BMW R nine T Scrambler arrives – from RM92,900*

BMW Motorrad Malaysia launches BMW R nine T Scrambler from RM92,900 (basic with GST).

The highly anticipated BMW R nine T scrambler has finally arrived in Malaysia. BMW Motorrad Malaysia announced the bike’s availability today where it is priced from RM92,900 (basic with GST) sans insurance and registration costs.
Based off the R nine T retro roadster model, the Scrambler sees the BMW Motorrad brand now rivalling against the retro segment’s popular leaders like the Triumph Bonneville and Scrambler Ducati.
2016 BMW R nine T Scrambler
Underneath the stylish retro exterior, the Scrambler is powered by a tweaked version of the marque’s signature 1,170cc air/oil-cooled flat ‘boxer’ twin-cylinder engine lifted from the venerable R1200 GS adventure bike model. The same mill is also found in the R nine T base bike in fact.
The Euro 4-compliant mill thumps out roughly 110hp @ 7,750rpm and 116Nm @ 6,000rpm, with both being channelled to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission and shaft-drive setup – mirroring the R nine T here too.

The R nine T Scrambler is easily distinguished from afar thanks to its larger 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, conventional front forks, twin vertical and raised exhaust silencers, twin seat, not forgetting its distinctively styled 17-litre sheet-steel fuel tank with specially embossed sheet-aluminium dressings.
Don’t let the retro aesthetics fool you, the R nine T Scrambler is as modern as nay other contemporary BMW Motorrad model. Besides its LCD display paired with the analogue instrument dials, there’s also ABS to match the equally modern R nine T-derived braking hardware.

Just like the rivalling Triumph and Ducati models, BMW Motorrad have also gone to town at preparing an extensive catalogue of accessories and parts to match with the newly introduced retro German scrambler.
Furthermore, BMW Motorrad Malaysia also confirmed the new BMW R nine T Scrambler will be on display to the public at the BMW Motorrad booth at this weekend’s 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP.
Check out more images of the new BMW R nine T Scrambler in the gallery we’ve prepared below.

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Genuine Vespa Merchandize now Available at our Webstore

The Vespa brand has long been associated with style, fun and practicality.

Its name means “Wasp” in Italian.

Official and genuine Vespa merchandize is now available in our webstore.

The Vespa brand has long been associated with style, fun and practicality. Known as the “Wasp” in Italian, it enjoys a cult status among riders and enthusiasts alike including celebrities.
Being tied to a lifestyle, Vespa doesn’t only offer motorcycles. Instead, the brand encompasses an entire range of goodies including premium and high quality accessories, riding gear and apparels.
Now you can order these apparels from the comforts of your home since the Movement Control Order is in place.
1. VESPA Sweatshirt Modernist
This hoodie jacket is made of cotton and can be worn in all weather. Its styling is restrained, yet unmistakably Italian. There is a tricolor patch on the hoodie while the zipper puller recalls the shape of the iconic steering column cover. The cuffs and waist are elastic to ensure a good fit and keep wind out.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-sweatshirt-modernist/
2. VESPA 70 Years Young T-Shirt
Show your love for the brand with this short sleeve T-shirt. The front features the unmistakable graphic of a GTS. It has a casual fit for all-day comfort.
Available for men and ladies.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-70-years-young-t-shirt-men/

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-70-years-young-t-shirt-ladies/
3. VESPA Graphic T-Shirt
This T-shirt for men “reveals” that you are a Vespa man. The printed pocket hides a Vespa in it. Made of 100% cotton, you’ll be comfortable on and off the bike.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-graphic-t-shirt-men/
4. VESPA V-Stripes T-Shirt
This T-shirt is casual yet a bit more formal with its printed stripes. There are also embroidered reflective patches.
Available for men and ladies. The ladies version has a feminine and comfortable fit.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-graphic-t-shirt-men/

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-v-stripes-t-shirt-ladies/
5. VESPA Cap Modernist
A cap which says Vespa without shouting it. Yet it’s adorned with a Vespa Primavera on a delta (which signifies the way forward) and tricolor stripes at the back so that you won’t miss its Italian style.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-cap-modernist/
6. VESPA Cap New Era
This cap lets you show your unreserved love for the Vespa brand. It’s made of cotton and adjustable for different head sizes.

https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-cap-modernist/
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Relax, 2019 Kawasaki Z900 ABS Recall for US Market Only

The recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up for a potential ABS issue applies to the US only.

There is no notice issued for Malaysian owners yet.

The issue arose after improper machining of the ABS pump.

The factory recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up over potential ABS issues is for the American market, only.
BikesRepublic.com has sought the confirmation from Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (KMMSB) over the matter. According to KMMSB, Kawasaki Heavy Industries have not issued a notice on the recall in Malaysia.
The current notice is issued by Kawasaki together with the American National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA). Therefore, it applies to Z900 line-up owners in the United States, at the moment.
The recall was made after the discovery of improperly machined ABS pump. The machining process has the potential of leaving aluminium debris inside. If this happens, the ABS pump could malfunction and cause the wheel or wheels to lock up.
Kawasaki USA confirmed that 497 units are involved in the recall and will notify the owners. If you are reading this from the United States, you may contact Kawasaki customer service line there 1-866-802-9381 (regarding recall number MC19-01). Please have your VIN ready. You may get in touch with the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 and quote campaign number 19V083000.
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10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles (Part 2)

The Yamaha brand is synonymous with revolutionary styling, great handling and innovation.

They have made a number of legendary bikes over the years.

Here’s Part 2 of the 10 Greatest.

Please click here for Part 1 of the 10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles.
The name Yamaha has always been at the forefront of revolutionary styling and great handling, if not innovations.
Set up in 1955, the Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd. now produces almost anything that’s motorized. They are currently the world’s second largest motorcycle manufacturer and leader in water vehicle sales.
5. MT-09 (2014)

The MT-09 standard/naked model has sold in great numbers the world over. There are no trickery here, instead it’s about performance at an affordable price. The “MT” name stands for “Monster Torque” and that’s what it actually about. As we’ve written before, it’s useable torque for everyday use that makes a good streetbike. In this end, the MT-09’s 847cc cross-plane three-cylinder engine delivers 88 Nm. Weight is also kept at just 188 kg, wet.
4. RD125LC YPVS (1985)
This is the 1983 RD125LC, the non YVPS predecessor
“Learner bikes” give the impression of some anemic bike that could hardly get up the highway’s ramp. But the RD125LC changed all of that in 1981. This was a proper lightweight performance bike, aimed at new riders. But 14 hp was still nothing to shout at.
Then came the RD125LC YPVS in 1985. Now not only that it blew away the competition, it also gave veteran riders a thrill. The YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) exhaust port valve gave the engine a much broader power curve and boosted the top end to 20 hp.
Every school kid wanted one.
3. RD350LC YPVS (1983)

Other manufacturers, especially Honda, have gone the four-stroke way at this point. But Yamaha opted to stick it out – or rather stuck it to them – with two-strokes, which proved superior in specific power output and weight. This was why Yamaha was known as a “two-stroke” company for a long time.
The RD350LC YPVS was such case. Yamaha added the YPVS power valve to the RD350LC in 1983, bringing power up even higher to 59 bhp. With a wet weight of only 149 kg, the bike truly flew! By comparison, the 1983 Honda CB750 Nighthawk (inline-Four four-stroke) made 70 hp and weighed 226 kg, wet.
The bike became an instant hit among the young and veteran riders alike. One-make races sprung up everywhere. It’s become a cult classic and it’s so popular that production in Brazil lasted until 1995.
Be prepared to pay big money if you come across one.
2. RD500LC YPVS (1984)

Did 500cc two-stroke GP bikes ever trickle down to the masses? They sure did. The RD500LC YPVS was the evidence of that. It’s the replica to celebrate the success of Kenny Roberts, Sr., Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey on the YZR500.
It featured a 50-degree, V-Four two-stroke which produced a prodigious 86 hp while weighing in at only 205 kg, dry.
Yamaha’s rivals also built 500cc two-stroke replicas, namely the Suzuki RG500 Gamma and Honda NS400R, both in 1985, no doubt after being inspired by the RD500.
1. YZF-R1 (1998)

Why this one when there could a number of others?
It’s because the YZF-R1 revolutionized motorcycle design and engineering when it’s launched, and those lessons are still being applied to this day.
The R1 was Yamaha’s response to Honda’s all-conquering CBR900RR Fireblade at the time. The latter showed how important it was to keep weight at a minimum. Yamaha took that lesson to heart but went one better.
To keep the dimensions of the inline-Four engine and transmission compact, the transmission was moved higher up and closer to the engine block. It resulted in what’s called a “stacked transmission” design. This way, the frame can be made smaller and the swingarm longer, while corresponding to a short wheelbase.
The R1 also signaled a change in Japanese motorcycle design. Japanese bikes had large rear portions of their fuel tanks up to that point. It was the R1 which featured deeply cut waist, making it easier for the rider to clamp his knees and thighs.
The YZF-R1 is still a favourite track weapon among many riders.
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Marc Marquez To Sit Out 2022 Honda RC213V Official Unveiling

Honda is scheduled to unveil its 2022 RC213V race bike on January 14, 2022.
However, the global unveiling will take place without six-time MotoGP world champion, Marc Marquez who is still nursing his injured eye.
Instead, Repsol Honda has confirmed that the event will continue with Pol Espargaro and LCR Honda riders, Takaaki Nakagami and Alex Marquez.

Missing out on the bike unveiling is not an issue for the Honda camp, however, Marquez’s latest diplopia (double vision) diagnosis is still a concern as there is no confirmation if he could make it on time ahead of the Sepang test in February.
The Spaniard suffered the injury at the 2021 Algarve GP, but HRC only reported it as a concussion before the team confirmed the rider is struggling with diplopia.
Nevertheless, we hope Marquez could still make it back just in time for the pre-season test in Sepang or at least given enough time to test out the updated RC213V.
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2021 Honda Forza 750 officially launched!

It’s finally launched, folks. The new 2021 Honda Forza 750 has dropped and it supposedly carries all the necessary ingredients to make one hell of a maxi-scooter. Combining the great capabilities of a Grand Tourer (GT) and comfort, the Forza 750 also carries some pretty good looks, no matter which angle you look.

Starting with the engine, the 2021 Honda Forza 750 is paired with the same 745cc parallel-twin engine found on the Integra and X-ADV. With a slightly higher power output of around 58hp at 6,750rpm and close to 70Nm of torque at 4,750rpm, which means that the engine is tuned for more sporty yet comfort riding. In other words, it has 4hp more than the X-ADV and it’s Euro5-compliant.

It’s further enhanced with the additions of including throttle by wire, multiple engine modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Dual Clutch Transmission. Sophisticated and smart would be the main words to describe this new Honda Forza 750 and that’s not all she wrote, folks.

Other specs include:

Full LED lighting system
Honda Smart Key
22-litre internal storage space
GT styling for improved weather protection
Nissin brake callipers (similar to the X-ADV)
41mm USD front forks
17-inch front spoke wheel (15-inch rear)
5-inch TFT screen
13.2-litre fuel tank
Honda Smartphone Voice Control system + more

Honda also took the opportunity to launch its younger brother, the 2021 Honda Forza 350, and 125. The 350 gets a bigger and more powerful engine (330cc engine with 29hp) paired with some design elements and features from the 750, like the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system.

The 125 version (14.7hp single-cylinder engine) gets some updates in terms of styling, practicality, and aerodynamic performance. Amazingly, the 125 also comes with the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as the Honda Smart Key System. Not bad considering that both the 350 and 125 have huge under-seat storage that can fit two full-sized helmets.

Written by: Sep Irran
Bookings open for 2021 Honda CBR250RR SP – RM30,000?

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2016 Malaysian Cub Prix Round 7 race results

Malaysian Cub Prix national underbone racing series roars in Johore state.

Round 7 of the 2016 Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix championship got underway last weekend, this time in Johore’s Pasir Gudang Stadium. This was one unforgettable outing for race fans from the southern state as its home heroes triumphed in great stride whilst racing on home soil.
CP130 – Kasma secures team awards
Starting with the premier CP130 category, current championship leader, Johore native and recent graduate of the Valentino Rossi VR46 Academy Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin took victory on two fronts.

Not only did the 17-year-old Petronas Yamaha Maju Motor rider scored a hat-trick qualifying run and the race win, his consistent wins throughout the season saw him secure the CP130 team award for his team with just three rounds left. But it all might not have happened had Kasma not kept his cool.

Despite securing pole position earlier, the Johor youngster’s bad start saw him drop down the order as low at sixth at one point. Nevertheless, the talented Johorean was able to pick his way up the order and secure the win in his home state – his sixth win of the season in fact.
Coming in second in 18-lap sprint race was Terengganu native Ahamd Afif Amran astride the rivalling Petronas Yamaha CKJ machine whilst Selangor-born rider Norizman Ismail took third astride the Harian Metro YTEQ SCK Honda Racing machine.

All three winners had their trophies awarded to them on the podium by HRH Tunku Idris Iskandar Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the Tunku Temenggong Johor as well, making this a really sweet affair for all local Johorean fans in attendance on Sunday as well.

With the CP130 team’s awards in the bag, Kasma will now focus his attention at securing the CP130 rider’s championship title. He still holds a commanding lead in the standings with 150 points, which is 39 points clear of teammate Ahmad Fazli Sham in second and a further 82 points ahead of Norizman in third.
CP115 – A surprising winner
In the supporting CP115 category, another Johore native ruled the weekend and it was none other than Pasir Gudang native Fakhrusy Rostam. The former Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Moto3 rider made a surprising comeback in the national championship as a privateer this season.

The towering teenager took a surprising win on his home turn astride a Yamaha machine. Joining him on the podium in third place was GIVI Honda Yuzy Racing rider Azroy Anuar who also previously raced in the same Moto3 series with Fakhrusy not too long ago.

Spliting the two former Moto3 riders on the podium was Petronas Yamaha Maju Motor’s Md Akid Aziz who finished second. Despite not winning, Akid does end the weekend as the category’s biggest winner after snatching the lead in the championship standings.

Akid currently leads the CP115 category standings with 106 points, having overtaken previous leader and Motul Zeneos Yamaha YY Pang rider Tengku Amirul Haffirudin who drops down to second with 100 points.
Wira – Helmi closes the gap to Shafiq
Last but not least came the thrilling outcome of the weekend’s supporting Wira class. The weekend saw two more former Asia Talent Cup Moto3 riders ruling the race, this time in the form of Helmi Azman and Shafiq Ezzariq.

Astride the IUGB AFB Tech Racing Yamaha machine, Helmi rocketed away to yet another win, scoring his season’s first hat-trick in Pasir Gudang last weekend. But not far off in third was Shafiq Ezzariq astride the Idemitsu Kozi Yam Honda racing machine.
In similar fashion to the CP115 results, Md Qhuwarismi Md Nasir who came in second astride the Yamaha-powered Weststar Motorsports team’s machine splits the two former Moto3 riders on the podium.
Clearly, the advantage of having a recent Moto3 racing stint gives a clear advantage, especially for Helmi. Nevertheless, Shafiq’s headstart in the season with four wins sees him retaining his championship standings lead with 149 points, but Helmi’s hat-trick sees him edging closer in second with 128 points.
Round 8 – Termeloh, Pahang
The Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix series will resume with Round 8 later this month in Temerloh, Pahang. Scheduled from Sept 24 to Sept 25, the series’ next outing in the East Coast is set to be a hotly contested one where the champions in all three categories could be decided.
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Marquez kneedown and elbow down - Courtesy of MotoGP.com

It’s easy to forget that pros too started from basics.

It’s when they master the basics that they developed their unique riding styles.

Here are Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders (Part 1).

We watch in awe as the pros battle it out among themselves every weekend; they make going fast seem so easy. But if you’ve ever spoken to any one of them, you will be surprised that the riding basics are the similar – if not the same. In other words, they first learn the basics then evolve it into their personal styles. All riders are cultivated, not born. That’s what prompted us to put together this Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders article.
Furthermore, there is no such thing as one rider being braver than the next. It all comes down to not only skill but how one rides intelligently.
Here are the tips we collected over time, from interviews or read about throughout the years.
1. Kenny Roberts Sr. – “Go fast in the fast parts”
Kenny Roberts Sr. – courtesy of yamaha-motor.com
Being a vocal rider, Kenny Roberts Sr. was one of the first riders who revealed that there’s no such thing as riding fast and stupid. Instead it came down to analyzing how you ride. That’s how he won three 500cc World GP titles in a row. “King” Kenny doesn’t believe in coasting with the throttle off: You’re either on the gas or braking. The most important parts of a racetrack are the corners with long straights proceeding them and that’s where he rode faster. There’s no point in trying to ride faster in slow corners as the risks outweigh the benefits – in other words it’s easier to crash that way.
2. Wes Cooley – “Keep your chest on the tank”
Wes Cooley – courtesy of www.cyclenews.com
As a rider of late-70s and early-70’s superbikes, Wes Cooley always kept his chest close to the tank. Doing so puts more weight on the front tyres to help the bike handle. That’s why modern sportbikes are designed the way they are now, besides being more aerodynamic.
Cooley once recounted his story, “One day I came in from practice and my Dad told me I needed to stay tucked in. I told him I had, so he tied shoelace from my suit’s zipper to the ignition key. When I came back in after the next session, my racesuit was unzipped to my waist.”
3. Freddie Spencer – “Brake where you need to, not where you think you should”
Freddie Spencer – courtesy of www.motorcyclenews.com
“Fast” Freddie Spencer had his own approach to races. While others would keep detailed notes on braking points, turn-in points, reference points, etc., Spencer was more flexible and played by ear. Doing so allowed him to adjust quickly to fading tyres or changing track conditions. His method netted him the 500cc GP titles in 1983 and 1985, and also the 250cc GP title in 1985. He’s still the only man who had ever achieved such a feat.
4. “Learn how your suspension works” – Eddie Lawson
Eddie Lawson – courtesy of www.cyclenews.com
“Steady” Eddie Lawson is as cool a rider as it gets. Nothing ever seems to flutter him on and off the track. His cool personality is also a reflection of his super smooth riding style. Additionally, Lawson is a methodical rider who pays lots of attention to his bike settings. Take for example when he returned to the US in 1993 to race in the Daytona 200. He had no prior experience to riding the Vance & Hines Yamaha FZR-750 superbike so he went through the entire range of suspension adjustments in the practice session to settle on the optimal setting. His effort paid off when he went on to beat “Mr. Daytona” Scott Russell.
5. Scott Russell – “Steer with the rear”
Soctt Russell – courtesy of racingcafe.blogspot.com
Say what you will about the enigmatic rider from Georgia, USA but the man is fast. He won the Daytona 200 a record five times due to not only his uncanny tyre management but also his skill in riding a superbike with worn tyres. When grip levels drop, Mr. Daytona would apply a different lean angle in order to use a different part of the tyres. Apart from that, he would gas the bike to spin the rear tyre to tighten his lines. Modern bikes may have traction control to avoid tyre spin but the race mode on most sportbikes do allow the rider to spin the rear tyre, just like what Russell did.
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2020 GPX Demon GR200R to be launched next month

GPX Malaysia is looking into expanding its current motorcycle line-up before the years ends with two exciting models which are the GPX Demon GR200R sports bike and the very stylish modern classic Legend 250 Twin. It is estimated that the former will be unveiled next month while the latter will make its debut sometime in December.

The Demon GR200R was launched mid this year in Thailand and GPX Malaysia has already confirmed that this model will make its way into the Malaysian market. Powered by a 198cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled GPX-Fi engine, this bike produces 19hp and 17.2Nm of torque to the rear wheel.

It also has a lot of interesting features such as LED lighting system with DRLs, full digital meter, 42mm USD front fork, dual disc brakes, and many more. No news on the pricing just yet but the Thais can get one at 76,500 baht (around RM10,600).

As for the GPX Legend 250 Twin, this cater to an entirely different group of riders. If you’re looking for a modern classic that’s probably more on the affordable range, this might be the one for you. Looking at the photos, the Legend 250 Twin is indeed beautiful in all of its simplicity.

Powered with a 234cc twin-cylinder engine, there’s no indicator on the site when it comes to horsepower and torque. Somewhere north around 25hp should be a reasonable guess for this retro-looking machine.

Other notable specs include:

Full LED headlight
YSS shock absorbers
Clip-on handlebars
Digital multifunction meter
Front twin disc brakes
14.5-litre fuel tank + more

Gpx Legend 250fi launching in Dec. Apply your interest here; www.gpxmalaysia.my/product/legend-250-twin/
Posted by GPX Malaysia on Isnin, 19 Oktober 2020

As stated earlier, the GPX Legend 250 Twin will most likely make its debut in December after GPX Malaysia officially launches the Demon GR200R. Stay tuned for more updates, folks.
2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO now available in Malaysia – From RM75,900

Written by: Sep Irran
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MotoGP: All system go for Qatar

MotoGP returns to Losail, Qatar this weekend for its 2016 season opener.

The FIM World MotoGP Championship returns for its 2016 season this weekend with its opening round held under the floodlights of the Losail International Circuit, Qatar.
As always, the weekend’s first pre-race press conference took place on Wednesday evening and featured defending world champion Jorge Lorenzo alongside his Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing teammate and superstar Valentino Rossi leading the six-rider panel.
Present beside the two Yamaha duo were the Repsol Honda Racing duo of Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez, followed by Ducati Corse’s Andrea Iannone and Team Suzuki Ecstar rider Maverick Viñales as well. These six stood as the premier MotoGP class’ top contenders for this season.

Defending champion Lorenzo has stood out as the strongest during pre-season testing so far, and here’s what the he had to say during the press conference:
“Not a lot of things change from the outside where the people can see the bikes. For the riders, it’s really a big difference. Firstly with the tyres, the Michelins offer a completely different feeling on the bike and also with the new electronics, the same for everyone, are less sophisticated and much more difficult to ride and control, especially with the throttle. Anyway the pre-season has been very very good, better than we expected. In the three tests we did, we got a good feeling and did some impressive lap times.”
Plenty of speculation has risen towards how the new supply of spec tyres from Michelin will stack up, with this weekend’s season-opener being its true test. Another hot topic here was the new unified electronics suite dictated by the revised 2016 technical regulations. Whilst both the factory Yamaha and Ducati bikes have shown positive signs towards them, it seems the Honda-powered encampment’s struggle was evident.

Here’s what former world champion Marc Marquez had to say about the matter:
“This year has not been an easy pre-season looking at the results. But we improved and we kept a constant pace, a progressive line towards the most important and it looks like here in the last test in Qatar we did a huge step and we were closer. Anyway, we know we struggle on this track because it’s one of the worst tracks for us but the motivation and ambition of the first race can always supply what you need.”
Marquez’s Repsol Honda teammate further added:
“For the technical part we’re a little more in trouble compared to last year but we’re closing the gap and I think we’re improving. Now it’s race weekend, this is quite different to testing and you focus a lot more on going fast and less on checking things on the bike. I’m more motivated in the GPs than in the test.”

No doubt, one of the strongest dark horse amongst the six is none other than Ducati’s Andrea Iannone. The Italian rider landed his Italian team’s first podium in Phillip Island, Australia last year whilst his pace during pre-season tests also shows very strong signs.
Another dark horse here is rising star Maverick Viñales. The young Spaniard has outpaced his more experienced teammate Aleix Espargaro throughout pre-season tests, and he looks poised towards putting the factory Suzuki machine higher up in the standings this season too with his eyes set on the podium.

But of course, the one to watch this season too is Valentino Rossi. Despite the controversy of the Sepang Clash, the Italian superstar is eyeing to snatch his tenth world title this year, but as ever, he will face stiff challenges from teammate Lorenzo. With that, Rossi has got himself a new ‘coach’ of sorts this season in the form of former 500cc front-runner Luca Cadalora.
Rossi stated:
“He (Cadalora) will work with me through the season. We worked together and tried some things in the test. It’s always interesting to have a former rider like Luca with a lot of experience and a good vision around the track. During the test we found something interesting so we’ll continue together.”
As the talking stops, attention will now focus on the racing with Thursday evening’s first scheduled Free Practice standing as the first indicator of how the weekend will fare out.
Will Marquez pull miracles again? Will Rossi finally prove he truly is the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT)? Will Lorenzo assert his dominance once more? Or will dark horses Pedrosa, Iannone and Viñales give these three a run for their money? This weekend will be one to remember for the ages indeed.

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Voge To Launch An Adventure-Type Motorcycle At EICMA

You might not be familiar with the Loncin brand, but it is the firm responsible for manufacturing the engine for BMW’s C 400 X, C 400 GT, F 850 GS, F 900 R and F 900 XR.

Loncin to roll out Voge 900DS adventure motorcycle in November.
The Voge 900DS features a similar powertrain to BMW’s F 900 XR, producing close to 100hp and 92Nm.

Loncin and BMW have been working together for years now, similar to CFMOTO’s partnership with KTM.
*BMW F 850 GS
That said, it took a while for Loncin, through its premium Voge brand, to work on its own motorcycle range using the BMW-commissioned engine.
However, things are about to change as Voge is scheduled to introduce an adventure-type motorcycle, dubbed the Voge 900DS, soon.

The Voge 900DS – presumably refers to as Dual Sport – is like to share the same parallel-twin engine as the F 900 XR. While further details regarding the powertrain remain scarce, it’s almost sure to be an 895cc parallel-twin unit.
Having said that, it is likely to produce close to 100hp and 92Nm, similar to the BMW F 900 XR.

Looking at the leak photos, the Voge 900DS looks inspired not just by the F 850 GS bodywork but also by some aspect of Triumph’s Tiger 900 range, specifically the front fascia.
Nonetheless, it looks well-built, and the slim subframe gives off an aggressive and rugged look.
While not much is disclosed regarding the new motorcycle, the Voge 900DS is expected to break cover at EICMA in November.
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Over 1,000 Ducati Scrambler 1100 recalled in the US

The National Highway and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has posted a recall involving over 1,000 units of Ducati Scrambler 1100 which are at risk of a possible short circuit. It seems that they’ve found out that the exhaust valve cable might come into contact with the battery wiring, which may cause an electrical short-circuit, which may lead to a possible fire.

A total of 1,072 units of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 sold by Ducati North America will be recalled to remedy the situation. These units go back to 2018 until 2021 and being the responsible party that they are, affected owners will be notified to come into the nearest dealer for remedy.

All affected Ducati Scrambler 1100 models will be given a new cable guide and self-locking cable tie to the exhaust valve cable, free of charge. This will ensure that the wirings do not come across each other, and therefore mitigate the risk of short-circuiting and fire in the future.

Although this may sound like a huge risk, this particular recall in the US will only be scheduled to begin on 25 January 2021. As for the Malaysian market, we’re not sure if any of the units here are affected by this, but if there’s any, you can bet that the first people to contact the affected owners would be Ducati Malaysia themselves.
Suzuki launches GSX-R1000R Legend Edition series! RM111k

Written by: Sep Irran
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Wak Doyok’s Triumph 3HW

The Triumph 3HW was one of Triumph’s motorcycles produced for the military.

It served throughout the Second World War.

This particular example belongs to celebrity Wak Doyok.

You’ll never know what kind of treasures will show up at the dealerships of classic motorcycle marques. Well, Triumph Motorcycles is the world’s second oldest motorcycle manufacturer, after all.
We were picking up the 2018 Tiger 800 XCx from Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia in Petaling Jaya for testing and review, when we spotted a “baby blue” vintage motorcycle sitting in the cargo bay of a 4×4 pickup. Imagine our surprise when it turned out to be 1940s Triumph 3HW, belonging to the popular celebrity Wak Doyok!

The Triumph 3HW wasn’t only a vintage bike but it had a significance in the history of motorcycles.

When World War II broke out in September 1939, the War Office requisitioned (sapu habis, in local speak) Triumph’s entire stock of civilian motorcycles. Triumph, based in Coventry at the time, went on to develop the 3TW specially for the military.

But on the night of 14th November 1940, the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) conducted a bombing raid on the city and devastated the Triumph factory along with the production of the 3TW. Many records of Triumph motorcycles since its heydays were also destroyed.

Triumph converted an oil foundry in Meriden, Warwickshire and started producing two single-cylinder motorcycles – the side-valve 3SW and the overhead-valve 3HW. The 3HW was based on the Tiger 80 sport roadster.

The 3HW’s rocker boxes were cast integrally with the cast-iron cylinder head, as opposed to the Tiger 80’s separate aluminium allow rocker boxes. The engineers resorted to cast iron as aluminium was in short supply.

Being more powerful than the 3SW, the 3HW eventually saw service in dispatch duties and general liaison for the Royal Navy in North Africa, India and Greece. In fact, the Greek Army used the bike from 1942 all the way to 1952.

The 343cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine had bore X stroke dimensions of 70mm X 89mm, a compression ratio of 6.7:1, and produced 17 bhp at 5200 RPM, pushing the bike to a top speed of 115 km/h.

Wak Doyok’s bike here shows the 3HW serial number stamped on the crankcase, but the fuel tank/instrument cluster could’ve been replaced with a 3H Deluxe model’s. Regardless, it’s still one awesomely beautiful motorcycle. Watch this video of Wak Doyok riding the bike, posted on 29th September 2017. Thank you Wak Doyok for letting photograph your bike!

PICTURE GALLERY

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Motonation 2018 hosts Iftar at Hype Motorsports Hotel

Motonation 2018 organised a Ramadan Iftar dinner and business networking event last night.
The event was held at the Hype Motorsports Hotel KL (formerly known as Nouvelle Hotel).
They also conducted partners’ signing ceremonies, networkings, and business presentations for all the guests.

The good folks from Motonation 2018 invited fellow partners, networking members and media personnel to their Ramadan Iftar dinner and business networking last night. The event was held at the newly-refurbished Hype Motorsports Hotel KL (formerly known as Nouvelle Hotel).

The Iftar event started off with the buka puasa where Muslims who were fasting broke their fast together with fellow Malaysians. Everyone enjoyed the food festivities together before the session moved to the Motonation Package presentation.

It was then followed by a couple of signing ceremonies with new business partners to the event as well as a number of presentations from current business partners to all guests. The most important highlight of the night was the networking session where representatives from their respective businesses got to know each other.

Name cards were exchanged and products were displayed for all to see from 3D-printing technology to virtual reality programs and applications. Although this is still considered an early stage for Motonation 2018 before their main event at the end of the year, we can see that many vendors and businesses are already taking part as the hype continues to build.

If you thought that last year’s Motonation event was huge, this year’s main event at MECC, MATRADE will be even bigger. Don’t forget to block your calendars from 19 to 21 October 2018!

Motonation 2018 officially launched & ready for October

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Buriram be Ballin’ – 2015 WSBK Thailand

Sights and sounds from the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK) series’ debut in the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand.

As you’d already know, the BR team are here on the ground in the new Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand, for the season-opening round of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015, and the second round of the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK).

Opened back in October last year, the new Chang International Circuit is only the second ASEAN venue to host WSBK. Suffice to say, the Thais love motorsports as much as we do, and this new facility proves it. What makes this even more enticing is the fact that Thailand itself is a huge market for bikes, making this facility a sound investment in its own right.

Back to the racing action, and WSBK is giving its Thai fans a first taste of top-flight two-wheeled racing action. The challenging weather conditions and the ultra-high speed nature of this 4.554km course is incubating perhaps one of the most exciting racing weekends in the region.

If WSBK’s last season would tell you anything, the battle for supremacy is between the silver-liveried Aprilia works team, and the all-too-familiar green and black colour of Kawasaki. The season-opening race of 2015 brought out of the sport’s closest race finishes in history, and this second round looks set to keep this exciting fire burning.

Taking pole position from today’s Qualifying sessions was Kawasaki’s Jonathan Rea who lapped the 5.445km-long course on the factory Kawasaki ZX10R with a blistering pace of 1:33.382. The Brit is joined on the first row of the grid alongside fellow countryman Leon Haslam of Aprilia in second, and Suzuki’s Alex Lowes in third.

Though the locals have two wildcard riders entering the WSBK main event’s grid this weekend, all eyes in Buriram today were on the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 support event where local boys Nakarin ‘Chip’ Atiratphuvapat and Somkiat Chantra ruled in the series’ first of two scheduled races this weekend. Suffice to say, the joy and elation amongst to home crowd when Chantra won the support race was loud and clear in the grandstands.

Check out our album on Facebook page for more exclusive images from the ground here in Buriram, Thailand. Watch this space for more updates and images as we chart through Sunday’s scheduled racing programme as well.

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WHO: Thailand Deadliest Roads in Asia, India the Highest in the World

A World Health Organization (WHO) report highlighted that Thailand has the highest road accident death rate among Asian countries.

However, India saw the most killed in road accidents.

Road accidents is now the Number 1 cause of death for children and adults up to 29 years old.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has published their annual Global Status Report on Road Safety 2018. In the report, Thailand still has the deadliest roads in Asia while India saw the greatest number of lives lost in traffic accidents.

Although published in 2018, the report provides data collected from 175 countries in 2016.
Thailand’s status as the second deadliest roads in the world has improved to eighth with 32.7 deaths per 100,000 citizens. A whopping 74.4% (16,178) of the 21,745 killed were drivers/passengers of 2-wheeled vehicles. Traffic accidents kill an average of 21,491 persons in the country each year.
Risks of Renting a Motorcycle in Thailand and How to Insure Yourself

Eight African countries and one South American nation join Thailand in the Top 10.
In terms of pure numbers, however, the Indian subcontinent saw an almost unbelievable 150,785 reported deaths. Conversely, the WHO believes many more fatalities were probably unreported and as many as 299,091 were killed on India’s roads. The country’s population of over 1.3 billion people had the effect of lowering the rate to 22.6 per 100,000.

By comparison, China has the second highest total number of reported deaths from traffic accidents at 58,022 among her 1.4 billion citizens. Again, the WHO believes that an estimated total of 256,180 were killed in 2016. China’s road death rate was 18.2/100,000.
Malaysia’s road death rate is still high but has seen much improvements at 23.6/100,000 with a total of 7,152 reported cases. There was no official number in the report, but it is widely believed that some 60% of all traffic-related deaths involve motorcycles.
Our neighbor Indonesia reported 31,282 traffic deaths in that year. Fatalities on two-wheel vehicles contributed 73.6% to the total figure. However, they have a low rate at 12.2/100,000 due to their large 261 million population.
The WHO added that traffic accidents are now the leading cause of death among children and adults up to 29 years old, and 8thhighest among people of all ages. At 1.35 million deaths each year, more die in road accidents than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and diarrheal diseases. The situation is worsening and a person is killed every 24 seconds somewhere in the world.
Sobering thoughts for 2019.
Source: World Health Organization
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Rickey Gadson Sets New Kawasaki H2 Mile Record – 368.7km/h!

Rickey Gadson and his heavily-modified Kawasaki H2 drag bike set the top speed record within a mile at the Texas Mile event

The event saw Gadson hit 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h)!

The ‘baddest H2 in the country’ produces 323hp with a new supercharger, ported cylinder heads, custom camshafts and racing gearbox

Image source: www.streetcyclez.com

Ever heard of Rickey Gadson and his Kawasaki H2? Well, Rickey is actually an 11-time AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) drag racing champion and he has a heavily modified Kawasaki H2 known as the ‘baddest H2 in the country’. How ‘bad’ is the bike? Rickey just set a new record with it 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h) in just one mile (1.6km)!

Technically, the H2 does not belong to Rickey Gadson himself. In fact, it his customer’s who requested him to build the drag-monster H2 to tear up the drag strip. Gadson’s solution? More power. WAY MORE POWER. Gadson installed a new RG63 Performance Plus Supercharger Kit, ported cylinder heads, custom-designed camshafts and a racing gearbox courtesy of Woolich Racing.
Image source: www.cdn.rideapart.com
The result? The claimed 210hp from the stock H2 engine has been raised to a whopping 323hp. That is slightly over 100hp (113hp to be exact) power increase! Together with a never-ending dyno sessions to get the settings just right, the H2 definitely lives up to its name as the ‘baddest’ of them all.

The record was set at the Texas Mile event where anyone and everyone can take their machine and set their fastest speed within the mile. Although his initial target was on 220mp/h (354km/h), he broke that on the very first day of the event and continued to become faster and faster with a few modifications to aerodynamic wings. That was when Gadson hit 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h). Check out his run below.

Although previously World Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu set the top speed on a Kawasaki H2R at 249mp/h (400km/h) in June 2016, the H2R already had 310hp and Kenan had more than a mile on his record-setting run on the newly-built Osman Gazi Bridge, Turkey.
CLICK HERE to know more about the story.
For further entertainment, here’s Sofuoglu performing the most epic rolling burnout on the H2R while lighting up the streets with the hot glowing exhaust!

Motor yaniyooorrr!!! Sikinti yok bu Kenan ve H2RBike is on fire but no worry this is Kenan and H2R
Posted by Kenan Sofuoğlu on 30hb Julai 2016

Interested in buying your very own Kawasaki? CLICK HERE to check out our exclusive Bike Buyer’s Guide to get all the details on all Kawasaki bikes available in Malaysia.
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Kawasaki middleweights get new colours for 2016

Kawasaki has revealed new colour options for the ER-6f, the ER-6n, the Versys 650, as well as the Vulcan S.
While the Versys 650 and the Vulcan S are new models, the ER-6f and ER-6n were expected to go through an extensive update by mid 2016, but looking at Kawasaki’s decision to introduce new paint options, we feel that it is safe to say that the refreshed ER-6f and ER-6n will take longer than we expected to make their debut.

Coming back to the new paint options, the ER-6f gets three options for the 2016 season. The iconic green Candy Lime Green version now features fairing sides in Metallic Spark Black fading to a lighter colour fairing lower. In a similar style, the Candy Persimmon Red model also has Metallic Spark Black fairing sides while the Metallic Carbon Gray option sticks to an all over single colour approach.
Like its ER-6n partner, each new for 2016 ER-6f comes with a coloured rear shock absorber spring and pin-striped wheels as standard. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.

The Vulcan S on the other hand, is now available in white. The beige Urban City White option is joined by Metallic Matt Carbon Gray, creating an impactful and purposeful look. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.

And then we have the Versys 650, which is currently available in Metallic Matte Carbon Gray and Metallic Spark Black machine. New for next year are the striking Candy Matte Orange and Pearl Stardust White combined with Metallic Spark Black option.
On another note, Kawasaki mentioned in the press release that it has many announcements due in the near future. So, we can expect 2016 to be a pretty busy and interesting year for the brand.

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BMW G310R makes comic book debut

BMW G310R debuts in comic book as crime-busting hero’s motorcycle of choice.

The BMW G310R has made its debut in the pages of a graphic novel – or comic book if you will – titled ‘Riders in the Storm’. It sees the German marque’s new small capacity naked bike becoming the motorcycle of choice for the title’s protagonists.

Created by Croatian author Darko Macan and Italian illustrator Riccardo Burchielli, Rides in the Storm was announced last weekend during the German leg of the famed Comic Con convention held in Stuttgart.
The comic centres around a policewoman inspired by inked German model Makani Terror, an ‘out-of-the-ordinary street artist’ plus a ‘wolf with exceptional powers’ – riding a bike being one of it. These characters fight against evil whilst riding the German marque’s new small capacity naked.

Whilst this unorthodox branding exercise is indeed exciting, it only adds further to the anxiety amongst many fans (us included!) who are patiently waiting for the new naked bike to be launched here.
If you’ve followed our Facebook page, you’d know that our chief editor Keshy Dhillon recently attended a special preview of the bike held by dealers Chear Motorrad just before the month of Ramadhan started.

You can also check out how the BMW G310R sounds like in this short video submitted to us by Arif Izzudin  (@arfizdn) through our Instagram page – Thanks for that mate!

Our friend @arfizdn got the chance to ride the new BMW G310R and we are super jealous! Just listen to it purrrr, can’t wait for it! Head on over to Auto Bavaria to put down your booking fees for the most anticipated bike of the year! #bmwg310r #g310r #bmwmalaysia #bmwmotorrad #motorrad @bmwmotorrad @bmwmcm @sashi.ambi
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jun 27, 2016 at 9:13pm PDT

Developed in partnership with India’s TVS Motorcycles, it features a thumpy 313cc single-cylinder heart that develops 34hp at 9,500rpm and 28Nm of peak torque at 7,500rpm that propels a claimed unladen weight of 158.5kg. Its chief rival here will be the popular and segment-leading KTM 390 Duke naked bike.

The BMW G310R is expected to debut officially in Malaysia in October later this year where it will be offered as fully imported (CBU) units from India. Prices aren’t confirmed yet, but speculations suggest it will retail between RM20,000 and RM30,000.

Should the wait be unbearable for you, don’t forget to check out our special feature where we list down alternatives for the same speculative price by clicking here. You can also know more about the new baby BMW by clicking here, here and here.
Sources: BMW Group Press via Visordown
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This Bespoke Ducati 1100 By Revival Cycles Is Worth RM2.2mil

Anything related to Ducati always comes with a hefty pricetag. So when a custom builder like Revival Cycles chose to worked on a Ducati Monster 1100, you know it’s going to turned out epic while also eat out much of their budget.

the Fuse is built from Ducati’s Monster 1100 engine.
features custom frame, handlebars and tank.

For starters,  Revival Cycles is a custom shop based out of Austin, Texas and co-founded by Alan Stulberg and Stefan Hertel in 2008. The company has some of the most beautiful custom motorcycle ever made. Just drop by their website and you’ll understand what we meant.
However, among the lot, perhaps the most beautiful machine they’ve built is the custom Ducati 1100 Fuse.

A part from an engine taken out of the Monster 1100, everything else, including the stainless steel frame is completely custom. Also, the swingarm, was fabricated out of a solid block of aluminium. Just imagine the hours they’ve put into creating the perfect component.
According to the company, the exposed stainless steel tubes were designed not just as the bike’s foundation but also to act as the focal point of the overall design.

Revival Cycles also mounted a one-piece handlebar to create a clean cockpit while integrating the clutch and brake reservoir into the bar itself. Leather grips is fitted to complete the classic touch.

While the bike’s in its entirety is custom, the one-piece tank, seat and tail assembly still brings out the Ducati design language, further enhanced by the red paint. Meanwhile, to ensure the bike’s in running state, Revival Cycles also reworked the entire electrical system.
Last but not least, the Fuse pumps out 120hp from the Ducati Monster 1100 engine making it quite a powerful machine.
The best part is, Revival Cycles claimed that the estimated cost to built the Fuse is around USD500,000 (RM2.2mil).
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Schoolteacher Arrested for Illegal Racing

Photo credit NST.com.my

Police arrested a schoolteacher for illegal racing.

He was riding a Yamaha YZF-R1.

His “opponent”, a cook, was riding an Aprilia RSV4.

Police arrested a school for illegal racing on a Yamah YZF-R1.
He was racing against a chef on an Aprilia RSV4 along Lebuhraya Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu, near Bayan Lepas in Penang.
Both men were then arrested at intersection to the Kampung Jawa foodcourt at 2am.
Police revealed that the R1 rider is a secondary school teacher. Both men have made police bail but the police is in the process of completing their report to the deputy public prosecutor for further action.
The case will be investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Source: https://newmalaysianpost.com/2019/10/12/guru-sekolah-ditahan-ketika-sedang-berlumba-haram/
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Legendary Malaysian GP rider ‘Bulldog Kuan’ passes away

It is with deep sadness that we report to you that one of Malaysia’s motorsports legend, Kuan Huah Chin aka “Bulldog Kuan” had passed away yesterday. Those who have been involved in the national motorsports world here in Malaysia are aware and thankful of all the contributions made by this very legendary Malaysian GP rider.

 View this post on Instagram

 Deeply saddened by the loss of our very own Malaysian motorsports legend – Bulldog Kuan @ Kuan Huah Chin. Bulldog was a racer ahead of his times, and as the President of the Penang Motor Sports Club, had been one of the main organizing clubs for the Malaysian Cub Prix Championship since the early days.  We will always cherish his contribution towards the sport. Our deepest condolences to Kuan Meng Heng and his family.  Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. RIP Uncle Bulldog. #legend #cubprix #cubprixgenerasi #motorsport
A post shared by  Malaysian Cub Prix (@msiancubprix) on Mar 20, 2020 at 6:07am PDT

Known for his dominating racing antiques during the national GP races (which he started to get involved in as early as the 1960s), Bulldog Kuan together with the likes of Oh Kah Beng aka “Foreman Oh” dominated the national GP racing scene up until the 1980s. Even after his racing days ended, Bulldog Kuan was still very much active in the racing community.

Never thought this woild be my last pic with my sifu and idol, the great Bulldog Kuan, who has sadly passed away today. Even more shattering we all can’t attend his funeral due to MCO. Shattered. R.I.P. Uncle Bulldog.#motocycling pic.twitter.com/3AjQyeWbNO
— Arnaz M. Khairul (@arnazmkhairul) March 20, 2020
The local racing scene has a lot to thank for with all the help and guidance received from this legendary GP rider. As the President of the Penang Motor Sports Club, Bulldog Kuan was one of the great supporters and contributors to the early days of what’s now popularly known as the Malaysian Cub Prix.
Image credit: Malaysian Cub Prix
The Penangite also had his own motorcycle shop in Georgetown, Penang which most folks would simply refer to as Bulldog Kuan Motor. A lot of people in the industry regarded him as one of the masters of motorsports where he continuously provided support as well as wisdom to those who are involved in the motorsports scene, particularly two-wheels.
Image credit: Guang Ming Daily
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the legendary Kuan Huah Chin along with his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
Is Hafizh Syahrin really the first Malaysian MotoGP rider?

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UK police starts YouTube series on safety riding tips

Advanced police motorcycle instructor in the UK initiates YouTube series focused on safety riding tips.

At BikesRepublic, we are always on the lookout for ways for all fellow bikers to become safer on the road. However, we know that some of you lot may find it difficult to attend riding courses due to budget or time constraints. Thanfully,  you aren’t alone and this YouTube series on safety riding tips done by an advanced police motorcycle instructor in the UK should help you get started.
The series sees Police Constable Roger Peskett demonstrating and guiding viewers on safety riding tips. Much of the videos were shot using GoPro cameras and the first two videos published centralises on urban riding skills.

The unique initiative using the popular online video hosting site was the result of a study by the UK police that indicated that many of the UK’s weekday commuters were the ones that are most at risk. Road Safety Sergeant Chris Appleby states:
“We have identified three high-risk groups of motorcyclists. These are leisure riders, commuters, and young scooter riders. Our priority still remains with leisure riders using high powered motorcycles on rural roads; however there is an emerging risk for commuter riders or urban motorcyclists as they choose bikes as a preferred travelling option.”
As mentioned, Police Constable Roger Peskett has already published two videos for the series besides a flashy trailer (featured video). The first video posted below sees Constable Peskett demonstrating a technique for safe urban filtering.
Suffice to say, filtering through the urban traffic, especially on a large and heavy sport touring bike that’s typically kitted out for police use, is a tall order, but Constable Peskett’s demonstration through GoPro footages, on-screen indicators and verbal explanations are very clear.

The second video posted below focuses on observation skills instead whilst riding through urban traffic conditions. Again, Constable Peskett’s visual demonstrations, clear on-screen indication and verbal explanations are on point here as well.

You can’t be a safer rider immediately by watching videos, but we reckon this would be a good way to for anyone to start off with in gaining some basic understanding of safe riding skills.
This should be helpful at least until you eventually make time and the effort to enrol in a proper safety riding or advanced riding course. If cost is an issue, then consider enrolling in MiniGP-based courses like the MyRide Academy we attended last weekend or the ATAC MiniGP Rider Training Program we took part in not too long ago.
In short, we reckon that Constable Peskett’s video series is worthwhile of subscribing besides the official BikesRepublic YouTube channel of course.
Source: YouTube ( Link 1 / Link 2 / Link 3 ) via Visordown
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More 2021 Harley-Davidson Touring & CVO models revealed

2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special

Apart from the Harley-Davidson Softail range, H-D also introduced three new 2021 models in their Touring segments in the form of updated hot rod baggers, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special, Road Glide Special, and Street Glide Special. All three are powered by the same 1,868cc Milwaukee-Eight® 114 V-twin engine that produces 160Nm of torque and roughly around 92hp.
2021 Street Glide Special
The changes for 2021 are not major ones, but these hot rod baggers now come with low profile engine guards (for that slightly slammed look), centre console, 22.7-litre fuel tank, upgraded air filters, engine colour options (black or chrome), LED lighting system, and a selection of two-tone paint schemes that are really visually pleasing.
2021 Road King Special
As for the H-D CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) models, four models consisting of the CVO Limited, CVO Street Glide, CVO Road Glide, and CVO Tri Glide. For this range, the bikes are powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine (1,917cc) that puts out a powerful 170Nm of torque.
2021 CVO Street Glide
These ‘high-performance’ cruisers also come with the newly-introduced H-D Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate. Specially designed speakers and amplifiers were made exclusively for the CVO models, including the mighty Stage II tri-axial speakers for the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models.
2021 CVO Limited
The CVO models also include the brand’s complete electronic riding aids such as traction control, cornering ABS, TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system), hill-hold control, plus many more. Just like the new Softails, there is no indication of price or availability just yet.

Written by: Sep Irran
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2020 KTM 390 Adventure Debuts at EICMA 2019

2020 KTM 390 Adventure

The 2020 KTM 390 Adventure was launched at EICMA 2019.

It’s been 7 years since it was planned.

It takes on the familial resemblance to the 790 Adventure.

The word “finally” really applies to the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure launched yesterday at EICMA 2019. It’s been 7 years since KTM CEO Stefan Pierer said that the manufacturer will produce an adventure bike based on the 390 Duke platform.
There’ve been spy shots after spy shots, rumours after rumours but the production-ready 390 Adventure never seemed to leave the factory doors. Until now, since Euro5 takes effect next year.

It’s immediately obvious that it’s adopted the 790 Adventure’s design. Missing however, is the 790’s bulbous underslung fuel tank. It also incorporates elements from the 450 Rally.
It’s engine remains the 372cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, single-cylinder layout. KTM didn’t publish the power figures, but we can expect to produce in the 43 bhp ballpark like the 390 Duke’s. That doesn’t sound much to those weaned on triple digit numbers, of course but it’s now the most powerful lightweight adventure/dual-purpose bike.
Its steel trellis frame looks similar to the 390 Duke’s, but there are differences with exhaust routing, brackets, subframe, and swingarm length in order to accommodate longer suspension travel. Seat height is at a reasonable 853 mm — the same as the 1090 Adventure and 790 Adventure (base model).

Euro5 is about less polution, less noise, lower fuel consumption and the 390 Adventure delivers a frugal 3.62 litre/100 km under good riding conditions. That equates to 400 km from the 14.4-litre tank.
The bike uses WP APEX 43 mm forks and monoshock with 170 mm and 175 mm travel, respectively. Ground clearance is 198 mm. Those figures are not much for off-road but we shall see. The low clearance is contributed by 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels would raise the bike higher but the 390 Adventure is surely meant for beginners and casual adventure-touring riders.
Up top, the 5-inch TFT screen features the usual trappings these days of Bluetooth connectivity and multimedia functions. KTM’s Quickshifter+ is an option.
The 2020 KTM 390 Adventure is priced at USD 6,199 (RM 25,728.95) for the base model. We’d love to see it at Rimba Raid, too!
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Triumph Thruxton R Test & Review

The Triumph Thruxton R is the flagship of Triumph’s modern classic lineup.

It takes on the form of a café racer, but with the race cowling it becomes a classic racer.

Priced from RM 83,900 (the race cowling and Vance & Hines exhausts are optional).

How many of us actually read the warning labels on the products we buy? I mean look at some of them, “Use Min. RON 95 UNLEADED FUEL only.” Or “Wear a helmet and safety gear when riding.” The more morbid ones state, “Improper use may result in grievous injury or death.”
Well, of course they sound like that, having been written in such way to avoid being sued for product liability. But, aw c’mon, none of them actually alludes to the excitement of riding; of how the bike would make you feel when you ride.
The reason I say this is because there exist bikes that’ll have you obsess over them. So excited over them that you want to just keep riding. So beautiful that it takes up all your attention, and you end up staring at the bike for hours and hours when you park it in your driveway (or living room).
Surely someone would come up with the hair-brained idea to hold the manufacturer accountable?
The Triumph Thruxton R has admittedly been around since Triumph launched their updated line of Bonneville modern classics in 2016. However, we felt that it’s the right time for a revisit, as other manufacturers have also released their café racers, putting them head-to-head with the Thruxton R.

Triumph had completely overhauled the Bonneville family from 2016 . The biggest updates, however, saw the addition of liquid cooling, a 270o crankshaft replacing the traditional 180o and 360o, and the bikes branching into two capacities of 900cc and 1200cc. Different variations were then spawned from these two common platforms.
On the 1200cc side of the family, the engines feature two states of tune: HT for High Torque and HP for High Power. No prizes for guessing correctly that the Thruxton R gets the HP tuning.

Expanding on what Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia describes the café racer style, “(A) café racer is noted for its visual minimalism, featuring low-mounted handlebars, prominent seat cowling and elongated fuel tank (with) knee-grips indented in the fuel tank.”

It’s this visual minimalist that gives the bike it’s “proper” dimensions in the mind’s eye, eluding to something unadulterated in its purpose. The hornet tail-like seat cowling eludes to streamlining. Note that the Thruxton R comes with passenger footpegs and the seat is hidden beneath the cowling, however, you’d need to replace the seat if wish to carry a pillion for longer distances.

Getting on and grabbing the handlebars felt so natural. The handlebars appear low since they are attached below the top triple clamp, but they are actually cast to rise a few inches upwards, giving the rider a sporty crouch, rather than most café racers that stretch you out like a string of spaghetti i.e. butt high up, arms outstretched, chest on the tank. I would say the seating position is closer to the new Street Triple 765 RS.

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia had fitted the optional upper cowling on this demo bike, turning it into a “proper” classic racer. Besides that, they have also installed a Vance & Hines full system exhaust. (As a side note, there are more than 300 items in Triumph’s accessories catalog.)

From the seat, your eyes meet a pair of classy and beautifully appointed analog gauges. There is an LCD screen in each of them, providing all the info you need, including tripmetres, fuel consumption, fuel range and a fuel gauge.

But the thing about Triumph’s modern classics is not just about the looks. They are thoroughly modern motorcycles, fitted with ABS, Triumph Traction Control (TTC) and power modes (RAIN, ROAD, SPORT). The headlights, daytime running lights (DRL), taillight and all signal lamps are LED.

Firing up the bike gave me a jump as the engine roared to life. These V&H pipes were definitely more vocal, rumbling at idle.
First gear engaged with a positive click, and we were off riding on the engine’s beautifully smooth torque, pulling away to a melodious “Braaaooooom.” But as soon as the right hand snaps the throttle open, the Thruxton R jumped forward without hesitation, accompanied by an almost ruffian-like BRRRAAAAOOOWPPP from the twin canons which drowned out all the sound of the world. Me, on the other hand, went “WHEEEEE!”

The Thruxton R was so easy to steer – left-right, right-left – as I avoided the bumps and traffic around Section 13, PJ. Mixed in with the engine’s propensity to pull anywhere in the rev range and that Symphony #1 from the engine and exhausts, it got additive within minutes. Why should one get addicted to hard drugs when you have the Thruxton R???

I had an appointment to meet Keshy for lunch at the Coliseum restaurant in Jaya 33, just some 300 metres away from the Triumph showroom, but I rode all the way to SS2 and Seapark before turning back to Jaya 33 – all subconsciously. The Thruxton R had just taken over my thoughts and actions!
And as if the planets, stars and nebulae were correctly aligned, we had an opportunity to ride the bike up Bukit Tinggi the next day on a TOP SECRET mission. I’d normally give the place a wide berth unless on smaller bikes. Ponder about it: Narrow road, sharp corners and chicanes, decreasing radius turns, dirt in the corners, etc. I understood how medieval torture felt like when I rode up there the last time on a 160-bhp naked sportbike.

It turned out to be a misgiving as the Thruxton R kept up with Triumph Tiger 800 XCx and Triumph Street Triple RS, even in the rain. All I needed to do was keep it in a gear higher, and rely on its agile handling and that wonderful midrange torque to punch out of the corners. Flicked it left, flicked it right, the Thruxton R exhibited neutral handling. It turned in smartly whether you coasted, trail braked, or kept the throttle slightly opened on your way in. The front end wanted to tuck under in a few very slow corners but adding some throttle cured it. It wasn’t the bike’s fault, I had pushed downwards onto the handlebars in all that excitement.

Talking about the throttle, I kept in SPORT in the rain because I could’ve sworn that my right hand was connected directly to the throttle bodies (they mimic the beautiful vintage Amal carbs, by the way). Then again, riding in the rain in SPORT mode isn’t unique to the Thruxton R. I’ve done so on the aforementioned Tiger 800 XCx and Street Triple RS. I can attest that Triumph motorcycles have the best throttle “feel” and response. A direct-feeling and predictable throttle response brings confidence to the rider; and riding enjoyment is a direct consequence of that confidence. You don’t want to go into a corner and have an abrupt throttle response either scaring you or messing up your intended line, right?

I guess I shouldn’t have second-guessed the Thruxton R’s ability to handle corners like the way it did. The entire Bonneville lineup (both 1200s and 900s) are fundamentally good handling bikes already, so since the Thruxton R is equipped with fully-adjustable Showa Big Piston Forks (BPF) and Ohlins shocks that made it handle like a dream. There’s only so much one could do if the base bike has terrible handling, and adding the best suspension will not guarantee that you could turn a water buffalo into a thoroughbred race horse. The Thruxton name is hallowed, but I personally refer to the Thruxton R as the “Bonneville RS.”

Anyway, if going uphill at Bukit Tinggi was challenging, coming down was outright hairy in the rain as gravity “assisted” in adding more speed than I intended. I was so thankful for that handling, Brembo Monoblocs and ABS. A single finger pull on the brake lever was enough to modulate the brakes into the turns. The Triumph Traction Control (TTC) kept the rear front sliding like a supermoto.

Down Karak Highway, as was when we rode up earlier, the chassis didn’t care if the road was smooth or bumpy, or if was painted with those dreaded red lines: The bike held onto the chosen line. There’s one particularly long right-hander and the bike just blew past everything on while on its side. It may look vintage, but it didn’t run like a vintage.

But it wasn’t only about going fast. The Thruxton R was equally as happy when trudging along at 50-60 km/h in the city (time to let people ogle at the bike). Like I mentioned earlier, the engine just purrs along when ridden at a steady throttle. On the highways, 3800 RPM in sixth translates to 120 km/h; and that’s the best range to ride in as it’s close to the peak torque of 112 Nm at 4950 RPM. And no, unless you’re chasing a 1000cc superbike (which isn’t a smart thing to do anyway), the engine doesn’t run out of breath quickly although its 97 bhp peak power arrives at 6750 RPM. But what those figures do reveal is how flexible the engine is. Just give throttle at any time and the bike takes off. The Thruxton R could hit 220 km/h really quickly.

In the few days I had the bike, I discovered just how characterful the Triumph Thruxton R really was. It’s got the pose and the poise, plus everything in between. It’s got all that one would want of a bike: Rideability, looks, sound, confidence, practicality and some touring capability (since it’s comfortable), handling, safety, reliability, even low fuel consumption. It did what I wanted it to do and then some.

What about shortcomings? The ride mode defaults back to ROAD when you switch the ignition back on. Honestly though, that’s not a problem, but I had to mention this because I’m forced to find something amiss with the bike, lest I be blamed as being biased. The curse of being a motojournalist, sigh… (Rolls eyes.)

For me personally, it’s been thirty years since I felt this excited. That was when I rode my very first bike out of the shop.

As for you, our Dear Readers, if you’ve never ridden a Triumph or ever felt convinced about the brand, one single ride on this bike will have you going Bri’ish in a hurry.

However, I recommend that the Test Ride Indemnity Form or a sticker on the bike ought to include a statement, “The manufacturer and/or dealer will not be held accountable for increased heart rate, dryness of mouth, palpitations, sleepless nights and obsession to own one (or more) resulting from the test ride. Giggling like a school girl is entirely a personal choice.”

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE

Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8-valves, parallel-Twin, 270o crank

Compression ratio
11.0 : 1

Bore X Stroke
97.6 mm X 80.0 mm

Displacement
1200 cc

Fuel system
Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection

Maximum power
97 bhp (72 kW) @ 6,750 RPM

Maximum torque
112 Nm (82.6) ft.-lbs. @ 4,950 RPM

TRANSMISSION

Clutch
Wet, multi-plate assist clutch

Gearbox
6-speed

CHASSIS

Front suspension
Showa 43mm USD Big Piston Forks (BPF), adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping, 120 mm travel

Rear suspension
Öhlins dual shocks with piggyback reservoir, adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping, 120 mm travel

Front brakes
Dual 310 mm floating discs, dual four-piston radially mounted Brembo Monobloc calipers

Rear brake
Single 220 mm disc, two-piston Nissin caliper

ABS
ABS standard, swtichable on/off

Front tyre
120/70-ZR17

Rear tyre
160/60-ZR17

FRAME & DIMENSIONS

Frame
Tubular steel cradle

Swingarm
Two-sided aluminium, clear powdercoated

Trail
92.0 mm

Rake
22.8 degrees

Wheelbase
1415 mm

Seat height
810 mm

Dry weight
203 kg

Fuel capacity
14.4 litres

PICTURE GALLERY

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Valentino Rossi web TV series announced (with teaser video)

Living MotoGP legend, icon and superstar Valentino Rossi stars in exclusive web TV series produced by Monster Energy.

American energy drinks giant Monster Energy just released a teaser for its upcoming and exclusive web TV series starring MotoGP superstar Valentino Rossi.

Here’s what Monster Energy wrote in their description of the series:
‘Valentino Rossi: The Doctor’ will consist of five webisodes peeling back the layers on one of the biggest names in sport as told by the nine-times world champion himself and those in his inner circle. See Valentino bossing his vast VR|46 business empire with the same character and enthusiasm as his factory M1 Yamaha, listen to friends dissect the reasoning behind his vast appeal and re-live some of his era-defining antics in MotoGP.

From what we can gauge through the teaser trailer, the online series will allow viewers to get to know MotoGP’s living legend, superstar and icon through the perspective of some of the people that know him best. Seasoned MotoGP fans would already recognise the voice of former American MotoGP rider Colin Edwards narrating the trailer.

Besides Edwards, other personalities featured in this series to tell their stories include people from within Rossi’s inner circle such as his father Graziano Rossi and close friend Alessio Salucci. Also featured are some of MotoGP’s top personalities such as Yamaha Factory Racing Team boss Lin Jarvis and Dorna Sport’s CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
Episodes of ‘Valentino Rossi: The Doctor’ will be published on the official Monster Energy YouTube channel starting May 5.
Sources: YouTube via MoreBikes.co.uk
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Honda EX5 and Air Blade launch and test ride

In what appears to be a perfectly timed move, Malaysian Honda bikes assembler and distributor this month launched two of its latest offerings, the brand new EX5 Dream 110 moped and the Air Blade scooter. Both models were launched early last week just in time before the Hari Raya festivities.
L-R:  Tatsuya Minagawa, Boon Siew Honda CEO & MD Satoshi Okada, CFO Koji Yamada, and deputy chairman Datuk Sri Tan Hui Jing.
Present to launch the new bikes in Awana, Genting were Boon Siew Honda (M) Sdn Bhd’s deputy chairman Datuk Sri Tan Hui Jing, managing director and CEO Satoshi Okada, and Honda R&D Southeast Asia Co. Ltd. Large project leader Tatsuya Minagawa.
Pic by TWMR and Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd
Shortly after the launch ceremony, invited members of the media were then given exclusive test-ride sessions with both new bikes. Naturally, we did not pass up the chance and this article will give you an insight of our first impressions towards Boon Siew’s latest offerings for the mass commuter market.
Pic by TWMR and Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd

Honda EX5 Dream 110

Firstly, the Japanese red wing Marque has opted to update one of its most iconic and legendary products ever, adapting it to better suit today’s mobility needs. Upgrading from its previous 100cc predecessor, the new EX5 now features a new and improved air-cooled 110cc (109.17cc) four-stroke OHC engine as its heart. Complying with Euro 2 standards, it generates 7.56hp and 8.32Nm of maximum torque, and it is paired with a traditional 4-speed Constant Mesh-type transmission. The new powertrain also benefits from a new enlarged 4-litre fuel tank, increasing its fuel economy rate further to 53.6km/litre.

According to large project leader Tatsuya Minagawa, he revealed to us that the new EX5 is a completely new bike from the ground up and shares no common parts with its predecessor. While the 26-year-old classic chassis design is retained, the new bike’s chassis durability has been improved further thanks to the use of new alloys and metals. Besides the equipment of heavy-duty suspension, the new EX5’s standard tyre sizes have been increased in width to 70/90-17M/C 38P (Front) and 80/90-17M/C 50P (rear) for improved stability and grip.

At first glance, the new EX5’s exterior outlooks may not differ much from its predecessors. But in fact, the new bike is actually slightly larger than the last iteration, and it sports several subtle design enhancements. These include the new headlamp design, the updated rear fascia and its use of a new combi tail-lamp design, a new underbody shield protecting the bike’s undercarriage, and a covered black exhaust. Also updated are the widened new seats, the equipment of an improved key system for increased security, followed by an electric starter motor available as a premium feature.
One of the most obvious changes with the new EX5 is the exhaust’s heat shield covers. Also updated is the tail lamp that features modern combination reflectors.
Given its renowned qualities at being a reliable, robust, and tough moped, the EX5 is really a bike of a few words. After riding it for a good 35 minutes around the Awana and Sungai Kedongdong areas in Genting, the first thing we immediately noted was the bike’s improved rider’s comfort from the new seat design. Secondly, we felt that the bike’s ride vibrations and harshness has also reduced greatly from its predecessor, a result of the chassis use of new alloy materials. Although the new EX5 supposedly weighs 5kg more than its predecessor, the larger and slightly more powerful 110cc engine offsets this easily, retaining that unmistakable performance feel of its past predecessors.

The use of wider tyres was also a welcoming feel, and we felt it was something the EX5 sorely needed. The grip and stability improvements from the new tyres were evident when we rode it around the twisty backs roads of Sungai Kedongdong. Typically, the heavy-duty suspension does have the tendency to wobble around when taking a corner at higher speed, but we genuinely appreciate its soft comfortable setup and more importantly, its robust feel.
Electric starter unit is only available as a premium option.Though it is old-fashioned, the traditional drum brakes equipped on the EX5 are robust and are easily maintained at a low cost.
Overall, the new EX5 has what it takes to live up to its predecessor’s capabilities upon first impressions. The only complains we had were the typical lack of glare protection on the instrumentation panel, and perhaps the front’s fascia’s somewhat more feminine looks. Other than that, the EX5 is still a remarkably affordable and highly reliable commuter made for all types of commuters, commanding a lot of respects for that matter as well.
To combat bike theft, the EX5’s key system has been further improved on the new model.
The new EX5 Dream 110 is now available for purchases at authorised dealers, carrying a starting price of RM3,908 for the kick-starter base model, and RM4,145 for the self-starter.

As added bonuses, Boon Siew are offering the bike with a highly affordable down payment scheme of just RM399, as well as an increased warranty period of two years or 20,000km (whichever comes first). Like its predecessors, we reckon that this new EX5 will enjoy long-term market success as how its predecessors did, and it still stands as the default choice amongst entry-level commuters.

Honda Air Blade

Whilst the updated EX5 launched alongside it was aimed towards entry-level commuter buyers, the Air Blade instead presents itself towards the younger-aged and tech-savvy of modern day commuters. The Air Blade 125cc scooter stands as one of the most tech-laden scooters currently available in our market, packaged in a very sleek and stylish design meant to exude confidence.
The Air Blade is the first scooter in our market to feature twin projector headlamps as standard (top), and it is matched by an equally attractive LED tail lamp.
Powering the Air Blade is a 125cc (124.88) liquid-cooled four-stroke single cylinder OHC eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) eco-friendly engine that features the brand’s PGM-FI fuel injection system, Idling Stop System (engine stop/start), and an integrated ACG starter system. Generating 11hp and 11.2Nm of torque, the mill is connected to a V-Matic automatic transmission developed with efficiency and high performance durability in mind. Both the eSP and ACG functions stands as Honda’s use of low-friction technology towards developing an eco-friendly and efficient powertrain without compromising on durability and fuel economy.

The features list with the Air Blade is pretty extensive. It is the first scooter offered in Malaysia with twin-projector headlamps. It also features an LED tail lamp, an LCD screen in the instrument cluster, a large U-Box with a light, a Remote Response Key to help locate the scooter in a parking lot, and Versatile Locks double locks for added security. Increasing the scooter’s safety are features such as the Side-Stand Switch that must be raised to start the engine, the use of tubeless tyres as standard, and more importantly, the equipment of the innovative Combined Brake System (Combi Brake).
 The Combi Brake system is an excellent feature of the Air Blade, evenly distributing brake force between the front and rear.
It terms of its exterior looks and stance, the Air Blade looks just as good as how its name sounds like, and has probably won many hearts amongst scooter fans. For a scooter, it has one of the sharpest handling in its class. The scooter’s back bone chassis is primed with front telescopic type measuring 81mm, and twin towers measuring 75mm at the rear. The suspension setup feels well balanced, having excellent amounts of softness for comfort and just enough sporty rigidity giving excellent road feedback. Couple that with the grip from the well-matched tubeless tyres (Front: 80/90-14M/C 40P, Rear: 90/90-14M/C 46P), the Air Blade takes corners easily even at slightly higher speeds.

The icing on the cake with the Air Blade’s chassis and handling however lies in its Combi Brake feature. The system operated using the left hand lever distributes brake force evenly front and rear. This greatly enhances the 112kg (kerb weight) scooter’s braking and handling control. This feature really came into its prime as we test-rode around the twisty hill roads enroute from Sungai Kedongdong to Awana. We rate the Air Blade’s chassis package highly as it inspires a lot of confidence for riders with its high level on controllability, exceptional stability even at high speeds, and its overall agility as a compact scooter.
The U-Box storage under the seat fits one half-face helmet easily with room to spare for smaller items, and comes with a basic tool kit as well.
The Air Blade’s automatic transmission on the other hand feels equally brilliant, delivering all the engine’s power fairly quickly without compromising its very smooth finesse. Also worthy of high praise is the integrated ACG system. It already has an ultra smooth feel with regular start ups, but it really comes into prime in aiding the Idling Stop System, giving the Air Blade seamless engine restarts all the time when in stop and going from idle.
 The Remote Respone Key feature is impressive. At the press of a button on the Air Blade’s keys, the scooter’s light will flash, making it easier for owner to locate it in a crowded or dark parking area.
Combining a very dynamic chassis package, a highly advanced and efficient powertrain, as well as adequate practicality, the Air Blade ranks highly in our favourites list. Our only complaint with the Air Blade is perhaps the slightly steep price tag. The Air Blade is priced starting from RM7,708 and is offered with three paintjob options.
The Air Blade proves to be one of the most stylish models currently available in its segment here in Malaysia.
For said price range, you could instead get any one of the Air Blade’s slightly more powerful and cheaper-priced segment rivals. However, the Air Blade’s extensive features list and its advanced efficient powertrain justify the higher costs, and we reckon this is one scooter than will give greater ownership satisfaction in the long term as compared to its rivals.

EX5 Dream 110 brochure (link)
Air Blade brochure (link)
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Making Sense of Rake and Trail

We always see rake and trail figures in spec sheets.

Rake and trail play a large role in a motorcycle’s handling.

Hence the spec sheet figures provide an insight to how the motorcycle will handle.

A motorcycle spec sheet actually contains plenty of information regarding a bike – if you don’t only look at the horsepower figure. Other important aspects include the bike’s steering dimensions, namely rake (also called castor angle) and trail.
Rake and trail figures provide a general insight into a bike’s handling characteristics. We say “general” here because how a bike steers is a combination of rake, trail, chassis balance, centre of gravity, mass centralization, wheelbase and weight. However, the rake and trail figures play the biggest role in terms of steering, handling and stability as that’s where the rider inputs his steering forces.
Credit Moto1.com
What is rake?
Rake refers the angle of the forks in relation to the vertical. First, draw a line along the centerline of the fork to intersect the horizontal ground. Then, draw another line vertically from the top of the fork to intersect the horizontal ground. The angle between these two lines is the rake (also known as steering angle or castor angle).
What is trail?
Let’s leave the line through the fork’s centerline in place. Now let’s draw a line from the steering head’s axis to intersect the horizontal ground. You will find a “gap” between these two lines – this is the trail, measured in milimetres or inches.
How do rake and trail influence handling?
A “steep” steering angle between 22 to 25 degrees gives the bike a quick-steering characteristic. A slight push on the handlebar will have the bike leaning over. A “relaxed” steering angle from 26 degrees and up will result in slower turning, on the other hand.
Similarly, a smaller trail figure results in a quick turning motorcycle and vice versa.
But this is where it gets interesting.
A steep steering angle combined with a small trail will have the bike steering quickly, but it’ll also become “skittish.” In other words, the bike will be nervous in a straight line and under hard braking. A relaxed steering angle together with a long trail results in a longer wheelbase and consequently a more stable motorcycle in a straight line but turns like a battleship (i.e. choppers).
So, manufacturers sometimes combine a steep rake angle with a slightly larger trail. It takes away some quick steering but provides more stability under hard acceleration and braking. This is especially true for sportbikes.
Triple clamp offset – Credit gotagteam.com
Can I change these characteristics?
Yes, you can by replacing the fork triple clamps.
Triple clamps with bigger offsets between the forks’ centerline and steering head result in bigger trail.
With this in mind, you can use a bottom triple clamp with more offset to enlarge the rake angle. Custom builders usually do this to choppers to “rake out” the forks (if they retain the bike’s stock frame).
Check out the bottom triple clamp – Credit wallz123.blogspot.com
Other considerations
As we mentioned earlier, a bike’s handling characteristics is also dependent on a number of other aspects. One quick way to quicken your bike’s steering is by adding more preload to the rear shock to lift the rear. But please do so only within the suspension’s sag range. Do not add so much preload that it overwhelms the shock’s damping.
Another way is to bring the forks up through the triple clamps, effectively lowering the front.
We’ll look at the other aspects in detail next time.
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Multi-cylinder vs V-twin – which is better?

A guide to understanding multi-cylinder vs V-twin engine types, and perhaps answering the age old debate of which is best.

This week, we’ll explore the age-old question of multi-cylinder vs V-twin engine types. But before we dwell deeper into that, here’s a few thing you ought to know about both.

Nearly all motorcycle engines (except the electric ones) make power by generating pressure in the combustion chamber, which then pushes the piston down the bore. The bigger the area of the piston, the more shove that gets generated for a given pressure.
The amount of pressure generated is normally dictated by a few factors but ultimately it is dependent on the amount of fuel/air mixture that is available to burn. The bigger the size of the inlet valve(s), the greater the potential for stuffing the combustion chamber with fuel and air.

The maximum valve size is inevitably dictated by the size of the cylinder head due to the physical parameters. Given that these two factors are critical, it is apparent that the more cylinder cross sectional area available, relative to capacity, the greater the potential to make power. The cross sectional area is directly related to bore dimension because all cylinders are round. Except for the cool NR 750 Honda (pictured) made years ago which had oval type pistons.

If we compare like for like capacity, Ducati’s old final one-litre super bike engine, the 999 (pictured), had a bore diameter of 104mm, which gives a total bore area of 170cm2 for its two cylinders.

The Kawasaki ZX-10R of that same vintage had four 76mm pistons which gives it a total bore area of 181cm2.

It is a similar story with the inlet valves, the Ducati’s four 42 mm inlet valves providing 55.4cm2 of valve area, which is significantly less than the 60.4cm2 that the Kawasaki gets from its sixteen 31 mm valves. It is the twin’s less efficient breathing that prevents it matching the top-end power of the multi, which was Ducati’s argument for a 200cc capacity hike back then in WSBK racing. As a result, twins have to achieve their greatest efficiency at lower engine speeds as compared to fours.

Torque, is a measure of engine efficiency and twins tend to be more efficient, or torquey, through their midrange. Because of their superior breathing, shorter strokes and lighter pistons, the four-cylinder engines can rev higher, inevitably generating much more power at the top-end. Their torque figures may indicate slightly less efficient combustion but remember, it is occurring more often.

Now this brings us to gear ratios. V-twin engines produce their peak power and torque at lower engine speeds than four-cylinders. They must turn the rear wheel further for each engine rotation to achieve road speeds equivalent to those of a four-cylinder machine.
For any given increase in road speed, a multi will gain more revs than a twin. It is the twins’ apparent ability to gain speed with fewer revs that creates the impression of greater ’punch’, or the elastic band sensation aficionados never get tired of.

The way the two engine types deliver their power also has a dramatic influence on feel. Imagine a 90-degree V-twin and an inline four side-by-side accelerating. The twin is running at 10,000 rpm and the four at 12,000 rpm. The four squeezes one of its power pulses to the rear wheel for each half rotation of the crank. This occurs every two and a half thousandths of a second, with the bike making 100mm of progress with every combustion. (Assuming it’s a 180-degree crank and firing order).

The 90-degree V-twin, with its 270-degree and 450-degree firing sequence is delivering its bigger pulses at 180 mm and 300 mm at a more relaxed four and a half and seven and a half thousandths of a second.
I personally, do not ride close enough to the edge to add any objective opinion to the ongoing debate over the effect of engine configurations and firing orders on grip levels and tyre wear. However, given that riding on the limit is as much about feel and confidence as engineering and physics, I do understand why a V-twin which when operating at frequencies, the rider may be better able to perceive as to why the twin would have the edge over the multi once the human psyche is taken into account.

There are more esoteric reasons why twins grab at the rider’s heart. The inline four smacks of common sense and of being a universal consumer product. Due largely to an association with a certain Italian marque, V-twins are somehow regarded as exotic.
Having an engine strapped in-between your thighs makes it a very personal affair. The twin is generating explosions with around twice the ferocity of a multi, and is usually backed up by an induction rumble that leaves the rider in no doubt of all the mayhem occurring in his loins. The multi then, relies on the consequence of its work to bring the thrills.
Have a safe ride everyone and keep the wheels turning.
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National athlete working towards speedy recovery

This press statement is to update on the condition of Muhammad Zamri Baba. Below, please find approved official statements from Musashi Boon Siew Honda Racing and Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
JULY 29, 2015 – PRESS STATEMENT FROM FIM ASIA ROAD RACING CHAMPIONSHIP
1. PRESS STATEMENT FROM ZULHELMI AHMAD, TEAM MANAGER, MUSASHi BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM
Team MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda Racing is heartened by the positive prognosis delivered by the Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Over the course of the past two months, the team had done its very best to ensure that Zamri receives the best care possible. Throughout, we have been grateful to receive the support from many parties.

In particular, we would like to thank Mr. Ron Hogg from Two Wheels Motor Racing and Astra Honda Indonesia for their generous assistance behind the scenes. We also wish to thank the team at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur, in particular, Datuk Dr. Mohammad Saffari Mohammad Haspani and Dr. Azmi Alias. We have every confidence in the medical team and remain hopeful of Zamri’s recovery.
2. PRESS STATEMENT FROM HOSPITAL KUALA LUMPUR – National Malaysian 600cc Rider’s Speedy Recovery
Kuala Lumpur – Muhammad Zamri Baba, 32 years old, was involved in a high impact injury during the recent Asia Road Racing Championship that was in Indonesia on 7th June 2015. He sustained severe traumatic brain injury with closed fracture of the Right 4th Metacarpal bone and was first brought to Hospital Pentamedika Sentul, Jakarta in and unconscious state. The initial CT scan of the brain revealed a Diffuse Axonal Injury.
Zamri was subsequently transferred to the Siloam Karawaci Hospital in Lippo Karawaci on 8th June 2015 for further intensive cerebral protection care. He was put on an artificially controlled coma to reduce his brain swelling and ventilation support with constant monitoring. His condition was stable throughout the process and showed improvement. He survived the critical stage and is now at the stage of recovery. He was transferred back to Malaysia on 16th July 2015, just prior to Aidilfitri to continue further care at the Department of Neurosurgery, Tunku Abdul Rahman Neuroscience Institute (IKTAR), Hospital Kuala Lumpur.

He is progressing well and his level of consciousness is gradually improving. He is now able to respond to family members and has started to show early signs of recovery.
In addition to nursing care, the team at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur is now focusing on intensive physiotherapy, nutritional care and early rehabilitation program, offered by the various medical disciplines to facilitate his recovery. We are continuously monitoring his progress and quite optimistic that Zamri will make a speedy recovery. Hospital Kuala Lumpur will provide our best possible care and support to him and his family members.
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2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 leaked photos!

Leaked photos of the upcoming 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 have surfaced online just a day prior the bike’s official launch.
Ducati has planned that their 2018 Ducati World Premiere will see no less than five models being introduced for next year.
The latest addition to the Scrambler family is seen as the best of both worlds between the Scrambler and Monster families.

With just a day away from the 2018 Ducati World Premiere event where the Bologna-based manufacturer plans to reveal no less than five new models for 2018, leaked photos of the all-new 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 have made their way to the land of the Internet.

As most of us had expected, the latest addition to the Ducati Scrambler family features the same iconic facade but this time around, the power output is beefed up thanks to Ducati’s 1,087cc V-twin, air-cooled engine stuffed right in the middle of a slightly bigger Scrambler chassis.

Looking like a Scrambler that has spent months in the gym building those muscles, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 has some resemblance to its Monster cousin, particularly the Ducati Monster 1100 EVO mashed together with Monster 1200 R. There’s also a slight hint from the 2018 Ducati Monster 821. To know more on the new Monster 821, CLICK HERE.
2018 Ducati Monster 821
So far, only the visuals have been leaked online. No other figures were compromised including the power and torque output. There is however a possibility of an “S” version of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 which will probably come with premium parts for the exhaust, suspension and more (at least, that’s what we think AND hope).

It’ll be quite some time before this new Scrambler will hit our Malaysian shores. Alternatively, you can check out the latest Scramblers launched a few months back during the 2017 Art of Speed Malaysia which are the 2017 Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer and Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled.

To know more about these two lovely bikes, CLICK HERE.

Stay tuned to Bikes Republic as we will be keeping you up to date with the latest news in the motorcycling industry.

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The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Enters Production

The newest family member of the Multistrada, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally has entered production and is set to arrived global dealership from February.

The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally features a new adaptive ride height function similar to the Harley-Davidson Pan America.
Equipped with longer suspension travel and a bigger fuel tank.

The Borgo Panigale factory announced the off-road-focused edition late in 2022 with the production only to begin this year.
While it carries the same Granturismo V4 engine as the base model, the Multistrada V4 Rally offers greater off-road capabilities thanks to an increase of 30mm of wheel travel on the Showa Skyhook suspension.

Also new on the Rally edition is an off-road specific mode that cuts the peak power to just 114hp – from the 170 peak power – which also reduced the electronic intervention particularly the traction control. This allows the Rally to offer better slip and slide while off-road.
In addition, the Rally also features a massive 30-liter fuel tank and low-speed deactivation of the engine’s rear cylinder bank.

Nonetheless, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally feature much of its equipment from the standard Multistrada V4 including a 6.5-inch TFT display.
According to Ducati, the Rally comes in three variants; Adventure Radar, Adventure Radar & Travel and Full Adventure.
The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally are available in ‘Ducati Red’ and ‘Brushed Aluminium and Black’ colour scheme.
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