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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/13-year-old-killed-in-motorcycle-accident-following-failed-overtaking-attempt/ | 13-year-old killed in motorcycle accident following failed overtaking attempt |
Image source: Berita Harian.
13-year-old Penang youth loses life following motorcycle accident caused by a failed overtaking attempt.
13-year-old Form One student killed in motorcycle accident in Kepala Batas, Penang.
The accident involved another motorcycle ridden by another youth, aged 14.
Both youths collided their motorcycles, leading to the younger 13-year-old’s fatality.
Both youths were reportedly riding motorcycles that belonged to their respective fathers.
Local daily Berita Harian reports that a 13-year-old youth was killed in a motorcycle accident in Kepala Batas, Penang, earlier this week. The Form One student reportedly lost his life following the incident which occurred late Tuesday night.
According to the report, the 13-year-old youth was enroute towards Kepala Batas from Penaga. The incident occurred as said youth attempted to overtake a car. However, whilst on the oncoming lane, said youth came into the path of an oncoming motorcycle that was ridden by another 14-year-old.
The failed overtaking manoeuvre led to both teenagers colliding their motorcycles, which in turn led to the 13-year-old’s death at the accident scene. The other 14-year-old rider, on the other hand, reportedly suffered severe injuries to the legs and body.
According to Seberang Prai Utara District Police Chief ACP Mohd Radzi Ahmad, initial investigations revealed both youths were riding motorcycles belonging to their respective fathers. Reports did not indicate if either parents or the surviving youth will be subjected to charges as yet.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/barry-sheene-movie-teased/ | Barry Sheene movie teased |
Narrative feature film about legendary grand prix and road racer Barry Sheene teased online.
This is a special one for all classic MotoGP fans as a film about one of the sport’s most charismatic legends Barry Sheene is in the works.
The narrative feature film is the co-production of British and Australian filmmakers Will Stoppard and Rod Morris. The film will be based on the book “Barry: The Story of Motorcycling Legend Barry Sheene” written by the late rider’s teammate Steve Parrish and MotoGP commentator Nick Harris.
For those of you who don’t know, the legendary Barry Sheene was renowned in the 1970s era of Grand Prix motorcycle racing. Unlike the MotoGP superstars of today, the Cockney Englishman was considered a true rebel thanks to his lifestyle of endless parties, boozing and cigarette smoking – Barry’s lifestyle then was more akin to a 1970s rockstar than a top athlete.
Furthermore, Barry wasn’t the only British playboy ruling the racing world. He was often associated with his good friend and Formula 1 counterpart of the same era, the legendary James Hunt. You can understand more about both Barry and James in the special documentary posted below.
Despite the excessive lifestyle, Barry was known to be a top-notch race rider in his hey-day. His career pinnacle was none other than his back-to-back double world 500cc titles he scored in 1976 and 1977 whilst racing for Suzuki. Barry also stood as Britain’s last Grand Prix motorcycle racing champion in any category until Danny Kent’s title win in the World Moto3 class last year.
Other than what we’ve just reported, little else is known about the film, which goes by the title of ‘Sheene’. We’ll have more on this as it develops. You can also follow the development via the film’s official site, official social media pages ( Facebook / Twitter ) and its official YouTube channel.
Sources: Sheene.com via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/former-motogp-star-jorge-lorenzo-enters-porsche-carrera-cup-italia/ | Former MotoGP star Jorge Lorenzo enters Porsche Carrera Cup Italia |
Retired MotoGP triple world champion Jorge Lorenzo switches to four-wheeled racing, enters Porsche Carrera Cup Italia series.
Retired MotoGP star Jorge Lorenzo is the latest to make switch to four-wheeled racing.
Lorenzo will race in the Porsche Carrera Cup Italia series with Team Ghinzani Arco.
He will also make a special appearance aboard a VIP car at Imola for the Porsche Supercup. Series.
Three-time MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo has been enjoying retirement well. After leaving the sport at the end of 2019, the Mallorcan has kept himself busy with plenty of things including being a self-styled MotoGP pundit in his #99seconds series published through his official YouTube Channel.
He’s also about to be inducted into the MotoGP Hall of Fame soon.
With his latest announcement though, Lorenzo can now add car racing into his ever growing schedule. The 34-year-old Mallorca native will reportedly compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup Italia this year after signing a deal with the Team Ghinzani Arco outfit.
On top of that, he will also make a special appearance at Imola aboard a VIP car in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup series as well.
Jorge Lorenzo is the latest retired motorcycle racing star to switch to four-wheeled racing. This includes Valentino Rossi who enters the GT World Challenge series aboard an Audi R8 LMS GT3, as well as Dani Pedrosa who recently announced his entry into the Lamborghini Super Trofeo series.
“After the end of my MotoGP career, I missed the competition. So I was looking for a discipline that wasn’t quite as risky as motorcycle racing. Last year I did some virtual races in the esports version of the Porsche Carrera Cup Italia. Switching to the real Porsche 911 GT3 Cup was the next step,” Lorenzo was quoted by Speedweek about the switch to four-wheeled racing.
Regarded as one of the most competitive one-make racing series on the planet, the series mandates all competitors in using the Porsche 911 GT Cup Car machine. Based off the Porsche 911 GT3 (992 generation) road car, it packs the Stuttgart sportscar brand’s famed rear-mounted 4.0-litre flat-six powertrain with over 500HP on tap.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-motor-to-donate-rm2-9-million-in-humanitarian-aid-to-ukraine/ | Yamaha Motor To Donate RM2.9 Million In Humanitarian Aid To Ukraine |
Yamaha Motor announced that the firm would donate USD700,000 (RM2.9 Million) towards humanitarian aid for Ukraine.
The donation will be made via Japan Platform – a non-profit organization – with the funds that will be used explicitly for helping those who are affected by the Russian invasion into the country.
According to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, more than 902 civilians have perished in Ukraine and another 1,459 have been wounded so far in the ongoing war.
Unfortunately, the office is worried that the actual number will likely be considerably higher.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Yamaha Motor expressed its deepest condolences and sympathies to all victims affected by the war.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/first-look-2023-triumph-street-triple-r-rs-and-moto2-edition/ | FIRST LOOK: 2023 Triumph Street Triple R, RS And Moto2 Edition |
Triumph Motorcycles has announced a more powerful Street Triple R and RS for 2023, with the introduction of a Moto 2 Edition limited to just 765 units.
The 2023 Street Triple is more powerful than ever.
The motorcycle features new engine internals, a higher combustion ratio and improved ergonomics.
Benefiting from the engine that powers the Moto2 World Championship, the Street Triple R and RS feature more power and improved rideability and ergonomics.
What’s new for 2023?
The R now makes 2hp more than the previous generation, with the power output rated at 118hp. However, the RS now boasts 128hp thanks to the higher compression ratio and new engine internals.
That said, the engine now houses new pistons, new connecting rods and redesigned combustion chamber, all contributing to the higher peak power.
In addition, the 2023 Triumph Street Triple range also features a new gearbox with a revised gear ratio.
Spec-wise, the 2023 Street Triple comes with lots of goodies, with the R variant boasting Brembo M4 brake callipers and a fully-adjustable suspension courtesy of Showa.
Meanwhile, the up-spec RS gets a Showa 41mm USD big piston forks and Ohlins piggyback rear shock. On the other hand, the Moto2 Edition gets Ohlins 43mm fully adjustable forks and rear shocks.
All three models also received a new electronic package, including refined cornering ABS, traction control and 4+1 riding modes; Road, Rain, Sport, Rider and Track (only available on the RS/Moto2 Edition).
Pricing and availability
According to Triumph, the Street Triple range starts from GBP9,59 for the R, GBP11,295 for the RS and GBP13,795 for the Moto2 Edition.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-franco-morbidelli-bags-first-premier-class-win-in-misano/ | MotoGP: Franco Morbidelli bags first premier class win in Misano |
If you miss seeing Jorge Lorenzo performing his textbook win on the Yamaha M1 by taking the holeshot and leaving everyone in the dust, then yesterday’s race was one of those except that it was done by Petronas Yamaha SRT’s Franco Morbidelli.
After a thrilling weekend which was clearly dominated by the Yamahas, the race started with Franco Morbidelli in pole position and basically leaving everyone throughout the race, apart from being followed by his mentor, Valentino Rossi (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) for the most part.
The fourth new #MotoGP winner of 2020!!! ?
Congratulations @FrankyMorbido12! ?#FrankySaysRelax | #SanMarinoGP ?? pic.twitter.com/ySB7AjBGGM
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) September 13, 2020
With Rossi unable to keep up with Morbidelli due to degrading tyre grip, the last part of the race saw yet another VR46 Academy rider storming to the second position, which is Francesco Bagnaia (Pramac Racing). He proved that even on a track that clearly benefited the Yamahas, his Ducati Desmosedici GP was a worthy force to be reckoned with.
Third place was set for Rossi’s 200th podium finish but having struggled with a massive drop in grip performance, the final podium spot was nicked from him by another young lad, Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar). Clearly having a better pace, the young Spaniard made his move on the Doctor at the very last lap.
According to Franco Morbidelli after the race, “I feel like this has been a magical week for me. Everything had been going well, so going into today I was thinking that maybe something good would be possible. Turns out, it was something great! I have never won a World Championship race at home before, so to do it in MotoGP is the greatest achievement in my life. I’m really proud to be able to say that.”
“I want to say thanks to all the people that work with me, it isn’t just me. This win is a result of teamwork. Right now, I’m just so proud of what we have achieved, not just today but in general. Seven years ago, I was racing here with a stock 600, now I’m winning a MotoGP race. It’s just amazing, especially as it’s the first race with a crowd this year. It felt great to be able to salute the crowd after the race. We do this for them, so to celebrate with them was such a great feeling,” added Morbidelli.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tvs-reach-new-milestone-exported-100000-units-of-motorcycle-in-march-2021/ | TVS Reach New Milestone, Exported 100,000 Units Of Motorcycle In March 2021 |
While the world is slowly starting to show recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, TVS Motor Company has already hit the ground running as the India motorcycle company just reached a new milestone.
For March 2021 alone, TVS exported an impressive 100,000 units of their motorcycle.
Apart from the spectacular figure, it also proves a significant rise in personal mobility, with two-wheelers becoming the most affordable and practical choice for commuting.
Moreover, TVS has product offerings for all sorts of motorcyclists, and it all comes at a very affordable price. The quality of TVS is undeniably good as the famous BMW G 310 R, and G 310 GS are also co-developed by TVS Motor Company.
TVS exports its motorcycle to over 60 countries, including Malaysia, and in some part of the world, offering services for the BMW G 310 range.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-michelin-anakee-wild-tyres-for-adventurers-with-videos/ | New Michelin Anakee Wild tyres for adventurers (with videos) |
New Michelin Anakee Wild tyres made exclusively for big bore adventurers.
Famed French tyre makers Michelin have announced a new series of dual-sport tyres called the Anakee Wild. Notably, the Michelin Anakee Wild series was developed specifically for flagship adventure bike models.
The Michelin Anakee Wild series was developed with a mixed blend of radial and parallel belt plies that Michelin claims to have significant improvements over three areas – longevity, efficiency and comfort. The Anakee Wild series were designed with off-road riding in mind, with the adoption of a mixed blend is a complete departure from the previous Michelin Anakee series.
Despite looking rather generic and akin to regular flat track tyres, a closer study of the Michelin Anakee Wild tyre grooves reveals a slightly different spacing of the knobs that promises reduced mud and stone retention. Complementing that are the two steel rods reinforcing the shoulder and the tyre’s radial structure for the walls, both of which promising greater resilience with terrain change and greater comfort as well.
Another key area of strength for the Michelin Anakee Wild tyres lie in the belts that run parallel with the steel reinforcements. This offers structural strength to offset the forces that causes tyre deformation especially when it is subjected to the action of centrifugal force at speeds.
Naturally, with a tyre design capable of retaining its shape even when subjected to high stresses, Michelin states that the Anakee Wild promises increased safety and handling predictability, which correlates to better steering responses and higher confidence for riders too. The French brand even claims that the Anakee Wild is the first knobby tyre of its kind to offer such levels of on-road stability and comfort thanks to the adoption of the radial design.
But as mentioned at the start, the Michelin Anakee Wild series were designed specifically for flagship adventure bike models as it does not come in either 21-inch front or 18-inch rear wheel sizes. Instead, Michelin will offer the Anakee Wild only in 110/80 R19 and 120/70 R19 sizes for the front and 150/70 R17 and 170/60 R17 for the rear.
Source: Michelin via AutoEvolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-quartararo-admits-no-changes-is-done-to-his-m1-plea-for-more-power/ | MotoGP: Quartararo Admits No Changes Is Done To His M1, Plea For More Power |
Fabio Quartararo began the defence of his 2021 MotoGP title with the Official MotoGP Sepang Test at Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Despite ending Day 1 & 2 as the fastest Yamaha rider on the track, Quartararo was still behind two or more Ducati machinery on the grid.
Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro emerged as the fastest rider on Day 1, while Enea Bastianini clocked the quickest time on Day 2 onboard the one-year-old Ducati GP21.
The result could frustrate Quartararo, who was notably outperformed by Ducati bikes during the latter rounds of last year.
It also led to Quartararo asking Yamaha to extract more speed from the factory M1 in the hope to quell the threat of Ducati, especially on the straights.
However, while Quartararo’s top speed of 332.3km/h looked strong, he admitted to out-braked himself coming through the speed trap.
“I wanted more horsepower, but at the end we can’t just invent [more horsepower].
“If we have it, it’s better. But if we don’t, it’s not useful to say all the time that it’s missing power.
“If you have no power, you adapt yourself, like I did in the past. If we need to adapt, we’re going to adapt,” he said.
Yamaha is known for its agility; however its unwavering approach to ensuring the M1 remains the sweetest handling on the grid at the expense of power has come in for criticism in recent years, from the likes of Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-yamaha-bolt-bobber-unveiled-for-us-japan-market/ | 2020 Yamaha Bolt bobber unveiled for US & Japan market |
There’s a new Japanese bobber in the market and it’s called the 2020 Yamaha Bolt. It’s been a while since we’ve heard anything from this particular Yamaha Sport Heritage model (2015 was its Malaysian debut with the XV950R) but now, a new generation has been announced to make its debut for the US and Japanese market very soon.
Marketed as the ‘perfect union of old‑school soul and modern form featuring a torquey V‑Twin, and classic bobber design’, the 2020 Yamaha Bolt is offered in two different variants, the standard Bolt and the range-topping Bolt R. The ‘Urban Performance Bobber’ offers a minimalist styling paired with a compact chassis as well as a high-tech 942cc V-Twin engine.
Housed within its double-cradle frame is an air-cooled V-twin SOHC engine that produces 53hp at 5,500rpm and 80Nm of maximum torque as low as 3,000rpm. Paired with a five-speed gearbox and belt final drive, the new Yamaha Bolt offers a punchy and exhilarating low to mid-range riding experience.
Other highlighted features include:
Low seat height (690mm)
Beefy 41mm front forks + twin rear shocks
Custom spoke wheels (19-inch front, 16-inch rear)
298mm front disc brakes (wave rotors for both front & back)
13-litre teardrop-shaped fuel tank
LCD meter instrument
Rear LED taillamp
2020 Yamaha Bolt R
As for the range-topping 2020 Yamaha Bolt R, that comes with all the fixings of the standard Bolt, apart from a unique Matte Silver paint job, rear dual piggyback shocks, and a set of 12-spoke cast alloy wheels. The Japanese can get one in a few months’ time with prices from 979,000 yen to 1,025,200 yen (around RM40,000-RM42,000).
10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles (Part 2)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/close-win-worlds-fastest-ducati-multistrada-pikes-peak/ | Close win for the world’s fastest Ducati Multistrada at Pikes Peak! |
The world’s fastest Ducati Multistrada 1260 gave Ducati back their crown at the 2018 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
Ducati’s Carlin Dunne took his fourth win after a close battle with KTM’s Rennie Scaysbrook.
KTM also won and broke the record for the middleweight division thanks to Chris Fillmore and the new KTM 790 Duke.
The 96th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb saw a lot of brave souls battling it out at the ‘Race to the Clouds’ near Colorado Springs, USA. For the motorcycle heavyweight division, it was expected that Ducati and KTM will go head to head but no one expected it would be such a close race.
With Ducati bringing in their biggest off-road guns to the scene, their specially-made 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak regained their crown after Carlin Dunne crossed the finish line at 9:59.102. The South African rider managed to fend off KTM’s Rennie Scaysbrook and his 2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R by only a nail-biting 0.7 seconds.
“We did it. The Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak proved as amazing as we all hoped. It performed flawlessly, giving me everything I needed to get up the mountain. Pikes Peak is never an easy race, but the weather cooperated and we clinched the victory for Ducati.”
Although the top two finishers gave fans one hell of a race, it was the third fastest time of the day that shocked everyone. Chris Fillmore (the person who obliterated the Pikes Peak record last year with a 9:49.625) gave KTM the middleweight crown after he piloted the new KTM 790 Duke to victory.
What’s more amazing is the fact that he did so with a time of 10:04.038, just three seconds behind the race winner. This is considered a ground-breaking achievement considering how big the performance differences between the two machines.
While Ducati has successfully regained their crown at Pikes Peak, KTM came out not far behind with smiles on their faces. Thanks to Chris Fillmore, KTM now hold both the records for the heavyweight and middleweight categories with their 1290 Super Duke R and 790 Duke.
Pos.
Rider
Class
Bike
Time
1
Carlin Dunne
Heavyweight
2018 Ducati MTS1260 Pikes Peak
09:59.1
2
Rennie Scaysbrook
Heavyweight
2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R
09:59.8
3
Chris Fillmore
Middleweight
2018 KTM 790 Duke
10:04.0
4
Codie Vahsholtz
Heavyweight
2018 Ducati MTS1260 Pikes Peak
10:12.7
5
Thilo Gunther
Heavyweight
2015 BMW S 1000 R
10:16.6
6
Lucy Glöckner (R)
Heavyweight
2015 BMW S 1000 R
10:21.9
7
Davey Durelle
Middleweight
2007 Aprilia SXV
10:36.0
8
Rafael Paschoalin
Middleweight
2017 Yamaha MT-09
10:38.4
9
Tyler O’Hara (R)
Lightweight
2016 Yamaha YZ450F
11:04.3
10
Travis Newbold
Lightweight
2005 Honda CRF
11:13.9
11
Joseph Toner
Exhibition
2007 Aprilia SXV Custom
11:29.1
12
Akinori Inoue (R)
Heavyweight
2018 Kawasaki Z900RS
11:34.0
13
Darryl Lujan
Lightweight
2013 Honda CRF450R
11:39.6
14
Michael Woolaway (R)
Exhibition
2014 Ducati Hypermotard
11:40.7
15
Theo Bernhard
Quad
2007 Yamaha YZ500
12:03.7
16
Mark Bartle
Lightweight
2018 Honda CRF450F
12:13.7
17
Doug Chestnutt
Lightweight
2012 Yamaha WR-450
12:33.6
18
Jeremiah Johnson
Electric
2018 University of Nottingham UoN-PP-02
–.—
19
Robert Barber
Electric
2018 Buckeye Current RW-3x
–.—
20
Leandro Rad (R)
Lightweight
2015 Yamaha YZ
–.—
New Colour for Ducati Supersport
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/royal-enfield-himalayan-debuts-in-web-video-series/ | Royal Enfield Himalayan debuts in web video series |
New and hyped up Royal Enfield Himalayan adventure bike debuts in series of videos ahead of debut date.
There seems to be a lot of hype online surrounding the upcoming and new Royal Enfield Himalayan. The Indian motorcycle brand has positioned its new Himalayan model as its debut entry into the adventure bike segment, and it is scheduled to debut in early February.
Despite its debut slated just a week away from now, it hasn’t stopped the firm from showing off the new model in a series of videos posted on the official Royal Enfield YouTube channel.
Based on numerous spyshots and reports online, the Royal Enfield Himalayan is expected to debut with a 410cc single-cylinder engine that develops around 28hp. Versions bound for the European market will also reportedly receive higher specifications that ones bound for the brand’s Indian home market, with the former benefitting with Euro 4 emissions compliance and ABS brakes.
Other than that, and the clear indications of the bike donning the brand’s signature retro styling, little else is known about the upcoming new Royal Enfield Himalayan. We will have more as soon as the bike debuts officially in early February.
In the meantime, you can find out more about the Royal Enfield Himalayan through its special series of web video teasers we’ve collected and posted below.
Sources: YouTube / Asphaltandrubber / AutoEvolution / Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-ready-fight-suzuka-8-hours-hrc-factory-squad/ | Honda ready to fight in 2018 Suzuka 8 Hours with HRC factory squad |
Honda has announced that there will be a new entry in the 2018 Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race with their HRC factory squad.
This announcement came to be after the Yamaha Factory Racing Team has won the iconic race for the past three years.
The giant red Japanese manufacturer might even bring their top riders from WorldSBK and MotoGP to improve their chances in 2018.
One of the world’s greatest motorcycle endurance races that is the Suzuka 8 Hours will see a major shift in major league players for the year 2018. After three years of dominance from the Yamaha Factory Racing Team in July earlier this year (which also marked the race’s 40th anniversary), Honda has decided that it’s time to bring out their big guns.
Image source: FIM EWC
Honda takes their racing quite seriously and their results have certainly proved that point. After 40 years of racing in the iconic Japanese endurance race, they’ve won a total of 27 times but the past three years saw Yamaha completely dominating the race with their full factory setup and world class riders from WorldSBK and MotoGP.
Alex Lowes winning the 2017Suzuka 8 Hours on board the factory Yamaha YZF-R1
With that, Honda has retaliated with the announcement of an entry in the form of a full factory HRC team that’ll compete in the race. This is indeed a huge move considering that they’ve only provided assistance to teams like the F.C.C. TSR Honda and MuSASHi RT HARC-PRO which did quite well this year finishing in third and fourth respectively.
We’re guessing that Honda took that as an insult considering that Yamaha finished first followed by Kawasaki Team Green in which our very own rider Azlan Shah Kamaruzzaman assisted in the result.
Azlan Shah on board the Kawasaki Team Green ZX-10R
To know more about Azlan Shah and Kawasaki’s achievement in the 2017 Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race, CLICK HERE.
With the likes of Pol Espargaro, Bradley Smith, Michael van der Mark, and Aleix Lowes assisting Yamaha in the recent years, it might not be a surprise if Honda decides to bring in Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa into the mix just to add fire into the flame. That might be very unlikely considering that it’s smacked dab in the middle of the MotoGP season.
Will we finally see Marc Marquez racing in the 2018 Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race?
Takaaki Nakagami, Jack Miller and Cal Crutchlow have a better chance than the Repsol Honda boys. Whatever the case may be, the 2018 Suzuka 8 Hours FIM World Endurance Championship is set to be more epic than ever before. Who’s your money on? Factory Yamaha or Factory HRC? We can’t decide.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/indonesia-vies-to-host-motogp-in-2017/ | Indonesia vies to host MotoGP in 2017 |
MotoGP is set to welcome another South East Asian venue as Indonesia vies to host the event in 2017.
Dorna Sport CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta made a pit stop in Jakarta, Indonesia recently whilst in transit between the Australian and Malaysian MotoGP rounds.
There, Ezpeleta held a meeting with Indonesia’s Minister of Youth & Sports Imam Nahrawi alongside CEO of the Sentul International Circuit Tinton Soeprapto where the trio discussed the possibility of MotoGP being hosted in Indonesia.
Based on an official release from Dorna and reliable sources in Indonesia, it is understood that Dorna has tentatively included Indonesia in the 2017 MotoGP calendar. Dorna further states that the presentation of the project master plan in late November and signature of the contract between Dorna Sports and the circuit is the next immediate goal before setting in motion the project.
The Indonesian MotoGP round will be held in the Sentul International Circuit, and the next step after the plans are finalised is to see renovation works towards homologating the circuit towards current FIM standard. Only after then will the circuit be officially included in the 2017 MotoGP calendar.
If confirmed, Indonesia will become only the second South East Asian nation to host MotoGP in recent times after Malaysia.
Source: Dorna and TMC Blog
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ex-norton-ceo-stuart-garner-facing-2-years-jail-time/ | Ex-Norton Motorcycles CEO Stuart Garner Facing 2-Years Jail Time |
Former Norton Motorcycles CEO, Stuart Garner, was found guilty of illegally investing pension funds into the business and is facing a two-year jail time.
Garner was responsible for reviving the brand after purchasing the company in 2008.
He then introduced the revamped Commando range and the ambitious V4 superbike project before Norton went into administration in January 2020.
However, he was in the spotlight for injecting the pension funds into the 2012 Dominator, 2012 Commando and the Donington MC schemes to prop the business up.
The act is a clear breach of the law that only allows a maximum of 5 per cent of occupational pension to be invested into the employer’s company.
After an investigation by the Pensions Ombudsman, which found that Garner had acted dishonestly, the court ordered Garner to pay off the money (estimated GBP11mil) in June 2020.
At that time, most of Norton’s assets were already sold to current ownership, TVS Motor Company, for GBP16mil.
Nevertheless, TVS opted to take over the firm; instead, the current Norton brand is a new company with rights to the bikes’ brand name and intellectual property.
Garner pleaded guilty at Derby Magistrates’ Court to three charges of breaching employer-related investment rules, investing money from the three pension schemes into Norton in return for preference shares between 2012 and 2013.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-more-power/ | 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R: More Power! |
Kawasaki has updated the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R to produce more horsepower.
Updates are centred on the valvetrain and reducing moving mass.
The updates show that Kawasaki intends to retain the World Superbike crown.
Horsepower. You can never have enough. Kawasaki has announced that the 2019 Ninja ZX-10R will receive a list of changes that will take its power output even higher.
Kawasaki may have won four World Superbike championships in 2013 with Tom Sykes, and 2015, 2016, 2017 with Jonathan Rea, while currently leading the series with the latter rider, they know that they will be under stiff competition from Ducati with the new Panigale V4 and possibly a new Honda CBR1000RR next year.
The new Ninja ZX-10R’s cylinder head has been redesigned to be more compact to aid quicker combustion. The valvetrain will now have the cams acting directly on finger followers, rather than on tappets, resulting in a 20 percent reduction in mass. It also makes it easier to install more aggressive cam profiles. Consequently, the engine can sustain high RPMs more reliably.
Finally, to mark the updated engine, the cylinder head cover will be painted in red.
There are three variants of the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R: Base, SE and RR.
Ninja ZX-10R
The base 2019 Ninja ZX-10R will have its power increased to 203 PS (200 bhp), without ram air. Expect to see around 210 bhp with ram air. It will receive the updated valvetrain and cylinder head cover. It will also feature the bi-directional Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) that was previously available on the SE and RR only.
Ninja ZX-10R SE
The 2019 Ninja ZX-10R SE is considered the flagship model as the RR is a race homologation model. Apart from the valvetrain updates, it will feature Kawasaki’s advanced electronic suspension (KECS) and forged Marchesini rims. Areas prone to scratches are covered with Kawasaki’s proprietary “self-healing” paint, as with the 2019 Ninja H2. Power is the same as the based Ninja ZX-10R.
Ninja ZX-10RR
The 2019 Ninja ZX-10RR will receive Pankl titanium connecting rods that save 400g over the standard bike’s, reducing the crankshaft’s inertia by 5% and yield a 600 RPM increase. Kawasaki quoted 201 bhp peak power without ram air. It will be available only in Lime Green and production is limited to 500 units.
A “Performance” variant for all three types are also available.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/petronas-sprinta-bonanza-2019-heats-up-with-first-motorcycle-giveaway/ | PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza 2019 heats up with first motorcycle giveaway! |
It was only two months back when PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing Malaysia (PLMM) launched the PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza 2019 contest in conjunction with the PETRONAS Sprinta Mobile Workshop introduction.
They promised that contestants will stand a chance to win exciting prizes including a Yamaha Y15ZR, Yamaha YZF-R25, and the ultimate giveaway, the Yamaha YZF-R6. All bikes have been dressed in the PETRONAS Yamaha SRT MotoGP livery and today, the first Yamaha Y15ZR was presented to the first winner.
Mr. Sahrulnaim bin Sahrahan from Gombak emerged victorious and collected his very beautiful Yamaha Y15ZR at NKS Sport Bikers located in Sentul earlier today. He stated, “I’m very grateful and thankful that PETRONAS Sprinta organised this very exciting contest.”
“It was a blessing that I bought the F500 engine oil when I needed to change my motorcycle’s engine oil. I’ve always used PETRONAS Sprinta as my go-to brand as it has proven to make my motorcycle feel lighter and smoother,” added Mr. Sahrulnaim who also got to go home with MotoGP Sepang Grandstand tickets.
The PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza 2019 contest is still ongoing until 30 September 2019. The Yamaha Y15ZR is still up for grabs as it is the monthly bike giveaway but if you’re super lucky, you might just get to bring home one of the two grand prizes. Who knows? You’ll be the next owner of these two lovely Yamahas this year!
To know more about the PETRONAS Sprinta Bonanza 2019 contest, check out their Facebook or Instagram. They will also organize the PETRONAS Sprinta 2019 festival tomorrow (27 April 2019) at Jalan Sentul where you stand to win instant prizes upon purchasing their products organised by one of their official lubricant dealers.
PETRONAS Sprinta Mobile Workshop launched
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-yamaha-factory-team-signs-monster-energy/ | MotoGP: Yamaha factory team signs with Monster Energy |
The Yamaha MotoGP team has signed a new agreement with Monster Energy as their new title sponsor starting 2019.
Starting next season, the Yamaha factory squad will be known as the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP squad.
Both Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales are already Monster Energy athletes.
The Yamaha MotoGP team will see a big change for the 2019 season as they’ve signed a new agreement with Monster Energy drink as their new main sponsor. Starting next season, the team comprising of Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinales will be known as the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team.
The current title sponsor which is major telecommunications brand, Movistar will make way for Monster Energy starting next season. The announcement was made earlier today by Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. as the factory team’s new title sponsor. This is seen as a very good move considering that both Rossi and Vinales are accomplished Monster Energy sponsored riders.
According to Lin Jarvis, Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Racing, “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Monster Energy Company as the new Title Sponsor of our Factory MotoGP Team. The new partnership will provide Monster Energy with an even stronger presence in the MotoGP class – the pinnacle activity of the motorcycle racing world.”
“With Monster Energy being a very dynamic brand that‘s extremely active all around the world, we expect that this collaboration will further enhance the exposure of both brands and also give us a great platform for marketing activities. The new Agreement also signifies the intention of Yamaha and Monster Energy to further strengthen our collaboration for our global on-road and off-road motorsports programmes,” added Jarvis.
Rodney Sacks, Chairman and CEO of Monster Energy also stated “It‘s with great pride that we announce the next chapter of Monster Energy‘s decade-long association with and participation in MotoGP, which will be anchored by our alliance with the Yamaha Factory Racing MotoGP Team. Having shared our passion for this sport with Valentino Rossi, Maverick Vinales, Jorge Lorenzo, Cal Crutchlow and Johann Zarco (among others) as well as the wider Yamaha family for multiple years; the prospect of developing our relationship with the team is something we are hugely excited by.”
“We remain fully committed to providing the most exciting Monster fan experience to the many millions of MotoGP enthusiasts worldwide, both at race tracks and beyond. Through our title sponsorship of the fantastic Yamaha Factory Racing Team and iconic races such as the Czech and Catalunya Grands Prix, we have the opportunity to continue our partnership in what is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic sports on the planet.”
The question now is, will we see Rossi and Vinales wearing the Monster Energy black and green colourway or will they maintain with the iconic Yamaha blue scheme? Perhaps a combination of both? We love how the colour looks on the Yamaha YZR-M1 together with Johann Zarco and Hafizh Syahrin and we’re pretty confident that they’ll look just as great on the two factory riders.
Image source: MotoGP
MotoGP: Dani Pedrosa announces retirement
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-preparing-nine-new-models-for-eicma-2015/ | Ducati preparing nine new models for EICMA 2015 |
Famed Italian brand Ducati is set for a major model expansion with nine new models reported for debut at EICMA 2015.
Although its parent company, Volkswagen AG, is undergoing perhaps one of its worst scandals ever (read #DieselGate), it is of no deterrence to the Ducati brand. Credible sources are indicating that the brand are preparing for a major onslaught of new bikes, with up to nine new models reportedly being prepared for debut at this year’s edition of EICMA.
First of all, some good news. Ducati’s CEO Cladio Domenicali has quashed the rumours of a new four-cylinder powerplant. Previous rumours suggested that the purported four-pot would be a replacement to the brand’s 1299 Panigale superbike revealed last year. However, this has turned out to be false, meaning the Bologna-based brand’s new flagship superbike will not come anytime soon.
Now for even better news. Credible sources are reporting that Ducati could reveal up to nine new models meant for 2016 come November this year during EICMA 2015. We have already seen two of which, these being the new Ducati Monster 1200 R – the brand’s most powerful naked bike, ever – and the recently revealed Ducati Diavel Carbon.
Next up are two very exciting model ranges indeed. Firstly, leaked US emissions applications paperwork have revealed that a Ducati 899 Panigale replacement is indeed on its way, with the documents revealing its name – the Ducati 959 Panigale. Ducati’s new ‘Baby Panigale’ will receive a new powerplant, with an enlarged 955cc displacement. Other than that, details are sketchy, so we will have to wait until EICMA comes around to know whether if this upcoming new middleweight supersport is indeed an “all-new” bike.
So, with a new super-naked, a refreshed and darker supercruiser, and perhaps a brand new middleweight, you’d think Ducati would end there right? Well, think again. Also in the pipeline according to credible sources is a revamped Ducati Hypermotard range. Again, leaked US emissions documents are indicating that Ducati will update the supermoto model range extensively.
The new Hypermotard range is set to receive an enlarged new 937cc mill complete with a new six-speed transmission, promising Euro 4 compliance as well. The range will consist of three variants starting with a standard Hypermotard, followed by a racier Hypermotard SP, as well as a more touring-oriented Hyperstrada. Again, details remain scarce beyond what we just mentioned, and only when EICMA comes about will we know if there are indeed “new” bikes from the ground up.
Interestingly, prototypes of what appears to be a belt-driven Diavel-based cruiser has been spotted testing out in the wild as well in recent months. Ducati remains tight-lipped about this particular model, but we are very certain all will be revealed at EICMA in November. Spyshots indicate this mystery new cruiser to be a more comfort-oriented machine as it has its footrests swept forward much like a typical cruiser. This is an interesting development given the fact that Ducati is not known for making bikes of this genre in recent times.
Suffice to say, Ducati is gearing itself up for 2016 rather well. Fuelling this is the fact that the brand is enjoying a healthy growth of 22% in the first half of this year. The firm has delivered a total of 32,600 bikes in this period, and is well on its way at breaking the 50,000 units delivery mark for this year – a remarkable achievement for the celebrated Italian brand indeed.
The only other question remaining is whether Ducati will pursue the idea of entering the small-displacement segment. Now, THAT would be interesting to see to say the least.
Sources: Asphaltandrubber ( Link 1 / Link 2 / Link 3 / Link 4 ) and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2024-bmw-r-1300-gs-price-leaked-in-the-us-ahead-of-global-launch/ | 2024 BMW R 1300 GS Price Leaked In The US Ahead Of Global Launch |
BMW enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the official unveiling of the upcoming R 1300 GS model, set to take place on September 28.
the next-generation BMW R 1300 GS is scheduled for global unveiling in September.
the R 1300 GS is equipped with a bigger boxer engine than its predecessor.
While the launch date is still over a month away, an inadvertent reveal on BMW’s official website has given us an early insight into the expected cost of this highly anticipated motorcycle.
This leak was initially spotted by Germany’s MotorradOnline and subsequently shared by the motorcycling community, particularly highlighted by ADVRider. The focal point of this leak was an online financing calculator on BMW Motorrad USA’s website. The calculator briefly displayed the 2024 R 1300 GS with an eye-catching price tag of USD19,590 – that’s around RM90.1k for our Malaysian readers.
What sets the new R 1300 GS apart from its predecessor? In a remarkable twist, Swiss certification documents that surfaced earlier unveiled that the R 1300 GS will be powered by an impressive 1300cc engine.
This powerhouse is projected to generate an astonishing 143.5hp @ 7,750 rpm and a peak torque 147Nm @ 6,500 rpm. This represents a notable improvement over the R 1250 GS, which has a certified output of 134.1 hp at 7,750 rpm.
The substantial performance gains can be attributed to the enlarged engine displacement and the incorporation of a comprehensive liquid-cooling system.
Intriguingly, the R 1300 GS is not the sole novelty from BMW on the horizon for 2024. The company has also officially confirmed the imminent arrival of the R12 NineT and the M 1000 XR. While information about the 2024 iteration of the S 1000 XR is yet to be revealed, it’s expected that an updated version will accompany the enhanced M variant, amplifying the excitement for BMW aficionados worldwide.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/why-x-1r-engine-and-fuel-treatments-worth-your-money/ | Why X-1R Engine and Fuel Treatments are worth your money |
X-1R engine and fuel treatments were formulated to boost your vehicle’s engine performance and reduce fuel consumption.
Developed for gigantic NASA aerospace machines, the same high-performance engine treatments and fuel boosters are now available for your cars and bikes.
X-1R products are proven to reduce fuel consumption by 10% or more whilst significantly reducing wear and tear in your engine.
What happens when one of the world’s most successful aerospace and aeronautics agency is faced with a problem? No mere solutions can cope for an agency that focuses on not just what lies beyond our planet but also all the engineering marvels (and interstellar headaches) in building a handful of vehicles that can blast off into space and beyond.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) like most of us have to deal with daily problems. While we Malaysians have to worry about how much petrol will cost come every Wednesday, NASA has to think about this aspect all the time considering that they use them at a much, MUCH bigger scale.
While the space shuttles and rocket boosters use a mixture of liquid oxygen and hydrogen which cost millions of Ringgit, the specially-made transport built to carry these leviathans around also consumes a lot of fuel. We’re talking about over 500,000kg worth of super flammable propellant that can help blast off a vehicle that weighs more than 700,000kg. To put that into a biker’s perspective, that’s a total weight of over 4,200 units of the 2017 KTM 390 Duke!
2017 KTM 390 Duke
That’s a lot of weight and fuel. With those figures, we’re not surprised that NASA is constantly thinking about how to save money when it comes to fuel consumption. Their solution? NASA worked with X-1R Corporation to create an engine treatment formula that can help in reducing the engine’s fuel consumption but at the same time, improve the overall performance.
To know more on how X-1R Corporation came to be with NASA, CLICK HERE.
With the help from X-1R, the development of space-grade engine treatment formulation has helped to reduce NASA’s fuel consumption by over 10%! Because of this, X-1R is one of only a few companies in the world which has received a space technology award certification PLUS and induction in the Space Technology Hall of Fame!
With a successful experience and business in aerospace, X-1R decided that it would be super beneficial for a lot of folks if they bring their technologies and creations to a much wider audience. Now, you can have the same benefits for any of your internal-combustion engine-powered vehicles from cars, trucks and yes, even motorcycles.
From a variety of engine treatments to fuel boosters, common folks like you and me can also enjoy top engine performance whilst reducing overall fuel consumption. When you don’t have to pay as much for petrol, that means more money can be allocated for savings or if you’re like us, more money to buy motorcycle stuff!
How can you do this? Well, just get your hands on any of the X-1R Complete Fuel System Treatments for the recommended form of transportation and add the suggested amount into your vehicle! For motorcycles, a small bottle of X-1R Small Engine Formula can be added together with the engine oil for a more efficient and cooler-running engine.
Each bottle of X-1R Small Engine Formula should be added to every litre of engine oil your motorcycle uses. So if you ride an awesome 1,000cc 2017 BMW S 1000 RR superbike which uses 3.5 litres of engine oil, you can add the required amount of X-1R Small Engine Formula (one bottle/litre) to reap the same benefits of better performance and lower fuel consumption.
2017 BMW S 1000 RR
For those adventure riders who like to travel far and wide around the world, it’s always a good idea to carry a few bottles of X-1R Octane Booster. While most cars and bikes in Malaysia have recommended fuel ratings of RON95 and above, some countries only offer lower quality fuels which are not suitable for your ride.
By using the X-1R Octane Booster, it’ll help to increase the RON rating of any petrol by three numbers. This means that if you filled up your bike with RON92 fuel, using the X-1R Octane Booster can bump it up to RON95. This will help provide the right fuel for your vehicles that can help avoid any unwanted engine knocking, pinging and run-on.
The best part? Each 60ml bottle can treat up to 75 litres of fuel! Motorcycles like the versatile 2017 Kawasaki Z650 ABS which comes with a 15-litre fuel tank can optimise a single bottle of X-1R Octane Booster up to five times! Just 12ml is all you need to treat the fuel for every full tank of petrol for the Z650 ABS. Talk about big savings in little packages.
To know more about the X-1R Octane Booster, CLICK HERE to read our review written by one of our motoring journalists, Wahid Ooi Abdullah during his trip to the Golden Triangle with GIVI Malaysia.
With constant use, you can save roughly around RM200* every month when you opt for X-1R’s range of fuel and engine treatment together with their Octane Booster formulation. At the end of the day, more money saved in your pocket means more savings, and more savings mean a life with better quality. Whether you choose to save those extra Ringgits for a rainy day or buy some premium riding gears like the HJC RPHA 70 sport touring helmet, you’ll end up a winner.
*Results may vary based on type of fuel, amount, engine & performance
Save money on fuel, buy new helmet. Happy days.
X-1R products are available at selected dealers and workshops but you can also purchase them directly online at: http://www.x1rasia.com/.
Interested to see how X-1R works up close and personal? From 1 to 3 December 2017, Motonation will be organizing Malaysia’s first largest automotive and lifestyle carnival happening at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC). Don’t miss this chance to witness and get your very own X-1R products available here in Malaysia!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-motorcycles-sees-sales-growth-2017-63000-sold/ | Triumph Motorcycles sees sales growth in 2017 – Over 63,000 sold! |
For 2017, Triumph Motorcycles sold over 63,000 motorcycles from their dealerships around the globe.
63,404 units were sold which translates to £498.5 million (RM2.7 billion) in sales revenue.
Triumph made £24.7 million (RM134 million) in profits which is a 48% increase thanks to a 22% rise in sales worldwide.
With the current standpoint of the world’s ever fluctuating market for motorcycles, Triumph Motorcycles was proud to announce that they have seen a growth in sales for 2017 despite the economic conditions in which some other manufacturers experienced a significant drop.
Based on their calculations of the number of units sold worldwide from July 2016 up to July 2017, over 63,000 units of Triumph bikes have been purchased from their dealerships around the globe (63,404 to be exact). This adds up to £498.5 million in revenue which is around RM2.7 billion big ones!
Out of that amount, Triumph saw a profit of £24.7 million (before taxes) which is very close to RM134 million in returns. This adds up to a total of 12.7% sales increase compared to the previous financial year. This is considered to be quite a good figure which is actually an increase of 48% thanks to a rise by 22% in sales revenue.
Although some might say that £24.7 million (RM134 million) is a relatively small margin in the motorcycle manufacturing industry, the fact that Triumph even saw a rise in its figures goes to show that they are indeed doing well in an economy where others are experiencing significant drops.
With their current modern classic line-up gaining more momentum with some very, VERY beautiful models like the Triumph Bonneville Bobber and Street Triple 765 street bikes, we’re guessing that the numbers is going see a much higher elevations especially in the next two years when they start supplying their 765cc inline-three engines (also used in their current Street Triple 765 series) in the Moto2 series.
To know more about Triumph’s 765cc Moto2 prototype machine, CLICK HERE.
All we have to do now is wait patiently for the rise of the Triumph Daytona 765. That’ll definitely blow the fishes right out of the water (in a good and non-illegal ways unlike how some fishermen are doing but that’s a whole different story which in not related to the world of motorcycling…unless they’re bikers, too…).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/msc-azlan-shah-storms-pole-position-round-1/ | MSC: Azlan Shah storms to pole position in Round 1 |
Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman will start the first round of the Malaysia Superbike Championship 2018 (MSC) tomorrow from pole position.
Riding for the Chia PJ Kawasaki racing team, Azlan stormed through the qualifying session.
The 33-year-old set the fastest time of the day on board Chia PJ’s Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.
Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman together with the Chia PJ Kawasaki racing team has stormed through the first qualifying session in the first round of the Malaysia Superbike Championship 2018 (MSC) earlier today. He has obtained the first pole position of the season after just one week of riding the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.
After a blistering pace set by the 33-year-old rider during the practice session, Azlan Shah continued his form into the qualifying session by setting an impressive 2:09.493 which was the only rider to set below the 2:10 mark.
Second in the timesheets is also one of Malaysia’s highly-regarded racing figures, Mohd Ramdan Rosli. Riding for the newly-formed TOC HKMTOYO Racing Team, he will start tomorrow’s race from the middle of the front row on board his highly-competitive BMW S 1000 RR.
The 22-year-old has quite a work cut out for him to battle against the pole sitter as well as India’s fastest motorcycle racer, Rajini Krishnan K. This time around, Rajini and his very own Rajini’s Academy of Competitive Racing team (RACR) will be piloting a Yamaha YZF-R1 from the third position of the grid.
Will Chia PJ Kawasaki maintain their dominance this year? Can Azlan Shah fend off some of the league’s most competitive racers? There will be two races for each category tomorrow and they’ll start from 9.15am until 4.50pm. Entrance to the Main Grandstand is FREE!
Malaysia Superbike Championship 2018 Round 1 happening this weekend!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hafizh-syahrin-tribute-late-grandmother-special-french-gp-helmet/ | Hafizh Syahrin pays tribute to late grandmother with special French GP helmet |
This weekend marks the penultimate triple-header for this year’s MotoGP championship in Le Mans, France, and Malaysian Moto2 rider, Hafizh Syahrin (Oceanica Aspar Team Moto2), will be donning a special helmet to pay tribute to his late grandmother, Allahyarham Arbaieah bt Muhammad, who sadly passed away in early September.
View this post on Instagram
FAMILY FIRST ??❤️ #TeamHS #HS55 #RezekiDariAllah #Bismillahfirst .. Thank you @shoeieurope and @ocdesign4victory ???
A post shared by Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah (@hafizh_syahrin) on Oct 8, 2020 at 7:07am PDT
A photo of his late grandmother and himself can be seen on the back of his Shoei X-Spirit III helmet throughout this weekend. The young Malaysian rider was able to see his beloved ‘nenek‘ when he came back to rest and recover after his horrific incident during the Austrian GP. Shoutout to OCD Design4Victory for one very beautiful lid.
Unfortunately, his grandmother passed away after Hafizh left the country to continue his 2020 racing season in Rimini, Italy for the San Marino GP. It’s understood that Hafizh’s grandmother had been quite an important support system for Hafizh and his racing career, to the point where they would converse before and after each race.
Our condolences to Hafizh Syahrin and his entire family for the loss. The French GP starts this weekend and for those who wish to catch all the racing action live, the Moto3 race will start at 5.20 pm followed by MotoGP at 7.00 pm and Moto2 at 8.30 pm. All the best, El Pescao!
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/norton-to-develop-200hp-superbike/ | Norton to develop 200hp superbike |
Rumour has it that Norton plans to bring to market a 200hp V4-powered sport bike, similar to the SG models that have been raced at the Isle of Man TT.
Adding to the good news is that the sketches of the bike are finally out, a few sources have managed to talk to Norton’s Head of Design, Simon Skinner, about the new model and Norton’s future.
According to Skinner, the new superbike will have a 1,200cc V4 engine that makes over 200hp. The machine is supposed to go head-to-head with the 1,285cc v-twin of the Ducati 1299 Panigale – though obviously won’t be sanctioned in any superbike racing class.
It is said that Norton’s engine will be developed by Ricardo Motorcycles, and will take cues from British car marques like Aston Martin and other designs in the British F1 corridor that Norton is situated in.
Besides this beast, other models in the pipeline according to Norton are a 650cc parallel-twin sport bike, which is said to re-think the segment, as well as a rumored electric model.
That said, we expect Norton to shed more light on the upcoming models in the near future. Meanwhile, let us feast our eyes on the sketch of the upcoming machine.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-suzuki-gsx-r1000r-available-at-local-dealers-no-news-on-gsx-r150-belang-150/ | 2021 Suzuki GSX-R1000R Available At Local Dealers, No News On GSX-R150, Belang 150 |
Suzuki Malaysia has announced that 2021 GSX-R1000R and GSX-R1000 are now available in Malaysia and open for viewing at every local dealership.
While Suzuki Malaysia is yet to unveil the official selling price, other dealers have made an extra effort to release what could be the official price for the two motorcycles.
According to Wilhin Motor (M) Sdn Bhd, the GSX-R1000 and the GSX-R1000R is available for RM99,289 and RM110,289, respectively.
If the price is accurate, this puts the two GSX-R1000 as the cheapest brand new litre bike available in the market right now.
The 2021 GSX-R1000R makes 199hp @ 13,200rpm and 118Nm @ 10,800rpm from its 999.8cc inline-four, liquid-cooled engine mated to a 6-speed transmission.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen when will Suzuki Malaysia intends to introduce the sub-150cc motorcycle (GSX-R150 and Belang 150), however considering that teaser photos are still available on their Facebook page, we can assume that the two models will make their way anytime soon.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-zero-motorcycles-to-electrify-eicma-2021/ | CONFIRMED: Zero Motorcycles To Electrify EICMA 2021 |
Electric motorcycle manufacturer, Zero Motorcycles has confirmed its plan to attend the EICMA 2021.
The American motorcycle company will bring the entire 2022 range, including the recently unveiled FXE.
However, the California firm also revealed that it has a few surprises ready for the event.
Zero Motorcycles will join Royal Enfield, Fantic, Motori Minarelli, Kymco, Yamaha, MV Agusta, Suzuki, Honda, SYM, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, and Piaggio, who has confirmed their participation for this year event.
EICMA will kick-off from November 25 to 28 at the Fiera Milano in Rho, Italy.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/how-often-should-i-replace-my-brake-fluid/ | How Often Should I Replace my Brake Fluid? |
Bikers usually talk about performance and aesthetic upgrades.
But how many actually talk about brakes and brake maintenance?
Today, we look at how often should replace the brake fluid.
It surprises me that in my 33 years of riding, no one had ever asked, “How often should I replace my brake fluid?”
I’ve always been asked what’s the best performance parts such as exhausts and tyres, instead. It’s not wrong to ask about those parts, of course, but brakes are the most critical next to the almost everything else on the bike.
However, I do understand why almost nobody talks about brakes. Modern brake systems are very reliable. Apart from replacing the brake pads whenever they’re worn, the system keeps working: The rider presses the lever and the bike slows down. When the pads are worn again, he replaces them.
In a brake system that performs normally, performance deteriorates slowly and surreptitiously. Consequently, you won’t feel much difference since the last time you rode it. This will continue until we encounter serious problems.
But what about the fluid? Sadly, no one seems to bother. Brakes are working after all. News is, deposits will start to build up in old brake fluid. If you’re unlucky, these deposits may someday flow into the nooks and crannies and block the flow of fluid in the system. In the worst-case scenario, deposits build up or get into the ABS pump and render it useless. When this happens, the part must be replaced, which costs thousands. Believe me, I’ve seen this happen in both bikes and cars.
Old vs new brake fluid
Besides that, brake fluid is hydroscopic i.e. attracts moisture. The system may be sealed but wear and tear can eat away at a gasket or two. The presence of moisture in will lower the brake fluid’s boiling point. When this happens, the brake takes more effort to work. In a bad scenario, the brake lever will feel spongy. In the worst case, the lever has been pulled all the way back and sticking to the handlebar, yet the bike doesn’t slow down at all.
So, how often do you need to change your brake fluid? Every two years, regardless if the fluid “still looks good.” The job is easy enough that you could DIY (do-it-yourself), but you can also visit a workshop if you aren’t confident or need more tools.
What DOT should I use? Just follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. For example, use DOT 4 if that’s recommended. Try not to be seduced by the mechanic’s “Ini barang baik punya (This stuff is good)” sales pitch, especially if the fluid is of different DOT rating or for racing. Racing brake fluids are usually even more hydroscopic!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-cal-crutchlow-wins-argentina-marquez-clashes-rossi/ | MotoGP: Cal Crutchlow wins in Argentina; Marquez clashes with Rossi |
Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) won his third ever MotoGP race yesterday in Argentina.
Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) came in second followed by Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) in third.
The drama-filled race saw many events especially the clash between Marc Marquez and Valentino Rossi.
LCR Honda Castrol rider Cal Crutchlow took home his third ever MotoGP victory yesterday in the Argentina GP. The battle for first came to an incredible conclusion as Crutchlow crossed the chequered flag ahead of Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) and more impressively, Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar).
The victory in Argentina for the LCR Honda rider, however, was quickly left in the shadows thanks to the antics of one Repsol Honda rider, Marc Marquez. What seems to be sheer bad luck even before the race began, the frantic race filled with penalties resulted in a clash between Marquez and Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP).
The race started with Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing) sitting alone at pole position as most of the riders went back into the pit to change tyres. In order to avoid all the chaos of starting the race from the pitlane, the riders lined up a few rows behind Miller giving him a big advantage over the rest of the field.
Drama ensued even before the lights went out as Marquez’s bike stalled and was instructed to start the race from pitlane once he gets his bike restarted. That did not happen and after the race has started, he was awarded a Ride Through Penalty.
Marquez then headed back up with a pace to catch the front runners but being too hot in his run caused an incident with Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) and the Doctor himself, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP).
A very hot attempt to overtake Rossi’s position led to a clash where Rossi lost control of his Yamaha M1 after running onto the wet grass. The nine-time MotoGP world champion managed to get his bike restarted and ended the race in third last position (P19).
Despite Miller’s brilliant race tactics, he managed to take home fourth place but was way ahead of Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) in P5, Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) in P6, Tito Rabat (Reale Avintia Racing) in P7, and Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) in P8.
Our hometown hero Hafizh Syahrin saw a huge improvement by finishing the Argentina GP in an impressive ninth place. The Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider was struggling all weekend thanks to the mixed conditions but brought home an impressive finish giving him the same championship points with Dani Pedrosa and also the top rookie.
The drama will continue in two weeks’ time as the MotoGP fiasco heads to the US for the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas. Things are definitely heating up, ladies and gents.
Image source: MotoGP
Why Did I Pick Hafizh Syahrin for MotoGP? – Herve Poncharal
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-launches-new-square-32-litre-givi-b32-bold-topcase-rm222/ | GIVI launches new square 32-litre GIVI B32 Bold Topcase – RM222 |
GIVI Asia has launched their latest GIVI B32 Bold Topcase with a square boxy design and 32 litres of capacity.
The new design was chosen specifically to provide a different option for those who are not into the oval-shaped topcases in the current market.
The new B32 Bold Topcase is priced at RM222 (basic price with GST) and comes together with a base plate. Motorcycle rack is sold separately.
GIVI, the very well known Italian motorcycle accessory manufacturer has unveiled their latest addition to the medium size topcase motorcycle storage or “topbox” known as the Monolock B32 Bold. Developed with the patented Monolock System, the new B32 Bold has been specifically designed for maximum storage capacity for smaller displacement motorcycles, mopeds and scooters.
The latest design has been selected according to today’s trend have been used to develop the latest B32 Bold Topcase. Using Polypropylene (PP), the new B32 Bold is made to withstand the harshest weather conditions in Malaysia. It’s also very durable and durable.
“We intentionally chose the square boxy design after some in depth study into current topcase user’s trend. We realise now the square box is more popular in comparison to usual oval shapes. This does not mean that the oval shape is totally being ignored entirely as they have their own region of fans. B32 Bold will be available in the market starting early August” said Mr On Hai Swee, Managing Director of GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd.
Members of the press were invited earlier today are the first people in the world to receive the topcases in conjunction with the topcase soft launch together with the “Media Appreciation Ride” to Port Dickson earlier today. To date, GIVI has sold over 1 million topcases, which is roughly around 15% of Malaysia’s entire motorcycle population.
The ‘Clack’ key system was chosen to go with the B32 Bold due to its ease of use. Users can just close the topbox without working the key. Together with a handy handle, opening and closing have been made easier for users as well. The 32-litre box-shaped box design was chosen to cater to the market’s demand for more edges and modern lines as compared to the other similar capacity boxes with a more rounded design.
The new B32 Bold is priced at RM222 (basic price with GST). The topcase will come together with a base plate and the rack is sold separately ranging from RM45 to RM138 (for smaller capacity motorcycles). The new B32 Bold will be available for public purchase in August 2017. The new GIVI topcase also comes with a two-year warranty.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/for-sale-2019-ktm-rc16-motogp-bike-rm1-4-million/ | FOR SALE: 2019 KTM RC16 MotoGP bike! RM1.4 million |
If you have a lot of money and don’t know what to spend it all on, we want to be your friends and advise you on buying one of two units of the 2019 KTM RC16 MotoGP bikes currently being offered by KTM Motorsports. That’s right, MotoGP prototype machine for sale, folks!
It’s safe to say that the KTM RC16 has gone through countless evolutions and updates ever since its inception in the highest level of motorsports racing where it was even featured on the podium and several front-running battles thanks to KTM’s lead MotoGP rider, Pol Espargaro.
Priced at 288,000 euros each (around RM1.43 million after direct conversion), you can experience the same feeling as Pol Espargaro on a bike that has gone head to head with the best bikes and MotoGP riders last season. That’s a lot of dough, which is why KTM Motorsports is also offering some ‘extras’ together with the bike.
These extras include:
A full set of Pol Espargaro’s race leathers
A signed Espargaro race helmet (we’re assuming it’s one of his AGV Pista signature helmets)
A VIP MotoGP Event Pack for any 2021 event (which includes a behind-the-scenes tour, a meet-and-greet with the MotoGP riders and a full set of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team wear)
Weekend access to the Red Bull Energy Station unit with full catering and refreshment options
If you’re interested in getting one (or if you anyone who has that much money and is willing to spend for you), send your inquiries over to rc16@ktm.com. After that, pray that KTM chooses you as one of the two buyers as the final decision will be made by them. Good luck!
MotoGP: KTM confirms all 2021 riders – Danilo Petrucci to Tech3
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bajaj-now-owns-the-right-to-vincent-motorcycles/ | Bajaj Now Owns The Right To Vincent Motorcycles |
HRD Vincent Black Lightning - Courtesy of singout.org
In a surprise development, Indian automaker, Bajaj Auto now owns the right to Vincent Motorcycles.
Vincent Motorcycles could make a comeback under new ownership.
Bajaj acquire the British firm since 2017.
Vincent Motorcycles is British motorcycle manufacturer from 1928 to 1955. The business went down the drain due to severe financial losses which resulted the company to stop making motorcycles.
Vincent Black Lightning
However, it turns out that Bajaj Auto is in charge of the now-defunct brand since 2017 but since there were no official announcement made, none of us were made known of the acquisition.
Vincent Motorcycles might not ring a bell as much as Triumph or Norton Motorcycle but the brand made two significant models back in the day with the Black Shadow and Black Lightning.
Based on the new development, could Vincent Motorcycle make a surprise comeback in the world of two wheels?
In recent years, there are many old, defunct and financially struggling motorcycle company making a comeback under new management.
TVS Motor revitalized Norton Motorcycles while Mahinda-owned Classic Legends brought back Jawa Motorcycles. Also, Qianjiang helped to inject new life into the Benelli brand.
So it’s possible that Bajaj intends to do the same thing with Vincent Motorcycles.
Moreover, Bajaj already forged a partnership with another British firm, Triumph Motorcycles and has a 49.9 percent stake in KTM AG.
So with the amount of resources at their disposal, Bajaj could revitalise the old brand anytime soon.
Nonetheless, Bajaj has up to August 2026 until the trademark is due for a renewal.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-out-this-custom-honda-ct-125-hunter-cub-by-kijima/ | Check out this custom Honda CT 125 Hunter Cub by Kijima |
Japanese moto accessories brand Kijima kits out the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub perfectly for camping adventures off the trail.
Japanese aftermarket label Kijima unveils a raft of accessories for the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.
These include racks, luggage and lighting all aimed towards enhancing the Hunter Cub’s adventure abilities.
This custom adventure-styled moped will now take on camping and touring rides easily.
In more ways than one, the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub stands as a rather cool and rugged offshoot of the loveable Honda C125 Super Cub. However, the folks over at Japanese moto accessories brand Kijima thinks they could better it and, judging by these images, they’ve proven themselves well.
What you see here is a Hunter Cub that’s been fully kitted out with a host of adventure-centric accessories made by the firm, which in turn transforms the humble adventure-styled moped into a full-fledged adventure machine.
The most striking feature present is the Kijima brand’s popular 17-Type Special Packing Box. This is mounted on a rack designed especially for the Hunter Cub, as are the front and centre carriers, all of which aimed towards increasing its load capacity and allow it to handle camping and touring duties.
Supported by that rear rack too is a Kijima side bag. Whilst still on the subject of cargo and luggage, Kijima also added a new carrier on the headlights and a central carrier, both of which being ideal for transporting small items.
Another key modification can be seen in external lighting suite fitted. Kijima designed an LED fog lamp kit for improved visibility, and it comes with a specially built bracket and an easy-to-use switch.
Altogether, this custom Honda CT125 Hunter Cub is brimmed with roughly ¥200,000 (approx. RM6,879.61) worth of accessories made by the Japanese aftermarket specialist label.
Are you digging this pint-sized adventure machine as much as we are?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/angry-food-delivery-rider-berates-driver-for-honking-at-and-filming-him/ | Angry food delivery rider berates driver for honking at and filming him |
Viral video shows angry food delivery rider berating driver for honking at and filming him after allegedly running a red light.
We’ve seen it time and time again: food delivery riders deliberately running red lights, thus needlessly (and recklessly) endangering their lives and that of others.
Even in this day and age where there are more cameras in the hands of users to catch them in the act, many such delivery riders – as well as other motorcyclists! – still brazenly run red lights.
Well, given this recent viral video, it seems many such motorcyclist – not just food delivery riders, by the way – now think it’s okay to run the red light, and are willing to defend their act, no matter the cost.
“ABG GRABFOODKU SAMSENG”
Pada pukul sekitar 430pm di hadapan traffic light impiana hotel klcc, saya menunggu lampu merah dan sebelah kiri saya ada bas rapid kl.
Rider motor ini telah datAng di tengah celah kereta saya dan bas , dan melanggar lampu merah. pic.twitter.com/2NWEUA662z
— Jabatan Netizen Malaysia (@jnmalaysia) July 25, 2021
In this minute-long viral video from Twitter, we can clearly see a food delivery rider and a car driver getting into a heated argument. Based on the Twitter thread accompanying the video, the car driver had honked at the rider who he alleged had weaved past him whilst stopped at an intersection and ran the red light.
In response, the food delivery rider slowed down, pull alongside the driver and berated him at the top of his lungs, even launching a few kicks towards the driver’s car too. The delivery rider later pulled ahead and stopped to block the driver before dismounting off his ride to continue berating and threaten the driver further to delete the video.
The driver who recorded all this has already reportedly filed a police report against said food delivery rider, though we reckon the traction this video is garnering online will likely serve a different kind of justice.
At the time of writing, this video posted on Twitter has garnered over 135,900 views plus over 2,700 retweets by netizens who’ve also flooded the post’s thread with their replies.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/custom-bmw-r-1100-s-wins-best-of-show-at-moto-bike-expo-2020/ | Custom BMW R 1100 S wins ‘Best of Show’ at Moto Bike Expo 2020 |
The world of custom motorcycles is arguably on a whole new level thanks to the emergence of highly-skills customizers from around the world. One prime example in the form of this custom BMW R 1100 S won the coveted title of ‘Best of Show’ at the recent Moto Bike Expo 2020.
Built by Officine Mermaid and Radikal Chopper Building from Milan, Italy, the custom BMW R 1100 S is simply jaw-dropping to look at, no matter the angle. There are so many custom parts made just for this bike that there’s hardly any original BMW part left untouched.
We especially like how its two-piece chassis brings everything together from its trellis front end to that simplistically beautiful single-side swingarm. Menacing to look at from the front and even more so aggressive at the back, it’s hard to disagree with the judges who gave it the ‘Best of Show’ title at Moto Bike Expo 2020.
That sleek aluminium look might throw off a few folks, but it showcases the true craftsmanship in working with metal, a skill that’s not easy to obtain. Our favourite parts are arguably the MotoGP-styled air intake and exhaust which oozes sexiness in the world of custom motorcycles. Titanium is our jam.
Those classic cast ‘spoke’ wheels add a little bit of nostalgic feel while the brake system with Discacciati callipers further elevates its premium-ness as well as riding performance (if anyone is brave enough to ride this art on wheels). Enough words! Enjoy the photos.
Source: Officine Mermaid
BMW Motorrad BoxerCup – BMW R nineT Racer series!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colours-for-2018-yamaha-x-max-250/ | New Colours for 2018 Yamaha X-Max 250 |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor announced the new colours for the 2018 Yamaha X-Max 250.
The basic selling price remains at RM 21,222 (not on the road).
Delivery begins from this month (Decembr 2018).
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has announced new colours for the 2018 Yamaha X-Max 250.
The two new colours are simply called Matt Blue and Matt Red. The basic selling price remains at RM 21,225.00 (not on the road). They are on sale from this month (December 2018).
The X-Max maxi scooter is Yamaha’s entry in the luxury scooter segment. It features Yamaha Blue Core technology, ABS, TCS (traction control system), LED position lamps and taillamp. (Please read our full review here.)
There’s also a copious storage space under the seat which could accommodate a backpack with 15-inch laptop and full-face helmet. Two cubby holes in the front of the rider add more space.
The engine is rated at 22.8 bhp (16.8 kW) and is punchy enough from the low end to its top speed of a little more than 140 km/h. But it is also very economical. We managed to clock 324 km from 11 litres. Mind you, we tested the X-Max at high pace almost all the time.
However, what we loved most was the suspension. Unlike other scooters, the front wheel didn’t flick back and forth or wobble when we slammed the bike into corners. The front end remained stable even when we charged through corners at more than 130 km/h.
The seats were definitely on the comfortable side without any sharp points. Only negative point was it pushing the rider’s legs wide, making the bike seem taller than it really was.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/benelli-tornado-402-breaks-cover-in-china/ | Benelli Tornado 402 Breaks Cover In China |
Italian motorcycle brand Benelli has unveiled its latest offering, the Tornado 402, which is set to be manufactured in China by its parent company, Qianjiang. While some development and design work is still done in Italy, the majority of the bikes are now produced in China.
The Tornado 402 features an all-new 400cc twin-cylinder engine.
The sports bike is equipped with front camera and single-sided swingarm.
The Tornado moniker has traditionally been linked with sporty models at Benelli, and the new Tornado 402 is no exception. This fully faired sportbike boasts a 400cc engine that is likely to appeal to riders in countries where 400cc motorbikes are considered premium options or where licensing restrictions limit larger engines.
Although it would have made sense for Benelli to adopt an existing 400cc twin engine from Qianjiang or QJ Motor, the Tornado 402 instead comes with a freshly built engine that produces 48 horsepower at 10,000 rpm, making it the most powerful 400 series QJ twin engine currently available.
The bike’s chassis features an aluminum single-sided swingarm and a tubular steel frame with a non-adjustable upside-down telescopic fork at the front and an adjustable shock absorber at the back, both supplied by Marzocchi. Nissin provides the braking system, which includes two 300-millimeter discs at the front and a 250-millimeter disc at the rear, along with ABS as standard.
One notable technological feature of the Tornado 402 is a built-in dash cam, which records traffic conditions and is built into the windshield assembly. The footage can be recorded to a smartphone using an app and is saved automatically. This function is not only useful for documenting enjoyable rides but also for safety and security while riding on the road.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-to-rival-the-trident-660-and-mt-07-with-the-cb-750-s/ | Honda To Rival The Trident 660 And MT-07 With The CB 750 S |
Honda caused a stir last year EICMA after dropping a teaser of a brand-new mid-size motorcycle in Milan.
Although Honda stopped short of giving much away other than a CGI silhouette, Japanese publication Autoby has published what it believes is the finished look of the upcoming Honda CB 750 S (Hornet).
While it might be just another render, considering that Autoby has a reputation of ‘predicting’ the right design, the CB 750 S might turn out exactly as the rendered image.
The mid-size motorcycle will debut as CB 750 S and will continue Honda’s CB600F Hornet but will showcase the exact design blueprint as the Hornet 250cc currently sold in India.
The CB 750 S is expected to feature Honda’s typical naked bike design similar to the Neo Sports Cafe CB650 R but will adopt a sharper front headlight compared to the 650 circular headlamps.
However, the CB 750 S is expected to feature a new build-up engine as previously reported and not taken straight from the NC750 series.
The engine is rumoured to be the same platform set to be used on Honda’s upcoming Transalp, a potential challenger to Aprilia’s Tuareg 660 and Yamaha’s Tenere 700.
On that note, there is also a high possibility that the new engine could also translate into the development of a fully-faired CBR750 in the future to rival the Yamaha YZF-R7.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-aprilia-confirms-savadori-as-iannone-permanent-replacement/ | MotoGP: Aprilia Confirms Savadori As Iannone Permanent Replacement |
Lorenzo Savadori will race in the upcoming MotoGP season, replacing Andrea Iannone, Aprilia has confirmed.
Savadori joins Aleix Espargaro as Aprilia Racing Team Gresini’s riders on for 2021.
The announcement came as a surprise, with Aprilia opted for Savadori instead of the experienced Bradley Smith.
The RS-GP 20 seat was handed to the Briton last season in place of Iannone before Aprilia decided to give the spot to Savadori for the three remaining races.
“Well, it was a company decision.
“We decided to move a bit earlier than expecting all the tests to be done because it had a chain effect also on other people and the choice of other people in the team to develop the team was also very important.
“It’s true that Bradley has an experience and a characteristic that fits much more to being a test rider compared to Lorenzo, because Lorenzo has no experience.
“So, that was part of the choice,” explained Aprilia Racing CEO, Massimo Rivola.
The 2021 MotoGP official first test begins today in Qatar.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-royal-enfield-meteor-350-launched-in-india-from-rm9800/ | 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 launched in India – From RM9,800 |
After a long delay, the 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has finally been launched in India yesterday and it is said to be one of the most highly-anticipated models in the region. The bike which was supposed to be introduced back in April has extensively delayed thanks to COVID-19, but better late than never, eh?
The all-new 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 was designed to offer a more premium and complete package in terms of looks, performance, and riding experience compared to the previous-gen. A brand-new 350cc single-cylinder unit with air/oil cooking capabilities is said to produce 20hp at 6,100rpm and 27Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.
Oddly enough, this 350cc modern classic is paired with a five-speed manual transmission system, which puts it in direct competition with the all-new 2021 Honda CB 350 aka “H’ness”. Power figures between the two machines are relatively the same and it’ll be interesting to see these bikes go head to head.
This new 350cc engine by Royal Enfield is housed within a new double-cradle frame that makes the bike look more complete without any gaping holes or openings. It is also fitted with a 41mm telescopic front fork, rear dual shocks, dual disc brakes, and a 19-inch front wheel (17-inch rear).
Dual-channel ABS also comes as standard. More importantly, all variants of the new Meteor 350 will come with the brand’s first Bluetooth navigation system powered by Google Maps. Sweet. Talking about variants, customers can choose between the base Meteor 350, Fireball, Stellar, and Supernova. Even the names are cool!
The price range for the all-new 2021 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 starts from Rs 1.76 lakh (RM9,821) and goes up to Rs 1.90 lakh (RM10,602). This is indeed an exciting model and we sure hope that Royal Enfield Malaysia will bring it onto our shores soon.
Honda goes retro with its latest H’ness CB 350
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-r-nine-t-scrambler-arrives-rm92900/ | BMW R nine T Scrambler arrives – from RM92,900* |
BMW Motorrad Malaysia launches BMW R nine T Scrambler from RM92,900 (basic with GST).
The highly anticipated BMW R nine T scrambler has finally arrived in Malaysia. BMW Motorrad Malaysia announced the bike’s availability today where it is priced from RM92,900 (basic with GST) sans insurance and registration costs.
Based off the R nine T retro roadster model, the Scrambler sees the BMW Motorrad brand now rivalling against the retro segment’s popular leaders like the Triumph Bonneville and Scrambler Ducati.
2016 BMW R nine T Scrambler
Underneath the stylish retro exterior, the Scrambler is powered by a tweaked version of the marque’s signature 1,170cc air/oil-cooled flat ‘boxer’ twin-cylinder engine lifted from the venerable R1200 GS adventure bike model. The same mill is also found in the R nine T base bike in fact.
The Euro 4-compliant mill thumps out roughly 110hp @ 7,750rpm and 116Nm @ 6,000rpm, with both being channelled to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission and shaft-drive setup – mirroring the R nine T here too.
The R nine T Scrambler is easily distinguished from afar thanks to its larger 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, conventional front forks, twin vertical and raised exhaust silencers, twin seat, not forgetting its distinctively styled 17-litre sheet-steel fuel tank with specially embossed sheet-aluminium dressings.
Don’t let the retro aesthetics fool you, the R nine T Scrambler is as modern as nay other contemporary BMW Motorrad model. Besides its LCD display paired with the analogue instrument dials, there’s also ABS to match the equally modern R nine T-derived braking hardware.
Just like the rivalling Triumph and Ducati models, BMW Motorrad have also gone to town at preparing an extensive catalogue of accessories and parts to match with the newly introduced retro German scrambler.
Furthermore, BMW Motorrad Malaysia also confirmed the new BMW R nine T Scrambler will be on display to the public at the BMW Motorrad booth at this weekend’s 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP.
Check out more images of the new BMW R nine T Scrambler in the gallery we’ve prepared below.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/genuine-vespa-merchandize-now-available-at-our-webstore/ | Genuine Vespa Merchandize now Available at our Webstore |
The Vespa brand has long been associated with style, fun and practicality.
Its name means “Wasp” in Italian.
Official and genuine Vespa merchandize is now available in our webstore.
The Vespa brand has long been associated with style, fun and practicality. Known as the “Wasp” in Italian, it enjoys a cult status among riders and enthusiasts alike including celebrities.
Being tied to a lifestyle, Vespa doesn’t only offer motorcycles. Instead, the brand encompasses an entire range of goodies including premium and high quality accessories, riding gear and apparels.
Now you can order these apparels from the comforts of your home since the Movement Control Order is in place.
1. VESPA Sweatshirt Modernist
This hoodie jacket is made of cotton and can be worn in all weather. Its styling is restrained, yet unmistakably Italian. There is a tricolor patch on the hoodie while the zipper puller recalls the shape of the iconic steering column cover. The cuffs and waist are elastic to ensure a good fit and keep wind out.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-sweatshirt-modernist/
2. VESPA 70 Years Young T-Shirt
Show your love for the brand with this short sleeve T-shirt. The front features the unmistakable graphic of a GTS. It has a casual fit for all-day comfort.
Available for men and ladies.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-70-years-young-t-shirt-men/
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-70-years-young-t-shirt-ladies/
3. VESPA Graphic T-Shirt
This T-shirt for men “reveals” that you are a Vespa man. The printed pocket hides a Vespa in it. Made of 100% cotton, you’ll be comfortable on and off the bike.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-graphic-t-shirt-men/
4. VESPA V-Stripes T-Shirt
This T-shirt is casual yet a bit more formal with its printed stripes. There are also embroidered reflective patches.
Available for men and ladies. The ladies version has a feminine and comfortable fit.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-graphic-t-shirt-men/
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-v-stripes-t-shirt-ladies/
5. VESPA Cap Modernist
A cap which says Vespa without shouting it. Yet it’s adorned with a Vespa Primavera on a delta (which signifies the way forward) and tricolor stripes at the back so that you won’t miss its Italian style.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-cap-modernist/
6. VESPA Cap New Era
This cap lets you show your unreserved love for the Vespa brand. It’s made of cotton and adjustable for different head sizes.
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/vespa-cap-modernist/
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/relax-2019-kawasaki-z900-abs-recall-for-us-market-only/ | Relax, 2019 Kawasaki Z900 ABS Recall for US Market Only |
The recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up for a potential ABS issue applies to the US only.
There is no notice issued for Malaysian owners yet.
The issue arose after improper machining of the ABS pump.
The factory recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up over potential ABS issues is for the American market, only.
BikesRepublic.com has sought the confirmation from Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (KMMSB) over the matter. According to KMMSB, Kawasaki Heavy Industries have not issued a notice on the recall in Malaysia.
The current notice is issued by Kawasaki together with the American National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA). Therefore, it applies to Z900 line-up owners in the United States, at the moment.
The recall was made after the discovery of improperly machined ABS pump. The machining process has the potential of leaving aluminium debris inside. If this happens, the ABS pump could malfunction and cause the wheel or wheels to lock up.
Kawasaki USA confirmed that 497 units are involved in the recall and will notify the owners. If you are reading this from the United States, you may contact Kawasaki customer service line there 1-866-802-9381 (regarding recall number MC19-01). Please have your VIN ready. You may get in touch with the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 and quote campaign number 19V083000.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/10-greatest-yamaha-motorcycles-part-2/ | 10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles (Part 2) |
The Yamaha brand is synonymous with revolutionary styling, great handling and innovation.
They have made a number of legendary bikes over the years.
Here’s Part 2 of the 10 Greatest.
Please click here for Part 1 of the 10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles.
The name Yamaha has always been at the forefront of revolutionary styling and great handling, if not innovations.
Set up in 1955, the Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd. now produces almost anything that’s motorized. They are currently the world’s second largest motorcycle manufacturer and leader in water vehicle sales.
5. MT-09 (2014)
The MT-09 standard/naked model has sold in great numbers the world over. There are no trickery here, instead it’s about performance at an affordable price. The “MT” name stands for “Monster Torque” and that’s what it actually about. As we’ve written before, it’s useable torque for everyday use that makes a good streetbike. In this end, the MT-09’s 847cc cross-plane three-cylinder engine delivers 88 Nm. Weight is also kept at just 188 kg, wet.
4. RD125LC YPVS (1985)
This is the 1983 RD125LC, the non YVPS predecessor
“Learner bikes” give the impression of some anemic bike that could hardly get up the highway’s ramp. But the RD125LC changed all of that in 1981. This was a proper lightweight performance bike, aimed at new riders. But 14 hp was still nothing to shout at.
Then came the RD125LC YPVS in 1985. Now not only that it blew away the competition, it also gave veteran riders a thrill. The YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) exhaust port valve gave the engine a much broader power curve and boosted the top end to 20 hp.
Every school kid wanted one.
3. RD350LC YPVS (1983)
Other manufacturers, especially Honda, have gone the four-stroke way at this point. But Yamaha opted to stick it out – or rather stuck it to them – with two-strokes, which proved superior in specific power output and weight. This was why Yamaha was known as a “two-stroke” company for a long time.
The RD350LC YPVS was such case. Yamaha added the YPVS power valve to the RD350LC in 1983, bringing power up even higher to 59 bhp. With a wet weight of only 149 kg, the bike truly flew! By comparison, the 1983 Honda CB750 Nighthawk (inline-Four four-stroke) made 70 hp and weighed 226 kg, wet.
The bike became an instant hit among the young and veteran riders alike. One-make races sprung up everywhere. It’s become a cult classic and it’s so popular that production in Brazil lasted until 1995.
Be prepared to pay big money if you come across one.
2. RD500LC YPVS (1984)
Did 500cc two-stroke GP bikes ever trickle down to the masses? They sure did. The RD500LC YPVS was the evidence of that. It’s the replica to celebrate the success of Kenny Roberts, Sr., Eddie Lawson, Wayne Rainey on the YZR500.
It featured a 50-degree, V-Four two-stroke which produced a prodigious 86 hp while weighing in at only 205 kg, dry.
Yamaha’s rivals also built 500cc two-stroke replicas, namely the Suzuki RG500 Gamma and Honda NS400R, both in 1985, no doubt after being inspired by the RD500.
1. YZF-R1 (1998)
Why this one when there could a number of others?
It’s because the YZF-R1 revolutionized motorcycle design and engineering when it’s launched, and those lessons are still being applied to this day.
The R1 was Yamaha’s response to Honda’s all-conquering CBR900RR Fireblade at the time. The latter showed how important it was to keep weight at a minimum. Yamaha took that lesson to heart but went one better.
To keep the dimensions of the inline-Four engine and transmission compact, the transmission was moved higher up and closer to the engine block. It resulted in what’s called a “stacked transmission” design. This way, the frame can be made smaller and the swingarm longer, while corresponding to a short wheelbase.
The R1 also signaled a change in Japanese motorcycle design. Japanese bikes had large rear portions of their fuel tanks up to that point. It was the R1 which featured deeply cut waist, making it easier for the rider to clamp his knees and thighs.
The YZF-R1 is still a favourite track weapon among many riders.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/marc-marquez-to-sit-out-2022-honda-rc213v-official-unveiling/ | Marc Marquez To Sit Out 2022 Honda RC213V Official Unveiling |
Honda is scheduled to unveil its 2022 RC213V race bike on January 14, 2022.
However, the global unveiling will take place without six-time MotoGP world champion, Marc Marquez who is still nursing his injured eye.
Instead, Repsol Honda has confirmed that the event will continue with Pol Espargaro and LCR Honda riders, Takaaki Nakagami and Alex Marquez.
Missing out on the bike unveiling is not an issue for the Honda camp, however, Marquez’s latest diplopia (double vision) diagnosis is still a concern as there is no confirmation if he could make it on time ahead of the Sepang test in February.
The Spaniard suffered the injury at the 2021 Algarve GP, but HRC only reported it as a concussion before the team confirmed the rider is struggling with diplopia.
Nevertheless, we hope Marquez could still make it back just in time for the pre-season test in Sepang or at least given enough time to test out the updated RC213V.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-honda-forza-750-officially-launched/ | 2021 Honda Forza 750 officially launched! |
It’s finally launched, folks. The new 2021 Honda Forza 750 has dropped and it supposedly carries all the necessary ingredients to make one hell of a maxi-scooter. Combining the great capabilities of a Grand Tourer (GT) and comfort, the Forza 750 also carries some pretty good looks, no matter which angle you look.
Starting with the engine, the 2021 Honda Forza 750 is paired with the same 745cc parallel-twin engine found on the Integra and X-ADV. With a slightly higher power output of around 58hp at 6,750rpm and close to 70Nm of torque at 4,750rpm, which means that the engine is tuned for more sporty yet comfort riding. In other words, it has 4hp more than the X-ADV and it’s Euro5-compliant.
It’s further enhanced with the additions of including throttle by wire, multiple engine modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Dual Clutch Transmission. Sophisticated and smart would be the main words to describe this new Honda Forza 750 and that’s not all she wrote, folks.
Other specs include:
Full LED lighting system
Honda Smart Key
22-litre internal storage space
GT styling for improved weather protection
Nissin brake callipers (similar to the X-ADV)
41mm USD front forks
17-inch front spoke wheel (15-inch rear)
5-inch TFT screen
13.2-litre fuel tank
Honda Smartphone Voice Control system + more
Honda also took the opportunity to launch its younger brother, the 2021 Honda Forza 350, and 125. The 350 gets a bigger and more powerful engine (330cc engine with 29hp) paired with some design elements and features from the 750, like the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system.
The 125 version (14.7hp single-cylinder engine) gets some updates in terms of styling, practicality, and aerodynamic performance. Amazingly, the 125 also comes with the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) as well as the Honda Smart Key System. Not bad considering that both the 350 and 125 have huge under-seat storage that can fit two full-sized helmets.
Written by: Sep Irran
Bookings open for 2021 Honda CBR250RR SP – RM30,000?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2016-malaysian-cub-prix-round-7-race-results/ | 2016 Malaysian Cub Prix Round 7 race results |
Malaysian Cub Prix national underbone racing series roars in Johore state.
Round 7 of the 2016 Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix championship got underway last weekend, this time in Johore’s Pasir Gudang Stadium. This was one unforgettable outing for race fans from the southern state as its home heroes triumphed in great stride whilst racing on home soil.
CP130 – Kasma secures team awards
Starting with the premier CP130 category, current championship leader, Johore native and recent graduate of the Valentino Rossi VR46 Academy Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin took victory on two fronts.
Not only did the 17-year-old Petronas Yamaha Maju Motor rider scored a hat-trick qualifying run and the race win, his consistent wins throughout the season saw him secure the CP130 team award for his team with just three rounds left. But it all might not have happened had Kasma not kept his cool.
Despite securing pole position earlier, the Johor youngster’s bad start saw him drop down the order as low at sixth at one point. Nevertheless, the talented Johorean was able to pick his way up the order and secure the win in his home state – his sixth win of the season in fact.
Coming in second in 18-lap sprint race was Terengganu native Ahamd Afif Amran astride the rivalling Petronas Yamaha CKJ machine whilst Selangor-born rider Norizman Ismail took third astride the Harian Metro YTEQ SCK Honda Racing machine.
All three winners had their trophies awarded to them on the podium by HRH Tunku Idris Iskandar Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the Tunku Temenggong Johor as well, making this a really sweet affair for all local Johorean fans in attendance on Sunday as well.
With the CP130 team’s awards in the bag, Kasma will now focus his attention at securing the CP130 rider’s championship title. He still holds a commanding lead in the standings with 150 points, which is 39 points clear of teammate Ahmad Fazli Sham in second and a further 82 points ahead of Norizman in third.
CP115 – A surprising winner
In the supporting CP115 category, another Johore native ruled the weekend and it was none other than Pasir Gudang native Fakhrusy Rostam. The former Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Moto3 rider made a surprising comeback in the national championship as a privateer this season.
The towering teenager took a surprising win on his home turn astride a Yamaha machine. Joining him on the podium in third place was GIVI Honda Yuzy Racing rider Azroy Anuar who also previously raced in the same Moto3 series with Fakhrusy not too long ago.
Spliting the two former Moto3 riders on the podium was Petronas Yamaha Maju Motor’s Md Akid Aziz who finished second. Despite not winning, Akid does end the weekend as the category’s biggest winner after snatching the lead in the championship standings.
Akid currently leads the CP115 category standings with 106 points, having overtaken previous leader and Motul Zeneos Yamaha YY Pang rider Tengku Amirul Haffirudin who drops down to second with 100 points.
Wira – Helmi closes the gap to Shafiq
Last but not least came the thrilling outcome of the weekend’s supporting Wira class. The weekend saw two more former Asia Talent Cup Moto3 riders ruling the race, this time in the form of Helmi Azman and Shafiq Ezzariq.
Astride the IUGB AFB Tech Racing Yamaha machine, Helmi rocketed away to yet another win, scoring his season’s first hat-trick in Pasir Gudang last weekend. But not far off in third was Shafiq Ezzariq astride the Idemitsu Kozi Yam Honda racing machine.
In similar fashion to the CP115 results, Md Qhuwarismi Md Nasir who came in second astride the Yamaha-powered Weststar Motorsports team’s machine splits the two former Moto3 riders on the podium.
Clearly, the advantage of having a recent Moto3 racing stint gives a clear advantage, especially for Helmi. Nevertheless, Shafiq’s headstart in the season with four wins sees him retaining his championship standings lead with 149 points, but Helmi’s hat-trick sees him edging closer in second with 128 points.
Round 8 – Termeloh, Pahang
The Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix series will resume with Round 8 later this month in Temerloh, Pahang. Scheduled from Sept 24 to Sept 25, the series’ next outing in the East Coast is set to be a hotly contested one where the champions in all three categories could be decided.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-riding-tips-ten-pros-part-1/ | Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders (Part 1) |
Marquez kneedown and elbow down - Courtesy of MotoGP.com
It’s easy to forget that pros too started from basics.
It’s when they master the basics that they developed their unique riding styles.
Here are Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders (Part 1).
We watch in awe as the pros battle it out among themselves every weekend; they make going fast seem so easy. But if you’ve ever spoken to any one of them, you will be surprised that the riding basics are the similar – if not the same. In other words, they first learn the basics then evolve it into their personal styles. All riders are cultivated, not born. That’s what prompted us to put together this Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders article.
Furthermore, there is no such thing as one rider being braver than the next. It all comes down to not only skill but how one rides intelligently.
Here are the tips we collected over time, from interviews or read about throughout the years.
1. Kenny Roberts Sr. – “Go fast in the fast parts”
Kenny Roberts Sr. – courtesy of yamaha-motor.com
Being a vocal rider, Kenny Roberts Sr. was one of the first riders who revealed that there’s no such thing as riding fast and stupid. Instead it came down to analyzing how you ride. That’s how he won three 500cc World GP titles in a row. “King” Kenny doesn’t believe in coasting with the throttle off: You’re either on the gas or braking. The most important parts of a racetrack are the corners with long straights proceeding them and that’s where he rode faster. There’s no point in trying to ride faster in slow corners as the risks outweigh the benefits – in other words it’s easier to crash that way.
2. Wes Cooley – “Keep your chest on the tank”
Wes Cooley – courtesy of www.cyclenews.com
As a rider of late-70s and early-70’s superbikes, Wes Cooley always kept his chest close to the tank. Doing so puts more weight on the front tyres to help the bike handle. That’s why modern sportbikes are designed the way they are now, besides being more aerodynamic.
Cooley once recounted his story, “One day I came in from practice and my Dad told me I needed to stay tucked in. I told him I had, so he tied shoelace from my suit’s zipper to the ignition key. When I came back in after the next session, my racesuit was unzipped to my waist.”
3. Freddie Spencer – “Brake where you need to, not where you think you should”
Freddie Spencer – courtesy of www.motorcyclenews.com
“Fast” Freddie Spencer had his own approach to races. While others would keep detailed notes on braking points, turn-in points, reference points, etc., Spencer was more flexible and played by ear. Doing so allowed him to adjust quickly to fading tyres or changing track conditions. His method netted him the 500cc GP titles in 1983 and 1985, and also the 250cc GP title in 1985. He’s still the only man who had ever achieved such a feat.
4. “Learn how your suspension works” – Eddie Lawson
Eddie Lawson – courtesy of www.cyclenews.com
“Steady” Eddie Lawson is as cool a rider as it gets. Nothing ever seems to flutter him on and off the track. His cool personality is also a reflection of his super smooth riding style. Additionally, Lawson is a methodical rider who pays lots of attention to his bike settings. Take for example when he returned to the US in 1993 to race in the Daytona 200. He had no prior experience to riding the Vance & Hines Yamaha FZR-750 superbike so he went through the entire range of suspension adjustments in the practice session to settle on the optimal setting. His effort paid off when he went on to beat “Mr. Daytona” Scott Russell.
5. Scott Russell – “Steer with the rear”
Soctt Russell – courtesy of racingcafe.blogspot.com
Say what you will about the enigmatic rider from Georgia, USA but the man is fast. He won the Daytona 200 a record five times due to not only his uncanny tyre management but also his skill in riding a superbike with worn tyres. When grip levels drop, Mr. Daytona would apply a different lean angle in order to use a different part of the tyres. Apart from that, he would gas the bike to spin the rear tyre to tighten his lines. Modern bikes may have traction control to avoid tyre spin but the race mode on most sportbikes do allow the rider to spin the rear tyre, just like what Russell did.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-gpx-demon-gr200r-to-be-launched-next-month/ | 2020 GPX Demon GR200R to be launched next month |
GPX Malaysia is looking into expanding its current motorcycle line-up before the years ends with two exciting models which are the GPX Demon GR200R sports bike and the very stylish modern classic Legend 250 Twin. It is estimated that the former will be unveiled next month while the latter will make its debut sometime in December.
The Demon GR200R was launched mid this year in Thailand and GPX Malaysia has already confirmed that this model will make its way into the Malaysian market. Powered by a 198cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled GPX-Fi engine, this bike produces 19hp and 17.2Nm of torque to the rear wheel.
It also has a lot of interesting features such as LED lighting system with DRLs, full digital meter, 42mm USD front fork, dual disc brakes, and many more. No news on the pricing just yet but the Thais can get one at 76,500 baht (around RM10,600).
As for the GPX Legend 250 Twin, this cater to an entirely different group of riders. If you’re looking for a modern classic that’s probably more on the affordable range, this might be the one for you. Looking at the photos, the Legend 250 Twin is indeed beautiful in all of its simplicity.
Powered with a 234cc twin-cylinder engine, there’s no indicator on the site when it comes to horsepower and torque. Somewhere north around 25hp should be a reasonable guess for this retro-looking machine.
Other notable specs include:
Full LED headlight
YSS shock absorbers
Clip-on handlebars
Digital multifunction meter
Front twin disc brakes
14.5-litre fuel tank + more
Gpx Legend 250fi launching in Dec. Apply your interest here; www.gpxmalaysia.my/product/legend-250-twin/
Posted by GPX Malaysia on Isnin, 19 Oktober 2020
As stated earlier, the GPX Legend 250 Twin will most likely make its debut in December after GPX Malaysia officially launches the Demon GR200R. Stay tuned for more updates, folks.
2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO now available in Malaysia – From RM75,900
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-all-system-go-for-qatar/ | MotoGP: All system go for Qatar |
MotoGP returns to Losail, Qatar this weekend for its 2016 season opener.
The FIM World MotoGP Championship returns for its 2016 season this weekend with its opening round held under the floodlights of the Losail International Circuit, Qatar.
As always, the weekend’s first pre-race press conference took place on Wednesday evening and featured defending world champion Jorge Lorenzo alongside his Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing teammate and superstar Valentino Rossi leading the six-rider panel.
Present beside the two Yamaha duo were the Repsol Honda Racing duo of Dani Pedrosa and Marc Marquez, followed by Ducati Corse’s Andrea Iannone and Team Suzuki Ecstar rider Maverick Viñales as well. These six stood as the premier MotoGP class’ top contenders for this season.
Defending champion Lorenzo has stood out as the strongest during pre-season testing so far, and here’s what the he had to say during the press conference:
“Not a lot of things change from the outside where the people can see the bikes. For the riders, it’s really a big difference. Firstly with the tyres, the Michelins offer a completely different feeling on the bike and also with the new electronics, the same for everyone, are less sophisticated and much more difficult to ride and control, especially with the throttle. Anyway the pre-season has been very very good, better than we expected. In the three tests we did, we got a good feeling and did some impressive lap times.”
Plenty of speculation has risen towards how the new supply of spec tyres from Michelin will stack up, with this weekend’s season-opener being its true test. Another hot topic here was the new unified electronics suite dictated by the revised 2016 technical regulations. Whilst both the factory Yamaha and Ducati bikes have shown positive signs towards them, it seems the Honda-powered encampment’s struggle was evident.
Here’s what former world champion Marc Marquez had to say about the matter:
“This year has not been an easy pre-season looking at the results. But we improved and we kept a constant pace, a progressive line towards the most important and it looks like here in the last test in Qatar we did a huge step and we were closer. Anyway, we know we struggle on this track because it’s one of the worst tracks for us but the motivation and ambition of the first race can always supply what you need.”
Marquez’s Repsol Honda teammate further added:
“For the technical part we’re a little more in trouble compared to last year but we’re closing the gap and I think we’re improving. Now it’s race weekend, this is quite different to testing and you focus a lot more on going fast and less on checking things on the bike. I’m more motivated in the GPs than in the test.”
No doubt, one of the strongest dark horse amongst the six is none other than Ducati’s Andrea Iannone. The Italian rider landed his Italian team’s first podium in Phillip Island, Australia last year whilst his pace during pre-season tests also shows very strong signs.
Another dark horse here is rising star Maverick Viñales. The young Spaniard has outpaced his more experienced teammate Aleix Espargaro throughout pre-season tests, and he looks poised towards putting the factory Suzuki machine higher up in the standings this season too with his eyes set on the podium.
But of course, the one to watch this season too is Valentino Rossi. Despite the controversy of the Sepang Clash, the Italian superstar is eyeing to snatch his tenth world title this year, but as ever, he will face stiff challenges from teammate Lorenzo. With that, Rossi has got himself a new ‘coach’ of sorts this season in the form of former 500cc front-runner Luca Cadalora.
Rossi stated:
“He (Cadalora) will work with me through the season. We worked together and tried some things in the test. It’s always interesting to have a former rider like Luca with a lot of experience and a good vision around the track. During the test we found something interesting so we’ll continue together.”
As the talking stops, attention will now focus on the racing with Thursday evening’s first scheduled Free Practice standing as the first indicator of how the weekend will fare out.
Will Marquez pull miracles again? Will Rossi finally prove he truly is the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT)? Will Lorenzo assert his dominance once more? Or will dark horses Pedrosa, Iannone and Viñales give these three a run for their money? This weekend will be one to remember for the ages indeed.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/voge-to-launch-an-adventure-type-motorcycle-at-eicma/ | Voge To Launch An Adventure-Type Motorcycle At EICMA |
You might not be familiar with the Loncin brand, but it is the firm responsible for manufacturing the engine for BMW’s C 400 X, C 400 GT, F 850 GS, F 900 R and F 900 XR.
Loncin to roll out Voge 900DS adventure motorcycle in November.
The Voge 900DS features a similar powertrain to BMW’s F 900 XR, producing close to 100hp and 92Nm.
Loncin and BMW have been working together for years now, similar to CFMOTO’s partnership with KTM.
*BMW F 850 GS
That said, it took a while for Loncin, through its premium Voge brand, to work on its own motorcycle range using the BMW-commissioned engine.
However, things are about to change as Voge is scheduled to introduce an adventure-type motorcycle, dubbed the Voge 900DS, soon.
The Voge 900DS – presumably refers to as Dual Sport – is like to share the same parallel-twin engine as the F 900 XR. While further details regarding the powertrain remain scarce, it’s almost sure to be an 895cc parallel-twin unit.
Having said that, it is likely to produce close to 100hp and 92Nm, similar to the BMW F 900 XR.
Looking at the leak photos, the Voge 900DS looks inspired not just by the F 850 GS bodywork but also by some aspect of Triumph’s Tiger 900 range, specifically the front fascia.
Nonetheless, it looks well-built, and the slim subframe gives off an aggressive and rugged look.
While not much is disclosed regarding the new motorcycle, the Voge 900DS is expected to break cover at EICMA in November.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/over-1000-ducati-scrambler-1100-recalled-in-the-us/ | Over 1,000 Ducati Scrambler 1100 recalled in the US |
The National Highway and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has posted a recall involving over 1,000 units of Ducati Scrambler 1100 which are at risk of a possible short circuit. It seems that they’ve found out that the exhaust valve cable might come into contact with the battery wiring, which may cause an electrical short-circuit, which may lead to a possible fire.
A total of 1,072 units of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 sold by Ducati North America will be recalled to remedy the situation. These units go back to 2018 until 2021 and being the responsible party that they are, affected owners will be notified to come into the nearest dealer for remedy.
All affected Ducati Scrambler 1100 models will be given a new cable guide and self-locking cable tie to the exhaust valve cable, free of charge. This will ensure that the wirings do not come across each other, and therefore mitigate the risk of short-circuiting and fire in the future.
Although this may sound like a huge risk, this particular recall in the US will only be scheduled to begin on 25 January 2021. As for the Malaysian market, we’re not sure if any of the units here are affected by this, but if there’s any, you can bet that the first people to contact the affected owners would be Ducati Malaysia themselves.
Suzuki launches GSX-R1000R Legend Edition series! RM111k
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/wak-doyoks-triumph-3hw/ | Wak Doyok’s Triumph 3HW |
The Triumph 3HW was one of Triumph’s motorcycles produced for the military.
It served throughout the Second World War.
This particular example belongs to celebrity Wak Doyok.
You’ll never know what kind of treasures will show up at the dealerships of classic motorcycle marques. Well, Triumph Motorcycles is the world’s second oldest motorcycle manufacturer, after all.
We were picking up the 2018 Tiger 800 XCx from Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia in Petaling Jaya for testing and review, when we spotted a “baby blue” vintage motorcycle sitting in the cargo bay of a 4×4 pickup. Imagine our surprise when it turned out to be 1940s Triumph 3HW, belonging to the popular celebrity Wak Doyok!
The Triumph 3HW wasn’t only a vintage bike but it had a significance in the history of motorcycles.
When World War II broke out in September 1939, the War Office requisitioned (sapu habis, in local speak) Triumph’s entire stock of civilian motorcycles. Triumph, based in Coventry at the time, went on to develop the 3TW specially for the military.
But on the night of 14th November 1940, the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) conducted a bombing raid on the city and devastated the Triumph factory along with the production of the 3TW. Many records of Triumph motorcycles since its heydays were also destroyed.
Triumph converted an oil foundry in Meriden, Warwickshire and started producing two single-cylinder motorcycles – the side-valve 3SW and the overhead-valve 3HW. The 3HW was based on the Tiger 80 sport roadster.
The 3HW’s rocker boxes were cast integrally with the cast-iron cylinder head, as opposed to the Tiger 80’s separate aluminium allow rocker boxes. The engineers resorted to cast iron as aluminium was in short supply.
Being more powerful than the 3SW, the 3HW eventually saw service in dispatch duties and general liaison for the Royal Navy in North Africa, India and Greece. In fact, the Greek Army used the bike from 1942 all the way to 1952.
The 343cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine had bore X stroke dimensions of 70mm X 89mm, a compression ratio of 6.7:1, and produced 17 bhp at 5200 RPM, pushing the bike to a top speed of 115 km/h.
Wak Doyok’s bike here shows the 3HW serial number stamped on the crankcase, but the fuel tank/instrument cluster could’ve been replaced with a 3H Deluxe model’s. Regardless, it’s still one awesomely beautiful motorcycle. Watch this video of Wak Doyok riding the bike, posted on 29th September 2017. Thank you Wak Doyok for letting photograph your bike!
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motonation-2018-hosts-iftar-hype-motorsports-hotel/ | Motonation 2018 hosts Iftar at Hype Motorsports Hotel |
Motonation 2018 organised a Ramadan Iftar dinner and business networking event last night.
The event was held at the Hype Motorsports Hotel KL (formerly known as Nouvelle Hotel).
They also conducted partners’ signing ceremonies, networkings, and business presentations for all the guests.
The good folks from Motonation 2018 invited fellow partners, networking members and media personnel to their Ramadan Iftar dinner and business networking last night. The event was held at the newly-refurbished Hype Motorsports Hotel KL (formerly known as Nouvelle Hotel).
The Iftar event started off with the buka puasa where Muslims who were fasting broke their fast together with fellow Malaysians. Everyone enjoyed the food festivities together before the session moved to the Motonation Package presentation.
It was then followed by a couple of signing ceremonies with new business partners to the event as well as a number of presentations from current business partners to all guests. The most important highlight of the night was the networking session where representatives from their respective businesses got to know each other.
Name cards were exchanged and products were displayed for all to see from 3D-printing technology to virtual reality programs and applications. Although this is still considered an early stage for Motonation 2018 before their main event at the end of the year, we can see that many vendors and businesses are already taking part as the hype continues to build.
If you thought that last year’s Motonation event was huge, this year’s main event at MECC, MATRADE will be even bigger. Don’t forget to block your calendars from 19 to 21 October 2018!
Motonation 2018 officially launched & ready for October
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/buriram-be-ballin-saturday-wsbk-thailand-2015/ | Buriram be Ballin’ – 2015 WSBK Thailand |
Sights and sounds from the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK) series’ debut in the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand.
As you’d already know, the BR team are here on the ground in the new Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand, for the season-opening round of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015, and the second round of the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK).
Opened back in October last year, the new Chang International Circuit is only the second ASEAN venue to host WSBK. Suffice to say, the Thais love motorsports as much as we do, and this new facility proves it. What makes this even more enticing is the fact that Thailand itself is a huge market for bikes, making this facility a sound investment in its own right.
Back to the racing action, and WSBK is giving its Thai fans a first taste of top-flight two-wheeled racing action. The challenging weather conditions and the ultra-high speed nature of this 4.554km course is incubating perhaps one of the most exciting racing weekends in the region.
If WSBK’s last season would tell you anything, the battle for supremacy is between the silver-liveried Aprilia works team, and the all-too-familiar green and black colour of Kawasaki. The season-opening race of 2015 brought out of the sport’s closest race finishes in history, and this second round looks set to keep this exciting fire burning.
Taking pole position from today’s Qualifying sessions was Kawasaki’s Jonathan Rea who lapped the 5.445km-long course on the factory Kawasaki ZX10R with a blistering pace of 1:33.382. The Brit is joined on the first row of the grid alongside fellow countryman Leon Haslam of Aprilia in second, and Suzuki’s Alex Lowes in third.
Though the locals have two wildcard riders entering the WSBK main event’s grid this weekend, all eyes in Buriram today were on the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 support event where local boys Nakarin ‘Chip’ Atiratphuvapat and Somkiat Chantra ruled in the series’ first of two scheduled races this weekend. Suffice to say, the joy and elation amongst to home crowd when Chantra won the support race was loud and clear in the grandstands.
Check out our album on Facebook page for more exclusive images from the ground here in Buriram, Thailand. Watch this space for more updates and images as we chart through Sunday’s scheduled racing programme as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/who-thailand-deadliest-roads-in-asia-india-the-highest-in-the-world/ | WHO: Thailand Deadliest Roads in Asia, India the Highest in the World |
A World Health Organization (WHO) report highlighted that Thailand has the highest road accident death rate among Asian countries.
However, India saw the most killed in road accidents.
Road accidents is now the Number 1 cause of death for children and adults up to 29 years old.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has published their annual Global Status Report on Road Safety 2018. In the report, Thailand still has the deadliest roads in Asia while India saw the greatest number of lives lost in traffic accidents.
Although published in 2018, the report provides data collected from 175 countries in 2016.
Thailand’s status as the second deadliest roads in the world has improved to eighth with 32.7 deaths per 100,000 citizens. A whopping 74.4% (16,178) of the 21,745 killed were drivers/passengers of 2-wheeled vehicles. Traffic accidents kill an average of 21,491 persons in the country each year.
Risks of Renting a Motorcycle in Thailand and How to Insure Yourself
Eight African countries and one South American nation join Thailand in the Top 10.
In terms of pure numbers, however, the Indian subcontinent saw an almost unbelievable 150,785 reported deaths. Conversely, the WHO believes many more fatalities were probably unreported and as many as 299,091 were killed on India’s roads. The country’s population of over 1.3 billion people had the effect of lowering the rate to 22.6 per 100,000.
By comparison, China has the second highest total number of reported deaths from traffic accidents at 58,022 among her 1.4 billion citizens. Again, the WHO believes that an estimated total of 256,180 were killed in 2016. China’s road death rate was 18.2/100,000.
Malaysia’s road death rate is still high but has seen much improvements at 23.6/100,000 with a total of 7,152 reported cases. There was no official number in the report, but it is widely believed that some 60% of all traffic-related deaths involve motorcycles.
Our neighbor Indonesia reported 31,282 traffic deaths in that year. Fatalities on two-wheel vehicles contributed 73.6% to the total figure. However, they have a low rate at 12.2/100,000 due to their large 261 million population.
The WHO added that traffic accidents are now the leading cause of death among children and adults up to 29 years old, and 8thhighest among people of all ages. At 1.35 million deaths each year, more die in road accidents than HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and diarrheal diseases. The situation is worsening and a person is killed every 24 seconds somewhere in the world.
Sobering thoughts for 2019.
Source: World Health Organization
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rickey-gadson-sets-new-kawasaki-h2-mile-record-368-7kmh/ | Rickey Gadson Sets New Kawasaki H2 Mile Record – 368.7km/h! |
Rickey Gadson and his heavily-modified Kawasaki H2 drag bike set the top speed record within a mile at the Texas Mile event
The event saw Gadson hit 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h)!
The ‘baddest H2 in the country’ produces 323hp with a new supercharger, ported cylinder heads, custom camshafts and racing gearbox
Image source: www.streetcyclez.com
Ever heard of Rickey Gadson and his Kawasaki H2? Well, Rickey is actually an 11-time AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) drag racing champion and he has a heavily modified Kawasaki H2 known as the ‘baddest H2 in the country’. How ‘bad’ is the bike? Rickey just set a new record with it 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h) in just one mile (1.6km)!
Technically, the H2 does not belong to Rickey Gadson himself. In fact, it his customer’s who requested him to build the drag-monster H2 to tear up the drag strip. Gadson’s solution? More power. WAY MORE POWER. Gadson installed a new RG63 Performance Plus Supercharger Kit, ported cylinder heads, custom-designed camshafts and a racing gearbox courtesy of Woolich Racing.
Image source: www.cdn.rideapart.com
The result? The claimed 210hp from the stock H2 engine has been raised to a whopping 323hp. That is slightly over 100hp (113hp to be exact) power increase! Together with a never-ending dyno sessions to get the settings just right, the H2 definitely lives up to its name as the ‘baddest’ of them all.
The record was set at the Texas Mile event where anyone and everyone can take their machine and set their fastest speed within the mile. Although his initial target was on 220mp/h (354km/h), he broke that on the very first day of the event and continued to become faster and faster with a few modifications to aerodynamic wings. That was when Gadson hit 229.1mp/h (368.7km/h). Check out his run below.
Although previously World Supersport champion Kenan Sofuoglu set the top speed on a Kawasaki H2R at 249mp/h (400km/h) in June 2016, the H2R already had 310hp and Kenan had more than a mile on his record-setting run on the newly-built Osman Gazi Bridge, Turkey.
CLICK HERE to know more about the story.
For further entertainment, here’s Sofuoglu performing the most epic rolling burnout on the H2R while lighting up the streets with the hot glowing exhaust!
Motor yaniyooorrr!!! Sikinti yok bu Kenan ve H2RBike is on fire but no worry this is Kenan and H2R
Posted by Kenan Sofuoğlu on 30hb Julai 2016
Interested in buying your very own Kawasaki? CLICK HERE to check out our exclusive Bike Buyer’s Guide to get all the details on all Kawasaki bikes available in Malaysia.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-middleweights-get-new-colours-for-2016/ | Kawasaki middleweights get new colours for 2016 |
Kawasaki has revealed new colour options for the ER-6f, the ER-6n, the Versys 650, as well as the Vulcan S.
While the Versys 650 and the Vulcan S are new models, the ER-6f and ER-6n were expected to go through an extensive update by mid 2016, but looking at Kawasaki’s decision to introduce new paint options, we feel that it is safe to say that the refreshed ER-6f and ER-6n will take longer than we expected to make their debut.
Coming back to the new paint options, the ER-6f gets three options for the 2016 season. The iconic green Candy Lime Green version now features fairing sides in Metallic Spark Black fading to a lighter colour fairing lower. In a similar style, the Candy Persimmon Red model also has Metallic Spark Black fairing sides while the Metallic Carbon Gray option sticks to an all over single colour approach.
Like its ER-6n partner, each new for 2016 ER-6f comes with a coloured rear shock absorber spring and pin-striped wheels as standard. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.
The Vulcan S on the other hand, is now available in white. The beige Urban City White option is joined by Metallic Matt Carbon Gray, creating an impactful and purposeful look. All the new colour options are available on ABS and non-ABS models.
And then we have the Versys 650, which is currently available in Metallic Matte Carbon Gray and Metallic Spark Black machine. New for next year are the striking Candy Matte Orange and Pearl Stardust White combined with Metallic Spark Black option.
On another note, Kawasaki mentioned in the press release that it has many announcements due in the near future. So, we can expect 2016 to be a pretty busy and interesting year for the brand.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-g310-r-makes-comic-book-debut/ | BMW G310R makes comic book debut |
BMW G310R debuts in comic book as crime-busting hero’s motorcycle of choice.
The BMW G310R has made its debut in the pages of a graphic novel – or comic book if you will – titled ‘Riders in the Storm’. It sees the German marque’s new small capacity naked bike becoming the motorcycle of choice for the title’s protagonists.
Created by Croatian author Darko Macan and Italian illustrator Riccardo Burchielli, Rides in the Storm was announced last weekend during the German leg of the famed Comic Con convention held in Stuttgart.
The comic centres around a policewoman inspired by inked German model Makani Terror, an ‘out-of-the-ordinary street artist’ plus a ‘wolf with exceptional powers’ – riding a bike being one of it. These characters fight against evil whilst riding the German marque’s new small capacity naked.
Whilst this unorthodox branding exercise is indeed exciting, it only adds further to the anxiety amongst many fans (us included!) who are patiently waiting for the new naked bike to be launched here.
If you’ve followed our Facebook page, you’d know that our chief editor Keshy Dhillon recently attended a special preview of the bike held by dealers Chear Motorrad just before the month of Ramadhan started.
You can also check out how the BMW G310R sounds like in this short video submitted to us by Arif Izzudin (@arfizdn) through our Instagram page – Thanks for that mate!
Our friend @arfizdn got the chance to ride the new BMW G310R and we are super jealous! Just listen to it purrrr, can’t wait for it! Head on over to Auto Bavaria to put down your booking fees for the most anticipated bike of the year! #bmwg310r #g310r #bmwmalaysia #bmwmotorrad #motorrad @bmwmotorrad @bmwmcm @sashi.ambi
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jun 27, 2016 at 9:13pm PDT
Developed in partnership with India’s TVS Motorcycles, it features a thumpy 313cc single-cylinder heart that develops 34hp at 9,500rpm and 28Nm of peak torque at 7,500rpm that propels a claimed unladen weight of 158.5kg. Its chief rival here will be the popular and segment-leading KTM 390 Duke naked bike.
The BMW G310R is expected to debut officially in Malaysia in October later this year where it will be offered as fully imported (CBU) units from India. Prices aren’t confirmed yet, but speculations suggest it will retail between RM20,000 and RM30,000.
Should the wait be unbearable for you, don’t forget to check out our special feature where we list down alternatives for the same speculative price by clicking here. You can also know more about the new baby BMW by clicking here, here and here.
Sources: BMW Group Press via Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-bespoke-ducati-1100-by-revival-cycles-is-worth-rm2-2mil/ | This Bespoke Ducati 1100 By Revival Cycles Is Worth RM2.2mil |
Anything related to Ducati always comes with a hefty pricetag. So when a custom builder like Revival Cycles chose to worked on a Ducati Monster 1100, you know it’s going to turned out epic while also eat out much of their budget.
the Fuse is built from Ducati’s Monster 1100 engine.
features custom frame, handlebars and tank.
For starters, Revival Cycles is a custom shop based out of Austin, Texas and co-founded by Alan Stulberg and Stefan Hertel in 2008. The company has some of the most beautiful custom motorcycle ever made. Just drop by their website and you’ll understand what we meant.
However, among the lot, perhaps the most beautiful machine they’ve built is the custom Ducati 1100 Fuse.
A part from an engine taken out of the Monster 1100, everything else, including the stainless steel frame is completely custom. Also, the swingarm, was fabricated out of a solid block of aluminium. Just imagine the hours they’ve put into creating the perfect component.
According to the company, the exposed stainless steel tubes were designed not just as the bike’s foundation but also to act as the focal point of the overall design.
Revival Cycles also mounted a one-piece handlebar to create a clean cockpit while integrating the clutch and brake reservoir into the bar itself. Leather grips is fitted to complete the classic touch.
While the bike’s in its entirety is custom, the one-piece tank, seat and tail assembly still brings out the Ducati design language, further enhanced by the red paint. Meanwhile, to ensure the bike’s in running state, Revival Cycles also reworked the entire electrical system.
Last but not least, the Fuse pumps out 120hp from the Ducati Monster 1100 engine making it quite a powerful machine.
The best part is, Revival Cycles claimed that the estimated cost to built the Fuse is around USD500,000 (RM2.2mil).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/schoolteacher-arrested-for-illegal-racing/ | Schoolteacher Arrested for Illegal Racing |
Photo credit NST.com.my
Police arrested a schoolteacher for illegal racing.
He was riding a Yamaha YZF-R1.
His “opponent”, a cook, was riding an Aprilia RSV4.
Police arrested a school for illegal racing on a Yamah YZF-R1.
He was racing against a chef on an Aprilia RSV4 along Lebuhraya Tun Dr. Lim Chong Eu, near Bayan Lepas in Penang.
Both men were then arrested at intersection to the Kampung Jawa foodcourt at 2am.
Police revealed that the R1 rider is a secondary school teacher. Both men have made police bail but the police is in the process of completing their report to the deputy public prosecutor for further action.
The case will be investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Source: https://newmalaysianpost.com/2019/10/12/guru-sekolah-ditahan-ketika-sedang-berlumba-haram/
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/legendary-malaysian-gp-rider-bulldog-kuan-passes-away/ | Legendary Malaysian GP rider ‘Bulldog Kuan’ passes away |
It is with deep sadness that we report to you that one of Malaysia’s motorsports legend, Kuan Huah Chin aka “Bulldog Kuan” had passed away yesterday. Those who have been involved in the national motorsports world here in Malaysia are aware and thankful of all the contributions made by this very legendary Malaysian GP rider.
View this post on Instagram
Deeply saddened by the loss of our very own Malaysian motorsports legend – Bulldog Kuan @ Kuan Huah Chin. Bulldog was a racer ahead of his times, and as the President of the Penang Motor Sports Club, had been one of the main organizing clubs for the Malaysian Cub Prix Championship since the early days. We will always cherish his contribution towards the sport. Our deepest condolences to Kuan Meng Heng and his family. Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. RIP Uncle Bulldog. #legend #cubprix #cubprixgenerasi #motorsport
A post shared by Malaysian Cub Prix (@msiancubprix) on Mar 20, 2020 at 6:07am PDT
Known for his dominating racing antiques during the national GP races (which he started to get involved in as early as the 1960s), Bulldog Kuan together with the likes of Oh Kah Beng aka “Foreman Oh” dominated the national GP racing scene up until the 1980s. Even after his racing days ended, Bulldog Kuan was still very much active in the racing community.
Never thought this woild be my last pic with my sifu and idol, the great Bulldog Kuan, who has sadly passed away today. Even more shattering we all can’t attend his funeral due to MCO. Shattered. R.I.P. Uncle Bulldog.#motocycling pic.twitter.com/3AjQyeWbNO
— Arnaz M. Khairul (@arnazmkhairul) March 20, 2020
The local racing scene has a lot to thank for with all the help and guidance received from this legendary GP rider. As the President of the Penang Motor Sports Club, Bulldog Kuan was one of the great supporters and contributors to the early days of what’s now popularly known as the Malaysian Cub Prix.
Image credit: Malaysian Cub Prix
The Penangite also had his own motorcycle shop in Georgetown, Penang which most folks would simply refer to as Bulldog Kuan Motor. A lot of people in the industry regarded him as one of the masters of motorsports where he continuously provided support as well as wisdom to those who are involved in the motorsports scene, particularly two-wheels.
Image credit: Guang Ming Daily
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the legendary Kuan Huah Chin along with his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
Is Hafizh Syahrin really the first Malaysian MotoGP rider?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/uk-police-starts-youtube-series-on-safety-riding-tips/ | UK police starts YouTube series on safety riding tips |
Advanced police motorcycle instructor in the UK initiates YouTube series focused on safety riding tips.
At BikesRepublic, we are always on the lookout for ways for all fellow bikers to become safer on the road. However, we know that some of you lot may find it difficult to attend riding courses due to budget or time constraints. Thanfully, you aren’t alone and this YouTube series on safety riding tips done by an advanced police motorcycle instructor in the UK should help you get started.
The series sees Police Constable Roger Peskett demonstrating and guiding viewers on safety riding tips. Much of the videos were shot using GoPro cameras and the first two videos published centralises on urban riding skills.
The unique initiative using the popular online video hosting site was the result of a study by the UK police that indicated that many of the UK’s weekday commuters were the ones that are most at risk. Road Safety Sergeant Chris Appleby states:
“We have identified three high-risk groups of motorcyclists. These are leisure riders, commuters, and young scooter riders. Our priority still remains with leisure riders using high powered motorcycles on rural roads; however there is an emerging risk for commuter riders or urban motorcyclists as they choose bikes as a preferred travelling option.”
As mentioned, Police Constable Roger Peskett has already published two videos for the series besides a flashy trailer (featured video). The first video posted below sees Constable Peskett demonstrating a technique for safe urban filtering.
Suffice to say, filtering through the urban traffic, especially on a large and heavy sport touring bike that’s typically kitted out for police use, is a tall order, but Constable Peskett’s demonstration through GoPro footages, on-screen indicators and verbal explanations are very clear.
The second video posted below focuses on observation skills instead whilst riding through urban traffic conditions. Again, Constable Peskett’s visual demonstrations, clear on-screen indication and verbal explanations are on point here as well.
You can’t be a safer rider immediately by watching videos, but we reckon this would be a good way to for anyone to start off with in gaining some basic understanding of safe riding skills.
This should be helpful at least until you eventually make time and the effort to enrol in a proper safety riding or advanced riding course. If cost is an issue, then consider enrolling in MiniGP-based courses like the MyRide Academy we attended last weekend or the ATAC MiniGP Rider Training Program we took part in not too long ago.
In short, we reckon that Constable Peskett’s video series is worthwhile of subscribing besides the official BikesRepublic YouTube channel of course.
Source: YouTube ( Link 1 / Link 2 / Link 3 ) via Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/more-2021-harley-davidson-touring-cvo-models-revealed/ | More 2021 Harley-Davidson Touring & CVO models revealed |
2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Special
Apart from the Harley-Davidson Softail range, H-D also introduced three new 2021 models in their Touring segments in the form of updated hot rod baggers, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special, Road Glide Special, and Street Glide Special. All three are powered by the same 1,868cc Milwaukee-Eight® 114 V-twin engine that produces 160Nm of torque and roughly around 92hp.
2021 Street Glide Special
The changes for 2021 are not major ones, but these hot rod baggers now come with low profile engine guards (for that slightly slammed look), centre console, 22.7-litre fuel tank, upgraded air filters, engine colour options (black or chrome), LED lighting system, and a selection of two-tone paint schemes that are really visually pleasing.
2021 Road King Special
As for the H-D CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) models, four models consisting of the CVO Limited, CVO Street Glide, CVO Road Glide, and CVO Tri Glide. For this range, the bikes are powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin engine (1,917cc) that puts out a powerful 170Nm of torque.
2021 CVO Street Glide
These ‘high-performance’ cruisers also come with the newly-introduced H-D Audio powered by Rockford Fosgate. Specially designed speakers and amplifiers were made exclusively for the CVO models, including the mighty Stage II tri-axial speakers for the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models.
2021 CVO Limited
The CVO models also include the brand’s complete electronic riding aids such as traction control, cornering ABS, TPMS (tyre pressure monitoring system), hill-hold control, plus many more. Just like the new Softails, there is no indication of price or availability just yet.
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ktm-390-adventure-debuts-at-eicma-2019/ | 2020 KTM 390 Adventure Debuts at EICMA 2019 |
2020 KTM 390 Adventure
The 2020 KTM 390 Adventure was launched at EICMA 2019.
It’s been 7 years since it was planned.
It takes on the familial resemblance to the 790 Adventure.
The word “finally” really applies to the 2020 KTM 390 Adventure launched yesterday at EICMA 2019. It’s been 7 years since KTM CEO Stefan Pierer said that the manufacturer will produce an adventure bike based on the 390 Duke platform.
There’ve been spy shots after spy shots, rumours after rumours but the production-ready 390 Adventure never seemed to leave the factory doors. Until now, since Euro5 takes effect next year.
It’s immediately obvious that it’s adopted the 790 Adventure’s design. Missing however, is the 790’s bulbous underslung fuel tank. It also incorporates elements from the 450 Rally.
It’s engine remains the 372cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, single-cylinder layout. KTM didn’t publish the power figures, but we can expect to produce in the 43 bhp ballpark like the 390 Duke’s. That doesn’t sound much to those weaned on triple digit numbers, of course but it’s now the most powerful lightweight adventure/dual-purpose bike.
Its steel trellis frame looks similar to the 390 Duke’s, but there are differences with exhaust routing, brackets, subframe, and swingarm length in order to accommodate longer suspension travel. Seat height is at a reasonable 853 mm — the same as the 1090 Adventure and 790 Adventure (base model).
Euro5 is about less polution, less noise, lower fuel consumption and the 390 Adventure delivers a frugal 3.62 litre/100 km under good riding conditions. That equates to 400 km from the 14.4-litre tank.
The bike uses WP APEX 43 mm forks and monoshock with 170 mm and 175 mm travel, respectively. Ground clearance is 198 mm. Those figures are not much for off-road but we shall see. The low clearance is contributed by 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels would raise the bike higher but the 390 Adventure is surely meant for beginners and casual adventure-touring riders.
Up top, the 5-inch TFT screen features the usual trappings these days of Bluetooth connectivity and multimedia functions. KTM’s Quickshifter+ is an option.
The 2020 KTM 390 Adventure is priced at USD 6,199 (RM 25,728.95) for the base model. We’d love to see it at Rimba Raid, too!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-thruxton-r-test-review/ | Triumph Thruxton R Test & Review |
The Triumph Thruxton R is the flagship of Triumph’s modern classic lineup.
It takes on the form of a café racer, but with the race cowling it becomes a classic racer.
Priced from RM 83,900 (the race cowling and Vance & Hines exhausts are optional).
How many of us actually read the warning labels on the products we buy? I mean look at some of them, “Use Min. RON 95 UNLEADED FUEL only.” Or “Wear a helmet and safety gear when riding.” The more morbid ones state, “Improper use may result in grievous injury or death.”
Well, of course they sound like that, having been written in such way to avoid being sued for product liability. But, aw c’mon, none of them actually alludes to the excitement of riding; of how the bike would make you feel when you ride.
The reason I say this is because there exist bikes that’ll have you obsess over them. So excited over them that you want to just keep riding. So beautiful that it takes up all your attention, and you end up staring at the bike for hours and hours when you park it in your driveway (or living room).
Surely someone would come up with the hair-brained idea to hold the manufacturer accountable?
The Triumph Thruxton R has admittedly been around since Triumph launched their updated line of Bonneville modern classics in 2016. However, we felt that it’s the right time for a revisit, as other manufacturers have also released their café racers, putting them head-to-head with the Thruxton R.
Triumph had completely overhauled the Bonneville family from 2016 . The biggest updates, however, saw the addition of liquid cooling, a 270o crankshaft replacing the traditional 180o and 360o, and the bikes branching into two capacities of 900cc and 1200cc. Different variations were then spawned from these two common platforms.
On the 1200cc side of the family, the engines feature two states of tune: HT for High Torque and HP for High Power. No prizes for guessing correctly that the Thruxton R gets the HP tuning.
Expanding on what Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia describes the café racer style, “(A) café racer is noted for its visual minimalism, featuring low-mounted handlebars, prominent seat cowling and elongated fuel tank (with) knee-grips indented in the fuel tank.”
It’s this visual minimalist that gives the bike it’s “proper” dimensions in the mind’s eye, eluding to something unadulterated in its purpose. The hornet tail-like seat cowling eludes to streamlining. Note that the Thruxton R comes with passenger footpegs and the seat is hidden beneath the cowling, however, you’d need to replace the seat if wish to carry a pillion for longer distances.
Getting on and grabbing the handlebars felt so natural. The handlebars appear low since they are attached below the top triple clamp, but they are actually cast to rise a few inches upwards, giving the rider a sporty crouch, rather than most café racers that stretch you out like a string of spaghetti i.e. butt high up, arms outstretched, chest on the tank. I would say the seating position is closer to the new Street Triple 765 RS.
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia had fitted the optional upper cowling on this demo bike, turning it into a “proper” classic racer. Besides that, they have also installed a Vance & Hines full system exhaust. (As a side note, there are more than 300 items in Triumph’s accessories catalog.)
From the seat, your eyes meet a pair of classy and beautifully appointed analog gauges. There is an LCD screen in each of them, providing all the info you need, including tripmetres, fuel consumption, fuel range and a fuel gauge.
But the thing about Triumph’s modern classics is not just about the looks. They are thoroughly modern motorcycles, fitted with ABS, Triumph Traction Control (TTC) and power modes (RAIN, ROAD, SPORT). The headlights, daytime running lights (DRL), taillight and all signal lamps are LED.
Firing up the bike gave me a jump as the engine roared to life. These V&H pipes were definitely more vocal, rumbling at idle.
First gear engaged with a positive click, and we were off riding on the engine’s beautifully smooth torque, pulling away to a melodious “Braaaooooom.” But as soon as the right hand snaps the throttle open, the Thruxton R jumped forward without hesitation, accompanied by an almost ruffian-like BRRRAAAAOOOWPPP from the twin canons which drowned out all the sound of the world. Me, on the other hand, went “WHEEEEE!”
The Thruxton R was so easy to steer – left-right, right-left – as I avoided the bumps and traffic around Section 13, PJ. Mixed in with the engine’s propensity to pull anywhere in the rev range and that Symphony #1 from the engine and exhausts, it got additive within minutes. Why should one get addicted to hard drugs when you have the Thruxton R???
I had an appointment to meet Keshy for lunch at the Coliseum restaurant in Jaya 33, just some 300 metres away from the Triumph showroom, but I rode all the way to SS2 and Seapark before turning back to Jaya 33 – all subconsciously. The Thruxton R had just taken over my thoughts and actions!
And as if the planets, stars and nebulae were correctly aligned, we had an opportunity to ride the bike up Bukit Tinggi the next day on a TOP SECRET mission. I’d normally give the place a wide berth unless on smaller bikes. Ponder about it: Narrow road, sharp corners and chicanes, decreasing radius turns, dirt in the corners, etc. I understood how medieval torture felt like when I rode up there the last time on a 160-bhp naked sportbike.
It turned out to be a misgiving as the Thruxton R kept up with Triumph Tiger 800 XCx and Triumph Street Triple RS, even in the rain. All I needed to do was keep it in a gear higher, and rely on its agile handling and that wonderful midrange torque to punch out of the corners. Flicked it left, flicked it right, the Thruxton R exhibited neutral handling. It turned in smartly whether you coasted, trail braked, or kept the throttle slightly opened on your way in. The front end wanted to tuck under in a few very slow corners but adding some throttle cured it. It wasn’t the bike’s fault, I had pushed downwards onto the handlebars in all that excitement.
Talking about the throttle, I kept in SPORT in the rain because I could’ve sworn that my right hand was connected directly to the throttle bodies (they mimic the beautiful vintage Amal carbs, by the way). Then again, riding in the rain in SPORT mode isn’t unique to the Thruxton R. I’ve done so on the aforementioned Tiger 800 XCx and Street Triple RS. I can attest that Triumph motorcycles have the best throttle “feel” and response. A direct-feeling and predictable throttle response brings confidence to the rider; and riding enjoyment is a direct consequence of that confidence. You don’t want to go into a corner and have an abrupt throttle response either scaring you or messing up your intended line, right?
I guess I shouldn’t have second-guessed the Thruxton R’s ability to handle corners like the way it did. The entire Bonneville lineup (both 1200s and 900s) are fundamentally good handling bikes already, so since the Thruxton R is equipped with fully-adjustable Showa Big Piston Forks (BPF) and Ohlins shocks that made it handle like a dream. There’s only so much one could do if the base bike has terrible handling, and adding the best suspension will not guarantee that you could turn a water buffalo into a thoroughbred race horse. The Thruxton name is hallowed, but I personally refer to the Thruxton R as the “Bonneville RS.”
Anyway, if going uphill at Bukit Tinggi was challenging, coming down was outright hairy in the rain as gravity “assisted” in adding more speed than I intended. I was so thankful for that handling, Brembo Monoblocs and ABS. A single finger pull on the brake lever was enough to modulate the brakes into the turns. The Triumph Traction Control (TTC) kept the rear front sliding like a supermoto.
Down Karak Highway, as was when we rode up earlier, the chassis didn’t care if the road was smooth or bumpy, or if was painted with those dreaded red lines: The bike held onto the chosen line. There’s one particularly long right-hander and the bike just blew past everything on while on its side. It may look vintage, but it didn’t run like a vintage.
But it wasn’t only about going fast. The Thruxton R was equally as happy when trudging along at 50-60 km/h in the city (time to let people ogle at the bike). Like I mentioned earlier, the engine just purrs along when ridden at a steady throttle. On the highways, 3800 RPM in sixth translates to 120 km/h; and that’s the best range to ride in as it’s close to the peak torque of 112 Nm at 4950 RPM. And no, unless you’re chasing a 1000cc superbike (which isn’t a smart thing to do anyway), the engine doesn’t run out of breath quickly although its 97 bhp peak power arrives at 6750 RPM. But what those figures do reveal is how flexible the engine is. Just give throttle at any time and the bike takes off. The Thruxton R could hit 220 km/h really quickly.
In the few days I had the bike, I discovered just how characterful the Triumph Thruxton R really was. It’s got the pose and the poise, plus everything in between. It’s got all that one would want of a bike: Rideability, looks, sound, confidence, practicality and some touring capability (since it’s comfortable), handling, safety, reliability, even low fuel consumption. It did what I wanted it to do and then some.
What about shortcomings? The ride mode defaults back to ROAD when you switch the ignition back on. Honestly though, that’s not a problem, but I had to mention this because I’m forced to find something amiss with the bike, lest I be blamed as being biased. The curse of being a motojournalist, sigh… (Rolls eyes.)
For me personally, it’s been thirty years since I felt this excited. That was when I rode my very first bike out of the shop.
As for you, our Dear Readers, if you’ve never ridden a Triumph or ever felt convinced about the brand, one single ride on this bike will have you going Bri’ish in a hurry.
However, I recommend that the Test Ride Indemnity Form or a sticker on the bike ought to include a statement, “The manufacturer and/or dealer will not be held accountable for increased heart rate, dryness of mouth, palpitations, sleepless nights and obsession to own one (or more) resulting from the test ride. Giggling like a school girl is entirely a personal choice.”
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
Engine type
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8-valves, parallel-Twin, 270o crank
Compression ratio
11.0 : 1
Bore X Stroke
97.6 mm X 80.0 mm
Displacement
1200 cc
Fuel system
Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Maximum power
97 bhp (72 kW) @ 6,750 RPM
Maximum torque
112 Nm (82.6) ft.-lbs. @ 4,950 RPM
TRANSMISSION
Clutch
Wet, multi-plate assist clutch
Gearbox
6-speed
CHASSIS
Front suspension
Showa 43mm USD Big Piston Forks (BPF), adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping, 120 mm travel
Rear suspension
Öhlins dual shocks with piggyback reservoir, adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping, 120 mm travel
Front brakes
Dual 310 mm floating discs, dual four-piston radially mounted Brembo Monobloc calipers
Rear brake
Single 220 mm disc, two-piston Nissin caliper
ABS
ABS standard, swtichable on/off
Front tyre
120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre
160/60-ZR17
FRAME & DIMENSIONS
Frame
Tubular steel cradle
Swingarm
Two-sided aluminium, clear powdercoated
Trail
92.0 mm
Rake
22.8 degrees
Wheelbase
1415 mm
Seat height
810 mm
Dry weight
203 kg
Fuel capacity
14.4 litres
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/valentino-rossi-web-tv-series-announced-teaser-video/ | Valentino Rossi web TV series announced (with teaser video) |
Living MotoGP legend, icon and superstar Valentino Rossi stars in exclusive web TV series produced by Monster Energy.
American energy drinks giant Monster Energy just released a teaser for its upcoming and exclusive web TV series starring MotoGP superstar Valentino Rossi.
Here’s what Monster Energy wrote in their description of the series:
‘Valentino Rossi: The Doctor’ will consist of five webisodes peeling back the layers on one of the biggest names in sport as told by the nine-times world champion himself and those in his inner circle. See Valentino bossing his vast VR|46 business empire with the same character and enthusiasm as his factory M1 Yamaha, listen to friends dissect the reasoning behind his vast appeal and re-live some of his era-defining antics in MotoGP.
From what we can gauge through the teaser trailer, the online series will allow viewers to get to know MotoGP’s living legend, superstar and icon through the perspective of some of the people that know him best. Seasoned MotoGP fans would already recognise the voice of former American MotoGP rider Colin Edwards narrating the trailer.
Besides Edwards, other personalities featured in this series to tell their stories include people from within Rossi’s inner circle such as his father Graziano Rossi and close friend Alessio Salucci. Also featured are some of MotoGP’s top personalities such as Yamaha Factory Racing Team boss Lin Jarvis and Dorna Sport’s CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.
Episodes of ‘Valentino Rossi: The Doctor’ will be published on the official Monster Energy YouTube channel starting May 5.
Sources: YouTube via MoreBikes.co.uk
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/honda-ex5-and-air-blade-launch-and-test-ride/ | Honda EX5 and Air Blade launch and test ride |
In what appears to be a perfectly timed move, Malaysian Honda bikes assembler and distributor this month launched two of its latest offerings, the brand new EX5 Dream 110 moped and the Air Blade scooter. Both models were launched early last week just in time before the Hari Raya festivities.
L-R: Tatsuya Minagawa, Boon Siew Honda CEO & MD Satoshi Okada, CFO Koji Yamada, and deputy chairman Datuk Sri Tan Hui Jing.
Present to launch the new bikes in Awana, Genting were Boon Siew Honda (M) Sdn Bhd’s deputy chairman Datuk Sri Tan Hui Jing, managing director and CEO Satoshi Okada, and Honda R&D Southeast Asia Co. Ltd. Large project leader Tatsuya Minagawa.
Pic by TWMR and Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd
Shortly after the launch ceremony, invited members of the media were then given exclusive test-ride sessions with both new bikes. Naturally, we did not pass up the chance and this article will give you an insight of our first impressions towards Boon Siew’s latest offerings for the mass commuter market.
Pic by TWMR and Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd
Honda EX5 Dream 110
Firstly, the Japanese red wing Marque has opted to update one of its most iconic and legendary products ever, adapting it to better suit today’s mobility needs. Upgrading from its previous 100cc predecessor, the new EX5 now features a new and improved air-cooled 110cc (109.17cc) four-stroke OHC engine as its heart. Complying with Euro 2 standards, it generates 7.56hp and 8.32Nm of maximum torque, and it is paired with a traditional 4-speed Constant Mesh-type transmission. The new powertrain also benefits from a new enlarged 4-litre fuel tank, increasing its fuel economy rate further to 53.6km/litre.
According to large project leader Tatsuya Minagawa, he revealed to us that the new EX5 is a completely new bike from the ground up and shares no common parts with its predecessor. While the 26-year-old classic chassis design is retained, the new bike’s chassis durability has been improved further thanks to the use of new alloys and metals. Besides the equipment of heavy-duty suspension, the new EX5’s standard tyre sizes have been increased in width to 70/90-17M/C 38P (Front) and 80/90-17M/C 50P (rear) for improved stability and grip.
At first glance, the new EX5’s exterior outlooks may not differ much from its predecessors. But in fact, the new bike is actually slightly larger than the last iteration, and it sports several subtle design enhancements. These include the new headlamp design, the updated rear fascia and its use of a new combi tail-lamp design, a new underbody shield protecting the bike’s undercarriage, and a covered black exhaust. Also updated are the widened new seats, the equipment of an improved key system for increased security, followed by an electric starter motor available as a premium feature.
One of the most obvious changes with the new EX5 is the exhaust’s heat shield covers. Also updated is the tail lamp that features modern combination reflectors.
Given its renowned qualities at being a reliable, robust, and tough moped, the EX5 is really a bike of a few words. After riding it for a good 35 minutes around the Awana and Sungai Kedongdong areas in Genting, the first thing we immediately noted was the bike’s improved rider’s comfort from the new seat design. Secondly, we felt that the bike’s ride vibrations and harshness has also reduced greatly from its predecessor, a result of the chassis use of new alloy materials. Although the new EX5 supposedly weighs 5kg more than its predecessor, the larger and slightly more powerful 110cc engine offsets this easily, retaining that unmistakable performance feel of its past predecessors.
The use of wider tyres was also a welcoming feel, and we felt it was something the EX5 sorely needed. The grip and stability improvements from the new tyres were evident when we rode it around the twisty backs roads of Sungai Kedongdong. Typically, the heavy-duty suspension does have the tendency to wobble around when taking a corner at higher speed, but we genuinely appreciate its soft comfortable setup and more importantly, its robust feel.
Electric starter unit is only available as a premium option.Though it is old-fashioned, the traditional drum brakes equipped on the EX5 are robust and are easily maintained at a low cost.
Overall, the new EX5 has what it takes to live up to its predecessor’s capabilities upon first impressions. The only complains we had were the typical lack of glare protection on the instrumentation panel, and perhaps the front’s fascia’s somewhat more feminine looks. Other than that, the EX5 is still a remarkably affordable and highly reliable commuter made for all types of commuters, commanding a lot of respects for that matter as well.
To combat bike theft, the EX5’s key system has been further improved on the new model.
The new EX5 Dream 110 is now available for purchases at authorised dealers, carrying a starting price of RM3,908 for the kick-starter base model, and RM4,145 for the self-starter.
As added bonuses, Boon Siew are offering the bike with a highly affordable down payment scheme of just RM399, as well as an increased warranty period of two years or 20,000km (whichever comes first). Like its predecessors, we reckon that this new EX5 will enjoy long-term market success as how its predecessors did, and it still stands as the default choice amongst entry-level commuters.
Honda Air Blade
Whilst the updated EX5 launched alongside it was aimed towards entry-level commuter buyers, the Air Blade instead presents itself towards the younger-aged and tech-savvy of modern day commuters. The Air Blade 125cc scooter stands as one of the most tech-laden scooters currently available in our market, packaged in a very sleek and stylish design meant to exude confidence.
The Air Blade is the first scooter in our market to feature twin projector headlamps as standard (top), and it is matched by an equally attractive LED tail lamp.
Powering the Air Blade is a 125cc (124.88) liquid-cooled four-stroke single cylinder OHC eSP (Enhanced Smart Power) eco-friendly engine that features the brand’s PGM-FI fuel injection system, Idling Stop System (engine stop/start), and an integrated ACG starter system. Generating 11hp and 11.2Nm of torque, the mill is connected to a V-Matic automatic transmission developed with efficiency and high performance durability in mind. Both the eSP and ACG functions stands as Honda’s use of low-friction technology towards developing an eco-friendly and efficient powertrain without compromising on durability and fuel economy.
The features list with the Air Blade is pretty extensive. It is the first scooter offered in Malaysia with twin-projector headlamps. It also features an LED tail lamp, an LCD screen in the instrument cluster, a large U-Box with a light, a Remote Response Key to help locate the scooter in a parking lot, and Versatile Locks double locks for added security. Increasing the scooter’s safety are features such as the Side-Stand Switch that must be raised to start the engine, the use of tubeless tyres as standard, and more importantly, the equipment of the innovative Combined Brake System (Combi Brake).
The Combi Brake system is an excellent feature of the Air Blade, evenly distributing brake force between the front and rear.
It terms of its exterior looks and stance, the Air Blade looks just as good as how its name sounds like, and has probably won many hearts amongst scooter fans. For a scooter, it has one of the sharpest handling in its class. The scooter’s back bone chassis is primed with front telescopic type measuring 81mm, and twin towers measuring 75mm at the rear. The suspension setup feels well balanced, having excellent amounts of softness for comfort and just enough sporty rigidity giving excellent road feedback. Couple that with the grip from the well-matched tubeless tyres (Front: 80/90-14M/C 40P, Rear: 90/90-14M/C 46P), the Air Blade takes corners easily even at slightly higher speeds.
The icing on the cake with the Air Blade’s chassis and handling however lies in its Combi Brake feature. The system operated using the left hand lever distributes brake force evenly front and rear. This greatly enhances the 112kg (kerb weight) scooter’s braking and handling control. This feature really came into its prime as we test-rode around the twisty hill roads enroute from Sungai Kedongdong to Awana. We rate the Air Blade’s chassis package highly as it inspires a lot of confidence for riders with its high level on controllability, exceptional stability even at high speeds, and its overall agility as a compact scooter.
The U-Box storage under the seat fits one half-face helmet easily with room to spare for smaller items, and comes with a basic tool kit as well.
The Air Blade’s automatic transmission on the other hand feels equally brilliant, delivering all the engine’s power fairly quickly without compromising its very smooth finesse. Also worthy of high praise is the integrated ACG system. It already has an ultra smooth feel with regular start ups, but it really comes into prime in aiding the Idling Stop System, giving the Air Blade seamless engine restarts all the time when in stop and going from idle.
The Remote Respone Key feature is impressive. At the press of a button on the Air Blade’s keys, the scooter’s light will flash, making it easier for owner to locate it in a crowded or dark parking area.
Combining a very dynamic chassis package, a highly advanced and efficient powertrain, as well as adequate practicality, the Air Blade ranks highly in our favourites list. Our only complaint with the Air Blade is perhaps the slightly steep price tag. The Air Blade is priced starting from RM7,708 and is offered with three paintjob options.
The Air Blade proves to be one of the most stylish models currently available in its segment here in Malaysia.
For said price range, you could instead get any one of the Air Blade’s slightly more powerful and cheaper-priced segment rivals. However, the Air Blade’s extensive features list and its advanced efficient powertrain justify the higher costs, and we reckon this is one scooter than will give greater ownership satisfaction in the long term as compared to its rivals.
EX5 Dream 110 brochure (link)
Air Blade brochure (link)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/making-sense-of-rake-and-trail/ | Making Sense of Rake and Trail |
We always see rake and trail figures in spec sheets.
Rake and trail play a large role in a motorcycle’s handling.
Hence the spec sheet figures provide an insight to how the motorcycle will handle.
A motorcycle spec sheet actually contains plenty of information regarding a bike – if you don’t only look at the horsepower figure. Other important aspects include the bike’s steering dimensions, namely rake (also called castor angle) and trail.
Rake and trail figures provide a general insight into a bike’s handling characteristics. We say “general” here because how a bike steers is a combination of rake, trail, chassis balance, centre of gravity, mass centralization, wheelbase and weight. However, the rake and trail figures play the biggest role in terms of steering, handling and stability as that’s where the rider inputs his steering forces.
Credit Moto1.com
What is rake?
Rake refers the angle of the forks in relation to the vertical. First, draw a line along the centerline of the fork to intersect the horizontal ground. Then, draw another line vertically from the top of the fork to intersect the horizontal ground. The angle between these two lines is the rake (also known as steering angle or castor angle).
What is trail?
Let’s leave the line through the fork’s centerline in place. Now let’s draw a line from the steering head’s axis to intersect the horizontal ground. You will find a “gap” between these two lines – this is the trail, measured in milimetres or inches.
How do rake and trail influence handling?
A “steep” steering angle between 22 to 25 degrees gives the bike a quick-steering characteristic. A slight push on the handlebar will have the bike leaning over. A “relaxed” steering angle from 26 degrees and up will result in slower turning, on the other hand.
Similarly, a smaller trail figure results in a quick turning motorcycle and vice versa.
But this is where it gets interesting.
A steep steering angle combined with a small trail will have the bike steering quickly, but it’ll also become “skittish.” In other words, the bike will be nervous in a straight line and under hard braking. A relaxed steering angle together with a long trail results in a longer wheelbase and consequently a more stable motorcycle in a straight line but turns like a battleship (i.e. choppers).
So, manufacturers sometimes combine a steep rake angle with a slightly larger trail. It takes away some quick steering but provides more stability under hard acceleration and braking. This is especially true for sportbikes.
Triple clamp offset – Credit gotagteam.com
Can I change these characteristics?
Yes, you can by replacing the fork triple clamps.
Triple clamps with bigger offsets between the forks’ centerline and steering head result in bigger trail.
With this in mind, you can use a bottom triple clamp with more offset to enlarge the rake angle. Custom builders usually do this to choppers to “rake out” the forks (if they retain the bike’s stock frame).
Check out the bottom triple clamp – Credit wallz123.blogspot.com
Other considerations
As we mentioned earlier, a bike’s handling characteristics is also dependent on a number of other aspects. One quick way to quicken your bike’s steering is by adding more preload to the rear shock to lift the rear. But please do so only within the suspension’s sag range. Do not add so much preload that it overwhelms the shock’s damping.
Another way is to bring the forks up through the triple clamps, effectively lowering the front.
We’ll look at the other aspects in detail next time.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/multi-cylinder-vs-v-twin-better/ | Multi-cylinder vs V-twin – which is better? |
A guide to understanding multi-cylinder vs V-twin engine types, and perhaps answering the age old debate of which is best.
This week, we’ll explore the age-old question of multi-cylinder vs V-twin engine types. But before we dwell deeper into that, here’s a few thing you ought to know about both.
Nearly all motorcycle engines (except the electric ones) make power by generating pressure in the combustion chamber, which then pushes the piston down the bore. The bigger the area of the piston, the more shove that gets generated for a given pressure.
The amount of pressure generated is normally dictated by a few factors but ultimately it is dependent on the amount of fuel/air mixture that is available to burn. The bigger the size of the inlet valve(s), the greater the potential for stuffing the combustion chamber with fuel and air.
The maximum valve size is inevitably dictated by the size of the cylinder head due to the physical parameters. Given that these two factors are critical, it is apparent that the more cylinder cross sectional area available, relative to capacity, the greater the potential to make power. The cross sectional area is directly related to bore dimension because all cylinders are round. Except for the cool NR 750 Honda (pictured) made years ago which had oval type pistons.
If we compare like for like capacity, Ducati’s old final one-litre super bike engine, the 999 (pictured), had a bore diameter of 104mm, which gives a total bore area of 170cm2 for its two cylinders.
The Kawasaki ZX-10R of that same vintage had four 76mm pistons which gives it a total bore area of 181cm2.
It is a similar story with the inlet valves, the Ducati’s four 42 mm inlet valves providing 55.4cm2 of valve area, which is significantly less than the 60.4cm2 that the Kawasaki gets from its sixteen 31 mm valves. It is the twin’s less efficient breathing that prevents it matching the top-end power of the multi, which was Ducati’s argument for a 200cc capacity hike back then in WSBK racing. As a result, twins have to achieve their greatest efficiency at lower engine speeds as compared to fours.
Torque, is a measure of engine efficiency and twins tend to be more efficient, or torquey, through their midrange. Because of their superior breathing, shorter strokes and lighter pistons, the four-cylinder engines can rev higher, inevitably generating much more power at the top-end. Their torque figures may indicate slightly less efficient combustion but remember, it is occurring more often.
Now this brings us to gear ratios. V-twin engines produce their peak power and torque at lower engine speeds than four-cylinders. They must turn the rear wheel further for each engine rotation to achieve road speeds equivalent to those of a four-cylinder machine.
For any given increase in road speed, a multi will gain more revs than a twin. It is the twins’ apparent ability to gain speed with fewer revs that creates the impression of greater ’punch’, or the elastic band sensation aficionados never get tired of.
The way the two engine types deliver their power also has a dramatic influence on feel. Imagine a 90-degree V-twin and an inline four side-by-side accelerating. The twin is running at 10,000 rpm and the four at 12,000 rpm. The four squeezes one of its power pulses to the rear wheel for each half rotation of the crank. This occurs every two and a half thousandths of a second, with the bike making 100mm of progress with every combustion. (Assuming it’s a 180-degree crank and firing order).
The 90-degree V-twin, with its 270-degree and 450-degree firing sequence is delivering its bigger pulses at 180 mm and 300 mm at a more relaxed four and a half and seven and a half thousandths of a second.
I personally, do not ride close enough to the edge to add any objective opinion to the ongoing debate over the effect of engine configurations and firing orders on grip levels and tyre wear. However, given that riding on the limit is as much about feel and confidence as engineering and physics, I do understand why a V-twin which when operating at frequencies, the rider may be better able to perceive as to why the twin would have the edge over the multi once the human psyche is taken into account.
There are more esoteric reasons why twins grab at the rider’s heart. The inline four smacks of common sense and of being a universal consumer product. Due largely to an association with a certain Italian marque, V-twins are somehow regarded as exotic.
Having an engine strapped in-between your thighs makes it a very personal affair. The twin is generating explosions with around twice the ferocity of a multi, and is usually backed up by an induction rumble that leaves the rider in no doubt of all the mayhem occurring in his loins. The multi then, relies on the consequence of its work to bring the thrills.
Have a safe ride everyone and keep the wheels turning.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/national-athlete-working-towards-speedy-recovery/ | National athlete working towards speedy recovery |
This press statement is to update on the condition of Muhammad Zamri Baba. Below, please find approved official statements from Musashi Boon Siew Honda Racing and Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
JULY 29, 2015 – PRESS STATEMENT FROM FIM ASIA ROAD RACING CHAMPIONSHIP
1. PRESS STATEMENT FROM ZULHELMI AHMAD, TEAM MANAGER, MUSASHi BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM
Team MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda Racing is heartened by the positive prognosis delivered by the Hospital Kuala Lumpur. Over the course of the past two months, the team had done its very best to ensure that Zamri receives the best care possible. Throughout, we have been grateful to receive the support from many parties.
In particular, we would like to thank Mr. Ron Hogg from Two Wheels Motor Racing and Astra Honda Indonesia for their generous assistance behind the scenes. We also wish to thank the team at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur, in particular, Datuk Dr. Mohammad Saffari Mohammad Haspani and Dr. Azmi Alias. We have every confidence in the medical team and remain hopeful of Zamri’s recovery.
2. PRESS STATEMENT FROM HOSPITAL KUALA LUMPUR – National Malaysian 600cc Rider’s Speedy Recovery
Kuala Lumpur – Muhammad Zamri Baba, 32 years old, was involved in a high impact injury during the recent Asia Road Racing Championship that was in Indonesia on 7th June 2015. He sustained severe traumatic brain injury with closed fracture of the Right 4th Metacarpal bone and was first brought to Hospital Pentamedika Sentul, Jakarta in and unconscious state. The initial CT scan of the brain revealed a Diffuse Axonal Injury.
Zamri was subsequently transferred to the Siloam Karawaci Hospital in Lippo Karawaci on 8th June 2015 for further intensive cerebral protection care. He was put on an artificially controlled coma to reduce his brain swelling and ventilation support with constant monitoring. His condition was stable throughout the process and showed improvement. He survived the critical stage and is now at the stage of recovery. He was transferred back to Malaysia on 16th July 2015, just prior to Aidilfitri to continue further care at the Department of Neurosurgery, Tunku Abdul Rahman Neuroscience Institute (IKTAR), Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
He is progressing well and his level of consciousness is gradually improving. He is now able to respond to family members and has started to show early signs of recovery.
In addition to nursing care, the team at the Hospital Kuala Lumpur is now focusing on intensive physiotherapy, nutritional care and early rehabilitation program, offered by the various medical disciplines to facilitate his recovery. We are continuously monitoring his progress and quite optimistic that Zamri will make a speedy recovery. Hospital Kuala Lumpur will provide our best possible care and support to him and his family members.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-ducati-scrambler-1100-leaked-photos/ | 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 leaked photos! |
Leaked photos of the upcoming 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 have surfaced online just a day prior the bike’s official launch.
Ducati has planned that their 2018 Ducati World Premiere will see no less than five models being introduced for next year.
The latest addition to the Scrambler family is seen as the best of both worlds between the Scrambler and Monster families.
With just a day away from the 2018 Ducati World Premiere event where the Bologna-based manufacturer plans to reveal no less than five new models for 2018, leaked photos of the all-new 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 have made their way to the land of the Internet.
As most of us had expected, the latest addition to the Ducati Scrambler family features the same iconic facade but this time around, the power output is beefed up thanks to Ducati’s 1,087cc V-twin, air-cooled engine stuffed right in the middle of a slightly bigger Scrambler chassis.
Looking like a Scrambler that has spent months in the gym building those muscles, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 has some resemblance to its Monster cousin, particularly the Ducati Monster 1100 EVO mashed together with Monster 1200 R. There’s also a slight hint from the 2018 Ducati Monster 821. To know more on the new Monster 821, CLICK HERE.
2018 Ducati Monster 821
So far, only the visuals have been leaked online. No other figures were compromised including the power and torque output. There is however a possibility of an “S” version of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 which will probably come with premium parts for the exhaust, suspension and more (at least, that’s what we think AND hope).
It’ll be quite some time before this new Scrambler will hit our Malaysian shores. Alternatively, you can check out the latest Scramblers launched a few months back during the 2017 Art of Speed Malaysia which are the 2017 Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer and Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled.
To know more about these two lovely bikes, CLICK HERE.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic as we will be keeping you up to date with the latest news in the motorcycling industry.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-2023-ducati-multistrada-v4-rally-enters-the-production-stage/ | The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Enters Production |
The newest family member of the Multistrada, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally has entered production and is set to arrived global dealership from February.
The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally features a new adaptive ride height function similar to the Harley-Davidson Pan America.
Equipped with longer suspension travel and a bigger fuel tank.
The Borgo Panigale factory announced the off-road-focused edition late in 2022 with the production only to begin this year.
While it carries the same Granturismo V4 engine as the base model, the Multistrada V4 Rally offers greater off-road capabilities thanks to an increase of 30mm of wheel travel on the Showa Skyhook suspension.
Also new on the Rally edition is an off-road specific mode that cuts the peak power to just 114hp – from the 170 peak power – which also reduced the electronic intervention particularly the traction control. This allows the Rally to offer better slip and slide while off-road.
In addition, the Rally also features a massive 30-liter fuel tank and low-speed deactivation of the engine’s rear cylinder bank.
Nonetheless, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally feature much of its equipment from the standard Multistrada V4 including a 6.5-inch TFT display.
According to Ducati, the Rally comes in three variants; Adventure Radar, Adventure Radar & Travel and Full Adventure.
The 2023 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally are available in ‘Ducati Red’ and ‘Brushed Aluminium and Black’ colour scheme.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advanced-asia-talent-cup-thai-girl-embarrasses-boys/ | Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup: Thai girl embarrasses the boys |
The first ever qualifying session of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup took place in the late afternoon sun at the Losail circuit, in Qatar. With strong winds blowing down the starting straight all the riders had to adapt to the changed weather conditions as the gusts of wind not only robbed them of top speed but also threatened to get under the fairing of the Honda NSF250R machines mid corner and caught out a few of the riders including the tall number 7 Fakhrusy Rostam, who lost the front end early on and only managed to set a fast time with 5 minutes remaining to slot in 15th.
Coping best with the conditions was talented Japanese rider Yuta Date riding the motorcycle number 6. Date has been in and around the top half dozen riders all week during practice but made the most of today to take pole position with a 2:14.369 lap time. Today’s tough weather conditions were felt by all riders, include Date who was over 2 seconds slower then his best lap time the day before.
Date will be joined on the front row of the grid by his compatriot Ryo Mizuno and rising female star Muklada Sarapuech. The Thai rider has never let the fact the she is the only girl in the competition hold her back, in the pits and on the track she has held her own so far and will look to make the most of the front row start for tomorrow’s inaugural Shell Avance Asia Talent Cup race.
Of the Malaysian riders who were selected for the SAATC, all of the qualified outside the top 10 grid spot. Adam Norrodin set the pace for the Malaysians with a time of 2’16.576 to take 12th place. He posted a top speed of 204.1km/h. In 13th spot was his brother Ibrahim Norrodin with a time of 2’16.641 and a higher top speed of 208km/h. In 16th place was Shaffiq Ezzariq with a time of 2’17.335 (211.4km/h) while in 17th was Nazirul Bahauddin with a time of 2’17.365. Azhar Noor qualified 18th with a time of 2’17.823 (201.7km/h) and Helmi Azman took 19th spot with a time of 2’17.935 (203km/h). The last of the Malaysian line went to Shafiq Rasol who took 20th place with a time of 2’18.091 and a top speed of 197.9km/h.
All 22 riders made it inside the qualifying standard for the grid with just 4 seconds separating them so the battles should be close up and down the field as they look to score their first points at the Losail track.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-kawasaki-z900-abs-candy-persimmon-red-rm50959/ | 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS – Candy Persimmon Red! (RM50,959) |
Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) is now offering the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS Special Edition in a brand new Candy Persimmon Red.
The latest red colour scheme is further elevated with Metallic Spark Black highlights to give it a more aggressive appearance.
Priced at RM50,959 (basic price with GST), the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS produces 123hp and 98.6Nm of torque.
Good news to all you Kawasaki fans and enthusiasts out there. Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) has announced that they are now offering the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS in a brand new special edition colour, Candy Persimmon Red!
Highly regarded as one of the best high performance naked bikes around, the Z900 ABS has had great response from the Malaysian market. Being one of the best-selling models of 2017, KMSB is now extending their 948cc inline-four naked bike offering in this new special edition colourway.
To further highlight that bright red colour scheme to the bike’s aggressive ‘Sugomi’ design concept, highlights of Metallic Spark Black can be seen to elevate its already eye-catching appearance. The Z900 ABS is indeed a perfect balance of performance and design courtesy of the brilliant minds over at the Kawasaki engineering department.
Since it’s a Special Edition, the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 in Red comes with a few extras compared to the standard model. These accessories are front axle sliders, engine sliders, engine cover rings, radiator screen, screen cover, single seat cover, tank protector and knee pad and a DC power output.
Powered by a 948cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, the Z900 ABS pushes out a whopping 123hp at 9,500rpm and 98.6Nm of maximum torque at 7,700rpm. All that power is transferred to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox that has been primed with Kawasaki’s latest slip-and-assist clutch.
The special edition 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS is priced at RM50,959 (basic price with GST). To know more, head over to the Kawasaki Motors Malaysia’s official website. Additionally, you can also check our extensive review on the Z900 ABS aka “Speed Demon” in the link below.
TESTED: 2017 Kawasaki Z900 ABS & Z900 ABS SE – “Speed Demon”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/new-yamaha-r1-on-its-way-for-2023/ | New Yamaha YZF-R1 Possibly On Its Way For 2023 |
The International Motorcycling Federation recently updated the list of FIM-approved competition vehicles for 2023.
The spreadsheet includes a track-only Yamaha R6 Race and YZF-R1.
The 2023 track-only R1 could indicate a newly updated street-legal R1 is underway.
The approved list titled “FIM Recognized Competition Vehicles” mostly comprised motocross, enduro, trail and cross country motorcycles and ATVs.
The list also includes a few track-only sportsbike, including the Honda NSF100, NSF250R and the Yamaha R6 Race that continues to be available in the market as a track-only machine after the street-legal model was discontinued.
However, FIM recently updated the list by adding one more model, a new 2023 Yamaha YZF1000W.
For those unaware, the YZF1000 is the Japanese manufacturer’s internal name for the YZF-R1, while the flagship YZF-R1M carries the YZF1000D code.
According to reports, FIM updated the documents on June 15 after receiving Yamaha’s submission on June 9.
While the internal code refers to a new track-only Yamaha R1 for the 2023 model year, it could also indicate that the Japanese marquee is set to introduce a street-legal 2023 YZF-R1 too.
While the matter is still inconclusive, the R1 is due for an update with the current-generation R1 is already seven years in the market since its introduction in 2015. Although Yamaha revised the R1 in 2020 to meet Euro 5 emission standard, it is the right time to introduce a new generation going into 2023.
If there is a new 2023 YZF-R1, there is a good chance there could also be a new 2023 YZF-R1M on its way, which we could find out soon enough.
(Source: Motorcycle.com)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cal-crutchlow-crashes-randy-mamola-dinner-party/ | Cal Crutchlow Crashes Randy Mamola Dinner Party! |
The Malaysian MotoGP is one of the busiest periods in the Bikes Republic calendar. There usually is a bunch of PR events, launch events, meet & greet events and exclusive dinners to attend. A busy period but also a good period as this is the time we meet all our heroes, and are sometimes given a chance to meet heroes from the past.
One of those exclusive dinners was hosted by Alpinestars, the maker of ultra-sophisticated leathers, gloves, shoes and other motorcycle riding gear that are all clinically designed to keep the rider safe in all situations.
The dinner took place at Sama-Sama Hotel the night before race day, and was attended by selected media, Alpinestars distributors from Malaysia and the region and staff of Alpinestars. The dinner was also attended by MotoGP legend Randy Mamola, who was well-known for his on and off track antics.
The American still has his electrifying personality; when Randy speaks, you automatically shut up and listen. He was there as the ambassador of Alpinestars, so he took centrestage and began to share his experiences on track and such.
Randy was about 10-minutes into his talk when suddenly the door opens and Cal Crutchlow walks in. The Brit is also known for his “no-holes-barred” conversation style as he always speaks his mind and does not hold back.
Seeing the two talk about modern races, technology, and Marc Marquez was indeed an honour, an honour we captured on our phone.
We hope you enjoy this video as much as we did being in the same room with these two legends. We did not capture the moment when Cal drops in, but here is how the rest of the conversation goes:
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shell-advance-ride-thru-best-way-to-enjoy-motogp/ | Shell Advance Ride-Thru: Best Way to Enjoy MotoGP |
Visit the Shell Advance Ride-Thru at the Shell MotoGP 2018 for an unbeatable experience.
You will receive the best of the best with a minimal spending of just RM30.
The Shell Advance Ride-Thru is located at the P1 parking area.
Here’s a great way to experience the Shell Malaysia MotoGP 2018. Why not try out the Shell Advance Ride-Thru?
Oh, we know how it’s like at MotoGP. You ride there all hyped up about the atmosphere and race ahead of you. You’re thinking about the glitzy new bikes on display, opportunities to selfie with hot models, win some exclusive prizes, see your heroes in action.
But the road starts to get hectic by the time you near Sepang International Circuit. On top of that, you have to find a place to park your bike. That’ll be RM20, please. And there’ve been rumors circulating around that parts of the bikes go missing. Oh dear.The solution is? Shell Advance Ride-Thru.
It couldn’t get any simpler:
Ride right up to the counter;
Select the Shell Advance Package you prefer;
Leave your bike with the trained mechanics;
Shell provides a new oil filter for your bike – FOC! (No kidding!);
Go relax at the lounge or head into SIC’s mall area;
Your motorcycle will be parked in a secure area right next to the booth after it is serviced.
All for a minimum of just RM30.
However, if you also opt for the Add-On Package, you will receive:
Topping off your tank with Shell V-Power petrol;
A motorcycle cover;
A hill stand ticket.
For just another RM30.
So, not only could you enjoy the race in peace, but your motorcycle would’ve been taken care of in the best possible manner when you return. It’s almost better than selfies with hot MotoGP models.
NOTE: Servicing is only open to motorcycles 250cc and below. Please refer to the picture below.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-mv-agusta-brutale-675-announced/ | New MV Agusta Brutale 675 announced |
New MV Agusta Brutale 675 slated for debut sometime in the second quarter of this year.
The famed Varese-based motorcycle artisans that is MV Agusta is set to debut a new version of its Brutale 675 naked bike this year. Reports indicate that the new MV Agusta Brutale 675 will be unleashed sometime in the second quarter in this year.
Much of the changes will mirror the updated MV Agusta Brutale 800 that was shown off during EICMA 2015. These include revised chassis suspension geometry, the powertrain updated for Euro 4 compliance, an updated MVICS 2.0 electronics suite, as well as visual revisions to the headlight, exhaust, and body.
Notably,MV Agusta new Brutale 675’s in-line three-cylinder engine will likely have its engine timing retuned and re-optimised for more power in the lower rev-ranges, just like the revised Brutale 800.
We will have more details as soon as MV Agusta officially launches its new Brutale 675 later this year. In the meantime, you can refresh your memory of this stylish triple-cylinder naked by viewing its current iteration in the gallery below.
2013 MV Agusta Brutale 675
Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/carbon-fibre-frame-the-future-of-bmw-motorrad/ | Carbon fibre frame – the future of BMW Motorrad? |
As bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts, we love carbon fibre. Most high-end bikes will have this very special material plastered all over and some even to the extent of using them to build integral parts of the bike like the chassis and frame. BMW Motorrad believes that this can be the future of two-wheels and they’ve built the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster as their prime example.
Carbon fibre is renowned for its lightweight properties combined with ultra-strength characteristics. A lot of premium bikes have them in abundance like the BMW HP4 Race and also MotoGP race machines. While most of them are purely for cosmetic purposes, BMW Motorrad wants to find a way to include them in their everyday bikes without a major price hike. Is it possible? Perhaps.
BMW is an expert when it comes to carbon fibre use and their pure electric Vision DC Roadster concept machine hopes to create an affordable carbon bike frames suited for mass production. While the bike as a whole looks pretty awesome, its carbon chassis construction is where we’re seeing it for the first time (apart from the ones used on the HP4 Race).
The manufacturing process called ‘Pultrustion’ allows BMW to create carbon fibre tubes using carbon strands and resins via a heated die where the end results is a highly versatile hollowed carbon fibre rod or tube.
Paired that with another manufacturing process called ‘Bulk Moulding’ where the carbon fibre and resin mixture can be moulded like plastic parts, BMW is able to create a fully functional carbon fibre trellis frame that’s lighter but stronger, made entirely of this magical stuff we all love.
Although the Vision DC Roadster is still in its concept phase, we might just see a working model being launched in the coming years where BMW has filed a trademark for a brand-new model name called the M 1300 GS. This could be really, really interesting and a game-changer for the entire motorcycle industry.
Make your own 2019 BMW S 1000 RR Carbon Edition
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-aprilia-rs-660-price-revealed-in-the-philippines-rm73600/ | 2021 Aprilia RS 660 price revealed in the Philippines – RM73,600 |
The highly-anticipated 2021 Aprilia RS 660 is making waves around the globe and Malaysians have been waiting for its official arrival, which is said to be at the end of this year. COVID-19 may have pushed those plans quite a bit, but something from the Philippines might just give an indicator of how much it’ll cost once it’s here in Malaysia.
Topbike.ph reported that the pre-booking for the 2021 Aprilia RS 660 is now open for the market and it is set to arrive sometime in April next year. Those who pre-book their units from now until 31 December 2020 will be able to buy one at a promo price of PHP798,000, which is around RM68,300 in today’s currency exchange rates.
Once the bike arrives in the Philippines, that price would go back up to the normal PHP860,000, which is around RM73,600. With that being said, the taxes and import duties between Malaysia and the Philippines are vastly different, but we’re pretty sure that our numbers will be slightly higher than theirs.
Before COVID-19, Didi Resources (Aprilia Malaysia) assured us that the 2021 Aprilia RS 660 will arrive before this year ends. We’re confident that they’ll deliver this sooner or later but for the price tag, we won’t be surprised if it’s around the RM90,000 mark considering its premium specs. Stay tuned for more updates.
The 2021 Benelli Leoncino 800 Trail looks dope!
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/17-year-old-racer-dies-following-honda-talent-cup-crash/ | 17-Year Old Racer Dies Following Honda Thailand Talent Cup Crash |
Another young and talented racer lost his life to motorcycle racing and subsequently raises more saftey concerns for young racers.
Thannaphet Kusuwan, crashed on his Honda NSF 250 during the Honda Thailand Talent Cup pre-season test at Buriram Circuit.
Still only 17-years-old, Kusuwan died as a result of injuries sustained during the incident.
While his passing marks a tragic loss for the Thailand Talent Cup, the tragedy is one of many fatalities among young riders worldwide.
Just last year, 19-year-old Jason Dupasquier died during a Moto3 qualifying crash while Dean berta Vinales, passed away after he fell and was hit by other riders at the World Supersport 300 series.
Earlier this month, talented MotoAmerica rider, Jason Aguilar, died after sustaining injuries during a mountain bike session.
On February 7, Northern Talent Cup Champion, Jakub Gurecky was involved in a fatalcrash on his Ohvale minibike in Slovakia.
Meanwhile, in response to the series of death in the Moto3, World SuperSport 300 and European Talent Cup, FIM has raised the age limits for young racers in the world championship.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/brtt-gallery/ | The Official Gallery: Bikes Republic – PTD Time Trial Rd.1 |
The first ever superbike time trial for 2014 took place this past weekend and we partnered with the organisers of Progressive Track Day to make it all the more better.
Progressive are known for their discipline in limiting the number of bikes on track and because of their priority on ensuring safety, they were naturally our choice of partners.
We are still compiling the timing list, but for now, enjoy the gallery.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-aprilia-tuono-660-now-available-in-malaysia-rm77900/ | All-New Aprilia Tuono 660 Now Available In Malaysia – RM77,900! |
The Aprilia Tuono 660 finally lands in Malaysia, months after its official global introduction earlier this year.
This half-naked version of the RS 660 was initially planned to go into production last year, but COVID-19 really threw a wrench in Aprilia’s plans thus delaying the official released including Malaysia.
Better late than never, we guess.
The 2021 Aprilia Tuono 660 essentially carries all the same specs as its full-fairing siblings, minus a few things here and there. The most noticeable is of course the full front fairing, but the Tuono 660 still has that side aero-winglets but with a more compact design.
In terms of firepower, the Tuono 660 is said to produce around 95hp, which is 5hp less than the RS 660.
To make up for that, Aprilia offered a shorter gear ratio for its gearbox plus all the electronic riding aids and APRC suite just like the RS 660 (traction control, wheelie control, cornering ABS, selectable riding modes, quickshifter, auto-blipper, etc.).
The rest is pretty much the same as the RS 660, which should’ve made more sense if they were launched together, but that’s Aprilia for you.
The Tuono 660 are only available in Concept Black for the Malaysia market with a price of RM77,900.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/how-do-forks-work/ | How do Forks Work? |
Hydraulic forks have been around since 1935.
The springs provide the preload function.
Damping works by forcing hydraulic fluid through orifices or shims.
The hydraulic fork has been with us since the BMW R12 in 1935. Since then, forks have been revised to no end in the pursuit of excellence, giving rise to electronically controlled suspension.
But how do they really work? What goes on in there?
Basic principles
The most basic principle involves inserting a spring in each fork. For many years, the spring was the only component to play the role of preload (keeping the suspension from bottoming out) and damping (absorbing shocks).
The earliest form of damping came in more… springs. Yup, you’ve got one with larger diameter, surrounding another with a smaller diameter. The former is longer than the latter, so as the fork compresses more due to a larger bump or shock, the shorter, more tightly wound spring comes into play to put up more resistance. This provides a rising rate suspension, in effect.
Hydraulic damper rod
Next to arrive was the hydraulic fork.
When the hydraulic damper appeared, fluid is pushed through orifices on a damper rod to create damping. The rod is inserted into each fork leg, on top of the spring. The damping rate – how the quickly the suspension reacts – depends on the size or sizes of the orifice or orifices.
Cartridge forks
Fork cartridge – Credit JBI
Instead of using damper with orifices, a cartridge consists of different sized shims. Oil is then forced through. A soft shock will bend the weakest shim to allow oil through. Harder shocks will bend more shims to allow the wheel to move up at a faster rate. This means damping is more precise. One of the biggest advantages of the cartridge fork is that you can replace certain shims for different damping characteristics.
Separate function forks
As the name suggests, one fork leg holds the spring or springs, while the other size holds the damper mechanisms. The one with the spring controls preload, while the other checks damping. This way, the forks could be made to cater to their specific purposes. They can also be lighter as the components are not duplicated. Having different functions on each side doesn’t give off different feedback when the bike is turned to either side as the forks are tied to the same triple clamps.
Electronic suspension
These systems can control preload and damping, or separately depending on the bike. Instead of having the rider adjusting the parameters with tools (plus sweat), it’s all done through a button on the handlebar.
However, the principles remain the same. What’s different is that sensors on the fork and swingram provide real-time ride height and damping data to the suspension ECU. The ECU then determines the correct strategy i.e. setting, depending on the selected mode. The ECU then sends signals to servos to alter the parameters.
Fork oil
Damping works by converting kinetic energy (moving fluid) to heat. This is why oil is commonly used as it could absorb the heat plus has low flow resistance. Changing the oil to difference viscosities or amount alters the damping characteristics.
But bear in mind that it must be replaced at every 20,000 km.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/harley-davidson-marvel-customs-video/ | Harley-Davidson Marvel customs (with video) |
Harley-Davidson Marvel line up are the superhero-inspired custom bikes you’ve always wanted.
Harley-Davidson recently teamed up with comic book franchise Marvel for a series of superhero-inspired custom bikes.
Built by the famed bar-and-shield marque’s Australian dealers, the Harley-Davidson Marvel range consists of 27 bikes in total. Renowned Marvel superheroes inspired the theme of each and every build.
Highlights here include a V-Rod Muscle dressed as Iron Man, a customised Breakout inspired by hammer-wielding demigod Thor, as well as a Street Glide Special that pays homage to all-American hero Captain America. There’s also a Fat Boy Lo with a Hulk-inspired motif, not forgetting a Black Widow-themed Sportster Iron 883 in the mix too.
Here’s the full list of the superhero-inspired custom bikes in the Harley-Davidson Marvel range.
• Captain America, Street Glide Special (Touring)
• Spiderman, Iron 883 (Sportster)
• Iron Man – Muscle (V-Rod)
• Thor, Breakout (Softail)
• Hulk, Fat Boy Lo (Softail)
• Hulk, Breakout (Softail)
• Spider-Gwen, Street 500 (Street)
• Black Widow, Iron 883 (Sportster)
• Wasp. Roadster
• Groot, Street Glide Special (Touring)
• Ultron, Night Rod Special (V-Rod)
• Drax the Destroyer, Fat Bob (Dyna)
• Black Panther, Breakout (Softail)
• Ant-Man, Street Bob (Dyna)
• The Punisher, Forty-Eight (Sportster)
• Ghost Rider, Road Glide Special (Touring)
• Thanos, Street Glide Special (Touring)
The Harley-Davidson Marvel line up will be displayed altogether during the upcoming Oz Comic Con 2016 in Sydney, Australia on Sept 10 and 11. You can find out more about this epic custom bikes collection through its dedicated website, h-dmarvelcustoms.com
Of course, we can’t help but fancy the idea of pairing these up with the recently expanded Marvel x HJC range of superhero-inspired helmets. Click here and here to read our reports of said superhero gears.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ural-sidecars-close-to-debuting-in-malaysia/ | Ural sidecars close to debuting in Malaysia |
Russian cult classic sidecar motorcycle marque Ural reportedly close towards Malaysian debut.
Not too long ago, BikesRepublic.com brought you a report that a local firm is about to introduce the Ural brand of sidecar motorcycles in Malaysia very soon. Well, according to our friends at MotorMe, it seems that firm is close at making that a reality indeed.
The firm in question is Kampung Baru-based Reed Motorcycle Company, which stands as the official importer of the Russian cult brand’s official Malaysian importer. The Reed Motorcycle Company looks set to bring the brand into Malaysia officially by having the all of Ural’s models type-approved by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
Previously, motorcycles that were imported were basically brought in and approved by model. The aforementioned Malaysian firm has reportedly made arrangements with JPJ for testing and approval of all Ural models, and will see the Ural brand becoming the first passenger sidecar motorcycle approved for import in Malaysia.
Furthermore, Reed Motorcycle Company’s managing director, Mohammed Nik Faisullah, also expressed his confidence in distributing the unique genre of motorcycles following the growing increase of overland travel lifestyle fans amongst Malaysian bikers.
Another leading member of the Reed Motorcycle Company named Fadil Ali further added that the company has already received many queries for the sidecar and whether it will organise overland trips exclusively for Ural owners. The latter may be just a matter of time depending on how fast it gets Ural’s models JPJ type-approval.
No arrival date was mentioned or reported, but an official announcement will likely be made through the Reed Motorcycle Company’s official Facebook page when it does. There are also no news on the price though our source suggests a price of between RM70,000 to RM140,000.
Although the sidecar genre never really caught wind here on our soil, the massive worldwide cult following it has will likely see it attract enthusiasts in Malaysia as well.
Source: motorme.my
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-ducati-picks-enea-bastianini-over-jorge-martin/ | OFFICIAL: Ducati Picks Enea Bastianini Over Jorge Martin |
The tribe has spoken.
Ducati Lenovo Team has picked 24-year-old Enea Bastianini over Jorge Martin as Francesco Bagnaia’s teammate for the 2023 MotoGP season.
Bastianini will ride alongside Bagnaia on the factory Ducati machinery for the 2023 season.
Bastianini replaced Jack Miller, who is on his way to KTM.
That said, Martin will continue riding with team Pramac Racing alongside Johann Zarco next year.
Ducati took some time to announce Bagnaia’s new teammate for the 2023 season ever since Jack Miller was confirmed to be moving to Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2023.
Although Martin was heavily linked with a move to Ducati, especially since the Spaniard kicked start the season as 2021 Rookie of the Year, Bastianini began the 2022 calendar with a blast, winning the opening act at Qatar GP followed by his second win at Le Mans.
Just last week, the Italian rider took his first premier class pole at the Red Bull Ring but unfortunately had to retire early in the race after suffering from a puncture.
Nevertheless, Bastianini is thrilled to partner alongside Bagnaia next season in an all-Italian lineup.
“I am thrilled to be able to wear the colours of the official Ducati team starting next year. It was my dream, and now it has come true.
“In these two years in MotoGP, I have learned and grown a lot, and I believe that I can only improve with the engineers and men of the Ducati Lenovo Team!
“I want to thank Claudio, Gigi, Paolo and Davide for trusting me and giving me this incredible opportunity. Still, I also want to thank Nadia and the whole Gresini team for the great support I have received from them during this wonderful season together.
“I will try to close out this 2022 in the best possible way before tackling my new adventure as a factory Ducati rider with total commitment and the right team spirit,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ducati also confirmed that Martin and Johann Zarco will continue their partnership at Pramac’s ahead of the 2023 season.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-rossi-signs-new-two-year-deal-yamaha/ | MotoGP: Rossi signs new two-year deal with Yamaha |
Valentino Rossi will continue riding for Yamaha after inking a new two-year deal with the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP outfit lasting until the end of 2016.
The deal has been in the works over the past few races, but Rossi reportedly needed to clear and verify several terms of the new contract prior to signing it. The offer is a result of Rossi’s somewhat strong performance with his beloved YZR-M1 race machine this season despite not having any race wins so far this season. Nevertheless, his five podium finishes out of eight races so far sees him ranked second in the championship standings at this point.
“It’s great because this was my target; I wanted to continue, I am feeling good and I’m motivated to keep giving my best. I am very happy that I can keep riding my YZR‐M1, that has been my love for so many years and will still be my love this year and the following two seasons,” said the 35-year-old Italian.
With Rossi and reigning champion Marc Marquez confirmed for another two years with their respective Movistar Yamaha and Repsol Honda outfits, all that’s left are their teammates Jorge Lorenzo and Dani Pedrosa. Word from the paddock is that Pedrosa is already close towards renewing his tenure with the Repsol Honda outfit whilst negotiations between Yamaha and Jorge Lorenzo looks almost certain despite taking slightly longer than expected.
Source: Visordown and Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-rolls-out-2022-cb400x-and-cbr400r/ | Honda Rolls Out 2022 CB400X And CBR400R |
Honda has upgrade its entry-level game in the Japanese market by updating the CB400X and CBR400R for 2022.
The 400cc motorcycle now gets a host of upgrades which in turn making them a better performing road-bike in the country.
The 400cc displacement is built specifically to cater lower displacement license owners in Japan who finds obtaining a license for higher-capacity motorcycle painstakingly expensive. This in turn, is why the CBR400R and CB400X is popular in Japan.
Nevertheless, the CB400R and CB400X received premium components for 2022, which includes a Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) forks similar to the one available on the CBR650R. The SFF BP improve handling and cornering remarkably well, hence traslate to an engaging ride.
Following the footsteps of the recently updated CBR500R and CB500X, the 400cc variants now features dual front disc brakes and radial mounter callipers.
The 2022 CB400X also follows the same design language as the CB500X which includes a taller windscreen, full LED lights and longer travel suspension, inverted front forks and dual front disc.
Despite rolls out with dual-purpose tires, the CB400X is a more road oriented bike.
Both models are powered by Honda’s 399cc, liquid-cooled, 180-degree parallel-twin engine that produces 45hp, more than enough for young and inexperience riders to enjoy the ride without getting into too much trouble.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-launches-three-new-bikes-rm98888-to-rm208800/ | Boon Siew Honda launches THREE new bikes! RM98,888 to RM208,800 |
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has kicked off the new year with the launch of three new models which are the 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-RR Fireblade SP, 2020 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing, and the 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin for the Malaysian market. What a way to strengthen a brand’s big bike segment, right?
2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP – RM198,800
The world was in awe when Honda unveiled their latest flagship superbike in the form of the 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP and Boon Siew Honda was quick on its feet to ensure that this very special bike arrives into the Malaysian market as soon as possible.
Heavily inspired by the track-developed Honda RC213V-S, the new Fireblade SP comes hot with a new-generation 1,000cc inline-four engine that punches out a hefty 215hp @ 14,500rpm and 112.7Nm of maximum torque at 12,500rpm.
Other major features of the new 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP are:
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
Selectable Riding Modes
Quickshifter
Bosch six-axis IMU
Öhlins Smart Electronic Control + NPX fork & TTX36 monoshock
Honda Stylema brake system
WINGLETS
Boon Siew Honda has priced it at RM198,800 (excluding insurance, road tax, and registration). Delivery will begin in the second quarter of 2020. For more information on the new CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, CLICK HERE.
2020 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing – RM208,800
The new Gold Wing has been hinted to be launched for the Malaysian market since late last year but we’re guessing that Boon Siew Honda was waiting for the right time to make its official debut. If you’re in the market for the ultimate touring machine that can eat up the mega highway distances with ease, the 2020 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing should be high up on your list.
Looking more like a badass bagger than the previous generation, the new Gold Wing produces 125hp and 170Nm of torque from its massive 1,800cc flat-six engine. Designed with less weight and more evenly distributed, the new Gold Wing is said to handle better, even during slow manoeuvres and traffic congestions.
Major highlights of the 2020 Honda GL1800 Gold Wing that folks should look out for are:
Throttle by Wire (TBW) with selectable riding modes
Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
Integrated Starter Generator (ISG)
Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
Hill Start Assist (HAS) + many more
Want one? BSH will be selling the new 2020 Gold Wing at RM208,800 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration). It is only available in Pearl Glare White for now. For more information, CLICK HERE.
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin – RM98,888 to RM117,888
Perhaps, the other most anticipated models that all of us here at Bikes Republic have been waiting for is the new 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin. BSH was super-fast to bring this baby here and there will be three different variants for customers to choose; the base Africa Twin (Manual), Twin Adventure Sports (Manual), and the range-topping Adventure Sports (DCT).
While more and more superbikes are going for that ‘supersport’ sized package, the new Africa Twin presents Honda’s latest generation full-sized adventurer paired with a more compact package. Ready to kick some ass anywhere it goes, the new Africa Twin range comes with lighter chassis, slim rally-style bodywork, revised riding position, and superior off-road riding performance.
Equipped with a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine, the new CRF1100L range produces 101hp and 105Nm of maximum torque. To heighten up the whole riding experience, it also comes with a variable Exhaust Control Valve (ECV) for improved low-rpm sound and high-rpm performance.
Other updates include:
IMU-managed Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
Selectable Riding Modes (Tour, Urban, Gravel, Off-Road, and USER)
Revised lighter frame with bolt-on aluminium sub-frame
Honda CRF450R-styled swingarm
Cornering ABS
5-inch TFT touchscreen + many more
BSH is pricing the new Africa Twin range as follows (prices excluding insurance, road tax & registration):
CRF1100L Africa Twin (Manual) – RM98,888
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports (Manual) – RM111,888
CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports (DCT) – RM117,888
To know more about the new 2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin, check out the link, below!
2020 Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Breaks Cover
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/europe-car-0-bike-1/ | Europe: Car 0 – Bike 1 |
For the two-wheeling community in Europe, its one up for bikes and all bikers as the infamous German Autobahn highway networks moves towards becoming a tolled highway for all vehicles….. except for bikes of course.
Interestingly, the fabled Autobahn’s new upcoming toll system will only apply to vehicles with foreign license tags. Authorities will start selling permits for foreign vehicles to circulate the Autobahn at border crossings into Germany and other selected location in and around the German nation.
Germany’s neighbours Austria and Switzerland are already implementing a similar requirement for its highways. But the exemption on all bikes – foreign and domestic – means that bikers travelling on the Autobahn need not fork out the toll system’s estimated €100 per year annual fee imposed on all incoming foreign vehicles.
Whilst the system is scheduled to be applied by January 1, 2016, sources reckon that the European Council would make its predicted debate against the move which some have alleged the German government giving preferential treatment benifiting its own citizens/residences. Nevertheless, this could play a role towards a shift in the region’s motorcycling industry’s sales figures. How big a role depends on how the ensuing long legal battle will fare out between the European Council and the German government. Perhaps we could see more bikes on the Autobahn very soon, and more and more bikers taking advantage of the highway’s infamous speed-unrestricted stretches.
How unrestricted? Well, the video below should explain clearly.
Source: Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2014-kawasaki-z1000-leaked/ | 2014 Kawasaki Z1000 leaked |
The new 2014 year Kawasaki Z1000 will be revealed during the EICMA exposition this month in Milan. But that has stopped an image of the new Japanese naked surfacing online.
The image below was posted recently on Dutch site Oliepiel.nl, giving netizens perhaps the first glimpse of the new Japanese naked.
Notably, the image shows the Z1000’s new and significantly more aggressive outlook. At this point, the mechanical bits look pretty much similar to the 2013 Z1000 model, retaining its signature exhaust outlook and design as well.
Also retained apparently according to this photo is the Z1000’s 1,043cc in-line four-cylinder engine, sporting what appears to be a newly painted engine cover. The bike’s frame also appears to be unchanged from the current model’s design.
The signs from this leaked image appears to be disappointing, especially after the rumour that the new Z1000 would supposedly get a proper refreshing, complete with a ZX10R-derived engine. However, this could prove otherwise, but we can only wait for full details to emerge from Milan. Until then, check out the teaser video below done by Kawasaki for the new Z1000 naked.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-provides-assistance-honda-bike-owners-affected-penang-flood/ | Boon Siew Honda provides assistance to Honda bike owners affected by Penang flood |
Boon Siew Honda will be providing assistance to all Honda bike owners that have been affected by the recent Penang flood tragedy.
BSH’s After Sales Service for Flood Relief Programme for Penang will be offering 40% discount on all genuine parts plus free labour charges for all services done within the selected dealers.
Honda bike owners who wish to enter the programme can just contact any of the selected dealers to schedule an appointment.
The recent flood tragedy that has befallen upon Penang has conjured up a tonne of rescue and assistance efforts from all across the country. One of the biggest bike manufacturers in Malaysia that is Boon Siew Honda which is also based in Penang is lending their helping hand by offering assistance to all Honda bike owners that have been affected by the flooding incident.
The assistance effort BSH will start running is the After Sales Service for Flood Relief Programme for Penang. The programme will offer a huge 40% discount on all genuine parts plus free labour charges for all services done within the selected dealers. The programme is set to start tomorrow on 10 November 2017 up until the end of January next year.
“BSH hope to relieve some of the burden that our customers are dealing following the unprecedented flood disaster in Penang. We (BSH) will do our best to provide assistance to our valued customers” said Dato’ Sri Datuk Wira Tan Hui Jing, Deputy Chairman and Deputy CEO of Boon Siew Honda.
Honda bike owners who wish to enter the programme can just contact any of the selected dealers to schedule an appointment. Below is the list of all the participating dealers plus contact details.
Taycon Motor Sdn Bhd
012-5534821 (Ah Pin)
Chang Motor Sdn Bhd
016-4433856 (Ms. Foong)
Sing Huat Motor Sdn Bhd
012-4088398 (Mr. Cheah)
Boon Hai Motor Sdn Bhd
012-4923446 (Ah Hooi)
KB Soon Huat Motor Sdn Bhd
019-5751241 (Mr. Khoo)
Chung Seng Motor (S.Perai) Sdn Bhd
017-4958705 (Ah Chye)
EL Chong Motor Trading Sdn Bhd
014-5822489 (Mr. Chong)
If however your beloved Honda bikes are unable to move and transported to the selected dealers due to flood-related damages, do not hesitate to contact the BSH toll free line at 1-800-88-3993 to request for further arrangement and pickup assistance.
BSH would also like to remind all Honda bike owners not to start the bike’s engine if there’s water present above the air cleaner level.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/how-does-the-powervalve-work-part-1-the-ypvs/ | How Does the Powervalve Work? (Part 1 – The YPVS) |
The powervalve opened up a whole new performance envelope for two-strokes, especially the YPVS.
But what is a powervalve?
And no, the RX-Z isn’t equipped with one, despite being touted at RM 70,000.
We were having a chat in Facebook when the subject of the powervalve came up, centering on the YPVS (thanks Derick). It may be a thing of the past, since powervalves served the two-stroke bikes, but it’s never too late to learn, is it?
Besides, the powervalve evolved to be present in the current breed of four-stroke sportbikes, as well. We’ll get to this later.
What is a powervalve?
To understand what a powervalve is (more specifically, exhaust powervalve), and how it works, we have to have a firm grasp on the workings of a two-stroke engine. You can click here for the full article.
READ: How a Two-Stroke Engine Works
To recap quickly, a carbureted two-stroke engine uses its piston(s) to cover and uncover ports in the cylinder to induct and transfer fresh charge (fuel, 2T oil and air mixture) and exhaust spent gases. However, since the fresh charge and exhaust gases are circulating within the same cylinder, some of it will mix, resulting in loss of power. Besides that, some fresh charge will get pulled out of the combustion chamber, into the exhaust pipe, and ultimately in the environment. This was why two-strokes were banned.
Also, the exhaust port is left wide open, meaning there’s no positive exhaust wave. Manufacturers/tuners overcame this by designing the right kind of exhaust expansion chamber to reflect some of the positive wave back to the exhaust port, in order to stuff some of the fresh charge back in.
But, there’s only so much that could be done. Hence why early two-strokes were peaky and needed to be revved to the stratosphere for any decent acceleration and power. What’s more, the powerband was as thin as a biscuit. You’d be lucky if you’d get 2,000 useful RPMs.
Enter the powervalve
It was Yamaha engineers who discovered that altering the exhaust port’s dimensions resulted in different power delivery throughout the rev range. The more the port was covered, the more low-down torque could be obtained. Partial coverage yielded mid-range torque, while the previous fully-uncovered port provided top-end power.
Awesome idea. Unfortunately, you can have only one but not the others. What do you do? The engineers devised an adjustable system.
They produced a slightly oval shaft which ran across the exhaust port. Controlled by the CDI (capacitor discharge ignition) unit and other sensors, this shaft, now called “powervalve” altered the dimensions of the port. It was actuated by a cable and pulley system, powered by a servomotor.
At low RPMs, the shaft closed over the port (with a small aperture being open to let exhaust gases through). When the CDI read 3,000 RPM, it sent power to the servomotor which pulled the pulley, thereby opening up the valve a little more. 3,000 to 6,000 RPM saw a larger opening, and then opening fully above 6,000 RPM. This was why two-strokes equipped with powervalves blasted off above 6,000 along with a change of exhaust note.
Yamaha called this system the Yamaha Powevalve System or YPVS in short. Its first production use was in the 1983 RD/RZ350 LC (or LC2 as it’s more popularly known).
The results were telling. The 1980 RD/RZ350 LC produced 47 hp at 8500 RPM and 40.2 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM. (Notice that there’s only 500 RPM spread between maximum torque and maximum horsepower – that’s the sign of a peaky engine.) The 1983 RD/RZ350 LC YPVS, on the other hand, produced 58 hp at 9000 RPM and 40.2 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM.
Still peaky, but what the spec sheet didn’t show was the much better low-end and midrange torque and tractability.
Yamaha had actually begun using the YPVS since 1977 in their race bikes with great results, thereby cementing their name in the history books. The YPVS gave Yamaha bikes so a great an edge that they refused to let go of two-strokes for so long.
Also note that YPVS is only available in liquid-cooled two-stroke Yamahas. So, no, the RX-Z isn’t equipped with the system despite being touted at RM 70,000.
What’s next?
Other manufacturers also began equipping their engines with powervalves of their own designs, since they had to circumvent Yamaha’s patents. We’ll cover this topic in the next part.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-to-go-all-electric-by-2035/ | Kawasaki To Go All-Electric By 2035 |
Kawasaki Heavy Industries plans to convert all of its petrol-powered motorcycles to electric by 2035.
Although the global market was hit by Covid-19, there is a resurgent demand for motorcycles. This is partly because two-wheels are seen as the best transportation to move around and carries the lowest risk of infection.
In order to get things moving, Yasuhiko Hashimoto, president of KHI, reveals that the company is open to establishing a partnership with other companies to strengthen environmental efforts.
“Outdoor leisure activity has been popular during the COVID pandemic. We will strengthen our environmental efforts with our sights set on post-pandemic lifestyles.
“Partnerships with other companies may be possible in the future,” he said.
One of the main efforts of KHI via its spin-off motorcycle company, Kawasaki Motors Limited, is to set foot in introducing an electric range.
While there are no electric motorcycles with the Team Green badge, Kawasaki plans to launch ten electric-powered motorcycles by 2025. The main goal is to switch to electricity entirely by 2035 in Japan, Europe, U.S, Canada and Australia.
Interestingly, Kawasaki is one of a few companies that is currently working on a hydrogen-powered engine.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-yamaha-tmax-and-tmax-tech-max-announced-new-frame-7-tft-screen/ | 2022 Yamaha TMAX And TMAX Tech MAX Announced – New Frame, 7″ TFT Screen! |
The most popular maxi-scooter in Europe, the Yamaha TMAX has been updated for 2022.
The 2022 TMAX and TMAX Tech Max get sportier style, compact body, and updated wheels and suspension.
TMAX Tech MAX
At the core of the update is a new radical Supersport-inspired design thanks to a new aluminium frame and sportier riding ergonomics contributed by a slightly aggressive position.
Yamaha also equipped the new TMAX with a revamped adjustable screen with central air vent intake that helps reduce wind pressure.
TMAX Tech MAX
The maxi-scooter also gets a reshaped front end, slimmer waist and new dual LED headlights that create a sportier front fascia.
The new TMAX is also lighter thanks to a new lighter Spin Forged 10-spoke wheels that helps to reduce front inertia by 10% and 6% at the rear.
TMAX Tech MAX
It also features the Bridgestone Battlax SC2 as standard.
The Japanese firm also equipped the 2022 TMAX with a higher-spec 41mm USD front forks and a new single-shock rear.
TMAX Tech MAX
Nonetheless, the new TMAX and TMAX Tech Max makes the same 47hp and 55.7Nm of torque from the 560cc engine.
TMAX Tech MAX
Other exciting features include an all-new 7″ full-colour TFT with smartphone connectivity and Garmin maps connectivity replacing the analogue meter and LCD display available on the 2021 model.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/energica-is-coming-to-indonesia-with-new-distribution-deal/ | Energica is coming to Indonesia with new distribution deal |
It’s not all bad news during this COVID-19 pandemic. There are a lot more infected Malaysians getting better as we move forward with the Movement Control Order but in the world of motorcycling, Indonesia is celebrating a new benchmark with a new distribution deal signed with Energica Motor Company.
The deal to start their business in Indonesia was finalised when they inked a deal with Utomocorp, one of the country’s biggest motorcycle and scooter retailers. With a huge number of bike sales reported annually (third highest in the world), it’s no surprise that Energica wanted to penetrate Indonesia as the first ASEAN country.
Energica will certainly send electric waves in the country as Indonesia contains many die-hard MotoGP fans. With 2021 signalling the return of MotoGP at a new location in Lombok, it’s a smart pre-emptive move as the brand is currently the sole supplier of race bikes in MotoE, MotoGP’s electric race class.
This move also goes hand-in-hand with the Indonesian government to get more than two million electric bikes on the roads by the year 2025. They certainly have a lot of options and capacity to do so, especially with the prospect of long-distance travelling paired with relatively short charging times.
Hopefully, the COVID-19 pandemic will pass soon and countries all over the globe can start getting back into business and more importantly, us riders riding again. We sure miss riding the highways. Heck, we miss riding in general (riding to the near convenience store doesn’t count, by the way).
Energica starts off 2020 with record breaking sales
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-triumph-trident-660-price-expected-around-rm40000/ | 2021 Triumph Trident 660 price expected around RM40,000? |
We’re currently eagerly waiting for the arrival of the 2021 Triumph Trident 660 and we know that Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia is planning to bring it in within the first quarter of 2021. According to an inside source, it is expected that this new 660cc triple-cylinder machine will be priced at around the RM40,000 mark.
This is actually a very competitive price range considering the fact that folks in the UK can get one at around £7,195, which is around the RM38,750. Moreover, the 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is fitted with a 660cc three-cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled engine that produces 80hp and 64Nm (and it’s a CBU model, not CKD).
Looking at how much experience Triumph Motorcycles has gathered in motorsports, especially Moto2, we can expect that the Trident 660 is more than just a stylish-looking modern-retro bike. It also comes with some respectable specs including an assist/slipper clutch, ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, switchable traction control, and many more.
If you dive deeper into what the Triumph Trident 660 has to offer, you’ll understand that RM40,000 is actually a very exciting price range. Once it arrives here in Malaysia, we strongly suggest that you head over to any of the official dealers in Malaysia and give it a go. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.
Maverick Vinales launches WorldSSP 300 team?
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-ktm-390-duke-launched-in-europe-now-euro5-compliant/ | 2021 KTM 390 Duke launched in Europe – now Euro5-compliant |
KTM is kicking off the new year with the launch of the 2021 KTM 390 Duke together with its younger sibling, the 2021 KTM 125 Duke. Styling remains the same as the previous-gen models, with the exception of new graphics and colour combinations.
The biggest change comes in the form of its 373cc single-cylinder engine which is now Euro5-compliant. Power output remains the same at 44hp and 37Nm of torque. This unit comes with a 46mm throttle body, slightly redesigned exhaust, slipper clutch, ride-by-wire throttle, and many more.
The rest of the specs have been retained which includes WP APEX Suspension package (43mm USD front forks + monoshock), 17-inch cast alloy racing wheels, ByBre brakes (front four-piston radial fixed caliper + rear single-piston floating caliper), 13.4-litre fuel tank, full-colour TFT screen, Supermoto ABS, and more.
The 2021 KTM 390 Duke will be made available in either white or grey colour combination and in the UK, it is priced at £4,899, which is just over the RM27,000 mark. Will it make its way into the Malaysian market? KTM Motor Malaysia is currently keeping themselves under the radar at the moment, but hopefully, we will hear from them soon. Stay tuned for more updates.
Written by: Sep Irran
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