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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/enjoy-exciting-offers-from-ducati-malaysia-stay-safe-ride-free-campaign/
Enjoy Exciting Offers From Ducati Malaysia “Stay Safe, Ride Free” Campaign!
Ducati Malaysia seeks to bring joy for every Ducati fans in Malaysia by extending the Stay Safe, Ride Free campaign throughout the Chinese New Year celebration. Initiated in January 2020, the campaign offers an assortment of privileges for every Ducatisti available at Ducati Centres nationwide. Check out these four (4) incredible offers below: 1. Wide range of motorcycle with great offers Ducati Malaysia is offering attractive ownership packages for selected bikes and customers can check them out via various online platforms available. This is to ensure every Ducati customers can enjoy a detail look at every model available at the comfort of your home. 2. Complimentary Ducati Smart Jacket worth RM4,300 Enjoy complimentary Ducati Smart Jacket worth RM4,300 with every motorcycle purchased at Ducati Malaysia. Ducati Smart Jacket offers a patented airbag system that protects the rider’s back by ensuring maximum shock absorption. According to Ducati, the protection afforded is equivalent to that of 7 back protectors. 3. Lucky draw rewards worth up to RM1,999 Feeling lucky? Head to Ducati Malaysia Facebook store and purchase item worth RM210 and above in a single receipt and stand a chance to win exciting rewards up to RM1,999! Participants will need to submit entries digitally and Ducati MY will announce the winners via social media. 4. Ducati On Demand: Breakdown? Worry not! Aligned with the government SOPs, every Ducati owners looking to send their bikes for service and maintenance can do so by Ducati On Demand service. With a low fee of RM100 (within Klang Valley), a representative from Ducati Malaysia will pick-up and return the customer bikes scheduled for service. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/suzuki-hayabusa-now-assembled-in-india/
Suzuki Hayabusa now assembled in India
Suzuki Hayabusa inducted into CKD local assembly program in India. More news trickling out of India, this time surrounding Japanese brand Suzuki and its flagship GSX1300R Hayabusa model. Reports from trusted India-based sources confirms that the Suzuki Hayabusa model has been inducted into a local assembly (CKD) program in the country that holds one of the biggest motorcycle markets in Asia. This marks the first time that Suzuki have opted to build the Hayabusa outside of Japan. Though it will mainly cater to the local Indian market, reports also suggest the possibility of the made-in-India Hayabusa being sold in other markets around the region, but this remains unconfirmed for now. According to a report by our friends at xBHP, the Suzuki Hayabusa will be imported as CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits and assembled in Suzuki’s facility located in Gurgaon. Furthermore, the site also reports that the specification for the made-in-India version remains identical to the fully imported (CBU) version as well. Suzuki India’s vice president of sales and marketing Kenji Hirozawa was quoted by xBHP in stating: “India is one of the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. This is a clear indication of the high demands in this ever growing market. Along with growth, comes maturity. Coupled with growth in lifestyle and infrastructure, there is an increasing demand for Big Bikes by the Indian Enthusiast. SMIPL shall cater to this by starting assembly of our most widely selling big bike, the Suzuki Hayabusa. We firmly believe in the Make in India program and this another step to show our support even in the big bike market.” As a result of this initiative, Suzuki customers in India will benefit with a revised sales price on the Suzuki Hayabusa that reportedly now stand at INR 1,357,135. To refresh your memory, the Suzuki Hayabusa (commonly referred to as the ‘Busa by fans) hypersport bike stands as one of the most powerful production bikes ever made. Propelled by a 1,340cc in-line four-cylinder screamer that makes 197hp and peak torque of 138.7Nm. Tipping the scales dry at 222kg, the flagship hypersport is capable of completing the century sprint in just 2.74 seconds before hitting a claimed top speed of 299km/h in stock form. Sources: xBHP / RushLane / AutoEvolution --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-nvx-155-gets-new-visuals-for-2022-from-rm9598/
Yamaha NVX 155 Gets New Visuals For 2022 – From  RM9,598
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has introduced four new exciting colours for the 2022 Yamaha NVX 155. HLYM best selling scooter gets refresh visuals for 2022. The NVX 155 makes 15hp and 13.9Nm.  The ABS trim now available in Mystique Ruby and Platinum Navy while the base model gets Cyan and Matt Grey colour scheme. According to HLYM press statement, all models with the new colourway are already available at every authorized dealership with a starting price of RM9,598 for the base model and RM11,498 for the ABS trim. As usual, customers are entitled for a special Yamaha disc lock worth RM100 with every purchase of the Yamaha NVX 155. Powering the Yamaha NVX 155 is a 155cc single-cylinder SOCH with VVA engine capable of producing 15hp @ 8,000rpm and 13.9Nm @ 6,500rpm.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/minor-improvements-2021-aprilia-tuono-v4/
Minor improvements for 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4
The 2021 Aprilia RSV4 was rolled out together with the 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4, but unlike its superbike sibling, the Tuono doesn’t get a whole lot of updates but it doesn’t mean that this hypernaked is nothing short of a street beast. If you’re looking for the ultimate performance road bike that you can actually take into the track, the 2021 Aprilia Tuono V4 should be highly considered. Comfort and agility are further elevated with a raised handlebar and also the dual-layered fairings with integrated winglets (just like the RS 660). Always riding with a pillion? Aprilia has redesigned the 2021 Tuono V4’s saddle and footpegs for increased comfort. A new line of accessories is also introduced, including a new set of dedicated asymmetrical panniers for better storage capacity. While the new Tuono V4 also comes with new triple LED headlight unit, larger TFT screen, updated ECU, and six-axis IMU unit, refined riding ergonomics, plus a new tank, tail fairing and swingarm, its V4 engine is retained at 1,077cc and not 1,099cc like the new RSV4. However, it is now Euro5-compliant with the ability to churn out 175hp and 121Nm of torque. Opt for the Tuono V4 Factory model and you’ll get all the things listed above plus the Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension system as standard equipment. MotoGP: Qatar to host two test sessions in March Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-nicky-hayden-to-be-inducted-into-motorsports-hall-of-fame-of-america/
MotoGP: Nicky Hayden To Be Inducted Into Motorsports Hall of Fame of America
Nicky Hayden to be inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America later this year, four years after his death. His best achievement was becoming the 2006 MotoGP World Champion with Hona, which had to be decided in the final race of the year in Valencia. Nicki Hayden Hayden accumulated 252 points to emerge champion, with Valentino Rossi 2nd and Loris Capirossi third in the standings. The Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, in a statement, says that apart from emerging as world champion, Hayden also broke Rossi winning streak. “The Kentucky Kid was best known for winning the 2006 MotoGP World Championship, breaking Valentino Rossi streak of five straight titles. Hayden emerged in 1997, winning the inaugural AMA Horizon Award in recognition of his flat-track prowess. “In 1999, he was named AMA Athlete of the Year after capturing the AMA Supersport title, and his first Grand National win. “Three years later, he became the youngest ever winner of the AMA Superbike Championship, including the 2002 Daytona 200.” The American rider will be inducted into the hall of fame on September 29th as part of the 2021 class of inductees for the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Hayden was involved in an accident after being hit by a driver while cycling alone near Rimini, Italy.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nicky Hayden (@nicky_hayden) He cycled briefly with friends Denis Pazzagini early afternoon, which was proven by his last Instagram post that day before deciding to continue all by himself. He suffered a traumatic brain injury due to the accident and died five days later. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tvs-set-to-launch-the-ronin-cruiser-motorcycle-next-month/
TVS Set To Launch The Ronin Cruiser Motorcycle Next Month
TVS Motor Company will launch an all-new cruiser-style motorcycle on July 6. rumours suggest it could be based on the Zeppelin concept bike. powered by the 312cc single-cylinder engine.  According to reports, the cruiser will be named ‘Ronin’, and it could be the production version of the Zeppelin concept shown at the 2018 Auto Expo. Last year, TVS was caught testing a motorcycle with a retro-inspired design, but it was so well disguised no known could figure out the styling cues. However, a recent spy shot reveals that the upcoming motorcycle will feature a round LED headlight with integrated T-shaped DRLs. While the main headlight design is confirmed, the rest of the bike’s specifications is still just speculation at the moment. Nonetheless, we believe that the new motorcycle will feature LED taillights, a digital instrument cluster, dual-channel ABS and USD front forks. That said, the engine of the brand-new motorcycle is yet to be confirmed, but some reports did suggest that it could get the same 312cc single-cylinder engine powering the Apache RR 310 and the upcoming BMW G 310 RR. More details of the upcoming ‘Ronin’ is expected to surface as we get closer to the launch date. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/modenas-ninja-250-abs-z250-asb-meets-mymap-5-star-rating/
MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS, Z250 ASB Awarded MyMAP 5-Star Rating
MODENAS has been awarded Malaysia Motorcycle Assesment Program (MyMAP) five-star rating for the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS. MODENAS awarded MyMap 5-star rating from Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS). The MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS dan Z250 ABS offers top of the class safety features.  The 5-star rating is awarded after both motorcycle features the necessary safety elements including ABS, assist and slipper clutch and lighter chassis.  Interestingly, both the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS registered the same score for meeting the necessary standard. Meanwhile, Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of MODENAS, is elated over the MyMAP 5-star rating. “This will be the first time for MODENAS to receive such recognition for its products.  “In addition, both models are the first motorcycles to receive the MyMAP 5-star rating in its class (250cc sports bike for Ninja and 250cc naked bike for Z250).  “By having so, we believe that it will help our customers to make a more informed purchase decision, especially on the importance of having advanced safety technology available on their motorcycles.  “In addition, MODENAS will continue to provide more safety features to its existing range of motorcycles,” he said.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-cfmoto-300sr-unveiled/
2020 CFMoto 300SR unveiled
Chinese manufacturer, CFMoto, has unveiled their latest supersports model, the 2020 CFMoto 300SR. They’ve also announced that it’ll be made available all over Asia in the coming months and we’re sure hoping that it’ll come here to Malaysia. I mean, just look at those front headlights! Depending on the market that CFMoto plans to bring the bike in, the 2020 CFMoto 300SR will be available in two different engine capacity variants; 300cc and 250cc. Working hand in hand with KTM, the 300SR is the street version of the CFMoto 250SR race machine, which is also based on the 250NK. Its most highlighted feature has to be its front headlights that curve around the nose which kind of looks like Ultron from the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most popular movie saga, The Avengers. We’re big fans of the look and we’re pretty sure a lot of folks will probably carry the same sentiment. Underneath all that flashy façade lies a 300cc single-cylinder engine that produces 29hp at 8,750rpm and 23.5Nm of maximum torque at 7,250rpm. That’s quite a respectable figure to have against its closest competitors with twice the amount of pistons but still miles behind from the expected 55hp of the 2020 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R. CFMOTO 650GT ABS Launched in Australia --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motorcycle-death-in-london-down-by-60-and-nobody-knows-why/
Motorcycle Death In London Down By 60% And Nobody Knows Why
It has been a remarkable year for the city of London, as motorcycle death drops by 60 per cent in provisional figures as announced during the Transport for London motorcycle and road safety meeting. While the meeting was attended by a number of prominent motorcycle organisations including BMF (British Motorcyclists Federation), MAG (Motorcycle Action Group), Keith Prince (GLA, MAG member & Assembly Member), Dave Bottomley (MET Sergeant & BikeSafe) and TfL officials, but as it turns out, nobody is sure what is the primary factor behind the significant drop in accidents. “I’m impressed with the dramatic fall in motorcycle deaths in London last year. “The officers committed to working with the London riding community to further understand the reasons for this welcome improvement, plus engaging with the delivery rider sector on safety issues, and treating all two-wheeler users fairly and without discrimination. “Overall, this meeting was results-orientated in a very tangible way,” said Keith Prince, Deputy Chair of the GLA Transport Committee. While the primary factor behind the low numbers is still widely discussed, perhaps among other reasons is the 30km/h speed limit in the city centre that helps lower motorcycle fatalities. The second possibilities are the lower traffic counts in the past two years as more Londoners have been working from home due to the ongoing pandemic. Meanwhile, the number of motorcycle fatalities is expected to decrease in 2022 as a new speed limit of 15mph (25km/h) is implemented across London, as announced last year. (Source: VisorDown) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-quartararo-comes-back-on-top-with-portuguese-gp-win/
MotoGP: Quartararo comes back on top with Portuguese GP win
Defending MotoGP world champion Fabio Quartararo scores first win of the season in dramatic Portuguese GP, snatches lead in title race. Defending MotoGP world champion Fabio Quartararo comes out on top of thrilling Portuguese GP. This is the first win of the season for both Quartararo and the Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team. The effort catapults Quartararo into championship lead and reignites his 2022 title defence. After a rocky start to his 2022 campaign with just one podium finish from the first four races, defending MotoGP world champion Fabio Quartararo made a sensational return to winning ways last weekend after dominating Sunday’s Portuguese GP race held in Portimao. The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP factory team rider started from the second row of the grid in fifth position and, though he didn’t get the best of race starts, didn’t take too long to find his rhythm. He was able to challenge Suzuki’s Joan Mir for the lead on Lap 3 before snatching it by Lap 4. From then on, the 23-year-old southern Frenchman remained until the chequered flag waved on Lap 25. This commanding victory scored by Quartararo has silenced any doubt about his title drive for this year despite recent bouts of comments to the press indicating his unhappiness with his Yamaha factory machine’s deficit in performance and power. More importantly, this win sees Quartararo back in the title chase as both he and Suzuki’s Alex Rins now jointly leads the standings with 69 points. Boosting Quartararo’s results further were the on-track drama which included factory Ducati rider Jack Miller and aforementioned Suzuki ace Mir taking each other out in dramatic fashion at Portimao’s Turn 1 on Lap 18. This, in turn, allowed pole-sitter Johann Zarco to climb back up the podium step in second astride the satellite-spec Pramac Ducati machine whilst Aprilia Racing’s Aleix Espargaro takes third to complete the podium. Besides the fight up front, the 25-lap feature race held last Sunday at the picturesque Portimao circuit featured plenty of action elsewhere. Highlights included Alex Rins’ heroic recovery ride from second last to fourth place, as well as the Marquez brothers duking it out right to the finish. With the Portuguese GP concluded, the championship standings still shows no clear favourites. Both Quartararo and Mir jointly lead the rider’s championship standings with 69 points, whereas Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro is just 3 points shy in third, followed by Gresini Racing’s Enea Bastianini who’s just 8 points down in fourth. In the Construstor’s standings, Ducati still leads with its 106 points tally, which sees it 36-points clear of both KTM and Suzuki sharing 70 points in second and third respective. Quartararo’s win sees Yamaha climb up the order into fourth with 69 points ahead of Aprilia in fifth (67 points) and Honda (44 points). Notably, the Team Suzuki Ecstar factory-backed effort leads the Team’s championship standings with its tally of 115 points – 24 points of Aprilia Racing in second with 91 points, and 29 points clear of the factory-backed Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP team in third who’ve climbed up to third with 86 points. Next up, all attention turns to Round 6 of the championship in Jerez, Spain for the Spanish GP scheduled from April 29 to May 1.   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/mission-r-rebooted-and-teased/
Mission R rebooted and teased
Despite reports of financial difficulties, staff layoffs, and the exit of two of its founders, Mission Motors appears to have rebooted itself as Mission Motorcycles. The firm recently posted a Tweet, accompanied with an image on its site teasing its production-ready Mission R electric superbike.  The name ‘Mission Motorcycles’ however appears to be a separate entity from Mission Motors, with the former continuing the development of electric powertrains whilst the latter seems to have its focus in the two-wheels fraternity. Mission Motorcycles president Mark Seeger reportedly plans to unleash ‘something’ the motorcycling world has not seen before. More details of the Mission R project are expected to surface on June 1. The street-legal Mission R coming in June will reportedly be honed much further than the bike seen last year. The Mission R electric superbike has the capability to post competition-like lap times in the Laguna Seca circuit at a similar pace to that of petrol-powered AMA Supersports series race bikes. We will have more on the revolutionary Mission R electric superbike as soon as new details emerge. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/patent-drawings-unveil-what-the-honda-cl500-scrambler-could-look-like/
Patent Drawings Unveil What The Honda CL500 Scrambler Could Look Like
A few weeks ago, a Japanese publication, Autoby claimed that Honda plans to expand the 250 and 500cc range with an all-new scrambler-style motorcycle. Japanese render artist Shinji Miyakubo also recently created a CG render of the CL250 and CL500. However, in the latest report by another Japanese publication Young-Machine, patent drawings from 2018 could relate to Honda’s anticipated CL500 Scrambler. Using Honda’s design concept all these years, YM has created their version of the rumoured CL500. YM suggest that the CL500 will maintain most of the components from the CL250, particularly the brakes and suspension. However, the frame will be adjusted to accommodate the larger displacement engine similar to the Rebel 500. In fact, the patent drawings showcased a similar resemblance with the Rebel. The patent drawings also show a flat saddle, square fuel tank and a conventional shape exhaust compared to Miyakubo-san’s high-mounted twin pipe. Meanwhile, it is safe to assume that the CL500 will carry the same 471cc DOHC parallel-twin engine that makes 46.9hp @ 8,500rpm and 43Nm @ 7,000rpm. At the moment, there are absolutely zero words coming from the Japanese firm regarding the rumoured scrambler range; however, when YM is on to something, those rumours tend to carry something tangible. (Source: Young-Machine) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-electric-bike-coming-2019/
Harley-Davidson electric bike coming in 2019!
The first ever production Harley-Davidson electric bike will make its appearance as early as 2019. Based on their successful LiveWire concept, the electric bike is just one bike out of 100 new models to be introduced in the brand’s 10-year plan. The exciting news came together with announcement of drop in sales revenue at the end of 2017 and closure of their Kansas City plant. It was just a few days ago when Harley-Davidson CEO Matthew Levatich announced that their first ever Harley-Davidson electric bike will go into production as soon as 2019. This exciting announcement came together with some not so exciting news related to the brand’s drop in net income at the end of 2017 together with the closure of their Kansas City factory. Harley-Davidson seemed very hopeful this time around especially with the electric bike announcement into their 2019 line-up. This news will ultimately bring the once hot LiveWire concept into the production stage. This is just one small part of their gigantic 10-year plan where H-D has their eyes set on introducing a whopping 100 new models! Harley-Davidson confirms 100 New Models + One Electric Bike! A fully-electric cruiser would be an interesting addition but the brand has to tread carefully as electric machines are still in the ‘hit and miss’ stage. Although electric vehicles are getting more recognition as we head into the future, maintaining the true spirit of the brand that’s powered by an electric motor would be the true challenge. Their 2015 LiveWire concept however did get a lot of positive feedbacks especially with how fast the torque punches out. On the other hand, the bikes will need to be build from another source as the company who was mainly responsible for the LiveWire (Mission Motors) is no longer operating. H-D will most probably produce everything in-house for this upcoming electric machine. The future is ‘electrifying’ and with more and more manufacturers hopping on board the green energy train, simply coming up with an electric machine is no longer the issue. Come 2019, things will need to be quite revolutionary in order for them to be exciting but more importantly, relevant. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. 10 things to expect from the new Harley-Davidson in Malaysia! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brixton-cromwell-1200-previewed-in-malaysia-80hp-110/
Brixton Cromwell 1200 Previewed In Malaysia – 83hp, 110Nm
MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd recently launched the new MForce Smart Shop SH Bikers showroom in Sri Kembangan. Brixton Cromwell 1200 is to be available in Malaysia soon. Features 1200cc two-cylinder engine capable of producing 80hp and 110Nm.  During the launch, MForce also previewed the all-new Brixton Cromwell 1200 from Brixton Motorcycles. For those not in the loop, Brixton Motorcycles is a brand owned by Austrian-based KSR Group. However, the manufacturing plant is located in China to ensure the brand remains affordable for the global market. Nevertheless, the Brixton Cromwell 1200 (codename GK1200) first appeared at the 2021 EICMA show in Milan.  The Cromwell 1200 is equipped with a 1,222cc parallel-twin SOCH liquid-cooled engine capable of pushing around 83hp @ 6,500rpm and peak torque of 110Nm @ 3,000rpm. The retro machine adopts the same basic design as the iconic Triumph Bonneville, with a circular headlight, flat seat, spoke wheels and two long chrome exhausts running parallel to the ground. Mechanically, the Cromwell 1200 features KYB suspension, Nissin brakes, Bosch electronics including ABS, traction control and multiple riding modes.  It also packs with full LED light setup and a TFT display. The bike is also fitted with cruise control, making it suitable for a long trip.  According to MForce, the bike is still in testing stages and is currently undergoing an endurance test to ensure it passes all the requirements before being put on sale in Malaysia. The Brixton Cromwell 1200 is said to be available for around RM50k once it is officially launched in Malaysia.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/isle-man-tt-john-mcguinness-fractured-right-leg/
Isle of Man TT: John McGuinness OUT; fractured right leg AGAIN
It was recently announced that John McGuinness is out of this year’s Isle of Man TT races. Mugen announced that the King of the Mountain re-fractured his right leg after 14 months of recovery. Their Mugen Shinden Nana electric race bike will be piloted by Michael Rutter and Lee Johnston. It’s not easy for an accomplished rider such as John McGuinness to sit on the sidelines watching other racers ride their race bikes. Having broken his right leg last year, the King of the Mountain took over 14 months just to get healthy enough to be declared fit to race BUT the gods of racing have ruled him out of contention once again. In a statement released by Mugen regarding their participation in this year’s Isle of Man TT Zero category, Mugen announced that their new two-rider line-up for 2018 will be Michael Rutter and Lee Johnston. Both riders have TT wins under their belts and are perfect for the new Mugen Shinden Nana electric race bike. Mugen’s initial plan to race a three-man team has fallen short due to the unexpected turn of events from two of their star riders, Bruce Anstey and John McGuinness. Bruce Anstey will be sitting out of all road races this year to focus on recovery on his recently-diagnosed cancer. McGuinness, on the other hand, re-fractured his right leg which spells disastrous for the “Morecambe Missile”. According to a statement released by Mugen, “Winner of the previous two TT Zero races, Bruce Anstey has been forced to withdraw from all racing during 2018 while he undergoes medical treatment for a serious illness.” “John McGuinness has been an ever-present member of Team Mugen since the outset of the Shinden programme in 2012; winning the TT Zero event twice for Mugen along the way, and he was due to rejoin the team for 2018 after being forced to sit out the 2017 event as a result of an injury sustained prior to last year’s TT. However, despite 14 months of recuperation, a recent re-fracture of the same injury has ruled him out of competing for Team Mugen this year.” There is still no news on whether McGuinness will sit out of just the TT Zero race. The rider has made headlines earlier this year when he made a somewhat controversial move to Norton after falling out with Honda. He is said to race the infamous Norton V4 RR at this year’s Senior TT. We here at Bikes Republic would like to wish a quick recovery for Bruce Anstey as well as John McGuinness and hope that they can get back to what they love as soon as they can; racing where most riders most people won’t even dare. Isle of Man TT: Who’s going to ride the Honda RC213V-S? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/online-speed-boasts-lead-to-bikers-arrest/
Online speed boasts lead to biker’s arrest
  The North Yorkshire Police services in the UK recently sent a motorcyclist to jail for eight months after the rider boasted about his speed on an online biker’s forum and lied to the police about it.   37-year-old Andrew Kelly was caught on a police speed camera (video posted above), clocking in a top speed of 196.34km/h. The limit for the road he was caught on was only 112km/h. Kelly made a mistake by joining an online bikers’ forum to ascertain weather if he could evade the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) for his offence and the charges that accompanied it. In the forum, Kelly attracted negative attention after bragging about evading a parking fine by faking a vehicle breakdown claim, along with the admission of obtaining a fake invoice from a recovery service to back it up. During police interviews, Kelly lied by stating that the rider caught on camera wasn’t him, claiming it to be a prospective buyer by the name of ‘Richard’ instead. The North Yorkshire Police however did not buy his claim, and upon further investigation, matched Kelly’s riding gear worn during the offence, at which point Kelly finally admitted his wrong doings. In total, Kelly received an eight-month jail sentence, four months on the count of perverting the course of justice for the earlier parking fine, and another for for his recent speeding offense. On top of the sentence and hefty fine, Kelly also recived six penalty points on his license. We at BR wish for our readers to take this as an example to not violate any laws whilst riding out on the open road, and to keep high speed riding safe on tracks and dedicated road areas. Also, online forums are not a place to brag and boasts! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/ducati-malaysia-to-roll-out-six-new-models-this-week/
Ducati Malaysia To Roll Out Six New Models This Week
Ducati Malaysia will launch six new models in conjunction with Ducati Malaysia Premier 2022. The 2022 Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard and Multistrada V2 are among the six new models to be introduced. Ducati Malaysia will also celebrate recent milestones during the Malaysia Premier. Ducati Malaysia is set to unveil six new models during the Ducati 2022 Malaysia Premier at Bangsar Shopping Center. The six new motorcycles consist of the new Scrambler Urban Motard, Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro, Streetfighter V4 SP, Streetfighter V2, Multistrada V2, and another model we have yet to know. Meanwhile, Ducati Malaysia will also celebrate other milestones achieved in recent months together with Next Bike Sdn Bhd Head of Company, Dennis Michael, and Ducati Principal VP Sales & Marketing, Marco Biondi. During the launch, Ducati Malaysia will also officiate the new MOU signing ceremony and the introduction of Ducati Corse Credit. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/old-gold-watch-this-honda-vfr750r-rc30-this-promotional-film/
Old Gold: Watch this Honda VFR750R RC30 this Promotional Film
The Honda VFR750R RC30 is an iconic superbike. Produced in the late 80s to dominate the production racing scene. Only 3,000 were ever built. It’s probably no secret by now that yours truly loves the Honda VFR750R RC30 superbike, and this video reinforces that draw even further. On the film: It starts with the introduction to the bike. Immediately after that, we see a technician in a Honda cap polishing the big end of the piston connecting rod (conrod). He then measures it for run out with a gauge. You can see that the needle hardly moved at all – that’s how small the tolerance was! A subtitle comes up and says, “Titanium connecting rods.” Ti conrods are a commonplace on high end sportbikes these days, but back it was a new development in the late 80s, and the RC30 was the first production bike to utilize them. Each was 50g lighter than the standard steel rod but cost 8 times more. The technician continued to ground some material off to achieve the same weight for each piece. A younger technician followed to measure the run out of conrod’s small end. The next scene shows the welding of the aluminium fuel tank. Fuel tanks were mostly made out of zinc-coated steel back then. There’s also footage of him welding the headstock to the frame. Now this is where it gets even more interesting. A piston is placed in a ring compressor and slotted into a cylinder barrel. The top of the piston consists of four “bumps” that provide valve reliefs. But do notice the size of that bore, surrounded by its water jacket. The three other pistons go in, followed by the geared camshaft drive, which slots in between the cylinders. That’s right, the RC30 uses a geartrain to drive its four camshafts instead of chain. This is more accurate at high revs, but virtually all roadbikes nowadays use the chain because it’s much quieter. Notice how large that engine block really is. Engines are more compact these days since the timing chain is moved off to the side of the block. Those camshafts are also much larger than how it is these days. At 3:20, we finally see the engine’s front and rear cylinder banks, separated at 90-degrees. The 748cc, quad-cam, V-Four, liquid-cooled engine produced 118 bhp at 11,000 RPM and 70 Nm at 7,000 RPM. The race bike was reputed to produce in the vicinity of 135 to 145 hp. This was a great feat in 1987. It’s also fitted with a slipper clutch, which was a rarity for roadbikes. The frame is then mounted onto the engine in an upside-down position to secure the rear shock absorber. The subtitle says “Pro Arm,” which is Honda’s single-sided swingarm, meant for quick rear wheel changes during endurance racing. Interestingly, this arrangement was also fitted to the oval-pistoned NR750 endurance racer and NR roadbike. Ducati designer extraordinaire Massimo Tamburini would adopt the design to the groundbreaking 916 years later. Back to the video, the bodywork is fitted on, showing the bike’s dual round headlamps. The bottom part of the cowl is locked into place with Dzus quarter-turn fasteners. And finally, the completed bike and joined by the RVF750F RC24 endurance racer at the track. (Don’t confuse it with the later RVF750R RC45 superbike and endurance racer.) About the bike Honda introduced VFR750R to succeed the RVF endurance racer in 1987 with the objective of winning production-based racing. The responsibility of building this new bike, codenamed “RC30,” fell on the shoulders of the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). As such, the RC30 became the homologation special (what we call “SP” models these days) for the new World Superbike Championship which began in 1988. American rider “Flying'” Fred Merkel won the riders and manufacturers titles in the very same year and would follow up in 1989. Its main rivals during the time were the Ducati 851 and 888 (1991 to 1993), Kawasaki Ninja ZXR-750, Suzuki GSX-R750 and Yamaha FZR750R “OW01.” Apart from that, the RC30 won virtually every superbike race the world over, including right here in Malaysia where Tai Seng Kooi dominated the superbike series. Legends such as Joey Dunlop Only 3,000 VFR750R RC30s were ever built between 1987 to 1990, sold for USD 15,000 (which is equivalent to USD 34,000 now). However, most are still in running shape and owned by lucky individuals. Consequently, Honda announced just not long ago that they will begin a program to produce spare parts for the 33-year-old bike. Oh, before we forget. The RC30 had a smaller 400cc cousin called the VFR400R NC30. Think a 400cc four-stroke bike is slow? An unrestricted NC30 could hit 210 km/h. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-out-this-team-suzuki-ecstar-2020-yearbook-for-free/
Check out this Team Suzuki Ecstar 2020 yearbook for FREE!
This year’s MotoGP season has been all about the rise of Team Suzuki Ecstar to the top, which is why they want to share their achievement with the launch of their brand new 2020 yearbook called ‘A Dream Becomes Reality’. And you can read it online for free! This very kind gesture was made as a gift and sign of gratitude for all fans of Team Suzuki Ecstar throughout their time in the MotoGP premier class. It was a tough year for everyone, but the team and riders emerged on top where they’ve successfully secured the rider and team championship titles. There are over 300 pages filled with the trials, tribulations, and victories obtained by both riders, Joan Mir and Alex Rins, in the fight for MotoGP supremacy. As a cherry on top of that cake, this wall all accomplished in the same year as Suzuki’s 100th anniversary. According to a statement from the team, “During this impossibly strange and tough 2020 we have felt the support of our fans more than ever, we treasure you and we hope you will treasure this; it’s our gift to you.” “None of this would be possible without your cheers and encouragement and we wish to dedicate this book to all of you, to all our team members, to all our sponsors, and all those who have suffered and lost loved ones during the pandemic. Together let’s celebrate the successes and keep our heads high for the new year!” To read the 2020 Team Suzuki Ecstar Digital Yearbook, CLICK HERE. Valentino Rossi is the most popular sportsman in Italy Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/scrambler-ducati-production-starts-italy/
Scrambler Ducati production starts in Italy
Scrambler Ducati production begins in Italy. Rumoured Thailand CKD likely to have started as well. Avid BR followers would already know how excited we are with the new Scrambler Ducati (or Ducati Scrambler, whichever way you wish to say it). And, If you’ve followed us throughout the year, you would already know that we had an up-close view of the Scrambler Classic when it was previewed exclusively on our soil just a few months back. Hopefully, our wait has been shortened as Ducati announced that it has finally begun the production phase for the new Scrambler range in its home base of Borgo Panigale, Italy. At this point, you are probably wondering what happened to the rumoured Thailand-based production plans, right? Well it seems Ducati remains tight-lipped about the Scrambler’s production plans outside of Italy, but we are fairly certain the model will have its own assembly programme in Thailand soon. Matter of fact, we would not be surprised if the Bologna-based two-wheeled institution has already quietly begun assembling the Scrambler in its ASEAN assembly plant located in Rayong, Thailand. Our speculations aside, we will bring you up to speed once that announcement is made official. As a refresher, the Scrambler model is Ducati’s attempt at creating a new sub-brand designed to appeal towards the young and hip. In other words, this is the brand’s first proper crack at making a bike purely for the lifestyle enthusiasts instead of the traditional purist bikers crowd. As a bonus to you, our readers, we manage to have a gain access to the 2014 Thai International Motor Expo held recently in Bangkok. Check out our gallery below for a much closer look of the Scrambler Urban Enduro, Scrambler Full Throttle, Scrambler Icon, and Scrambler Classic that was showcased in Bangkok. And, don’t worry, we’ve also included a gallery of official photos from Ducati as another added bonus. Source: Ducati via Asphaltandrubber Scrambler Ducati Showcase @ 2014 Thai International Motor Expo 2015 Scrambler Ducati mega gallery Scrambler Classic Scrambler Full Throttle Scrambler Icon Scrambler Urban Enduro --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-cfmoto-250cl-x-now-available-at-local-dealerships-rm16888/
2023 CFMoto 250CL-X Now Available At Local Dealerships – RM16,888
CFMoto latest model, the 250CL-X are now available at local dealerships for Rm16,888.  The 250CL-X features the similar design language as the bigger 700CL-X.  Powering the 250CL-X is a single-cylinder 249.2cc engine.  Despite no official announcement from authorized distributors, the quarter litre ‘neo-retro’ motorcycle were seen at several local dealership across the country.  The CFMoto 250CL-X features a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 249.2cc. It produces 26 horsepower and 17.4 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to provide an exciting ride. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that offers smooth and precise shifting. The motorcycle’s design is inspired by the classic café racer style, which is characterized by a slim and streamlined profile, clip-on handlebars, and a single-seat configuration. The 250CL-X also features LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and a digital display that provides real-time information on the motorcycle’s performance. The motorcycle comes equipped with a high-performance suspension system, which consists of an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock absorber. The brakes are also impressive, with a 292mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc that provide excellent stopping power. Riders who are looking for an entry-level motorcycle that offers a balance of style, performance, and affordability may want to consider the CFMoto 250CL-X as an option. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-tenere-700-takes-home-if-design-award/
Yamaha Ténéré 700 takes home iF Design Award
If you’re in the market for one of the coolest looking adventure bikes around, the Yamaha Ténéré 700 should be high up on your list. Designed to take on any terrain, it’s also one hell of a good-looking bike and the iF Design Award team seems to agree as they handed out one of their coveted awards to the beautiful machine. Yamaha is no stranger to the iF Design Award as they’ve been on the recipient end for the past seven years now. Past awards were given to the likes of the Yamaha MT-10, MT-09, MT-09, XSR900, and of course, the YZF-R1. The Yamaha Ténéré 700 is no exception and designed experts affiliated to the awards committee were all in agreement that the middleweight adventure bike deserves recognition for its amazing overall façade as well as functionality. According to Yamaha, the Ténéré 700 was designed with a ‘high degree of freedom in riding posture, high durability and ease of maintenance, along with high adaptability under load.’ In other words, you can basically ride this baby on any given terrain from tough off-road conditions to super smooth highway touring prowess. The US market can get one of these bad boys for an affordable $9,999 (around RM41,410) and with a growing number of adventure/dual purpose riders here in Malaysia, we certainly hope that Hong Leong Yamaha can do us a solid and bring it over to the Malaysian shores. Yamaha opens orders for 270hp ELECTRIC motor? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/whos-the-new-owner-of-norton-tvs-motor-company/
Who’s the new owner of Norton? TVS Motor Company!
A lot of trouble and issues have been looming surrounding one of the oldest motorcycle brands hailing from the UK, Norton. After falling into administration and having struggled with major financial issues, India’s TVS Motor Company has come to save the day the by acquiring them as one of their own. The price? Around RM87 million. TVS Motor Company has released their official press statement regarding their newly acquired acquisition, which goes as follows: TVS Motor Company Completes Acquisition Of Norton TVS Motor Company, a reputed manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers in the world, today announced the successful acquisition of Britain’s most iconic sporting motorcycle, “Norton”, in an all-cash deal for a consideration of GBP16 million by acquiring certain assets of Norton Motorcycles (U.K.) Limited (in administration) through one of TVS Motor’s overseas subsidiaries. This will be one of the most interesting acquisitions of a storied motorcycle maker in recent times and will reflect TVS Motor Company’s and India’s rapidly rising prominence in the international two-wheeler market. Image source: Ultimate Motorcycling That’s just the start. According to Mr. Sudarshan Venu, Joint Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, “This is a momentous time for us at TVS Motor Company. Norton is an iconic British brand celebrated across the world and presents us with an immense opportunity to scale globally. This transaction is in line with our effort to cater to the aspirations of discerning motorcycle customers. We will extend our full support for Norton to regain its full glory in the international motorcycle landscape.” “Norton will continue to retain its distinctive identity with dedicated and specific business plans. TVS Motor will work closely with customers and employees in building the success and pre-eminence of the Norton Motorcycles brand and we look forward to growing together globally in the years to come,” added Mr Venu. Norton Motorcycles faces major financial issues? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-gets-satu-hati-honda-team-asia-ready-suzuka-8-hours-race/
Boon Siew Honda gets Satu HATI Honda Team Asia ready for Suzuka 8 Hours Race
Satu HATI Honda Team Asia all set and ready for Suzuka 8 Hours (From left to right) - Zaqhwan Zaidi, Dimas Ekky Pratama, Ratthapong Wilairot, and Makoto Tamada. The Boon Siew Honda Motorsports Team has been selected as the first ever Malaysian outfit to handle the Satu HATI Honda Team Asia for the 40th Coca Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance race. Boon Siew Honda Motorsports Team Manager, Zulhelmi bin Ahmad together with his mechanic team will be the first ever Malaysian team to not only support but lead the Satu HATI Honda Team Asia in Suzuka this year. This year, Malaysian rider Zaqhwan Zaidi together with Indonesian Dimas Ekky Pramata and Thai ARRC rider Ratthapong Wilairot will give their all to emerge as victors in the endurance race. The BSH Motorsport team prepare the shine at the international stage. A new milestone has been reached by Boon Siew Honda Motorsports team as they are set to become the first ever Malaysian outfit to official get the Satu HATI Honda Team Asia ready for the 40th Coca Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race which will be held this weekend. The Boon Siew Honda Motorsport team – Chief Data Engineer, Mohamad Redzuan Bin Kamis, Team Manager – Zulhelmi Ahmad, Young Malaysian – Chief Mechanic – Muhammad Zarul Bin Sirat Boon Siew Honda Motorsports Team Manager, Zulhelmi bin Ahmad together with his mechanic team will be the first ever Malaysian team to not only support but lead the Satu HATI Honda Team Asia at one of the world’s most anticipated endurance races in the world. This has given Boon Siew Honda the grandest of opportunities to show the racing world what Malaysians are made of. The Satu HATI Honda Team Asia was established in 2012 with a mission to develop the Asian motorsport scene. During the first year, the team started with two Japanese riders and one Malaysian rider, Azlan Shah. One of the Japanese riders Makoto Tamada was an experienced rider with legendary status who won a MotoGP race back in 2004. This marked the beginning of the story for young Asians (especially Malaysians) competing in the World class endurance race. The Suzuka International Racing Course aka Suzuka Circuit In the first year of 2012, they only managed to finish the race in 25th place. They returned the next year and with the assistance of Azlan Shah again, they were triumphant in improving dramatically by finishing in sixth together with ex-MotoGP Japanese rider, Tamada and Yuki Takahashi. Tamada then was promoted as team manager in the following year and with a vision to put Asians as a formidable force in the racing world, he began to put in work to establish a purely Asian team from the riders to the staff, engineers and even mechanics. Tamada then appointed Boon Siew Honda team to support and train the entire mechanic team to help with vision. In 2015, three Asian riders came from Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. However, luck was not on their side as their prized race machine suffered mechanical failure during the race. This year, they have appointed Zaqhwan Zaidi again as one of their riders who will compete in this year’s endurance race is none other than 2016 Asia Road Racing Championship champion, Zaqhwan Zaidi. The 22 year old has been chosen by the Satu HATI racing squad together with FIM CEV Moto2 rider from Indonesia Dimas Ekky Pramata and ARRC rider from Thailand Ratthapong Wilairot. Honda Team Asia (Image source (www.world.honda.com) The team will be racing the latest Honda CBR1000RR with support for Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) due to Satu HATI’s respectable results and achievements in the endurance race series. In 2016, the team managed to bag eighth place and they are aiming for a podium finish to not only put Malaysians in the racing world as worthy adversaries but to cement it into legendary status. The 40th “Coca-Cola” Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race will be happening on the 28 July till 30 July 2017. Don’t forget to show your support to the Satu HATI Honda Team Asia this weekend! To know about other Malaysian riders who will be competing in the 2017 Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race, CLICK HERE. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/top-bike-prep-tips-from-a-motogp-mechanic/
Top Bike Prep Tips from a MotoGP Mechanic!
When it comes to preparing your beloved motorcycles for optimum riding experience, you would want to get some advice from a professional. And if you’re looking for the best ones, there’s a very good chance that you’ll find some in the MotoGP™ paddock (because they only work with the best to obtain great results). PETRONAS Sprinta Racing has risen to international motorcycle racing stardom, thanks to their grand efforts in Moto2 and Moto3 (not to mention Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli’s exploits in MotoGP™). One of the highly skilled mechanics happens to be a proud Malaysian which goes by the name Habibtullah bin Mohd Fuad aka “Habib”. With years of experience preparing the best racing bikes in the world, getting advice and tips on bike preparations from this man is probably something we should all pay attention to. With that being said, here are the top hot tips from the man himself, Habib, regarding proper bike maintenance. TIP 1 – Get your bike balance right! The first thing that comes to mind is the overall bike balance. It doesn’t matter if you’re riding daily for work or racing for podiums in the circuits, bike balance should be your number one priority. What Habib is trying to say is that your bike’s overall performance should be balanced in every single aspect of riding. From engine performance to braking prowess and tyre grip, everything should be optimised for balanced riding so the rider won’t have to struggle to get the best out of their motorcycle. And that includes engine lubricants like the ones used by Habib in the video down below. Engine lubricants play a very important role when it comes to bike balance. Apart from making sure the engine and transmission don’t seize up, engine oils or lubricants are vital in making sure the mechanical parts operate smoothly without overheating that could affect performance, so make sure you get the right one for your bike! TIP 2 – Make sure your tyres are good! Habib’s second tip revolves (literally) around one of the most important elements of a motorcycle; tyres. Running performance slicks on the track (with proper tyre warmers) might sound like a wonderful day full of knee downs and apex carvings, but when you’re on the streets, the right tyres are imperative for safety. Choosing the right tyres is one thing, making sure that they’re in optimum condition is another (and it should be an ongoing weekly process). Make sure that they’re fully inflated with the right pressure every week and do check for any damages and wears so that you can ride confidently and worry-free. TIP 3 – Set your bike to be comfortable for you! Habib’s final words of wisdom when riding is comfort. Riding every day on open roads puts a lot of stress on the rider as well as the bike. Stopping and moving constantly is not really ideal as you need proper airflow to reach the radiators to help keep everything nice and cool. Making sure that all moving parts like the clutch and brake levers function properly is also critical to ensure comfort, but also safety when riding. Riding with a hard clutch or worn out brakes can be disastrous so make sure that they’re always in optimum condition before you start riding. With the right engine oil, coolant, and proper bike maintenance according to the bike’s schedule or manual, you can be sure that it’ll keep your engine well-maintained even under stressful conditions.  Riding a bike with a clutch is even more important. If the clutch lever cable is set too short or too long, getting the bike to move would be very tiring, very fast. That’s why you need to make sure that you (or the mechanic) sets it between 2mm – 10mm. Trust Mr Habib when he says this because he knows what’s up. If you or your bike is not comfortable, it’s time to change a few things to make sure that your focus on the roads won’t be compromised. More priceless advice can be found explained in more detailed by Habib in the video, below! There you have it, folks. According to Malaysia’s only MotoGP™ mechanic, Habibtullah bin Mohd Fuad, his hot key tips on proper bike preparation are motorcycle balance, good components, and riding comfort. If you’ve managed to check all three, you can bet that you’re riding experience will dramatically improve, no matter if you’re waiting at the traffic light or going full throttle down the front straight of SIC. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-aprilia-racing-motogp-signs-maverick-vinales-for-the-2022-season/
OFFICIAL: Aprilia Racing MotoGP Signs Maverick Vinales For The 2022 Season
There is finally light at the end of the tunnel for Maverick Vinales after what has been a controversial couple of weeks for the Spanish rider. Aprilia Racing factory team has officially announced the 26-year-old as the team new rider for 2022, replacing Lorenzo Salvadori, who will continue with the team as a tester. Vinales has signed an annual contract with an option for renewal. *Aprilia RS-GP 2021 Aprilia, in an official statement by CEO, Massimo Rivola said, “We are extremely happy to announce that we have signed Maverick Viñales, a very high-level rider and one of the purest talents in the premier category. “Our project has now been enriched with the value that Maverick brings – a World Champion who has confirmed his talent as a top rider in MotoGP. “We are honoured to be able to make all of our best skills available to Viñales along with our enthusiasm and our passion. I am confident that, like Aleix, he will embrace this extremely high-potential project. The arrival of Maverick in no way distances Lorenzo Savadori from the team, as he will remain an integral part of the Aprilia Racing family.” The announcement did not come as a surprise as the Italian outfit is the only relevant destination for the 2013 Moto3 world champion. Vinales was suspended from last weekend action at the Austrian GP due to an irregular operation on the M1 a week earlier before apologising for failing to control his frustration. Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether he will be allowed to return on the M1 at Silverstone. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/get-your-dream-bikes-from-ducati-malaysia-with-ducati-corse-credit/
Get Your Dream Bikes From Ducati Malaysia With Ducati Corse Credit
Thanks to the new Ducati Corse Credit introduced by Ducati Malaysia, you can now purchase your Ducati dream bikes easier and hassle-free. customers can now purchase a Ducati motorcycle with a minimum downpayment of 10% and at 4.88% low interest.  the new financing program offers better accessibility than the existing credit facilities.  The Ducati Corse Credit is an in-house financing program that offers customers greater options, accessibility, and convenience in purchasing new Ducati motorcycles. The new features will complement the existing credit facilities already available to customers. All Ducati’s latest range can now be yours for as low as 4.88% interest and a minimum downpayment of 10%. Customers can choose their dream motorcycles from Ducati Malaysia’s existing models, including the Multistrada V4 and the six new bikes launched on Wednesday.  The six new models comprise of the Streetfighter V2, Multistrada V2 S, Panigale V2 Bayliss, Scrambler Urban Motard, Scrambler 1100 Tribute PRO, and the Streetfighter V4 SP. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-aprilia-shiver-900-more-updates/
2019 Aprilia Shiver 900 – More Updates
The are more updates for the 2019 Aprilia Shiver 900. There’s a new exhaust, ECU, TFT display and colours. Will it come to Malaysia? We’ve ridden the Aprilia Shiver 750 in many occasions. We came away impressed with its handling, performance, reliability and value for money. But none of the new Aprilia Shiver 900 made its way to Malaysia. We hope that will change now that Aprilia is under a new custodian. The Shiver 900 enters its third year of production in 2019 (introduced in 2017). As such, the Noale-based manufacturer updates it for the new year, although not by much. Why change perfection? First of all, there is a new exhaust system to liberate gasses more efficiently. Engine power remains unchanged at 95 bhp and 89.5 Nm, but the real gain is in smooth throttle and predictable engine response. The Aprilia Shiver 750 was the first production motorcycle fitted with a Ride-by-Wire throttle. The Shiver 900 continues this legacy, hence the inclusion of ride modes. However, the 2019 model gets the Marelli 7SM ECU (which is shared with the RSV4 and Tuono 1100 V4). It allows adjustment of traction control levels or turned off entirely. ABS is a standard Continental dual-channel unit but there’s no IMU-based cornering ABS. The 4.3-inch TFT dash (same as the RSV4 and Tuono’s) now features multimedia connectivity, music and navigation. The 2019 model is offered in Challenging Red and Innovation Dark colours. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-malaysia-wants-to-send-you-to-japan/
Shell Malaysia wants to send you to Japan
Win a trip to Japan plus merchandises from GIVI in the Shell Advance Power On contest. Shell Advance, in partnership with leading motorcycle accessories manufacturer GIVI, kick-started a brand new consumer contest this week called Shell Advance Power On. The campaign seeks to reward two grand prize winners with an all-expenses paid trip to Japan to watch the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup races in the Twin Ring Motegi circuit. Besides the grand prize, the Shell Advance Power On campaign will also giveaway up to 10 Monolock boxes, 20 units of full-face helmets, 30 units of rainsuits and 50 units of backpacks courtesy of GIVI Asia Sdn Bhd. To enter, simply purchase any 1-litre pack of any Shell Advance Ultra fully synthetic motorcycle engine oil or two packs of Shell Advance VSX, AX5, AX5 Scooter or AX7 from participating outlets during the campaign period. These products will come with a free sticker set for each purchase. All you need to do is apply the stickers as creatively as possible on your motorcycle, then snap a photo of your bike donning said stickers, add a caption with the hashtag #PowerOnShellAdvance and upload it on to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. The Shell Advance Power On campaign will run from from April 1 to June 30. Both Shell Advance Malaysia and GIVI expressed their delight in partnering with each other for this campaign. Shell Lubricants General Manager Leslie Ng states: “We expect this year’s contest to be a hit as no other brand rewards its customers like we do at Shell. We hope to see some really creative entries that will power two of them all the way to Japan. Thanks to GIVI Asia, 110 others will also take home limited edition accessories that will make every ride more enjoyable.” Givi Asia Sdn Bhd Managing Director On Hai Swee further added: “Both GIVI and Shell Advance are top brands that have one thing in common. We both offer top quality products that are designed to make every ride a memorable and enjoyable one for discerning motorcycle enthusiasts.” More information as well as  terms and conditions of the Shell Advance Power On campaign can be obtained online at shell.com.my/advance. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-jorge-lorenzo-to-race-as-motogp-wildcard-in-catalunya/
CONFIRMED: Jorge Lorenzo to race as MotoGP wildcard in Catalunya!
The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP squad made a huge yet unsurprising return of Jorge Lorenzo into racing as news confirmed of his re-entry as a MotoGP wildcard. His return to the Yamaha YZR-M1 into racing will be set for the Catalunya MotoGP round which is set the first week of June 2020. Back in the saddle again ?@lorenzo99 will be riding aboard the Yamaha YZR-M1 as a @MotoGP Wild Card at the Catalunya GP ?#MonsterYamaha | #MotoGP | #CatalanGP pic.twitter.com/N7DgXV18rN — Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP (@YamahaMotoGP) March 5, 2020 The round definitely makes a lot of sense considering that the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is the home of Jorge Lorenzo and the round’s main sponsor is Monster Energy (Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya). For the first time in a while, we will see five Yamaha M1 machines where Lorenzo will join the likes of Valentino Rossi, Maverick Vinales, Fabio Quartararo, and Franco Morbidelli. The last time Lorenzo raced on the Yamaha MotoGP machine was back in 2016 (where he won the race AND sealed his fifth championship title) before jumping ship to Ducati. Two seasons with the Ducati Desmosedici showed potential but decisions were made before he made his way to Repsol Honda for 2019 and ultimately announced his retirement by the end of the year. It wasn’t long before he was back with Yamaha but this time around, as their official test rider. Being the last rider who took home the championship for Yamaha in MotoGP, his assistance and expertise will hopefully bring some magic into the already strong squad as they prepare for the first round in April at the Circuit of the Americas. I HAVE AN IMPORTANT THING TO ANNOUNCE… ??#MotoGP #Yamaha pic.twitter.com/P5knxYsFK3 — Jorge Lorenzo (@lorenzo99) March 5, 2020 MotoGP: Premier class race CANCELLED in Qatar --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-jonathan-rea-wins-sixth-world-title-in-a-row/
WorldSBK: Jonathan Rea wins sixth world title in a row!
The Estoril Circuit in Portugal witnessed the crowning of the 2020 WorldSBK world champion which goes to none other than Kawasaki Racing Team WorldSBK rider and defending king, Jonathan Rea. His sixth consecutive premier class crown was made official when he finished Race 1 yesterday in fourth place, which was enough to seal the deal for this year’s championship. It was a tough battle where Toprak Razgatlioglu (PATA YAMAHA WorldSBK Official Team) won the race ahead of Ducati’s Chaz Davies, and Yamaha’s Garrett Gerloff. Keeping it cool, calm, and collective, fourth place was all it took for Jonathan Rea to win his six consecutive world title in WorldSBK. Fighting against the might of Scott Redding and his factory Ducati Panigale V4 R wasn’t the easiest of tasks this season, but the 33-year-old Irishman kept his cool and maintained his consistency throughout the races. The mighty Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R had its disadvantages at first, but the magic of Rea managed to make it work and defended beautifully against other riders and manufacturers. Next season won’t be any easier for the 2020 world champion as other manufacturers are stepping up with newer and more powerful machines. Kawasaki knows this and they too won’t be keeping things stagnant, even if the formula works this year. Rest assured that Jonathan Rea will be there when it comes down to defending his crown in 2021. Our biggest congratulations to Kawasaki and Jonathan Rea! Written by: Sep Irran A completely new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is coming! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/want-to-buy-sell-motorcycles-just-muv-it/
Want to buy/sell motorcycles? Just MUV it!
Most of us know all too well about the hassle when it comes to buying or selling motorcycles. Apart from the usual lowball trade-ins at motorcycle shops or countless scams on several online platforms, getting the transaction done without hassle is definitely something that stops us from ever doing so. Now, you can do that with great ease via MUV, a marketplace for used vehicles here in Malaysia. What and who is MUV? They started out life as a traditional auction house for a number of years before moving their services online in 2014. Being a subsidiary company wholly owned by Warisan TC Holdings Berhad (the sole distributor of Nissan vehicles here in Malaysia), trust is key and trust is what they are able to deliver when it comes to buying and selling your motorcycles. They’ve perfected the process of selling and auctioning used cars and now, they’re moving on to two-wheels where the demand for a trustworthy platform (with zero scammers) is something everyone wants. Consider MUV as a one-stop marketplace to complete the entire process from buyer to seller. To enlist your beloved motorcycles up for auction, just send your vehicle to one of their hubs located in Klang Valley, Penang, or Johor. The experts there will do a vehicle roadworthiness inspection before putting it up for auction of their site free of charge. Super convenient! The listed bikes will be put up for auction for seven days where anyone can see and bid online for anything that might strike their interest. Bidders will pay a small amount to obtain a ‘bid ticket’ and once there’s an agreement in terms of the asking price with the owner, MUV will then proceed with assisting everything that’s needed to complete the process from the transfer of ownership, JPJ-related matters and vehicle inspection at PUSPAKOM if needed (these expenses will be covered from the amount that the buyer has paid to obtain the bid ticket). The goal with MUV is to sell your bikes as fast and efficiently as possible without the hassle of the owner/buyer going to multiple places to get the process of buying/selling done. MUV will take care of everything for you at a very, very affordable price/fee. They will also help to settle the issue of road tax and insurance if you really want to complete the process hassle-free. At the end of the day, you can get three key aspects when it comes to buying/selling your bikes via MUV; trustworthy, fast, and ease of mind. If these are the qualities that you’re looking for, then look no further. For more information, head over to https://www.muv-x.com/. QUICK UPDATE: PSST…hey you…bike shop owners & dealers…yeah…MUV is currently running their ‘Merdeka promo’ where the amount needed for the bid ticket will be waived. Contact them to find out more! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-streetfighter-v4-lamborghini-is-the-collaboration-you-never-know-you-need/
Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini Is The Collab We Never Knew We Needed
Ducati kicked off episode 1 of its Ducati World Premiere 2023 with the limited edition Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini.  The Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini is limited to just 630 units. Inspired by Lamborghini’s Huracan STO.  Using the Streetfighter V4 S as the base and Lamborghini Huracan STO as the inspiration, the Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini is limited to just 630 units worldwide.  That said, the Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini features the special Verde Citrea and Arancio Dac livery taken from the Huracan STO.  Ducati also threw in Francesco Bagnaia’s number 63, which can also be found on the helmet and leathers available with the unique collaboration. Also, Bagnaia became Ducati’s first ever MotoGP rider to win four consecutive GP races on Sunday, making the number a bit more special.  The Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini also sports the Huracan STO forged wheels design, including the similar titanium lock nut. As expected, the Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini also boasts carbon fibre components, with much being made to mimic the Huracan STO. In addition, the special collaboration motorcycle is also fitted with Akrapovic titanium exhaust complete with a carbon fibre endcap. Mechanically, the Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini features the same 1,103cc V4 engine that makes 208hp @ 13,000rpm and 123Nm.    --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-ktm-790-duke-is-finally-here-in-malaysia/
2018 KTM 790 Duke is finally here in Malaysia?
KTM Malaysia has posted something very interesting on the Facebook page regarding the 2018 KTM 790 Duke. The KTM 790 Duke aka “The Scalpel” was expected to arrive in Malaysia within the first half of 2018. We can expect it to be reasonably priced somewhere between RM60,000 to RM70,000 It was only a couple of months ago when we heard rumours going around that the new 2018 KTM 790 Duke aka “The Scalpel” will be made available in the Malaysian market very, very soon. It seems that it’s all true when KTM Malaysia posted this photo you see below on their Facebook page. ? Wow… When he will come out from box? Posted by KTM Malaysia on 22hb Mei 2018 This is indeed very exciting news for the Malaysian motorcycle scene. With a large following for middleweight naked performance machines, the KTM 790 Duke fits in perfectly in the segment as something completely fresh. In fact, some dealers across the country have already begun accepting bookings for the said bike which is also another huge indicator of the 790 Duke’s availability here in Malaysia. With major rivals from top Japanese and European companies in the same segment, KTM Malaysia has to play their pricing game carefully in order for the 790 Duke to be a true success here in Malaysia. Right now, they do have a slight advantage with the announcement of 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST) coming into play from 1 June 2018 until further notice. That might help drive the price down a bit. We’ve gone through the market for this particular bike’s segment including some of KTM’s own models and we think it will do well if the pricing lands somewhere between RM60,000 to RM70,000. Some might say that an 800cc middleweight naked bike is a bit pricey at RM60,000 and beyond but you should also be aware of all the specifications that come ready with the new 2018 KTM 790 Duke listed below: 799cc LC8c parallel-twin engine 105hp and 85Nm of maximum torque Equipped with the latest KTM electronics Lean-sensitive traction control Cornering ABS Launch control Auto-blipper Bidirectional quickshifter (up and down) Slipper clutch Multi-colour TFT screen Stay tuned to Bikes Republic as we wait for the official launch of the 2018 KTM 790 Duke here in Malaysia. In the meantime, enjoy the video below! 2018 KTM 790 Duke price predicted around RM60,000? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-2018-ducati-959-panigale-corse-works/
New 2018 Ducati 959 Panigale Corse in the works?
A brand new 2018 Ducati 959 Panigale Corse emissions paperwork has been filed at the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently. According to the report, the emission numbers for both the standard 959 Panigale and the 959 Panigale Corse remains the same. We’re guessing that the Corse version has the same engine but like all of Ducati Corse bikes, it’ll most probably come with some major upgrades to the electronics, suspensions, brakes and facade. According to a recent report made by Motorcycle.com, Ducati has filed some paperwork to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for what looks like a new middleweight superbike that is the Ducati 959 Panigale Corse for 2018. According to the said report, the 2018 Ducati 959 Panigale Corse has the same emission figures as the standard 959 Panigale. This means that the engines and most parts of the two said bikes are probably going to be around the same specifications. With that being said, don’t get your hopes down too fast. Based on Ducati’s history with their “Corse” models, we’re guessing that the 959 Panigale will go through an evolution and garnished with some very special parts. 2013 Ducati 848 EVO CORSE SE Our guess? The 2018 Ducati 959 Panigale Corse will come with some exceptional packages related to its suspension, brake, electronics and most probably a kick-ass livery. Ducati 1299 Panigale R Final Edition Our assumption is based on what Ducati had offered previously with their Corse versions of the 848 EVO and of course the 1299 Panigale R Final Edition where they were fitted with some pretty awesome upgrades. Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario While Ducati has already deep in their necks with developing their highly-anticipated Ducati V4 superbike replacement for the 1199 Panigale, their so called “middleweight” 959 Panigale will most unlikely get the same treatment as well due to financial constraints. Sorry everyone, looks like we have to wait a bit longer for a V4-powered middleweight Ducati sportsbike. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-kawasaki-z900rs-retro-coming-soon/
New Kawasaki Z900RS retro coming soon
Upcoming new Kawasaki Z900RS model set at bringing Team Green into the retro game. Team Green will reportedly expand its range further with a brand new Kawasaki Z900RS retro model that will debut in the coming weeks. With it, Kawasaki will take the fight directly towards the Triumph Thruxton and the Yamaha XSR900. The featured image above is a rendering published by MCN is based on credible insider sources. Notably, the upcoming new Kawasaki Z900RS will start a whole new range of retro bikes from Team Green inspired by its engineering heritage. Kawasaki Z1 A new liquid-cooled in-line four-cylinder heart will power Kawasaki’s new retro fighter. The mill will reportedly have retro-styled cooling fins designed into it as well, harking back to the legendary Kawasaki Z1 here in fact. Initially, many thought that Kawasaki would unleash a new supercharged retro bike first. However, recent developments say that the naturally aspirated bike will debut first instead. The new Kawasaki Z900RS will make an appearance during EICMA later this year. Kawasaki SC-02 superchagred concept Reports further suggest that the Z900RS will be accompanied in EICMA with a 675cc three-cylinder supercharged retro – likely dubbed as the H1 – that adopts a smaller version of the same powerplant that’s expected to hit markets in 2018. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/go-art-speed-malaysia-2017-win-custom-rxz-twinboss-dragster/
Go to the Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 & WIN THIS CUSTOM YAMAHA RXZ TWINBOSS DRAGSTER!
This year’s Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 will be giving away a very special grand prize on Sunday in the form of a Yamaha RXZ Twinboss dragster motorcycle. The RXZ Twinboss dragster is powered by two two-stroke engines which run in tandem in a combined capacity of 270cc which is equivalent to a middleweight four-stroke sports bike by capacity. This year Art of Speed will be held from 29 to 30 July 2017 at MAEPS, Serdang so be sure to be there when they announce the lucky attendee to bring this baby home! As Malaysians who are deep in the motorcycle scene or industry, there’s no denying the fact that two-stroke motorcycles play a huge role in the how the motorcycling scene has developed through the years. While other motorcycles do play their own respective roles, the two-strokes have been in the scene longer than anybody else and have created both good and bad reputations. Putting those things aside, one of the legendary motorcycles of all time in the Malaysian scene has got to be the Yamaha RXZ. Ever since its inception, it took the hearts of young Malaysians by storm. Now, a bunch of mad geniuses have taken the legendary motorcycle to a whole new level. Brace yourselves, things are about to get interesting. VERY INTERESTING. For this year’s Art of Speed Malaysia festival 2017, the founder Asep Ahmad Sastrawidjaja has announced that they will be giving out a very special bike as this year’s grand prize giveaway. This year, one lucky attendee will be bringing home a twin-engine two-stroke custom drag bike dubbed the “Yamaha RXZ Twinboss”. The idea came to mind as Asep want to stir things up a bit in a huge way that’ll hopefully send ripples of excitement into the Malaysian custom scene as well as the general motorcycling industry. According to the project manager, the idea came earlier in the year and by April, they’ve managed to source all the basic parts including two Yamaha RXZ bikes specially for the dragster. Asep stated that the fully-custom bike aka “RXZ Twinboss” will the grand prize giveaway as a token of great appreciation for all the years filled with support from all the fans and enthusiasts alike. As you can see, every single part of the dragster has been rebuilt from the ground up and it looks menacingly beautiful. The main engineer being the RXZ Twinboss is our very own local lad Irwan Cheng from FNG Work located in Ipoh together with the boys from Beautiful Machines, Sunway. They’ve also obtained a lot of assistance from Amir Hashim, the powerhouse behind Legend Racing Garage to help bring everything together. In terms of cost, Asep said that he has lost count after spending over RM40,000 in getting the bike ready for this year’s Art of Speed main event. Together will all the help, assistance, experience and invaluable knowledge and know-how, the RXZ Twinboss is a priceless as the rarest gem on Earth. It is truly one of a kind. The combination of two two-stroke 135cc Yamaha RXZ engines were able to perform in tandem thanks to the engineering feat successfully made by connecting the primary drives using a final drive chain setup connecting the two engine blocks together. In terms of capacity, the bike collectively has 270cc which is almost equivalent to a middleweight four-stroke sports bike. The fenders, fuel tank and out of this world seat were all hand-made using aluminium inspired solely on achieving two things; to look and go as fast as it can possibly go. It is a dragster after all. We also need to point out that the entire bodywork can be lifted to gain access to the engines easily in a similar fashion as you would normally see from top fuel funny drag cars in the US. Other parts have been made using CNC water jet blasts and Catia computing software for maximum accuracy, rigidity and performance. Those holes you see there were made precisely using the latest engineering technology to bring the some state-of-the-art performance into the build. A great bike deserves some badass rubber and when you look at the rear, you’ll find a Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa super slick tyre to give maximum grip as you shoot down the drag strip. The front fork has been taken from one of donor Yamaha RXZ but has been dramatically chopped and customised specially for this project. The lucky folk who gets to bring this baby home will get a key that won’t help start the bike but instead access the fuel gas cap taken from a motorboat. In general, the RXZ Twinboss is near completion in terms of mechanical aspects. The rest of the facade and paint job will be completed during the two-day Art of Speed 2017 which will be held at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) this 29 and 30 July 2017. Two bikes will be given away during that weekend and the RXZ Twinboss will Sunday’s ultimate giveaway. Each attendee who purchase a ticket for only RM15 will get one entry into the lucky draw so the more tickets you buys, the more chances you have in getting the bike. Our advice? Study the annual event carefully as there might be a few questions coming your way to make things more interesting. In short, you need to work it in order to get it, baby. All the people involved in making the RXZ Twinboss into the real world hope for one thing; that the winner will test the living daylights of the dragster as it is made for racing and not just for show. A lot of us were there to witness the bike coming to life and we can only say one thing, the hype is REAL. IT'S ALIVE!!! #RXZ #TwinBoss #ArtOfSpeed #LuckyDraw #SundayGiveAway #AOS2017 #TwinPowered #TwoStroke A post shared by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jul 22, 2017 at 8:15am PDT Everyone who’s interested in seeing this bike live and ‘in your face’, do come to the Art of Speed 2017 festival this 29 and 30 July 2017 held at MAEPS, Serdang. There’s no better year to get yourselves exposed the Malaysia’s largest custom ‘anything’ gathering that has been gaining a lot of attention and support from the rest of the world. See you guys there! To know more about Art of Speed 2017 festival, CLICK HERE. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/no-plans-for-hybrid-motorcycles-bmw/
No Plans For Hybrid Motorcycles – BMW
BMW has no plan to develop hybrid motorcycles and will only focus on internal combustion engines and electrification. The CE 04 electric maxi-scooter was launched earlier this year. BMW will release a new electric drivetrain every 18 to 24 months. The confirmation news came from BMW’s Vice President of Customer, Brand and Sales, Dr Alexander Wehr. “The hybrid solution has always been an important step, but it has always been an in-between step. “We can see on the car side that the trend is towards fully electric. “On motorcycles, there is no upside of a hybrid drivetrain if you can have an electric drivetrain. We will keep pursuing both internal combustion engines and electric, and they both fit very well – not only to scooters but to motorcycles,” he told MCN. BMW has already gotten things going in the electric department after rolling out the CE 04 fully electric maxi-scooter earlier this year. Wehr also revealed that the company would deliver a new electric drivetrain every 18 to 24 months, confirming the firm’s commitment towards zero-emission goals. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gasgas-rx-450f-replica-inbound/
GasGas RX 450F Replica Inbound 
GasGas is set to launch a new motorcycle called the RX 450F Replica as confirmed by new type approval documents. GasGas RX 450F Replica could be based on Sam Sunderland RC 450F. The motorcycle to feature 449cc engine similar to KTM’s 450 Rally Replica.  The new model is likely to be based on Sam Sunderland’s RC 450F that he rode to victory in the 2022 Dakar Rally. The RX 450F Replica appeared on an updated list of vehicles approved in Germany, hinting that the new motorcycle is ready for launch, soon.  Despite bearing similarities to Sam’s RC 450F, it is not a perfect match.  Nonetheless, it is safe to assume that the upcoming GasGas RX 450F Replica is a rally-type motorcycle as it listed a similar information to KTM’s 450 Rally Replica. Considering KTM’s 450 Rally Replica has been in the market for a few years now, it makes sense that GasGas wants its own version in the market, after winning the 2022 Dakar Rally title. Unfortunately, not many details were unveiled by the latest type approval document a part from it is powered by a 449cc powertrain, features a single saddle setup and classified as an enduro motorcycle.  Nevertheless, it is likely the RX 450F Replica to be based on the KTM latest 450 Rally Replica introduced in June.  (source: Motorcycle.com) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shark-race-r-pro-gp-helmet-10-points-about-ultimate-head-protection/
SHARK Race-R Pro GP Helmet — 10 Points About Ultimate Head Protection
The SHARK Race-R Pro GP helmet is designed for ultimate protection. It is also FIM certified for competition use. The same technology for MotoGP is available for consumers. We published the story of the SHARK Race-R Pro GP helmet saving Miguel Oliveira’s life in a horrific 300 km/h crash yesterday. We thought we ought to share a little bit more about something that’s proven to save bikers’ lives. Here are the 10 points on why it’s the ultimate head protection. Please click here for Miguel Oliveira Survives 300 km/h crash 1. FIM Certification The helmet has passed the stringent FIM certification, hence allowed in all FIM sanctioned racing events including — but not limited to — WorldSBK, Endurance World Championship, Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP. The FIM standard was introduced earlier this year to streamline helmet testing, although virtually all helmets allowed on the international stage conform to the UN ECE 22.05 standard. The positive side to the FIM certification is that consumers will also benefit from the same technologies used in professional racing. The helmet is listed in the FIM helmet homologation list as of 25th January 2019, and obtained the  FIM FRHPhe-01 2018 certification. 2. Same as race helmet The SHARK Race-R Pro consumer helmet has the same construction as the race helmet, except for custom fitting for individual riders. This means a MotoGP rider could buy the helmet at a shop and wear it in racing. Again, this is a clear benefit for us mortals. 3. COVA construction The helmet used SHARK’s proprietary COVA (carbon on-view and aramid) construction. The advantages are lightweight, while being resistant to compression and abrasion, besides being effective at shock absorption and preventing delamination. 4. Multi-density EPS liner Using a multi-density EPS (expanded polystyrene) liner means optimum protection at different impact zones. For example, the forehead area usually hits the hardest so a denser EPS is used. 5. Dual-density EPU chin guard The chin guard is also protection, but by using dual-density EPU (expanded polyurethane). Polyurethane is a rubber-like material and is specifically designed to reduce shock reverberating around the chin area. 6. Air pollution filter The chin guard not only has a dual-density EPU liner, but the vent also has a variable airflow air pollution filter. The filter is removable if the rider want all the airflow on a hot day. 7. High-strength visor The visor is all important in ensuring the safety of the rider’s eyes. The helmet’s visor is not only of high strength but also features Class 1 optical rating, although it has variable thickness between 4.2 mm to 2.8 mm. The optical rating means that vision is not distorted. Additionally, it is rated to prevent scratches and fogging. The visor is attached to the helmet via a secure but quick disassembly mechanism, just like those in MotoGP. 8. Ergonomic visor grip The visor lock mechanism is placed in an ergonomic position for easy reach and operation. It also locks the visor securely. 9. Aerodynamic spoiler The rear spoiler provides supreme stability even at speeds above 340 km/h, as we regularly see in MotoGP. By stability it means the helmet doesn’t shake or move around at high speeds. It did look funky at first but it’s already grown on us. A direct result of good aerodynamics is a quiet helmet. 10. Quick Spoiler Safety System However, the spoiler is designed to detach quickly in the event of a crash. This is to avoid introducing secondary shocks to the rider’s head. You can check out the helmet at our Power Store in Kota Damansara, and order it through our BikesRepublic e-commerce platform. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/second-2018-triumph-speed-triple-teaser-released/
Second 2018 Triumph Speed Triple teaser released
Triumph Motorcycles has released a second 2018 Triumph Speed Triple teaser video. The second clip showcased how powerful and nimble the bike can be under the control of Carl Fogarty and Gary Johnson. The official unveiling will be on 5 February 2018. It was just last week when Triumph Motorcycles released quite a spectacular teaser video on their upcoming 2018 Triumph Speed Triple. Starring in the video were none other than seven-time world superbikes champion Carl Fogarty and two-time Isle of Man TT winner, Gary Johnson. 2018 Triumph Speed Triple teaser video released – “The Ultimate Hooligan?” Nicknamed “The Ultimate Hooligan”, Triumph then teased us again with another clip on the date where we initially thought that the new Speed Triple will be launched. This time around, the dynamic duo goes head to head in a showdown to see whose better on the new Triumph machine. Based on the clip, we’re guessing that the 2018 Speed Triple will be the most powerful and technologically-advanced model to date. While most of the details have not been confirmed just yet, we know for a fact that the new bad boy in town comes ready with Triumph’s advance TFT screen. What’s more surprising is the fact that both Fogarty and Johnson are riding bikes with an ‘RS’ logo on the side fairings together with twin Arrow exhaust cans. Is it possible that the new Speed Triple is the 2018 Triumph Speed Triple RS? The video also showcased how nimble and dynamic the bike handles under the two raw talents of Fogarty and Johnson. Ending with a message “All will be revealed” together with the date of 5 February 2018, we now have to wait anxiously for one more week before the official launch. WE.CAN’T.WAIT. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-r-1250-r-r-1250-rs-now-available-for-purchase-from-rm114500/
BMW R 1250 R, R 1250 RS Now Available For Purchase – From RM114,500
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has launched the New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS, both designed to complement the dynamic nature of sports tourers with innovative features.  According to Hans de Visser, the Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, the company’s heritage has been defined by a century of relentless innovation, which has enabled them to deliver powerful advancements tailored to the diverse desires of motorcycling enthusiasts worldwide. The New BMW R 1250 R presents a more advanced and honed version of the purist roadster from BMW Motorrad, providing even more roadster pleasure for solo or pillion riding on winding country roads. The New BMW R 1250 RS, on the other hand, promises to deliver the ultimate sporty, dynamic touring experience. The New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS are standard equipped with the BMW Integral ABS Pro braking system, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) for safety and excellent traction.  Riding Modes Pro is also included, offering individually configurable riding modes, and the innovative BMW ShiftCam engine technology enhances fuel efficiency. A TFT colour display is included as standard for connectivity and navigation, with customised screen displays for different purposes. The Comfort, Touring, and Dynamic packages, which include features such as Keyless Ride, Cruise Control, and case holders, are also included as standard. The New BMW R 1250 R and BMW R 1250 RS are available in Sport and Triple Black model variants, each with unique body colours. The BMW R 1250 R and R 1250 RS is priced at RM114,500 and RM118,500, respectively.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-lorenzo-savadori-replaces-bradley-smith-in-aprilia/
MotoGP: Lorenzo Savadori replaces Bradley Smith in Aprilia
Three rounds remain in the 2020 MotoGP world championship season and Aprilia will be completing it with Lorenzo Savadori, one of the manufacturer’s test riders. The 27-year-old Italian will be competing on the Aprilia RS-GP together with the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini main rider, Aleix Espargaro. Why Savadori? He collected six wins and two podiums in the 2020 CIV premier category, the Italian was crowned as the Italian SBK Champion on board his Aprilia RSV4 prepped by the Nuova M2 Racing Team. This result might just be his ticket into the MotoGP grid full-time if he’s able to provide some spectacular results in the last three races of the season. According to Lorenzo Savadori, “To say I’m happy would be an understatement and I wish to thank Aprilia Racing straight away for this great opportunity. I will be arriving prepared for the event, thanks both to the work done during the tests on the RS-GP and to the CIV season that just ended.” “It was a challenging Championship that demanded top form and maximum concentration from me. Now I need to reorganise my thoughts, glean from the kilometres I’ve ridden astride the RS-GP and make sure I’m ready and focused for the first practice session,” added the Italian. Yamaha race bikes for sale by Onexox TKKR SAG Team – From RM6,500 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/puspakom-launches-free-vehicle-inspection-campaign-for-hari-raya/
PUSPAKOM Launches Free Vehicle Inspection Campaign For Hari Raya
In an effort to ensure road safety during the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations, PUSPAKOM has launched a voluntary vehicle inspection campaign from April 10 to April 20, 2023.  The free inspection will run from April 10. The initiative, which is aimed at all private vehicle owners and drivers, is being promoted with the hashtag #drivesafenoregrets. PUSPAKOM is reminding the public, especially those traveling back to their hometowns during this festive season, to ensure that their vehicles are in top condition before starting their journey. Vehicle owners who wish to take advantage of the free inspection, also known as Voluntary Vehicle Inspection (VVI), can walk in to any PUSPAKOM branch nationwide (except for the Shah Alam, Taman Bukit Maluri, and Pasir Gudang branches) between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. To further promote the campaign, PUSPAKOM is also organizing an easy competition for customers and deploying Mobile Inspection Units to offer free inspections at selected locations, including Wisma DRB-HICOM, MMU Cyberjaya (for staff only), Setia Alam Impian, and Lotus’s Ara Damansara. According to PUSPAKOM CEO Mohammed Shukor Ismail, “The free vehicle inspection campaign in conjunction with the Hari Raya celebration aims to help vehicle owners identify the condition of their vehicles through computerized PUSPAKOM equipment. They can then use this information as a reference to perform proper maintenance.” “We are offering VIP services to customers who undergo voluntary inspections, where they can walk in to PUSPAKOM without an appointment and enjoy priority service,” Shukor added. PUSPAKOM sees the free vehicle inspection campaign as a corporate responsibility in raising public awareness about the importance of vehicle safety, particularly during festive seasons, said Shukor. The voluntary vehicle inspection is focused on safety aspects such as brake, side slip, tire, suspension, emission, lights, upper and lower parts of the vehicle, dark mirrors, and more. For more information on the Free Voluntary Vehicle Inspection campaign and how to win prizes, please visit www.puspakom.com.my or Facebook PUSPAKOM Sdn Bhd. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/triumph-street-triple-rx-black-introduced/
Triumph Street Triple Rx Black introduced
Triumph has introduced a special ‘Black’ edition version of its Street Triple Rx model in the UK. As the name suggests, the Triumph Street Triple Rx Black features a special black paint scheme accompanied with revised graphics. Underneath, the Street Triple Rx Black remains unchanged from the standard Street Triple R model by retaining its signature 675cc triple-cylinder heart that offers 105hp and 67.7Nm. The Black edition accompanies the regular Street Triple Rx model, with both the regular Rx and Rx Black sitting at the top of the Street Triple model range. The Rx variants differ from the regular Street Triple R as it has additional exterior bits such as a seat cowl, bellypan and fly screen. Also standard-equipped on the Rx model is a tail-section lifted from the Triumph Daytona 675 supersport model. Presently, Triumph has announced the availability of the new Triumph Street Triple Rx Black in its UK dealerships only starting this month, priced from £8,599. Triumph hasn’t confirmed the bike’s availability outside the UK just yet, but we reckon it would likely offer it in the overseas markets as well. Sources: MCN and Visordown --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-all-stars-the-biggest-aprilia-event-in-the-world/
Aprilia All Stars – The biggest Aprilia event in the world!
9 May 2020 will be the date where the Aprilia All Stars event aka “the biggest Aprilia event in the world” will take place on one of the most beautiful MotoGP circuits in the world, Mugello Circuit. If you’re a fan of anything Aprilia, this is the time, date, and place to be. Aprilia All Stars will also be the gathering of all of the brand’s greatest motorsports heroes, from their MotoGP and WorldSBK riders to legends in the sport who have won championships over the course of history. The festival will also offer a sneak peek into the manufacturer’s future of motorcycle manufacturing. We’ve recently reported that the 2020 Aprilia RS 660 ‘production-ready’ version will make its official public debut there. This middleweight sports bike is said to carry Aprilia’s latest racing DNA and to make things even more special, Aprilia will also debut their new Italian Aprilia Sport Production Championship machine, the Aprilia RS 250 SP. Fans and enthusiasts of the Italian brand can expect all of these and more at the 2020 All Stars Festival where the whole family can enjoy activities like music, meetings with the riders, an exhibit of the Aprilia range, a special area dedicated to eSports and shopping for Aprilia and Aprilia Racing branded apparel, food areas and much more. Aprilia RS 250 SP — #Be a Racer Realised --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-y15zr-v2-ultraman-special-edition-launched/
Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Ultraman Special Edition Launched
Only 100 units of the Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Ultraman Special Edition are offered. It is an officially-licensed Ultraman product. Priced from RM 12,688, net selling price. Welly Assorted Sdn. Bhd. launched the Yamaha Y15ZR Ultraman Special Edition over the weekend. This special edition is an initiative by Welly Assorted to deliver two legends in one, namely the Yamaha Y15ZR V2 and Ultraman. Welly’s boss knows that there are many Ultraman fans in the country. There are those who had grown up with the superhero, and those among the younger generation who are current fans. Hence this particular model is targeted at the age group between 25 to 40 years old. The special edition is the result of a collaboration between Welly Assorted and Taigaco Sdn. Bhd. Taigaco is the licensing agent of the Ultraman characters and brand for Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and Brunei. Yamaha Y15ZR V2 Ultraman Special Edition is therefore a licensed product. The Ultraman graphics on the bodywork are airbrushed and not mere vinyl stickers. The bike is already fitted with high-grade brake and clutch levers, original Yamaha engine guard and red wheels. There is also a commemorative plaque. Only 100 units of the edition will be sold. Each is priced from RM 12,668, net selling price. Please get in touch with Welly Assorted Sdn. Bhd. for your bookings. You may also check out these links for more information. www.facebook.com/theoriginalultraman/ www.facebook.com/wellyassortedmalaysia/ www.instagram.com/ultramanoriginal/ www.instagram.com/wellyassorted/ www.instagram.com/wellyassorted/ PHOTO GALLERY 1 of 13 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hero-motocorp-raises-prices-of-harley-davidson-x440-motorcycle-following-overwhelming-pre-orders/
Hero MotoCorp Raises Prices Of Harley-Davidson X440 Motorcycle Following Overwhelming Pre-Orders
Hero MotoCorp, the renowned two-wheeler manufacturer, announced a price hike of INR10,500 (RM500) for the new India-made Harley-Davidson X440. the made in India Harley-Davidson has garnered a lot of attention since it’s launch.  the X440 runs on a single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine that’s capable of making 27hp & 38Nm. This decision comes just days after the Chief Executive of Harley-Davidson expressed delight over the remarkable number of pre-orders for the X440, surpassing the company’s initial expectations. The Harley-Davidson X440, which is set to be priced at INR239,500 (RM13.1k) and above, will now include the price increase across all its variants, as per the statement issued by Hero. Customers can anticipate deliveries to commence in October. Harley-Davidson, after discontinuing most of its dealer network in India in 2020, joined forces with Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest motorcycle maker, to develop and market a series of its branded bikes in the country. Their initial offering, the X440, marks the beginning of their strategic partnership. Harley-Davidson CEO, Jochen Zeitz, expressed his contentment during an earnings call last week, stating, “We’ve been extremely pleased with the reception that the X440 has received since launch, with pre-orders exceeding initial expectations from launch.” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysian-army-receives-180-units-of-the-kawasaki-klx-250/
Malaysian Army Receives 180 Units of the Kawasaki KLX 250
The Malaysian Army has added 180 units of the Kawasaki KLX 250 as part of their assets list to discharge their duties during operations. The motorcycles will be used as part of the ongoing OP BENTENG – which is an multi-enforcement agency initiative to prevent illegal entry of foreigners, and is also part of the Malaysian government’s initiative to curb Covid-19 infections. According to reports dated October 2020, OP BENTENG had at that time already nabbed 7,000 illegal immigrants. A further 775 skippers and 316 human traffickers were also arrested nationwide during the same period. In a handover ceremony held yesterday (17/2/21), the 180 motorcycles were presented to General Tan Sri Datuk Zamrose Mohd Zain by the Managing Director of Kawasaki Malaysia, Dato Jefry Lim. There was also a special demonstration of the capabilities of the KLX 250 conducted by The Army Warrior Motorcycle Team. The motorcycles will be put to immediate use at the various borders of Malaysia to help in patrolling and curbing illegal entries into Malaysia. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-ducati-monster-unleashed-937cc-111hp/
2021 Ducati Monster unleashed – 937cc, 111hp
The final 2021 Ducati World Premiere web episode showcased the all-new 2021 Ducati Monster, a bike that represents the Italian premium bike manufacturer’s lightest and most compact form with a touch of heritage in the mix. Going back to its roots when the first Monster was launched back in 1993, the 2021 Ducati Monster is now sportier than ever thanks to its superbike-derived frame. Its engine is now an integral stress member of the chassis which is directly connected to its front frame and rear tail, just like the Panigale V4. Compared to the previous 821, the new Monster is a whopping 18kg lighter thanks to this new setup (166kg dry, the same weight as a fully fuelled Yamaha YZF-R25). A part of that new weight loss regime consists of a new 937cc engine which is bigger and more powerful than the 821, but 2.4kg lighter. The 937cc twin-cylinder Desmodromic Testastretta 11° engine is tuned to produce 111hp at 9,250rpm and 93Nm torque at 6,500rpm. That’s an extra 3hp and 7Nm more on a bike that’s considerably lighter. This also means that the new 2021 Monster has a much better power-to-weight ratio. In terms of design, the new Monster is now more compact and narrower on the sides that makes it easier to ride and place your foot on the ground for easier handling. Other specs include: 43mm USD front fork Preload adjustable monoshock + double-sided swingarm 17-inch alloy wheels + Pirelli Diablo Rosso III tyres Front twin 320mm disc brakes + Brembo M4.32 monobloc 4-piston calipers Rear single 245mm disc + Brembo 2-piston floating caliper 4.3-inch TFT display 820mm seat height (optional 800mm seat height available) Cornering ABS, riding modes, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control Ducati Quick Shift, Ducati Power Launch, dynamic turn indicator + more There’s also the 2021 Ducati Monster +, which is essentially similar to the base Monster with the addition of a flyscreen and passenger seat cover. Customers can choose between three base colours as well as a number of cover and sticker kits for that ‘custom’ look. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-malaysia-2020-tickets-now-on-sale/
MotoGP Malaysia 2020 tickets now on sale!
MotoGP 2020 is just around the corner and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is already started selling the tickets for the 2020 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix at ‘early bird’ prices! The very special promo in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year is only happening from 25 January 2020 – 31 January 2020. It’s definitely a good idea to get your tickets early not only to save a few Ringgit but also not having to worry about tickets selling out as the round gets closer and closer (which is always the case, especially Grandstand tickets). If you simply can’t wait for some MotoGP action, fear not as this year’s MotoGP Sepang ‘Winter Test’ is happening on a weekend from 7-9 February 2020. Several teams will also unveil their official liveries for the 2020 season which are the Monster Energy Yamaha, Suzuki Ecstar, and Malaysia’s pride and joy, the Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team. In other words, this year’s Sepang Official Test is going to be awesome! Early bird prices start at RM160 (VR46 Tribune), RM200 (Main Grandstand), RM255 (Marc Marquez Tribune), and RM310 (Premier Roving). These tickets can be purchased online at www.sepangcircuit.com or at the SIC ticket counter located at the circuit’s Welcome Centre. Hurry before it’s too late! Image credit: MotoGP MotoGP: Yamaha to test holeshot device at Sepang --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/house-of-hamamatsu-teases-new-gsx-s1000-launching-soon/
House Of Hamamatsu Teases New GSX-S1000, Launching Soon
After presenting the all-new Hayabusa and the recently launched, Burgman 400, Suzuki continues to knock on 2021 with a teaser of another great novelty, the new GSX-S1000. The 17 seconds video showed a glimpse of the naked machine features but reveal an all-new triple LED headlamp setup which expected to boost the overall look of the new model. The new GSX-S1000 is expected to maintain the 999cc inline-four engine but updated to Euro 5 homologation in order to be allowed to sell in major parts of the world. The previous generation launched six years ago, offers 145hp @ 10,000rpm and 106Nm @ 9,500rpm but we can safely assume a slight power change for the new generation. The new Suzuki GSX-S1000 will be officially launched via online platform on April 26. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-bmw-r1250-global-sport-concept/
Check out this BMW R1250 Global Sport Concept
This BMW R1250 Global Sport Concept was designed by Oberdan Bezzi. Designed to be a sportier touring machine, the BMW R1250 has a lower and more aggressive stance. Powered by a 1,250cc air-cooled boxer engine, conquering any riding terrains would be easier and faster. When it comes to the world of touring motorcycles, there are many candidates to fill in the place but none more so than BMW Motorrad and their hyper-capable GS series. From its birth up until the present, there’s basically a GS model for anyone and everyone looking for the perfect adventure machine that’ll basically take them everywhere. It was only last week that one particular graphic designer which goes by the name of Oberdan Bezzi who introduced a very different style for the GS family. Envisioned and named the BMW R1250 Global Sport Concept, it’s a creative blend of a few different types of bikes which has a lower and more aggressive stance (Although, we can’t help but notice how similar it looks to the Honda NC750X). The BMW R1250 Global Sport Concept is said to be powered by BMW’s 1,250cc air-cooled boxer engine. While the current 1,170cc air/liquid-cooled boxer twin found on the current GS is said to provide one of the best touring capabilities, the bigger engine is conceptualised for a more sporty and powerful machine to leave everyone in its dust. While there are no indications on whether BMW Motorrad will be adapting this particular style of machine in its steadily-growing GS family, fans can rest assured that their 2018 BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS are more than capable to conquer any terrain and further enhanced the riders’ touring capabilities. To know more about the BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS, check out the link, below! 2018 BMW F 750 GS and F 850 GS – Premium middleweight ADV bikes for the masses --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-suzuki-gsx250r-dl250-v-strom-bows-china/
New Suzuki GSX250R & DL250 V-Strom bows in China
A closer look at the new Suzuki GSX250R & DL250 V-Strom that recently debuted in China. Having made waves locally following the arrival of the SV650A naked middleweight yesterday, the mighty S-brand also took centre-stage recently in China where both the new Suzuki GSX-R250 & DL250 V-Strom models made their debuts. What many initially thought to be models destined for the Chinese market only, credible sources online report that both new quarter-litres will soon make their way into markets both in and out of the Asia Pacific region. We’ll start with the new 2017 Suzuki GSX250R entry-level sport. If anything, the bike’s naming should tell you all that you needed to know – it isn’t called the GSX-R250. The model shown in China appears to be the very same one that we saw in leaked patents that surfaced online earlier this year. While it may look like a mini GSX-R1000 of sorts, the story is slightly different underneath. Essentially, this is a tweaked version of the Suzuki Inazuma 250 with a new skin. It has a more ‘standard’ riding ergonomics that’s matched with high-mounted clip-on handlebars, followed by a full-LCD digital instrument display unit, 10-spoke wheels, not forgetting a tail section and front fascia that mirrors closely to the brand’s new flagship GSX-R1000. Introduced alongside the GSX250R is the new Suzuki DL250 V-Strom concept as well. This is the S-brand’s attempt at testing the waters in the growing small-capacity adventure-styled bikes segment using its already established V-Strom name. The bike shown off in China recently came fully loaded with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) integrated in its large round headlamp, a rugged styling, as well as the class- / style-defining set of pannier boxes. Little else is known about the concept, but we reckon Suzuki is serious about taking on the upcoming BMW G310GS with this concept that’s powered by a 250cc parallel-twin. With EICMA 2016 coming in just over two weeks, we’ll like know more about the Japanese S-brand’s plans with both the Suzuki GSX250R & DL250 V-Strom for markets outside China. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/why-i-prefer-the-modenas-pulsar-ns200-a-personal-perspective/
Why I prefer the Modenas Pulsar NS200 – A Personal Perspective
We’ve featured the review of the Modenas Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar RS200 recently (click here to read the story), and came away impressed with both bikes. However, aside from the official tests, we at Bikes Republic would voice our opinions to one another about certain bikes we’ve tested. All of us love the Pulsar RS200 for its contemporary racy looks and presence, but truth is, our hearts are torn between both bikes. This writer however, fancied the naked Pulsar NS200 (stands for Naked Sports). Sure, it looks Plain Jane next to the RS200, but that doesn’t mean it didn’t ooze its own appeal. On its own, the Pulsar NS200’s looks does hold its ground, especially when we looked at the riding shots. Firstly, the rider figures more prominently on the naked bike. Strange as that sounds, but personally, a bike ought to emphasize that the rider and bike both make up as one entity when riding. You couldn’t have one or the other. Naked bikes, standards, streetfighters and classics have always appealed to me because of that. Mid-life crisis? I don’t think so, as I’ve always loved the unadulterated looks of bikes that expose their mechanical parts since I was a kid. Secondly, I personally figured that performing maintenance on the Pulsar NS200 is easier. I could get to the sparkplugs, oil filter, oil sump, front final drive sprocket, etc. so much easier because I don’t have to get around the bodywork of the Pulsar RS200. Thirdly, and this is really my personal opinion, I’ve found out through time that motorcycles that don’t appeal to me on the basis of love at first look tend to have me liking them for a much longer period of time. The Pulsar RS200 truly looks great, make no mistake, however, the Pulsar NS200 has kept my attention longer, for some reason. It’s more like liking someone’s personality over looks. Fourthly, there’s less cosmetic damage to concern about when you own a naked bike. That applies to either a crash or the accumulated abuse by careless mechanics when they removed and reinstalled the fairing. Not one fully-faired bike of mine has lasted its lifetime without missing fairing fasteners, causing them to flare open or even dropped a panel. Fifthly, the naked Pulsar NS200 lends itself better to customization. It’s already a naked bike, so you don’t have to feel the pinch about having to store the fairings somewhere. A set of clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors, racing rearsets would make the bike look the proper streetfighter. Or go beyond conventions by stripping everything down and turning it into a bobber or a scrambler or a classic. Sixthly, the Pulsar NS200 has a slimmer cross-section, which means it’s much easier to scythe through KL’s crazy traffic. But, but, but! What about wind protection? Ah, that’s an easy fix. Just install a windscreen and you’re done! So there you go, my own opinion on why I prefer the naked Modenas Pulsar NS200. Oh and have you heard? Modenas is giving away free motorcycles for the Bakat Besi design contest. Stand a chance to win that and other amazing prizes, more information here. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sky-team-motorcycles-introduces-2017-sky-team-ace-125-cafe-racer-rm7366-78/
Sky Team Motorcycles Introduces 2017 Sky Team Ace 125 Cafe Racer – RM7,366.78
The 2017 Sky Team Ace 125 Cafe Racer was launched earlier today at the ELITE Speedway PLUS Circuit. The cafe racer is equipped with a single-cylinder, 125cc, 4-stroke engine churns out 11hp @ 8,500rpm and 8.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. The ready-to-ride café racer from Sky Team is available at RM7,366.78 (on-the-road price). The all-new 2017 Sky Team Ace 125 Cafe Racer is now available in Malaysia. Those looking for and easy and affordable option for a retro-looking café racer motorcycle might want to pay attention more. The Sky Team brand is based in Hong Kong ever since 1999 and has developed over 45 models. The latest Ace 125 Cafe Racer has retro-styled design that dates back to the earlier days of motorcycle. The linear line flows from front all the way to back especially with its very distinctive elongated fuel tank which sets itself apart from other modern classics available in the market. In terms of performance, the Ace 125 is powered by a single-cylinder, 125cc, 4-stroke engine churns out 11hp @ 8,500rpm and 8.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. The engine is based on the Honda CG125 but with modifications to fit with the unique characteristics of the Ace 125. The fuel capacity of that very old school style gas tank is 9.2 litres. With a claimed mileage of 2.1 litres for every 100km, the Ace 125 theoretically can travel up to 438km before needing to stop for a refuel at the nearest petrol station. Sky Team also claims that it can hit a maximum speed of around 110km/h. This is also achievable thanks to its overall dry weight of just 87kg. With a bike that looks this good, you really want to go slow for the people to notice instead of going full gas down the highway. Telescopic forks and a disc brake setup can be found on the front together with twin shock absorbers and a drum brake to control the rear end. The Ace 125 Cafe Racer rides on all-round 18-inch wheels. As of now, there are 110 units for the first batch and those who purchase the first batch of bikes will have the option on either the normal seat or single seat at no extra cost. As of now, there is only one variant available at RM7,366.78 (on-the-road price together with insurance and road tax). Not bad for a ready to ride café racer right out of the box. To know more about Sky Team and their offerings, CLICK HERE to head to their Facebook page. 2017 Sky Team Ace 125 Cafe Racer Gallery --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/video-honda-dct-aims-to-revolutionise-riding/
Video: Honda DCT aims to revolutionise riding
New dedicated website and feature video previews next generation Honda DCT technology for bikes. Honda VRF1200F It is no secret that the Honda DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) stands one of the most revolutionary pieces of technology currently fielded in bikes. Honda was the first bike maker to introduce the transmission into a production bike, and it looks set to become the first to use it in a superbike as well. (Read our initial rumour report here) Honda NM4 Vultus The firm recently setup a new website dedicated in enlightening people about its technology and published the featured video above. The short film depicts what it would probably be like to ride a bike equipped with the Honda DCT gearbox, with much of the stylised film highlighting the ease of riding and the endless possibilities it promises. Honda NC700X Putting the gimmick aside, it is easy to see that Honda is really on to something here with its DCT technology. Dual-clutch or twin-clutch transmissions have contributed towards increased efficiency and reduced emissions in cars, but we reckon bikes would benefit more from the former. With the new Honda DCT website though, Honda intends to send the message of this technology much clearer. 2016 Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Putting into perspective of bikes, DCTs offer quicker shift times and improved emissions as it is much quicker in its operation as opposed to a regular manual. This is something many have already experiences in some of Honda’s bikes like the VFR1200F, NM4 Vultus, NC700X, CTX700 and, more recently, the all-new Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin adventure bike. Will the next generation Honda CBR1000RR superbike gain with a Honda DCT option? And if recent rumours are to be believed, Honda is aiming to field its DCT technology into its next generation superbikes and perhaps adopting it into its MotoGP program as well. Honda does remain coy about its targeted date and time frame to get its DCT technology implemented in its performance models. Hoever, given the fact that the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade is due for replacement soon, we could probably see its replacement stand as the first production superbike to feature the Honda DCT. In the meantime, you can visit the site and watch the video to see just what Honda’s ideal vision of future biking would be like with its DCT technology. Source: YouTube / AutoEvolution / Honda DCT --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shell-advance-lazada-wants-bring-see-jorge-lorenzo/
Shell Advance and Lazada wants to bring you to see Jorge Lorenzo!
Image source: MotoGP Shell Advance and Lazada is giving you an opportunity of a lifetime to meet five-time MotoGP World Champion and Ducati rider, Jorge Lorenzo. Head over to Lazada and purchase a one-litre Shell Advance lubricants PLUS two cans of Monster Energy in one order invoice to be eligible for the contest. Contest period from 3 October 2017 until 20 October 2017. In conjunction with the upcoming Shell Advance Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix at the end of the month, Shell Advance together with Lazada is coming up with something very special for all you MotoGP fans especially if you support five-time World Champion Jorge Lorenzo. From now until 20 October 2017, those who purchase a one-litre bottle of Shell Advance lubricants PLUS two cans of Monster Energy via Lazada will stand a chance to meet Mr Jorge Lorenzo himself! Image source: MotoGP The latest rider to join the Ducati factory team in the MotoGP is known for being fast and smooth around any circuit. Together with his Ducati Desmosedici GP17, he’s quickly getting faster and faster on the factory machine and is well on his way to winning his first race on board the powerful Ducati bike. Image source: MotoGP It’s very simple, ladies and gentlemen. Head on over to the Lazada online store and purchase any of the one-litre Shell Advance lubricants (VSX2T, AX5, AX7, Ultra or Scooter Oil) together with two cans of Monster Energy drink in ONE order invoice and you’ll be eligible to enter the contest! The winner/s will be decided by Lazada at the end of the contest period after 20 October 2017. Don’t just stand there and wait, head on over to the Lazada website by CLICKING HERE to check out all the Shell Advance lubricants available online! *Terms & conditions apply --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-malaysia-launches-2017-gsx-s750-abs-v-strom-650-abs-v-strom-650xt-abs-price-rm44900-rm50900/
Suzuki Malaysia launches 2017 GSX-S750 ABS, V-Strom 650 ABS & V-Strom 650XT ABS – Price from RM44,900 – RM50,900
The new GSX-S750 with ABS is the ultimate combination of a performance-based street motorcycle with aggressive styling equipped with better styling and more power. The two new V-Strom 650 ABS are lighter with an updated Euro4-compliant engine plus a tonne of new features priced below RM50,000 Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia has just released three new big bike models for the Malaysian market. The three new models for 2017 are the GSX-S750 ABS, V-Strom 650 ABS and V-Strom 650XT ABS. The all new 2017 Suzuki GSX-S750 ABS The new GSX-S750 with ABS is the ultimate combination of a performance-based street motorcycle with aggressive styling. According to Suzuki, the new model not only looks great but performs better than its predecessor, the Suzuki GSR750. The new GSX-S also offers great handling and comfort that easy to ride even for newer riders in the field. With inheritance from the Suzuki’s MotoGP program, the new GSX-S comes with a number of great features. The biggest update would be the new Euro4-compliant engine setup for its 749cc inline-four, DOHC liquid-cooled power plant that has been tuned to 112.6hp (8hp increase). This new setup also promises a fuel efficiency of 24km/L (around 4.2L/100km). Other features include a reworked final gear ratio to maximize acceleration and top speed, long-nosed fuel injectors for better combustion efficiency, new air box for an improved soundtrack, three-mode Traction Control System (TCS), ABS, KYB Inverted Front Forks and many more. Suzuki has priced the 2017 GSX-S750 ABS at RM50,900 (basic price without GST). Those interested to purchase the new model will have a choice of two different colours; Metallic Titan Blue with Glass Sparkle Black and Pearl Mira Red. New 2017 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS and V-Strom 650XT ABS Those looking for the ultimate touring machine but currently on a budget, the new V-Stroms from Suzuki might be able to help you out. Set as the benchmark for the middleweight adventure tourers, the new V-Stroms are now lighter with more power plus styling updates. Both the V-Strom 650 ABS and V-Strom 650XT ABS possess excellent balance, comfortable seating arrangements and engines tuned for riding flexibility for a stress-free riding experience no matter if they’re used daily trips to and from work or even long adventures or tourers. The 645cc DOHC V-twin engine has been optimally tuned for a healthy dose of torque at low and mid RPM that practical but at the same time offers good top end speed when needed. Like the GSX-S750 ABS, this power plant is also Euro4-compliant. Other features that can be found on both of the new V-Stroms are resin-coated pistons, Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) Fuel-Injection System, Dual Spark Technology, Advanced Traction Control System, ABS, new camshafts, exhaust system and many more. The 2017 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS is available at RM44,900 while the slightly bigger XT model is set at RM46,900 (basic prices without GST). Both V-Stroms are available in Champion Yellow, Pearl Glacier White and Glass Sparkle Black colourways. CLICK HERE to check out the rest of the Suzuki big bikes in our exclusive Bike Buyer’s Guide. 2017 Suzuki GSX-S750 ABS Gallery 2017 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS & V-Strom 650XT ABS Gallery --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto-guzzi-gentlemens-year-end-gathering/
Moto Guzzi Gentlemen’s Year-End Gathering
Moto Guzzi Malaysia invited Guzzi owners to a year-end gathering. It serves as a platform to touch base with both existing and new owners. Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s Aftersales Department were present to assist on technical matters. Moto Guzzi Malaysia is paving the path to engage not only potential or new customers, but existing owners as well. Since finding a new home at The Gasket Alley (click here for our coverage on the launch), they have organized many events and rides that reflect upon the Guzzi lifestyle, for example, a Sunday ride to Bentong a couple of months back (click here for the report), and now a special gathering as 2018 beckons. Called the “Moto Guzzi Gentlemen’s Year-End Gathering,” the event brought together Guzzi owners past and present to make new friends and build camaraderie. We were able to witness a myriad of Moto Guzzis, including the V7 II, V7 50 Anniversario, Norge GT, and an ultra-rare 90th anniversary California. The owners were then invited to share their experience of owning a Guzzi on video. Although it wasn’t us who interviewed them, we were within an earshot when they described their experience and they were at the least satisfied and loved their bikes. With the interview session done, Mr. Amarjit Singh, the Head of Aftersales met with the owners personally to discuss on what Moto Guzzi Malaysia could improve on, besides assuring that Moto Guzzi Malaysia is serious in providing the best possible aftersales service and parts availability. The event adjourned after dinner, and with the owners exchanging contacts with each other. Looks like there’ll be plenty of Moto Guzzi rides soon! PICTURE GALLERY --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto3-petronas-sprinta-racing-ready-for-round-3/
Moto3: Petronas Sprinta Racing ready for Round 3
If you’re already missing all the thrills and spills from last weekend’s Moto3 race, miss no more because Round 3 is happening this weekend at the same track. The Andalucía GP sets the stage for the Petronas Sprinta Racing to redeem themselves after a heart-breaking finish during last Sunday’s race. Both their riders, John McPhee and Khairul Idham Pawi, have something to prove this weekend. With 20 points under his belt, McPhee plans to bring the heat this Sunday after falling out from last weekend’s race after exiting the very last corner of the very last lap. Right place, right time! ?@AlbertArenas75 maintains his perfect start to 2020! ??#Moto3 | #SpanishGP ?? pic.twitter.com/CpUskWZ9DG — MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 19, 2020 Currently sitting third in the championship, the 26-year-old Irish rider is one of the strong contenders for the 2020 Moto3 crown. Several riders stand in his way but none more so than the championship leader, Albert Arenas (Gaviota Aspar Team Moto3) who has won the first two opening races. According to McPhee himself, “Obviously I’m very disappointed with the result from last weekend and with such a short season it’s a big punishment to not score points. We can’t dwell on it though and we have to focus on the next opportunity. The best thing about this situation is that I get to try again this weekend.” “I have a lot of positive feedback and data from the race to work with. The main thing that I need to improve is the start. My rhythm was good, my speed was good, the feeling with the bike was good. The only problem was that I went backwards at the start. I want to manage that better this weekend and have a great race,” added McPhee. As for Khairul Idham Pawi aka “Super KIP”, “For this next race, I need to improve myself and some things with the bike. We struggled in the fast corners and lost time there, so this is something we need to work on and improve.” “Last weekend we didn’t find the best solution, but we’re racing at the same circuit this weekend so we have a lot of data to use. Hopefully, this weekend will be better and we can make some progress,” added KIP. This Sunday’s (July 26th) Moto3 race will start at 5.00 pm local time, followed by Moto2 at 6.20 pm and MotoGP at 8.00 pm. Want something a little bit ‘eco-friendly’? Catch MotoE at 4.05 pm which will also take place this Sunday! MotoGP: Marquez, Crutchlow & Rins declared FIT TO RACE this weekend --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-rs250-could-make-a-comeback-with-new-parallel-twin-4-stroke-engine/
Aprilia RS250 Could Make A Comeback With New Parallel-Twin 4-Stroke Engine
The Aprilia RS250 is probably the best street-legal 250cc two-stroke motorcycle coming out of the Noale factory from 1994 to 2004. The Aprilia RS250 could make a comeback soon New patent application suggest a new 250cc parallel-twin 4-stroke engine in the works.  While the idea of reproducing the two-stroke motorcycle is tempting but we can’t ignore the fact that the engine is obsolete while it also goes against the global emission standard.  However, the RS250 nameplate could still make a comeback with an entirely new quarter-litre platform, according to a new design registration filed in China by Aprilia’s Chinese counterpart, Zongshen-Piaggio.  The new powertrain – published by CycleWorld – showcased a DOCH parallel-twin engine. Not only that, the CAD renderings also shows a central-cam drive setup (between the cylinder) instead of on the side similar to Honda’s VFR400R and Yamaha’s YZR-M1 MotoGP race bike. While it may seem unusual, but it could be a significant indicator that Aprilia is pursuing a compact cylinder head which helps to reduced the flex to the camshaft and crankshaft. Also, it could also suggest that Aprilia is squeezing for a higher rev range.  Currently, Aprilia already has the Zonghsen-built GPR250R that is sold in Asia which runs on a single-cylinder engine.  *2020 Aprilia RS250 SP The same bike was used as the basis of the track-only Aprilia RS250 SP that was introduced in the US in 2020.  That said, the upcoming 250cc two-cylinder 4-stroke machine could use the GPR250RR nameplate in Asia whereas Aprilia likely to revive the RS250 name in Europe and the US.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/asia-talent-cup-2017-registration-period-announced/
Asia Talent Cup 2017 registration period announced
Asia Talent Cup Moto3 series opens registration for 2017 season this month. Asia’s only Moto3 talent development series, the Asia Talent Cup, will return for its fourth season next year in 2017 and registration will be opened sometime this month. Just like previous editions, the Asia Talent Cup series is open to all aspiring young racers from all over Asia, Australia and New Zealand between the ages of 13 to 21. Registration for the series’ 2017 season is now open for all youths from the aforementioned regions between the ages of 12 and 20 from July 20 until August 21 this year. Applications must be submitted online via the series’ website, asiatalentcup.com, during this registration period. After a screening process, shortlisted candidates will then be announced and notified on September 7 before heading for the Selection Event process held in the Sepang International Go Kart Circuit, Malaysia on October 25 and 26. To refresh your memory, the Asia Talent Cup series stands as the region’s premier Moto3 racing series with the aim of developing the next generation of Asian racing talents for the world championship. The one-make series sees its racers honing their skills astride identical Honda NSF250R machines supplied by key series partner HRC (Honda Racing Corporation). Other key partners include the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), Dunlop tyres, Red Bull and leading racing apparels brand Alpinestars. Presently in its third successive season, the Asia Talent Cup series has inspired a new generation of young Asian riders by providing them a the perfect starting platform towards the world stage. Past alumni and series champions have gone on to compete in other levels of racing with much success such as the Red Bull Rookies Cup and in the CEV Junior World Championship through the series’ own Asia Talent Team initiative. More information is available by visiting asiatalentcup.com. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/turbocharged-kawasaki-ninja-zx-25r-hits-249km-h/
Turbocharged Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R hits 249KM/H!
Japanese tuners Trick Star turbocharges the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R with 100HP, and it’s capable of hitting 249KM/H! Japanese tuners Trick Star bolts on a turbocharger to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R. Kit is able to double the stock ZX-25R mill’s output to about 100HP. Added power and boost also allows for an incredible top speed of 249KM/H. Trick Star also made a ‘milder’ turbo kit for street use that offer 60HP instead. The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R is already a maaaaad quarter-litre in its own right. With its 249.8cc four-banger able to scream all the way up to a deafening 17,000RPM whilst delivering all 50HP on tap, you’ve got to ask why would anyone want more… unless of course you’re a tuning firm called Trick Star. Why? Well, said tuners from Japan recently took to YouTube and showed the latest progress of their turbocharged Ninja ZX-25R builds. Yup, they’ve bolted on a turbo to the Ninja ZX-25R’s four-banger, with one kit successfully doubling the stock mill’s output to about 100HP. As you can see in the video above, Trick Star took said turbocharged Ninja ZX-25R to a test track to see what sort of speeds it can now achieve. On one of their runs, Trick Star were able to push said bike up to an incredible top speed of 249KM/H. Additionally, Trick Star also reportedly developed another turbo kit for the Ninja ZX-25R, but this one’s tuned with a ‘milder’ 0.6 bar of boost pressure instead. This raises the output to 60HP, with Trick Star claiming it to be a more ‘street friendly’ setting too. The latter ‘milder’ kit is likely what Trick Star will offer to its customers considering its ease of assembly, not to mention its guarantee and better preserving the ZX-25R’s engine life span as well. Needless to say, if you really wanted a 100HP bike that isn’t a 600CC middleweight supersport machine, you could consider turbocharging a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R with Trick Star’s proposed turbo kit. Lead Image: YouTube screengrab Images: Young-Machine --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/suzuki-assemblers-malaysia-officially-launches-suzuki-gsr750/
SAM officially launches the Suzuki GSR750 @ Malaysian MotoGP
The Malaysian big bikes market growing even further as Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SAM) launches the Suzuki GSR750. In the midst of all the commotion going on at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SAM) took the opportunity to officially launch the Suzuki GSR750. Also known in other parts of the planet as the GSX-S750, the GSR750 is one of the more popular models by Suzuki worldwide, the naked bike is powered by a four-stroke, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected DOHC engine with a displacement of 749cc derived from the GSX-R750 sports bike. Developing 105hp at 10000rpm and 80Nm of torque at 9000rpm, it is matched to a six-speed constant mesh transmission. The GSR750 comes at RM53,888.00 with a choice of Pearl Glacier White and Metallic Matt Black colour. And the good news doesn’t stop there, since their launch of four models earlier this year, the Hayabusa, the GSX1250FA, the GSX-R1000 ABS and the V-STROM 1000 ABS and now the GSR750, Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd will also add five new models in 2015. These models will be the GLADIUS ABS (SFV650/A), V-STROM 650 ABS, V-STROM 650XT ABS, and the all-new GSX-S1000 ABS and GSX-S1000F ABS. “We will also continue to expand the number of big bike dealers throughout the country to serve you better,” said Toru Kobayashi, Managing Director of Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd. “All authorised Suzuki big bike dealers have thoroughly trained technicians equipped with correct tools and sophisticated diagnostic equipment to serve our valued Suzuki big bike owners. These Suzuki big bike dealers will also carry Suzuki genuine spare parts for the big bikes. We, at Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd, also stock sufficient spare parts at our spare parts centre located in Penang. Customers can rest assured of availability and timely delivery of Suzuki genuine spare parts.” He added that they will also have service centers at the three major locations of Penang, Shah Alam and Johor Bahru. “To make the owning experience of a Suzuki Big Bike even more pleasurable, we will have various Suzuki genuine accessories available for these Suzuki big bikes so that you may customise your bike to you liking and satisfaction.” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/exploring-china-ducati/
Exploring China with Ducati
China, a land of over 1.3 billion people, stark contrasts, riches, and great misfortune. Despite it being the glocal leader for a number of things and the most important market in the world, China can be a bittersweet experience. So, when I heard my name being associated with the land of public spitting, flaring tempers, and murderous drivers, it felt like a kick to the nuts. Then came the punchline, the one statement that sealed the deal, the offer I could not refuse; hand out with eleven Malaysian Ducati riders who were touring China over three weeks, covering a distance of over 6,000km. I joined them for over five days towards the tail end of their ride, but that was good enough for me. There’s something about Long Distance Adventure Riding (LDAR) that tickles my nuts. Ever since my first LDAR three years ago across parts of Eastern Europe, it has stuck to me like a disease. Admittedly professional obligations keeps me on my feet rather than on a bike, but it was hard to say no to an experience like this. As exciting as it sounds, none of us had any clue of what we were getting ourselves into. China always had a surprise. The small group of Malaysian journalists and a Ducati Malaysia representative flew into Harbin, a third tier Chinese city in the Heilongjian Province, that despite being classified as ‘still developing’, is packed with more people than I have ever seen in my life. A complex network of roads and flyovers, similar to those seen in KL, connect the city, but you first have to battle the seemingly perpetual traffic jams and suicidal pedestrians. The next day, a transport can took us to a small town where we were to meet the riders. It took an hour of mad driving, and battling drivers who have no problem with grazing their car against yours. It seemed to be a normal thing to do and explains why the Chinese government banned motorcycles and scooters in some of China’s major cities. The non-existent level of tolerance and patience would have resulted in a catastrophic number of road deaths. Motorcycles are also banned on the highways of the former communist country, and the riders who we met after a 308km drive to Qiqihar, a dusty town to the north of Harbin, looked tired and weary after having to ride most of their journey on dusty and muddy country roads. All 11 of them had gathered around a Multistrada tilted to its side. It had earlier taken a hard knock when it bottomed out on rocky terrain, but there is nothing an imaginative mind cannot fix. Talented bike fixing ability came in the form of Kwang, the boss of Welly Sungai Buloh, a well-known official distributor of Ducati bikes. Kwang was the organizer of the trip and has 13 years of experience riding throughout China. If there’s anyone who could navigate, fix a bike, deal with the feisty locals, and seal a deal with the officials, it would be him! Most of the guys on this trip are old friends, and have been riding with each other for some years. By the time we caught up with them, they had already travelled over 1,500 kilometres, and the camaraderie between them was military. The riders consisted of businessmen, professionals, and most importantly, enthusiast. All of them had a passion for riding, and all of them chose to ride one bike, a Ducati. Most of the bikes there were Multistrada’s, but there was a brand spanking new Hyperstrada, and an overconfident Diavel which despite not being built for this purpose, handled the challenges extremely well. There were no breakdowns save for that one error in judgement with the Multistrada. After battling deserts, mud, cities, the bikes looked beat; the machines even had to snorkel through a full-fledged, tank-deep floodl the guys are still shagged as to how the Diavel survived all that water. And yet, all of them started up at first try the next day. Built Ducati tough, you could say. The final destination was Dalian, but it wasn’t a direct ride there from Qiqihar. Instead we travelled north, us journos in the support van, sometimes riding pillion to get the necessary pictures, which was quite a bummer. The ride hugged the border between China and North Korea, which when traveling in the dead of night in sheer darkness in the middle of nowhere, can be quite scary. The last thing any of us needed was to come across a North Korean border patrol, so we stuck to riding during the day, and eating and drinking and getting up to no good at night. The ride took us past some holistic scenery that was so beautiful, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was in some part of the Austrian Alps. Beautiful to say the least. There were times when the riders had to sneak a ride on the highways because the country roads were simply horrible and the rain turned the sand into a torrent of mud. Surprisingly, despite all the development, the highways were completely devoid of traffic. You could piss in the middle of the road and your golden shower would have evaporated by the time a car or truck came by. Which is good news when you have a 1200cc Testastretta engine in between your legs; a 220km/h cruise anyone? It was an incredible journey but a tough one. After Qiqihar, we travelled to the northern most part of our adventure to a palace called Heihe, a town so close to the Russian border than people were visibly more polite, road signs were in Chinese and Russian, and the buildings had a Stalinese chill to them. After a few days of traveling around China, there was hardly anything that could surprise us anymore, until we were served silk worms and barbecued toads in Baishan. I must admit that despite is sounding gross and could seemingly give you the shits for years, it tasted good. Especially the toads, intestines and bones and all. Our journey ended in Baishan, but the Dukes continued on till Dalian, a further three days of riding. What was amazing is that despite everything you hear about Ducati bikes being more performance oriented than hardcore LDAR, all the bikes held up like they were purpose-built for this. The biggest surprise was the Diavel. A bike seemingly purpose-built for urban cruising and weekend track days, its owner served it everything he could from floods to mud to jagged, broken tarmac. It took it all and survived. The Hyperstrada and Multistrada expectedly did very well, and still looked good at the end of it all. The ride called China Strada Adventure ride was organized by Welly Sungai Buloh and was supported by Ducati Malaysia. It was not an official ride by the Ducati Club or such, but more of a getaway for a group of friends. Ducati Malaysia does organize its own official rides with the Ducati Club of Malaysia annually, the last major ride being the Borneo Adventure Ride which took place last year. All riders from the ride made it home safely with no drama, but some were vowing to stay away from China for a while. This article was written by Keshy Dhillon and first appeared in Fast Bikes Malaysia magazine. Pictures taken by Keshy Dhillon using a Nikon D5100. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/emos-introduces-kawasaki-roadside-assist-24-hours-towing-and-customer-care/
EMOS Introduces Kawasaki Roadside Assist – 24-Hours Towing And Customer Care
Kawasaki owners can now breathe easily in case of a breakdown as Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially introduced its roadside assistance services.  New Kawasaki owners can enjoy up to four free towing services in a year. Customers can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance via toll-free line.  EMOS, in its press statement, said that the service covers all-new Kawasaki and Modenas rebranded models manufactured in 2022 and registered from August 1, 2022. According to MODENAS CEO Roslan Roskan, the service is part of the company’s initiatives to provide the best services for its customers. “We are always looking at providing convenience for our customers. Accidents happen and motorists do not want to walk on the side of the highway pushing their heavy motorcycles to an auto mechanic shop.  “Therefore, we have decided to focus more of our resources on helping our customers get fast, efficient and safe towing for their motorcycles rather than being forced to leave them stranded by the roadside,” he said.  The 24 hours roadside assistance includes a free 100KM round-trip towing throughout West Malaysia and to all major towns in East Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak.  However, for towing that exceeds 100km, an additional RM2.00 per kilometre will be imposed. In addition, towing services shall cover both major and minor engine/motor breakdowns and accidents.  Each member is entitled to four free towing services a year, but the service is valid for only one year from the registration date. Owners can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance at any time via a toll-free number at 1-800-880-008.    --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-2024-bmw-r-12-ninet/
FIRST LOOK: 2024 BMW R 12 NineT
BMW R 12 nineT BMW has offered a sneak peek of its highly anticipated R NineT successor, the new R 12 NineT, set for release in 2024. BMW R 12 nineT The R 12 NineT follows in the footsteps of the classic roadster styling of its predecessor, the R NineT, providing a platform for customization.  The new model boasts an updated frame design that includes a removable rear subframe, offering customizers more freedom to create. The solo seat, with an integrated LED taillight, has a thicker appearance than the current NineT’s saddle, and a rear pad is incorporated into the tail cover.  BMW R 12 nineT New side panels covering the rear suspension add to the retro feel, and the black fuel tank, with metallic knee cutout surfaces, adds to the classic look. The R 12 NineT maintains its air/oil-cooled Boxer motor, though it is not yet clear whether there are any changes to the engine’s displacement.  BMW R 12 nineT The new model has a modernized intake system and updated exhaust system with conical end caps. A new housing design on the left side hints at a modified transmission, though further details have not been released. The R 12 NineT also features an inverted Marzocchi fork and a cardan shaft drive. BMW R 12 nineT BMW has stayed true to the classic round headlight design and dual round instrument dials, with the tachometer now showing double digit numbers marking every 100 rpm instead of single digits marking every 1,000 rpm.  BMW says the new R 12 NineT is designed to give riders an authentic roadster feel, resembling R models from the ’70s. The German automaker is expected to reveal full technical specifications and pricing later in the year. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/rare-honda-cb650-prototype-sold-ebay/
Rare Honda CB650 prototype sold on eBay
Now here is one rare find eBay every motorcyclist would dream of owning: one of four known hand-made pre-production prototypes of the revolutionary Honda CB750. When it was revealed by the red wing marque in 1969, the revolutionary bike changed the motorcycle world forever. In an era when many bikes still had drum brakes, kick-starters, and chassis that tend to rattle their riders into submission, the CB750 became the first equipped with disc brakes, an electric starter, and it boasted a highly refined chassis stability engineered not to turn its riders into jello after a spirited ride. Underneath, the CB750’s heart was also light years ahead of its competitors, whereby its 736cc in-line four-cylinder with 67hp appeared to be cutting edge and space age at its time. The fact that the first moon landing also took place in its debut year was only fitting. We could go on and on about how the world’s first ‘superbike’ stood for motorcycling, but instead we will let the video attached below extracted from a documentary tell you all you need to know about the CB750. Now, back to the eBay bike in question. According to the seller, this rare hand-made prototype was one of four built for display use amongst the American media in 1968. Each of the four was hand-built by Honda technicians using bespoke components, and this particular blue/green bike was used in various photo-shoots in its early stages of life. It goes without saying that a mint condition production version is a true beauty, but this prototype is simply a whole lot more in terms of the historical value it holds. At the time of writing, the bidding on eBay for the prototype has ended, garnering 102 bids in total. Ultimately, there can only be one winning bid, and this bike has been reportedly sold for US$148,100. See more pictures of the ultra-rare hand-made CB750 prototype in the gallery below. Source: eBay via Wired and Autoblog --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-sales-up-by-1-3-compared-to-2019-really/
KTM sales up by 1.3% compared to 2019? Really?
In a time where almost everyone and everything is hit hard due to COVID-19, seeing a motorcycle manufacturer reporting increased sales figures is both refreshing with a slight hint of suspicion. For the first half of 2020, KTM reported that their sales figures are up by 1.3% compared to the same period in 2019. Really? Pierer Mobility AG announced that they’ve managed to sell a total of 124,682 motorcycles and e-bikes compared to the first six months of 2019 (which was 135,711 units). The breakdown for all brands under Pierer Mobility AG are as follows: KTM, Husqvarna & GasGas – 70,171 units E-Bikes (Husqvarna & R Raymon) – 34,351 units Bajaj – 20,160 units First things first, we’re not too entirely sure where the 1.3% increase came from because judging from the figures posted on their official press release, sales for the first half of 2020 is actually down by 8% compared to the same time period of 2019. Another very vital and important point which has been pointed out by the legendary Jensen Beeler of Asphalt & Rubber is that this is the first time that they’ve included the sales figures of e-bikes into the calculation. If the e-bikes numbers are pulled out from the equation (as it should if you want to be fair when comparing sales figures from previous years), Pierer Mobility AG sold 90,331 units in the first half of 2019. In other words, the sales drop is actually over 30% (33.4% to be exact). But like others, they are reporting an increasing trend following the lockdown presented to combat the widespread of COVID-19 around the globe. To make up for lost time, KTM has plans to increase production where they’ve already hired over 170 additional employees starting last month. We’re not sure about what you guys think, but hiring a buttload of new employees during a pandemic where companies are shutting down and losing money is a sign of strength and confidence in what the future holds in front of them. All the best, KTM & friends. Source: Pierer Mobility AG MotoGP: KTM confirms all 2021 riders – Danilo Petrucci to Tech3 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-achieves-record-breaking-first-half-year-sales-delivers-34976-motorcycles-globally/
Ducati Achieves Record-Breaking First Half-Year Sales, Delivers 34,976 Motorcycles Globally
Ducati has experienced unprecedented success in the first half of 2023, surpassing all previous records with its remarkable sales figures. Delivering an impressive 34,976 motorcycles worldwide, the Italian-based company has achieved a 5 percent growth compared to the same period last year. The Ducati Multistrada V4 continue to hold its ground as the firm’s most in-demand motorcycle.  Francesco Milicia, Ducati VP Global Sales and Aftersales, expressed his satisfaction with the outstanding performance. “This first half-year marked Ducati’s best-ever delivery record, with 34,976 bikes successfully reaching our passionate clients. This achievement demonstrates the continued appreciation for our wide-ranging product lineup. “Although we faced supply bottlenecks last year, the intense competition in the post-Covid era, coupled with improved product availability, has motivated us to enhance customer satisfaction further. We are inspired by the trust our Ducatisti place in us,” he said. Analyzing the market performance, Italy emerged as the leading market for Ducati, with 6,639 motorcycles delivered during the first half of 2023, representing a growth of 10 percent compared to the same period in 2022. The United States ranked second, witnessing an 11 percent increase in sales with 4,505 bikes delivered. Germany secured the third position, experiencing an impressive 13 percent growth with 4,217 motorcycles delivered. Among Ducati’s extensive range, the Multistrada V4 emerged as the top-selling model, with a staggering 6,382 units delivered globally from January to June 2023. Following closely behind, the Monster, Ducati’s iconic naked sports bike, claimed the second spot with 4,299 motorcycles delivered worldwide. The Scrambler Ducati 800 family secured third place, with 3,581 bikes finding enthusiastic owners. Exciting news awaits motorcycle enthusiasts, as Ducati has already unveiled five new color schemes for its motorcycles in preparation for 2024. The SuperSport 950 S offers the Stripe Livery, featuring a striking combination of white, grey, and red, further enhancing the bike’s sporty elegance. The Monster has received a stylish upgrade with the addition of the new Iceberg White color option. Street art enthusiasts will appreciate the new Graffiti Livery Evo on the Hypermotard 950 RVE, infusing the fun bike with an even trendier aesthetic. The Panigale V2 is now available in the captivating Black on Black Livery, combining boldness with performance. Finally, the Multistrada V2 S boasts the Thrilling Black & Street Grey color scheme, adding a sporty attitude to everyday travel.   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-you-need-to-know-about-the-bmw-g-310-r-priced-from-rm-26900/
All you need to know about the BMW G 310 R – Priced from RM 26,900
BMW G 310 R is finally here! – From RM 26,900 All-New BMW G 310 R to debut at BMW Motorrad GS Trophy Southeast Asia Qualifier 2017 this weekend.  Features all new 313cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine which produces 34 bhp. BMW Motorrad claims the G 310 R weighs only 158.5 kg. First introduced as a stunt bike in October 2015 in Brazil, the commercial version made its appearance in November 2015 at EICMA. Since then, the motorcycle community the world over, including here in Malaysia has been asking about its availability. While having a single-cylinder, 313 cc engine, it’s not slated as a mere entry-level model. Instead, we see it as a premium, lightweight motorcycle that’s perfect for the daily commute and back road blasting – a bike which is pragmatic and versatile for the major portion of our Malaysian market and roads. Slap on some luggage and you’re ready to take it touring. Or shopping. The newly developed engine is no slouch. Featuring liquid-cooling, dual overhead cams, four valves and electronic fuel injection, it punches out a healthy 34 bhp at 9,500 RPM and 28 Nm of torque at 7,500 RPM. That’s a 2,000 RPM separation between maximum torque and maximum horsepower, ensuring a flexible power delivery. Mated to a dry weight of only 158.5 kg, the G 310 R has the hallmarks of a lively ride. BMW arrived at the 313 cc displacement through an 80 mm stroke and 62.1 mm bore. Yes, it’s a long-stroke motor – good for torque around town. But its most novel feature is the cylinder that is tilted backwards to position the intake tract to face the front. The frame is tubular steel, robust and torsionally stiff. The front wheel is suspended by upside-down forks while the aluminium swingarm is connected directly by a spring strut. A 2-channel ABS is standard on the G 310 R. The front is stopped by a single 300 mm disc, gripped by a radially mounted 4-piston caliper. The rear brake consists of a 2-piston caliper clamping a 240 mm disc. As per BMW’s philosophy on environmental care, the G 310 R’s engine is mapped to the Euro 4 emissions standard, which includes a closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter. Fuel consumption is a frugal 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres. Priced at an amazing RM 26,900.00 (with 6% GST and on the road, without insurance) the G 310 R will no doubt shake up the local market. Watch this detailed video of the all-new BMW G310R here, or read our friend’s Sundeep’s review of the BMW G310R here. Sundeep flew to Australia to ride the bike, and he has a good word for the all-new baby beemer. The All-New BMW G 310 R will be officially launched at the BMW Motorrad GS Trophy South East Asia Qualifier Malaysia and will be available at all authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships from the following week onwards. So head over the Sepang International Motorcross Track to view and test ride the G 310 R this weekend! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motorcycle-show-season-for-2019-motorcycles/
Motorcycle Show Season for 2019 Motorcycles
It is motorcycle show season again. Many manufacturers have unveiled their new bikes ahead of the shows. But there may be more in store. The end of the year brings MotoGP, heavy rain and touring season to Malaysia. On the international scene, however, the year-end marks the motorcycle show season. We have reported on many new motorcycles that have broken their cover over the past months, notably the new-Boxer powered BMWs, Moto Guzzi V85 TT adventure bike, new Harleys and many more but they have yet to be officially launched. There are teasers, as well, such as Triumph who have promised the new 1200 Scrambler and Suzuki with their new Katana. So, we decided to put together a list from A-Z of we expect to see at the Intermot (2nd October), Tokyo Motor Show (27th October) and the big one, EICMA (8th November). Aprilia You could very well expect an updated RSV4 superbike. But rumours have been circulating about a 600cc superbike, too. Expect them to be shown off at EICMA as Italian manufacturers prefer to unveil their new bikes on home turf. BMW Motorrad BMW is expected to launch nine new bikes for 2019 but it still is not clear whether they would do it at one go or spaced out over the next year. Like the Italians, the German manufacturers tend to introduce their new bike at Intermot since it is in Germany. However, models that are sure to be unveiled officially are the new R 1250 GS and R 1250 RT. Apart from the Boxers, you could reasonably expect the new S 1000 RR superbike which is said to feature a counter-rotating crankshaft, besides being Euro 5 compliant. There is also talk of the F 800 GS Adventure making its debut. Ducati Ducati have since introduced the updated Scrambler Icon (our Editor Sep Irran rode the bike in Tuscany, Italy last week). Let’s see, what does that leave us with, then? How about the homologation special Panigale V4 R for the World Superbike Championship? Oh yes, that ought to do it. Energica We hope the Italian electric motorcycle manufacturer will launch the roadgoing version of their MotoE World Cup racer. Harley-Davidson The Motor Company has unveiled their Touring, CVO and FXDR models a couple of months back, but the prototypes of the Pan America adventure bike, Custom 1250, Streetfighter 975 and LiveWire electric bike may make their appearances. Honda Computer rendering of CBR1000RR – Courtesy of MCN There is a heady expectation for the updated CBR1000RR Fireblade to break covers. If that does happen, it should first appear at the Tokyo Motor Show and EICMA later. Indian Motorcycles Time to finally unveil the FTR1200 dirt tracker! Kawasaki It has been reported that Kawasaki will unveil their bikes at Intermot without waiting for the Tokyo Motor Show. That may signify that Big Green could have something interesting for the European market. The updated Ninja ZX-10R superbike will surely be there but the Z400 naked sport bike may be launched. KTM KTM fans the world over have been holding their breath for the 390 Adventure and 790 Adventure. KTM may also show off updated models to counter BMW’s foray into variable valve timing technology. MV Agusta Milan, the city where EICMA is held is just 30 minutes away from MV Agusta’s HQ at Varese. However, there is no news of new models except for the F3 675 equipped with an Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU). Moto Guzzi The V85 TT adventure bike has been revealed very recently but it will be the first opportunity for the public to see it in the metal. Suzuki Katana concept at EICMA Oh yes. Suzuki will be present at Intermot ahead of Tokyo. That ought to set alarm bells ringing of something important. How does the new Katana sound? There has also been lots of rumors about the Japanese manufacturer working on a turbocharged bike to go up against the Kawasaki Ninja H2. Or how about something wild like a turbocharged Katana? Ooooh. Triumph Triumph will launch the new 1200cc Scrambler of October 24th at Hinckley, UK (we’ll be there for it!), and that means it will be launched after Intermot. However, there have been hints of a new Rocket III and long-awaited replacements for the Thunderbird and America cruisers. The Moto2 engined Daytona test mule/demonstrator should make an appearance at Intermot. Yamaha The Tenere 700 prototype was unveiled at EICMA 2017 and Yamaha has been testing the bike all over the world ever since. This could very well mean they will launch it this year. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/year/2021/honda-america-recalled-2021-cbr1000rr-r-fireblade-sp-due-to-faulty-cushion-connecting-plate/
Honda America Recalled 2021 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Due To Faulty Cushion Connecting Plate
American Honda Motor Co. has issued a recall on the 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP due to a faulty installation of the rear cushion connecting plates. The recall involved a total of 89 units of the all-new Fireblade SP. According to documents filed, the rear cushion plates was installed incorrectly and may cause the plates to break. An incorrectly installed plate can break, hence increases the risk of a crash. If the plates break, the rider will suffer a sudden drop in the ride height of the motorcycle, which eventually could lead to an accident. All 89 units of affected Fireblade SP will have to make an appointment with an authorized Honda Powersports dealer to perform inspection and replacements. (source: Honda) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-mega-cruiser-goes-v4-heres-5-key-features-on-the-new-diavel-v4/
Ducati Mega Cruiser Goes V4 – Here’s 5 Key Features On The New Diavel V4
Episode 6 of the Ducati World Premiere 2023 takes us to the unveiling of the all-new 2023 Ducati Diavel V4. Since there is a lot to write about Ducati’s latest take on its latest mega cruiser, here are five things you need to know about the all-new Ducati Diavel V4. Engine The Diavel has moved from its V-Twin setup to Ducati’s latest V4 engine.  Ducati has been synonymous with the V-Twin for quite some time but due to performance limitations, the Italian firm decided to move to the new V4 configuration that began with the Panigale V4 before naturally trickle down to the Streetfighter and the Multistrada.  However, the one fitted on the new Diavel is the Granturismo V4 engine found in the Multistrada V4. As a result, it features longer service interval and offers a mid range grunt.  According to Ducati, the Diavel V4 makes 168hp and 126Nm, making it more powerful than the Diavel 1260S although the latter makes higher peak torque at 129Nm.  Weight Thanks to the new engine, it allows Ducati to ditched the steel trellis frame on the previous generation Diavel for a new lightweight aluminium monocoque chassis for the Diavel V4.  As a result, Ducati saved 5kg from the engine and 8kg from the bike’s overall weight. That said, Ducati shed 13kg from the previous model. Comfort This is the part where things got interesting because while it may be a cruiser, the Diavel V4 seat height registered at  790mm which is tall for a cruiser yet is low for a sporty naked bike.  Nonetheless, the handlebar is now 20mm closer to the rider which helps to improved riders ergonomics and comfort. On top of that, Ducati adds more rear travel to the rear suspension which now sits at 145mm, 15mm more than the 1260. Ducati claimed that the longer rear travel allows for more comfort not just for the rider but also for pillions.  Tech There’s 5-inch TFT instrument display which you can access four riding modes including Sport, Touring, Urban and (newly added) Wet mode. Also added is an up and down quickshifter, wheelie control and launch control as well as cruise control. Styling The Diavel range is known for its striking looks and the V4 continues the general vibe with a similar stance.  That said, the new engine creates a slightly different bodywork and maybe not quite as aesthetic as the previous 1260. You could also argue about the missing trellis frame. However, the biggest talking point are at the back, starting with the quad exit exhaust which is probably to signify the V4 configuration.  Also, the Diavel V4 features a new honeycomb taillight which looks absolutely bonkers. However, we couldn’t help but imagine the struggle of cleaning the tail light once you are done riding.  So what do you think about the 2023 Ducati Diavel V4? Will it be as amazing as the 1260 or better? Do tell us what you think at the comment section! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-yamaha-tracer-9-tracer-9-gt-launched-890cc-117hp/
2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 & Tracer 9 GT launched – 890cc, 117hp
It’s Yamaha’s turn to launch its latest models and we’re starting things off with the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 and Tracer 9 GT. Like the new 2021 MT-09, these Tracer 9s feature a new engine, electronics, and exterior design. In other words, it’s a completely new sport-tourer. Starting with the engine, the 2021 Tracer 9 and 9 GT come with the same 890cc CP3 inline-three engine that was introduced earlier for the new MT-09. Compared to the previous Tracer 900, this new engine features a longer stroke by 3mm, which upgrades its power output from 114hp to 117hp. This new engine, although bigger in capacity, is actually more compact and lighter than the previous model. Housed within a new CF die-cast aluminium Deltabox chassis, the new Tracer 9 is said to be lighter and more agile than its predecessor. It’s also further refined with a new slipper/assist clutch and longer swingarm. Also similar to the new MT-09 is the addition of a six-axis IMU plus lean-sensitive rider aids developed from the brand’s top-of-the-range superbike, the R1M. We’re talking three-mode Traction Control System, Slide Control System, Front Wheel Lift, Brake Control, and more. For the styling department, the Yamaha Tracer 9 is now more aerodynamic which offers one hell of a sexy look plus wind-cutting performance that allows for longer distance riding when paired with its 19-litre fuel tank. Fully fuelled, this baby can travel over 350km without having to stop to refuel. As a sport-tourer, this bike is expected to be able to carry a lot of cargo. With that being said, it comes with a full three-bag luggage capability. Other features include all-LED lights, twin 3.5-inch TFT screens, lightweight SpinForged wheels, fully-adjustable 41mm USD forks, and an adjustable seat. If you opt for the 2021 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT, you’ll get all of the above and also: KYB semi-active suspension Hard side cases Up and down Quick Shift System LED cornering lights Dedicated colours and graphics Grip heaters 2021 Triumph Tiger 850 Sport revealed in the UK – 888cc, 84hp Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-alex-rins-claims-historic-win-at-cota-bagnaia-crashed-out/
MotoGP: Alex Rins Claims Historic Win At COTA, Bagnaia Crashed Out 
In a dramatic turn of events at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Alex Rins secured a thrilling victory in the Grand Prix after forcing Francesco Bagnaia into another crash. Alex Rins claims LCR Honda’s 100th podium in MotoGP.  Fabio Quartararo snatching first podium of the season.  The race started with Bagnaia making a brilliant start and holding off Rins into turn one. However, the factory Ducati team’s luck was short-lived as Jorge Martin and Alex Marquez clashed, resulting in crashes for both riders. Meanwhile, Jack Miller made a significant move up the order to position himself in third, closing in on Rins and Bagnaia. However, Miller’s charge ultimately ended as he crashed out of the race on lap seven. As the race progressed, Bagnaia continued to lead despite pressure from Rins, with Quartararo in third position. However, just like in the previous Sprint race, Bagnaia made another crucial error, crashing out of the Grand Prix on lap 14, allowing Rins to take over the lead. Luca Marini then blasted past Quartararo with eight laps remaining, showing the immense speed of his Ducati. But Rins managed to control the gap and secure his victory, just his third race for Honda. The race witnessed three crashes in short order as Takaaki Nakagami kicked things off before Brad Binder and Joan Mir joined him. Maverick Vinales showed good pace, making overtakes on Binder and Miguel Oliveira to secure a position in the top ten. The COTA Grand Prix provided fans with plenty of action and drama, with Rins emerging as the ultimate victor. Bagnaia, on the other hand, will need to regroup after another Grand Prix crash. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/japanese-manufacturers-sets-up-battery-swapping-company-for-electric-motorcycles/
Japanese manufacturers sets up battery-swapping company for electric motorcycles
Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Eneos set up battery-swapping company for electric motorcycles called Gachacho Inc (Gachaco). Gachaco Inc (Gachaco) officially establishes on 1 April 2022 in Japan. Company is jointly established by Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Eneos. Firm will focus on sharing standardised battery-swapping tech. Gachaco will also develop infrastructure to support the service. It will roll-out motorcycle battery-swapping service to consumers in Japan this year. The adoption of electric motorcycles by the masses in Japan is taking shape rather well, and the upcoming establishment of battery-swapping company Gachaco Inc (Gachaco) by Japan’s biggest two-wheeled brands – plus its biggest oil giant – sees that future taking a big step up. Gachaco, which sees its official establishment later this week on 1 April 2022, is the result of a cooperative partnership between Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki, along with Japanese petroleum conglomerate Eneos. The company has two key aims, first of which being the sharing of standardised swappable batteries tech and hardware for electric motorbikes. Secondly, Gachaco will also serve towards developing appropriate infrastructure to support this service. Arguably, the importance of the latter aim is equally crucial as the battery-swapping tech itself – it future-proofs the tech and should offer consumers greater ease towards adopting said tech. Furthermore, Gachaco’s mission for support is a direct reference to Eneos’ ‘Battery as a Service’ vision. Gachaco plans to begin offering battery sharing service in Japan sometime in autumn this year – circa November. Initial rollout of this battery-swapping service will start in Tokyo and some of Japan’s other large cities via convenient, centralised outlets, namely train stations and Eneos stations. For now, Gachaco’s initial efforts will rely on the Honda Mobile Power Pack e: (pictured above). However, additional swappable battery options in the future, as well as overseas expansion beyond the domestic Japanese market, remains unclear. Nevertheless, given the ever-increasing interest and push for all-electric two-wheelers in Asia and Europe, it’s almost certain that we’ll see Gachaco expand to other markets beyond Japan. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-cbr250rr-teaser-video-hits-web/
Honda CBR250RR teaser video hits the web
Highly anticipated new Honda CBR250RR teased in new video released online. We are indeed a step closer to seeing the Honda Light Weight Super Sports concept become a production reality as the Honda CBR250RR thanks to this newly released teaser video. Our friends from Indonesia-based TMCBlog.com published this teaser video online recently, but of course there’s little for us to grasp from it. We can however see bits and pieces of the bike being shown like its fuel tank, its front disc brake and a brief view of the bike’s silhouette towards the end. What really caught our eyes though is the short glimpse of the red-painted ‘RR’ emblem on the front fairing, which more or less confirmed what many have long suspected the bike will be called – the Honda CBR250RR. As you may recall from our previous reports and patent leaks, the Honda CBR250RR sees the red wing marque finally outputting its own quarter-litre parallel-twin-powered rival against the Kawasaki Ninja 250 and Yamaha YZF-R25. The ‘RR’ in its name signifies the fact it has two cylinders and sets it apart from the existing Honda CBR250R single-cylinder quarter-litre machine. Honda remains tight-lipped as to exactly when it plans to officially debut it. However, the fact that the teaser video came out of neighbouring Indonesia – one of the biggest two-wheeled markets in the South East Asian region – suggests that the CBR250RR could debut there just as how the rivalling Yamaha YZF-R25 did in 2014. Again, just like the rivalling Yamaha and Kawasaki, we can expect Honda to produce its new CBR250RR en-masse via its Indonesia- and Thailand-based production hubs after its launch. We can also expect Honda to develop and launch a 300cc offshoot of its new quarter-litre sports bike just as how rivals Yamaha and Kawasaki have – read YZF-R3 and Ninja 300 – for the European markets later on. The small capacity segment has seen a huge shift in recent years with the likes of Kawasaki and KTM dominating the field before Yamaha entered the foray. The biggest surprise here was arrival of the made-in-India BMW G310R that signalled the premium German marque’s debut into a segment that it previously wasn’t interested in at all. While we relish at the impeding arrival new Honda CBR250RR very soon, the bike’s eventual market performance towards its targeted consumers remains to be seen given what we’ve just mentioned in the last para. Suffice to say, it will be interesting to see how big a slice of this lucrative cake can the new CBR250RR garner for the mighty Japanese red wing marque. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/pgmv8-a-2-0-litre-8-cylinder-madness-from-down-under/
PGMV8, a 2.0-litre 8-Cylinder Madness from Down Under
The PGM V8 is a 2.0-litre V8 custom-built motorcycle. The engine produces 334 hp and 214 Nm. It costs AUD 180,000 if you want one. Your KTM 1290 Super Duke R not mad enough? The Kawasaki Ninja H2 too mild? The Honda Gold Wing has too many cylinders? Then try on this PGMV8 2.0-liter V8. Paul G. Maloney (as in PGM) decided to build himself a V8 streetfighter one day. However, rather than sticking in a car engine into a frame (like what most V8 motorcycle builders did), he built the engine himself. He did so by installing two Yamaha YZF-R1 inline-Four cylinder banks to a custom-made crankcase, resulting in 2000cc. A custom-made 4-2-1 Akrapovic titanium (with the Aussies call “tit”) exhaust system vents the spent hydrobarbons and shaves some weight. A chromoly steel trellis frame suspends the engine and a machined aluminium subframe bolts onto it. Oh, the bodywork is carbon fibre. The package weighs a total of approximately 242 kg, wet. To tame this monstrosity, Öhlins FGRT301 forks and Öhlins TTX Mk2 monoshock are fitted, along with Marchesini forged aluminium wheels, Brembo GP4 front brake calipers and Brembo P4 rear brake caliper. The bike is built for sale at a reportedly mind-blowing price of AUD 180,000 (RM 509,364). But wait, we almost forgot to tell you about how much power the engine produces. How much? 200 hp? 250 hp? 280? Uh uh, try 334 hp peak power and 214.2 Nm of torque. Source: RideApart, Asphalt & Rubber --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-panigale-v2-white-rosso-arrives-in-malaysia-2-units-available/
Ducati Panigale V2 ‘White Rosso’ arrives in Malaysia – 2 units available!
Most folks would think that the Ducati Panigale V2 looks good in red, but we think that the limited edition ‘White Rosso’ livery takes it to a whole new level. A couple of units have landed here in Malaysia and if you’re quick, you can be the first owner of this beautiful beast finished in Star White Silk with hints of Ducati Red. Think of it as the baby version of the Panigale V4, but there’s nothing baby about it when you twist open the throttle to unleash its 955cc twin-cylinder Superquadro engine. Producing 155hp at 10,750rpm and 104Nm of max torque, the Panigale V2 is simply a masterpiece to ride, both on and off the track. Our head editor, Keshy Dhillon, travelled all the way to Jerez, Spain to give it a go at one of the most iconic MotoGP tracks in the world, and below is the official review written by the man about the Ducati Panigale V2. Ducati Panigale V2: The Superbike For All! Its electronics package is filled to brim with features such as: ABS Bosch Cornering EVO Ducati Traction Control EVO 2 Ducati Wheelie Control EVO Engine Brake Control EVO Selectable Riding Modes (Street, Sport, Race) Ducati Data Analyser + GPS (DDA+ GPS) Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2 Ducati Lap Timer GPS (DLT GPS) Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) + many more To know more, please contact any of the authorised dealers located in Malaysia to book a viewing appointment. But do hurry as there are only two units and we’re not sure when the next shipment will come in. The price tag is around RM109,900. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-range-in-collaboration-with-bajaj-is-underway-official-announcement-soon/
New Triumph Range In Collaboration With Bajaj Is Underway, Official Announcement Soon
Triumph Motorcycles is soon to announce a new range of small and medium capacity bikes in collaboration with Indian firm Bajaj Auto. Triumph penned a deal with Bajaj back in January 2020 to develop a new range of so-called ‘baby’ Triumph that would sit between 200 to 750cc model range. While the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed back the new model’s unveiling, according to Triumph Motorcycles Head of Brand Management, Miles Perkins, plans are still on track. “That’s going great guns, I have seen the development motorcycles and the prototype for those, it’s all on track. “We haven’t yet confirmed exactly what the bikes are and exactly when we will launch them but the news is forthcoming soon,” he said. Interestingly, the latest update suggests that the new range will be sold globally, dismissing the earlier reports that Triumph intends to target only the Asian markets. Meanwhile, Triumph is currently busy updating its 2022 range starting with the recently launched new Tiger Sport 660. The British firm is also set to unveil the new Tiger 1200 range after dropping a few sets of teaser photos and videos of the new adventure bike. (Source: Visordown) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/custom-bikes-sale-shawn-seelan-creations/
Custom bikes FOR SALE from Shawn Seelan Creations!
Local renowned bike builder Shawn Seelan of Shawn Seelan Creations is letting go almost all of his custom bikes. Custom motorcycles from tricked out Honda Ruckus to original condition Honda Motocompo and Suzuki Choi Nori, these are indeed super unique two-wheelers especially here in Malaysia. To know more about the bikes that are on sale, head on over to the Shawn Seelan Creations official Facebook page and get ready to be amazed. Shawn Seelan of Shawn Seelan Creations (part of the Custom Cartel) is letting go some of his prized possessions for those who are interested in owning one (or more) of his custom bikes. According to the Shawn Seelan Creations Official Facebook page, the local renowned bike builder will be letting go all of his beloved bikes except for a couple of special ones. Shawn Seelan has been involved in a number of different custom projects for quite some time. Racking some serious reputation and respect in the custom scene this young man was even selected by Boon Siew Honda to customise their iconic Honda EX5 Dream bike for this year’s Art of Speed Malaysia gathering. The result? A super customised Honda EX5 Dream dubbed “Raijin” aka “God of Thunder”. To know more about the customised Honda EX5 Dream built by Shawn Seelan himself, CLICK HERE. In his list of bikes that are on sale (quite a long list, too), there are four Honda Ruckuses for sale which are originally Honda Zoomer scooters that have been customised into stunning pieces of rolling art. These babies have been stretched out for that low rider look plus an assortment of candy colours awaiting their new future owners. Apart from all the Ruckuses, Shawn Seelan Creations is also letting go a couple of Honda Motocompo bikes which have been fully restored to their original conditions. These mini bikes have been kept as close to the original state when they first rolled out of the showroom way back in the early 80’s. Yes, we know you want them because we want them. Other bikes in the “For Sale” list are a couple of Suzuki Choi Nori (original condition), Honda Gorilla 50cc (custom), Honda Monkey 50cc (original condition), unknown scrambler from New Zealand (custom with full race internals), Honda EX5 Dream (SUPER CUSTOM + award winning bike) and a Demak Spark aka “The Monster” (fully custom, too). According to our hearts, we would be going “OH MY GOD! ONE OF EACH, PLEASE!” but we don’t want to be selfish because these babies are meant to make a lot more people happy than just us here at Bikes Republic. To those interested, you may head over to the Shawn Seelan Creations Official Facebook page or contact the man Shawn Seelan himself at +6010-7749389. To check out the original posts, CLICK HERE (for the Honda Ruckuses) and HERE (for other custom bikes for sale). Do yourself a favour and add some more happiness into your lives. What better way than to possess your very own customised two-wheeler. Are we right or are we right? Right! To know more about Shawn Seelan Creations, CLICK HERE to check out our featured article on the men behind this local custom outfit. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/product-review-shark-skwal-led-sak-art-design/
Product review: Shark Skwal LED Sak Art Design
When Winmaster Sdn Bhd, the authorised distributor of Shark helmets in Malaysia announced the arrival of the Skwal; the market’s first helmet to incorporate LED lights into its design, the level of excitement in the air was definitely on the higher side, as it was nothing like we have seen before. Although the brand had many other models that ranked higher in the product line up, it was the Skwal which got all the attention, as it was a potential game changer. So, in order to find out if the Shark Skwal was just a novelty or if it really delivers, we managed to get our hands on one, thanks to Winmaster Sdn Bhd, to get a first-hand feel of the helmet. Now, for those who are unaware, the Skwal is the latest helmet to be released by Shark into the existing Pulse range, and is the first helmet to incorporate LED lights into its design in the market. According to Shark helmets, it is confident that the Skwal marks the beginning of a new era in rider safety and electronic helmet functionality. The Skwal has three cleverly integrated neon green LED’s, which are situated in the front mouth piece, the front air intake, as well as the rear air vents, which not only enhance the sleek and aggressive look of this helmet, but is also a huge factor in visibility and rider safety. Among all the colours in the spectrum, neon green was the colour chosen by Shark for the LED as it was a prime colour, alongside red and blue. However, since red and blue are used by authorities, green was the best option for visibility. In case you’re wondering how the LED’s operate, they are powered by a small in-built battery, which is fully rechargeable via a micro USB cable. The company said that the helmet’s battery has up to 5000 recharge cycles and an impressive battery life of five hours on the continuous light mode, or ten hours on the flashing light mode. The two light modes can be selected with a press of the button positioned on the lower right side of the helmet. Although it seems like there are a lot of components involved, the Shark Skwal only weighs 1,470 grams, including the lights and battery pack, putting it into the feather weight category of the helmet market. In terms of standard features, the Skwal comes with a flip-down internal sun visor, Shark ‘easy fit’ feature for riders who wear glasses, a micro-lock buckle system, a fully removable and a washable lining made of bamboo. A couple of interesting things about the bamboo inner lining is that it has a generous dosage of anti-bacterial properties to keep it clean at all times. In addition, the material is much more odour resistant than other materials that are usually used to make inner linings. It also features a clever Autoseal visor adhearing gasket, which makes the helmet one of the most stable helmets today. What the Autoseal feature does is that it pushes the visor inwards when it is pulled down, making it air-tight, quiet, and waterproof. As much as the design is concerned, the Shark Skwal is quite neutral. It doesn’t look too futuristic or too traditional, not too complicated or too simple, and not too rounded or too angular. The good thing about this is that it suits riders who are astride any type of motorcycle, regardless of whether it’s a cruiser, a sports bike, or even a scooter. Simply put, it looks good with anything. What we love most about the Shark Skwal LED helmet is the drop down integral anti-scratch and anti-UV sun visor. Not only is it scratch-proof, but it is designed in a way that it drops much lower than many helmets out there in the market, making the rider feel like he or she is wearing sunglasses. As safe as it is from wind, and water, it couldn’t escape from the infamous fogging woes. However, Winmaster Sdn Bhd said that it will not be an issue for its customers as a helmet pinlock worth RM120 will be given for free with every purchase of the Shark Skwal LED helmet. Catered towards riders of all age, the Shark Skwal is available in black, white, matte and gloss finishes, as well as a wide range of graphic and colour scheme for those who would like to stand out from the rest. The model you are looking at now, however, is more special, as the livery was designed by Sak Art design; an internationally renowned graphic design house that has collaborated with numerous companies in the automotive industry. Priced very competitively at RM950 for solid finish and RM1,030 for the units with graphics, the Shark Skwal is worth every sen it asks for. Not only does it look good, but it is feature-packed, comfortable and has decent build quality. Although it is not the quietest helmet around, features like the LED lights, and the visor systems work well. Besides that, most importantly, for what is being offered, RM1,030 is as sweet as a deal can get. Helmet: Shark Skwal LED Sak Art Design Type: Full face Distributor: Winmaster Sdn Bhd Weight: 1.47kg Price: RM950.00 (solid) / RM1,030 (graphics)   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/arrc-2016-round-2-highlights-videos/
ARRC 2016 Round 2 highlights (with videos)
FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2016 (ARRC 2016) heats up during Round 2 in Buriram, Thailand. The competition level was raised higher during the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship 2016 (ARRC 2016) series’ second round held in Buriram, Thailand last weekend. Supersports 600 In the ARRC 2016’s premier SuperSports 600 category, the weekend began with Japanese rider Tomoyoshi Koyama ending his drought of race wins on Saturday after wining Race 1. Astride the T.Pro Yuzy Honda NTS with WOW race machine, Koyama had to fend off the relentless charges of Malaysian rider Zaqhwan Zaidi and his teammate Yuki Takahashi astride the Musashi Boon Siew Honda machine who finished in second and third respectively. Zaqhwan would eventually return to top form in Race 2 on Sunday as the Malaysian rode to a superb victory whilst teammate Yuki Takahashi took third. Joining them on the podium was Zaqhwan’s compatriot and returning ARRC 2016 champion Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman who finished second astride the BikeArt Racing Kawasaki machine. Whilst Azlan Shah still leads the standings with 78 points, Zaqhwan is now just 1 point away in second with 77 points, followed by Koyama in third with 69 points. Suffice to say, Azlan Shah will be facing some serious challenges in his quest for the 2016 title. Asia Production 250 The supporting Asia Production 250 category began with Yamaha Thailand Racing Team’s dominance on home soil in Race 1 as riders Apiwat Wongthananon and Peerapong Loiboonpeng scored a 1-2 finish for the team. Completing the all-Thai podium in Race 1 was Somkiat Chantra who finished third astride the AP Honda Racing Thailand machine. Unfortunately, the tables would turn on the Thai home heroes in Race 2 on Sunday as Peerapong was the lone local on the podium in third place. The Kawasaki-powered Trickstar Racing team and its Japanese rider Takehiro Yamamoto claimed victory here instead, followed by the Yamaha Racing Indonesia Team and its rider Galang Hendra Pratama in second. The weekend ends with Apiwat Wongthananon still leading the class’ championship standings with 81 points, followed by Peerapong Loiboonpeng in second with 76 points whilst Galang Hendra Pratama ranks third with 54 points. Underbone 130 Last but not least came the weekend’s highly competitive Underbone 130 category. Though many Malaysian riders dominated this category during its season opener, it was the non-Malaysian teams and riders that shine most during the second round in Thailand. Race 1 saw Indonesia’s Wahyu Aji Trilaksana and the TPK48 BKMS Indonesia team taking top honours. But race 2 would see Malaysian rider Ahmad Fazli Sham astride the UMA Racing Yamaha Maju Motor machine taking victory instead. In the standings, Malaysians Md Izzat Zaidi Salehan and Md Amirul Ariff Musa still lead the title race in first and second respectively whilst Indonesia’s Wahyu Aji Trilaksana has elevated up into third. Round 3 – Suzuka, Japan Round 3 of the ARRC 2016 season will take place in the famed Suzuka Circuit, Japan next month on June 4 & 5. Stay up-to-date with ARRC 2016 by following its official Facebook page, YouTube Channel and its official website as well. ARRC 2016 Round 2 – Buriram, Thailand --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-81-year-old-grandmother-won-a-bmw-c-400-x-maxi-scooter/
This 81-Year-Old Grandmother Won A BMW C 400 X Maxi-Scooter
created by Polish Maznah Harun was caught off guard after discovering she had won a BMW C 400 X maxi scooter from MBSB Bank Bhd. The BMW C 400 X were among the top prize for MBSB “Simpan Berganda Menang Bergaya” campaign. The 81-year-old took home the maxi-scooter after a year of saving at MBSB. The 81-year-old grandmother was among the winners of the MBSB Bank “Simpan Berganda Menang Bergaya” campaign after a year of saving with the bank. Unfortunately, Maznah won’t keep the RM45,000 worth of scooter as she plans to sell it. “I have entered many contests, but this is the first time I ever won anything. “I will sell the scooter and the money from it will be rolled back into my MBSB Bank savings,” she said. The BMW C 400 X scooter was among a host of prizes up for grabs during the MBSB Bank campaign, including a BMW X4 30i M Sport, Mercedes Benz A200, Mercedes Benz C200 and Mercedes Benz GLC 300 AMG. The C 400 X is currently on sale in Malaysia for a recommended selling price of RM44,500. “ --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/victory-motorcycles-returns-for-ppihc-2016-race/
Victory Motorcycles returns for PPIHC 2016 race
Victory Motorcycles announces return to the famed Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2016 (PPIHC 2016) race with two bikes. American manufacturer Victory Motorcycles confirmed its return for the world-famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 2016 (PPIHC 2016) race this year. The marque will field two bikes starting with its acclaimed petrol-powered Project 156 and electric-powered Empulse RR prototype race bikes. Named after the famed hill climb course’s 156 turns, the Victory Project 156 prototype racer marks its second appearance at PPIHC 2016. The machine was raced in last year’s edition of the PPIHC by Cycle World journalist Don Canet. The prototype had the performance and capability but was Canet was forced to retire just before the finish line in last year’s running due to mechanical issues. This year, the Victory Project 156 will be raced by 2014 Pikes Peak Heavyweight Champion Jeremy Toye who will begin testing bike sometime this month. Canet returns to race in the PPIHC this year with Victory, this time astride the electric-powered Victory Empulse-RR. Toye is a renowned figure in the PPIHC community as he was one of the first few riders to break the hill climb’s 10-minute barrier. In 2014, Toye did just that when he rode a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R up the course and clocked in a blistering time of 9:58.687. However, the all-time record stands at 9:52.819 that was set by rider Carlin Dunne who rode a specially prepared Ducati Multistrada. The best absolute record time for the PPIHC course was set by famed French rally ace Sebastian Loeb and his 8:13.878 timing he clocked back 2013 in a Peugeot 208 T16 racer. Also known to many as the ‘Race to the Clouds’, PPIHC 2016 takes place on June 26 this year. The video posted below of Don Canet’s short but impressive run up the course astride the Victory Project 156 prototype should give you an idea of how challenging this hill climb course is. Source: AutoEvolution / Visordown --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-reveals-updated-new-diavel/
Ducati reveals updated new Diavel
As previously reported, Ducati has finally unwrapped its new and updated-for-2014 Diavel supercruiser model just this week. The new Diavel’s reveal at the on-going Geneva Motor Show does reflect on the Italian brand German owners Audi AG, but nevertheless, things look promising. Confirming our previous report, the updated cruiser now sports a very visible face-lift complete with new full-LED headlights, followed by the adoption of a new engine, and a new meaner-looking exhaust system. Aesthecially, new bits on the outside include the bar-risers, radiator covers, seat, side-stand, followed by a refreshed instrumentation unit that now features a new fuel gauge. However, the icing on the cake for the exterior’s revamp are the full-LED headlamps and its housing, exuding a very streamlined and modern touch to the exterior’s aggressive naked-like styling. Of course, the most substantial of changes with the new Diavel is its engine. The new model adopted Ducati’s new generation 1,198cc Testastretta 11° DS twin-spark V-twin engine as seen in the Multistrada. While the claimed peak power output of 162hp remains unchanged, Ducati states that the new twin spark (or dual spark) motor will offer improved mid-range torque delivery. The new mill’s peak torque figure has increased slightly to 130Nm from its previous iteration’s 127Nm. Rounding things off in the powertrain department is the new exhaust system with restyled twin-slincer housings to match the aforementioned modern exterior retouches. Three variants will be offered, starting with a base model that features a new ‘Dark Stealth” livery painting the trellis frame and wheels in black. Following this are two Diavel Carbon editions that weighs in at 205kg (5kg less than the base). In Carbon trim, it features either a red-painted frame with “Ducati Red” paintwork over matte carbon, or a “Star White” paintjob over matte carbon with a white-painted frame. Both Carbon trims also have black forged aluminium wheels by Marchesini offered as an option. The new Diavel will be hitting European and American showrooms starting April this year. We hope that it would not take the brand too long to introduce it here on our soil within the year. See more of the updated and new Diavel in our extensive and the the promotional video posted below. New Ducati Diavel promo clip New 2014 Ducati Diavel Source: Visordown and Asphaltandrubber via Ducati --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-super-cub-c125-honda-cb1100rs-honda-cbr1000rr-fireblade-sp-launched/
Honda Super Cub C125, Honda CB1100RS, Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP Launched
Boon Siew Honda launched the Honda Super Cub C125, Honda CB1100RS and Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP today. They provide Malaysian motorcyclists with more choices in Honda motorcycles. Boon Siew Honda also announced a positive 2018 with approximately 156,000 motorcycles sold. Boon Siew Honda launched three more models to the Malaysian market today to kick off 2019. They are the Honda Super Cub C125, Honda CB1100RS, Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP. Being of different segments, the additional models provide Malaysian motorcyclists with even more choices in Honda motorcycles. Honda Super Cub C125 (from RM 13,999) Honda started a revolution when they introduced the Super Cub C100 in 1958. The Super Cub has evolved over the last 60 years. By then, it had become the largest-selling motorized vehicle of all time with more than 100 million units sold worldwide. The Super Cub is now back in the guise of the Super Cub C125. While its styling is reminiscent of the original Super Cub, the new bike is thoroughly modern. 1 of 9 Highlights: Unmistakable and unique styling. Full LED lighting. Honda SMART Key system. Electrically locked seat. Powered by a 125cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, SOHC, single-cylinder engine. It produces 9.1 bhp (6.79 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 9.98 Nm of torque at 5,000 RPM. Front disc brakes with Nissin caliper. Cast alloy wheels. It is offered in Pearl Niltava Blue, Pearl Nebula Red and Pearl Shining Black. Honda CB1100RS (from RM 75,999) The CB1100RS harks back to the days when Honda’s inline-Four engines were the king. Specifically, it started with the CB750 in 1969, which was rightfully called “first superbike.” Since then, Japanese motorcycles with multi-cylinder engines, round headlights, high handlebars, and bench seats became known generically as the UJM for Universal Japanese Motorcycle. The UJM styling is timeless as Honda continued selling the CB line-up such as the sublime CB 400 Super Four VTEC and later the CB1100 over the years in many markets around the world. Except Malaysia. Perhaps 2019 is the year to remember with the launch of this bike. As with its predecessors, the CB1100RS looks like a 70’s bike but it a modern motorcycle in its essence. 1 of 4 Highlights: LED headlight and LED classic taillight. Seamless fuel tank. Signature Honda DOHC valve cover. Showa SDBV (Showa Dual Bending Valve) forks. Twin Showa rear shocks with remote reservoir. Radially-mounted four-piston front brake calipers. Aluminium 17-inch wheels. 1140cc, air-cooled, 16-valve, DOHC, inline-Four engine. It produces 88.5 bhp (66 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 91 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM. It looks like a torquey machine judging from the spread between maximum torque and peak power. The Honda CB1100RS is available in Darkness Black Metallic and Matt Beta Silver Metallic. Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP (from RM 114,999) The “SP” version of the CBR1000RR Fireblade brings more fire to the table. It is endowed with more power, less weight and equipped with more technology compared to the “standard” Fireblade. While other manufacturers kept pushing up the power output of their superbikes, Honda chooses to adhere to their “Next Stage Total Control” philosophies. You could say “What’s power without control?” 1 of 4 Highlights: First Honda motorcycle equipped with Öhlins Smart Electronically Controlled suspension. Compact, 16-litre titanium fuel tank. Full Brembo brake system. Quickshifter. Cornering ABS. Weighs in a t 195 kg, dry. The 1000cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline-Four engine punches out 189 bhp (141 kW) at 13,000 RPM and 114 Nm of torque at 11,000 RPM. The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP is offered in HRC Tricolor only (no Repsol thank you very much!). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/hafizh-syahrin-mohd-ramdan-looking-forward-home-race/
Hafizh and Ramdan Looking Forward to Home Race
PETRONAS Talent Development Programme’s riders, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah and Mohd Ramdan Rosli are optimistic on their home race as they wish to perform their best at the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix (MotoGP) at the Sepang Circuit this 24 to 26 October. For Petronas Raceline Malaysia’s rider, Hafizh Syahrin, the upcoming race in Sepang marks his home debut in the Moto2 category. The 20-year old rider has shown impressive performance throughout his full season of participation in Moto2 where he already racked up a total of 42 points from the first 16 rounds with a best place finish of seventh in Indianapolis. Team Manager, Barry Leong said, “Hafizh’s pride is at stake this weekend and it’s quite obvious his fans are epecting another spectacular performance. As the principal, i hope for the best from him but at the same time I will not personally exert any pressure on him.” In addition, PETRONAS also reached another milestone where its 19-year old rider, Mohd Ramdan who currently competes full-time in the Spanish National Championship (CEV) is set for his maiden Grand Prix wildcard entry in the Moto3 category that runs on single-cylinder 250cc four stroke engines. “This is my first time racing in the world championship and on top of that, I will race in front of my home crowd. It will be a tough weekend because other riders have more experience in Moto3 but like always, I’ll be pushing as I can and hopefully I can put in a good performance,” said Mohd Ramdan. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bosch-motorcycle-systems-bags-asean-ncap-award/
Bosch motorcycle systems bags ASEAN NCAP award
Simong-Song, Managing Director of Bosch receiving an award from David Ward, Secretary General of Global NCAP (far left) and Professor Dr. Wong Shaw Voon, Chairman of ASEAN-NCAP (middle).Pic Credit:Bosch Bosch motorcycle systems awarded with ASEAN NCAP Safety Technology award. Leading automotive OEM (original equipment manufacturer) Bosch has been awarded with the “Safety Technology Award: Innovative Motorcycle Technology for Safer Riding” by the New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) this week. Image credit: Bosch The award sees Bosch being recognised for its continuous efforts in innovating safer riding with two-wheeler technologies such as the motorcycle anti-lock braking system (ABS), motorcycle stability control (MSC), and side view assist (pictured above) that were developed by its Japan-based Two Wheeler & Powersports Division. Both systems were displayed and demonstrated yesterday at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) during the Global NCAP #StopTheCrash campaign. You can check out our feature of the Bosch motorcycle ABS system demonstration we published yesterday. Presently, the ASEAN region sits as the world’s third largest motorcycle market, with Bosch highlighting the region’s rising demands for enhanced riding safety especially in emerging markets. With statistics indicating 21,000 fatal motorcycle accidents recorded annually in Indonesia and Thailand alone, it is easy to see why. Malaysia, on the other hand, has the third highest road traffic fatality rate in ASEAN. According to the World Health Organization’s records in 2015, around 18 road fatalities were recorded daily in Malaysia with more than 60% of which involving motorcycles. According to Bosch, its accident research studies show that if every motorcycle is equipped with ABS, roughly one fourth of accidents could be prevented. Presently, motorcycle ABS has become mandatory equipment for all 125cc and larger bikes in the European Union. Examples include the  2016 Vespa Sprint ABS and Primavera ABS that were recently launched locally. Similar legislation will be enforced in Japan and Taiwan starting from 2018 and 2019 respectively. Presently, Bosch offers its new and compact ABS 10 suite that’s developed specifically to meet the requirements of emerging markets. The first new production motorcycle model to adopt it is the upcoming 2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 250/300 that’s slated to enter markets early next year. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motack-attack/
Motack attack
Its been weeks since the last bike event and even we are getting some signs of withdrawal, though the first round for Motack is just about one week away, it feels like it cant get here fast enough. For the ones thats not up to date, Motack stands for Malaysian Motorcycle Time Attack. Riders take turns in negotiating a tightly wounded maze like circuit marked by cones. Hit a cone and you get a time penalty, the rider who clocked the fastest time wins. The event will be happening at the Citta Mall, Ara Damansara, Subang on the weekend of 7th and 8th of February. There will be seven classes available for you to join, Below 205cc, Below 700cc, Above 700c, Above 1000cc, Ducati Challenge, Motack All-stars and the last class Others Apart from local riders, there will be participants from Singapore, Vietnam and Japan. One of them is a lady rider from Japan, Kaori Takashima which if you watch the video (bottom) you know she could easily put most guys to shame. If you are interested but not sure if you can even follow Kaori on a simple course then you can join the Moto-gymkhana riding clinic instead and improve your riding skill. And for the rest of us who would prefer just to kick back and watch the action from the sidelines will also get to check out a few sales and exhibition booth at the venue. For more information contact our good friend, Haris or Hitman as we call him at 019-2711 609 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bonus-mma-match-at-entrance-to-sic-grandstand-at-the-2019-malaysian-motogp/
“Bonus MMA Match” at Entrance to SIC Grandstand at the 2019 Malaysian MotoGP
Race fans entering the SIC grandstand area were treated to a “bonus MMA match” at the 2019 Malaysian MotoGP today. No official word of what led to the fight. It was speculated that the man had a “fake ticket.” Race fans were treated to a “bonus MMA match” while waiting to enter the SIC grandstands for the 2019 Malaysian MotoGP today. The video of a fight between a spectator and ticket checkers at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is making rounds in social media, originally posted by Sukan Star TV on their Instagram.   View this post on Instagram   Sepang Moto GP A post shared by Sukan Star TV – sstv.my (@tvsukanstar) on Nov 3, 2019 at 3:57am PST The video began with a man attempting to drop a flying kick on one of the staff members. He missed and landed on the ground, instead. The intended recipient became the attacker now and went on the offence by stomping and landing a few jabs on him. Other ticket checkers got in the action, too. A yellow-shirted man stamped a few size-41 (judging from his size) soles on the now hapless man. They also landed a few more well-placed hooks on the man’s head as he tried to rise to his feet. Soon, a man dressed in all-black attire and cap (looking pretty much like a referee) stepped in to push the assailants apart, and in a way, counting the man out. 1-2-3 — DING! DING! DING! But just when we thought it was all over, the angry man sucker-punched another staff while getting back to this feet! The staff retaliated with more roundhouses to the back of the man’s head while he walked back into the crowd. The cause of the fight is still open to speculation. However, it was largely rumoured that the staff had refused the belligerent man entry due to a “fake ticket.” No word yet regarding investigations into the matter. It’s been an eventful 2019 Malaysian MotoGP, to say the least. First, there was news of the Angel Nieto’s paddock being broken into, followed by the sorrowful news of Afridza Munandar’s demise, and now this. Now, shall we file this report under “Motorsports” or “MMA”? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-cbr250rr-the-be-launched-on-18-december-2020/
Honda CBR250RR the be launched on 18 December 2020
Boon Siew Honda has finally announced that the 2021 Honda CBR250RR will be launched here in Malaysia on 18 December 2020. BSH already informed us that their latest 250cc sports bike will arrive in the local market at the end of the year back in September, and they’re ready to deliver. In fact, bookings for the 2021 Honda CBR250RR are already being accepted by authorised dealers like Honda BigWing Setapak since the start of October. BSH also stated that this will be the latest model which comes with specs like bi-directional quickshifter, assist/slipper clutch, ride-by-wire throttle system, and selectable riding mode. Weighing in at just 168kg, the CBR250RR is powered by a 250cc inline-two DOHC engine that produces 41hp at 13,000rpm and 25Nm torque at 11,000rpm. We’ve asked around and we were told that the expected price should be below the RM30,000 mark. If you happen to be in Japan, you have a choice of four different colour options – Matt Gun Powder Black Metallic, Pearl Glare White, Grand Prix Red and Grand Prix Red (Striped). Its price tag for that region starts from 821,700 yen (around RM33,062) all the way up to 854,700 yen (around RM34,401). That’s 500cc territory, folks. 2020 Ducati Superleggera V4 officially launched in Malaysia – RM888,000 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-things-motorcyclists-should-never-do-part-1/
Ten Things Motorcyclists Should Never Do (Part 1)
Being silly on a motorcycle will lead to bad things, eventually. Always ride with logic rather than being emotional or fearless. Good riders always think of what’s ahead rather than the spur of the moment. In putting together this “Ten Things Motorcyclists Should Never Do” list, we looked back on another article we’ve written on the ten most common mistakes made by riders, regardless of whether they are newbies or veterans. But I’m sure you could agree that the list wasn’t fully er… full, since we covered only ten items at one go. Our way of life is fun because it gives us the opportunity to critique our own riding from time to time, as part of our journey to be a better rider and enjoy the sport for as long as we could ride. We hope that you, our brothers and sisters in arms, take a look at our safety tips from time to time. So, the Ten Things Motorcyclists Should Never Do: 1. Ride when less than happy While riding is definitely a form of therapy, it isn’t advisable to do it when your head is still playing images of the fight you had with your boss or spouse. The margin of arriving safely on a motorcycle is very thin, unlike if you were driving, so you need to pay 100% attention to your riding. So, take a moment to cool down before you decide to ride up to Gohtong Jaya. 2. Insisting on right of way Every rider knows that we’d lose if we choose to be insistent against bigger vehicles, be it our fault or otherwise. Yet, many of us still fight against other road users when the red mist descends. Truth is, I do get angry at idiotic drivers at times but there’s no point in ending up being crushed to hamburger on the road. Let them go because karma will deal with them, Insy’Allah. 3. Lingering in blindspots Lingering in the blindspots of other vehicles (including other motorcycles) is one of the most dangerous thing to do in traffic. The other vehicle may swerve into you since the driver doesn’t you’re there. We Malaysian motorcyclists are a lucky lot since there is no law against traffic filtering and lane splitting, so let’s use that privilege effectively. Just remember to keep moving at a pace no more than 40 km/h faster than the traffic around you. 4. Trusting other road users explicitly Are you sure others are giving you way? Do you think they realize you’ve stationary at the junction? It’s always best to ride with a certain level of paranoia. While one may argue doing so takes some of the joys out of riding, being safe beats hitting the ground. Or a car. 5. Not knowing your limits There’s a simple gauge to this. If you constantly feel stressed out that you almost hit a car or running wide in corners, you are over your limits (lack of training, notwithstanding). Read up on riding tips or better yet, seek out some advanced training to unlock your limits correctly. In the meantime, slow down. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/biker-stories-part-3-wall/
Biker Stories (Part 3) – The Wall
I was working as soon as I finished my SPM examinations. Didn’t go on a long holiday with friends, didn’t even bum out at the beach night after night with a cold drink. “Time to earn your own money, Son.” Through the help of a few friends, I became a waiter in a hip new pub in Penang, called “20 Leith Street.” The place has since been converted to a hawker centre and it’s just next door to the blue-coloured Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, which is now a boutique hotel. Back then, the latter was overgrown, run down and pitch black like a haunted house. I didn’t dare step near it. Anyway, one morning after work, the five of us guys stood outside, just chilling, talking gibberish and smoking. Our supervisor whistled at and teased the transgenders who walked up and down the street outside. A homeless man in torn shirt and pants sat on the sidewalk opposite ours, mumbling to himself (hoped he didn’t see dead people). Yeah, those were the bad ol’ days. Anyways, we talked about all sorts of stuff. Fishing, camping, hiking, swimming… There was no such thing as Astro and PlayStation in 1998. Boys being boys, we got around to talking about cars and motorcycles. (About girls too, of course, on how we don’t understand them – and we still don’t today – but that’s for another story). Among us, only Poh Keat owned a bike, a used Honda C90. The rest of us wanted a bike for ourselves too, but we haven’t ridden one before. Then Chris got super-enthusiastic and wanted to learn how to ride at that very moment. The compound was huge, tarred over as a parking lot and there’s no one around to be a bother After much cajoling, Poh Keat gave in to Chris’ requests. He pointed out on how to get it in gear, roll out and stop. As Chris got moving, we started throwing insults at him. We were his buddies, right. But he ignored us and started doing pretty descent by his second orbit around Poh Keat, who stood in the middle and barked orders. We lost interest in teasing him so we went back to talking about girls. I was still single, okay. All the while, Chris passed by like clockwork, getting a little faster each time. Then on one pass, Chris gunned the throttle a little too much, casuing the bike to roar forward. Surprised, he instantaneously chopped the throttle, which resulted in the rear hopping and squirming (he must’ve been in first gear). His arms went straight immediately and his legs came off the footpegs, looking like a character from The Flinstones trying to brake by dragging his feet on the ground. The bike now went straight, instead of turning into the circle and headed for the tall wall separating 20th Leith Street and Cheong Fatt Tze! Poh Keat yelled while running toward Chris, “WOI!!! STOP STOP STOP!!!” At this point, we heard “BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!” all the way to the wall. THWACK! The bike’s front tyre tapped the wall like how when someone walked into a glass door. Chris and the bike plopped over like sacks of potatoes stacked too high. And the horn was still on! BEEEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeppppp….. its sound tapering off as it got hotter. Picture 112 Poh Keat had caught up to Chris and tried to lift the bike up. We ran over to help too. “WHY DIDN’T YOU BRAKE?!” yelled the unfortunate bike owner. “I did try to brake!” replied Chris in defiant defense. “But instead of stopping, your stupid bike only went beeeeeeeeeeeep!” Our wisecrack Supervisor spoke up, “So did the wall move out of the way when you honked at it?” Apart from Poh Keat and Chris, I believe the other three of us have never laughed any harder than that morning until this day. Click here for Part 1. Click here for Part 2. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-road-safety-campaign-organised-sungai-besi-toll-plaza/
Kawasaki Road Safety Campaign organised at Sungai Besi Toll Plaza
Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) has officially launched the Kawasaki Road Safety Campaign 2018 earlier today. This is the third year running KMSB has organised it at the Sungai Besi Toll Plaza to increase awareness on road safety. All motorcyclists can get their bikes checked absolutely free no matter type or brand. Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) has officially launched the 2018 Kawasaki Road Safety Campaign earlier today. The road safety campaign is held as part of the KMSB’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program to raised road safety awareness ahead of the Chinese New Year holiday. Officially launched by Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, Dato’ Sri Liow Tiong Lai, the campaign kicked off at 9am and will continue on until 6pm today. Held at the Sungai Besi Toll Plaza (Southbound), riders who ride all kinds of motorcycles can get their bikes checked by trained personnel from the Kawasaki Exclusive Service Centre. The 16-point check is free of charge. Those who register early got to take home brand new Swan helmets and high-visibility windbreakers courtesy of AEON Credit Services and Tokio Marine insurance. Together with the theme “Fikir keselamatan, tunggang dengan bertanggungjawab” or “Think safety, ride responsibly”, KMSB together with its event partners joined in the program to promote awareness on road safety and proper bike maintenance. Present during the launch were the Malaysia Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA), YB. Dato’ Jeffrey Lim, the General Manager and Director of Kawasaki Motors Malaysia and others respectively from JPJ, KKR, PLUS, PDRM, JKJR,  Tokio Marine Insurans (Malaysia) Berhad, AEON Credit Service, KHI Helmet, Bridgestone and more. KMSB is aware that 63% of road accidents in the past 10 years involved motorcyclists which translate to about 40,609 cases. 80% of such accidents were caused by road user errors and carelessness. KMSB together with other participating bodies hope that the campaign can increase the awareness for all road users to be more responsible when on the road. Together, we can all make a difference if all road users ride and drive responsibly. Safety first, people! Kawasaki Motors Malaysia Organizes Road Safety Campaign 2017 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/arai-unveils-special-edition-helmet-in-celebration-of-100th-manx-grand-prix/
Arai Unveils Special Edition Helmet in Celebration of 100th Manx Grand Prix
In honour of the Manx Grand Prix’s centennial anniversary, renowned helmet manufacturer Arai has collaborated with The Visor Shop and the Manx Grand Prix to create a limited-edition masterpiece.  The Arai RX-7V Evo, specially designed for this occasion, is set to be released on July 20. The Manx Grand Prix, an iconic event in the road racing calendar, has captivated motorsport enthusiasts since its inception in 1923. While it may stand in the shadow of its counterpart, the Isle of Man TT Races, the Manx Grand Prix continues to hold its own as a thrilling spectacle. For over a decade, Arai has been designing special edition helmets for the Isle of Man TT, and this endeavor for the Manx Grand Prix follows suit.  The helmet’s design features the famous Snaefell Course outline, paying homage to the race’s iconic route. It also incorporates references to prominent landmarks and timing points, as well as the Triskelion, symbolizing the Three Legs of Man. On June 1, the special edition helmet was officially unveiled at the Arai Village during the Isle of Man TT. Priced at GBP829.99 (RM4.7k), this exclusive piece will be cherished by motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors alike.  With its limited production run, the Arai RX-7V Evo commemorates the historic milestone of the Manx Grand Prix, an event that has continually pushed the boundaries of road racing. Mark your calendars for the release on July 20, 2023, and secure your piece of racing history. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-honda-xl750-transalp-to-land-in-malaysia-soon/
All-New Honda XL750 Transalp To Land In Malaysia Soon?
Honda officially rolled out the all-new XL750 Transalp in November last year at EICMA.  The Transalp features the same parallel-twin engine as the Hornet.  Fitted with Showa’s suspension at the front and rear with Pro-Link swingarm.  23YM XL750 Transalp The Transalp nameplate returns for 2023 with the middleweight adventure motorcycle set to go up against the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 890 Adventure.  Although the bike is yet to be available in Malaysia, we understood that Malaysian might not need to wait long as the middleweight adventure is said to arrive soon.  While there’s no official word from Honda Motorcycles Malaysia, we expect the XL750 Transalp could arrive sooner than expected.  Mechanically, the Honda XL750 Transalp features an all-new parallel-twin engine that makes 90hp and 75Nm. That said, the Transalp slots in between the 74hp Tenere and 105hp 890 Adventure.  Similar to Honda CB750 Hornet, the XL750 Transalp features a 270-degree crank and a new airbox which Honda claimed to offer a low-end beat and top-end howl. However, the ride-by-wire system has been explicitly tuned to best suit the bike’s touring and off-road ability. Electronically, the XL750 Transalp gets four riding modes (Sport, Standard, Rain and Gravel and User), each of which can be selected while on the fly thanks to a lefthand switch cube.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-malaysia-orange-carnival-begins-in-johor-on-28th-july/
KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival Begins in Johor on 28th July
KTM Malaysia’s largest event, the KTM Orange Carnival will kick off its first leg on Saturday, 28th July 2018. Starting in Johore, it will be held at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai. Many activities are in store and KTM owners, owners of all othe brands and general public are welcomed to attend. It carnival time in the south as KTM Malaysia will launch the KTM Orange Carnival at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai, Johor, on Saturday, 28th July 2018. Judging by the program list stated by KTM Malaysia, the carnival looks set to be the biggest ever organized by the official distributor, as it includes a large number of activities KTM owners, non-KTM owners and the public at large. The first is the test ride session. Attendees have the opportunity to test ride the latest KTM models, from the Supersport, Duke, and Adventure series. But that’s not all, as those who test rode the motorcycles will receive a KTM multipurpose bag and one lucky draw ticket. Talk about having your cake and eating it. KTM Malaysia will also hold technical briefings on the features of the motorcycles before the commencement of the test rides. The next great attraction is the Fun-Hana competition, which tests riders’ skills in recording the fastest time in negotiating a gymkhana course. It is open to bikes of all makes. Participants can join the following classes, but the numbers are limited to 16 per category: Below 200cc. 200- to 500cc. 500cc and above. Prizes for the Top 4 riders are: 1st place: RM200 plus a medal, Gracshaw helmet and ELF engine oil. 2nd place: RM100 plus a medal, Gracshaw helmet and ELF engine oil. 3rd place: A medal. 4th place: A medal. KTM Malaysia is also offering a special service campaign exclusively for KTM owners which includes a FREE 13-point safety check from 9am to 5pm. Owners who purchase 2 bottles of ELF engine oil will also receive a lucky draw ticket. The items being checked are: Electrical systems, Tyre condition, Tyre pressures, Brake system, Engine oil level, Coolant condition, Chain tension, Chassis bolt/nut check, Side stand, Suspension condition, Engine oil leak, Cables, and Systems diagnostics with the KTM XC1 Diagnostic checker. There will be a special sale with items going at up to 60% discounts. Those who purchased more than RM150 of KTM PowerWear merchandize or RM500 of KTM PowerParts items will be eligible for a lucky draw ticket. As for visitors who didn’t take part in the above activities or wish to increase their chances in the lucky draw, KTM Malaysia offers Orange Carnival Pack which is priced at RM30 each. The pack consists of a lucky draw ticket, KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival T-shirt, and KTM lanyard. Among the lucky draw prizes are KTM PowerWear and KTM PowerParts worth RM20,000. The grand prize is a brand new KTM 390 Duke. KTM Malaysia’s Factory Rider, who is also the winner at the recent GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling, besides Malaysian MX and enduro champion, and 2016 FIM Asia Supermoto champion, Muhd. Habibullah Muhd. Saleh, better known as Gabit, will perform at the stunt shows at 11.30am and 4.00pm. Other vendors include Gracshaw Helmet and ELF engine oil. Sponsors of the carnival are Gracshaw Helmet, ELF Lubricants and Corporate Hero. Please refer to the map below for the location. --Ads--