MotoGP: Magical Pedrosa in Misano

Dani Pedrosa takes surprising win in Misano for San Marino MotoGP.

Just when you though it was going to be a two-horse race for the championship, the San Marino MotoGP weekend in Misano, Italy would’ve proved you wrong. Here’s what transpired over the weekend in Misano.

MotoGP – Jorge bounces back, but Pedrosa surprises
Reigning world champion Jorge Lorenzo bounced back in style on Saturday after storming his way up to pole position during qualifying. However, the Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing rider would eventually settle for a respectable third place instead as compatriot Dani Pedrosa took a surprising win.

Though he lined up his Repsol Honda factory machine in eighth, Pedrosa’s perfect start and excellent pace saw him slowlycarve his way up the order. By Lap 14, he was already had the podium positions in sight, but his excellent tyre strategy allowed him to overtake Lorenzo on Lap 17, and later Valentino Rossi for the lead on Lap 22.

Having saved his tyres, Pedrosa was able to pull away and finished the 28-lap race with 2.837-seconds gap ahead of Yamaha’s Rossi in second. Not only did Pedrosa took his 29th MotoGP win and 103rd podium, he ends what was a season-long drought of race wins – his last being in Sepang last year.
Pedrosa’s teammate and current championship leader, Marc Marquez, struggled a bit as he started and finished in fourth position. Nevertheless, Marquez still leads the standings with 223 points. Rossi, on the other hand, remains second with 180 points scored in total.

Despite a strong performance throughout the weekend, Lorenzo still remains a distant third in the standings with 162 points. Adding salt to his wound here was the apparent clash of words he had with rival and teammate Rossi during the post-race press conference.

Surely, the rivalry within the factory Yamaha garage is still as strong as ever, and it would be interesting to see how the season fares for both riders. For now though, it seems Marquez still has the advantage and lead towards snatching his fourth MotoGP world title.
Moto2 – Zarco falters, Baldassarri triumphs
In the supporting Moto2 class, things looked strong at first for defending class champion Johann Zarco after the Ajo Motorsport rider placed his Kalex in pole position after Saturday’s qualifying.

However, the Frenchman was knocked down the order to fourth as the chequered flag waved on Sunday. Finishing ahead of him were Idemitsu Honda Team Asia’s Takaaki Nakagami in third, Paginas Amirillas HP40’s Alex Rins in second, whilst the Forward Team’s Lorenzo Baldassarri takes a surprising win.

For Italian rider Baldassarri, this was a deserving maiden Moto2 win on home soil, especially after the hard-fought battle in defending his lead from Rins in second. Zarco, on the other hand, is paying the price right now as his significant points lead in the standings has been reduced significantly.

Zarco still leads the standings with 194 points, but Rins has closed the gap to just 3 points now in second with 191 points. Swiss rider Thomas Luthi is third with 141 points scored thus far. Presently, the Moto2 championship could still sway in favour for either three riders with five races left this season.
Moto3 – Binder’s brilliance
Last but not least came the intense close action of the lightweight Moto3 class. South African sensation Brad Binder took a sweet victory here after perfectly calculating his moves at denying Italian rider Enea Bastianini a win on home soil.

Astride the Red Bull KTM Ajo Motorsports machine, Binder kicked things off from pole position brilliantly, having led for most parts of the race. Bastianini, astride the Gresini Racing Moto3 team’s Honda bike, wasn’t far in tow thought and briefly led the race for a few laps.

But it was Binder who calculated his manoeuvres well perfectly, especially on the last lap, and took victory by just 0.262 seconds ahead of Bastianini in second. Completing the podium here was Spaniard Joan Mir astride the KTM-powered Leopard Racing team machine who finished third.

In the standings, Binder extended his lead even further with 229 points collected so far whilst Bastianini remains in a distant second with a ‘mere’ 123 points. Jorge Navarro, who retired after just seven laps in Misano, sits third with 118 points collected this season.
Round 14 – Aragon
Round 14 of the 2016 MotoGP world championship takes place in less than fort week’s time at the Aragon circuit, Spain from 23 Sept to 25 Sept. Race broadcasts begins on Sunday with Moto3 at 5pm,Moto2 at 6:20pm and MotoGP at 8:00pm (local Malaysian times listed).
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Akrapovic launches special race exhaust for Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade

One of the best ways to quickly increase the overall performance of your superbike is by installing a full system exhaust unit and Akrapovic is one of the brands a lot of people think when they want the best. That’s exactly the case with their latest model built especially for Honda’s latest superbike, the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade.

The fully racing-oriented Akrapovic Evolution Line Kit (titanium) exhaust system was developed together with recommendations provided by the Honda Motor Corporation (HRC) R&D department. That’s right, HRC co-developed this titanium exhaust with Akrapovic and it’s meant to work hand-in-hand with the HRC Race Kit.

This particular unit is only meant for track and race usages as it was built under strict competition regulations. The latest Akrapovic exhaust follows all the routing, diameters, positioning, and all specifications of design for the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade when it comes to racing (which also includes a relief-imprinted muffler built just for racing).

Using lightweight titanium alloys and manufactured in-house using Akrapovic’s titanium foundry (they’re the only exhaust manufacturer that has one of their very own), everything from the headers to the tip of the can was built for perfect fitment and beautiful look. The result is a full system exhaust that weighs less than 5kg!

Want one? You can probably order one in the near future but if you want to get the best out of your new Fireblade, HRC recommends that you use it with the official HRC Race Kit. Boon Siew Honda has already brought in the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP for the Malaysian market, priced at RM198,800 (price excluding insurance & road tax).
Boon Siew Honda launches THREE new bikes! RM98,888 to RM208,800

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Transport Minister — Impractical to Ban Kaphais

Transport Minister YB Anthony Lake said it will be impractical to ban kapchais.

He stressed that it makes up the majority of motorcycles in Malaysia.

The call to ban the type of motorcycle outright was met with outrage.

The Transport Minister, YB Anthony Lake responded to demands that kapchais should be be banned, saying that it would impractical to ban them.
“There are non-governmental groups related to road safety that wants a ban on kapchai motorcycles,” he said.
“But we have to look at it practically as a vast majority of the estimated 16 million registered motorcycles are kapchai motorcycles.”
“Many would be affected if we ban the motorcycles today and my view is that it would be difficult to impose such a ban,” he said when answering a supplementary question raised by Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof (GPS-Petrajaya) in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Oct 29).
The suggestion to ban kapchais was made by an individual with MIROS (Malaysian Institute of Road Safety). It drew instant flak throughout Malaysia.
Click here to read “Safety activist” Recommends to Ban Kapchais
MIROS scrambled to release a press statement, distancing themselves from the what the individual suggested, saying that it was a personal statement instead of stance adopted by the agency.
YB Loke also stressed that there’s no plan to ban kapchais despite encouraging the switch to electric scooters. There are also no plans to ban them on highways, but dedicated motorcycle lanes will be built as part of the 12th Malaysia Plan.
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2020 Yamaha Y15ZR GP Edition unveiled – RM8,868

Like MotoGP? A fan of the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP squad? Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has unveiled its latest 2020 Yamaha Y15ZR GP Edition with the same livery used by Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales for the 2020 season and it is super sweet to look at.

The recommended retail price for the 2020 Yamaha Y15ZR GP Edition is RM8,868 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration). Each bike comes with a certificate of authentication and even more special, a limited-edition Yamaha Y15ZR smartwatch plus a brake disc lock (while stocks last).

With that being said, the rest of the specs for the GP edition Y15ZR remain the same, including its 150cc single-cylinder SOHC liquid-cooled engine which produces around 15hp at 8,500rpm and 13.8Nm of maximum torque at 7,000rpm.

Sending all that power down to rear wheel is done via a five-speed manual transmission and final chain drive. Speaking of wheels, the Y15ZR is prepped with 17-inch blacked-out wheels wrapped with an agile 90/80 rubber up front and a fat 120/70 rear setup. The end result? A muscular-looking cub with a cult following here in Malaysia.
The 2020 Yamaha Y15ZR GP Edition will be arriving at authorised showrooms nationwide starting this month and if you’re aware of how enthusiasts love to snatch this as quickly as they can, you better be one step ahead if you want to be amongst the first to ride this beauty on the road.
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WorldSBK: Jonathan Rea Sweeps Thailand Clean

Rea maintains a perfect record of four straight victories

Tom Sykes scored podium spots for both races in Buriram

Both Aruba.it Racing team riders scored one podium spot individually

It was a great day filled with drama and events especially for WorldSBK rider Jonathan Rea in Round Two of the 2017 Motul FIM Superbike World Championship. After finishing on top in Race 1 yesterday, the Kawasaki Racing Team rider continued his assault with another victory in Race 2 making a total of four straight victories for the 30 year old Brit rider.

The second race was red flagged earlier due to a major crash from Lorenzo Savadori from the Milwaukee Aprilia outfit in Turn 12 which left debris in the middle of the track. The race was quickly restarted after the track was cleared but the disruption did not affect Rea whatsoever.

In Race 1, Rea walked away from the rest of the field and ended up winning with a gap of 6.279 seconds ahead of Aruba.it Racing team rider, Chaz Davies. Davies came in second in Race 1 and sixth in Race 2 on board his Ducati 1199 Panigale R. In Race 2, the gap was slightly smaller but still managed to end the race 4.078 seconds in front of team mate, Tom Sykes.

Positive results were also obtained by Sykes who scored podium finishes in both races who placed third in Race 1 and second in Race 2. It was the other Aruba.it Racing team rider, Marco Melandri who snatched the final podium spot in Race 2 with just 0.117 seconds behind Sykes. Sykes managed to steal away P2 from Melandri in a daring last lap manoeuvre on the Italian rider. Melandri performed well in the first race with a finish in fourth spot.

With the results obtained at the Chang International Circuit this weekend, Jonathan Rea sits on top of the leader board with a perfect score of 100 giving him an advantage of 30 points ahead of the number two rider in the standings, Chaz Davies. Tom Sykes is not far behind with 62 points and Alex Lowes sits comfortably in fourth with 49 points in total.

The riders will return to action on 31 March 2017 for the third WorldSBK round in Aragón. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Photo Source: WorldSBK
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FIRST LOOK: 2023 Honda Hornet 750

23YM HONDA CB750 HORNET
Honda officially revealed the latest generation Honda Hornet 750 that features all-new engine, riding modes and new styling at the Intermot motorcycle show in Cologne, Germany.

Honda Hornet 750 features Honda all-new engine.
Equipped with ride-by-wire and Honda Selectable Torque Control.

The engine will also powers three upcoming models including the Translap 750.
Nevertheless, the Hornet’s revival is the first to feature the new platform along with other exciting goodies.

Powering the Hornet is a 755cc parallel-twin engine producing 92hp and 75Nm. The engine features a 270-degree crank that allows the engine to provide a feel similar to a V-Twin configuration.
In addition, the two cylinders is coated with nickel-silicon carbide, a feature inherited from the firm’s CBR1000RR-R while the Unicam system is similar to the CRF450R motocross machine.

Meanwhile, the engine is wrapped around an all-new steel diamond frame which Honda claimed to weighs only 16.6kg which is 2kg lighter than the frame on Honda’s CB650R.
According to Honda, the Hornet 750 is equipped with a 15.1L fuel tank and with a fuel consumption rate at 23km/l, this means that the bike could go up to 340km.

The Hornet also gets Honda’s patented ‘Vortex Flow Ducts’ designed to evenly distribute air into the airbox. According to Honda, the air ducts boost the bike’s throttle response.
Electronically, the Honda Hornet 750 gets ride-by-wire, which offers three pre-mapped riding modes; Rain, Standard and Sport. However the fourth mode, is fully customisable by the rider.

The motorcycle is suspended by Showa’s SFF-BP 41mm USD forks with 130mm travel at the front and a preload-adjustable shock absorber with Pro-Link swingarm at the rear.
Other notable features include auto-cancelling indicators, 5-inch TFT display, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (available for Android and iOS).

Interestingly, there is a series of accessories available later for the Hornet including a quickshifter, fly screen, tank pads and panniers.
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Yamaha has made an electronic power steering system for motorcycles

Yamaha develops electronic power steering (EPS) system for motorcycles, promises improved stability, agility and reduced rider fatigue.

Yamaha develops novel new electronic power steering (EPS) tech for motorcycles.

It’s called the Yamaha EPS Steering Support System.

It promises to deliver greater stability at high speeds plus easier low speed turns.

Tech could also reduce rider fatigue and first steps towards autonomous riding.

Yamaha says it has ‘pefected’ it on its e-bikes, and will test it in dirt bike racing soon.

Yamaha has reportedly engineered a rather unique steering solution that the firm is currently testing in a dirt bike application. The tech, which is an electronic power steering (EPS) system for motorcycles, promises greater high speed stability, easier low speed turning, as well as lower rider fatigue.
Officially dubbed the Yamaha EPS Steering Support System, this lightweight electromagnetic setup also doubles as an active steering damper. The prototype steering support system pictured employs a torque sensor, magnet technology, and an actuator, all of which allowing steering damper benefits at high-speed plus steering assist input at low-speed.
In terms of application, Yamaha’s electronic power steering system is very similar to the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) made by rivals Honda. Yamaha’s system, however, differs through its added benefit of increasing steering inputs from the handlebars through the motorcycle’s front-end.

Theoretically, When coupled with an IMU and perhaps advanced software, this electronic power steering system could also serve as a self-balancing apparatus and even provide the steering movements to initiate autonomous riding abilities – park-assist perhaps?.
The Iwata-based factory has expressed their certainty at perfecting the tech on its e-bike lineup, and they are keen at observing its suitability in dirt bikes and other motorcycles. As such, Yamaha will test out the tech in its 250cc and 450cc dirt bikes through its All Japan Yamaha Factory Race Team effort led by Australian racer Jay Wilson.
Certainly, it will be interesting to see how the Yamaha EPS Steering Support develops, and when we’ll start seeing its application it on production machines.
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Japan’s Big Four Team Up To Develop Hydrogen Engines

Japan’s Big Four motorcycle manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, made an exciting announcement on May 17, 2023.

They unveiled their joint venture called HySE (Hydrogen Small Mobility and Engine Technology) during a press conference held in Tokyo.
This collaboration aims to develop hydrogen-powered motorcycle engines and other hydrogen-powered engines for small mobility.

HySE will also welcome Kawasaki Heavy Industries Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation as special members, considering their individual advancements in hydrogen-powered research. This diverse group will bring together expertise from various fields to drive innovation in hydrogen-powered engines.
The newly formed organisation has outlined three primary areas of focus for research and development, with each company assigned specific responsibilities. Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Kawasaki Motors will collectively research hydrogen-powered engines. Yamaha will concentrate on studying hydrogen refueling systems, while Kawasaki Motors will explore the fuel supply system.
The research efforts will be distributed among the companies. Honda will take the lead in model-based development, Suzuki will conduct an element study on functionality and performance, and Yamaha and Kawasaki Motors will carry out hands-on research to assess real-world functionality and reliability of hydrogen-powered engines.

In addition to engine research, Yamaha will investigate the requirements for developing a hydrogen refueling system and tanks for small mobility vehicles. Kawasaki Motors will focus on studying the auxiliary equipment necessary for fuel supply systems and distribution tanks, as well as the equipment between the fuel tanks and injectors on hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Collaboration among these major players is crucial as they tackle the challenges of decarbonisation. While electric vehicles have made progress in reducing carbon emissions, certain sectors face difficulties in this transition. To achieve a sustainable future, it requires multiple ideas, research, and development working together.
Clean hydrogen, also known as green hydrogen, holds promise but has been expensive to produce in the past. The implementation of hydrogen tax credits, as included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, could incentivise companies to invest in clean hydrogen development. However, the effectiveness of these incentives will depend on the guidelines established by the US Department of Energy and the US Internal Revenue Service, ensuring accountability for emissions throughout the production process.
The prospects of HySE’s research and development are eagerly anticipated, and we will keep you updated on the latest advancements in this exciting endeavour.
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Kawasaki @ INTERMOT 2016

Kawasaki @ INTERMOT 2016: Limited edition ZX-10RR and H2 Carbon plus other updated models bows in Germany.

Team Green took centre stage in Cologne, Germany for INTERMOT 2016 earlier this week as it brought forwards a string of newly updated models for 2017. Also in the mix are two limited edition specials.
Here’s our quick walkthroughs of Kawasaki’s new 2017 models that bowed in Germany.

Updated 2017 Kawasaki Ninja H2 range
For 2017, both the supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2 road bike and Ninja H2R track bike have been updated with new Öhlins TTX rear shock. Offering greater adjustment parameters, Kawasaki promises that it will offer a much suppler ride.

The road-going Ninja H2 also gains with a revised exhaust system that complies with Euro 4 standards. The model’s electronics has been sharpened slightly too with the quick-shifter now enabled with an auto-blipper, not forgetting the addition of Cornering ABS as well.

New here is the Ninja H2 Carbon edition. This variant boasts Kawasaki’s new ‘silver-mirror’ paint with a matte element embedded in it, bringing the road-going Ninja H2’s aesthetics closer to its wild and track-only H2R sibling.

Just 120 units of the Ninja H2 Carbon will be made, each bearing a unique reference number plaque mounted on the supercharger plate.

2017 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR homologation special
With rivals Honda revealing its CBR1000RR SP2 Fireblade homologation special, Team Green also unveiled a similar rival offering in the form of the 2017 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R homologation special.

Besides the new letter in its name, this homologation special benefits with a bevy of engine, chassis and electronic upgrades to become lighter, quicker and a lot sharper than the base Ninja ZX-10R.

Starting with the engine, the 999cc in-line four-cylinder screamer gaining with upgraded cylinder heads to accommodate optional higher-lift cams from the Race Kit made available too. The crankcase has been reinforced as well while the tappets gets treated with diamond-like-coating (DLC) surface treatment.

The chassis has been sharpened and lightened further with the adoption of seven-spoke forged aluminium Marchesini wheels wrapped in Pirelli Supercorsa SP tyres; its Brembo anchors upgraded with M50 calipers, grooved discs and radial master cylinder, plus the pillion rider’s seat and ancillaries deleted.

The on board electronics package has been sharpened too with the adoption of a six-axis Bosch IMU that further refines the traction control and other rider aids – read engine braking control, launch control, and cornering ABS. Also added is a Kawasaki Quick Shifter for quicker up- and downshifts.

The 2017 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR homologation special will be limited to just 500 units worldwide, and all will comes dressed exclusively in Kawasaki’s tasty black winter test scheme as pictured.

Updated 2017 Kawasaki Z1000SX / Ninja 1000
Known as the Ninja 1000 in our market, the 2017 Kawasaki Z1000SX gets revised with a mild facelift with both its sporting and touring abilities enhanced slightly as well.

The refreshed styling now mirrors the Kawasaki Ninja family’s traits better whilst the headlights gets new LED replacements. Notably, the fairings are now taller and wider, with the adjustable windscreen now made in a double-bubble shape. Also revised are the seats as it s now wider with thicker padding as well.

The instrument display has been upgraded too. It features an analogue rev-counter paired with an LCD screen that offers a gear indicator, shift light, as well as an interactive tacho needle that changes colours from white to red as an additional visual shift reminder for riders.

Avid touring riders would welcome the revised pannier mountings that are now easier to manage. Speaking of which, options now include 28-litre panniers from GIVI with a matching 47-litre top box also available. Other notable creature comforts include the Kawasaki Ergo Fit low seat, heated grips, DC outlets and crash protection amongst which.

Of course, the core of this update is the Euro 4-compliant 1,043cc in-line four-cylinder engine and its revised ECU settings. Kawasaki ahs also added the Bosch IMU system to control the Kawasaki Cornering Management Function that drives the traction control and cornering ABS.
Lastly comes the revised shock settings and linkage. This allowed the seat height to be lowered down to 815mm, promising an enhanced ride quality in the process as well.

2017 Kawasaki Ninja 650
Completing Team Green’s foursome onslaught in Germany is the heavily revised ER-6f model that’s christened as the 2017 Kawasaki Ninja 650. The upgrades this entry-level bike received is impressive to say the least.

For starters, the revised trellis chassis frame with its new aluminium swingarms weighs 19kg less than the outgoing model. It is also primed with conventional 41mm RWU fixed forks up front, whilst the preload adjustable rear shock has been repositioned above the swingarm instead.

The updated Euro 4-compliant 649cc parallel-twin powerplant now offers improved fuel efficiency, whilst the transmission now boasts a quick-shifter and new Nissin calipers paired with the Bosch 9.1M ABS suite promises improved braking.

Rider’s are greeted with a new instrument display that features an analogue rev-counter paired with a new and classy black LCD display screen and programmable shift light with the needle that changes colours from white to red at the redline as well. There’s also a new adjustable flyscreen with three positions within a 60mm total adjustment range.

The most stark change here is the bike’s overall styling, mirroring closely to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R supersport in fact thanks to its shortened and upswept tail. Completing this update are the racy colour sets Kawasaki has made available for the model.

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2022 Aprilia Tuono V4 Gets The Same Ultra Dark Livery

Aprilia recently updated the RSV4 Factory with an all-new Ultra Dark colour scheme for 2022.
As expected, the Aprilia Tuono V4 also gained the same all-black treatment to pay homage to the brand’s 2006 RSV4 1000R.
While the streetfighter machine hasn’t changed in terms of features and performance, the new Ultra-Black colourway creates a sleek aesthetic that is further complemented by gold accents, thanks to the beefy Ohlins fork at the front.

The darker tone also makes the bike look slimmer and compact, turning an already bad-ass motorcycle into something a lot cooler.
Although the new colour updates don’t seem much, we think the Tuono V4 turned out pretty well with the dark theme. Moreover, since its 1,077cc V4 engine already makes 175hp and 121Nm, there is nothing more you could ask for.
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New Gannet Design R NineT and Panigale concepts

Automotive designer Ulfert Janssen of GANNET Design has greeted our inbox once again this week with two new design concepts based on the BMW R Nine-T and the Ducati 1199 Panigale.
Ducati Café Fighter Concept

This is a follow up to the Gannet Design Superleggera we showcased on our site last year. This new design penned by Ulfert Janssen uses the Ducati 1199 Panigale as its starting point. According to Ulfert, the design now features a mix of both classic café racer proportions and a modern mono place street fighter, hence the name “Café Fighter”.

Notably, Ulfert has kept the Panigale’s original tank design, but it now boasts a unique raw brushed finishing touch to it. The bottom underbelly, on the under hand, not only enhances the bike’s stance further, it also gives this Panigale Café Fighter with more attitude in its overall looks. The concept’s additional design elements are made of painted cross-woven carbon fibre, meaning this stripped out bike’s weight will be relatively light.
R NineT City Scrambler Concept

Based on the stylish new BMW R NineT, Ulfert opted to adopt a reverse process with the City Scrambler’s design direction. Instead of taking the traditional route of taking a modern bike and transforming it into a café racer, Ulfert opted to modernise the R NineT’s retro outlooks.

The concept’s most distinct new feature is the lower front fairing that looks as if it was carved out of granite rock with a wavy-finish effect. Adding more character is that sleek upper body fairing design finished in either contrasting gold or grey. This is eye-catching one custom R NineT deisgn indeed.
About Ulfert Janssen and GANNET Design
As a refresher, Ulfert Janssen is the founder and owner of a Swiss-based design firm called GANNET Design. Prior to founding the firm, Janssen had previously worked as a car designer at Renault. You can check out more designs by the Janssen and the firm, which also includes several other eye-catching bike designs by clicking this link.
You can see more pictures of both concepts in the gallery we’ve prepared below.
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Honda CB350 H’Ness Lands In Japan, Rename As GB350

Japan has become the first country outside of India to get the CB350 H’Ness with the retro design motorcycle rename GB350.
Apart from the name change, the GB350 does comes with some styling changes however, it is still the same CB350 H’Ness that was firstly introduced in India.

The GB350 comes with a full LED setup, a combination of analogue/digital instrument and the latest Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
The motorcycle is packed with the same single-cylinder 348cc air-cooled engine that is capable to produce a solid 20.7hp @ 5,500rpm and 30Nm @ 3,000rpm while matted to a 5-speed gearbox.
The bike also gets a standard telescopic fork at the front and twin (preload adjustable) shock absorbers at the rear.
However, the GB350 received dual-channel ABS for the Japanese market and priced at JPY550,000 (RM20,600).
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Zongshen Rolls Out New RC 401 R In China – 45hp, 35.25Nm

Chinese motorcycle maker, Zongshen has introduced the new RC 401 R in China.

The RC 401 R is based on the standard RC 401 launched in 2022.
The Zonghsen RC 401 R makes 45hp and 35.25Nm.

Build based on the RC 401 presented in 2022, the RC 401 R is an up-spec version of the former and is differentiated by the addition of single-sided swingarm and an adjustable suspension from KYB, J.Juan dual front disc brakes and ABS.
Also, the RC 401 R is a lot sportier thanks to its lower clip ons and higher rear tail.

Nevertheless, the RC 401 R continue to make the same 45hp @ 9,500rpm and 35.25Nm @ 8,000rpm similar to the standard RC 401 as both model shares the same parallel-twin with liquid-cooled SOHC mill.

In terms of pricing, the Zongshen RC 401 R is priced at at CNY31,980 (RM20.6k) making it quite an affordable option in the 400cc segment.
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Acerbis Attempts New World Record With The Honda Monkey 125

Acerbis, the renowned aftermarket parts, accessory, and clothing manufacturer, is gearing up for an extraordinary world record attempt with the pint-sized Honda Monkey 125.

the plan involves traversing the distance from Albino, Italy to Nordkapp, the northernmost point of Norway.
Acerbis team has slapped the Monkey 125 with a 108L fuel tank.

While the Honda Monkey 125 boasts commendable fuel efficiency owing to its small engine and low-stress design, its standard 5.6-liter fuel tank grants it a range of approximately 257km. Acerbis recognized the need for modifications to cover the daunting 4,345km journey and set about creating a colossal custom-built fuel tank. This remarkable prototype tank has an astounding capacity of 108 liters, allowing the bike to attempt the official record for the “greatest distance driven on a single tank of fuel by a motorcycle (prototype).”
The Acerbis team, accompanied by their riders Andrea Rastrelli, Alicia Sornosa, and Maurizio Vettor, will embark on this epic adventure through several countries, including Austria, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and finally, Norway. Surpassing the current record would mean traveling over 2,700 miles.

However, the team has no intentions of stopping there. If there’s fuel remaining in the tank and energy left in the riders’ bodies and minds, they plan to push on until the last drop of fuel is consumed, determined to explore the true limits of this little bike’s endurance.
With their audacious feat, Acerbis and its intrepid riders aim to leave an indelible mark in the annals of motorcycling history, showcasing the remarkable capabilities of the Honda Monkey 125 and pushing the boundaries of what is possible on two wheels.
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China’s Colove Motorcycles Introduces a BMW/Honda Spin Off Called The 525X!

If there is one thing that Chinese bike makers have a reputation is, it is for being copy cats of great designs.
And that has been proven true once again by a Chinese motorcycle company called Colove, and its latest model called the Excelle 525X .
Truly, this is the Excelle and not a BMW F850GS, we kid you not! This is real. Check out the Youtube video below from a Youtuber called AutoWin.

The headlight (shown further below) may not be like a BMW, but it does look like it was inspired by Honda’s CBX models.
The design of the tank, the beak and the golden tubeless wire-some rims are curiously similar to the BMW.
But unlike the BMW on which it has obviously stolen its design from, the Excelle 525X supposedly costs a third of the asking price of the BMW.
The Excelle 525X relies on a 493.9cc engine that puts out 53.8PS at 9000rpm and 48Nm at 6500rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox that features a slipper clutch. A quick search on the internet reveals very little about where this engine originates from, or anything about the Excelle at all. A quick visit to the website of the Chinese bike maker shows that the website has been down for a while.

But if there is one thing that is impressive about the curious Chinese brand that has very little digital presence is that it comes with an impressive underpinnings.
It offers an adjustable KYB upside down fork with 195mm travel while the rear monoshock offers 200mm travel.
When compared to the bike it has based its design on, the BMW F850GS, the German bike costs more and even has inferior suspension made up of a non-adjustable fork, but with a fully adjustable mono shock.
As for the brakes, the Excelle uses Kailing callipers that grip on dual petal discs at the front and a single disc at the rear. There is no further information available about braking duties.
In terms of electronics, the Chinese manufacturer has loaded the 525X with an adaptive LED headlight, dual on-board chargers and a smartphone compatible instrument console.
Price starts from RM25,880 for the base model while the top end model that apparently features a single-sided swing arm costs about RM28,000 before Malaysian taxes.
There is no further information available regarding the Colove Excelle 525X, neither are there more photos.
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Petronas SRT Ohvale Special Series MiniGP Now Available – Limited To Just 46 Units!

In collaboration with Ohvale, Petronas Sepang Racing Team (PSRT) is proud to bring you the limited edition Special Series MiniGP motorcycle.
Limited to only 46 units, the PSRT Ohvale Special Series MiniGP is build based on the Ohvale 160cc GP-0 but with a host of key enhancements and features.

It is the same motorcycle endorsed by DORNA and FIM for the FIM MiniGP World Series Championship.

The limited-edition motorcycle comes with an upgraded chassis to fit taller riders, fully adjustable suspension with Mupo front shocks and Ohlins at the rear, PSRT livery with winglets, Dell’Orto carburettor and a restyled Arrow exhaust system.

According to PSRT, every purchase of the motorcycle comes with bespoke branded tyre warmers, a branded race carpet, including a selection of spare parts with a range of sprockets and pinions in a custom containment.

It also comes with a striking Petronas SRT paint job, supplied by the same company behind the YZR-M1 MotoGP livery.

Pre-orders for the limited edition motorcycle are now open, with delivery is expected to start in September. Those who are interested can register their interest HERE.

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EICMA 2015: KTM 1290 Super Duke GT unleashed

After teasing us for months, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has finally been unveiled officially by the Austrian manufacturer at the ongoing EICMA 2015 show in Milan, Italy.

In terms of styling, KTM has ticked all the right boxes with the manic sport tourer. According to the brand, the bike’s aggressive design reflects on its characteristics, which focuses primarily on ‘speedy travelling’.
Powering the GT is a re-tuned version of the 1301cc four-stroke two-cylinder 75 degree V-twin engine found in the 1290 Super Duke R, which produces a whopping 173hp and 144Nm of torque.
It is said that the crankshaft, cylinder heads, combustion chambers, valve timings and injection mappings have all been given attention to deliver maximum power higher up the rev range.
In the suspensions department, the Super Duke GT is fitted with semi-active WP suspension both in front and at the rear, which can be toggled between three modes(Comfort, Street and Sport), via a suspension control unit.

Brakes on the other hand, comes courtesy of Brembo. Up front, there are two monobloc four-piston radial calipers biting on to 320mm discs, while the rear brake is a two-piston caliper with 240mm disc.
Since the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a sport tourer, the Austrian manufacturer has fitted the bike with a few features that make it ideal for long distance riding, such as cruise control, tire pressure monitoring system, heated grips, LED cornering lights, and a 23-liter fuel tank.
Weighing at 205kg dry, KTM claims that the Super Duke GT has the best power-to-weight ratio compared to any sport tourer out there.

Other notable features on the bike include the riding assistance package from the 1290 Super Adventure, which comprises a lean angle sensitive stability control system, ABS, as well as traction control. It’s also got a quick shifter, and a supermoto mode for those who want to have some ‘naughty’ moments with the bike.

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MotoGP: Ducati’s Danilo Petrucci wins in tricky Le Mans

Ducati factory rider, Danilo Petrucci, once again tasted that sweet victory after crossing the chequered flag in first place during the MotoGP French GP in Le Mans. Tricky conditions presented difficult riding situations and even more drama for the entire grid, but the Italian managed to pull off his second career win.

2018 – ?2019 – ?2020 – ?@Petrux9's love affair with Le Mans continues! ❤#FrenchGP ?? pic.twitter.com/GUc0HtjjCe
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) October 11, 2020

Rain made a surprise appearance just before the start of what was declared a ‘dry race’ and caught everyone by surprise. Mixed conditions truly wreak havoc to the front runners of the 2020 MotoGP championship title chase, but others delivered as they stepped up their pace.

It was clear that the Ducatis dominated the first part of the race where the front was led by Petrucci, Andrea Dovizioso, and Jack Miller. Unfortunately, Miller suffered a mechanical failure, while others like Alex Rins, Valentino Rossi, Franco Morbidelli, and more weren’t so lucky thanks to the difficult riding conditions.

Surprisingly, Repsol Honda’s Alex Marquez stepped up his game by delivering an epic performance from P18 all the way up to P2. His first-ever premier class podium finish would’ve been a victory if the race continued for a couple more laps. Guess that Honda finally figured out that his Honda RC213V was set in ‘Rain Mode’ all this while, eh? *badum tss*

Smiles don't come much bigger than this! ?@alexmarquez73 celebrates his first #MotoGP podium with an overjoyed @HRC_MotoGP team ?#FrenchGP ?? pic.twitter.com/8ohKSSHthK
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) October 11, 2020

The final podium spot was secured by KTM’s Pol Espargaro, who revisited his first-ever podium finish with the KTM RC16 in similar fashion and position last year. At the end of the French GP, we now have seven different MotoGP winners and a total of 15 different riders who have finished on the podium.

Petronas Yamaha SRT rider and championship leader, Fabio Quartararo, only managed to finish his home GP in P9 but luckily for him, his closest competitor, Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) crossed the line in P11. This means that Quartararo is still in the lead with 115 points, 10 points more than Mir.

The MotoGP paddock will head straight to Aragon for the next two weekends, where the Spaniards have a big home advantage. Will we see the return of Marc Marquez back on the MotoGP field? Stay tuned for more updates.

Written by: Sep Irran
Ducati Multistrada V4 will come with radar tech

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American Honda To Auction Three CBR1000RR Repsol Edition For Charity

American Honda teamed up with Iconic Motorbikes for the second time to auction off some rare Honda motorcycles for the Ride for Kids charity.
This time around, American Honda is offering three motorcycles, a 2005, 2007 and 2009 Honda CBR1000RR Repsol Editions!

That’s right, folks, one of the most powerful and iconic superbikes of the early 2000s is available for auction, and it’s all for a good cause.

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A post shared by @iconicmotorbikes

According to Iconic Motorbikes, the bikes comes with super low mileage or maybe even zero-mile!

The unique collaboration is also to celebrate American Honda and Ride For Kids 30 years partnership.
All three CBR1000RR Repsol Edition is yet to be made for auction on iconicmotorbikeauctions.com as the company is currently preparing them.

However, interested parties are advised to follow Iconic Motorbikes on social media to get the latest update.
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Guy Martin withdraws from first road race comeback

Guy Martin has announced that he won’t be participating in this weekend’s Cookstown 100 road race.
This weekend’s event was set for Martin’s return to road racing after a difficult season with Honda Racing.
Guy hopes that he’s able to fix his classic BSA Rocket 3 in time for next week’s Tandragee 100 road race.

It was just last month when road racing figure and living legend Guy Martin announced that he’ll be returning to road racing. Although it’s not exactly on 300km/h superbikes, the return which was said to be in a classic bike race was cut short when he reported that his BSA Rocket 3 machine suffered from gearbox problems.

Guy Martin was set to enter the Cookstown 100 and Tandragee 100 classic races this month but his first appearance back in the road racing scene was not meant to be. Upon returning from Russia, the 36-year-old British racer was getting his BSA Rocket 3 ready but gearbox issues led to his withdrawal from the Cookstown 100 set to happen this weekend.

According to the organisers of Cookstown 100, “The organisers of the first road race of the 2018 season have been dealt a major blow as crowd favourite Guy Martin has had to pull out of the meeting. Guy, who has been in Russia for the past number of weeks working on his latest project, returned home last weekend and had his home-built BSA Rocket 3 up and running, but after testing his machine developed gearbox problems.”

“As the parts required won’t be made available in time for the KDM Hire Cookstown 100, Guy has had to take the decision to pull out of the meeting on safety grounds. Guy has apologised to the club for his misfortunes and wished the club well for their event,” added the race officials.

Let’s hope that Guy is able to fix his bike in time for the Tandragee 100 which is set to happen next weekend on 6 and 7 May 2018.
Isle of Man TT: Bruce Anstey diagnosed with cancer

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Meet The New Bond, Triumph Motorcycles Unveil Tiger 900 Bond Edition

If Ian Fleming is alive today, the Triumph Tiger 900 might be the weapon of choice for his 007.
It is lightweight, easy to manoeuvre around small towns and handles really well in off-road condition, making it the best vehicle to escape or chase any of the SPECTRE goons.

In recognition of the iconic spy film with Daniel Craig reprising his role as James Bond for the fifth and final time in No Time To Die, Triumph Motorcycles has unveiled the Tiger 900 Bond Edition, limited to just 250 units worldwide.
Based on the Tiger 900 Rally Pro, the limited edition adventure motorcycle features the innovative T-Plane triple-cylinder 900cc engine capable of producing 94hp and 86.8Nm.

The main characteristic falls to its clandestine Matt Sapphire Black paint job with gold accents and graphics that create a mysterious yet aggressive look.

The fuel tank features the 007 logo, which also appears on the full-colour TFT screen during startup.

In addition, the frame, headlight, side panels, sump guard, pillion footrest, lamp shrouds and engine guards are also painted with a stealthy black colourway. The handlebar clamp also displays the bike unit numbers to remind you how “limited’ the Tiger 900 Bond Edition is.
However, please be mindful that the Tiger 900 Bond Edition is not one of Q’s crazy inventions, so do not expect it to come equipped with flamethrowers or automatic rifles.
Those are sold separately and needs special clearance from M.

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SC-Project Unveil New SC1-S Full-System Exhaust For 2021 Yamaha MT-07 – RM7.1k

Yamaha best-selling model to date, the MT-07, was given an extensive upgrade for 2021, including a new bodywork and a revised 689cc parallel-twin motor.
Thanks to a 270-degree crankshaft, the MT-07 delivers a similar exhaust note of a V-Twin configuration. This also resulted in owners seeking aftermarket exhaust to amplify the sound and increase power delivery.

Italian exhaust manufacturer SC-Project has just introduced a new Euro5 compliant SC1-S full system for the 2021 MT-07.
Interestingly, while SC-Project has a reputation for producing a downright obnoxious exhaust sound, the SC1-S offers just the right balance between socially acceptable and loud.
According to the company, the SC1-S uses a two-into-one arrangement mated to a slip-on exhaust at the end.

Frankly, not only does the exhaust look sleek, but it also increases the overall ‘badass’ element of the MT-07 compared to the stock underbelly exhaust. More importantly, it sounds better than the stock, especially at a higher rev range.

Moving on to the price, the new SC1-S is available for USD1,733 (RM7.1k).
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MotoGP: New Date Set For Austin, Motegi Canceled

The 2021 MotoGP calendar has just been modified again due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to the latest updates, FIM, IRTA, and Dorna Sports have announced a new date for GP of the Americas, with the circuit will now host the MotoGP from 1 to 3 October 2021.
Meanwhile, MotoGP will also be held in Thailand from 15 to 17 October, a week later than the previously scheduled.
However, the organizers are forced to confirm the cancellation of the Japan GP due to current Covid-19 restrictions and travel complications.
Nonetheless, FIM and Dorna Sports aims that the world championship will return in Japan for 2022.
The 2021 MotoGP will resume this weekend at Assen.
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A teacher’s 65km daily journey of love

Dedication is a novelty these days. Rarely do you find someone so dedicated to a cause that he is willing to endure just about anything to create a positive outcome. We come across many quitters, so much so that when we come across someone so passionately dedicated, that it is worth celebrating that someone.
Take 40-year old Ahmad Saidin bin Mohd Idris, known as Cikgu Saidin for example. You can watch his story in the video below, and he is a perfect example of passionate dedication, a dream chaser if we may say that.

Cikgu Saidin works at the ‘Sekolah Kebangsaan Lenjang’ (National School of Lenjang) as Assistant Headmaster of Co-Curricular activities at the school. Lenjang is a rural town in the Malaysian state of Pahang, and though it has basic amenities like water, electricity and even internet, the road conditions can be bad, making travelling a nightmare.

Cikgu Saidin’s daily routine involves waking up at 5am, stopping at a nearby mosque for the morning prayers, and then riding 65 kilometres to work one way. That is a total of 130 kilometres on commuting alone. And it is not just your regular type of commuting, as Cikgu Saidin explains in the video, part of his commute is done on good tarred roads, and the other half is done on bad, muddy and dirt roads. And his bike is not your typical, high capacity, dual-purpose bike which would make his commute a lot more comfortable, but rather he rides a normal ‘kapcai’ (underbone) type of motorcycle.

Because his commute can be quite treacherous, Cikgu Saidin maintains the bike himself, changing the lubricant and oil filter himself every 1000 kilometres. And his lubricant of choice? Cikgu Saidin prefers Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex, and it is easy to understand why.

Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex is specially designed to deal with heavy traffic, heavy daily usage and heavy loading. This specially formalised lubricant is designed to tackle rattling noises and improves sluggishness of a motorcycle by enhancing cleaning, resisting oil thinning by using a strong oil film, and improving lubricant stability.

With this, the lubricant performs at its best at all times without performance deterioration over time. The lubricant actively tackles high shearing which usually results in the loss of lubricant viscosity or oil thinning, and also keeps an engine running cool which improves sluggishness.
According to research, the Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex lubricant is able to outperform conventional lubricants by removing up to 55% more oil deposits. And it can resist oil thinning by up to 41% better than the industry standard because of a specially adapted oil film. By combining all these specially designed characteristics, riders like Cikgu Saidin who have to endure the harshness of extraordinary everyday commutes, can rest easy knowing that his engine is well taken care of.
These are all elements that help ease Cikgu Saidin’s daily commute, and even of those like him. For those who, like Cikgu Saidin, have to endure a long and treacherous daily commute, the right type of lubricant is able to make the trip a lot more manageable and comfortable. Engine heat for example, can be very bothersome over long distances, but lubricants such as Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex is able to lower operating temperatures and thus make the commute more comfortable for the rider.
The same goes for engine vibrations as well, the lesser the vibrations, the better the journey, and that is exactly what riders like Cikgu Saidin need for their stressful commutes, and that is what Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex delivers. You wouldn’t expect anything lesser for a man who is so dedicated to his job as a teacher that he treats his students as his family. In the video above, Cikgu Saidin wipes away tears as he speaks about his passion for teaching and how he considers himself to have two families; his own at home, and his students in school.
A true to word “Dream Chaser” like Cikgu Saidin is a rarity in today’s world, a man so driven by passion that such a long and difficult daily commute almost seems like nothing, helped in part of course by the advanced lubricants of Petronas Sprinta with Ultraflex.

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BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose unveiled

New BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose is a boxer-powered tribute to brand’s Paris-Dakar Rally heritage.

Having already stunned the world with the BMW R 5 Hommage concept recently, BMW Motorrad seems to have ramped up its concept bike game. Meet its very latest, the BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose.

The brand’s latest concept was introduced during the Wheels & Waves custom culture festival near Biarritz on the Atlantic sea. At first glance, it is easy to denote that the BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose pays tribute to the German two-wheeled brand’s past history as a competitor in the famed Paris-Dakar Rally.

For those of you who didn’t know, Lac Rose is the name of Lake Retba that’s located close by to the actual Dakar that stood as the famed rally’s end point. More specifically, it is a place that’s very close to the Atlantic coast in the nation of Senegal and is one of the most westernmost points of the African continent.

Geography lesson aside, what really makes the BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose interesting is the fact that it underpins the boxer-powered BMW R nine T retro roadster. Much of its classic Dakar Rally racer appearances sees it taking cues from the original BMW G/S bikes of the past as well.

Classic race-inspired traits here include the front fairing, engine bash plate and the oil cooler protector. There’s also a bespoke valve cover set, the ‘101’ racing number plate, knobby off road tyres shod in steel wire spoked wheels, as well as the marque’s signature Alpine White and Signal Red racing livery scheme.

Also given the bespoke treatment here is the specially designed helmet that’s based off the stock BMW Motorrad enduro helmet. Notably, the ‘101’ racing number belongs to Dakar Rally racer Gaston Rahier who scored BMW Motorrad’s third Dakar Rally win in the 1980s.
Check out the gallery below to see more images of the new BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose in all its glorious retro detail.
BMW Motorrad Concept Lac Rose

Sources: BMW Motorrad via AutoEvolution
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Brakes (Part 5): Five Essential Tips on Using the Brakes

The brakes are often misused – they are not only for stopping.

The modern brake systems are there to assist the rider in many ways.

But it is the rider who has to use them correctly.

Of all the rider inputs, braking is often the most misunderstood or wrongly performed.
The main reason for this is due to how significant deceleration forces work on the rider’s body, in addition to how his bike’s behavior when the brakes are applied. As such, riders are often confused by how tiny fingers could slow a 300+ kg mass (the combine weight of the motorcycle and rider) from 200 km/h down to 50 km/h in a heartbeat.
1. Use the brakes to set your target speed
Start thinking of the brakes as a tool to help you set your target speed for a corner. For example, if you’ve ridden through your favourite corner on a daily basis, brake and note the speed before you enter the corner. Doing so will allow you to adjust braking point, braking force and entry speed as well as the turn-in point. Too slow through the corner? Apply the brakes later or release sooner. Too fast? Brake earlier or apply more braking pressure.

It doesn’t help to charge into every corner based on “feel” or “mood”. More often than not, too slow a corner entry will force the rider to add too much throttle in mid-corner, thereby risking the tyre breaking traction suddenly. Too fast into a corner will cause the rider to panic and jump on the brakes, causing the front tyre to either break traction and slide under (low-side) or the bike to stand up and head straight toward the outside of the corner (overshoot).
2. Use both brakes
There’s a myth that the rider shouldn’t touch the rear brake pedal unless he’s coming to a stop. Now, unless you’re braking so hard to lift the rear tyre completely off the ground like Marc Marquez, using the rear brake keeps the chassis stable, even if you should feel that using it does not decrease your stopping distance.

If the rear brake is truly defunct in its purpose, why do manufacturers equip their bikes with it in the first place, or lately, the rear-wheel lift mitigation (RLM) electronic rider aid? As the name suggests, it keeps the rear tyre on the ground, allowing the rider to utilize the rear brake. In fact, this rider aid is used extensively in MotoGP (to different degrees among different riders).
Courtesy of Sport Rider
Dragging the rear brake softly while leaned over in a corner helps the bike maintain a tight line. Besides that, it slows the bike slightly without rolling off the throttle or tapping the front brake lever, thus not introducing major abrupt inputs to upset the chassis balance and tyre adhesion.
3. Squeeze, don’t grab
Brakes should be applied progressively (gradually) and not not grabbed or stomped on.
Progressive braking transfers the motorcycle’s and rider’s combined weight progressively to the suspension and tyre. Conversely, abrupt braking causes the wheel to lock. Additionally, mass is slammed forward and eats up suspension travel, causing the front wheel to hop over road irregularities.

If abrupt braking is bad when the bike is straight up, it’s even worse when it’s leaned over on its side. The tyres are already loaded with cornering forces and doesn’t need much more overbraking to overload them. The tyres will either break loose, resulting in a low-side or have the bike standing up and going straight.
So, stop treating the brake levers as ON/OFF switches.
4. Ride loose
Using the arms to support the torso when braking “locks” up the wrists, arms, elbows and shoulders. This in turn means that the rider could only take so much braking forces and gets fooled into thinking that he’s already braking too hard.
Besides that, he would not be able to steer his bike through the corner or out of harm’s way. Ever notice some riders braking hard and still go wide or overshoot a corner?

The trick is to always clamp your thighs onto the fuel tank. That’s the reason why motorcycle designers create knee cutouts (depression) on both sides of the tank. So, clamp your knees onto the tank, and leave your torso and arms as loose (relaxed) as possible. If you’ve never done so during hard braking, you’ll soon discover that you could actually brake so much harder than before, while still being able to steer the bike.
5. ABS helps, not avoid
With all this talk about braking techniques, how does ABS (anti-lock braking system) figure into the equation? Or more accurately, doesn’t ABS take away the need to learn the fundamentals of braking? Oh yes, I’ve had people tell me, “The bike has ABS. The bike will never crash.”
Let’s review what ABS does. Braking is strongest at the point where the tyre is about to break traction. However, that margin between full braking and losing traction is very thin, and once the tyre loses traction, there’s no telling what’ll happen next. When a tyre loses traction, ABS relieves the braking pressure just enough to let the tyre roll then reapply pressure to brake caliper pistons (this happen many times per second).

via GIPHY
That’s all good and nifty. However, riders who are unaccustomed to the brake levers pulsing during ABS activation may actually let go of the levers. So, it all comes back to square one: Learn the basics of braking without intervention.
BONUS TIP: Have faith
Frame, chassis, tyre and brake engineering are so advanced these days; more often than not surpassing the skill levels of the majority of road riders.

This is not a criticism of your riding skills, but it serves as a reminder that the limits of the said components are so high, hence there’s plenty of room to go to save your skin at the time when you thought there’s no hope. The point is, have faith in your tyres, suspension, and bike in general and perform the correct actions when you get into trouble, rather than just giving up and letting fate decide.
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Moto3: Successful finger surgery for Super KIP

Every single rider in the MotoGP championship, including Moto2 and Moto3, are well-known to be extremely tough SOBs who would anything to win and race. For Petronas Sprinta Racing Moto3 rider, Khairul Idham Pawi aka “Super KIP”, he too is one of those heroes who are willing to do whatever it takes to continue doing what he loves; racing.

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 I just want to say that im okay after the surgery yesterday. Thanks for your message, and as well to doctor mir and @dr.sergibarrera. We will come back strong @sepangracingteam
A post shared by  Khairul Idham Pawi (@khairulidham89) on Aug 25, 2020 at 11:43pm PDT

After going through a successful operation on his right hand’s fifth finger, Super KIP is looking forward to a speedy recovery and hopefully race in Misano next month. It was a tough decision to partially amputate the finger but with continuous problems and issues since last year, the young Malaysian decided that it was the best option in order to continue racing without any more lingering pain.

According to Super KIP, “It’s tough to be here again in the hospital for another surgery in the little finger of my right hand, but together with the team, we decided it was the best way to face the future. It’s followed me for too long now and I hope with this latest operation we will be able to draw a line under this issue and I can focus on racing again, rather than this being a lingering problem.”

“In my mind, I have the idea to return for the first race in Misano, but we need to wait and gauge the recovery process. At least we have a small break in the calendar now so this will help me. I will work and train hard these two weeks to make that return possible. I’d like to thank the medical team for their work in this difficult moment, and to the team and fans for their support. Now the total focus is on coming back stronger,” added Khairul.
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CFMoto SR-C21 Prototype Breaks Cover, To Enter Production In 2022?

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, CFMoto has unveiled the SR-C21 prototype, deemed to be the company next sports bike.

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/WhatsApp-Video-2021-10-17-at-13.48.48.mp4

Further details remain scarce but we were informed that the concept will move into production in 2022 and will run on a 400cc engine despite the teaser video showing what could be a bigger capacity powerplant.

Nonetheless, the prototype features some top-notch components including Brembos, Ohlins suspensions, single-sided swingarm, SC-Project exhaust and get this, MotoGP inspired winglets!

On that note, the overall design looks great perhaps thanks to CFMoto extensive ties with KTM and European design house Kiska Design.

Nonetheless, there is the possibility of the SR-C21 runs on a 790cc or 890cc parallel-twin which could be a game-changer for the Chinese manufacturer.

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The new BMW R 18 cruiser is finally unveiled!

It’s official, BMW Motorrad has entered the cruiser market with their latest offering, the all-new BMW R 18. Embedded deep with the brand’s heritage and traditions, the BMW R 18 embodies the true spirit of the brand, both old and new. A classic timeless design paired with their new and powerful boxer engine? What’s not to love?

Let’s look at the engine first. The R 18 is presented with BMW’s latest tow-cylinder boxer engine dubbed the “Big Boxer”. In fact, it’s the most powerful one yet with its 1,802cc which produces a hefty 91hp at 4,750rpm and over 150Nm of maximum torque as low as 2,000rpm-4,000rpm.

Housed right in the middle of a double-loop steel tube frame, it’s an homage to the tradition of the brand, but with superior quality and great detail to attention from visible welded joints, forged parts, and bolted swingarm and rear axle transmission.

Looking into the design factor, the R 18 has a lot of design cues from the legendary BMW R 5. From the frame choice to its pear-shaped tank, it’s an homage to the golden era of iconic BMW Motorrad bikes and it simply oozes coolness. The First Edition model with come with this classic black finish with pinstripes plus chrome touches here and there because it’s a classy move.

That chassis of the new R 18 is further enhanced with 49mm telescopic forks with fork sleeves paired with a rear central suspension strut with “travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel control and attractive suspension comfort.” Suspension travel is 120mm up front and 90mm rear. No electronics to mess with the experience, baby (except for the LED front headlights & adaptive cornering lights).

As for brakes, they went with the double discs upfront (plus four-piston fixed callipers) and a single disc handling the rear which looks really well with the bike’s exposed driveshaft and wire-spoke wheels. All of these specs are in line with BMW Motorrad’s philosophy of always offering ‘harmonious ergonomics for optimum vehicle control.’

The mid-mounted footpegs offer a laid-back riding position for riders to enjoy comfortable cruises while maintaining an active riding position. In other words, the BMW R 18 offers both relaxed and active riding, all in one wholesome yet classic package.

There are some electronics assistances to help keep riders in check, such as selectable riding modes (Rain, Roll & Rock), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), engine drag torque control (MSR), to name a few. It’ll also come with several extra options such as reverse assist and Hill Start Control.

BMW Motorrad will also be offering tonnes of customizable parts for the new R 18 with several collaborations with high-profile companies like Roland Sands, Mustang seats, Vance & Hines exhaust, more. No announcement on the price just yet, but considering it’s a 1,800cc BMW bike, it won’t be that cheap.

No BMW Motorrad at Intermot & EICMA this year

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GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day 9 and Wrap-Up

The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 ended with Day 9.

It was an amazing ride to show what Malaysia offers.

It was also an amazing ride due to the organization and support.

All good things come to end. Unfortunately, it had to be the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 on Day 9.
For the last day, the GIVI Explorers were pretty much let loose to enjoy the best riding road we Malaysian bikers have come to love i.e. Karak Highway, Bukit Tinggi and Genting Highlands.

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Many of the riders were very skilled especially with the Triumph Tiger 800 XR, XRx and XCx in their hands. Mexican Explorer Manuel stood on the pegs of the XCx most of the time while blasting through corners. I can second what he did, because the XCx is one bike which instills supreme confidence in the rider.

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The ride ended at the Grand Ion D’Element Hotel. It was a great way to end the ride at a place that’s cooling.

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We gathered for the Gala Dinner that night, when Joseph handed out gifts to honour the Explorers based on their “exploits” during the ride. Check out the pictures to see what the gifts were!

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The police escorts received a boisterous cheer for their efforts in keeping the routes clear and us safe throughout. The same kudos went to the marshals as well, who always checked to see that there were no rider missing from their flocks.

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A personal view of the adventure
The adventure had been epic, taking the GIVI Explorers on a loop through Peninsular Malaysia. We started at the West Coast, rode over to the East Coast, before turning back west. We had crossed the central spine of Peninsular Malaysia twice; dined in a limestone cave in Ipoh; spent a day and night at beautiful Redang Island; partook authentic Baba and Nonya food in historic Melaka; fed elephants at Kuala Gandah. In short, we rode from the city to a cave, lake, beach, island, jungle and up mountains.

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Amongst all that, though, the crown jewel had to be GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik. Here we not only watched an event but took in an experience that has no equal anywhere around the world.

But there’s no illusion that it’s our beautiful Malaysian roads that connected all these locations. The marshals from Desmo Owners Club Malaysia who recce’d the routes did a fantastic job in seeking out asphalt ribbons with corners after corners, thereby minimizing zombie-like droning on the highways. They were the ones who filled our fuel tanks when we stopped.

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I couldn’t stress enough about the pleasure of having the Traffic Police escort us all the way. Imagine riding through Kuantan and Melaka without escort: The convoy would’ve have fragmented so terribly that some riders would’ve either gotten lost or worse. If local riders find it challenging, what more to those who were visiting Malaysia for the first time!
More importantly, no one got left behind or hurt.
The accommodations were top-notch, as always, and served great food. It’s something good to look forward to at the end of the ride each day.

The GIVI crew provided superb support everywhere we stopped. They were always there to make sure that there was parking and space for us to sit down as a group. Drinks and snacks were always available in the back of the Honda Odyssey, so much so I called it the Snack-On-Wheels. Besides that, they were the ones who moved our luggage into our hotel rooms before we arrived, then pick them up and load them up when we checked out, only do it all again the next day.

I also couldn’t ignore the fact that the GIVI equipment was reliable. The tank bag could accommodate a 2-litre hydration bladder in addition to my DSLR camera. The Trekker Dolomiti hard cases not only looked classy, but stored everything away safely.

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We were also very lucky that the weather stayed on our side throughout. We had expected rain, but none caught us. Besides that, the ride ended just one day before the haze from Sumatra returned!
Roll of Honour
The epic ride was the direct result of extensive work put in. It’s work that we didn’t see that manifested in the smooth running of any event. There’s no such thing as just organizing a ride of this magnitude and crossing fingers.
So, a big thank you to Mr. Joseph Perucca. The GIVI Explorer project is his baby and it highlights a number of salient and important points. It’s already established that GIVI produces the best motorcycle luggage and accessories, but there is a driving passion behind it. The people of GIVI, distributors and dealers are what constitutes a family. The GIVI Explorer expeditions are the result of this familial togetherness, sharing the passion for riding and exploration the world over, while using the real world as the rolling laboratory for GIVI products. This love for the family is especially seen in the Explorers who had joined the annual rides from the very beginning (this being the seventh).
Joseph and his wife Van
I wish to also thank Joseph and Pietro (Ambrosioni – GIVI’s Communication Manager). Joseph would send Pietro to accompany everytime I needed to break free from the convoy to shoot pictures.

Next on the list is Mr. On Hai Swee, the Managing Director of GIVI Asia Sdn. Bhd. It was a pleasure to finally ride with him and Mrs. On. I’ve always learned so much about GIVI from him. His hard work and foresight has brought the brand to where it is in these 25 years in Malaysia. A special appreciation to him for arranging the Traffic Police escort throughout the ride.

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A thoroughly special thank you to Dato’ Hussein Al-Malique, Chief Executive Officer of Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia. Every Explorer on the Tiger 800 (XR/XRx/XCx) had a great time and there wasn’t a single concern about their bikes. They were perfectly suited to the curvy road along the tour’s routes.

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Thank you and congratulations to Dato’ Captain Nik Huzlan who put together another stunning and the largest yet Rimba Raid. I wished I had more time to cover the event, but Insy’Allah I could do so from a rider’s perspective next year. It’s always great to chat with you and I could count on learning so much!

This list wouldn’t be complete without the hardworking (read: overworked) GIVI crew on both the ride and at GIVI Rimba Raid. Sam Sharman, Edwin, Sherlyn, Julian Loh, Aina, and everyone you guys were amazing as always. It was great to see familiar faces everywhere we stopped!

A special shout out to Jeremias Israel. He may be a Dakar and pro racer but he’s one of the most down-to-earth guys I’ve ever met. The guys who attended his off-road clinic enjoyed it immensely and we were all behind you at Rimba Raid.

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Let’s not forget Nikkasit, the official photographer who worked non-stop. Awesome pictures, Khun Nikkasit. Please visit soon!
(L-R) Manuel, Nikkasit, Kok Ping
Last but not least, kudos to the GIVI Explorers. It’s always nice to see everyone I’ve met before, but I make new friends everytime we ride together. Your laughs were always so infectious. I hope to learn Spanish and Thai before the next ride (if I’m ever invited again). I hope that you guys enjoyed Malaysia and come back for a more extensive tour. There’s so much more to offer than what we experienced during the ride.

Till then, ride safe!
Please click on this link for our report on GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Eight.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Seven.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Six.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Days Four and Five.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Three.
Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Kick Off.
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2020 Aprilia RS-GP breaking new grounds in MotoGP

Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) clearly dominated the recent Sepang MotoGP Test but a lot of attention was also focused on other manufacturers in the grid, particularly KTM and Aprilia. While the latest KTM RC16 has proven to be a force to be reckoned with this season, Aprilia brought in their A-game with the 2020 Aprilia RS-GP; a completely different machine from the 2019 prototype.

We had close look at the new 2020 Aprilia RS-GP throughout the winter test session at Sepang International Circuit and it is arguably one of the most dynamic-looking race bikes we’ve ever seen. When Ducati came up with their revolutionary aero fairings a few seasons back, it was ground-breaking. Now, the game is set up high and Aprilia is riding on that train hard.

Aprilia went through a lot to make sure that their MotoGP machine is competitive for the 2020 season. Hiring talents from the likes of Suzuki, Ducati and even car manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and BMW proved to be somewhat positive as Aleix Espargaro threw down some respectable lap times at Sepang.

The 2020 Aprilia RS-GP also utilizes a brand new 90-degree V4 engine that offers a bigger and better performance parameter for riders and team to finetune the machine even more. There’s also the updated chassis which Aprilia confirmed to improve braking stability and cornering agility positively which has been the issue for both Aleix Espargaro and Andrea Iannone faced last season.

Fighting for the top 10 consistently is a much more attainable target now and with Aleix being able to lap Sepang at 1:58.694 (which is only 0.345 seconds slower than Fabio Quartararo’s fastest time), we’ll be seeing more and more manufacturers fighting for podium contention. 2020 is going to one hell of a show.
Aprilia All Stars – The biggest Aprilia event in the world!

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MotoGP: Has KTM ‘found’ something for 2020?

Throughout the three days of winter testing last weekend during the official Sepang MotoGP Test, one particular manufacturer has been popping up quite fast to the top of the timesheets early in the day. The KTM RC16 ridden by Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro set the trend for the fastest lap times before noon hits and that says a lot about what the factory has to offer for the 2020 season.

While most riders on the grid tend to get their pace after completing a number of laps, both of the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders jumped up significantly fast in temperatures more ideally suited of tracks located in European countries. As we have stated back in 2018, it’ll take a couple of years for KTM to be truly competitive and lo and behold, 2020 showed up with them ready.

From our perspective, the KTM RC16 has gone through a major overhaul in both top speed and agility as the riders (Espargaro and Pedrosa) were able to throw down consistently fast laps but also hit top speeds rivalling the Ducati and Honda riders. Looks like that rolled the dices right when selecting Dani Pedrosa as their test rider.

While KTM has managed to find something useful for the winter test, it doesn’t mean that they have the competitive edge against other teams to fight for the top spot. In fact, 2020 is probably going to be one of the most competitive seasons yet as all of the main riders managed to break into the 1 minute 59 seconds barrier.

Yes, every single rider was fast. All 24 main riders of the grid were only separated within 1.549 seconds from the fastest Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) with a time of 1:58.349 all the way down to MotoGP rookie, Iker Lecuona with a 1:59.898. The question now is who can be consistently fast when it comes to race day.
MotoGP: Is Fabio Quartararo the man to beat in 2020?

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2018 Honda X-ADV & Africa Twin prices announced! From RM57,999

Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has unveiled the official prices for the 2018 Honda X-ADV and Honda Africa Twin for the Malaysian market.
The announcement was made in conjunction with the launch of the Malaysia Autoshow 2018.
The X-ADV is priced from RM57,999 whereas the Africa Twin is from RM69,999 (basic prices without GST).

Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has officially announced not one but two of their highly-awaited big bikes for this year which are the 2018 Honda X-ADV adventure scooter and 2018 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin earlier today. The announcement was made in conjunction with the launch of the Malaysia Autoshow 2018.
2018 Honda X-ADV – from RM57,999 to 59,999 (basic price without GST)

It was recently implied that Boon Siew Honda is ready to sell the 2018 Honda X-ADV adventure scooter at a price of below RM70,000. In fact, this statement was released during the launch of Malaysia’s first Honda Big Wing Centre in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur earlier this year.

The X-ADV is indeed a formidable off-road machine capable of some very interesting things. Fitted with a 745cc liquid-cooled SOHC parallel-twin engine, the X-ADV is able to produce over 57hp and 68Nm of maximum torque.

What makes the X-ADV even more special is its six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox. This allows the rider to switch the transmission riding mode to accommodate different riding situations. Whether it’s for highway cruising or some off-road fun out in the dirt, the X-ADV is designed to conquer them all.

Bookings are already accepted at the Honda Big Wing Centre at a price of RM61,478.94 whereas the Special colour will set you back at RM63,598.94 (basic price with GST). Other amazing specs include a fully-adjustable 41mm upside-down front fork, 21-litre under-seat storage, 13.1-litre fuel tank, selectable riding modes, and many more.
2018 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin – From RM69,999 (basic price without GST)

Boon Siew Honda did mention earlier this year that their latest Africa Twin series will be available for purchase around the RM80,000 mark. Highly-regarded as one of the most successful rally bikes of all time, the Africa Twin has already made their way here to our shores as Honda Big Wing Centre are already accepting bookings for the bike.

A bike that’s capable to do it all even managed to climb up a 5,965-metre volcano which also set the world record for highest altitude reached by a twin-cylinder motorcycle. This is partly thanks to its 998cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that’s able to produce around 94hp and 98Nm of maximum torque.

With a curb weight of 232kg, the Africa Twin is indeed a formidable machine with specs like a fully-adjustable 45mm USD Showa front forks, fully-adjustable Showa rear shock, front dual 310mm floating discs with four-piston radial calipers, and a 256mm rear disc with two-piston caliper just to name a few.

There will be two different models available; one with a normal six-speed transmission and another fitted with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox. BSH has priced them at RM74,198.94 and RM80,558.94 (basic prices with GST) respectively.

Interested in the CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports? Get yours for only RM77,378.94 and RM83,738.94 (basic prices with GST) for the Standard and DCT models respectively.
Well, what are you waiting for?

Isle of Man TT: Who’s going to ride the Honda RC213V-S?

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New Patent Leaks Reveal Upcoming Benelli 650cc V-Twin Adventure Bike

Italian motorcycle company, Benelli, is set to unveil a new 650cc adventure motorcycle as confirmed by a new patent filed by its parent company, Qianjiang Motorcycle.
While Qianjiang Motorcycle also runs its own QJMotor brand, the new patent suggests that it will cater to both of the brands.

Interestingly, the leaked images revealed a different take on a middleweight adventure bike, with a shorter windscreen, a single pod LED headlamp flanked by twin DRL (daytime running light), a chunky side fairing and a handguard.
The absence of a signature front beak (similar to Aprilia’s Tuareg 660 and Yamaha’s Tenere 700) also puts the motorcycle on a different design spectrum than other modern ADV machines.

The saddle features a split-seat setup with a big pillion grab rail, a similar aspect found on big ADV bikes such as the iconic BMW GS range.
Meanwhile, the 650cc V-Twin powerplant is underpinned by a new tubular steel trellis frame and is expected to punch out around 70hp, putting it around the same class as the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT.

The bike is also fitted with 19″ front, and 17″ rear spoke tubeless wheels, allowing the motorcycle to tackle both road and off-road conditions.
Despite the lack of further details, we can assume that Benelli or QJMotor will reveal the new motorcycle later this year in EICMA.
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2022 Yamaha MT-03 Gets New Paint Job In Thailand

The Yamaha MT range has been doing well since its introduction back in 2005, and since then, the naked bike family has grown to become one of the most famous street bikes from Yamaha.

2022 Yamaha MT-03 features new Dark Blast edition.
Equipped with the same 321cc parallel-twin engine that pumps out  37.1hp and 28Nm.

While the nameplate “Master of Torque” (MT) is best represented by the MT-07 and MT-09 motorcycles, the smaller variants, including the MT-03 (MT-25 in Malaysia) are also popular, especially in Asian countries.
That said, Yamaha has unveiled the MT-03 with a new Dark Blast edition in Thailand that features new colour schemes.

The 2022 unit comes in two new colourway, the first  features a grey bodywork with cyan-coloured wheels while the second gets an all-black treatment in place of the prior blue/grey scheme.
Nonetheless, no changes are made to the engine that still carries the same 321cc parallel-twin powertrain that makes 37.1hp @ 10,590rpm and 28Nm @ 9,010rpm.

Other notable features include:

dual-channel ABS.
digital LCD instrument cluster,
full LED lights.

According to Yamaha, the 2022 MT-03 Dark Blast Edition retails at THB195,510 (RM23.8k).
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Isle of Man TT: Bruce Anstey diagnosed with cancer

13-time Isle of Man TT winner Bruce Anstey has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 48-year-old New Zealander is said to suffer from ‘multiple tumours in his lungs and spine.’
Anstey will most likely sit out of all road races this year in order to recover from his current condition.

Legendary road racing rider Bruce Anstey will sit out the entire 2018 road race season including the Isle of Man TT. The 48-year-old New Zealander’s partner announced the news as he’ll need the time to recover from cancer diagnosed by doctors.

According to his partner’s Facebook page, Anny Ramsey, Anstey has been diagnosed with multiple tumours found in his lungs and spine. The doctors also found a blood clot on the lung and time away from racing is needed for recovery.

“Unfortunately, Brucey has become ill. He has multiple tumours in his lungs, a tumour on his spine, and a blood clot on the lung just to kick him while he’s down. I doubt very much Bruce will see any racing this year, but we won’t rule that out lol! He is waiting for a treatment plan and should be starting it very soon. I will try to keep you all updated,” stated Ramsey on her Facebook page.

Bruce Anstey is a 13-time Isle of Man TT winner and was the first rider to compete in a road race on board the Honda RC213V-S. He was also very active in the TT Zero category where he has taken two victories as well as the newly-introduced Lightweight class.

We here at Bikes Republic would like to wish Bruce Anstey a speedy recovery and hope that he’ll continue to race as soon as he can. Get well soon, Bruce!
Mugen Shinden Nana Isle of Man TT title defender launched

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Upcoming Suzuki GSX-R1000 To Feature New Aero

2021 Suzuki GSX-R1000R
2024 marks a significant milestone for sportbikes as it commemorates 40 years since Suzuki introduced the revolutionary GSX-R template that still serves as the foundation for modern sportbike design.

 New patent application from Suzuki suggests that changes are on the horizon for the GSX-R1000, focusing on enhancing its aerodynamics.
The current GSX-R1000, largely unchanged since its introduction as an all-new model in 2017, is due for an update.

This revamp aims not only to improve its competitiveness in the showroom but also to meet the latest Euro 5 emissions limits, which caused the model to be withdrawn from the European market at the end of last year due to noncompliance.
Suzuki’s recent patent application reveals the company’s continued commitment to technological advancement for its superbike lineup, despite a waning interest in racing. The patent showcases an innovative fairing concept, promising to enhance cooling efficiency and minimize drag. Although the application lacks detailed bike renderings, the engine and frame shapes align with those of the GSX-R1000.

The proposed improvement focuses on optimizing airflow into the radiator, located just behind the front wheel. By refining the passage between the upper side of the front fender and the lower surface of the nose fairing, Suzuki aims to eliminate the common issue faced by conventional faired bikes. These motorcycles typically feature a void beneath the nose, necessitated by the fork’s movement. Unfortunately, this void allows some airflow that should be directed to the radiator to instead be drawn through the gap.

While the GSX-R1000 impressed upon its launch in 2017, it now lags behind its main competitors, particularly in terms of aerodynamics. Many of its rivals have adopted MotoGP-inspired winglets, for instance.
Additionally, the current engine configuration fails to comply with Euro 5 standards, adding further impetus for an update. In 2019, Suzuki submitted patent applications for an upgraded computer-controlled variable valve timing system, intended to replace the purely mechanical, centrifugal VVT present in the current model. Such an enhancement would undoubtedly aid in achieving emissions certification.
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Voge Rolls Out New 525 ACX Scrambler In Europe

Voge presents the new 525 ACX scrambler-type motorcycle in Europe, a rendition of the brand’s 500 ACX range.

Voge expand its 500cc range with a new scrambler-type motorcycle.
The Voge 525 ACX features similar specification with the 500 AC albeit a more rugged bodywork.

The introduction of the new 525 ACX is set to boost Voge’s presence in Europe alongside the smaller 300 ACX.
Borrows much of its components from the naked 500 AC, the scrambler trim features raised tailpipe, wire-spoke wheels, a shorter front mudguard and a small windshield.

However, while the 500 AC features a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder DOHC engine, the 525 ACX retains a similar configuration but with the displacement increased from 471cc to 494cc.
As a result, the scrambler version gets a power bump to 47.6hp and 44.5Nm. Also, the bike tips the scale at 185kg (dry).

In the meantime, the 525 ACX now features 19-inch wire-spoke wheels replacing the 17-inch wheel on the 500 AC.
Nonetheless, the Voge 525 ACX continue to run on the same chassis, suspended by a tubular steel frame with a 41mm USD fork at the front and an adjustable rear shock absorber.

Braking is done by two-piston Nissin callipers on a dual 300mm front disc and a single-piston Nissin calliper on a single 220mm rear disc.
Pricing and availability are yet to be announced, but it might be reasonable to expect the Voge 525 ACX to be available in early 2023 with a price tag slightly similar to the 500 AC currently on sale in Europe for EUR6,199 (RM29.2k)
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2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 250, Ninja 650 ABS, Z650 ABS and Z900 ABS Previewed

Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd introduced four new models to their current line up

During the Kawasaki Dealers’ Annual Gala Dinner earlier this evening, Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd took the opportunity to launch a total of four new bikes into the local market for 2017. These bikes are none other than the Versys –X 250, Ninja 650 ABS, Z650 ABS and finally the Z900 ABS.
2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 250

The market for adventure bikes is getting more popular than ever and the all-new Versys-X 250 caters to the adventurers at an affordable package. Powered by a 249cc parallel twin engine, the bike’s main focus is more torque at lower rpm paired with high maneuverability.

The main highlight of the all-new Versys-X 250 is definitely the off-road looks. The large bodywork and adventure styling fairings give a façade of a big bike like its bigger siblings, the Versys 650 and 1000. Equipped with a rigid backbone frame and long travelled suspension, it is designed to go where the adventure takes you.

Another addition that has been adapted from the bigger bikes are the Assist and Slipper Clutch where two different types of cams come into play in whatever situation it’s put into. The Versys-X 250 also comes with dual throttle valves for smoother airflow and better combustion efficiency. This is turn makes the Versys-X great at fuel efficiency as indicated by its Economical Riding indicator on its multi function LCD screen.

There’s no final pricing yet but what Kawasaki Motors Malaysia is offering is a price lower than RM25,000 (price inclusive of GST). The Versys-X 250 will be available in the Lime Green colour. The bike will be available later in the year.

2017 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS

The Ninja 650 ABS is brand new bike from the ground up that is considered as the replacement for the outgoing ER6F. A true addition to the Ninja range, the new 650 is as aggressive and modern as the other Ninjas in the range.

The Ninja 650 ABS comes with a brand new parallel twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve 649cc engine that offers not only great low to mid range power but also excellent fuel economy. As many of the middleweights in the market today, it serves as the perfect platform for new riders to bigger displacement bikes with its ability to control its power to be rider-friendly.

Another main highlight of the new Ninja 650 is its lightweight high-tensile steel trellis frame that is designed to spread out the stress evenly and maintain a bike with ultra light handling capabilities. The 41mm telescopic fork and horizontal back-link rear suspension is connected at a lower position for better centre of gravity.

Like the Versys-X 250, the Ninja 650 also comes with Assist and Slipper Clutch as well. Not only is it sporty but it is also will perform superbly well for a middleweight sports machine. The Ninja 650 will be priced less than RM38,000 (inclusive of GST) and it will come in two different colours; Lime Green and Orange.

2017 Kawasaki Z650 ABS

The Z650 ABS has been introduced with the purpose of replacing its older generation, the ER6N. What the new Z650 promises is a compact middleweight naked bike package with superior handling and maneuverability. The overall design has been updated to be sleeker lines than ever instead of the usual aggressive façade commonly associated with the other Z variants in the current line-up.

Packed with a 649cc parallel twin engine, the Z650 offers smooth but strong acceleration but also easy to manage in terms of power and handling as well. The agility of this supernaked styling comes from Kawasaki’s ‘sugomi’ design element that packs everything into a slim but aggressive stance resembling a crouching panther before pouncing on its prey.

Like the Ninja 650, the Z650 also comes with ABS, Assist and Slipper clutch and a multi-function LCD screen. Unlike the Ninja 650, the Z650 comes with a flat handlebar for a more relaxed riding position while still maintaining some sporty essence in the mix. Combined with a ride height of 790mm, it caters to riders with a wide range of heights giving good riding confidence.

The Z650 will be available in Lime Green and Titanium at a price lower than RM37,000 (inclusive of GST) sometime in April this year.

2017 Kawasaki Z900 ABS

The final addition to the four-bike launch is none other than the highly anticipated Z900 ABS. Similar to most of the Z Supernaked family, the Z900 is all about the aggressiveness and sugomi element that resembles a crouching panther ready to strike. Kawasaki definitely retained to the uncanny characteristic of the Z bikes line up.

The Z900 ABS is all about raw power and maximum riding experience. The 948cc liquid-cooled 4 stroke inline-four engine packs a powerful punch with its quick-revving characteristics that offers no compromise when it comes to raw power. Kawasaki has taken a step further in increasing the riding experience by redesigning the airbox for a more satisfying intake sound. The soundtrack will definitely turn a few heads in excitement.

The all-new lightweight Trellis frame is only 13.5kg giving the Z900 a light and nimble handling even for Supernaked bike. Stopping power comes courtesy of the dual front 300mm discs with four piston calipers and a 250mm petal disc at the brake for absolute stopping power. The braking package also includes a European standard Nissin motorcycle ABS unit for added safety.

The new Z900 also comes with Assist and Slipper clutch, LCD screen with analogue tachometer together with a shift-up indicator adding more fun in the overall riding experience. The Z900 will come is Gray and Blue (Special Edition colour) at a price of less than RM58,000 (inclusive of GST). To those who are interested in the Special Edition Z900, it comes with special graphics, single seat cover, meter cover, DC outlet, radiator screen, sliders, engine cover rings, front axle sliders, tank pad and knee pads.

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MotoGP: Aprilia Unveals the RS-GP Bike Livery for 2017 season

The all-new RS-GP for 2017

New riders for the season; Sam Lowes and Aleix Espargaro

Aprilia has pulled the covers off their MotoGP contender bike together with their brand new riders for 2017, Sam Lowes and Aleix Espargaro. Although Aprilia has been in the championship for a couple of years now, they’re looking into bringing the fight over to the other factory teams who have been dominating the top of the timesheets in previous years.

After gaining valuable experience in the league, Aprilia has invested a lot time, research and development into their RS-GP machinery and during the two pre-season testing so far at Sepang and Phillip Island, the fully-fledged prototypes showed some promise but are still halfway down the time sheets at best. Check out the video below made by the most successful European motorcycling team.

As everyone can see during the launch and these high resolution photos, there were no aerodynamic fairings like the ones we saw being tested over at Phillip Island just a few weeks ago. We figured that Aprilia might still think it’s too early for them to release such particular details for the world to see or the final design might still be on the drawing boards. Whatever the reason maybe, we would like to think that the fairings are being kept a secret for now because Aprilia might have just found a huge advantage in aeroworks coming into the third and final pre-season test in Qatar.

The engine has gone through quite a few evolutions as well but the main essence is still the same; the Aprilia Racing narrow V4, 81mm bore with counter rotating crankshaft, timing and pneumatic valve recall system. Making an upwards of 260hp, Aprilia will be moving all that power down the rear Michelin tires through a seamless gearbox for faster-than-ever upshifts as well as downshifts.

With competitive riders like Aleix Espargaro and Sam Lowes piloting the RS-GP for 2017, we’re confident that they’ll definitely go for gold but things couldn’t be easier with the entry of another big factory team into the mix, KTM. So now it’s between Honda, Yamaha, Ducati, Suzuki, Aprilia and KTM. The question is, has Aprilia done enough?

Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP updates.
Photo Source: Aprilia

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Ducati announces MTS D-Air model

Ducati have revealed a version of its Multistrada model equipped with wireless integration system to deploy Dainese’s revolutionary D-Air airbag jacket.

The Dainese D-Air jacket is not something new, in fact the Italian apparels firm had initially partnered with BMW Motorrad during last year’s EICMA show. But it appears Ducati have beaten Motorrad at being the first to introduce a production motorcycle with wireless integration of the D-Air system.

Similar to the system developed by BMW, Ducati has developed a system that integrates a set of the Multistrada’s existing built-in electronics with the D-Air airbag jacket. The integration allows the jacket constant access and information about the bike’s dynamics, using said data flow to determine when the airbag needs to be deployed in the event of a crash.
The Bologna-based bikes maker have commited to making the Multistrada D-Air model ready for the European market first by April 15.
Source: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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Check out Jonathan Rea’s documentary “3 in a Row”!

A 45-minute documentary showing the life of Jonathan Rea on how he won three WorldSBK titles was released by BBC.
The clip showcases how the 30 year old has managed to do so while taking care of his family on the road and in between rounds.
Rea is the only WorldSBK rider so far to have won three WorldSBK championships in a row.

BBC has just released a 45-minute documentary on the 2017 WorldSBK World Champion, Jonathan Rea. Dubbed “3 in a Row”, the clip shows how the 30 year old from Northern Ireland managed to win three FIM Superbike World Championships in a row while maintaining his status as a loyal husband and caring father of two lovely children.

As some of you may know, Jonathan Rea was in the running to become BBC Sport’s Personality of the Year 2017 but was lost by just half a tyre at the finish line by four-time Olympic champion athlete, Mo Farah. On the plus side, Rea was honoured by the Queen of England herself with an MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire). It’s kind of like getting a Dato’ title here in Malaysia.

Anyway, the documentary showcases Rea on his journey of becoming the first ever World Superbikes rider to win three world titles in a row. The most amazing thing about this achievement is how he still takes care of his family in between races (which helps if you have a home on wheels like their RV).

To know more about how he won the 2017 WorldSBK season, CLICK HERE.

Racing has gone through a lot of evolutions. In a world where it used to be compared as being a rock star is now treated more like a professional sport with high-level athletes all chasing the glory of crossing the chequered flag first. Rea has proven himself to be quite capable of doing so with his factory Kawasaki ZX-10RR (which he proved to be faster than some MotoGP bikes) whilst taking care of his family in between rounds.

To know more about how Rea and his ZX-10RR was faster than MotoGP bikes, CLICK HERE.

Massive respect to you, good sir.
Image source: WorldSBK
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