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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/misano-gp-bagnaia-claims-back-to-back-pole-and-new-lap-record/ | Misano GP: Bagnaia Claims Back-To-Back Pole And New Lap Record |
Francesco Bagnaia continues his strong form as the Ducati rider secured a back-to-back pole position after setting a new lap record in Misano.
He will start the race on Sunday ahead of teammate Jack Miller while championship leader Fabio Quartararo completes the first row at P3.
Quartararo set the pace during the opening run of Q2 with the fastest lap time before Bagnaia sensationally went three tenths quicker than the Frenchman.
However, Quartararo had to settle with P3 as Miller clocked in a better time to take P2.
Meanwhile, this is the third time Bagnaia has recorded a new all-time lap record just as he managed a week ago in Aragon.
“I am happy about today. A week ago, we were feeling great in Aragon, and today is the same.
“Everything is going so well, and I am very comfortable with the bike,” said the 24-year-old.
Bagnaia currently sits behind Quartararo in the championship with just 53 points gap with only four rounds to go.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shell-is-offering-free-oil-change-at-this-weekends-malaysian-motogp-race/ | Shell is offering free oil change at this weekend’s Malaysian MotoGP race |
In an unprecedented move by any lubricant maker in the country, Shell Malaysia is offering a free oil change to anyone who buys Shell Advance lubricants at this weekend’s Malaysian MotoGP round at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Officially called the Shell Advance Ride-Thru service, the free service is available for selected motorcycles below 250cc, and the entire process of changing engine lubricant will be completed in under 10 minutes.
For those waiting for their bikes, Shell Malaysia will be preparing a special waiting area for bikers to cool down with light refreshments. And specially for bikers, there will also be a visor cleaning service available.
The oil change process will be conducted by a team of 16 trained mechanics from an official Shell workshop, so motorcyclists can rest easy knowing that their bikes are in experienced hands.
Shell Advance lubricants can be bought at the P1 parking lot itself, or from the Welcome Centre.
The program is taking place at the P1 parking lot, right opposite the entrance to the Welcome Centre of SIC. Signages will be placed at roads leading up to the parking lot directing motorcyclists to the purpose built oil change area.
The oil change will be taking place on Friday (28th October) to Sunday (30th October) from 9am to 5pm.
Customers will also stand a chance to spin a special “Wheel of Fortune” where they stand a chance to win special gifts including a free ‘Steam Wash’ after the bike has been serviced.
Click here for more information.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/jorge-lorenzo-announces-retirement/ | Jorge Lorenzo Announces Retirement |
Jorge Lorenzo announced his retirement from racing.
The shock announcement was made together with Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
The five-time world champion’s form has dropped after breaking his vertebrae in Assen.
Jorge Lorenzo announced his retirement from racing.
The five-time world champion made the shock announcement in an “exceptional press conference” just prior to the start of the season-ending Valencia Grand Prix. He was accompanied by Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
While the announcement shocked some, it may not be so to others. Lorenzo switched over to the Repsol Honda team this year to replace the team’s long-time rider Dani Pedrosa.
He knew that it would be an uphill task to adjust his riding style to a bike which is suited to his teammate Marc Marquez, but maintained a positive outlook although he couldn’t finish higher than 11th.
However, Lorenzo was fast as soon as he found his rhythm in Catalunya. However, an over-enthusiastic lunge took out Andrea Dovizioso, Maverick Vinalez and Valentino Rossi along with himself.
Then, a huge tumble in the gravel following a crash at Assen during the Dutch TT fractured a vertebrae.
He made a comeback at the British MotoGP round exactly two months later, but the pain forced him to finish 14th. He would finish no higher than that position in the next five rounds leading to Valencia. He has collected 25 points after 18 races and lies 14th in the 2019 championship.
The rider apologised to Honda and team manager Alberto Puig for having to stop a year earlier than his stipulated contract. He cited that he had lost the motivation to compete. But before one criticises his move, breaking one’s back isn’t something anybody likes to do.
Lorenzo’s retirement opens up a spare seat at the factory team. There’s no word from HRC yet but Cal Crutchlow or Johann Zarco are heavily touted to replace Lorenzo.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/whats-this-aprilia-rs-660-trofeo-in-the-works/ | What’s this? Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo in the works? |
The production version of the Aprilia RS 660 is not even out yet and Aprilia is already working hard on unveiling a special model, the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo edition. The prototype was seen on Aprilia test rider’s Instagram page, Tommaso Marcon and it looks like a proper race-bred middleweight.
View this post on Instagram
COMING SOON.. ?? #TSM10 #MACH10 #RacingDream #BiKarting #RendimentoEtico #fgrengineering #FornoBottaro #MotosaloneTottene #Comix #CSDracingdesign #LaboMar #Spring #TeamTM #dainesecrew #AGVrider #gasss✊?
A post shared by Tommaso Marcon (@tommasomarcon) on Oct 1, 2020 at 11:43am PDT
We all know that Aprilia is all ‘gung-ho’ about building ridiculously awesome track-versions of their sportbikes and we’re probably guessing that the RS 660 is no exception to this. Marcon posted the photo with the caption “COMING SOON” so we know that it’ll be unveiled soon.
This single photo showcased an Aprilia RS 660 prepped for the track with all of the street-legal stuff light lights and mirrors removed. There’s also that sweet-looking SC-Project full-system exhaust that produces one hell of a soundtrack when paired with any Aprilia machine, so we know the production and delivery of power will be more aggressive in nature.
Other details that can be seen are adjustable footrests to accompany that race fairing but other than that, the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo edition is still pretty much in the dark. As for firepower, expect a slight increase from the expected 100hp from the standard road-going version. Price? We’ll just have to wait and sit for that one for a while, folks.
Written by: Sep Irran
MotoGP riders test Aprilia RS 660 on the track
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-sepang/ | Searching For Future Asian MotoGP Riders with Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup |
The Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup is an exciting new competition for 2014, which will act as a feeder series to the world of motorcycle racing. The new project aims to give riders from the Asian region a formal path into competitive road racing.
Run by Dorna, the organizers of the MotoGP™ World Championship and the eni FIM Superbike World Championship, as well as co-organizer of the MotoGP Red Bull Rookies Cup, the competition will provide a spotlight for the most talented young riders in Asia.
Led in-part by renowned and successful talent scout Alberto Puig, responsible for such talents as Casey Stoner and Dani Pedrosa and the leader of the successful MotoGP™ Academy, the competition will see Asia’s stars of the future participate in a six-race series in 2014 on Honda NSF250R Moto3 machines.
Over the next two days, the successful applicants for this selection event will get a chance to display their skills on 125cc Honda Future Underbones. Due to a high number of inscriptions the selected riders have been divided into two racing selection days – Monday, October 14th and Tuesday, October 15th. Each group of 10 riders will have two 15-minutes slots to show their abilities. Some of the riders may then be asked to stay also for final evaluation of their performance and participate at additional track sessions on Wednesday, October 16th.
The 22 most talented riders who eventually make it through from the pre-selection event will race in the 2014 Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup with rounds taking place in Qatar, Indonesia (Sentul), China, Japan (Motegi), Malaysia, as well as in India (Buddh Circuit) – either on MotoGP™ or SBK race weekends or in independent events.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/no-takers-for-rare-lamborghini-design-90-motorcycle/ | No Takers for Rare Lamborghini Design 90 Motorcycle |
The Lamborghini Design 90 was introduced in 1986.
Lamborghini had wanted to diversify their portfolio during that time.
One such bike was put up for auction in England recently.
Just the name itself – Lamborghini – will surely elicit images of sharp, shark-like cars that are powered by over-the-top engines and prices that most of us wouldn’t even dare to dream about. The Italian marque’s products stirred the emotions in the owners and plebeians alike, all driven by that famous Italian passion which was concerned about building beautiful things, first and foremost.
Granted, they are in good hands now since going under the Audi brand, which also owns Ducati. They have so far introduced car after car that sold well by credit of not only their looks and performance but also an understanding of what customers want, including the just-launched Urus SUV.
It wasn’t always so rosy when Lamborghini struggled with bankruptcy.
The Lamborghini brand was owned by Volkswagen in the 80’s and business was so bad that even the founder, Ferruccio Lamborghini – the namesake of his cars – was forced out.
Lamborghini was then sold to the Mimran Brothers. In the bid to return the brand to the black, they went on to build massive V-12 engines for offshore powerboat racing. Ferrucio did equip his Riva Aquarama with a 4-litre V-12 in 1969, after all.
Lamborghini came up with a 7974cc V-12 which produced 720bhp. Racing boats fitted two of these engines for a total of 1440 bhp. A 9336cc, 630 bhp version was also made for pleasure boating.
Apart from that, Lamborghini had also built an SUV called the LM002, powered by a Countach V-12 engine, no less.
That still not being enough, Patrick Mimran decided that Lamborghini should also build motorcycles. The project was outsourced to the French boutique motorcycle maker, Boxer (now known as Boxer Design), and christened “Design 90.” Boxer was tasked with both designing and assembling the bike.
They sourced an 1000cc inline-Four engine and fettled it to produce 130 bhp. Additionally, the bike was given an aluminium alloy frame, lightweight wheels, top-end brakes, suspension, exhaust, and electrical components. Mind you, those were the cutting-edge technologies of GP bikes in 1986!
Both parties planned for an ultra-limited production of 25 examples, but only 6 were ever built. Almost no one knew about the bike and the astronomical price of USD 13,500 killed the project. But we think it’s because it’s so ugly not even its mother could love it.
Fast forward to 2018, a Lamborghini Design 90 stamped on the frame as BOXERL002 was put up for auction at the National Motorcycle Museum in England recently, where it was expected to fetch between USD 117,700 to 124,600. Bidding started at USD 58,800. Unfortunately, the bike couldn’t meet its reserve price and went unsold.
Who knows; maybe it would’ve been snapped up if Lamborghini and Boxer found a way to stuff in a V-12.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-gsx-r300-patents-leaked/ | Suzuki GSX-R300 Patents Leaked |
GSX-R300 Patent
Suzuki has filed a 300c sportbike’s patents, speculated to be call GSX-R300.
The sub-500cc segment is the most hotly contested in the market.
Suzuki feels that the motorcycle market is moving towards smaller capacity and cheaper bikes.
Suzuki is making a comeback into the sub-500cc segment. These 200cc, 250cc, 300cc, 390cc, 400cc motorcycles appeal to a large cross-section of enthusiasts, due to reasons covering:
The next capacity level to step up to after owning a kapchai or scooter.
More affordable for a large section of the populace.
Easier to learn on, easier to ride.
Lightweight and simpler – good as daily commuters, especially for those who already own a bigger bike.
Suzuki GSX-250R
This battleground has been fought by almost all manufacturers for a long time. You could find almost all the brands here, even BMW has joined the fray with the G 310 R and G 310 GS. Similarly, Triumph had tied up with Bajaj to work on a 400cc bike in the future.
Triumph Bajaj partnership announced to conquer middleweight bike segment
Now, Suzuki has decided to fight back after being ominously missing.
Suzuki’s patents drawing for their 300cc sportbike was recently leaked online and is rumored to break covers at EICMA later this year.
They already have the GSX-250R in circulation, but they bike is a woefully underpowered single-banger, while their rivals continue to build high performance lightweights such as the KTM RC 390/390 Duke, Kawasaki Ninja 250 /300 and now 400, Yamaha YZF-R25/R3, Honda CBR250RR, and so on.
GSX-R300 Patent
From the patents, the engine appears to be a parallel-Twin. If Suzuki sticks to the dimensions of their GSX-R150’s engine architecture, the bore should be 62 mm and a stroke of 48.1 mm. That’s in the same league of its rivals and should produce around 40 bhp.
Also from the drawings, the 300 looks to have the design theme and lines of its GSX-R1000R big brother. The front wheel has a single, radially-mounted brake caliper and disc; the swingarm looks to be of aluminium, corresponding to that type of design. Tying everything together is a tubular steel frame.
Biggest question is if I’ll ever make to Malaysia. And if it did, will it be the full 300cc version or sleeved-down 250cc variant that we always see happening in our country?
Time will tell.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-bmw-g-310-gs-unveiled-now-with-slipper-clutch/ | 2021 BMW G 310 GS unveiled – now with slipper clutch! |
BMW Motorrad has taken off the covers for the highly updated 2021 BMW G 310 GS. The second-generation model comes with a host of new updates to further amplify its all-round performance as the entry-level bike for the versatile GS family.
Designed to be more versatile, dynamic, and safe, the 2021 BMW G 310 GS is said to be able to perform brilliantly in all riding conditions, whether it’s going through traffic or travelling on unpaved roads.
The 313cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine has been equipped with automatic idle boost and electromotive throttle control for improved fluidity and power delivery. Producing 34hp at 9,500rpm and 28Nm at 7,500rpm, this updated powerplant is now Euro5-compliant with another new addition to the mix – anti-hopping clutch or slipper clutch.
Other updates include:
New LED headlight & turn signals
Adjustable brake & clutch levers
New Rallye Style & “40 Years of GS” colour options
We’ve reviewed the first-generation BMW G 310 GS back in 2017 and its performance at the time was already quite impressive. With these new updates, you can be sure that the riding experience has been properly enhanced. Hopefully, the price will be competitive once it arrives here in Malaysia.
Written by: Sep Irran
BMW G 310 GS Test & Review
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/pdrm-is-looking-for-motorcyclist-caught-riding-on-public-roads-without-a-helmet/ | PDRM Is Looking For Motorcyclist Caught Riding On Public Roads Without A Helmet |
A video went viral on social media after a man was caught riding a Ducati Hypermotard on public roads without wearing a helmet.
According to Rule 4, Motorcycle (Helmet) Rules 1973, motorcyclists who do not wear a helmet while riding can be charged a maximum compound of up to RM300.
The man in the video was seen testing a Ducati Hypermotard.
The 11-second video also caught the attention of the Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (JSPT), which is now on the lookout for the individual in the viral video.
According to a Facebook post on Wednesday, the police ask the motorcyclist to come to a nearby police station to assist with the investigation.
Members of the public who has any knowledge of the incident are also advised to contact the nearby police station immediately.
Riding a motorcycle on a public road without a helmet is an offence according to Rule 4, Motorcycle (Helmet) Rules 1973 and can be charged a maximum compound of up to RM300.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-to-unveil-four-new-bikes-at-eicma/ | BMW Motorrad to Unveil Four New Bikes at EICMA |
BMW Motorrad is set to unveil four new models at EICMA 2019.
They could be the R18, F 850 R/RS, S 1000 R/XR.
EICMA 2019 begins on 4th November 2019.
BMW Motorrad is set to unveil four new models at EICMA 2019 (Esposizione Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori – International Exposition of Motorcycles and Accessories).
BMW unveiled nine new models at EICMA 2018 and throughout this year, which included those using using the new 1254cc Shift Cam-equipped Boxer engine, namely the R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, R 1250 RT and R 1250 RS. So, what can we expect this time?
How about the R 1250 R? The R 12XX R is the most underrated Boxer in BMW’s line-up. We’ve tested the R 1200 R and found it wonderfully entertaining and joyful to ride. Sure, it may not look as butch as the latest naked bikes and supernakeds, but that isn’t the point. It’s more like a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
The R18 cruiser, bagger and tourer will definitely debut at EICMA, as we wrote in a previous article. The bike will bring BMW back into the cruiser segment they’ve been missing from for the last 15 years.
What else?
The new F 850 R, perhaps? There’s already the new F 850 GS and F 850 GS Adventure, along with the F 750 GS (which if of the same capacity with lower power output). In this respect, there could either be the new F 850 R naked/standard or F 850 RS sport-tourer.
Okay, we’ve saved the best for last.
Two bikes that’ve been sorely missing are the S 1000 R and S 1000 XR. The new S 1000 RR have been receiving rave reviews everywhere (although they’ve yet to arrive in Malaysia) so it’s high time the R and XR are updated in terms of looks, performance along with Euro 5 requirements.
The S 1000 RR’s engine is fitted with a Shift Cam version for the inline-Four. We should see the same for the new bikes.
EICMA begins on 4th November. It’s going to be the most interesting as almost all manufacturers will debut new bikes ahead of the implementation of Euro 5.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-triumph-tiger-800-xcx-test-review/ | 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx Test and Review |
The 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx was just launched earlier this month (March 2018).
Although it appears not much has changed, Triumph had performed some amazing updates.
The Triumph Tiger 800 XCx is priced from RM74,900 (basic selling price incl. 6% GST) but the road-centric and entry-level Tiger 800 XR is priced from just RM56,900 (basic selling price incl. 6% GST).
Other than reading about motorcycles and technical literature, I love science fiction or sci-fi, in short. I used to love thriller novels but I’ve since discovered that sci-fi forces us to take a hard look at ourselves in the face of our fascination with technology.
There are many great works. Ted Chiang comes to mind – he who wrote “The Story of Your Life,” which was made into the seminal movie “Arrival.” But even more profound and important were the literatures penned by the late astronomer Carl Sagan. It was him who wrote the story, “Contact” which became the basis of the movie of the same name, starring Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey.
In that book which details the impact of man receiving a message from the extraterrestrials, there was one important line which has become a favourite quote for physicists and astronomers including Professor Michio Kaku and Neil deGrasse Tyson in describing the technological parity between “them” and us.
We were fortunate to ride the new Triumph Tiger 800 XCx prior to its launch at The Greatest Triumph Malaysia Grand Dinner at Bukit Tinggi recently and the early impressions bowled every motojournalist (including us) off their feet.
We missed the Tiger 800 XCx so much since that first ride. There was something about it that was so inviting and endearing. Could it be the confidence it exudes? The look? The sound?
The Tiger 800 XCx lineage is one of my personal favourite bikes, ever since riding the 2015 model to the Khao Sok National Park in Thailand with the RATPack. I just couldn’t believe how good it was at the time and even up until recently. I started to wonder how Triumph could ever better it with the new, fourth-generation model. In fact, I was worried if the Tiger 800 had reached its zenith.
Triumph did it. They just did it. They went ahead and made the Tiger 800 even better than an already splendid bike.
For starters, Triumph did a great job of making the new bike look fresh and attractive without resorting to a Korean plastic surgery. It drew in admiring looks everywhere we parked. Although looking vastly similar to its predecessor, there were many differences throughout. There’s a huge and adjustable transparent windscreen, new 5-inch colour TFT screen adopted from the Street Triple RS along with the switchgear, updated cruise control (only one switch), LED Daytime Running Light (DRL), Brembo brakes, recalibrated WP suspension, Triumph Comfort seats, and a new exhaust.
New seat compound and construction for exemplary comfort
The real updates in the engine and chassis, however. In fact, Triumph revised, updated or replaced 200 items in these areas alone.
The new Tiger 800 XCx seemed a little taller than before, possibly due to the thicker new seat. Nevertheless, reaching the ground wasn’t difficult as the bike has a narrow waist and the sidestand was easily within reach. The seating position was slightly more relaxed as the handlebar has been moved 10mm backwards to bring it nearer to the rider.
Just look at that quality
The TFT display was easy to read in all lighting conditions and scrolling through the menus was intuitive. It took us only 5 minutes to learn.
Every data you need right there
You feel you’re fully involved with the bike as soon as you grab that handlebar and start riding. Every input is taken care of smartly, instantly.
New switchgear adopted from the Street Triple RS. The cruise control is updated
The reworked WP forks made the bike feel extremely stable when coupled to the the 21-inch front wheel. Because of that, the front wheel seems to create an invisible groove in the road. The bike not only goes where you point it, it follows that line to millimeter perfection. It made the previous edition’s front end feel “flighty.” However, due to my height which located my weight over the rear, the front felt a little heavy to turn in and stiff when hitting bumps. Decreasing the compression damping by just 3 clicks – not full turns, but just click, click, click – transformed the Tiger into a large super-flicklable and fluid trail bike. Despite of that, it remained supremely stable whether it was travelling in a straight line, or scratching its footpegs when on its sides. If there’s ever any doubt about having a bike with a 21-inch front wheel, the Tiger 800 XCx tears those doubts into ribbons.
Suspension are still WP but fully recalibrated
And it was darn fun to ride. I’m never a morning person, but I found myself waking up at 4am just to prepare to ride it up to Genting Highlands to catch the first rays of the sun, three days in a row.
She’ll be coming ’round the mountain
I’ve never liked riding on the Karak Highway in the dark either, but the Tiger 800’s headlamps threw so much light down the road it startled even sleepy truck drivers. And I haven’t even touched the high beam and foglights yet! Rider confidence stems from the ability to see where he’s heading and those lights helped even through the thick fog as I headed up the mountain at 5.30am.
The larger windscreen is fully transparent, now adjustable and stable at high speeds. The lights are super bright!
Anyone knows just how bumpy and treacherous the Genting road is. The Tiger 800 XCx didn’t care whether if there were bumps, potholes, some sand, damp surface, paint strips – it just kept going. The ability of doing these things was disconcerting at first, but once it sets in, all you need to do is to stop worrying and have fun.
The brake calipers and discs are now all Brembo. Good progressive bite
What I truly appreciated, though, was Triumph’s emphasis on giving their bikes exceptionally smooth throttle response. I went through all the modes – SPORT, ROAD, RAIN, OFF-ROAD and OFF-ROAD PRO – none of them was snatchy from off-throttle, mid-throttle, rolling off the throttle and even snapping it shut. The engine is now more responsive, yet not abrupt. Amazing.
Did we say we loved the seat? So did the pillion
The throttle character is true for all Triumphs but it was extra special on the Tiger 800 as the engineers have removed the backlash gear in the transmission.
It may be an adventure bike, but it could really corner
The previous Tiger 800 felt like it had a slipper clutch when it didn’t, giving it a good amount of engine braking together with smoothness as you go into in a corner with the throttle off. On the new Tiger 800, on the other hand, the mix of engine braking and “freewheeling” was spot-on, as if the transmission has a computer-controlled back-torque limiter. Only thing was it didn’t. Kudos, Triumph!
The Tiger 800 XCx is pretty frugal on gas so you won’t be opening this much
The updates to the engine gives the Tiger 800 the tiger’s gallop anywhere in the rev range, in any gear. The power was just smooth, linear, predictable. Never once did it threaten to charge ahead with the rider flailing behind. A predictable power delivery is the dream of every rider, including the pros (critical for the pros, actually), because how can one enjoy a bike that has its own mind when you crack the throttle open?
You could see a timing chain inside the oil sight glass. How cool is that?
When I took it easy on the first trip up, I didn’t even have to go lower than 3rd gear through the sharpest corners, in ROAD mode. On the second trip, it was SPORT mode on Karak Highway and ROAD mode up Genting. The weather was clearer and I managed to hustle the bike through the curves much faster than I thought possible for an adventure bike. On the third morning, it was SPORT mode all the way. The XCx just hammered into, through and out of the corners like a sportbike with high handlebars, but with the benefit of not needing to worry about the whatever road condition.
We also got around to testing it in the dirt, with the help of “Foreman Oh” Kah Beng at his Most Fun Gym motocross and off-road riding school.
The living legend – “Foreman Oh” Kah Beng
He first went out in OFF-ROAD PRO, which switches off traction control and rear ABS, and leaving the front ABS on. He went straight to performing powerslides, riding it through a corner on the berm and jumped. He came back in and set the ride mode to OFF-ROAD, which leaves all intervention on. He was amazed, “The traction control was never intrusive, it only felt like the engine was holding back slightly but it didn’t cut you off. It’s crazy!”
Round a curve on a dirt berm
On handling, “The bike has a great balance and footing – somehow nimble and stable at the same time. That’s not something which is easy to achieve. Plus, the narrow waist gives you the ability to hold it with your knees.” It’s the testimony of Triumph’s emphasis on handling rather than outright power.
OKB powersliding the Tiger
The new, shorter first gear also helped heaps when we circled around a set of pylons by slipping the clutch, instead of using the throttle.
See how OKB’s upper torso is above the fuel tank? That position puts more weight onto the front tyre
When you stand up on the pegs and look down, all you see is the TFT screen, while the tank and triple clamp disappear from sight. It means that the bike has placed your upper body over the tank hence weight onto the front tyre – that’s the ideal riding position for riding off-road. But while standing up is mainly done off-road, it should also be done on the road when you encounter obstructions or rough roads. This bike’s riding position is there to help you with that.
The Tiger leaps!
That’s the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx. It’s so good when you ride it on the road that you forget that it’s also very capable in the dirt; and it’s so capable off-road that you completely forget about how good it is as a road bike.
City commuting, long-range touring, long-range adventure, weekend canyon carving, the Tiger 800 XCx does it all
I’ve tested bikes that I just rode from A to B, plus a bit more for shooting duties and parked them up. The Tiger 800 XCx, conversely, due to the combination of a finely designed seating position, superb windscreen, awesomely comfortable seats, and confidence just keeps begging me to go out riding. We received the bike with 673km on the odometer. It read 1550km when we returned in after 5 days, 4 nights. I couldn’t help staring it for god knows how long when I do park it up, either.
Anything negative? The handlebar buzzed around 5000 RPM, but we soon got used to it and it “went away” since it wasn’t upsetting.
I’d better stop here as I’d just keep heaping superlatives on the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx, if I continue. I’m really tempted to call it “The Best Adventure Motorcycle” but the only thing keeping me from doing so is its brother and bigger cat: The Tiger 1200, which we’ve yet to test. At this moment, though, it is the best middleweight adventure motorcycle, bar none.
Oh yes, what’s that poignant Carl Sagan quote? “The artifacts of a sufficiently advanced extraterrestrial civilization would be indistinguishable from magic.”
Wait, how’s that relevant since the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx is very Earthly in origin? It’s so good it’s almost magical that it might as well had been made by an advanced alien civilization.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, inline-Triple
Compression ratio
11.3 : 1
Bore X Stroke
74.0 mm X 61.9 mm
Displacement
800 cc
Fuel system
Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Maximum power
94 bhp (70 kW) @ 9,500 RPM
Maximum torque
79 Nm @ 8,050 RPM
TRANSMISSION
Clutch
Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox
6-speed
CHASSIS
Front suspension
WP 43mm upside down forks, adjustable for compression damping and rebound damping, 220 mm travel
Rear suspension
WP monoshock with piggyback reservoir, hydraulic preload adjustment,2 220 mm travel
Front brakes
Dual 305 mm Brembo floating discs, dual Brembo two-piston sliding calipers
Rear brake
Single 255 mm disc, Nissin single-piston sliding caliper
ABS
ABS standard, swtichable on/off
Front tyre
90/90-21
Rear tyre
150/70-R17
FRAME & DIMENSIONS
Frame
Tubular steel trellis frame
Swingarm
Two-sided cast aluminium allow
Trail
93.5 mm
Rake
23.4 degrees
Wheelbase
1545 mm
Seat height
840 – 860 mm
Dry weight
205 kg
Fuel capacity
19 litres
PICTURE GALLERY
She’ll be coming ’round the mountain
New switchgear adopted from the Street Triple RS. The cruise control is updated
Just look at that quality
Every data you need right there
You could see a timing chain inside the oil sight glass
Suspension are still WP but fully recalibrated
Did we say we loved the seat? So did the pillion
The Tiger 800 XCx is pretty frugal on gas so you won’t be opening this much
The living legend – “Foreman Oh” Kah Beng
Round a curve on a dirt berm
See how OKB’s upper torso is above the fuel tank? That position puts more weight onto the front tyre
The Tiger leaps!
OKB powersliding the Tiger
It may be an adventure bike, but it could really corner
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-mig-rr-now-available-in-europe/ | Ducati MIG-RR Now Available in Europe |
The Ducati MIG-RR electric mountain bike is now on sale in Europe.
It is produced through a joint venture between Ducati and Thok E-bikes.
It features high-end components.
While we await Ducati’s first electric bike, the manufacturer launched an electric mountain bike called the MIG-RR, instead. The bike was first unveiled at EICMA 2018.
Ducati believes they are tapping into a growing segment. Being mountain bike means the rider can take the bike into otherwise unreachable areas and terrain.
The MIG-RR was produced through a partnership between Ducati and Thok E-bikes. Thok are downhill mountain biking and BMX experts. Ducati’s Design Centre and Aldo Drudi’s D-Perf are also involved in the project. The Drudi name may be familiar to most motorcyclists as the designer of Valentino Rossi’s and other helmets.
The bike is an upgrade to Thok’s current MTB range hence it is equipped with the latest componentry in the MTB world.
Components:
Fox 36 Float forks with 170mm travel.
Fox DPX2 Factory Series shock with 160mm travel.
Renthal carbon fibre handlebar.
Dropper seat post
Shimano Saint 4-piston hydraulic brake calipers.
11-speed Shimano XT gearset.
29-inch Mavic front wheel.
27.5-inch Mavic rear wheel.
As for drive, the bike features a 250-Watt Shimano Steps E8000 mid-drive motor which produces 70 Nm of torque. Weighing in at only 2.8 kg, it is one of the lightest in the electric bicycle market. Powering the motor is a 504 Watt-hour battery.
The Ducati MIG-RR is priced at €6,250.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-aprilia-rsv4-rf-and-tuono-v4-1100-factory-launched-wsbk-malaysia-2015/ | New Aprilia RSV4 RF and Tuono V4 1100 Factory launched @ WSBK Malaysia 2015 |
Naza Premira introduces new 2015 Aprilia RSV4 RF and Tuono V4 1100 Factory during WSBK Malaysia 2015.
Malaysian Aprilia distributor Naza Premira Sdn Bhd marked the launch of two new models during WSBK Malaysia 2015 in the Sepang International Circuit’s Mall Area earlier today. New to our market are the updated 2015 Aprilia RSV4 RF and Tuono V4 1100 Factory models.
Present to introduce the new bikes were Piaggio Asia Pacific sales manager Neri Miclaus and Naza World’s Auto Division senior vice president David Hector Ratnaike. Also present as special guests were Aprilia WSBK Team riders Leon haslam and Jordi Torres.
2015 Aprilia RSV4 RF
Introduced during EICMA last year, the 2015-spec Aprilia RSV4 RF features light updates and refreshments. Crucially, it now weighs in 2.5kg less than its predecessor, whilst its 65-degree V4 engine has been retuned to produce more than 200hp.
Keeping things under control are the vast array of electronic offered as standard. Highlights here include the APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) suite,eight-way adjustable Aprilia Traction Control, Aprilia Wheelie Control, a three-mode Aprilia Launch Control for both street and track use, not forgetting the advanced Race ABS braking suite, as well as the presence of an Aprilia Quick Shift.
Naza Premira will offer Malaysian buyers the newly updated 2015 Aprilia RSV4 RF in a special “Superpole” livery scheme that boasts elements from the optional Race Pack. This sees the RSV4 RF primed further with a set of exclusive forged aluminium wheels and a set Öhlins pro-spec suspension.
Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory
Accompanying the updated RSV4 RF supersport is its naked sibling the new and revamped Tuono V4 1100 Factory streetfighter. Like its full-faired sibling, the Tuono also first bowed during EICMA last year, and it features amuch more significant update package.
The centrepiece of the updated 2015 model is its powertrain. Now enlarged up to 1,100cc, power has also increased up t 175hp and 121Nm of peak torque. The new powertain is now encased in an updated chassis design. Aesthetic changes include a revised set of top fairings, plus a new headlight that Aprilia says weighs in 1.5kg lighter than before.
Crucially, the updated Tuono boasts revised rider ergonomics. The seating position is now lowered by 15mm, and it is matched with a new handlebar design, all of which aimed towards improving riding comforts over its predecessor.
And, just like its supersport brethren, the updated Tuono V4 1100 is crammed with an extensive electronics package. Highlights include a revamped Ride-by-Wire suite, Race ABS, as well as a three-setting RLM (Rear wheel-Lift Mitigation) system designed to limit stoppies under heavy braking.
Available for bookings via authorised dealers nationwide, the new Aprilia RSV RF carries a basic selling price of RM138,800 (6% GST inclusive) whilst the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory starts from RM118,800 (6% GST inclusive). Both prices includes a 20,000km manufacturer warranty plan as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-developing-camera-system-for-the-h2-sx/ | Kawasaki Developing Camera System For The H2 SX |
Kawasaki recently updated the H2 SX range with all-new radar technology for 2022.
However, the latest reports suggest that there is more to come from Team Green. The firm is reportedly developing a camera-based system to work alongside the radar sensors.
The 2022 H2 SX has two radars, one at the front that enables adaptive cruise control and collision warning, whereas the rear operates the blind-spot monitoring system.
While the H2 SX is not the first bike to feature the radar assisted system, the motorcycle is the only one to hide the Bosch-made sensors compared to the Ducati Multistrada V4, KTM 1290 Super Adventure and the BMW R 1250 RT.
However, while the technology is a big step for two-wheelers, it is not the perfect solution to enhance rider’s safety due to its inability to sense colour, light and surface detail.
To overcome this, Kawasaki is developing a camera system (similar to the one you see on modern cars) as confirmed by the latest patent applications.
According to reports, the camera would likely be placed behind the screen in a purpose-built panel.
While the patent did not reveal much, the document says explicitly that the camera will assist the front headlight, which means it could control the bike’s high and low beam according to the riding condition.
It could also provide extra input to the radar sensor technology by recognizing obstacles or hazards on the road.
We can easily understand the system by looking at today’s cars to see how the camera operates.
Understanding this, the H2 SX could be the safest bike in the future and the first to adopt the camera system ahead of its rival.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-maverick-vinales-fastest-day-2-austest2017/ | MotoGP: Maverick Vinales Fastest on Day 2 of #AusTest2017 |
Vinales the only rider to run below 1 minute 29 seconds
Almost half a second faster than Marc Marquez
Crutchlow made strong progress as third fastest of Day 2
Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) stunned the field when he clocked a 1:28:847 on his 21st lap early yesterday. He was the only rider to go sub 1 minute 29 seconds at one of the most challenging tracks in the MotoGP calendar.
Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) was without a doubt the hardest working rider yesterday after having completed 107 laps and setting the second fastest time on his 20th lap. Although he set an impressive time of 1:29:309, he was still 0.462 seconds behind Vinales and his Yamaha M1 with its new double layer fairing. Honda has still not come up with any new aero modifications to their present RC213V.
Cal Crutchlow made strong progress yesterday, finishing the day just 0.016 behind 2016 World Champion, Marc Marquez. The same can be said about Alvaro Bautista who placed himself at P4 with a time of 1:29:411, 0.086 seconds behind the Brit rider. The factory Ducati rider, Andrea Dovizioso also improved from P8 in day 1 to P5 in Day 2. Ducati also has not experimented with any aero work unlike Yamaha, Aprilia and Suzuki.
The biggest improvement made by any rider yesterday was Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini). The factory Ducati rider ran with updated aerodynamic fairings and jumped to P6 after having spent Day 1 at a low P14. MotoGP rookie Jonas Folger (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) also jumped up to P7 with a time of 1:29:664. That’s quite impressive considering that he was slightly faster than nine-time champion, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) who came in at P8 on Day 2.
Aleix Rins (Team SUZUKI ECSTAR) clocked in at 1:29:802 with the GSX-RR and its slight changes on aerodynamics. Jack Miller (Team EG 0,0 Marc VDS) completed the top 10 with a time of 1:29:802, almost a second behind Vinales. Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) placed 11th followed by Andrea Iannone (Team SUZUKI ECSTAR) at P12 with over a second gap behind the Movistar Yamaha rider.
Karel Abraham (Pull&Bear Aspar Team) made it into the top 15 at P13 with just 0.008 seconds faster than Danilo Petrucci (Octo Pramac Racing) at P14. Jorge Lorenzo and his new Ducati Desmosedici place 15th but made over half a second progress as compared to Day 1.
Will Vinales continue his domination of being the fastest? Do the “double fairings” on the Yamaha M1 really work? Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP updates.
PHOTO SOURCE: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-malaysian-moto3-miracle/ | The Malaysian Moto3 miracle – Khairul Idham Pawi wins Argentina GP Moto3 race! |
Khairul Idham Pawi becomes first ever Malaysian to claim a Moto3 race win in the Argentina GP.
(Main image credit: MotoGP.com) Updated as of 3:00AM (4/4/2016)
History has been made. Negaraku was played with the Jalur Gemilang flying proud and high on the podium. Khairul Idham Pawi has become the first Malaysian rider to win a World Moto3 Championship race in the Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo, Argentina (Argentina GP).
Astride the Honda Team Asia Moto3 machine, Khairul Idham began his weekend strongly by qualifying in fourth position. His fastest time of 1:50.204 was just 0.437 seconds off the pace of pole-sitter Brad Binder astride the Red Bull KTM Ajo machine. Nevertheless, this was close enough for Khairul Idham Pawi as the 17-year-old youngster from Perak was able to convert his second row start into the race lead thanks to a perfect start.
Image Source: Honda Team Asia Facebook
From then on, the 21-lap Argentina GP race was in Khairul’s hands as he put on a true masterclass, leading the race from start to finish. By the time the chequered flag was waved for him, Khairul Idham was a good 26.170 seconds ahead of second place finisher Jorge Navarro and 30.060 seconds ahead of third place finisher Brad Binder. However, Khairul Idham wasn’t the only sensational Malaysian today.
Also making waves in the Argentina GP Moto3 race was Drive M7 SIC Racing Team rider Adam Norrodin. Despite starting further back from 17th position, the youngster from Batu Pahat, Johore – also 17 years old – got off to an excellent start. By the second lap, Adam was already up in second place and began his defence.
Alas, whilst battling against Jorge Navarro, Adam Norrodin high-sided and crashed out on the last lap at the last turn, just missing out on what would’ve been the first Malaysian double podium finish in the world Moto3 stage.
Norrodin runs across the lineNever give up! Heartache for Norrodin, who crashes out of 2nd place in #Moto3 at the final corner, but picks his bike up to run with it across the line! #ArgentinaGP
Posted by MotoGP on Sunday, April 3, 2016
Despite the nasty crash, Adam was determined to finish what he started and soon put on a display of true grit by picking up his bike and pushing it with all his might towards the finish line. He would eventually be classified in 11th, but the spectators in the grandstands of the Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo were on their feet with cheers and applause for Adam’s display of determination.
Image Credit: MotoGP.com
On the podium, it was sheer jubilation for Khairul Idham Pawi. The race win was one strong vindication for him despite starting off the weekend on Friday with a sanction for riding too slowly during practice. Suffice to say; the youngster from Perak proved that he wasn’t slow at all today in Argentina.
And it is worth noting that the performance from both Malaysian riders today was sensational, if not outstanding. Sweetening this further is the fact that both have shown their skills and true potential despite being rookie riders in their first full season in the World Moto3 stage this year.
With the race win, Khairul Idham Pawi earned maximum 25 points score here in Argentina, and now ranks fourth overall in the standings – not bad for his first point-scoring finish indeed. Fortunately, Adam’s efforts also didn’t go in vain as his 11th place finish sees him picking up 5 championship points – his first points score of the season too – and is now ranked 19th in the standings.
Results
Links: Honda Team Asia @ Facebook
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sarolea-sp7-2019-electric-motogp-bike/ | Sarolea SP7 – The 2019 ELECTRIC MotoGP bike? |
The Sarolea SP7 race bike has been considered as one of Dorna’s potential candidates as the 2019 electric MotoGP bike supplier for a one-make electric series in 2019.
MotoGP race direction representative Loris Capirossi just finished testing the Sorelea SP7 electric race bike ahead of the last MotoGP round in Motorland Aragon.
Other potential candidates include the Lightning LS-218 and Mugen’s Shinden Roku electric race bike which has won the Isle of Man TT Zero road race a total of four times.
It was just last week when ex-MotoGP racer and current MotoGP race direction representative Loris Capirossi conducted a private test on a very special bike at Motorland Aragon. Prior the MotoGP round, the 44 year old Italian went into the circuit on board the Sarolea SP7, a fully-electric race bike which is considered as a huge potential for a brand new MotoGP electric class set for 2019.
Testing for eMotoGP 2019. Thanks to our partners! #Electric #MotoGP #Dorna #AragonGP #eMotoGP #sustainable #ev #futureisclean #SaroleaMoto ?Mirco Lazzari
A post shared by Sarolea Electric Motorcycles (@saroleamoto) on Sep 24, 2017 at 3:16am PDT
Present during the test was Dorna’s Chief Executive Officer Carmelo Ezpetela and other curious minds from the Ducati and Yamaha racing outfits. So what was the test all about? Apparently, Dorna is interested in looking for a manufacturer who can supply the upcoming fully-electric one-make series set to debut in 2019.
Bernard Ansiau & Torsten ?? #sarolea #saroleamoto #100percentelectric #sustainable #motogp #belgian #vr46 #itsallaboutthejourney
A post shared by Sarolea Electric Motorcycles (@saroleamoto) on Sep 26, 2017 at 5:13am PDT
So far, Loris Capirossi has tested two great candidates; the Lightning LS-218 and the more recent Sarolea SP7. The SP7 has had some road racing experience where it finished fourth in this year’s Isle of Man TT race which was piloted by legendary rider Dean Harrison. The SP7 is said to be able to produce around 180hp and a neck-snapping 400Nm of torque at the crank.
@capirossiloris speeding on the all electric Saroléa SP7 #motogp #aragongp #loriscapirossi #saroleamoto #ev #electric #sustainable #future #iomtt #handmade #carbonfiber #performance #instamoto #moto #motorcycle #motorbike
A post shared by Sarolea Electric Motorcycles (@saroleamoto) on Sep 22, 2017 at 6:48am PDT
The other possible candidate which is the Lightning LS-218 was also approached considering that the bike is able to pump out a whopping 200hp and 227Nm of torque with a top speed of around 350km/h.
To know more about the Lightning LS-218, CLICK HERE.
The challenges laid out for an entire racing series are an entirely a different story. This is why Dorna together with MotoGP officials are looking out for the best candidate to fill in that very important position.
Mugen so far has been a very interesting prospect as well. Considering the fact that they’ve won the Isle of Man TT Zero race a total of four times already, the Japanese outfit also has huge backings from one of the biggest manufacturers in Japan, Honda.
Mugen Shinden Roku
To know more about Mugen’s Shinden Roku electric race bike, CLICK HERE.
Having the fastest electric bike isn’t everything. The chosen manufacturer must have all the necessary equipment and manpower to support an entire race series for one of the world’s most watched motorcycle races in the world that is MotoGP. Who will be the chosen one?
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Photo source: Sarolea
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-replica-motorcycles-pakistan/ | Check out these replica motorcycles in Pakistan! |
There’s is a thriving market for replica motorcycles or copycat bikes from China in countries like Pakistan.
Sigma Motorsports has taken this to a whole new level with a variety of replica bikes on offer.
Bikes from the Ducati 848, BMW S 1000 RR, KTM Duke, Honda CBR250R and many more all have their own small-capacity versions in Pakistan.
China is known for their thriving business in almost anything and everything under the sun. Being one of the fastest growing super countries in the world, everything else followed suit including their market for copycat items. These include vehicles and motorcycles too, folks.
The majority of copycat motorcycles won’t dare to step foot in markets like America and Europe, they’re making quite a name for themselves in countries like Pakistan. Here are some prime examples of these counterfeited two-wheelers compared against the originals.
Sigma Lion 150 – Bajaj Pulsar RS200
Our first example is the Lion 150 produced by Sigma Motorsports. One look at this baby and it’s clear who the bike is trying to replicate. The Chinese were keen on the designs, took it and stuffed in a 150cc single-cylinder engine with liquid-cooling. With a combined weight of around 130kg, the Lion 150 can reach a top speed of 100km/h.
Sorry Lion 150 but with a price tag of 180,000 INR (around RM10,826), we prefer the much more capable Modenas Pulsar RS200 any day of the week.
Sigma Rokk – KTM 200 Duke
Here’s another one from Sigma Motorsports. While the name might be different, the design really screams out KTM 200 Duke. We’ve been told that this particular model is very popular in Pakistan and is powered by a 150cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine. What about power and torque? All we can say is just get the original from KTM and you’ll be better off.
Priced at 225,000 Pakistani Rupees (RM7,966), it is quite a bargain but we probably think that there’s nothing else going on about the bike. Sorry, Rokk. Pass.
Sigma YCR 150 – Honda CBR250R
We’re starting to see a similar pattern and you guessed it, Sigma Motorsports is in the China copycat motorcycle business. The YCR 150 is the cloned version of the Honda CBR250R. While the CBR is no longer available in the country, Pakistanis can still get the similarly-looking bike at 280,000 PKR (RM9,913).
Heck, they even have a Repsol Honda edition on offer! Like other models, the YCR 150 is powered by 150cc single-cylinder engine produced by LIFAN Motorcycles from China.
Sigma Thunder 250 – Yamaha YZF-R25
One of the most popular 250cc models in Malaysia that is the Yamaha YZF-R25 comes in the form of the Sigma Thunder 250 in the Pakistani market. It comes ready with a 250cc twin-cylinder SOHC engine with water cooling and there’s virtually nothing different in terms of design compared to the original from Yamaha.
The Thunder 250 does come with front dual disc brakes, a variety of colour options and ‘international gears’ (whatever that means). It is priced at 470,000 PKR (RM16,640).
If you prefer something with a bit more power but still don’t want the original, Sigma Motorsports has the Valentino 350R where they claimed is a China-made all-Italian original design just like the name. It still looks very Chinese-Japanese to our eyes.
Sigma Warrior 350 – Ducati 848
This particular model is the first copycat model that has got us just a little bit more excited than the rest. The Warrior 350 pays homage to one of the greatest Ducati superbikes in its era (up until today) that is the Ducati 848.
Same looks, same Ducati red but minus all that Ducati-ness. The Warrior 350 is powered by a 350cc twin-cylinder liquid-cooled engine and other features like China-made Italian design, powerful engine, excellent finishing and our favourite, 1,500km warranty! Not 15,000km folks, just 1,500km. Oh boy.
The Warrior 350 is priced at 665,000 PKR (RM23,544). At least the exhaust looks kind of okay which sort of resembles the MV Agusta F4. No? Okay, moving on.
Sigma Scorpion 350RR – BMW S 1000 RR
Ever wanted a bike that looks like the BMW S 1000 RR but you don’t really RM100,000 to spare? Well, head over to Pakistan and get your hands on the 350cc Sigma Scorpion 350RR! Powered by the same engine as the Warrior, the Scorpion is surprisingly one good-looking machine.
It is however based on the S 1000 RR so any replicas will look good either way. Price? 575,000 PKR (RM20,357). Other features include front twin disc brakes, five-speed manual gearbox and a 13-litre fuel tank.
If you to the Sigma Motorsports of Lifan Motorcycles websites, you’ll see a whole range of motorcycles ‘inspired’ by other bikes from a wide variety of manufacturers around the globe. All we can say is nothing because our jaws are wide open and emitting the silent sound of disbelief.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/1200cc-benelli-tourer-in-the-works/ | 1,200cc Benelli tourer in the works? |
If you’re a fan of Benelli motorcycles, better get yourselves prepared as they’re probably going to release a 1,200cc Benelli tourer sometime in the near future BUT with a more ‘grand tourer’ façade for those who are keen on travelling long distances in comfort and style.
Image credit: Bike Social
The designed has been approved in China under the Qianjiang name, which is the manufacturer’s parent company in China. Designated under the model code ‘QJ1200-3’, it sounds like the engine will be a 1,200cc three-cylinder engine upgraded from the ones used by the previous Benelli models like the famous Tornado 1130.
Benelli Tornado 1130
This would mean that the new 1,200cc tourer will go up against the likes of BMW R 1250 RT and Triumph Tiger 1200 which are very popular models with great sales figures worldwide to back them up. Power output should be around the same ballpark for the 1,200cc Benelli with reports stating an output of around 134hp.
BMW R 1250 RT
This also means that this latest machine will probably be China’s biggest and most powerful bike to ever produced by the country when or if it hits the production line. While it follows the China IV motorcycle emissions standard, the rest of the world can probably enjoy them too it’s identical to the Euro’s emissions regulations.
With more than 63,000 bikes sold in 2019, we’re guessing that they are now more than ready to offer their premium big-bike offerings soon, starting with this grand tourer. People in Italy seems to love them as the sales there beats Ducati’s sales figure in the country, despite being owned by the Chinese. Pricing is probably one of the biggest factors concerning its popularity.
2020 Benelli Leoncino 800 and 2020 Benelli Leconcino 800 Trail Launched
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-ninja-h2-and-h2r-delivery-ceremony/ | Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R delivery ceremony |
KMMSB hands the keys over to the Malaysian owners of the manic and supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R superbikes.
On the eve of the long Labour Day weekend, Kawasaki Motors Malaysia Sdn Bhd (KMMSB) held a special ceremony where the firm handed over a fleet of Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R superbikes to the first batch of Malaysia owners.
The ceremony, held in the Boulevard concourse of Bukit Bintang’s Berjaya Times Square mall, was fairly grand and unmistakably green. Up to 13 bikes were handed over to some 10 owners whilst the remaining 3 were handed over to some of KMMSB’s premium dealers.
Amongst the 10 owners, only two manned up to own the manic track-only Kawasaki Ninja H2R version. They are non other than Kawasaki Bike Art Racing Team principal Steven Ong,and KMMSB’s director Ahmad Faez Yahya. Notably, Ahmad Faez also stands as one of the very few individuals on the planet that own both the road-legal Kawasaki Ninja H2 and its track-only twin the Kawasaki Ninja H2R simultaneously.
Other notable owners include Chua Chern Kwang, the owner of Kawasaki premium dealers SC Premium Bikes. Chua also sold four units of the street-legal Kawasaki Ninja H2 to owners Kenneth Patrick Wang, Robert Barraclough, Lum Wen Foo, and Arif Danial Abdul Jalil.
Filling up the owners’ rostrum were Khoo Chooi Hua who purchased his Ninja H2 from Gun How Superbikes Centre Sdn Bhd, followed by Mohamad Sabri bin Ismail who acquired his beastly superbike from dealers Motorsim Sdn Bhd.
Besides private owners, KMMSB also handed over several units of the manic supercharged superbike to three of its premium dealers. These are non other the usual suspects such as than Welly Advance Bikers, Wilhin Motors, as well as SC Premium Bikes. All recipients were awarded with a celebratory bouquet of flowers, plus a special limited edition Ninja booklet that details the supercharged superbike’s intricate and precision-engineered build.
For these first owners in Malaysia, they aren’t just awarded with unrivalled bragging rights. KMMSB has established a mobile ‘Elite Squad Team’, and their goal is to offer their personalise and dedicated services to these owners. The same team will also be on hand for the two Ninja H2R owners during their upcoming trackday sessions organised by KMMSB.
Presently, the aforementioned dealers will feature the supercharged superbike on display on its premises. Check out more photos in the gallery below, or alternatively, you visit the official BikesRepublic.com Facebook page for more.
Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R delivery ceremony @ Berjaya Times Square, KL
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brake-system-works-part-1/ | Brake System: How it Works (Part 1) |
The hydraulic brake system’s operation is easy to understand.
It consists of only a few main parts.
However, pay attention to your brake fluid and hoses.
Everytime we squeeze and press down on the brake levers, the brake system causes the motorcycle to slow down. it works day in, day out, throughout the bike’s lifespan. But have you ever thought about how it actually works?
While the traditional cable-operated drum brakes are available on a certain number of bikes, they are being phased out for the hydraulic brake system, more commonly called disc brake system.
The brake system converts kinetic energy (contained in a moving object) to thermal energy (heat) by using friction. Brakes have evolved over time and some brake systems could actually slow a bike quicker than the latter could accelerate. In a recent overseas test on the BMW S 1000 XR, the bike accelerated from 0 to 160 km/h in 6.1 seconds, covering 151 metres. That fast! But it slowed from 160 to 0 km/h in 5 seconds in less than 100 metres.
The basic working principles of the hydraulic disc brake system is easy to understand. When you press the brake lever, the master cylinder pump pushes the brake fluid through the brake hoses to the calipers. In turn, this pressure pushes on the caliper’s pistons which have brake pads attached to them. The pads are compressed on to the brake disc.
Let’s look at the parts of a hydraulic brake system:
Master cylinder
More commonly called the “brake pump” or (“bulek pom” by your typical Chinese mechanic at the kedai motor), it converts mechanical force (when you press the lever) into hydraulic pressure. The brake lever pushes on a piston that presses on the brake fluid. The force with which you pull the lever is the leverage ratio and the size of the master cylinder piston determine the amount of pressure is subjected through the system, sometimes exceeding 1,000 kPa.
Brake Hoses
Hoses transmit pressure from the master cylinder to the calipers. They are typically multilayered, with a Teflon inner lining surrounded by braided nylon, or Kevlar, or stainless-steel reinforcing layer, and finally wrapped in a protective sheathing.
Contrary to popular belief, stainless steel-braided hoses DO NOT stronger braking. They provide a more consistent braking feel as they don’t expand like rubber hoses do when subjected to eyeball-popping hard braking.
Rubber hoses lose their strength over time, thus need to be replaced every four years.
Brake caliper
This is also inexplicably called the bulek pom in the workshops. The real job of pumping braking fluid is handled by the master cylinder.
Anyway, it’s at the caliper where the hydraulic pressure is multiplied. This is because the pressure from the master cylinder is exerted uniformly on the much larger area of the caliper pistons. An adult male’s hand grip typically exerts only between 0.4 to 0.6 kPa, thus that has to be increased to more than 1,000 kPa.
Brake Disc
The disc transfers the brake pads’ resistance to the tyre contact patch. Brake discs are usually made of stainless steel with variable amounts of iron. Modern discs are also drilled to assist in cooling, besides shedding water and debris.
Brake fluid
Another incorrectly named item, usually called minyak brek (brake oil). It has nothing to do with oils. The misconception probably arose from being referred to industrial hydraulic fluids that are petroleum based.
The brake fluid is the medium which transmits force from the brake lever to the brake pads. The brake fluid isn’t as simple as one may be inclined to think. Other than being non-compressible to effectively transfer the pressure, it needs to have low viscosity to work with ABS components, has good lubricity for the master cylinder and caliper piston seals, offer corrosion resistance, and importantly has high boiling point.
There are four grades of brake fluids. Glycol-based ones are DOT 3, 4, and 5.1, hence are mixable. DOT 5 is silicone-based and can’t be mixed any other type.
The glycol-based fluids are hydrophilic, meaning they suck in and absorb moisture from the air. Mixed with water, the brake fluid’s boiling point is lowered, causing brake fade. That’s why brake fluids need to replaced every two years.
DOT 5 on the other hand, is hydrophobic and rejects water. However, after repeated heating and cooling cycles, bad master cylinder and caliper seals, it will also ingest water eventually. However, DOT 5 brake fluid does not pull moisture out of the air own its own, thus have a longer lifespan. Military vehicles usually use DOT 5 since they sit idle for long periods of time.
Additionally, being silicone-based, it’s not caustic leading Harley-Davidson to using this previously.
Does this mean we should all convert to DOT 5? The short answer is “NO.” DOT 5 brake fluids are expensive, has high compressibility and higher viscosity (thicker) and thereby unsuitable for everyday use. Harley-Davdison has since reverted to DOT 4.
Each grade usually denotes the fluid’s boiling point, from the heat resulting from friction, rather than its chemical contents.
The US Department of Transport (DOT) specified each grade’s “dry” and “wet” boiling point. The latter is deemed to be completely free of moisture, while the latter contains 3.7% water, common after a year of regular use.
DOT 3: 205 oC (dry), 140 oC (wet).
DOT 4: 230 oC (dry), 155 oC (wet).
DOT 5: 260 oC (dry), 180 oC (wet).
DOT 5.1: 260 oC (dry), 180 oC (wet).
Observe how much performance drops away between dry and wet. That’s why brake fluid should be replaced every two years. Since the standard was set in the USA, we may need to replace it even earlier due to our climate’s high humidity and constant rain.
Water in the fluid lowers its boiling point, casing the brake lever to feel spongy and reducing braking performance – called “brake fade.”
That’s it for Part 1. We’ll talk about brake pads, caliper mounts, ABS, carbon brakes and so forth next time.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/video-givi-rimba-raid-at-janda-baik-2019-highlights/ | VIDEO: GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 Highlights |
GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 was the biggest and best to date.
Such a huge event will send ripples through the region’s motorsport scene.
Take a peek of the excitement in this video.
GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 may be over for close to two weeks now, but many are still reminiscing over the biggest and best edition to date.
The scars may have healed, broken bikes fixed, the glow of winning slow fades but memories will remain forever with the competitors.
Surely the spectators who showed up in droves were amazed to no end seeing heavyweight (read: expensive) adventure bikes being used for such purpose instead of blasting down Karak and parked outside Nanyang Kopitiam and Starbucks Gohtong Jaya (10% discount here for “BMW bikers” says the receipt, but they give it to all big bikers). Perhaps it was even more heartwarming to see the excitement of the children. Who knows, they may dream of owning such a bike when they grow up.
The GIVI Explorers who rode in with the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 were equally, if not more awed at the event. Bear in mind that among these men and women from 16 different countries have large motorcycle rallies in their backyards. For example, Jeremias Israel who was an ex-HRC Dakar Rally rider who also took park in other world-class rallies. The Chilean even took part in the Janda Baik race and came away mighty impressed with the event and may well return. And then there were GIVI Explorers from Australia, Mexico, Thailand, Italy, and so forth. These are nations where motorcycle rallies are the norm. Yet, they were impressed with the organization and scale of GIVI Rimba Raid.
But if the event was amazing, it’s due to the extraordinary effort and hard work put in by the organizers led by Dato’ Captain Nik. He had only a number of people to rely on. It wasn’t merely a case handing the competitors their jerseys and telling them to ride through the jungle. If planning a trackday was hard enough, no amount of imagination can tell you how hard it was to plan and execute GIVI Rimba Raid. And yet there were critics.
Let’s not forget GIVI, of course. Together with the Rimba Raid crew, the GIVI crew had spent four days and nights to set up Kampung GIVI, ILMU and the surroundings along the track andoff the track.
Which brings us to the motorcycle manufacturers and sponsors. We have one question: Who says off-road riding on dual-purpose motorcycles isn’t a big thing?
BMW Motorrad sees the event as an opportunity, hence sending in their dealers (Auto Bavaria this time) at each edition, since many competitors ride the GS anyway. Ducati had the presence of mind to brand their Scrambler albeit last year, as they had to consolidate at Art of Speed this year. Bombardier were there to promote their latest side-by-sides, buggies and ATVs. But where was Honda? Yamaha? KTM? The field was filled with bikes from these brands. A little support to the competitors riding their brands would’ve gone a long, long way.
Anyhow, we hope that you enjoy the video. We can’t wait for the next GIVI Rimba Raid.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-switzerland-lift-67-year-ban-on-circuit-racing/ | OFFICIAL: Switzerland Lift 67-Year Ban On Circuit Racing |
After proper reconsideration, Switzerland has officially lifted the country’s 67-year ban on circuit racing.
Switzerland has banned motor racing since 1995 after a horrific crash at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France.
Mercedes driver Pierre Levegh and 84 spectators were killed, and 120 more people were injured during the incident.
However, due to the advancements in the safety of both vehicles and race tracks, Switzerland has decided it is the right time to welcome back circuit racing.
The National Council and the Council of States unanimously agreed to remove the racing prohibition after a recent modification of the Road Traffic Act.
Both houses voted to lift the prohibition hence overturning the 67-year ban.
The primary factor behind the overturning was that for the past 67 years, circuit and vehicle safety has improved dramatically and continues to improve.
Despite the good news, it might take a while before Switzerland could hold a world-class motor racing as no full-fledged racing facilities exist just yet.
For that reason, it may take a while before popular racing series such as the MotoGP and Formula 1, to include Switzerland in their calendar.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-suzuki-gsx-s1000gt-now-in-malaysia-rm85700/ | 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT Now In Malaysia – RM85,700 |
There is a new player in the sport-touring segment, and it goes by the name Suzuki GSX-S1000GT.
The new sports-tourer now available in Malaysia for a recommended price of RM85,700.
The new Suzuki GSX-S1000GT features everything you need on a grand tourer, including a comfortable seat and top-notch electronics.
Starting with the design, the GSX-S1000GT has an entirely different design concept than the current Hamamatsu range.
The alien-like fairing features a pointed nose and a non-adjustable windshield at the front paired to a LED headlights and DRL (daytime running light).
Although it was build based on the heavily revised GSX-S1000 frame and powerplant, the GSX-S1000GT brings an altogether different vibe.
With optional panniers, comfy riding ergonomics, and an all-new electronic system, the GSX-S1000GT could be Suzuki’s ultimate sport tourer motorcycle.
At the heart of the motorcycle sits the same inline four-cylinder 999cc Euro5 engine you get from the GSX-R1000 and is detuned with revised cams, new air-box, and new exhaust to deliver 152hp @ 11,000rpm and 106Nm @ 9,250rpm.
Major electronics upgrade is a new electronic actuated throttle and Suzuki Intelligent Ride system that brings together riding modes, traction control and most importantly, cruise control system.
While it may share the same twin-spar aluminium frame with the GSX-S1000, the Japanese firm has heavily revised the subframe to make it sturdier to allow the GT to carry extra load, including pillion and panniers (that comes as standard for the Malaysian market).
The dash offers a large 6.5″ TFT display that allows riders to access navigation features, accepting calls, music selection and more via the Suzuki mySPIN app.
Other features include:
19L fuel tank capacity
226kg dry weight
inverted telescopic front fork
rear link-type suspension
twin disc front and a single disc at the rear
17″ wheels
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/5-things-know-bikes/ | 5 Things You Should Know About Bikes |
Motorcycles are complex machines and working on them needs expertise.
But motorcycle maintenance is not just about changing the oil and filter.
Here are the four most overlooked aspects of motorcycle maintenance.
For many of us, motorcycles are just another form of transportation that gets one particular job done; getting to desired destinations. All that we really consider when it comes to our travels are the amount of petrol in the tank, tyre conditions, basic service maintenance, and surprisingly, nothing more.
The motorcycle is a complex piece of machinery and some models by renowned manufacturers have simplified them down to their basic structures so that owners wouldn’t have to worry so much about their machines and overall conditions. And there are some which are technological marvels.
As simple as most bikes are, there are things that motorcyclists need to know about their bikes when it comes to the maintenance department. With that being said, here are 5 things you didn’t know about bikes (or 5 things you SHOULD know about bikes).
1. For God’s sake, service your brakes!
We all know for a fact that going fast on any motorcycle is super exhilarating (especially high-performance ones like the BMW S 1000 RR and the Ducati Panigale V4 S). As much fun as hitting the redline and hitting all the gears, stopping power needs to be at its optimum to ensure a smooth and safe stop.
Most workshops with certified mechanics and superbike technicians will give a quick once over to basically ensure that the calipers are clean, discs are smooth, and brake pads are still good. If the bike is sent to places where they don’t have any service record, it’s difficult to determine the most overlooked aspect of brake maintenance: replacing the brake fluids.
If you’re starting to notice that your brake levers are going soft or limp on you, it is usually the main indicator to get your brake fluids changed. Most bike manuals would suggest you do this every two years to ensure that the brake fluid is fresh and the absence of air bubbles in the system.
Bleeding the brake – Courtesy of motorcyclistonline.com
Uncertain of when was the last time this happened? Certified mechanics and technicians can usually tell just by looking at the colour of the brake fluid. For your information, brake fluids are usually crystal clear with a tinge of yellow. As fluids get older and degrade, they get darker and cloudier.
Although the of bleeding the old fluid and replacing it with a fresh batch is not difficult, utmost care must be taken as you do not want to leave air bubbles in the system. Besides, brake fluid is highly corrosive and will cause paint damage if they land on other parts of the bike.
Also of important note is replacing the brake fluid for motorcycles with ABS. The bleeding process is straightforward, but air bubbles should never be allowed to enter the ABS modulator. If it did then you would need an electronic ABS tester to flush it out of the system, otherwise the motorcycle will have braking issues! Where can you find this tester? At official workshops (manned by certified technicians, of course).
In short, head to workshops with certified technicians to get your brake fluids checked (and replaced!).
2. Give your forks a chance!
Your suspension system needs to be periodically checked, as well. We’re talking about your bike’s front forks and rear shock absorber(s). Most affordable small-capacity bikes only have the option to replace them once they’re worn out but it’s more likely to be cheaper than tearing it apart for service.
For bigger bikes with higher-end gears, the suspension package will last for a long time provided that you go through the periodically-scheduled maintenance on time.
Take for example, the forks. Forks not only hold the front wheel, allow you to steer the bike and absorb shocks, they are also important in providing front tyre feedback to the rider.
Suspension service – Courtesy of jamespackwoodracing.co.uk
The service process for forks is needs a meticulous working etiquette as they consist of high-precision components. This is where you should really look for a workshop with a dedicated team of certified technicians to work on your bike. Trust us on this one, you’ll be thanking us later.
3. Valve clearance is vital!
Harley-Davidson Milwaukee-Eight head – courtesy of bikebandit.com
Valve clearance check-up is one of the most important (and probably the biggest) service aspect for your motorcycle. Why? Because wear and tear and heat in the valvetrain will affect the position of valve and clearance size. Wrong valve clearance will first lead to a nasty-sounding valvetrain. If the issue is not addressed over time, your engine will start to lose performance, stutter and just will not run. In extreme cases, the valves may even contact the piston’s crown resulting in catastrophic failure!
Bikers love to hate this particular maintenance procedure as they are slightly more on the expensive side and it take time as it involves working and removing vital engine components. When to check the valve clearance is different for every bike so make sure you double check with your bike’s manufacturer manual and certified workshops.
Valve clearance adjustment – Courtesy of www.transmoto.com.au
For smaller bikes, this process is quite easy to do (provided that you have the right tools) but vital parts of the bikes like body panels, fuel tanks, and maybe more need to be remove in order to successfully complete the process. Having doubts? Keep calm and send your bike over to a certified superbike technician!
4. Keep cool with coolant!
Lastly, we’re going to touch on your bike’s overall cooling system. Those with air-cooled bikes can start riding because this advice is for those with liquid-cooling. Go ahead, we’ll meet you at the rendezvous point!
Why is it important to check your bike’s cooling system? First of all, the liquid coolant used in your bikes contains active ingredients or agents that help to control corrosion. These agents degrade over time and once it’s dirty, it won’t be as efficient to keep things nice and cool.
Like your brake fluid, replacing the liquid coolant is also advised to be done every two (or three, depending on the manufacturer) years. Doing it yourself is not difficult but you’ll need to find the proper way of disposing the used coolant as some types are toxic, and can damage the environment plus affect your health if it contacts your skin.
Apart from replacing the brake fluids, you also need to check the radiator, hoses, and clamps. Rubber hoses must be in good condition (pliable with no cracks). Hose clamps should be nice and tight, too. As for the radiator, look out for any physical damage. If there’s any bent cooling fins, you can easily straighten them out with a small screwdriver.
Overall, maintaining your motorcycle is more than just ensuring that there’s fresh oil and oil filter every time it is sent to the workshop. With proper workshops and certified technicians, keeping tabs of these five most overlooked aspects will be a whole lot easier on your machine as well as your ease of mind. So keep calm, ride safe, and practise proper bike care!
5. Certification guarantees satisfaction!
Worried about sending your bikes to shady workshops and characters? Well, you should! Your bikes are like your own body and when it comes to healthcare, you only want the best so why should it be different for your bikes?
Workshops, mechanics and technicians with proper certifications gained from programs coordinated by fine institutions like the TOC Automotive College offer, provide, and supply the nation with certified and highly-trained technicians who have experience in working with bikes ranging from small-capacity daily bikes to high-performance track racing machines.
It is always advisable to send your bikes to the manufacturer’s authorised service centres but when there’s none around, it’s always good for you to send your bikes to places with proper certifications when it comes to the workshops as well as the technicians working on the machines.
To know about the demand for certified superbike technicians, CLICK HERE.
Certified Superbike Technicians are now in demand!
Please visit the TOC Automotive College Facebook page or their campus (map below) or call call (+603) 7960 8833 for more information. Likewise, you can find more information about the TOC Bina Bakat Program here, or email info@toc.edu.my. Please click on this link for further information on the TOC Superbike Technician Course.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-jumps-on-radar-bandwagon/ | Kawasaki Jumps on Radar Bandwagon |
Kawasaki is the latest manufacturer to work on equipping their bikes with radar.
Their patent filings show a system with front and rear radars.
The system works together with the brakes and throttle.
Kawasaki is the latest manufacturer to work on equipping their bikes with radar.
It is learned that Kawasaki’s system will either warn the rider or engage automated braking if it senses an imminent collision. In their patent filing, the system utilizes a front and rear radar detector. In turn, the radars control the brakes and throttle.
The front radar will scan the road ahead and apply the brakes if there are hazards. The rear radar, on the other hand, will detect fast approaching vehicles and alert the rider to take evasive action.
Kawasaki isn’t the first maker to develop a radar system.
Suzuki is working on equipping their bikes with radar reflectors to make them more visible to radars in other vehicles. Whereas Honda may equip the next Gold Wing with automated braking. All 2020 Ducatis will have front and rear radars in addition to cornering ABS. KTMs will feature adaptive cruise control and blind spot awareness system by 2021.
Vehicle radar technology isn’t merely experimental, as all new European-made cars are mandated to be fixed with automated or emergency braking systems in 2020. The decision follows joint studies by European NCAP and Australasian NCAP that automated brakes can reduce collisions by 38%.
So yes, bikes will definitely be equipped with radars soon.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/beating-lights-made-legal/ | Beating the lights, should it be made legal? |
The American state of Nevada has apparently made it legal for motorcyclists, mopeds, cyclists and three-wheelers to run a red light.
It was found that traffic light sensors sometimes do not detect motorcyclists, leaving them stranded at red for a long time. These bikers or cyclists then have to wait for a car to arrive to trigger the sensor for the light to turn green. This increases the waiting time by at least 3 or 4 times. However, the new law requires riders to wait for two light cycles before they can ride off.
The Nevada police however have brought up the fact that the law would be quite difficult to police. The person can chose to fight it out in court and then the burden of proof lays on the cops, and finding proof on whether the biker waited for two cycles, as mentioned, would be quite difficult to do.
This law however, would be an absolute disaster in Malaysia. Motorcyclists are known to beat the lights at their own discretion here, sometimes risking their own lives, seemingly just for the heck of it. Making it a legal act to do increases the possibility of running into a charging biker at an intersection. Making it all legal would be a nightmare.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/custom-bmw-r-18-revealed-spirit-of-passion/ | Custom BMW R 18 revealed – “Spirit of Passion” |
We’ve witnessed a number of beautifully crafted custom BMW R 18 in the recent past from the likes of Roland Sands and Blechmann. Now, there’s another one hailing from Germany and this is by far one of the most unique motorcycles the present has ever seen.
Dirk Oehlerking, the master behind Kingston Custom, customised the BMW R 18 into what he calls the “Spirit of Passion”. According to him, the R 18’s frame has been kept original but everything else was worked with, including the star of the show, that Kingston fairing.
Oehlerking went to town with his signature Kingston Roadster style and the bodywork alone must’ve been a pain in the butt to perfect. Even the handlebars, mudguard, exhaust, and paintwork were given special care and dedication in order to create this “Spirit of Passion” masterpiece.
According to Dirk Oehlerking, “I put a lot of thought into it beforehand. My motorbikes always convey soul, charm and character. They’re outstanding specimens, so they require great care and attention. I have a constant stream of images running past my mind’s eye when it comes to deciding what style I want to focus on. Once I’ve made that choice, I start with a sketch in pencil and Tipp-Ex. Then I keep going until I know in my heart of hearts: that’s precisely it!”
“This project is probably the most impressive of my entire career. It means a lot to me – if not everything at this moment. The trust that BMW Motorrad has placed in me once again is hugely important to me. I’m very grateful for that,” added Oehlerking.
Written by: Sep Irran
PDRM Special Actions Unit gets some sexy upgrades
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fsr-technology-rolls-out-next-gen-high-performance-tuneboss-ecu-from-rm299/ | FSR Technology Rolls Out Next-Gen High-Performance TuneBoss ECU – From RM299 |
FSR Technology has announced the second-generation TuneBoss ECU that promised to deliver a powerful result compared to its predecessor introduced back in 2014.
The Gen-2 TuneBoss ECU now features 3-Stage upgrade capabilities that deliver different performances according to the users’ preferences.
However, while it offers various stages, the second generation ECU is now affordable than ever, with the essential Stage-1 cost around RM200 cheaper than the previous generation ECU.
The price for the 2nd-gen TuneBoss ECU now starts at just RM299 (for Yamaha Lagenda and Honda Wave) and RM799 for the Yamaha R25 (compared to RM999 for the 1st-gen TuneBoss ECU).
According to FSR Technology CEO Farhan Ali, the focus for the 2nd-gen ECU was towards reliability and affordability.
“Our focus for the 2nd-gen was to make this technology and reliability more affordable, while at the same time offer new high-end features for more advanced customers.
“To achieve this, our new ECU starts at a significantly lower price but is upgradable three stages.
“When fully upgraded, it has more features and performance than our previous generation ECU,” he said.
Farhan added that users who seek a slight increase of power could opt for the Stage 1 package.
“Stage 1 is good enough for most users that want a bit more oomph out of their machine. Suitable for weekend track warriors who may have some light bolt-on performance bits on their bikes.
“Users who want substantial performance can simply upgrade to Stage 2, which unlocks features such as full fuel and ignition adjustments, Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) control, Throttle Acceleration Compensation and more by just adding RM200 to the basic Stage 1 price.”
Meanwhile, the new generation TuneBoss ECU is also available for the all-new Yamaha Y16ZR and MT15 with a starting price of RM399.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/things-motorcyclists-should-never-do-part-3/ | Things Motorcyclists Should Never Do (Part 3) |
There are things we motorcyclists should never do.
These points were collated over a long period of time.
Riding, even when commuting is a holistic approach.
We’ve covered 10 of these previously, but there are still many to address. Motorcycling isn’t like driving a car which the latter is more forgiving. One mistake as motorcyclists could send us off the road or into an oncoming truck. We’re not trying to scare you, but that’s the reality of it.
It’s reflected in any country’s appalling motorcycle accident and death statistics. While we agree that a large number of accidents involve conditions outside the rider’s control or due to other road users, the number can be brought down by riding smarter regardless of type of motorcycle you ride.
1. Never daydream
We’ve covered this before and we need to cover it again because we’ve seen how some motorcyclists still ride in between lanes on the highway, oblivious to all the cars, busses and trucks around him. The look on his face gravitates somewhere between a smirk and a stupor. Worse, he’d change lanes suddenly into the path of the vehicle behind. If we don’t like car drivers swerving into our paths, do you think they like it too?
2. Never think you’re the fastest
REUTERS/Olivia Harris
We’ve seen some motorcyclists riding as fast as they could on the highway, their bikes’ topped out with no more to go. Yet, they stay there in the overtaking lane thinking they’re going 400 km/h. Worse, they swerve in and out of traffic. That’s until an 18-wheeler truck flies up from the back. We won’t say it’s wrong to speed because that’s just unrealistic and being better-than-thou (too much of this in our country now), however, we should not allude ourselves with illusions of victory when on the road.
3. Never think other road users can see you
Credit Stomp New Straits Times
I ride and drive. So, being a biker, I understand that bikes are difficult to spot thus I’d always glance backward quickly across my shoulder before changing lanes. Even then, it’s not easy to catch sight of a bike, especially when it pulls out from behind another car. Unless everyone drives a cabriolet with the top down, the blindspots never go away. As such, never ever assume that drivers can see you. The majority of them WANT to see you but they just can’t, while a small number are just plain idiots who lack empathy for any other road user.
4. Keep moving
Credit Malay Mail
Again, we’re lucky that filtering and lane-splitting are allowed in Malaysia. If there are already plenty of cars rear-ending other cars, what chance do we have as motorcyclists if we stay in line behind or next to another vehicle? There are even car drivers who are oblivious to our presence when we are right beside their cars’ front doors, for crying out loud! Therefore, keep moving but please do so at sane speeds by never exceeding the 30 km/h faster rule. Some self-serving cretin is trying to have lane-splitting stopped, so let’s do it right.
5. Never start with the fastest, biggest
Ninja H2™
We understand that it’s your money and you can do whatever you want with it. But we don’t recommend starting out with a Kawasaki Ninja H2 as you’re first bike. It’s best to start with something smaller, preferably a 250cc (or even a moped) and work your way up.
Sure, bikes got easier and easier to ride through my 31 years of experience but that’s relative. While bikes used to struggle to hit 400 metres less than 12 seconds, the current crop of litre-class sportbike can do it in 10, consistently. Even a tall, heavy adventure bike like the BMW R 1250 GS hits 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, and 400 m (¼-mile) in 11 seconds. More tellingly, the GS can accelerate from 60 km/h to 100 km/h in 1.1 seconds (in overtaking cases).
That’s just the performance aspect and you need to consider other areas such as braking, seat height, braking, body positioning, etc.
Starting out on something smaller will give you an easier and safer learning curve.
6. Never trust the electronics alone
Modern bikes are easier to ride due to the electronics (in varying degrees) amongst other things. However, we should never trust the electron pushers explicitly, as evidenced by the large number of crashes despite the exponential advances in this area. This is not to say that they’re gimmicks, but you need to know how they work in order for them to assist you (the word here is “assist”). We’ll touch on this in detail in a later article. In the meantime, think about learning to ride correctly.
7. Never stop learning
This is one of the biggest enemies to everyone, more so to us bikers. We understand it’s not easy these days since there are so many other forms of instant gratification i.e. social media but do make a conscious attempt to uncover some great things about this lifestyle. Also, take up an advanced riding course (or all of them) – it’s the best investment you could ever make.
8. Never be a know-it-all
Mr. Know-it-All is the guys who pushes his “ideals” on anyone, regardless if his views are correct or similar to the proposal of stopping toll collection in Malaysia. However, his “expert” views are usually gleaned from some shiny brochure then twisted to make it sound like he’s a guru with words like: “I like the bike because of its self-centering steering.” (That’s funny because 1) Self-centering is for car steering; 2) Self-centering on bike is bad news because it means the bike doesn’t want to finish a corner; 3) As a consequence, you can’t open the throttle earlier to balance the bike in mid-corner.) Or another example, someone who keeps pushing his views on you despite you already saying that it’s an “estimate.”
That’s why they don’t have friends. Don’t let this happen to you.
9. Never modify your bike without considering the consequences
We’re not talking about a slip-on exhaust or luggage here, but more in terms of performance mods to the engine, brakes, suspension. Each modification has an impact on something else which then requires modifications themselves. Buggering it up will cost you more money and time, even heartache. This is partly where “never stop learning” comes into play. Additionally, there’s also the legal aspects to consider.
10. Never assume racing parts are suitable
News flash: Racing parts aren’t absolute must-haves unless we race. Again, apply “never stop learning” and you’ll discover that slicks are never to be used on public roads; racing brake fluid is more hydrophilic (attracts water) than “regular” DOT 4 fluid; racing engine oils in the regions of 0W-30 are just too thin for everyday use; etc. Granted, the line between racing and street performance components is increasingly blurred these days, but again, research thoroughly before you make the change.
Conclusion
Riding, even when just commuting, requires a holistic and total approach. There’s just no other way around it in order to ensure that we arrive safely and live another day to ride. So, please keep these pointers in mind and share them with your friends.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-concept-9cento-middleweight-sport-tourer-unveiled/ | BMW Motorrad Concept 9cento middleweight sport-tourer unveiled |
BMW Motorrad has introduced the BMW Concept 9cento middleweight sport-tourer.
The Concept 9cento is essentially a combination of the S 1000 XR’s looks and the F 850 GS’ engine.
A new middleweight sports-tourer is indeed something BMW Motorrad is planning to add to their line-up in the near future.
BMW Motorrad took things to a whole new level during the recent Bike Shed Show in London a couple days ago when they introduced a brand new BMW Concept 9cento. To put things into perspective, it’s like a combination of the BMW S 1000 XR and BMW F 850 GS into one awesome package.
The entire concept of the 9cento focuses on bringing the world of sport touring over to their middleweight range. BMW Motorrad has huge plans for this particular machine and it would be good to do so as the demand for more affordable middleweight sport touring bikes are on a rise.
A combination of sleek, slim, compact, and modern accents is not seen as something that is too futuristic but more of something that we can delightfully look forward to in the coming years. Fitted with an 853cc in-line two-cylinder engine, it will indeed cause quite a stir once it is put into production.
Another amazing spec about the BMW Concept 9cento is its specially-made panniers. Apart from its sexy and smooth appeal, the panniers are connected to the bike using an electromagnet fitted under the seat. This smoothens out the process of attaching and detaching the panniers (which is very cool, indeed).
Watch out, folks. BMW Motorrad has something special up its sleeves and hopefully, we might see the actual production bike very soon.
Official Prices of BMW Motorcycles with 0% GST
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-hunter-350-outsell-the-honda-hness-cb350/ | Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Outsell The Honda H’ness CB350 |
Royal Enfield recently recorded a staggering 145 per cent worldwide sales increase in September 2022 compared to the same period last year.
Royal Enfield sold more than 80,000 motorcycles in September 2022.
India remain as the biggest market for Royal Enfield.
That’s certainly a significant boost to the Indian motorcycle company, especially as we are nearing the end of the year.
However, if you ever wonder what could be the major contributor behind those high numbers, look no further ahead than the company’s Hunter 350.
According to the firm’s sales report, Royal Enfield sold 18,197 units of the Hunter 350 in August and 17,118 units the following month in September.
To put it in perspective, the Hunter 350 outsold Honda’s H’ness 350 by a considerable margin, with the latter recording just 3,980 units in September.
Despite the H’ness 350 being launched in India some time ago, the Hunter 350 garnered higher demand in a shorter period.
Several factors are in play, including how the Hunter 350 is priced lower than the H’ness 350. Also, since the H’ness 350 are only available in India and Japan, it is to be expected that the numbers will be lower.
Nonetheless, it also indicates an upward trend for Royal Enfield’s bike in the global market, especially for the Hunter 350.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/troubleshooting-suspension-symptoms-part-1-preload/ | Troubleshooting Suspension Symptoms (Part 1) – Preload |
We’ve put together a guide to troubleshooting suspension symptoms.
A troubleshooting guide is easier to remember and use.
We start with preload adjustment.
We touched on the basics of suspension set ups some time ago (click here for the article). We decided that a guide on troubleshooting suspension symptoms is easier to understand and remember.
Please refer to the previous article below for the basics on what suspension preload, compression damping and rebound damping.
Suspension Explained (Part 1) – Prologue
Preload adjustment
Virtually all motorcycles are fitted with it, hence it’s where we should start.
To recap, preload affects your suspension’s sag. “Adding” preload causes that end of the motorcycle to rise, and vice versa. However, it DOES NOT adjust the suspension’s stiffness. The “stiff” impression when you crank up the preload is due to the reduced the sag. Think of sag as “freeplay.” Remember, sag DOES NOT affect the spring rate, either.
Preload adjustment affects your bike’s ride height hence chassis geometry. For example, you can have the bike turn into corners quicker by having more preload at the back or less in front. Conversely, you use less preload at the back or a little more in front for more stability in corners.
The blue bolt is the preload adjuster. The more preload you add, the fewer lines it shows
Too little preload (Front)
The front ride rides too low.
The forks bottom out too easily during hard braking or when contacting a bump.
Too much preload (Front)
The front rides high.
Feels harsh.
Overwhelms damping.
Bounces back after hitting bumps.
Weight is shifted to the back wheel causing sluggish turn-in.
Rear preload adjuster
Too little preload (Rear)
Bottoms out quickly, especially when riding with a passenger.
Causes the front to ride high.
Sluggish to turn in as weight is off the front wheel.
Front feels light under hard acceleration.
Bike tends to push wide in corners when the throttle is opened.
Too much preload (Rear)
The rear rides much higher than supposed to.
Damping is overwhelmed.
Feels harsh and bounces back hard after contacting bumps.
Stay tuned for Part 2 tomorrow.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/indonesia-to-launch-2021-honda-cbr150rr/ | Indonesia to launch 2021 Honda CBR150RR? |
The Thai market recently witnessed the launch of the updated 2021 Honda CBR150R that comes with new colour variants, but it looks like PT Astra (Honda Motor Indonesia) might be planning to unveil what some folks are referring to as the 2021 Honda CBR150RR.
Photo credit: Motoblast
We’re not too entirely sure whether this model will come with one ‘R’ or two at the end of its name, but Indonesian medias like Motoblast are saying that it might just be a smaller version of the current Honda CBR250RR, which just entered the Malaysian market not too long ago.
A rendered image of this 150cc sports bike is said to resemble around 70% of the actual production bike and judging by the looks, it’s definitely a lot closer to the CBR250RR than the CBR150R currently available in countries like Thailand.
Thailand’s 2021 Honda CBR150R
What they’re also saying is that this Honda CBR150RR will come with similar specs to its 250cc brother like Showa’s USD SFF (Separate Front Fork) and a slipper clutch. Other possible specs are still very much in the dark, and can only be confirmed if PT Astra has something to say about it.
For now, folks here in Malaysia can only sit and watch but the difference now is that they can enjoy the Honda CBR250RR after many moons of waiting. As for the new CBR150R or CBR150RR, more will be updated once we have the info. Stay tuned.
OKO launches On-Road Motorcycle tyre sealant in Malaysia
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/record-setting-bid-using-two-benelli-tnt-600/ | Record setting Peninsula ride with two Benelli TNT 600 |
Local duo aims to set new record by riding two Benelli TNT 600 bikes around Peninsula Malaysia.
With Merdeka celebrations looming closer this month, patriotic spirits amongst riders are at an all-time high. This is especially so with 36-year-old Kuala Lumpur natives Shaiful Azlan Ibrahim and Muhammad Napi Mat Nawi in their record-setting distance riding bid using two Benelli TNT 600 naked bikes.
Both Shaiful Azlan and Muhammad Napi will attempt to write themselves into the Malaysia Book of Record by becoming the first local riders to circumnavigate Peninsula Malaysia on a large capacity motorcycle.
For their record attempt, Shaiful Azlan and Muhammad Napi have garnered the support of assemblers and distributors Benelli Keeway Motorcycles Sdn Bhd (BKM) as their main sponsors. Also supporting this ride are leading accessories brand GIVI Malaysia as well as engine oils brand Total Oil.
According to Shaiful Azlan, he and riding partner Muhammad Napi aims to achieve something meaningful as local riders in conjunction with the upcoming Merdeka celebrations. He further adds, “We’d like to thank both Benelli Malaysia and GIVI Asia in sponsoring our ride, and for providing us the two fully-equipped Benelli TNT 600 bikes that we will ride with.”
The duo will be flagged off from Putrajaya later this month on August 27 where they will ride towards the Peninsula’s northern region first. After that, the duo will ride towards the southern region via the East Coast before heading back to Kuala Lumpur to complete their journey.
Shaiful further adds that if the ride goes according to plan without problems, the duo aims to reach Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur on August 31 in time to join in on the National Day parade with the two Benelli TNT 600 bikes they are riding.
BKM’s senior business development, communications and external relations manager Wan Najib Wan Daud added, “BKM is proud to be apart of this historic journey besides proving the durability and capability of the Benelli TNT 600 model in this journey as well.”
BKM had already proven that Benelli-branded bikes can go the distance in a ride to China late last year. However, this record-setting bid will be the first true test of the firm’s highly popular Benelli TNT 600 middleweight model indeed. Click here to read our test-ride report on this affordable locally-assembled middleweight naked bike.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-gt-max-launch-first-yamaha-star-centre/ | Yamaha and GT-Max Launch First Yamaha Star Centre |
HLYM and GT-Max Motors convert their shop to the first Yamaha Star Centre.
Besides being a 3S (Sales, Service, Spare Parts) Centre, it also offers customers a greater experience.
HLYM will have more Yamaha Star Centres throughout the country.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) has collaborated with Taman Muda, Shah Alam’s premier motorcycle centre, GT-Max Motors (M) Sdn. Bhd. to transform the long-standing Yamaha Star Shop to their first Yamaha Star Centre. The Yamaha Star Centre was launched on Sunday, 27th August 2017.
The Yamaha Star Centre offers a unique lifestyle showroom concept experience to Yamaha’s customers. The centre also incorporate the Yamaha Star Management System to enhance the level of aftersales service. The Yamaha Star Centre is an exclusive 3S (Sales, Service and Spare Parts) showroom, hence only genuine Yamaha parts will be used.
It is also noteworthy that HLYM’s Technical Department has issued a fuel injector testing machine to GT-Max’s workshop, and will follow through with other authorized dealers in short order.
HLYM is planning to increase the number of Yamaha Star Centres in stages throughout Malaysia to offer the same great experience to customers.
Another important point, GT-Max Motors (M) Sdn. Bhd.’s riders were the champion and runner-up of the inaugural Yamaha NVX Challenge race, held during the Jasin, Melaka Cub Prix round on 6th August 2017.
The launch event atmosphere was that of a carnival, attended by hundreds of people. GT-Max offered special one-day prices as a reward. There was also a lucky draw, consisting of prizes ranging from GT Max goodie bags, Samsung cellphones, to electrical items, to GIVI and X-Dot helmets, and the Grand Prize of a Yamaha Solariz 125 scooter.
The public were given the opportunity to test ride HLYM’s latest star scooter, the NVX 155. Customers’ motorcycles were also treated to a bike wash. An inflatable playground was set up for the attendees’ children.
Lending support to the event were GIVI Malaysia who drove up in their GIVI Bus; Dainese Malaysia who displayed their latest riding gear; Motorparts Asia who showed off their KYT helmets, Shoei helmets, X-Dot helmets, and a few other distributors of high-quality goods.
Gracing the event were various Yamaha motorcycle clubs.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/horex-vr6-cafe-racer-33-ltd-revealed/ | Horex VR6 Café Racer 33 Ltd revealed |
Revived German bikes brand Horex revealed its limited edition VR6 Café Racer 33 Ltd recently, placing itself towards buyers seeking high exclusivity.
As its name suggest, the firm will only produce 33 units of the VR6 Café Racer 33 Ltd. Horex created the bike in collaboration with aftermarket parts brand LSL, explaining the bike’s rich use of LSL-branded parts all-round. These include the seat, tail cover, triple clamps, and footpegs that are then complimented by other parts such as the headlight bracket and the aluminium radiator shield.
Besides that, the chassis is also primed with 43mm FGRT front forks and TTX36 rear shocks supplied by Ohlins, Brembo brakes with radial master cylinder and Monobloc calipers, whilst electronics experts Bosch supplies much of the bike’s electronics including ABS.
The centrepiece of the Horex VR6 Café Racer 33 Ltd however is its intricately engineered engine. The VR6’s 1,218cc narrow-angle V6 engine is primed with three camshafts, as well as three valves per cylinder in a radial configuration, all working in synch to produce 126hp in total.
Continuing with the number ‘3’ theme, the Horex VR6 Café Racer 33 Ltd will see its owners fork out €33,333 to purchase one.
2014 Horex VR6 Cafe Racer 33 Ltd
Source: Visordown
Image source: Autoevolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/three-new-indian-motorcycles-works/ | Three New Indian Motorcycles in the Works |
Chieftain Elite, Chieftain Limited and Roadmaster Classic
All will use the same Indian’s 1,811cc Thunder Stroke V-Twin engine
According to a recent document released by our motorcycling friends from down under, Indian Motorcycle is planning to release three new models that are going to be added to their current line-up. This is clear proof that the American bike manufacturer has a strong presence in the market more than ever before considering that its sister brand, Victory Motorcycles, has closed its doors for good following a recent announcement made by their parent company, Polaris.
Photo source: Australian Motorcycle News
Referring to a recent publication made by Australian Motorcycle News, Polaris has filed the emissions certification documents for all of their bikes but three new names showed up in the list; the Chieftain Elite, Chieftain Limited and Roadmaster Classic. The document also stated the type of engine that they’ll be using which is Indian’s trademarked 1,811cc Thunder Stroke V-Twin power plant.
Other details apart from their weight and transmission type were not specified in the document but if the same engine is being used in the three new models, we assume that it’s the same air and oil-cooled fuel-injected unit that is able to produce around 73hp and 139Nm of torque. The transmission column stated ‘M6’ or ‘Manual Six’ might also indicate that Indian is also probably going to implement their six-speed gear drive wet clutch setup with belt drive in these babies as well.
Indian Chieftain Dark Horse
The model names also gave some clues on these upcoming bikes; these won’t be brand new models to be dropped in the line. The Chieftain Elite and Limited are probably going to be of higher specifications with more or updated equipment. The Roadmaster Classic will most likely be heading into a more timeless or retro paintjob and/or accessories but probably not going to fall far from the original Roadmaster currently on offer.
For now, that’s all we can assume. We might have to wait for a while before Indian makes any official announcement but one thing is for sure, Indian Motorcycle is ready for 2017.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-2015-sasaki-steals-pole-in-sepang/ | Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 – Sasaki steals pole in Sepang |
Sasaki and Masaki storm up to front row but Malaysians Rasol, Rostam and Norrodin hot on their heels ahead of Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 Round 3.
Qualifying for Round 3 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 unfolded here in Sepang. The 30-minute session began early at 9:00am local time and all 21 riders took the track.
The first piece of good news we got for you is that Helmi Azman was cleared to take part in Qualifying – much to the relief of his fellow countrymen and family members present in support. However, Helmi’s pace was undoubtedly not optimal, resulting in him qualifying in 13th position just ahead of rookie Azroy Anuar in 14th, followed by wildcards Idham Khairuddin in 18th and Luth Erwan in 21st.
All eyes for the session were on three other Malaysians, that being Shafiq Rasol, Adam Norrodin and Fakhrusy Rostam as the trio battled it out against several of the grid’s Japanese riders for the fastest times. Setting the pace early on was Yuta Date and Ayumu Sasaki, but Rostam stormed up the timing board soon after, clocking in his best time of 2:18.419 to qualify fourth on the grid.
Towards the later stages, Sasaki managed to squeeze in a blistering laptime of 2:17.285, which secured pole position for the 14-year-old Japanese speedster. Not far behind him was 14-year-old Kazuki Masaki who qualified second with his fastest time of 2:18.046 – a close 0.761 seconds behind Sasaki.
Though both Sasaki and Masaki seized the day’s Qualifying session, they do have three Malaysians hot on their heels. Besides Fakhrusy in fourth, Shafiq Rasol qualified in third after clocking in his best time of 2:18.374, securing his first row starting position. Joining Fakhrusy in row 2 is Adam Norrodin who qualified fifth with his best time of 2:18.533.
For Team Malaysia, the session’s results prove to be very promising. Rest assure, all eyes are on Shafiq in row 1, as well as Fakhrusy and Adam on row 2. Race 1 is set to commence later today at 1:25pm local time just before the day’s scheduled World Superbike Championship (WSBK) Superpole sessions.
Stay tuned to our site for more updates from us today as we cover both the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup and WSBK Malaysia 2015. In the meantime, you can check out more photos in the gallery below or on our official Facebook page as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/pirelli-diablo-supercorsa-sc1-racing-slicks-for-small-capacity-bikes/ | Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC1 Racing Slicks for Small Capacity Bikes |
The Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC1 racing slicks are available for small capacity bikes.
Sizes are 110/70-ZR17 front and 140/70-ZR rear.
They will be available by Round 1 of the 2019 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship.
Everyone’s favourite race and performance tyre brand, Pirelli has launched the Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC1 V3 for smaller capacity bikes.
Smaller capacity classes are ever popular worldwide. We have the underbone a.k.a. cub prix class in Southeast Asia, before stepping up to the 250cc, 300cc and now 400cc classes. One of the biggest problems was finding the correct-sized tyres.
Pirelli recognizes this and debuts the Supercorsa racing slicks in 110/70-ZR17 front and 140/70-ZR17 rear sizes. The new tyres are made with the super-sticky SC1 compound. These are meant for 300cc and 400cc bikes, but the 250cc should find them useful, too.Indeed, Pirelli is the title sponsor and tyre provider for the World Superbike Championship which included the SuperSport 300 class.
Why the need for different tyres? Why not just use bigger rims to fit bigger sizes?
Smaller motorcycles do not have the weight and speed to create the type and of forces like big bikes do. As such, the tyres may not heat up enough and many not be able to retain the heat for optimum performance. Tyres designed for lighter bikes may have the same compounds as their bigger brothers but have slightly different construction.
The new tyres are now available in Europe and the US. BikesRepublic.com got in touch in with the Malaysian Pirelli official distributor Southeast Asia Parts for confirmation. According to them, these new tyres will be available by the first round of the 2019 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2019.
Get ready for even faster times in the Super 250 class!
*Note that these are racing slicks and the racetrack is the only place for them. Do not be foolish and mount them for road use!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-updates-the-legendary-honda-ex5/ | Boon Siew Honda updates the legendary Honda EX5 |
One of the most popular Honda cub models, the Honda EX5 has been refreshed with new colors.
Over 2 millions Honda EX5’s have been sold since its launch in 2017.
Chrome fittings and retro strips distinguish the new models.
The Honda EX5 is arguably among the most successful motorcycles, ever. In fact, more than 2 million units have been sold in Malaysia since it was introduced in 1987. It has proven to be among the most versatile and capable machines, and now it is about to get better.
In a press release issued just hours ago, Boon Siew Honda has just announced that there is a new EX5 available in the market featuring a new color – Magenta with retro stripes (shown above).
The Honda EX5 is the first Honda cub model to come equipped with fuel injection, which made the bike more powerful yet more economical than ever before. And through further improvement, the bike today requires a minimal air-fuel ratio, so using electronic control techniques today’s EX5 is actually more environmentally friendly than it has ever been.
And so, the new Honda EX5 can be distinguished by its trendier look with retro stripes, and adding to that classic touch is a chrome emblem and a chrome rear grip for passengers (shown above) to hold on to, as well as a chrome muffler cover which does not only add to its appearance but also adds an element of safety to keep heat away from the passenger.
Two variants of the EX5 are available, one comes with spoke rims and is available in pearl magellanic black and pearl nightfall blue and is priced at RM5,150.54 with GST. The other model comes with cast wheels (shown above), and is available three colors (pearl nightfall blue, candy scintillated red, space magenta metallic) and is priced at RM5,404.94.
Both bikes come with electric starters and a two year or 20,000km warranty.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/jawa-to-rebadge-the-bristol-veloce-500/ | Jawa To Rebadge The Bristol Veloce 500 |
Jawa is set to rebadge Bristol Veloce 500, as confirmed by these spy shot photos circulating online.
The Bristol Veloce 500 is a retro-classic scrambler styled motorcycle by Bristol, a Philippine-based motorcycle manufacturer.
Based on the photos, Jawa has renamed the model as RVR500, with the badge can be seen just below the tank.
Currently, the Bristol Veloce 500 is priced at around PHP348,000 (RM29k).
The motorcycle gets rolling with a liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder 471cc engine capable of producing 47hp @ 8,500rpm and 43Nm @ 6,500rpm.
Other features include:
USD fork
rear monoshock
single disc
digital display
dua-channel ABS
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/husqvarna-401-models-made-in-india/ | Husqvarna 401 models made in India? |
The upcoming road-going versions of the Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen concepts rumoured to enter production in India.
Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen concept
Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen concept
When the both Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen concepts debuted during EICMA 2014, it was certain that Husqvarna would indeed produce them in the near future. And according to recent reports, the KTM-owned sub-brand looks set to produce both models in India. (read our initial report here)
Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen concept
Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen concept
Based on the KTM 390 Duke platform, the Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen concept café racer-styled naked bike and its scrambler sibling the Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen concept have already garnered quite an appeal amongst its fans. And, since they are both based upon the KTM 390 Duke, the possibility of both models being produced in the KTM-Bajaj production facility in India seems very likely.
Confirming this were the reported hints dropped by Bajaj Motorcycles India’s senior vice president Amit Nandi.The exec was quorted by sources in hinting that a new range of “made-in-India Husqvarna bikes” will be inducted into its operations sometime in 2017.
With the two concept’s showcase during EICMA 2014, Husqvarna has effectively confirmed its return to the road with both models. Versions powered by the KTM 390 Duke-derived 373cc single-cylinder engine will also be accompanied by a 125cc version as well that is based on the KTM 125 Duke model.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 concept @ EICMA 2015
Also in the pipeline is a larger KTM 690 Duke-based Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 concept that was showcased during EICMA 2015 last November (read our report here). The Vitpilen 701 concept is most certainly bound for production and could also be produced by the KTM-Bajaj facility in India sometime in the future.
Sources: Visordown / AutoEvolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/breaking-vinales-will-not-race-in-austria/ | BREAKING: Vinales Will Not Race In Austria |
Yamaha has decided to benched Maverick Vinales ahead of the Austrian GP happening this weekend.
According to Yamaha’s official statement, the decision was taken after an in-depth analysis of the M1 used by Maverick last weekend.
The data reveal that the Spaniards may have caused engine damage, putting his life and others at risk.
“Yamaha regrets to announce that Maverick Viñales’ entry to this weekend’s Austrian MotoGP event has been withdrawn by the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
“The absence follows the suspension of the rider by Yamaha due to the unexplained irregular operation of the motorcycle by the rider during last weekend’s Styria MotoGP race.
“Yamaha’s decision follows an in-depth analysis of telemetry and data over the last days.
“Yamaha’s conclusion is that the rider’s actions could have potentially caused significant damage to the engine of his YZR-M1 bike which could have caused serious risks to the rider himself and possibly posed a danger to all other riders in the MotoGP race,” explained Yamaha in a statement.
Despite the stern action, the team has decided not to replace Vinales at the Austrian GP with Fabio Quartararo set to be the only representative from the factory team.
Moreover, Yamaha hinted that the 26-year-old might also miss out on the rest of the season.
“Decisions regarding the future races will be taken after a more detailed analysis of the situation and further discussions between Yamaha and the rider.”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/naza-group-donates-rm1-25-million-to-covid-19-fund/ | Naza Group donates RM1.25 million to Covid-19 fund |
Any form of help in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic is welcomed and the folks from Naza Group knows all too well regarding the current situation facing not just our country but the rest of the world. That’s why they’ve decided to donate RM1.25 million to the Covid-19 fund set up by the Malaysian government in their efforts to fight the pandemic.
The Group Executive Chairman & CEO of Naza Corporation Holdings, SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, presented the cheque yesterday afternoon to Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin at the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya.
According to SM Nasarudin, “We hope the contribution by Naza Group will help alleviate the plight of those financially impacted by job disruptions and loss of earnings resulting from this global pandemic. We are all thankful for the selfless commitment shown by our medical practitioners, the police and armed forces and other frontliners in helping to manage this situation and keep us safe.”
“Apart from this monetary contribution, Naza Group will actively look at ways we can leverage through our businesses to assist the Ministry of Health in managing this unprecedented crisis. As Malaysians we must come together during this critical period to overcome the adversities that lie ahead,” added SM Nasarudin.
Ducati Malaysia launches new Ducati PJ showroom
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-himalayan-450-rally-in-the-works/ | Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ‘Rally’ in the works? |
A more off road-focused Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ‘Rally’ is supposedly in the pipelines, rumoured to pack an improved powertrain, transmission and on board electronics.
Spyshot surfaces showing a new and supposedly premium ‘Rally’ version of the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
Evidently clear are the off road-focused features traits like its raised front end plus front beak design.
Rumours indicate the enhanced powertrain will feature liquid-cooling that promises increased power and performance.
Other rumoured additions include a host of electronics that include selectable ride modes, traction control and switchable ABS.
Indian motorcycle maker Royal Enfield is on a roll with its Himalayan 450 dual-sport. Whilst we’re still drooling over said model’s recently launched 411 Scram offshoot, credible sources are reporting that a more off road-focused Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ‘Rally’ is in the pipelines.
Fuelling this is a recent spyshot that surfaced via Indian two wheels portal Motorbeam. It shows a fully camouflaged Himalayan test and development unit being put through its paces out in the open. Despite efforts to cover it up, there’s still plenty to note form said test mule.
Highlights include a raised front end with a beak, followed by the adoption of what appears to be 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels shod in knobbly off-road rubber. Other key giveaways of its intended use off-road include a new upswept exhaust pipe and its increased ground clearance as well.
Under the skin, this purported Royal Enfield Himalayan ‘Rally’ will sport a freshly engineered 450cc single-cylinder engine that will reportedly deliver around 40HP, and rumours suggests that this power bump is likely the result of the adoption of liquid-cooling too, but this remains unconfirmed for now.
Rumours also indicate that the enhanced powerplant will be paired with a new six-speed transmission, as well as electronics to enable two selectable ride modes, three-level traction control, as well as a switchable ABS suite. Again, these remain unconfirmed rumours for now.
What remains unclear too is if this upcoming ‘Rally’ version of the Royal Enfield Himalayan will be offered as a series production offering or a limited-run special. More details are expected closer to the bike’s launch where rumours indicate it will likely be offered as a 2023 model year offering.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-modenas-vulcan-s-will-be-introduced-later-this-year/ | Confirmed: MODENAS Vulcan S Will Be Introduced Later This Year! |
Kawasaki has increased its stake in MODENAS from 19% to 30% and part of this plan includes the local assembly of certain Kawasaki models.
MODENAS has confirmed that the Vulcan S will be assembled in Malaysia.
The plans will eventually include the local-assembly of all twin-cylinder Kawasaki models.
Ever since Kawasaki increased its stake in MODENAS, the Malaysian motorcycle industry has been abuzz with which Kawasaki models will be re-introduced as MODENAS models.
Besides confirming that the Ninja 250 and Z250 (ABS and non-ABS) will be locally-assembled and introduced as MODENAS models, Modenas CEO En Roslan has also confirmed a third model.
The ever popular Kawasaki Vulcan S will also be locally assembled at the MODENAS plant in Gurun and introduced as the MODENAS Vulcan S.
“We will be introducing four Kawasaki CKD models this year, and one of them will be the Vulcan S,” confirmed En Roslan.
As part of its strategy, all Kawasaki models assembled in Malaysia by MODENAS will carry the MODENAS brand instead of Kawasaki.
MODENAS will also be distributing CBU Kawasaki models such as the Ninja ZX10R, the Z900RS, the Versys 1000 and also the Ninja 1000 SX.
As for purchasing the Vulcan S, the model will be introduced towards the end of the year at Kawasaki shops throughout Malaysia.
MODENAS says it plans to introduce two types of Kawasaki shops in Malaysia:
1. Kawasaki Shop: This term is as simple as it gets, and the Kawasaki Shop will only sell Kawasaki models exclusively as well as genuine Kawasaki accessories and merchandise.
2. Kawasaki Station: This is a multibrand dealership that will also offer Kawasaki products. This is not an exclusive dealership.
There is no indication in pricing, but MODENAS has hinted that it will be lower than before.
MODENAS Ninja 250 and Z250 Almost Ready For Launch!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/radical-xtr-pepo-siluro-custom-ducati-monster-1200/ | Radical XTR Pepo Siluro custom Ducati Monster 1200 |
The XTR Pepo Siluro is one radically cool custom Ducati Monster 1200.
This stunning new creation from Spain-based builders XTR Pepo, called the XTR Pepo Siluro, caught our attention recently. Commissioned by Ducati Spain, it sees the new generation Ducati Monster 1200 being customised by its builders radically.
What’s really hard to imagine though is the fact that the XTR Pepo Siluro was customised using many of the stock Monster 1200’s pieces. Nevertheless, builders at XTR Pepo still went to town with plenty of things including using its signature ‘RAD’ seat designed that covered in suede in the Siluro.
XTR Pepo also used a custom subframe unit with a minimalist outlook to it, perhaps explaining the shortened rear-end too. The scrambler-styled high-mounted exhausts running down the right side of the bike is also a sight to behold, and it comes supplied from renowned Ducati exhaust specialists Termignoni.
Eagled-eye readers would’ve also spotted the XTR Pepo Siluro’s distinctively customised new headlamp that replaces the stock round-shaped unit. What we absolutely love here though is the single-sided swingarm assembly being retained, which adds further to the radically customised outlooks as well.
It is worth noting that when the new generation Ducati Monster 1200 was released, the famed Italian marque had customisation in mind as well. It goes without saying that XTR Pepo’s recent creation based on the popular naked bike is a refreshing sight indeed.
Hopefully, XTR Pepo’s efforts with the Siluro wil inspire other builders to take up a custom build with the new generation Ducati Monster model line up as well.
Check out more images of the XTR Pepo Siluro Ducati Monster 1200 in the gallery below.
Source: XTR Pepo via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-partners-cfmoto-to-bring-back-the-up-spec-790-adventure-r/ | KTM Partners CFMoto To Bring Back The Up-Spec 790 Adventure R |
In 2021, KTM made waves with the debut of the 890 Adventure and 890 Adventure R, effectively rendering the existing 790 Adventure lineup obsolete.
KTM and CFMoto teamed up to bring the up-spec KTM 790 Adventure R.
The KTM 790 Adventure R to feature new chassis and styling.
However, the Austrian OEM has since revived the base model 790 Adventure in 2023 as a budget-conscious alternative to its big-bore cousin. Now, KTM and CFMoto are partnering on a project to bring back the up-spec 790 Adventure R.
According to type-approval documents filed in China, the KTM and CFMoto partnership plans to revive the 790 Adventure R with new chassis and styling accommodations. The prototype image included in the documents confirms that the off-road-biased variant will sport robust 48mm WP XPLOR suspension, a high-mounted front fender, and aggressive semi-knobby tires.
While the filings don’t indicate the model’s performance figures, we anticipate the R trim to retain the standard model’s 94 horsepower and 87Nm of torque. However, without its windshield and a KTMR2R sticker plastered to its front panel, the project looks very much in progress.
As such, KTM and CFMoto could still make changes before the 790 Adventure R returns to the market.
The 790 Adventure R is expected to set itself apart from the base model 790 Adventure and the 890 Adventure R with its off-road-biased features. Given previous iterations of the 790 Adventure R and the existing 890 Adventure R, adventure riders can expect a capable and rugged machine.
KTM’s decision to partner with CFMoto for production could also make the resurrected ADV more affordable for adventure riders. The Chinese manufacturer’s experience in production and cost-effective processes could help keep the price competitive.
Overall, the 790 Adventure R’s return is exciting news for adventure riders looking for a more budget-friendly, off-road-capable bike. While we await an official unveiling from KTM, the type-approval documents provide a tantalizing glimpse into what riders can expect from the revived model.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/dainese-presents-valentino-rossi-secret-room/ | Dainese presents Valentino Rossi’s ‘Secret Room’ |
If you’ve ever wondered what happens to all of the racing suits, gloves, boots, and helmets that have been used and worn by nine-time MotoGP world champion, Valentino Rossi, Dainese is here to let you know. Hidden away from the public, they’ve posted a four-series video on YouTube showcasing Valentino Rossi’s ‘secret room’.
So, what’s inside this secret room? How about all of the Dainese racing gears that Valentino Rossi have used throughout his racing career? From the very first suit he wore back in from 1993 (27 years ago) right down to the high-tech ones he wears today, it’s a walk down memory lane for Rossi and his fans as well as the progression and development of Dainese’s racing suits over the years.
Even during his early days of racing, Valentino Rossi praised how lightweight and quick the company developed into updating their racing gear offerings throughout his career. From the move towards boots tuck within the suit to the introduction of modern airbags, safety in racing has come a long way and Rossi was there at every stage of development for Dainese.
There are four episodes related to Dainese and Rossi’s secret room filled with hundreds of his racing gears and so far, only three episodes have aired on YouTube. If you’re a Rossi fan, these videos should be a special one for you as Rossi himself showcased and explained all his favourite ones, including some special items he wore in the past. In short, it’s awesome AF.
Train with Valentino Rossi at Dainese Riding Masters MotoGP Class!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-ultra-cool-scrambler-is-called-the-brough-lawrence-nefud-and-it-costs-rm260000/ | This ultra cool Scrambler is called the Brough Lawrence Nefud and it costs RM260,000! |
Boutique performance motorcycle brand Brough Superior has introduced this uber cool bike called the Lawrence Nefud.
Costing over RM260,000 before taxes, the neo-classic is based on the Lawrence roadster shown above, which the Anglo/French company introduced back in 2021 as a nod to the company’s most famous customer – Captain T.E Lawrence or more famously known as Lawrence of Arabia.
The Lawrence Nefud is a limited-edition modern evolution of the iconic SS100 V-Twin introduced in 2014, which itself is based on the first SS100 first introduced back in 1919.
The Nefud is powered by the firm’s signature 997cc 102bhp liquid-cooled V-twin, titanium frame and a novel Hossack/Fior-style front suspension and conventional 19 and 17-inch wheels. It also features a new subframe and a new saddle to make it a two seater. The retro looks are further capped by the upswept exhausts and classic speedometer.
The retro styling of the Nefud is further accentuated by a more upright riding position with higher, trail-styled bars and lower foot pegs.
The semi-knobby tyres are Michelin Anakee’s and the entire design consist of blacked-out chassis components, a bash plate, fly screen, protective headlight grille with a special rust-red paint job inspired by desert sand.
If you are wondering what is up with that geeky name, we have already explained that it is sort of inspired by Lawrence of Arabia.
The Nefud name though is from the An Nefud desert in the Northern Arabian peninsular, which according to Brough, was much loved by Lawrence and is near the site of the Battle of Aqaba, one of Lawrence’s greatest victory during the Arabian revolt of 1917.
The 200kg Scrambler is unlikely to be seen anywhere in Malaysia or on any dirt roads, at its price it will most likely end up being a collectors item.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-and-next-bike-sdn-bhd-reaffirm-partnership/ | Ducati and Next Bike Sdn Bhd Reaffirm Partnership |
Next Bike Sdn Bhd is a subsidiary company of Naza Group and has been distributing Ducati bikes since 2008.
Ducati and Next Bike Sdn Bhd reaffirm their commitment to growing the brand in Malaysia.
Next Bike Sdn Bhd will relocate the Ducati Malaysia HQ to a new outlet in Petaling Jaya.
The new outlet will receive a RM3million upgrade and will feature state-of-the-art technology for servicing Ducatis and Scramblers.
Next Bike Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of one of Malaysia’s largest privately-owned companies, the Naza Group, has been distributing Ducati motorcycles since 2008. Over the years, Next Bike Sdn Bhd has built the Ducati brand to be among the most desired in Malaysia.
The company achieved this by offering a state-of-the-art showroom and service centre, a well-equipped and knowledgeable staff, attractive prices, an engaging online presence, and a superbly active owners club known as the Desmo Owners Club.
With this in place, the Ducati brand has enjoyed unprecedented success under the stewardship of Next Bike Sdn Bhd. Its most popular model has quite surprisingly been the Ducati Multistrada (above), followed by the Monster 821, Panigale V4 and the Hypermotard 939.
“Next Bike Sdn Bhd has always been and will always continue to be dedicated to building the Ducati brand in Malaysia. We want to offer our Ducati owners world-class aftersales service and we are always working on improving the ownership experience of Ducati riders,” said Nazman S.H.C Yusof (top, centre), Head of 2-Wheel Division, Naza Automotive Group.
Nazman has been with the Naza Group since 2012, and has helmed the two-wheel business for the company since 2018 and personally overlooks the progress and development of Ducati bikes in Malaysia.
Commenting on the relationship between Ducati and Next Bike Sdn Bhd, Mr Raffaele Fusilli (top, left), the Global Sales Director for Ducati Motor Holding, said, “The working experience with Naza has been successful for us. Naza is not only passionate for Ducati and the values it represents, but with Naza, Ducati can count on one of the most important business brands in Malaysia. We know we can rely on Naza to build Ducati in Malaysia.”
Mr Raffaele was in Malaysia for a meeting with the top management of Naza and also took some time out to meet select members of the media. He further commented, “Naza is in the right direction, the company is always looking for ways to grow and so is Ducati, so that makes Naza the right partner for us because we have common interests. Naza also focuses on making customers happy first and then only comes sales, which is in line with Ducati’s direction,” he concluded.
During the meeting, Nazman took the opportunity to introduce plans to continue Ducati’s exceptional growth in Malaysia, outlining plans for the first half of the year.
“2019 is going to be a year unlike any other for Ducati Malaysia, we will be introducing nine new models this year, but most importantly we will be moving to a new headquarters that will be purposefully designed to offer the very best of Ducati, its sub-brand Scrambler Ducati, as well as parts, accessories, apparel and riding gear,” said Nazman.
Ducati Malaysia will be relocating to the former Harley-Davidson KL showroom by the federal highway as part of a RM3million plan to re-energise the Ducati brand in Malaysia. Image source: WeMotor
He continued to say, “Next Bike Sdn Bhd has invested RM3 million into the new 3S centre which will be twice as big as the previous one. It will have a beautiful showroom that showcases the beauty of Ducati and Scrambler motorcycles, and most importantly it will focus on after sales. Ducati customers can expect to have their bikes serviced in an advanced workshop with the latest tools and equipment specially designed to service Ducati bikes. We also want to be a pioneer in rider and motorcycle safety, so we hope that this new centre will allow Ducati owners to come together to share ideas on riding and also to have programs that will help improve rider safety”
Nazman further added that there will be a new team set up specifically to build the Scrambler Ducati brand (above) in Malaysia and will operate independently of the Ducati team. This will be done to help grow the Scrambler brand in the country independently from the Ducati brand.
Next Bike Sdn Bhd is also looking to strengthen its position in the southern state of Johor; “We have always been in Johor, but we are looking to create a bigger presence through a new dealer. With Ducati Motor Holding, we are actively interviewing possible dealers and should be able to secure one soon. We already have 3 dealers in central Malaysia and one dealer in Penang, with a new dealer in the south, we are confident that we will reach a wider audience and this will in turn help to spur sales as well as create a positive ownership experience,” commented Nazman.
Ducati Malaysia seems set to enjoy strong results for 2019 with a well thought out plan. With that, it seems like there has never been a better time to own a Ducati. We for one absolutely loved the Scrambler Ducati 1100 Sport, read all about this fantastic machine by clicking here.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-gsx-8r-in-the-works/ | Suzuki GSX-8R In The Works? |
Could a Suzuki GSX-8R be in the works? According to reports from the Japanese motorcycle press, Suzuki might be gearing up to launch a sports bike based on the GSX-8S platform that could potentially become the GSX-8R.
the new 776cc parallel-twin engine could potentially leads to a new fully-faired sportsbike from Hamamatsu.
popular Japanese publication, Young-Machine hints at the arrival of the so called GSX-8R.
Last year, Suzuki introduced the GSX-8S and V-Strom 800DE, which marked the brand’s first all-new models in quite some time. These bikes showcased a new engine platform and chassis from the Japanese manufacturer. However, the spotlight has now shifted to what Suzuki might do with the parallel-twin platform in the future.
Rumours have been circulating about a possible new sports bike from Suzuki, and popular sources like Young Machine have hinted that it could be the next release from the company.
*credit photo: Young-Machine
These rumors have gained attention and even sparked the imagination of motorcycle designer and YouTuber Mich Superbikes, who has created his own vision of a fully-faired machine based on the GSX-8S, which could potentially evolve into the GSX-8R.
For Suzuki, this would be an interesting move considering their recent decision to discontinue the iconic GSX-R1000 and withdraw from motorsport in an official capacity.
As of now, Suzuki has not made any official announcements about the potential GSX-8R. However, with the growing anticipation and speculations, motorcycle enthusiasts eagerly await any news regarding the development of this exciting new addition to Suzuki’s range
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/metzeler-racetec-td-slick-the-easiest-track-tyres-you-can-buy/ | Metzeler Racetec™ TD Slick – the easiest track tyres you can buy! |
When it comes to track day riding, getting the best set of tyres will probably make a huge difference between a good and great day at the circuit. Slicks are by far the best, but you’ll need to carry a lot of extra equipment like stands, tyre warmers, generators, etc. With the new Metzeler Racetec™ TD Slick, you won’t have to worry about any of that.
Dedicated to racers and track day enthusiasts, the new Metzeler Racetec™ TD Slick offers ease of use for race training, competition, and even some serious fun around the track. Designed to be used immediately, these slick tyres won’t require the use of tyre warmers to get it up to working temperatures.
Offering high and consistent performance, the latest slick rubbers from Metzeler also have high abrasion properties with the possibility of reversing the tyres between sessions if the circuit wears more on one side, like Sepang International Circuit.
Riding with slick tyres is definitely something that all sport riders want but with the requirement to carry all those extra equipment for optimum performance and safety, the idea is usually left behind. Metzeler’s latest Racetec™ TD Slick offers a ‘Plug and Play’ product that offers great performance and grip without breaking the bank.
Some highlighted features of the Racetec™ TD Slick are:
Quick warm-up to optimum working temperatures
Racing compound with low glass transition temperature polymers, carbon black & high melting temperature resins
Single-ply radial construction
Suitable for use from low operating temperatures, with a consequent resistance to cold tearing
Reusable over multiple sessions
High resistance to thermal decay
As for sizing, there’s only one for the front tyre (120/70 ZR 17 NHS TL) and several for the rear (180/55, 180/60, 190/55, 200/55). The gods of racing have bestowed us, mere mortals, with the chance to use slick tyres without all the added hassle. We will surely try to get our hands on a few once it’s here in Malaysia.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rempit-hooligan-causes-scary-accident/ | Rempit (Hooligan) Causes Scary Accident |
Photo credit Info Roadblock JPJ/POLIS
A rempit botched a wheelie and crashed, which led to a serious accident involving other road users.
The dashcam video was recorded by one of the vehicles involved.
All parties were thankfully okay.
The rempit (hooligan) menace is nothing short of an epidemic on Malaysian roads. In this latest case near Gua Chempedak, one botched a wheelie and crashed, which led to a serious accident involving other road users.
In the video below, the Nissan Almera’s dashcam recorded a group of three bikes ridden in dangerous manner. One of them pulled a wheelie after the on-bridge.
Further down the road, while a woman in the car can be heard planning a potluck party, a white Mitsubishi Triton 4×4 swerved hard left. It ran over a crashed motorcycle on the road and went cartwheeling toward the vehicle that was recording the entire episode.
The Nissan swerved left to avoid the barreling Triton but was still hit on the rear right quarter, and sliced off the road.
Photo credit Info Roadblock JPJ/POLIS
The rempit was caught by passersby. All three vehicles involved i.e. motorcycle, Triton and Almera suffered major damage. All parties walked away from the accident, but we hate to imagine the outcome if there were infants or children in the vehicles.
As usual, the “onion army” was out in force in social media, criticizing the rempit who caused the accident. Some even went as far as questioning why didn’t the 4×4 driver just run over rider. Additionally, as commonly seen in accidents involving motorcycles, there were parties who criticized motorcyclists as a whole, as if we are collectively guilty.
Photo credit Info Roadblock JPJ/POLIS
Truth is, no responsible motorcyclist can stand even the sight of a rempit. These cretins serve no other purpose than putting the general public at danger and sully the good name of motorcyclists everywhere. And don’t get us started about those who turn into dogs who love to chase bikes bigger than theirs.
There has to be some concerted approach in ridding the streets of this menace. Criticizing on social media serves no discernible purpose.
The rempit – Photo credit Info Roadblock JPJ/POLIS
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/scientists-concur-that-riding-motorcycles-reduces-stress/ | Scientists Concur That Riding Motorcycles Reduces Stress |
We have long known that riding motorcycles reduces stress.
However, there was no real result to show non-believers.
Now a research concur that riding is really beneficial for health.
There is a meme which says “Therapy: You never see a motorcycle parked outside a psychiatrist’s office.” Every serious motorcyclist knows there’s nothing more pleasurable than riding a motorcycle. However, there was no empirical result to show non-believers.
Now, a group of researchers from UCLA’s Semel Institue for Neuroscience and Human Behavior has just confirmed it as a fact. The research was funded by Harley-Davidson and to be presented later this year.
50 experienced riders took part in the study. They wore a mobile electroencephalogram (EEG) which looks like a shower cap covered with electrodes to detect the brain’s electrical activity. Their brain activity and hormone levels were recorded before they got on a bike. They were then set loose on a motorcycle and a car afterwards.
The results were:
Riding a motorcycle reduces cortisol stress biomarkers by 28%.
Riding a motorcycle for 20 minutes increased heart rates by 11% and adrenaline by 27%. The readings were similar to a light exercise.
Sensory focus was enhanced while riding a motorcycle compared to driving a car.
Brain activity suggested increased alertness while riding compared to driving.
UCLA Professor and senior team member, Dr. Mark Cohen said that no lab experiment could duplicate the feelings a motorcyclist has on the open road.
“The differences in participants’ neurological and physiological responses between riding and other measured activities were quite pronounced,” continued Dr. Don Vaughn. “This could be significant for mitigating everyday stresses.”
So, there you have it. Whoever created that meme was right.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ultimate-barn-find-includes-six-vincent/ | Ultimate Barn Find Includes Six Vincent |
1938 Vincent Series-A HRD Twin - Photo credit RideApart
Seven vintage motorcycles were found in a Los Angeles warehouse.
The discovery included six Vincent.
Vincents were renowed for the speed and quality.
You’re doing your laundry and checking through each pocket to make sure they’re empty. And suddenly, your hand pulls out a RM 50 note. Note the elation of that find. Now imagine discovering 7 rare vintage bikes – 6 of them being Vincent Motorcycles!
These following bikes were found in a Los Angeles warehouse after the passing of their owner. A liquidation firm has been nominated to auction the bikes and they told of an owner who had imported the bikes in the 1960s when he moved to the States. He also brought along a large cache of spare parts from the UK.
The Vincents discovered are:
1938 Vincent Series-A HRD Twin
1938 Vincent Series-A HRD Twin – Photo credit RideApart
Vincent stopped production of the Series-A in 1939 due to WW2, then resuming business in 1946. That makes this Series-A even rarer. Only 78 Series-A were ever made, with probably only 40 to 50 still intact.
1948 Vincent Series-B Rapide
What made Vincents so much sought after? Performance. The Series-B Rapide already had a top speed of 177 km/h right out of the crate! It was the world’s fastest motorcycle of the era. Remember that this was at a time when motorcycle tyres were just a little wider than those on bicycles. Company owner Phillip Vincent and his genius chief engineer Phil Irving modified the Rapide event further, resulting in the latter Rapide which hit 201 km/h.
1950 Vincent Comet (basket case)
The liquidation company reported this bike as a basket case.
1953 Vincent Series-C “Black Shadow”
1953 Vincent Series-C Black Shadow – Photo credit RideApart
The Black Shadow and its Black Lightning racing counterpart are probably the best-known Vincents. It was a groundbreaking motorcycle when it was launched, especially in terms of its suspension and detailed quality work that’ll make modern bikes cry. Check out the picture. Vincent made only 42 Series-C, reported each at a loss to the company.
1955 Vincent Victor (replica)
1955 Vincent Victor Replica – Photo credit RideApart
If you do some research on Vincent motorcycles, you’d find that the company’s true passion was pushing the boundaries of motorcycle technology. They already experimented with a full fairing back in 1955. There were three models: The Black Knight based on the Rapide, Black Prince based on the Shadow, and Victor based on the Comet.
The concept was too far ahead of its time, so Vincent made only 1 Victor. This owner probably couldn’t obtain one, thus he modified his Comet into this “Victor.”
1954 Vincent Rapide D/C
1954 Vincent Rapide D:C – Photo credit RideApart
These were produced one year before Vincent went under. But that didn’t mean the bike was under-built for it was still imbued with Vincent’s legendary built quality, technology and performance. Vincent kept losing money because their bikes were expensive to build and were priced much higher than the competition.
Source: RideApart
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-honda-cbr650r-test-review-the-baby-fireblade/ | 2019 Honda CBR650R Test & Review – “The Baby Fireblade” |
2019 Honda CBR650R
The 2019 Honda CBR650R is the successor to the CBR650F.
The new bike is sportier, yet more comfortable.
As it stands, it’s the most powerful bike in its class.
The 2019 Honda CBR650R raised a lot of eyebrows when its concept was shown off at EICMA 2018.
The 2018 Honda CBR650F it replaced was already a good bike, of course, but the 2019 model has something else going for it, namely the 2019 Honda CBR1000RR styling.
Gone is the “diamond” shaped headlight, replaced by a pair of super-bright LED headlamps and an upper cowl which gives the bike an unmistakable shape. In fact, even we thought we were looking at the 1000cc model when the CBR650R rolled toward us.
There are a number of updates, as well. The new bike now has upside down Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) forks; revised rear suspension, an LCD screen which resembles the one from the CB1000R, new wheels, seats, taillight. The new bike is also 5 kg lighter than its predecessor.
The engine was also reworked. The 650cc, DOHC, inline-Four has a new ECU and higher rev ceiling, among other things, bumping power up to 95 hp from 90 hp.
All that aside, the revised ergonomics was perhaps the best news. Honda moved the clip-ons forward by 30 mm and dropped them slightly. The rider’s footpegs were relocated by 3mm rearward and 6mm higher. Standard seat height was kept at an accessible 810 mm.
The new ergonomics was immediately apparent as soon as we got on. It gave us a riding position that had us “embracing” the bike rather than being perched on it. It felt a whole lot more “normal” than the weird position of the old bike. The old bike placed us low in the seat while the handlebars were somewhere between neither sporty nor comfortable. The new seating position is sportier but gave a more natural reach to the handlebars, so that your palms are not pressed onto them.
The new ECU kicks the engine into life with a deep VROOM. The engine was pretty silent without much mechanical noises, too.
There is traction control albeit a basic type without different modes. ABS is standard.
The clutch needed some getting used to as it engages very near the end of the lever’s travel. Some adjustments later gave the lever plenty of freeplay, instead.
Let out the clutch, add some gas and the bike pulls away hard from idle and all the way through its rev range. The exhaust note starts with a roar rather than a howl. These aspects surprised us as they were the opposites of 600-650cc inline-Four bikes. In fact, the engine felt a whole more like a three-cylinder engine, given its urgent torque. The way it punched forward and that roar and subsequent howl from the exhaust made us think of the CBR1000RR.
The 600cc inline-Fours we tested in the past needed to revved past 5,000 RPM for any meaningful acceleration. It’s this point that 600cc inline-Fours received a bad reputation in other countries as being gutless. That’s why other manufacturers such as Kawasaki and Yamaha went to the two-cylinder format, instead.
Not so the CBR650R. It had plenty of pulling power in its midrange, as well. As such, we found ourselves riding through heavy traffic in fourth or fifth gear, without needing to downshift often. Just crack the throttle open and the bike takes off.
Well done, Honda.
As for the handling, whereas the previous bike’s was “okay” the new bike’s would slay plenty of other bikes when maneuvering and cornering. The revised ergonomics makes the bike feel like a 250cc bike between the legs and arms, letting you chuck the bike around with abandon.
Coupled with its light weight, the bike absolutely flew through corners.
But! That was after we adjusted the rear suspension. Remember, the CBR650R may have a number of “R” but it isn’t an out-and-out sportbike like the CBR600RR. Instead, it’s a daily “sporty bike.” In its standard setting (or that some previous tester had adjusted it), the rear shock’s preload had the rear end of the bike squatting too much. In fact, it looked like the rear part of the belly pan was near the ground.
In this setting, too much weight was shifted to the rear and the handlebars wiggled as we neared maximum lean. Cranking up the preload (by 4 positions on the ramped adjuster collar) of the shifted some weight to the front, allowing the bike to steer much quicker and become more stable at deep lean angles.
Again, being an everyday bike meant that the suspension was a little soft in terms of compression damping. Consequently, it felt harsh when contacting large bumps as there was too much rebound damping, instead.
The lack of compression damping in the forks made them dive like crazy during hard braking, which had the rear of the bike wriggling about. It’s exciting if you’re bred on MX or supermoto, but scary if you’re a new rider.
It may not be a big deal for prospective owners, but it needs to be reworked by a suspension specialist if you intend to ride it at the track. (This writer is considering to buy one for track use.)
One last note before we end this review. That engine is super frugal on petrol! 12 litres of RON 95 usually returned around 250 km despite our hamfisted riding i.e. hard acceleration and high running speeds (140 to 170 km/h) on a consistent basis.
Conclusion
The 2019 Honda CBR650R is as good as it gets for a bike of this category and price point. Don’t compare it to the supersports bikes like the Kawasaki ZX-6R or Yamaha YZF-R6, or the upcoming Aprilia RS 660 as those are pure sportbikes. The CBR650R is an everyday bike, on the other hand.
As per the RM 45,000 sub-700cc category, it’s the best handling and powerful bike. It’s worth the money, hence why we call it the Baby Fireblade.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/benda-to-reveal-all-new-lfc700-in-july-inline-4-97hp/ | Benda To Reveal All-New LFC700 In July – Inline-4, 97HP! |
In July, the Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, Benda, is expected to reveal the company’s latest model, the LFC700.
Firstly introduced as a concept cruiser last year with the codename LF-01, Benda will pull the wrap over the new model in an official event scheduled at Xi’an, China.
While China motorcycle brand is known to copy other established motorcycle in the market, Benda puts in an original design altogether.
Combining a futuristic element, the LFC700 is powered by a 680cc inline-four engine capable of producing around 97hp, making it the most powerful motorcycle ever produced by Benda.
Based on the concept bike, the LFC700 is expected to offer a full TFT display, assist and slipper clutch, ABS, and a hill start assist.
To make things even better, the LFC700 is expected to be priced at around CNY50,000 (RM31,800), making it very desirable for new and experienced riders.
(source: BikeDekho)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-vinales-to-test-the-aprilia-rs-gp-in-misano/ | MotoGP: Vinales To Test The Aprilia RS-GP In Misano |
Maverick Vinales will have the chance to test out the Aprilia RS-GP in Misano after Yamaha decided to terminate his contract earlier.
The Spaniard is rumoured to make an appearance this season onboard the RS-GP as Aprilia is under concession allowing them six wildcards for the 2021 season, which is still unused.
However, the test in Misano is important for Vinales to get himself familiar with the V4 because he’s always ridden a straight-four engine with Suzuki followed by Yamaha.
According to reports, Vinales will test the RS-GP on August 31st and September 1st before taking the wild card spot in the remaining race.
There are still seven races left in the 2021 calendar; however, we have to wait and see what Massimo Rivola has in store for the former Moto3 world champion.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-2023-kawasaki-ninja-zx-4r-breaks-cover-79-1hp-with-ram-air/ | OFFICIAL: 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R Breaks Cover -79.1HP With Ram-Air |
After months of speculation, Kawasaki has officially announced its latest sports bike line-up with the all-new Kawasaki ZX-4R.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is the latest inline-four screamer to join Team Green.
The Ninja ZX-4R features the same high-tensile steel trellis frame as the ZX-25R.
Available in three variants, ZX-4R, ZX-4R SE and ZX-4RR is powered by the firm all-new 399cc inline-four, water-cooled 4-stroke with DOHC unit that’s capable of pumping 79.1hp with Ram-Air.
Similar to the ZX-25R, the 400cc screamer also offers a generous rev limit of over 15,000rpm and is fitted with the same trellis (high tensile steel) frame.
Power is fed from the bike’s 15-litre fuel tank and is regulated by a 6-speed manual transmission with a final chain drive.
The suspension comes from Showa with SFF-BP forks at the front and a horizontal back-link at the rear. However, the suspension package is what sets the three variants apart, with the base model getting the SFF-BP forks as mentioned above, while the SE and RR feature front forks with preload adjustment. The RR is also equipped with Showa BFRC-lite rear shock similar to the one found on the ZX-10R.
Braking is done via radial-mounted callipers mated to a dual 290mm front brake disc and a single 220mm disc at the rear.
Electronic-wise, the Ninja ZX-4R features all-around LED lighting, Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), 4-power modes (Sport, Rain, Road and Rider), a two-way quickshifter (SE and RR) and a 4.3-inch LCD colour display with integrated ‘Track Mode’.
According to Kawasaki USA, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is confirmed for release in mid-2023 with an official selling price of USD 9,699 (RM41.3k).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-ninja-zx-25r-confirmed-for-indonesian-market/ | Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Confirmed for Indonesian Market |
Rendered picture of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R - Credit Young Magazine
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R looks confirmed for the Indonesian market.
It will feature a new 250cc inline-Four engine.
It may also be the most powerful 250cc four-stroke sportbike.
The rumours of a 250cc inline-Four Kawasaki sportbike has been gaining steam over the past months, but now it’s confirmed for the Indonesian market and called the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R.
The present two-cylinder 250-, 300- and 400cc parallel-Twins are relatively new platforms for Kawasaki. The manufacturer had favoured four-cylinder engines for the longest time, up to the ZXR-250 in the late 1990’s.
The ZX-25R ought to be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.
Further rumours say that the new engine will produce 59 hp, which ranks it above all other current 250cc bikes in the market. However, do expect to see that gain in the upper realms of the rev range. We can expect a screamer since each cylinder is just bigger than 70cc.
The question now is how much the bike cost in the Asian market will. As for us in Malaysia, it’s also a matter if and when the model will make to our shores. It’s already got a number of points that Malaysian motorcyclists will like i.e. Not needing to upgrade their license to “Full B,” for one. Besides that, we gather, there are many fans of the inline-Four’s exhaust note, compared to that of a parallel-Twin’s.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-working-on-supercharged-africa-twin-adv/ | Honda Working On Supercharged Africa Twin? |
Honda is reportedly working on a supercharged adventure motorcycle that could potentially become a future Africa Twin model as confirmed by latest patent.
The patent shows the supercharger unit mounted on top of the gearbox, behind the engine barrels.
The intake air is fed to the supercharger inlet via a long snorkel that runs up the left side of the down-tube, meeting with a plenum chamber by the steering head.
It is not entirely clear why Honda is turning to supercharging, as it is not known whether the company is interested in creating the most powerful adventure bike on the market. Instead, the company may be looking ahead to a future where current Africa Twin engines may become obsolete due to emissions regulations.
Honda has never been interested in participating in the outright power wars, but the addition of a supercharger could potentially add more excitement to the already impressive Africa Twin.
The patent design clearly shows that the new adventure bike will be built with a focus on high performance, and the supercharger will be an essential component in achieving that goal.
Nevertheless, the addition of a supercharger could potentially make the Africa Twin an even more desirable motorcycle for adventure riders. Honda has not released any official statements regarding the supercharged Africa Twin, but it is exciting to see the company focusing on creating innovative and exciting new models for adventure bike enthusiasts.
(source: Visordown)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brembo-donates-1-million-to-help-with-covid-19-efforts/ | Brembo donates €1 million to help with COVID-19 efforts |
Premium brake manufacturer, Brembo, has donated a huge sum of money to assist the Italian healthcare services in their effort to curb the widespread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. How much? €1 million big ones, which is slightly over RM4.7 million.
Based in Bergamo, Italy, Brembo knows all too well the effects of COVID-19 pandemic that has put a halt on a lot of things as well as causing thousands of deaths not just in Italy, but all over the world. To date, Italy is still one of the worst countries to suffer at the fate of pandemic with over 180,000 infected cases and just north of 25,000 deaths (third-worst country after USA and Spain).
The €1 million donation will be used to assist three different medical facilities across Italy located in the worst-hit regions of Italy. They will also use the funds for clinical and pharmacological research to combat this deadly pandemic.
According to Alberto Bombassei, President of Brembo, “After an initial donation to a nursing home at the Bergamo hospital, we needed to do our own research to find a drug for COVID-19 as soon as possible, Research is also the art in which we see ourselves as a company. We believe that it is the payment method to find a future solution to this important situation.”
Brembo acquires small share of Pirelli
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/year/2021/mco-offenders-face-rm10000-fine-under-new-emergency-ordinance/ | MCO Offenders Face RM10,000 Fine Under New Emergency Ordinance |
Image source: Hype MY
Individuals found guilty of breaching the Movement Control Order (MCO) will now be fine RM10,000 compared to the RM1,000 fine previously imposed.
Meanwhile, companies and organizations will be liable to a maximum fine of up to RM50,000.
The new rule is according to the new Emergency (Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021 gazetted yesterday.
Covid-19 patients or close contact personnel may also be instructed to wear a tracking device for easier monitoring under the new ordinance.
The new rules will come into effect on March 11.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-yamaha-nvx-launched-rm10500-basic-price-gst/ | 2017 Yamaha NVX launched! RM10,500 (basic price with GST) |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motors (HLYM) Malaysia has finally launched the 2017 Yamaha NVX into the Malaysian market.
The Yamaha NVX comes with a number of futuristic specs like a full LED meter panel, start and stop system, Smart Key functionality and a charging socket for mobile devices.
The all-new NVX with EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) status is priced at RM10,500 (basic price with GST) and will be available in three different colours; Blue, Red and Black.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) Malaysia has finally launched the highly anticipated 2017 Yamaha NVX into the Malaysian market. The all-new state of the art scooter is the latest addition to the Yamaha premium scooter range with a sporty yet classy look.
The Yamaha NVX comes with a premium sporty stance and styling which will definitely appeal to the younger demographic or young at heart. Apart from the super appealing facade, the NVX is packed with technology that will rival any premium scooters in the market to date.
One of the highlighted features of the NNX has to be the 5.8-inch digital meter panel which looks more like a futuristic tablet rather than a motorcycle meter. It also comes with other modern specifications like an electric socket and storage space to charge and store your mobile devices easily. The scooter also comes with all-round LED lights for added visibility when on the road no matter day or night.
There’s also the “Start and Stop” system that further improves the scooter’s fuel efficiency which also helped in getting Yamaha’s first EEV status for their premium scooter. It is said that the new Yamaha NVX has a fuel consumption figure of only 2.2litres/100km.
Another great feature that can be found on the NVX and not other motorcycles in its class is the Smart Key system. All NVX models come with a key fob which allows riders to keep it safely in their pockets without all the hassle to get the bike started.
Talking about the engine, the NVX is equipped with a 155cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, SOHC with Variable Valve Actuation that generates a cool 14.7hp at 8,000rpm and 13.8Nm of torque at 6,250rpm. The engine technically is the same as the NMax but has been tuned to give out a much punchier characteristic making it very suitable to blast off in between traffic lights in city riding.
For added functionality, the NVX also comes with 25-litre under-seat storage to store all your belongings safely from harsh weather conditions. In terms of safety, the scooter comes with a big front disc brake package that is ABS-ready and rear drum brake for added control.
HLYM has priced the 2017 Yamaha NVX at an affordable RM10,500 (basic price with GST). It comes in three different colours; Blue, Red and Black.
Additionally, HLYM has also announced that there will be a Yamaha NVX one-make race dubbed the “Yamaha NVX Challenge” with the first round being held at this weekend’s Malaysian Cub Prix round at MAEPS, Serdang.
The scooter will also make its first public appearance this weekend on the 15 and 16 July 2017 so be sure to visit the Yamaha booth to catch a glimpse of this beautiful machine.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rm4-5-million-worth-of-bikes-sold-at-big-bike-warehouse/ | RM4.5 million worth of bikes sold at Big Bike Warehouse! |
Last weekend marked Malaysia’s first Big Bike Warehouse sale held at The Gasket Alley PJ where they’ve successfully sold over RM4.5 million worth of bikes in just three days! More than 60 units of motorcycles from different makes were put on sales at slashed prices and 53 units were booked, confirmed and purchased by the end of the third day on Sunday.
Brands like Harley-Davidson, Vespa, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Ducati, Kawasaki, and Modenas brought the crowd to witness all these amazing bikes being sold at discounted prices to lucky individuals who made the trip to the Big Bike Warehouse sale weekend at the Gasket Alley PJ.
According to Mr Juan Chow Wee, General Manager of Didi Resources, “53 units of bikes sold from Modenas, Vespa, Moto Guzzi, Kawasaki, Aprilia, Ducati and Harley-Davidson and raking in RM4.5 mil worth of sales for both bikes and merchandising.”
Participating partners who showed up and made the event even more extravagant were Sepang International Circuit, Diddy Adventure, Riders Garage, Zeus helmet, HJC helmet, Shoei helmet, KYT helmet, Petronas, ELF, Motul, Akrapovic, Ktech, Hypergear, GIVI, Sheng Fatt Superbike, Goh Brothers Motorcycles, Hup Seng Bikerz and Modenas Power Store.
“We would like to thank our partners for having trust in us and joining us in the first Big Bike Warehouse program and we would hope to do another round where we seek more partners and a venue for us to run this program. We are very happy, all our partners sold at the fair raking in RM200,000 in merchandising – a real true sales program!” added Juan.
Considering how successful it was for the first-ever Big Bike Warehouse sale event, the organizers are planning to run the event at several key locations across the country. The folks at Didi Resources are currently looking for more partners to join them in the next event, including anyone with the capability to sponsor a venue to run the lucrative sales program.
“We hope to get a sponsored venue where we can offer the same package to all our partners “Free of Charge” space with the condition they promote the event and offer the best deal”, mentioned Juan. Selling 53 premium bikes during a single weekend is already an amazing feat and we won’t be surprised if those numbers exceed higher in the next Big Bike Warehouse.
Prices dropped for Modenas Pulsar RS200 & Dominar D400
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/spy-shot-ktm-1290-super-duke-rr-spotted-in-the-wild/ | SPY SHOT: KTM 1290 Super Duke RR Spotted In The Wild |
The long rumoured KTM 1290 Super Duke RR was recently spotted on the street with the motorcycle expected to be introduced late this year.
The new variant is expected to come with the premium specification based on the latest spy shot photos.
Recent reports suggest that the Super Duke RR is packed with carbon fibre, titanium, and magnesium parts to help the motorcycle shed some kilograms than the standard 1290 Super Duke R.
The carbon-fibre can be seen at the rear subframe, front fender, flyscreen, chain-guard and brake ducts while getting rid of the pillion seat and footrest also helps reduce any unnecessary weight.
The RR can also be seen equipped with an Akrapovic exhaust system indicating it will offer a few extra ponies than the current 180hp found on the 1290 Super Duke R, with both expected to share the already powerful LC8 V-twin.
(source: Ride Apart)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-teams-up-with-carrera-to-create-stylish-eyewear-line/ | Ducati teams up with Carrera to create stylish eyewear line |
Ducati expands its lifestyle collaboration, this time with eyewear marque Carrera for a series of glasses inspired by the Panigale V4.
Ducati and eyewear maker Carrera have teamed up for a series of stylish glasses.
The design of each frame was inspired by the Ducati Panigale V4 superbike.
A total of five regular models and one limited-run special make up this special eyewear range.
Promotional materials feature both of Ducati’s lead MotoGP riders Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia and Jack Miller.
Keen eyed Ducati MotoGP fans would know by now that Italian eyewear brand Carrera has latched on as an official partner to the Ducati Lenovo MotoGP team in 2022. Now, said partnership has bore its first fruit in the form of a series of stylish eyewear with Ducati co-branding.
According to Ducati, the new range of co-branded eyewear made by Carrera sees its design inspired by the Italian two-wheeled purveyor’s signature and flagship superbike the Panigale V4. Specifically, the temples of each eyeglass frame have been modelled after the profile of the Panigale V4.
Moreover, Ducati and Eyewear both claim that each frame design were crafted specifically so they’ll fit nicely under your favourite motorcycle helmet – good news for Ducati riders who wear glasses whilst riding their prized Desmo machines indeed.
The partnership’s extent into MotoGP also means these exclusive eyewear line sees both its lead MotoGP riders – Jack Miller and Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bangania – appearing in promotional materials for this line of glasses.
The range itself consists of five regular models and one limited-edition model. Available in four colourways each are the Carduc 001/S, Carduc 002/S, Carduc 003/S, Carduc 004/S, and Carduc 006/S, ad all are compatible with both regular dark lenses and powered prescription lenses too.
As for the Ducati-Carrera Limited Edition Superlight glasses, just 500 pieces were made and all have reportedly been spoken for. This model only came in a single colourway – Grey Red. These special frames were made from a combination of carbon fiber and titanium to keep weight at an absolute minimum, but these were not available for fitment with powered prescription lenses.
Keen on copping a pair to match your prized Ducati? These Ducati eyewear by Carrera are will be available directly from authorised retailers, as well as the latter brand’s online store, this year. Price and availability typically vary according to market region.
It goes without saying, these sunnies will match well with the limited edition Bulgari Ducati timepiece released earlier this month too…
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/masters-dirt-tour-2018-coming-october/ | Masters of Dirt All In Tour 2018 is coming in October! |
The Masters of Dirt All In Tour 2018 is ready to rock things out on 13 October 2018.
The extreme freestyle motorsport show will be held at the Axiata Arena in conjunction with the National Sports Day.
Tickets are available at MyTicket.Asia from RM88-RM398.
In conjunction with the National Sports Day happening next month, Axiata Arena will be hosting the Masters of Dirt All In Asia Tour 2018 aka “The World’s Most Thrilling Freestyle Show”.
For the first time in Asia, the event aimed towards the rise in popularity for extreme sports and its growing number of enthusiasts in the country where its goal to captivate and mesmerise attendees in the form of an extreme motorsports show.
Organised by Entertainment Sport Group (ESG) together with Shiraz Projects, the event is set to take place on 13 October 2018 at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil. What is in store for the Masters of Dirts All In Tour 2018?
We’re talking freestyle motocross, quad bikes (ATV), buggy backflips, tandem, snowmobile, BMX, and MTD all in one show! Daredevils and their machines will be flying all over the place and it’s definitely a show that you don’t want to miss.
What’s even more special is the fact that the event is supported by the Ministry of Youth and Sports as it was launched earlier this evening by the man himself, YB Syed Saddiq. Attendees will also stand a chance to win not one, not two, but FOUR Ducati bikes during the show! There will also be other performances to ensure that those who attend will have the time of their lives.
Tickets are available for purchase ranging from RM88 all the way up to RM398 via MyTicket.Asia. To know more, head over to www.facebook.com/mastersofdirt or check out @mastersofdirt on Instagram as well as Twitter.
Husqvarna 701 Supermoto Test & Review
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-launches-cb1000r-cb250r/ | Boon Siew Honda Launches CB1000R and CB250R |
Boon Siew Honda has launched the CB1000R and CB250R as part of their Neo Sports Café lineup.
The two new bikes augment the X-ADV and Africa Twin as part of Boon Siew Honda’s Big Bike offerings.
The CB1000R is priced from RM 74,999 and CB250R from RM 22,999 (basic selling price with 0% GST).
Malaysian Honda motorcycles distributor, Boon Siew Honda, has just launched the Neo Sports Café lineup – the CB1000R and CB250R.
The launch event also served as an occasion for BSH to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with members of the media. It is a tradition that BSH has observed throughout the years and to spice things up even further, the media was treated to riding the CB1000R, CB250R, X-ADV and CRF1000L Africa Twin at the Sepang International Circuit.
In his speech, Mr. Keiichi Yasuda, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Boon Siew Honda revealed that the company had received overwhelming response for the Africa Twin and X-ADV – which became the catalyst to introduce the Neo Sports Café bikes.
Safety briefings from both BSH’s riding instructor and SIC’s clerk of course followed Mr. Yasuda’s speech and we were then ushered to the paddock downstairs for a short product introduction and briefing.
The briefing centred primarily around the Africa Twin and X-ADV as they were both with Honda’s proprietary Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). The DCT on both bikes could perform as fully automatic, more “aggressive” SPORT auto and manual by way of push buttons on the left handlebar.
X-ADV
I drew the X-ADV on our first trip out. I had ridden this bike around in Pattaya, Thailand and found it to be superb around the congested city. I left the transmission in “D” (for “DRIVE” as in fully automatic just like in a car) while I concentrated on navigating through heavy traffic and throngs of tourists.
Of course, it looks like scooter with some offroad capability thrown in, but truth is, the X-ADV is a motorcycle of a different concept. It’s a bike that’s meant to go anywhere and does it in seamless fashion. Honda’s copywriting blurb says that it’s “A motorcycle that thinks it’s an SUV.”
Since we were given only three laps per bike here at SIC, I decided to just keep in “D,” too. Well, it was also because I kept finding the horn button through my race gloves, instead.
Out of the pits and into Turn One, the X-ADV felt strange initially. It turned out that I was trying to trail brake into the corner.
Anyhow, it didn’t take long to learn the bike and I was already speeding into Turn Five with the throttle held open. But when I let of the gas to set up for Turn Six, the transmission downshifted almost imperceptibly, and I had the right amount of power at the exit.
It was just a seamless piece of cloth as I blasted down the front straight (it’s a 750cc bike, by the way). The brakes were superbly strong as I braked for Turn One. It was as easy as that. The X-ADV touched down its centrestand through Turn Two but there was lots of cornering clearance, overall.
And it’s NOT a scooter!
CRF1000L AFRICA TWIN
Just like the X-ADV, I’ve also ridden the ‘Twin before but that one had a “normal” gearbox. The first thing I noticed about this one was the low seat height which took me by surprise.
Then I did a noob thing: I tried to grab the “clutch lever” but it was waaay further than the reach of my fingers. The group was about to leave the pits, so I waved my arms around like one of Caesar’s friends (as in Caesar in Planet of the Apes). The Honda guys ran over and stifled their laughter as they told me, “That’s the parking brake for uphill.” Ooooh-kaaay.
Now, a noob thing #2. I started searching for the gear pedal. The same guy saw it and told me to shift using the up and down buttons on the left switch cluster. I tried dabbing at them with my stiff gloves and found the horn again. So, yes, I decided to leave it in D.
The Africa Twin may have more cc’s than the X-ADV but it got going a lot smoother. The suspension was also much softly damped and I could feel that as I started braking for Turn One. However, while I could feel the rear swingarm moving up and down to cope with the cornering forces, the good news was the bike didn’t wallow like an old KL taxi.
Riding the Africa Twin with DCT was so easy perhaps anyone could do it. Accelerate, brake, turn, repeat.
Through this first experience, I could safety assume that the bike was geared mainly for the dirt, hence the soft suspension. Its power character was also on the softer and smoother side. Not that you couldn’t push it on tarmac, but it kind of defeats the bike’s real mission in life. As for the DCT, it should take the workload off the rider while he concentrates on negotiating the trail.
Please click on the link below for the prices of the X-ADV and Africa Twin.
2018 Honda X-ADV & Africa Twin prices announced! From RM57,999
CB1000R
Now, we’re talking! VROOOM! VROOOOM! Yeah, heh heh. The exhaust note was raunchy enough it could be heard through my Arai and racing earplugs. It’s probably one of the few bikes which the owner doesn’t have to bin the stock exhaust.
The styling was definitely a funky mix of new and old elements, hence Neo Sports.
The engine is derived from an old CBR1000RR Fireblade and has a longer stroke. It produces 143 bhp at 7500 RPM and 104 Nm of torque at 8250 RPM.
In SPORT mode, the bike charged ahead but it did so very smoothly. Its engine braking was equally as smooth without robbing you of corner rolling speed. The suspension and seat were equally comfortable.
Despite being comfy, the CB1000R could be hustled through corners with ease, even at the narrow Turns Two and Four. It flicked over with hardly any steering input.
But it did fly down the straight. Braking hard for Turn One, I was surprised to find a lack of fork dive. I only found out later that the forks are Showa’s new Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP).
I was just starting to have fun when Ahmad Zakhwan, our lead marshal waved us into the pits. Sheesh.
CB250R
This is gonna be awkward, I thought. I should’ve started on this one instead of the progressively bigger bikes.
But it felt so good to ride a lightweight bike as soon as the clutch went out. The single-cylinder engine revved very quickly without much vibration. Just as the rest I’ve tested earlier, the suspension may be on the softer side but it didn’t mean the bike was going to squirm around.
And since it was so light, I just chucked it into all the corners in a gear too high. The engine was also super smooth for a single and didn’t feel like it was being revved to destruction despite hitting the rev limiter a few times. I had so much fun I actually missed the checkered flag and had to circulate for one extra lap.
But the best thing about it was just amazingly easy it was to ride. Coupled with the low seat height, beginners will find it easily accessible.
In closing, all four bikes were great and showcased Honda’s attention to detail and quality. All panels joined uniformly, the paint quality was consistently good for all four bikes.
But I couldn’t wait to fully review the CB1000R at a later date.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fantic-new-adventure-ready-caballero-500-explorer-breaks-cover/ | Fantic New Adventure-Ready Caballero 500 Explorer Breaks Cover |
Italian manufacturer, Fantic has officially unveiled the Caballero 500 at EICMA.
The new adventure-ready motorcycle will join the already available 125cc and 250cc variants.
According to the Italian firm, the Fantic Caballero Explorer makes 40hp and 42Nm from its 449cc single-cylinder engine and sends its power to the rear wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission.
Meanwhile, the Explorer also features an adjustable long-travel inverted front fork and a rear monoshock with an external reservoir.
The motorcycle also comes equipped with a high fender, high-mounted exhaust pipes, and circular headlights to complete the ‘adventure’ look.
Other exciting features include:
luggage carrier with side pannier rack
fly screen
upswept handlebars
two-up saddle
According to Fantic, the new motorcycle will hit European showrooms in Q1 2022.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-supercharged-motorcycle-in-the-works/ | Honda supercharged motorcycle in the works? |
When it comes to modern supercharged motorcycles, only one manufacturer has gone through all the phases including production and sales; Kawasaki. Other manufacturers have also presented us with some pretty cool concepts but now, Honda is looking into the supercharged scene a little bit more seriously.
2020 HONDA CB1000R
The patent for a Honda supercharged motorcycle has been around for a number of years now but it has since gone cold with no news or updates – until recently. They’ve updated their patent for a supercharged V-twin engine earlier this week and it looks more like a complete bike compared to the other patents we’ve seen in the past.
What we can see from the patents is that Honda plans to introduce their new supercharged machine in the form of a naked bike. It does carry some accents from the Neo Sports Café line-up but for now, it looks a bit more ‘old school’ rather than a full-blown futuristic beast, like the ones from Kawasaki like latest Z H2.
2020 Kawasaki Z H2
While the Kawasakis are inline-four 1,000cc bikes, Honda’s version revolves around a supercharged V-twin setup which is more similar to the Suzuki Recursion Concept. No other details can be seen apart from the description in the title which also stated the addition of a throttle-by-wire system used for the bike.
Suzuki Recursion Concept
If Honda is really serious about all this supercharged business, we might just see a live concept version sometime at the end of this year when the Tokyo Motor Show and EICMA will be taking place. In the meantime, Boon Siew Honda will be launching a few interesting bikes tomorrow so do stay tuned for more exciting news closer to home.
Dream Job – Honda Collection Hall caretaker
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/leaked-new-graphics-2017-ktm-rc-series/ | Leaked: New graphics for 2017 KTM RC series |
Image source: Asphaltandrubber
Leaked photos show 2017 KTM RC series models updated with new colour schemes.
2017 KTM RC125
Here’s a series of leaked photos showing the 2017 KTM RC series line up treated with new ‘bold’ new colour schemes for 2017. Featured here are the recently updated flagship RC390, the RC200 and the entry-level RC125 models.
This mere aesthetic treatment was to be expected since the RC series arrived a year later than its Duke naked siblings. With a new 2017 KTM 390 Duke set to debut during EICMA 2016 next month, we can expect a proper revamp of the RC series the following year instead.
And just in case you forgot, the KTM RC390 (pictured above) received some mild refreshments earlier this year. Leading the changes here was a new Euro 4-compliant traditional side-mounted exhaust, new pillion seat and ergonomics, as well as a revised tank for reduced evaporation.
(Image source: Asphaltandrubber)
Notably, these leaked images shows both the RC390 and RC125 models primed with the new Euro 4 exhaust whilst the mid-range RC 200 still retains its under swept design.
(Image source: Asphaltandrubber)
We are unsure as to why, but we reckon more details surrounding the updated 2017 KTM RC series will surface come EICMA 2016. What do you guys think of these new schemes? Let us know in the comments section at our Facebook page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-ducati-desmosedici-gp20-livery-unveiled/ | MotoGP: Ducati Desmosedici GP20 livery unveiled |
Ducati has unveiled their latest livery for their MotoGP race machine, the Ducati Desmosedici GP20 in Bologna, Italy last night. Dressed to impress, the new colour scheme presents the same bright red from the previous season but with more black and chrome details to make things pop even more.
Although the colours are set for the 2020 MotoGP season, the bikes we see in the pictures are probably more similar to the GP19 than the GP20 (just like how it has been presented in the past few years). It is very likely that once the team arrives in Qatar for the first race of the season, the Desmosedici GP20 will be aesthetically different.
The Mission Winnow Ducati squad has the same goal as the previous years; to bring the fight to the front runners (especially Marc Marquez) and win the championship (just like any other factory squads on the grid).
According to Luigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse, “We already left the 2019 season behind, a year that saw us confirmed as runner-up in the riders’ standings for the third time in a row with Andrea. Dovizioso scored nine podiums and two incredible victories.”
“At the same time, Danilo gave us incredible emotions with his victory in Mugello, which is a GP that we had won in the last three years. Still, we can’t say that we are completely satisfied as our ultimate goal remains the same: winning the championship title.”
“2020 will be even more intense and demanding with twenty races scheduled in the calendar, and our rivals will be even more competitive. That is why we all need to increase our commitment. For this reason, we have been working harder during the winter to offer to Andrea and Danilo a Desmosedici GP20 bike that will allow them to become leading contenders in all races and all conditions,” added Dall’Igna.
With that being said, the specs for the Ducati Desmosedici GP20 is looking mighty fine with over 250hp and 157kg dry weight which allows the machine to propel over 350km/h easily. Will 2020 be the year of Ducati? It’s definitely an uphill climb and the challenge won’t be easy, not just from Honda but other factories who are slowly but surely catching up. Who do you have your money on?
Ducati Superleggera V4 second teaser video released
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-r7-and-mt-09-shines-at-red-dot-design-awards-2022/ | Yamaha R7 and MT-09 shines at Red Dot Design Awards 2022 |
Sporty Yamaha R7 and MT-09 streetfighter recognised as winners in this year’s edition of the Red Dot Design Awards.
Yamaha R7 and MT-09 awarded with Red Dot Design Awards 2022 trophies.
This is Yamaha’s 11th consecutive year of winning trophies from renowned design awards.
Renowned award recognises winning product designs in specific categories.
Besides Honda, Yamaha also triumphed at this year’s edition of the famed Red Dot Design Awards. Organised by Germany’s Design Zentrum Nordhein Westfalen, it’s one of the industry’s most celebrated events.
Proving to be winning designs were the Yamaha R7 and MT-09 motorcycles, as well as the Yamaha SuperJet jetski. This latest trio of trophies also sees Yamaha winning Red Dot trophies for 11th consecutive year since 2012.
Surely, these trophies only add to the desirability of both the Yamaha R7 and MT-09 duo. The former is the Iwata-based manufacturer’s latest middleweight sport offering, which packs a peppy 689cc CP2 parallel-twin heart.
The latter streetfighter, a staple offering from Yamaha for several years now, underwent a facelift for its current model year, sporting an aggressive new look. Matching that is its equally punchy 889cc CP3 in-line three-cylinder heart that’s now become quite a favourite amongst riders.
The third Red Dot trophy Yamaha bagged this year is also an interesting one as it is awarded to the Yamaha SuperJet. Yamaha’s signature jetski underwent a complete redesign – it’s first in three decades, in fact. For those curious, this ‘personal watercraft’ packs quite a punch thanks to its 1,049cc four-stroke triple-cylinder heart.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-hand-built-custom-honda-cb1000r-5four-officially-available-to-order/ | The Hand-Built Custom Honda CB1000R 5Four Officially Available To Order |
Motorcycle customiser Guy Willison has officially revealed the finished version of the custom built Honda CB1000R under his 5Four brand after unveiling the motorcycle August last year.
According to Willison, the CB1000R 5Four is also officially availble to order.
The biggest change compared to the base model is the new composite headlight fairing that is designed to add an aggressive look while providing decent protection from road debris.
The ‘rear scaffolding’ is replaced with a new tail-tidy to add a cleaner look on the CB1000R 5Four.
Willison also took extra effort to ensure all the mounting hardware is internal, allowing the low-level plate mount to be ditched.
The bike also feature a bespoke leather seat, hand-stitched in the 5Four diamond pattern and a laser etched 5Four logo at the rear.
Other premium features include an LSL clutch and brake lever, billet mirrors, custom titanium Racefit Growler-X exhaust and not to mention the beautiful red and blue colour scheme.
Nonetheless, the CB1000R 5Four still retain the stock electronics, incuding the dash, ABS and traction control.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/kawasaki-z250sl-review-lady-riders-take/ | Kawasaki Z250SL review – A lady rider’s take |
A lady rider’s impressions of the newly launched Kawasaki Z250SL entry-level naked bike.
Written by: Melissa E. Duis
Having less than a year of riding experience behind me, the Kawasaki Z250SL was an apt ride.Well suited to beginners, the bike would fit a petite rider like a glove.
With its ingenuous design, the Kawasaki Z250SL was built with the fairer sex in mind: petite, curvaceous yet compact enough that from a distance, it looks as well-stocked as a full-fledged big bike. Despite its genteel appearance, it rides just as fiercely as the toughest looking bike in its league.
Although, one of my few qualms with the bike was I felt it was built too slim for its overall height. From a lady’s perspective, this seemed rather like a lady running in high heels – albeit wickedly fast and nimble!
And, this slight feel of inadequacy only kicked in when I rode the Kawasaki Z250SL on the highway, between 90 – 100km/h. It dashes very well around tight corners and the city but the fact that it is a smaller bike only sinks in when one takes it sprinting down the wide open road.
A seasoned rider would not mind as much, but the Kawasaki Z250SL’s lack of a gear indicator thwarted my journey quite a bit until I figured out the feel and acoustics of the engine.
Speaking of engines, I’m no expert, but rest assured that the 250cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine kicks in enough fervour. Whether it is to overtake, or to open up that throttle down the highway, it does the job rather well.
Although this Kawasaki ‘chick ride’, as I like to call it, is not exactly the number one contender for the meanest and most powerful ride out there, it does make for a fun ride around the city, especially when one is met up with the challenge of heavy city traffic: turning corners is a actually breeze with this bike.
Furthermore, the engine responds so well that gear shifting is smooth, which would definitely help with new riders. Additionally, the Kawasaki Z250SL’s safety and comfort offered are unbeatable: another added bonus for new riders.
For those thinking of getting their first bike, the Kawasaki Z250SL is highly recommended. Not only is it tremendously easy to handle, but nothing beats the feeling of learning the basic skills of riding with a machine that is very well put together.
Launched shortly before this year’s Raya holidays, Kawasaki Z250SL carries a sticker price of RM15,739. Said price includes Kawasaki Malaysia’s offer of a two-year or 20,000km warranty (whichever comes first).
Kawasaki Z250SL
Engine: Single cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke
Displacement: 249cc
Bore and stroke: 72.0 x 61.2 mm
Compression ratio: 11.3:1
Valve system: DOHC, 4-valves
Fuel supply: Fuel injection
Ignition: Digital
Starter: Electric
Transmission: 6-speed, Return-type manual
Power: 25hp@9,700rpm
Torque: 22.6Nm@8,200rpm
Frame type: Tubular diamond, steel
Rake/Trail: 24 degree / 90mm
Suspension, Front: 37mm telescopic fork type Suspension,
Rear: Bottom-link uni-trak with spring pre-load: 5-levels
Tyres: Front – 110/80-17M/C 52S || Rear 130/70 – 17M/C 62S
Brake Front: Single 290mm Petal Disc with Dual-Piston Caliper
Brake Rear: Single 220mm Petal Disc with Dual-Piston Caliper
Length x Width x Height: 1,935 x 700 x 1,015mm
Wheelbase: 1,330mm
Seat Height: 785mm
Fuel capacity: 11 litres
Weight: 148kg
2014 Kawasaki Z250SL Gallery
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-rolls-out-new-high-speed-electric-bicycle-with-300km-of-range/ | BMW Rolls Out New High-Speed Electric Bicycle With 300km Of Range |
BMW has just announced a new electric bicycle at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, Germany.
Dubbed as the i Vision AMBY, the e-bike frame uses similar suspension components to other high-end electric bicycles, including a Gates carbon belt drive.
However, the electronic package is 100% build by the German marquee.
Hence the i Vision AMBY is equipped with a high-power motor and a huge 2,000 Wh battery that BMW claimed can reach a range of up to 300km in its lower power mode.
Users can select between 25km/h, 45km/h or 60km/h speed settings that can be adjusted via a smartphone app.
However, you must register the bike and get a license plate first for users who intend to go faster than the 25km/h European legal speed limit.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-adv350-and-nt1100-bags-red-dot-design-awards/ | Honda ADV350 and NT1100 bags Red Dot Design Awards |
Honda ADV350 and NT1100 claim prestigious Red Dot Design Awards, allowing Honda to mark third year in a row at winning prestigious design accolade.
Honda ADV350 and NT1100 bags top honours at Red Dot Design Awards 2022.
Latest trophies see Honda mark third straight year of winning trophies from said awards.
Past wins charted in 2021 by the Forza 750, as well in 2020 by the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.
For the third year in a row since 2020, Japanese motorcycling powerhouse Honda has claimed top honours at the prestigious Red Dot Design Awards. For this year’s edition, it sees the Honda ADV350 and NT1100 models taking the honours for Honda.
“We are pleased to receive a Red Dot Product Design Award in all Honda product ranges, Motorcycle, Automobile and Power Products for the first time,” said Honda R&D and Design Centre COO Toshinobu Minami. He further adds the firm’s continued commitment to take on challenges and deliver “surprises and excitement” to customers.
As mentioned, this is Honda’s third year straight of wins in the annual Red Dort Design Awards. It’s previous triumphs here included the trophy bagged by the Forza 750 in 2021, as well as the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP in 2020.
22YM HONDA ADV350
Launched last year, the Honda ADV350 mid-sized maxi scooter slots itself in between the ADV150 and X-ADV range. Debuting alongside it last year was the NT1100, which is a sport touring offshoot of the brand’s acclaimed CRF1100 Africa Twin dual-sport machine.
Both bikes employ Honda’s novel new design motifs that has since become quite a hit amongst fans and customers. This latest double-win charted at one of the world’s prestigious design awards only adds further merits towards Honda’s current design and styling direction.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/lynk-co-ventures-into-two-wheel-market-in-collaboration-with-benelli/ | Lynk & Co Ventures Into Two-Wheel Market In Collaboration With Benelli |
Chinese-Swedish car manufacturer Lynk & Co has revealed the company first-ever motorcycle based on Benelli’s TNT 600.
The Geely-owned company made history as the first Chinese manufacturer to claim an FIA world title win at the World Touring Car Cup (WTCR) back in 2019.
Unveiled in China, the motorcycle appears to be the same as the TNT 600, but some added Lynk & Co graphics and livery.
While this could signal the firm’s intentions to build its own motorcycle, the company might offer them the same ownership scheme that they applied for Lynk & Co cars in China.
Apart from selling their cars conventionally, the scheme allows customers to own their cars on a monthly basis.
The company expanded into the European market last year and plans to enter the US soon. For example, customers can own the Lynk 01 car for just EUR500 a month, complete with insurance, tax and maintenance costs.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-livewire-the-future-of-drag-racing/ | Harley-Davidson LiveWire – the future of drag racing? |
The world of drag racing is a fast and exhilarating one filled with powerful machines and super quick times, but what happens when you throw in the Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric bike into the mix?
The latest episode of “Science of Speed” by H-D showcases what the LiveWire is capable of on the drag strip at the hands of some of the world’s fastest drag racers in the business.
The Screamin’ Eagle/Vance & Hines Drag Racing Team which consists of racers Eddie Krawiec, Andrew Hines, and Angelle Sampey have collectively won 10 championship titles. They were given the opportunity to test out H-D’s latest all-electric motorcycle against a worthy and powerful contender, the Harley-Davidson FXDR.
According to Angelle Sampey, “Let me tell you what’s amazing. That was the first time I rode the LiveWire. I could not wait to get it on the track. The LiveWire is so easy to ride. Just twist the throttle and go – and you really go!”
Her run back on 4 September 2020 saw the LiveWire breaking the world-record for the quarter and eighth-mile by setting a very impressive 7.017 seconds for their eighth and 11.156 seconds for the quarter mile. Top speed? 110.35mph, which is 177.59km/h.
Powered by the latest H-D Revelation powertrain, the LiveWire is able to propel itself from 0-100km/h in just 3 seconds and continue to 130km/h in just 1.9 seconds after that. That’s what you’ll get with a bike that can deliver all of its torque instantaneously without using a single drop of fuel.
2020 Suzuki GSX-R150 MotoGP edition launched in Indonesia – RM8,669
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hesketh-to-debut-heresy-450-single-at-eicma-2022/ | Hesketh To Debut Heresy 450 Single At EICMA 2022 |
Historic British motorcycle builder, Hesketh, is set to debut the Heresy 450 at EICMA, the company’s first-ever non-V-Twin motorcycle.
Hesketh to roll out the new Heresy 450 at EICMA show.
Featuring an all-new 450cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine.
According to Hesketh, the Heresy 450 is heralded as the most technologically advanced motorcycle to date, featuring a single-cylinder engine with air/oil cooling.
The Heresy 450 marks the company’s first motorcycle to be powered by anything other than a bg-bore V-Twin.
In addition, the new powertrain also meets the latest Euro5 regulation. Meanwhile, the brake also features an ABS.
Powering the Heresy 450 is a 450cc single-cylinder engine similar to the one found in the Honda XR400 enduro motorcycle. That said, it is likely that the Hesketh Heresy 450 to make between 30 and 40hp on the road.
Other notable features include radially mounted brake callipers, K-Tech suspension and a hand-built frame that is unique to the brand.
More info is set to be revealed at EICMA show happening in Milan next week.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-gpr-250-launched-in-china/ | Aprilia GPR 250 Launched in China |
The Aprilia GPR 250 was unveiled in China.
Its 249.2cc, single-cylinder engine produces 26.5hp and 22Nm.
Will it come to Malaysia?
Somewhat unexpected, the Aprilia GPR 250 was unveiled in China rather than in the traditional European markets first.
Aprilia has a long history with 250cc sportbikes, harking back to the glory days of the 2-stroke RS250 for the road. The bike capitalized on their outstanding success in the world 250cc GP in the hands of riders such as Tetsuya Harada, Loris Capirossi, Max Biaggi and one upstart by the name of Valentino Rossi.
However, their attention seemed to have shifted since they built the 1000cc Mille superbike, which culminated in the 1000cc RSV4 and finally the most recent RSV4 1100. Aprilia’s current MotoGP effort lends further weight to the RSV4.
But apparently Aprilia had not given up on lightweight sportbikes. They debuted the RS660 concept at EICMA last year and now this, the GPR 250.
One look and it’s apparent that it’s influenced by the RSV4 in many respects: The twin headlamps, swoopy bodywork, large twin-spar aluminium frame.
The 249.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine is claimed to produce 26.5hp and 22Nm of torque. The manufacturer claims a 150kg weight.
That power is on par with other 250cc single-cylinder sportbikes such as the Honda CBR250R, KTM RC 250 and TVS Apache RR 310. By comparison, two-cylinder machines such as the Kawasaki Ninja 250 and Yamaha YZF-R25 produce in the regions of 39hp and 36hp, respectively.
The Aprilia GPR 250 is slated for the Indian market soon. We wonder if it’ll ever come into Malaysia.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/renault-joins-motorcycle-manufacturers-association/ | Renault joins motorcycle manufacturers association |
The European association of motorcycles manufacturers or ACEM recently welcomed its newest member, French carmaker Renault. But there’s a catch; the French carmaker has no intentions of producing two-wheeled products anytime soon. Strange move? Maybe not.
Experts and insiders point out that Renault’s move has a solid reasoning to it: exploiting legal loopholes. Fact is that Renault could create vehicles that do not have to meet stringent safety tests and accreditation processes usually applied to vehicles classified as ‘cars’ – the single-seat Twizzy electric vehicle. In other words, Renault’s membership in the ACEM could give it leeway and perks for creations such as the Twizzy, which is classified in Europe as a quadricycle and an ‘L-Class’ vehicle.
It is unsurprising for big carmakers other then Renault to exploit such loopholes. Other examples include Audi AG’s purchase of Ducati last year via sub-brand Lamborghini. The move allowed Lamborghini to even out the average carbon emissions ratings of its product range with the inclusion of Ducati’s motorcycle products. This gave Lamborghini – ultimately parent company Volkswagen Group – to escape sanctions and hefty levies imposed on big-capacity and fuel-hungry car engines.
Whether Renault’s entry into the ACEM would bring prosperity or despair to the association remains to be seen. But credit is due to Renault as it received unanimous approval from other ACEM members, a sign of them seeing the new entry as a good thing.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-grief-joy-catalunya/ | MotoGP: Grief and joy in Catalunya |
Valentino Rossi’s thrilling win overshadowed by tragic death of Luis Salom in Catalan MotoGP weekend.
The seventh round of the 2016 World MotoGP Championship held last weekend in Catalunya, Spain had all the makings to become a great weekend for fans. At the centre of it all was the premier class; battle royale between the three title contenders – Rossi, Marques and Lorenzo.
And though the MotoGP race, as well as the supporting Moto3 and Moto2 races on Sunday was thrilling as predicted, there was little that could overcome the fact that the sport lost one of its sons during Friday morning’s practice.
The death of Luis Salom
MotoGP was rocked by its first fatality in years when young Spanish rider Luis Salom died after a crash during Friday morning’s Free Practice session. The Moto2 rider, better known by his nickname of ‘Mexicano’, was astride the SAG Team Kalex race machine when the incident occurred.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of this deadly crash at Turn 12, but security camera footage showed both Salom and his Kalex sliding at high speeds towards the air fence after the gravel trap at Circuit de Catalunya’s Turn 12.
Two medical cars, two ambulances and one medical helicopter was despatched to the crash scene to treat Salom on site. The 24-year-old rider was then transported to the nearby Hospital General de Catalunya to receive further treatment. Sadly, the rider would succumb to his injuries and lost his life whilst being treated by doctors there.
Salom’s death marks the sport’s first fatality since the death of Marco Simoncelli in Sepang back in 2011 and the second Moto2 rider killed in racing after Japanese rider Shoya Tomizawa during the 2010 San Marino MotoGP weekend.
Salom’s death prompted a few changes to the weekend, one of which being FIM and Dorna’s decision to use the Formula 1 layout of the circuit instead, which was deemed safer.
MotoGP
Despite the all-Spanish lockout of the front row, Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing rider Valentino Rossi was hungry for vindication in Catalunya. Starting from fifth, Rossi’s biggest challenge were the three home heroes at the front row – Marc Marquez in pole position, teammate and rival Jorge Lorenzo in second, as well as Repsol Honda’s Dani Pedrosa in third.
The perfect race start and a relentless charge by ‘The Doctor’ Rossi eventually allowed the Italian to claim the race lead away from Marquez by Lap 7. Rossi was able to pull away from the rest but Marquez wasn’t far in tow, leading to their furious battle in the final few laps.
Rossi eventually took the win, but only after Marquez paid a huge price from a mistake at Turn 7 whilst battling the Italian on the final lap. Rossi finished 2.652 seconds ahead of Marquez in second whilst the final podium spot was claimed by Dani Pedrosa who finished a further 6.313 seconds behind in third.
For reigning world champion Jorge Lorenzo, his chance to solidify his title lead in Catalunya was diminished after factory Ducati rider Andrea Iannone crashed into him. The latter Italian’s mistake in braking too late saw him running into the back of Lorenzo’s bike at Turn 10 on Lap 17, forcing both into retirement.
Though officials have slapped Iannone with two penalty points and a last place starting position in the next race, it still does not fix the fact that Lorenzo has lost the lead to Marquez in the standings. Marquez regains the lead with 125 points, which is 10 points clear of Lorenzo in second whilst Rossi ranks third with 103 points.
Moto2
Despite the tragic news of Salom’s death, the Moto2 fraternity got together and put on a masterclass of their racing craft. Shining here was reigning class champion Johann Zarco astride the Ajo Motorsports Kalex machine.
The Frenchman rode the race of a lifetime from pole position – his first front row start of the season – and fended off the charges of home hero Alex Rins astride the Paginas Amarillas HP40 Kalex bike. Zarco made his move on Rins as the race was in its final few laps, with the Frenchman’s mastery of tyre preservation giving him the boost in the final stage he needed.
Zarco eventually won by finishing first with a 4.180-second gap ahead of Rins who settled for second. Mounting the final podium spot in third was Japanese rider Takaaki Nakagami astride the Idemitsu Honda Team Asia Kalex machine.
Scoring his season’s best result in Catalunya was Malaysian rider Hafizh Syahrin. Astride the Petronas Raceline Malaysia Kalex, Hafizh performed sensationally by climbing up the order rapidly from his starting position of 13th up to third at one point. The Malaysian eventually finished in fourth to chart his season’s best result yet and collected more crucial championship points too.
Rins still leads the Moto2 championship standings with 116 points in total, followed by Brit Sam Lowes in second with 108 points whilst Zarco has elevated up to third with 106 points. Hafizh, on the other hand, sits strongly in fifth with 60 points collected so far.
Moto3
Last but not least came another intense and nail-biting close competition in the World Moto3 Championship. Winning here was home hero Jorge Navarro astride the Estrella Galicia 0,0 Honda machine.
Navarro was the only one that kept his cool despite the race lead changing hands several times. A series of falls and mistakes incubated yet another close fight for the finish between four riders – Navarro, Brad Binder, Enea Bastianini and Romano Fenati.
Alas, it was Navarro that had the upper hand as he finished 0.564 seconds ahead of South African rider Binder who took second astride the Red Bull KTM Ajo machine. Italian rider Bastianini finished in third astride the Gresini Racing Team Honda machine whilst Sky Racing Team VR46-KTM’s Fenati just missed out on the podium by finishing fourth.
Despite just missing out on the win in Catalunya, Binder still leads the standings with 147 points. Navarro ranks second with 103 points, followed by Fenati in third with 80 points.
Round 8 – Assen TT, The Netherlands
As Round 7 concludes in Catalunya, Spain, all attention are now focused on the upcoming eight round in the famed Assen TT course in The Netherlands from June 24 to June 26. Raceday on Sunday kicks off with Moto3 at 5pm*, Moto2 at 6:20pm* and MotoGP at 8:00pm* as always.
(*local Malaysian time)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/patents-for-new-suzuki-hayabusa-appears-online/ | Patents for New Suzuki Hayabusa Appears Online |
2017 Suzuki Hayabusa
Another patent for the new Suzuki Hayabusa was leaked online.
It shows an engine similar to the old model, but rumors say it will get a capacity boost.
The new bike may be introduced as a 2021 model.
Many fans of the Suzuki Hayabusa almost cried when the factory announced that they’ve stopped production of the model.
But every cloud has a silver lining and many speculated that Suzuki will debut a new Hayabusa soon. It sure seems to be headed in that direction the patents have been leaked online.
The picture shows the second patent to surface.
2021 Suzuki Hayabusa patent – Credit BikeSocial
It shows that the bike will retain the twin aluminium spar frame, albeit one which looks smaller and lighter than its predecessor.
The engine looks identical to the old 1340cc inline-Four but is rumored to receive a capacity boost and reworked cylinder head. The bottom end of the engine looks the same – possibly retained from the old bike. The drawings also revealed a new emission-friendly exhaust system.
But BikeSocial pointed out that an earlier patent described an electronically-controlled semi-automatic gearbox while this second patent mentions a clutch lever operated manual transmission, instead. Does that mean two versions of the future Hayabusa? As in one with a semi-auto and another with a manual gearbox?
The question of how the bike will look like hasn’t been answered yet. Maybe we could see the prototype later, but it should debut as a 2021 model.
Source: BikeSocial
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/world-ducati-week-returns-for-2022-edition/ | World Ducati Week Returns For 2022 Edition! |
The long-awaited World Ducati Week (WDW) is finally back from 22 to 24 July 22 at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.
WDW 2022 will once again welcome Ducatisti and fans worldwide to witness ‘The Race of Champions’ in which past and present Ducati riders will compete against each other on the iconic track.
The event will also feature a perfect mix of fun, bikes, riding experiences, parades, riders and shows.
Although the full detail of the program is still in the works, Ducati is adamant about making the 2022 edition the most memorable ever, especially with the already confirmed ‘Race of Champions’.
With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the Borgo Panigale outfit is still constantly monitoring the situation up close to ensure the 11th edition WDW complies with all the necessary rules.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-dani-pedrosa-steals-pole-in-hazy-sepang/ | MotoGP: Dani Pedrosa steals pole in hazy Sepang |
Dani Pedrosa clinches pole position in Sepang ahead of 2015 Shell Malaysian MotoGP.
Qualifying for the 2015 Shell Malaysian MotoGP got underway earlier today. Despite the worsening haze conditions compared to yesterday, riders in all categories seem unfazed by the pandemic as proven by the fast laptimes posted.
Things began with the third Free Practice (FP3) session for Moto3, MotoGP and Moto2 in the morning before the Qualifying for Moto3 took place at about noon. The session that followed was FP4 and qualifying for MotoGP, Moto2’s qualifying after that with the first race of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup capping off the day’s schedule.
Movistar Yamaha rider and title contender Jorge Lorenzo continued his dominance of the time sheet into FP3, but it was Repsol Honda’s Dani Pedrosa that conquered the final FP4 session leading in to Qualifying. After the knockout Q1 session ended, Q2 got underway with the top riders from FP4 led by Pedrosa, his Repsol Honda teammate Marc Marquez, as well as Lorenzo and his teammate, current championship leader Valentino Rossi.
Despite the strong performances from both factory Yamahas, the day ultimately belonged to the two factory Hondas. Both Marquez and Pedrosa undertook last minute dashes in the session’s final moments, resulting with the pair securing their front row start with Pedrosa leading the duo.
Not only did Pedorsa score his first pole position since Catalunya 2014, he also obliterated the lap record set by teammate Marc Marquez last year with his blistering fastest time of 1:59.0523. Marquez qualified second alongside Pedrosa with just 0.409 seconds. Both factory Hondas bested the two factory Yamaha bikes, with the last minute dashes knocking Lorenzo out of the front row.
Nevertheless, the Yamaha outfit still has championship leader and title hopeful Valentino Rossi lining up third alongside the Repsol Honda duo. Interestingly, Rossi was able to clock in his fastest lap time of 1:59.726, with the 0.011 seconds between him and Lorenzo coincidentally matching the 11-points advantage the Italian possess in the standings over his Spanish teammate.
Also enjoying a good outing was LCR Honda’s Cal Crutchlow. Astride the satellite Honda race machine, the Briton qualified in a respectable 5th place ahead of the two Ducati machines of Andrea Iannone in 6th and Andrea Dovizioso in 7th. Further down sees rookie Maverick Viñales out-qualifying his senior Suzuki Ecstar teammate Aleix Espargaro for 8th position with Aleix just missing out on the top 10 in 11th.
Despite having the chance to clinch the MotoGP world title in raceday tomorrow, Rossi remains calm and cool during the post-qualifying press conference. Though content with his front row start, he does have stiff opposition from the two Repsol Honda riders he lines up alongside for the start tomorrow.
Moto2 sees Swiss rider Thomas Luthi of the Derendinger Racing Interwetten-Kalex outfit qualifying in pole position. His fastest lap time of 2:06.383 was enough overcome the blistering pace of newly crowned Moto2 champion Johann Zarco who qualified second. The weather was worsening in class’ session, with saw Luthi out on track early to set his time. Frenchman Zarco, astride the Ajo Motorsport-Kalex machine, was just 0.127 seconds slower than Luthi, with Paginas Amarillas HP 40-Kalex rider Alex Rins capping off the front row after qualifying third.
Next, Moto3 title hopful Briton Danny Kent of the Leopard Racing-Honda team was hopeful of landing a pole position too. However, the Brit could not have seen the dark horse that was Niccollo Antonelli of the Ongetta-Rivacold Honda Moto3 outfilt.
Nico’s fastest time of 2:12.653 was a close 0.047 seconds ahead of Estrella-Galicia 0,0 Honda’s Jorge Navarro in second, with Kent’s closest title rival Miguel Oliveira of the Red Bull KTM-Ajo team qualifying third on the front row. Suffice to say, Kent will have a tough time if he intends to clinch the title here in Sepang as he starts from 6th on the grid tomorrow.
Sunday’s Raceday program will kick off first with 18 laps of Moto3 at noon, followed by 19 laps of Moto2 at 1:20pm. The MotoGP main event will commence at 3:00pm and will last for 20 laps whilst the supporting Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 series will run its season finale race after at 4:30pm for 13 laps.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/urban-riders-ride-aprilias-melaka-5th-anniversary/ | Urban Riders Ride Their Aprilia to Melaka for 5th Anniversary |
Aprilia owners are starting to reap the benefits of the brand being under a new caretaker.
The owners under the Urban Riders club organized a weekend ride to Melaka for some fun at the beach.
The group got together and pushed off from Aprilia Malaysia at The Gasket Alley.
As with other brands under the care of Didi Resources, Aprilia riders are now reaping the benefits with more rides and programs, as promised by the new distributor. As such, the bike club Urban Riders celebrated the organization’s 5th anniversary by riding to Melaka, mostly on Aprilias.
The activity still managed to attract about 30 participants despite being organized in the middle of a long, 3-day weekend (Saturday).
The riders grouped at the new Aprilia Malaysia at The Gasket Alley, for a light breakfast and some catching up.
Two models were heavily represented, the Shiver 750 and Tuono 1000 V4.
Idon Pang, the Aftersales Manager for the Piaggio brands at The Gasket Alley welcomed the riders and thanked them for taking part in the convoy. He also iterated that new Aprilia bike sales will hopefully begin in October 2018.
He also reminded the riders of the inaugural Aprilia Track Day on 9th September 2018.
Didi Resources Organizes Inaugural Aprilia and Modclass Track Day
With that, proceedings were handed to the club’s president, Tok Uban to present the ride briefing. There was no police escort so the participants were told to buddy up and watch out for one another.
The group then departed from The Gasket Alley to head to the Shell petrol station after the Sungai Besi Toll Plaza to hook up with another group, before pushing to Chalet D’ Sayang at Pengkalan Balak, Melaka. They will put up for a night there before heading back to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow (Sunday).
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-hafizh-syahrin-will-ride-factory-ktm-rc16-2019/ | MotoGP: Hafizh Syahrin will ride a factory KTM RC16 in 2019! |
Hafizh Syahrin will be riding a factory KTM RC16 in MotoGP next season as he signed a one-year contract extension with Tech 3.
Together with Miguel Oliveira, there will be four factory-spec KTM machines with Johann Zarco and Pol Espargaro.
This also marks Hafizh as the first ever Malaysian rider to race on a factory bike in the premier class.
The current Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad has confirmed that their current MotoGP rider Hafizh Syahrin will be staying with them for the 2019 season. The Malaysian rider has signed a one-year contract extension where he will be piloting a factory-spec KTM RC16 next year.
It comes as no surprise as the 24-year-old Malaysian rider as he has been quite phenomenal in his first ever MotoGP season. Despite all the pressures of testing the bike late and the responsibility of being the first ever Malaysian rider in the premier class, he has indeed impressed everyone including Tech 3 team manager, Herve Poncharal.
Six rounds have concluded at Hafizh have scored a total of 17 points from four point-scoring finishes. This puts him in the lead for the title of MotoGP’s Rookie of the Year against last season’s Moto2 world champion, Franco Morbidelli.
According to Hafizh, “It’s hard for me to say and to believe. First of all, I have to say thank you very much to Hervé for trusting in me and giving me this opportunity to stay with the Tech3 family and at the same time to join the KTM family.”
“I also have to express a huge thank you to my manager Dato’ Razlan, who helped me to achieve this dream arriving in the MotoGP class, plus thank you to KTM for believing in Hervé and in me. I will work hard for 2019 and I’ll be better prepared, as this is not as surprising as this season. I’m incredibly happy to get this chance, I even feel close to crying with joy. Thanks to everybody and especially to Hervé and Dato’ Razlan for always believing in me,” added the Malaysian.
Next season is going to be something special as he teams up with current Moto2 championship leader Miguel Oliveira, Johann Zarco, and Pol Espargaro on board factory-spec 2019 KTM RC16. This is also another first for Hafizh will be the first ever Malaysian rider to pilot a factory bike in the series.
Image source: MotoGP
Officially official: Lorenzo joins Honda for 2019 and 2020 MotoGP seasons
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ladies-harley-malaysias-ride-melaka-2018/ | Ladies of Harley Malaysia’s Ride to Melaka 2018 |
The Ladies of Harley Malaysia is a group of female Harley-Davidson riders.
They get together to share their love for riding motorcycles.
The ladies started their ride to Melaka from Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya for the first time.
While it always feels good to see a fellow biker on the road, it’s undeniably better to see one of the fairer gender, “Not as a pillion, but riding her own bike, instead.” That was what Mariana Mohamad, ex-national cyclist said while awaiting the flag-off of the Ladies of Harley Malaysia’s 2018 ride to the historic city of Melaka.
Mariana Mohamad is the first lady from the right
The ride was historically historic as well, since it marked the first time the ladies began their ride from the new Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya.
The 20-odd ladies had gathered at the dealership from early morning, for some light breakfast and catching up. Everyone was smiling and laughing, the air was thick with cheerfulness and anticipation. Among them were Mariana Mohamad, the aforementioned ex-national cyclist and, singer and actress, Fauziah Latiff. Also present were Nor Cilla Omar and Sura (Sue) Rahman who were the Champion and First Runner Up, respectively at the recent Inaugural Bikers Invitational Golf Charity Classics 2018.
“I’ve ridden with the Ladies of Harley Malaysia many times since I started motorcycling. That time, we rode to Melaka and today feels like an anniversary as we ride there but from a new home, HDPJ,” continued Mariana.
The ladies rode mostly Harley-Davidson Sportsters, but there were a number of other models, including a Softail Slim, Street 750, Dyna Low Rider and “Sons of Anarchy” Dyna Low Rider.
As usual, they held a short safety briefing before the “On the bike” call. They suited up and rode out from the hallway in The Gasket Alley (as there weren’t too many of them).
Out on the roads and highways, the group was expertly led by Nor Cilla with Fauziah Latiff as the sweeper. The group maintained great discipline and cohesiveness throughout the trip, besides displaying good control over their machines.
The ladies stopped for fuel first at the Seremban R&R before stopping again after passing the Ayer Keroh toll plaza, where fellow Harley-Davidson riders Hulubalang MG waited to guide the convoy into Asam Pedas Lagenda for lunch. By the way, the word hulubalang means the Sultan’s royal guards and palace guards – knights, in other words – during the Malaccan Sultanate during the 15th and 16th centuries.
From there it was to Harley-Davidson of Melaka in Taman Kota Laksamana. The dealership is undergoing completion and will be formally launched in May 2018.
The dealership’s crew escorted the entire group to a restaurant called Nyonya Lin’s Kitchen for refreshments including the famous cendol nyonya and kuih nyonya. The restaurant was bedecked with period paraphernalia such as vintage furniture, motorcycles, trinkets and toys. Even the interior design resembled that of Melaka’s pre-World War II houses.
From Harley-Davidson of Melaka, it was to another round of coffee (real coffee, not those one finds in pubs) at a beach. The Ladies of Harley Malaysia finally headed over to the Villa Lisa at A’Famosa Resort at Batu Gajah.
Before we conclude, this writer observed that the riders never failed to wave their gratitude to other road users who had given way. All the riders of Ladies of Harley Malaysia and Hulubalang MG were really friendly and not stand-offish to strangers who had requested selfies or to pose with their bikes. Whoever said Harley riders were unfriendly?
Great respect from us to the ladies and gentlemen during the ride.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-2021-lineup-lands-in-malaysia-from-rm89900/ | Harley-Davidson 2021 Lineup Lands in Malaysia – From RM89,900! |
MY21 Photography. FXBBS.
The 2021 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 114 is the latest addition to the 2021 H-D Softail line-up that combines modern firepower together with the classic American cruiser styling that’s considered iconic to many folks around the globe.
For the new Street Bob, the biggest upgrade has to be its Milwaukee-Eight® 114 engine that bumps to capacity from 1,753cc to 1,868cc and priced at RM101,900.
This bigger capacity v-twin engine now offers 92hp and 161Nm of torque, which H-D has stated to be 9% quicker from 0-100km/h and 13% faster from 100km/h-130km/h compared to the previous Street Bob 107. You’ll also get to enjoy this with your pillion as the 2021 Street Bob 114 comes with a pillion seat and footpegs (unlike the previous model).
Meanwhile, Harley-Davidson Malaysia also introduced the Low Rider S and Softail Standard priced at RM106,900 and RM89,900 respectively.
The Low Rider S is built around the Softail chassis but further enhanced by premium suspension components tuned for aggressive riding.
The interested party can take a closer look at the all-new 2021 models at every Harley-Davidson authorized dealership in Malaysia via an Open House event from 27-28 March 2021.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-bmw-f-850-gs-debuts-at-bmw-motorrad-nightfuel-johor-bahru/ | 2018 BMW F 850 GS Debuts at BMW Motorrad Nightfuel Johor Bahru |
BMW Motorrad Malaysia had introduced the 2018 BMW F 850 GS.
It was unveiled at the BMW Motorrad Nightfuel lifestyle event in Johor Bahru.
No price has been announced but the bike will be available from November 2018.
The much-awaited 2018 BMW F 850 GS mid-range adventure motorcycle has been introduced at BMW Motorrad Nightfuel in Johor Bahru.
The F 850 GS is all-new from the ground up and now features a distinctive look besides a bevy of new features, as BMW’s weapon in the middleweight adventure wars.
No prices have been released as of yet and it shall be available from November 2018 onwards.
Principle of the F 850 GS
First introduced in 2007, the GS version of the F-series follows the formula set by its granddaddy, the R80G/S. It was the R80G/S which singlehandedly started the adventure-touring segment. “Gelande Strasse” means off-road/road in German.
Compared to the R 1200 GS, the F-series GS models represent bikes that are simpler, lighter, more accessible as well as more affordable and easier to work on.
Styling
The F 850 GS’s predecessor may resemble the flagship R 1200 GS in many ways, but it now looks more distinctive while remaining tie to its bigger brother.
For example, the new bike a new asymmetrical headlamp and GS “flyline” that announces itself as a member of the GS family. There is also a new “beak” ahead of the healight.
Odd corners and edges around the fuel tank and seat have been removed to improve off-road riding. The windshield can be exchanged for off-road or road-riding.
In a nutshell, the 2018 F 850 GS is much sharper-looking than before.
Engine
The engine has been revised for increased performance while optimizing fuel efficiency.
While It is still a parallel-Twin (for more compactness), it now displaces 853cc with a 270o crankshaft to mimic the firing interval of a 90o V-Twin for optimum and smooth torque characteristics. The new firing order also results in a growling exhaust note. Engine vibrations are quelled by two balancer shafts.
Its maximum power has increased to 95 bhp (75 kW) at 8,250 RPM and 92 Nm of torque at 6,250 RPM. There is a 2,000 RPM spread between maximum torque and maximum horsepower, illustrating a flexible engine.
A slipper clutch has been added to the new bike while the final drive has been moved to the left side.
Frame and chassis
The “bridge” frame is made of deep-drawn and welded components. The engine is mounted as a stressed element. The fuel tank has been moved to a more customary position from underneath the seat on previous models. Doing do optimizes mass centralization.
The front is suspended by nwq upside-down forks with a new monoshock at the rear.
The biggest change for the F 850 GS’s rolling stock, however, are the new cross-spoke wheels that allow for tubeless tyres.
Ergonomics
The F 850 GS’s ergonomics have been designed to accommodate a wider range of riders. BMW has made the seat height lower while still retaining large ground clearance. The rider triangle – relation among the handlebars, seat and footrest – have been revised.
Electronics
The “Road” and “Rain” riding modes are standard. However, customers may add the Pro option which extends riding modes to “Dynamic,” “Enduro” and “Enduro Pro.” Additionally, ABS and ASC (Automatic Stability Control) allow for greater safety.
There is also a new TFT screen.
Optional equipment and accessories
BMW offers a wide range of optional Original BMW Motorrad accessories for the F 850 GS.
Customers can choose ex-work packages such as Comfort, Touring, Dynamic, Lights according to their needs.
BMW offers three colour schemes, namely Exclusive, Rallye and Racing.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/breaking-franco-morbidelli-out-of-dutch-gp/ | BREAKING: Franco Morbidelli Out Of Dutch GP |
Franco Morbidelli will not feature at this weekend Dutch GP after sustaining a left knee injury at training.
The Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT) has confirmed the Italian rider will not compete in Assen; instead, he will set to undergo a medical assessment to determine the best course of action for recovery.
The 26-year old remained as the only Yamaha rider not to race with a factory-spec YZR-M1 this season.
Just a few months ago, Morbidelli expressed his disappointment for not getting the factory support he deserved despite finishing the 2020 MotoGP season behind the world champion, Joan Mir.
The former VR46 Academy graduates currently sit at 11th place in the championship with 40 points after eight rounds.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/test-ride-the-latest-harley-davidson-moto-guzzi-and-triumph-at-the-8-hours-of-sepang/ | Test Ride the Latest Harley-Davidson, Moto Guzzi and Triumph at the 8 Hours of Sepang |
Here’s your chance to test ride the latest Harley-Davidson, Moto Guzzi and Triumph motorcycles.
It’s happening during the 8 Hours of Sepang weekend.
The test rides will be conducted on Saturday and Sunday.
Here’s your chance to test ride the latest Harley-Davidson, Moto Guzzi and Triumph motorcycles, and it’s happening during the 8 Hours of Sepang weekend. You can test ride them on both Saturday and Sunday.
We know and understand that motorcycle test rides are difficult to come by so this is the best opportunity for you.
In fact, you’d experience why Harley-Davidsons are the premier cruisers. Harley is the longest-running motorcycle manufacturer, renowned for building bikes that break conventions, and fully embodying the spirit of individuality.
Should Moto Guzzi Malaysia bring along the the new Moto Guzzi V85TT, you’ll see why it’s now one of the best-selling dual-sport motorcycles. It had endeared itself into the hearts of many around the world for its character, accessibility and practicality. Besides that model, the modern classic Guzzis are renowned for their character.
Over at Triumph, you’d find out why the worldwide fans commend the bikes as being supremely rideable, characterful and fun. The Bonneville line-up may look classic, but their engine and handling traits make them a joy to ride. The Street Triple shows how a light, nimble and powerful bike is unadulterated pleasure; while the Tiger 800 set the standard on how dual-sport and adventure bikes should be built.
As we mentioned earlier, the test rides are happening during the 8 Hours of Sepang this weekend.
The event is the inaugural installment of the FIM Endurance World Championship to be held in Malaysia. Featuring the world’s top endurance teams and riders, it’ll be one massive race event that all Malaysian motorcycle enthusiasts and the family will enjoy.
Read: 10 Points about the FIM Endurance World Championship (FEWC) and 8 Hours of Sepang
In fact, it gets better than that because it’s a double-header which includes the World Touring Car Races (WTCR).
*Motorcycles available for test rides are subject to weather conditions and may change.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-honda-cbr650f-test-review-two-worlds/ | 2018 Honda CBR650F Test & Review – “Between Two Worlds” |
The 2018 Honda CBR650 is a sporty all-rounder, just like the CBR600F and CBR600RR series.
It should appeal greatly to beginners and advanced riders.
Priced from RM 44,453 (basic selling price with 0% GST).
When it comes to the hallowed “CBR” name, one conjures up images of red, white and black sportbikes howling at the redline, including the infamous CBR600F and CBR600RR that rule the middleweight class. How about this 2018 Honda CBR650F we tested here then?
We had an earlier impression of the CBR650F during Honda’s iftar event and during the RC213-V test ride, both at the Sepang International Circuit last year.
On the track, the CBR650F was a joy to ride, due to the smooth surface (compared to public roads). I remember fondly of it being flickable and the torquey engine.
First and foremost, the bike looks great, like a pure sportbike. The bodywork leaves a number of bits exposed, such as the magnesium-coloured engine cases. The bodywork which covers the subframe is duly sculptured and gives the bike a very slim waist. The seat reminds one of the CBR600F’s.
The seating position is also sporty with more weight on the front and high-mounted footpegs, hence putting your face just behind the small windscreen. There are two small LCD screens underneath that windscreen. The LED headlamp can be regarded as distinctive.
Quality as you’d expect of a Honda is readily apparent throughout the entire bike. From the paintwork to how the panels join, most cables and wires are hidden way, the switchgears don’t feel tacky. Honda always goes OCD about the tidiness of their bikes.
For a four-cylinder engine, the engine actually rumbles during idle. Blip the throttle and you’ll hear a warble from the airbox underneath the fuel tank.
You need to slip the clutch in order to pull away, not due to the engine but because there’s only a clutch cable adjuster. So, the problem is if you adjusted it to bring the clutch lever closer to the handlebar, the clutch takes a long while to engage and vice-versa. But you’ll get used to it after a while or fit an aftermarket adjustable lever
Another point scored is its low seat height, which should cater to all riders. The seat cushioning is pretty comfortable, too.
But once underway, the CBR650F’s engine belies the “stereotype” of inline-Four engines. It’s torquey! Unlike certain 600cc inline-Fours of the same class we’ve ridden, the Honda’s engine doesn’t wait until it hits midrange to be of use. Instead it charged forward as soon as the throttle was twisted.
It picks up speed really fast all the way to its top speed, without feeling strained. However, it did feel like the bike was geared short for urban and casual riding. In my personal opinion, I would reduce two teeth on the rear sprocket to give the bike longer touring legs.
On congested city streets, the smooth throttle, linear power delivery and torque makes for an easy bike to ride; meaning you’re hardly ever find yourself in the wrong gear.
The steering felt a little “heavy” at first but was because I was pressing down onto the handlebars. However, in a sporty crouch with the arms straight out, the bike was predictably nimble.
That didn’t mean the ergonomics was designed by Marquis de Sade, though.
Around corners, you could do your best impression of Marc Marquez (well, maybe 30% of it). You could hang off very nicely by using the deep knee cutouts on the tank to support your lower body and the tank to support your outer arm as you carve through corners at some pretty scary speeds.
This is when the chassis showed its class as the Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) forks provide good feedback to the palms of your hands while the rear shock handled damping pretty well, for a basic set up. The CBR650F was stable through corners without a tendency to either stand up or shake its handlebar.
Of course, being a basic suspension system, the bumps on KL roads are its worst enemies. Still, you don’t get kicked out of the seat.
On congested city streets, the smooth throttle, linear power delivery and torque makes for an easy bike to ride; meaning you’re hardly ever find yourself in the wrong gear.
The brakes are up to the job although it lacked an initial hard bite. It’s not a problem if you came up from smaller bikes but remember to brake earlier and harder if you’re used to four-piston calipers on bigger bikes.
But what can one expect from a RM 44K bike? Öhlins, Brembos, Bosch IMU?
There were a couple of things that I found at odds with the bike, though. First was the LCD screens. While they aren’t difficult to decipher, I’d prefer one large screen. Secondly, I’d prefer the front brakes to have a harder bite.
Those are just my personal opinion as the Honda CBR650F is a sweet, entry-level middleweight to ride. It has the kind of comfort and performance you’d find on the early CBR600F models. Being a simple bike, the rider could learn much from riding as you need to learn the fundamentals of motorcycle control.
Speaking about the CBR600RR, that’s a pure sportbike. The CBR650F, on the other hand sits comfortably between other anemic 600/650cc middleweights and the CBR600RR’s hardcore edge. While the former’s engine produces 120bhp, the CBR650F’s brings 90bhp (4bhp up from 2016) to the table. That’s already way more powerful than the rest of its class; it’s 20bhp more than the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and only 16bhp more than the Yamaha MT-07.
In conclusion, the 2018 Honda CBR650F is a great as a daily commuter and weekend thrill chaser. It wouldn’t be out of place on the racetrack, either. So yes, you could say the 2018 Honda CBR650F is the best of both worlds.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
2018 HONDA CBR650F
ENGINE
ENGINE TYPE
4-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled, inline-Four
DISPLACEMENT
648.72 cc
BORE x STROKE
67.0 mm x 46.0 mm
POWER
90 bhp (67 kW) @ 11,000 RPM
TORQUE
64 Nm @ 8,000 RPM
COMPRESSION RATIO
11.4:1
TRANSMISSION
6-speed
FUEL SYSTEM
PGM-Fi programmed fuel injection
CLUTCH
Multiple-plate wet clutch, cable-operated
CHASSIS
FRAME
Steel diamond
FRONT SUSPENSION
ø 41 mm Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) telescopic forks
REAR SUSPENSION
Monoshock with adjustable spring preload
FRONT BRAKE
2 X Two-piston caliper and ø 320 mm discs
REAR BRAKE
1 X Single-piston caliper, ø 240 mm brake disc
TIRES FRONT/REAR
120/70 ZR-17; 180/55 ZR-17
STEERING HEAD ANGLE
25.5o
TRAIL
101 mm
WHEEL BASE
1,449 mm
SEAT HEIGHT
810 mm
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
17.3 litres
KERB WEIGHT
214 kg
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sign-up-with-allianz-motorcycle-plus-and-stand-a-chance-to-win-a-honda-cbr250rr/ | Sign Up With Allianz Motorcycle Plus And Stand A Chance To Win A Honda CBR250RR! |
As an effort to promote riders safety with Allianz Motorcycle Plus, Allianz General Malaysia is stepping up the game by offering the Honda CBR250RR for one lucky winner.
Riders who purchase the Allianz Motorcycle Plus or Allianz Motorcycle (Comprehensive or Third Party) policy between 1st October and 31st December 2021 will stand a chance to be in the running to win a Honda Wave Alpa or the grand prize, the 2021 Honda CBR250RR worth RM25,999.
The campaign will feature three draws; each draw will be held at the end of each month, October, November and December, with the grand prize winner to be announced in the final month.
Customers who purchase the Allianz Motorcycle Plus and Allianz Motorcycle Policy (Comprehensive) are entitled to three entries, while Third-Party policy permits one entry.
“We know it has been a tough year for everyone, and with everything that has been going on, we wanted to do something nice for the riders out there.
“We have seen a lot more motorcycles on our roads since the pandemic, and with riders being so grossly underserved, our focus was on doing things to change that. We enhanced our Allianz Motorcycle Plus to offer improved protection and even introduced free roadside assistance for motorcycles.
“Having the 111 Motorcycle Campaign is just a nice way to bring everything together and hopefully bring a smile to our customer’s faces said Sazali Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Sales Officer of Allianz General.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysia-may-surpass-thailand-as-the-worlds-worst-motorcycle-deaths/ | Malaysia May Surpass Thailand As The World’s Worst Motorcycle Deaths |
Courtesy of freemalaysiatoday.com
Malaysia may overtake Thailand as the world’s worst death rate for motorcyclists, as reported by FMT.
According to Bukit Aman’s traffic department reports, motorcyclists accounted for more than 70.2 per cent of nationwide death of 2,954 from January to August. That is seven out of 10 deaths just this year.
Muhammad Marizwan Abdul Manan, Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) Road Safety Engineering and Environment Research Centre Director, concluded that Malaysia could reach a staggering fatality rate in a few years.
“The latest data by police is staggering since we projected that Malaysia could only reach the fatal crash rate of 70% by 2025 (for motorcycles) if we compare with other road users,” he said.
So far, Thailand is ranked as the worst motorcycle death rate globally since 2015, with over 74 per cent of overall 22,491 road casualties.
Meanwhile, since 2015 Malaysia’s motorcyclist death rate currently ranging from 62.7 to 67.3 per cent, with a total of 26,316 death.
According to Marizwan, the rate will continue upward as traffic volume is expected to increase exponentially once inter-state travel is allowed.
“Since last year, road traffic in Malaysia, in general, was not heavy because of various travelling restrictions due to the pandemic but looking at the current situation, this is possible by 2025 if we do nothing now,” he added.
(Source: FMT)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-nitrous-injected-yamaha-yard-built-xsr700/ | Check out this nitrous-injected Yamaha Yard Built XSR700 |
One nitrous-injected Yamaha Yard Built XSR700 has been built by Brice Hennebert and the Workhorse Speed Shop.
The fully-customised Yamaha XSR700 was built to compete at the recent Sultans of Sprint drag event.
A number of high-performance parts have been included in the custom bike including a NOS system.
In conjunction with the recent Sultans of Sprint racing event, custom bike builder Brice Hennebert together with the Workhorse Speed Shop went ahead with one of the most outstanding Yamaha Yard Built custom bikes yet.
Those who are unaware of what Yamaha Yard Built custom bikes really are should know that their main purpose is to inspire owners of the Yamaha XSR900, XSR700, XV950R, and SCR950 into something unique. This particular Yamaha XSR700 built by Brice breaks all the rules when it comes to the conventional aspects of bike design.
This particular XSR700 has been rebuilt from the ground up and injected with as much performance as it can handle in order to compete at the Sultans of Sprints Factory category. There were a few regulations that had to be followed to enter the competition but the end result is nothing short of breathtaking.
Its handcrafted aluminium body was shaped to pay homage to the 1985 FZR 750 Bol d’Or Sonauto ridden by Christian Sarron. The end result is a super low, super sleek, dragster machine that’s built for speed.
Other custom parts include a Workhorse extended swingarm, balanced crankshaft, modified oil circuit, suppressed counterweights, and a Suter anti-hopping clutch just to name a few. In other words, the XSR700’s 689cc DOHC inline-twin engine has been brought onto a whole new level.
This is further enhanced with a modified injection body together with other high-performance parts such as a carbon battery, a full racing brake system, clutch control, a front and rear master cylinder, and the crème de la crème, a NOS system fitted with a Max Extreme Nitrous Controller.
No power output figures have been released but the bike in itself is a masterpiece that’s certainly ‘too cool for school’.
1700cc three-wheeled Yamaha V-Max in the works?
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