HJC Helmets Featuring Marvel’s Deadpool and Ghost Rider!

HJC FG-17 with Ghost Rider Graphics

HJC IS-17 with Deadpool Graphics

After last year’s successful collaboration between premier helmet brand HJC Helmets and superhero haven Marvel, the boys are back again with two more new additions. Earlier last year, HJC released their special lids with Iron Man, Captain America and Punisher graphics with major success. After that, they continued with Spiderman and Venom. Now, via popular requests and demands from fans and riders, HJC responds with their latest addition to the Marvel line-up, Deadpool and Ghost Rider.

According to the President of HJC America Inc George Hong, he stated that “With the success of Captain America, Iron Man, Punisher, Spider-Man and Venom, we thought, why stop there?  A number of fans reached out to us for a Deadpool graphic, and the Ghost Rider was just the perfect tenacious, motorcycle riding Marvel Super Hero to add to our line-up.”

Looking at the Deadpool helmet, the textured design with the iconic matte-red colourway was carefully chosen to replicate Deadpool’s suit in the movie. Together with large black eyes at the front and the iconic Deadpool logo at the back, it screams Deadpool (and we’re screaming we want one BAD). The helmet of choice for the Deadpool graphics is the IS-17 model. The IS-17 comes with an inner drop-down sun visor, hence the IS which mean Internal Sunvisor. The Deadpool IS-17 helmets comes in different sizes from XS to XXL and is DOT Approved. The asking price in the US market will be $299USD (around RM1,330 after conversion).

Another character specifically chosen by HJC after having listened to a lot of recommendations is the Ghost Rider. As we all know, Ghost Rider is a very profound character that relates directly to the motorcycle industry especially with his flaming chopper from hell. The helmet model chosen for the Ghost Rider colourway is the FG-17, a fibreglass helmet from HJC that comes with that old school flaming skull and chains graphics taken straight out of the comics. The set price for this helmet in the US is $309USD (around RM1,372 after conversion). It will be available from size XS to XXXL and is DOT and SNELL M2015 Approved.

According to the helmet manufacturer, these two helmets will be available at all authorized HJC dealers around the world in late spring 2017. So that means it might be available in Malaysia sometime in the middle of the year. A great gift for Hari Raya, perhaps?
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates
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Aprilia Central Riding Club (ACRC) and Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) Celebrate Italian Kinship

The Aprilia Central Riding Club (ACRC) and Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) held a “live” MotoGP viewing to celebrate their Italian motorcycle kinship.

Together, they watched the Czech MotoGP over the weekend.

On another note, Didi Resources is offering a special Service Clinic and Merdeka Campaign to Aprilia owners.

The Aprilia Central Riding Club (ACRC) and Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) celebrate their Italian motorcycle kinship – or brotherhood, if you will – for the “live” viewing of the Czech MotoGP over the weekend.

Motorcycle brand loyalty can manifest in fierce tribalism, meaning loving whoever is riding the same brand while eschewing others. It’s not something bad per se, because it’s one of our basic human instinct to protect the clan we live in. (That’s the central theme of post-apocalyptic shows such as “The Walking Dead.”)

So, it’s definitely something to celebrate when ACRC and DOCM got together as one large biker community.

“The love for Italian motorcycles is something we all cherish. In this gathering organized by Shell, we gather our brothers and sisters from Aprilia to join us the Ducati Owners for MotoGP viewing to support our Italian race teams,” mentioned Gaddaffi Shazalli, Vice President of Desmo Owners Club Malaysia.

According to Juan Chow Wee, General Manager of Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd. (the official importer and distributor of Aprilia motorcycles in Malaysia), “To further strengthen the ownership experience, our doors are always open to various owner clubs to foster greater relationship among bikers and we believe the best biking lifestyle is from owners themselves.”

Juan also added that “listening to our customers” goes beyond just selling motorcycles. “As such, Didi Resources just rolled out a special Service Clinic and Merdeka Campaign for for Aprilia owners. We are offering the original factory oil filter at just RM10, and other important parts like brake pads and air filter at special prices.”

(Please refer to our article pertaining to this campaign.)

“We always believe in listening to our customers as they are important in improving how we do business, and today we roll out an after sales program to further reduce ownership cost and to ensure our owners get the best from our network in terms of quality.”
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Mad bully biker fined RM2,000 for Petronas staff assault

The mad bully biker who assaulted a Petronas staff was found guilty and was fined RM2,000.

25-year-old Muhammad Nuralif Shaufiq Ahmad Fauzi confessed of causing harm to a Petronas staff on 6 October 2018.

This all happened just because the Petronas counter staff accidentally keyed in RON 95 instead of RON 97.

Remember the mad bully biker who basically assaulted a young Petronas staff because of the misunderstanding in filling up his motorcycle with RON 95 instead of RON 97? Well, he turned himself in and was found guilty!

Posted by Aboy Anis on Isnin, 15 Oktober 2018

25-year-old Muhammad Nuralif Shaufiq Ahmad Fauzi pleaded guilty after the charge was presented to him earlier today in court. Due to his confession to the crime committed, Muhammad Nuralif was given an RM2,000 fine for his actions in causing harm to Mohd Ridwan Abdullah, 24-year-old Petronas Sungkai staff on 6 October 2018.
Muhammad Nuralif was charged under Section 323 of the penal code where he could face up to a year maximum in prison, RM2,000 fine, or both. The deputy public prosecutor at the time thought that the maximum fine should be good enough to deter Muhammad Nuralif from committing the crime again.

Posted by Aboy Anis on Isnin, 15 Oktober 2018

The mad bully biker now has to fork out the hefty fine of possibly face up to five months of jail time if he is unable to come up with the cash. As for his accomplice who had a hand in the assault, the man was brought into custody to assist with the investigation but was later released under police bail.
Please, PLEASE, don’t be this guy…
In conclusion, there’s really no harm done if you happen to fill in RON 95 into your superbike. The fuel is certainly good enough to operate the machine without causing any damage. If somehow you’re really annoyed that the pump attendant keyed in the wrong type of fuel, just head over to the counter and a simple yet gentle request is more than enough to set things straight.

Remember folks, a simple gesture costs nothing but kicking someone can land you a hefty fine and possibly jail time. In the word of the great Harry Hart from the Kingsman, “Manners maketh man”.
2019 MV Agusta F4 Claudio unleashed! RM345,280

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Vespa 70th Anniversary Gathering Malaysia announced

Naza Premira is organising special and massive Vespa 70th Anniversary Gathering Malaysia ride. Here are the details.

Listen up all Malaysian classic and modern Vespa owners! Authorised importer and distributor Naza Premira Sdn Bhd will be organising a special and massive ride called the Vespa 70th Anniversary Gathering Malaysia on Nov 19.
As you can tell by the event’s name, the ride and gathering is aimed at celebrating the iconic Italian two-wheeled marque’s 70th anniversary year on a local stage. The gathering will take place later this month on Nov 19 in the swanky Publika Shopping Gallery, KL.

From the official e-flyer posted above, plenty of activities are in store including celebrity appearances, artistes performances, games and activities, as well as a special lucky draw for registered participants.

A convoy ride will take place as well, and Naza Premira is set to host the largest ever Vespa gathering and convoy ride in Malaysia with it.
To enter, riders and pillions will need to register via the ride’s dedicated Google Forms link set up by Naza Premira. Entry fee costs RM50 for single riders and RM100 for riders with pillions.

The afternoon ride will take place on the event day and will be flagged off from the Naza Auto Mall, Petaling Jaya at 3pm. The ride’s destination will be Publika and registered riders will also be rewarded with plenty of exclusive and limited edition freebies such as t-shirts, keychains, stickers and more.
You can find out more about the Vespa 70th Anniversary Gathering Malaysia by visiting the brand’s official Malaysian Facebook page or by visiting authorised Vespa dealers such as our friends at Moto Aladdin in Kota Damansara.
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This Immaculate 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade Could Be Yours

The 90s was a great year for motorcycles, with the likes of 900cc supersports were seen as a raw machine.
The non-existent of technological advancement like 6-axis IMU, ABS, Traction Control and Wheelie Control made the 90s supersports  a wild machine.

As such, those who were seen riding on bikes like the Kawasaki ZX-9R and the CBR900RR are either extremely skilled or borderline crazy.
Meanwhile, post 2010 supersports machine are manageable even by the likes of inexperienced riders thanks to technology and electronic aids.

However, if you are in the lookout of something raw and wanting to experience the 90s bikes, perhaps this pristine 1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade up for auction is for you.
Debuted in 1992, the CBR900RR Fireblade is  powered by a water-cooled 893cc DOHC inline-four engine capable of  churning out 111hp. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the only electronic aid available is an electronic ignition.

The beautiful beast is currently listed on Bring A Trailer and bidding starts at a whopping USD50k (RM210k).
If your first reaction is to complaint about the price, then perhaps the bike is not for you but if you has a penchant for all things retro and appreciate a thing of beauty, then the CBR900RR Fireblade could be the right gem for your garage.

Looking immaculate, the CBR900RR has only 5,000miles and currently waiting for a new caretaker. According to the description, the bike currently sits in Florida.
Bodywork is finished in white, blue and red with matching graphics and features aluminium twin-spar rame with reinforced aluminium swingarm.

Other additional components includes a black solo seat with passenger pillion, windscreen, fairing-mounted mirrors, a side-stand and a 18L fuel tank.
Other exiciting features include:

16″ front and 17″  rear wheel with Bridgestone Battlax BT65 tires
Nissin 4-pot brake callipers (front) and single piston callipers (rear)
Showa cartridge-type front fork
Pro-Link rear coilover (compression, rebound and spring adjustable)

Meanwhile, the dash features a 185mph (299km/h) speedometer, 11,000rpm redline tachometer and a temperature gauge.
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2019 Triumph Street Scrambler Debuts at Intermot

Triumph has updated the 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler.

Updates range from chassis to engine to cosmetics.

The update ought to make the bike even more fun.

The 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler was also launched alongside the 2019 Triumph Street Twin at Intermot 2018.
The updates will definitely up the fun quotient over the current and already super fun Street Scrambler, which is the soul successor of the TR6 Trophy used in the classic movie The Great Escape.
TESTED: Triumph Street Scrambler – “Escapism”

The 900cc, liquid-cooled, 270o crank, parallel-Twin engine is shared with the Street Twin, hence it reaps the benefit of a 10 bhp increase, along with the flexibility of a higher 7500 RPM rev ceiling.

Other updates to the engine include lighter magnesium cam cover, dead shafts and balancer shaft, in addition to a torque assist clutch which reduces lever effort and also results in a more positive feel.

Braking power has also been increased now that the bike features a Brembo 4-piston front caliper. The forks are cartridge type and spaced wider for better control. Triumph also offers an optional tyre pressure monitoring system.

Triumph updated the electrical system too, by adding an immobilizer, LED taillight and USB charging socket.
Power modes, traction control and ABS are standard. The ABS is switchable should the rider take the bike off-road.

The 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler’s has also been given new aesthetics without altering its overall look. There is a new speedometer, seat cover and number board panels and graphics.

As with the Street Twin, Triumph also offers an Inspiration Kit for the Street Scrambler. Called “Urban Tracker,” the kit includes a 25-litre pannier and mounting kit, Vance & Hines exhaust, CNC black oil filler cap, black handlebar brace, number board kit, black bench seat and dresser bar kit, headlamp grille and bezel, high level front mudguard and sump guard.

PICTURE GALLERY

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Harley-Davidson wants to buy Ducati? RM7.2 billion, please!

According to latest reports, Harley-Davidson has been rumoured to make a bid to buy over Ducati from Volkswagen Group.
Volkwagen has been planning to liquidate some of their major assets including Ducati ever since the great emissions scandal back in 2015.
The biddings to purchase Ducati has been set at €1.5 billion (around RM7.2 billion) in which VW will start accepting bids from potential owners starting July.

According to a recent report made by Reuters, the latest high profile name that has been thrown in to bid over as the new owner of Ducati is none other than Harley-Davidson. Ever since Volkswagen Group has been slapped in the face with the emissions cheating drama, they’ve been looking into liquidating some of their assets and Ducati falls in that very list for sale.

While there have been a lot of rumours and names being pitched around as who will be or should become the next owner of the great red premium motorcycle manufacturer, the latest report by Reuters indicated that the iconic American manufacturer has a big potential of taking over Ducati off VW’s hands.

While the report did not mention the source of the information, we know that the price tag to become the new owner to Ducati has been set at a cool €1.5 billion. In today’s exchange rates, we’re looking at a figure somewhere in the ball park of RM7.2 billion ringgit! The amount worth was calculated by Goldman Sachs when we wrote about this sale back in April.

CLICK HERE to know more on why VW Group wants to sell off Ducati.
According to other sources, the bidding will take place somewhere in July which also indicates that we will get to see who will own the biggest (and arguably the best) Italian motorcycle manufacturer from then on. The entire selling, bidding and other finance-related responsibilities is currently being handled by banking firm Evercore which we know has been hired by Volkswagen for this sole purpose.

With July just a few days away, the future of Ducati will rest on the hands of the new owner which we’re sure will try their very best to uphold the company’s passion and dedication to Ducati’s fundamentals of motorcycles. One thing is for sure, companies like Royal Enfield, BMW Motorrad, Honda and Suzuki have definitely passed on this deal and we completely understand why.  €1.5 billion is no joke.
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2023 CFMoto 450NK Rolls Out In The Philippines

CFMoto officially introduced the highly-anticipated CFMoto 450NK in the Philippines. Following its initial launch in China just a couple of months ago, this naked sport bike has now landed in the archipelago, marking a significant step for CFMoto’s expansion into South-East Asian markets.

the 450NK replaces the 400NK and is powered by the same parallel-twin engine with 270-degree crank found in the 450SR.
the 450NK follows the same design language as the bigger 800NK.

*the new 450NK replaces the 400NK.

Replacing its predecessor, the popular 400NK, the CFMoto 450NK presents an impressive blend of style, performance, and innovation, aiming to raise the bar in the competitive SEA motorcycle scene.
This move comes on the heels of the successful progression of CFMoto’s NK lineup, evolving from the 400NK and its larger sibling, the 650NK, to the latest 800NK. Now, the 450NK takes center stage, inheriting several features from the 450SR, showcasing the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Design-wise, the 450NK draws inspiration from its predecessor, the 800NK, boasting a revamped headlight, bold fairings that exude aggression, and a striking color palette. Its tail design shares similarities with the 250 and 450SR models, tailored to complement the bike’s overall proportions and distinctive aesthetics.

Under the hood, the 450NK mirrors the performance DNA of the 800NK, sporting a parallel-twin engine with a similar firing order. With a 270-degree crankshaft, the engine delivers a robust power output of 46.9hp and 39Nm. Its 449cc displacement pairs with a six-speed transmission featuring a slipper clutch, ensuring a seamless and exhilarating riding experience.
The 450NK finds balance on a compact wheelbase of just 1,370mm. The accessible seat height of 795mm accommodates a diverse range of riders. Despite its muscular performance, the bike maintains a manageable curb weight of 165kg.

Suspension duties are entrusted to KYB, featuring an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a central mono-shock at the rear. Braking confidence is ensured through a 320-millimeter single disc equipped with a J.Juan four-piston calliper, complemented by a 220mm single disc rear brake with a single-piston calliper. Notably, CFMoto prioritizes safety by incorporating anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard, alongside a traction control system for added stability.

As the CFMoto 450NK accelerates into the Philippine market, we are sure that the new sport naked will make it’s way to Malaysia soon probably by the end of the year.
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Rider killed in 2015 Dakar Rally

Polish rally rider Michal Henrik found dead on Stage 3 of gruelling 2015 Dakar Rally.

Racing is dangerous. Once in a while, we get grim reminders just how deadly it can get, and the recent death of a rally rider on the third stage of the 2015 Dakar Rally is no exception of that.
The annual rally recorded its first casualty after Polish rider Michal Henrik was found dead on the rally third stage held between between San Juan and Chilecito, Argentina.
According to a press release issued by the rally’s race management team, officials lost track of Henrik’s on-board tracking signal, and was informed that the Polish rider did not complete the stage at 3:16pm local time. The race direction then began a search party to locate the missing rider shortly after at 3:23pm local time.
Unfortunately, the search located the 39-year-old rider’s body soon after. Henrik’s body was found at the stage’s 206 kilometre mark, and roughly 300 meters astray from the stage’s path. Tests reportedly conducted later by doctors suggest that Henrik succumbed to dehydration and hypothermia.
Henrik marked his first appearance on the Dakar this year and had previously participated and completed in the equally gruelling 2014 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. Prior to that, Henrik also charted his entry and completion in the 2013 edition of the Morocco Rally.
Source: Dakar via Asphaltandrubber
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New SYM Cruisym 300 Scooter Previewed in Malaysia!

Back in November of last year, we reported that SYM Malaysia, which is represented locally by M Force Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd will be offering the Cruisym 300i model sometime this year. Well that time has come and we were invited to Seberang Jaya, Penang to a preview of the latest maxi scooter.

Back then, we reported that the Cruisym 300i will go on sale sometime in the second quarter of this year, but after poking our noses around and grilling the staff, there seems to be no indication yet on when the scooter will officially go on sale. But considering that only two models of the Cruisym’s have made it to Malaysia yet, the wait could go past the second quarter mark.

As for the price, no indication yet but we don’t expect the Cruisym 300i to be priced more than RM23,000. Last year, a press release sent out by the company indicated a price range of between RM15,000 to RM20,000, but since then, Donald Trump has become President of the United States and the Ringgit is a lot weaker against the US Dollar, so last year’s predicted price could no longer be relevant now.

Specifications – the Cruisym 300i is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 278.3cc single-cylinder SOHC engine. Power output is rated at 27hp and 27.3Nm of torque, while overall weight is 198kg and top speed is more than 130km/h. And unlike other Taiwanese maxi scooters, the Cruisym does not come with a speed limiter. The engine is mated to a CVT automatic transmission with an automatic tensioner.

The chassis of the maxi scooter is made up of a steel pipe underbone while the suspension consists of a telescopic fork up front with 88mm travel, and the rear consists of adjustable twin springs with unit swing with 92mm of travel. Brakes discs up front and the rear provide stopping power and are backed up by ABS, while a 12-litre fuel tank will give you a healthy range as consumption is rated at more than 38 kilometres for every litre of fuel.

Wheels are made of aluminium and size is 14-inches wrapped in 120/70-14 55P tyres up front, and 13-inches with 140 60/13 63P tyres at the rear.

The Cruisym 300i is one of the better looking scooters in the market today with a big, comfortable seat and aggressive, sporty looks. The LED daytime running lights look great, and the signals and tail lamp are also made up of LEDs.

There’s also plenty of storage space as the under seat storage space is capable of holding two half shell helmets. There’s also a USB port, handy for charging almost anything that can be charged by a USB port.

We’ll bring you more information on the Cruisym as we get it, but if you are looking for a maxi-scooter, this could just be worth the wait.
More photos and information here.

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MV Agusta Latest High-Profile Manufacturer To Book A Spot At 2021 EICMA

Schiranna-based motorcycle company MV Agusta will return to the 2021 EICMA in Milan.
The confirmation will see MV Agusta taking part in the 5-days exhibition scheduled to take place from November 23 to 28 in the pavilions of Fiera Milano.
According to Timur Sardarov, CEO of MV Agusta Motor, the 2021 EICMA is to look out for this year.
“The Milan show is an unmissable fixture for MV Agusta, a highly prestigious showcase in which to express the style and strength of our made in Italy products, made up of technology and engineering, avant-garde, but also of high craftsmanship and know-how acquired in 75 years of pure passion.
“Over the years, we have presented our most important innovations to the world at EICMA, and this year too we will not fail to surprise our fans and the industry experts,” he said.
MV Agusta now joins Honda and Yamaha alongside Suzuki for the 2021 EICMA.
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Ducati Streetfighter V4 is coming – “As soon as possible!”

Looks like the Ducati Streetfighter V4 rumour is more than just a fairytale.

A recent interview with Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali suggests that it might be on its way.

He stated that “She (Streetfighter V4) will be there as soon as possible!”

According to a recent interview with Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali posted by AcidMoto, it seems that there is light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the re-emergence of the Ducati Streetfighter model. This time around, talks about a possible Ducati Panigale V4 is going around and what the Ducati big boss mentioned in the interview might just be a point of high interest.

Below in the interview translated in English between AcidMoto and the big Ducati man himself:
AcidMoto.ch: Okay. Let’s talk about the V4. The Panigale V4R wins all the votes, although we have not yet had the honor to test it. Can we hope that this engine is found on other motorcycles, a Streetfighter V4 for example?
Claudio Domenicali: Do you think that Ducati should produce such a motorcycle?
AcidMoto.ch: Yes, there is a big demand, it’s a question that often comes back to our readers.
Claudio Domenicali: Then she will be there as soon as possible!

Ever since the launch of the latest-generation Ducati Panigale V4 range, Ducati enthusiasts around the world have been praying for a super-naked version of this beast and it is the same here in Malaysia. With a huge following from the likes of the Ducati Streetfighter Malaysia Owner Community aka “Streetfighterholic”, we’re pretty sure it’ll sell like hotcakes if it’s made available here in the country.

Rendered images of the naked-fied Panigale V4 have made their way to the World Wide Web several times which goes to show how many people want this to happen. Will we finally see a Ducati Streetfighter V4 powered by the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine this year? We sure hope so, folks!
Credit: AcidMoto
Officine GP Design Ducati Streetfighter V4

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DOCM & Ducati Malaysia Shares Ramadan Joy With The Less Fortunate

In the spirit of caring and sharing in conjunction with the Aidilfitri celebration that is just around the corner, Ducati Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM), together with Ducati Malaysia, Amal Ehsan Care and the Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organization (MAPIM), organized a ‘Ramadan Basket’ program for the less fortunate families.

Held at Ducati Malaysia, Petaling Jaya, the initiative was part of DOCM and Ducati Malaysia corporate social responsibility campaign.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order (MCO), many Muslim families are struggling financially, affecting their Hari Raya preparations.

The ‘Ramadan Basket’ program saw a total of 50 less fortunate families receiving food packs in the form of rice and groceries while adhering to the strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

Also present to witness the event was Chairman of Amal Ehsan Care, Tuan Kelana Putra Muhamad, MAPIM WP Coordinator, YB Ustaz Fadhil and Next Bike Sdn Bhd Head Of Company, Dennis Michael.
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Legendary racer Troy Bayliss returns to superbike racing!

Three-time WorldSBK world champion Troy Bayliss will be returning to racing superbikes full-time beginning of next year.
The 49 year old Australian will be racing domestically in the 2018 Australian Superbike Championship.
Together with the Desmosport Ducati team, Bayliss will be racing on board the 2017 Ducati 1299 Panigale R.

Remember Troy Bayliss, the three-time WorldSBK world champion? The 48 year old Australian has announced that he is coming out of retirement to race full time in the 2018 Australian Superbike Championship next season.

So what is his weapon of choice to rip apart the circuit? A 2017 Ducati 1299 Panigale R from the Desmosport Ducati outfit. The racing team comes with factory support which so happens to be a team co-owned by Bayliss himself.

The return to racing superbikes full-time has been lingering in his mind for quite some time now which was began when he was called to replace one of the injured riders in the racing series. Although Bayliss did not take the opportunity at the time, he has been quite active in testing and developing the race bikes whilst racing in the 300 class.

Troy Bayliss is considered as a familiar face in the Australian Superbike championship and has had a couple of podium finishes before. For 2018, things are about to get more series as the legendary rider will be participating in all of the rounds.

The 2018 Australian Superbike Championship will begin on 23 February 2018 at the iconic Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
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MotoGP: Fabio Quartararo Recorded Emotional Win At Mugello

Fabio Quartararo dedicated his third win of the season to Moto3 rider Jason Dupasquier, who succumbed to injuries sustained in qualifying.
The race was preceded by a minute of silence in memory of 19-year-old Dupasquier, as Race Direction announced his passing at the end of the Moto3 race.

Despite starting from pole, Quartararo was under heavy onslaught by Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia; however, the Italian rider was out of contention in the second lap due to an unforced error.
From that moment onwards, Quartararo marvels his way throughout the entire race with peerless performance, taking every corner with amazing speed to secure his third win of the season after six rounds.

“I’m very emotional. It’s very difficult today. It wasn’t easy to stay on the track. Every time I went past where he crashed, I was thinking about Jason Dupasquier.
“It’s not easy to manage the situation when you are at 340km/h, and you have to concentrate. This race for him” expressed Quartararo.
Meanwhile, KTM rider Miguel Oliveira took his first podium of the season by crossing the line 2.5 seconds behind Quartararo, followed by Joan Mir at third.
There was confusion at the end of the race as Race Direction declared the two exceeding track limits before reinstating Oliveira and Mir positions.
Mir shared his takes on the emotional race.

“There’s no preparation for it. Every one of us – more the riders, we feel this more than others because we can empathise a lot with this type of thing, because a lot of times we forget what can happen.
“We have to respect each other a lot, always to be responsible, and don’t forget that this is a dangerous sport.
“So all the strength that I can give to the family. It was a difficult day today at the office,” he said.
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ARRC 2016: Zaqhwan takes second SuperSport 600 title

FIM ARRC 2016 ends season with a bang as national rider Zaqhwan Zaidi snatches second SuperSport 600 title.

The FIM Asian Road Racing Championship 2016 season concluded in Buriram, Thailand on a high note for national rider Zaqhwan Zaidi after being crowned as the SuperSport 600 class’ champion for a second time in his career.
The 21-year-old native of Semenyih who rides for the MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda outfit qualified seventh on the grid and finished seventh as well in Saturday’s Race 1 just behind championship leader Tomoyoshi Koyama.

Race 2 on Sunday saw Zaqhwan holding the advantage over Koyama instead as he raced consistently in ninth place. Koyama’s luck ran out when he suffered an engine failure while Zaqhwan’s teammate Yuki Takahashi ran wide ahead, allowing the Malaysian the edge forward for a sixth place finish.
Despite the gallant efforts of finishing in fourth place for both races and standing as an early favourite for the title, a mid-season absence due to injury ruled Team BikeART Kawasaki rider and fellow Malaysian ace Azlan Shah out of the contention for the crown.

That, plus the total points haul Zaqhwan had for the weekend was enough bring his season’s total up to 162 points, with Koyama relegated to second with 158 points followed by Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman in third with 142 points.
I honestly did not know that I had won the title. There was no information on my pit board and I was unaware that Koyama had retired halfway through the race. I was just focusing on pacing myself and making sure that I finished as high as I could. I was surprised to be greeted by the pitlane marshalls and instructed to ride to the podium. That was when I saw my team celebrating our fifth Asian win,” said Zaqhwan as he summed up Sunday’s final race.

For the MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda outfit, Zaqhwan’s title win sees the team bagging its fifth consecutive FIM Asian title as well. Notably, Zaqhwan is also the team’s first rider to win the title twice, with the first scored back in 2014.
Taking both race wins was Yamaha-powered local ace Decha Kraisart with fellow Yamaha-powered compatriot Decha Kraisart scoring second in both races too. Completing the all-Thai and all-Yamaha podium in Race 1 was rider Anucha Narkcharoensri who finished third whilst Australian Anthony West took third in Race 2 ahead of Azlan Shah.
ARRC 2016 Round 6 Full Results
 Race 1
 SuperSports 600cc
1. Decha Kraisart (THA) Yamaha 30’00.113s
2. Chalermpol Polamai (THA) Yamaha 30’00.364s
3. Anucha Narkcharoensri (THA) Yamaha 30’00.819s
4. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (MAS) Kawasaki 30’07.212s
5. Anthony Keith West (AUS) Yamaha 30’07.272s
Asia Production 250cc
1. Anupab Sarmoon (THA) Yamaha 19’38.679s
2. Peerapong Loiboonpeng (THA) Yamaha 19’38.897s
3. Yusuke Nakamura (JPN) Yamaha 19’39.440s
4. Somkiat Chantra (THA) Honda 19’39.479s
5. Imanuel Putra Pratna (INA) Yamaha 19’39.511s
Underbone 130cc
1. Md Haziq Fairues (MAS) Yamaha 17’26.285s
2. Florianus Roy Brilyan (INA) Yamaha 17’26.340s
3. Md Amirul Ariff Musa (MAS) Honda 17’26.480s
4. Md Shah Khairil Hisham (MAS) Yamaha 17’26.557s
5. Wahyu Aji Trilaksana (INA) Yamaha 17’26.613s
Race 2
 SuperSports 600cc
1. Decha Kraisart (THA) Yamaha 29’56.605s
2. Chalermpol Polamai (THA) Yamaha 29’57.553s
3. Anthony Keith West (AUS) Yamaha 29’59.565s
4. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (MAS) Kawasaki 30’01.049s
5. Dimas Ekky Pratama (INA) Honda 30’03.247s
Asia Production 250cc
1. Apiwat Wongthananon (THA) Yamaha 19’25.546s
2. Takehiro Yamamoto (JPN) Kawasaki 19’26.248s
3. Imanuel Putra Pratna (INA) Yamaha 19’34.062s
4. Anupab Sarmoon (THA) Yamaha 19’34.219s
5. Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin (MAS) Yamaha 19’34.347s
Underbone 130cc
1. Wahyu Aji Trilaksana (INA) Yamaha 17’16.687s
2. Florianus Roy Brilyan (INA) Yamaha 17’20.286s
3. Md Shah Khairil Hisham (MAS) Yamaha 17.20.728s
4. Md Fareez Afeez (MAS) Yamaha 17’21.498s
5. Md Amirul Ariff Musa (MAS) Honda 17’38.120s
Overall Standings
 SuperSport 600
1. Md Zaqhwan Zaidi (MAS) Honda 162pts
2. Tomoyoshi Koyama (JPN) Honda 158pts
3. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (MAS) 142pts
4. Yuki Takahashi (JPN) Honda 136pts
5. Decha Kraisart (THA) Yamaha 135pts
Asia Production 250
1. Apiwat Wongthananon (THA) Yamaha 246pts
2. Takehiro Yamamoto (JPN) Kawasaki 171pts
3. Anupab Sarmoon (THA) Yamaha 166pts
4. Peerapong Loiboonpeng (THA) Yamaha 148pts
5. Galang Hendra Pratama (INA) Yamaha 106pts
Underbone 130
1. Wahyu Aji Trilaksana (INA) Yamaha 149pts
2. Md Amirul Ariff Musa (MAS) Honda 133pts
3. Md Izzat Zaidi (MAS) Yamaha 117pts
4. Ahmad Fazli Sham (MAS) Yamaha 115pts
5. Florianus Roy (INA) Yamaha 105pts
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Radical pioneers – Shawn Seelan Creations

A closer look at the collection of unique and radical customs and restored classics of Shawn Seelan Creations.

Over the last few years, we at Bikes Republic have observed the significant growth of the custom bikes movement here in Malaysia. More and more enthusiasts are getting into the movement, explaining the rising numbers of custom bike competitions all over the country.
A good number of these folks have successfully monetised their efforts in building one-off creations, but a handful remain as serious hobbyists. One of which happens to be a collective known as Shawn Seelan Creations.

The collective is comprised of builders Shawn Seelan and his father Seelan Arianayagam. You may have seen some of the duo’s creations being featured in our extensive gallery of KL Bike Week 2015 not too long ago, and highlights there include several custom street cubs and one radical ‘Modenas Kriss Hypermotard’.
What sets the duo at Shawn Seelan Creations apart from other serious hobbyist are two things. Firstly, its their philosophy of “built not bought” with their customs, followed secondly by their philosophy of “rebuild, restore, reuse” for their restoration efforts.

To get a better understanding, our team visited the duo recently in their home that’s located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur to get a first-hand view of things. Suffice to say, the four hours or so we spent with the duo cataloguing their collection of close to 20 bikes (both customs and restored classics) was an experience unlike any other.
Customs – Small but exquisite
 If there’s one common theme about all of Shawn Seelan Creation’s custom bikes collection is that they are all ‘small capacity’ bikes non bigger than 150cc. What is truly impressive is the fact that all of them were hand-crafted and built by Shawn.

Don’t let his hip beard fool you, Shawn’s only 17 and is still waiting for his SPM results as we write this before pursuing his studies further in veterinary sciences. The wonder kid has been building custom bikes over the last few years since age 14 during his spare time in between his school work.

What also took us aback was Shawn’s supportive dad. But once you grasp the 50-year-old retired teacher’s history as a former race car driver, it becomes easy to see why. Adding to that were some of the unique custom-built furniture made using disused car and bike parts decorating their home, inside and out.

Back to the customs and what Uncle Seelan (as we referred to him) explained was plain and simple. “You see, customising big bikes requires big money. Naturally, smaller bikes don’t require such huge budgets. Why we chose to build custom small bikes is because we want to be able to relate to the masses with them.” Given that close to 90% of bikes sales in Malaysia revolve around mopeds and cubs, Uncle Seelan’s words makes a lot sense and he humbly says that he is merely the ‘financier’ of the operation whilst Shawn is the master builder.

The collection itself is unique in many different ways. Some speak for themselves like Shawn’s “Modenas Kriss Hypermotard” whilst others require a second look. The custom Modenas Kriss motard is as beastly on the inside as it is on the outside. Shawn has kept the original underbone frame and base engine intact, but all else were customised.

Besides the self-built and fabricated extended swingarm, it features a custom rear monoshock, front forks lifted from a Yamaha TZM, the front brake kit from a Kawasaki Kips 150R, as well as a custom-built restrictor plate. Shawn has even spiced up the engine with a stainless steel straight pipe exhaust and added a racing fast throttle.

At first glance, this chromed up and straight piped street cub looked like any other street cub, until you realise it started out life as a Honda EX5. Most street cubs are built based on a classic Honda C70 cub chassis, but Shawn and his dad managed to break free from that trend when they used an EX5 for this build instead.

If you though that wasn’t unique enough, then this ruckus style café racer is even more astonishing. Again, both Shawn and his dad broke free from the norm with this build as it started off life as a Demak Spark! For those of you who don’t know, Demak is an ‘alternative’ manufacturer brand that produces a series of commuter bikes including the Spark – a moped identical in design to the classic Honda C70 Cub.

This Demak-based ruckus was a devilish thing. Even when idling from a cold start, this beast spits flames from its straight pipe exhaust! What we really loved was the level of craftsmanship applied here, as well as the rest of Shawn’s other custom builds. Don’t be fooled by the sloppy-looking weld marks, Shawn says: “This was intentional. I wanted to give all my custom works the ‘home-built’ look.” Shawn further stated that he has honed his metal work skills through trial and error over the years in a family friend’s workshop not too far away.

Another signature with Shawn’s works is the fact that most of the base bike’s original chassis structures remains untouched. None were chopped or cut, with a few exceptions of having extensions welded on. By doing so, Shawn is technically not breaking any laws, and almost the entire collection of customs are road-legal and registered as they have the necessary bits – plates, lights, side mirrors, etc.

For the custom cubs and the Modenas motard, what was really surprising was the fact that almost all the base bikes started out life as abandoned ones or dumpster finds. In more ways than one, both Shawn and his dad have given these bikes, which would’ve otherwise been scrapped, a second chance at life.

The duo also stated that the only challenge with these dumpster finds was legalising their ownership paperwork. The process is as simple as tracking the original owner and locating the original deed, just that some bikes take longer in this process than the actual build, which by the way takes an average of two months or so for Shawn to complete.

The case of the three Honda Z-series (2 Monkeys and a Gorilla) and that slammed Honda Zoomer low rider are slightly different though. All chassis were bought legally either online or in shops, but the end results are unique in each and every way.

This writer’s favourite is the high-riding classic scrambler Monkey with the chromed hub wheels. It may be small, but a 125cc race engine swap complete with a straight pipe meant that this one mini bike that wasn’t slow. Again, Shawn’s craftsmanship and attention to detail remains high here, especially when you consider the fact that this classic mini scrambler has got custom suspension all-round including a pair of gas-charged twin-tower shocks at the rear.

A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC | BR (@bikesrepublic) on Feb 5, 2016 at 2:42am PST

(Follow us on Instagram: @BikesRepublic )
Our editor, on the other hand, had a whale of a time when he took the low-riding Honda Zoomer out for a spin. Besides the custom wheelbase extension, Shawn again fitted a straight pipe on this low rider, giving it an appropriately commanding soundtrack to go along with its slammed outlooks.

We’ve seen low rider custom bikes before in KL, but never one based on a simple scooter like the Honda Zoomer. The amount of work done to this slammed scooter is exceptional to say the least. Some components has to be repositioned to accommodate the extended wheelbase, but believe us when we say that it looked and felt very solid in real life. For a 17-year-old, Shawn’s intimate knowledge in welding and metal works are impressive to say the least.
Restored classics – Rebuild, Restore, Reuse
 Despite the radical levels of customising their customs, it was also surprising to see that both Shawn and his dad are just as brilliant with restoring classics. The duo have four classic Hondas in their collection presently, each rarer than the last.

Perhaps the ‘newest’ of the lot is the Honda Motocompo foldable micromoped. The Motocompo was found on the internet and fully restored by Shawn and his dad into excellent condition. Enthusiasts would know of this microbike’s history of being a standard accessory in the Honda City Turbo hatchback in the 1980s. This is perhaps one of the few fully restored Motocompos that is also running we’ve seen in the greater KL area.

Next comes another super rare classic – the Honda S110. This is a pristine example of an early 1970s model that Shawn and his dad found abandoned and subsequently bought after a lengthy paper trail. The quality of work in restoring this classic lightweight is exceptional, but the fact that each part and component was refurbished by hand by the father-son duo is also commendable. See this bike in person and you’d think it rightfully belongs in a museum.

Next comes a pair of classic Honda C70 Cubs. The treatment with both is the same as the S110, having all of its original parts refurbished and restored by hand. All three had plenty of shiny chrome bits that, according to Shawn, were hand-stripped back to bare metal and hand-polished back to near-factory condition.
Low costs, high satisfaction

With their collection, both Shawn and his dad have proven that you don’t need big money to indulge in the fine arts of building custom bikes. “For our first two builds, we were unsure about parts pricing and what not, so we ended up spending RM5,000 and RM8,000 each. But as we went along, our builds became cheaper,” said Uncle Seelan.

After the first two projects, the duo got better in sourcing for parts and materials, as well as the all-important art of bargaining for lower prices. Shawn added, “One example is the Kriss Hypermotard. We spent just a little over RM1,200 to complete the conversion from moped to twist-and-go motard.” Suffice to say, the end result was nothing short of sheer brilliance and excellent ingenuity.

“Some people may think I’m mad for having the need to tinker with my builds at 2am in the morning, but it is something I enjoy doing. For me, it is an expression of who I am,” explained Shawn passionately over a few cups of tea with his dad after wrapping up our shoot. It just goes to show that if you incubate a deep passion, it would indeed go a long way.

Shawn and his dad haven’t had the opportunity to monetise their skills in building custom bikes for customers yet, but they did state that their restored classics are up for grabs at the right price. We reckon that it is only a matter of time before this father and son duo will be able to make a solid business out of their ingenious yet highly unique creations.

You can follow Shawn and his dad’s exploits on Facebook via their official Facebook page – Shawn Seelan Creations @ Facebook. Alternatively, you can also follow this young master builder on Instagram ( @shawnseelan ). You can also get in touch with the father-son duo via email at: shawn14128@gmail.com.
You can check out more images in the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below.
Shawn Seelan Creations

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The New S 1000 R Joins BMW Motorrad Malaysia 2021 Range – From RM104,500

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has finally launched the all-new 2021 BMW S 1000 R.
The new S 1000 R variants are available as follows:

BMW S 1000 R (Style Sport) – RM104,500
BMW S 1000 R (M Package) – RM119,500

Enhanced further than ever before, it’s safe to say that this new litre roadster is brand new from the ground up with better performance, handling and styling than ever.
Going straight into firepower, its 999cc inline-four engine is based on the S 1000 RR which offers a 5kg weight reduction while producing 165hp at 11,000rpm and 114Nm torque at 9,250rpm. This roadster is finetuned for greater comfort and dynamics, especially when hitting that sweet spot within the mid-range.

New gear ratios from 4th to 6th gears also further enhances the bike’s overall rideability, which goes hand in hand with more weight reduction coming from its new chassis by 6.5kg altogether. This can be further reduced by another 4.8kg if customers opt for either the forged wheels or carbon fibre wheels.

In its base form, the 2021 BMW S 1000 R only weighs 199kg (dry) which makes it the lighter dynamic roadster in its class. From as low as 3,000rpm, riders will get to experience over 80Nm torque and that fact alone is already very exhilarating to think about.

The chassis is also further refined with the addition of “Flex Frame”, a new suspension package that uses the engine itself as the main load-bearing function. This allows for a more compact design which offers the riders to have better riding ergonomics as it allows their knees to be closer to the body compared to the previous-gen model.

Comfort and performance upgrades also come in the form of its underslung swingarm with Full Floater Pro kinematics and a new suspension strut. These offer a better riding feel as well as increased rear wheel grip, which in turn offer greater riding confidence.
Other new features include:

Lighter exhaust system
5-inch TFT screen
New front headlight design
New body panels with dynamic styling
Six-axis sensor box to control pitch rate and anti-wheelie function
ABS Pro with dedicated rain brake mode
WorldSBK-spec Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with wheelie control
Selectable riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic)
Hillstart Control
DRLs and Adaptive Turning Lights (optional)
Shift Assistant Pro (optional)
Riding Modes Pro with adjustable wheelie control, Launch Control, Pitlane Limiter, and
Hillstart Control Pro (optional)

According to BMW Motorrad Malaysia, the S 1000 R arrives complete with Keyless Ride function, USB Charging Socket, Passenger Package, heated grips while the M Package consists of M Sport Seat, M lightweight battery, Sports Silencer and M GPS Laptrigger.
The new S 1000 R is available at selected authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships nationwide from 27th August 2021.

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CONFIRMED: Kawasaki To Roll Out Three Electric Motorcycles In 2022

Kawasaki has announced that the company will unveil three electric motorcycles in 2022.
The announcement came from Kawasaki Motors President Hiroshi Ito during his keynote address at Kawasaki’s EICMA presentation.
The announcement also confirmed the Japanese marquee plans to develop ten electric and hybrid motorcycles by 2025.
Nevertheless, it is still too early to discuss the kind of models that could be electrified by 2022.
But knowing that the firm recently ran a test on a Ninja 400 based electric motorcycle could also mean a production version is already in the works.
During the speech, Ito-san addresses the company’s commitment to pushing for a new power source that includes hydrogen and hybrids.
Looking at the level of commitment shown by Team Green, Kawasaki may well be on its way to becoming the pioneer of a new future for motorcycles.
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Yamaha To Explore Hydrogen Power For Future Projects

TRACER 9 GT MY23 Pure White
In a world where electric vehicles dominate the automotive and motorcycle industries, Yamaha Corporation is taking a different approach by exploring the potential of hydrogen as an alternative to gasoline engines.

Yamaha remains open-minded about the future of mobility despite acknowledging the growing popularity of electric motorbikes and scooters in European and Asian markets.
Yamaha aims at finding different alternatives than electric mobility.

Yamaha’s efforts in the electric space are evident, with significant investments in the development of electric powertrains and battery technology. However, the Japanese company is simultaneously focusing on its e-fuel program, aiming to find multiple alternatives to traditional internal combustion engines.
In an interview with the Japan Times, Yamaha President and CEO, Yoshihirro Hidaka, emphasized the importance of keeping a wide range of possibilities open to achieve carbon neutrality. Hidaka stated, “We would like to keep many possibilities – opportunities – to achieve carbon neutrality.”
Yamaha’s Hydrogen Engine Generator prototype.
Among the potential alternatives being explored by Yamaha is hydrogen. While electric vehicles have gained widespread appeal, the potential of hydrogen can often be overlooked. Yamaha’s vision for hydrogen power involves preserving the internal combustion engine. Hidaka mentioned, “Among Japan’s two-wheeler manufacturers, there were hardly any testing hydrogen in addition to electric technology, so we took the lead and built the facility to test battery technology and hydrogen, as well as carbon-neutral fuel.”
Yamaha has prior experience with hydrogen-powered combustion engines, having collaborated with Toyota to develop the engine for the world’s first liquid-cooled hydrogen race car. In May 2023, the Toyota Corolla H2 Concept successfully completed a 24-hour endurance event at the Fuji International Speedway, a groundbreaking achievement in both the automotive sector and the world of motorsports.
However, despite its potential, hydrogen fuel does come with some drawbacks. Currently, it is not as fuel-efficient as traditional gasoline. Additionally, the infrastructure for compressing hydrogen and refueling vehicles is not as widespread as electric vehicle chargers, making it a niche technology for now.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that electric vehicles were once considered niche as well, and they have rapidly gained acceptance worldwide within a few years.
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Lexmoto Unveil New Pegasus 300 Maxi-Scooter – 276cc, 26hp

British motorcycle manufacture, Lexmoto, begins its venture into the French market with the new Pegasus 300 maxi-scooter.
The new motorcycle faces challenges from prominent Japanese models, namely the Honda Forza 350 and Yamaha XMAX 250.
However, the Pegasus 300 comes with a much lower price tag thanks to the British firm’s sourced its motorcycles from China.

While its competitor comes with advanced characteristics, the Pegasus 300 takes a more basic form. Still, it does come with handy features such as under-seat storage, UBS socket, full-LED lighting, a big saddle, a large windscreen and a TFT colour display.
Underneath the body sits a Euro5-certified single-cylinder 276cc and a liquid-cooled engine capable of producing 26hp @ 8,000rpm, which is plenty considering the Forza (with extra 50cc) produces just 1.8 horses more. The Pegasus 300 is also 7 kilograms lighter than the Forza 350.
Not only that, the Lexmoto Pegasus 300 retails at just EUR4,600 (RM22k).
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Ducati Malaysia Introduces The 2023 DesertX With Unique RR22 Livery – RM115,900

Ducati’s DesertX has taken the adventure motorcycle segment by storm since its debut earlier this year.

The DesertX has become a formidable contender in its class.
In 2023, Ducati is set to thrill fans and riders alike with the introduction of the all-new RR22 livery for the DesertX.

Originally conceived as an exclusive one-off color scheme for a track day collaboration with Audi and former MotoGP star Danilo Petrucci in Sardinia, the RR22 livery takes the DesertX to new heights of both style and performance.

Drawing inspiration from the Audi RS Q e-tron, an electric drivetrain vehicle that impressed at the Dakar rally, the RR22 livery is a visual masterpiece crafted by Ducati’s Style Center designers. The captivating black, gray, and red color scheme pays homage to the advanced technology of the Audi RS Q e-tron. A striking red accent integrated into the black saddle adds an extra touch of flair to the stunning design.

While the DesertX RR22 boasts an eye-catching livery, it also retains its renowned features beneath the surface. Powered by the reliable 937cc Testastretta engine, the DesertX delivers a powerful 110 horsepower. Its 21″/18″ wheels, ample ground clearance, and impressive suspension travel of 9.1″/8.7″ ensure unrivaled capability for conquering any terrain. Additionally, the DesertX is equipped with a comprehensive suite of state-of-the-art rider aids and a reliable Brembo braking system.

Ducati continues to redefine the boundaries of off-road exploration with the DesertX RR22, seamlessly combining style and performance. This extraordinary adventure motorcycle represents the perfect fusion of Ducati’s engineering prowess and the groundbreaking innovations showcased by Audi.
Whether navigating rough trails or embarking on long-distance journeys, the DesertX RR22 promises an exhilarating ride that captivates the senses.

The RR22 livery joins the original Star White Silk color scheme that accompanied the DesertX’s initial launch, expanding the options for riders seeking a distinctive and personalized adventure experience. Both variations of the DesertX will be showcased at selected Ducati showrooms.

According to Ducati Malaysia, the Star White Silk option is priced at RM112,900, while the new RR22 Matt Saturn Grey variant is priced at RM115,900. Ducati enthusiasts can now choose their preferred style and embark on thrilling adventures with the DesertX RR22.
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Confirmed: Triumph to replace Honda as Moto2 engine supplier!

This is Gary Johnson's Triumph Daytona 675 TT race bike. This should give you a good impression of how the race bikes will look like.

There have been whispers in the industry for many months now, and some dealers have even known about it for a few months already, but it has just been officially made official – Triumph motorcycles will be the exclusive engine supplier to the FIM Moto2 World Championship beginning 2019.
The 765cc engine is the same as the one powering the Triumph Street Triple.
The British motorcycle maker has signed a three-year contract with Dorna, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP, to supply a race-tuned 765cc triple cylinder engine based on the same engine as the all-new 2017 Triumph Street Triple.
Triumph engines have already proven themselves by winning multiple races including the legendary Isle of Man TT.
The engine is based on the race-winning Daytona 675R which has already proven itself with Supersport wins at the Isle of Man TT, Daytona 200 and British Supersport Championships in 2014 and in 2015.
Officiall official – Triumph will supply all Moto2 engines beginning 2019!
The engine has been re-developed with the following modifications:
• Modified cylinder head with revised inlet and exhaust ports for optimised gas flow
• Titanium valves and stiffer valve springs for increased rpm
• Low Output race kit alternator for reduced inertia
• Taller 1st gear ratio
• Race developed slipper clutch which will be tuneable
• Specific race ECU; which will be
• Revised engine covers for reduced width
• Different sump to allow for improved header run
The engine which will be used in Moto2 however has been further developed to allow it to ‘breathe’ more freely and rev harder than the production bike, increasing overall performance. There are other classified updates to to specifically adapt the engine for race use.
The Triumph Street Triple is already a legend by itself, with many fans hailing it as one of the greatest naked bikes ever!
This is fantastic news for current owners and fans as it brings the British marque up to the same level as some of the most iconic engine makers like Ducati, Honda and Yamaha. The engine has already been proven to be powerful and reliable, and with this, you can expect every Triumph motorcycle to come out of the factory to have some racing pedigree.
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ARRC: Azlan Shah fastest on Day 1 of testing in Buriram

Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman clocked in the fastest time yesterday during the 2018 FIM ARRC pre-season testing in Buriram.
Azlan together with the Manual Tech KYT Kawasaki Racing took his ZX-6R ahead of Thai’s Decha Kraisart and Malaysia’s Zaqhwan Zaidi.
Day 2 of testing will commence today to get the riders ready for the season opener this weekend.

The FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) kicked things off yesterday as Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman stormed pass everyone in Thailand for the official 2018 ARRC pre-season testing. The two-day test session started strong for our local heroes especially for the 2017 ARRC champion and his race-bred Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R.

The 33-year-old will be defending his crown this year in the premiere SS600cc category. Together with his strong and very capable Manual Tech KYT Kawasaki Racing team, they managed to top the timesheets yesterday at an impressive 1:38.936.
Azlan Shah during last year’s championship where he was crowned champion
The strong performance right out of the gate was made possible thanks to some very critical improvements made to the ZX-6R’s suspension system. This change allowed Azlan to further improve and develop his race machine quickly at the Chang International Circuit. Azlan also stated that he is quite confident to take home the first victory of 2018 this weekend.

Thai local Decha Kraisart (Yamaha Thailand Racing) also showed a strong performance yesterday and ended the day with the second fastest time of 1:39.132 which was only 0.196 seconds behind Kawasaki’s Azlan Shah. His Yamaha YZF-R6 was only a fraction of second faster than another fellow ARRC champion, Zaqhwan Zaidi (Musashi Boon Siew Honda) who clocked in a 1:39.190 in Day 1.

There are a total of eight Malaysians this year in the top class of the 2019 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship and each and every one of them including the other 11 riders from various countries will duke it out for the championship title.

Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates on Day 2 of the pre-season testing.

Source: ARRC
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Wunderlich introduces three new BMW R18 custom bars

Wunderlich releases ape-hanger, drag and beach style custom bars for you to transform your BMW R18 with.

BMW aftermarket accessories specialist expands product range for BMW R18 cruiser.

On hand now are three new custom bars that includes an ape-hanger, drag and beach styles.

Each option drastically alters the R18 style and ergonomics to suit specific desires.

BMW Motorrad accessories specialist Wunderlich expanded its hardware range for the BMW R18 recently. New here are three custom bars, those being an ape-hanger, drag and beach style types.
Aptly, the bar selection for the R18 that Wunderlich has prepared varies greatly across the three options – each drastically alters both the ergonomics and aesthetics of the German brand’s flagship boxer-powered cruiser.
We’ll for those seeking to give the BMW R18 a dash of Americana, to whom Wunderlich offers with a tall ape-hanger style bars. As you can see, this option practically raises the rider’s hands position right up to eye level. We reckon these would go well with custom forward controls too.

Next comes a drag bar option that promises a uniquely sporty feel through its lower and slightly forward positioning. This should prompt riders to adopt a riding position with a slight forward tuck to reach the controls, and it also provides a cleaner front end look too.
How the Wunderlich drag bar option jives with the BMW R18’s standard ergonomics (low seat height and relaxed foot controls positioning) is somewhat questionable. Like the ape-hanger bars mentioned earlier, perhaps custom repositioning of the foot controls may be required.

Thankfully, Wunderlich also has a more neutrally styled beach bar option on hand too, which offers a more moderate rise up and rearward sweep. Ideal for both general purpose and tour riding, it retains a relatively upright seating position with good leverage on the bars – useful on something this heavy.
Available now through Wunderlich’s website, these custom bars for the R18 will cost anywhere between US$442 (approx. R1,921.15) for either the drag and beach bar options, and US$496 (approx. RM2,155.86) for the extreme ape-hanger option.

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FSR Technology donates RM5000 to #HelmetsOn Campaign

FSR Technology, the maker of TuneBoss donated RM 5000 to the #HelmetsOn Campaign.

The programme hopes to reach more than 200,000 children in 200 schools and equipping at least 50,000 children with correctly sized helmets.

Statistics show currently on 15% of Malaysian children wear proper safety gear while going to school.

FSR Technology, the company behind TuneBoss, recently donated RM5000 to the MyPerintis and BFM Radio’s #HelmetsOn Campaign.
A mock cheque presentation ceremony was held at the BFM radio office, in Menara Ken TTDI between Farhan Ali of FSR Technology to Dato Lawrance Low of MyPerintis on the 20th of November 2019.
“It is a way for us to give back to the community that helped us grow and this campaign allows us to be part of the solution, to help those who need it,” said Farhan, FSR Technology CEO.
In March 2019, MyPerintis, a non-governmental organisation, joined the Ministry of Education to launch a helmet and road safety campaign called the Adiwira Topi Keledar Pilot Programme.
The pilot campaign was a considerable success – distributing 1,500 helmets to 30 primary schools in Kota Bharu, Johor Bharu and Klang Valley, and educating over 27,000 children about the importance of helmets and road safety.
Following the successful pilot programme, the initiative has been renewed with the support of BFM89.9 in hopes of reaching more than 200,000 children in 200 schools nationwide and equipping at least 50,000 children with correctly sized helmets.
The campaign pledges to buy children motorcycle helmets at RM50 each, and to be given out to children in need of the safety device.
Statistics from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) show that only 15% of Malaysian children wear proper safety gear when riding pillion on their way to school.
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FIM Asia Supermoto 2017: Cornish Takes Pole

The FIM Asia Supermoto 2017 Championship is underway in Nakhon Chai Si, Thailand.

Briton Lewis Cornish grabs pole position.

2016 FIM Asia Supermoto Champion, Muhd. “Gabit” Habullah of Malaysia qualified second.

Muhd “Gabit” Habibullah

QUALIFYING
Fighting for one of the six entries to SuperChrono, the riders put on their best show for the 2017 FIM Asia SuperMoto Championship.
The scorching sun returned briefly before the start of qualifying to dry the off-road section, creating a relatively easier track for the riders.
Japan’s Takashi Sasaki (#101) kicked-off the round with a tremendous performance on the track, taking advantage of the empty circuit in his attempt to secure the top spot tomorrow’s race (3rd September).
Shortly after, top riders Lewis Cornish (#8), Trakarn Thangthong (#5), Muhd “Gabit” Habibullah (#1), Khairy Zakaria (#32), Marcel Van Drunen (#17), and Thai wildcard rider, Natthapat Suksan Watthana (#28) entered the track and to steal the show.
The battle between Lewis and Marcel spilled over from Free Practice. However, it was Lewis’ experience that showed as he blocked Marcel from leading the race. The block effectively put Marcel two seconds behind Lewis, which resulted in a battle with defending champion Gabit.
Marcel Van Drunen
With Lewis securing a spot for SuperChrono, Marcel and Gabot battled out for the second and third spots.
While the track’s condition has improved, the hairpin turn immediately after a table top jump seemed to be the toughest challenge even for the top riders.
Gabit and the Thai fans’ favourite, Trakarn Thangthong almost slipped off the track in that turn, especially when they tried to go around backmarkers.
Natthapat Suksa Watthana shocked the spectators with a favourable performance, landing him the final entry to SuperChrono, after facing multiple complicated mechanical issues during free practice yesterday. With all eyes on the home riders, the host country is likely to see at least one rider claiming a spot on the podium tomorrow.
SUPERCHRONO
The Top Six riders qualifiers went on to SuperChrono in order to secure their definite starting grid spots for the race, among Lewis Cornish, Gabit Habibullah, Marcel Van Drunen, Trakarn Thangthong, Khairi Zakaria and Natthapat Suksan Watthana.
It was clear that Lewis overpowered the other riders and claimed the pole position, clocking the best time of 1:15.297. Gabit, on the other hand, tried to fight with speed but landed him second on the grid, with 1:16.632.
Gabit Habibullah
Malaysia’s Khairy Zakaria’s held back at all three off-road sections, landing him the fifth on the grid.
The Thai duos Trakarn Thangthong and Natthapat Suksan Watthana it easy without putting themselves at risk to secure the fourth and sixth positions, respectively.
Trakarn Thangthong
Moto 1 will commence on Sunday, 3 September 2017, from 12:00PM (+7:00 GMT).
For more information, visit www.supermotoasia.com or watch the race live for f ree in HD on www.twenty3.tv powered by E-Plus Global Sdn Bhd.
QUALIFYING RESULTS:

Pos
No.
Name
National
Best Time

1
8
Lewis Cornish
GBR
1:15.677

2
17
Marcel Van Drunen
NED
1:17.305

3
1
Muhd Habibullah
MAS
1:17.540

4
5
Trakarn Thangthong
THA
1:17.757

5
32
Khairy Zakaria
MAS
1:19.313

6
28
Natthapat Suksan Watthana
THA
1:20.183

7
300
Naoto Takayama
JPN
1:20.436

8
101
Takashi Sasaki
JPN
1:20.917

9
12
Kenneth San Andres
PHI
1:21.539

10
162
Farhan Hendro
INA
1:21.982

11
97
Arten Teslenko
RUS
1:23.432

12
7
Pedro Wuner
INA
1:23.716

13
77
Hasroy Osman
SGP
1:26.791

14
720
Lin Chin Pei
TPE
1:26.981

15
27
Sun Tong
CHN
1:27.059

16
40
Lee Wei
TPE
1:32.497

17
102
Tsang Wai Kei
HKG
1:42.129

SUPERCHRONO RESULTS:

Pos
No
Name
National
Best Time

1
8
Lewis Cornish
GBR
1:15.297

2
1
Muhd Habibullah
MAS
1:16.632

3
17
Marcel Van Drunen
NED
1:16.737

4
5
Trakarn Thangthong
THA
1:17.047

5
32
Khairy Zakaria
MAS
1:19.229

6
28
Natthapat Suksan Watthana
THA
1:19.952

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Naza Premira Introduces Vespa 946 (RED), Sprint Carbon and Sei Giorni

The three new Vespa models embody style, character and heritage.

The Vespa 946 (RED), Sprint Carbon and Sei Giorni caters to riders who seek specific characteristics.

All three models are available at Naza Premira and authorized dealers nationwide from September 2018.

The official Vespa distributor in Malaysia, Naza Premira has introduced three limited edition, stylish and exclusive Vespa modesl: The 946 (RED), Sprint Carbon and Sie Giorni.

Vespas are the expression of uniqueness, a distinctive lifestyle and Italian elegance. From the brand’s interpretation, Vespas are “Not for Everyone.”

The three new models are distinctively catered for different niches for those who seek different flavors instead of cookie-cutter volume production bikes. The exclusive Vespa 946 (RED), Vespa Sprint Carbon and Vespa Sei Giorni are available for viewing from September 2018 at selected authorised Vespa dealerships and outlets nationwide.
Vespa 946 (RED): For those who crave uniqueness and style

This model is the all-red special version of the 946. It has to be said that the 946 is uniquely styled while still retaining the Vespa DNA. Apart from that, the 946 (RED) also has safety features such as dual disc brakes, dual-channel ABS, and Piaggio Group’s proprietary traction control system called Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR).

The 946 (RED)’s bodywork is steel and complemented by aluminium components such as the mudguard and side covers that house the engine, transmission and other mechanical parts.

The bike is powered by a modern and eco-friendly 150cc, single-cylinder, three-valved, four-stroke engine, which is fuel efficient, emits very little emissions and quiet.
It is priced from RM 66,000 and available only in red.
Vespa Sprint Carbon: For sporty riders

The Vespa Sprint Carbon combines sporty personality and innovative technologies to invoke riding pleasure without sacrificing the heritage of vitality and youthfulness of the vespino.
It is lightweight and small while being both comfortable and protective. Being lightweight makes the bike extremely agile which is perfect for youths and those young at heart to enjoy around town.

The body is made entirely of steel. It also features a rectangular headlight and large 12-inch aluminium-alloy wheels. There is a USB socket inside the leg shield backplate compartment.
The Vespa Sprint Carbon is powered by Piaggio’s new and modern i-Get 150cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine which provides good performance, lower operating costs, high fuel efficiency and lower noise. The engine conforms to the stringent Euro 4 standard.

ABS is standard.
The Vespa Sprint Carbon is priced from RM 17,400 and is available only in black.
Vespa Sei Giorni: For those who seek travel and adventure

The original Sport “Sei Giorni” was made specifically for the “Sei Giorni Internazionale di Varese” competition in 1951. The bike went on to win 9 gold medals.
As such, the new Sei Giorni is the spiritual heir of the great bike. Made in limited numbers, each bike has a “Special Edition” plate bearing a serial number.

The bike is designed with characteristic elemets such as the “faro basso” low headlight position on the front fender, a handlebar which mimics the original, exposed metal pipe, and a black number plate. It also has a seat which mimics the single rider racing seat of the Sei Giorni but it is capable of carrying a passenger.

The Sei Giorni is powered by Vespa’s most powerful engine – a 300cc, single-cylider, 4-valve, liquid-cooled, EFI unit which produces 20.9 bhp (15.6 kW) at 7750 RPM.

As part of the GTS range, the Sei Giorni has a large helmet compartment and comfortable seats for long distance riding. It is also equipped with a USB port and front LED turnsignals that perform as daylight running lights.

This model is available only in green and priced from RM 38,000.
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SC-Project Released Rally Raid Muffler For Ducati DesertX

The newly launched Ducati DesertX is now able to be fitted with SC-Project’s Rally Raid Muffler.

SC-Project Rally Raid Muffler exhaust are now available for Ducati’s DesertX.
the aftermarket exhaust adds 1.5 and 1.2Nm.

The Italian exhaust specialist has introduced the aftermarket pipe for Ducat’s new adventure motorcycle which was previously seen on the Yamaha Tenere 700.
The Rally Raid Muffler will provide some performance benefits while maintaining the DesertX Euro5 emission standard.
According to the firm, the new exhaust system not only adds 1.5hp and 1.2Nm to the DesertX but it also helps to reduced 1.5kg of weight thanks to the titanium construction.

“The Rally Raid muffler is the result of SC-Project experience during the most extreme off-road competitions.
“All the technical solutions applied on this product [have] been tested all over the world during very long distance trips in the most several conditions, both on road and especially off road use,” said SC-Project.
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Dainese wins Multiple Red Dot and Le Fonti International Design Awards

Dainese received three Red Dot Design Awards under the Product Design 2017 category for its Mugello R D-air® race suit, the AGV Pista GP R helmet and the latest Pro-Armor protective products.

They have also bagged the ‘Excellence of the Year / Innovation and Leadership’ awards from Le Fonti Awards in the Hi-tech Protective Wear category

The Dainese Group has received three awards at the Red Dot Design Awards in the esteemed Product Design 2017 category. The Awards panel gave its seal of approval to the new Dainese Mugello R D-air® race suit, the AGV Pista GP R helmet and the latest generation Pro-Armor protective products, the three items were selected from 5,500 products, submitted from 54 countries.
Dainese Mugello R D-air® race suit
CLICK HERE to know more about the Misano D-air® race suit and the AGV Pista GP R helmet.
Dainese was also honoured with another international award at the Le Fonti Awards for Innovation and Human Resources, where the company was presented with the ‘Excellence of the Year / Innovation and Leadership’ award in the Hi-tech Protective Wear category. With a contribution of a community ranging over 40,000 business contacts, Dainese came up on top and bagged the Le Fonti Awards.
Valentino Rossi has protection from Dainese D-air racing suit and AGV Pista GP-R helmet in the MotoGP races
The Italian safety apparel manufacturer is responsible for the world’s first wireless airbag system known as the D-air® that protects world motorcycling figures like Valentino Rossi from MotoGP, Tom Sykes from WorldSBK and Guy Martin from the road racing division like the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy. Check out the history of Dainese’s D-air® technology below.

They have also endeavoured into space and beyond by providing space-aged protection apparel for astronaut Thomas Pesquet during his six-month mission at the International Space Station. No other racing apparel provider has even done or even attempted coming up with designs to be utilised outside the planet Earth.

CLICK HERE to know more about their suits used in space.
Cristiano Silei with the Le Fonti Award
According to the CEO of the Dainese Group Cristiano Silei, he commented “The Dainese Group has always pursued its mission of advocating and delivery safety in dynamic sports, inspired by the potential of the human being, we study the protection needs of the human body in the most extreme conditions; riding a motorbike on track, downhill skiing, sailing and reaching zero gravity in space. These awards celebrate all the hard work and dedication of the staff put in embracing new challenges and we will continue to raise the bar of innovation.”
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Shark Spartan Carbon on offer at 40% off – FREE DELIVERY!

The Movement Control Order is currently killing everyone’s vibes but if we all maintain with the rules applied, the travel ban will be lifted, and we can go straight to riding! For those who are looking forward to that blissfulness, why not enhance that feeling with a brand-new Shark Spartan Carbon helmet?

Our Bikes Republic online web store is currently having a sale on their current 2019 Shark Spartan Carbon helmet range and you can have one delivered straight to your doorstep at 40% off. That’s right, the carbon-fibre sport touring helmet can be in your possession at on RM1,200!

For those living in the Klang Valley area, Bikes Republic will lend a helping hand by offering FREE DELIVERY. Those living outside of the Klang Valley area costs RM50 while our friends in East Malaysia can get the delivery done at RM100. That’s still a very good deal considering the 2019 Shark Spartan Carbon helmet models are now priced at RM1,200!

The Spartan is made out of carbon fibre/fibreglass construction with features such as:

Multi-density EPS (expanded polystyrene) inner foam
Anti-scratch visor with a quick-release system
AEGIS®-labelled MICROTECH lining fabric featuring antibacterial properties
“EasyFit” system (for those wearing glasses)
Double spoiler with integrated air extractors
Aerodynamically shaped “SHARK Skin” side fastenings
Integrated double visor (for those extra sunny days)

All Spartan Carbon helmets come together with Pinlock anti-fog insert lenses in every box to improve visibility. Very useful if you’re riding here in Malaysia where it’s hot and humid with high chances of rain almost every day.

Want more? For a limited time only, we’ll swap out your regular clear visor with a beautiful Iridium unit at an additional RM50 only! You can choose between Silver, Green, or Orange. The silver offers a classic tinted look for all you purists out there while the green has a slight modern blueish tint and the orange shines with its golden beauty.

 View this post on Instagram

 Shark Spartan Carbon now with 40% discount! FREE DELIVERY within Klang Valley. Add RM50 to swap out the regular clear visor with these Iridium beauties! (available in Silver, Green & Orange). RM1,200 while stocks last. Head over to our online store at www.bikesrepublic.com/store to check out all the graphics or call/WhatsApp 012-8003470. #Shark #SharkHelmet #SharkSpartan #SharkSpartanCarbon #Spartan #SpartanCarbon #BikesRepublic #OnlineStore #Promotion
A post shared by  BIKESREPUBLIC.COM (@bikesrepublic) on Mar 24, 2020 at 8:22pm PDT

 View this post on Instagram

 Shark Spartan Carbon now with 40% discount! FREE DELIVERY within Klang Valley. Add RM50 to swap out the regular clear visor with these Iridium beauties! (available in Silver, Green & Orange). RM1,200 while stocks last. Head over to our online store at www.bikesrepublic.com/store to check out all the graphics or call/WhatsApp 012-8003470. #Shark #SharkHelmet #SharkSpartan #SharkSpartanCarbon #Spartan #SpartanCarbon #BikesRepublic #OnlineStore #Promotion
A post shared by  BIKESREPUBLIC.COM (@bikesrepublic) on Mar 24, 2020 at 8:22pm PDT

 View this post on Instagram

 Shark Spartan Carbon now with 40% discount! FREE DELIVERY within Klang Valley. Add RM50 to swap out the regular clear visor with these Iridium beauties! (available in Silver, Green & Orange). RM1,200 while stocks last. Head over to our online store at www.bikesrepublic.com/store to check out all the graphics or call/WhatsApp 012-8003470. #Shark #SharkHelmet #SharkSpartan #SharkSpartanCarbon #Spartan #SpartanCarbon #BikesRepublic #OnlineStore #Promotion
A post shared by  BIKESREPUBLIC.COM (@bikesrepublic) on Mar 24, 2020 at 8:23pm PDT

Different sizes are available for different graphics. The size chart shown below is for your reference to get the perfect fit. To know more, CLICK HERE or call/WhatsApp 012-8003470 for more information. Get it now while stocks last! More info on the Shark Spartan Carbon helmet when you click HERE.

SHARK D-SKWAL 2 Zarco Replica Helmets at RM 650 Only

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Amazing offers + KTM test rides at NKS Sport Bikers Jalan Sentul! 2 days only!

NKS Sport Bikers is organising a very special NKS Max Out event together with KTM Orange Day.
Attendees can try out the latest KTM 250 Duke and 390 Duke and get free KTM health checks as well as other amazing deals for HJC and Gracshaw helmets, Michelin tyres, Elf Lubricants, and many more.
Head over to Jalan Sentul from 10am to 6pm for amazing deals and discounts but it’s only for today and tomorrow (29-30 December 2017)!

NKS Sport Bikers Sdn Bhd over at Jalan Sentul, Kuala Lumpur is organising a two-day extravaganza where those who attend can test out the latest bikes from KTM Malaysia as well as other amazing offers. Dubbed the NKS Max Out event, all discounts and offers are only for today and tomorrow (30 December 2017) together with KTM Orange Day.

All attendants can have the opportunity to try out the latest 2017 KTM 250 Duke and KTM 390 Duke over at Jalan Sentul. Those of you who are fortunate enough to own a KTM already are also welcomed for free motorcycle health checks, special sale, discounts, and many more!

To know more about the 2017 KTM 390 Duke, you can ready our extensive review by clicking HERE.

Those who are looking to get a brand new helmet can also drop by as they are having some massive sales on HJC and Gracshaw helmets. We’re talking up to 50% off!

It was so tempting but we had to choose between a brand new lid or new Michelin tyres (which are also on sale, by the way). We came just to check things out but left with brand new Michelin rubbers for our scooter.

It is safe to say that what they are offering for the next couple of days are simply things we couldn’t refuse. To check out our review on the latest HJC RPHA 70 sport-touring helmet, CLICK HERE.

Other amazing deals include Elf lubricants, lucky draws, and many more. So if you’re around town and have plans to look and feel good for the new year, head on over to NKS Sport Bikers in Jalan Sentul.

You have to hurry though because it’s only today and tomorrow (29-30 December 2017) from 10am to 6pm!

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ARRC 2022 welcomes TVS Asia One-Make Championship

ARRC 2022 grows bigger with the addition of new TVS Asia One-Make Championship featuring the TVS Apache 310 RR race bikes.

ARRC 2022 event roster grows as it welcomes TVS Asia One-Make Championship.

Central to the series is the TVS Apache RR 310 race bike.

16 riders from the region will be selected to compete.

The championship will appear at four ARRC rounds this year.

The FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2022 – ARRC 2022 – season welcomes a new competition class added into its already sizeable roster, that being the TVS Asia One-Make Championship. Here’s what you need to know about it.

A new championship event for ARRC 2022
ARRC organisers, Two Wheeled Motor Racing Sdn Bhd (TWMR), have partnered with TVS Racing, the motorsports arm of the TVS Motor Company, to bring this new and exciting competition to life. Featured here is the Indian brand’s Apache RR 310 serving as the series’ exclusive spec race bike.
A total of 16 riders from around the region will be selected via a selection process held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), and a finalised entry list will be announced next week on 27th April 2022.
This new championship will appear at four of the six ARRC 2022 rounds scheduled for this year:
2022 FIM ARRC Calendar (TVS Asia One-Make Championship)

ROUND
VENUE
DATES

2
Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
27 – 29 May 2022

3
TBC*
1 – 3 July 2022

4
Sportsland Sugo, Japan
12 – 14 Aug 2022

6
Chang International Circuit, Thailand
18 – 20 Nov 2022

Commenting on the development, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head – Premium Business, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are excited about carving our success story internationally. The TVS Asia One Make Championship will play a pivotal role as a milestone in our global journey for TVS Racing.”
Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of TWMR, adds, “The participation of TVS Racing in the One-Make Championship is a bold gesture that would certainly open avenues in discovering new talents.” He continued further by noting that bringing in a new partner and manufacturer will further ignite the interest for ARRC in general as well.

The race bikes – TVS Apache RR 310
In case some of you may have forgotten, the TVS Apache RR 310 is the sport-bodied ‘distant cousin’ of the BMW G310 GS and BMW G310 R. The race-spec version fielded in the TVS Asia One-Make championship reportedly delivers 38% more power than the road-going RR 310 it underpins.
Much of this is the result of race-tuning its 312cc DOHC single-cylinder quad-valve engine. Said effort includes the adoption of titanium valves and forged piston, matched with major modifications made to the cooling system too.

Also key is weight savings, to which TVS claims it managed to shed 32% of the production RR 310’s weight in this race-spec version. This was possible through the use of several carbon fibre components all around like the tail section which also doubles up as a structural subframe.
Other additions include a Ram air box, carbon wheel, customised Öhlins race suspension, bespoke twin exhaust system, as well as an aRacer ECU with closed loop control, quick-shift, launch control and traction control.

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Aeon Credit offers one-month deferment for loan payments

In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic that’s wreaking havoc around the globe (including Malaysia), credit provider Aeon Credit has announced that they’ll be offering a one-month deferment for loan payments, which include motorcycle and auto financing.
This temporary relief is targeted to ease the burden of Aeon Credit’s loan applicants but not to the same extent as the banks under the Bank Negara Malaysia where the moratorium announced for loan deferments for a duration of six months.

The deferment of payment under Aeon Credit will be automatically offered for all active accounts with not more than 3 months delinquent/past due as of 1st April 2020. There will also be no additional fees imposed for those who receive this one-month deferment and payment will continue as usual after April 2020.
Those who opted for auto-debit function will automatically stop during this one-month period and will continue as normal after April. Those who wish to not take up on the offer may make their payment as usual through several methods available online and offline.

For more information, you may head over to www.aeoncredit.com.my for further details regarding the loan deferment. Stay safe, keep your social distancing on, and ride this wave like a good law-abiding citizen and all of us will be riding back in no time. Let’s do this!
Marvel x HJC special edition helmets for sale!

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Ride to Colombo Bike Week 2017

Buzzword Events announces special deals for Malaysian and ASEAN riders for Colombo Bike Week 2017 and Sri Lanka island tour rides.

Image credit: Buzzword Events
Our friends from events firm Buzzword Events are back once again, this time for a ride around the picturesque island of Sri Lanka in conjunction with the upcoming Colombo Bike Week 2017 event. Here are the basic details:
Main Event Details:
Tour Dates : 23 Feb – 12 March 2017
Countries Participating : Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam,
Hong Kong and Australia
Bikes : Big Bikes (600cc and above only)
Total Distance travelled : 2,300km
Image credit: Buzzword Events
Together with its Sri Lanka-based partners Motor Adventure Sports (MAS), the local firm has been successfully hosting big bike rides for Malaysian riders in the island nation for a few years now. Its most recent one was held earlier this year in conjunction with the inaugural Colombo Bike Week 2016 event.
2017 sees the Malaysian firm continuing its unique and signature Sri Lanka tour ride series that was first established back in 2014. You can read about the previous rides by clicking here, here and here.
Image credit: Buzzword Events
This time around, Buzzword Events will open up the ride not just to Malaysian riders, but also riders from other ASEAN nations with an exclusive offer. Besides Malaysian riders, this offer will be extended to participants from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Australia.
“We have devised a few ride packages to different locations for the convenience of the riders. This rides are open exclusively for big capacity bikes only (600cc and above).” added Buzzword CEO Leslie Tilak.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the prices for riders and pillion interested to join in for the tour ride to Colombo Bike Week 2017:

And just like its past rides, both Buzzword Events and MAS have arranged a special agreement with the Sri Lankan government to exempt participants from acquiring a Carnet de Passages en Douane. Also known as a CDP, season riders would know of this document’s high cost and hassle in application.
In other words, the organisers have made it much easier for Malaysian and ASEAN riders wishing to participate yet again. On top of that, this edition of the tour has been split into two stages to make it easier and more affordable too.
Here’s the basic programme for the ride:

Again, just like before, participants of this tour ride to Colombo Bike Week 2017 will benefit police escorts, local marshals, a support vehicle and a tour bus for pillions and non-riders to follow the group throughout the tour as well.
Image credit: Buzzword Events
According to Leslie, Buzzword Events only has space to host 30 riders and bikes for this edition of its Sri Lanka tour ride series. For further enquires and further details, you can get in touch with Leslie via the following details:
Buzzword Events
Suite 1043A, Level 1, Millennium Square, 46100 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
Mobile H/P: +6012-212 0154
Email: leslie@buzzword.com.my

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

				Image credit: Buzzword Events

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Toprak Razgatlioğlu WorldSBK Yamaha R1 Replica Breaks Cover

Yamaha Europe is celebrating Toprak Razgatlioğlu WorldSBK championship victory with a very special, limited edition YZF-R1 World Championship Replica.
Limited to just 21 units worldwide, the bike is produced jointly between Yamaha Europe and Crescent Racing PRO SHOP.

The extremely limited track machine makes 205hp at the rear wheel, an increase of 20hp over the standard R1 thanks to the inclusion of the Akrapovic race exhaust system and a special GYTR race ECU.

The bike also features Marchesini lightweight rims and Öhlins factory-spec suspension that helps to trim down more than 26 kilograms of weight than the stock R1.

Braking is done by a special race tune Brembo brakes for the ultimate on-track performance.

Other special features include:

limited edition badging and technician-signed build identification
limited edition cert signed by Razgatlioglu and Team Principal Paul Denning
VIP passes for two to a 2022 WorldSBK event of choice
1-on-1 rider coaching day
signed piece of riding equipment used by Razgatlioglu

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FIRST LOOK: 2024 Triumph Scrambler 400 X

Triumph Motorcycles has introduced the highly anticipated 2024 Scrambler 400 X, the second model after the Speed 400.

Designed as a retro-styled scrambler, it shares the same platform and engine as the Speed 400 but offers a distinct riding experience and aesthetic appeal.
The Scrambler 400 X is powered by the same 398cc single-cylinder engine as the Speed 400.

The Scrambler 400 X features the all-new 398cc single-cylinder engine found in the Speed 400, delivering an impressive output of 39.5hp @ 8,000 rpm and 37Nm @ 6,500 rpm. Triumph has made specific modifications to the frame, seat, handlebars, and footpegs to create a unique scrambler riding position and stance.

Equipped with a DOHC four-valve single engine, the Scrambler 400 X incorporates finger followers to reduce valve train inertia and a reverse-rotating balancer shaft to minimize vibrations. It offers switchable traction control, an assist-and-slipper clutch, and a six-speed gearbox.

The suspension has increased travel, with 150mm of stroke in the front and rear, catering to light off-road use. The Metzeler Karoo Street tires provide excellent grip on loose surfaces while maintaining on-road performance. The Scrambler 400 X also features several design elements typical of scrambler motorcycles, including hand guards, a headlight grille, an engine bash guard, and a radiator protector.

Its frame design, a hybrid spine/perimeter configuration like the Speed 400, offers stability and control. The bike has a higher seat height of 833mm but remains suitable for most riders. With a weight increase of only 9kg compared to the Speed 400, the Scrambler 400 X tips the scales at just 179kg with a full tank of fuel.

The braking system includes a ByBre four-piston radial front caliper with a larger 320mm disc and a rear brake with a 230mm rotor and single-piston caliper. The ABS system can be switched off for off-road adventures, setting it apart from the Speed 400.
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Harley-Davidson goes old-school ‘bicycle’ style

Harley-Davidson is looking into diversifying its current portfolio into the bicycle market with the launch of the Serial 1 – an electric bicycle that’s inspired by the brand’s first-ever motorcycle produced way WAY back in 1903.

As far as vintage bicycles are concerned, the Harley-Davidson Serial 1 is definitely one hell of a gorgeous two-wheeler that combines classic looks with modern green tech. Its slim black frame is simple yet seductive and is further amplified with that brown tan leather seat and spoke rims wrapped with white tyres. Very old school, very cool.

The sub-brand that will be handling this particular line of product for H-D is the Serial 1 Cycle Company and its primary focus is specialising in only e-bicycles which will begin production sometime in 2021. However, the final production model will unlikely look like the Serial 1, which is such a shame if that’s the case on the count of how beautiful it looks.

Features of the Serial 1 include an internal battery pack, conventional bicycle pedals (like a moped), built-in lighting system for both front and rear, leather-wrapped handlebars, and a thin final-drive belt instead of the classic bicycle chain.

The final production models will most likely make its debut before the year ends and they are expected to fetch between USD2,500-USD5,000 per unit. That’s around RM10,400 to RM20,800 in today’s currency exchange rate. Stay tuned for more updates.

PROMO: Buy the Ducati Panigale V2, get this RM28,000 Akrapovic exhaust!

Written by: Sep Irran
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2021 Yamaha Aerox 155 Connected launched in Indonesia – RM8,200

The latest 2021 Yamaha Aerox 155 Connected was recently launched in Indonesia via online by Yamaha Motor Industries Indonesia. To those of you who don’t know, the Malaysian version of the Aerox 155 is the NVX and this new version comes with a host of updates inside and out.

Starting with the engine, the 2021 Yamaha Aerox 155 Connected is fitted with a new 155cc single-cylinder DOHC engine that has been updated with Yamaha’s variable valve actuation (VVA) which produces around 15.2hp at 8,000rpm and 13.9Nm of torque at 6,500rpm.

That’s a slight increase in power and decrease in torque compared to the previous generation model (14.8hp & 14.4Nm torque). However, the 2021 Aerox 155 Connected gets more upgrades such as a 5.5-litre fuel tank, front ABS, LED lighting system, and more.

Speaking of LED lights, the ones on the new Aerox 155 Connected offer a sportier appearance, both front and rear. It also has daytime-running lights as well as a new meter display that comes with the Y-Connect app that’s able to connect to your smartphone (hence the name).

Other specs remain the same as the previous generation model. Two variants are available in the Indonesian market, one with ABS and one without. Pricing starts from IDR 29,000,000, which is around RM8,204 in today’s currency exchange rates. Customers can choose between Prestige Silver and Maxi Signature Black.
Moto Guzzi lifestyle store coming soon at IOI City Mall Putrajaya

Written by: Sep Irran
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Watch a Lightning LS-218 Accelerate to 160 km/h in 5.5 Seconds

We know the Lightning LS-218 is currently the fastest road legal bike.

But how quickly does it get “there”?

Watch this video as Lightning Motorcycles strap an LS-218 to a dyno.

We’ve said it before and say it again: Modern electric motorcycles are fast! They put down so much instantaneous torque that would MotoGP riders grin from ear to ear. Such is true especially with the Lightning LS-218.
We’ve written about the amazing bike before (please click here for the full article). To jog your memory, it is currently the fastest road-legal production motorcycle. The “218” in its name attests to the speed it hit on the Bonneville Salt Flats i.e. 218 mph (350.8 km/h).
It also held the Pike Peak International Hill Climb record since 2012 and was only broken last year by a KTM 1290 Super Duke R. However, the Lightning’s record still holds as the fastest electric motorcycle up that treacherous hill.
The speed is attributable to the bike’s electric motor’s torque. And it’s exactly what Lightning Motorcycles wants to show in this video.

Lightning LS-218 pre-delivery dyno tuning at 160+ mph #LightningMotorcycles #Lightning #LS218 #ElectricMotorcycle #Superbike #Dyno pic.twitter.com/STREf7T9Na
— Lightning Motorcycle (@LightningMotorc) February 2, 2019

The LS-218 is strapped down on a dyno. The roller is spun up before the bike’s motor took over, punching it to 257 km/h (160 mph) in a matter of seconds. But that’s not all, the real kicker here is how the bike pulled from 160 to 241 km/h (100 to 150 mph) in 2 seconds!
Yet, the manufacturer didn’t give the bike full throttle all the way. Lighting Motorcycles’ Matt Schulwitz told Electrek that the LS-218’s tyre would just keep spinning on top of the dyno’s roller if they gunned the throttle from standstill. That’s what 228 Nm of does. So, that’s the reason they spun up the dyno first rather than let the bike’s power spin it up.
This means the motor pulls and pulls without hiccups through the rev range. Shall we change the cliché pulls like a freight train to mean electric motors?
Lightning Motorcycles are slated to release a low-price model in March 2019.
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This BMW K1600GT Given The Gelände-Strasse Treatment And It’s A Beast – 1,600cc 160hp

Willem Heijboer dreamt about turning his BMW K1600GT into a GS, but as he started grinding out the engine case, he realised he might not be able to get the job done.
He then reached out to Dutch bike builder expert, Nico Bakker where he specifically told him that he wants the K1600GT to feature the same handling, litheness and looks as the GS but most importantly, it could handle the power from the inline-six K1600 engine.
Bakker then used the K1600GT as a base and retained the engine, shaft drive, 320mm brakes disc, Brembo callipers, Bosch ABS and electronics, including the ESA.
However, to emulate the rigidity and stiffness to accommodate the K1600 engine, Bakker custom built the frame using chrome-moly steel tubing and extended the wheelbase from 1618mm to 1635mm.

He also had to sharpen the steering geometry, but to do so, Bakker ditched the Telelever front in place of a fully adjustable 48mm WP fork.
The complete the GS look, the K16 is fitted with 19″ front, and 17″ rear spoke wheels.
Bakker also fitted the bike with a 6-into-2 exhaust with custom twin carbon-wrap silencers.
Interestingly, Heijboer already took the custom build K1600GS for long-distance touring and even to a track day just to test out the handling.
(Source: MCN)
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