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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/attention-short-riders-upbikers-overshoe-might-just-be-the-thing-you-need/
Attention Short Riders, UpBikers Overshoe Might Just Be The Thing You Need
Motorcycles are getting taller by the minute, and while it may seem a good move to increase the ground clearance of every two-wheeler, it spells trouble for short riders. Although some manufacturers such as BMW Motorrad and Triumph Motorcycles have introduced a lower seat option, most of them are yet to offer such features. However, worry not as UpBikers might have just the thing for every short rider on the planet. Introducing UpBikers overshoe, a new product that adds one and a half inches to a riders height, thus helps to maximise manoeuvrability and handling of the motorcycle. According to the Spanish company, the UpBikers overshoe will allow short riders to move the bike backwards and forwards with ease without getting off the bike. The overshoe is secured with a strap around the back heel and features designed to allow for easier gear change and braking. The UpBikers overshoe is currently available via the company official online store for EUR75 (RM376). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-revealed/
2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R & ZX-10RR revealed?
We all know that the new 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is on its way but there has been no indication of what it’ll look like before it’s officially launched. Now, we might just get a first glimpse of the new superbike thanks to some documents submitted for vehicle certification in Australia. These images might be of poor quality but we can get a good idea of what the new 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR will look like. The biggest difference from the previous-gen has to be that front headlight design which highly resembles its supercharged sibling, the Kawasaki H2. This unit will most likely be an LED setup, which goes well with what looks like a new meter display, which is said to be a new full-colour TFT screen (finally). To make way for the new front design, the side fairings are also quite new with bigger openings for better cooling efficiency. As for the engine, it is confirmed that the new 998cc inline-four engine will comply with the latest Euro 5 emission regulations. However, reports have indicated that the power might be around the 200hp mark for the ZX-10R and 201hp for the ZX-10RR. Fairly low compared to Ducati Panigale V4 R and BMW M 1000 RR. 2021 BMW M 1000 RR What’s clearly missing is a set of winglets that are highly rumoured to be made available on the latest Kawasaki superbike offering. Other specs like the forks and brakes seem to look the same as the current model, which indicates that this might not be a completely reworked model but just a slightly updated version of it. More details will be revealed soon as Kawasaki plans to do the big unveiling on 23 November 2020. Stay tuned for more updates. CEV: Adam Norrodin finishes 7th in the Moto2 championship Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-launches-myducati-app/
Ducati launches MyDucati App
Are you a Ducati fan or enthusiast? Well, whip out your smartphones and download the newly-launched MyDucati App. To further strengthen the manufacturer’s relationship with its ever-growing community around the globe for all Ducatisti. The MyDucati App gives you access to all the latest news related to the brand as well as access to special content, reserved events, and most importantly, exclusive previews for any time there’s a new model that lands on your respective countries. Ducati owners can also make use of the Garage section where all the necessary documentation of your bikes can be stored together with the official Ducatista document, the Ducati Card. There’s also a custom configuration section where you can basically design your dream Ducati and share it with your friends. Other features include a Ducati dealer locator, a reserved section for Desmo Owners Club (DOC) community, in-app unlockable special content, and many more. To download, just head over to the Apple Store or Play Store. Those who have already registered with MyDucati can just log in and download using the same username and password. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/win-a-bmw-g-310-r-with-sime-darby-motors/
Win a BMW G 310 R with Sime Darby Motors!
BMW G 310 R (K03) Sime Darby Motors will be organising the Sime Darby Motors DreamRide roadshow from 22-26 July 2020 at 1 Utama and attendees have the chance to win a new BMW G 310 R. Brands that will be taking part in the roadshow are BMW, MINI, BMW Motorrad, Ford, Hyundai, Jaguar, Land Rover, and Volvo. These brands will be displaying their latest offerings here in Malaysia but if motorcycles are your jam (why else would you be reading this if you aren’t), there will a selection of BMW Motorrad for you to have a look, feel, and perhaps buy at this special roadshow. 2020 BMW F 900 R We’re talking the C 400 X scooter, R 1250 GS Adventure globetrotter, the new S 1000 XR sport-tourer, the competitively priced F 900 R and XR, plus the brand’s heritage line, the R nineT. We highly recommend you check out the new S 1000 XR and F 900 series. 2020 BMW S 1000 XR According to Jeffrey Gan, the Managing Director of Sime Darby Motors’ Retail & Distribution arm, “This is the first automobile roadshow by Sime Darby Motors featuring multiple brands. We hope to create a unique shopping experience by bringing all our brands together as well as incorporating lifestyle elements to the shopping experience.” “The sales tax exemption for the next six months, provides admirers of our various brands the perfect opportunity to own their dream cars at a bargain, with the knowledge that their sales and after-sales service needs will be well taken care of by our team of passionate and dedicated professionals”, added Gan. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/expert-suggest-motorcycle-e-hailing-to-combat-traffic-congestion-in-klang-valley/
Expert Suggest Motorcycle E-Hailing To Combat Traffic Congestion In Klang Valley
A local transport expert wants the Malaysian government to reconsider reallowing motorcycle e-hailing services to operate in the country to reduce traffic congestion.  Klang Valley recorded a spike in traffic congestion during the month of Hari Raya. motorcycle e-hailing services is seemed as a way to help reduce traffic jams in major cities.  Due to the recent spike in traffic congestion in Klang Valley, a transport expert has suggested that the government should reconsider introducing motorcycle e-hailing services. Transport expert Rosli Azad Khan said that neighboring countries like Indonesia and Thailand have successfully rolled out such services, yet Malaysia seemed hesitant to allow it. “Motorcycle e-hailing services are not allowed here due to safety issues. They have been done safely in Indonesia and Thailand, but I don’t know why it’s not being introduced in Malaysia,” he said. Last November, Deputy transport minister Henry Sum Agong confirmed that the government has no plans to introduce motorcycle e-hailing services due to the high road accidents involving motorcyclists. However, Rosli suggests that proper screening could be done before hiring riders, and such services should also provide insurance cover for passengers. He said that GPS tracking should also be applied to keep tabs on the riders. – FMT --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-250-duke-and-ktm-390-duke-launched-priced-from-rm-21730/
KTM 250 Duke and KTM 390 Duke Launched! – Priced from RM 21,730
New KTM 250 Duke and KTM 390 Duke have been launched tonight The KTM 250 Duke is priced from RM 21,730 (incl. 6% GST) The KTM 390 Duke is priced from RM 28,800 (incl. 6% GST) One City USJ, 26th September 2017 – The KTM 250 Duke and KTM 390 Duke has been launched to a great reception tonight. The launched of the KTM 200 Duke in 2012 caused a sensation short of a revolution in the small capacity naked sportbike market. For it marked the introduction of a motorcycle that performance in terms of speed (for a 200cc bike), handling and braking, wrapped in a frame and bodywork that was different from anything before it. The KTM 390 Duke was launched soon after to even more resounding success, followed by the KTM 250 Duke, which had racier features such as a slipper clutch. Since then, KTM’s rivals have launched models to rival the Duke’s success, prompting KTM to refresh the smaller Dukes. KTM Malaysia had launched the new 1290 Super Duke R earlier this year, then when pictures of the new baby Dukes started circulating on the internet. Instead of following the same template across the range, KTM has taken the step to give both the 250 and 390 new looks for their own identities. Yet, the styling of both models still unmistakenly within the Duke’s family’s looks. KTM 250 DUKE The new 250 Duke has received what KTM calls, “… more than just an aggressive makeover.” KTM has given the new KTM 250 Duke a newly designed headlamp, reminiscent of the 2014 KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The new styling also brings along a bigger fuel tank (now 13.4 litres up from 11.1 litres), redesigned seats for sporty yet comfortable for long rides whether solo or with a passenger. The Austrian manufacturer’s lay to claim has always been READY TO RACE, hence performance is always high on the list. The 248.8cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine packs a healthy 30 bhp, which is sent through a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch for smoother corner entries. Spent gasses exit through a new exhaust system. The forks are upsided-down WP (of course), but now features open-cartridges. The advantages are lighter weight and ease of maintenance due to fewer parts. The frame and bolt-on sub-frame are also new. Its lightweight steel trellis frame has been updated. The wheelbase is 10mm shorter for more agility, while the rider’s seat is now 30mm taller at 830 mm. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves, single-cylinder Compression ratio 12.6 : 1 Bore X Stroke 72.0 mm X 61.1 mm Displacement 248.8 cc Fuel system Bosch electronic fuel injection Maximum power 30 bhp (23 kW) @ 9000 RPM Maximum torque 24 Nm @ 7250 RPM TRANSMISSION   Clutch PASC slipper clutch Gearbox 6-speed CHASSIS Front suspension WP 43mm USD forks, 142 mm travel Rear suspension WP single shock, adjustable for preload, 150 mm travel Front brakes Single 300 mm disc, single-piston radially mounted caliper Rear brake Single 230 mm disc, single-piston floating caliper ABS Bosch MB9.1 Two channel Front tyre 110/70-ZR17 Rear tyre 150/60-ZR17 FRAME & DIMENSIONS Frame Steel trellis Swingarm Two-sided, cast aluminium Trail 95 mm Rake 25 degrees Wheelbase 1357 mm Seat height 830 mm Dry weight 147 kg Fuel capacity 13.4 litres   KTM 390 DUKE The new KTM 390 Duke has similarly been updated, but the changes are more extensive. It’s overall appearance has taken on its top sibling’s – the 2017 KTM 1290 Super Duke R – appearance. The headlamp takes its inspiration directly from the latter complete with split LED day running light and headlamp. The fuel tank and its flanks have also been updated for a fiercer look. The new 390 Duke also features a multi-function, multi-colour TFT instrument cluster similar to the 1290 Super Duke R’s. The display adjusts its brightness automatically depending on ambient lighting. It also features Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone and is now controllable from the handlebar switches. But it’s underneath all these new panels that matters the most. The new model now features a Ride-by-Wire throttle, for smoother throttle response. The 390cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-valve, single-cylinder engine has been upgraded to produce an impressive 44 bhp and 37 Nm of torque. Additionally, a slip-and-assist clutch is featured in the new 390 Duke, compared to the previous model. The slip function eliminates rear tyre chatter in the event of aggressive downshifting, while the assist function helps to lighten clutch lever pull, besides performing as a self-servo function to apply more pressure on the plates when accelerating to ensure power is fully transmitted to the transmission. The engine and chassis components are then attached to the new frame and bolt-on subframe. With the increase in go, KTM didn’t forgo the stop department either. The new bike now features a larger, 320mm front brake disc with a Bosch ABS system providing a safety net. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valves, single-cylinder Compression ratio 12.6 : 1 Bore X Stroke 89.0 mm X 60.0 mm Displacement 373.2 cc Fuel system Bosch electronic fuel injection Maximum power 44 bhp (32 kW) @ 9000 RPM Maximum torque 37 Nm @ 7000 RPM TRANSMISSION   Clutch PASC slipper clutch Gearbox 6-speed CHASSIS Front suspension WP 43mm USD forks, 142 mm travel Rear suspension WP single shock, adjustable for preload, 150 mm travel Front brakes Single 20 mm disc, single-piston radially mounted caliper Rear brake Single 230 mm disc, single-piston floating caliper ABS Bosch MB9.1 Two channel Front tyre 110/70-ZR17 Rear tyre 150/60-ZR17 FRAME & DIMENSIONS Frame Steel trellis Swingarm Two-sided, cast aluminium Trail 95 mm Rake 25 degrees Wheelbase 1357 mm Seat height 830 mm Dry weight 149 kg Fuel capacity 13.4 litres   PICTURE GALLERY --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yes-mv-agusta-f4z/
Yes, this IS the MV Agusta F4Z
Radical and stunning MV Agusta F4Z CG renders released ahead of scheduled debut. Last weekend, we brought you perhaps the first image of the much-hyped about MV agusta and Zagato collaboration called the MV Agusta F4Z. Now, we can confirm that these images are the real McCoy indeed. MV Agusta surprised everyone by releasing these two computer generated (CG) images early via its official Twitter account. As previously reported, the MV Agusta F4Z is based off the Varese brand’s flagship F4 superbike and features a radical styling penned by Milan-based design firm Zagato. As we’ve initially expected from the teasers, the design is indeed very polarising. This isn’t the usual sharp looks MV Agusta are known for, but the overall design is still very stunning nonetheless. 2016 MV Agusta F4 RR This likely being a one-off concept, we can expect the next generation MV Agusta superbike and supersport models to draw inspiration from this concept’s design. For now, we reckon the base F4 superbike’s 998cc in-line four-cylinder powerplant remains unchanged underneath this concept’s pretty metal skin. We’ll know more once the bike officially debuts later this week. What are your thoughts on this radically polarizing looks of the MV Agusta F4Z? Has MV Agusta struck a design chord or should it stay to what it knows best? Let us know in the comment box on our official Facebook page. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-givi-centre-opens-in-malacca/
New GIVI centre opens in Malacca
Extending its reaches further in the peninsula’s south-western area, renowned Italian motorcycles accessrories brand GIVI has opened a new one stop GIVI Centre in the historic state of Malacca.  Situated along Jalan Bukit Baru, experienced motorcycle dealers Zong Heng Motors operate the outlet, doubling up as a Kawasaki bikes sales and service centre as well. The double-storey 5,000 square feet centre specialises in the sales of GIVI bikes accessories and apparels that manufactured both locally and abroad. More importantly, the outlet is fully equipped with the tools to install the brand’s highly popular MONORACK systems as well, maming it a complete one-stop centre for bikers in Malacca. GIVI Asia’s managing director On Hai Swee and overseas operations manager Joseph Perucca were present to launch the centre along with Melaka Motor Trade Association president Datuk Tan Thian Chye. Mr. On further stated, “The centre is easily accessible – just 15 minutes drive from town and 10km from the highway exit of Ayer Keroh, making it a worthwhile stop-by visit for motorcyclists passing through the area.” The new GIVI Centre in Malacca operates daily from 9am to 6pm and interested customers can call the outlet for more information at: Tel: +606-284 9628 / Fax : +606- 284 9629. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/2022-harley-davidson-nightster-now-available-in-malaysia-rm93900/
2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster Now Available In Malaysia – RM93,900
The 2022 Harley-Davidson Nightster officially unveiled in Malaysia at the 10th Art Of Speed event at MAEPS, Serdang. the Nightster is powered by the new Revolution Max 975T engine. offers a host of electronic riding aids including Harley’s Rider Safety Enhancement package.  The 2022 Nightster runs on the all-new Revolution Max 975T drivetrain and features a host of electronic rider aids. Optimized for performance while maintaining the Sportster DNA, the new Nightster is fitted with a lightweight chassis that carries a powerful engine tuned for strong mid-range performance making it the perfect cruiser for urban and highway riding. At the heart of the frame sits a 60-degree V-Twin Revolution Max 975T with liquid-cooled engine capable of pumping 90hp @ 7,500rpm and 95Nm @ 5,750rpm. Despite the classic silhouette, the Nightster is equipped with modern safety equipment including Harley’s Rider Safety Enhancement, including ABS, rear-wheel control and three riding modes; Road, Sport and Rain. The Nightster is fitted with (non-adjustable) Showa Dual Bending Valve front forks, preload-adjustable twin shock absorbers, single front and rear disc with axially mounted 4-pot callipers. Available in Vivid Black, Gunship Grey and Redline Red, the 2022 Nightster is available for a recommended selling price of RM93,900. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-jorge-lorenzo-to-aprilia-dovizioso-to-yamaha/
MotoGP: Jorge Lorenzo to Aprilia, Dovizioso to Yamaha?
When Jorge Lorenzo signed up to be the test rider for the Yamaha factory MotoGP team, most of us were quite pleased to see the Spaniard back on the Yamaha M1 to lend a helping hand in development for the current riders who have been struggling to fight against Honda’s Marc Marquez. Things weren’t exactly clear as day he was only able to ride the M1 only on several occasions, and the last time he was near the bike for testing purposes, it was only a 2019 model and not even the latest 2020-spec machine. Heck, we’ve seen more on Instagram posting up photos of him enjoying life shopping branded items and riding his beloved Lamborghini.   View this post on Instagram   Thank you @philippplein for gifting me the new ‘Teddy’ capsule collection. ? #pleinteddy #philippplein #ppfamily @felicemassadavarazze A post shared by JORGE LORENZO (@jorgelorenzo99) on Sep 11, 2020 at 6:17am PDT So, we’re not too sure what’s going on with Yamaha and Jorge Lorenzo (again) but it looks like someone else is interested to acquire the services from the three-time MotoGP world champion – Aprilia. Talks about Lorenzo replacing Bradley Smith as its main test rider is currently underway but nothing set in stone so far. With that being said, Yamaha is also rumoured into acquiring the services from another Italian rider, the soon-to-be ‘unemployed’ Andrea Dovizioso. With no confirmed ride for 2021, the Italian will be looking at other ways to stay active in MotoGP as he heads closer to his final race with Ducati. Stay tuned for more updates. Yamaha race bikes for sale by Onexox TKKR SAG Team – From RM6,500 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/norton-atlas-ranger-and-norton-atlas-nomad-unveiled/
Norton Atlas Ranger and Norton Atlas Nomad Unveiled
The Norton Atlas Ranger and Norton Atlas Nomad are finally unveiled. Both are 650cc-powered scrambler-type bikes. The Ranger is off-road capable while the Nomad is for road use. Rumours of Norton working on a scrambler-type modern-classic had been circulating for a long while. And now, the Norton Atlas Ranger and Norton Atlas Nomad have finally been unveiled. Norton Atlas Nomad-1 The Ranger is more off-road capable with a 19-inch front wheel and taller suspension. The Nomad is road-centric with an 18-inch front wheel, on the other hand. Norton Atlas Ranger-1 Both bikes share the same 650cc, parallel-Twin, 270ocrank engine. Norton claims that it produces 84 bhp and 63.7 Nm of torque. The powerplant is essentially Norton’s own V-Four without the rear two cylinders. Make no mistake, the Norton Atlas is no 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200. Its ABS is standard as mandated by the EU but has no Cornering ABS ability. Traction control is basic with road, off-road and off options. The gauges are analog. The bikes are suspended by Norton’s own Roadholder brand and the Brembo brakes are basic. Norton pared the Atlas’ weight down to 178kg dry for more accessibility. The company hopes to sell 2,000 Atlas a year through aggressive pricing. Norton lists the Nomad at £9995 and the Ranger at £11,995 in the UK. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysias-first-honda-bigwing-centre-launched-setapak/
Malaysia’s first Honda BigWing Centre launched in Setapak!
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has just launched Malaysia’s first Honda BigWing Centre in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur. The all-new Honda big bike centre focuses on some of the best Honda models above 250cc. The 2018 Honda X-ADV and Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin were previewed during the grand opening. Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has just launched the country’s first ever Honda BigWing centre here in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur. The all-new exclusive Honda big bike centre made its debut here in Kuala Lumpur thanks to BSH and Ee Tiong Motorsports Sdn Bhd. Known as “The Destination for Riders” the Honda BigWing Centre sets itself apart by providing the Malaysian market with some of the best Honda big bikes ever made. The centre consists of a state-of-the-art showroom, service centre, parts and accessories corner as well as a dedicated customer lounge area. The launch also brought in the much anticipated 2018 Honda X-ADV, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin and Honda CB1000R. These new models will be made available in the first half of 2018 with two more big bikes planned to be introduced by the end of the year. The Honda BigWing Setapak plus three more are in the works of opening in Penang, Selangor and Johor throughout the year. With BigWing, BSH has set a target of sales increase up to 30% for their big bike selections which tranlates to about 1,600 units before the year ends. All current and future Honda owners are welcomed to the new showroom in Setapak where its 5,535 square feet have been filled with great bikes, excellent service centre and comfortable lounge area to rest, relax and hang out. Apart from running the centre, Honda BigWing Setapak will also organise other activities such as international convoy events, gatherings, and many more in the future. To know more about Honda BigWing Setapak, head on over to the Honda BigWing Setapak official Facebook page. What to expect from Boon Siew Honda’s adventure bike line-up in 2018 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/scorpion-exo-adx-1-adventure-helmet-review/
Scorpion EXO ADX-1 Adventure Helmet Review
The Scorpion EXO ADX-1 adventure helmet is the latest addition to the French manufacturer’s line-up. We tested it in hot and humid weather in Thailand. The test route included twisty roads, high-speed sections and slow off-road riding. With the dual-sport/adventure segment growing the fastest now, so is the riding gear to match. And from the French helmet maker, Scorpion, is this Scorpion EXO ADX-1 adventure helmet. I had wanted to test it during the KTM 790 International Media Launch in Morocco, but it was out of stock. But thankfully, Hodaka Motoworld put out an express order and it arrived just in time for the Moto Guzzi V85TT Asia-Pacific Media Launch in Thailand. What is it? The Scorpion EXO ADX-1 is a modular, flip-up adventure helmet. It has a peak as with other adventure helmets but the chinbar can also be flipped up. The peak moves backwards slightly when the chinbar is pushed up. Other features include: Speedview retractable sunvisor which is UV400 protection approved with EverClear anti-fog coating. A switch just behind the “sidepods” activates it. KickFit pockets for eyeglasses. KwikWick2 comfort lining sheaths the interior padding. It’s pleasant to the touch, making the interior feel luxurious. Wind tunnel designed thermoplastic resin shell. Chinbar with EPS protection. Built-in breath guard to direct breathing away from the visor. Micrometric chin strap buckle. 3-vent airflow system. One each at the chin, top and rear of the helmet. Removable peak to turn the helmet into a road flip-up helmet. ECE 22.05 approved. Pinlock Maxvision anti-fog insert included. Fit and comfort The paddings in the helmet felt like pillows and were certainly very comfortable. However, being a flip-up helmet, the cheekpads squeeze on the cheeks when the chinbar was locked in position. the tightness disappeared over time as the padding adjusts to your facial features. As such, it was easier to slip on and remove the helmet with the chinbar up. Fit turned out to be surprisingly good, despite the shell taking on a long-oval shape. I have a round oval head profile, thus could only wear certain helmets without getting a splitting headache. If you can wear an Arai, HJC or Shoei comfortably, you ought to find the ADX-1 comfortable, as well. Further paddings surround the chinstrap, providing extra comfort in to your upper neck. Riding with the helmet Rain was forecast during our media ride, but temperatures soared to 36-degrees Celsius with 80%-plus humidity, instead! The chinbar flipped up smoothly, needing a firm push to lock it in the top-most position. But I truly appreciated how easy it was to flip back down and click into position. It didn’t need a hard slap to lock, hence keeping the helmet in the position you chose without dragging the helmet downwards. The visor can be opened in steps, but the first step was rather high up. Then again, you’re not supposed to open the visor when it rains to prevent water from dripping down into the Pinlock insert. Slipping open the visor helps during low speeds in hot weather, however. Regardless, the aperture is wide and afforded great forward view ahead. Peripheral vision was also really good when i turned my head to the sides to view behind. I always ride with earplugs, regardless of helmet. As speeds increased over 120 km/h, there was a slight rumbling inside, but it was actually quieter than most adventure helmets. But what surprised me even more was how the helmet stayed stable even at speeds of 160 km/h and above. There was absolutely zero buffeting and lift, no blurred vision and fatigue, even with a GoPro mounted on top. The shell has plenty of strips and “nicks” around it for aerodynamic purposes. They make the helmet look cool, too! The vents appeared small, but they moved air quickly through the helmet reasonably well. I only flipped up the helmet only once to grab some air when we started pulling out of a parking lot and kept it down even when riding off-road and through a stream at crawling speeds. Conclusion The Scorpion EXO ADX-1 passed the test with flying colours. It goes on record as the very first flip-up helmet that I truly liked. To top it off, the ADX-1 is available at a price of only RM 1,350 (retail), making it a real value buy. Just Google the model and you can see that it’s highly rated in the many countries it’s available in. This variant is called the Battleflag, but it’s also available in many other interesting graphics and colours. Check it out at Hodaka Motoworld (official distributor) and their authorized dealers listed below. Official Scorpion EXO Dealers in Malaysia KUALA LUMPUR   Hodaka Motoworld (Distributor) 03-7785 2558 SELANGOR   Bikeworld Klang Sentral 03-3343 6677 M Gear Sdn. Bhd. 03-6178 2524 PENANG   EL Chong Motor Trading Sdn. Bhd. 04-583 1772 KEDAH   Bikers Gallery Sdn. Bhd. 04-720 6666 NEGERI SEMBILAN   Excel Bikers Sdn. Bhd. 06-761 8746 MELAKA   Skyboy Motorbike Accessories 017-755 5457   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-bmw-s-1000-xr-unveiled-at-eicma-2019/
2020 BMW S 1000 XR Unveiled at EICMA 2019
The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR was unveiled at EICMA 2019, as speculated. The new inline-Four engine was sourced from the S 1000 RR. Engine power remains the same without ShiftCam but the bike is 10 kg lighter. The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR was unveiled at EICMA 2019, as widely speculated. Revised to comply with Euro5 standards, the popular bike is almost completely new. The engine is the obvious place to start. The biggest news or disappointment, depending on how you look at it, is that it doesn’t receive the BMW ShiftCam variable valve timing and lift head like its S 1000 RR brethren. Euro5’s new regulations would’ve meant a power loss in such as case, but BMW engineers managed to retain the same 163 bhp peak power output. However, midrange power is higher while 4th, 5th and 6th gears are taller for smooth long-distance riding and fuel economy. Additionally, there is a new lighter action slip-and-assist clutch, along with new electronics. Adopting the compact and light engine from the new S 1000 RR means the XR loses some weight, too. BMW also adopted the aluminium “Flexi Frame” from the superbike to the XR, shaving 2.1 kg. The suspension and subframe are 9% lighter. Overall, the 2020 BMW S 1000 XR is 10 kg lighter than its predecessor. The new frame allows for a revision in ergonomics. The thinner midsection allows the rider to clamp his inner thighs to the fuel tank better, while seating position is moved forward by 20 mm and the handlebars are 30 mm narrower for a natural feel. Rider aid includes four ride modes: Dynamic, Road, Standard and Rain. There is an option for Dynamic Pro which includes rider customisable settings. Cornering ABS is standard, as are LED lighting and the 6.5-inch TFT screen. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/japanese-aftermarket-specialist-makes-carbon-kit-for-2019-suzuki-katana/
Japanese Aftermarket Specialist Makes Carbon Kit For 2019 Suzuki Katana 
Japanese aftermarket parts specialist, Magical Racing, has introduced a number of carbon components for the 2019 Suzuki Katana 1100. Magical Racing introduced a bespoke carbon parts for the 2019 Suzuki Katana. The carbon kit includes the iconic longtail seat inspired by the 80s Katana.  The kit consist of bar ends, belly pan, headlight cowl. front and rear fender and a windscreen. However, Magical Racing also introduced the nostalgic longtail seat which was previously available on the 80s Katana. The longtail unit includes a tail light and is available in three trims, FRP Black, Plain Weave Carbon and Twill Weave Carbon. Also, there is an option to put a piece of carbon on the back of the tank.  Other carbon parts available for the 2019 Katana also includes a carbon-black BST wheels. According to Magical Racing, the longtail unit is available from JPY177,000 (RM5.9k) up to JPY273,600 (RM9.1k). Meanwhile, the Suzuki Katana is available in Malaysia for RM77,989.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/zack-and-ari-recreate-dumb-and-dumber-mini-bike-trip-to-aspen/
Zack And Ari Recreate Dumb And Dumber Mini-Bike Trip To Aspen
If you have seen 1994 Dumb and Dumber, you will instantly recognize one of the most iconic scenes in the movie, when Lloyd and Harry rode to Aspen on a mini-bike to return a lost briefcase. While the two actors (Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels) did not actually ride to Aspen (obviously), Zack Courts and Ari Henning from RevZilla went ahead and recreated the scene for real. In the movie, Lloyd and Harry took just 3-minutes to reach Aspen, Colorado, but in reality, Zack and Ari had to travel more than 600 kilometres in a span of 3-days on a 4hp mini-bike capable of topping just 50km/h! In the 30 minute video available at RevZilla YouTube channel, you can witness the pair faced mountains of challenges from uneven pathways to gravel roads and occasionally had to change the rear tyres a few times before reaching their destination. “The rider triangle is more accommodating than it looks, thanks to Ari stretching the frame to match the movie bike. “The seat, on the other hand, is worse than it looks and the paint-shaker vibration rattled our joints to numbness. “Ari had predicted that the novelty of the bike and the journey would wear off after about 15 minutes on the road, but I’m not sure it even lasted that long. “On some motorcycles, the thought of open pasture might be appealing, but aboard our hog, it was exciting enough just staying on the straight and narrow,” said Courts. So if you consider riding to Lemang To’ki or the occasional run to Starbucks at Genting Highland onboard your precious BMW GS as an adventure, you might want to hold that thought. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/boon-siew-launches-new-honda-wave-alpha/
Boon Siew launches new Honda Wave Alpha
Malaysian assembler and distributor of Honda bikes Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd has updated its line up for the Malaysian market after the firm introduced its latest offering, the new and enhanced Honda Wave Alpha moped earlier today. Present to launch the bike were several of Boon Siew’s top tier management personnel alongside several members from the Wave Alpha’s development team as well. As it is, the Wave Alpha replaces the previous Wave 110 model, bringing along with it an enhanced exterior design and an improved powertrain as well. The moped can be had in two forms starting with a basic variant primed with drum brakes and spoked wheels followed by a higher-spec version equipped with disc brakes and cast wheels instead. Both however share the same air-cooled 109.1cc single-cylinder engine that produces 8.3hp @ 7,500rpm and peak torque of 8.59Nm @ 5,500rpm. The engine is paired with a four-speed constant mesh transmission. Not only more powerful than the previous Wave 110’s unit, the new powertrain is also much more efficient as it boasts a fuel economy rating of 51.8km/litre. Underneath, the moped also features a convenient U-box storage for added practicality as well as a colourful new and clear instrument panel design. Other notable features include the contoured new exhaust silencer design plus improved leg protection from the stylishly redesigned forward fairing. Available for viewing and purchase via authorised dealers starting today, the all-new base drum brake-equipped Honda Wave Alpha carries a basic starting price of RM4,132.94 (6% GST inclusive) whilst the disc brake-equipped unit is priced from RM4,556.94 (6% GST inclusive). Honda Wave Alpha launch @ Pullman Hotel, Bangsar Honda Wave Alpha --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-motorcycles-malaysia-london-adventure-day-2-part-1/
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia London Adventure – Day 2 (Part 1)
Hyde Park in late autum - Courtesy of montcalm.co.uk Day 2 of the Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia London Adventure trip opened up a free day for this writer. He decided to visit the famous tourist sites since it was his first ever visit to the city. The places included Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben among others. Dato’ Malique and the Tan family had to attend the Triumph Global Dealer Conference on Day 2 (23rdOctober 2018) of the TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES MALAYSIA LONDON ADVENTURE trip. That meant a full day of excursions for me. I sat up in my bed 4am and couldn’t go back to sleep. My temples pounded in excitement, adventure. I turned on the telly (TV). “It is going to be a blustery day but there’s plenty of sunshine. We should see 15oCelcius in the afternoon and dropping to 5oCelcius at night,” said the weatherperson. 15o Celcius is like the weather up in Cameron Highland at night. I was thinking of just wearing a knit sweater and hoodie, but Dato’ Malique advised that I should put more layers on. He’s very well-versed with the city. Asep had invited me earlier to visit the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. It’s a 5-hour return trip by car, however. It pained me to refuse but I had to, since it was my first trip to London. PLANS FOR THE DAY: Stroll under the canopy of yellowing leaves in Hyde Park; Witness Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace; Head to Westminster Abbey to see where Sir Isaac Newton among others is interred; Visit Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament; Turn back towards St. Paul’s Cathedral; Head back to Tower Bridge to photograph it in evening sun and with the lights on at night. Greedy? Not according to Google Map, anyway. Okay, let’s be on our way. Chop chop! GETTING THERE Travelling in London is easy as the Underground train services (colloquially called “The Tube”) wind through the entire city like a spider’s web. Or how an earthworm digs through the soil. Photo credit: Rafique Muzaffar Razak There’re also above-ground tains, busses, taxis, Uber, Santander bicycles besides The Tube. There’s even a River Thames ferry service. The best way of seeing the city is by these methods since you’re above ground, but the Tube is the fastest as you don’t have contend with traffic. Google Map suggests which form of transport to take and it’s up to you to decide how quickly you want to get there, or if you’re willing to change trains or transports multiple times. However, comfortable sneakers are a must since you’ll be doing lots of walking. HYDE PARK I left the Grange Tower Bridge Hotel at 7.30am and walked to the Tower Hill Underground Station for the train to Hyde Park Corner station. 30 minutes later, I entered the park from the south-eastern end and found what I had always wanted to see. Paths leading into the distance under canopies of trees with black trunks and yellow(ish) leaves. Hyde Park in late autum – Courtesy of montcalm.co.uk The leaves were still greenish-yellow as the autumn weather hasn’t turned really cold. We would later learn that it’s the first time in 50 years. To cut the story short, Hyde Park was massive! How huge? Try 350 acres. For a more relatable representation, the distance between Speaker’s Corner at the northeast end to Hyde Park Corner is 1.9km! Henry VIII established the park in 1536 as a hunting ground before it was opened to the public in 1637. Hyde Park was recently named as the world’s fourth most valuable park at £19 million. Deciding that Speaker’s was too far, I veered onto a side path ended up at the lake called “The Serpentine.” I’ve covered walked 1.93km (1.2 miles) in Hyde Park, so far. There was a light wisp of fog hanging over the lake when I got there. Geese, ducks, gulls, pigeons, besides many species of birds hung around. I found a café called Surpentine Bar & Kitchen at the southern bank. Feeling pretty cold despite being wrapped in a t-shirt, knit sweater, hoodie and down jacket, I stopped for a hot latte. I went outside and took a bench to enjoy the view and cool air. I suddenly realized I was this one crazy Asian sitting outside relishing the cold while all the Mat Sallehs were inside the heated café… I continued my stroll through the park towards the Palace afterwards. Guided by Google Map, I was soon back at the arch where I first entered the park. Right at the moment, a mounted policewoman came through. She nodded at me and said, “Please stay where you are.” I nodded back. Then, the first horse-mounted soldier rode up in ceremonial regalia. Having researched about the royal troops prior to the trip, I identified him as part of the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery. They’re a ceremonial unit of the British Army, created in 1946 as an homage to horse-mounted troops by King George VI. When his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II succeeded to the throne, she decided to retain the unit and its name in his honour. More troopers followed behind, including six-horse units towing World War I 13-pound field guns (cannons). The unit parades in such fashion only when there are state functions such as the monarch’s birthday, royal weddings or state visits. They’d ride to an area in Green Park and fire their cannons as a ceremony. I couldn’t believe my luck that I saw them! WELLINGTON ARCH – CONSTITUTION HILL Crossing the road brought me to the awe-inspiring Wellington Arch. It was built in 1826, but the current dark quadriga(four-horsed chariot) was installed in 1912. King George VI planned it (and the Marble Arch) to commemorate Britain’s victories in the Napoleonic Wars. The arch used to be the outer gateway to the road leading from Buckingham Palace called Constitution Hill. It’s therefore the grand entrance into central London. Next was the Commonwealth Memorial Gates. They’re monuments to pay tribute to armed forces of Commonwealth countries who served Great Britain during WWI and WWII, including those in the Battle of Malaya. The main thruway along Constitution Hill was closed. More and more security personnel started to appear. I soon spotted a large signboard which announced the time of the ceremonial firings to be performed by the King’s Troops who I ran into earlier. It turned out that the King and Queen of The Netherlands were visiting England at that very moment. I almost slapped myself a few times to believe that I was really here! BUCKINGHAM PALACE It got more and more crowded the nearer I got to Buckingham Palace. Thousands were waiting to witness the Changing of Guard. There was no good vantage point, so I proceeded further up The Mall and staked out a position. Just in time too! I heard a marching band from the Palace and there they were, the Queen’s Guards marching proudly by in their iconic red tunics and black bearskin hats. Tourists may think of them as novelties, but they’re actually operational soldiers. Besides that, it’s a myth that the guards would not respond to provocations (as some uncouth Chinese tourists found out the hard way). It’s too bad I didn’t have more time. I had to leave as soon as the Queen’s Guards passed and had to miss the Queen’s Life Guard cavalry. ST. JAMES’S PARK Google Map showed the fastest route as walking down Birdcage Walk, but St. James’s Park proved too beautiful to resist on this beautiful morning. I caught a glimpse of it from the embankment outside the Palace earlier. I’m glad I gave in to my heart. Pathways wind romantically through the park, flanking a lake. This 57-acre site was established in 1603 (415 years ago!), although not its present form. There were birds everywhere, but the pelicans were the most notable. These’re the descendants of those presented to King Charles II by a Russian Ambassador in 1664. I’m starting to love London. It’s as if I was breathing in history everywhere I went. Crossing the Blue Bridge which straddles both sides of the lake afforded a great view of the Horse Guards, HMS Finance Ministry, the London Eye, The Shard to the east and Buckingham Palace to the west. A large island called “Duck Island” on the eastern bank obscured the view to Downing Street where the Prime Minister’s official residence is located. INTERLUDE We’ll stop here for Part 1 as the article is getting too long. Next up are Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament. Please do check out our coverage of the Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia Visit to London (Day 1) report. Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia Visits London – Day 1 “Game of Crowns” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-limited-edition-tvs-apache-rtr-165-rp-sold-out-in-india/
The Limited Edition TVS Apache RTR 165 RP Sold Out In India
According to TVS Motor Company, the limited-run Apache RTR 165 RP launched just over a week ago in India has just sold out. The entire 200 units sold out in just a few days thanks to the sale process that was done entirely online. The 164.9cc single-cylinder four-valve engine is the first motorcycle to ever produced under the Race Performance (RP) division. The RTR 165 RP makes 19hp @ 10,000rpm and 14.2Nm @ 8,750rpm and power is delivered to the back wheel via a 5-speed super-slick transmission. The RP is not just a nameplate, to ensure the best performance in its segment, the RTR 165 RP gets a new cylinder head with a 35 per cent increase in intake. The engine also gets a 15 per cent bigger valve controlled by Hi-Lift Hi-Duration cams and dual spring actuators for increased performance. TVS also revised the bore stroke ratio of 1.37, to allow free-revving up the redline. Other features include a new headlamp assembly and a 250mm rear disc brake claimed to be the first in its class. Considering the success of the RTR 165 RP, TVS will spawn more RP series in the near future. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/free-check-ups-and-20-discount-on-spare-parts-for-flood-affected-bikes-ducati-malaysia/
Free Check-Ups And 20% Discount On Spare Parts For Flood Affected Bikes – Ducati Malaysia
Ducati Malaysia is offering free comprehensive check-ups and a 20 per cent discount on all spare parts and accessories for all flood-damaged Ducati motorcycles. Affected owners can reach out to Ducati Malaysia by scheduling an appointment at Ducati PJ, Ducati Welly or Ducati Penang. The initiative should put some relief to owners who were badly hit by the recent flash flood, especially those who live in flood-affected areas in Shah Alam and Hulu Langat. Free comprehensive check-ups will also allow Ducati authorized service centre to properly identify parts that should be replaced and components that can still be salvaged during the effort to revive the motorcycle to working conditions. Ducati Malaysia also offers 20 per cent off on Ducati Performance parts. Do log in to DucatMY_OnlineStorre to explore all the collections available. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-2021-triumph-trident-lands-in-malaysia-from-rm43900/
All-New 2021 Triumph Trident Lands In Malaysia – From RM43,900!
As far as middleweight naked bike goes, the latest 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is certainly one of the most highly anticipated motorcycles for the coming year. Officially launched today, the Trident offers class-leading tech and impressive handling at a very competitive price package. For the Malaysian market, the Trident is available from RM43,900 for the Crystal White dan Sapphire Black colour options while the Silver Ice/Diablo Red dan Stealthy Matt Jet Black/Matt Silver Ice comes at RM44,900. In terms of firepower, the all-new Trident comes with a 660cc three-cylinder DOHC liquid-cooled engine that produces a respectable 80hp at 10,250rpm and 64Nm of torque at 6,250rpm. This package offers a punchy power delivery throughout its rev range together with a unique triple-cylinder soundtrack. A six-speed manual transmission handles all the power delivery to its rear wheel and that is further enhanced with the presence of an assist/slipper clutch. There’s also the addition of a ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, and switchable traction control for even greater riding efficiency across the board. As for its looks, the 2021 Triumph Trident 660 is definitely a bike that would be turning heads. A minimalist roadster paired with Triumph’s iconic triple muscles is contemporary yet timeless at the same time. This whole look is tied together with its five-spoke wheels (17-inch aluminium), elegant swingarm, and many more. Other highlighted specs include: 14-litre fuel tank Front Showa 41mm upside down separate function forks (SFF) Rear Showa monoshock RSU, with preload adjustment Front 310mm twin discs + Nissin two-piston sliding calipers with ABS Rear 255mm single disc + Nissin single-piston sliding caliper with ABS Multi-function instruments with colour TFT screen My Triumph Connectivity System (turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro, phone & music control via Bluetooth) Handlebar mounted switch cubes 189kg (kerb weight) + more There are over 45 dedicated Triumph optional parts and accessories to further elevate its riding experience, which also includes a bi-directional quickshifter. Service interval? Every 16,000km. Very impressive, indeed. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-dani-pedrosa-announces-retirement/
MotoGP: Dani Pedrosa announces retirement
Dani Pedrosa has officially announced his retirement from racing at yesterday’s MotoGP pre-race conference. The Repsol Honda rider stated that although he had many great offers to continue racing, he needed to focus on other priorities in his life. Dani Pedrosa is easily one of the most successful riders after a prosperous 18-year career. After months of speculations, Repsol Honda’s Dani Pedrosa finally made his official announcement regarding his future in MotoGP. At the end of the 2018 season, Dani Pedrosa will retire from motorcycle racing and yes, we are very sad to hear about it. According to Pedrosa himself, “Next year I won’t compete in the Championship, I’ll finish my career in MotoGP this season. It’s a decision I’ve thought about for a long time and it’s a hard decision because this is the sport I love but despite having good opportunities to keep racing, I feel like I don’t live racing with the same intensity as before and I now have different priorities in my life.” “I would like to express how fortunate I feel to have had this experience and these opportunities in my life, it’s been an amazing life to have been racing for such an important team and in front of all the fans. I achieved way more than I expected and I’m very, very proud of what I’ve done in the sport. I’ve fulfilled my dream of becoming a racer and that’s something that I didn’t expect when I was a kid watching TV, watching riders in the World Championship,” added Pedrosa. “I would like to take this time to say thanks to Dorna and to Honda for giving me this opportunity way back in 1999, and to all my sponsors who’ve been with me throughout my career. I would like also to say thanks to my family, and to all the fans who supported me throughout my career and through the thick and thin, who helped me sending so many messages to overcome difficult things in the past.” It has been a wild 18 years of motorcycle Grand Prix racing for Dani Pedrosa. Considered as one of the most successful riders of all time, the 32-year-old has gained some very impressive numbers over the years including: Three world championships (125cc in 2003 & 250cc in 2004 and 2005) 153 podiums (112 in the premier class) – third highest of all time 285 Grand Prix race starts – Third highest after Rossi (373) and Loris Capirossi (328) 54 career race wins – the same as MotoGP Legend, Mick Doohan 49 pole positions – sixth highest of all time 4,086 points collected so far – second to Valentino Rossi who’s currently at 5,974 points As a way to show their gratitude, respect, and support to Dani Pedrosa, MotoGP has created the hashtag #ThankYouDani and from us, fans and other professional racers, there are no better words to say. Thank you for the good times, Dani. We will always be your number one fan. Image source: MotoGP --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-vyrus-986-m2-street-version-price-announced-e37940-rm178270/
2017 Vyrus 986 M2 Street Version Price Announced – €37,940 (RM178,270)
Image source: www.motoblog.it The 2017 Vyrus 986 M2 Street Version is priced at €37,940 for the complete bike and €27,930 for the street bike kit Powered by a Honda CBR600RR engine, the bike also contains parts and technology directly taken from WorldSBK and MotoGP Super limited to only 50 units worldwide Image source: www.motoblog.it According to reliable source over at Asphalt & Rubber, Vyrus has contacted and informed them with news regarding their official price for the 2017 Vyrus M2 Street Version. The set price for those interested in owning one of the exclusive and exotic piece of rolling art has been set at €37,940 (around RM178,270 after direct conversion). Yikes! Image source: www.motoblog.it It was only about a month ago that Vryus announced the street legal version of their 986 M2 and a lot of us were really excited about it. At the time, the rumours were pointing at an asking price of around €25,000 (around RM119,300). Clearly most of us missed the marked by a big gap of €12,940 (around RM60,800) which is enough to purchase a Japanese middleweight sports bike. Image source: www.motoblog.it With all rumours set aside for good, Vyrus also confirmed the price for the street bike kit at €27,930 (around RM131,230). The street bike kit gives the rare opportunity for the owners to actually build their very own 986 M2 Street Version which meant the sports bike will be more meaningful as compared to the completely build-up version. As a refresher regarding the Italian bike, it is actually powered by a Honda CBR600RR engine but the rest of the equipment is pure excitement. With state-of-the-art swingarms attached to both front and back end, any of the 50 owners will have a variety of choices when it comes to the Ohlins suspensions all the way to Brembo brakes packages available for the 986 M2 Street. CLICK HERE to know more about the bike in our previous post. Get one now before it’s too late because they will only make 50 of these babies! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/what-will-happen-if-theres-no-motogp-in-2020/
What will happen if there’s no MotoGP in 2020?
The folks at Sepang International Circuit (SIC) recently held an online interview with the Team Principal of the Petronas Sepang Racing Team (SRT), Dato’ Razlan Razali, regarding the state of MotoGP in 2020. One of the questions that were asked that caught our attention was what will happen if there’s no MotoGP this year? There have been a lot of discussions between Dorna, IRTA, racing teams, and sponsors regarding the current development of MotoGP (and motorsports in general) revolving around COVID-19. With several races have already been postponed (and more predicted to come), things are not looking good. The next two rounds after France which are Mugello and Catalunya are also at risk of being cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in both countries.  But what happens if there are no races at all? According to Dato’ Razlan, “We’ve discussed with Dorna on what will happen if there are no races this season. Supposedly, we have a big chance to fight for the championship with Fabio. So, what happens if races don’t take place?” “Do we want to make it (2020 season, contracts, etc.) null and void this year and then continue 2021 like it’s 2020 with the same arrangement? That is something we will fight for because we look forward to this year with good bikes and riders. So, we want to win with them. At least one of two wins is good enough but in theory, we can fight for the championship.” “In motor racing is we are basically a form of entertainment. If there are no races, sponsors could evaluate their position, but Alhamdulillah, Petronas is committed to continue with their commitment this year. That is a survival line for us,” added Dato’ Razlan. He also mentioned that Dorna has been supporting all the teams financially to help stay afloat during these hard times. It was also mentioned that Dorna is looking into restarting the MotoGP races as late as August where they will try to squeeze in between 10-15 rounds before the middle of December. That would be the best-case scenario where teams and riders don’t really mind if the races are back to back every weekend or even two races per round. MotoGP: 2020 season will restart in August? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-ducati-scrambler-range-rolls-into-production/
2023 Ducati Scrambler Range Rolls Into Production
Ducati has announced the start of production of its new Scrambler motorcycle at the Borgo Panigale plant.  Next-generation Ducati Scrambler officially rolls into the production line at the Borgo Panigale factory.  The new Scrambler comes in three modes; Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift.  The new bike, which was already showcased in the seventh episode of the Ducati World Premiere 2023, is a complete renovation of the iconic model that maintains the original energy and spirit of the Scrambler family that has made it a worldwide success. The new Ducati Scrambler features a captivating and modern design that is accessible and safe for everyday use. It is dedicated to those who seek freedom and wish to express their lifestyle through their choices. The production of the first unit was celebrated at the new Finitura e Delibera Estetica building, where CEO Claudio Domenicali christened the bike. The new Scrambler offers customization possibilities that go beyond the previous model, thanks to the new Icon tank. The cover of the coloured portion can be easily replaced, as can the mudguards, rim tags and headlamp covers. The new model comes in nine colours, including three basic colours and six other options available as an accessory kit. With a weight reduction of 4 kg, the new Ride-by-Wire and Quick Shift accessory, the Ducati Scrambler offers a brilliant and safe ride. The bike is more modern, digital, and technological thanks to Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control, and the new colour TFT dashboard. All these features maintain the simplicity and authenticity that have always represented essential values for all Ducati Scrambler enthusiasts. The new Scrambler comes in three models – Icon, Full Throttle, and Nightshift. All models offer a relaxed riding position and low weight, providing enthusiasts of all experience and abilities with great riding pleasure, both in urban journeys and on trips out of town. The Scrambler family has always been a fan favourite, and the new generation is set to continue that legacy. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-dominates-dakar-rally-2020/
Honda dominates Dakar Rally 2020
The Monster Energy Honda Team celebrated one hell of a victory at the 2020 Dakar Rally as their rider, Ricky Brabec, topped the overall podium with a strong performance throughout all the stages held for the very first time in Saudi Arabia. The victory also marked a new achievement as Ricky Brabec became the first American rider to win a Dakar Rally race. Hailing from California, USA, Brabec and his HRC-powered Honda CRF450 Rally took home the win with two-stage victories (Stage 3 & 6) and impressive performance with an essentially uninterrupted lead from Stage Three onwards. Other Monster Energy Honda Team riders also showed strong performance throughout one of the world’s toughest rallies where the riders covered super tough conditions through 7,800km in total. José Ignacio Cornejo won stage 4 and stage 12) while Kevin Benavides took home stage 7 and Joan Barreda in stage 10). According to Yoshishige Nomura, HRC President, “First, I would like to congratulate Ricky Brabec on his victory. Also, I thank Joan Barreda, Kevin Benavides and José Ignacio Cornejo on their fine performances. And finally, I thank the team staff and development team for making this win possible. It has been seven years since we returned to the Dakar, and by learning from our losses, and everyone involved working hard, we’ve finally won.” “The relentless work of everyone involved over the past seven years, in other words, a Team Honda effort, made this possible. We must not forget that Paulo Goncalves contributed immensely to the first six years, and we thank him and pray he rests in peace. We are also deeply grateful to all of our sponsors, and our fans worldwide,” added Nomura. Paulo Goncalves dies in Dakar Rally crash --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/epic-tandem-drifting-two-triumph-street-triple-r-nakeds/
Epic tandem drifting with two Triumph Street Triple R nakeds
Watch stunt riders hoon and drift in tandem with two Triumph Street Triple R streetfighters. What’s better than one manic stunt rider hooning about on a Triumph Street Triple R? Well, two of course! This new video published recently by Triumph Motorcycles North America features renowned freestyle and stunt riders Nick Apex and Ernie Vigil drifting in tandem using two highly modified Triumph Street Triple R nakeds. The BikesRepublic team have previously seen Nick Apex in action whilst he was here in Kuala Lumpur for the Petronas Motorsports Street Demo. Suffice to say, the American rider’s bike control is impeccable. The same goes his partner in this video Ernie Vigil. As mentioned, the bikes both riders used are Triumph’s cult favourite the Street Triple R streetfighter. In stock form, the Street Triple R’s renowned 675cc triple-cylinder heart healthily generates 106hp and 69.1Nm of torque to bring its claimed dry weight of 168kg up and about rapidly. However, the bikes featured in the video have been tuned with Garrett GT2502R turbochargers plus a few other go-faster parts that healthily bump power figures up to a whopping 180hp. And the tyres that both Nick and Ernie have shredded to pieces whilst drifting here are Avon Storm 3D X-M. A photo posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 1:51am PDT For us, this video has perhaps made our withdrawal from testing the Triumph Street Triple R last weekend even worst. By the way, local distributors Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd is holding special offers for said model and you can find out more by visiting its showrooms in PJ, Penang and its newly opened JB centre as well. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-retro-scrambler-cl250-likely-coming-for-2023/
Honda Retro Scrambler CL250 Likely Coming For 2023
Honda is set to introduce a new retro scrambler based on the Rebel 250 for 2023. the CL250 will be built based on the Rebel 250 engine and chassis. shares the same 249cc single-cylinder engine that makes 25hp and 22Nm.  Japanese publication Young Machine previously revealed Honda’s plan to launch an all-new CL500 scrambler based on the engine and frame of the Rebel 500. The rumour relating to CL500 has been making its round in Japan for some time, but it was only recently that Honda essentially confirmed the new retro scrambler after filing trademarks for the CL500. However, new evidence has emerged that Honda plans to add a smaller CL250 alongside the 500cc variant. Like the CL500, the smaller retro scrambler will borrow the same engine and chassis structure from the Rebel 250, currently on sale in the Asian market. Honda Thailand recently filed a trademark application for the CL300 name due to the fact that there is where Honda manufactured the Rebel 300 and Rebel 500. Honda also applied for the CL500 naming rights in several other countries, including Thailand and Australia, suggesting that the new model will likely be launched later this year. Meanwhile, the upcoming CL250 is expected to offer 25.6hp and 22Nm thanks to the 249cc single-cylinder engine found in the Rebel 250. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-buy-ducati/
Royal Enfield to Buy Ducati?
India’s Royal Enfield was rumoured to have been approached as one of the companies to possibly take over Ducati. Ever since the major Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal in 2015, the company has hired Evercore to search for potential buyers of the big red giant motorcycle manufacturer. The selling price could go upwards of €1.5 billion (around RM 7.1 billion). One of the biggest brands in the history of motorcycling has sparked the interest of one Indian company, Royal Enfield. Ever since news broke out that the Volkswagen Group is planning to let go of the giant Italian bike brand, it is rumoured that Royal Enfield was one of the entities approached for the next company in line to take over the giant red Italian brand. Ever since the huge emission scandals that started to turn ugly (very ugly) back in 2015, Volkswagen has been suffering a huge financial blow and has since hired an investment banking firm Evercore to reassess in putting Ducati up for sale. If all goes well, the handover to the new owner can fetch up to €1.5 billion (around RM 7.1 billion). Royal Enfield which is under Eicher Motors is one of the biggest and ever growing bike brands in India and also other regions including Europe, North America and Asia. Rumours have been going around regarding the interest of acquiring Ducati as one of their own but none can confirm or even comment on this hot topic just yet. Whatever the case may be, Ducati is certainly a brand that can produce significant sales margins with figures running upwards of €593 million (around RM 2.8 billion) back in 2016. With over 50,000 models sold worldwide last year, the brand is still said to be enjoying a steady and healthy growth annually. All in all, the future of who will own the red Italian giant is still in the dark especially with other interested parties like Hero MotorCorp, Polaris, Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda and even Kawasaki just to name a few who have been approached for the possible acquisition but nothing set in stone for now. It might look like a big undertaking (which we’re sure it will be) but with technologies that have help them to win multiple WorldSBK and MotoGP titles is certainly an enticing advantage. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. In the mean time, CLICK HERE to check out all the Ducati bikes available in Malaysia in our exclusive Bike Buyer’s Guide. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-honda-st125-dax-arrived-in-indonesia-rm24-6k/
2023 Honda ST125 Dax Arrived In Indonesia – RM24.6k
Honda officially announced the return of the Dax to its MiniMoto range back in March 2022, joining the already available Monkey and MSX125 Grom. The ST125 Dax officially makes a comeback and further expanding Honda’s MiniMoto portfolio. The lifestyle motorcycle features a 124cc SOCH air-cooled engine.  Less than six months after its global introduction, the ST125 Dax has now made its way to Indonesia for IDR81.5mil (RM24,600). The ST125 Dax returns with a 124cc SOCH air-cooled motor that makes 9.25hp and 10.8Nm. While power is delivered to the rear-wheel via a four-speed gearbox, the bike also comes with a centrifugal clutch. The Dax weighs 107kg and gets a 31mm upside-down fork, twin-rear shocks, 12-inch mini bike wheels wrapped around with balloon tyres and a full LED light setup. Other notable features include an LCD and chrome handlebars. Despite the miniature size, Honda fitted the Dax with a pillion grab rail since the bike is designed from the get-go to support up to two people with the help of the steel frame. Additionally, the 2023 ST125 Dax comes with single-channel ABS paired to a 220mm front disc, 190mm rear disc and hydraulically-operated brake callipers. The ST125 Dax is available in two colour options; Pearl Nebula Red and Pearl Cadet Grey. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/zongshen-unveils-unique-yomi-125-a-mini-chopper-inspired-scooter-for-beginners/
Zongshen Unveils Unique Yomi 125: A Mini Chopper-Inspired Scooter For Beginners
Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Zongshen has rolled out a distinctive offering for young enthusiasts seeking a taste of the biker lifestyle. the Yomi 125 is a scooter in disguised as a classic American chopper.  powering the Zongshen Yomi 125 is a modest 124cc single-cylinder engine. The recently launched Zongshen Yomi 125 breaks away from traditional norms, adopting the aesthetics of a classic American chopper in a compact, beginner-friendly form. In a departure from standard motorcycle design, the Yomi 125 boasts an elongated front end with a relaxed head angle, reminiscent of iconic choppers. However, beneath its unconventional appearance lies a modest 124cc single-cylinder engine generating a humble 8hp and 7.2Nm of torque. This engine, paired with a scooter-inspired CVT transmission, ensures an easy and convenient riding experience, ideal for those new to motorcycling. zongs With a low seat height of just 65 centimeters and a featherweight 113-kilogram build, the Yomi 125 offers approachability for riders of all statures. The model’s affordability adds to its appeal, with a price tag of just CNY9,800 (RM6.2k). While the Zongshen Yomi 125’s quirky design and affordability could attract a following among young riders in China, it seems that the manufacturer has no plans to introduce this unique mini chopper-inspired scooter to international markets. Though the Yomi 125 may not revolutionize the motorcycling world, its blend of unconventional styling, ease of use, and affordability could serve as a stepping stone for novices, inviting them to explore the world of two-wheeled transportation. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-vata7-x1-is-a-carbon-lid-equipped-with-brake-lights/
The Vata7 X1 is a carbon lid equipped with brake lights
Vata7 X1 carbon fibre helmet revealed, packs a host of LED lighting details aimed at improving safety through increased visibility. Vata7 X1 is a lightweight carbon fibre full-face helmet that aims to enhance rider safety. It features an array of LED lights that matches those on your bike, complete with turn signals. Carbon fibre shell construction sees this lid weigh in from as low as 0.9KG. LED lights have customisable modes via smartphone app. Possibly one of the most visible helmets ever produced. This is the Vata7 X1 full-face helmet and, besides being constructed out of lightweight carbon fibre, it’s brimmed with an array of LEDs which, according to makers Vata7, aims to improve rider safety by increasing visibility. The integration of LEDs in helmets isn’t new – we’ve seen an attempt by French brand Shark through its Skwal and Skwal 2 full-face helmet series. Other brands have also taken different approaches like incorporation reflective surfaces in their products. Where the Vata7 X1 differs though is the fact that the array of LEDs it’s cladded with can be matched to the lighting of your motorcycle. In fact, the LEDs are arranged in a way where it has a clearly defined tail and brake lights, as well as indicators (signal repeaters). Besides motorcycles, Vata7 says that the X1 is also compatible with scooters, as well as micro-mobility vehicles such as e-scooters and electric skateboards, thus showcasing the versatility of its technology. Additionally, Vata7 says that the X1 does all of this wirelessly, which allows the wearer to move their head freely just as how they would when wearing a normal helmet. Furthermore, Vata7 also noted that the lights offer fully customisable modes via a smartphone app. Said LED lights are both water- and shock-proofing, which can last for 50,000 hours, whilst the battery can reportedly last up to 12 hours on a full charge. There’s even a a factory-integrated microphone and speaker set present too. Given it’s carbon fibre construction, it’s unsurprising to note Vata7’s claims of the X1’s light 0.9KG claimed weight (small size). Naturally, larger-sized iterations of the Vata7 X1 will weigh more. As for price, the Vata7 X1 reportedly commands £700 – approx. RM3,807.38. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-2021-colours-for-yamaha-135-lc-from-rm6868/
New 2021 colours for Yamaha 135 LC – From RM6,868
To welcome the new year, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has announced that the Yamaha 135 LC is now available in new colour options for 2021. Customers now can choose between three standard colour options and one special edition colour. The standard colours for the 2021 Yamaha 135 LC are Yamaha Blue, Fiery Red, and Metallic Cyan. If you’re looking for something that truly stands out, go for the Stealth Gold colour option. The standard model’s price remains unchanged at RM6,868 while the special edition Stealth Gold comes in at RM7,118 (prices excluding insurance, road tax & registration). Each new purchase of the 2021 Yamaha 135 LC will be complemented with a free Yamaha disc lock worth RM100. In terms of specs, everything is retained including its 134cc single-cylinder SOHC liquid-cooled engine which produces around 12hp and 11.8Nm of torque. Other specs include a 4.0-litre fuel tank, telescopic front forks, monocross rear suspension, 17-inch cast wheels, 105kg dry weight and many more. For more information, head over to any of the authorised Hong Leong Yamaha Motor dealer located across Malaysia. Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Svartpilen 401 & 250 launched in Malaysia – From RM24,800 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marquez-fractures-arm-the-end-of-his-2020-season/
MotoGP: Marquez fractures arm – the end of his 2020 season?
Say what you want, but the MotoGP race yesterday showcased one of the greatest saves of all time, courtesy of Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez. Going at 150km/h at Turn 4 of the Circuito de Jerez, no one would’ve thought that the Spaniard would be able to save himself in the gravel but what he did after that was nothing short of incredible. An extraordinary save from an extraordinary rider! ?@marcmarquez93's day ended in disaster but he still produced this superhuman save in the early stages! ?#SpanishGP ?? pic.twitter.com/ZSgct9fZg1 — MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 19, 2020 Dropping from P2 all the way to P17, the five-time MotoGP world champion clawed his way back through half of the field after only a number of laps. Passing world-class MotoGP riders like they were cruising around the park, Marquez managed to catch up to Maverick Vinales who was in P3 towards the end of the race. It was one of the most astonishing feats in MotoGP history but before Marc could even complete this miracle, the unthinkable happened. One of the worst highsides of his career took place at Turn 3 and he was quickly attended by first aid medical officers on standby. ? @marcmarquez93 will undergo surgery after this horrendous crash at Jerez! We wish the world champion the very best in his recovery! ?#SpanishGP ?? pic.twitter.com/BOSmDo7dfG — MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 19, 2020 According to MotoGP‘s Traumatology Specialist, Dr Mir, “Marc Marquez has suffered an injury, it seems, from a direct impact of the tyre to the right arm, resulting in a fracture to the shaft of the humerus, a complete fracture although it isn’t completely displaced, with some possible paralysis of the radial nerve, although we’re not certain. This injury has been immobilised here for when they decide to move him to Barcelona to carry out a definitive treatment.” Sometimes things don’t go as you expect but the most important thing is to get back up and move on. I hope you enjoyed the comeback! Now I’ll have an operation to fix the fracture of my right humerus. I promise you all that I will come back as soon as possible and even stronger?? pic.twitter.com/5FCIamVZLx — Marc Márquez (@marcmarquez93) July 19, 2020 Even worse, MotoGP Medical Director, Dr Charte added “Tomorrow Dr Mir will leave for Barcelona to proceed with treatment, if there is no more news regarding the tissue, to surgically treat the humerus. That being said, we can’t say in any absolute terms if he will be at the next race or Brno or Austria. It’s not the moment, we’ll talk about it next week.” Is this the beginning of the end for Marc Marquez and his pursuit for glory in the 2020 world championship? It’s not going to be easy if he has to sit out a few rounds considering the shortened season, but the medical officers associated with MotoGP have been known to pull off a few miracles. Remember when Jorge Lorenzo broke his collarbone at Assen 2013? Moto2: Hafizh Syahrin scores impressive P6 in Jerez --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-streetfighter-v4-sp-set-for-2022-debut/
Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP set for 2022 debut
Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP set for launch as 2022 model, likely with specs mirroring Panigale V4 SP. The fiercest fairing-less streetfighter to wear the famed Ducati badge ever is set to get even fiercer. Recently leaked US emissions certification filings indicate that a higher-spec Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP variant is set to debut as a 2022 model. The aforementioned leaked documents apparently confirms that the SP retains the same 1,103cc V-Four as existing Streetfighter models have, but it will have claimed output readings of 208hp and 123Nm. Presently, Ducati only offers the Streetfighter V4 in ‘standard’ V4 and more tech-laden V4S forms. As we’ve seen Ducati do countless times, we can expect this new performance flagship SP variant to boast similar specs as its fully-faired Panigale V4 SP cousin. In all likelihood, we can expect the Streetfighter V4 SP to borrow bits from the Panigale V4 SP such as carbon fibre wheels, top-shelf Brembo Stylema R anchors, billet aluminium STM EVO-SBK dry clutch, anodised aluminium alloy pegs, lighter 520 pitch chain, not forgetting a host of upgraded and track-focused electronics in the mix too. We will perhaps get the full picture (and details) of the new Streetfighter V4 SP later this year during at the annual Ducati World Premiere event that usually precedes the annual EICMA show in November. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-teases-hybrid-motorcycle-on-dyno/
Kawasaki teases hybrid motorcycle on dyno
2021 will mark the year that’ll most likely shift the paradigm of motorcycling into the newer and cleaner age thanks to hybrid technology and electric-powered machines. Kawasaki is one of those manufacturers who are working on something special where both electric and internal combustion come together in one motorcycle. A short teaser video was posted by Kawasaki regarding the possibilities of its new hybrid drivetrain, which is leaning more towards marketing rather than the technical aspects of things. Nevertheless, it shows their commitment to developing something radical in offering the best two-wheeler that can benefit all sorts of street riding situations. In the video, Kawasaki showcased that its new hybrid motorcycle will come in three different modes – the conventional internal-combustion unit for long-distance riding, pure electric for the urban environment, and the combination of both for some fun in the mountain twisties. At the end of the video, Kawasaki showcased how its hybrid drivetrain works on the dyno. A smooth yet silent start and as the revs get higher, the internal combustion engine seamlessly kicks in to take over and the video ends shortly after. It’ll be interesting to see what Kawasaki will offer in its new hybrid range in the future, and we can possibly assume that a concept will be launched sometime next year. We’re guessing that this new two-wheeler will make its official public appearance either at the Tokyo Motor Show or EICMA in 2021. 2021 Kymco DT X360 adventure scooter finally unveiled Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-bmw-s-1000-rr-delivery-comes-to-a-halt/
2023 BMW S 1000 RR Delivery Comes To A Halt
BMW Motorrad, the German motorcycle manufacturer, has announced a technical campaign affecting some buyers of the much-anticipated 2023 S1000RR superbike. BMW to replaced all 2023MY S 1000 RR with a new brake lever pin.  All delivery of the 2023 S 1000 RR will be put on hold temporarily.  According to a statement released by the company, a small number of S1000RR motorcycles with milled levers will be equipped with a new brake lever pin. While the upgrade may cause a delay in delivery for some customers, BMW Motorrad has reassured them that they will receive their motorcycles soon. The company has also stated that new S1000RRs in stock will have the new part fitted over the next few weeks before they are delivered to customers. The S1000RR is a flagship model for BMW Motorrad, renowned for its high performance and advanced engineering. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the S1000RR has won praise from critics and enthusiasts alike, making it one of the most sought-after superbikes on the market. The technical campaign is a proactive measure by BMW Motorrad to ensure the safety and reliability of their motorcycles. The company has a long-standing commitment to providing top-quality products and services to their customers, and this latest upgrade is a testament to that commitment. BMW Motorrad has advised affected customers to contact their dealers for further information and to arrange for the upgrade to be carried out as soon as possible. The company has also expressed its gratitude to its customers for their patience and understanding during this process. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-thailand-motogp-event-cancelled-is-malaysia-next/
2021 Thailand MotoGP event cancelled. Is Malaysia next?
Fears of Covid-19 pandemic forces 2021 Thailand MotoGP round’s cancellation. Is Malaysia next? Bad news from the MotoGP front as the sport’s commercial rights holder Dorna Sport have confirmed the cancellation of the 2021 Thailand MotoGP round late last week. Initially slated to run at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram just before the Malaysian GP in October this year, the cancellation comes amidst the rising number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the Kingdom recently, likely due to a new ‘Delta Strain’ of the virus. It’s the latest venue from the Asia Pacific region to be dropped after Japan and Australia. Though Indonesia is still listed as a reserve venue with its brand new Mandalika Circuit facility, it seems highly unlikely construction and homologation can be completed in time. As a result, questions have also arisen regarding the fate of the 2021 Malaysian MotoGP event that’s scheduled to run after the now cancelled Thailand round. Though Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has neither confirmed or denied anything presently, the odds of the 2021 Malaysian MotoGP round being staged seems highly unlikely at this point. Besides the pandemic situation, which has arguably worsened in Malaysia of late, there are logistical and economical factors to consider too. Firstly, there’s the cost of hosting and managing the MotoGP circus for just one single fly-away event be viable for organisers? Compounding that further is the question whether spectators will be allowed to attend the event or not. Clearly, it makes no sense commercially to host a spectator-less round, more so if the hosting venue greatly depends on ticket sales revenue to operate. As Dorna scrambles to find a replacement round, rumours within the paddock indicate more double-headers to happen this year as it did last year. Presently, the 2021 calendar has already seen one double-header held in Qatar. The next double-header is slated for Austria’s Red Bull Ring, the extra race here added following Finland’s cancellation. Recently, after Japan and Australia were cancelled, Texas was reintroduced, as well as a second appearance in Portugal. Should Malaysia be axed, Dorna will likely stage replacement MotoGP rounds with more double-headers at existing venues (i.e. Texas, San Marino, Aragon, Valencia). We’ll know for sure in due time. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/back-to-the-1980s-with-cfmoto-papio-xo-1/
Back To The 80s With CFMoto Papio XO-1 
CFMoto is ready to take another aim at Honda’s MSX125 (Grom) with the upcoming Papio XO-1, as confirmed by the latest type-approval documents filed in China.  The Papio XO-1 is CFMoto’s upcoming minimoto range.  The XO-1 is equipped with a 126cc, air-cooled single, making a claimedt 9.4hp.  The Papio XO-1 (as shown on the side fairing) is a second variation of the current 126cc, single-cylinder Papio mini bike currently on sale in the US and Europe.  However, while the base Papio is somewhat a mini version of a modern naked bike, the upcoming XO-1 has styling that is clearly inspired by motorcycles from the 80s.  That said, the single photo in the document reveals a dual-headlight semi-fairing motorcycle reminiscent of a classic bike.  Interestingly, the Papio XO-1 is not just a case of putting on new bodywork onto the standard Papio; instead, the former features a new inverted fork, clip-on handlebars and cast aluminium rear footpegs. Also new is a new chain-guard, body panels and redesigned fuel tank.  The retro theme continues with a single, circular LCD instrument cluster.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/rossi-starts-vr46-riding-academy/
Rossi starts VR46 Riding Academy
Seven-time MotoGP ace and icon Valentino ‘The Doctor’ Rossi has established his first and very own motorcycle racing school recently. Called the VR46 Riders Academy, the two-wheeled alma mater has set itself out at creating an effective system to cultivate and train the next generation of Italian riders. Such a system designed by riding legend Kenny Roberts Sr is already in existence in Spain, explaining as to why the many Spaniards are ruling the two-wheeled sporting arena in the present era. The Doctor, together with a crew of top level instructors drafted for the newly formed institution, will work with each of its student riders, nurturing them with both physical and psychological curriculums for their racing development – all held at Rossi’s personal riding “ranch” in his Italian home. The academy’s inaugural class will support six riders – Franco Morbidelli, Luca Marini, Andrea Migno, Nicolò Bulega, Romano Fenati, and Pecco Bagnaia. Effectively, all six pupils will have all aspects of their career assisted by Rossi and the academy’s stellar staffs. These same crew will also be tasked at handling all of the physical and administrative needs of the six selected racers. The VR46 Riders Academy is expected to become the most competitive hot seat for young aspiring Italian bike racers. Source: Asphaltandrubber --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-no-marc-marquez-this-weekend-valencia/
MotoGP: No Marc Marquez this weekend in Valencia
This weekend marks the last triple-header MotoGP round of the 2020 championship season which will be in Valencia and Portimao. Repsol Honda has confirmed that their star rider, Marc Marquez, will not be returning to his beloved Honda RC213V this weekend and maybe, the rest of the season. News has circulating regarding Stefan Bradl taking his place for the remainder of the 2020 season, but there are also other indicators pointing towards the sign of his return next weekend at the same track in Valencia. It is clear that Repsol Honda wants their world champion to heal fully before there’s any attempt to get back on the physically-demanding Honda MotoGP machinery. While we know that Marquez has been keeping fit by hitting the gym, there have been no photos or videos of him riding anything anywhere since his injury and surgeries.   View this post on Instagram   Continuamos con la recuperación!!? #rehabilitacion A post shared by Marc Márquez (@marcmarquez93) on Oct 21, 2020 at 8:30am PDT The final round of the season will commence from 20-22 November 2020 where all the riders will be on the same playing field to the newly added track and Marc Marquez can only hope to be there in time to race. For now, we can only confirm that the two Valencia rounds are out of the question for the defending champion. This race-ready 2021 Honda MSX125 Grom HRC is awesome! Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/more-details-revealed-for-2021-cfmoto-mt800/
More details revealed for 2021 CFMoto MT800
A series of patents portraying the 2021 CFMoto MT800 adventure-touring bike have surfaced online, which provided us with more hints on this new KTM-powered Chinese motorcycle. At first glance, we can see that the patents carry different specs compared to the camouflaged test mule that was spotted on the road a couple of months back. The patents indicate a few things apart from the obvious 799cc parallel-twin that’s taken directly from the KTM 790 Adventure model. We can also see that it has a relatively low seat height and high handlebar position with hand guards for easier riding, presumably for long-distance touring. We can also that this 2021 CFMoto MT800 mock-up comes with cast wheels instead of spokes seen on the test mule, which is regarded as a better option for heavy road use rather than off-road. Its five-point design is not bad looking with the one in front being slightly bigger compared to the rear, most likely 19-inch front and 17-inch rear. Other different specs include a redesigned double-sided swingarm, readily-installed pannier and top box mounts, radial-mounted front calipers, and adjustable front windscreen. From this, we honestly believe that there will be several variants of the CFMoto MT800 once it’s officially launched next year. Stay tuned for more details. MotoGP: Marc Marquez undergoes third surgery, out for another six months? Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/zapp-scooter-unveil-2022-i300-lightweight-electric-motorcycle-fully-recyclable-96km-h-max-speed/
Zapp Scooter Unveil 2022 i300 Lightweight Electric Motorcycle – Fully Recyclable, 96km/h Max Speed
Electric motorcycle company Zapp Scooter pull the wraps over their latest model, the 2022 i300. The Zapp i300 is set to make its debut later this month in Paris and will head for Asia and the United States next year. Interestingly, the i300 incorporates all recyclable materials with a combination of alloy exoskeleton and proprietary composite body instead of plastic components. This helps the i300 to weigh at just 90 kilograms, making it one of the lightest scooters available. The i300 comes with two 1.4kW portable battery packs that sit under the rider’s feet to improve stability. The battery pack weighs about 5.4kg each and can be easily removed for recharging using an ordinary domestic power socket. The range is set at around 64km and capable of doing 0 to 50km/h in under 3 seconds with a max speed of 96km/h. The Zapp i300 will be available at a price of USD7,495 (RM31.6k). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/spotted-upcoming-royal-enfield-himalayan-450-caught-testing-in-india-launching-soon/
SPOTTED: Upcoming Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Caught Testing In India, Launching Soon?
Royal Enfield once again caught testing the upcoming Himalayan 450 in India. to feature a revised fuel tank, subframe and front beak. powered by a new single-cylinder engine that makes 40hp and 40Nm.  The Indian motorcycle company plans to unveil a host of new motorcycles, one of which is the Himalayan 450. Carrying the same design language as the current Himalayan, reports in India suggest that the new motorcycle will received much needed upgrades in terms of technology and performance. Design wise, the Himalayan 450 will maintain its retro-inspired design but with some minor tweaks at the front beak. The tail section also looks sleek and attached to a new rear carrier. Other minor upgrades include a new split saddle, redesigned subframe and fuel tank. Nevertheless, the riding ergonomics likely to remain the same. Also, the Himalayan 450 will get a new trellis frame that helps to increase rigidity hence improving the stability especially during off-road. Other notable updates include: new upside-down front forks. dual-rear shock absorbers. wire-spoked wheels – 21″ front and 17″ rear. LED turn inidcators semi digital instrument display dual-channel ABS Mechanically, the Himalayan 450 makes 40hp and 40Nm thanks to a new 450cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine. Power is then delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission with final chain drive. (Source: GaadiWaadi) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-to-end-the-cb1100-range-with-a-final-edition/
Honda To End The CB1100 Range With A Final Edition?
The Honda CB1100 range could end in 2022 as the Japanese firm just dropped a teaser image with the name ‘Final Edition’. This CB1100 EX and RS Final Edition models could spell the end of the road for the much-loved air-cooled inline-four motorcycle. Barely updated since 2014, the tightening emission regulations are finally catching up on the ageing engine. According to reports, the CB1100 EX and RS will be available in cast alloy wheels and spoked, followed by a new colourway consisting of classic red and gloss black, while the CB1100 RS looks to be available in matt denim colour. Since this could be the last updated model of the CB1100 range, we see no reason for Honda to revised the air-cooled engine setup. Moreover, the ‘Final Edition’ could be an attempt by Honda to offer fans the chance to appreciate the CB1100 for one last time. However, we hope the CB1100 will make a comeback in a few years, just like what Suzuki did with the returning Hayabusa. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/2022-kl-raticosa-500x-debuts-in-italy-48hp-43nm/
2022 KL Raticosa 500X Debuts In Italy – 48hp, 43Nm
Let’s be honest. The adventure bike segment is booming; hence you see every manufacturer racing to the drawing board trying to create the most appealing ADV machine on the planet. MV Agusta is among the latest manufacturer making a bold step into the segment by introducing two new adventure machines, the Lucky Explorer 9.5 and Lucky Explorer 5.5, at EICMA 2021. The Lucky Explorer 5.5 is MV’s strategy in providing a more affordable and accessible motorcycle for the customers. This is achieved by a joint collaboration with Qianjiang Motorcycle, the same company that owned the Benelli brand. The 5.5 is powered by the same parallel-twin engine found in the Benelli TRK 502 but with an increased bore and stroke. Apart from notable brands following the same move, the smaller manufacturer is also moving in the same direction, particularly in Europe and Asia. The Brix Venturi 500 and Colove 500X are several bike brands that can be easily recognized as Honda’s CB500X clone. The newest addition to the party is the KL Raticosa 500X, another ADV bike that actually shares the same engine configuration as the Honda CB500X. This means the Raticosa 500X is equipped with a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that makes 48hp and 43.3Nm. Despite the similarities, Honda never actually agreed to the cross-sharing platform, but somehow the CB500X engine can be found on more than a few bikes available in the market. Nevertheless, like every typical adventure motorcycle, the Raticosa 500X features adventure-ready specifications, including a long travel suspension, inverted forks and dual-purpose tires. The bike also features 19-inch front wheels and 17-inch rear wheels, fully-adjustable Kayaba forks, Kayaba shocks and Nissin callipers. With a seat height of 820mm and a kerb weight of just 178kg, the Raticosa 500X looks promising to be the next popular and affordable adventure bike in Europe alongside the Benelli TRK 502. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/michelin-introduces-new-road-6-includes-gt-variant/
Michelin Introduces New Road 6 – Includes GT Variant
Michelin is expanding its road tyre range for the 2022 season with the new Road 6. Other than being available in 18 sizes, the new Michelin Road 6 are also available in a specific GT variant. Michelin claimed the new tyres offer 15 per cent more grip in wet, 10% longer lasting and improved performance in various weather. The new Michelin Road 6 features a new tread compound and pattern which the company called Water Evergrip Technology that helps optimise the ratio of grooves to rubber. Michelin also updated the new Road 6 with Amplified Density Technology that provides a highly dense and rigid compound. Meanwhile, the Road 6 GT variant is manufactured for heavyweight sports and touring motorcycles and are available in one front and three rear sizes. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/triumph-street-triple-10th-anniversary-specials/
Triumph Street Triple 10th anniversary specials
Triumph Street Triple 10th anniversary specials revealed in the UK. The first Triumph Street Triple 675 from 2007. Like it sibling the Speed Triple, the Triumph Street Triple series has garnered quite the acclaim in just a few short years. This year, the cult favourite middleweight streetfighter celebrates its 10th anniversary and House Hinckley is celebrating it with three special variants. The range consists of the Triumph Speed Triple R Dark, the Triumph Speed Triple Gold and Triumph Speed Triple Grey. Each come dressed in a specially conceived paint scheme designed by Triumph in collaboration with specialists 8Ball paint shop. Triumph Street Triple R Dark As you can guess, the Triumph Speed Triple R Dark is based off the racy R version. Its special paint scheme is aligned with Triumph’s previous Dark specials while additional bits like the bellypan, flyscreen and cowl are standard fitments from the factory. Triumph Street Triple Gold Both the Street Triple Gold and Grey versions, on the other hand, are based off the regular Street Triple instead. Their names are self-explanatory whereby the Gold features a gold-black two-tone scheme whilst the Grey comes dressed in a tastier grey-black dual-tone scheme. Triumph Street Triple Grey Additionally, all three specials come brimmed with alcantara seats. Adding more zing to the Gold and Grey versions though is a set of colour-matched Union Jack graphics donned on the bikini fairings plus colour-matched wheels too. Triumph will produce just 50 units of each livery special scheme, and all will feature its series number placed on the top of the fuel tank. Triumph plans to release the Triumph Street Triple R Dark special in the UK starting 1st Oct whilst the Gold and Grey will come later in mid-October. A photo posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 1:51am PDT To refresh your memory, the Triumph Street Triple first debuted towards the end of 2007. It was slotted below the manic Speed Triple model and featured a segment defining and Triumph signature 675cc triple-cylinder powerplant that offers 105hp and 69.1Nm of torque in its current form. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/lightning-ls-218-200bhp-228nm-351km-h-and-its-electric/
Lightning LS-218 – 200bhp, 228Nm, 351km/h and It’s Electric
The Lightning LS-218 electric motorcycle is the world’s fastest production motorcycle. It hit 351 km/h at the Bonneville Speedweek in 2010. It finished more than 20 seconds ahead of a Ducati Multistrada 1200 at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2013. If there’s still any fear in anyone about electric motorcycles being slow, the Lightning LS-218 should not only bat those misgivings out of the ball park but launch it into Pluto’s orbit. That is because the Lightning LS-218 boasts these figures: 200 bhp, 228 Nm, 351 km/h. But it’s not just a bunch of fantastical numbers on paper. Lightning brought the bike’s prototype to the Bonneville Speedweek in 2010. It beat out all other purpose-built Bonneville bikes by clocking 218 mph (351 km/h) and set the new record as the world’s production motorcycle, both gasoline- and electric-powered. Hence, the bike became known as the LS-218. However, Bonneville was all about straightline speed. The manufacturer wanted to build a bike that handles well, too. Carlin Dunne on a Lightning LS-218 at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Photo credit Asphalt & Rubber So, they entered the Lightning LS-218 in the prestigious Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) race. The bike charged up the 20-km (12.42-mile) long, 156-turn hill in 10 minutes, 00.694 second and decimated the record. The second competitor to cross the line was the Ducati Multistrada 1200 in 10 minutes 21.323 seconds. Yes, the Lightning finished the race more than 20 seconds in front. By comparison, the majority of electric bikes ran the course in the mid-12 minute range. The Lightning was the King of the Hill among gasoline and electric motorcycles. A number of LS-218s have been delivered to customers since 2014 but they were still built in small numbers. But the American manufacturer has since expanded their distributor network and is now mass producing of the bike. The Lightning LS-218 boasts great componentry throughout. The froks are from RaceTech with Öhlins NIX30 internals. At the rear shock is an Öhlins TTX36 shock. Both items are fully adjustable. Braking duty is handled by a pair Brembo GP4-RX calipers and Brembo 320mm T-Drive discs up front. Other main concerns about electric motorcycles are the range and charging time. Lightning offers three options of battery packs. The 12 kWh pack has a range between 161 to 193 km, the 15 kWh option provides 193 to 241 km range, and a new 20 kWh pack offers up to between 257 to 290 km, per charge. Charging time is as fast as 30 minutes on a DC fast charger, and 120 minutes on a level 2 charger. Lightning says there are more models on the way. So, there you go. Not all electric bikes are like those KFC Delivery scooters. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/spyshot-ktms-new-390-duke-based-supermoto/
Spyshot: KTM’s new 390 Duke-based supermoto
This is the first spyshot of KTM’s upcoming new 390 Duke-based supermoto, caught testing in the brand’s home country of Austria. This image comes straight from an Austrian KTM enthusiast forum, posted by one of its members who spotted this test mule. Despite the camouflage paint scheme, we can clearly see that the swingarm is identical to the Duke 125, 200, and 390 models. Another indication of its small displacement other than its size comes from the single-disc front brakes. This is undoubtedly a supermoto or small ‘adventure-style’ version of the 390 Duke, having a much taller stance and a greater suspension travel as we can see from the image. Things appears to be going according to plan at KTM as this supermoto offshoot of the Duke was the next natural step many expected after the brand unveiled the full-faired sports versions in the form of the RC125, RC200, and RC390 models (read our report on them here). This new model would likely carry the “Enduro 350” nameplate, and many sources suggest it would be fully revealed as a 2015 model sometime next year. Source: KTMforum.eu via Asphaltandrubber and Visordown Image: Asphaltandrubber --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bell-helmets-adopts-mips-safety-tech-video/
Bell Helmets adopts MIPS safety tech (with video)
Bell Helmets shows off MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology to make even safer lids. Bell Helmets recently showed off yet another new and innovative piece of technology integrated into its helmets to make them even safer. Newly integrated in a number of its products is the MIPS technology suite. MIPS, which is short for Multi-Directional Impact Protection System, was first developed in the world of off-road bicycling where it uses a slip-plane system that allowed for movement in the helmet during impact. The impact liner is connected to the MIPS with four elastomeric bands desgined to offer 10-15mm of play in all directions. The design, which allows movement of the outer shell against the MIPS, helps reduce impact forces being transmitted to the rider’s skull and brain, thus reducing the severity of the injuries that may occur. The featured video below should explain the system with greater detail. MIPS will be integrated with Bell’s own Flex Impact Liner feature as well. With the latter, it addressed different force levels corresponding to rate of speed and rotational impact speeds through each of the three distinct materials used to make it, offering riders with ‘layered protection’ of sorts. A number of Bell Helmets models will be integrated with the MIPS technology to promise even greater safety. Notable Bell models receiving this treatment include the popular Bell Qualifier DLX along with the off-road-focused Bell MX-9 and Bell MX-9 Adventure lids as well. Source: AutoEvolution / YouTube --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/owners-manual-confirms-street-twin-and-scrambler-name-change/
Owner’s Manual Confirms Triumph Street Twin And Scrambler Name Change
Triumph Motorcycles is renaming the Street Twin and Street Scrambler models for 2023. Triumph renamed the Street Twin and Street Scrambler to Speed Twin 900 and Scrambler 900. The name change is to follow the same pattern as the Tiger 900 and Tiger 1200. The alleged report came out in May this year, but the latest development has confirmed that the British firm will rename them Speed Twin 900 and Scrambler 900, respectively. Triumph revealed the name change via the 2023 online Owner Handbook Library. The handbook officially refers to the Street Twin and the Street Scrambler as Speed Twin 900, Speed Twin 1200 and Scrambler 900. Below is the comparison between the 2022 owners handbook and the 2023 owners handbook: Despite the name change, the Speed Twin 900/1200 and Scrambler 900 remain identical with the 2022 model year. Moreover, the new names allow Triumph to streamline the existing range by following the same pattern the firm established with the Tiger 900 and Tiger 1200. (Source: Motorcycle.com) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/benelli-keeway-malaysia-appoints-first-authorised-service-centre/
Benelli Keeway Malaysia appoints first authorised service centre
Benelli Keeway Malaysia (BKM) appoints its first authorised service centre in Taman Tenaga Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. In a bid step up its after-sales efforts, Benelli Keeway Malaysia Sdn Bhd (BKM) officially launched its first authorised service centre in Taman Tenaga Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Present during the event was BKM’s senior manager, business development, communications and external relations Wan Najib Wan Daud. Besides the presence of the newly launched Benelli TNT 25 naked bike, the event also featured a display of the still un-launched Benelli 600 GT sport-tourer. There was also a good number of Benelli TNT 600 owners that turned up to support the launch event. The first authorised Benelli Keeway service centre is located in Jalan Sembilang, Taman Tenaga Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. Operated by Kedai Motosikal Tenaga Sdn Bhd, it is the first amongst BKM’s nationwide network of 66 authorised Benelli Keeway dealers to receive the appointment. Benelli Keeway owners now have an alternative avenue for servicing and maintaining their bikes. Kedai Motosikal Tenaga Sdn Bhd operates daily from 9am to 6pm and is closed on Sundays. In his speech, Wan Najib highlighted that as an authorised service centre, Kedai Motosikal Tenaga Sdn Bhd will offer customers in and around the greater area of Kuala Lumpur the same level of service and support as BKM’s own flagship service centre that is located along Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur. Wan Najib also stated that BKM intends to open more authorised outlets such as Kedai Motosikal Tenaga Sdn Bhd by stating: “It is very likely that we will be opening more of such authorised service centres, collaborating with our authorised dealers throughout the country.” More information can be obtained online by visiting the official Benelli Keeway Malaysia website. First Benelli Keeway Authorised Service Centre launch @ Taman Tenaga Cheras --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-consider-making-scooters/
Should Ducati consider making scooters?
Ducati remains as one of the last of the motorcycle industry’s ‘big-leaguers’ that purely focus itself towards the high-end market. But as times have changed, should the Bologna-based institution seriously consider a shot into a different segment with a maxi-scooter? The rumours of a Ducati maxi-scooter have been going around for years now, but time and time again, the famed rosso-coloured brand and its execs have dismissed these allegations. In the past, say 10 or 15 years ago, such a thought would have been perceived as a blasphemy for many fans of the brand, namely the Ducatista and Ducatisti. But times have changed, and perhaps the smaller cc commuter bikes segment could potentially bring in greater profits for the brand. Rivals KTM and Triumph have already seen the light, proven with their recent shift towards developing products for the sub-500cc market. At the rate both brands are going, things look very good, especially in rising markets like Asia. Ducati’s owners, Audi AG, have somewhat seen the light as we have seen with the development of the Ducati ‘Scrambler’ that is coming in 2015, making it the brand’s first foray into the sub-500cc area. Perhaps the idea of a Ducati scooter is no longer a question of ‘if’, but rather a question of ‘when’ it will happen instead. The still-in-development Scrambler model alone may not be enough for the brand the rake in healthy profits, so perhaps an additional model such as a sporty maxi-scooter would greatly aid the efforts if Ducati chose to enter the smaller displacement segment. Many purist Ducatista and Ducatisti may not like idea, but the thought of a small-sized Testastretta V-twin encased in a sporty Italian-designed body could attract a new range of customers, and potentially more profits too. We reckon that a Ducati maxi-scooter will happen, and it is only a matter of time until we see a prototype being tested out in the open. Images: ducati.ms and ducati-upnorth.com Sources: Asphaltandrubber, Autoevolution, and MCN --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-bastianini-wins-in-aragon-after-intense-battle-disaster-for-marquez-and-quartararo/
MotoGP: Bastianini Wins In Aragon After Intense Battle, Disaster For Marquez And Quartararo
It was a disastrous comeback for the 8-time world champion, Marc Marquez, as the rider was involved in two separate incidents which saw Fabio Quartararo and Takaaki Nakagami ousted in the early stage of the race in Aragon. Bastianini claimed his third win of the season after overcoming Bagnaia.  Quartararo ousted in the early stage after colliding with Marc Marquez. Marquez started the race with brilliant speed as the Honda rider moved up from 13th to sixth, coming out of Turn 1. However, chaos ensues on the exit of Turn 4 with Quartararo riding straight into Marquez’s RC213V, and due to the intense collision, the reigning world champion crashes out. Due to the substantial damage to the rear of Marquez’s RC213V, the Spaniard unintentionally ran into Takaaki Nakagami’s side, leading to a hair-raising incident for the LCR Honda rider.  Thankfully, Nakagami escaped from being hit by other riders. Meanwhile, Gresini Racing Ducati, Enea Bastianini finally got the better of factory Ducati rider Francesco Bagnaia to take his third win of the season. Bastianini overtook Bagnaia in the final lap, something he failed to do in Misano just two weeks ago. However, unlike Misano, Bastianini has better braking speed coming out of the corner and easily claimed his win in Aragon.  Nevertheless, Bagnaia should feel happy with his result as the Italian is now just 10 points behind Quartararo with five rounds to go.  On the other, Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro also made a brilliant move on KTM’s Brand Binder to claim third despite remaining behind the South African during the majority of the race.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cfmoto-enters-italian-market-with-five-new-model/
CFMOTO Enters Italian Market With Five New Model
Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMOTO finally makes its way to Europe by introducing five new models in Italy. According to Motociclismo.it, CFMOTO revealed the 2021 300NK, 650NK, 650MT, 650GT and the 700CL-X. All of the motorcycles will be available as early as June 2021. Interestingly, CFMOTO also plans to introduce the highly anticipated 800MT and the 700CL- ADV and Sport. CFMoto 300NK and 650NK The 300NK is a naked sports motorcycle powered by a single-cylinder 292cc DOHC liquid-cooled engine capable of producing 27.9hp @ 8,750rpm. Braking is helped by a 392mm disc at the front and 22mm disc at the rear and paired with a dual-channel ABS. Meanwhile, the 650NK is powered by a 649cc DOHC liquid-cooled engine that offers a maximum output of 56.5hp @ 8,250rpm. The 650NK also hold a 17L fuel tank. CFMoto 650MT and 650GT The 650MT and the 650GT is the company first attempt at challenging the sport-touring segment. Powered by the same engine found on the 650NK, the 650MT and 650GT makes 56.5hp @ 8,250rpm. Both frames are made out of steel tubes and come with a 43mm USD fork with an adjustable preload monoshock. The tank holds 18L of fuel. CFMoto 700CL-X Thanks to the classic retro-style cafe racer design, the 700CL-X is set to be the most popular model in Italy. Despite the country boasting various models from more established brands such as the Ducati Scrambler, the 700CL-X comes under just EUR7,000, making it desirable among younger riders. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/a-few-words-with-neil-blaber/
A Few Words with Neil Blaber
Neil Blaber of AMD Magazine was brought in to judge Motonation’s custom bike and Modenas’ SUPER MOD contests. Motonation will sponsor the winning bike and builder to the World Championship at Intermot. Neil was impressed with the quality and creativity of Malaysian builders. We had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Neil Blaber of AMD Magazine at the recent Motonation carnival in PICC. Neil had been called in by the organizers of Motonation to judge the custom motorcycles competition. It was a high-stakes game as Motonation will support the winner’s entry to the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building 2018, in the Intermot Show in Cologne Germany. (Click here to read more of our coverage of Motonation and here for the report of the competition). Bikes Republic: How does AMD run its bikes shows? Neil Blaber: We did bike shows and competitions a little bit differently than those in the past. We’ve had people enter their bikes in more than one class, and found out not to ever, ever do it. It’s a nightmare, because how we do the judging is all the competitors vote on their peers’ bikes. We’ll have a few VIP judges also, but they’re usually builders who didn’t enter their own bikes. There’ve also been trusted journalists who don’t just won’t for their mates (friends), besides other experts in the industry who know what they’re looking at. It’s done almost like a survey among experts. When you think about it, who are the best qualified to determine which is the best bike than these guys. You’ve got all these experts there and if judging is handed over to just four guys, it’s all wasted. So, in the end, if people aren’t happy with the results, at least they know it’s fair because it was peer reviewed. In the end, you could end up with a hundred votes papers returned. Counting the ballot papers was hard work, I’d usually be up until 4 in the morning, tabulating the results. I’d take the feedback from the ballot sheets and key them into the spreadsheet for the results to be tabulated. They’ll vote for their favourite 12 bikes, the top build will receive 15 points, second place gets 12, third gets 9, then 7, 6, 5, 3, 2, 1 points respectively. What that means is that getting voted as the top isn’t necessarily a huge advantage. In the end, the winning bike is usually the one which was rated reasonably high by all the guys. (What Neil means here is the entries must be good overall.) You may get a controversial bike which was voted first by three guys but no one else, on the other hand, you get a bike that’s voted for third or fifth by everyone and it will win. Bikes Republic: Is peer judging carried out in many bike shows? Neil Blaber: It is carried out in many bike shows now but not many are done properly. For example, you got have enough bikes for representation, because if you just ask for which is your favourite bike, you’d probably end up with the same result. However, if there are enough bikes, and if a certain or a few judges don’t like a certain type of bike and put it as last, the bike still earns a point. Some shows look for the Top Three and the spread is just not enough in order to get a true representation of what people sincerely feel. Some people don’t like not winning and the World Championship is the worst feeling. They may have spent two years or more working on their bike then ending up 50th is, well, you know how it’s like. We award down to 10th place for the Freestyle class, and the Top Three of the other classes, as the latter classes attract smaller entries. Bikes Republic: What’s your thought on what you’ve seen this weekend? Neil Blaber: Honestly, I had no idea to see what Malaysia had to offered and I surprised and impressed at what I saw this weekend. Those eight finalists had some truly wonderful material. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/four-good-habits-bikers-pick/
Four good habits bikers should pick up
A few years back I had the opportunity to test ride the BMW C600 and C650 GT in Spain, ahead of its Malaysian launch. It was an international test ride where journalist from all over the world was there. One particular test rider stood out amongs the rest though.It was not about how he behaved or how he dressed but I keep noticing that he tends to rock the scooter he is on back and forth a few times throughout the day. It looked like it was a funny way of testing the scooter’s suspension. That night we had a chance to mingle around right before dinner and by chance I bumped into that particular tester. A quick introduction and I went straight to the point, asking the guy whats with the rocking back and forth? Was there anything that I had missed? Apparently no, though he said he was testing the suspension but it was not for reviewing purpose. Instead he explained that it was a habit that he picked up from his dad when he started riding. He went on to tell me the four easy habits every biker should do before every ride. The four things does not replace the weekly bike check like fluids and lube, but an addition to it. And, like he had mentioned earlier, it should be done before every ride and its so easy that it wont even add more than two minutes to your usual time to get ready and ride off. Here is what he usually do – 1 – Visual check. As he approach the bike, he’ll give it a once over while giving some extra attention to the tyres. Thread depth still ok and see also the tyre shape. You can easily spot if the tyre is low on air due to a puncture or other reasons. Also see if the chain needs lubricating. 2 and 3 – Get on it Got on the bike, unlock the handlebar and straighten it. Now with both feet planted on the ground and activating the front brakes, rock the bike back and forth. By doing so he said one can spot two potential problems, the first is the front brake conditon. Is it braking or the theres slippage? Secondly is the suspension feel, especially on the front fork. Too soft or not working as it should then you might want to visit your best friend, the bike mechanic. 4 – Start your engine. Listen for abnormalities, sounds different from the usual then better switch it off and see whats the big fuss. After doing all that and everything is normal, only then he will start riding. A new question poped up in my head and that was why would one need to do it on a brand new bike like he did on that day? He said first of all, its habit, he had been doing it for more than 30 years. And being in the business of test riding bike, you just never know that you might just get a lemon. Secondly, say you just got a brand new bike. By doing it often since new, you’ll get used to how it feels when its working well. The moment something is different you’ll be able to detect it before something bad happens. So there you go, sounds logical enough for me that I started to do it too before every ride. And it already paid me back once as I managed to detect a loose tripple clamp right before I rode off. It may take a bit of self reminding at first, but as time goes on it’ll be as normal as you putting on your safety gear. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/valentino-rossi-named-yamahas-brand-ambassador/
Valentino Rossi Named Yamaha’s Brand Ambassador
Yamaha has appointed racing legend Valentino Rossi as its brand ambassador.  Rossi retired in 2021 with Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT).  The Italian rider continue to ride Yamaha motorcycles at his VR46 Moto Ranch.  The Italian rider spent the majority of his MotoGP career with Yamaha, winning four world championship titles with the manufacturer. Rossi retired from racing in 2021, but he has continued to maintain close ties with Yamaha, occasionally riding Yamaha machinery at his VR46 Moto Ranch. Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis expressed excitement about the appointment, stating that Rossi and his YZR-M1 shared a special bond.  “We always considered Valentino as ‘family,’ and as soon as he expressed his desire to keep using Yamaha bikes and to become a brand ambassador, we went to work to make it happen,” said Jarvis. Rossi has also collaborated with Yamaha on the Master Camp Moto2 Team and occasionally used Yamaha bikes for his “training and leisure” purposes. The new partnership with Yamaha only strengthens their already strong ties. Rossi expressed his pleasure at the new role, stating that he had always planned to keep riding motorcycles even after retiring from MotoGP.  “During my MotoGP career, I rode Yamaha bikes as part of my contract. But even after retiring, I kept using Yamaha bikes because I enjoy it. I’m happy that the agreement is now signed, so Yamaha and I get to work together in this new set-up,” said Rossi. The appointment of Rossi as Yamaha’s brand ambassador is a significant moment for both the manufacturer and fans of motorcycle racing. Rossi’s passion for the sport and his close ties with Yamaha make him the perfect candidate for the role. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-launches-its-own-adventure-scooter/
Yamaha launches its own ‘adventure scooter’
The world of adventure scooters is indeed a small one with the Honda leading the way with its X-ADV and ADV 150. Now, Yamaha is entering the segment with its very own 2021 Yamaha BW’S (Yamaha BWS 125 in Canada) and it’s indeed a tough-looking tiny thing. That’s not a bad thing, folks. Designed to be rigid, versatile, and ‘hardcore’, the 2021 Yamaha BW’S has a huge selling point despite its small size. Thanks to its high-rigidity asymmetric frame and multiple lock points, riders can actually store a lot of things around the bike. Travelling to your desired campsite would be so much more fun with this baby. This ‘Wild Survivor’ themed scooter is fitted with a 125cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled BlueCore VVA engine but there’s no mention of its power and torque output. If it’s anything close to the Yamaha Solariz, the BW’S should produce around 10hp and 9.6Nm of torque. Zipping on the off-road should be loads of fun considering its weight is only 127kg. The chassis is further enhanced with dual disc brakes, 12-inch rims wrapped in some dual-purpose tyres, a unique front headlight design, telescopic front forks, double rear shocks, and a USB charging port. We also love the fact that you can place a bag on top of the front projector headlights, instead of a basket. It also comes with a 6.1-litre fuel tank, which means you can travel a fair distance before needing to refuel again. Dear Hong Leong Yamaha Motor, please bring this bad boy into the Malaysian market. Thanks in advance! New Shell Advance engine oils launched – ‘Long Ride’ & ‘Power’ Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-kawasaki-z250-abs-first-ride-review/
2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS First Ride Review
The 2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS is a lightweight naked sportbike. It demonstrates the fun in lightweight bikes. Launched earlier this year, it’s priced from RM 21,998. Ah, lightweight bikes. Forget about power, about techno wizardry… it’s all about fun. Fun from the rider’s skills. Fun from the rider’s right hand which pins the throttle to the very last moment. Lightweight and fun, like from the 2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS? Launched together with the Z400 SE ABS just earlier this year, the new 2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS is the naked variant of the lightweight Ninja 250 lightweight sportbike. They are mechanically similar, if not alike but the naked version ought to be a little lighter. Highlights: Following the Sugomi design concept, the bike has multiple slated panels. The fuel tank is now more muscular. New steel trellis frame that’s 4kg lighter, and inspired by the Ninja H2. Wider handlebar for better leverage. Raised tail section. New LED taillight. New LED headlight. Semi-digital instrument panel (meter) inspired by the Z650. Single front petal brake disc and petal rear brake. Dual-channel ABS. The engine is a 249cc, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, parallel-Twin. It produces 37.7 hp (38.2 PS) and 23.5 Nm of torque The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. Offered in Green colour scheme. Okay, Kawasaki says its styling is heavily inspired by the Z650, sharing the Sugomi DNA that’s prevalent in the manufacturer’s line-up. While the Z250 looks distinctive, the design may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, that’s just our personal observations and owners will sure not to mind. Straddling the bike after getting off a heavyweight adventure tourer was a bit of a shock. The Z250 is slim, narrow and short from front to back. The seat is low so even this writer could stand over the bike and rock it from side to side. Sticking the right thumb into the starter button and the bike comes alive to the signature sounds of the Kawasaki parallel-Twin. It needed  more throttle twist to sweep the tach needle. Riding Out on the streets, the engine had an appetite for revs. Just as the Ninja 250, it needed at least 6,000 RPM to make it accelerate harder. But everything started happening quickly once the needle went past 8,500 RPM. Having the slip and assist clutch was great because you don’t lose too much speed when slowing down. The assist function kept the lever soft with just one pull of the index finger. The transmission shifted with authority, letting you know you’ve got the next cog in. But what truly impressed us was the suspension. It seemed that Kawasaki had chosen the test ride route with the purpose of highlighting the suspension’s performance. The bike was so easy to flick over into a lean. From there, it’s about pinning the throttle as much as you dare through the turn. Remember, this is a small engine which thrives on revs so slowing down too much mean you have to row through the gearbox to find the right gear, so forget it. Just pin it. Anyhow, the test road has so many potholes and those patched over, and the majority of these were in the middle of corners. With nowhere to go, I just gassed the bike over hard over the bumps with the bike on its side, fully expecting the bike to buckle like a wild mare or go wide. Except that it didn’t. It held the chosen line and trajectory. I tried again on another bump and the same thing happened. It got almost so unbelievable that I actually sought out bumps and ran over them on purpose. The bike shook off the insults. Lightweight bikes would usually get kicked around when hitting bumps but not this one. Conclusion The 2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS is a simple, lightweight and fun bike to have around. It’s no slouch for the daily commute while still being a nice bike to chuck into corners during the weekend. PICTURE GALLERY 1 of 12 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-mv-agusta-f3-turismo-veloce-and-dragster-gets-the-rc-treatment/
2022 MV Agusta F3, Turismo Veloce And Dragster Gets The RC Treatment
MV Agusta has rolled out three updated models for 2022: Turismo Veloce, Dragster and F3. 2022 F3, Turismo Veloce and Dragster features the Reparte Corse trim.  all three models gets electronic refinements and equipped with 800cc triple engine.  All three motorcycles have been given the Reparto Corse (RC) treatment which features a distinct colour combination. If you are a fan of MV Agusta, you would recognise the RC nameplate as the company’s racing department. As a result, the Turismo Veloce, Dragster and F3 is an upgraded versions of the base model. Turismo Veloce RC The Turismo Veloce RC features the same 800cc triple engine found in the Dragster and F3 but with the power adjusted to just 110hp and 84Nm. As a sports touring machine, the Turismo Veloce RC offers great comfort over long distances, and while the engine makes lower horsepower than the two, it is still capable of carrying the 21.5L fuel tank and 199kg (dry) weight. According to MV Agusta, the Turismo Veloce RC can reach 230km/h max speed with stopping power comes in the form of a dual 320mm disc with Brembo piston callipers at the front and a single 220mm disc with dual-piston callipers at the rear. Other features include cornering ABS with rear wheel lift detection and parking brake. Dragster RC The Dragster SC features an updated titanium nitride coating on 43mm Marzocchi USD telescopic forks at the front and Sachs single shock absorber with preload, compression and rebounds at the rear. The same dual 320mm disc does braking with Brembo callipers at the front and a single 220mm disc at the rear. An ABS system also regulates the brake. Like the Turismo Veloce RC, the Dragster is also equipped with a parking brake. Unlike its touring sibling, the Dragster make 140hp and 87Nm from the 800cc triple and is the lightest among the three. It can also do a max speed of 245km/h, higher than the F3. F3 RC Finally, we have the F3 RC, which now carries the burden of becoming the brand’s flagship sportsbike since the F4 is no longer available. Like the Dragster, MV Agusta upgraded the 2022 F3 RC edition with a titanium nitride coating front suspension that helps to reduce friction. The wheels are now 10% lighter, which MV Agusta claimed helps reduce the moment of inertia up to 7%. The F3 is also the most powerful out of the rest, with 147hp and 88Nm and features a new traction control system with eight different stages and four-level torque control. MV also claimed that the F3 RC could hit a top speed of 240km/h. Other notable features include: dual 320mm front disc with 4-pot Brembo callipers single 220mm rear disc with 2-pot Brembo callipers cornering ABS 43mm Marzocchi USD telescopic forks Sachs rear single shock absorbers aluminium swingarm Sadly, all three RC editions are available in limited numbers, which means by the time you read this, all 200 units of the F3 and 300 units of the Dragster and Turismo Veloce might be on their way to meet their new owners. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-develops-laser-headlights-and-hud/
BMW Motorrad develops laser headlights and HUD
BMW Motorrad shows off its advanced laser headlights and in-helmet HUD systems. German motorcycle marque BMW Motorrad looks set to take two-wheeled technology further when it showed off several new technology concepts at the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2016 in Las Vegas. At the heart of its display were laser headlights and an in-helmet heads-up display (HUD) system destined for its production bikes in the near future. Laser lighting technology isn’t new from the BMW Group. Primed on a specially outfitted BMW K1600 GTL demonstrator, the tech is derived from strides the BMW Group had already made with the BMW i8 eco-supercar and new 7 Series. Now adapted for use in motorcycles, the tech brings with it several added benefits to make riding much safer. BMW’s forward-looking laser headlights generates a brighter light in pure-white, with its high-beam able to illuminate up to 600 metres in range ¬– that is double what conventional light system is capable of.     Riding under low-light or night time conditions are made safer with the tech thanks to its increased and highly precise illumination abilities. Furthermore, BMW has designed the system into a very compact and robust construction, promising long service life and low maintenance. Though still in its preliminary development stage, BMW remains confident that the tech will arrive in its production bikes in the near future. Presently, the tech is still too cost-intensive and it will take BMW a while for it to work out the economies of scale for the technology’s application in both its volume cars and bikes where the cost structure becomes more feasible. Also demonstrated at CES 2016 alongside the laser headlights concept was a highly innovative in-helmet heads-up display or HUD system. Also not a stranger to this tech, BMW first spearheaded HUD for cars back in 2003, with the kit now available in a variety of its cars. The HUD tech displayed at CES however is adapted for motorcycle use as it is integrated directly into a helmet. The system projects data displays directly into the rider’s field of view, thus increasing rider comforts by keeping riders’ on-road vision locked as a result of not needing to glance down at the instrument panel. All displays are freely programmable; ideally, to provide the best-possible support for rider safety, only information that is helpful and relevant to the current situation should be displayed to the rider at any given moment. Available data include tyre pressure, oil and fuel levels, speed and gear indicators, speed limit and road sign recognition, as well as warnings. BMW intends to develop this further whereby in the near future, the HUD system will offer increased information such as real-time navigation and routes, followed by the addition of V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) communication and group ride data visualisations, not forgetting a secondary rear-view camera tasked at providing a ‘digital rear-view mirror’ function plus a forward-facing built-in action camera functions as well. The helmet, which is also primed with an integrated mini-computer and loudspeakers, is controlled from the left-hand handlebar fittings using the BMW Motorrad multicontroller. As well as operating the camera, this allows the rider to comfortably select the required information. The entire system is battery-operated via two replaceable batteries able to last for approximately five hours. According to BMW, the firm is able to adapt this helmet-integrated intelligent HUD system into its existing helmets, and it plans to develop this tech for series production use within the next few years. Source: BMW Group Press Images: BMW Group Press --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/didi-resources-organizes-inaugural-aprilia-and-modclass-track-day/
Didi Resources Organizes Inaugural Aprilia and Modclass Track Day
Didi Resources, the official distributor for Aprilia and Moto Guzzi, among others, is organizing a track day on 9th September 2018. There are two categories, one for Aprilias and one for all modern classics in the “Modclass.” You may rent your racesuit at the track, although you need to bring your own full-faced helmet. When Didi Resources promised great things to rejuvenate the Aprilia brand in Malaysia, they were serious at it. The new custodian and authorized distributor of Aprilia motorcycles in Malaysia is organizing a track day for Aprilia owners at the Sepang International Circuit on 9th September 2018. Piaggio Group Confirms The Appointment of a New Distributor for Aprilia in Malaysia The Aprilia Track Day is open to all Aprilia owners of any model. Riders can choose between Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced categories, and there are two sessions allocated per category. The entry fee is RM220, inclusive of track time, refreshments and door gifts. It’ll be great to see and hear Aprilia’s V-Fours and V-Twin ridden in anger on the track again. Also held on the same day are sessions for “Modclass” motorcycles, which is open to all modern classic motorcycles, although it is organized by Moto Guzzi Malaysia. The entry fee is a little higher at RM250, but it includes a safety riding briefing and short training by “Foreman” Oh Kah Beng. Besides that, there is also a guided ride by certified marshals and motorcycle inspection by trained personnel. As with the Aprilia sessions, the Modclass fee also includes food and refreshments. Riders will also receive a Certificate of Completion at the end of the day. For the Modclass, it will be the best opportunity to settle the score among modern classics to see which is faster! You need not worry if you do not own a racesuit as you can rent a set which includes the suit, gloves and boots at RM330 for the entire day. You will need to bring your own full-face helmet, though. Please register quickly as there are limited slots and they are going fast! You may refer to this link https://goo.gl/forms/wd3bJSCrdXrGQm2R2 to register or get in touch with Liyana at 011-23008919. See you at the track. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/two-students-invent-fingerprint-bike-starter/
Two Students Invent Fingerprint Bike Starter
Photo credit Nor Amalina Alias for Harian Metro Two teen students invent a fingerprint bike starter system due to high cases of motorcycle theft. Instead of a key, the owner’s registered fingerprint is required to start the bike. It was a final year project for the two college students. Two teen students invent a fingerprint bike starter system due to high cases of motorcycle theft. The two 19-year-old students of Kolej Vokasional Bachok (Bachok Vocational College) Wan Amiruddin Wan Amran and Adeeb Aideen Mat Yusof built the system for their final year project in their Electronics Technology Diploma course. Speaking to Harian Metro, Wan Amiruddin said that it took them six months to produce the system including building the prototype and testing it on a motorcycle. The system can be installed in both motorcycles and cars. Current motorcycle starter systems (those without chips embedded in keys) can easily be accessed by thieves. Thieves only need to twist the lock to start position and press the starter button. Wan Amiruddin and Adeeb Aideen – Photo credit Nor Amalina Alias for Harian Metro On the other hand, the fingerprint system requires fingerprint identification in order to allow the engine to be started. The system uses the open source Arduino software which can include voice recognition and LCD display. The fingerprint scanner was imported from overseas. It’s attached directly to the engine without a need for an external battery source or charging. The students said that they have already received orders from the collegemates and lecturers. They will also register the device’s intellectual property soon. Source: Harian Metro --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-lusso-scs-automatic-clutch/
2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS has an AUTOMATIC clutch?
MV Agusta has launched their latest 2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS which comes with an automatic clutch system. Called the “Smart Clutch System”, the bike is able to engage and disengage the clutch automatically based on the engine revs. In short, the SCS system allows you to stop and start rolling again without having to touch the clutch lever. Premium Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta has unveiled their latest 2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS just a couple of days ago. There are no major changes based on the looks but the SCS in the breathtaking name actually stands for “Smart Clutch System” which is completely brand new. So, what is this SCS and why should the world of sports bikes pay attention to it? Well, the automatic clutch system developed by MV Agusta with the help from Rekluse is now available as an option for the brand’s top-of-the-line sport-touring machine to improve riding performance as well as comfort. With the new system, the bike is able to engage and disengage the clutch automatically according to the engine revs. It will even assist in avoiding the bike from stalling when you come to a stop and get you rolling again without even touching the clutch lever. When the SCS auto mode is engaged, you’re basically riding a 798cc, triple-cylinder semi-automatic machine, especially with its bidirectional quickshifter. The use of the clutch lever is not needed when the SCS system is engaged but those who still want the traditional clutch and gear shifts feelings, you can simply do so by changing it to manual mode. By the looks of it, this could well be Europe’s equivalent of Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). The new 2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce Lusso SCS also comes with other updates including a Euro4-compliant engine, new gearbox, primary gears, balance shafts, and to further highlight their SCS system, a transparent clutch cover. The future of motorcycles is not coming, ladies and gentlemen. It’s already here. Check out the 2019 MV Agusta Moto2 race bike --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/updated-2020-kawasaki-ninja-1000-set-to-debut/
Updated 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 Set to Debut
2018 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 The 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000 will debut soon. There aren’t many details about the updates. Kawasaki I set to introduce two bikes at Tokyo Motor Show and three at EICMA. In all the excitement of the upcoming supercharged Kawasaki Z H2, there’s another bike in Team Green’s stable which has been popular through the years, and there’s an updated version — the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000. The manufacturer currently has 1000cc sport-tourers in the form of the Ninja H2 SX, Versys 1000 and the Ninja 1000 (previously known as the Z1000SX). The H2 SX was introduced last year while the Versys 1000 has been updated for this year. So that leaves the Ninja 1000 which was last updated 2017 and compliant to Euro 4 regulations. The new bike will be Euro 5 compliant. Kawasaki’s plan to introduce the bike was revealed in their submission to the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Manufacturers are required to submit the emissions levels of their bikes for homologation. Another bike which had its planned introduction leaked was the 2020 BMW S 1000 XR. Only question now is when the bike will be revealed. Kawasaki is set to debut two bikes — one of which is the Z H2 — at the Tokyo Motor Show on 23rd October (that’s just two days away!) and another three at EICMA. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/another-teaser-for-supercharged-kawasaki-z-model/
Another Teaser for Supercharged Kawasaki Z Model
Screenshot from supercharged Kawasaki Z model There’s a new teaser video for a supercharged Kawasaki Z model. It gives further glimpses of the new supercharged naked Ninja H2. Kawasaki will be a contender in the most powerful supernaked category. There’s a new teaser video for a supercharged Kawasaki Z model. This time, we get a small glimpse of how the new model will look like. The footage shows a sharp front with Kawasaki’s “River Mark,” supercharger, air intake, and so forth. There is also a new TFT screen. We could see that the new bike will include cruise control, besides the required traction control and ABS. We could only guess how the entire bike will look like at the moment but it won’t be long until the official unveiling on 23rd October. That date happens to be the beginning of the Tokyo Motor Show. Kawasaki uses the “Z” designation for naked bikes in their line-up. Hence the new supercharged “Z” model is the naked version of the Ninja H2. As the 2019 Ninja H2 produces 231HP, we could only wait with bated breath to find out how much power will this bike make. This is the chance for manufacturer to claim the supernaked title. That honour is currently held by the 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke R, whose engine produces 177 HP and 141 Nm of torque. Ducati will also unveil their new Streetfighter V4 on the same date in their Ducati 2020 World Premiere. Based on the Panigale V4 which punches out 214 HP, Ducati is also on the path to introduce a contender for the most powerful supernaked. The fight is on!  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-inaugural-kuala-lumpur-bike-show-2023-to-take-place-in-august/
The Inaugural Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023 To Take Place In August!
Moventuum Sdn. Bhd. and Roda-Roda Magazine (Bayu D Enterprise Sdn. Bhd.) have jointly announced the first edition of the Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023 (KLBS ’23), which will take place from August 24th to 27th at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. The Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023 (KLBS ’23) is the first dedicated “two-wheel” event that can be classified as a premium international exhibition. KLBS ’23 is a part of the revival of the tourism and events industries in Kuala Lumpur after the devastating effect of the Covid-19 pandemic. The event will span over four days, from IOam to IOpm daily, and will take place at Tun Razak Halls 3 and 4, Plaza Putra, and The Merdeka Hall. KLBS ’23 is designed to attract an international audience and is set to become the main event for 2-wheels in the region. KLBS ’23 will feature a wide range of components, including the launch of new models and innovations in the region, presentations on biking-related topics, technical workshops, showroom and sales floors, outdoor activities, and many more, all in one location. Farouk Nurish, Managing Director at Moventuum Sdn. Bhd., expressed his excitement about the event, stating that KLBS ’23 is the first dedicated “two-wheel” event that can be classified as a premium international exhibition. The event consists of numerous elements of great impact, allowing industry players to showcase their latest products and services, and visitors to experience a new emotional experience in the two-wheel lifestyle. Mr Nurish further added that the event is a part of the revival of the tourism and events industries in Kuala Lumpur after the devastating effect of the Covid-19 pandemic. The event is expected to have a positive impact on the tourism industry in Kuala Lumpur by catering to a wider audience, especially those interested in motorcycles and bicycles. KLBS ’23 will be promoted both locally and regionally, with a concerted effort to target bikers and biking enthusiasts in neighbouring countries such as Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, as well as across Asia. The event is expected to attract a significant number of visitors from across the globe, creating an opportunity for businesses and individuals to network and expand their knowledge of the two-wheel industry. The Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023 is a highly anticipated event that promises to be a game-changer in the two-wheel industry, providing a platform for businesses and enthusiasts to showcase their latest products and services, and for visitors to experience a new emotional connection to the two-wheel lifestyle. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-signs-deal-with-vmoto-to-produce-electric-scooters/
Ducati Signs Deal with Vmoto to Produce Electric Scooters
Ducati has tied up with Chinese electric scooter and motorcycle manufacturer Vmoto. The scooters will be rebranded as licensed products. It will be a luxury version of the current Super Soco CUx scooter. Ducati has tied up with Chinese electric scooter and motorcycle manufacturer Vmoto. The deal should see a Ducati-branded electric scooter before the launch of a fully-electric Ducati motorcycle. The deal licenses Vmoto to build Ducati-branded Super Soco CUx electric scooters as “official products under the license of Ducati.” Soco is a sub-brand of Vmoto. However, as expected, the scooters will not be any run-of-the-mill bikes. Instead, these will be a special luxury version of the CUx and sold at premium prices. The deal also says that Vmoto will distribute the scooters to their distribution network. Ducati, on the other hand, will carry out the marketing duties. If the upcoming scooter is based on the CUx, the performance figures ought to remain the same. Currently, the 2019 model uses a 3.75hp Bosch hub motor which gives it a top speed of 45 km/h. That isn’t a lot, of course, but it is applicable to the speed limit in heavily urbanized areas. Its 1.8 kWh battery pack gives it a range of up to 75km. Other novel features include a built-in forward-facing camera for safety and sharing to social media purposes. We are a little surprised by Ducati’s move, frankly. But the Italian manufacturer has also worked with a bicycle manufacturer and marketing the bike. Perhaps they are looking at a holistic approach, rather than just sticking to the big bike market only. We shall see what they have in their sleeves by Intermot and EICMA this year. Source and pictures: Electrek.co --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-mv-agusta-turismo-veloce-800-coming-soon/
2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 coming soon
The folks from MV Agusta have revealed that there will be a brand new 2018 MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 coming soon. It has been said that the new Turismo Veloce 800 will feature an ‘innovative clutch system’. Other expected updates include engine power, electronics, and riding aids. MV Agusta has announced that there will be launching an updated version of the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce 800 very, very soon. According to the latest report made by MCN, not a lot of details have been released by boss man Giovanni Castiglioni apart from a brand and mysterious clutch system. From what we already know, the current generation for the Turismo Veloce 800 is fitted with a hydraulically-operated wet multi-disc clutch with the addition of the slipper mechanism. There’s a possibility of MV Agusta adding an ‘assist and slip’ clutch but although the mechanism is very helpful, it’s not exactly an ‘innovative clutch system’ as to how Castiglioni stated. There are a number of possibilities on how the Italian premium bike manufacturer can pull this off. There’s the auto-clutch system like the ones made by Rekluse which controls the clutch using the engine revs. With this, there’s no need to use the clutch even for starts and stops. There’s also the possibility of MV Agusta coming up with something similar to Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) where the seamless gear transitions are introduced which allows for greater ease as well as comfort. In terms of power, the current Turismo Veloce 800 already has that in abundance with its 798cc three-cylinder engine. Producing a very healthy 110hp at 10,150rpm and 80Nm at 7,100rpm, the Turismo Veloce 800 comes ready with a host of electronic assistance from bilateral quickshifter to Ride-by-Wire. Currently, MV Agusta Malaysia is offering the current Turismo Veloce 800 starting from RM94,751 (basic price with GST). To know more, head over to the MV Agusta Lifestyle Centre located in Batu Caves, Selangor. 2018 MV Agusta Brutale 800 RR America released --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-ducati-panigale-v4s-test-review/
2018 Ducati Panigale V4S Test & Review
The new Ducati Panigale V4, V4S, V4 Speciale mark the manufacturer’s departure from their trademark V-Twin sportbikes. The Panigale V4 is set to bring the Superbike World Championship title back to Italy. We tested the Panigale V4S during the Ducati Racing Experience (DRE) at SIC. Standing before the Ducati Panigale V4S in the Sepang Circuit pitlane, am having trouble inserting my earplugs. It had seemed like my ear holes constricted in the last 30 seconds. I looked at my hands. They were quivering, while the blood red Ducati seemed to squint and taunt, “Ride me if you dare.” It’s probably a well-known fact to the extent of being passé now. The Ducati Panigale V4 is the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer’s weapon for reclaiming the coveted Superbike World Championship title. Ducati had dominated the production-based championship with the V-Twin engine. Beginning with Raymond Roche’s first title win on the 851 in 1990 and the last by Carlos Checa on the 1098R in 2011, Ducati won 14 rider and 17 manufacturer titles during those 24 years. However, rule changes in the series had swung the favour back towards 4-cylinder motorcycles. Current Ducati riders kept finding themselves outgunned on many occasions and had resorted to over-committing to compensate for the lack of power. Well, Ducati isn’t one to sit still while allowing their supremacy being stomped on. In terms of out-and-out power production for a specific capacity, the V-Twin had reached the end of its development path. Ducati had probably tried all the possible solutions in wringing the last bit of performance over the years, apart from retaining the engine format as a signature, but there’s just no way to push on something that will not yield. So, turning to their race winning experience in MotoGP, Ducati decided to go the V-Four route. There will be two engines, one for road use and another for racing which will be unveiled later for the 2019 SBK season. The former which we tested here is hence called “Desmosedici Stradale” meaning Desmodromic 16-valves (“sedici” in Italian) Road. The Desmosedici Stradale displaces 1103cc and produces a whopping 214 bhp @ 13,000 RPM (226 bhp with race kit) and 124 Nm @ 10,000 RPM. That’s a great 3,000 RPM spread between peak torque and horsepower, meaning that the engine has a flexible power curve, instead of being peaky like the 1299 it replaces. Being a 90o V4 means it has a natural balance it and doesn’t incur power and weight penalties from using balancer shafts. It also makes the engine much more compact, allowing the engineers to place the engine for more optimal weight distribution within the frame. The crankshaft counter-rotates, spinning “backwards,” opposing the rear tyre’s rotation. This is a direct influence from Ducati MotoGP’s bikes. The spinning and reciprocating masses inside and engine create their own inertia and gyroscopic effect, adding to the rear tyre’s. Having a counter-rotating crank hence negates some of these forces, resulting in a bike that is easier to turn and rein in that raw power from inducing wheelies. GP aficionados will tell you that Honda did exactly this on their NSR500 two-stroke GP beast. Ducati calls the new engine’s firing order “Twin Pulse” as it fires first the left bank of cylinders, then the right, replicating a V-Twin’s. It gives the bike a unique aural and handling character. Ducati wanted a compact engine despite gaining two extra cylinders, so they turned to magnesium alloy covers for the cylinder head, clutch, stator and oil sump. They ended up with an engine that’s only 2kg heavier than the V-Twin 1285cc Superquadro. Other features include variable length intake funnels, dual injectors per throttle body and oval throttle bodies. The chassis department has also received changes, accordingly. Instead of the monocoque design used by earlier Panigales, there is a now an aluminium “beam frame.” But it only extends a short way from the headstock. A peek inside sees the engine being rotate upwards (by 42o). As such, the entire engine could be moved further forward, allowing for a longer swingarm. A longer swingarm promotes stability by keeping the front tyre on the road longer, allowing the bike to hug the chosen line even when power is applied. Since this is the “S” version, it uses the electronically-controlled Öhlins suspension front and rear. The system monitors suspension movements and damping up to 100 times per second. Sure, that’s what most electronic suspensions do these days, but here’s the main difference. Instead of just letting the ECU choose the rates based on ride mode, the Panigale V4S’s system lets you work on objectives i.e. what do you want to achieve. For example, you could specify more stability under eye-popping hard braking, plus more stability in mid-corner, less rearward weight transfer under hard acceleration, etc. On a “manual” suspension, on the other hand, you could only tune the suspension for one, maybe two characteristics while the rest are compromises at best. The rear shock has been moved to the traditional central position, since there’s more space. The front brakes use the latest Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers that are 70g lighter per caliper, yet more rigid. They grip massive 330mm discs. Enough. Enough of tech talk (yaaawwwnn), let’s ride. I took a long hard breath to calm my nerves and stuck the earplugs in, at last. Riding a sub-200 bhp superbike is already crazy enough, this one is above 200 bhp. Sitting position is bang-on Panigale, so you won’t feel out-of-place if you switched over from the V-Twin. The seat was much suppler, however. The V4 fired up and sounded… wait, have DRE put me on the wrong bike? Why did it sound like a Twin? I looked down and my gaze met a massive aluminium structure below the top triple clamp. Owh, it was the V4. When Ducati said the engine fires like a V-Twin times 2, they weren’t joking. The ride mode was set to “SPORT.” My group’s Ducati Racing Experience (DRE) instructor, one uproarious Spanish racer named Carlos Serrano flashed a thumb’s up and we were underway. The bike pulled hard but err… smoothly from the pit exit and we leaned into Turn One without touching the brakes. Turn Two had always scared me due to the bumps at the braking point/entry and the blind apex, so I approached it with some trepidation, but the Panigale V4S ran over those bumps and holes like a sport-tourer. What the…? I had expected to be bumped around the seat and my arms punched into the shoulder sockets. Through the faster turns, i.e. 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, and 13, I had already gone faster than I even did before, but it was as if those were just straights with the bike leaned over. I fed in power smoothly as on other bikes but the bike actually yawned! There were still a few wet patches hugging the inner parts of the turns but the bike flew over them as if they weren’t there. Down into hard braking areas such as Turns 1, 4, 9, and 15, a single-finger pull on the brake lever was enough to haul the bike down from insane speeds. I found myself constantly over-braking and too early in the first session. And did I mention the bike actually felt… comfortable? Where were the mid-corner bumps in Turns 2 and 9? Did SIC resurface the track last night? I felt disoriented as we headed into the pit entrance after 5 laps. As with every DRE, critique and instructions followed after every session. Serrano commented that we were turning into corners too early. One participant commented that aiming for the apex that late meant that we had to quick flick the bike, risking losing the front. Serrano smiled, closed his eyes and wagged his head, “No, no, don’t worry, this bike can do it. Just snap it over.” He also mentioned that we were slow in getting back on the throttle. All of us spoke up that it’ll either cause the bike (read: other than the Panigale V4S) to overshoot or slide the rear tyre. Serrano repeated his smile-close-eyes-wag-head routine, “Don’t worry, just open.” Okay. Flick in late, open throttle early. Got that. Out on track for the second session, all of us “just open.” Oh my. The bike picked up so much speed in mid-corner that would have other bikes jumping the curbs and headed to KLIA in a hurry. And I was still braking too hard, too early! Grrrr! I didn’t matter if we were blasting down the back straight at 280+ km/h, braking just after the 200m marker was a waste of time. I had to get back on the throttle by the 50m mark. Besides that, I’d usually trail the rear brake a little to keep the rear in check, but it was optional on the Panigale V4S. I was upset at myself for being so slow when we went back in again. Truth is, I was sure I had gone faster than ever before yet, I just couldn’t find the limits of the bike. It actually boiled down to being too used to sportbikes that are akin to holding onto The Rock as he thrashes around. No, it wasn’t about lack of feedback on the V4, for there was plenty. But it was how compliant it felt that fully confused me. Make no mistake, this is a positive point for regular sportbike riders and track day junkies. As opposed to other bikes, the Panigale V4S doesn’t wear you down. I switch to race mode for the next session. This time, the bike’s acceleration was absolutely brutal, even in mid-corner! Don’t get the wrong impression, though, because while it accelerated like rocket sled, it was incredibly smooth, unlike something which left your brain 100m behind. Now you know why I was confused. I was confident enough to trail brake into the corners and the feedback at the brake lever and handlebar was solid. The bike waggled a little as I sat up for Turns 15 and 1 but it never ever felt like things were going to get out of hand. Forget the internet, this was way more entertaining. But we only had the morning session and I almost did an extra lap during the last session as I have having so much fun. I walked away feeling a little unsatisfied, however, as I never managed to sniff, much more explore, the bike’s astronomical limits. The conclusion I could safely draw is this: The Ducati Panigale V4S is easily the fastest superbike out there, but it’s also the easiest to ride (super) fast. For more pricing details and to view the bike, please visit Ducati Malaysia. PICTURE GALLERY Aluminium has replaced the monocoque structure on the Ducati Panigale V4 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/switzerland-to-reconsider-speeding-fines-and-motorsport-ban/
Switzerland To Reconsider Speeding Fines And Motorsport Ban
Switzerland might be home to beautiful roads but the country is notorious for its crackdown on speeding motorcycles and cars on public roads. Back in 2010, a driver was slammed with a USD1 million fine after he was caught speeding at 290km/h, which was 170km/h over the speed limit. The fine was a record at the time. In Switzerland, speeding fines are calculated based on the seriousness of the offence and the offender’s wealth, and considering the driver did it with his Mercedes SLS AMG, a 1M dollar fine was deemed relevant. However, according to a report by Motorrad, the national legislators are considering changing the current fines on speeding vehicles. If the changes do apply, it could well have a significant impact on riders across Europe. On another note, Switzerland is also considering its ongoing motorsport ban since 1955. The country imposed a ban on motorsport racing ever since a single worst crash in motorsport history occurred at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. During the catastrophic event, Mercedes driver Pierre Leveh and 84 spectators were killed, and in the wake of the incident, Switzerland decided to ban motorsport racing until today. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/petronas-is-exclusive-moto3-and-moto2-fuel-supplier-in-2020/
PETRONAS is Exclusive Moto3 and Moto2 Fuel Supplier in 2020
Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin, President & Group CEO, PETRONAS with Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of Dorna Sports PETRONAS will be the exclusive fuel supplier to the Moto3 and Moto2 classes in 2020. The deal will last until 2022. It includes racetrack advertising. PETRONAS will be the exclusive fuel supplier to the Moto3 and Moto2 classes beginning 2020. The deal is set for three years, ending in 2022. The deal was announced by Dorna Sports, the organiser of the MotoGP World Championship. Besides supplying fuel, the agreement also covers track advertising, which will see the PETRONAS brand displayed at race tracks around the world. These moves will increase visibility and awareness to the brand to billions of race fans around the globe. The Malaysian petroleum giant is currently the sponsor and technical partner to the PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team in MotoGP and the PETRONAS Sprinta Racing Team in both Moto2 and Moto3. Despite being the teams’ first season, Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli has done exceptionally well to win five pole positions and finished on the podium six times, with one race to go. In the Moto3 class, John McPhee captured two poles positions, won one race and finish on the podium twice in another two. His teammate Ayumu Sasaki took one pole position. The PETRONAS-backed teams have just completed their homecoming race at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday. The MotoGP had also won the 2019 Independent Teams Championship at the round. Will we soon see our national petroleum brand taking over as the title sponsor of the Malaysian MotoGP in the near future? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rieju-aventura-500-legend-breaks-cover-30l-fuel-tank-47hp/
Rieju Aventura 500 Legend Breaks Cover – 30L Fuel Tank, 47hp
The middleweight adventure motorcycle segment is growing especially those in the 500cc range. The Rieju Aventura 500 is equipped with a massive 30L fuel tank. Features Honda’s trusted 471cc parallel-twin engine manufactured by Loncin.  Latest to join the rank is Spanish brand Rieju with the Aventura 500 Legend that was recently showcased at the EICMA show in Milan. The company was founded in 1934 and begin producing bicycles for before entering the motorcycle market in 1953. More than 20 years later, Rieju established itself as a notable presence in the enduro racing scene. However, the Aventura 500 is the company first attempt at moving away from its enduro and supermoto heritage.  That said, the Rieju Aventura 500 features the biggest engine in the company portfolio. A closer look at the 471cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine and you’ll notice that it shares similarities with the same engine found in the Honda CB500X. That’s because the engine is under license by Honda and is manufactured by Loncin for Rieju.  As a result, the Rieju Aventura 500 makes the same 47hp and 43Nm.  However, unlike the CB500X, the Aventure 500 is fitted with spoked 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, making it more off-road adept than the former. Nevertheless, the most jaw-dropping features on the ADV is the 30L fuel tank that’s fitted above the engine and another within the rear subframe.  In other words, the Aventura 500 potentially has a range of more than 950 kilometres.  Currently, further details remain undisclosed but we’ll keep an eye on any update regarding this exciting middleweight ADV.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tested-modenas-elegan-250-abs-modest-maxi/
TESTED: Modenas Elegan 250 ABS – “Modest Maxi”
Let’s face it, driving to and from the office is a pain in the behind, especially when you work in bustling cities like Kuala Lumpur. Those times wasted in traffic jams and toll fees do add up at the end of the month, which is why a lot of folks are opting for two-wheels like maxi-scooters. If you’re tight on budget but still want a decent 250cc scooter that can handle the task of daily travels, the latest and most affordable option right now is the Modenas Elegan 250 ABS. We took it out for a spin, and here’s what we really think about this budget maxi-scooter after riding it for a few days. Starting with the looks, the new Elegan 250 ABS still carries that instantly-recognisable maxi-scooter look and feel with some changes from the previous-gen model. The most obvious change is its front projector headlights with daytime-running lights which give the scooter a more modern and slightly aggressive façade. They light up the roads nicely, no matter day or night. The multi-functional speedometer looks just like the previous-gen model but Modenas stated that they’ve worked with the internal lighting to make sure that you can check out all the necessary info without being a distraction, especially when riding at night. As you look closer at its lower front end, you’ll notice that the 260mm disc brake is equipped with ABS and you’ll find the same configuration at its rear 240mm disc. For RM15,315 (minus insurance, road tax & registration), this is actually quite a bargain. So, it looks great, but how does it ride? Its 250cc single-cylinder SOHC engine with dual valves produces around 22hp and 22.4Nm of torque. On paper, the Modenas Elegan 250 ABS is not the most powerful in its class but it’s adequate enough to tackle everyday rides. Smooth and comfort have always been the go-to highlights when it comes to maxi-scooters, and the Elegan 250 ABS is no exception. Acceleration is decent, power delivery is smooth while handling, and seating position is very comfortable and plush (despite its 195kg kerb weight). The seating position is quite plush and relaxed in our opinion, but if the hump can be move slightly towards the back, it’ll be even better. Anyone who’s below 170cm in height (or have normal length legs) can ride this well without customising the seat cushion. The handlebar is also nicely positioned where you can extend your arms, unlike the Kawasaki J300 which is quite close to the rider (and not very comfy). Power delivery is all well and good until you exceed 110km/h. To be brutally honest, the Elegan 250 ABS is a darling below or at that particular speed with little to no vibrations whatsoever (seriously smooth, guys and gals) but above that, that’s when things start to get a bit rattly. Remembering its price tag, we try to keep our expectations at a fair level and we were honestly impressed with how it performed under and at the Malaysian highway speed limit. However, the vibrations that present themselves above 110km/h might shock a few folks due to how quickly and drastic it comes into play. It’s not as rough as you would think, though. In fact, it’s probably at a similar level to a lot of scooter models here in Malaysia (apart from Vespas which are notoriously known to be extremely smooth no matter how hard you push it when brand new). It’s just how different it feels within such a small speed difference. 100km/h? Smooth like warm butter. 110km/h? Okay, got a little vibration. Above 110km/h? Trrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr~~~~ This can be forgiven due to its price but if you want to get rid of these vibrations, some extra work is needed. You might want to rebalance the wheels, play around with the variator or roller weights, or find some aftermarket bushings to further absorb those rattles. Try these methods in that particular order as it starts with the cheapest method to the not-so-cheap-but-still-affordable way. How about stopping? Well, the brakes are good in our opinion. The feedback is nice with just enough freeplay and the ABS kicks in at the right level without alarming newer riders. The rear ABS is a bit intrusive than the front (you’ll feel the pulsations on the brake lever during hard braking), but they’re still very smooth. No complaints in this area. Let’s talk storage. Like most maxi-scooters, you can store a whole lot of cargo under the seat. For single riders, a full-face helmet like my Shark Ridill can be stored with some riding essentials like a rain suit and others. If you’re riding with a pillion, you can store a full-face helmet and a demi-jet lid under the seat with no issues. A gas-strut helps to hold the seat up so you can access your belongings easily. When it gets dark, there’s an LED light to help you locate smaller items that you’ve stored (very useful when you arrive home at night). There’s a smaller storage space under the left handlebar which also comes with a USB charger. You can store things like your phone and wallet there BUT don’t forget to take them out once you’ve parked because anyone can access this compartment without using a key. At the end of the day, the Modenas Elegan 250 ABS is a relatively comfortable 250cc scooter that ticks most of the boxes especially its price tag (good enough to forgive all of its slight drawbacks). You won’t get the usually 250cc top-end performance, but you will get a comfortable and functional scooter that won’t burn a hole in your pocket. In fact, it’ll probably save you a whole lot of money compared to driving to the office. You save time not being stuck in traffic jams and there’s no need to waste cash on tolls and parking. The Elegan 250 ABS is a damn good investment if you’re tight on budget. In conclusion, it’s cheap yet functional with decent specs. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/cars/gallery-custom-vr46-ford-vehicles/
Gallery: Custom VR46 Ford vehicles
Custom VR46 Ford vehicles are made for the ultimate Rossi fan and collector. The VR46 merchandising arm of racing superstar Valentino Rossi has continued its partnership with automaker Ford by releasing a series of limited edition custom VR46 Ford vehicles recently. The range consists of the award-winning Ford Ranger pick-up truck and the ever-popular Ford Transit commercial van, all dressed up in a special livery inspired by Rossi’s VR46 brand. We’ll start with the blacked-out Ford Transit Tourneo that’s limited to just 460 units. Besides a sports suspension and sports exhaust kit, this special Transit also gains with OZ Racing wheels all-round. On board, the exterior’s blacked-out theme is replicated in the cabin trims. It also boasts VR46 inscriptions and stitching on the seats along with a new steering wheel and leather upholstery. Moving on to the Ford Ranger that’s also limited to just 460 units. The cabin trims are similar to that in the Ford Transit Tourneo’s whilst its exterior is dressed in a matte black scheme with Rossi’s famed ‘46’ racing number decals sprawled across both sides. Mechanical details are scarce but it appears this custom pick-up truck appears to have a beefed up suspension and wheels setup. Other notable additions here include the extended wheel arches and a roof-mounted LED rack. Reports indicate that the custom VR46 Ford vehicles will only go on sale in the UK and Europe at undisclosed prices. Check out more images in the gallery we’ve prepared below. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/mv-agusta-based-motul-onirika-2853-concept-bows-in-verona/
MV Agusta-based Motul Onirika 2853 Concept bows in Verona
MV Agusta Brutale 800 takes on a different persona as the Motul Onirika 2853 Concept. Another bike that’s stealing the limelight away from the Ducati draXter concept during last weekend’s annual Verona Motor Bike Expo 2016 is this, the Motul Onirika 2853 Concept. The “Onirika 2853” name, as Motul explains, refers to dreaming or imagining of what Motul could look like after a millennia from the company’s founding year of 1853. The French lubricants brand’s Italian arm commissioned the concept’s build, of which the duty was bestowed upon designer Luca Pozzato from the Officine GPDesign design firm. The concept sees Pozzato using an MV Agusta Brutale 800 as the basis of the project, but the final output sees just the base bike’s 798cc triple-cylinder heart, frame and swingarm assemblies untouched. As for the rest, much of which was specially fabricated for this special project, leading to the final design straying away from the usual traits that MV Agusta is renowned for. Pozzato opted to give the roadster a more menacing look, merging together the vibes of a ‘rat rod’ with post-apocalyptic lines, a mild touch of retro road-racing design and perhaps light elements of cyber-art. Other details like the metal seat, which features large and raised rivets, and the odd disc-like wheels, further adds to the concept’s gritty industrial design approach. The fuel tank and tail section also gets the same treatment as they feature monochrome art design, injecting an urban feel into the concept. The Brutale’s round headlamp also gets traded for a pair of twin-box units which, presumably, sees one tasked as the low-beam and the other as the high-beam. Overall, the concept’s seemingly dark tone is only broken by the Motul brand’s logo donning the tank’s sides. Whilst the rivalling Ducati draXter concept is tasty indeed, this MV Agusta-based concept is slowly creeping its way into our hearts too. Sources: Asphaltandrubber and AutoEvolution --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-ktm-confirms-bradley-smith-pol-espargaro-2018/
MotoGP: KTM confirms both Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro for 2018
The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team has confirmed that both their current riders Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro will continue their MotoGP efforts in 2018. Both riders including their test rider Mika Kallio will continue to develop their KTM RC16 MotoGP machinery to be more competitive come next season. The best result that they had so far was with Mika Kallio as a wildcard entry during the Austrian GP where he finished in the top ten. KTM has released a press release regarding the future of their current MotoGP riders Bradley Smith and Pol Espargaro. They have confirmed that both riders will continue their MotoGP efforts with the Austrian factory squad for another season in 2018. Image source: Jari Heikkila KTM has also mentioned that Mika Kallio will remain as their main test rider for 2018 as well. After months of rumours and uncertainty, this move has brought some closure and relief for both riders and the rest of the squad. It can be seen with a superb qualifying session this past weekend where both riders made it into Q2 despite harsh weather conditions at the Twin Ring Motegi in Japan. Both riders also managed to qualify their best positions yet in P7 and P8. The race results however could have been better with Pol Espargaro finishing the race in P11 whereas Bradley Smith was way down the order in P17. This is still quite acceptable considering that this is still their first year in the premier class on board the all-new KTM RC16 MotoGP machinery. To check out the race results of the Motul Grand Prix of Japan from yesterday, CLICK HERE. The entire season was seen more of a testing and developing the KTM RC16 which has been struggling to compete with other bikes in the field. The best result that they had was at their home race in Red Bull Ring. Even then, it was their test rider Mika Kallio who was a wildcard entry that finished in the top 10. Although they are still quite behind, we are sure that with their resources together with a respectable team that they will obtain more positive results come 2018. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. One thing that we know for sure is that when it comes to KTM, they will go all out to make sure that their riders and machines are “Ready to Race”. Photo source: MotoGP --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/passenger-safety-gear/
Passenger Safety: Gear Up!
Courtesy of cravelonline.com Study confirms that passengers are more prone to injury. It’s the rider’s responsibility to ensure the passenger is fully geared up. At least a good helmet is necessary. Remember that video which went viral? Most riders already knew that it’s the passenger who usually comes out the worse in the event of an accident. Unfortunately, we still see many riders who don’t equip their passengers adequately when riding. The rider may be cladded in armoured jacket and pants, a good helmet, gloves and boots, but the passenger looks like he or she just got back from the beach, and wearing a helmet seemingly made when Allahyarham Tun Hussein Onn was Prime Minister. Hope this research changes your mind. Published in Reuters Health, it is confirmed by researchers that passengers are likely to suffer more traumatic injuries compared to riders. Even with helmets on, 36 percent of the passengers suffered traumatic brain injury, compared to 31 percent among riders. Dr. Tyler Evans of the Indiana University School of Medicine said, “We believe that in certain accidents, the passenger is more likely to be ejected from the motorcycle.” This is the likely scenario why passengers face a higher risk of brain injury, he added. You can read the source of the report here. While riders face lower risks since they could hold on to the handlebar and fuel tank, and protected by the windscreen in some cases, passengers don’t have such luxury since they have little to hold onto. This is especially advantageous for the riders since they know what’s happening and could brace themselves. Courtesy of freemalaysiatoday.com In Malaysia, there were 39,744 deaths resulting from motorcycle accidents between 2005 to 2014. The knowledge gained from this study means that the rider should always provide the best helmet and riding gear he or she could afford for the passenger. Come to think of it, the passenger should be better equipped than the rider! Courtesy of says.com   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-malaysia-orange-enduro-2018-ready-sungai-petani/
KTM Malaysia Orange Enduro 2018 ready for Sungai Petani
The first round of the KTM Malaysia Orange Enduro 2018 will kick things off on 21 April 2018 in Sungai Petani, Kedah. A total of RM10,000 of prizes will be given away to participants competing in five different categories. All are welcome to the newly-ready KTM Off-Road Track (next to Amanjaya Mall) for a whole day of an off-road extravaganza. Calling all off-road and motocross fans in the North, this is one is for you! The first round of the KTM Malaysia Orange Enduro 2018 is set to explode this coming 21 April 2018 (Saturday). Interested participants can enter five different categories with the hopes to take home the grand prizes but more importantly, bragging rights of being the best in the national motocross business. This event has been organised following KTM Malaysia’s major success when they held the KTM Malaysia Fun Enduro 2017 back in 2017 at the Sungai Buaya Off-Road Track in Rawang. The series is actually open for all motorcycles of different makes which will then be divided into five different categories; Open, Veteran, KTM Enduro, CKD, and Cubcross. In collaboration with Elf Lubricants Malaysia, EDT Printing, Gracshaw Helmets, Amanjaya Mall, and yours truly, Bikes Republic, the event is said to be one of the biggest programs planned by KTM Malaysia for this year. With this latest Orange Enduro 2018 series, KTM Malaysia hopes to uncover and develop great Malaysian talents in the world of motocross and off-road riding. Through the organised event, they also hope to increase the exposure to the sports segment and therefore widen its audience and followers all across Malaysia. To make sure that this is not just a one-time event, KTM Malaysia went out of their way to build their brand new off-road track located right next to the Amanjaya Mall in Sungai Petani, Kedah. There’s also the major support coming from the northern KTM Dukers owners group during the event day. There will be many activities planned for both participants and attendees. From popular vendors to tantalising food trucks, there’s something for the whole family for a great sunny day out mixed with some fun dirt action. There will also be special discounts and promotions on some cool KTM PowerWear items to look forward to. Those who are interested to join the series, CLICK HERE to find out about the registration fees as well as to download the registration form. See you guys there! Why you should pay attention to KTM’s fuel-injected two-stroke motorcycles --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/going-too-fast-into-a-corner/
Going Too Fast Into A Corner – What Do You Do?
Going too fast into a corner happens to every biker. But you can get away with it. Practice these steps and you’ll come away with more confidence. A corner looms ahead. It looks like a fast one, so you line it up and steer in. Only to find that the apex is actually further inside. Much further. The road seems to double-back on itself and here, you’re in the outside 1/3 of the corner and just tipping the bike in. What should you do? What can you do? The fundamentals There are five basic skills that every biker MUST possess: 1. Steering; 2. Vision; 3. Throttle control; 4. Brake control; 5. Body positioning/control. Not necessarily in that order, but these skills need to be invariably present. Let’s keep these five points in mind as we take you through a butt-clenching ride. Don’t panic This is the most important. Panicking will exacerbate the situation; making it worse when you could actually make it home to your loved ones. The first thing to happen is your body tenses up when you panic. A tense body will lock your limbs in position and cannot provide effective steering forces anymore. Look through the corner The best way to overcome this panic or impending panic is to turn your head into the corner along with your eyes (they must be inclusive). Remember that the bike goes where you look. Force yourself if you have to and flick your head to the side and get those eyes focused on the corner’s exit. More steering input Remember how to countersteer. Push on the inside and pull on the outside parts of the handlebar in a quick manner. Doing so will snap the bike over quicker. Countersteering – Courtesy of sPEEDY pADDY Control that throttle Should you shut the throttle? Open the throttle? Hold the throttle steady? The answer is don’t do anything. If you’ve closed the throttle from the corner entry, keep it closed. If you have it slightly open, keep it there and don’t roll off or open it any further. Any change to the throttle at this point will cause weight to shift, changing your chassis balance. If you chop the gas, weight will transfer to the front tyre and force the bike wide. Yes, wide. You’d expect the bike to steer better but the opposite happens as the front tyre’s footprint widens, creating a large patch of resistance. Steering becomes heavy. Throttle control – Courtesy of dreamtime.com Conversely, weight transfers to the rear when you add more throttle. The front tyre becomes light as the contact patch becomes smaller. That smaller footprint may not react enough to steering forces. Consequently, the bike goes straight. Yup, just like if you chop the gas. But if you maintain the present state, the motorcycle’s chassis is in its current state of equilibrium. At least, you know that steering effort is still consistent. If really need be, you can roll off the gas. Roll off as in turning the throttle down smoothly, NOT chopping it. Once you’re on your line to the exit, apply throttle to balance the bike and blast out. Stop treating the throttle as an on/off switch. Instead, use it as a tool to control not only the bike’s speed but its chassis balance and grip levels. Wee bit or no brake The first track exercise carried out by all California Superbike School students is the “one gear, no brake” drill. We went out there, set third or fourth gear, then control the throttle as we went into and out of corners. Yes, it’s about throttle control, but it also showed us about how modern bikes and tyres can perform beyond our expectations and fears. Make that 99% of us. Now, you’re in too fast and room is running out fast. If you’re already leaned over, touching the front brake now spells disaster. Conversely, dab on the rear brake. Doing so will 1. Create a resistance behind the bike’s centre of gravity; 2. Flatten the chassis. The bike will tighten its line. The rear brake technique is used by virtually all MotoGP riders. In the case that you’re just about to turn in, you can apply the front brake but not by grabbing it like you’re trying to crush a rock. Instead, squeeze it to feel its bite, then smoothly let out the pressure as you lean the bike over. Once you’ve seen the exit and off the brake, apply the throttle. Conclusion So, that’s it. It all starts from not panicking but do practice the five skills above as soon as you have the opportunity. I do so everytime I’m on my bike. I’d like to add that these drills don’t have to be carried out at high speeds. In fact, you’ll discover that you learn a lot more when you don’t rush yourself into things. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kbs-mam-kapcai-endurance-series-rd-3-speedway-plus/
KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance Series Rd 3 @ Speedway PLUS
After a two-month Ramadhan and Aidil Fitri brake, the KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance series returned with a bang for its third round last weekend in the Speedway PLUS Circuit, Subang. Despite the long break, it  did little to hamper the weekend’s high-level of energy, testosterone, and excitement. The Kapcai Endurance Series’ third round of the year was also supported with the third round of the inaugural KTM 390 Duke Battle Malaysia one-make series as its support event. (Read more about the ‘Orange Fever’ that made its own waves during the weekend) As always, the weekend began early on Saturday morning with registration and scrutineering, followed the practice and qualifying sessions that filled most of the day. Once again, youths from as young as 13 years old coming from all over the nation donned their gears to conquer the 1km-long circuit situated in Subang. While several sizable dark clouds did threaten to unleash itself, all sessions on both Saturday and Sunday remained dry fortunately, giving participants ideal conditions to pit their skills amongst each other in the four categories competed. But like any race weekend, it all concludes late on Sunday afternoon where three teams from each category rightfully earn their spots on the podium, as well as their entry into the series’ finals scheduled for later this year. Besides their trophies, top three teams and riders also end the weekend with sizable prize money rewards, plus accessories and gifts from sponsors such as exhaust pipes and motor oil. Taking the top honours in Class 1 were riding duo Ahmad Nur Effendy Bin Alidza and Muhammad Farriz Bin Ahmad Faizal representing the MBM-GM Racing Team 1 outfit. Astride their Yamaha SRL race machine, the pair finished the two-hour enduro with 115 laps completed. Taking the category’s second podium spot were team Brotherhood Motor Club 2 and its riding pair of Muhd Shukri Bin Shamsuddin and Muhammad Hafizuddin Aziz. The category’s final podium spot was claimed by TSR-SMW Racing Team and its four-strong rider line up comprised of Mohd Azizi Jamaluddin, Mohd Amirrudin, Mohd Radzi, and Amir Zafry Bin Yaacob. Friends for just about a year, 17-year-old Farriz and 15-year-old Effendy showed good chemistry at conquering the weekend in their category – a remarkable feat given that this is their first year actively competing in the series. “I feel very happy and excited to have won this weekend with my teammate (Effendy), and we are looking forward to the finals later this year,” said Farriz when we spoke to him shortly after the podium ceremony. Moving on into the Open Class, top honours was claimed by team Sham Amat Yam Motor and its riders Mohamad Azhar Bin Abdul Jalil and Shafiq Rasol after successfully completing 95 laps in the two-hour stint. Placing second just five laps behind were Team Rayyan Motor’s duo of Hazrul Azli and Zaidi Bin Mohd Zaifaral. Team MK Possum riders M. Shazalee Md. Radzi and M. Kanafi Bin kamaruddin wrapped up the Open Category’s podium with a strong third place finish. No stranger to the local racing scene, Shell Cup rider Shafiq Rasol was definitely at the top of his game. We caught up with the soft-spoken 18-year-old Malacca native and got some of his thoughts about his weekend. “This is my second KBS MAM race this year, and I am extremely happy to win this weekend. In my last entry earlier this year, I had to retire after the bike I was racing suffered mechanical issues while I was leading. This victory is special for me,” said Shafiq, who entered the weekend with an older and much more experience teammate Azhar. Shafiq also shared that the KBS MAM acted a good training ground when not astride the Shell Cup’s Honda NSF250R machine. “To be honest, I felt very honoured to have a Shafiq as my teammate this weekend. We learned and taught each other a lot throughout the weekend, and our top step result could not be a better reward,” said Azhar, who currently races in Cub Prix as well. Azhar and Shafiq will ride again in the finals later this year, with aims of clinching another victory as well. Winning in Class 2 were team FFS Bikes 1 after riders Muhammad Aqip Bin Jumali and teammate Muhammad Nadzin Bin Rahman completed 118 laps in total, completing the most laps in any category in the process. And finally, team Moto Deria Amat Ayam clinched the winner’s title in Class 3 with riders Muhd Muzakkir Bin Mohd and Mohd Aliff Aiman Bin Tumiran crossing the line to complete a total of 95 laps. The KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance series will gear up once again next month for its fifth and sixth rounds. Round 5 is scheduled to take place in the Dato’ Sagor Circuit, Perak on September 6 and 7 whilst Round 6 will be held towards the end of September in Pekan, Pahang on September 27 and 28. Check out the thrills, spills, and close racing action from the weekend in the gallery below. 2014 KBS-MAM Kapcai Endurance Seires Rd 4 @ Speedway PLUS --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ktm-390-adventure-coming-soon/
KTM 390 Adventure coming soon?
Word on the internet grapevine is that KTM will soon be unveiling a baby Adventure model, the KTM 390 Adventure. Indian motoring website, motorbeam is reporting that the new 390 Adventure will be unveiled at this year’s EICMA show in Milan, and will be manufactured at the company’s Chakan plant in Pune, where the Duke and RC 390 models are already being assembled. Hailed as the dual-purpose, dual-sport version of the Duke 390, the 390 Adventure will be based on the Duke 390 but will come with stronger and longer suspension, dual-purpose tyres and a larger fuel tank. As for power, the 390 Adventure will have the same 373.2cc single-cylinder engine with a 6-speed transmission. As with the bigger Adventure, the riding position will be upright to make it more comfortable for long distance rides. The frame is said to be KTM’s trellis frame while ABS will be offered as standard. There is no word yet on whether or not the 390 Adventure will be offered in Malaysia, but judging from the success of the smaller capacity, commuter KTMs, there really is no reason for it not to be offered here. There is already a Facebook fanpage dedicated to the 390 Adventure, and there is already a rendering of the bike shown below imagined by Dehradun Motor Heads. Expect the global launch to happen sometime early 2015. Cool rendering of the 390 Adventure by Dehradun Motor Heads, but we expect the real bike to offer street tyres. Motard fans look away! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-tests-new-765cc-moto2-engine-video/
Triumph tests new 765cc Moto2 engine + VIDEO!
Triumph has begun their efforts to develop their 765cc Moto2 engine after being appointed as the main engine supplier for the MotoGP intermediate class in 2019. The 2019 Moto2 Championship Engine Development Prototype race machine has been put through its phase of ongoing R&D and track session with the help of Moto2 rider, Julian Simon. Triumph’s 765cc engine has been modified extensively from custom cylinder heads, titanium valves, race kit alternator, race slipper clutch, race ECU and many more. The 2019 Moto2 Championship is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated race categories as Triumph begins developing their 765cc three-cylinder engine in their efforts to become the main engine supplier for the MotoGP intermediate class. The 2019 Moto2 Championship Engine Development Prototype race machine is actually a based on the Daytona’s chassis. Paired with the race-bred 765cc engine, this makes this particular bike the first ever Daytona 765. Exciting times ahead for Daytona enthusiasts, perhaps? Together with the help of Moto2 test rider Julian Simon who happens to be a former 125cc World Champion and Moto2 runner-up, Triumph has started their circuit testing phase over at Aragon a couple of weeks ago. Based on the video, we know for a fact that Triumph is developing both the 765cc Moto2 race engine and a brand new chassis to accommodate all that power. What the British manufacturer is trying to accomplish is developing the engine with good performance as well as durability. Just to give you guys a heads up, the 765cc engine has been modified extensively from custom cylinder heads, titanium valves, race kit alternator, race slipper clutch, race ECU and many more to further elevate the already versatile power plant. We’re also hoping highly to see the next generation Triumph Daytona to be released from all this testing and development. For now, we can have a taste of how good the 765cc inline-three engine from Triumph’s latest Street Triple series. We’ve tested the top-of-the-range Triumph Street Triple RS recently at the Sepang International Circuit. To know more on how the bike performs in track conditions, CLICK HERE. Source: Triumph Motorcycles --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-hows-franco-morbidelli-doing-in-italy-right-now/
MotoGP: How’s Franco Morbidelli doing in Italy right now?
The recent outbreak of Coronavirus or COVID-19 has been wreaking havoc all across the globe but none more so than Italy, the worst country to suffer at the hands of the infectious virus outside of China. With a lot of MotoGP races cancelled and postponed, fellow Italian Franco Morbidelli, shares his insight on dealing with the current situation in Italy (credits to Petronas Yamaha SRT). How is the situation in your country? Which are the restrictions? “At the moment in Italy we have to stay at home, the restrictions are mainly that you don’t leave your house unless it is to buy food or for some other important matter. This has been since last Monday, so it is over a week now, but I hope that the situation is going to end soon.” How are you training and keeping fit for the restart of the season? “I am training in the only way possible at the moment, at home. I’m trying to stay in shape but without leaving my house. I can go running if I stay within the land boundaries of my household, so I am doing that, but not much more. Of course, it is not my usual training routine that I do at the gym, but I am staying in shape and staying sharp.” Apart from training, what are you doing? “I cannot follow the plan that we had but having this much time at home means I can try things I had to put to one side because of all the duties that I have during the racing season, that I didn’t have time for. I have some instruments and I am trying to learn to play them. It’s not easy!! I need to practice a lot! Maybe by the end of this thing, I will be able to play the harmonica and ‘cajon’.” Did you watch the first Moto2 / Moto3 races of the season? “I did watch the races in Qatar, John was awesome! He had a great race and was able to get the second spot, so that was good. It was nice to be able to follow Xavi and Jake in Moto2 and also John and KIP in Moto3 but was also a bit sad, as I wasn’t there. It was nice because I could also follow my friends and cheer for them, without the pressure of the race there. Was mixed feelings though as you have the feeling that you are supposed to be there.” What would you say to everyone in Italy and other people that are living the same situation as you? “My message to all the Italian fans and people in the same situation around the world is to stay calm, take it easy, and respect what the World Health Organisation says. We should try to enjoy the time we are at home and get the maximum from it. We can do things at home that we usually don’t have time to do.” And to the MotoGP community? “For all the MotoGP fans: we are having a little bit of a rest right now but hopefully we will be on track soon. When we are, we’ll be able to go back to doing our thing with even more power and energy than before!” 10 Things you Can do During Covid-19 Restricted Movement Order --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-hjc-rpha-11-gets-toothless-green-goblin-and-punisher-graphics-for-2022/
The HJC RPHA 11 Gets Toothless, Green Goblin And Punisher Graphics For 2022
HJC has established itself as one of the top brands in the motorcycle industry thanks to the firm vast array of helmets. The HJC RPHA 11 now comes in Toothless, Green Goblin and Punisher graphics for 2022. The RPHA 11 is HJC’s most popular and highly seek helmet thanks to its menacing designs like Venom, Carnage and Joker. However, what sets HJC apart from the rest is perhaps the multitude of graphics to pick from. The Korean-based company is famous for its themed helmets from the likes of Marvel, DC, Disney and Pixar. Currently, the company’s flagship RPHA 11 helmets comes in Captain America, Deadpool, Monster Inc, and, not to forget, Star Wars graphics. This time, the already impressive repertoire of cartoon and superhero characters will join by three new graphics. Marvel characters, Green Goblin and Punisher, including Toothless from the movie How To Train Your Dragon, are the latest lineup for 2022. The Green Goblin showcased the most vibrant graphics among the three new designs, combining the classic green and purple colours associated with the iconic villain from Spiderman’s franchise. While the Toothless graphics look cute and clean, the iconic Skull logo from The Punisher is robably our favourite. The overall design looks neat and, most importantly, bad-ass. Currently, there’s no word when will all three new graphics make its way to our shores but once they do, we be sure to let you know about it! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/jedi-motor-vision-k750-concept-unveiled-in-china-68hp-67nm/
Jedi Motor Vision K750 Concept Unveiled In China – 68hp, 67Nm
The Chinese motorcycle market is currently undergoing a revolution in terms of styling, technology and quality. CFMoto and Benelli/QJMotor are among the brands that are currently pushing themselves as an establishment that could really go up against other major brands in the world. However, the recent CIMA show in China is slowly proving to be an ideal platform for Chinese-made motorcycles to ditched the preconceptions that Chinese-made motorcycles are low-quality machines. Among the brands that caught people’s attention was Jedi Motor, which unveiled three concept bikes, the Vision K750, GTR750 and JFR750. Like us who are not familiar with the company, Jedi Motor previously supplied bikes for the Chinese police force and security services. However, their latest move is to enter the consumer market. The Vision K750 looks well built, balance and modern on par with a Japanese or European bike. Underneath the futuristic fairing sits a 730cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 68hp @ 7,500rpm and 66Nm @ 6,500rpm. The same engine also powers the GTR750, a sport-tourer concept that features cast aluminium chassis, USD fork and Brembo brakes. Meanwhile, the JFR750 comes in two variants, a scrambler-ish model with semi-knobby tires with spoke wheels; another features lower bars, alloy wheels and street tires. Despite dubbed as a concept, Jedi Motors will soon unveil all three models as a production bike. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-yamaha-nmax-gets-new-colours-rm9498/
2022 Yamaha NMax Gets New Colours – RM9,498
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) introduced a new colour for the 2022 Yamaha NMax 155 scooter. Gets two new colourways; Matte Blue and Matte Green. 2022 Yamaha NMax 155 is now priced at RM9,498. The 2022 NMax now features two new colourways, Matte Blue and Matte Green and is priced at RM9,498 (excluding road tax, insurance and registration), a RM500 increase from the previous model. Nonetheless, powering the 2022 NMax 155 is a 155cc single-cylinder SOHC VVA engine fed by EFI. Power output is claimed at 14.9hp @ 8,000rpm and 14.4Nm @ 6,600rpm with a CVT gearbox and final belt drive. Also available on the 2022 model are an LED headlamp, LED taillight, digital LCD display, USB port and idle start-stop function. Other notable features include: 23.3L under seat storage 7.1L fuel tank telescopic front fork twin shock absorbers Braking is done with a single hydraulic disc brake at the front and rear mated to a 230mm disc. The 2022 Yamaha NMax comes with a 2-year or 20,000km warranty. According to HLYM, the 2022 Yamaha NMax 155 is available at all authorised dealers. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/mad-macau-taming-guia-street-circuit-bike/
Mad Macau – Taming the Guia Street Circuit on a Bike
Macau’s Guia street circuit has always been known to be extremely challenging, some have paid with their lives trying to tame the road circuit. Here’s a short clip of Didier Grams who races a BMW trying his best to put down a good time, and despite his seemingly god like riding skills, he still placed 8th place at the 47th edition of the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-malaysia-unveils-two-models/
BMW Motorrad Malaysia unveils two models
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has unveiled the new BMW F 700 GS and the BMW F 800 R. Built in Rayong, Thailand, both models are aimed at new riders, according to BMW Motorrad Malaysia. It is said that both models draw their power from the liquid-cooled 798cc, four-valve two-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection, which is paired to a six-speed gearbox. Producing a maximum output of 75hp and 77Nm  of peak torque, the new F 700 GS now comes with ABS as a standard feature. It is also available with a low seat option (790mm). Available in four colours (Alpine White, Blackstorm, and Racing Blue), the F 700 GS is priced at RM56,900 (OTR without insurance). The F 800 R on the other hand, which is also powered by the same engine as the F 700 GS, delivers an output of 87hp and a maximum torque of 86Nm. Similar to the GS, the F 800 R is also made available with a low seat option as standard, which allows customers to lower the seat to height of 780mm. According to BMW Motorrad Malaysia, those who opt for the Sport variant will get additional safety features such as the ASC (Automatic Stability Control) and ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment). The BMW F 800 R Sport also features a unique RDC (Tyre Pressure Control) system with a gradient monitor which provides riders with reliable information on the current tyre pressure. Other notable features on the new F 800 R Sport include rear LED lights, an engine spoiler, and two colour schemes – Racing Blue Metallic and Light White. The new BMW F 700 GS and the new BMW F 800 R will be featured at the BMW Motorrad On Tour Pop Up Store at the MotoGP Malaysia this weekend, from 23rd to 25th October 2015. Price (On the road without insurance):   The new BMW F 700 GS                  –           RM 56,900.00 The new BMW F 800 R                     –          RM 49,900.00 The new BMW F 800 R Sport          –         RM 53,500.00 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-890-duke-r-and-890-adventure-lands-in-malaysia-from-rm75800/
KTM 890 Duke R And 890 Adventure Lands In Malaysia – From RM75,800
KTM Malaysia has officially launched the new KTM 890 Duke R and 890 Adventure for the local market. The KTM 890 Duke R and 890 Adventure gets a host of upgrades. Both motorcycle features moden electronic package and the same 890cc parallel-twin engine.  KTM 890 Adventure – RM96,800 The new motorcycle made its global appearance when the world was in the midst of Covid-19 madness back in October 2020. At the time, KTM unveiled the 890 Adventure and the 890 Adventure R Rally but only the former is available for our market, for now. Nevertheless, the KTM 890 Adventure runs the 889cc parallel-twin engine which has significant upgrades from the previous 790 generation. They’ve also upgraded other things like traction control, ABS, and electronics to make them more ‘wholesome’ for everyday riding. They’re also coming in hot with a new set of fully adjustable WP XPLOR 48mm front forks while the rear is handled with the WP XPLOR PDS unit. This combo offers separate compression settings for low and high speeds, so you don’t have to mess with it too much once you get off the highway and onto the dirt. KTM 890 Duke R – RM75,800 Also joining the Malaysian market is the new KTM 890 Duke R retailed at RM75,800. As usual, the 890 Duke R offers a weird yet perfect contrast of colours, which only KTM can deliver. First introduced in 2020, the KTM 890 Duke R continue to be the undisputed champion of the middleweight naked bike category. Underneath the fancy paint sit s the famous 890cc parallel-twin engine that boasts an impressive 121hp and 99Nm. The KTM 890 Duke R remains a no-nonsense middleweight naked bike, equally capable of tackling twisty corners on normal roads as it is on the racetrack. Dubbed The Super Scalpel due to its lightning-fast steering geometry, the KTM 890 Duke R continue to feature a tubular steel chassis and adjustable WP Apex suspension. Also available on the 890 Duke R is a pair of Brembo Stylema callipers with 320mm front disc, and adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder to counteract the enormous power. The 890 Duke R also features a host of electronics wizardly, which includes: Cornering ABS Cornering MTC (traction control) 6D lean-angle sensor (roll, pitch & yaw) Riding mode (Rain/Street/Sport and Track) 9-levels adjustable traction control slop anti-wheelie throttle control settings As always, a full range of KTM PowerParts has been developed to allow owners to personalize the 890 Duke R accordingly. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-resuming-production-after-temporary-shutdown-in-may/
Harley-Davidson Resuming Production After Temporary Shutdown In May
Harley-Davidson is resuming production of its motorcycles as of June 6, 2022, ending the two-week production halt. the company issued a production shutdown of two weeks due to a regulatory compliance issue. the temporary halt lasted a few days longer than expected. Harley-Davidson officially shut its production line for two-weeks beginning May 19, but it lasted a few days longer than its initial plans. Despite no official announcement from the American company, sources in Wall Street Journal claimed that the factory is back in operation. The resumption of production is said to be happening at both Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, and York, Pennsylvania. On May 19, 2022, Harley-Davidson stated that the company is officially suspending all motorcycles (excluding LiveWire) assembly and shipments due to supply chain issues. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-desmosedici-gp7-caseys-cannonball/
Ducati Desmosedici GP7 – Ducati’s finest GP machine
Understanding what worked for the highly successful 2007 Ducati Desmosedici GP7 race machine. In this part of our week-long Ducati special, we take the time to understand how Ducati charted its greatest ever MotoGP success during the 2007 season. Two key factors were in play here, first being a brilliantly developed machine and secondly, having the right riders to tame it. Upon re-entering Grand Prix Motorcycle Racing in 2003, Ducati showed its competitiveness almost immediately by ending its debut season as runner up in the manufacturers championship. However, its greatest success only came in 2007 that was fuelled by the Ducati Desmosedici GP7 machine plus the performances of riders Casey Stoner and Loris Capirossi. Here what transpired in 2007 and how the famed scarlet Italian marque’s racing team turned it into its finest year ever. 2007 – The 800cc ruling 2007 marked the introduction of a new 800cc ruling in the premier MotoGP class. Unlike the 990cc machines raced in the previous season, the smaller capacity meant that engines were lighter, making the bikes themselves even lighter and faster as well. Though the 800cc engines had less power than the 990cc iterations they replaced, the lighter weight it held meant that a bike could brake later and carry more speeds through corners. The fact was proven when 800cc machines began setting new lap records with significant improvements over its 990cc predecessors during initial tests. Ducati somewhat saw this coming beforehand and began development of its 2007 machine early in 2006 and reportedly had 20 new 800cc double L-twin engines completely built by August 2016. Unlike its rivals, Ducati and its partner Bridgestone responded to the off-season rule change quickly, which resulted in the winning product that was the Ducati Desmosedici GP7. Besides the engine, Ducati engineers opted to retain plenty of components and parts from the GP6 predecessor. These include things like the wheels, brakes, suspension, transmission, clutch and rear swingarm. This kept both development time and costs low, allowing Ducati engineers to focus on developing other critical areas of the bike like the electronics chassis geometry. New machine and a new rider What worked for Ducati in its 2007 MotoGP campaign was the brilliantly executed early development program of the Desmosedici GP7 machine. Its most crucial aspect was its high output of 225hp from the new 800cc double L-twin engine powering it, which saw it chart speeds above 330km/h. Capirossi (left) with Stoner (right) astride their respective Desmosedici GP7. However, the GP7’s high power output and speed package came at a price whereby the bike became tricky to handle in corners, especially in some of the calendar’s more technical circuits. But these worries quickly faded away when Ducati signed Australian rider Casey Stoner to ride alongside Italian veteran Loris Capirossi in 2007. Despite being in his first season with the factory Italian team, the Australian prodigy quickly got accustomed to things in the garage. More importantly, his riding style was compatible with the new GP7 machine as opposed to Capirossi who had difficulties adjusting to it. As the season kicked off and progressed steadily, it became very clear that Ducati had an unbeatable combination – the Desmosedici GP7, Bridgestone tyres and winning rider Casey Stoner. Stoner’s successes Having honed his skills as a dirt flat-track racer early on in his career, Stoner was no stranger to riding wild and difficult handling machines. Stoner was able to tame the GP7 through corners and maximised its high-output nature that favoured speed above all else. Throughout 2007, Stoner took 10 race wins in total plus four podiums finishes with the Ducati Desmosedici GP7 race machine. And when not on the podium, Stoner also had a consistent string of point-scoring finishes that kept his – and the team’s – point scores up. Stoner’s worst finish of the season came during the Japanese Grand Prix where he finished sixth. Nevertheless, that was all he needed to be crowned as the 2007 MotoGP riders champion with just three races left. He later won the Australian and Malaysian GPs that followed before ending the season with a second place finish in Valencia, bringing in a total score of 367 points. Capirossi’s contribution Despite struggling in his last season with the Italian factory team, veteran Italian rider Loris Capirossi also played a huge yet secondary role towards Ducati’s successful year. His four retirements aside, Capirossi did chart one race win in Japan plus three podium finishes with the Ducati Desmosedici GP7. With Capirossi’s and Stoner’s results combined, Ducati scored a total of 394 points, allowing it to claim the title as the 2007 season’s manufacturers champion. Ducati not only beat second place winner Honda by 81 points, it also became the first European manufacturer to win the title in 33 years – the last being MV Agusta in 1974 with British rider Phil Read. Legacy Amongst all of Ducati’s MotoGP machines, only the GP7 stands out as it took Ducati’s only first and only riders and manufacturers titles in MotoGP to date, making it one truly special race bike in its racing history. None of the GP7’s successors have come close to charting the 11 race wins it took in the 2007 season, and it looks like it will take Ducati a while before it returns to its winning ways. Until then, the Desmosedici GP7 will remains as a benchmark for the team’s future successes. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motorcyclist-gets-rm300-fine-from-department-of-environment/
Motorcyclist gets RM300 fine from Department of Environment
It seems that the Department of Environment of Malaysia (Jabatan Alam Sekitar) has the power and authority to fine motorcycle owners if their bikes produce excessive levels of carbon monoxide (CO). One Facebook user shared his story on Facebook on how it all went down for him. Amirul Azhar and his beloved Yamaha LC 135 was flagged down by authorities from the Department of Environment during one of their roadside operations. Their job is to check out how much carbon monoxide your bike produces using one of their high-tech probes. Vehicles that produce carbon monoxide at 4.5% or lower pass the inspection, but for bikes that exceed that threshold, a fine of RM300 will be issued to the owner/rider. For Mr. Amirul Azhar and his 135cc kapcai, the level was at 9.93%, which is why he got the fine. The good news is that the Department of Environment will give a 50% discount on the penalty amount IF you go through a couple of steps before making the payment. Owners will need to go a workshop to remedy the CO emission levels (keep the receipt, please). The owner will then need to take his or her bike to PUSPAKOM to verify that the CO emissions levels are at 4.5% or lower before heading to the Department of Environment to pay for the fine. Don’t forget to bring the necessary documents from the workshop and PUSPAKOM, or else you won’t get the 50% discount. Car on Federal Highway motorcycle lane causes accident --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-aprilia-rsv4-rf-factory-works-now-winglets/
2018 Aprilia RSV4 RF Factory Works– Now with WINGLETS!
The latest 2018 Aprilia RSV4 RF Factory Works which will be available sometime next year will come with some MotoGP tech, particularly winglets. Powered by a 999.6cc V4, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, this particular RSV4 RF Factory Works produces 215hp thanks to new pistons, heads, ECU and full-racing exhaust. Almost 10kg of extra weight has been shaved thanks to a brand new lithium-ion battery, fuel tank, exhaust and a few other carbon and aluminium parts. It’s all a matter of time before the latest MotoGP technology drips down the manufacturer’s production bike and looks like Aprilia is the first one to deliver the opening uppercut. From their Aprilia RS-GP race machine to the 250hp RSV4 R FW-GP, they will now offer the 2018 Aprilia RSV4 RF Factory Works fitted with winglets. YES, WINGLETS. Powered by a 999.6cc V4, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, this particular RSV4 with the Factory Works Kit  punches out a hefty 215hp to any track or race enthusiasts looking for that extra edge. Those who are asking about the winglets, they are indeed race legal. Imagine showing up to the circuit with one these babies. Dubbed “aerodynamic appendages”, it is obviously develop by Aprilia’s MotoGP effort for the past couple of years, you too acquire the same levels of aerodynamics and downforce found in the one of the highest levels of motorcycle racing. Their latest RSV4 racing kit conjured up by the Aprilia Factory Works program has also fitted the 2018 bike with new pistons, heads, control unit and a brand new full-racing exhaust which explains the increased horsepower to 215hp. If you opt for the race package, it’ll come with a strict weight loss regiment where almost 10kg of weight are stripped out thanks to a brand new lithium-ion battery, fuel tank, exhaust and a few other carbon and aluminium parts found all over the bike. Good bike? Indeed. Price? Should be super expensive. Should you get one if you have the money? ABSOLUTELY. To check out the latest 2017 Aprilia RSV4 RF launched just last month here in Malaysia, CLICK HERE. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-mv-agusta-to-unveil-two-new-adventure-bikes-at-eicma/
OFFICIAL: MV Agusta To Unveil Two New Adventure Bikes At EICMA
MV Agusta is set to make a return to the adventure bike segment, with two new models set to be unveiled at EICMA on November 23. The official announcement was made via the company press release shared earlier today. Interestingly, both models will be available for online pre-booking from November 23. Meanwhile, the Varese-based motorcycle manufacturer also announced the Lucky Explorer project, a multi-faceted initiative aiming at gathering passionate lovers of rally raid and off-road racing. “I am excited about the launch of this very special project. “The Lucky Explorer concept is not just about bikes, it’s about a comprehensive world of emotions, memories, values and a way of being. “A long-awaited return for all the fans of Made-in-Schiranna, but also a new beginning and a leap into the future: no matter where life takes us, we know where we’re from,” said Timur Sardarov, CEO MV Agusta Motor.   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/energica-receives-record-breaking-order-from-taiwan-worth-rm4-1-million/
Energica Receives Record-Breaking Order From Taiwan, Worth RM4.1 Million!
Energica Motor Company managed to secure record-breaking order from Taiwanese importer, Russ Tiger Enterprise Co. Ltd. The order is the highest in the Italian company history, including all the Energica line-up models, for a total of EUR836,000 (RM4.1 mil). Taiwan has seen a massive demand for electric mobility. It is estimated there are over 91,000 electric-powered motorcycles in the country; hence, it comes with no surprised when Energica commercial partner, Russ Tiger is seeking to promote the Italian brand in Taiwan. “Electric vehicles are the trend because of environment protection. Besides, the weather and Taiwan environment are also suitable for electric bike riders,” explained Russ Tiger Enterprise CEO, Russ Tai. According to Russ, Energica status as a Moto3 supplier is one of the factors behind the high demand of the brand in Taiwan. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-sky-vr46-team-fires-romano-fenati/
MotoGP: Sky VR46 team fires Romano Fenati
Italian Moto3 rider Romano Fenati fired from Sky VR46 team. After initially being suspended from the Austrian GP last weekend, Italian Moto3 rider Romano Fenati has been booted by the Sky Racing Team VR46 team. According to the team, Fenati was formally released from his contract for behavioral issues. The 20-year-old Italian had reportedly been abusive towards members of the team, more specifically towards technicians and mechanics. The problem reached its peak when Fenati berated the Sky Racing Team VR46 staff after the Austrian GP Qualifying session last weekend. This eventually led to his immediate suspension by the team where he missed out on Sunday’s race. Currently, Fenati ranks third in the Moto3 championship standings with 93 points. Fenati won the Grand Prix of the Americas race in Texas and later took second place in the French GP as well. Fenati’s initial deal of moving up into Moto2 with the Sky Racing Team VR46 outfit next year has been cancelled as well following his exit. His fate this season remains unknown for now but rumours indicate that Aki Ajo has an interest for the Italian rider. Fenati’s vacant seat at the Sky Racing Team VR46 garage will be taken up by Lorenzo Dalla Porta. Coming fresh off the Spanish CEV championship, Dalla Porta joins alongside Andrea Migno and Nicolo Bulega in the Moto3 squad. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/zaqhwan-youngest-arrc-champion/
ZAQHWAN IS THE YOUNGEST ARRC CHAMPION
Zaqhwan Zaidi snatched the SuperSports 600cc crown from the grasp of Katsuaki Fujiwara and Yuki Ito to become the youngest rider to win the premiere class in a thrilling PETRONAS Asia Road Racing Championship season finale at the Losail International Circuit in Qatar on Sunday.The Musashi Boon Siew Honda Racing rider was third in the standings with a 22-point disadvantage heading into the final round but was able to secure the title having finished second in Race 1 and Race 2 as champion thanks to teammate, Zamri Baba who held off his immediate title rivals. Retiring Katsuaki Fujiwara (BEET Kawasaki Racing) who initially led the standings missed out on what could have been his second Asian title after he completed both races outside top-10 following technical difficulties with his front-end suspension. It was a dramatic end to an enthralling season and gave Honda, who sealed the SuperSports 600cc team awards with Zaqhwan’s victory at the floodlit desert circuit, their third riders’ title after Ryuichi Kiyonari (2012) and Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (2013). The final standings had Zaqhwan on top with 170 points, one point ahead of Yuki Ito (PETRONAS Hong Leong Yamaha) in second and 15 above retirement-bound Katsuaki Fujiwara (BEET Kawasaki Racing) in third place. “You dream about being champion and dedicate your whole life to it, so when it comes true it is very special and amazing! I’m just really happy to make my country proud,” said an emotional Zaqhwan after the race. He added, “Honestly we did not expect to win because this is only my third year racing in the premiere class. But when we saw Yuki and Fujiwara finish outside top five in Race 1, it became clear we actually stood a chance so Zamri and I cooked up a strategy together.” “I owe it to Zamri, Without him holding Yuki and the rest of the field back, it would have been impossible to win and personally I think he is the man of the match. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the team, sponsors, family, friends and fans for believing and supporting me all this while.” In an intense battle that saw the leaders swap positions on multiple times, Zamri aced Race 1 in 31’37.305s followed by Zaqhwan second and Yudhistira (Manual Tech KYT Kawasaki) third with 31’37.371s and 31’37.529s respectively. Zaqhwan signed off the season with his second premiere class victory to secure the SuperSports 600cc title in Race 2, wrapping up the grueling 15-lap battle in 31’24.717s while Yuki fought courageously to finish second with 31’25.097s. 31-year old Zamri came in third with 31’25.119s.   --Ads--