia

If you feel that the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 is a bit out of reach, then maybe the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 7 GT might just cure all that sport-touring cravings at a more affordable price tag. Judging by the looks, we think it’ll do wonders if Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) decides to bring it here.

Based on the Yamaha Tracer 700, the 2021 Tracer 7 GT carries that same design DNA from the Tracer 9. It looks sleek and modern thanks to that half-fairing design and aggressive face paired together with those twin LED projector headlights, position lamps, and flashers.

As for firepower, the Tracer 7 GT comes with an updated 689cc CP2 parallel-twin engine that churns out a healthy 72hp which has been tuned to be more responsive in order to deliver a strong yet linear torque throughout its rev range. It is also now Euro5-compliant.

To tackle long-distance travelling, this mid-range Yamaha Tracer comes with a higher and wider windscreen for extra protection from the elements. Unbreakable and scratch-resistant, this windscreen offers greater comfort along with the bike’s new comfort seats.

Other noteworthy specs include:

Multi-function LCD display
20-litre side cases
41mm front cartridge forks
Preload & rebound adjustable rear shock
17-litre fuel tank + more

2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport revealed in the UK – 888cc, 84hp

Written by: Sep Irran
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“Ride for Sight” – Mohd. Adib to Ride from Penang to China

Mohd. Adib will ride from Penang to China for charity.

The proceeds will go to the St. Nicholas’ Home, Penang.

St. Nicholas’ Home, Penang provides care for the visually-handicapped.

“Ride for Sight” will Mohd. Adib ride from Penang to China for charity from 20thNovember 2018.
The ride seeks to assist the St. Nicholas’ Home, Penang. St. Nicholas’ Home provides assistance for the visually handicapped from ages 6 through 77 irrespective of religion, race and background. They provide programs such as handicraft workshops, handing out low vision aid perscriptions, aftercare and job placement service, home for the elderly blind, among many others. There is also a multi-handicapped program caters to those who are afflicted with other afflictions in addition to being visually-handicapped.

This is why Mohd. Adib’s calls the ride “Ride for Sight.” The ride will take approximately 27 days to complete.
“My ride kicks off on the 20thNovember 2018 and end on 15thDecember 2018.The route I will be riding is from Penang – Thailand – Golden Triangle Border (Myanmar, Thailand & Laos) – Shangri-La – Tibet – Kunming – Laos – Thailand and back to Penang,” said the thirty-year-old Mohd. Adib.
The rider is no stranger stranger to overland rides on his Yamaha FZ150i. Among his achievements were:

Solo ride around Peninsular Malaysia in 2013.
Solo riding in the 7 Nations Expedition which covered Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Laos and Myanmar in 2016.
Taking part in the Colombo Bike Week in Sri Lanka in 2017.

Mohd. Adib is raising funds for St. Nicholas’ Home through the sale os exclusive T-shirts. He will donate 10% of each sold to the home. The shirts are available through Mohd. Adib’sand Kembara Jiwa’sFacebook pages. Price for the T-shirts are RM50 (short-sleeved) and RM60 (long-sleeved).
Mohd. Adib can also be reaced at 016-4734748 for further information.
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2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival launched

2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival officially launched ahead of annual festival’s third instalment slated for December this year.

After two successful runnings in 2013 and 2014, the Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival will return for a third instalment later this year. The event was launched earlier today by its organisers WSF Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd where its managing director Wan Shairi Wan Ahmad also announced the event’s new key partners as well.

Besides Wan Shairi, also present during the launch was Pekema Riders’ Club president Datuk SM Zulkifli SM Amin. Alongside him were representatives from several of the event’s key partners, namely the Kuala Lumpur Malay Chamber of Commerce (KLMCC) and its youth division, as well as local custom culture publication KUSTOMSIX.

Besides the KLMCC and KUSTOMSIX, other partners of the event this year includes Tourism Malaysia, the Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS), the Department of Road Safety (JKJR), the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), as well as the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and its youth squad called the ‘Skuad Muda JPJ Malaysia’.
This year, the 2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival is set to take place in the CIDB Convention Centre located off Jalan Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. The event will be held both in- and outdoors around the premises, with the four-day schedule promising even more vendors and exciting activities on a much larger scale.

Notably, unlike previous editions, this year’s event will also welcome the ever-growing cycling community. Organisers WSF Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd have confirmed that activities will be held to promote the healthy hobby with the support of its partners and the presence of several cycling-specific vendors. Furthermore, the event’s running dates will also coincide with the KL Car-Free Morning with a group ride around the city being planned.
Of course not forgetting the petrol-powered two-wheels community, organisers have also confirmed plans for two Malaysia Book of Record attempts. The first will see the festival attempt to host the largest gathering of ‘street cubs’ as a bid to continue fostering the rapidly growing movement. Next comes the second attempt host the largest gathering of Yamaha RXZ as well to mark the popular two-stroke lightweight sportsbike’s 30-year presence in Malaysia.

On the vendors’ front, visitors can look forward to the presence of plenty of big names such as KTM Malaysia CKD, Triumph, Aprilia, and BMW Motorrad. According to Wan Shairi Wan Ahmad, the event’s vendor slots are now 75% booked with more vendors coming in specifically from the small and medium industry sector.
Besides that, visitors can also look forward to several other exciting activities. Amongst them include a motorcycle time attack event, stunt shows, as well as showcase of custom bikes hand-picked by the organisers hailing from several parts of the region. There will also be performances and appearances by local artistes with the full line up to be announced on a later date.
As a final touch, both Wan Shairi and Datuk Zulkifli further added that the event’s entry fee charge of RM3 per person will once again go to good causes. This year, organisers will collect RM1 from each entry fee as a means to donate for organisations caring for children with Down syndrome.

The 2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival will take place in the CIDB Convention Centre just off Jalan Cheras, Kuala Lumpur from Dec 3 to Dec 6 (Google Maps link here). Things will kick off first with a ‘Press and Industry Day’ on Thursday, Dec 3 before public admission opens on Dec 4 onwards.
More information can be obtained by visiting the official 2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival Facebook page and its official Facebook event page as well.
2015 Malaysia 2 Wheels Festival Launch @ CIDB Convention Centre, Jalan Cheras, KL
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Malaysia Superbike Championship Round 2 postponed

The second and final round of the 2020 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) was set to take place this weekend from 16-18 October 2020. Boon Siew Honda Racing Team’s Zaqhwan Zaidi was looking forward to sealing his championship crown this weekend but unfortunately, Round 2 has been postponed.

This is due to the fact that the Malaysian government will be enforcing the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya from 14-27 October 2020. All participating parties from Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) are looking into when this round will be able to take place, most likely sometime in November.

In the first round, Zaqhwan Zaidi dominated all three races with his Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2 and took home all three wins without breaking a sweat. All he needs from Round 2 is just one more win out of three planned races to win the 2020 championship title, but he and the rest of the MSBK paddock will just have to wait until further notice.

If you’re craving for some motorsports action, the MotoGP paddock heads to Aragon this weekend where all teams and riders will be taking part in back-to-back races at the same venue for the next couple of weeks. Looks like the Spaniards have a major home advantage, folks.
Written by: Sep Irran
MotoGP: Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci wins in tricky Le Mans

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Indonesia to host WorldSBK race in November 2021

The 2021 WorldSBK provisional calendar has been released where a total of 13 rounds will take place throughout next season. Starting strong in Europe, the closing stages will see three rounds taking place in Indonesia, Australia, and the final round which has yet to be decided.

Although the Mandalika Circuit in Indonesia is currently under construction, all involved parties have assured that the track will be ready by November next year to host its very first WorldSBK round which is scheduled to take place from 12-14 November 2021.

However, this track’s status is still ‘subject to homologation’ but we’re sure that they’ll get things done considering the amount of support that it has been getting from the country. The Mandalika Circuit in Lombok is also in the reserved list for the 2021 MotoGP season should there be any issues with other venues in 2021.

It would be interesting how this track will accommodate such a huge event, especially in terms of logistics. Just like the Sepang International Circuit, the new Indonesia circuit also has its own racing team which will take part in next year’s Moto2 category after announcing a newly-formed alliance with the SAG Racing Team. More details in the link, below.
Onexox TKKR SAG Team pulls out from Moto2 2021

Written by: Sep Irran
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More Details Emerge On The Upcoming Honda Transalp 750

Honda is set to introduce the all-new Transalp 750 soon and is set to compete in the middleweight enduro motorcycle category.

the new Transalp 750 will fill the gap between Honda’s CB500X and CRF1100L Africa Twin.
the bike will run on a new parallel-twin engine built from the Africa Twin architecture.

The Transalp 750 will compete against already popular Yamaha Tenere 700, KTM 890 Adventure, Tuareg 660 and BMW F 850 GS.
This time, new details have emerged, particularly about the engine of the upcoming motorcycle.
German publication, Motorrad Online, claimed that the Transalp 750 would feature a parallel-twin engine. While previous reports suggest that the machine is the same in the NC750X, the latest news suggests this is not the case.
Instead, the Japanese marquee developed a new engine based on the African Twin architecture.
That said, we could see the Transalp 750 appearing in two variants, standard manual transmission and DCT.
The Transalp 750 will finally fill the gap between Honda’s adventure-touring model range that includes the CB500X and CRF1100L Africa Twin.
Meanwhile, the publication suggests that the new Honda Transalp 750 will break cover at EICMA 2022.
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Ural joins scrambler bandwagon

Scramblers have been all the rage lately, and believe it or not, even Ural is in on the action.
Presented at the recent EICMA show in Milan, Ural has fitted knobblies to its anachronistic Ranger sidecar outfit, renaming it ‘Scrambler’ and has given the bike a grey-and-yellow paint scheme.
The company mentioned that it plans to sell only 20 of them in by end of 2016.

It is said that since it’s based on the Ranger, it’s two wheel drive (the sidecar wheel is driven as well as the bike’s rear wheel), it has more off-road credentials than a lot of the other recent ‘scrambler’ launches, and the hefty tubular steel nudge bars around the side car mean it can probably stand up to some beating, even if the weight of them isn’t likely to help performance much.
For those of you who are wondering if this news is any relevant to our market, Ural is expected to make its presence known in Malaysia very soon, so, stay tuned for more updates.
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2020 Yamaha X-Max now with new colours – RM21,500

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced that the 2020 Yamaha X-Max will now be available in new colour options. Priced at RM21,500 (basic price without insurance, road tax & registration) fellow Yamaha enthusiasts can choose between the new Matt Blue, Matt Silver, and Matt Grey.
Matt Grey
The 2020 Yamaha X-Max is considered by many as one of the best maxi-scooters for the Malaysian market thanks to its great size, comfort riding, and relatively affordable price. Fitted with a 250cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled SOHC engine, the Yamaha X-Max produces around 22.5hp (16.8kW) at 7,000rpm and 24.3Nm of torque at 5,500rpm.
Matt Silver
Paired with its efficient V-belt automatic transmission, the 2020 Yamaha X-Max offers a comfortable yet exhilarating riding experience, even when carrying all your gear and pillion. The huge under-seat storage space presents an added bonus for owners as they can store a lot of things, including a backpack that fits a 15-inch laptop.
Matt Blue
We’ve personally tested what the Yamaha X-Max has to offer when it comes to power delivery and handling on different riding terrains from highways to urban jungles. We were especially impressed with how it handled, even during tight corners. In short, it’s a good all-round bike to own and ride for both daily commutes and some fair distance touring. More info in the link, below!
2018 Yamaha XMAX 250 Test & Review

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