url
stringlengths 46
176
| headline
stringlengths 10
140
| content
stringlengths 103
21.4k
|
|---|---|---|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-teases-new-2021-honda-forza-750/ | Honda teases new 2021 Honda Forza 750! |
Earlier this month, Honda teased us with a date and a name, 14 October 2020 and Forza. A couple of weeks went by and they’ve dropped another teaser. This time, we can finally confirm the model that they’ll be launching and it’s going to be the all-new 2021 Honda Forza 750. That’s right, it’s a super scooter!
Starting the teaser video with a huge and very unmissable ‘750’ on the screen, the clip quickly turned to other highlighted specs of this new maxi-scooter. These things include a push-start button like the ones found in the brand’s four-wheel selection, a big-ass rear LED taillight, one sweet-looking full-colour TFT screen, and the iconic Forza-like front end appearance.
As for the engine, our best guess would that the 2021 Honda Forza 750 will run is the 745cc V2 engine found on the current Honda X-ADV 750. This, however, will be re-tuned to meet with the requirements of the Euro5 emission regulations, which also means that the power figure will be off slightly.
We also highly suspect that this bad boy will also come with Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) package and also a final-chain drive just like the X-ADV. More details will be out soon but for now, we’ll just have to wait for its official launch this October 14th. Hold on to your horses, fellas.
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-yamaha-x-max-125/ | 2018 Yamaha X-Max 125 Debuts in Europe |
2018 Yamaha X-Max 125 shows great looks and promise
The X-Max 125 is a worldwide best-seller
Part of Yamaha’s “MAX” scooter family
Yamaha has unveiled the new X-Max 125 scooter ahead of the release of their 2018 model line up.
While we do not see the X-Max in Malaysia, the model has sold more than 140,000 units worldwide.
The 2018 model will be EU-4 emissions compliant, hence the 125cc, single-cylinder engine is fed by electronic fuel injection which has low fuel consumption. Such prospects would make the X-Max popular in our country, due to the rising fuel prices.
Both the X-Max 125’s brakes feature ABS as standard. But it goes beyond that, as there is also traction control.
Yamaha has also upgraded the 2018 X-Max 125 to be even more practical. Case in point is the underseat storage space which could accommodate two full-face helmets. That large screen is adjustable, so are the handlebars. It also has a 12V power outlet, like in the NVX, which is fast becoming a pre-requisite.
Speaking of the NVX, the X-Max 125 also uses the Yamaha Smart Key as the former’s. The X-Max’s distinctive dual LCD instruments panels remain.
Yamaha has also started to imbue its family of scooters with a sense of familial ties through the design of their headlights and tail lights. One could instantly tell their make with just one glance.
Will the X-Max 125 ever make it here? Who knows. But it does show that Yamaha is serious about the scooter market.
But if you really want a scooter, check out the Yamaha NVX we tested recently. Click here to read the review of the NVX.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-gixxer-sf-250-and-gixxer-250-coming-to-malaysia-in-2023/ | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 coming to Malaysia in 2023? |
Can we expect to see both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 launched in Malaysia in 2023?
Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd confirms intentions to launch Gixxer SF250 and Gixxer 250 duo.
However, this will take at least another year, so expect both sometime in 2023 instead.
Both share similar bones and 250cc SOHC single, the latter offering 26HP and 22.6NM.
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
Suzuki Gixxer 250
Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd has been on a roll since its re-establishment late last year. Though there has been much hype with the recent launch of its 150cc offerings, plenty of fans are left waiting for the introduction of its quarter-litre duo, specifically the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250.
During a recent press ride and Berbuka Puasa session held by the firm just before the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri holidays, we’ve gotten an indication as to when both will debut locally. The good news here is that both are indeed coming, the bad news here being when – sometime next year.
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
That’s right, according to Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd management, they’ll need at least another year to properly introduce the Gixxer SF 250 and its Gixxer 250 naked twin. As to an exact date, Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd has kept mum about this too, but we reckon this will happen in 2023 nonetheless.
Both the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250 are mechanically identical as they share the same 249cc single-cam (SOHC) single-cylinder heart that delivers 26HP and 22.6NM. Aptly, both are set apart by their different styling and ergonomics – full-faired and sport in the Gixxer SF 250 versus a more upright riding lesser-faired Gixxer 250.
Aptly, both will have their sights set on rivalling against a number of offerings – the recently refreshed KTM 250 Duke being one of which. Apart from that, little else was disclosed, meaning we’ll need to wait a little longer before we see both quarter-litres debut locally.
On a more immediate timeline, Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd did confirm that ABS-equipped versions of the recently launched 150cc trio – the GSX-R 150, GSX-S 150 and Raider R150Fi – will happen soon.
This, of course, greatly depends on how the local firm, as well as its Japanese principals, manage the on-going ABS sensor shortage that’s plaguing various manufacturers on a global level.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/electric-powered-honda-cb125r-coming-real-soon/ | Electric powered Honda CB125R coming real soon? |
Patent files shows Honda is working on an electric-powered motorcycle based on the CB125R.
The patent drawings show a small electric power plant that matches the form and purpose of the CB125R.
The bike is already 75% production ready, which means a global debut is not too far away.
Electrification is the future, and there is no doubt about that. Our prediction is that almost every form of transportation will be electric powered in about 100 years.
Honda for one is already working on patenting such technologies, and though we have had electric motorcycles for a while now, this is interesting because it marks the possible arrival of an electric powered 125 sized motorcycle from Honda.
How do we know this? Well the internet is a abuzz with news about Honda filing patents on a new electric motorcycle that looks a lot like the existing CB125R.
From the patent drawings seen here, it is probably safe to assume that the electric powered CB125R is already in its final R&D form somewhere in a Honda lab.
The internet is speculating that the electric power plant will be small and lightweight and perhaps even ‘dinner plate sized’.
This is not too far fetched considering the CB125 itself is a compact lightweight motorcycle.
Having a small lightweight electric power plant means it will fit right into the form and purpose of the CB125R.
Other than the obvious change in power plant, the rest of the CB125R’s frame, suspension and braking systems look unchanged.
Of course this is all we can tell from the renderings, but you can be sure that there will be lots of small adaptations inside the frame to accommodate the electric engine and batteries.
We hear you asking about performance and range and charging periods, but all we know so far is that Honda has filed patents and with all patents, performance and range specifications are kept secret.
But you can safely assume that power won’t differ much from the 125cc engine. This is because the overall chassis and related parts are also designed to handle a certain amount of power and torque.
Any more and the frame won’t be able to handle it. Redesigning the frame doesn’t make sense due to the cost factors involved.
And so, because 75% of the electric CB125R is production ready, it won’t take more than a year or so for the final product to reach global markets. Watch this space!
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-jorge-martin-to-join-pramac-ducati-in-2021/ | MotoGP: Jorge Martin to join Pramac Ducati in 2021? |
It was recently announced that current Pramac Ducati rider, Jack Miller, will be moving up into the factory squad for the 2021 MotoGP season and that has left a vacant spot in the satellite team. A bunch of names has been rumoured to fill in but none more visible than current Red Bull KTM Ajo Moto2 rider, Jorge Martin.
It seems that his manager and Pramac Ducati are already in the ‘advanced talks’ stage and if it is all finalised, Jorge Martin will be partnering with the other Pramac Ducati rider, Francesco Bagnaia. Getting a seat on this team might just be one of the best ways to make the move up to MotoGP as Ducati is looking into fast-tracking their Desmosedici development with hopes of more victories.
With that being said, we might just see four Ducati Desmosedici GP21 with the same specs next season being piloted by Jack Miller and Andrea Dovizioso on the factory squad as well as Miller and Bagnaia in the satellite team. It’s certainly an interesting deal considering that Martin is also being targeted by the likes of KTM and Honda.
There are also talks of KTM’s Pol Espargaro changing factories from KTM to Repsol Honda, with the possibility of Alex Marquez being placed in the LCR squad. If this is true, we’re looking at a very MotoGP silly season with major shifts taking place in several factory teams.
Even the outgoing Danilo Petrucci (Ducati Team) is having his sights on the Aprilia Gresini seat if Andrea Iannone isn’t able to file for an appeal regarding his current ongoing ‘doping’ issues and suspension from racing. Stay tuned for more MotoGP updates.
MOTOGP: Jack Miller gets Ducati factory seat for 2021
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/hafizh-battles-on-at-mugello/ | HAFIZH BATTLES ON AT MUGELLO |
Malaysian Moto2 rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah has continued to improve at the sixth leg of the MotoGP in Mugello, Italy. Hafizh shows signs of recovery when he posted 19th fastest in the second and third free practice sessions respectively. He first sliced off 0.7seconds off his lap times in the second free practice with 1’53.952s and went 0.3 seconds faster in the third free practice to bring his fastest time to 1’53.445s.
However, Hafizh is still not satisfied with his laptimes, especially because he is still having issues with tyre selection. On top of that, Hafizh is still not fully recovered from the fever which has sapped him of his physical strength.
“I had a better run this session but I am not happy with the small improvement of my lap times. I believe that I can go qiucker but the mixed feelings I have with the tyres choice has affected my riding performance. I keep experiencing slides here and there from the rear end and pushing hard makes me really nervous,” said Hafizh.
Team manager Barry Leong attributed these tyre problems to the uncertain Italian Tuscan weather. “The temperature did not provide a consistent reading and is causing confusion for our team engineers. There is more uncontrollable sliding on the rear tyres and this problem must be looked into before the Qualifying to ensure that Hafizh continues to stay consistent in the points rankings. We need to work out the balance between the tyres and the tarmac temperature,” said Barry.
GRAN PREMIO D’ITALIA TIM
Date: May 30, 2015
Round 6
Circuit: Mugello Circuit, Italy
Session: Free Practice 3
Weather: Cool and Dry
Air Temp: 21C
Ground: 35C
Best Lap: 1:53.445s
No. of Laps: 19
Position: 19
Moto2 Free Practice 3 Results
1. Tito Rabat (SPA) 1’51.820s
2. Sam Lowes (GBR) 1’52.014s
3. Johann Zarco (FRA) 1’52.034s
4. Thomas Luthi (SWI) 1’52.511s
5. Luis Salom (SPA) 1’52.540
Selected
19. Hafizh Syahrin (MAS) 1’53.445s
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/zontes-completes-3-cylinder-engine-development-to-launch-new-bike-range-soon/ | Zontes Completes 3-Cylinder Engine Development, To Launch New Bike Range Soon |
Zontes is prepping to launch a new range of motorcycles after completing development of its triple-cylinder engine.
Zontes officially completes its triple-cylinder engine development.
The new project was announced back in June 2021.
The Chinese motorcycle manufacturer announced its ambitious plans back in June 2021. The announcement was a part of the company effort to take on the likes of Yamaha and Triumph with its own triple-cylinder powertrain.
With a number of Chinese brand already penetrating the big bike segment, Zontes also wants a piece of the cake after spending much of its time on the lower end of the engine range with its 310cc motorcycles.
Nevertheless, Zontes is ready to climb up the scale after completing the new engine development and showing it off to the public as proof.
Frankly, we like at what we are seeing as the new engine is more of an innovation instead of tracing existing design from other manufacturers.
Also, this is a proof that Zontes is working on something solid, further hinting its plan to become a new contender in a segment that features established line up.
As for which models that could feature the new engine is still unclear but looking at other Chinese counterpart including CFMoto and QJ Motor, we assume one of the new model could be an adventure-type motorcycle.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-gsx-s750-gets-new-colour-scheme-for-2021/ | Suzuki GSX-S750 Gets New Colour Scheme For 2021 |
Suzuki has been making waves this past few months after launching several 2022 models.
The Hamamatsu-based company recently unveiled the GSX-S1000, GSX-S950 including a new generation Hayabusa.
Suzuki has updated the GSX-S750 with a new white and fluoro yellow colour scheme in the UK to ensure the current model stays relevant.
However, underneath the skin, the GSX-S750 maintains the same 749cc inline-four engine that makes 113hp @ 10,500rpm and 81Nm @ 9,000rpm.
Suzuki is likely to introduce an updated version of the GSX-S750 in the coming months, given the comprehensive updates done on the GSX-S1000 and Hayabusa.
Meanwhile, Suzuki rumoured to introduce an all-new GSX-R1000 and GSX-S1000T later this year.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/motogp-alex-rins-signs-suzuki/ | MotoGP: Alex Rins signs with Suzuki |
Moto2 standings leader to ride the GSX-RR in 2017 and 2018.
Pic from MotoGP.com
The nearly man of motorcycle racing, Alex Rins, will be moving up a class next year regardless of how his current campaign in the 2016 Moto2 championship ends. The 20-year old Barcelona native has been signed by Team ECSTAR Suzuki to ride the GSX-RR in MotoGP for 2017 and 2018 alongside mercurial Italian rider Andrea Iannone, thus filling the final factory seat left open.
Since making his world championship season debut in Moto3 in 2012, Rins has proven to be a quick rider. He scored his first podium in only his fourth race and went on to finish his inaugural season fifth overall. In 2013, he was involved in a season long battle for the title with the late Luis Salom and current Suzuki rider Maverick Vinales and while Rins was favoured to win the championship, a 24th-place finish in the penultimate round in Japan torpedoed his chances and he finished second.
After finishing his last three championship seasons second, third and second Rins is off to MotoGP in 2017 – Pic from MotoGP.com
This was the beginning of a series of near misses for Rins, who ended his 2014 Moto3 campaign in third as he watched teammate Alex Marquez claim the title. A switch to Moto2 in 2015 with the Pons team brought instant success with ten podiums, including two wins, in his maiden season and rookie of the year honours. He also finished second in the standings though the gap to eventual champion Johan Zarco was 118 points.
Rins is currently leading the 2016 Moto2 table ahead of Sam Lowes and defending champ Zarco – Pic from MotoGP.com
This year Rins has been going well again and after seven races, he’s leading the Moto2 championship standings ahead of Sam Lowes and Zarco. Signing off on his lower category career with a championship title would be the ideal way to graduate to MotoGP but there are still 11 races to run in 2016.
Suzuki team manager, Davide Brivio, said “Alex Rins is a young rider who is a proven talent, always fighting within the top positions of the World Championship since his debut in every class. This makes him the type of rider who we want to support for the future and by paring him with Andrea Iannone, we believe they can form a strong team to compete at the maximum level.”
The Suzuki GSX-RR will be Alex Rin’s ride in 2017 alongside ‘The Maniac’ Andrea Iannone – Pic from Suzuki Media
Suzuki have been quicker in 2016 with a third place podium finish in France to show for it – Pic from Suzuki Media
By signing Rins, Team ECSTAR Suzuki will say goodbye to Aleix Espagaro, who was the first rider they signed for their return to MotoGP. With all the factory seats filled, the 26-year old Spaniard may have to look for a ride with a customer team, with Marc VDS probably offering the best prospects as Tito Rabat looks set for a return to Moto2 following his dismal results in the premier class this year.
Aleix Espgaro will be the second rider to wave Suzuki goodbye at the end of 2016, though he isn’t leaving by choice – Pic from Suzuki Media
Will Alex Rins be able to compete against the likes of Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi next year? That’ll depend on the Suzuki but judging from his Moto3 and Moto2 results, it’ll only be a matter of time before the young Spaniard becomes a regular podium finisher and race winner.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/triumph-factory-custom-build-bobber-vs-scrambler/ | Triumph Factory build-off – Bobber vs Scrambler |
The format of pitting two teams against each other in a “build-off” has been around for many years – and always results in some fantastic motorcycles. When those two teams are comprised volunteers from within the Triumph business, tasked with creating the ultimate Bonneville customs then the sparks will truly fly.
In May 2014 volunteers were invited to join two teams in a build off to celebrate the iconic Bonneville. With the Bonneville chosen by many of the top contemporary custom builders and the base for countless specials around the world, the challenge was clear – use our in-house talent, craftsmanship, skills and passion to create a pair of jaw-dropping custom Bonnevilles. Each team was given a brand new Bonneville as a base to bring their dreams alive with a deadline to unveil both bikes in Milan on the 4th November 2014. Each bike would be showcased on the Triumph website and the winner will be the team who earns the most shares across Facebook, to be announce at Motorcycle Live, Birmingham, on the 26th November 2014.
Welcome to the new Triumph Factory Custom build-off. Welcome to Bobber vs. Scrambler.
TFC1: The Bobber
The Bobber. Instantly the name invokes images of clean lines, minimal equipment and a stripped-back riding experience. For Team TFC1, a group who count three Bonneville customs and a chopped V8 pickup amongst their own personal vehicles, this was definitely the route they wanted to follow. However, a traditional Bobber wouldn’t cut it for these passionate enthusiasts. The team’s desire was to take the Bobber ethos and really push the boundaries.A twin tubular hardtail frame with a single-sided rear end. A contemporary girder front end running twin Fox Factory shocks with remote handlebar adjustment. A reverse cylinder engine with completely reworked internals. Just three examples of the incredible engineering that the team have integrated into the showstopping TFC1: The Bobber.
With a low, sinuous stance, The Bobber is simply too much to take in at first glance. Completely redesigned girder forks, eliminating all of the traditional poor handling and lack of damping issues associated with this design, four pot caliper and wire wheel combine a complete hybrid of modern design and classic style. The startling single-sided hardtail rear is an engineering marvel in its own right, and the reverse cylinder engine presents the bespoke bell mouths to the rush of oncoming air and allows the elegantly simple exhaust to snake out and create the rear lines.
Stepping closer brings even more detail to drink in. The bonding of the frame elements, using a bespoke adhesive created by partners ThreeBond, gives a clean, weld free finish with incredible beauty yet unparalleled function. The traditional solo seat that utilises a purpose-built Fox shock absorber and linkage, allowing the rider to adjust comfort at the flick of a lever. The minimal lines of the Radianz LED light incorporated into the seat pan are just another example of the team’s perfect attention to detail.
Nowhere is the obsessive attention to detail more apparent than in the final details that you don’t see. A challenge of customising any contemporary motorcycle is the numerous electronics, sensors and looms that need to be integrated into the build. The Bobber is no different, and presented a number of challenges to the team. The initial thought of abandoning the stock EFi system and reverting to flat slide carburettors seemed at odds with the desire to build the ultimate contemporary Bonneville, so the team developed a plan to incorporate all of the modern electronics. Key to the plan was a ’69 Bonnie US Export tank. The tank was split in two, with one half being used for the electrical components and the other being used for fuel. Start and kill buttons were added to the dummy half, which now contained a shortened loom and bespoke electronics board, along with a Motogadget speedo. A Motogadget keyless ignition also handles the starting requirements. The other side of the tank houses the fuel, the fuel injection pump and filters and is finished with a pop up fuel cap.
Also out of sight – within the striking reverse cylinder engine – are hours and hours of re-engineering, modifiying the repositioned cam chain tensioners and oil ports, rerouting oil ways, and modified cam timing for the contra-rotating camshafts. Even the exhausts have been subject to this attention, with the twin wall construction allowing them to maintain the brushed finish without discolouring due to temperature. Countless other details combine with these incredible engineered elements to create TFC1: The Bobber – a Bonneville that echoes Triumph heritage whilst providing a breath-taking showcase for our contemporary custom excellence.
TFC 2: The Scrambler
As the custom scene continues to expand globally, so do the vast variety of custom Scrambler-style bikes. The original Scramblers were designed as purposeful, powerful, aggressive off-road versions of a stock road bike. Desert Sleds, Flat Trackers and Scramblers all fed into the DNA of what defines a true Scrambler. And this was the code clearly adopted by Team TFC2. Their interpretation of the Scrambler would become the modern expression of this desire for performance, handling and off-road ability – THE Scrambler.
Straight out of the crate and before their donor Bonneville had even reached the build bench the team defined a design ethos based on take mass out and boost power as their recipe for success. This approach was to be coupled with geometry and suspension travel closely related to a modern competition moto-crosser to deliver an agile chassis that would provide a perfect match for the uprated power plant. First to receive attention was the existing steel frame – sacrificed in exchange for a bespoke aluminium and titanium chassis with aggressive geometry and purposeful stance. The aluminium frame also acts as a conduit to hide components such as the throttle linkage and cables. Coupled to the aluminium frame is an exquisite titanium sub-frame, hand-welded in-house before being finished with shot blast and masked welds.
The beautiful bare chassis is finished with a slight departure from the lightweight obsession. The repurposed Speed Triple swingarm is heavier than a conventional unit, but has been inverted and finished to perfection to provide another staggering detail and a clear visual Triumph cue. Incorporating the swingarm created the need for a monoshock conversion, bringing the bike closer to its modern motocross inspiration and a collaboration with Nitron Racing Systems delivered a perfectly tuned rear shock along with a bespoke set of front forks.
The Scrambler’s elegantly aggressive poise is further enhanced by the unique composite bodywork. Very early in the process the team proposed the possibility of a carbon fuel tank – but weren’t convinced of the feasibility of the idea. Ace Fibreglass and Carbon stepped in, working with the team to produce a full carbon tank, along with additional bodywork and battery tray. The tank itself weighs in at under a third of the original steel part, contributing significantly to the team’s mantra – lose weight, boost power.
With The Scrambler now weighing in at significantly less than the donor bike, the team turned their attention to the second part of their intent – boost power. The head was skimmed and ported prior to the addition of large valves and Daytona throttle bodies, teamed with a modified set of spun aluminium inlet trumpets. Still seeking more from their modified twin the team engineered a one-off set of high lift cams, with a Daytona profile. Overall the engine mods are predicted to give a 25% increase in overall power –bringing the bike to life and giving the drive to match the new chassis.
To ensure the drive gets to the dirt, The Scrambler is finished with 17 inch Kineo wheels shod with a 180 section rear and 130 section front tyre. Why 17 inch front wheels? Well the team figured the option to fit a pair of super sticky slicks would turn the ultimate Scrambler into an outrageous Supermoto style track tool – which is no bad thing.
TFC2: The Scrambler. More power. Less weight.
Job done.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-yamaha-yzf-r25-launched-in-japan-now-with-abs/ | 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 launched in Japan – now with ABS |
Yamaha Motor Japan unveiled its latest 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 which comes in three new colour options and graphics as well as the addition of dual-channel ABS as a standard feature. With this, the non-ABS version of the R25 has come to an end, which will slowly be followed by markets around the globe.
These three new colour options are Yamaha Blue, Dark Grey Metallic, and our personal favourite, Cyan. This colour is also available on the latest updated Yamaha Y15ZR, a very popular 150cc cub here in Malaysia.
Going back to the new ABS addition, the dual-channel ABS makes sense considering that its naked sibling, the Yamaha MT-25, already has that feature as standard. For the local market, you can get the MT-25 at RM21,500 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration) which is around RM1,500 more than the current Yamaha YZF-R25 offering.
The rest of the specs for the updated YZF-R25 remains the same, including its 250cc parallel-twin engine which produces 35hp at 12,000rpm and 23Nm torque at 10,000rpm. If you happen to be in Japan right now, you can get the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 at JPY654,500, which is around the RM25,600 mark.
For now, you can check out our official review of the 2020 Yamaha MT-25 in the link, below. Stay tuned for more updates.
TESTED: 2020 Yamaha MT-25 – “Rush of Darkness”
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-new-royal-enfield-himalayan-450-to-break-cover-in-2023/ | CONFIRMED: New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 To Break Cover In 2023 |
Royal Enfield is about to unleash an all-new Himalayan 450 that is set to rival the KTM 390 Adventure.
The rumours have been making their round for quite some time now but it has been confirmed that a more powerful Himalayan will be set to debut in the first quarter of 2023.
According to reports in India, Royal Enfield decided to develop a slightly bigger Himalayan after customer feedback suggested the current Himalayan 411 is a bit underpowered due to its weight.
As the name suggests, the Himalayan 450 will carry a 450cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine capable of producing 40hp and has more low-end grunt and better mid-range power. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission.
Looking at the image render provided by BikeWale, the Himalayan 450 shares a very similar build-up with the 411 including a circular headlamp, frame, tall handlebars and long suspension travel.
The 450 is expected to carry the same tire configuration with a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear.
Interestingly, the 450 will also feature tubeless spoke wheels, something you usually find on a bigger and pricier adventure machine.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/229356/ | Ducati Malaysia’s Special “Red Weekend” Promotion |
Ducati Malaysia kick starts 2017 with a very special ‘Red Weekend’ 2-day sales and discounts
For those Ducati fans and enthusiasts out there, this weekend is probably the best weekend to head on over to Ducati showrooms in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya to participate in their first sale event of 2017 dubbed “Red Weekend”.
The event will only last this weekend and what better way to spend these two days than to try your hands on some Ducati bikes at the Ducati Kuala Lumpur showroom and also the Naza Automall Petaling Jaya. One of the major highlights of this weekend event is the test ride session for all the new bikes from Ducati like the Panigale 959, Monster 821, Multistrada 1200 Enduro, Hypermotard 939 and a couple of Ducati Scramblers.
Apart from all the amazing machines on display, the promotion also consists of Ducati’s merchandise, apparels, spare parts and other accessories. If a bargain is what you’re looking for, the Red Weekend sale is where it’s at.
Since it is a weekend, Ducati has prepared live music entertainment for everyone to just chill and relax while enjoying the food and beverage specially prepared for all guests. If you’re early, there’s even some ‘kambing golek’ for you to feast on. Family members can tag along as well while fellow bikers stock up on some new gear or even a new Ducati bike to take home!
To Ducati enthusiasts who are not located in Kuala Lumpur or Klang Valley, there will be other showrooms that will participate in this weekend very soon. The participating outlets are located in Penang, Sungai Buloh and Johor.
Those of you who came for the Red Weekend event around noon at Naza Automall in PJ got to witness something very special. There was a prize giving ceremony for the grand prize winner from the Merdeka Autofair ‘Spend and Win’ Contest. The prize? A brand new Ducati Panigale 1199 ABS with WSBK Livery!
There were also five Vespa S125s given away to other consolation winners as well. So please, spend your weekend the awesome way with Ducati during their ‘Red Weekend’.
Photo Gallery Ducati Malaysia “Red Weekend” Event @ Naza Automall, PJ
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/euro-5-emission-standard-why-do-we-need-it/ | Euro 5 Emission Standard: Why do We Need It? |
Euro 5 emission standard begins in 2020.
But what are emissions?
How do they impact our daily lives?
This article should’ve been published some time back, but there’s still time since the Euro 5 emission standard takes effect from 2020. Surely, you’ve seen the “Euro 5” term in reviews and new model launches.
What are “emissions”?
An internal combustion engine turns fuel to energy which turns the wheels. But the burning of fuel releases by-products, but the six most polluting ones are:
Carbon dioxide,
Carbon monoxide,
Sulfur dioxide,
Nitrogen oxides,
Lead,
Particulate matter,
Hydrocarbons.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
CO2 is the primary product when the carbon in fuel isn’t combusted completely, since carbon is 60% to 90% part of fuel (petroleum is hydrocarbon). Internal combustion vehicles contribute the largest amount of CO2.
CO2 has long been proven as a greenhouse gas, which traps infrared radiation escaping from the surface of the earth and causes the atmosphere to heat up. In other words, it makes the world hotter and hotter. Such phenomenon is demonstrated on our planetary neighbour Venus. Its atmosphere is so hot it can melt lead (lead’s melting point is at 327.5 degrees Celsius).
Atmosphere heating leads to climate change as in mega droughts in one location, abnormal rainfall in another. The ice caps will eventually melt, causing worldwide megafloods. No, we didn’t get that from disaster movies, but from documentaries.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
CO is colourless, odourless and tasteless gas, unlike in movies.
Although CO is not common is large quantities in ambient air, it can be poisonous even to healthy individuals. Prolonged exposure or exposure to elevated levels can lead to:
Visual impairment,
Reduced work capacity,
Reduced manual dexterity (muscular, skeletal and neurological functions to produce small and precise movements, like using the fingers to grab your motorcycle keys).
Poor learning ability,
Difficulty in performing complex tasks,
Individuals with cardiovascular disease may get angina pectoris (severe chest pain leading to shoulders, arms, neck).
You see, our blood cells called Hemoglobin (no, not the antagonist in Spider-Man) is an iron compound which carried oxygen (O2) from the lungs to tissues. It then transports CO2 back to the lungs to be expelled. Hemoglobin has a 240 time more affinity (attraction to) CO than to oxygen. As our total Hemoglobin is finite, the amount available to transport oxygen is reduced.
In worst cases, CO leads to death. Exposure to CO in enclosed spaces will first lead to drowsiness, fainting and death. The victim’s skin will turn flush red.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2)
SO2 is part of the family of sulfur oxide gases (SOx). The kicker is these gases dissolve easily in water and form acids. Sulfur is prevalent in all raw materials including crude petroleum, coal and metal ores such as aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, iron.
So, combustion of fuel produces SOx gases. These gases mixes with water vapour, other gases and particles in the atmosphere to become sulfates. Know the term acid rain? This is how it’s made.
Short-term exposure leads to breathing problems or asthma, while those with asthma may have breathing difficulties. Long-term exposure leads to aggravation of cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness and alternations to the lungs’ defences.
Nitrogren Oxides (NOx)
NOx is the general term for a group of highly reactive gasses that contain nitrogen and oxygen in varying amounts. Many among them are colourless and odourless. The form when fuel is burned at high temperatures, as in the combustion process. In fact, NOx is the largest form of emissions from combustion (up to 90%).
The most common form known nitrogen dioxide can be seen above our cities on certain days as that reddish-brown layer, which is also called smog. It’s the product of NO2 mixing with ground-level ozone and particles in the air.
It gets worse that blocking out a clear blue sky.
Short-term exposures (less than 30 hours) may lead to changes in airway responsiveness and lung function in those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses. It may also increase respiratory illnesses in children.
Long-term exposures to NO2 may lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and may cause irreversible alterations in lung structure.
It destroys the environment, too. NOx is also a precursor to acid rain and ozone.
Increased nitrogen introduction to land and wetland ecosystems can lead to changes in plant species composition and diversity. Direct input to aquatic ecosystems leads to excessive algae growth which depletes dissolved oxygen and increases toxins harmful to aquatic life.
Particulate Matter (PM)
General term for mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some are large enough to be seen as dust or dirt. Others are only detectable with an electron microscope.
There are two sources of PM:
“Primary” particles are formed through combustion process and emitted directly into the atmosphere. Examples include black carbon (soot) and dust from roads.
“Secondary” particles are formed in the atmosphere from primary emissions. An example is carbon soot from automobiles.
Particles smaller than or equal to 10 µm (micro metre or millionth of a metre) can be ingested into the lungs and cause health problems. They aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, and have long been associated with irregular heartbeats and heart attacks. Short-term exposures can also be associated with health problems.
Conclusion
These are just the basics! It’s so easy to forget about how polluting it is when we twist that throttle. But that’s what emissions standards are for: They’re there to specify lower emissions for the betterment of our planet and lives.
These emissions standards give rise to emissions control components such as the catalytic converter. So, you might want to think twice before you “de-cat” your bike or car.
That’s it for now, we’ll see what Euro 5 stipulates and how it impacts the motorcycle manufacturers and consumers.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/castrol-malaysia-kicks-off-hari-mekanik-malaysia-2022-on-march-18/ | Castrol Malaysia Kicks Off Hari Mekanik Malaysia 2022 on March 18 |
Castrol Malaysia is back for the fourth consecutive year to celebrate Castrol Hari Mekanik Malaysia (HMM) on March 18, 2022.
For 2022, Castrol will kick off the annual event with a unique theme, ‘The Game Changer’, in honour of our local heroes who saves vehicle owners’ life on day to day basis.
Hari Mekanik Malaysia is an extension of Castrol’s effort in paying tribute to the mechanics in Malaysia that served as a backbone of the brand for many years.
According to Castrol Malaysia, the HMM 2022 will be a fully virtual event experience that includes a media contest, jersey giveaways, and engagement with KOLs.
HMM 2022 will also be recognized as the most significant campaign ever as the event will collaborate with the English Premier League (EPL).
Regarded as the most-watched football league globally, the EPL is broadcasted in 212 territories to 643 million homes, with a TV audience of 4.7 billion.
The aim is to explore the dynamics of mechanics and footballers as kindred spirits who share the same drive and hard work to strive for success and achieve their goals.
Castrol hopes the new collaboration could alleviate the love and respect that Malaysian have for our mechanics.
Castrol Malaysia will also giveaway exclusive Catrol X EPL merchandise, including jerseys, caps, and flasks.
Participants will need to snap a photo of themselves in their favourite football jersey or Castrol t-shirt with their car or bike and the background of any Castrol-branded workshop.
Participants will need to post the photo on Facebook or Instagram with the caption of thanking their mechanic. Most liked Facebook and Instagram posts with the hashtags #CastrolHariMekanik and #CastrolEPL will win an exclusive Castrol X EPL merchandise.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-rd-4-sepang-saturday/ | Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Rd 4 in Sepang – Saturday |
Tricky weather greets Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup grid leading up to Rond 4 in Sepang.
The Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Round holds its inaugural race weekend in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) this weekend. Running along with the weekend’s Malaysian Super Series event, two races will be held, each lasting 14 laps.
Things got off to a good start early on Friday morning’s Free Practice 1 session (FP1). Conditions were excellent and all riders got to put in valuable lap times around the 5.5km-long circuit.
Topping the time sheets in FP1 was the pint-sized 14-year-old Japanese rider Ayumu Sasaki. Sasaki topped FP1’s time sheet with a fastest lap time of 2:19.371 on the championship’s Honda NSF250R race bikes.
Pressure is on for the seven Malaysian boys racing on home turf though. FP1 saw Pasir Gudang youngster Fakhrusy Rostam clock in the session’s third fastest time at 2:19.966 – just 0.595 off Sasaki’s pace.
Elsewhere down the order, the soft-spoken Malacca native known as Shafiq Rasol claimed the session’s fifth fastest time at 2:20.600. Despite engine troubles, Helmi Azman managed to clock in the session’s tenth fastest time with a timing of 2:21.993 – a respectable feat given the circumstances.
As always, Sepang’s regular late afternoon storm rolled in as predicted, bringing Friday afternoon’s Free Practice 2 (FP2) session to a brief halt. Nevertheless, Sasaki once again proved his riding prowess here, clocking in 2:19.902 to top the time sheets.
Taking advantage of the slightly damped conditions, Shafiq Rasol improved his timing in this session. FP2 saw Shafiq improve from fifth in FP1 to claimed the session’s second fastest time at 2:20.608 – just 0.706 off of Sasaki’s best time in FP2.
Rain returned once again to challenge the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup grid during Saturday’s late morning Qualifying practice. Primed with rain tyres, riders took to SIC’s black top and gave their very best efforts.
Unfortunately, Helmi Azman and Japanese rider Tsubasa Yoshida suffered falls, with Helmi high-siding whilst tackling Turn 1. Suffice to say, the wet weather conditions proved to be a handful for the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup’s riders given the slower lap times.
Pulling the biggest surprise here was Thai rider Nakarin Atiratphuvapat. The Thai snatched pole position after clocking in the session’s fastest time of 2:29.323. Not far off the pace was championship leader Yuta Date who clocked 2:29.392 to qualify second on the grid. Despite shining through both FP1 and FP2, the tiny wonder that is Sasaki only mustered the session’s third fastest time of 2:29.402.
For the Malaysian camp, it was a mixed of high and lows. The biggest improvement of the weekend so far came from Adam Norrodin’s performance. Despite less than ideal practice times, Adam took full advantage of the partially wet circuit to qualify fifth on the grid with a fastest time of 2:29.953.
Adam is the only Malaysian rider to qualify in top 10 and will start on the second row of the grid. Just missing out on a top 10 spot was Shafiq Rasol, where his best time of 2:31.371 only landed him in 11th place. Just behind him on the fourth row of the grid.
Elsewhere down the order, Helmi Azman qualified in 13th, while Shafiq Ezzariq and Ibrahim Norrodin qualified 16th and 17th respectively. Rider Nazirul Bahauddin, on the other hand, could only settle for the grid’s 21st slot.
The weekend’s first race, which is Round 4, is scheduled to take place later on Saturday afternoon at 2:45pm. Race 2 will be held tomorrow on Sunday at 1:15pm. Both races will last for 12 laps each.
Watch this space later on for updates and race results. In the meantime, you could also check out the extensive gallery below of snapshots taken by the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup’s official photographer, Mauro Talamonti.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hong-leong-launches-new-mt-09-rm-47388/ | Hong Leong Launches New MT-09 from RM 47,388 |
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
The Yamaha MT-09 has been a popular choice for those who wanted an aggressive big bike since its launch.
The new MT-09 has been facelifted and given a number of performance enhancing features.
Priced from an attractive RM 47,388 (inclusive of 6% GST but not on-the-road).
The Yamaha MT-09 has been a popular model for those who seek an aggressive bike and exciting riding experience ever since it was launched in Malaysia a few years back, and a facelift or upgrade has been expected to be forthcoming.
Well, wait no more because Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) has launched the new Yamaha MT-09 tonight. Dato’ Jim Khor, the Managing Director of HLYM calls the new bike, “The Ultimate Street Fighter.”
Looking even more aggressive and radical than when its predecessor first hit the roads., the new model was inspired by its bigger brother, the MT-10.
Dato’ Jim continued, “Arrival of the new MT-09 marks another significant milestone for Yamaha towards its aspiration of becoming the desired lifestyle and recreation motor vehicle brand.
The engine is still the proven liquid-cooled, 847cc, inline-Triple but has now been hotted up with:
Quickshifter
Assist & slipper clutch
Traction control
Front and rear ABS
Fully-adjustable front and rear suspension (inclusive of compression and rebound damping).
The most striking features of the new MT-09 however, are the new LED headlights and taillights, leaner and sharper overall styling and components. HLYM will offer the new MT-09 in two colours called Night Fluo (Grey) and Tech Black. It will be available from Yamaha Big Bike authorized dealers from February 2018.
HLYM has set the selling price at a competitive RM 47,388 (inclusive of 6% GST but not on-the-road).
HLYM also previewed the Yamaha Xmax 250 during the event. It is slated to be officially launched in March 2018, and no price has been provided yet.
PICTURE GALLERY
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
MTN850-A MTN850 MTN EUR RUS 2017
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
MTN850-A MTN850 MTN EUR RUS 2017
MTN850 MTN 850 MT-09 MT 09 EUR 2018
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/givi-strives-greater-commuting-safety/ | GIVI Asia strives for greater commuting safety |
GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd conducts ‘How To Prevent Commuting Accidents’ seminar as part of CSR efforts.
Leading motorcycle accessories brand GIVI (GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd) successfully held a seminar aptly titled ‘How To Prevent Commuting Accidents’ recently that’s centralised towards raising road safety awareness amongst its participants.
GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd hosted the seminar as part of its corporsate social responsibility efforts. Furthermore, the seminar was also held with the cooperation of notable institutions such as Perkeso, Monash University, as well as the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) Selangor.
GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd’s managing director On Hai Wee states that the campaign was created in response to the rising number of accidents involving motorcycle-borne employees during their daily commute to and from work.
He further adds, “we are honoured to have join forces with the parties above to educate the workforce in Malaysia on measures that can be taken to reduce risks and incidents leading to accidents while riding.”
Held recently in Hulu Selangor, the seminar was aimed specifically towards the mass number of motorcycle-borne workforce. Present here were representatives from a number of firms that included Perodua, TNB, Ingress, Tan Chong Motors, APM and more.
With this seminar and training given, GIVI Asia hopes that companies in Malaysia will easily adopt this safety-conscious mindset. The firm further states that it is willing to co-operate with parties interested to hold similar efforts within their organisations as well.
(Images courtesy of GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd)
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-toprak-razgatlioglu-left-yamaha-to-join-bmw/ | WorldSBK: Toprak Razgatlioglu Left Yamaha To Join BMW |
After four successful season with Pata Yamaha Prometeon WorldSBK Team, Toprak Razgatlioglu is set to leave the team and joins BMW Motorrad Motorsport for the 2024 season.
The Turkish rider took home 31 race win and 47 podium finish with Yamaha.
The decision to join BMW further ending any notion of jumping to MotoGP.
Starting from 2024, Toprak will compete on the BMW M 1000 RR representing the ROKiT BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.
Since his debut in WorldSBK in 2018, Razgatlioglu has consistently demonstrated his talent. In his first season alone, he achieved podium finishes, setting the stage for his remarkable career. With an impressive record of 33 wins and a total of 93 podium finishes out of 168 WorldSBK races, Razgatlioglu has established himself as one of the finest riders in the field.
Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, expressed his warm welcome to Razgatlioglu, stating, “We are delighted to welcome him to our WorldSBK factory squad from next season on. I am very proud that Toprak has opted to join BMW Motorrad. This is a forward-looking step for our project and a strong commitment of BMW Motorrad Motorsport in World Superbike.”
Marc Bongers, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director, acknowledged Razgatlioglu’s exceptional skills and praised his personality on and off the track. Bongers emphasized the anticipation surrounding the collaboration and the promising future that lies ahead for the team.
Further announcements regarding the allocation of other rider-team partnerships will be made in due course. The arrival of Toprak Razgatlioglu to the BMW Motorrad Motorsport family signals an exciting chapter for the team as they gear up for the challenges and triumphs of the upcoming WorldSBK seaso
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kymco-revonex-to-feature-abs-system-patent-reveals/ | KYMCO RevoNEX To Feature ABS System, Patent Reveals |
Taiwan motorcycle manufacturer, Kymco has dropped the company’s latest patent drawings of the highly anticipated RevoNEX electric motorcycle.
The latest leak confirms the bike’s ABS.
The previous patent leaked shows that the RevoNEX will feature Ohlins suspensions and Brembo brakes.
Kymco has been known as a scooter-maker, with the Ionex i-One as the most recent product introduced by the company.
While the company builds its scooter range in Taiwan, production for the upcoming RevoNEX will be done in Italy.
However, the bike has yet to enter production after more than two years.
Nevertheless, the latest patent leaks have confirmed that the geared electric motorcycle is indeed on its way, and this time it tells us that the RevoNEX will feature an ABS.
We know from the previous leaks that the RevoNEX will feature Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes, but thanks to the latest report by Super Moto 8, it is confirmed that those brakes will feature ABS.
The ABS will be positioned at the front of the bike and sits above the electric motor and in front of the battery.
Although the patent drawings did not show a gearbox, the report suggests it will appear on the final drawings later.
Currently, Kymco is still keeping mum about the official launch date but looking at how the progress is moving at a steady pace; we think it might take a couple of years before we could see it in production.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/return-force-induction-engines-bikes/ | The return of force-induction engines in bikes |
Taking a bold new path, Kawasaki and Suzuki both unwrapped their iteration of their future of bike engines – force-induction.
At the recently ended 43rd Tokyo Motor Show, both Kawasaki and Suzuki created some buzz with their respective force-induction approach for its future models. First came Suzuki with its Recursion concept. As previously reported, the concept boasts a 588cc liquid-cooled turbocharged twin-cylinder as its heart. New details released by the S-badge indicate that the mill churns out close to 100hp at 8,000rpm, kicking out 100Nm of peak torque in the process.
Suzuki states that with the turbocharged twin-cylinder engine, the Recursion would pack big-capacity power and performance from a middleweight bulk, further stating that the force-induction allows for better fuel efficiency as well. Taking into account of its claimed dry weight of just under 174kg, the half-faired ‘neo café racer’ concept would also boast incredible agility and handling. Check out the gallery below to see more new pictures of the Suzuki Recursion concept.
Kawasaki on the other hand are adopting a slightly different approach, adopting a supercharging method instead. The green-liveried firm showed off its new supercharged four-cylinder concept engine at its booth during the show, stating that the mill’s turbine and motor were developed in-house. No power figures and data were released, by Kawasaki did hint that the blown engine would make its way into production sometime in the future.
Bikes with turbocharged or force-induction engines are not a new idea, with all four Japanese manufacturers having a go at it back in the 1980s. But back then, the technology was not as efficient, cost-effective, or as powerful as the ones we see in this decade, explaining their short-lived production run. With the way things are going, force-induction could become a norm in mainstream bikes.
The only question left is this: Will bikers prefer the sounds of a turbocharger’s wastegate blow-off, or the sweet whine of a supercharger’s turbine? Interesting times ahead.
Suzuki Recursion Concept
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/meet-the-mvcagiva-crazy-weekend-150-adventure-scooter-you-read-that-right/ | Meet The MVCagiva Crazy Weekend 150 Adventure Scooter – You Read That Right |
Introducing the MVCagiva Crazy Weekend 150 Adventure Scooter – an eye-catching addition to the adventure scooter market in China.
the Crazy Weekend 150 is powered by a QJMotor-derived single cylinder engine.
the MVCagiva brand is not related to MV Agusta or Cagiva.
This unique two-wheeler, hailing from the newly established brand MVCagiva, offers an intriguing combination of style and functionality. However, while the brand name is a resemblance to an Italian company of the same name – MV Agusta and Cagiva – the Chinese company has no relation whatsoever.
With adventure scooters gaining popularity in China, the Crazy Weekend 150 stands out with its rugged design and undeniable charm. Although the brand name might raise eyebrows, the resemblance to Honda’s X-ADV, ADV150, and ADV160 models is even harder to ignore.
Powering the Crazy Weekend 150 is a 150cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine capable of pumping 16.4hp and 14Nm. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Impressively, the Crazy Weekend 150 comes loaded with features including LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, a vibrant full-color TFT dash, keyless start, an adjustable windscreen, and a forward-facing camera.
The scooter is available in two configurations, with the base model priced at CNY14,998 (RM9.6k) and an accessorised version, complete with top box, panniers, and guard pieces, available for CNY15,998 (RM10.2k).
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-j125-makes-global-debut/ | Kawasaki J125 makes global debut |
Less than a year after Kawasaki launched its first ever scooter (the J300), the brand has unveiled its second scooter – the J125 in Spain earlier this week.
Powered by an all-new water-cooled single cylinder 125cc four-stroke engine which produces a claimed 14bhp and 11.5Nm of torque, the J125 weighs 182kg and competes directly with models like the Suzuki Burgman and Yamaha X-Max 125.
Inspired by the J300, the J125 looks quite similar to its bigger sibling, and comes with under-seat storage big enough for a single full face helmet and A4 briefcase.
It is said that the scooter also comes with a small glove box at the front which has a 12v power outlet.
According to Kawasaki, ABS and an anti-temper anti-theft ignition switch is offered as standard.
All set to make its UK debut in January 2016, there has not been any official announcement on whether the J125 will be introduced here in Malaysia.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-scrambler-ducati-models-teased/ | New 2017 Scrambler Ducati models teased |
Upcoming new additions to 2017 Scrambler Ducati range teased in new videos.
The hip and cool 2017 Scrambler Ducati range is getting yet another expansion come EICMA 2016 next month. We’ve known about this for quite some time now, but the recent new teasers released by Ducati have more or less confirmed things.
The first teaser is both brief and very vague, but the message was clear that a new Café Racer iteration of the Scrambler Ducati will debut at EICMA 2016. But question remains as to whether it’ll be an 803cc or 1,100cc bike.
We’re hoping it’s the latter, and this is a smart move as it will allow Ducati to even the odds against the recently launched BMW R nine T Racer that bowed at INTERMOT 2016 earlier this month.
Speaking of a larger 1,100cc Scrambler, the other rumour that’s been around for a while now is the addition of a new retro adventure/enduro variant like the BMW Lac Rose concept. This equally brief but slightly less vague second teaser likely hints us at this.
While we are still unable to get a good glimpse of the bike, it remains certain that the model will have all-terrain capabilities at hand. More importantly, Ducati has given us its official name – Scrambler Desert Sled.
Should these two new Scrambler Ducati models feature the re-introduction of the 1,100cc air-cooled Desmodue powerplant as speculated, Ducati would’ve finally even the odd into its favour against rivals BMW Motorrad and its R nine T range.
We’ll have to wait just a little longer until EICMA 2016 rolls in early next month in Milan, Italy. Being on home soil, expect Ducati not to disappoint with its new 2017 models unveiling.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/218152/ | International Motomania of Kuala Lumpur 2019 |
The International Motomania of Kuala Lumpur 2019 rocked through the weekend.
Many vendors big and small were present including Harley-Davidson, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia, Shell, Indian, Ducati, Yamaha.
Retro rock performances went on throughout the day.
The International Motomania of Kuala Lumpur 2019 rocked the capital over the weekend, from Friday 22ndFebruary to Sunday 24thFebruary.
Held at the Malaysian Tourism Centre (MaTiC), it attracted motorcycle riders and fans, and tourists alike. There were fun activities throughout the day and through the night, so visitors never felt bored throughout.
Premium motorcycle and motorcycle-related product vendors were also present, including Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya, Aprilia Malaysia, Moto Guzzi Malaysia, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor, Indian Motorcycles, Ducati Malaysia and Shell Advance Malaysia.
Shell Advance Malaysia’s booth was busy throughout the event due to a special promotion. Visitors who bought the Shell Advance AX7 and Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology received exclusive cool towels, motorcycle covers and goodie bag. They also qualified for the lucky draws on the last day.
Besides them, there were also other vendors who displayed their products such as luxury cars (including a Ford Mustang!), retro motorcycles (Suzuki Katana, Suzuki RG500 Walter Wolf), riding gear and merchandize.
Activities included retro motorcycle competition, custom motorcycle competition, battle of the bands, and concerts featuring great rock icons such as Datuk Awie, Mus May, Bandi Amuk and others. There were also other local bands who took to the stage and they showcased the amount of raw talent Malaysians have.
Food and refreshment were provided by food trucks. They offered a great variety of local and international delights.
PHOTO GALLERY
1 of 27
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-suzuki-katana-has-arrived-in-malaysia/ | 2019 Suzuki Katana has Arrived in Malaysia! |
Suzuki Malaysia posted in their Facebook that the new 2019 Suzuki Katana has arrived!
However, there is no official pricing or further details.
A search in Mudah.my found posts from last month asking for RM 85,000.
Suzuki Malaysia posted in their Facebook page that the new 2019 Suzuki Katana has arrived on our shores!
Unfortunately, they did not include the price, nor did they announce of any media unveiling of the price. We contacted Suzuki Malaysia but they company if off for the weekend. We hope to receive a reply on Monda.
However, we did a quick search in Mudah.my and found a couple of postings from early April and late March 2019. Both listed the price as from RM 85,000. On the other hand, Suzuki UK listed its price at £11,399 (RM 61,741.80).
We are not certain if that is going to be the exact price, as it means the Katana will cost more than the GSX-1000S that it is based on.
Not having any details to go on is definitely annoying. There have been many complaints about Suzuki Malaysia not engaging the media to spread news about the products in the last two years. Not that we are expecting advertising (although we definitely welcome it!) or test rides, but there has not been one single press release, even.
Consequently, most enthusiasts in Malaysia could only count on IF the media ever produces any news about Suzuki’s motorcycles. We only keep pushing news to our readers because of our love for all bikes, otherwise everyone will be in the dark.
So, if you’re reading this Suzuki Malaysia, please send some details to us in the media.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/gallery-pata-yamaha-yzf-r1-wsbk-bike-unveiled/ | Gallery: Pata Yamaha YZF-R1 WSBK bike unveiled |
The Pata Yamaha YZF-R1 WSBK race machine debuts ahead of the 2016 season’s start.
2016 marks Yamaha’s return into the highly competitive World Superbikes Championship (WSBK). The Japanese manufacturer has tied up with the Crescent Racing outfit, one of the series’ top teams, which sees it fielding the latest Yamaha YZF-R1 superbikes piloted by riders Sylvain Guintoli and Alex Lowes.
Officially called the Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team, the program was unveiled alongside the Japanese marque’s MotoGP program, the Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing team.
Whilst it may be it its first year, expectations are high for the Yamaha WSBK program given the fact that Yamaha had an entire year to develop the WSBK-bound Yamaha YZF-R1 superbike. Much of the research and development were reportedly done using data acquired from Yamaha’s endeavours in the superbike and Superstock 1000 classes of the MotoAmerica racing series, as well as in the UK’s BSB Championship as well that saw rider Josh Brookes claiming victory here too.
As far as we can tell from the images featured here, things look rather good for the Yamaha in its WSBK return. As you’d expect, the factory-spec WSBK race machine has undergone a proper WSBK homologation, but what we loved most here is its Akrapovič exhaust can slung at the rear.
Another aspect fuelling the program’s high expectations comes from its two riders. Frenchman Sylvain Guintoli was crowned as the WSBK world champion in 2014 with Aprilia, and has proven to be an excellent rider when paired with the right machine. His British teammate Alex Lowes, on the other hand, also boasts an impeccable reputation as a competitive rider in the WSBK with a string of consistent top-ten finishes plus two podium finishes over the last two seasons of WSBK.
According to Yamaha Motor Europe CEO Eric de Seynes, the Yamaha YZF-R1 racing program had already shown positive signs from the start. He pointed this out by stating:
“We arrived at the beginning of last year with a totally new YZF-R1, which we really believed was a game-changing machine. We went straight into racing activity across the world in numerous classes and were immediately able to be successful wherever we raced.”
You can check out more images of the new Yamaha YZF-R1 WSBK race machine in the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below.
Source: Asphaltandrubber
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-triumph-tiger-caught-undergoing-tests/ | New Triumph Tiger Caught Undergoing Tests |
Photo credit RideApart.com
A new Triumph Tiger was caught undergoing tests recently.
The new bike looks new altogether.
It should be unveiled at EICMA in November, at the earliest.
A new Triumph Tiger was caught undergoing tests recently.
It’s no secret that our favourite bikes include the Triumph Tiger 800 lineup (the 800 XRx and 800 XCx). The current third generation family features more than 300 revisions and new components from their predecessor, making it not only the best adventure bikes, but among the best of all motorcycles we’ve ever ridden.
We wondered what how Triumph could improve on the second generation during the third generation’s launch and we wonder again now as the fourth generation is being tested.
Well, the pictures (credit to RideApart.com) shows a bike which seems to be completely reworked, possibly from the ground up!
There are rumours circulating that the engine will be bumped up to 900cc. Such “displacement creed” is inevitable, given the new and more restrictive Euro5 regulations on emissions. Adhering to the current displacement would mean loss of performance. Also, Triumph’s rivals such as BMW Motorrad and now Moto Guzzi have introduced 850cc models into this highly competitive segment.
Let’s go back to the pictures. The styling retains the Tiger 800 DNA but the front has been made smaller, but the flanks around the fuel tank remain. Check out the new radiator shrouds.
We reckon the bike to be the flagship XCa configuration. The front Brembo brakes calipers and suspension definitely look high end.
Moving backwards, the whole bike seemed to have been revised.
The frame looks new and so does the subframe. The passenger footpeg looks more elegant and are attached to the subframe via bolts, rather than being welded on. That’s great news for off-road riders!
The seats look flatter and hopefully they are Triumph Comfort Seats. Those are the best in the ADV world. That passenger grab rail is huge and is a welcomed feature, especially if you install hard luggage and need to push the bike around.
Its tail end also has a new styling, breaking away from the dual vertical brake light tradition.
Moving downwards, the exhaust silencer looks similar to the current one but it certainly looks bigger on this bike. Remember, Euro5 doesn’t only put a cap on engine emissions but also noise. A bigger silencer er… silences better.
The swingarm is likewise new – the most visible feature being that slot. The rear brake caliper’s mounting is also different. The rear shock’s linkage remains the same for a more progressive damping characteristic.
Well, that’s as much conclusion as we could draw from a few photographs. The new Triumph Tiger ought to be unveiled at EICMA in November, earliest.
Source: RideApart
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-alvaro-bautista-will-replace-jorge-lorenzo-at-phillip-island/ | MotoGP: Alvaro Bautista will replace Jorge Lorenzo at Phillip Island |
The next MotoGP round at Phillip Island will see Alvaro Bautista replacing the injured Jorge Lorenzo.
With Lorenzo out for recovery, Bautista was called in to ride the Ducati Desmosedici GP18 in Australia this weekend.
This will be Bautista’s final races in MotoGP before joining the Ducati factory squad in WorldSBK come 2019.
The 2018 MotoGP season just began its three flyaway races where Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda claimed his seventh world championship title in Motegi, Japan last weekend. As the paddock scrambled to get things ready for Australian round happening this weekend at Phillip Island, Ducati announced that Alvaro Bautista will be stepping in for the injured Jorge Lorenzo in the next race.
Following a massive highside suffered by Lorenzo during one the Free Practise sessions back in Thailand earlier this month, the 31-year-old Spaniard rider thought that he could be fit enough to race in Japan this past weekend. With a broken wrist, the injury is said to be worse than expected as the pain was too unbearable upon jumping back on the bike for the first outing session at Motegi.
According to Lorenzo himself, “The risk to displace the broken bone is part of the problem. It feels very bad on braking because my body and my brain doesn’t allow me to push my wrist in corner entry and it even makes me feel unsafe on the bike. It’s a shame because I felt like I had a good chance to win here.”
Lorenzo is said to be back in Europe to recuperate in time for the Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix round in Malaysia happening from 2 to 4 November 2018 (which is only 10 days away). The Ducati factory squad has announced Alvaro Bautista from the Angel Nieto to team as his replacement for the next round at Phillip Island, Australia.
Alvaro Bautista has his eyes set on impressing the Ducati bosses on the latest Ducati Desmosedici GP18 machinery where 2018 will be his final MotoGP season before making his move to WorldSBK next season. Bautista will be one of the first riders to race the all-new Ducati Panigale V4 in competition together with Ducati’s star rider in WorldSBK, Chaz Davies.
Image credit: MotoGP
Honda Excited to Learn About Ducati from Jorge Lorenzo
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sic-organises-teh-tarik-session-with-motogp-riders/ | SIC organises ‘Teh Tarik Session’ with MotoGP riders! |
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) organised a very special ‘Teh Tarik Session’ with a number of MotoGP riders.
The event was held at NZ Curry House with special appearances by Ayumu Sasaki, Adam Norrodin, Niki Tuuli, Khairul Idham Pawi, Hafizh Syahrin, and Danilo Petrucci.
SIC also unveiled the official trophies that will be presented to the race winners on Sunday.
It’s MotoGP week here in Malaysia and as we head towards the grand weekend of the 2018 Shell Malaysia MotoGP championship round, the good folks from SIC (Sepang International Circuit) organised a very special ‘Teh Tarik Session’ with the national MotoGP riders and a very special appearance from Alma Pramac Racing (and future Ducati factory rider), Danilo Petrucci.
Joining this very special occasion are the riders from the Petronas Sprinta Racing squad which are Ayumu Sasaki and Adam Norrodin from Moto3, Niki Tuuli and Khairul Idham Pawi from Moto2, and of course, the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 MotoGP rider, Hafizh Syahrin. Organised at the NZ Curry House near KLCC, the riders arrived in style with their race machines ready to storm Sepang starting Friday.
To mark this momentous event, SIC also unveiled the winners’ trophies for the Malaysian MotoGP round at the event which will be handed over to the race winners on Sunday. Shortly after that, the meet and greet session commenced to the next stage where the riders indulged their fans by signing autographs, taking selfies, and catching up with dear friends in all of the festivities.
The bikes used by the riders in all three race categories were also displayed during the event which also includes the Yamaha YZR-M1 used by Hafizh Syahrin in the premier class. Hafizh Syahrin is currently in the running to become the 2018 MotoGP Rookie of the Year. The only person standing in his way is fellow Italian rider from the Marc VDS team, Franco Morbidelli.
Tickets for the Malaysian MotoGP round is still available in limited stock so if you want to show your passion and support for our fellow national riders, get your tickets now! For more information, head over to www.sepangcircuit.com.
MotoGP: How is Hafizh Syahrin doing so far?
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colours-for-2019-yamaha-ego-avantiz/ | New Colours for 2019 Yamaha Ego Avantiz |
There are four new colours for the 2019 Yamaha Ego Avantiz.
The model has been sold since 2016.
It continues to be popular among Malaysia motorcyclists.
Mention the name “Yamaha” in the small motorcycle segment and the Ysuku (Y15ZR) is the first model that comes to mind. Truth is, other models sell just as well. That’s why Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has just rolled out new colours for the 2019 Yamaha Ego Altiz.
Launched in 2016, the Ego Avantiz is the most popular twist-and-go scooter in its segment despite the onslaught of competitors.
Cyan
1 of 8
The Yamaha is powered by a 125cc, air-cooled, SOHC engine which utilises Yamaha’s Blue Core set of solutions for optimum operational. The criteria include efficiency in cooling, low friction and lubrication. Consequently, the engine produces more power and torque while minimising fuel consumption and emissions.
Yamaha scooters always feature lots of storage space and the Ego Avantiz has a 14-litre underseat storage capacity.
Blue
1 of 8
Additionally, this model pioneered the use of LED headlamps and taillamp in its segment.
More importantly, the bike has a low seat height, making it accessible to anyone. But most important of all is its very affordable price.
Red
1 of 8
So, it’s easy to see why the bike is still popular among Malaysian motorcyclists. As such, HLYM introduced four new colours for the 2019 Yamaha Ego Avantiz.
They are Blue, Cyan, Grey and Red. Pricing remains unchanged at RM 5,536 (basic sales price and not on-the-road). They will be available from this month onwards.
Grey
1 of 8
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-ktm-1290-super-adventure-s-now-available-in-malaysia-rm132900/ | 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S Now Available In Malaysia – RM132,900 |
Within just six months of the global launch for the 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, the all-new adventure touring motorcycle is already here in Malaysia.
The latest 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has been unveiled where it represents the brand’s sportiest and most technologically advanced ADV bike to roll off its production line yet. In other words, it is more powerful and comfortable than ever.
Its chassis has been significantly upgraded to offer better weight distribution and riding agility thanks to the relocation of the steering head and engine mounting position. A longer open-lattice swingarm offers better stability, while a new subframe gives way to a lower seat height, which results in a very sporty machine that can handle sharp corners extremely well without compromising durability or practicality.
The 2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also comes with a new 23-litre fuel tank with a keyless fuel cap, updated bodywork, handlebar levers, a 7-inch TFT screen, and windscreen. There’s also a new generation of electronic aids that won’t take away any fun from the riding experience. Best of all, there’s a new Adaptive Cruise Control system using Bosch’s radar technology.
Underneath all that jazz lies a revised 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine which now produces 160hp and 138Nm of torque. Thinner engine cases offer a weight reduction by 1.6kg, which further improves the bike’s power-to-weight ratio. Other specs include new pistons, updated water/oil cooling system, upgraded two-headed exhaust, revised PANKL gear mechanism, and many more.
The rest of the updates include lean angle-dependent Motorcycle Traction Control, Cornering ABS and Offroad ABS systems, WP APEX Semi-Active suspension package, and the additional Rally pack which includes MTC slip adjuster, Suspension Pro, Quickshifter+, Motor Slip Regulation, Hill Hold Control, and the adaptive brake light.
The 1290 Super Adventure S is available for RM132,900 and will be up against the ever-popular BMW R 1250 GS and soon-to-be-launched Ducati Multistrada V4.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/spy-shot-ducati-multistrada-v4-pikes-peak-edition-spotted-again/ | SPY SHOT: Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Edition Spotted Again |
Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Edition was first spotted testing in March this year on a public road.
However, this time around, the Italians are testing the new motorcycle at a European track.
Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Edition Spotted – Single Sided Swingarm, 17″ Front Wheel!
Like the current Multistrada V4, the Pikes Peak Edition shares the same design scheme, except the special edition comes with 17-inch wheels compared to the 19″ found on the standard model, thus making it road centric.
The Pikes Peak Edition is powered by the same Granturismo V4 engine, including a USD Ohlins fork and other electronics setup.
Another notable difference compared to the standard variant is the return of the iconic single-sided swingarm.
According to reports, Ducati will reveal the Pikes Peak Edition in 2022.
(source: RideApart)
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-yamaha-135-lc-more-attractive-updates/ | 2019 Yamaha 135 LC – More Attractive Updates |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced attractive updates for the 2019 Yamaha 135 LC.
Production continues for the bike as there is a steady demand.
Recommended selling price is RM 6,868.00 (not on-the-road).
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced attractive updates for the 2019 Yamaha 135 LC.
The Yamaha 135 LC was a gamechanger in the underbone i.e. kapchai segment when it was first introduced in 2005. It was the first to include many new features at the time but the most significant was its liquid-cooled engine, hence the “LC” denomination.
2019 Yamaha 135 LC Storm Blue
1 of 8
The first generation 135 LC still holds a legendary reputation as being the fastest kapchai ever built, until the advent of 150cc competitors.
But the model is beating after more than a decade later. It’s still a model which fills the gap between the 110 to 125cc smaller kapchais to its bigger Yamaha Y15ZR brethren. One can still see many old and new 135 LCs around, especially among the Food Panda and GrabFood boys and gals (bless ‘em).
2019 Yamaha 135 LC Fiery Red
1 of 8
Hence, these and more provide reasons to continue production with upgrades and updates along the way.
For 2019, the engine remains untouched i.e. 135cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC, single-cylinder mated to a 4-speed transmission with auto clutch. The changes are aesthetics to “freshen” up the bike.
2019 Yamaha 135 LC Comet Grey
1 of 8
The cosmetic changes are:
Additional horn cover.
Air scoops on both sides of the bodywork.
Additional under cowl panel.
New speedometer panel.
New features
1 of 3
It’s offered in three colours, namely Comet Grey, Fiery Red and Storm Blue.
HLYM recommends the selling price at RM 6,868 (excluding registration and insurance). Buyers will receive an exclusive stainless steel Yamaha brake disc lock.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-unveils-2021-1290-super-adventure-r-160hp-138nm/ | KTM Unveils 2021 1290 Super Adventure R – 160HP, 138Nm! |
KTM has dropped the cover on the new 1290 Super Adventure R with the enduro focused motorcycle that now meets Euro 5 standards and a wide range of upgrades.
According to KTM, the 1290 Super Adventure R was built solely by focusing on the ability to move on the most inaccessible terrain in a simple and intuitive way.
The redesigned 23L fuel tank improves agility and provides a lower centre of gravity and an improved riding feel in all conditions.
KTM also applies changes to the steering head which was moved back by 15mm, and the engine was rotated forward by 2°, and the die-cast open-lattice swingarm was lengthened.
The handling and comfort also improved with a renewed WP XPLOR 48mm suspension at the front that guarantees a travel of 220 mm and WP PDS fully adjustable shock at the rear.
The 1290 Super Adventure R now packs with advanced electronic packages as standard, consist of a new six-axis inertial platform, Traction Control, stability control, ASB off-road, four riding modes (RAIN, STREET, SPORT and OFFROAD), easily accessed via a 7″ TFT display.
The motorcycle is powered by a Euro 5 approved KTM LC8 V-Twin engine that produces 160 hp at 9,000rpm and 138 Nm of torque at 6,500rpm.
For 2021, the model features two separate radiators; instead of the single unit on the previous model. Meanwhile, the redesigned air ducts help reduce the amount of hot air hitting the rider’s legs.
Thanks to the renewed air filter box, riders can easily access the air filter by simply removing four screws.
The all-new KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is available at EUR19,850 (RM97,413).
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/nsfw-all-new-and-limited-mv-agusta-f3-rc/ | NSFW: All-new and limited MV Agusta F3 RC |
All-new and limited edition MV Agusta F3 RC WSSP replica revealed.
Perhaps this is what ‘lust’ really looks like. Varese-based motorcycle artisans MV Agusta are at it again, this time with its latest addition in the form of the F3 RC. As it is, the MV Agusta F3 RC is the only World Supersport Championship (WSSP) replica you’ll ever want.
Like the MV Agusta F4 RC revealed earlier this year, the MV Agusta F3 RC (Reparto Corsa) features several exclusive bits derived from its WSSP race machine piloted by WSSP riders Jules Cluzel and Lorenzo Zanetti. Besides the tri-colour race graphics, there are also anodised aluminium covers to be fitted in place of the mirrors, Ergal clutch and brake levers, a single-seat cover and a paddock stand.
The special edition superbike can be had in either F3 675 or F3 800 versions, plus the additional option of either ‘street’ or ‘racing’ guises, with the latter guise making do without lights, mirrors and number plate holders. Furthermore, each MV Agusta F3 RC will have Cluzel’s autograph on the right-hand side and Zanetti’s on the left.
MV will limit production of the F3 RC to just 350 units worldwide, with 100 of which being in F3 675 form and the remaining 250 units built as F3 800 versions. MV Agusta did not reveal a price tag for its new F3 RC, but as the old saying goes, if you had to ask, you can’t afford it. This is definitely another exquisite creation for die-hard collectors worldwide.
Check out the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below for your viewing pleasure.
2015 MV Agusta F3 RC
Sources: Asphaltandrubber ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) and Visordown
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-francesco-bagnaia-to-remain-at-ducati-until-2024/ | OFFICIAL: Francesco Bagnaia To Remain At Ducati Until 2024 |
Francesco Bagnaia and Ducati Corse have reached an agreement that will see the Italian rider continue to ride the Desmosedici GP for another two season.
Bagnaia will remain with Ducati Lenovo Team until 2024 after agreeing a two-year contract with the Italian outfit.
According to Bagnaia, the decision to extend his stay with the team was easy one considering that it was his dream to race with Team Red.
“Being a Ducati rider in MotoGP has always been my dream, and knowing that I can continue with the Ducati Lenovo Team for another two seasons makes me happy and proud.
“I have found a serene environment in the factory team: I feel very much in tune with my team and know that we can do great things together.
Now I can only concentrate on doing well in this Championship. A big thank you to Claudio, Gigi, Paolo, Davide and all the Ducati Corse staff.
“I’ll try to repay their trust with my results on the track!,” he said.
The 25-year-old rider came closed to win 2021 MotoGP season in his debut season with Factory Ducati, after claiming nine podiums, four victories and six pole position before losing out to eventual winner, Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo.
He will now shift his focused to overcome last season disappointment with the new season, which will start on 6th March at the Losail International Circuit in Doha, Qatar.
Meanwhile, Luigi Dall’Igna, General Manager of Ducati Corse, also expressed his excitement over the new deal.
“We are delighted to have Bagnaia with us for another two seasons.
“Since he arrived at Ducati in 2019, Pecco has shown great talent and the ability to interpret our Desmosedici GP very well, adapting to ride it in any condition.
“He did it, especially in the last season, during which he had significant growth and got to play for the World Title.
“The way he managed the races at Aragón, Misano, Portimão and Valencia, scoring four fantastic victories, is proof of his maturity as a rider. With these great qualities, we are sure that he has the potential to aim for the title with us,” he said.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto3-albert-arenas-is-your-2020-world-champion/ | Moto3: Albert Arenas is your 2020 world champion! |
Portimao, Portugal saw the crowning of the 2020 Moto3 world champion after Albert Arenas (Gaviota Aspar Team Moto3) crossed the chequered flag in P12. It was a heart-stopping battle between the top 10 riders, including the other two title contenders, but Arenas managed to get the job done in the end.
YOUR 2020 #Moto3 WORLD CHAMPION IS @AlbertArenas75 ?
Congratulations on a fantastic season Albert ??#SuperArenas ?♂️ pic.twitter.com/KnRYEuCf0j
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) November 22, 2020
Ai Ogura (Honda Team Asia) who started from P5 in today’s race fought a hard battle but the first half of the race took the toll on both rider and bike thanks to the many battles he had to go through today. The Japanese rider finished the race today in P8, which puts him in third of the 2020 Moto3 riders’ standings.
? @AiOgura79 and @TonyArbolino quite rightly receive heroes receptions! ?#Moto3 | #PortugueseGP ?? pic.twitter.com/9XL1NH8MS4
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) November 22, 2020
Tony Arbolino (Rivacold Snipers Team) threw everything he had today thanks to a poor qualifying session which resulted in him starting today’s race in P27. That didn’t matter considering his exceptional performance today battling against the other top contenders and crossing the chequered flag in fifth place.
With this win, Albert Arenas will move up to Moto2 in 2021 with the same Aspar squad, and what a way to end a very, very exciting season. The same goes for Ai Ogura who will continue 2021 in Moto2 with the same Honda Team Asia squad.
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/cub-prix-releases-2015-race-calendar/ | CUB PRIX RELEASES 2015 RACE CALENDAR |
The PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship released its 2015 race calendar that comprises of 10 rounds, with two races taking place on Saturday and Taiping making a comeback to the calendar.
For its 22nd edition, the first half of the season will kick at Temerloh, Pahang (March 15) followed by Batu Kawan, Penang (April 12), Muar, Johor (May 2), Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu (May 23) and Melaka (June 14).
Following the Ramadan and Hari Raya Puasa break, the 2015 season resumes at an unconfirmed venue but the dates have been slated for August 16 with Teluk Intan, Perak (September 20), Kangar, Perlis (October 18) and Jempol, Negeri Sembilan set to stage the following rounds.
Meanwhile, Taiping that last hosted a Cub Prix race in 2008 makes a grand return to the championship by hosting the season finale on November 29.
2015 PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship calendar:
Round 1 March 14-15, Temerloh, Pahang
Round 2 April 11-12, Batu Kawan, Penang*
Round 3 May 1-2, Muar, Johor*
Round 4 May 22-23, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu *
Round 5 June 13-14, Melaka
Round 6 August 15-16, TBC**
Round 7 September 19-20, Teluk Intan, Perak
Round 8 October 17-18, Kangar, Perlis
Round 9 October 31 – November 1, Jempol, Negeri Sembilan
Round 10 November 28-29, Taiping, Perak
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-adv-150-is-finally-here-launching-this-february/ | Honda ADV 150 Is Finally Here – Launching This February! |
After endless speculation and non-stop rumours, Boon Siew Honda is finally introducing the ‘adventure’ scooter, Honda ADV 150 for the Malaysian market.
However, the latest news is not a surprise since we were ‘informed’ as early as September last year that the 150cc scooter will be making rounds early this year.
Sensasi Terkini! Akan datang!?
Free kan sendiri anda pada 5hb Feb 2021 (Jumaat) untuk menyaksikan pelancaran motosikal baharu Honda pada tahun baharu ni ?️
#MYHondaMotorcycle
#SensasiTerkini?
Posted by Honda Motorcycle Malaysia on Friday, 29 January 2021
According to the latest posting by Honda Motorcycle Malaysia on Facebook, Boon Siew Honda will launch the ADV 150 this coming February 5 (Tuesday) at 8 pm via a live stream.
Although the picture above is not too clear the silhouette of the bike explains otherwise, the headlight design clearly depicts those available on the ADV 150.
The so-called ‘baby’ X-ADV 750 is packed with a 150 cc engine that produces 14.7hp at 8,500rpm and 13.8Nm torque at 6,500rpm.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/most-interesting-biker-one-dollar-for-the-world/ | Most interesting biker: One dollar for the world |
When the idea of writing about ‘The Most Interesting Biker in Malaysia” first came about, we expected a backlash, or lots of feedback rather, about the definition of the most interesting biker in Malaysia.
What defines an interesting biker though?
Could it be someone like Oh Kah Beng who raced with MotoGP legends back in at the Batu Tiga track? Or how about people like Hafizh Syahrin and Zulfahmi Khairuddin? After all, they were and still are the national flag bearers in a sport dominated by the west.
Or could it be long distance riders who willingly fly our beloved “Jalur Gemilang” from country to country without expecting funding from the government to do so, displaying their patriotism where ever they go. These guys spend months and even years away from their families and jobs just for the sake of riding and seeing the world.
Or could it be the mad nutters that ride dirt trails and logging tracks in the jungle that run across peninsular Malaysia up until Thailand. Camping in the jungle for days on end, falling on to rocks and jumping off everything just for the thrill of it.
Trying to define the most interesting biker in Malaysia would largely depend on what tickles your fancy but the dude you see in the pictures here would be among them. Mohamed Assir or more fondly known as ‘One Dollar’ has been riding the world since 1985, which he did on a 80cc motorcycle.
The 47 year old claims to have rode a bike an astonishing 400 times into Thailand from Malaysia, and claims to never had any major problems with authorities anywhere in the world throughout his 31 years of touring.
So why doe he spend months on end away from loved ones, racking up the bills? All for the joy of travelling he says. “I have lost love because of travelling, and I have also found love because of travelling,” he says at a recent meet, an obvious hint at the fact that he met his wife Alina in Russia.
His longest adventure was five months long when he rode from KL to the middle east on a bike, continued riding up till Jordan where he parked his bike at the Malaysian embassy. He then got on to a flight to Caracas, Venezuala, and from there drove a 4×4 through the Amazon to Lima, Peru with some friends.
From there he drove to Ascension in Paraguay, got on a flight to Buenos Aires to Jordan, picked up his bike and went on a solo ride through eastern Europe until it was too cold to continue riding, but not before he had reached Rotterdam. From there he shipped his bike back, and got on to a flight back home.
The only thing missing from this seemingly epic adventure was dicing with giants, wrestling anacondas and slaying fire breathing dragons.
But how does one travel for so long and so far and not worry about money? “Work hard so you can play hard” he says. As if we believe that. He also dabbles in a logistics business his family owns. And sometimes people pay him for tours, but only enough to cover the cost of travelling i.e., petrol, accommodation, etc.
“Adventure travel is never about making money, it is always about the passion. There are thousands of adventure organisers around the world, but it will never make you a millionaire, you need to do it for the love of it, the passion.”
When asked about his most interesting ride ever, he is quick to remember one of the many rides in South America, this time in Patagonia. “It was the most memorable because it had different terrains all the time. There was a new highway, but at the same time you have to ride in situations where you can’t put your foot down because the mud is too slippery and I was on street tyres,” he reminisces.
And, just like some top secret spy traversing across distant lands, Assir also has the Chinese military to be thankful for for still being alive. His most dramatic moment came when he got stuck in the Torugart Pass in between China and Kyrgystan.
After getting stuck in a snow storm, he was hit by altitude sickness and says he almost died from hypothermia. The Chinese army had found his bike parked at the side of the pass, and found him curled up in a ball in between some rocks. He does not remember anything, but about eight hours later he woke up in the army cabin. The army had left his bike up in the mountains, but later assisted to get it back.
So what is this adventure man’s weapon of choice? He explains, “Up until 1999 I rode a Honda Africa Twin, but after that I only ride a BMW GS, and I ride a BMW for the engineering, ability to handle weight, carry a pillion, distance cruising and stability, I know I can count on the bike.”
He explains that there was once he dropped the bike badly in Salt Lake Uyuni in Bolivia and encountered a problem with one of the pumps, but found the part rather easily, in Rio. He also swears by Toyota and says this if he is going to drive a 4×4 somewhere in the world, it has to be a Toyota but is quick to point out that no manufacturer pays him to say such things, sadly for him.
But Assir says he still hasn’t seen 50% of the world, and his travels are going to continue. He will continue to offer tours to riders who want to experience riding the world, and has a few tours already coming up. You can follow his adventures and even tag along, more details at www.4x4worldexplorer.com.
*Pictures provided by Assir
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/wsbk-broadcast-goes-online-finally/ | WSBK broadcast goes online…. finally |
WSBK fans can now rejoice as the sport will finally make its race broadcasts available for streaming online via the newly added WSBK VideoPass feature.
Dorna recently revamped the series’ official website, with the streaming ability being one of the key and major changes it made. The WSBK VideoPass is similar to the VideoPass feature available on the MotoGP website. Fans can now stream from practice, qualifying, and race sessions along with exclusives such as behind-the-scenes reels and interviews.
Though not free (Like MotoGP.com’s VideoPass, this one is also a paid service) the new feature is expected to give WSBK a huge boost in viewership as the new avenue would potentially bring in more ad dollars. Currently, the VideoPass will only be available for certain countries, but it is expected to grow.
Source: WSBK via Asphaltandrubber
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-budget-bike-2021-aveta-vs110-launch-in-malaysia-rm3588/ | New Budget Bike, 2021 Aveta VS110 Launch in Malaysia – RM3,588 |
Aveta just launched the VS110, priced at RM3,588 (on-the-road) for budget-conscious customers in Malaysia.
The VS110 is the fourth budget motorcycle introduced after the DY90, RX110 and Ranger 110, with the manufacturing is done here in Bukit Raja, Klang.
Weighing at only 83 kilograms, the Aveta VS110 is powered by a 113cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces a respectful 6.5hp at 8,000rpm and 6.8Nm at 6,000rpm.
Other features:
4L tank
telescopic fork
rear twin shock absorber
The Aveta VS110 comes in four colour options, Cyan Blue, Blue, Red and Black.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-se-test-review-live-life-fast/ | 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE Test & Review “Live Life Fast” |
The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE may look the same as its predecessor, but it has gone through a number of revisions.
Apart from the cylinder head and valvetrain, the SE variant has an electronic semi-active suspension.
It’s a great bike to ride on the street and the track.
Fans of the World Superbike Championsip will know that Kawasaki had won the series four times in a row. Now they’re back with the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE.
Now, before going further, on-track results is one thing, but the bikes you and I can buy is quite another. That’s because despite WorldSBK is a production-based series, the bikes on the track have very few similarities to what’s available at the motorcycle dealer near you.
This is why certain sportbikes fare better in the real world, in exact opposite the results on the track. Case in point? This very bike.
Introduction
The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE is the middle-spec’ed bike between the base Ninja ZX-10R and Ninja ZX-10RR. The latter is the homologation model for superbike racing.
Kawasaki had only revised the bike slightly for 2019. I guess why fix it if it ain’t broke.
The revisions are:
More compact cylinder head to promote quicker combustion.
The cam lobes operate directly on finger followers rather than on tappets. It results in a 20% mass reduction.
Also, the cam lobes can be more aggressive.
The revisions are aimed at making the engine rev quicker and raise the rev limit. The net result is 200 PS without ram air, and 213 PS at 13,000 RPM with ram air. Maximum torque is quoted at 114.9 Nm at 11,200 RPM.
Other features are:
Kawasaki Electronically Controlled Suspension (KECS). The 2019 Ninja ZX-10R SE is the first Kawasaki to be equipped with a semi-active electronic suspension.
Bosch IMU-based lean-sensitive traction control and cornering ABS.
Öhlins electronic steering damper.
Swingarm with optimized rigidity and longer in length.
Brembo M50 Monobloc calipers gripping on 330 mm Brembo discs.
Electronic throttle valves.
Revised frame geometry moves the steering head closer to the rider.
Kawasaki Quickshifter which works for up- and downshifts.
“Self-healing” paint on parts that are prone to damage as like that on the 2019 Kawasaki H2.
Marchesini forged aluminium wheels.
Riding Impression
Phew, that’s a lot of stuff.
First thing we did was to check out the ride modes. There are three power levels: F (Full), M (Medium), and L (Low). We left it in F. Next, we selected the KEBC – engine braking control to on. And finally, we chose “ROAD” for the suspension.
The seat is quite high up, as with all sportbikes. However, the clip-ons are not as low as other bikes and definitely closer to us. That way, the bike doesn’t stretch you out like a spaghetti. The rearsets are high up but further towards the front than its contemporaries.
First thing we notice was that it was pretty easy to steer through tight spots at low speeds. The higher clip-ons doesn’t cause you to press down on them while at crawling speeds. Consequently, it didn’t take huge effort to turn the front wheel.
The bike got rolling smoothly when we let out the clutch. From there, gearshifts were managed by toeing the quickshifter. Shift action was buttery smooth even when dropping down to first gear. The system blips the throttle automatically, so you don’t get chucked into the tank when you downshift.
We were surprised by the power delivery. Sure, it still has that primal acceleration, but you could doddle around in 60 km/h in 4thgear without the engine loping or chattering like mad. Throttle response was very exact and smooth due to the wide powerband. So smooth, the throttle and engine response had the quality of a sport-tourer’s when ridden in the city.
However, the thing that impressed us the most was the KECS electronic suspension. The system is mated to Showa’s already excellent Balance Free Forks (BFF) and Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock. On paper, it sounds like the same semi-active systems from Sachs and Öhlins, but this system is faster in its actuation. The solenoid valve has a direct, one-stage actuation. As a result reaction time is only 1 ms (1 milisecond equals 0.001 second), and is claimed to be the fastest system currently available. Not only that, the KECS’s dedicated ECU receives information from the suspension sensors in every 1 ms, 10 ms from the IMU and 10 ms from the road speed sensor. It will then decide on the best strategy and sends signals to the solenoid actuators every 1 ms. It means that the suspension adapts to road conditions faster and more correctly.
The rider can choose among RACE, ROAD and USER modes. The last mode allows you to set your own damping rates.
Ridden on the streets in ROAD mode, the suspension felt much more comfortable than that of any sportbike we’ve ever tested. Bumps were felt, of course, but they were nicely cancelled out. Again, it felt like a more aggressively tuned sport-tourer. Only the sharpest and gnarliest bumps are fully felt but there’s no danger of bruising your kidneys. Even my wife found it comfortable as a pillion!
However, comfortable as it was, the suspension never wallowed or bottomed out like if you had tuned it too soft.
Amazing!
But of course, what’s a sportbike without corner blasting. Karak Highway and Genting Highlands were again the testing grounds.
Speed built up quickly as you wind on the power and you watch the light bars rise quickly on the tachometer. The engine returned a pop everytime we shifted up or down. The speed piled on so quickly that it’s like going into warp speed in slo-mo. Yet, the bike was rock solid in a straight line.
But corners were its vocation as it swept through them at mighty speeds. Choose your line and steer: That’s all you needed to do. The only thing which stopped us at riding faster was the size of the fuel tank. It’s rather wide on top and at the sides, thus needing more practice for side-to-side transitions. Nevertheless, the wide tank made it easy to clamp your knees on them when you fire the retro rockets.
Speaking of braking, the brakes were what you would expect of Brembo Monoblocs. But there’s a small difference here. Feel was good and you know how much you modulate the brake pressure at the lever. Only thing was, it lacked the aggressive initial bite that some riders like. For us though, the feel was truly impressive as we trail-braked hard into the sharper corners when heading up the mountain. That and the superb suspension action allowed us to brake at the last moment and hold on to the brakes much deeper into corners. The only limitation is the rider’s abilities.
The older ZX-10s touched down on the footpegs quickly, but not this 2019 model. You have to lean so far over at such high speeds that if you did, it’s an indication that you’re riding too fast on the streets.
Conclusion
The 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R SE is a sportbike that you could live with on a daily basis. The manufacturer had done so much to make it a great bike to ride not only the tracks but, on the streets, for everyone.
The amazing thing about this bike is how easy it was to be completely brutal one moment, then putter around in traffic without complaining. For example, it completely blew away everyone away at Genting and Karak, then cruised home along the Middle Ring Road 2. And oh, it didn’t attempt to roast you alive at the traffic lights, either.
Plus, the suspension doesn’t pulp your internal organs.
It’s almost like a beginner’s bike when you take it easy, but an MSBK rider’s weapon at full aggression.
Highly recommended.
PICTURE GALLERY
1 of 22
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
ENGINE TYPE
4-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled, inline-Four
DISPLACEMENT
998 cc
BORE x STROKE
76.0 mm x 55.0 mm
POWER
203 PS (149.3 kW) @ 13,000 RPM without ram air, 213 PS (156.8 kW) @ 13,000 RPM with ram air
TORQUE
114.9 Nm @ 11,200 RPM
COMPRESSION RATIO
13.0:1
TRANSMISSION
Constant mesh, 6 speed, bi-directional quickshifter equipped
FUEL SYSTEM
Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle
CLUTCH
Multiple-plate wet clutch with slipper feature, cable operated
CHASSIS
FRAME
Twin-spar, cast aluminium
FRONT SUSPENSION
Upside-down ø 43 mm Showa Balance Free Forks (BFF), electronically controlled damping, manual adjustment for spring preload
REAR SUSPENSION
Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) monoshock with Uni-Trak link. Electronically controlled damping with manual spring preload adjustment
SUSPENSION TRAVEL FRONT/REAR
120 mm / 114 mm
FRONT BRAKE
2 X 4-piston Brembo M50 Monobloc calipers, ø 330 mm Brembo floating discs
REAR BRAKE
1 X single-piston floating caliper, ø 220 mm brake disc
ABS
IMU-based Cornering ABS
TIRES FRONT/REAR
120/70ZR17; 190/55ZR17
STEERING HEAD ANGLE
25o
TRAIL
107 mm
WHEEL BASE
1440 mm
SEAT HEIGHT
835 mm
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
17 litres
KERB WEIGHT
208 kg
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hmsi-to-export-the-cb350-to-other-markets-pending-approval-from-honda-japan/ | HMSI To Export The CB350 To Other Markets, Pending Approval From Honda Japan |
Latest reports suggest that Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) is planning to export the H’ness CB350 and CB350RS to other markets.
The report came after HMSI Director of Sales and Marketing, Yadvinder Singh Guleria, said that the CB350 is a motorcycle made in India for the world.
The H’ness CB350 gained a lot of attention after its introduction, with over 10,000 units sold in India alone.
HMSI expects the figures to be bolstered further by exporting the motorcycle to other parts of the world as small-displacement two-wheelers are currently in high demand, especially in Asia.
Guleria even went on to confirm HMSI has begun talks with Honda Japan so the exports can begin.
“Since this model is already meeting the European regulations, there are many countries where this model could be exported. So we are in discussion with our headquarters. Already the model is three months old in the domestic market, and there is interest from other Honda companies across the globe.
“We are working at the backend now to minimize this waiting period. But for sure this is one model which is Made in India for the world. There is big potential. We are waiting, and once we get a green signal from headquarters in Japan, we can start the exports. Potential does exist, and we are quite hopeful,” he said.
(source: ETAuto)
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-hayabusa-now-comes-in-pearl-brilliant-white-for-2022/ | Suzuki Hayabusa Now Comes In Pearl Brilliant White For 2022 |
The Hamamatsu Factory has just added a new colourway for the 2022 Suzuki Hayabusa.
The iconic sports bike is now available in pearl brilliant white with metallic matt stellar blue accents and chrome trim.
According to Suzuki, the new paint job now joins the existing black and range, and matt silver with red colour trim its global launch.
Nevertheless, the third generation Hayabusa continues to offer the same electronic suite and specs for 2022 which includes 10 lean angle-sensitive traction control modes, lean angle-sensitive ABS, three power modes, a quickshifter, cruise control and a speed limiter.
All of its electronic can be accessed via a full-colour TFT display.
The revamped Hayabusa also features new pistons, conrods, crankshaft and camshaft which aimed to boost performance in the lower and mid rev ranges.
The all-new ‘Busa has also landed in Malaysia for a price of RM111,200.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-to-celebrate-120th-anniversary-with-a-special-edition-fat-bob-and-heritage-classic-114/ | Harley-Davidson To Celebrate 120th Anniversary With A Special Edition Fat Bob And Heritage Classic 114 |
2021 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy 114
In conjunction with Harley-Davidson turning 120 next year, the American motorcycle company is set to celebrate the momentous occasion with some special Anniversary Edition models.
Harley-Davidson to introduced several Anniversary Editiion model in 2023.
The Fat Boy 114 and Heritage Classic 114 set to features special paint job to celebrate Harley’s anniversary.
According to reports by Dennis Chung from Motorcycle.com, the latest vehicle certification data from Australia has confirmed that the Fat Boy 114 and Heritage Classic 114 are getting 120th Anniversary Editions.
The document mentioned two new model codes, “FLBSANV” and “FLHCSANV”. The FLB refers to the Fat Boy 114, whereas the FLHCS is the code for Heritage Classic 114.
That said, the ANV stands for Anniversary Edition.
Currently, only the Softtail models are confirmed to get the Anniversary Edition. Still, reports suggest that there could also be an anniversary edition for one of Harley’s touring models.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-finally-launched/ | 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R finally launched |
Kawasaki has finally launched the new 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R with redesigned bodywork for maximum aerodynamics. Looking further into the changes, it’s more of a heavily-updated ZX-10R rather than a completely new one built from the ground up.
The latest Kawasaki superbike does however come with some new parts inspired by the world of WorldSBK. Starting with the design, the front end now offers an integrated winglet design that comes together with new LED lights, taller windscreen, new handlebar, and revised positions for the seat and footpegs.
This new front-end design is said to offer significant downforce for the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, but no mentions of which specific parts it’ll come into play most effectively. We’re guessing that it might be for top-end speed and hard braking.
Moving towards the engine, its 998cc inline-four unit now comes with new WorldSBK-spec independent air-cooled oil cooler, electronic throttle valves, exhaust unit, and revised transmission ratios. This resulted in a Euro5-compliant engine that produces 200hp and 115Nm of maximum torque, which is not that far off from the previous-gen model.
Mounted to the same chassis as the previous-gen, the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R does come with a new and slightly longer swingarm for improved high-speed stability. This is further enhanced with Showa BPF front forks and Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) monoshock, all fully-adjustable.
Talking about gear ratios, future owners will experience better acceleration thanks to shorter ratios for the first three gears and a longer final gear ratio for better top-end speed (or fuel efficiency since it’s now Euro5-compliant).
Other notable specs include a new full TFT screen with smartphone connectivity, selectable riding modes, electronic cruise control, traction control directly connected to its IMU unit, cornering ABS, launch control, and engine brake control.
Brembo acquires SBS Friction for RM145 million
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-marc-marquez-to-miss-both-2021-motogp-season-opener/ | CONFIRMED: Marc Marquez To Miss Both 2021 MotoGP Season Opener |
Marc Marquez has decided to sit out both 2021 MotoGP season openers at the Losail International Circuit this coming March 28 and April 4.
The Repsol Honda rider confirmed the decision a week after getting the green light from doctors to intensify his training.
“After the last review with the medical team, the doctors have advised me that the most prudent thing was not to take part in the Qatar Grand Prix and to continue with the recovery plan that we have followed in recent weeks.
“I would have loved to be able to participate in the opening race of the World Championship, but we will have to continue working to be able to recover the optimal conditions that allow us to return to competition,” he said.
The six-time MotoGP champion also announced that he would again miss Qatar’s second round via social media.
With the first race is just a few days away, Marquez decision to opt-out of the first two races is inevitable, considering that the previous decision to rush him into the race was the reason behind his lengthy time-out.
Last week, he spent two track days in Barcelona and Portimao on-board the RC213V-S.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/kawasaki-electric-and-hybrid-prototypes-made-surprise-appearance-at-suzuka-8-hours/ | Kawasaki Electric And Hybrid Prototypes Made Surprise Appearance At Suzuka 8 Hours |
Kawasaki decided to surprised the crowd at the recently concluded Suzuka 8 Hours by showcasing a demonstration run of the company’s electric and hybrid prototypes.
Kawasaki unveiled the all-electric and hybrid EV models at Suzuka.
The all-electric is modelled after the firm’s Z range while the hybrid EV takes on Ninja’s design cue.
Team Green first unveiled the hybrid motorcycle project back in November 2020, one year after teasing the public with the electric prototype at EICMA 2019.
However, during the Suzuka 8 Hours weekend, the company decided to demonstrate the near-production version in front of the home crowd.
The fans were allowed to witness the all-electric and hybrid powertrains.
Based on the video below, the Z range styling carries the electric motor while the hybrid EV project bore full fairings modelled after the Ninja series.
鈴鹿8耐の前夜祭を、突然カワサキの電動バイクとハイブリッドモデルが駆け抜けました！ Zとニンジャ？？#鈴鹿8耐 pic.twitter.com/hxVvVkRoke
— webオートバイ (@webautoby) August 6, 2022
Kawasaki showcased the all-electric Z range first and followed by the HEV motorcycle, which looks considerably larger than its electric counterpart thanks to its dual-mill setup.
The HEV model also considerably louder than the all-electric motorcycle.
Unfortunately, Kawasaki did not unveiled the mechanics behind the two projects but looking at the finishing, the Japanese marquee might introduced the two motorcycle soon.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-honda-click-160-debuts-in-thailand-priced-from-rm7977/ | New Honda Click 160 debuts in Thailand, priced from RM7,977 |
Sleek and sporty new Honda Click 160 scooter introduced in Thailand where it retails for THB63,500 (approx. RM7,976.73).
New Honda Click 160 unveiled in Thailand, boasting stylish and sporty appeal.
It packs a respectably peppy 156.9cc single that delivers 15HP and 13.8NM.
Besides sporty styling, this scooter is rich in features too – keyless ignition, digital dash, full-LED lighting, and more.
All-round disc brakes are standard, but there’s a choice between Combined Braking System (CBS) or ABS.
In Thailand, the Honda Click 160 retails from THB63,500 (approx. RM7,976.73).
Meet the new Honda Click 160 scooter that just debuted in Thailand this week. Packing sporty aesthetics, a promisingly peppy powertrain, as well as a host of premium features all round, it’s clear that the new Click 160 has set its sights to up the ante from its predecessor the Click 150.
In terms of design, it’s clear Honda has taken a few steps in the right direction with all its new generation small displacement commuters by taking inspiration from its bigger machines. The Click 160 is a prime example of which, hence its sharp and sleek styling ethos.
Notable traits here include the CBR-inspired full-LED headlight design, as well as a tasty matte grey colourway option complete with gold-painted 14-inch alloy wheels.
Underneath, the Click 160 also packs plenty of interesting features, but we’ll start with its powertrain. This scooter is equipped Honda’s new liquid-cooled 156.9cc eSP (low-friction tech) single-cylinder. Derived from the Click 160’s stablemate the PCX 160, the mill delivers 15HP and 13.8Nm of twist.
All that is delivered to the rear wheel via twist-and-go CVT belt drive and, given it’s claimed 118KG net weight, should offer somewhat zippy performance. Bolstering that is its chassis that’s brimmed with telescopic front forks with a pre-load adjustable single rear shock.
Notably, the Honda Click 160 also comes brimmed with disc brakes front and aft. Both can be tied up with either a Combined Braking System (CBS) or single-channel ABS suite choices, the latter of course commanding a higher price tag than the latter – more on this in a bit.
Other notable features present include a neat digital dash display, a USB charging port present in the forward storage cubby, a sizeable 18-litre under-seat storage bin, as well keyless ignition with smart keyfob equipped with a bike locator feature.
As for price, our neighbours north of our border sees the Honda Click 160 retail price start from THB63,500 – approx. RM7,976.73.
As for availability here in Malaysia, that remains to be seen. However, given Boon Siew Honda’s knack for launching small capacity offerings rather quickly, we reckon the Click 160 will enter our market sometime in the near future, and should give things like both the Yamaha NVX and NMax something to sweat about…
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-bajaj-prototype-undergoing-tests-formal-agreement-to-be-signed-before-december/ | Triumph-Bajaj Prototype Undergoing Tests, Formal Agreement to be Signed Before December |
Triumph says the Triumph-Bajaj prototype is currently undergoing tests.
The formal agreement between the two companies will be signed in December.
The bike is wholly developed by Triumph and will be marketed as Triumph.
The Triumph-Bajaj joint venture bike prototype is undergoing tests and the long-awaited agreement will be signed before December 2019.
According to Money Control, Chief Product Officer of Triumph Motorcycles, Steve Sargent said, “We have been working with Bajaj for a couple of years now and we are close to finalising an agreement with them. Our cooperation on product development has been progressing well.”
He also confirmed that Triumph has built a prototype which has been making rounds of testing. Bajaj Managing Director, Rajiv Bajaj visited the factory in Hinckley, United Kingdom in October and was pleased to see the progress.
In the deal, Triumph will not use existing platforms by Bajaj, KTM or Husqvarna but will instead use their own engine and bike design. Bajaj will then manufacture the bike and market it domestically as well as throughout parts of South East Asia.
The bike will bear the Triumph marque. Triumph didn’t provide the specifics but mentioned only that the capacity ranges between 250cc to 750cc. The smallest engine capacity for Triumph is currently 765cc — the triple found in the Street Triple.
Triumph as well as other premium motorcycle brands are making the move to produce lower capacity bikes for the Asian and other emerging markets. KTM was the first to do so by producing the smaller Duke models in India, while Harley-Davidson is expecting a 338cc model from China. Even MV Agusta will build smaller capacity models in China.
It’ll be interesting to see if the bike will be Bonneville-like modern retro or the Street Triple-like naked sportbike.
The manufacturer added that the bike will be ready by 2022.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-andrea-dovizioso-get-a-taste-of-the-aprilia-rs-gp/ | MotoGP: Andrea Dovizioso Get A Taste Of The Aprilia RS-GP |
Andrea Dovizioso got on the Aprilia RS-GP for the first time since his departure from Ducati at the end of last season.
It was a big day for the experienced rider who will push the RS-GP to the limit for a three-day private test in Jerez.
Although there is a lot of curiosity, the Italian will reserve his comments until the final day of testing.
Nonetheless, Aprilia gladly shared a few Dovizioso lap photos with the RS-GP clad in an all-black livery.
The Jerez test might just be focused on Dovizioso getting a feel of the bike, as the Noale-based company already booked a second test session in Mugello in the next few weeks.
There were also other familiar faces with Cal Crutchlow, Mika Kallio and Stefan Bradl joining Dovizioso in Jerez.
Meanwhile, it is not confirmed whether the Italian will remain as the team official test rider after the three-day testing in Jerez and Mugello.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/free-motorcycle-license-in-terengganu-from-1st-february/ | Free Motorcycle License in Terengganu from 1st February |
The Terengganu state government is offering free motorcycle licences.
The programme starts from 1stFebruary and ends on 1stMarch 2019
It is open for residents from 16- to 40-years-old.
The Terengganu state government is offering free motorcycle license beginning 1stFebruary 2019.
The offer assists residents aged 16- to 40-years-old in the state to obtain their B2 motorcycle license. An estimated 25,000 candidates are expected to take part in the Lesen Motosikal Terengganu Sejahtera (LMTS).
Registration via an online portal and manual means will open from 1stFebruary until 1stMarch 2019.
The Chairman of the state’s Youth Development and Sports, and Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Committee Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah told Harian Metro that Terengganu’s youth will reap the benefits of the programme.
“We will hold a meeting with the agencies involved, besides promoting and sending the forms to each state legislative assembly (DUN), Institute Modal Insan Terengganu Sejahtera (i-MiTS) and Majlis Pengurusan Komuniti Kampung (MPKK),” said Wan Sukairi.
He added, “Candidates can send the filled forms to the nearest MPKK, DUN’s office and MPKK. There, the applications will be vetted against the set conditions.”
The offering of free motorcycle licenses is part of the state government’s 14thGeneral Elections Manifesto and promise if they win the state. A total of RM 7 million will be allocated for the programme following the tabling of state’s budget.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-sym-vf3i-limited-edition-unveiled-rm9338/ | 2020 SYM VF3i Limited Edition unveiled – RM9,338 |
MForce Bike Holdings, the official distributor of SYM motorcycles here in Malaysia, has unveiled their special 2020 SYM VF3i Limited Edition 185cc ‘super moped’. Why special? Well, it has the biggest capacity in its class, enhanced with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and limited to only 5,000 units for production.
According to Mr Asri Ahmad, General Manager of Operations MForce Bike Holdings, “The SYM VF3i 185 LE is upgraded from the previous version based on the feedback and comment on local motorcycle owners and enthusiasts. The new version offers more powerful engines through several upgrades in the engine components, including a 30mm throttle body to provide better response when riding.”
Paired that with its 183cc four-stroke single-cylinder engine, the 2020 SYM VF3i Limited Edition produces 19.7hp at 9,000rpm and 17.4Nm of maximum torque from 7,500rpm. All the power from the Euro3-compliant engine is sent to through a six-speed manual transmission before transferring it over to the rear wheel.
Other updates include enhanced front DRL lights for better visibility, new rear LED light, redesigned speedometer for added style, as well as an ‘aerodynamic windshield’ which is said to provide better wind resistance and balance while riding, especially on long highways here in Malaysia.
Other specs include:
Front single 250mm & 200mm rear disc brakes
17-inch wheels (90/80 front, 120-70 rear)
124kg weight
7-litre fuel tank
Those who are interested in getting their very own 2020 SYM VF3i Limited Edition can get one at RM9,338 (excluding insurance & road tax). There’s only one colour available, which is the ‘Matt Black’. It comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty or 20,000km mileage (whichever comes first).
2020 SYM Maxsym TL 500 now available for booking – RM35,888
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sic58-squadra-corse-joins-moto3-for-2017/ | SIC58 Squadra Corse joins Moto3 for 2017 |
Team created by the late Marco Simoncelli’s father, Paolo
Two riders; Tatsuki Suzuki and Tony Arbolino
The SIC58 Squadra Corse will finally make their official appearance on the world stage by joining the Moto3 category for the 2017 season. The squad debut their livery design last week at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.
The team has chosen two riders to pilot Honda Moto3 machineries for the team, Tatsuki Suzuki and Tony Arbolino. The team has been active in the CIV and CEV championships for a while now with the backing and support from San Carlo and Gresini.
Paolo Simoncelli decided to pay tribute to his beloved son, Marco Simoncelli, who sadly passed away in 2011 during the Malaysian MotoGP race at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). Marco lost control of his bike and collided with Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi. Paolo created the SIC58 Squadra Corse team with the intention to help other young and talented riders to achieve their dreams in the racing scene.
On 3 February 2014, it was announced that Simoncelli would be inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame and become the 21st MotoGP Legend. The ceremony took place at the Italian round in Mugello. On 8 September 2016, Simoncelli’s racing number 58 was retired from all classes of Grand Prix racing competition. It is the third number to be retired from all classes of Grand Prix racing competition.
Marco Simoncelli was a star on a rise. His best finish in MotoGP was second in the Australian Grand Prix in Phillip Island, finishing just two seconds behind race winner, Casey Stoner. The Australian GP was his greatest achievement to date but sadly, the race after that was his last.
For the SIC58 Squadra Corse Moto3 team, it will be a great addition to the lineup and we wish all the best to them. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Image sources: SIC58 Squadra Corse & MotoGP
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-chaz-davies-sustains-fractured-vertebrae-misano-race-1-collision/ | WorldSBK: Chaz Davies sustains ‘Fractured Vertebrae’ in Misano Race 1 Collision |
During the first race of the WorldSBK Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round in Misano, the intense race concluded with Tom Sykes, Alex Lowes and Jonathan Rea crossing the finish line.
During the final lap, Chaz Davies, Jonathan Rea and Marco Melandri who were leading the race before Melandri crashed out halfway through the lap.
Davies suffered the same front tyre wash out but Rea wasn’t able to avoid him and ran over the 30 year old Brit with his Kawasaki ZX-10RR.
During the WorldSBK Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round which ran its course at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli”, it was a weekend filled with drama and action for the race series that’s probably one the climatic points in the Superbike World Championship races.
While a few teams and riders celebrated their victories and achievements the past weekend, Aruba.it Racing – Ducati rider Chaz Davies was feeling the blow – literally. While fighting for the win in Race 1 on Saturday against the championship leader and rival Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team), it looked like the result was set for a great conclusion when the riders cross the finish line.
CLICK HERE to check out the Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round Race 1 Results
CLICK HERE to check out the Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round Race 2 Results
Going into the final lap, Chaz Davies was leading the race while Rea was close behind together with Davies’ team mate and Race 2 winner, Marco Melandri. Halfway through the final lap, Melandri unfortunately lost his front end causing him to slide out of the podium finish in Race 1.
The battle between Davies and Rea continued for a few more corners with Rea breathing down Davies just waiting to overtake. Unfortunately, Davies’s Ducati 1199 Panigale R lost its front tyre and he fell right in front of the stalking Rea. With no time and place to manoeuvre his Kawasaki ZX-10RR, Rea unfortunately ran over Davies with both tyres right at the back of Davies.
Unreal! The top three crash on the final lap and Tom Sykes 66 goes from seven seconds back to the very top of the podium in #RiminiWorldSBK Race 1!
Posted by Motorcycle on 17hb Jun 2017
Both fell and attempted to pick up their race machines to continue on but on Rea managed to do so while having to watch his team mate Tom Sykes and Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team rider Alex Lowes passing him. Rea managed to salvage the final third podium place while Davies was carried out on a stretcher to the Rimini Hospital.
After the doctor’s assessments, Davies was diagnosed with closed thoracic trauma and later it was announced by WorldSBK that the 30 year old suffered a “fracture of the transverse process of L3 (3rd lumbar vertebrae), as well as contusion of the left thumb.”
The injury was bad enough that he was declared unfit to compete in Race 2 but with fractured vertebrae, we won’t know for sure if this will be turning point of his 2017 season. What we do know is that his Alpinestars racing suit did an amazing job to reduce possible extend of the injury thanks to many of its safety features.
Image source: WorldSBK
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-pata-yamaha-launches-2018-yamaha-yzf-r1/ | WorldSBK: PATA Yamaha launches 2018 Yamaha YZF-R1! |
The PATA Yamaha Official WorldSBK team has unveiled their title challenger for this season that is the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R1.
The unveiling was done in conjunction with the WorldSBK pre-season testing in Portimao, Portugal.
Both Alex Lowes and Michael van der Mark are ready to bring Yamaha their first victory since 2011.
The WorldSBK scene just got more interesting with the launch of the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R1 which is going to be used by the PATA Yamaha Official WorldSBK team. Together with coveted riders Alex Lowes and Michael van der Mark, the duo is set to take the 2018 season by storm.
The unveiling which was held at the Portimao Circuit (Algarve International Circuit) in Portugal in conjunction with the FIM Superbike World Championship pre-season test and of course the launch of the updated 2018 Yamaha YZF-R1 and R1M. The new 2018 machines come with updated electronics and electronic suspensions.
With a brand new machine and positive feedback by both riders during the winter testing sessions, the dynamic duo is set of bringing the fight towards Kawasaki and Ducati in 2018. According to the Yamaha Road Racing project manager Andrea Dosoli, “The 2017 season was an incredible one for Yamaha and the results we achieved across all classes mean that we enter into 2018 full of confidence.”
“One of the key factors in motorsport is continuity and it is something we value highly. We are delighted to have retained both Alex Lowes and Michael van der Mark in the PATA Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team after such a promising year for the team in 2017,” added Dosoli.
The PATA Yamaha World Superbike team is ready to bring their A game this year and hopefully provide their first ever World Superbike victory since their last one back in 2011.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/indonesia-plans-to-sell-only-electric-motorcycles-by-2040/ | Indonesia Plans to Sell Only Electric Motorcycles By 2040 |
Stand: Kumpan, Halle 7
Indonesia plans to sell an only electric motorcycle to replace the conventional combustion engine by 2040.
According to the country’s energy minister Arifin Tasrif, Indonesia is looking at selling electric motorcycle by 2040 and electric cars by 2050.
The move is expected to boost electric mobility in South East Asia as the country currently sold an average of 6.5 million and around 1 million cars every year.
Based on data from 2019, Indonesia currently has more than 112 million motorcycles and 15 million cars on the road.
The new initiative is laid out as part of the national plan to curb air pollution as major cities such as Jakarta is among the country’s most polluted cities.
In April, Indonesia’s e-hailing giant, Gojek, aims to use only Electric Vehicle (including cars and motorcycles) by 2030.
(source: The Star)
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/spyshot-another-scrambler-ducati-coming/ | Spyshot: Another Scrambler Ducati is coming |
Scrambler Ducati range will expand yet again after spyshots of new bike surfaces.
2016 Scrambler Ducati Urban Enduro
2016 ScramblerDucati Full Throttle
Six variants may sound like a handful, but apparently not for Ducati and its Scrambler sub-brand. Spyshots of what appears to be a new addition into the Scrambler Ducati line up has surfaced online with some interesting details.
2016 Scrambler Ducati Icon
2016 Scrambler Ducati Sixty2
2016 Scrambler Ducati Classic
2016 Scrambler Ducati Flat Track Pro
Firstly, this new addition to the Scrambler line up will reportedly be a more capable off-road bike than the Scrambler Urban Enduro model presently available. More importantly, this new bike will feature a larger 1,078cc air-cooled V-twin powerplant as well.
Image source: Bike Social via Benetts
Dubbed by many right now as the ‘Scrambler 1100 Enduro’, it will slot above the models’ current 803cc and 399cc versions, likely standing as the new range-topper thanks to its larger engine as well. Accompanying that too is a series of improved hardware.
Spyshot shows this new Scrambler model primed with inverted or upside-down front forks that appear to longer and have greater travel than the units primed in the other Scrambler models. The front wire-spoked wheels possibly measure in at 21-inch unit with a 19-inch hoop, further hinting this bike’s true mission as an off-roader strongly.
Yes, Ducati has already got a purpose-built off-road ride bike in the form of the new Multistrada Enduro. But this new retro-styled Scrambler 1100 Enduro will perhaps slot below the Multistrada Enduro as an affordable alternative from within the storied Italian marque’s stable.
Besides this, details are scarce at the moment, and we’ll likely have to wait until either INTERMOT or EICMA later this year to see more of this plus the revived SuperSport tourer too. We’ll definitely have more on this as it develops.
Will such a model sit will with hipsters? We aren’t sure. But a Ducati-badged bike capable of going off-road at a much more affordable price and retro styling does hold an appeal. Surely, it will likely rival against BMW and its upcoming R nineT-based retro Adv bike.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-race-spec-aprilia-racing-rs-660-is-too-good/ | This race-spec Aprilia Racing RS 660 is too good |
Aprilia has officially unveiled this race-spec Aprilia Racing RS 660 which will be used in the first-ever Aprilia RS 660 Trophy 2021 in Italy. Six rounds will take place this season, which will follow the scheduling of the Italian CIV championship, where two different classes will be organised.
The first group of riders will be the ones who are chosen to just ‘arrive and ride’ where everything is organised by the Aprilia Racing department. The second group is for those who wish to own the bike, run their own team, and tune the Aprilia Racing RS 660 Trofeo. Riders as young as 15 years old are eligible to join the Trofeo Cup.
Looking at this race-spec Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo edition, all of them will be fitted with race fairings, full-system SC-Project exhaust, race-spec footpegs, and many more goodies. These are the extra goodies that’ll come with a bike that’s already impressive spec-wise such as:
APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronics suite
Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
Cornering ABS
Lean-angle-sensitive traction control
Wheelie control
Bi-directional quickshifter
Power modes
Aero-fairings
The Aprilia RS 660 Trophy 2021 championship will take place in Misano, Imola, Mugello, and Vellalunga throughout the year. Stay tuned for more updates.
2021 Ducati SuperSport 950 begins production in Italy
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/highly-anticipated-2020-aprilia-rs-660-debuts/ | Highly-anticipated 2020 Aprilia RS 660 Debuts |
The 2020 Aprilia RS 660 was officially launched at EICMA 2019.
The 660cc, 270-degree crank, parallel-Twin puts out 100 bhp.
It also features the APRC electronic package.
One of the most highly-anticipated bikes, the 2020 Aprilia RS 660, breaks cover at EICMA 2019.
It’s been a full year of waiting for the new middleweight to show, and we can say that it was worth it. Because it will set the class on fire, judging from the spec sheets, just as Aprilia had touted.
Let’s begin with the 660cc parallel-Twin. Based on the RSV4 superbike with only two front cylinders, it will produce 100 bhp. That’s unprecedented for a road going two-cylinder sub-700cc bike. Factor in a dry weight of only 168 kg and you have the class-leading power-to-weight ratio.
The engine shares the RSV4’s architecture, and uses a 270-degree crank to mimic the firing order of a 90-degree V-Twin. The format provides good low-end torque with linear power delivery.
But it isn’t just a powerful engine in a light bike. Aprilia also endowed the RS 660 with their signature APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) electronics suite, fortified with an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This gives the bike cornering ABS, lean-angle-sensitive traction control, wheelie control, among others. It’s also equipped with a bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control and power modes.
Aprilia touted that the bike will have “active aerodynamics.” Hence the RSV4 fairing design, which provides extra downforce at speed. We feel that the production bike actually looks better than the prototype revealed at last year’s EICMA.
The chassis uses the engine as a fully-stressed member with the swingarm’s pivot located at the back of the crankcase. Front forks are Kayaba although there isn’t word on the rear shock. Braking duty is handled by Brembo brakes front and back.
Lighting is fully-LED including daytime running lights (DRL). A 5-inch TFT instrument panel provides multimedia connectivity.
A notable feature is the classic purple and red paint scheme.
We’ll keep you informed on when it’ll arrive and cost in Malaysia. Fingers crossed that it’s in a reasonable bracket.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-launches-intelligent-sos-system/ | BMW Motorrad launches intelligent SOS system |
BMW Motorrad introduces new “Intelligent Emergency Call” feature that automatically summons help in a crash.
Riding safety has come a long way, especially in this decade where the number of intelligent electronics primed in bikes has increased rapidly. Capitalising on this, BMW Motorrad has perhaps reached the next stage by launching its new “Intelligent Emergency Call” feature for its bikes.
Like the intelligent HUD system, this feature is again ‘borrowed’ from its renowned cars division and adapted for use in the marque’s bikes. It works by contacting emergency services automatically when it detects the bike has crashed through a series of on board sensors and satellite navigation.
While BMW intends to make this feature mandatory in its cars from 2018 onwards, the firm aims to have the system available as an option in all its motorcycles starting next year. The implementation begins with bikes destined for its German home market first before a planned rapid roll out into its bikes destined for other European markets.
According to BMW, the system works by using data collected from collision and banking-angle sensors that can determine the difference between serious incidents apart from ones that don’t require emergency services.
In other words, the system will only initiate emergency contact immediately when it detects a proper and serious crash, not when the bike topples over at standstill – a common local term for the latter is ‘jatuh bodoh’ (minor fall).
When a serious collision or crash happens, an emergency call is automatically triggered to a BMW call centre, followed by a display in the instrument panel indicating that the emergency call has been activated. After which, an acoustic signal is also activated and the rider will not be able to cancel the call.
Should a ‘jatuh bodoh’ situation occur, the emergency call procedure is still initiated, but only after a 25-second delay instead. In this situation, riders have the option to cancel the call by pressing an ‘SOS’ button located in the handlebar on the right side.
This button also allows riders to trigger an emergency call manually, which will establish a voice connection via a microphone and loudspeaker that are also positioned in the right bar.
BMW Motorrad states that the Intelligent Emergency Call feature only requires a mobile phone network connection, which they believe would allow riders to communicate in their native language, thus making the communication with local emergency services even more effective.
Having trialled the system already, BMW Motorrad further highlights that the system has the ability to reduce the time taken by emergency responses teams and personnel to reach accident sites by 50%. The firm reckons the system can save up to 2,500 lives annually as well.
We reckon that the next natural step for BMW Motorrad is to integrate its upcoming haptics user interface technology with this feature as well.
Source: BMW Motorrad via Visordown
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/damon-motors-intros-new-electric-200hp-hyperfighter-prices-from-rm80000/ | Damon Motors Intros New Electric 200hp HyperFighter – Prices from RM80,000 |
The movement towards electric motorcycles have some purist up in arms.
Most arguments are about the pure joy that the sound of an internal combustion engine has to offer.
While others also think that electric motorcycles look weird.
Well there are some really good looking electric motorcycles like the prototype MotoE bikes and some of the renderings we have seen from the likes of Ducati and KTM.
The latest one from Canadian electric motorcycle startup Damon Motors seems promising as well, check it out in the video below.
Damon Motors first made a name for itself with the introduction of the HyperSport two years ago, video below.
And at the recent 2022 CES electronics convention in Las Vegas, Damon Motors once again turned heads with the bike you see here – the HyperFighter.
Both the HyperSport and the HyperFighter are still in pre-production stages, but a representative from the company has confirmed that production of the HyperSport (below) will start in the first half of 2022, while the HyperFighter is set to be introduced in 2023.
Both bikes will be built in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The new HyperFighter will use the same basic underpinnings of the HyperSport but will take on a more aggressive “naked” design – something like Ducati’s Streetfighter.
Damon Motors promises the bikes will be feature packed.
For started a safety suite called CoPilot will be part of the package and utilises sensors, cameras and an AI system to alert the riders using haptic vibrations in the handlebars.
The CoPilot system will let the rider know that a car is in the blind spot or if they are following too close to a vehicle ahead.
There are also visual warnings in the form of LED lights in the dash.
Rider comfort too is a major priority for Damon Motors. The company has something called the Shift ergonomic system that allows a rider to change the position of the bike’s handlebars and footpads and others while riding is a major breakthrough for the motorcycle industry.
The Shift system can change the riding position of the HyperSport from a crouched down style road-racer to a more upright system for navigating urban traffic – all while riding.
You may think that that is not a big deal – but consider the fact that other bike makers too allow for a change in handle bar and seat position, but only with tools and when the bike is stationary.
On the Damon Motors motorcycles, these changes are done by small electric motors that change those elements on the fly.
In comparison to the HyperFighter, the moveable parts on the HyperSport include the handlebars, footpads and windscreen position all can be changed at the push of a button.
Some American journalist have tried the system and call it “both novel and effective.”
Powering the new HyperFighter is the same electric motor that powers the HyperSport, called the HyperDrive system (below).
This makes the battery a central load-bearing part of the motorcycle, making it a simple construction and saving weight at the same time.
The HyperDrive system received the Innovation Award Honoree at the 2022 CES show.
The difference between the HyperDrive set up and other electronic bikes is that the HyperDrive system uses a purpose-shaped central battery casing that surrounds the motor.
This is then attached directly to the suspension system, making this a “stressed member” of the motorcycle and sort of a spin on the monocoque frame idea.
This fresh new take on battery placement also allows Damon to load its bikes with 20kWh worth of batteries, giving the bikes longer range. In comparison, other electric motorcycle makers have battery capacities that top out at just over 16kWh.
But then again, Damon motors wants to also pack its bikes with up to 200hp, so longer range may be difficult with all that power.
The company says top speed will be over 240km/h while the 0-100km/h sprint will be seen off in under 3 seconds. All of these numbers too will suck on battery power quicker than anything else.
As for the price, Damon says that the HyperFighter will be available in three configurations.
1. Colossus is a limited 100-units only model and will feature special wheels and other premium trimming with from USD35,000 (MYR148,000 before taxes).
2. Unlimited 20 will be a trimmed down version of the Colossus and will retail for USD25,000 (RM105,000 before taxes).
3. Unlimited 15 will have a smaller 15kWh battery and 150hp and will be priced at USD19,000 (RM80,000 before taxes).
There’s no indication yet if Damon Motorcycles will be available in our part of the world anytime soon.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kingz-mg-calls-on-harley-davidson-of-petaling-jaya-hdpj/ | Kingz MG Calls on Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) |
As part of their recognition of Harley-Davidson owners and groups, Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya plays host to their rides and activities.
The latest group to congregate at HDPJ was Kingz MG on their ride to the East Coast.
HDPJ supported the ride by providing technical support and Lucky Draw vouchers.
The setting of Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) has truly benefitted Harley owners. As part of a service to owners, HDPJ played host to Kingz Motorcycle Group (MG) as a stop on their wide-ranging ride over the Malaysia Day weekend, from 14th to 16th September 2018.
The ride is part of a larger event called Eat, Travel, Ride International 2.0. The program is sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, among others. The ride covers Kuala Lumpur, Pahang and Terengganu.
Kingz MG’s riders began the ride at the KL Tower and proceeded to Muzium Negara (National Museum) for a photoshoot and rode to HDPJ afterwards for another round of photoshoot.
HDPJ supported the ride by providing a support truck and technical personnel in addition to Lucky Draw vouchers for the ride’s annual dinner when the group reaches Kuala Terengganu. HDPJ Assistant Director, Chris Ruxton presented the group a plaque as a sign of support for the brotherhood.
It was a straight shot to Cherating for lunch before hooking up with Iron Head MG in Kemaman, Terengganu. The group stopped for the night at Marang.
Other activities planned for the ride were stops and photoshoots at unique attractions in the East Coast such as the Masjid Kristal (Crystal Mosque), Pantai Penarik, lunch at KT Durian Burung, an orphanage, Pantai Monica, all in Terengganu.
The total ride distance is 460 km, return. There were more than one hundred participants, not counting those from Iron Head MG.
PICTURE GALLERY
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/aos-2019-pinnacle-malaysian-custom-culture/ | AOS 2019 – The pinnacle of Malaysian custom culture |
AOS 2019 (Art of Speed Malaysia) has just concluded yet another event filled with countless of amazing homegrown talents, beautiful custom cars, tantalizing motorcycles, and everything else in between the custom culture.
This year, AOS has really proven itself as Malaysia’s pinnacle of custom culture by bringing in a host of international figures from around the globe; some with their highly recognized machines. Hailing from all parts of the world, there’s no denying the fact that AOS is Malaysia’s premier Old-Skool & Kustom Kulture event.
Don’t believe us? Well, you can ask all 55,000+ attendees who came to the event last weekend. Many came for different reasons; from checking out all the custom cars and bikes on show, witnessing the launch of the new Harley-Davidson FXDR 114, Hot Wheels Japan Historics 3 collection global debut, to enjoying the performances by their favourite bands at the outdoor Sound Circus concert stage.
It was indeed a sight to behold considering that my very first experience with AOS was years back when they did the gathering at the parking lot of Citta Mall, Petaling Jaya. There were only a few custom cars back then but the one that pulled me in was the showcase of ‘Eleanor’, a Shelby Mustang GT500 from the 1970s.
Now, AOS is without a doubt a strong front in the local custom scene with massive support from both domestic as well as international giants of the industry.
One of the biggest highlights for this year’s extravaganza was the showcase of the custom BMW R nineT Scrambler by Heiwa Motorcycles (Japan). The job was commissioned to master bike builder, Kengo Kimura. By who? BMW Motorrad. That’s right, one of the biggest manufacturers in the world contracted some Japanese dude from Hiroshima, Japan to help with their build.
The result is nothing short of amazing where Kengo injected his magical dose of ‘Heiwa’ magic into the R nineT Scrambler. No sketches or designs were sent to BMW Motorrad first for approval, they just trusted Kengo to come up with something special; and he did.
Right next to the custom BMW R nineT is also another legend in the custom motorcycle world, the StG Nautilus by Hot Dock Custom Cycles (Japan). This machine was the Grand Champion of the 2008 S&S 50th Anniversary “World’s largest Build-Off” contest where 50 bike builders from around the world joined the competition.
Inspired by submarine in ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ and Keiji’s favourite World War II gun, the Sturmgewehr 44, the bike won the hearts of many (including the judges). Seeing it live inside of Hall A of MAEPS Serdang, most folks understand why the bike won. In other words, the bike looked so good that it can literally go into production right now and there will be a line of people wanting to buy it.
Our very own Keshy Dhillon hosted the popular segment of AOS, the Kustom & Koffee Talk with a few international panellists like Oliver Jones from The Cutrate, Shaik Ridhwan from The Mighty Motor USA and Kengo Kimura from Heiwa Motorcycles (Japan).
They talked about the scene, industry, inspirations, passions, and everything in between in the hopes of further elevating the Malaysian custom culture to greater heights. Even YB Tuan Mohd Khairuddin Othman, the Exco for Youth, Sports & Human Capital Development for the State of Selangor, joined in the festivities of this year’s Kustom & Koffee Talk.
Attendees were also delighted to be in the presence with the likes of the folks from Return of The Café Racers, Fuel Tank, Speedhunters.com, Pipeburn, Chopper Journal Magazine, MOONEYES, and many more. Loads of merchandise were sold, photos taken, but most importantly, sharing the same passion and excitement with these great individuals. This is something that can only happen at AOS.
There were many activities outside of the main hall to cater to so many groups and individuals but come night-time, the Sound Circus stage lit up with some of Malaysia’s greatest bands. Fans were serenaded by the likes of Restraint, Masdo, Bittersweet, Hujan, and many more.
This was also another proof on how big AOS has gotten; the show that was done indoors in the past years had outgrown the massive main hall and the only way to cater to all the fans was to organize it out in the open. It was truly a show and more.
At the end of the day, the Art of Speed brings out the best and worst of everyone. The worst of times were spent on endless hours to complete their projects, collecting funds, working tirelessly, spending time away from families, sacrificing blood, sweat, and tears just to make it to the show. But after the storm, comes the rainbow and all the cars and bikes on show are proof of that.
After only going through the worst, we reach our best. From kickstarting projects that have been dormant for years (The Classic Garage’s Morris 1964 custom hot rod with a 5.0-litre V8 Mercedes engine which won the Jury Awards of the AOS Invitational Car Build-Off) to massive giveaways that have never been done by anyone anywhere in the world (Mizuki & Lil’ Beach car lucky draws), Art of Speed has cemented itself as the pinnacle of custom culture here in Malaysia.
Judging by how things went this year, we can only assume that things are going to be bigger and more badass in the coming years. There will be more in the future and even before the dust has settled for this year, we are already excited about their plans for 2020 and beyond.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/taming-ducatis-biggest-monster/ | Taming Ducati’s biggest Monster |
There was no denying that the island of Tenerife was the perfect location to launch the new Ducati Monster 1200. The Spanish Island, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is known for it’s stark beauty. Formed after the eruption of a volcano millions of years ago, the highest point – Mount Teide is visible as a snow capped mountain peak. Beautiful, undulating strips of dark tarmac lead up from the coast to the national park located up in the mountains.
It was this route that would be our testing ground for Ducati’s latest iteration of it’s best selling Monster.
First off, the 2014 Ducati Monster has grown in size and weight. It is a bigger Monster than the previous version. Which is good, really. At the rate the major bike manufacturers are decreasing the size of their models – it won’t be long before only midgets can ride their bikes. The handlebars of the new 1200 are now higher in position, and the seating position more stretched out.
Secondly, the new Monster has hugely improved performance.
With 135 hp in the standard form, and 145 hp in the S version – which was tested – it is a huge improvement over the 100hp available on the Monster 1100 evo.
This was apparent from the moment we left Vincci where we were staying on the coast. Riding up the highway into the mountains, the Monster S could obviously accelerate very strongly, even in Touring mode. The Testastretta mill churns out max power at just 8,750 rpm and the max torque of about 125 NM is available at 7250 rpm.
The engine has three mapping modes – Urban mode limits the engine to 100 hp, with smooth ride by wire settings that make the bike easy to handle in traffic around town. Sports and Touring modes unleash the full fury of the beast – but the latter gives a less aggressive mapping which makes the bike easier to ride. Sports mode is of course the most aggressive – giving abrupt, arm jerking acceleration. It is worth noting that for most of the ride, I found Touring mode more than sufficient.
Along with the changes in engine mapping, shuttling between the modes results in changes in the Ducati Traction Control and Anti Lock Braking System. In sports mode, DTC is set to level 2 – and ABS is set up to allow the rear to lift up. In Touring mode, DTC is set to level 3 – and ABS is set up to stop the rear of the bike from lifting. Finally, in Urban mode – DTC is set to 5, the maximum setting – with the full gamut of ABS controls in place – allowing for maximum braking stability and no rear lift ups. Which basically means no stoppies at red lights.
A fascinating feature of the new 1200 is the use of a full color TFT display in lieu of traditional instrument panels – just like the Panigale.
The display transforms entirely when shuttling between the various modes. In urban mode for example, the RPM meter mysteriously disappears – leaving an uncluttered meter face with a giant clock above, and and even bigger speedometer to keep you obeying the speed limit. In touring mode – the clock is reduced in size and relocated to the bottom left – and an RPM bar appears across the face of the meter. The TFT meter is a fascinating and practical innovation.
Riding off the highway and into the winding roads leading up to the mountains, it was immediately apparent that despite an increase in weight – the new Monster was still very agile.
Frame dynamics have been tremendously improved – as had been detailed by project manager, Giulio Malagoli in a presentation earlier. The engine is now a stressed part of the frame – with the steel trellis frame attached to the cylinder heads. This resulted in an amazing 99 per cent increase in torsional stiffness as opposed to the Monster 1100 EVO. Interestingly, 1.23 kg of weight was also shaved in the exercise as well.
Towards the rear of the bike, a Sachs adjustable shock absorber and a cast aluminum swingarm also attaches to the engine.
As the roads opened up, I found myself following a pack of very fast international motoring journalists as they made their way through the sparse traffic travelling in the national park. It doesn’t help that I only had a day to acclimatise from riding on the left lane in Malaysia – to riding ‘on the wrong side of the road” in Spain.
While the Monster is fast, it felt safe. On the S version – the bike was equipped with fully adjustable Ohlins forks with 48mm sliders. Massive Brembo M50 calipers, in Malagoli’s own words “The best available” cut down the tremendous speeds that are easily attained on the Monster. With 330mm front discs and a Radial (16mm) front master cylinder – it is the exact same front brake system found on the 1199 Panigale.
The bike is also quite a looker. Available in traditional Ducati Red and a new, striking color known as Star White – the bikes demand attention at every single stop we made – even vying for attention with the magnificient Mount Teide in the background. The design resonates the Monster cues of the past – but due to the increase in size – the bike has a more commanding and stronger presence when parked on the kerb.
Whenever we parked the bike during the ride, legions of tourists would click away with their cameras.
The size upscale – which stretches the wheelbase from 57 to a lengthy 59.5 inches, also increase seat width. Bigger riders will look less silly when perched on top of the bike in their tight racing suits. More importantly – the comfort created from the extra space means you can ride longer and further than before in more comfort.
According to Ducati, up to date, 270,000 Monsters have been sold worldwide – making it Ducati’s best selling model by far.
The Monster brand has been refined significantly over the years. It is now aimed squarely at 40-45 year olds urbanites with the ‘soul of a rebel’.
From the get go, it was clear that Ducati had set clear goals when designing the latest bike. It would be more usable, at the same time provide better performance than the previous generation bike.
It seems like this Monster pretty much hits the mark. The Monster is scheduled to hit Malaysian shores in June. Watch this space in the future for launch and pricing details.
Monster 1200 S (as tested)
Engine type: Testastretta 11∞, L-Twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
Displacement: 1198.4cc
Bore x Stroke: 106 x 67.9mm
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Power: 145 hp @ 8,750 rpm
Torque: 124.5 Nm @ 7,250 rpm
Fuel injection: Electronic fuel injection system, 53mm throttle bodies with full Ride by Wire
Gearbox: 6 speed
Clutch: Wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run.
Frame: Tubular steel Trellis frame attached to the cylinders head
Front suspension: Ohlins fully adjustable 48mm usd forks
Front: Tyre 120/70 ZR 17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso II
Rear suspension: Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Ohlins monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Rear tyre: 190/55 ZR17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso II
Front brake: 2 x 330mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Monobloc Brembo evo M50 4-piston callipers, radial pump with ABS as standard equipment
Rear brake: 245mm disc, 2-piston floating calliper with ABS as standard equipment
Dry weight: 182kg
Wet weight: 209Kg
Seat height: Adjustable 785 – 810 mm (30.9 – 31.9)
Fuel tank capacity: 17.5L
Maintenance service intervals: 15.000km (9.000m)/12 Months
Valve clearance check: 30.000km (18,000m)
Price: TBA
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-kawasaki-ninja-zx-25rr-breaks-cover-in-indonesia/ | 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25RR Breaks Cover In Indonesia |
Launched in 2020, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R was an instant hit in neighbouring Asian countries.
Currently, the ZX-25R is only available in Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.
The Ninja ZX-25R makes 51hp and 22.9Nm of torque.
Last year, the quarter-litre screamer got a new colourway in Indonesia, including Lime Green, Passion Red, Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Grey and Metallic Spark Black.
Unfortunately, all other specifications remain unchanged.
However, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R gets new equipment and electronic package for 2023, including a new RR trim, announced by Kawasaki Indonesia.
Priced at IDR129,900,000 (RM39k), the Ninja ZX-25RR features a new fully adjustable Showa SFF-BP 37mm front fork and adjustable horizontal back-link BFRC lite gas-charged shock.
Also new on the 2023 model year is a new TFT instrument cluster replacing the semi-digital meter on the previous model. Thanks to the new dash, riders can now connect the bike to their smartphone via the Kawasaki Rideology app.
In addition, Kawasaki also introduced a new exhaust system that now meets Euro 4 emission standards.
Other notable features include:
assist & slipper clutch
economical riding indicator
electronic throttle valve
KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)
KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control)
power modes
Powering the 2023 Ninja ZX-25RR is an inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC mill displacing 249.8cc that produces 51hp @ 15,500rpm (with Ram Air) and 22.9Nm @ 14,500rpm.
Power goes through a 6-speed transmission with a claimed max speed of 197km/h.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-2022-honda-cb150x/ | FIRST LOOK: 2022 Honda CB150X |
PT Astra Honda Motor has just unveiled the 2022 Honda CB150X at the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).
The Honda CB150X is the smallest adventure tourer by the Japanese brand and shared most of its design cue from the CB200X launched in India a few months ago.
While the CB200X shares the same platform as the Hornet 2.0, the 2022 CB150X gets its 149cc powertrain from the Honda CB150R, which makes 16.5hp @ 9,000rpma and 13.8Nm @ 7,000rpm.
Nonetheless, the CB150X features ‘adventure’ bike elements such as middle-set footpegs, upright handlebar, tall windscreen, muscular fuel tank design and bash plate.
Despite missing out on Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and other electronic features, the CB150X still gets a full LED setup, 17″ alloy wheels, an all-digital display and Showa 37mm inverted forks at the front and monoshock at the rear.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-italjet-dragster-going-into-production-in-may/ | 2020 Italjet Dragster going into production in May! |
The 2020 Italjet Dragster marks the return of one of the world’s most iconic ‘super scooters’ in the game and the company has confirmed that the new legend will go into production starting May 2020 in Italy. The news was confirmed by Italjet’s President and CEO himself, Massimo Tartarini.
“The Dragster is expected in every part of the world. The First Edition series of 499 units numbered and certified, that were offered to all Dragster fans, are now sold out,” he added. “Bookings came from more than 20 different countries. Now the wait is about to end: Dragster production will start in May.”
The 2020 Italjet Dragster will be available in two variations based on the market it’s available in; 125cc and 200cc. Both models will run a four-stroke, single-cylinder engine (which is the complete opposite of the first-generation two-stroker) but fans are still offered with that exposed trellis frame.
For now, Italjet has stated that their major markets would be the UK and Germany but we’re guessing that a 200cc scooter that looks this awesome will do well in Asian countries, especially Malaysia. There’s still no news on its extensive availability or pricing at the moment but Japan is on the radar and that’s definitely not that far from us. BRING. IT. HERE.
2020 Italjet Dragster to Debut at EICMA 2019
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marquez-crutchlow-rins-declared-fit-to-race-this-weekend/ | MotoGP: Marquez, Crutchlow & Rins declared FIT TO RACE this weekend |
The MotoGP medical team has declared Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda), Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) and Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) all fit to race this weekend for the Andalucía GP in Jerez, Spain. While normal mortals would’ve taken weeks to recover even remotely, these riders prove that MotoGP riders are a different hybrid of ‘superhumans’.
Can you believe it?! ?
Incredibly, @marcmarquez93, @Rins42 and @calcrutchlow have all been declared FIT to ride! ?#AndaluciaGP ? | ?https://t.co/CL5j3PS6Uc
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 23, 2020
None more so that Marc Marquez, who suffered a broken arm just five days ago during the first race of the season at the same track. A quick trip to Barcelona for an operation to fix his injuries and surprising everyone when he was back in Jerez yesterday and declared fit to compete in the second round.
? @marcmarquez93 will undergo surgery after this horrendous crash at Jerez!
We wish the world champion the very best in his recovery! ?#SpanishGP ?? pic.twitter.com/BOSmDo7dfG
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 19, 2020
The same can be said for Crutchlow and Rins who suffered a fractured wrist and dislocated shoulder respectively from last weekend. While most of the paddock that Marquez might miss a couple of races, his determination to fight for the 2020 championship is strong and extremely commendable.
Can you guess who is fit to race this weekend? ???✊?✊?✊? @suzukimotogp @motogp #AndaluciaGP pic.twitter.com/VM55mmVQdu
— Alex Rins (@Rins42) July 23, 2020
Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT) now leads the championship thanks to his very first premier class win last weekend, followed by Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team).
One thing is for sure, Marquez will need some catching up to do with his current no points scored yet. The other thing? Expect some struggles from the defending champion, he just broke his arm less than a week ago for God’s sake. Crazy.
MotoGP: Marquez fractures arm – the end of his 2020 season?
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-marks-return-kawasaki-modern-classic-motorcycles/ | How 2018 marks the return of Kawasaki modern classic motorcycles |
2018 has marked the return of Kawasaki modern classic motorcycles with the introduction of the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS and Z900 RS CAFE.
After years of having the Kawasaki W900 as their only heritage option, Kawasaki returns with two of the most anticipated modern classic bikes for 2018.
Both the Z900 RS and Z900 RS CAFE are expected to show up across showrooms worldwide early next year.
The past decade has shown that Japanese company Kawasaki proving itself as one of the major powerhouses of the world when it comes to manufacturing motorcycles. Not only do they have one of the most diverse selection of motorcycles that’ll cater to any motorcycle enthusiast but also some of the best the world has ever seen.
Just take a look at their sports bike segment, the Ninja. Available from 250cc all the way to 1,400cc, there’s a Ninja for anyone and everyone. To know more about the Kawasaki Ninja sports bike series, CLICK HERE.
But what about those who are into modern classics? What about those who are looking for something a bit different with a hint of ‘old skool’ thrown into the ever-growing collection of modern motorcycles? For 2018, Kawasaki has got you covered in the best possible way with the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS and Kawasaki Z900 RS CAFE.
Heavily inspired by the legendary Kawasaki Z1 from the 1970s, the Kawasaki Z900 RS was previously introduced during the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show which captured the world by storm. When it comes to a bike that portrays the true spirit of Kawasaki’s heritage, there’s no better bike than the Z900 RS.
Apart from all its smooth and classic lines, the Z900 RS comes equipped with the same engine found on the naked 2017 Kawasaki Z900 ABS which is the 948cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled engine. After some refinements, the Z900 RS produces 109hp at 8,500rpm and 98.5Nm of maximum torque at 6,500rpm. Pretty powerful for a modern classic.
With its timeless overall look from its teardrop fuel tank to oval-shaped headlamps, the Z900 RS has been taken into the future with specifications such as assist and slipper clutch, Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), lightweight trellis frame, ERGO FIT seats to accommodate riders of different height and many more.
To check out the complete specification of the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS, CLICK HERE.
If you’re looking for something that’ll make a bold statement anywhere and everywhere you go, one of the best ways to do so is to arrive at your destination on board the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS CAFE. Unveiled during the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan just last month, this is one of a few bikes that rightfully stole the show.
Taking the already impressive Z900 RS as the base, Kawasaki injected a huge dose of cafe racer into the mix and the result is simply stunning. From the low black handlebar to its sleek cowling design, it is a breath of fresh air in the world of cafe racers.
With dual-dial instrumentation coupled with a multi-function LCD screen, it’s the perfect balance between retro-styling appeals and modern functionality. Kawasaki has taken the modern retro vibe to an entirely new level all the way down to the wheels with the Z900 RS CAFE’s spoke-style cast wheels.
To tie everything together, Kawasaki made the right choice with its ‘Vintage Lime Green’ colour scheme. This is indeed one of the best paint jobs we’ve seen at this year’s EICMA show that highlights all the bike’s major features including its powerful yet clean 948cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled engine paired with brushed satin finish exhaust.
To know more on the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS CAFE, CLICK HERE.
After years of offering the Kawasaki W800 (already discontinued) as their one and only modern classic option in their entire bike line-up, a lot of us were wondering whether Kawasaki has forgotten about their heritage. We we’re dead wrong.
Upon witnessing the introduction of the Kawasaki Z900 RS and Z900 RS CAFE, we now know that good things take time and come 2018, it’ll be quite a special time to truly “let the good times roll.”
2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS
2018 Kawasaki Z900 RS CAFE
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/modenas-unveils-the-hot-new-ct115s/ | Modenas unveils the hot new CT115S |
Just a few hours ago, national motorcycle manufacturer Modenas took the wraps off the much anticipated CT115S moped at an event held at the Bangsar Shopping Complex.
Built from scratch at the Modenas’ plant in Gurun, Kedah, the CT115S is basically the sportier variant of the CT range, featuring an improved, more aerodynamic design than the CT100, which was launched two years ago.
Targeted towards riders aged between 16 and 35 years old, the Modenas CT115S is powered by a 115cc four-stroke, carburetor engine which produces a maximum output of 8.8hp at 9,000rpm and 8.1Nm of peak torque at 5,000rpm. The engine is paired with a four-speed transmission.
Fitted with a 4.8-litre fuel tank, the Modenas CT115S also comes with a few notable features such as a five-step adjustable Monoshock suspension, a 12V electrical charging socket under the seat for owners to charge devices like smart phones among others, a trailing rear swing arm, front disc brake, and an electric starter.
Priced below RM5,000, Modenas said that it aims to sell 1,500 units of the CT115S per month. The company also said that it aims to secure 12 per cent of the “Kapcai” market share by the end of 2015, compared to the current 9 per cent with the CT115S.
Available in two colours, the Modenas CT115S is offered with a two-year or 20,000km (whichever comes first) manufacturer’s warranty.
Also on display during the launch was the Modenas CT115S Gran Turismo, which was kitted out with a Givi pannier, special Givi livery, and sports wheels.
We are testing the bike this Thursday, watch out for the full review then.
Specifications
Engine: Four-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder
Bore & stroke: 53.75mm x 50.6m
Transmission: Four-speed
Max power: 8.8hp at 9,000rpm
Max torque: 8.1Nm at 5,000rpm
Carburetor: Spaco, AV20
Ignition: Kick-start and electric starter
Cooling system: Air-cooled
Length: 1970mm
Width: 725mm
Height: 1084mm
Seat height: 750mm
Dry weight: 99kg
Fuel tank capacity: 4.8-litres
Price: Below RM5,000
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-2021-honda-x-adv-now-available-in-malaysia-rm67799/ | All-New 2021 Honda X-ADV Now Available In Malaysia – RM67,799 |
Four months after Honda revealed the new generation 2021 X-ADV in Europe, the adventure scooter is now available in Malaysia at the price of RM67,799.
If you thought that the previous Honda X-ADV is impressive, wait until you feast your eyes on the 2021 Honda X-ADV.
Out of all the newly-launched models, the 2021 X-ADV receives the most updates from redesigned looks, increased firepower, and upgraded riding technologies.
In terms of design, the new X-ADV presents a more rugged appearance with modern up-to-date features like its dual LED daytime-running lights leading the way. A new front windscreen was also added for better weather protection as well as better storage capacity thanks to a bigger 22-litre under seat storage and a 1.2-litre glovebox compartment (with USB charging port).
Its 745cc parallel-twin DOHC engine now produces around 58hp at 6,750rpm and 69Nm torque at 4,750rpm (4hp & 1Nm more compared to the previous-gen). This was done thanks to a new throttle-by-wire system and engine tuning.
This resulted in a smoother and more powerful power delivery, which is also optimized further with reworked gear ratios via its Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and retuned Honda Selectable Torque Control settings. A 3kg weight reduction also helps greatly in this department.
Like the 2021 CB1000R, the 2021 X-ADV also features a new 5-inch TFT screen that is enhanced with Honda Smartphone Voice Control system. This allows the rider to control calls, navigation, and music via the handlebar controls and voice command (if you’re able to connect a Bluetooth helmet headset).
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/guy-martin-will-race-on-a-mugen-electric-bike-at-isle-of-man-tt-2017/ | Guy Martin will race on a Mugen Electric Bike at Isle of Man TT 2017 |
Guy will participate in the TT Zero category together with John McGuinness
Team Mugen’s Shinden Roku fully-electric race bike
Photo source: Asphalt and Rubber
It was big news when Guy Martin announced that he will be returning to the Isle of Man TT races for 2017. It was even bigger news that he got a ride with the factory Honda Racing team together with John McGuinness aka “The King of the Mountain” on the new Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2. Now, he’s going to participate again in the all-electric race category of Isle of Man TT, the TT Zero.
Photo source: Ride Apart
Together with John McGuinness, the legendary duo will head to Tokyo in April to take a look at the sixth generation electric bike from Team Mugen dubbed the “Shinden Roku”. The team has had massive successes over the past years ever since they entered the TT Zero back in 2012. They’ve been on the podium ever since and have actually won the races for the past three years with McGuiness and New Zealander rider, Bruce Anstey.
Photo source: Mugen Euro
With great success and talented riders, team Mugen is looking to defend their crown as the most successful all-electric race team in the Isle of Man TT races. The other goal that both McGuinness and Martin will try to achieve is to hopefully break the 120mph barrier on the Mugen Shinden Roku bikes. That’s around 193kmh on a race bike that is FULLY-ELECTRIC. And who better to make that happen than the 23-time TT winner John McGuiness and one of the most popular figures in the racing world, Guy Martin.
Photo source: Mugen Euro
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more Isle of Man TT updates.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/qianjiang-reveals-plans-for-new-v4-engine/ | Qianjiang Reveals Plans for New V4 Engine |
Qianjiang, the parent company of Benelli, is reportedly developing a new V-4 engine that will power the company’s future motorcycle models.
QJ Motor plans to introduce it’s own V4 engine in the near future.
The V4 powertrain is said to be around the 1L mark and offers more than 200hp.
The engine has been featured in several patent applications published in China recently, revealing that it is a 90-degree V-4 engine with double overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, somewhere around the 1,000cc mark.
*the new patent showcased a 90-degree V4 engine.
Although the engine’s intended motorcycle model is unknown, some of the patent drawings feature the QJMotor logo, indicating that it will appear in at least one model in the company’s fast-growing QJMotor range. However, Qianjiang already shares its current engines across both the QJMotor and Benelli lineups, making it likely that the V-4 engine will eventually appear under the Benelli banner.
QJMotor range already includes more than 30 motorcycles, ranging from 50cc to 900cc. Therefore, the addition of a V-4 engine will help the company achieve its goal of having every type of combustion engine in its motorcycle lineup.
Qianjiang’s new V-4 engine project is a significant step towards establishing the company’s presence in the high-performance market.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/norton-accept-bookings-for-2023-v4sv-superbike-rm237k/ | Norton Accept Bookings For 2023 V4SV Superbike – RM237k |
Norton Motorcycles have announced that bookings are now open for the company’s flagship V4SV superbike.
The V4SV is the first model to roll out of the factory since the acquisition by TVS.
The flagship superbike offer 185hp and full carbon fibre bodywork.
However, delivery will only occur after the first builds are delivered to customers who placed their orders before TVS Motor Company acquired the British motorcycle brand in April 2020.
“It is a hugely proud moment to announce that customers can now buy the re-engineered V4SV.
“I would like to thank the Norton team, customers and fans for their continued support for joining us on this journey in bringing Norton and V4SV to life,”
said Norton CEO, Dr. Robert Hentschel.
According to reports, the V4SV superbike is the first motorcycle to roll off the production line 18 months after TVS had to re-engineer the bike following the discovery of 35 faults in the previous built under former owner Stuart Garner.
A liquid-cooled 1200cc 72-degree V4 engine powers the Norton V4SV and can pump 185hp at 12,500rpm, making it a close rival to the Triumph Speed Triple 1200RR.
Other neat features available on the V4SV include:
carbon fibre fuel tank
carbon fibre bodywork
handcrafted TIG-wielded aluminium tube frame
The V4SV is being built at Norton’s new Solihull HQ, developed as part of a new investment from TVS with the promise of delivering up to 8,000 units annually.
For those interested to placed an order, the Norton V4SV is priced at GBP44,000 (RM237k).
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-suzuki-sv650x-one-sexy-middleweight-cafe-racer/ | 2018 Suzuki SV650X – One sexy middleweight cafe racer |
During the recent EICMA 2017 in Milan, Suzuki launched their one and only new bike for next year which is the 2018 Suzuki SV650X cafe racer.
Based on the popular SV650 platform, Suzuki’s new cafe racer receives a brand new facade with one killer paint job.
The 2018 SV650X comes with a 645cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin engine which produces 75hp and 64Nm of maximum torque.
With so many awesome bikes being launched and highlighted at the great EICMA 2017 just last week, it was way too easy for anyone who attended to actually absorb all the motorcycle-goodness in just a short period of time. Suzuki has hopped into the modern retro bandwagon with the launch of their latest 2018 Suzuki SV650X Cafe Racer.
It’s has been a while since Suzuki released a brand new bike to the masses. The previous years have seen only some updates to their current line-up. The 2018 SV650X on the other hand is more than just a simple update.
Based on the successful middleweight SV650 platform, Suzuki’s latest cafe racer offering offers a fresh and modern take on the classic retro segment. The entire facade has received a brand new makeover and when paired with its 645cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin engine, this modern retro punches out 75hp and 64Nm of maximum torque.
Weighing at just below the 200kg mark, it’s more of a classic cafe racer that we’ve been seeing recently but Suzuki managed to elevate the SV650X cafe racer’s appeal with one of the most killer paint jobs we witnessed during our time at EICMA 2017.
It might be the most high-performing production modern retro bikes in the scene right now but what we can confirm is that the looks alone will give the rest of manufacturers having the same type of bikes in the particular segment a run for their money.
It’ll be an uphill battle for the folks over at Suzuki but what they can work on is how they can maximise the success of their 2018 Suzuki SV650X cafe racer; its pricing. The current SV650X standard model comes in just under the RM40,000 mark and with an ever-growing demand for modern classics around the world, Suzuki needs to play their cards right for 2018.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/2022-honda-cbr650r-cb650r-now-in-malaysia-from-rm43499/ | 2022 Honda CBR650R & CB650R Now In Malaysia – From RM43,499 |
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) officially welcomes the 2022 CBR650R and CB650R for the Malaysian market.
After a significant suspension update in 2021 along with other improvements, both the CBR650R and CB650R gets new colour and graphics for 2022.
The 2022 CBR6650R gets refreshed visual for both the Grand Prix Red and Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic while the 2022 CB650R now comes in Mat Jeans Blue Metallic and Candy Chromosphere Red, joining the already available Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic.
We previously tested the 2019 editions and boy, both the CBR650R and the CB650R is probably the best middleweight motorcycle currently available in Malaysia.
The two models continue to roll on with 649cc, DOHC 16-valve, Euro 5 engine that’s capable to deliver 93.4hp @ 12,000rpm and 64Nm @ 8,500rpm.
Both the CBR650R and CB650R offers Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) that allow a better rear-wheel traction and 2-channel ABS for better braking.
Other features include:
41mm Showa Separate Function-Big Piston (SSF-BP) upside-down fork
USB-Type C socket (under the seat)
The 2022 Honda CBR650R and CB650R is available for RM45,499 and RM43,499 respectively.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-espargaro-raring-to-go-bradl-to-replace-marquez-in-qatar/ | MotoGP: Espargaro Raring To Go, Bradl To Replace Marquez In Qatar |
As Marc Marquez continues his focus to a full recovery, Stefan Bradl will again jump on the Repsol Honda Team RC213V for this weekend season opener in Qatar.
Having last raced in Qatar back in 2016, the 31-year-old German will once again return to Losail International Circuit in a bid to prove his worth after a fruitful testing with the RC213V.
“First of all I want to say thank you to HRC and wish Marc all the best on his continued recovery. We had a good test and I have been riding well after a busy 2020 and a good start to 2021.
“Hopefully we can have another strong weekend and gather some good information for Honda.
“It will be great to race in Qatar again, it has been a while since I have raced there but certainly the two tests have me up to speed with the track so I don’t think this will be a disadvantage to us. Let’s start the season,” he said.
Meanwhile, Pol Espargaro is raring to make his debut with the RC213V.
The 2021 MotoGP season opener is expected to be a thrilling race with Espargaro vying to make his mark with the new machine after leaving KTM at the end of last season.
“The first race is finally here, I am really excited to get back on the Honda. We had a good test and I am looking forward to the first race weekend. There are some things we still need to learn and understand about the bike and it will be an intense opening weekend, but I am excited.
“Racing the Repsol Honda is something most people dream of and I can’t wait to do it. I am not setting a target for the race other than do the best that we can. Let’s put on a good show for all the fans that are at home, it’s time to go racing,” he explained.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-new-rules-third-class/ | MotoGP: New rules, no third class |
With the season opening race just days away, the MotoGP fraternity has finally come to an agreement, bringing forth a new set of rules that will dictate the how the 2014 season will go about.
Before we get into the gist of things, here’s MotoGP.com’s ‘simplified’ explanation.
On the surface, the proposed “third class” has been scrapped altogether, and MotoGP will only be limited to classes only: ‘Factory’ and ‘Open’ classes. In the Factory class, manufacturers and teams will be granted with unrestricted ECU software development, whilst the Open class sees manufacturers and teams using standardised ECUs with that are less sophisticated than those used in the Factory class.
Entries in the Open class will also be subjected to several other perks or limitations based on several conditions. Firstly, Open class entries will benefit with a higher fuel load of 24 litres as opposed to the usual regulated load of 20 litres. Entries also benefit with unlimited testing, 12 engines per year instead of the usual five per year, and are no longer subjected to the engine development freeze. This class does lose the option to run softer rear tyres, leaving this perk only for the Factory class entries.
Now here’s where things get confusing. Factory teams that have not scored a race win in dry conditions last year will be allowed to race in the Open class with its accompanying benefits. But once these teams score a win in dry weather, or two second-place finishes, or three third-place finishes, they will loose half of their extra fuel and will race with just 22 litres per race for the remainder of the season. The softer compound rear tyre option will also be deleted after scoring three race wins in dry weather conditions.
For Ducati, a team that did not score a win or podiums last year, these rules will now apply to ALL of its bikes in the Factory class. The same restrictions will be applied to them in 2015 based on their performance in 2014. Come 2016 however, the field will then be ‘levelled’ with the expected introduction of controlled ‘Spec-ECU’ softwares.
Spec-ECU software will become a mandatory requirement for all entries come 2016, its introduction set to take place a year earlier than previous expected. It seems FIM and Dorna will proceed with the mandatory use of Spec-ECU for all teams by then, regardless of Honda’s threat to leave the sport if such regulations were introduced.
For the returning Suzuki team however, the team is likely required to comply with the same Factory class regulations, but will be granted with Open class benefits as how Ducati would right now upon its re-entry in 2015. This is expected to aid the returning team’s engine development in order to get them up to speed.
Source: MotoGP.com / Visordown
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kmog-ktm-malaysia-weekend-adventure-with-chris-birch-day-two/ | KMOG/KTM Malaysia Weekend Adventure with Chris Birch (Day Two) |
Courtesy of Frankie Tan
Day Two of the KMOG/KTM Malaysia Weekend Adventure with Chris Birch saw us going for an offroad ride.
The objective was to consolidate the lessons from yesterday’s clinic into real-world riding situations.
The participants soon learned how good were the lessons and that their KTMs could withstand great abuse without even one breaking down.
Although am not proud of it, I’ve done well so far in this KMOG/KTM Malaysia Weekend Adventure with Chris Birch event. I wasn’t as fast as the fast guys, to be honest, but I wasn’t that slow either. I’ve always had a phobia for deep mud, but Chris’ advice to keep looking forward, while leaving body, core muscles and arms loose paid dividends. The bike wiggled around underneath but it went where I placed it. The KTM 1050 Adventure proved that it could hack it in offroad conditions.
We’ve now arrived at a deep laterite mud (what we commonly call “red mud”) section. It was 500 m long, wide and flanked on both sides by young oil palm plants that were about metre high. I saw the marshals up ahead signaling to our trailing group to stop and wait. Having tackled deep mud all day, I had good feelings, so I dubbed it a friendly name as the “Mud Spa.”
The BMW R 1200 GS Adventure went first. Just 3 metres up and its front wheel deflected fully to the left, dumping the rider into the dirt like a sack of potatoes. He got back on to his feet while the marshals lifted the bike onto its wheels. He got on and tried again but was promptly back in for another “treatment.”
Before I could move, a KTM 690 Adventure hopped ahead. Chris Birch was now beside us at the “start line” and he called out “Full gas. Keep it pinned.”
The KTM 690 rider did just that, but his forward momentum disappeared almost instantly when the front wheel was swallowed by the ochre monster. Still, he kept it pinned. The spinning rear wheel pirouetted around to the left in slow motion, pointing the bike perfectly facing up a steep hillside. He stopped, put more weight on the left side of the bike and gassed it. Now the rear slid around to the right, pointing him directly into the wide plantation area on what had earlier been his left. However, he kept trying while the rear slid right, left, right, left up the trail. He made it through without dropping it.
It was my turn now. Seeing how a bike with offroad tyres could do it boosted my confidence. Chris Birch advised, “Aim for that rut, once the front tyre gets in there, just follow it and keep the throttle open.” I nodded and headed out.
The front went full right lock in just 2 metres later and the rear tyre went sideways. Instead of keeping the throttle on and slipping the clutch slightly, I chickened out closed the throttle. The bike almost toppled over but I somehow kept it up. I straightened the front wheel and tried again.
But I had misjudged it and the front tyre went past it and into deeper mud. It snapped to full left lock in the blink of an eye and my stupid survival instinct intervened to chop the throttle. I went down faster than a KO’d boxer, and the bike trapped my left foot underneath it. Thank goodness Iman from KTM Malaysia had advised me to wear motocross boots instead of adventure-touring ones, otherwise my left foot would’ve been crushed to a pulp.
Following the intensive offroad clinic coached by Chris Birch and Chris Whitehouse the previous day, the KMOG/KTM Malaysia Adventure Weekend with Chris Birch headed into the offroad trails surrounding Bukit Beruntung and Serendah, for er… adventure. It was a much-welcomed follow-up as we could practice what we learned. (Click on the link below for the Day One report.)
KMOG and KTM Malaysia Adventure Weekend with Chris Birch (Day One)
The morning started with us leaving the Ratu Rening Residency for Bukit Beruntung to rendezvous with the marshals. They were all riding KTM’s off-roaders including the KTM 250 EX/C-F, 350 EX/C-F, 450 EX/C-F enduro bikes, while Gabit Saleh rode the KTM 1290 Adventure T as he had to ferry the official photographer/videographer.
Iman presented the briefing, saying that we had an 80-km ride ahead of use, almost all of it off-road. The offroad regulars smiled while we neophytes stopped. For me it was a mix of excitement and trepidation. You see, I popped my off-road cherry riding a Benelli Trek 1190, during the GIVI Let’s Get Dirty Adventure Ride in 2014, coached by Rob Armstrong. Not only was it heavy, it had large panniers and a top case on. If that’s not bad enough, it had half-worn Pirelli Angel ST sport-touring tyres! But I somehow survived that day without a single fall, so the KTM 1050 Adventure equipped with Metzeler Karoo 3 fully offroad tyres ought to do way better!
Despite the previous night’s heavy rain, the trail started easy, with light and loose sandy surface with the occasional patches of water and mud through an oil palm plantation.
The fast guys flew, sometimes splashing water on us poor slow guys while making their way to the front. It was good fun. Keeping vision as far up ahead the trail as possible and standing up the way Chris had thought, the bike just flowed. We were a having a braaping-good time.
Offroad riders have long told me about the many beautiful sights when riding off the highways and trunk roads. It was certainly so as we rode past small lakes, fish cultivation ponds, lifestock and water buffalos.
Soon, we arrived at the first challenge. It was a small downhill trail which led downhill to the right and back to the left to cross a small stream and back up the other side onto another trail. Everyone made it through safely, although there were a few small spills.
We rode on as the sun was fully up by this point, however, we were lucky that overhead branches shaded us pretty much of the way.
Further on, we crossed a rickety wooden bridge, a metal bridge and rode adjacent to a river and lake. We noticed a few locals fishing.
The trail started to get muddier as we went on. Sand gave way to reddish brown mud and it got progressively deeper and softer, until we reached the super challenging section in the aforementioned above.
We finally made it through after the hardworking marshals including Gabit and a number of more experienced riders like Charles Loo (Seng) of CA Cycle and multiple Rimba Raid winner Bee Wong, assisted in riding out the few bikes where the riders had found it just too daunting.
Compared to the earlier parts, this area was wide open and the sun started to bake us. We continued onto a much narrower trail passing a beautiful large lake. The surface was now hard packed so the speeds picked up. A few participants took this opportunity to also remain seated to rest their tired bodies, especially the thighs and backs.
While the forward group stopped for a break, Chris performed powerslides and powerslide U-turns on his 2017 KTM 1290 Super Adventure Sto everyone’s amazement. He made it look so effortless.
The convoy turned back into a narrow trial, once more under the shade of oil palm trees, and we soon encountered uphill and downhill sections. Although appearing reddish brown, we were glad that the surface was more hard-packed instead of being muddy. Parts of the trail was covered with crushed granite, too. Again, the going was made bearable by Chris’ instruction to keep looking to where we wanted to go, instead of just a couple of metres in front of the bike. Doing so avoids surprises, thereby increasing confidence and ultimately resulting in smoother riding. Besides that, we covered the clutch with two fingers and the front brake with one. Heading downwards, all I needed to do was to allow the bike’s engine braking to control my descent. If it started to go too fast, a little dab of clutch and front brake kept the speed in check. The rear brake was used to stabilize the bike, or to lock and drag the rear wheel down the steep slippery slope to bleed off some speed.
But as we headed up a steep hill, the bike immediately ahead of me slowed suddenly. I steered to the right to avoid him and the rear wheel dropped off the side of the trail. The soles of my boots were still covered in mud and the shock of the drop cause my right foot to slip off the footpeg, leaving me hanging over the right side of the bike like a MotoGP rider who’s about to DNF spectacularly. “The look ahead, give gas” advice kicked in and I did just that up the slope. I managed to pull myself up when I reached the top. There was however, a sharp pain in the right leg just above the top of the boot.
It hurt like heck but I just kept going. (It turned into a huge bruise when we got back. Badge of initiation, I called it.)
The trail connected to a tar road, where we parked at the sides for a short break. Most participants were hungry and thirsty at this point. A few faces were so red they looked like they had just left the sauna. One of the marshals had ridden ahead to look for a place for refreshments and called back that he had found one. He jumped back on and rushed to a small community sundry shop and food stall.
We parked our bikes in a hurry and almost raided the shop like a horde of Vikings. We proceeded to clear out the fridge! We had covered half the distance thus far. We had only stopped for a too-short 15 minutes before hitting the road again.
We arrived at an area which seemed to have been logged in the past and was told to ride on an uphill footpath. It looked benign from afar, being covered in thick foliage, however the ground was soft mud. The progress was slow-going as many had to either spin their rear wheels vigorously or risk tipping over, while being grabbed by the plant branches and leaves on either side. Chris Birch demonstrated that he could just blast his way up by using his higher momentum. The hot sun bashing down on us started to take its toll as more and more guys started making uncharacteristic mistakes.
It was the last challenge of the day, thankfully. The group stopped for a few moments when they arrived at a tar road. As with throughout the day, both Chris’s found themselves surrounded by participants who wanted to learn more as soon as the engines ticked off. But both guys never minded sharing their skills, thoughts and some hilarious stories of their adventures.
We adjourned back to the track at Sungai Buaya for lunch. After short speeches from Chris Birch, Chris Whitehouse and Iman, the participants demanded that Chris perform one last riding demonstration. Chris isn’t one to show off, that’s for sure, but the crowd started chanting, “Chris! Chris! Chris!”
How could he say no. He suited up, grabbed the 450 EX/C-F ISDE Six-Days and went off to pull steep hillclimbs, powerslides and unbelievable climbs over a large boulder!
With that over, he headed back to the resort for dinner. Everyone was so pumped from the day’s experience. With adrenaline suppressing whatever discomfort, as they jested with each other, sharing their experiences.
A line formed leading for Chris Birch’s autographs on pictures, T-shirts and helmets with him and Chris Whitehouse.
It has to be said that those who spotted us riding large-sizes covered in mud stared in disbelief, but the owners themselves were no less impressed to discover that their large KTM adventure bikes could withstand the rough and tough stuff, without breaking down into a million pieces.
Through the many spills, no one was hurt and that was a testament to offroading being vastly more enjoyable and fun without the need for huge speeds. Besides that, being able to overcome obstacles and get away unscathed definitely hoisted confidence and moods to a new high. If you’re a rider who craves gratification, go offroading today. It’ll work its way into developing your riding skills for the road, too, we promise you.
In the meanwhile, however, everyone one of us has become Chris Birch’s greatest fans, thanks to KMOG and KTM Malaysia.
Tune in tomorrow for our exclusive interview with Chris Birch!
Click on the link below for Day One of the KMOG/KTM Malaysia Weekend Adventure Ride with Chris Birch.
KMOG and KTM Malaysia Adventure Weekend with Chris Birch (Day One)
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-introduce-2022-vulcan-s-cafe-same-engine-different-aesthetics/ | Kawasaki Introduce 2022 Vulcan S Café – Same Engine, Different Aesthetics |
Kawasaki has updated the 2022 lineup by expanding the Vulcan S range with a new variant.
The Vulcan S Cafe offers a different attitude than the standard Vulcan S, thanks to a bubble-shaped cowl that sits over the front headlight and a combination of an orange, black and white paint job.
It also comes with a bold Vulcan S badge on the side of the tank.
Nonetheless, the Vulcan S Cafe runs with the same liquid-cooled 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 53.5hp @ 7,150rpm and 58Nm @ 5,650rpm.
However, if you are still in love with the standard Vulcan S, it also comes with a slightly different colourway called pearl Robotic White.
The 2022 Vulcan S and Vulcan S Cafe are available at USD7,299 (RM30k) and USD7,899 (RM33k).
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mv-agusta-under-police-investigation-for-social-security-funds-misuse/ | MV Agusta under Police Investigation for Social Security Funds Misuse |
MV Agusta in Hot Water for Allegedly Misusing Employees’ Pension Funds
Italy’s law enforcement agency under the authority of Ministry of Finance and Economy, Guardia di Finanza, is currently investigating the Italian exotic bike manufacturer for allegedly misusing its employees’ INPS contributions, which is Italy’s national pension system (similar to our very own EPF or KWSP).Despite their latest launch of the MV Agusta F4Z Zagato and several models during EICMA 2016 last week, the alleged amount that they have used to pay off their debts from suppliers is said to be up to €6.8 million (RM 31,762,908.94).
Like most businesses, they are required to contribute to the pension funds for their employees and the Guardia di Finanza has been on an on-going investigation on whether MV Agusta has used the allocated funds to pay off their debts from the suppliers instead. MV Agusta CEO, Giovanni Castiglioni has denied all allegations even though he himself is in a poor financial situation as well.
Giovanni Castiglioni (Right)
In regards to a report made by Varese News, it was found that MV Agusta did not contribute to the pension funds of its employees and also withholding the pension payments from their paychecks back in 2013 to 2015.
Further investigations from the Guardia di Finanza has found that the company at one point owed the pension funds as much as €13 million (RM 60,730,619.25). Although some of the amount owed has been paid back, it was stated by the deputy prosecutor that they still owe the national pension system close to €7 million (RM 32,698,945.30).
In spite of the allegations, MV Agusta has release their own statement which said:
The company has never disobeyed the tax law and benefit requirements, with all evidence in their financial records
MV Agusta has been paying tax and social security deductions on a regular basis, as fixed to by the related authorities
The tax and social security obligations are subject to renegotiation and rescheduling in accordance to the laws of the institutions
All the allegations however will be sorted out in court. In a different case, Giovanni Castiglioni himself is also currently under investigation for having some ‘irregularities’ in his tax return.
As of now, the Italian authorities have seized to Ferraris owned by the MV Agusta CEO. There are also rumours circulating that he has failed to find a new investor to replace AMG for MV Agusta.
The current situation for MV Agusta is looking very gloomy with financial burdens with the suppliers that are amounted up to €50 million (RM 233,503,822.50). Looks like MV Agusta has no choice but to obey any proposed repayment plan set by the courts in order to stay afloat.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/petronas-sprinta-bonanza-heats-up/ | PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza Heats Up! |
June PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza winner
The June winner of the PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza contest received his prize today.
He won a Yamaha Y15ZR, complete in PETRONAS Yamaha SRT livery.
There are more prizes awaiting winners.
PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing Malaysia (PLMM) celebrates the June winner for the PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza, in Bukit Mertajam today.
The lucky winner is 23-year-old Encik Ahmad Shafiq bin Ahmad Sharifudin who hails from Permatang Pasir. Ahmad Shafiq who is a trainee health worker spent only RM 70 through the purchase of two bottles of Sprinta F700 lubricants to qualify for the contest.
The monthly prize of a new Yamaha Y15ZR was handed over by PLMM’s Head of Retail Encik Mohd. Bahrin Mohd. Yunus. The handover took place at PETRONAS Tanah Liat, which was where Ahmad Shafiq made his purchase.
March PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza winner
The PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza began on 11th March 2019 and will end on 30thSeptember 2019. Seven Yamaha Y15ZRs are offered for each month. On the other hand, three Yamaha YZF-R25s are offered as the second prize, while a Yamaha YZF-R6 worth more than RM 100,000 is offered as the Grand Prize. More interesting however, are that the bikes sport the MotoGP PETRONAS Yamaha SRT airbrushed livery.
April PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza winner
The Y15ZR winners thus far are:
March : Sahrulnaim bin Sahrahan
April : Mohd Arif bin Mohmad Yasin
Mei : Muhamad Faez bin Aju
Jun : Ahmad Shafiq bin Ahmad Sharifudin
May PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza winner
Hence, three more Y15ZRs are available up until the closing date. The second and Grand Prizes will be handed over during the Malaysian MotoGP at the Sepang International Circuit in November. The winners will have the honour of receiving the prizes from PETRONAS Yamaha SRT riders Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli.
Please visit PETRONAS Sprinta Malaysia’s Facebook page and Instagram account @petronas_sprintamy.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-suzuki-hayabusa-in-development/ | New Suzuki Hayabusa in development |
1998 Suzuki Hayabusa
Insiders in Hamamatsu hints at a brand new Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa destined to debut in just a few years.
Since 1999, the Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa has lived on for two generations now, with the second generation bike given light updates over the years – the most recent being the 2013 model. The ‘Busa, as it fondly referred to, is indeed overdue for an extensive update or full model change at least, and sings currently indicate that it will happen very soon according to a reliable source.
Suzuki insiders have confirmed the existence of the next generation Hayabusa development project, further hinting that it might turn out to look similar as the Suzuki GSX Concept that was shown during the Tokyo Motor Show 2015.
Our source also highlighted the insider’s claim that the new ‘Busa will still continue its predecessor’s engineering formula, that being high power outputs through an engine with a large capacity. However, the new bike will utilise more technology such as variable valve timing to boost power and improve emissions controls.
Another claim highlighted in the report was the possibility of the next Suzuki Hayabusa adopting Suzuki’s turbocharging method for increased power. Fuelling this is the fact Suzuki has gone to great lengths in promoting and developing said forced-induction method for its rumoured new Katana middleweight – the eventual production version of the Suzuki Recursion concept.
However, this possibility seems highly unlikely given that the turbocharged engine Suzuki revealed recently has a small capacity of just 600cc, not to mention plans of having said engine primed in a middleweight platform instead. Nevertheless, the turbocharging method’s benefits of greater power in a compact package and seemingly low emissions means that there is still the possibility of it being primed in the next ‘Busa.
Still, it will be a while before the new Suzuki Hayabusa is revealed as the development stage will take at least two years, with the debut likely to happen sometime in 2018 or 2019 and may coincide with the bike’s 20th anniversary. The other factor driving this is the EU region’s legislation that requires all bikes to meet with strict Euro4 emissions standards from 2017 onwards.
Source: MCN
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-mt-03-gets-special-edition-iron-man-suit/ | Yamaha MT-03 Gets Special Edition Iron Man Suit |
Yamaha Brazil decided what better way to celebrate Halloween than to dress the MT-03 with an Iron Man’s suit.
The MT-03 Iron Man edition is the second superhero & sci-fi machine that made its way into the Yamaha Brazil range after the NMax scooters received a Star Wars makeover earlier this year.
Interestingly, the 2021 MT-03 projector LED headlight resembles Tony Stark Arc Reactor, thus creating complete Iron Man vibes.
However, we can confirm the projector LED headlight does not feature build-in Iron-Man Monobeam or any weapons, to be exact.
No changes is made internally as well as the special edition bike continues to run on a 321cc parallel-twin powerplant instead of an Arc Reactor.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/can-we-have-this-here-michigan-usa-teaches-motorists-how-to-spot-motorcycles/ | Can We Have This Here? Michigan, USA Teaches Motorists How to Spot Motorcycles |
The state of Michigan, USA is teaching motorists how to spot motorcycles in traffic.
The campaign uses visual aids to remind motorists about the presence of motorcycles.
We wish such a campaign is carried out in Malaysia.
The state of Michigan, USA is teaching motorists how to spot motorcycles in traffic.
How many times have we been cut off (colloquial: pangkah) by other vehicles on the road? In a flash of anger, we think these motorists are either blind or doing it on purpose. Truth is, no one wants any trouble. It’s usually because motorcycles are difficult to spot given the bike’s small cross section coupled with the abundance of blind spots in other vehicles.
A small cross section makes it hard to estimate the bike’s closing speed. A driver who glanced once at bigger vehicles can pretty much process its closing speed but not a motorcycle’s.
That’s why the campaign is called “Look Twice. Save a Life.”
The campaign features videos being circulated at gas stations, billboards and “tip cards” throughout the state. Michigan is also one of only 17 states in the US which has anti-distraction laws.
We wonder why such a campaign can’t be carried out here in Malaysia. Yes, there’s a public service announcement ad about the perils of using the phone while riding but there’s no concerted approach in teaching motorists on looking out for motorcycles.
Instead, the Transport Ministry, Public Works Department and MIROS are intent on listening to advice from a group who has no experience about motorcycles but has plenty of self-vested interests. As a result, motorcyclists may be punished instead by being relegated to the left lane.
Heck, even the motorcycle lanes along the Federal Highway have not been completed.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/quickshifters-are-they-necessary/ | Quickshifters, Are They Necessary? |
What is a quickshifter?
Do bikers really need them?
Are there any other ways of shifting gears?
Since the dawn of technology, men have been searching and developing many different ways to quench their thirst for speed. Bikes, riders and teams have been getting more and more competitive in the track and every millisecond counts for each and every racer. One of the high tech gadgets they use to shave off lap times is the quickshifter. What exactly is a quickshifter? In this article, we’re going to look into what they are and whether we really need them.
How do riders shift gears?
Photo source: MotoGP
When it comes to shifting gears on a motorcycle, the way that most of us have been taught is to roll off the throttle, pull the clutch lever in, shift up a gear and then easing out the clutch while rolling on the throttle for a smooth transition. Most experienced riders can do all of these steps within a second and the pros can perform this feat well below half a second.
Some riders have adopted a different style of gear shifting called the “clutchless upshift” method. What this does is take away the use of the clutch to go up the gears. This can be done thanks to the major adaption of sequential gearbox in the majority of motorcycles to date. here’s a short video on how to perform the clutchless upshift.
With this particular type of gearbox, the “dog clutch” engagement is used and it only needs a brief interruption in torque or power to shift gears. In other words, you can shift gears on a motorcycle without using the clutch IF YOU KNOW HOW TO DO IT. All you need to do is roll off the throttle for a brief moment when the engine hits the optimum RPM and just shift up a gear. Despite the simplicity of this method, proceed with caution as any wrong move will make the gearbox less efficient or even cause a catastrophic failure.
So what exactly is a quickshifter?
With a quickshifter, the process of gear shifting simplified even further. All one needs to do is just move the gear lever. There’s no need to pull in the clutch lever or even roll off the throttle. Just keep the throttle open all the way and the quickshifter will do the rest for you. Awesome, right? But how does it work? There are a few types which can be explained briefly in the video below.
The physical device is connected from the gear shifter located under the left foot to the bike’s ECU unit. Once it detects that you’re about to shift gears via a pressure gauge or sensor, it will send a signal to cut off either the power, ignition or fuel so that the next gear can sneak in without causing any damage. It’s the same concept as rolling off the throttle during clutchless upshifts but the process is much, MUCH faster and the throttle can be keep opened all the way. Check out the video below for a brief demonstration.
Do we really need a quickshifter?
There are a few indications on when the quickshifter is really needed. The most useful application would be for racing purposes or track days. Riders need to go through the gears quickly and efficiently especially when going down the straights at full speed. The quickshifter allows for faster shifts without compromising any major power loss due to throttle roll-off as compared to the regular gear shifting method.
On the road, the quickshifter is more of a novelty that puts a big grin on a rider’s face. More and more bike manufacturers are including the quickshifter on their productions bikes as standard equipment. Bikes like the new BMW S1000RR and the Ducati 1299 Panigale not only have quickshifting capabilities for upshifts but for downshifts as well. This means that these bikes can go through any gear whether up or down without ever having to use the clutch (apart from getting the bike to roll off from a standstill or rolling to a stop).
Photo source: MotoGP
To conclude, having a quickshifter fitted to your bike means that you can shift efficiently without having to use the clutch lever or roll off the throttle but the main application is more suited for racing purposes or track days where it can bring a bigger benefit.
This device for normal riders will just simplify the process of gear shifting and also gives a much more enjoyable riding experience but normal gear shifts or clutchless upshifts work just as well on normal road conditions. Whatever the reason may be, it’s hard to deny to fun factor quickshifters have to offer.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-husqvarna-701-vitpilen-coming-malaysia/ | Is the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Vitpilen coming to Malaysia? |
Rumours about the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Vitpilen has been circulating following the news on the possible launch of the new 401 series.
The new 701 Vitpilen is already available in Europe and it’s quickly gaining traction amongst motorcycle enthusiasts.
With a beautiful design and top of the range specs, the UK market has priced it at £8,999 (RM49,807).
Husqvarna is well on its way to penetrate into the world of road bikes. With the introduction of the 2018 Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen and Svartpilen, we’re left with a couple of questions in mind. These questions are on when will the 401 arrive here in Malaysia and will they bring in the Husqvarna 701 Vitpilen as well?
We recently wrote a report regarding the 401 being launched here in Malaysia in the near future. While we’re super excited about these ‘neo-retro’ machines, we’re also left wondering regarding their bigger brother, the 701 Vitpilen. Currently, the new 701 road bike is already available in Europe and many motoring media members in the area have begun testing the new beast.
Initial impressions indicated that the 701 Vitpilen is indeed an impressive machine upon looking at the specifications. Equipped with one of the world’s biggest single-cylinder engine, its 692.7cc liquid-cooled engine is said to produce a very promising 75hp and 72Nm of maximum torque at 6,750rpm. Primed with a Ride-by-Wire system, power delivery is as ‘sharp and refined’ as any road-going motorcycle gets.
Other impressive standard features include fully-adjustable WP Suspension package, all-around Brembo brake hardware, traction control system, bilateral easy shifter, and a long 10,000km service interval are all included in this very beautiful package. The latest ABS unit is also there to further elevate the bike’ safety feature but it can be turned off for expert riders.
The UK market has already priced the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Vitpilen at £8,999 (RM49,807 after direct conversion). If the bike is made available here in Malaysia, the best case scenario for the 701 Vitpilen would be somewhere between RM60,000 to RM70,000. Any more expensive and it’ll be hard to fight against other bikes in the same category.
As for the question of when, a few sources have pointed towards the bike coming to our shores in the second half of this year. One thing is for sure, the 2018 Husqvarna 701 Vitpilen is a beauty.
2018 Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen & Svartpilen ready for Malaysia?
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-norden-901-expedition-confirmed-for-2023/ | Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition Confirmed For 2023 |
The news regarding the arrival of a more extreme version of Husqvarna’s Norden 901 first broke out in July 2022.
An extreme version of Husqvarna’s Norden 901 to land in 2023.
The “Expedition” could borrow much of its features from KTM’s 890 Adventure R.
At the time, dealers were given a private showing of a prototype version of the motorcycle.
However, the latest European type-approval documents have confirmed that the motorcycle is set for the 2023 unveiling.
Despite the bike’s first image already making its way to social media, Husqvarna is yet to make any official announcement.
Since the base Norden 901 is based on KTM’s 890 Adventure, we expect the “Expedition” version to use the 890 Adventure R as its basis. That said, it could feature a WP Xplor 48mm inverted front fork with 240mm of travel and a WP Xplor rear shock.
Also, the document confirms that no change is done to the engine meaning the Expedition gets the same 889cc LC8c parallel-twin engine that makes 103hp @ 8,000rpm.
However, the wheelbase is longer due to the longer front fork, while the bike’s overall weight also increases from 220kg to 229kg.
Based on the videos shared on Facebook, the Expedition stands apart from the standard Norden 901 thanks to new paint and graphics, soft luggage and alloy shields.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-reveals-electric-superbike/ | BMW Motorrad reveals electric superbike |
BMW eRR concept
BMW Motorrad has unveiled a very interesting model recently – an electric superbike called the eRR.
Using the same chassis as the S1000RR, BMW said that it created the eRR to unite the high-speed performance of the S1000RR with the the quick acceleration of the c-Evolution scooter, which is able to go from standstill to 50km/h in under three seconds.
Stephan Schaller, Head of BMW Motorrad, said, “Since it’s market launch, the RR is giving the creeps to motorsport athletes. Regardless of whether it is acceleration, handling or top speed – the RR is setting standards.”
“However, if acceleration on the first metres, up to 50 or 60km/h, is the point, the RR’s 199 bhp has to admit defeat by another BMW product: the C evolution with its electric drive.”
BMW Motorrad added that the motivation behind the eRR ‘experimental vehicle’ was to find out what happens when a sports bike gets an electric drive, and also to produce a bike with zero emission.
Revealed at a corporate news announcement, BMW Motorrad has not revealed any technical details on the eRR, yet.
BMW eRR concept
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tuneboss-ecu-for-yamaha-yzf-r15-launched-rm699/ | TuneBoss ECU for Yamaha YZF-R15 launched – RM699 |
FSR Technology is renowned for their electronics mastery in producing high-end performance ECUs at affordable prices for a selection of popular small-capacity motorcycles here in Malaysia. Earlier today, they’ve successfully launched their latest TuneBoss ECU for the Yamaha YZF-R15 V3 at their TuneBoss Owners Trackday at Sepang International Circuit.
This advanced standalone Engine Control Unit (ECU) promises to unlock the true potential of the popular Yamaha R15 model when it comes to engine performance. With TuneBoss’ track record, it’s hard to deny that their products have been proven to offer significant gains off and on the racetrack. Any Yamaha R15 owners who are looking to step it up a notch should definitely consider getting one of these for your bikes.
The function of the TuneBoss ECU is particularly to set the bike’s fuel adjustment accurately for optimal air-fuel ratio, remove any RPM restrictions set on the bikes from the factory, and control the ignition timing with precision for optimum combustion. It’s also Bluetooth-enabled so that owners can opt for different mappings and perform simple diagnostics on the bike without having to go to the workshop.
“Plug and Play, boss. Very simple…”
This, in theory, will help the bike to maximize its overall performance, offer better RPM range in between gears and shift patterns, and of course, the potential to offer better acceleration as well as top speed. The latest TuneBoss ECU offers all of this in a ‘plug and play’ package where any owner can simply swap the stock ECU with the TuneBoss unit without any hassle of going to shop or hitting the dyno.
Upgrading the Yamaha R15 stock ECU is one of many offerings that TuneBoss has to offer when it comes to upgrading the bike’s overall power output. Owners who are interested to unlock your machine’s full potential can head over to any of their dealers as they also offer a full tune-up package which includes exhaust systems, quick-shifters, and many more.
We’ve personally tested what the new TuneBoss ECU is capable of earlier today at SIC where FSR Technology prepared a selection of bikes for media members to play around with. We started with a standard Yamaha R15 with no modifications followed by the same R15 equipped with the new TuneBoss ECU, and finally, a fully modified R15 tuned by TuneBoss themselves.
The new ECU unit costs around RM699 but around 30 Yamaha R15 owners who booked their ECUs earlier got an RM100 discount when they came to their track day to get the new ECUs fixed right into their bikes. We can roughly say that we felt some improvements with the new ECU and the official first impressions review will be posted soon once we have all the juicy details.
FSR Technology Debuts New TuneBoss Products at the 2018 Malaysian MotoGP
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/is-this-the-new-2021-cfmoto-mt800/ | Is this the new 2021 CFMoto MT800? |
CFMoto is hard at work in developing some of its large-capacity motorcycles and these latest spy shots of the 2021 CFMoto MT800 indicate that its portfolio will be expanded at the end of this year. Previously, they unveiled the 2021 1250TR-G which will make its way into Malaysia sometime next year.
As for the MT800, the adventure-tourer is said to carry some of KTM’s signature specs including a reworked 799cc LC8c twin-cylinder engine from the KTM 790 Adventure series. If that’s the case, you can expect the power output to be somewhere around the mark of 95hp and 88Nm torque.
Judging by the looks, the MT800 belongs in the adventure-tourer segment thanks to what looks like 21-inch spoke wheel at the front and 18-inch rear. A high ground clearance and engine bash guard/skid place also indicate that you’re meant to take this baby on the beaten path.
Another good thing that we can expect from CFMoto is its ability to offer such well-spec bikes at a more affordable price range. Think of its as a poor man’s version of a KTM with almost the latest tech, which is good enough for those who can afford them.
2018 KTM 790 Adventure
Take the 2020 CFMoto 250SR for example. Priced at RM15,800 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration), it’s definitely a steal considering it comes with LED lights, slipper clutch, USD front forks, dual-channel ABS, and a full-colour TFT screen. It’s hard to say no to those at that price.
2020 CFMoto 250SR officially launched in Malaysia – from RM15,800
Written by: Sep Irran
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-triumph-street-twin-street-scrambler-speed-twin-scrambler-1200-xc-and-scrambler-1200-xe-have-arrived/ | 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE Have Arrived! |
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched the 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE tonight.
The Scrambler 1200 XC and XE variants are all-new.
Other models are very much updated.
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched the 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE tonight. Prices range from RM 55,900 to RM 86,900.
The models are:
Street Twin.
Street Scrambler.
Speed Twin.
Scrambler 1200 XC.
Scrambler 1200 XE.
2019 Triumph Street Twin (from RM 55,900)
The Street Twin has enjoyed continued popularity since its launch in 2016. Being the most “contemporary” model in the Bonneville line-up means it’s the most sought after to play the role of a built platform. Yet, it is just as beautiful and unpretentious in its unmistakable Bonneville silhouette.
1 of 9
For 2019, Triumph has updated the Street Twin to turn into a class leader. Starting with the 900cc, 270o crank, DOHC, parallel-Twin which delivers a peak power of 65 PS at 7,500 RPM, while the maximum torque of 80 Nm is already available from 3,800 RPM. That’s a an increase of 18% in terms of power which equates to 10 PS.
Next, Triumph endowed the bike with dynamic handling, exceptional rider and pillion comfort, besides higher level of specification for greater control and improved ride. Now, there is a new 4-piston Brembo caliper up front for greater stopping power and rider control. The forks, too, have been updated to cartridge type.
Other highlights:
New Road and Rain riding modes for the optimum throttle map in all riding conditions.
Switchable traction control for the rider to choose optimum level of traction management for different riding conditions.
New Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as an accessory lets the rider monitor his tyre pressures for safety and confidence.
The 2019 Street Twin is offered in Matt Ironstone, Korosi Red and Jet Black.
2019 Triumph Street Scrambler (from RM 64,900)
This is one of BikesRepublic.com’s favourite bikes. Fun, easy to handle, full of character, and high-mounted exhaust pipes that garner as much attention as the bike itself (they won’t scald your and passenger’s thighs, we assure you).
1 of 9
As it shares the Street Twin’s engine, peak power is up to 65 PS and torque hikes up to 80 Nm.
Additionally, other highlights are the same, except for the rolling chassis. The forks are spaced wider for better control when riding off-road. They are cartridge forks, as well.
As for electronics, the 2019 Street Scrambler now features an off-road mode, in addition to Road and Rain.
The 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler is available in Fusion White, Cranberry Red and Khaki Green.
2019 Triumph Speed Twin (from RM 73,900)
The 2019 Speed Twin draws its inspiration directly from the 1937 Speed Twin, designed and engineered by the great Edward Turner. (We came across one at the Triumph Factory Visitors Experience in Hinckley.)
1 of 9
It may be easy to pass it off as a basic Thruxton, but that’s oversimplifying the model description.
As Triumph puts it, the Speed Twin “delivers comfort engaged with roadster ergonomics,” the riding position is adjusted for more comfort and straighter riding compared to the Thruxton’s café racer’s ergonomics.
The suspension consists high-specification cartridge forks and rear shocks that are adjustable for preload. Brakes are handled by dual 4-piston Brembo calipers that bite on dual discs.
The engine is the High-Power (HP) unit with the Thruxton’s racing tune. As such, it produces 97 PS at 6,750 RPM and 112 NM of torque at 4,950 RPM. That’s 49% and 40% more than the 2018 model, respectively.
As for the electronics suite, there are three modes: Sport, Road and Rain.
It is offered in three colours: Silver Ice and Storm Grey, Korosi Red and Storm Grey, and Jet Black.
2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE (from RM 80,900 and RM 86,900 respectively)
We’ve written about these two models at length as we were present during the launch in London. (Please click here for the full details and specifications.)
1 of 7
However, to refresh, these two bikes are the most off-road capable scramblers in the market. Triumph wanted to draw on the inspiration of their exploits in the off-road racing scene, specifically to when Steve McQueen and Bud Ekins rode their Triumph TR6 Trophy to multiple victories in the grueling Baja 500 desert rally.
As such, the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 is “The Real Deal.”
But it isn’t just a Bonneville with long-travel suspension. Triumph engineered it from the contact patch up.
1 of 9
Both variants utilize fully-adjustable Öhlins rear shocks with piggy reservoirs. The XC’s shocks provide 200mm of travel. The XE’s on the other hand, provide 250mm of travel.
As such, while both variants are fully off-road capable, the XC variant is biased more towards road riding, while the XE is for extreme off-roading.
The engine is derived from the High-Power version found on the Thruxton. However, it has a “Scrambler tune” for a flatter and fatter torque curve. It produces 90 PS at 7,400 RPM and 110 Nm at a low 3,950 RPM.
Highlights:
2ndgeneration TFT instrumentation.Housed in the classic-looking nacelle is a truly modern TFT display, which is fully customizable.
Up to 6 riding modes.Both XC and XE feature Sport, Road, Rain, Off-road, and rider customizable. However, the XE has an extra Off-road Pro mode.
Optimized Cornering ABS.The XE uses a Continental IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) to provide the data for lean-angle-sensitive Cornering ABS. It means that the ABS system knows how much pressure and slip to apply depending when you are leaned over in a corner.
Optimized Cornering Traction Control.The IMU also enables lean-sensitive traction control.
World’s first integrated GoPro control system. This is an option which allows the rider direct control of his GoPro camera with taking his hand off the handlebar. It also means that the rider doesn’t have to second guess if the camera is turned on or off!
Turn-by-turn navigation system.Navigation system powered by Google. Fitted with the Bluetooth connectivity option, the direction to the desired is showed in the TFT display. Besides that, the rider also has a route planner and points of interest at his disposal.
The Scrambler 1200 XC is offered in Jet Black and Matt Black; Khaki Green; and Brooklands Green.
The Scrambler 1200 XE is offered in Fusion White and Brooklands Green; Cobalt Blue and Jet Black.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-kymco-announce-its-presence-at-2021-eicma/ | CONFIRMED: Kymco Announce Its Presence At 2021 EICMA |
Kymco will participate in the 78th Edition EICMA scheduled from 23 to 28 November in Milan.
Kymco has developed quite a strong impression in the two-wheel industry, thanks to its range of performance-oriented scooters.
The company participation was confirmed by Stefano Gianotti, legal representative of the Padana Sviluppo Group, whose subsidiary, KMI Italia Srl, is responsible for distributing the Kymco motorcycles in Italy.
“It is a pleasure for us to confirm the presence of Kymco at EICMA even in such a particular and challenging year.
“After the forced stop of 2020, it is important to give a signal to restart and return to normality, and EICMA is a symbolic event not only in the two-wheel sector but also throughout the world of exhibitions and events at an international level,” he said.
The Taiwanese motorcycle and scooter manufacturer now joins Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Benelli, Royal Enfield and MV Agusta at the world biggest motorcycle exhibition.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/heres-the-yamaha-r7-in-limited-edition-suzuka-8-hours-livery/ | Here’s the Yamaha R7 in limited edition Suzuka 8 Hours livery |
Yamaha R7 gets treated with limited edition Suzuka 8 Hours livery, which will be available as a bolt-on kit soon.
Suzuka 8 Hours race-inspired livery for the Yamaha R7 previewed.
It’s a complete bolt-on exterior kit mirroring the race bike that never raced.
Quality of each set promises to be the same as it was painted by robots.
Kit will not come cheap at ¥220,000 – roughly RM7,523.94 – each.
Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Yamaha R7 couldn’t go racing in the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance event back in 2020. However, said initiative didn’t fizzle out completely as a race bike was actually built.
Said race bike lives on thanks to this newly revealed bolt-on exterior kit for the middleweight sports.
Called the YZF-R7 YAMALUBE Exterior Set, the kit consists a front fender, left and right belly pan, headlight cowl, lower fairing, left and right tail garnishes, and top, left, and right tank covers. All were painted by robots using a similar technique seen in the Sunburst colorway found in the Yamaha SR400.
The result of which sees the kit transform the Yamaha R7 to look like the race bike that was set to compete in the famed endurance race. The livery employs plenty of gradients fading from blue to black, along with a subtle red striping, as well as a set of sponsor logos.
As our title suggests, this Suzuka 8 Hours-inspired livery kit from the Tuning Fork brand for the R7 will be a limited release offering. Sources indicate that it will be released starting from August this year in Japan, where it will fetch a hefty retail price of ¥220,000 – roughly RM7,523.94. Ouch.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motorcycle-chains-everything-need-know/ | Motorcycle chains – everything you need to know |
A quick guide towards understanding what motorcycle chains are and how they work.
Typically, motorcycle chains come in either one of two forms – O-ring or X-ring tyres. Regardless of which, one that is worn out will either just sap power away at best or become dangerous at its worst.
Choosing the right chain depends on a bike’s power output and its weight. A chain needs to transmit the right amount of power to move the bike and a heavier motorcycle puts more strain on a chain.
Most litre-class sportsbikes now run a 530-pitch chain as standard for road use, but regular trackday riders might consider the narrower 520/525 width chain as not only does it save on weight, it absorbs less power, generates less friction and is slightly smaller, but won’t last as long.
A chain setup that’s too tight will accelerate wear through excess pressure on the sprocket teeth, chain joints and shaft bearings. A slack chain, on the other hand, will also quickly wear and in use could have a whip-like action that may result in it snapping off.
Either of these conditions will result in excessive chain elongation. This along with an increase in vibration and/or noise, will indicate when a chain is near the end of its life.
There are many factors which can affect chain wear, such as factory assembly accuracy, quality / condition / method of parts and lubrication. Even if you run a sealed roller chain, the best way to prolong its life is to clean it, externally lube it and perform proper regular adjustments.
Image source: Sportsbikes.net
O-Ring Type
O-ring chains have small rubber O-ring seals that sit squashed between the pin link and the roller link plates, forming a barrier that holds factory-applied lubricant/grease inside of the rollers. These seals also prevent contaminants and dirt particles from entering inside the chain linkages and causing wear.
Image source: Motorcyclistonline.com
When the lubricant between the O-ring and the link plate disappears, the O-ring will wear and deteriorate. O-ring seals are usually made from a common synthetic rubber called acrylonitrile-butadiene, chosen because of its oil, fuel, heat and abrasion-resistant properties.
O-rings create friction that absorbs horsepower. The link plates that hold the O-rings are under compression, so more force is needed to articulate the chain – therefore, the transmitted power is decreased.
X-Ring Type
X-ring chains utilise an O-ring type construction that has an X-shaped cross-section. Its seals are flat-sided, so they have a greater contact patch with the sideplates. The X-ring’s four contact points create an extremely tight seal, keeping lubricant in and dirt out.
As a result, X-ring type seals have a lot less friction than O-ring seals because they do not have to be pressed as tight. This means the X-ring seals should last longer and retain lubrication within the chain for a longer time as well.
Top-spec race chains don’t have any O or X-ring seals to avoid loss of horsepower through friction. In racing, longevity isn’t an issue as the chains are constantly changed by race team mechanics.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/troubleshooting-suspension-symptoms-part-3-compression-damping/ | Troubleshooting Suspension Symptoms (Part 3) – Compression Damping |
The compression damping adjuster is marked as COM on Showa forks
We’ve put together a troubleshooting suspension symptoms guide.
A troubleshooting guide is easier to remember and use.
We conclude the series with compression damping.
We provided a guide on troubleshooting preload adjustment and rebound damping previously. We shall deal with compression damping in this last part.
What is compression damping?
To recap, compression damping is opposite of rebound damping. It controls how quickly the wheel travels upwards when it contacts a bump in the road.
Think of compression damping as the resistance when the spring is squeezed.
Too little compression damping (Front)
The front dives excessively under braking.
Pitches the motorcycles weight on the front wheel when braking making the bike hard to turn it in or causing the handlebar to “waggle.”
The forks can bottom out and hit the bump stops when hitting sharp bumps.
The rear end of the bike feels like “coming around” when the front brakes are jabbed hard.
Steering feels vague and mushy (lack of feedback) similar to too little rebound damping.
Too much compression damping (Front)
The forks feel very hard when the wheel contacts the bump.
Every ripple and bump on the road are transmitted directly to the chassis and the rider. Big bumps could deflect the wheel completely off the road. (Conversely, too little compression will have the wheel travel all the way up before punching the front end off the road surface.)
May cause the front end to ride high in some cases.
While dive is reduced while braking hard, the front wheel can become loose when braking over uneven road (as the suspension does not absorb the bumps).
Compression damping is adjusted by the screw in the middle
Too little compression damping (Rear)
The rear end tends to “squat” or “sit down” too much during acceleration, causing the bike to run wide (the front end is pushed up causing lack of traction from the front tyre).
Hitting bumps and dips at speed causes the rear shock to bottom out.
Chassis balance is over-affected by large dips (for example sunken road surface at Sungai Koyan).
Steering becomes difficult and erodes confidence.
Too much compression (Rear)
Ride is harsh and it gets worse the faster you go. However, too much rebound damping causes the rear to feel even harsher.
Too much compression causes rear tyre to hop over bumps, especially when decelerating.
Bigger bumps will kick the rear end of the bike up and the rider off the seat.
Conclusion
So, there you have it.
Always “mark” the factory settings before you start and note them down. For example, turn the compression damping to fully minimum and count many clicks to get there. Then, turn it to maximum, noting the number of clicks. Finally, turn it back to the original position and start from there.
Our advice is to adjust one parameter at a time, say start with rebound damping before moving on to compression damping. Adjusting everything all at once will confuse you.
Another advice, do not go to the maximum unless you really, really need to (for example poor quality forks). Having a little less of something may actually gain you more in terms of enjoyment.
Lastly, please do not think you need to add more preload/compression/rebound just because you ride faster. You can do so at the track but that does not necessarily mean going all the way to the maximum. Conversely, adjust what is necessary to allow the bike to work for you, not vice versa.
--Ads--
|
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-malaysian-adventure-2019-kicks-off/ | GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Kicks Off |
The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 kicked off yesterday, as the start of an epic ride around Peninsular Malaysia.
The participants will cover 2500 kilometres by the end on 29th July 2019.
The ride ends at GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 on 27th and 28th July.
The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 kicked off yesterday, as the start of an epic ride around Peninsular Malaysia.
The 40 participants from 16 countries will cover 2500 kilometres at the finish on 29th July 2019. They will savour Malaysia’s amazing beauty and magic along the way, including the country’s unique flora and fauna, food, hospitality and the great riding routes.
Routes take the riders through Ipoh, Pahang, Terengganu, and Melaka. From Melaka, the convoy will turn back to Janda Baik, Pahang for GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019. It will give the dealers an unprecedented view of the only large capacity adventure motorcycle race in off-road conditions.
Participants consists of GIVI’s worldwide dealers including those from all over South American, European, Asian and ASEAN countries.
The ride was flagged off from GIVI Asia’s headquarters in Bukit Beruntung, Selangor. the riders were given a factory tour by Mr. Joseph Perucca, the Overseas Operational Director for GIVI and Mr. On Hai Swee, the Managing Director of GIVI Asia. Also on hand was Dato’ Razak Al-Malique Hussein, the Chief Executive Officer of Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia who had supplied the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx, XRx and XR to the participants. Mr. Eugene Mah of Mah Pte. Ltd. also participates in the ride. His company supplied the Moto Guzzi V85TT.
The convoy will be escorted by the Royal Malaysian Traffic Police and marshals from Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) all the way.
The entourage rode first to the leaning tower at Teluk Intan for photo opportunities and the famous Nasi Kandar Krisna on the way. They then continued riding to Kellie’s Castle outside Ipoh, before bedding down at the Banjaran Hot Springs Resort.
The resort was built into the forest, thereby preserving its natural surroundings. Hot spring water was piped into the villas.
Dinner was held in the world-renowed Jeff’s Cellar. The restaurant was built into a cave system with minimal fittings, again to not disturb the natural surroundings. We were served an 8-course western meal among the stalactites and stalagmites.
The adventure continues tomorrow (Monday) as the convoy heads to Gerik and finally, Kuala Terengganu.
PHOTO GALLERY
1 of 61
--Ads--
|