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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/weve-gone-riding-well-back-soon/

We’ve gone riding, but we’ll be back soon

Notice: We’ve gone riding, but we’ll be back soon. The entire BikesRepublic team have been busy the past fortnight in preparation for a group ride that we’ve organised together with a few of our partners and friends. We’re doing our very best to keep you, our loyal followers and fellow bikers, up to date with the latest news and stuff during our travel, but our hands are just simply full for the moment. Worry not as this is only temporary and we will be back real soon. And, since it is the weekend already, the team wishes all fellow bikers a a good one and also to remind all of you to ride safely. The weather has been quite temperamental lately, so be prepared with all your gear in place. We’ll see you back here real soon folks! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/over-steering-issues-and-rain-hamper-hafizhs-practice-run-in-qatar-gp/

OVER-STEERING ISSUES AND RAIN HAMPER HAFIZH’S PRACTICE RUN IN QATAR GP

Moto2 Group 2015 Qatar Malaysian Moto2 rider, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah endured a rough start to the Grand Prix of Qatar as the PETRONAS Raceline Malaysia rider completed the first two opening practice 21st overall on Thursday. Hafizh arrived at the Losail International Circuit hoping to set a strong impression at the get go but found himself in 22nd position in Free Practice 1 instead with 2’03.038s after he struggled with over-steering issues. He was 3.2 seconds adrift Britain’s Sam Lowes who smashed the lap record at the end of the session with 1’59.717s. The 20-year old however showed improvement in Free Practice 2 after race engineers made improvements to his Kalex machinery, which saw Hafizh clocked his fastest lap at 2’02.309s and reduced the gap to Lowes by 2.284 seconds. It was a session that he was looking forward to regain some ground after a disappointing run in FP1 but was hampered when light rain interrupted the session in the final 20-minutes. In the end Hafizh had to be content to finish FP2 21st overall. “I struggled a lot in FP1 as the bike was behaving unusually. I couldn’t turn left smoothly and despite multiple pit-in, the engineers could not detect what was wrong. It was really frustrating,” he said. Hafizh added, “Fortunately, FP2 was much better. The engineers rectified the steering issues and I was able to find a better rhythm but I made a mistake pitting in early when the track was dry. When I was ready to resume riding, it started to rain. Nothing much I could do when the track is damp.” Meanwhile PETRONAS Raceline Malaysia manager, Barry Leong commented, “Hafizh felt better with the revised bike set up and it seems the over steering issues has disappeared in FP2. But he wrongly timed himself for a pit stop and missed the opportunity to take advantage of the extra dry laps before rain started to pour. That 15 mins stop cost him dearly as it could have been a turning point for our boy to record a decent lap time. We have Free Practice 3 scheduled tomorrow and hopefully that session will be a fruitful one for the team.” Combined Moto2 Free Practice Results  1.Sam Lowes (GBR) 1’59.717s 2.Johann Zarco (FRA) 2’00.339s 3.Tito Rabat (SPA) 2’00.368s 4.Axel Pons (SPA) 2’01.043s 5.Takaaki Nakagami (JPN) 2’01.123s   21. Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah (MAS) 2’02.309s --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-intermot-2016/

Ducati @ INTERMOT 2016

Ducati @ INTERMOT 2016: New SuperSport and several lightly updated models unveiled in Germany. The famed Bologna-based Italian marque that is Ducati didn’t have much to show off in Cologne, Germany earlier this week for INTERMOT 2016 except for the all-new 2017 Ducati SuperSport that is. This was something we saw coming for quite some time after it leaked during World Ducati Week 2016 earlier this year. Alongside though were several lightly updated models as well. With EICMA 2016 just a month away, we reckon Ducati is holding back just a bit in order to make a much grander presence on home ground. Here’s what you ought to know about its INTERMOT 2016 debutants. 2017 Ducati SuperSport & SuperSport S Known as Ducati’s worst kept secret of the year, the storied Italian marque revived its long-dormant SuperSport name for 2017. Built as a street-focused sport bike, the SuperSport will appeal to a small but loyal group of buyers. Available in both standard premium ‘S’ variants, the SuperSport carries all the signature styling of the Ducati Panigale series. However, this isn’t positioned as an entry-level sports bike – there’s the 959 Panigale for that. Instead, the SuperSport was developed as a sport touring machine, focusing more on on-road comfort and ride. Powering the SuperSport is the brand’s Euro 4-compliant 937cc Testastretta V-twin from the current generation Hypermotard, outputting 115hp @ 9,000rpm for the SuperSport. The Hypermotard-derived V-twin does benefit with an altered intake and exhaust system, shifting power lower down the rev range whilst long final drive ratios added. This allows the SuperSport’s mill to deliver 80% of its 96.7Nm of torque at just 3,000rpm. That aside, the SuperSport also mirrors the Hypermotard with its electronics, offering riders selectable engine power modes, ABS and traction control. The specced S, on the other hand, gains further with a bi-directional quickshifter – the first Ducati outside the Panigale range to have it. Signature of Ducati, the trellis frame chassis sees the engine acting as a stress member, but the SuperSport’s sporting credentials are secured through its chassis geometry that mirrors the Panigale. Not only capable of 48-degree lean angles, the long wheelbase also adds greater stability. With the standard SuperSport, Ducati has primed it with fully adjustable Marzocchi front forks and a Sachs variable rear shock. The S version offers fully adjustable Öhlins units instead. Now comes the SuperSport’s touring capabilities. According to Ducati, the SuperSport’s seat was specially developed to carry pillion riders in comfort and comes with an integrated grab rail though larger ones are available as an option. Next comes the two-position adjustable flyscreen, with its tallest position sees it increase up to 50mm in height. The seat height is also adjustable by 20mm higher or lower from the stock figure of 850mm whilst the 16-litre fuel tank is made of steel ensuring easier compatibility with magnetic tank bags. Ducati expects the new SuperSport to outsell its 959 Panigale model, and further estimates that 60% of the model’s sales will be fuelled by the standard variant with the premium S variant making for the remaining 40%. Updated 2017 models Accompanying the SuperSport in Cologne were four lightly updated models. Leading this was the 2017 Ducati 1299 Panigale superbike that gets updated with the EVO iterations of its electronics derived from the 1299 Panigale S Anniversario special. Next comes the updated Diavel and Monster 821. Both are now Euro 4-compliant, but the Monster gains a new grey with contrasting red wheels and red frame paint scheme option. Lastly comes the lightly revised Multistrada 1200. Not only Euro 4-compliant, it also gets a revised air intake and engine settings that optimises mid-range power delivery. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-naza-bikes-n5-250-naked-debuts/

New Naza Bikes N5 naked debuts

Naza Bikes Sdn Bhd marked a new milestone in its history today with the unveiling of its brand new entry-level bike model called the N5. Present during the launch were Naza’s joint group executive chairman Datuk Wira SM Faisal, Naza Two Wheels vice president Nik Danial Nik Mahmood, and CEO of KR Motors Korea Bae Dong-Jun. Naza Bikes has expanded its range of offering with its new locally assembled (CKD) N5, which is essentially a Naza-rebadged version of the Hyosung Exiv 250. A liquid-cooled DOHC 249cc single-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection and four valves powers the N5. Paired with a six-speed constant-mesh manual transmission, the powertrain develops about 28.4hp at 8,500rpm and 26.1Nm of maximum torque at 7,000rpm. The powertrain is encased in a steel tubular trellis frame design, and features a 37mm inverted telescopic front fork whilst the rear features a preload asjustable single gas-charged hydraulic shock paired with dual-side swingarms made of aluminium. The chassis also features a 300mm single disc brake up front with four-piston calipers whilst the rear is primed with a 230mm-sized disc matched with a two-piston calipers. Weighing in at just 145kg and offering a low seat height of 780mm, the N5 has been targeted towards buyers intending to upgrade into the big-bikes scene from 150cc-sized bikes between the ages of 18 and 45. Naza Bikes have set its sights on selling 300 units monthly (roughly 3,600 units annually) of the N5 in the Malaysian market. The firm is also positioning for the N5 for introduction into its Indo-China operations. For now, Naza Bikes will offer the new N5 naked at a promotional price of RM13,988 on-the-road for the first 500 customers. Check out the gallery below to see more pictures of the newest single-cylinder naked 250cc bike to hit our market. 2014 Naza Bikes N5 250 launch ceremony Press Photos courtesy of Naza Two Wheels/Mediabond PR --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mbpmoto-to-debut-at-kuala-lumpur-bike-show-2023-mforce/

MBPMoto To Debut At Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023 – MForce

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd is set to expand its motorcycle brand offerings in Malaysia through MBP (Moto Bologna Passione) Moto. MBPMoto is an Italian brand with manufacturing facilities located in China. MBPMoto is also a subsidiary of Keeway, which is owned by QJ Motor. The announcement was made to the media after MForce attended the TOP68 Educational Tour Sales Campaign 2022 program in Pattaya, Thailand, recently. During the event, MForce also showcased several models from MBP. Interestingly, MForce has announced that the official launch and debut of the MBPMoto brand in Malaysia will take place at the Kuala Lumpur Bike Show 2023, which will be held in August at WTC Kuala Lumpur which we will bring you more detailed information over time. In addition, we have previously reported that MBPMoto will be introduced in Malaysia. Among the models we hope will be introduced here are the entry level cruiser motorcycle C650V and the T1200V adventure motorcycle. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-north-west-200-road-race-cancelled/

2021 North West 200 road race CANCELLED

The road racing fraternity has received yet another blow in their 2021 season after the organisers of the North West 200 road race announced that their 2021 race has been officially cancelled. This is due to the rising concerns related to COVID-19, which also resulted in the cancellation of this year’s Isle of Man TT event. The North West 200 organisers were planning to push the race to a later date sometime between May and August, but due to many circumstances, it was just impossible to make it stick, especially with official advice coming from the Northern Ireland government and public health officials. Safety is on everyone’s minds and it is imperative that it doesn’t get any worse. This is the second year in a row that the North West 200 had to be cancelled, which is the same case for the Isle of Man TT races. Both road races are iconic in nature as they blast through public roads and mountain passes to be labelled as some of the world’s fastest (and very dangerous) road races in history. COVID-19 has also affected the 2021 MotoGP season as the pre-season testing in Sepang had to be cancelled due to the newly-imposed Movement Control Order (nationwide partial lockdown) to fight the spread of the virus in the country. Let’s pray that all of this will blow away as soon as possible. Stay safe, folks! MotoGP: Sepang winter test CANCELLED Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-yamaha-exciter-155-vva-launched-in-vietnam-from-rm8200/

2021 Yamaha Exciter 155 VVA launched in Vietnam – From RM8,200

Yamaha Motor Vietnam has officially introduced its latest 2021 Yamaha Exciter 155 VVA for its local market yesterday. Regarded as the third evolution for the Exciter aka Y15ZR aka “Waisuku” here in Malaysia, this new 155cc cub comes with a host of upgrades and updates that are certainly very exciting indeed. The new Yamaha Exciter now carries some design cues taken from the brand’s sports bike options like the YZF-R6 and YZF-R1. More aggressive in its presence, there’s a whole new front LED headlight and fairing design that’s sportier and that theme flows right onto its rear. Its rear end shares a lot of similarities with the R15 entry-level sports bike. Going down to what’s inside, the Exciter 155 VVA now carries the same 155cc SOHC engine as the R15 and MT-15, which means that it now produces 17.7hp at 9,500rpm and 14.4Nm torque at 8,000rpm. Best of all, its six-speed manual transmission is further enhanced with an assist/slipper clutch! Other notable specs include a new LCD screen, Smart Key system, USB port, front dual-piston caliper (only for Premium variant), and a 5.4-litre fuel tank. Sadly, no ABS yet. As for pricing, the Vietnamese market can get the 2021 Yamaha Exciter 155 VVA from VND46.99 million to VND50.49 million (around RM8,235 to RM8,848). Petronas Sprinta Racing eyes Malaysian talent for 2022 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2024-bmw-r-18-roctane-breaks-cover/

2024 BMW R 18 Roctane Breaks Cover

BMW has announced the release of its newest member to the Heritage R 18 family, the R 18 Roctane.  The Roctane is a contemporary cruiser style bike, featuring bagger trim without the front fairing.  BMW describes the bike as “a cruiser, a bagger, and everything in between.” The Roctane is equipped with mid-rise bars, a painted hard side case, integrated turn signals, blacked-out engine, dark chrome exhaust, and a 21/18-inch wheelset. The motorcycle design takes inspiration from BMW’s air/oil cooled boxers from the past, with the large boxer engine as the focal point of the bike.  Metal body panels cover the motorcycle’s exterior, with the standard color being Black Storm Metallic. However, BMW offers options for those who prefer Mineral Grey Metallic Matte or Manhattan Metallic Matte. With 27-liter bags on each side, the R 18 Roctane is ideal for long-distance rides.   Similar to the base model, the R 18 Roctane is powered by a 1,802cc boxer engine, generating 91 hp and 157Nm of torque.  Despite its classic bodywork, the motorcycle is equipped with modern electronics inlcuding automatic stability control, dynamic brake control, cruise control, torque control assist, dynamic engine brake control, and riding modes, among other electronics features. However, adaptive headlights, hill start control, and reverse assist are optional features for the bike. The headlight houses an integrated instrument cluster inspired by the 1936 BMW R 5, displaying all relevant information expected of a modern bike. The matte paintwork contrasts with the high-gloss black chassis, adding sophistication to the motorcycle’s look. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-2022-triumph-tiger-1200-specs-and-detailed-photos-revealed/

OFFICIAL: 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 Specs And Detailed Photos Revealed

Triumph Motorcycles has officially launched the all-new Tiger 1200 and marked the British firm big step into the adventure-touring segment. The construction of the new Tiger 1200 focused solely on creating lighter and much powerful ADV bikes with class-leading handling and specs on and off-road. At the centre of the building is an all-new T-Plane crank engine that was previously introduced on the Tiger 900 range. The all-new 1160cc powerplant now makes 147hp @ 9,000rpm (8.5hp increase than the previous generation) and 130Nm @ 7,000rpm (8Nm up). Interestingly, the Tiger 1200 also features GT and Rally editions with the addition of new Explorer versions that boast a 30L fuel tank, higher-spec kit and added electronics. The Tiger 1200 GT and GT Pro features semi-active Showa suspension and gets a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear cast aluminium wheel. While the Tiger 1200 Rally and Rally Pro are equipped with 21″ front and 18″ rear tubeless rims for superior off-road handling and ability. However, the Explorer variant boasts an innovative blind spot detection system like the one available on the Ducati Multistrada V4 and KTM 1290 Super Adventure S including a substantial 30L fuel tank. The entire range of the new Tiger 1200 is expected to arrive at worldwide dealerships sometime in 2022. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/industry-standards-for-bluetooth-helmet-comms-coming-soon/

Industry standards for Bluetooth helmet comms coming soon

Leading brands making strong push for new industry standards for Bluetooth helmet comms. Universal Communication Solution (UCS) proposal could benefit consumers and brands. Key brands such as Cardo, Uclear and Midland are already backing UCS. Truly universal inter-brand/device connectivity could become a reality soon. Bluetooth helmet comms have seen rapid growth and adoption amongst users in recent years. However, what this product segment lack thus far is an industry-wide standardisation in place to help stimulate the tech’s drive forward. To help the industry form regulated guidelines, key brands such as Cardo Systems, Midland, Uclear, and Sygn House have reportedly given their support towards the Universal Communication Solution (UCS) proposal. UCS calls for the standardisation of Bluetooth helmet comms, specifically in the speaker dimensions and plug compatibility areas. Said backers hope this standardisation will help helmet manufacturers to better create interior liners to accommodate all speaker systems – to which most already do. The standards proposed through UCS could potentially lead towards a reduction in research and development time for Bluetooth helmet comms manufacturers and will likely grant consumers with more options. Presently, most Bluetooth helmet comms makers employ their own proprietary specifications and brand partnerships to get an edge over competitors (i.e. Cardo and JBL, Sena and Harman Kardon, Shoei and Sena, etc). Crucially, UCS regulation could reduce the possibility of one manufacturer cornering a specific market. Obviously, this would increase competition amongst brands, but it could also increase the number of models available to all consumers. The absence of a common standardisation or regulation sees most comm unit users encounter connectivity and compatibility issues across different brands. UCS should be able to remedy this by also introducing standards for both software and connectivity methods across multiple platforms. In short, should the UCS be implemented, Bluetooth helmet comms products with fully universal inter-brand/device connectivity could become a reality sooner rather than later. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mv-agusta-superveloce-alpine-sold-out-within-hours/

MV Agusta Superveloce Alpine sold out within HOURS

All 110 units of the limited edition MV Agusta Superveloce Alpine are sold out. That’s right, folks. Within hours of its official introduction, each and every unit has been spoken for. Looks like COVID-19 isn’t really affecting everyone, especially MV Agusta enthusiasts. This collaboration with French auto manufacturer, Alpine, saw the Superveloce paying homage to its A110 rear-engine sports car which made waves back in the 1970s when it won the Monte Carlo rally. That silver/blue colour combo certainly made headlines amongst enthusiasts of both brands, which is why they were sold so fast. According to Patrick Marinoff, Managing Director of Alpine, “MV Agusta is a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and excellence that makes motorcycles like no other. Our two brands are driven by the same passion for creating beautifully engineered products and unique emotions for our customers. The Superveloce Alpine is a fine piece of design and technology that makes no compromise on performance and riding pleasure.” Priced at €36,300, which is around RM178,124, the MV Agusta Superveloce Alpine comes with a 798cc inline-three engine with 146hp, Alcantara seat, custom Arrow exhaust system, race ECU kit, and other special additions that make this a truly unique sports-oriented machine. Truth be told, we strongly feel that this is one of the best-looking motorcycles of 2020. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/qjmotor-working-on-two-700cc-cruisers-could-become-rebadged-harley-davidson/

QJMotor working on two 700cc cruisers, could become rebadged Harley-Davidson?

QJMotor has a pair of 700cc cruisers in the pipelines, and they might one day become rebadged Harley-Davidson models. Sketches surface online purporting to be new 700cc cruisers from the QJMotor brand. They are reportedly recipient of the 693cc twin-cylinder heart from the brand’s upcoming middleweight sports machines. Despite obvious and clear QJMotor branding present, reports indicate both may become rebadged Harley-Davidson models. Chinese motorcycle giants QJMotor is poised to add two new 700cc cruiser models to its inventory, perhaps also hinting at possible new models under the Harley-Davidson partnership. Much of this reportedly stems from these two sketches that have surfaced online. The Chinese motorcycle producer has previously stated plans to launch two 700cc parallel-twin-powered sportbikes plus a smaller 550cc sport model. The engines in the former are expected to be similar in architecture to what powers the CFMoto 700 CL-X range. These new sketches, on the other hand, indicates that QJMotor’s collaboration with Harley-Davidson appears to be progressing well. These two cruisers – a Sportster-esque offering and a bagger – are likely recipients of a version of the 693cc parallel-twin from the aforementioned middleweight sport duo. What’s unclear for now is if these two cruisers would badged as QJMotor or Harley-Davidson offerings. Perhaps we can expect to see these cruisers see life with a QJMotor badge first, as suggested by these sketches clearly show both featuring QJMotor branding hallmarks. One likely outcome we won’t discount is the possibility of both bikes bearing Harley-Davidson badges exclusively in markets that favour its size such as Asia. Regardless of which badge it will eventually bear, these sketches clearly show QJMotor’s ambitions of entering the cruiser market space soon. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-yamaha-e01-electric-scooter-a-step-closer-to-production/

The Yamaha E01 Electric Scooter A Step Closer To Production

Yamaha latest patent revealed plans to move the battery-powered E01 concept to production. This is a big move coming from the office of Iwata, Japan, considering the manufacture have remained dominated by gas-powered machines. Yamaha unveiled the E01 at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, but due to the global pandemic happening a few months later, the plan was put on hold. According to Yamaha, the E01 was intended as a replacement for the 125cc scooter, thus it is likely the electric motorcycle has a power output of around 11kW (15hp). Moreover, recent reports suggest the production version will offer a higher power level, making it suitable for daily usage. Interestingly, Yamaha intends to continue with the codename E01 for the production version based on the trademark filed earlier this year. The production model will retain most of the elements found on the concept machine but with some tweaks to suit the real world better, as shown on the new patents. The headlight takes cue from the YZF-R1 with two LED units mounted underneath the nose, while the top part that looks like a single ‘headlamp’ actually hides the charging socket. This is a brilliant move by Yamaha, which allow better access to the charging station. Since the middle section of the electric scooter is mainly designed to fit in a large lithium-ion battery, you can expect less storage space than a conventional gas-powered scooter. Despite no further details, we can safely assume the E01 will debut in 2022. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/flagging-off-from-melbourne-with-hadi-hussein/

Flagging-off from Melbourne with Hadi Hussein

Hadi Hussein is a 44-year-old Johorian purist (JB), a former disaster-deployment expert and a well experienced humanitarian by profession. Follow his Journey from PART 1 HERE before we cover his visit to the Malaysian consulate in Melbourne before flagging-off. Continued.. I departed for Melbourne on 25th of October 2015 around 2150 hrs. The flight took about 7 hours to reach Melbourne and I’ve arrived at 1000 hrs the next day. My arrival was welcomed by my Australian friend Mr John Dogget. We had a small chat while waiting for the representatives from Malaysia Consulate in Melbourne. When they arrived I was taken straight to the Cargo Office to get my motorcycle out of the storage. What I can say is that, from the process of checking my carnet, to the documentation clearance fill up at the custom building, everything was really efficiently handled. After the carnet and documentation are cleared, we made reservation for an inspector to attend to the bike, although this had to until the next morning. I was then escorted by the Consulate Representatives towards Melbourne Town where I checked in at the Tune Hotel. Tune Hotel was my choice because most of the rooms here can be rented with affordable prices for a budget traveller. What I love about this hotel is that it provides a safe parking area for my bike. I slept early that night, pretty exhausted due to lack of rest. The next day, I was fetched by the officers from the Consulate General Melbourne very early in the morning and they took me to the Cargo office. The inspection officer took around just 15 minutes checking the bike and the bike are permitted to be cleared out. Alhamdulillah. I did the signing of the clearance documentation and paid the fees. Lucky that from the beginning I’ve reminded the Consulate officers to bring me some fuel just to make sure I’ll be able to reach the nearest petrol pump. For me riding in Australia is full of discipline and be warn to make sure you follow the speed limit. If you exceed, you might get a summon ticket and they are not cheap here. I went straight back to the hotel to reorganize and made several adjustments to the bike, before attending a tea session with the Consulate General, Matrade staffs and also some students from Malaysia that were studying in Melbourne. They were all very sporting and great to talk with. After that, I went back to the hotel, grabbed some food for dinner before dozed off as I was still jet lagged. Due to exhaustion, I woke up late the next day. Then I decided to get up to get lunch. You don’t have to be worried about finding halal food in Melbourne. There are a lot of shops and stalls that sell halal food. That evening I went to the “Melbourne Travel Centre” to get some information that I might need for the journey ahead. The uniqueness of this place is that, it’s a one stop centre that has been designed and managed by the Tourism of Australia to give tourists all necessary information for their visit. They also sell travel cards and holiday passes that allows tourists to all local attractions and interesting places under several different packages. The prices of the passes will depend on the places to visit and the duration of stay. I was given an “Iventure” card that permits me to enter several places while I was in Melbourne. I took the opportunity to visit the city of Melbourne on the third day. I went out sightseeing all the beautiful places around the city on a hop-on-hop-off bus. I spent at least two hour on the bus and I was lucky to finish my tour in time before the skies became dark and temperature dropped very quickly. On my way back, I bumped into a Malaysian. After having some chit chat and discussed some local happenings back home, we decided to hang out a bit more and that eventually lead to dinner. That night we had Mutton Fried Rice and Teh Tarik . It was a bliss to have some familiar food and be able to talk to a fellow Malaysian when you’re out alone in another country. Morning of the 30th October 2015 is the start of it all. It’s a memorable date that will be kept close to my mind and heart. Officially I was starting my journey as an Anak Johor Merentas Benua. My heart pounded and I kept reciting the Quran verses in my head, praying that my journey will be safe and blessed. The flag-off was done by the Consulate Immigration Melbourne, Mr Zaharuddin Izham , witnessed by staffs from Matrade, the consulate and also some Malaysian students. I went and rode to my first destination of the day, which was Mount Gambier. The ride however was not even quarter of the journey when the skies turned into total darkness and temperature dropped rapidly to 13 Celsius. It started drizzling and that was when I decided to skip the intention of going to Mount Gambier. The reason was that it was my first day of riding to somewhere I wasn’t familiar, and I didn’t want to take unnecessary risk. I’m a calculative person and to be riding in the dark, on a wet road in a foreign country is a big NO for me. So I followed my instinct and headed for a nearby town called Portland instead. That night I stopped at a camp site nearby and pitched up my trusted tent in the wet, cold and dark night. I tried to get some shut-eye, but my head kept imagining of my route for the days to come. to be continued… --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-about-tyre-grip-what-is-traction/

All about Tyre Grip – What is Traction?

Dovizioso, Braking, Tyres, Aragon MotoGP 2012 We always talk about grip and traction. But what exactly is traction? It comes from friction but what then is friction? We always talk about “grip” and “traction.” More specifically, which tyres are gripper and provide more traction other other tyres. We know what tyres you are thinking of as soon as we said grip. But do you know what traction actually is? Defining traction “A physical process in which a tangential force is transmitted across an interface between two bodies through dry friction or an intervening fluid film resulting in motion, stoppage or the transmission of power.” — Mechanical Wear Fundamentals and Testing, Raymond George Baye That’s a mouthful, isn’t it? Isn’t there an easier way to describe it? Friction is good It has to do with friction. We think of friction as two rubbing surfaces: The rougher they are in relation to each other, the more friction is generated. It’s certainly true with traction. While the tyre’s thread has a smoother surface, the road aggregate is rough, thereby creating friction. But c’mon, do you think we’re going to stop there? In truth, even the smoothest surface has peak and valleys like mountain ranges when viewed under the microscope. When two of these surfaces interact, the peaks and valleys complement each other, while two “peaks” sort of “weld” into each other when they touch. So how does a tyre generate grip/traction? The tyre’s compound conforms to the peaks and valleys of the surface it’s on. The softer the compound, the easier it is for the tyre’s surface to conform to these irregularities, and vice versa a harder compound. Also note the temperature of the tyre. The compound becomes softer through not only friction with the road but also through internal friction among its molecules. This is also how tyre wear occurs. But what about the traction needed during acceleration or cornering or braking? That’s for another part because it involves vectors, coefficient of friction, forces, mass, etc. so stay tuned. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/civic-type-r-vs-cbr1000rr-the-ultimate-duel/

Civic Type R vs CBR1000RR – The ultimate duel!

Popular motoring media Auto Express answered the age old question on which is faster, bike or car? But they did it with a twist, by pitting the latest Honda Civic Type R against the fire breathing Honda CBR1000RR. Both are piloted by experienced racers, but since the bike has a gigantic power to weight ratio, the car is given a 10 second lead. So who wins? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/japanese-man-sets-new-world-record-longest-wheelie-500km/

Japanese Man sets New World Record for Longest Wheelie – 500km!

It was Masaru Abe from Japan who set the new world record for longest wheelie at 500.5322km on 1 May 2017. He completed the attempt in over 13 hours on board a Yamaha Jog 50cc scooter. The distance covered is enough to travel from Kuala Lumpur all the way to Perlis with one wheel up in the air the whole time! 33 year old Masaru Abe from Japan not only obliterated the old wheelie record of 331.0195km, he actually wheelied his Yamaha Jog scooter at an unbelievable distance of 500.5322km! Now known as the undisputed “Wheelie King”, Masaru set his record on 1 May 2017 at the Kawaguchi Auto Race facility located in Saitama which took him over 13 hours to complete. 500km is a long distance to travel even in comfort. Just imagine doing the distance with the front wheel dangling up in the air for over 13 hours from the middle of Kuala Lumpur all the way to Perlis! The record breaking attempt started at 7.09am where Abe maintained a steady 40km/h around the oval track. Two hours into the record attempt, Abe experienced lower back pain and had to take a break to consume some painkillers in order to make the rest of the journey bearable. Since it’s only a small capacity scooter, the team had to come up with a unique way to refuel the machine without interrupting Abe’s momentum. In order to refuel, the support crew road alongside Abe where he was given a refuelling unit to connect to a quick release coupling on the handlebar. Once the job is done, the support crew simply rolled away for Abe to continue his one wheel journey. Even former two-time 125cc world champion Haruchika Aoki came to the facility four hours into the attempt to offer his support and motivation for Abe. According to Motorcyclist Online, Aoki stated “I would never be able to perform wheelies with control on a weak 4-stroke 125cc scooter. This course is also known as being especially windy. The vehicles on the course can be engulfed in powerful wind. With the slopes on the track, I think just holding a wheelie is difficult enough.” Former two-time 125cc world champion Haruchika Aoki He actually passed the previous record at eight hours and 18 minutes but insisted to reach his target mark of 600km. 12 hours in, Abe was screaming in pain but at the same time shouted words of encouragement to himself but the pain was too much an hour later which stopped his record at just over 500km. After the record breaking feat, Abe commented “If I didn’t go further than what I thought my own limit was, then someone else would. I thought if I was going to try and break the record, then I would have to post unattainable numbers that would leave people totally speechless.” And you certainly did, Masaru Abe. You left all of us in awe and amazement with your stunning feat. Congratulations for the new world record! Photo source: Red Bull --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/alpinestars-founder-passes-away-at-91-years-old/

Alpinestars founder passes away at 91 years old

Alpinestars founder, Sante Mazzarolo, sadly passed away at his home in Italy earlier this week after battling a long-term illness. Aged 91 years old, the brightest ‘Alpine Star’ left a legacy that is arguably one of most renowned brands in the two-wheel industry, from your very first riding gear all the way up to the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, MotoGP. Mazzarolo was a skilled leatherworker with a knack in producing some stunning riding boots for the European motorcycle scene. He founded Alpinestars way back in 1963 which was inspired by beautiful flowers called Edelweiss (which grew wildly all over the Alps) and throughout the years, Alpinestars quickly became a household name. What started off as making boots for enduro riders, the brand rose to glory with many champions from all motorsports discipline wearing the company’s products to win championships. It all started with Roger de Coster when he won several World Motocross Championships in the 1970s wearing Alpinestars boots. Fast forward to today, you can see the name everywhere in MotoGP, WorldSBK, Formula 1, NASCAR, and many more. All worn by top athletes like Marc Marquez, Maverick Vinales, Jorge Lorenzo, Andrea Dovizioso, Fabio Quartararo, and many more. Rest in peace, sir Sante Mazzarolo. Marc Marquez Crashed at 26G – Alpinestars Releases Suit Data --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gpx-demon-gr200r-now-available-in-japan/

GPX Demon GR200R Now Available In Japan

Entry-level sportbike from Thailand, the GPX Demon GR200R has make its way to Japan signalling the brand plans to expand its exposure to a wider market.  GPX has expanded its reach to the Japanese market with the introduction of the 2023 Demon GR200R. The 200cc sportsbike is equipped with modern features including an adjustable rear monoshock by YSS.  GPX is a Thailand-based motorcycle manufacturer that is popular not just locally but also throughout South East Asia including Malaysia.  Although most of its components, including engines are sources from China, the assembly process is taken place in its Thailand facility. Currently, GPX offers a wide range of models including maxi-scooters, retro-style cafe racers and streetbikes. However, the Demon GR200R is the sportiest model available from GPX’s portfolio. Available at JPY539,000, the Demon GR200R is a basic yet capable entry-level sportbike that features front and rear disc, inverted front fork and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock from YSS.  The 2023 model year gets a new full-colour digital LCD display and revised graphics.  Powering the GR200R is a 198cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected 4-valve engine that makes 19hp and 17.6Nm of torque. The GPX Demon GR200R is suspended by a steel trellis frame that uses the engine as a stressed member. Therefore, the centre of gravity remains low and ensure a better handling on the road.  Thanks to the seven-step rear suspension adjustment by YSS, riders can fine-tune the bike’s suspension to their liking.  According to reports, GPX is already accepting pre-orders for the GR200R with deliveries expected to commence early 2023.    --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-new-triumph-tiger-1200-to-feature-t-plane-crank/

CONFIRMED: All-New Triumph Tiger 1200 To Feature T-Plane Crank

Just a few weeks ago, Triumph Motorcycles unveiled the Tiger 1200 Prototype, which is launching soon. When the guys at Hinckley dropped the first set of teasers, there were questions about whether the Tiger 1200 will received the same innovative T-plane crank as the Tiger 900. However, the latest teaser by Triumph has confirmed that the Tiger 1200 will feature the new innovative T-plane crank, which will take the newest adventure bike to greater heights. The T-plane crank improves power delivery at low and high rpm making which helps to propel the Tiger 900 as a leading middleweight adventure bike. While the full details of the new engine are still unknown, including the specs, it is safe to assume that the Tiger 1200 with its T-plane crank is something to look forward to. “The new Tiger 1200 official prototype testing showcases Triumph’s signature T-Plane triple advantage for the first time in the large capacity adventure world. “Delivering more power and character than its closest competition, the only other shaft-driven bike in the class, the new 1200 engine brings all of the low-down torque delivery of a twin, married to the top-end punch and an incredible soundtrack that only the Triumph triple delivers.   “The new T-Plane triple is beautifully smooth and refined, with incredible response and tractability, equally perfect for kicking up the dirt, sweeping through the corners, or crossing continents in style,” said Triumph in a statement. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-malaysian-police-pdrm-will-confiscate-illegally-modified-motorcycles/

Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) Will Confiscate Illegally Modified Motorcycles

Photo credit NST.com.my The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) warned that they can confiscate illegally modified motorcycles. Attention falls on the Yamaha Y15ZR or better known colloquially as “Ysuku.” Not all, but there are many thoroughly modified Ysukus. The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) warned that they can confiscate illegally modified motorcycles. “Illegally modified” in this sense means motorcycles that are modified without having prior or proper permission. PDRM did not say what proper permission means, but one can assume a permission or homologation from the Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ). The statement was issued by Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department deputy director Mohd. Nadzri Hussain. He made a stern warning that the police will not hesitate to confiscate illegally modified motorcycles. The attention falls on the Yamaha Y15ZR (some non-motorcycle media reported wrongly as “Yamaha 15ZR”) or better known colloquially as “Ysuku.” “Last time, motorcycles that were often modified were the Honda EX5 but not it’s the Ysuku. This is dangerous because these users like to modify the motorcycle for speed and it is not able to handle it,” said Datp’ Mohd. Nadzri. The police are aware of this trend especially among the youth. No one can doubt the model’s popularity which is good for the industry. But like what the cops said, we’ve encountered so many that were so thoroughly modified that they could tail superbikes easily. Adding fuel to fire, many of those caught in illegal races were riding Ysukus. Sure, motorcycling and modifications are a way of life but if the objectives are to win illegal races and lord about being overtake big bikes, it’s not a lifestyle anymore. It’s a nuisance. You have been warned. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/enjoy-great-rebates-harley-davidson-passport-freedom-campaign/

Enjoy great rebates with Harley-Davidson Passport to Freedom campaign!

Harley-Davidson has launched its Passport to Freedom campaign. Future H-D bike owners can enjoy rebates up to RM2,600 when they purchase a new bike until 30 September 2018. These incentives will help new bike owners in funding for their B Full license, merchandise, parts, accessories, and H.O.G® membership costs. The folks representing Harley-Davidson here in Malaysia has just launched its premier Passport to Freedom campaign. From now until 30 September 2018, new H-D bike owners can enjoy a number of great rebates that can assist in obtaining their B Full licenses, training costs plus more. According to Johan Kleinsteuber, Managing Director of Asia Emerging Markets for Harley-Davidson, “Passport to Freedom is a program that celebrates one’s personal motorcycling milestone. True to our stand of freedom for all, we are incentivizing riders for taking the step up to big bike ownership and riding by helping fund their training costs through rebates from us.” The rebates up to RM2,600 (USD650) will be made available to all new H-D bike owners until 30 September 2018 where this can assist in their cost for training and obtaining their big bike licenses. The rebates can also assist in offsetting things like H-D MotorClothes®, parts and accessories customization, and lifetime H.O.G® (Harley Owners Group) membership costs. Interested customers who would like to participate in the Passport to Freedom program will only have to follow these three very simple steps: Get a big bike license: Attain a big bike license (B Full) between 1 January 2018 and 30 September 2018. Select a bike: Choose from the list of eligible bikes and purchase it before 30 September 2018. Enjoy the rebate: Receive up to US$650 (MYR2,600) rebates towards training costs, or use the fund to offset H-D MotorClothes®, parts and accessories customization, and lifetime H.O.G® membership costs. 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Low Rider As an added bonus, those who register online at https://register.harley-davidson.com/Passport-To-Freedom-en_AP will also get a limited edition Harley-Davidson passport cover (while stocks last). To know more, head over to any of the authorised H-D dealers situated in Petaling Jaya (The Gasket Alley), Penang (Auto City), and Melaka (Taman Kota Laksamana). Harley-Davidson moves production outside of the US --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/next-gen-ktm-duke-spied-testing-in-spain/

Next-Gen KTM Duke Spied Testing In Spain

Several spy photos have emerged what looks like a new small-capacity KTM Duke undergoing testing in Spain.  The test mule is likely to be an updated version of the 125 Duke.  The bike features a new redesigned headlight and revised subframe.  The test mule can be seen HERE as published by European publication Motociclimso. However, from the looks of it, the test mule is still in an early stage given that many components are not yet completed.  While we have no information regarding the engine capacity, it is likely an update for either the 125 Duke or 390 Duke. However, looking at the engine size and exhaust exit, it is possible that we are looking at the 125.  Taking a closer look at the bodywork, we can see a design language that is similar to the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and Super Duke R EVO. That said, the front shroud bodywork extends towards the front past the fork legs. The rear subframe also appears to be a cast aluminium instead of the steel tubular design.  The test mule also features a redesigned headlamp but continue to portray the Duke’s DNA.  While the new development seems exciting, it is difficult to predict when will the new machine make its way to production.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/nicky-hayden-updates-red-bull-honda-world-superbike-team/

Nicky Hayden Updates from the Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team

Nicky Hayden was involved in a major road accident which left him with severe pelvic, head and chest trauma while out on a cycling training session in Rimini, Italy. The 2006 MotoGP World Champion was then transported to Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena under their intensive care unit. He is said to have suffered a serious polytrauma with subsequent serious cerebral damage. As most of you might already have heard, the 2006 MotoGP World Champion and current WorldSBK factory rider for the Red Bull Honda World Superbike Team Nicky Hayden was involved in a terrible accident while training in Italy. Image source: Rimini Today Image source: Rimini Today The 35 year old was out cycling with a few friends when a Peugeot struck him head on resulted in a violent crash with the car’s front end and windshield. The incident left him with severe pelvic, head and chest trauma before he was transported to the nearest local hospital in Rimini, Italy. CLICK HERE to read the full story. Since then, Hayden has been receiving overwhelming support from family, friends and fans from around the world and his WorldSBK team has been sharing daily updates regarding his current condition. "Forza Nicky, we're all with you." – #VR46 on Hayden #GoNicky ? https://t.co/rgz2CK91XL pic.twitter.com/cT3qCdd8Xa — MotoGP™ ??? (@MotoGP) May 18, 2017 Yesterday, Hayden’s team released this: “Nicky Hayden’s clinical condition remains extremely critical. The young man, who is still in the intensive care unit of Cesena’s Bufalini hospital, has suffered a serious polytrauma with subsequent serious cerebral damage. The prognosis remains reserved.” A few hours before that, the Red Bull Honda World Superbike squad released this: “Following the incident, Nicky was treated on site by medical staff and then taken by ambulance to a hospital near Rimini for immediate treatment. Once Nicky’s condition was stabilised, he was transferred to Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena and remains in the hospital’s intensive care unit. Members of Nicky’s team and his fiancé are with him in the hospital,” “We would like to thank everyone for their kind wishes and messages of support and the assistance of emergency and medical services. Once an official statement regarding Nicky’s condition is released by the hospital or Nicky’s family, a further update from the team will be issued.” We here at Bikes Republic send our love and support to Nicky Hayden and hope that his condition will improve. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Champ. #GoNicky --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-2016-aprilia-rs-gp-machine-finally-unveiled/

New 2016 Aprilia RS-GP machine finally unveiled

Aprilia Racing Team Gresini finally shows off its new 2016 Aprilia RS-GP MotoGP race bike. The factory-backed Aprilia Racing Team Gresini outfit has finally showed off its new 2016 MotoGP race machine, the 2016 Aprilia RS-GP. After what seemed like an endless struggle lasting throughout the 2014 and 2015 seasons, the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini is looking to change its fortunes in the upcoming 2016 season with its totally new machine. The new race bike finally broke cover during the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini’s three-day testing stint in Qatar. 2015 Aprilia RS-GP bike Unlike the last Aprilia RS-GP machines the out fit raced, which were developed and built based on Aprilia’s production-based superbike, this new 2016 Aprilia RS-GP is totally new from the ground up. It has an all-new V4 engine underneath as well, but debate has risen over what cylinder angle it has now. The previous Aprilia RS-GP had its V4 engine use a 65-degree cylinder angle as found in the Aprilia RSV-4 road-going superbike. The team was spotted testing with the old Aprilia RS-GP bike prior to this during the Sepang Tests. Much of the tests in Sepang revolved around data acquisition with the new unified spec-electronics and Michelin tyres. (Read our reports from the recent Sepang Tests here and here) Alvaro Bautista Stefan Bradl Clearly, much of the data collected in Sepang have led towards properly developing this new 2016 Aprilia RS-GP. The new bike also underwent an initial shakedown in Aragon, Spain prior to its three-day stint in Qatar with riders Alvaro Bautista and Stefan Bradl. Reports further indicate that the new 2016 Aprilia RS-GP is now considerably lighter than its predecessor where it will likely weigh in just on the FIM’s minimum weight requirement imposed on MotoGP bikes. Aprilia’s racing chief Romano Albesiano was quoted by sources in stating: “After the Aragon shakedown with the test riders, Alvaro and Stefan began to get to know the new Aprilia RS-GP here in Qatar. These were three very intense and positive days of work.” Aprilia’s test in Qatar with its new bike was undoubtedly a critical one, especially for both riders Alvaro Bautista and Stefan Bradl. Both riders reportedly admitted that there is plenty more to do in the lead up to the Qatar season-opener next moth, but both also denoted that the stark differences between this new bike against the old one signalled that they were on the right path. You can check out more pictures in the galleries we’ve prepared below. 2016 Aprilia RS-GP 2016 Aprilia Gresini Racing Team @ 2016 Sepang Pre-Season Test Alvaro Bautista Stefan Bradl --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-vinales-wins-marquez-pedrosa-lorenzo-dovizioso-crashed/

MotoGP: Yamaha One-Two Finish! Hondas and Ducatis Crashed Out

Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) became the first Yamaha rider to win the first two opening races since Wayne Gardner back in 1990 Valentino Rossi completed his 350th Grand Prix race strong in second position Cal Crutchlow kept his composure finished in P3 after battling it out with Rossi It was a great race day for both Movistar Yamaha MotoGP riders, Maverick Vinales and Valentino Rossi. After crossing the line in first place, Vinales became the first Yamaha rider to win the first two MotoGP rounds since Wayne Gardner back in 1990. Rossi who crossed the finish line about three seconds behind his team mate completed his 350th GP race in style and class. This makes the 223rd podium finish for the nine times MotoGP World Champion. After a strong and calculated race from The Doctor, he is now second in the world standings with only 14 points behind his team mate. Cal Crutchlow from LCR Honda maintained in second position for most part of the race but at the end dropped to P3 with only seven laps left in the race due to a warning light shown from that needed to be managed in order for the Brit to finish the race. We assumed that the warning light indicated his fuel consumption rate. The race was also a major crash fest for a lot of the high profile riders. For starters, it was Jorge Lorenzo from the Ducati Team who crashed out in the very first lap after running into the back of Andrea Iannone’s SUZUKI ECSTAR GSX-RR. Iannone finished the race in last place after a ride-through penalty was given for his highly-debatable jumpstart. Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa from the Repsol Honda outfit both fell in similar fashion at the very same corner. Marquez slid off earlier in the race most probably due to cold tyres giving the number one spot to Vinales. Pedrosa suffered a much more violent crash with only 12 laps to go in the race. CLICK HERE to check out Pedrosa’s crash caught on camera. The other Ducati factory rider Andrea Dovizioso was heading for a top 10 finish until he was taken out by Aleix Espargaro from the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini. The crash between the two was almost identical on how Dovi was taken out last year in the very same track by his former team mate, Andrea Iannone. CLICK HERE to check out the crash on video. Alvaro Bautista (Pull&Bear Aspar Team) gave a stunning show with fellow rookie Monster Tech 3 Yamaha rider, Johann Zarco. Bautista finished in P4 6.5 seconds behind Vinales and Zarco 15.5 seconds behind the Spaniard. It was a strong effort shown by the Frenchman considering that he started the race all the way back in P14. Pos. Num. Rider Nation Team Time/Gap 1 25 Maverick Vinales SPA Movistar Yamaha MotoGP 41’45.060 2 46 Valentino Rossi ITA Movistar Yamaha MotoGP 2.915 3 35 Cal Crutchlow GBR LCR Honda 3.754 4 19 Alvaro Bautista SPA Pull&Bear Aspar Team 6.523 5 5 Johann Zarco FRA Monster Yamaha Tech 3 15.504 6 94 Jonas Folger GER Monster Yamaha Tech 3 18.241 7 9 Danilo Petrucci ITA OCTO Pramac Racing 20.046 8 45 Scott Redding GBR OCTO Pramac Racing 25.48 9 43 Jack Miller AUS EG 0,0 Marc VDS 25.665 10 17 Karel Abraham CZE Pull&Bear Aspar Team 26.403 CLICK HERE for the complete MotoGP results for the Gran Premio Motul de la Republica Argentina at the Termas de Rio Hondo. CLICK HERE to know more about the Moto2 race won by Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS). CLICK HERE to know more about the Moto3 race won by Joan Mir (Leopard Racing). The next MotoGP round will be in two weeks’ time in Texas at the Red Bull Grand Prix of the Americas. The Circuit of the Americas will see some MotoGP action starting from 21 April to 23 April 2017. Photo source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-kawasaki-ninja-h2-sx-malaysian-debut-in-may-rm150000/

2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX Malaysian debut in May – RM150,000?

Some reliable sources have indicated that the 2018 Kawasaki H2 SX might arrive in Malaysia sometime in May. Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KSMB) did announce before that it’ll debut within the second quarter of 2018. As for pricing, our best guess would be somewhere around the RM150,000 range. The world’s most powerful touring motorcycle that is the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX which was launched late last year during EICMA 2017 in Milan, Italy will be making its way here in Malaysia. The good news is that it might be closer than you think so those who are interested can start saving up for the world’s only production sport-touring motorcycle. 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX unveiled – The mean, green, super-touring machine Based on reliable sources, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX will be made available within the first half of the year. If we are lucky, we might be able to obtain this machine just in time for Hari Raya Puasa. Not a bad way to surprise the folks back home during the holiday season, right? It won’t be long before Kawasaki authorised dealers across the country will start taking bookings for the ultimate touring machine which we highly suspect will be unveiled sometime in May. As for the pricing, that’s a bit of a sensitive issue in today’s world of premium production motorcycles. We all know that Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) is very eager to bring this beast in as soon as they can but when it comes to pricing, they have to play their cards right to ensure that it’ll be a big hit among bike enthusiasts here in the country. While the UK market has priced the H2 SX from £15,099 (around RM83,592), there are a lot of things that need to be considered for any manufacturer who wants to bring in their latest bikes here in Malaysia. With all the import tax, excise duties, and sales tax, we’re guessing that it might be priced somewhere in the RM150,000 range. All things considered, owning a 998cc supercharged four-cylinder engine that’s able to churn out around 200hp and 140Nm of maximum torque that can handle almost all road riding scenarios is indeed an enlightened journey for those who are able to afford. Paired with the latest electronic riding aids money can buy courtesy of Kawasaki such as Kawasaki Corner Management Function (KCMF), Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS), Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, future owners will be able to pilot this baby around corners with fun and tenacity when compared to the best of the best in its category. As for now, all we can do is wait for its official debut which will hopefully be in the next few weeks. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. 5 Things to Expect from the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/msc-2015-rd-2-bittersweet-weekend-for-price-lubricants-racing-team/

MSC 2015 Rd.2 – Bittersweet weekend for Prince Lubricants Racing Team

Prince Lubricants Racing Team marks a bittersweet outing in Round 2 of the Malaysia Superbike Championship 2015 (MSC 2015) held during WSBK Malaysia 2015. The hype may be on the WSBK Malaysia 2015 race weekend main event, but this did little to stop many talented local aces in the Malaysia Superbike Championship 2015 (MSC 2015) support event from taking their spots on the grid. However, for the Prince Lubricant Racing Team, it would a bittersweet one. We say this because the team’s lead rider, Colin Robin, marks perhaps his final outing in the championship last weekend. Colin, one of the most colourful personalities on the series’ grid, ended the weekend on a pretty high note by scoring one podium finish in Race 2 of the premier Superbike (A) class held on Sunday. The MSC 2015 weekend for Round 2 began early on Friday with Practice and Qualifying. Tricky weather conditions brewed by a mid-afternoon shower plus heavy cloud overcast saw Colin only managing to Qualify sixth in his category, and seventh overall. Teammate Linggam Rammoo, on the other hand, had an even bigger challenge on Friday whilst competing in the Superstock (B) class. Due to the time constraint, the Superstock (A) and Superstock (B) class’ qualifying session was run simultaneously together with the supporting Ducati Desmo Cup event’s qualifying as well, causing heavy on-circuit traffic and little room for hot laps. Nevertheless Liggam was able to end the day by Qualifying fifth in the Superstock (B) class, and 13th overall. Race 1 of both the Superbike and Superstock classes were held on Saturday. Unfortunately, Linggam’s day came to an early end after colliding with another rider in Turn 1 during the first lap, forcing the series rookie to retire. Thankfully, his Kawasaki ZX-10R superstock racer was not too badly damaged and the team were able to restore it for Linggam to compete in Race 2 the next day. Saturday was also not a day for Colin in the Superbike class’ first race. Astride his Kawasaki ZX-10R SBK race bike, Colin only managed to finish Race 1 in seventh overall and sixth in class. Sunday fared out better for both Colin and Linggam, with both riders finishing their respective races as well. For Linggam, a bad start saw him drop down the order, but he managed to soldier on with his Kawasaki ZX-10R to finish the race in 23rd overall and 16th in class. Despite the less than ideal results, the race was important as Linggam raked up more miles and experience. For Colin, Sunday was a day of pure vindication instead. The Aussie managed to fight his way up the order with his Kawasaki ZX-10R, eventually crossing the finish line in third overall and second in the Superbike (A) class. As this was to be his last outing in the championship, the result from Race 2 was indeed a sweet one for the Aussie who marks his first podium finish for the season. As the weekend drew to a close, we are again faced with the sad reality of Colin’s exit from our local scene. We hope to see his return into our little national field. Rest assure that Colin’s absence will be felt by the entire paddock. Prince Lubricants Racing Team @ MSC 2015 Rd.2 / WSBK Malaysia 2015 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/want-to-race-in-motogp-for-the-avintia-reale-ducati-team-only-rm5-million/

Want to race in MotoGP for the Avintia Reale Ducati team? Only RM5 million!

The 2018 MotoGP seats for the Avintia Reale Ducati team are still up for grabs considering that they’ve not confirm any riders yet. Current riders Loris Baz and Hector Barbera are said not to be continuing their race efforts with the Avintia Ducati outfit for next year. Rumours points towards Tito Rabat who is said will bring in his own personal sponsorship of around €1 million (around RM 5 million) to get into the 2018 MotoGP Ducati hot seat. We all know that all the MotoGP seats for 2018 are fast getting filled in with more riders being announced as of late. The latest would be the controversial signing of Scott Redding to race with the Aprilia Racing Team Gresini outfit in replacement of the outgoing Sam Lowes. To know more about Scott Redding’s signing with Aprilia, CLICK HERE. There are not a lot left and riders who have not signed for 2018 are desperately scrambling for the available seats but it won’t be an easy task. Teams like the Marc VDS and Avintia Reale Ducati are still up for grabs. According to a report made by MCN, the current riders for Avintia Reale Ducati have not been confirmed just yet for 2018 which also means that it’s open for others to partake as well. Tito Rabat (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) News in the paddocks are pointing in the direction of current MotoGP rider Tito Rabat (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) who has been claimed to be the on top of the Avintia Ducati scout list. The signing of Rabat with the Avintia Ducati for 2018 is further strengthen with the fact that the rider himself will be bringing in his own form of sponsorship of around €1 million (around RM 5 million) to team next year. Mika Kallio, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team test rider However, there are other riders mentioned to be involved in the discussions pertaining getting that seat in the Avintia Reale Ducati squad. Mika Kallio who’s currently the test rider for the factory KTM squad might be highly likely considering the amount of time and effort he has spent in developing the KTM RC16 MotoGP bike and also obtaining the best ever KTM race result when he raced as a wild card entry in the previous round. The news however is still very much in the dark considering that the team might scout for potential riders from the current Moto2 line up instead for obvious financial reasons. All in all, we just have to wait for a few more weeks before the team is ready to make their official announcement. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP updates. Image source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/beautiful-suzuki-gsx-r1000-ever/

Is this the most beautiful Suzuki GSX-R1000 ever?

The endurance-ready Suzuki GSX-R1000 built by the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team (SERT) is a formidable race machine. Suzuki has won 14 titles in the FIM EWC and they’re looking for their 15th championship win this season. Suzuki is currently third in the manufacturer’s championship after a rough start in the first two opening rounds. One of the most competitive teams in the FIM Endurance World Championship is looking primed and ready to take on this year’s endurance season with their latest Suzuki GSX-R1000. The Suzuki Endurance Racing Team of better known as SERT has had a rough start this year but they’re looking to bounce back especially at the annual Suzuka 8 Hours which will happen from 27 to 29 July 2018. The factory-supported racing team will be using the latest generation of the Suzuki GSX-R1000. Paired with three experienced endurance racers which are Vincent Philippe, Etienne Masson, and Gregg Black, they now sit in sixth overall place this season after finishing seventh in Bol D’Or and 24th in 24 Hours Motos. The French team is still getting to know the brand new machinery and based on the manufacturers ranking, Suzuki is in third place (and not too far behind Yamaha and Kawasaki). As for the championship, SERT has a long way to go to catch up with the current leader which is the F.C.C. TSR Honda and their Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. With three rounds remaining and 14 titles under their belt, the 15th title looks a bit farfetched but in the world of motorcycle endurance racing, anything can happen. For now, sit back and soak in all the beauty that is this Suzuki GSX-R1000. Image source: Suzuki Racing Suzuki Katana is making a comeback? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-wants-to-take-control-of-mv-agusta/

KTM Wants To Take Control Of MV Agusta

Pierer Mobility Group (PMG) has expressed its intention to become the majority shareholder of renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta, according to a recent interview with Hubert Trunkenpolz, a member of PMG’s Executive Board. PMG currently holds 25.1 percent stake in MV Agusta.  PMG plans to expand the current production line.  Last year, PMG acquired a 25.1% stake in MV Agusta, raising concerns in Italy that the company would suffer the same fate as Husqvarna, which became a subsidiary of KTM. However, Trunkenpolz has reassured enthusiasts that MV Agusta will not follow the same path. Contrary to downsizing and relocating production, PMG plans to enhance MV Agusta’s existing production line. Last year, the company manufactured a mere 1,000 motorcycles, a figure Trunkenpolz considers insufficient. He envisions increasing the production capacity to 12,000 bikes annually, highlighting the importance of achieving this goal for KTM. In addition to preserving MV Agusta’s production base in Schiranna, Trunkenpolz explained that the brand’s role within the PMG portfolio will be focused on producing luxury motorcycles priced at EUR30,000 (RM140k) or higher.  This strategic positioning aims to prevent overlap with other PMG brands such as KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas. Trunkenpolz also criticized MV Agusta’s Lucky Explorer model, which is manufactured abroad and, in his opinion, detrimental to the brand’s image. *The Lucky Explorer 5.5 initial plans is to be manufactured in China via QJ Motor.  Acquiring a controlling stake in MV Agusta is crucial for PMG to implement the desired changes. PMG aims to hold at least 50.1% ownership in the company. Trunkenpolz confirmed that PMG’s stake will gradually increase but did not disclose the exact timeframe, as agreed upon by the shareholders. However, he did mention that PMG intends to invest in the Varese region, where MV Agusta is headquartered, over the next two years. With these plans, PMG aims to revitalize MV Agusta, ensuring its future as a luxury motorcycle brand known for its Italian heritage. By expanding production capabilities and maintaining the brand’s distinct identity, PMG seeks to unlock the company’s untapped potential. Motorcycle enthusiasts will eagerly await the developments resulting from PMG’s increased investment and growing influence within MV Agusta. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/epic-marriage-proposal-harley-davidson/

Epic marriage proposal with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle

Image Source: NetEase Lady in China proposes to boyfriend with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Image source: NetEase It’s not everyday that you hear of a lady proposing marriage to a man, more so if it included a Harley-Davidson motorcycle of all things besides the customary ring. Well, that’s exactly what a lady in China did and the story has since gone viral in the republic. Online daily Shanghaiist reports that the woman from Chengdu even dressed up in a white wedding dress and knelt down to her man when she popped the question. Image source: NetEase The report further indicated that the Harley-Davidson motorcycle wasn’t the only gift in her proposal It also came packaged together with a property deed. As the story went, the young lady actually rode the Harley-Davidson over in her wedding dress to meet her man. She even shouted, “I finally earned enough money for your beloved Harley! Marry me! I will put your name on the property deed!” Image source: NetEase Clearly, the man was flabbergasted with the proposal as reports indicated that he simply nodded and agreed to his lady’s proposal. In a country with an unbalanced gender ratio in its population, Shanghaiist further highlight ladies in China now seem to hold a lot of the power when it comes to marriage. Surely, most of us here in Malaysia would find it hard to say no to such a proposal, especially when you’re getting a brand new bike! We wish all the best for this lovely Chinese couple in their upcoming nuptial. (Image source: NetEase) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/8-biker-chicks-to-follow-on-instagram/

8 biker chicks to follow on Instagram

Bikers! Need to spice up your daily Instagram feed? Well, here’s 8 bikers chicks we think you should follow! If you’re reading this page, then it is safe for us to assume that you share the same kind of enthusiasm we at BR have when it comes to female bikers. We don’t see them all to often, but when we do, some of them are actually just as pretty as the bikes they ride – maybe even prettier! And ladies, don’t worry, we at BR also have not forgotten about you. This list is not just for the men to oogle about with, we have a few profiles here that we believe should inspire you lot further to continue biking! In short, if you are an avid biker, lady or gentlemen, with an Instagram account, then here’s our top eight picks of two-wheeled ladies to follow. 1. Brittany Morrow ( @brittanymorrow ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @brittanymorrow ) We start our list with a few ladies from the land of the free, America. Meet Brittany Murrow, a decently pretty blonde rider who seems to know her way around in taming her two favourite bikes – a bug-eyed Triumph Speed Triple and a hot pink Yamaha YZF-R6. Besides her extensive Instagram feed, Brittany also runs a Vlog series on her YouTube channel called QueenBee Moto. Oh, did we also mention she’s the founder of a motorcycle safety site www.rockthegear.org ? That comes to no surprise given that the is, as she claims on her IG, a ‘Pro Badass’ for renowned American helmet and apparels brand Icon. In short, Brittany is someone worth following indeed. 2. Annette Carrion ( @annettecarrion ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @annettecarrion ) Next up we have yet another American, this time in the form of a dark-haired raven by the name of Annette Carrion. Hailing from the Orange County, CA, this dark-haired beauty also rides a Triumph, and if we’re right at deciphering her IG profile data, she’s an affiliate with a local Ducati/Triumph dealer in Newport Beach of the Sunshine State. In all honesty, we can’t enough of Annete’s pretty smile, especially when she’s posing on her beloved Triumph Street Triple R. Oh, you’d be glad to know that she’s also a MotoGP and racing fan in general, and her IG feed suggests that she’s a familiar face in the MotoAmerica grid as a model/grid girl too. Gorgeous looks, rides a streetfighter, and loves racing? What are you waiting for! Hit that ‘Follow’ button! 3. sammy_rc8r ( @sammy_rc8r ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @sammy_rc8r ) Next comes this mysterious dark-haired vixen who we come know simply as @sammy_rc8r. As her IG username suggests, Sammy (we reckon that’s her actually name) rides something truly hardcore – a KTM RC8R. Besides the fact that she rides one of the planet’s most beastly analogue supersports ever built, and that she has dark-coloured hair, we know very little about Sammy thanks to her small online footprints on any other social media network. But, we like it that way as it further adds to her mystique. Sexy looks, a dash of mystery and rides a KTM? Sign us up! 4. Gabriela Iciek ( @gabsia7 ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @gabsia7 ) For our next entry, we cross the Atlantic away from America and into the European continent to find this dark-haired Polish beauty. A Yamaha YZF-R6 rider, Gabriela Iciek is also an avid motocross rider, and you can see some of her exploits of the beaten path via her IG. When she’s on the paved path, her preference lies heavily towards sleek supersports, which perhaps explained her ownership of the middleweight Yamaha R6. Unlike the vixen in number 3 of this list, Gabriela’s feed is a little less dark as she brings in more colour into our eyes here, which likely suggest that she may be quite a young little lass. As far as we are concerned, we are a fan. 5. Kyoko Ochiai ( @kyokomarch5th ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @kyokomarch5th ) Next comes this lovely looking Japanese bombshell by the name of Kyoko Ochiai. From what we can gather, she’s a mini-celebrity in her home country of Japan, and her most recent photos on her IG feed tells us she’s a big fan of the all-new Scrambler Ducati. In fact, Kyoko recently posed for some press photos with the Scrambler Ducati for the Japanese market, and we love how she pulls off the retro lifestyle look well to suit the bike. Other than that, we know rather little about this Japanese model/chick biker, but as always, a little bit of mystery is good indeed. 6. Prisana Panyasirinukul ( @ann_niie ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @ann_niie ) As we move closer to home, we can’t help but make a pitstop into our neighbour to the north, Thailand. Not just a great holiday and riding destination, Thailand has also seen a rise in its female biker community, as proven by Prisana Panyasirinukul. Known by her IG user name @ann_niie , Prisana is heavily involved in two wheels as a racer, stunt rider, and model – all at once!. Her recent IG posts likely suggests that she spends most of her time riding her pride and joy – a KTM 1290 Super Duke R – when not modelling or indulging in her gym routines and tattoo fascination. Dear Prisana, for feeding our IG feed with plenty of beautiful shots, to you we say khop kun krap! 7. Vaune Phan ( @vaunephan ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @vaunephan ) Next up, we swing our southerly neighbour and its most celebrated chick biker, Vaune Phan. This sizzling Singaporean is no stranger to bikes and adventure. When not strutting about on her beloved Ducati Hypermotard, Vaune dabbles in a little bit of motocross and she recently completed a solo adventure ride from SG to Mt. Everest. She even made a pitstop in KL along the way to meet a few fans here, and we also recently got to hung out with her during WSBK Malaysia 2015 in the Sepang International Circuit. Besides Instagram, Vaune’s usually busy scribbling away on her blog, which usually revolves around her two-wheeled exploits and travels. You can also read up about her Everest adventure there. 8. Mia Zil ( @miazil ) ( Photo lifted from IG: @miazil ) Last but not least, we bring you one of our favourites from the local Malaysia biking scene. OK, she may not be a local originally, but Mia is someone many have since welcomed warmly in the Malaysian custom bikes scene. She rides a sweet-looking custom Harley-Davidson, and is regarded as one of the key people in popularising the custom bikes scene in Malaysia thanks to the affiliation with local builders Abah & Sons Co. You can usually catch Mia at custom fests such as Art of Speed and the annual KL Bike Week fair. Bonus: BikesRepublic.com ( @bikesrepublic ) Alright, we are not exactly a bunch of hot babes in the office… But we do have plenty of hot bikes around us and you can see some of them on our official Instagram account! Give us a follow too! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/heres-what-makes-a-good-engine-lubricant-according-to-katsuya-arai-from-motul/

Here’s what makes a good engine lubricant according to Katsuya Arai From Motul

Motul R&D Director Katsuya Arai gives us an insight into understanding what makes a good motorcycle lubricant. We chat with Motul R&D Director, Katsuya Arai, and learnt plenty about what makes for a good motorcycle engine lubricant. Choosing the right lubricant for your bike should be based on the difference in pressure and temperature it faces on. Another key is here choosing the right viscosity lubricant lies in viscosity type. Honda CBR1000RR-R cutaway engine – Credit moto-fan.jp There’s no hiding the fact that motorcycling plays a crucial role to many Malaysians, especially in this post-pandemic era wherewith many ride on twos as both mode of transport and to generate income (i.e. on-demand food/goods delivery). That said, its unsurprising to discover the high amounts of abuse many motorcycle engines withstand when in the hands of such riders who can clock an average of over 200KM a day. T means great care must be given to the engine, and the most important step is choosing the right lubricant. However, this also poses a dilemma to many users when it comes to selecting the best and most suitable lubricant for their bikes. We recently got into a lengthy chat with Katsuya Arai, Managing Director of R&D at Motul, regarding this, where he gave us a pretty good insight towards said question. If you didn’t already know, motorcycle engines differ from those in cars as the latter has both its engine and transmission separated and not integrated as one. This means motorcycle engine lubricants have the extra task of lubricating both the internal combustion engine and transmission simultaneously on top of its other duties, which includes cooling (thermal efficiency). In other words, the wrong type of fluids will be detrimental to the lifespan of any engine, more so with motorcycles. With that in mind, it’s now easy to understand why motorcyclist arguably face a larger dilemma when it comes to selecting the right engine lubricant. Obviously, any engine works best when it lubricated at its optimum level, hence the experience of smoothness one gets when riding out of the workshop fresh from a basic service (oil change). Key to this is of course the viscosity of the engine lubricant employed. There are three distinct engine lubricant viscosity you must take note of; those being kinematic viscosity (related to oil pressure), high temperature viscosity (related to engine pressure and temperature) as well as viscosity during cold temperatures (helps start the engine when temperatures are low). As Arai-san puts it, the selection of the appropriate engine oil viscosity should be based on the difference of temperature and pressure that the engine will endure throughout a typical cycle. In the eternal debate of Fully-Synthetic vs Semi-Synthetic vs Mineral types, Arai-san says much if this is in fact fuelled by marketing tactics. In Malaysia, this is especially true given the perceptions and beliefs carried many local Malaysian motorists. However, Arai-san did concede and explained that newer synthetic-based lubricants would work more effectively in any newer modern engine as these are designed especially to eliminate the oxidation process. Basically, while it’s not entirely wrong to use ‘lower grade’ mineral- or semi-synthetic-based lubricants in most modern bikes, you really should opt for a higher-grade or fully-synthetic one if you wished to prolong your motorcycle engine’s lifespan. In ensuring consumers are supplied with the right engine oil for all types of engines, the Motul 300V lubricants range is developed using what Motul calls ESTERcore technology, which offers quite a number of benefits and advantages. In other words, if you’re trusty two-wheeler is due for an oil change after your recent Balik Kampung ride for Hari Raya, then consider a well-thought-out lubricant such as the Motul 300V. Your bike might just thank you for that… --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-ducati-announces-jack-miller-contract-renewal-for-2022/

MotoGP: Ducati Announces Jack Miller Contract Renewal For 2022

After securing two wins this year, Ducati’s Jack Miller has been handed a contract renewal for 2022. Despite a shaky start to the season, Miller secured an impressive back-to-back win at Jerez and Le Mans, making him the only Australian to do so after Casey Stoner back in 2012. Miller now sits at fourth in the championship standings with 64 points after five rounds. “I’m thrilled to be able to continue my adventure with the Ducati Lenovo Team for another season. “Wearing these colours is really an honour for me, and being able to win the last two races with the Desmosedici GP was really a dream. “This wouldn’t have been possible without the great support I’ve always received from Ducati and the entire team in recent months,” said the Australian. Meanwhile, Ducati Corse General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna also shared his excitement. “Miller certainly one of the riders who manage to interpret our Desmosedici GP in the best possible way. “Our goal remains the world title, as always and we believed that with Jack and Pecco, we can continue to fight for the world championship in 2022,” he said. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/is-this-the-final-ducati-panigale-ever/

Is this the Final Ducati Panigale ever?

Ducati has released a video teaser entitled “When the End Tells the Whole Story” shows what probably looks like the FInal Ducati Panigale evolution ever. There’s also the date of 7 July 2017 stated in the video which signifies the next WorldSBK round in Laguna Seca where most probably the final Panigale will be introduced. There move also coincides with further developments of their V4-powered superbike that has been planned to go into production as well compete in the WorldSBK in the beginning of the 2018 season. The end of the Ducati Panigale is getting closer and closer to reality with the giant Italian manufacturer getting ready to unveil one of their biggest paradigm shifts ever to the highly anticipated V4-powered superbike. While we’re not sure if this is true or not, Ducati has revealed a teaser video highlighting the Panigale with the tagline “When the End Tells the Whole Story”. Another important part of the video is that there will be an important event happening on 7 July 2017 where we think the era of Ducati’s V-twin superbikes will make way for the all-new V4 superbike and we’re not referring to the ultra-rare Ducati Desmosedici MotoGP converted to street bike. Ducati Desmosedici RR While most of us would think that the ultra crazy 1299 Panigale Superleggera was the final rendition of the Panigale, Ducati continues to throw us off our game but we’re guessing they want make a proper send off to their most successful superbike ever built. The tagline also signifies that this might very well be the last ever Panigale. Ducati 1299 Panigale Superleggera So if the Panigale is one of Ducati’s most successful motorcycles ever built, why would they want to replace it? Well, the date stated in the video which is 7 July 2017 also marks the next WorldSBK round at the legendary Laguna Seca circuit where the race series will implement a huge change to the regulations probably in the next couple of years. Ducati 1199 Panigale R for the WorldSBK racing series As the WorldSBK is clearly being dominated by Kawasaki with Ducati having access to just some crumbs of victories, Ducati needs to come up with something big to be able to be more competitive with their Japanese rivals. The rumour of Dorna wanting to regulate the displacements of all competing motorcycles also prompts the giant Italian to come up with the four-cylinder production bike. Ducati 1299 Panigale Anniversario Since Ducati has the experience and capability to produce V4-powered motorcycles especially their MotoGP-derived race bikes, we’re pretty sure that Ducati fans and enthusiasts around the world will be looking forward to the production version. Our bet is that the unveiling will be done at the end of the year during the EICMA show in Milan. A V4-powered Ducati production motorcycle simply sounds…amazing. For now, just enjoy this amazing video of the bonkers 1299 Panigale Superleggera. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-honda-cfr250l-crf350-rally-details-released/

2021 Honda CFR250L & CRF350 Rally details released

We’re merely days away from the official launch of the 2021 Honda CFR250L and CFR250 Rally and all of us are eager to know what the major updates for these two entry-level dual-purpose machines will be. We have some details to share to get your appetite going before its global debut. For the 2021 Honda CFR250L, its looks might not be that different from the current model but the changes within are what sets it apart. Honda has claimed that this model will be further optimised for road use as well as some off-road fun, if you fancy having any. And those new LED headlights? Fire. These updates include a more rigid chassis, a bigger fuel tank (the current model launched back in 2017 has a 7.8-litre capacity), and an updated Euro5-compliant 250cc single-cylinder DOHC engine. Power output is still in the dark, but we can probably guess that it won’t venture too far from the 25hp and 22Nm of torque. 2017 Honda CRF250 Rally As for the 2021 Honda CRF250 Rally, this beauty is said to get all the things mentioned above, plus a bigger front windscreen, updated long-travel suspension, new dual-channel ABS system, and more. We can also guess that its 250cc powerplant gets the Euro5 treatment thanks to new intakes, filters, and muffler. 2017 Honda CRF250L More details will be released by Honda Japan soon. For now, we’ll just have to wait eagerly and patiently for its arrivals. As for the Malaysian market, we might just see them but the current Boon Siew Honda website only shows the Rally model, not the CRF250L. Stay tuned for more updates. Moto2: Hafizh Syahrin signs with NTS RW Racing GP for 2021 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/x-1r-dont-fuel-ish/

X-1R: Don’t be Fuel-ish!

The X-1R Corporation was developed to assist the National Aeronautical and Space Agency (NASA) solve issues related to fuel consumption. Proven by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), they were able to drop the fuel consumption by 10% with the use of X-1R Engine Treatment. Adding X-1R to your car or motorcycle can help avoid costly breakdowns and save up to 15% on your fuel. Kennedy Space Centre: The National Aeronautical and Space Agency (NASA) were faced with a problem: they had to find an effective solution to reduce their ever rising fuel costs. Who could they refer to? None other than their long-time partner, X-1R Corporation. As a result of their pioneering engineering, the X-1R Corporation is one of the world’s only companies to have won the Certified Space technology Award and been inducted into the Space Technology Hall of Fame! By using X-1R Engine Treatment it has been proven by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to reduce fuel consumption by 10% or more whilst significantly reducing wear and tear in your engine therefore avoiding breakdowns. This is why the Space Shuttle program has been using their products since 1996 when the X-1R Engine Treatment was proven to be more effective than any other lubricant on the market. The constant escalation of fuel prices made it critical for NASA to find a cost effective money saving method. Many bear the common knowledge that petrol and diesel quality nowadays have become worse, containing impurities such as wax, varnish and grit which eventually accumulate inside your engine and slow it down. Hence, losing efficiency and increasing your car expenses. There is where X-1R’s Complete Fuel System Treatments come in! Local live tests both in prestigious universities and with everyday motorists have demonstrated the amazing effect that using this treatment. The treatment will completely eliminate all wax and varnish build-up in your fuel lines. It will also unblock and recondition your fuel injectors and it will eliminate coke from your cylinders. On top of that, it lubricates the combustion side of your engine. This is because the product contains a patented synthesis of ingredients specifically designed to keep your engine clean and running at its maximum efficiency. The benefits go on and on and by using the product long-term it not only assists in preventing corrosion but obviating rust in the fuel system as well. It couldn’t be easier – just pour the Treatment into your fuel tank and go. Instantaneously, you become aware that you now have more useable power. Yes, this is how quick the product goes to work! Mr. Yap, a local taxi driver said, “After putting in X-1R, immediately I noticed that my engine’s noise is almost gone! I have quite a routine route most of the time from Damansara to the airport to the clients’ office and back to Damansara. My day starts early in the morning till evening (5pm plus). Normally, I will use up between RM60 to RM70 worth of petrol. But after using X-1R, I only fill up RM50 to complete my days’ journey” It is a fact that most taxi operators around KL use the product; simply because it saves fuel and keeps the vehicles running effectively. Another satisfied customer of X-1R, Mr Azlan Shah, who runs a trucking company said, “After using X-1R in our company trucks, we saved more than RM1.5 million on diesel last year! Break down percentage has reduced and we save a lot more on repair cost”. Of course when you have a dirty engine your fuel is not burning properly, that means you are wasting your hard earned money and polluting the environment. A double whammy! At some time all of us had been stuck behind a heavy vehicle that is belching out thick, black smoke due to fuel being ‘cooked’, thus wasting money. In fact, with just one treatment of either X-1R Petrol System Treatment or Diesel System Treatment, this issue can be resolved! For more information, visit our site at www.x1rasia.com or call 03-4260 3852. By adding X-1R to your car or bike, you can avoid costly breakdowns and could save up to 15% on your fuel! X-1R – no wonder they say it’s like ‘Vitamins for Your Car’. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2017-honda-cbr1000rr-officially-teased/

2017 Honda CBR1000RR officially teased

New 2017 Honda CBR1000RR previewed vaguely in teaser video. After a series of spyshots made its rounds online recently, big red finally acknowledge its plans for the 2017 Honda CBR1000RR superbike model by releasing a new official teaser video for it. As you can already guess, the teaser doesn’t reveal much except for the promise of “Total Control” and “Sharper Than Ever”. Though shot from a rider’s POV whilst charting across a circuit, the sound of an the bike’s in-line four-cylinder screamer was unmistakable. Loyal readers would remember our previous report where details of the new generation Honda CBR1000RR superbike were leaked. Besides a tweaked engine with a revised airbox design, there was also the promise of having electronic suspension and possibly the addition of the Bosch IMU system as well. There is no denying that Honda’s ageing flagship litre-class superbike ha sbeen completely outgunned by its new generation rivals – read Yamaha YZF-R1, BMW S1000RR, Suzuki GSX-R 1000 and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. Image source: Asphaltandrubber Unfortunately, we do have some bad news. The recent spyshots of the bike taken whilst it was undergoing a publicity shoot revealed several ‘unwelcomed’ details. For starters, eagle-eyes experts have noted that the chassis and engine assemblies appears unchanged from the current bike. Though it does come dressed in an exciting new exterior design similar in approach to the Honda CBR250RR unveiled not too long ago, the prospects of the new CBR1000RR being the old bike in a new dress isn’t what we expected. Image source: MCN We’re hoping that the spied bike is merely a prototype mule with the new design though. We’ll know more for sure when Honda official reveals its next generation flagship superbike either during INTERMOT next month or during EICMA later in November. Until then, we’ll keep a close eye on the progress of the 2017 Honda CBR1000RR leading up to its reveal. You can do the same by keeping tabs on the dedicated web portal Honda recently set up for the new model by clicking here. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/updated-bmw-c-650-sport-and-c-650-gt-arrives/

Updated BMW C 650 Sport and C 650 GT arrives – from RM64,900* and RM68,900*

Updated new BMW C 650 Sport and C 650 GT maxi-scooters now available from RM64,900* and RM68,900* respectively. BMW Group Malaysia has announced the availability of the updated and new BMW C 650 Sport and C 650 GT maxi-scooters for the Malaysian market. Both maxi-scooter models underwent a mid-life refresher last year prior to EICMA 2015, with the BMW C 650 Sport replacing its C 600 Sport predecessor. As previously reported, both the updated BMW C-series maxi scooters have gained with extensively modified drivetrains, better suspension settings. The BMW C650 Sport, on the other hand, also benefits a completely revised design as well. Both are still powered by the 647cc parallel-twin engine as before, with both developing 60hp at 7500hp and 63Nm of torque at 6000rpm respectively. Crucially, BMW has ensured that both max-scooters adhere to the brand’s ‘Safety 360’ principle . This comes from the optimum design of the brake system in conjunction with the standard-equipped Bosch 9.1 MB ABS suite that ensures the very highest level of active riding safety. Also standard-equipped now I both models is the Automatic Stability Control (ASC). Both new BMW C-series models are available in Blackstorm Metallic and Lightwhite Solid Paint colour options whilst the Valencia Metallic Matt and Frozen Bronze Metallic schemes are exclusively offered for to the new BMW C 650 Sport and BMW C 650 GT respectively. Prices start from RM64,900 (without insurance) for the BMW C 650 Sport and RM68,900 (without insurance) instead for the BMW C 650 GT. You can check out our review of the previous BMW C 600 Sport as well as the Akrapovič exhaust kit for the BMW C 650 Sport model that was just released not too long ago. 2016 BMW C 650 Sport and GT --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/furion-designs-torque-monster-hybrid-motorcycle-concept/

Furion Motorcycles designs a Torque Monster Hybrid Motorcycle Concept

A French-based design house called Furion Motorcycles has design a hybrid motorcycle concept. The hybrid motorcycle is powered by a 645cc rotary engine paired with a 40kW electric motor. Together, the engines are said to produce a massive 180hp and 205Nm of neck snapping torque. French motorcycle design firm called Furion has come up with a pretty awesome concept of what is potentially a hybrid motorcycle. Pulling off the idea that the hybrid technology from cars can be applied to two wheelers as well gave birth to this futuristic sportsbike which kind of reminds us of the Kawasaki Z750. The hybrid technology is obviously applied to the engine but the biggest factor on why it is easily implemented in cars is because of space. A motorcycle has a very limited amount of space to store anything, let alone another electric-powered engine together with its gigantic battery pack. This is why Furion has opted for its concept bike to run on a compact 645cc rotary engine that will work together with a 40kW electric motor which by the looks of it, will fit snugly within the frame of this aggressive looking naked bike with five lithium ion batteries placed under the seat. When the engines work in tandem, Furion claims it can generate a massive 180hp and wait for it…205Nm of whiplash inducing torque. To put it into perspective, the glorious Ducati 959 Panigale generates 157hp and only 107Nm of torque from its 955cc Superquadro L-twin cylinder engine (which is more than enough to send you flying down the straights upon opening the throttle). Apart from the power plant, other aspects of the Furion bike is more like the conventional sports bike with the usual six-speed transmission with a final chain drive. Furion also claims that the overall wet weight of only 209kg together with 16 litres worth of fuel. So the question now is whether to ride or not to ride? Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for anything and everything motorcycling. Source: Furion Motorcycles --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/price-announced-for-2021-bmw-r-1250-gs-range-from-rm119500/

Price Announced For 2021 BMW R 1250 GS Range – From RM119,500

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has officially unveiled the pricing range for the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure for the Malaysian market. Starting off the range is the new BMW R 1250 GS Style Rallye, priced at RM119,500, followed by R 1250 GS Style Triple Black at RM120,500 and R 1250 GS ’40 Years GS Edition at RM122,500. Meanwhile, the pricing for the higher-spec R 1250 GS Adventure are as follows: BMW R 1250 GS Adventure Style Rallye – RM132,500 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure Style Triple Black – RM133,500 BMW R 1250 GS Adventure ’40 Years GS’ Edition – RM135,500 Powering the new BMW R 1250 GS and the R 1250 GS Adventure is the iconic two-cylinder boxer 1,245cc engine capable of churning 136hp @ 7,750rpm and 143Nm @ 6,250rpm. The new engine continues to feature BMW’s new ShiftCam Technology that allows variable valve control timing to ensure power delivery remains at an efficient rate during high and low rpm. Interestingly, the 2021 range also comes fitted with electronic cruise control and Eco Riding Mode as standard. Customers can now enjoy a three-year warranty and three-year roadside assistance with every purchase of the 2021 BMW R 1250 GS and GS Adventure range. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-coolest-bmw-r1200r/

The coolest BMW R1200R

What is it: A super cool 2008 BMW R1200R Who built it: Bulgarian based Galaxy Customs What did they do? Redesigned the frame. Changed the centre of gravity and the angle of front fork. Lowered the bike. Changed factory fitted tele-lever front suspension to classic adjustable front forks. Tank from BMW R71, modified to mount pump harness, and majority of electronics. Original bars shorted, heated grip retained. K&N air filters. Reversed exhaust pipes with thermal tape and mini silencer. Wheels by Kineo. Avon Supermoto Distanzias tyres. Dope story by Pipeburn --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-yamaha-yzf-r25-now-available-in-metallic-cyan-rm19998/

2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 now available in ‘Metallic Cyan’ – RM19,998

The 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25 offering here in Malaysia has been updated with the new Metallic Cyan colour offering by Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM). This particular colour option has been quite popular amongst Malaysians, especially with the Yamaha 135LC and Y15ZR moped models. As for the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R25, the new Metallic Cyan will be replacing the Matte Silver variant which was introduced sometime last year. This colour is also accompanied by new ‘phasing’ graphics, with black, red, and white details to make the bike stand out even more. There’s also the bright red cast wheels to compliment the whole new look. As for firepower, that particular aspect has been retained with the R25’s 249cc parallel-twin DOHC liquid-cooled engine which produces around 35.5hp at 12,000rpm and 22.6Nm of maximum torque at 10,000rpm. All that power is sent to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission. While the colour might be new, the price for this 250cc sports bike remains the same at RM19,998 (excluding insurance, road tax, and registration). Each new purchase will also come with a free Yamaha disc lock worth RM100. Head over to the nearest dealer for more information. Alternatively, you can also check out our full review on the R25’s naked sibling, the 2020 Yamaha MT-25 in the link, below. TESTED: 2020 Yamaha MT-25 – “Rush of Darkness” Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-ducati-year-end-sale/

Harley-Davidson and Ducati year-end sale

Naza World announces special year-end sale for Harley-Davidson and Ducati apparels and merchandise. In light of the Christmas and year-end festivities, Naza World will be hosting a special year-end merchandise and apparels sale for both its Harley-Davidson and Ducati brands. We’ll start off with Ducati Malaysia’s (Next Bike Sdn Bhd) sale and the sole importer and distributor is running its “X-Mas Run Out Campaign” on selected original Ducati merchandise with discounts of up to 70%. This promotion is available exclusively at the flagship Ducati showroom in the Naza Automall PJ and lasts until Dec 31 only. Harley-Davidson Malaysia (Naza Prestige Bikes Sdn Bhd) is also offering festive deals on its merchandise. Notably, the ‘Motorclothes Year End Sale’ sees discounts of up to 70% on selected riding gears and merchandise too. This offer is available at all Harley-Davidson boutiques and sales galleries including the Harley-Davidson Lifestyle Gallery in Suria KLCC, the Harley-Davidson Lifestyle Boutique Gurney Plaza, Penang, as well as at 3S Harley-Davidson Showrooms in the Naza Automall PJ, Juru Autocity Penang and Jalan Dato’ Abdullah Tahir, Johor Bahru. For local Harley-Davidson and Ducati fans, this is perhaps the best time to do some last-minute Xmas shopping indeed. Visit the aforementioned centres and boutiques to know more. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/suzuki-recursion-patent-surfaces/

Suzuki Recursion patent surfaces

Patents filed online indicate possible production plans for the turbocharged Suzuki Recursion Concept. If recent patent files that have surfaced online are to be believed, the Suzuki Recursion Concept appears to be one step closer towards production. A report posted by a reliable source online further indicated several design tweaks, specifically with the turbocharged mill’s intake system and, subsequently, it headlamp design. The turbocharged 588cc parallel twin, which Suzuki claims will produce 100hp and 97.5Nm of peak torque, will draw air needed for its intercooler using a mid-placed air intake. To accommodate the intake’s central airflow direction, the concept’s nose has been redesigned as well. The stylish single fluid LED strip has been deleted and replaced with a more tradition side-by-side lighting design, with a large intake opening splitting the two. Only these two small yet critical tweaks were revealed in the patent sketches filed. All other details still remain scarce. Still, the existence of these patents indicate that the Japanese S-brand are inching closer towards mass producing its revolutionary turbocharged middlewight sportsbike that first debuted during the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. Source: Espacenet via Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-reports-9-5-sales-growth-first-half-2017/

BMW Motorrad reports 9.5% sales growth for first half of 2017

BMW Motorrad is happy to report an increase sales figure of 9.5% for the first half of 2017 compared to the same time as 2016. It was reported that the number of units sold has reached 88,389 units; an increase of 7,735 units compared to the previous year. The most popular model to contribute to the sales figure was the BMW R 1200GS reportedly sold at 17,159 units around the globe. Despite other manufacturers are facing quite a difficult time for the opening half of 2017, it seems that BMW Motorrad managed to stay on top of their game. At present, they were more than happy to report that for the first half of 2017, they recorded a 9.5% sales increase worldwide. Currently, BMW Motorrad has successfully sold 88,389 motorcycle units; an increase by 7,635 units compared to the first half of 2016 at 80,754 units sold. According to the German premium bike manufacturers, the main contribution the increase was thanks to the sales done in Europe. It was reported that France is responsible for 9,447 units sold, Italy at 9,099 units, Spain at 5,573 units and UK at 5,410 units. Increase in sales was also reported in South America with 8,306 units as well as China with 2,836 units. The biggest sales figure of course is in Germany with a whopping 14,461 units taking the home win. So which BMW Motorrad model contributed the most to the overall sales figure? Unsurprisingly, the overall all-rounder winner was the BMW R 1200GS. Despite the massive service campaigns and some recalls in certain countries (Malaysia not included), the entire R series was responsible for over half of the entire sales number of 49,240 units sold. Looks like BMW Motorrad is clearly the winner for the first half of this year while others are struggling in dropping figures. Hopefully, their great success will have the same effect for other manufacturers as well. Source: BMW Motorrad --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-mystery-ducati-coming-new-streetfighter-or-upgraded-899-panigale/

New mystery Ducati coming – new Streetfighter or upgraded 899 Panigale?

Ducati are in the midst of introducing a new bike believed to be either a new Streetfighter or an upgraded version of its 899 Panigale. Italian bike maker Ducati are readying themselves to introduce a new model into its range later this year. Details are scarce, but both Visordown and Asphaltandrubber reports that Ducati have recently issued invites to several European media entities for a launch and ‘track test for a road bike’. The fact that the event will feature a circuit test rules out the possibility of another variation of its immensely popular Scrambler Ducati. A quick browse through Ducati’s current range suggest one of two things: either it is an upgraded version of its 899 Panigale middleweight, or perhaps a new replacement to its discontinued 1,099cc Streetfighter (pictured above) that was last seen in 2013. The possibility of an upgraded 899 Panigale sounds plausible following the introduction of the heavily revised 1299 Panigale flagship supersport model (pictured above) that replaces the 1199 Panigale – the 899 could undergo a similar upgrade. As for the case of the Streetfighter, Ducati still offers it in the Streetfighter 848 form, but previous rumours and reports indicate that its production is coming to an end relatively soon. Sources believe that Ducati will re-enter in the super-naked segment with a new Streetfighter model based upon the heavily revised 1299 Panigale. This seems very likely it would provide Ducati with a formidable rival against the manic KTM 1290 Super Duke R, the newly upgraded Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 and the BMW S 1000 R streetfighters. The absence of a larger and more powerful version of the Streetfighter since 2013 is also fuelling this speculation. Expect more details to surface prior to the mystery bike’s scheduled press launch and track test in September this year. Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/isle-of-man-tt-2020-cancelled/

Isle of Man TT 2020 CANCELLED

It is with deep regret that we inform you that the Isle of Man TT 2020 races have been officially cancelled due to the concerns related to the Coronavirus or COVID-19. The organisers have posted the official statement released by the Isle of Man Government posted below. The Council of Ministers has taken the decision to cancel the 2020 Isle of Man TT Races which were due to take place between 30th May and 13th June. The decision has been taken following confirmation the Island has stepped up its measures to protect the population against the pandemic. Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Enterprise, commented: “The decision to cancel has not been taken lightly and all options including postponement and delaying the decision have been considered in detail. Representatives from the Isle of Man Government will now discuss the implications with all relevant businesses, stakeholders and individuals affected by this cancellation, which it recognises will be significant.” “With the visitor restriction in place for the foreseeable future we wanted to make the decision now to give businesses, visitors and all involved stakeholders time to manage the impact going forward. The Isle of Man, and the Isle of Man TT, are faced with unique challenges regarding COVID-19 and making this decision will provide certainty to teams, competitors, sponsors and stakeholders of the event and to visitors across the globe.” “The decision also aims to provide reassurance for our residents and healthcare professionals that the health and well-being of the Isle of Man’s residents is the single biggest priority and focus of this Government.”   The Isle of Man TT 2020 races which have been set to take its course from 30 May – 13 June 2020 is the latest motorsports event to be cancelled after a series of cancellations and postponements in other racing series like MotoGP and WorldSBK. However, the organisers are still trying to make sure that they are able to organise the 2020 Classic TT Races and Manx Grand Prix at the end of August 2020 if the situation related to the Coronavirus and COVID-19 improves in the near future. More updates will be posted from time to time, but one thing is for sure, there will be no Isle of Man TT this year. All events at Sepang Circuit postponed/cancelled until further notice --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fuel-subsidy-program-postponed-fuel-prices-to-follow-current-system/

Fuel Subsidy Program Postponed, Fuel Prices to Follow Current System

Pics for story on petrol price. Azman Ghani / The Star The roll out of the government’s Fuel Subsidy Program will be postponed. It was planned to begin on 1st January 2020. Fuel prices will be calculated as per status quo. The roll out of the government’s Fuel Subsidy Program will be postponed. The announcement was made just 2 days away from the proposed start date of 1st January 2020. The government had earlier announced the program on 7th October 2019. In the press release issued by the Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Bin Ismail, stated that the ministry requires more room to implement a number of steps before launching the program. Explanatory sessions to provide more information regarding the program, so that the Rakyat may understand it better. Extra time for those in the B40 category to complete their registration. The decision to put the program on hold was reached during a Cabinet meeting on 18th December 2019. The minister says that the postponement is “indefinite” and a new launch date will be announced later. In view of this, fuel prices will be determined via the current system through the new year. The program was intended to assist the B40 group with petrol costs, while fuel prices will follow market rates for those outside the group. That also means that petrol prices will increase over time. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mugen-introduces-electric-motorcross-race-bike-dubbed-e-rex/

Mugen Introduces Electric Motorcross Race Bike “E.Rex”

The Mugen E.Rex Concept Bike was introduced during the Tokyo Motorcycle Show last weekend The concept off-road bike was a collaboration between Mugen and Honda Mugen displayed their latest concept bike; the E.Rex. During the Tokyo Motorcycle Show 2017 that happened this past weekend meant that there’s a high possibility the motorcross industry is heading towards the Earth-friendly vibe.     The bike’s theme and overall look might not be something that most people will agree on especially with the dinosaur facade. If you can find your way around the questionable looks, you will start noticing that Mugen and Honda went to great lengths to give the E.Rex the best equipments available. The only reason why we think they went for this look was to be as a loud as possible so that anyone and everyone will notice this e-bike. Note the high-end Showa front forks with Nissin suspensions at the back. Most bikers will have high expectations and respect upon seeing these two brand names. Also note that the brakes are garnished with a huge dose of carbon fibre goodness. Only the best when you’re trying to get noticed at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show. Mugen Shinden Roku Mugen is not new in the world of electric-powered motorcycles. In fact, they have been highly successful in the Isle of Man TT races. For the past few years, they have gathered continuous wins with the likes of John McGuiness and Guy Martin piloting their Shinden electric race bikes. Mugen Shinden Roku Their latest 163hp “Shinden Roku” with 210Nm of torque is the sixth generation race bike that has high hopes of breaking the 200mph speed barrier in this year’s Tourist Trophy at the Isle of Man. This fully electric race bike has six more horsepower and 103Nm more torque than the Ducati Panigale 959. All that power and torque without burning a single drop of fuel. KTM Freeride E Although Mugen and Honda are only starting to dip their feet in the electric motorcross world, this move might be a big step into the future of motorcross racing. The fact that KTM has been heavily researching, developing and manufacturing their present Freeride E range, it’s not long before this trend catches on. Photo Source: Mugen --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-2021-suzuki-models-to-be-launched-on-february-5th/

New 2021 Suzuki models to be launched on February 5th?

Suzuki Motor Corporation will launch its latest Suzuki Motorcycle Global Salon on 5 February 2021, a virtual platform for fans of the brands to view all its latest models and offerings on their smart devices. Will we witness the launch of the new 2021 Suzuki bikes? We sure hope so. Suzuki has been on a high after winning the rider’s and team’s championship titles in MotoGP last season. Team Suzuki Ecstar’s Joan Mir took home his first premier class title, while Alex Rins put on quite a performance to help the team win the team’s title onboard the Suzuki GSX-RR. Last year also marked the manufacturer’s 100th anniversary and we were expecting the launch of new models, but COVID-19 obviously pushed those plans back. With this upcoming Suzuki Motorcycle Global Salon, we might just get what we’ve been anticipating since the start of 2020. We’re not entirely sure what the models will be, but Suzuki has stated that they will launch some brand-new models on this online platform next month. Will it be a new GSX-R? Hayabusa? SV650? So many potentials, but we just have to wait for a couple more weeks for confirmation. For those who are interested to know more, CLICK HERE. Registrations for the virtual platform starts on 28 January 2021 before the grand opening on 5 February 2021. Stay tuned for more updates. 2020 Ducati Hypermotard 950 RVE available in Malaysia – RM80,900 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/riding-with-earphones-is-a-really-bad-idea/

Riding with earphones is a really bad idea! (Warning: Graphic Images)

Young Aussie teen biker nearly gets his head decapitated in freak accident whilst riding with earphones on. Image source: DailyMail.co.uk Bradley Willoughby, a 16-year-old from north Queensland, had the fright of his life when he was almost decapitated in a motorcycle crash while wearing his earphones. The teenager was reportedly using iPhone earphones during the crash and it cut deep into his throat as the cable got snagged on a fence he crashed into. The incident happened when he was practicing jumps at the family farm in Queensland. He was wearing the earphones inside his helmet at the time.  The cause of the crash was a heavy landing that jammed the throttle and launched the 16 year old straight into a barbed wire fence. Image source: DailyMail.co.uk The main culprit that caused the nasty lacerations on his neck was a thin copper wire inside the earphone cable. Although the cut was very deep, it stopped right before it could reach the boy’s windpipe. Bradley also suffered a badly broken ankle and nasty lacerations to the body caused by the barbed wire fence. His mother, Angie, found him and called for help. Bradley’s father pulled out the copper wire from Bradley’s neck upon inspecting the injury to his neck. Image source: DailyMail.co.uk According to the mother who reported to the Cairns Post: “Bradley had his iPhone in his pocket and had his earphones in and as he’s gone through the fence, the fence has grabbed the earphones and, because they were up inside his helmet, the barbed wire pulled the earphones straight across his throat.” Emergency assistance flew Bradley in a rescue chopper to a hospital in Cairns where he needed stitches for the six-inch gash on his neck and also surgery to mend his severely injured left foot. Bradley is definitely lucky to come out alive from this horrific event. This is a clear and stern message to motorcyclists who enjoy riding with their earphones on to listen to some music during the ride. Most of us would think that this is just a harmless act but we don’t realise that the fine copper wire in the earphones can lead to serious harm in an emergency situation such as a crash. Apart from the physical dangers of the earphones wire cutting into our throats, listening to some tunes while riding is also very dangerous in the sense that the riders are oblivious to their surroundings. This is definitely not ideal for anyone on the road. Take this incident in Australia as a public service announcement. Listening to music using earphones while riding is indeed a dangerous act. It should be avoided whenever operating any sort of heavy machinery, including motorcycles. Instead of using wired headphones, consider investing in dedicated wireless systems. For instance, the Shark Helmets brand offers its own solution called Sharktooth. There’s also other third-party systems available such as the Headwave TĀG. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/wunderlich-adventure-now-makes-pan-america-1250-accessories/

Wunderlich Adventure now makes Pan America 1250 accessories

New Wunderlich Adventure division sees German brand expand accessories line beyond BMW bikes starting with the Pan America 1250. Wunderlich expands with new ‘Wunderlich Adventure’ division for non-BMW bikes. The division debuts with a wide array of accessories made for the Pan America 1250. Highlights include on- and off-road accessories, touring accessories, and more. Wunderlich Adventure plans to expand with more accessories for other brands too. Utter the name Wunderlich and, without missing a beat, many will already associate the famed German moto accessories marque with BMW Motorrad. Well, that’s about to change thanks to the brand’s newly established Wunderlich Adventure division. Effectively, Wunderlich Adventure is a new label that sees itself dedicated to non-BMW branded motorcycles, and it starts with the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250. The division has readied a variety of accessories for the American brand’s ground-breaking adventure bike. “Owners of the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 will be the first to be offered a rich assortment of high-quality components made in Germany under the Wunderlich Adventure label. They will be top notch in every aspect and represent everything that customers know and expect from Wunderlich,” said Wunderlich brand manager Herbert Schwarz. True to its name, Wunderlich’s initial range of accessories for the Pan America are sizeable indeed. There are both on-road, touring-oriented, off-road, and adventure-oriented accessories present. Options include engine protection, a wider foot for your side stand, a variety of seat rack and bags, bar risers, lower footrests, comfort seat saddles, as well as windscreens. Adding to the excitement, Wunderlich Adventure also kicked off a special introduction campaign called Come On: Bolt On! especially for Pan America owners. This sees the company giving away vouchers valued between €50 and €1,000 that can be used to purchase some of Wunderlich Adventure’s new Pan America accessories. To enter, simply fill an online form over at the Wunderlich Adventure site and submit a creative photo of your Pan America. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-marquez-wins-japanese-grand-prix-2016-title/

MotoGP: Marquez wins Japanese Grand Prix and 2016 title

Marc Marquez crowned as 2016 MotoGP world champion after winning Japanese Grand Prix. What was supposed to be the start of a thrilling triple-header of fly-away races came to a climactic – or anti-climactic for some – conclusion in the twin Ring Motegi during last weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix. MotoGP – Crowning of a champion For the lead factory Yamaha duo of Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, the Japanese Grand Prix was perhaps the last chance for either to give Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez an adequate challenge for the 2016 crown. As the lights went out to start the 24-lap race, Lorenzo had the initial advantage as he started from third on the grid. But perhaps the pain from injuries sustained during practice earlier in the weekend proved too much to bear as he gave up the race lead back to Marquez on Lap 4. Though battling fatigue and jet lag, Rossi tried his best to keep the title race somewhat alive. He had the upper hand with his pole position start initially, but Marquez’ pace was simply too quick for the veteran Italian to match. The turning points came when Rossi fell first on Lap 6 whilst in second place. Next came Lorenzo’s crash on Lap 19. With both factory Yamaha riders low-siding out of contention, the race and the title belonged to Marquez. Not only did Marquez finally broke the Twin Ring Motegi’s ‘curse’ upon him by taking his first GP win at said track, he also took a sensational home win for the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) as it celebrated its 50th anniversary of competing in MotoGP. Joining Marquez on the podium was Italian rider Andrea Dovizioso who finished second astride the lead factory Ducati machine. Completing the rostrum was young Spanish sensation – ironically called the next Marquez – Maverick Viñales who finished third astride the Team Ecstar Suzuki factory machine. And to sweeten things further, Marquez had all the points he needed to secure the 2016 world title with 273 points in hand. He now stands as the sport’s youngest ever rider to score three MotoGP world titles at the tender age of just 23 years old. Along with his previous two MotoGP titles from 2013 and 2014, as well as his 2012 world Moto2 title and 2010 world 125cc title, Marquez is now credited with five world championship crowns altogether. He’s also dubbed as the sport’s youngest and most successful multi-title winner at that too. With the 2016 rider’s title secured, the remaining battle for the constructors’ and team’s awards, not to mention the runner up and second runner up positions, will continue in Australia, Malaysia and Valencia. Moto2 In the supporting Moto2 race, it appears that the fight to become the class’ first repeat champion is still alive for Frenchman Johann Zarco. The Ajo Motorsports rider took pole position after Saturday’s qualifying and eventually settled for second place in Sunday’s race. The win belonged to Garage Plus Interwetten team pilot Tom Lüthi. The Swiss rider won in sensational fashion after storming up the lead from second on the grid and commanded the race until the chequered flag. Completing the podium was Italian rider Franco Morbidelli who rode the Marc VDS machine into third. With both his rivals Sam Lowes and Alex Rins crashing out in Motegi, Zarco looks just about ready to successfully defend his class title before leaving for MotoGP. Zarco leads the standings with 222 points while Rins is second with 201 points. Lüthi now moves up to third with 179 points. A photo posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Oct 15, 2016 at 8:50pm PDT Moto3 Last but certainly not least came the thrilling action from the lightweight Moto3 class. Though this year’s champion was already crowned in the last round, it did little at extinguishing the class’ renowned thrilling battles. Taking a deserving victory by just a whisker of 0.017 seconds was Italian rider Enea Bastianini astride the Gresini Honda Moto3 machine. Settling for second was 2016 Moto3 world champion Brad Binder who rode his Red Bull KTM Ajo bike into second place. Taking the final podium spot initially was Japanese rider Hiroki Ono who rode his Honda Team Asia machine sensationally up to third. But stewards later disqualified him after he was found to be underweight in the post-race weigh in. Instead, officials awarded Italian rider Nicolo Bulega of the KTM-powered Sky Racing Team VR46 outfit with third position. In the standings, champion Binder extends his lead further at 269 points so far whiles Bastianini ranks second with 164 points. Spanish rider Jorge Navarro sits in third with 143 points. Round 16 – Phillip Island, Australia Coming up in less than seven days is the second of the fly-away triple-header, this time in the revered and technically challenging Phillip Island circuit for the Australian Grand Prix. One of the top favourite circuits amongst many riders, this is one race not to be missed. Sunday’s raceday broadcast begins with Moto3 at 10:00am, followed by Moto2 at 11:20am and the premier MotoGP class at 1:00pm. (All times stated are local Malaysian time. Refer to your local broadcaster for more info) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/officially-official-lorenzo-moves-ducati/

Officially official: Lorenzo moves to Ducati!

After weeks of speculation, it is officially official, reigning MotoGP World Champion Jorge Lorenzo will leave the Yamaha MotoGP team at the end of this season. The destination for Lorenzo is the Ducati factory team. The following is an excerpt from Yamaha’s statement: “Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces that its partnership with Jorge Lorenzo will be discontinued at the close of the 2016 MotoGP season, when Lorenzo will move on to new racing challenges,” read a Yamaha statement. “Since Lorenzo joined the Yamaha Factory Racing Team in 2008, Lorenzo and Yamaha won three MotoGP World Championships (2010, 2012 and 2015), clinched 41 race wins and have been on the podium 99 times out of 141 races contested. “Yamaha is extremely grateful for Jorge’s contributions to its racing successes and looks forward to sharing more memorable moments during the remaining 15 MotoGP rounds of 2016, their ninth season together. “Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. wishes Lorenzo the very best in his future racing endeavours and reconfirms the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP team’s full support on his campaign to achieve his fourth MotoGP title. Ducati issued the following statement: “Ducati announces that it has reached an agreement with Jorge Lorenzo thanks to which the Spanish rider will take part in the MotoGP World Championship in 2017 and 2018 aboard the Ducati Desmosedici GP of the Ducati Team. “Lorenzo, born in Palma de Mallorca on 4 May 1987, has won five world championship titles throughout his racing career (250cc in 2006 and 2007 and MotoGP in 2010, 2012 and 2015).” Why suddenly? Ducati fishing for Lorenzo to don the colour red is nothing new, in fact the Italian team has been at it since 2009 but were turned down multiple times. Now seems to be the right time for the greatest Spanish racer of all time to make his move. Many feel that Lorenzo has achieved his best onboard the Yamaha M1, and that Lorenzo is not being perceived with the greatness he deserves. The Ducati however seems to be primed to win, with both Andrea Dovizioso and Andrea Iannone having claimed podium finishes and pole positions, despite lacking the ‘racing sparkle’ that separates the Greats from the podium finishers. Apparently Lorenzo also feels slighted that Rossi’s contract extension was announced first, instead of the reigning World Champion’s. This is being perceived as Yamaha placing more importance on The Doctor than on Lorenzo. The fact that Yamaha just announced a partnership with Rossi’s VR46 Riders Academy may also have a part to play in Lorenzo’s departure. The musical chairs begin What that means is that someone will have to take over his seat at Yamaha, and one of the Andreas at Ducati will have to vacate their seat. Andrea Iannone won no favours when he took out both himself and Dovizioso just metres away from a podium finish for both riders in Argentina. And Dovi is also being perceived as the more cool headed one among the two Italians, so it is Dovi that is tipped to stay at Ducati. Yamaha on the other hand has made no announcement or hinted at the rider to take over from Lorenzo, but it is the upcoming star at Suzuki, Maverick Vinales that is being tipped as the favourite to ride for Yamaha. Can Lorenzo do what Rossi couldn’t? There is no doubt that Lorenzo is one of the all-time greats, in his prime even Rossi was tested at almost every race. Lets not forget that this is the same guy who claimed a podium and second place finish on his debut race in 2008, and in 2010 won six races and never finished a race lower than second. He claimed the title with 383 points, a feat yet to be emulated. Rossi on the other hand has a galaxy of achievements to his credit as well, but he couldn’t tame the Ducati before returning to Yamaha. If Lorenzo manages to win a race and more at Ducati, he could just clinch the coveted “Mr Popular” title that Rossi has had tor decades. With the new Ducati Desmo race machine already showing signs of greatness, it seems likely that Lorenzo could just do what even the great Rossi couldn’t – tame a wild Ducati MotoGP race machine. It is unlikely that Lorenzo will speak openly about Ducati until the end of the season, but if there is one thing for sure, the 2017 MotoGP season is going to be awesome! Image Credits: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-recalled-in-the-us-air-suction-valves-may-cause-fire/

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R recalled in the US – air suction valves may cause fire

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the US has posted a very important recall for a number of Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R superbikes produced in 2019 and 2020. A total of 1,529 units are affected in the US where the issue revolves around the possibility of damaged air suction valves that may increase the risk of bike catching fire. Variants of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R that are affected by this recall are the standard model, ABS, and the KRT Edition. The cause of it all seems to be faulty programming of the ECU which ‘may cause the engine to backfire when the quick shift function is used under high engine load, possibly resulting in damage to the air suction valves.’ In simpler terms, riding the ZX-10R hard while using the quickshifter causes the bike to backfire resulting in a huge force of combustion in the exhaust that can lead to the air suction valves melting or even worse, catching fire. Kawasaki Motor Europe realized this particular issue late last year and was later confirmed in February by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Kawasaki Japan). To remedy the problem, Kawasaki will contact all affected owners to reprogram the ECU and inspect to air suction valves for any damages (free replacement will be given if necessary). Currently, there’s no word from Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) regarding any ZX-10R units affected here in Malaysia. You can be sure that if there’s any update regarding the matter, we will let you know. Source: NHTSA Here are some cool upgrades for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R --Ads--

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Video Review of The New Ducati Diavel 1260S We Tested in Spain!

The Ducati Diavel 1260S is more than just a fast bike, it is quite intelligent as well. The Diavel 1260S offers award winning looks and an engine that puts out enough power to shame superbikes. But it is the Pirelli tyres and Bosch electronic brain that create some real magic. But there were some false neutrals, we asked Ducati why and they explained it perfectly in a video featured in this article.  Reviewing the new Ducati Diavel 1260S reminded me of the original 1200. It was some time back in 2011 that I found myself at the World Expo Centre in Shanghai, staring at the then brand spanking new Ducati Diavel 1200 (below). I remember being wide eyed. Completely awe struck. The Diavel tore apart the conventional understanding of a cruiser, and Ducati quite literally stuck it to the motorcycling world with the Diavel. Every cruiser since then has, in one way or another, been influenced by the Diavel. Maybe in power, handling, braking power or electronics, but the Diavel set the standards pretty high as far as power cruisers are concerned. The Ducati Diavel 1200 Diesel. I didn’t get to ride it much, probably about 3km around a square building which served as our “test-track”. But it was enough for me to believe that Ducati had a winner in their hands, and that the era of the “power cruiser” had arrived. 10 Things You Need To Know About The New Ducati Diavel 1260S! Nine years later, I am at the coastal town of Malaga and staring at the almost all-new Ducati Diavel 1260S. It is still a stunning bike as it always has been. In fact, the Diavel recently won the prestigious Red Dot Design Award, click here to read about that. What’s new? I say “almost all new” because despite the new 1260 looking very much like the 1200 at first glance, only three things have been carried over from the first Diavel – the headlight, the tail light and the dash. Ducati says 90% of the bike is new! It is still a fantastic looking bike, and that 240 section rear tyre will never go out of style. It is just a cool bike but unlike other cruisers, this one has the performance to put sports riders to shame. Riding Modes I found this out after switching from Touring to Sport mode (the other mode is the sedated Urban mode, which I very quickly got bored of and I am sure you will too). I had been riding in Touring since leaving the hotel, over highways and part of the coastal mountains. The roads ahead were wide with fast flowing corners, perfect! Switching modes requires just two clicks of a switch with your left thumb, and about 3 seconds later and a quick roll off the throttle and the bikes goes from mile munching cruiser to F-15 fighter jet mode. Power is instantaneous and the new 1262cc Testastretta DVT engine responds to the throttle at millimeter precision. The engine features the Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT) technology which made its debut on the XDiavel (click here to read more about DVT technology). It offers a more direct response to your right hand and you feel it immediately. Couple this to the new Ducati Quick Shifter and you have a bike that accelerates so hard that it takes your brain some seconds to register the onslaught, at which point you would already be traveling at over 200km/h. Speaking of the DQS system though, there were a couple of time where the gear didn’t kick in, resulting in a false neutral. We did ask Ducati why this happened though and their reply is in the video above. In Sport mode, the new Diavel needs your fullest attention. But it is not just the riding mode that makes it quick, in fact the Diavel 1260S represents the perfect harmony of superbike performance and cruiser like coolness. Suspension The suspension is supplied by Ohlins all round, though not electronically controlled but fully adjustable 48mm upside down front fork and a shock absorber for the rear. Massive Braking Power Brembo’s M50 monobloc are some of the best in the business this side of professional racing. Featuring face warping abilities, the front is managed by twin 320mm semi-floating discs with radially mounted 4-piston calipers, while the rear is kept in check by a 265mm single dish with a dual-piston Brembo floating caliper. Of course, there’s a sprinkle of electronic magic here as well with smart electronics working behind the scenes to keep you safe. The Electronic Brain Backing up the Brembo braking hardware is a Bosch 9.2MP cornering ABS control unit. It has three intervention levels with Level 1 being the most sporty with zero cornering and rear wheel lift detection. If you like backing it into a corner, this is the level you want. The ingenious electronics package consists of – Ducati Traction Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch EVO, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO and Cornering ABS EVO. The brains of it all is a 6-axis Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit that measures roll and pitch angles as well as speed. You can also fully control the level of interference for each parameter – the traction control and wheelie control for example have eight different interference levels. Sticky Tyres But despite its power and cleverness, the Diavel 1260S relies on its tyres to deliver every bit of its power. And the tyres are more than a match to the Diavel’s brain and powertrain. Pirelli’s high-acclaimed Diablo Rosso III are tasked with grip management. And measure in at 120/70 at the front and 240/45 at the back. This huge variation in tyre section makes the bike feel nervous to lean at first, a typical character of fat-tyre cruisers – the front always seems keener to lean than the rear. But after a while you get to really dig deep into the tyres for some massive lean angles. The tyres are dual compound – soft on the outside and hard on the inside. Despite some damp patches and cold weather, I was able to get on the throttle mid-way of the corner, much earlier than you would on other cruisers. The Diablo Rosso III is known to have one of the wildest amount of grip, and it complements the character of the bike perfectly well. So how does it ride? Comfort is top notch because of the suspension and the wider and perfectly contoured seat that clasps your bum perfectly. No sore bum after that long ride through the mountains and in wet and dry conditions. The sitting position is sporty with its centre mounted controls, while the X-Diavel is and will be with the new XDiavel 1260, more reminiscent of a cruiser with its forward controls. The engine and the tyres are really the centrepiece of the new Diavel. The engine for its mad power and instantaneous response to the slightest input and the resulting massive explosion of power. And the tyres for their ability to keep up with the engine’s brute power. The electronics are there for check and balance and also for safety that requires thousands of calculations at a fraction of a second. And it is this combination that makes the Diavel feel like a superbike in a cruiser’s clothing. Our test route was about 220km long along some beautiful roads, a mix of wide, fast and winding and tight and challenging. The Diavel made mince of it all – of the distance, of the road, of the corners, and even the sections of rain we experienced. I was too chicken shit to go balls out in Sport mode in the rain, and that too while riding on the wrong side of the road, so it was back to Touring mode, which I find to be the best balance for the Diavel. Criticisms? Limitatios? I don’t have anything to criticise but some say that there is one limitation you would probably face if you buy the Diavel, and that would be that massive rear tyre. Suffering a rear puncture in a remote area could be a nightmare. Well, having some experience with touring with the Diavel 1200 during the Ducati China Strada ride in 2013 (pictured above), the tyre never gave way during the near 3000km ride (read about our trip with Ducati in China by clicking here). In fact, the only problem we faced with the Diavel during that ride was it bottoming out around the off-road section. But that’s to be expected though. The first-generation Diavel was already fantastic to begin with. A good combination of everything, and the new Diavel 1260S just takes it to an all new level of awesomeness. Sure it may have taken eight long years for Ducati to improve it, but it is so good, that I actually believe that Diavel 1200 owners may not recognise its riding character. The new Ducati Diavel 1260S is due to be launched in Malaysia at some point in April or early May of 2019. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/why-it-is-important-to-have-a-certified-technician-working-on-your-bike-2/

Why It is Important to have a Certified Technician Working on Your Bike

Trusting your bike to a certified technician is a no-brainer. There are great “traditional” mechanics out there but motorcycles are getting more complex. A certified technician invariably means official training, discipline and knowledge. Before we go on, surely you have experienced a horrific visit or two to a motorcycle workshop. You have ridden motorcycles for decades, but there always seem to be something to surprise you. We had written about this earlier, please click on the link below. Bad Mechanics: Horror Stories for Your Bike As we mentioned before, there are a few great mechanics around. These ‘otais’ cut their teeth in motorcycle maintenance and repairs usually from when they were very young. However, the key to their businesses surviving for so long is not due to offering cheap parts and accessories; instead, it is due to their passion in applying proper workshop practice and techniques. Visit one and you may see a good workshop manual or two in the office. But how about the younger generation coming into the job market? It was something of an eye-opener for us when the TOC Automotive College launched their Superbike Technician Course a few weeks ago. To recap, the TOC Automotive College (TOC) launched their Superbike Technician Course. Also during the launch, TOC signed an agreement with the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA). To summarize, the agreement will see students of TOC’s Superbike Technician Course be sent to MMSDA affiliated workshops to undergo industrial training as part of their curriculum and find job placements there when they have completed the course. Mr. Wee Hong, Chairman of MMSDA iterated that there is a pressing need for qualified technicians at member workshops. (Please click on the link below for more details.) TOC Automotive College Launches Superbike Technician Course So why the need for qualified technicians over those who were self-taught? (Again, we stress that not all self-taught technicians are bad.) Therefore, the benefits of having your pride and joy looked after by a certified technician are: Proper workshop practices such as using the right tool for the right job. For example, using a torque wrench rather than whacking away with the pneumatic impact driver. TOC, for example, requires a passing mark of 80% for each subject. That means their graduates have already been ingrained with most, if not all, knowledge about motorcycles. Again, TOC does not compromise with students who missed any class more than twice per subject in a semester. This sort of training inculcates not only skill and knowledge but also discipline. Discipline translates to ownership and responsibility. We’ve had some great experience visiting a few workshops whose technicians performed superbly, despite their young age. Being certified means the technician is able to understand English. Now, it is not that we are ostracizing non-English speakers, but the cold, hard fact is that workshop manuals, owners’ manuals for imported motorcycles, guidebooks, most technical publications and videos are in English. Motorcycles are getting ever more complex, especially in terms of electronics. The new crop of technicians is trained to diagnose these problems with the help of electronic testers. While the above may not be 100% representative of the real world, at least it is better than having your bike’s CAN-bus worked on by a pokok ceri mechanic. Think of it this way: Would you visit a doctor or your neighbour (because he has a hot daughter) to diagnose your illness? To know more about TOC’s Superbike Technician Course, CLICK HERE! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/build-your-own-origami-yamaha-yzf-r1m/

Build your own origami Yamaha YZF-R1M

Always wanted to own your favourite superbike but can’t seem to spare the cash and space at home for one? Then the downloadable Yamaha YZF-R1M origami paper craft will surely bring out the hobbyist in you. For the uninitiated, Yamaha has made some of its rear world creations available as home-buildable paper craft models for quite some time now, and the 2015 Yamaha YZF-R1M superbike is the latest addition to that. The best part about this is the fact that you can download the model’s build scheme for free online this dedicated microsite. The built-up model featured in the images is a 1:5 scale replica of the acclaimed superbike, measuring 41cm end to end. This being part of Yamaha’s ‘Ultra Realistic’ range of models, you’re going to need a few things starting with a good quality colour printer, followed by a copious amount of A4-sized paper, as well as a basic set of home stationeries (glue, scissors, ruler, etc.) Since it’s the holidays, this could perhaps be the perfect gift that you can build for your budding riding buddies or relatives. What better way to celebrate one’s passion for two-wheels by fuelling said passion further, albeit in a smaller yet more interactive way indeed. You can visit the microsite to download the full schematics for the Yamaha YZF-R1M paper craft, as well as its construction manual. Source: Yamaha via Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/us-mat-rempit-try-escape-police-caught-camera/

US ‘mat rempit’ try to escape from police caught on camera!

Image source: Clevescene A recently uploaded YouTube video showed a group of US ‘mat rempit’ trying to escape from the police. Street riders from the US are popular with doing insane stunts of public roads with their dirt bikes and ATVs. Everything was caught on camera from one of the riders’ action camera mounted on his/her helmet. Image source: Boston Herald In every country, there’s always a group of motorcycle riding hooligans that enjoy the chaos of riding wildly on city streets. Here in Malaysia, we have ‘mat rempit’ but in the United States of America, they take things to whole new level (including the police who try to apprehend them). A YouTube channel called JustPoliceVideos recently posted a group of rowdy individuals trying to escape the Boston Police on the highway. Everything was caught on camera from one of the individuals who recorded everything on his action camera mounted on his/her helmet. How this person escaped was nothing short of spectacular (which goes to show the incredible things people can do when they’re in desperate situations). Image source: NPR Riding their dirt bikes and four-wheeled ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), these motorcycles are very popular amongst street hooligans in the US for their ability to perform riding stunts effortlessly. When they have the numbers of bikers sometimes in the hundreds (and even thousands), they sometimes take to the streets and even close down highways. Image source: Baltimore Sun So when the Boston Police decided to conduct a huge operation to catch some of these American ‘mat rempits’, chaos followed quickly as they try to escape. With most of the dirt bikes and two-stroke scooters being very light, they simply picked their bikes up over the highway dividers and rode off away from the officers (but not everyone was spared as some were taken into custody). Image source: Fiveprime Our Malaysian counterparts have been seen performing similar acts sometime last year. In an effort to run away from the roadblock organised by the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), these young Malaysian individuals decided to throw caution into the wind and risked their lives (and other road users) by going to the centre of the highway and climbed the road divider to get to the other side. Breaking the law is something that we here at Bikes Republic are fully against. We urge everyone to think of the safety of all road users and the lives of others before doing anything remotely dangerous. A summons or ticket will cause you some money but it’s not worth risking your lives (and others) to escape from it. Ride safe, everyone! Ride safe and responsibly, everyone! Wilayah International Motofest 2018 thunders down Kuala Lumpur --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-ninja-gpz900r-making-a-comeback/

Kawasaki Ninja GPZ900R making a comeback?

1984 GPz900R The folks from Kawasaki just posted a very interesting video showing the evolution of the extremely iconic Kawasaki Ninja GPZ900R. It’s basically a morphing video showing all 16 models of the GPZ900R since its launch back in 1984 all the way up to the last one released back in 2003. The question that keeps playing in our minds is, why would Kawasaki post up this video just last week? It’s true that this particular model is well known for its movie appearance in one of the most iconic Hollywood films of all time, Top Gun. Tom Cruise riding along ride next to a fighter jet taking off was something every biker kid wanted to do and with the new movie coming up, Top Gun: Maverick, the trailer also showcases the re-emergence of the classic GPZ900R. We also know that Tom Cruise will be piloting a Kawasaki H2R in the new Top Gun movie and this show the strong foothold Kawasaki has in this very iconic movie. With that being said, does Kawasaki has the intentions to release a new version of the GPZ900R anytime soon? Will we see it in the new Top Gun movie? There are also rumours going around regarding the new version of the Kawasaki Z900RS looking more like the GPZ900R. So far, any other regarding the return of this iconic bike is still pretty much in the dark but Kawasaki knows how to throw some mystery into the whole mix. Are we excited about the prospect? Yes. Should you? Heck yes! Kawasaki Buys into Bimota, Unveils Bimota Tesi H2 at EICMA 2019 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-honda-adv-350-set-to-debut-in-thailand-in-march/

All-New Honda ADV 350 Set To Debut in Thailand in March!

Great news to wake up to, though it is unlike to make it to the Malaysian market, but we could just get lucky. Word on the internet grapevine is saying that the all-new Honda ADV350 is set to be launched in Thailand in March of 2022. The Honda ADV 350 was first shown at the EICMA show in 2021, but it went quiet since then, until now. You can read our full report of the Honda ADV 350 here. The all-new Honda ADV 350 is based on the Honda Forza 350 with the same eSP + engine, but with a twist. Handling is managed by a 37mm Showa upside-down front fork with twin Showa rear shocks, while the ADV 350 also gets better ground clearance than the Forza 350. There are also other amenities that add comfort and safety such as hand guards, a height-adjustable windshield, LED lights, a full LCD display screen. There’s not all, there’s also a USB Type C charging connector, HSTC system and a RoadSync smartphone connectivity that displays all key information from your smart phone onto the LCD screen. As for power, the ADV 350 is powered by Honda’s single-cylinder 330cc liquid cooled engine with fuel-injection. It also comes with Honda’s Smart Power + with Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and outputs 28.9 horsepower. In typical Honda fashion, RideApart reports that the ADV 350 comes with three colours for starts – Spangle Silver Metallic, Mat Carbonic Gray Metallic, and Mat Carnelian Red Metallic finishes. There is no news on whether it will make it to Malaysia as yet, but it could just be the case since this is the perfect opportunity for Boon Siew Honda to plug the gap in between the smallish ADV 150 and the pricey ADV 750. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aam-consistently-broke-the-rules-kbs-explains-why/

“AAM Consistently Broke the Rules” – KBS Explains Why

Photo credit ESPN.com The Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) explained why the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) was booted out as the sanctioning body for motorsports. KBS recommended to the FIM that the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) take AAM’s place. According to the FIM’s Sports Commissioner, “The AAM consistently broke the rules.” The Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM)/Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) saga riles many feathers and had many racing enthusiasts talking about it. In the latest twist, Kementerian Belia dan Sukan (KBS – Youth and Sports Ministry) joined the ring, calling for AAM to be booted out of role as the country’s authority on motorsports. The minister of the department, Syed Saddiq said, “AAM has been suspended by the (FIM) Sports Commission for consistently breaching the provisions of the Sports Development Act 1997. Many warnings have been given out before.” “It is important for international regulatory bodies to be aware of this and take whatever action as necessary. We do not dictate what they should or should not do.” On the other hand, “MAM has always been registered with the Sports Commissioner under the Sports Development Act 1997 to carry out national motorsports events.” He added that this was in effect from many years ago, even before he became a minister. Malaysian Insider had previously claimed that Syed Saddiq sent a letter to the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) in September last year. The letter sought to recognize MAM as the sole Malaysian motorsports authority. Photo credit malaymail.com According to the FIM’s Sports Commissioner’s Office, it cancelled AAM’s status as a sports body in late 2018 after the latter “broke the rules.” AAM did not submitted their year-end report and amending their own constitution. AAM chairman Tunku Mudzaffar Mustapha, on the other hand, said that they had been in constant communication with the FIM, but was suddenly deregistered on 30thNovember 2018. AAM is the only sporting body in Malaysia sanctioned by the FIM, International Automobile Federation (FIA), and International Carting Federation (CIK). Hence, participants need to apply for their racing license and insurance from AAM if they compete overseas. Tunku Mudzaffar warned that international motorsports events such as MotoGP will be jeopardy since AAM is the sole sanctioning body. Our take Dato’ Ahmad Razlan Ahmad Razali had said that the SIC MotoGP teams registered their riders including Hafizh Syahrin directly with the FIM without the involvement of AAM or MAM. But if the FIM accepts MAM as the sanctioning body in Malaysia, international motorsports events ought to continue, which contradicts AAM’s statement. The reality is this: The AAM has long been reviled by Malaysian racers on both four wheels and two wheels. To them, the body had only been charging high premiums for the racing license and insurance but have done nothing to promote the country’s motorsports. “AAM is beyond reproach,” they said. These grouses were aired to this writer when he was covering the FIM Asia Supermoto Championship from 2015 and many other motorsports events. Karma? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-kawasaki-z250-abs-kawasaki-z400-se-abs-launched-from-rm-21998-00/

2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS, Kawasaki Z400 SE ABS Launched (from RM 21,998.00)

Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) launched the 2019 Kawasaki Z250 ABS and Kawasaki Z400 SE ABS. Both are high-performance lightweight motorcycles. They are priced very competitively. The Kawasaki Z250 ABS and Kawasaki Z400 SE ABS were launched tonight. They are priced at RM 21,998.00 and RM 28,755.00, respectively. The new models were launched during Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.’s 30thAnniversary Gala Dinner. The guest of honour was Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Muhyiddin bin Haji Muhammad Yassin, the Home Affairs Minister of Malaysia. 2019 Kawasaki Z250 (From RM 21,998.00) The 2019 Z250 is a facelift model to the previous Z250, to lengthen the model’s lifespan. Highlights: Following the Sugomi design concept, the bike has multiple slated panels. The fuel tank is now more muscular. New steel trellis frame that’s 4kg lighter, and inspired by the Ninja H2. Wider handlebar for better leverage. Raised tail section. New LED taillight. New LED headlight. Semi-digital instrument panel (meter) inspired by the Z650. Single front petal brake disc and petal rear brake. Dual-channel ABS. The engine is a 249cc, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, parallel-Twin. It produces 37.7 hp (38.2 PS) and 23.5 Nm of torque The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. Offered in Green colour scheme. 1 of 6 2019 Kawasaki Z400 SE ABS (from RM 28,755.00) As with the Z250 which is the naked version of Ninja 250, the Z400 is the therefore the naked version of the Ninja 400. Highlights: The design also follows the Sugomi concept. The fuel tank has muscular side panels. New steel trellis frame that’s 4kg lighter, and inspired by the Ninja H2. The handlebar and seating position is more upright hence more accessible to a wider range of riders. Raised tail section. New LED taillight. New LED headlight. Semi-digital instrument panel (meter) inspired by the Z650. Single front petal brake disc and petal rear brake. Dual-channel ABS. The engine is a 399cc, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, parallel-Twin. It produces 48.3 hp (49 PS) and 38 Nm of torque. New fuel injectors. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. Offered in Grey colour scheme. 1 of 9 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brixton-bx-150-get-styling-updates-for-2021-from-rm10488/

Brixton BX 150 Get Styling Updates For 2021 – From RM10,488

MForce Bike Holdings, the sole distributor of the Brixton Motorcycles in Malaysia, has updated the BX 150 range for 2021. The BX 150, BX 150X and BX 150R received minor styling updates consist of new colours and appearance. Nonetheless, all three variants are equipped with the same 149cc, 4-stroke, SOHC engine capable of producing 11hp @ 8,000rpm and 11.9Nm @ 6,000rpm mated to a five-speed transmission. Other features include: telescopic front fork rear twin shock absorbers 280mm single disc (front) 220mm single disc (rear) Combined Braking System (CBS) 14L tank an analogue meter with a digital speedometer The selling price starts from RM10,488 for the base BX150, followed by RM10,788 for the BX 150X Scrambler and RM11,088 for the BX 150R. Customers will enjoy a 2-year warranty of 20,000km (whichever comes first) with every purchase of the BX 150 range. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/12-useful-math-formulas-and-conversions/

12 Useful Math Formulas and Conversions

It’s useful to know a few math formulas and conversions. They could come in handy whenever the situation arises. Math isn’t scary, they can be downright fun instead. You may have pulled up at a petrol station to inflate your tyres and the measurement unit on the air pump left you scratching your head. Or you’ve travelled a certain distance in a given time but uncertain on how to calculate the average speed. Or how many c.c.’s (cubic centimetres) is that 114 cubic inch Harley engine? Fret not, because we’re here to help. We work with these numbers on an almost daily basis. 1. Pound-per-square-inch (psi) to kilopascal (kPa) We’re familiar with these two pressure measurements as tyre pressures. While kilopascal is more widely used, there are still many pumps that still measure in pounds-per-square-inch. To convert, multiply by 6.9 kpa. For example, 32 psi X 6.9 = 220.8 kPa. What about bar? You just need to multiply the number by 100 to obtain the kilopascal reading i.e. 2.5 bar X 100 = 250 kPa. 2. Distance (km), speed (km/h) and time (hr.) These three are interlinked. The easiest way to remember the formulas among them is to draw a triangle and place Distance (D) on top of Speed (S) and Time (T). Say if you travelled at a steady 110 km/h for 3 hours and 15 minutes: Distance = 110 km/h X 3.25 hours = 357.5 km Conversely, to determine your average speed after covering a known distance in a certain amount of time, say from the Rawang R&R to the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration Checkpoint (441km) in 3 hours, 25 minutes: Speed = 441 km ÷ {[(3 hrs. X 60 minute) + 25 minutes] ÷ 60 minutes} = 441 ÷ (205 ÷ 60) = 441 km ÷ 3.42 hours = 128.95 km/h Finally, say you’re planning a convoy and need to estimate the amount of time you’d spend in covering a distance at a certain speed. Again, let’s assume the 441 km distance at an average of 110 km/h. Time = 441 km ÷ 110 km/h = 4 hours 3. Engine Displacement / Capacity (cc) The formula is: Displacement = Pi X radius2 X height = P X (½ X bore)2 X stroke As an example, let’s use the Triumph Tiger 800 which we tested recently. The bore’s 74.0 mm and stroke’s 61.9 mm. However, since we seek the result in cubic centimetres (cc), we have to first convert milimetres to centimetres. Hence, the bore and stroke are 6.19 cm and 7.40 cm, respectively. Let’s plug in the numbers. Pi X (½ X 7.40)2 X 6.19 = 3.14 X (3.70)2 X 6.19 = 3.14 X 13.69 X 6.19 = 266.08 cc That’s the displacement of one cylinder. Since the Tiger 800 is an inline-Triple, we multiply 266.08 by 3. Therefore, the engine displacement of the Triumph Tiger 800 is 266.08 X 3 = 798.26 cc, which is rounded to 800 cc.  4. Cubic Inches (c.i.) to Cubic Centimetres (cc) As we mentioned earlier, Harley-Davidson and Indian motorcycle engine capacities are published in cubic inches; such as the Milwaukee-Eight 114 and Thunder Stroke 111, respectively. To convert, multiply cubic inch by 16.387. Therefore, 114 X 16.387 = 1868.12 cc, rounded to 1870 cc. 5. Kilowatt (kW) to mechanical horsepower (hp) Certain manufacturers publish their products’ power output in kilowatt (kW), but we are more familiar with horsepower. To convert, multiply kW by 1.34. Hence, 70 kW X 1.34 = 93.8 hp, or rounded to 94 hp. 6. Metric horsepower (PS) to mechanical horsepower (hp) PS is known as metric horsepower, while HP is known as mechanical horsepower. To convert, multiply ps by 0.986. Thus 35 PS X 0.986 = 34.5 hp 7. Foot-pound (ft. lb.) to Newton-Metre (Nm) These two units concern torque, usually used to quote the engine’s “pulling power.” To convert, multiply ft. lb. by 1.36. Hence, 90 ft. lb X 1.36 = 122.4 Nm 8. Miles-per-hour (mph) to kilometres-per-hour (km/h) To convert, multiply mph by 1.61. Thus, 60 mph X 1.61 = 96.6 km/h Similarly, 1 mile is equal to 1.61 kilometres. 9. Foot (ft.) to metre (m) To convert, multiply by 0.30. Thus, 30 feet X 0.30 = 9.00 metres 10. Inch (in.) to milimetre (mm) To convert, multiply by 25.4. Hence, 3.5 inches X 25.4 = 88.9 mm 11. Pound (lb.) to kilogram (kg) To convert, multiply by 0.45. Thus, 410 lb. X 0.45 = 184.5 kg 12. Fahrenheit (F) to Celsius (C) Do bear in mind that the Fahrenheit scale is 32o when the temperature is 0o Celsius. So, in order to determine the temperature in Celsius, you need to take the Fahrenheit reading, subtract 32 and multiply by 0.5556. For example: 90o F = (90 – 32) X 0.5556 = 58 X 0.5556 = 32.2o C --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-karel-abraham-continues-pullbear-aspar-team-2018/

MotoGP: Karel Abraham continues with Pull&Bear Aspar Team for 2018

Both seats on the Pull&Bear Aspar Team for 2018 after the announcement of Karel Abraham signing for yet another season with the MotoGP squad. The return of Abraham back on the MotoGP grid so far has been quite positive with constant top 10 finishes and even a front row start from the 27 year old from Czech Republic. Abraham will continue his MotoGP efforts next season alongside his current Spanish team mate, Alvaro Bautista. After the recent breaking news of Takaaki Nakagami moving up to MotoGP next season as the second LCR Honda rider after signing a contract with HRC, another seat has been filled for 2018. Karel Abraham has been confirmed to continue riding for the Pull&Bear Aspar Team for yet another season. Following a return back into the MotoGP series this year after an unfruitful career in the WorldSBK, Karel Abraham returns with a goal to become better than ever. With constant top 10 finishes and even a front row start plus appearances in Qualifying 2, it seems that Abraham has brought some positive vibes back into the Aspar squad so far. Despite having to race on a Ducati Desmosedici GP15, he managed a best finish of P7 back in Assen which shows that Abraham has what it takes to fight against the factory riders. Abraham will race alongside his current team mate, Alvaro Bautista for yet another season. Bautista signed his extension just last month. To know more about Alvaro Bautista signing with the Aspar Team for 2018, CLICK HERE. According to Jorge Martinez, General Manager of the Aspar Team, he stated “For the Aspar Team it is a source of satisfaction to renew with Karel Abraham. When we signed him last year we felt he could do a good job but the results he has achieved have been a very positive surprise.” “He has done much better than we expected, right from preseason, and as the races have gone by he has continued to improve and achieve great results. We think we can continue to improve with him in the future. It is a simple choice, he is happy with the team and we are happy with him, so we are going to continue in the same way and chase even bigger goals.” As for the rider himself, Abraham stated “I am very happy to have re-signed with the Aspar Team and to continue with the same group of people is very important to me. I am very happy, I am already looking forward to a new challenge next season but right now I need to concentrate on the rest of this season, which is the most important. As I said, I am very happy, but we have to focus on the here and now.” Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP updates. Source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-advance2langkawi-ride-60-shots/

Shell Advance #Advance2Langkawi Ride in 60+ shots

A collection of photos from the Shell Advance #Advance2Langkawi Ride that we organised recently. Loyal readers would know by now that our friends at Shell Malaysia held a special consumer campaign late last year through its Shell Advance brand called the Shell Advance #Advance2Langkawi campaign. (Read about it here) The campaign was a special social media-based photo contest where more than 700 entries were submitted using the campaign’s #Advance2Langkawi hashtag. From that, Shell Malaysia chose just seven winners in the form of Keith Ow, 29, from Penang; Ng Yao Ding, 29, from Ipoh; Zahed Abdul Rahman, 43 and wife, Hamidah Hassan, 43, from Rawang; Koong Wai Hoong, 32, and Shamsul Ridzuan Idris, 42, from Kuala Lumpur; and Miazil Jores, 28, from Johor Bahru. Each of the seven winners was rewarded with an all-expenses paid biking road trip to Langkawi Island and back. On top of that, each winner was also treated with a complimentary service and oil change using Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology facilitated by our friends at Moto Aladdin. And in case you were wondering, Shell Malaysia got the BikesRepublic team to organise and manage the group ride. While it wasn’t an easy task, we were fortunate to have a few key partners that helped us along to way. In total, the ride covered approximately 1,200km across a span of five days. Of course, words do little at explaining how things went, so here’s a collection of images we snapped whilst riding up to Langkawi island and back with the winners. Our editor Keshy Dhillon took up the daunting job of being the ride’s lead marshall and sometimes as fuel pump attendant too. By the way, all winners had their bikes fuelled up using Shell’s V-Power 97 premium fuels throughout the ride. One last safety briefing before everyone geared up. Being an experienced rider himself, Zahed Abdul Rahman @ Abang Zed was more than keen in sharing his wealth of experience to the other winners as most have never done long-distance overland rides before. Riders being flagged off from the Shell Station just off the Nortbound Jalan Duta toll plaza leading towards the PLUS North-South Expressway. One of the ride’s key partners was Isuzu Malaysia who kindly loaned us three Isuzu D-Max 3.0 V-Cross pick-up trucks. From ferrying luggages, cargo and crew, these trucks were key logistical assets in our ride. We also roped in the folks from Motobike Bulance for this ride. Having such a service for a major group ride offered great peace of mind. Winners having lunch together with the team from Shell and our crew in Ipoh, Perak. Hamidah Hassan, who is also Abang Zed’s wife, proved that a ‘small’ capacity bike like her Kawasaki Ninja 250 had no problems in covering long distances. Abang Zed enjoying the view astride his prized Kawasaki Versys as we charted across Kedah. Winner Miazil Jores enjoying the view and ride astride the Victory Vegas 8-Ball which packed a massive 1,731cc V-twin engine! Errr, Thailand’s actually further up Abang Zed! One of the biggest challenges in this ride was the daunting pre-ride work, especially in preparing the necessary documentations for all the bikes and crew vehicles to enter Langkawi. All seven winners together with the Shell Malaysia team posing for a photograph after reaching one of Langkawi Island’s famed landmark, Dataran Lang. Participants, crew and the folks from Shell Malaysia tentatively listen to the comical stand up from one of our lead crew members who occasionally moonlights as a stand up comic. Back on the ferry leaving Langkawi Island for the next leg of the ride to Penang Island. Not only did winner and Penang native Keith Ow had it easy covering the miles on his Kawasaki Versys, he also got got a good homecoming of sorts as in the ride’s Langkawi to Penang leg. Our editor Keshy Dhilon had quite a blast astride the new KTM 1050 Adventure. The Austrian marque’s entry-level adventure-styled tourer proved to be the perfect bike when tasked as the lead marshall’s ride of choice. Who would’ve thought that the perfect convoy sweeper bike was a maxi-scooter! Winner Shamsul Ridzuan Idris enjoying the view astride his Triumph Street Triple as we cruised along the Second Penang Bridge back towards the mainland. Lastly, we’d like to thank everyone that made this ride possible. You can check out more images in the gallery we’ve prepared below. Shell Advance #Advance2Langkawi Ride --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-2019-bmw-s-1000-rr/

Is this the new 2019 BMW S 1000 RR?

Rendered photos of what looks like the 2019 BMW S 1000 RR have been circulating online. Based on the photos, the 2019 model carries a whole new design which is smoother and more fluid. Sources also indicated that the bike will have more power embedded with MotoGP-inspired technology. Rendered photos of what possibly will be the new 2019 BMW S 1000 RR have been circulating in the World Wide Web and a lot of folks are saying that this will be the next “game changer” in the world of superbikes. Based on the leaked patents, there’s a huge possibility that it might as well just do that. Looking closely at all the CAD renders now widely spread online, we can see that there are a lot of changes being planned for the next-generation superbike from BMW Motorrad. With an all-new design built from the ground up, we can see that there’s a huge change up in the S 1000 RR’s facade especially its iconic dual front headlights where it is now symmetrical. The rendered photos also showcased a much smoother design compared to the current model available with its sharp and aggressive look. The rear subframe also looks more round on the 2019 model which gives the bike a more subtle and more ‘Japanese’ appeal like the older versions of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. From what we know based on our test ride session with the 2018 BMW S 1000 RR, do not judge a book by its cover especially with the amount of firepower readily available once you open that electronically-controlled throttle wide open. Sources have indicated that there will be a brand new and even more powerful 1,000cc inline-four engine planned for the 2019 machine. Hubba hubba. This can be seen by the new engine case design indicated in the rendered photos which also suggests that BMW Motorrad is most probably going to inject some MotoGP-inspired technology into the highly-volatile and exhilarating engine package such as a counter-rotating crankshaft. This means that the 2019 model will be able to tackle corners better and improved performances in traction control as well as power delivery. A new exhaust package can also be seen in the photos which suggest that BMW Motorrad is working on something that will possibly increase the engine’s power output but at the same time conform to the ever-growing strict emissions regulations. These assumptions are only based on the rendered photos readily available at the moment but knowing how BMW Motorrad functions, the new 2019 BMW S 1000 RR will carry more evolutions in the package from the inside out where it’ll be ready to conquer the streets as well as the track. Whatever the case may be, we just have to wait until at the end of the year for the official unveiling either at EICMA or INTERMOT. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. BMW Motorrad Malaysia Releases Prices with SST --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-mt-15-spotted-in-malaysia/

Yamaha MT-15 Spotted in Malaysia

The long-awaited Yamaha MT-15 was spotted in Malaysia recently. A photo showed the bike being ridden on the North-South Expressway. The bike may be launched in January 2020. The long-awaited Yamaha MT-15 was spotted in Malaysia recently. According to our friends at Pandu Laju, a reader sent in the photos of the bike being ridden on the North-South Expressway. From the picture, we could see that it bears a trade plate and wore no camouflage. It could well be tested for homologation purposes. Although touted as the MT-25 in their website, our take is that the bike is the MT-15. The photo isn’t clear at all, but there is a piece of bodywork poking out in front of the rider’s right knee. As the MT-25 doesn’t have radiator shrouds (check out the main picture), it narrows down to the MT-15. Photo credit pandulaju.com.my Anyway, If it’s indeed going through homologation, it means that we’ll probably see it being launched soon, but most probably in January during the annual Hong Leong Yamaha Dealers’ Convention, usually  held at Genting Highlands. Also evident in the photo are some elements of the bike’s styling. Its rear end and exhaust silencer are carried over from the fully-faired YZF-R15. In fact, the MT-15 is the naked version based on the popular YZF-R15 platform, thereby running the same mechanicals. We shall see if it’s actually the MT-15 or MT-25 later, but Malaysian motorcycle fans will have something awesome to look forward to next year! Source and photo: pandulaju.com.my --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/say-hello-to-the-ktm-1290-super-duke-gt/

Say hello to the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

If you thought that BMW’s S1000XR is as wild as an adventure-tourer can get, let us assure you that something crazier is on its way. Meet the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, a tourer that is based on the manic 180hp 1290 Super Duke R. Expected to be unveiled officially at the upcoming EICMA International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan in, Italy in October, the bike is still wearing the camouflage present in the earlier sightings. From what we can see, it features an orange frame, a black sub-frame, a black exhaust heat shield, and comes with a lower and longer rear subframe than the R. As much as the engine is concerned, we can expect the GT to share the same 1301cc LC8 twin that’s in the Super Duke R, only with different engine mapping to make it more suitable for long distance riding, as well as to help it meet Euro 4 regulations. Other gizmos that are most likely to be offered on the bike include heated grips, semi active suspension with four modes, cruise control and self-cancelling indicators. We believe it’ll have a quick-shifter as standard and Sport, Street and Rain riding modes. Sources have also reported that it’s highly likely to have KTM and Bosch’s MSC (Motorcycle Stability Control) cornering ABS system, which will feature four settings – Street, Sport, Rain and Supermoto. It’s also said to have a hill start feature called Hill Hold Control (HHC) and a system called Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) which improves engine braking when climbing. Now, how is that for an adventure-tourer? Excited yet? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brembo-official-statement-issued-pr16-master-cylinder-recall/

Brembo official statement released on PR16 master cylinder recall

After the recall issued by Ducati and Aprilia in the US regarding the PR16 front radial master cylinder unit, a Brembo official statement has finally been released. Brembo has stated that the manufacturers that are affected are Aprilia, Ducati, KTM, MV Agusta, TM Racing, Moto Morini and Horex. Models from 2015 to 2017 which uses the PR16 front radial master cylinder are typically used with Brembo M50 callipers. It was only a few days ago at the beginning of the year where news broke out regarding a possible recall for a Brembo master cylinder unit. Manufacturers in the US like Aprilia and Ducati have since released official notices to owners with bikes that use the Brembo PR16 front radial master cylinder unit which is typically used with the Brembo M50 calliper package. The master cylinder unit mentioned is quite a popular model which has been used all over the world by a number of different manufacturers. After a week of uncertainties on whether other bike manufacturers using the same PR16 part are affected, Brembo finally broke its silence with an official statement. Position statement Brembo SpA, a leader in the production of disc brake systems for vehicles, following the recent publication of some articles by the international press, mentioning wrong information, points out that: -Thanks to the constant quality monitoring over its production processes, it has uncovered the possibility of defects to the piston of the front radial master cylinder (diameters 15mm and 16mm), sold between 2015 and 2017 and mounted on some motorcycle models. -The only manufacturers affected are: Aprilia Ducati KTM MV Agusta TM Racing Moto Morini Horex -The recall does not affect other manufacturers nor other master cylinders, or master cylinders sold as Aftermarket kits through the Brembo distribution network. Brembo promptly informed the manufacturers of the problem so that the owners of the aforementioned bikes could be informed and invited to have the part replaced at the nearest dealership. As you can see, there were no indications in the statement as of how the particular part can cause failure but on the bright side, we now know which manufacturers are affected. Currently, there is still no news on whether the models here in Malaysia are affected. Once we have any information, we will inform you as soon as we can. In the mean time, you can check with your preferred authorised dealer regarding the matter. To know more about the PR16 front radial master cylinder unit recall in the US, CLICK HERE. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/no-penang-bridge-motorcycle-toll-barisan-nasional-wins/

No more Penang Bridge motorcycle toll IF Barisan Nasional wins

Barisan Nasional (BN) has announced their pledge to stop collecting the Penang Bridge motorcycle toll if they win the state in GE14. The announcement was made yesterday by BN Chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak. BN has pledged many improvements and upgrade if they retake the Penang state back in next month’s general election. With the upcoming general election coming up next month, a lot of folks from several parties have been throwing around a lot of pledges and promises regarding their plans to make the country a better place. The latest pledge which caught our attention was the one made by Barisan Nasional (BN) in regards to their future in the state of Penang. According to Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak, the toll for motorcyclists on the Penang Bridge will no longer be collected if they retake the state back after GE14. The promise was delivered by the man himself during the ‘Balik Pulau bersama Perdana Menteri’ yesterday at SMN Seri Balik Pulau. Image source: Malay Mail Online “There will be no toll for motorcycles if Barisan wins the state. There will be more if Barisan wins and you must ensure our victory,” stated the BN chairman during his campaign in the state. Apart from the bike toll, he also pledged for other grand initiatives involving the upgrades for the state’s medical and health departments. Currently, those who are travelling to the island on a daily basis have to pay RM1.70 per entry. This translates to RM51 per month and RM612 per year. That’s a lot of savings, especially for the low-income earners. So, who’s your vote for? Wait, don’t tell us! 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS now with new colour! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10rr-zx-6r-now-in-malaysia-from-rm79900/

2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR & ZX-6R now in Malaysia! From RM79,900

Kawasaki Motors Malaysia Sdn Bhd (KMSB) has officially launched the 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and the Ninja ZX-6R. The launch was held at KLIMS 2018 together with the introduction of the Kawasaki Genuine Oil. Both the new ZX-10RR and ZX-6R are priced at RM159,900 and RM79,900 respectively. The good folks from Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (KMSB) have successfully conducted one hell of a show-stopper earlier today with the launch of the all-new 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 (KLIMS). Held at MITEC Kuala Lumpur, the two new bikes which were just recently launched globally have made their way to Malaysian shores in order to bring total superbike supremacy to this part of the world. Both the ZX-10RR and ZX-6R have been substantially-updated with better power delivery as well as handling on the open road and closed circuits. 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR – RM159,900 This baby has been specifically-developed for superior performance based on the race machine used by Jonathan Rea and the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) in WorldSBK. This multiple-championship-winning machine gave Rea four straight championship victories in the premier class and now, 500 lucky owners around the world are able to enjoy the same feeling. Powered a powerful 998cc inline-four engine, the new 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR now produces 201hp but with better overall performance thanks to new titanium parts and a redesigned crankshaft plus a rise in the previously flat torque curve. This means that the ZX-10RR is able to produce more power but at the same time offer better rideability for those looking for the ultimate precision machine. Other top end features include KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System), ABS, horizontal back-link suspension, KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode), IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), electronic throttle valves, KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function), S-KTRC (Sport-Kawasaki Traction Control), power modes, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP rubbers, and more. As stated earlier, the new Ninja ZX-10RR is limited in production to just 500 units worldwide and KMSB is targeting in getting the biggest allocation for the Asian region. According to Dato’ Jeffrey Lim Chee Sing, General Manager & Director of KMSB, they’re planning to bring in around 10-20 units here in Malaysia if all goes well. 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R – RM79,900 Those who prefer something specifically-designed to reign over the Supersports bike category can opt for the latest 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. The 636cc Ninja powerhouse has been further updated for a stronger low-to-mid end torque range whilst increasing its usability for everyday riding. The major highlights of the new 2019 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R are: Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) as standard New styling with twin LED headlights and taillight “High-grade” instrumentation Euro4 emissions-compliant engine tuning Optimized gear ratios to improve low-end power Talking about power, the base 636cc inline-four engine has gone through minor updates to ensure that the machine complies with the strict Euro-4 emissions regulations. Producing a monstrous 127hp at 13,500rpm and 70.8Nm of maximum torque upon hitting 11,000rpm, the ZX-6R offers “greater performance across the rpm range is welcome when sport riding, both in the hills and on the racetrack.” Other major highlights of the new Ninja ZX-6R are: Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) Radial monobloc brake package Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 sport tyres Showa Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP) Assist & Slipper Clutch In conjunction with the launch of the two new superbikes, KMSB also took the opportunity to launch their brand new Kawasaki Genuine Oil via a new technical partnership deal with Idemitsu. The introduction of Kawasaki Motors Malaysia 4T Semi and Fully Synthetic Genuine Oils are all about providing maximum power and protection whilst keeping the overall maintenance costs down. According to Mr. Ahmad Faez bin Tan Sri Yahaya, Executive Chairman of KMSB, “The 4T Semi Synthetic Oil is a superior performance synthetic motorcycle oil that’s specially-blended for high-performance engines and offer maximum protection. While 4T Fully Synthetic Oil is a premium quality and specially-blended formulation that provides optimum power and engine performance.” Both of the engine oils from Kawasaki offer outstanding oil consumption and control, gearshift quality, and wet-clutch performance. They are also excellent with low-temperature flow characteristics which help in reducing overall engine wear and assisting during cold start-ups. The 4T Genuine Fully and Semi Synthetic Oil 10W-40 SL JASO MA2 are priced at RM39.90 and RM29.90 respectively for a one-litre bottle. To know more, head over to www.kawasaki.com.my. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/hlym-introduces-new-yamaha-ego-avantiz-scooter/

HLYM introduces new Yamaha Ego Avantiz scooter

HLYM introduces new Yamaha Ego Avantiz scooter with a tentative price tag of RM5,700. Malaysian Yamaha motorcycles assembler and distributors Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn Bhd (HLYM) updated its model line up after introducing the new Yamaha Ego Avantiz scooter model earlier today in Kuala Lumpur. The new entry-level scooter was launched in conjunction with this weekend’s Yamaha Automatic World Motorshow that’s taking place in the popular city centre shopping haven of Berjaya Times Square. The Yamaha Ego Avantiz boasts a stylish modern new design that’s complemented by an LED headlamp unit – one of the first in its segment to offer said feature. Designed as a scooter for all kinds of users, the Ego Avantiz underpins a lightweight underbone chassis with a rear swingarm construction and boasts a light claimed weight of 97kg. Like most other underbone scooters in its segment, it features the typical telescopic front forks and rear monoshock suspension setup as well. Underneath its pretty new skin, the new Yamaha Ego Avantiz is powered by an air-cooled, four-stroke 125cc single-cylinder SOHC engine that’s primed with fuel injection and an electric starter. Paired with the mill is a V-belt automatic transmission that features a wet multi-plate clutch assembly as well – a rather typical transmission setup in this segment as well. More importantly, the mill adopts the Japanese powerhouse’s BLUECORE tehcnology’s fuel efficiency doctrine and features an Eco lamp that will allow riders to fully maximise every drop of fuel from the 4.2-litre fuel tank. On top of that, the mill healthily outputs 9.4hp @ 8,000rpm and peak torque of 9.6Nm @ 5,500rpm. Other notable features include a large 14-litre ‘jet’ design underseat storage bin, a hydraulic single front disc brake unit paired with a drum-type unit at the rear, not forgetting the wheels and tyre size combination of 70/90-14M/C 34P at the front and 90/80-14M/C 49P at the rear. HLYM will offer the new Yamaha Ego Avantiz with three colour scheme options. The scooter will go on display during the Yamaha Automatic World Motorshow throughout this weekend before it hits showroom sometime in August. As for the price, HLYM has indicated a tentative basic sales price of RM5,700 (including GST) for now pending approval from the government. The final price will include HLYM’s standard offer of a one-year or 10,000km warranty plan. Check out more images and materials of the new Yamaha Ego Avantiz in the galleries we’ve prepared below. Yamaha Ego Avantiz Launch @ Berjaya Times Square Yamaha Ego Avantiz features --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/art-of-speed-malaysia-2017-awesome-highlights/

Top reasons why the Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 was AWESOME

The Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 saw a huge crowd turnout to show their support, love and dedication to Malaysia’s home-grown ‘Ol-Skool’ and ‘Kustom Kulture’ scene. This year’s event that happened the past weekend was bigger than ever with much participation from big manufacturers to small garages to showcase their amazing machines from brand new motorcycles to the super rare transportations. A lot of special invited guests made their way to AOS 2017 from countries like Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, US, Japan and many more. The custom scene for anything with wheels like motorcycles, cars, bicycles or even skateboards has been growing rapidly. Once a small scale section in this ever-growing motoring industry, one particular gathering has gained massive following and attention not just from Malaysians but other countries as well. We are of course talking about the annual Art of Speed Malaysia ‘Ol-Skool’ and ‘Kustom Kulture’ festival. What started as a small meet up for motoring enthusiasts as shopping mall car parks has turned into a massive annual gathering so huge that the organiser and founder, Mr Asep Ahmad Sastrawidjaja or simply known as “Asep” had to find a much bigger venue to accommodate every single one of them. For the past few years, the annual Art of Speed Malaysia festival has been held at the massive Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) near Putrajaya. This past weekend saw a massive takeover of not just the main hall in MAEPS but also a secondary hall plus outdoor space that covers an area of over eight acres. That’s almost 350,000 square feet of space dedicated to cars, bikes, test rides, stunt shows and anything related to rolling wheels! Even big time bike manufacturers have chosen this annual custom festival to showcase and launch their new bikes, showcase their goods and setup the most outstanding booths that can rarely be seen out of events such as the AOS. Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia had the amazing honour of winning the “Best Booth” award with their multi-level display area which also exhibited their one of their latest 2017 models, the Bonneville Bobber. Ducati Malaysia also took this grand opportunity to launch their latest Ducati Scrambler offerings which are the 2017 Ducati Scrambler Cafe Racer and Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled. To know more about the two new Ducati Scramblers, CLICK HERE. Even Kawasaki Motors Malaysia participated by showcasing all their amazing motorcycles but to make them different from other manufacturers, they even organised a exceptional test ride session for all their 2017 models like the Kawasaki Z900 ABS, Z650 ABS, Ninja 650 ABS and Versys-X 250. Boon Siew Honda also decided that this year, they’ll be involved in the custom universe in a big, BIG way with a their own invitational biker’s build-off where a total of five guest builders were given the opportunity to go all out with their crazy ideas and inspiration on two different Honda motorcycles, the Honda EX5 Fi and the Honda MSX 125. They even officially launched their latest 2017 Honda Rebel 500! To know more about the 2017 Honda Rebel 500, CLICK HERE. The folks from Legend Racing Garage, District Shop & Gallery, CLM Custom Works, Backwheel Bitches (BWB) and a fifth surprise addition from Shawn Seelan Creations went to town in coming up with the craziest and coolest fully-customised Honda EX5 Fi and Honda MSX 125. There will a be another exclusive feature on these bikes later on Bikes Republic so stay tuned for that. AOS Promotion Video BSH buat julung kalinya akan menyertai AOS. Mari sertai kami untuk memeriahkan lagi event ini! The 6th Annual Art Of Speed Malaysia 2017 29 & 30 July 2017 MAEPS SERDANG #GayaKami #RoadToAOS2017 #aos2017 #jiwakustom #aosxbsh #boonsiewhonda #honda #malaysia Posted by Honda Motorcycle Malaysia on Isnin, 19 Jun 2017 The Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 is probably one of the biggest motoring-related events here in Malaysia where a lot of invited guests have made their way to the gathering together with their specially-made custom vehicles from countries like the US and even Japan. This year even saw special guests from the ever faithful folks from Mooneyes Japan and Hot Wheels to show their support and love for the Art of Speed Malaysia 2017. Apart from major industry players, the AOS2017 is special in its own way when it comes to paying tribute to the little folks that not only stuck to their guns when it comes to the ‘Ol-Skool’ and ‘Kustom Kulture’ scene but also helped them launch the festival’s fame into the stratosphere. 10 different private builders were invited to showcase their ultimate two-wheel creations which were proudly displayed at this year’s “Moto Circus”. The folks who were responsible for these beautiful creations are none other than Beard Brothers Cycle (Singapore), Big Cat Motor Art (Ampang, KL), Chopper Ministry (Bangi, Selangor), Garaj Besi (Johor Bahru, Johor), Gimme Shelter (Petaling Jaya, Selangor), Kerkus Motorworks (KL), Rotten Motorcycles (Baganland, Penang), Rachun Motorcycles (Kota Bharu, Kelantan), Abah & Sons Motorworks (Penang) and finally the whole shot winner of this year’s AOS bike build-off, The Rusty Factory (Ipoh, Perak). To keep things rolling and upbeat, special performances from great local bands like Oh Chentaku gave their all on Day One of AOS 2017. The second day saw a very special appearance from a Japanese rock & roll band, Johnny Pandora and a killer closing to the 2017 Art of Speed Malaysia by Malaysia’s very own local band, Hujan. This year also highlighted on a very special giveaway sessions (yes, plural) that happened on both days. To make sure that there were no elements of gambling in the lucky draws, three people were chosen and given a task to complete and the grand prize winners were chosen by the audience based on their applause. One lucky folk took home a brand new CMC XY400 on Saturday and on Sunday, another lucky man took home this year’s ultimate prize, the twin-engine RXZ drag bike dubbed the “RXZ Twinboss”. Harley-Davidson also joint in on the fun by having their own special raffle with their new Street 750 as the big giveaway. At the end of the day, it was probably one of the best (and probably the largest) gatherings ever organised on Malaysian soil when it comes to a large selection of different vehicles. Beautiful machines, great people, awesome activities and a very overwhelming turnout. What more can you ask for? Written by: Zarul Faiz --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/third-getduked-teaser-video-for-2020-ktm-1290-super-duke-r/

Third #GETDUKED Teaser Video for 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R

Photo credit rideapart.com KTM has released the third #GETDUKED teaser video. It shows a motorcycle being blatted around on a racetrack. It should be the new 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R. KTM has released the third #GETDUKED teaser video for what should be the 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R. The previous two videos showed a motorcycle being built then prepared for a test on the racetrack in this video. It shows a motorcycle blasting around a track interspersed with the typical seizure-inducing flash cutting footages of the bikes parts, including what we saw as Brembo Stylema front brake calipers, fitted to a Showa BPF-like fork lowers at 0:14. Does this mean the new Super Duke R will be more track-focused? KTM has no plans of building another fully-faired sportbike since axing the RC8 years ago.  But while the rest of the video is your standard new bike teaser fair (which is too many these days, by the way), it’s good to hear the glorious roar of the V-Twin engine. A noteworthy feature of the 2020 bike is the aerodynamics. Taking a cue for their MotoGP efforts and also that of upcoming supernakeds, the it’ll have winglets on the radiator flanks. There were spyshots earlier and the prototype uses the kind of aluminium seat subframe first seen on the 790 Duke. The new Super Duke R will have some stiff competition to dethrone it as the King of Supernakeds. The video ends with the date 5th November 2019, which is the opening day of EICMA 2019. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/team-malaysia-qatar-gp-2016/

Team Malaysia @ Qatar GP 2016

A round up of how Malaysian riders and teams fared out in the Qatar GP race weekend – Asia Talent Cup, Moto3 and Moto2. The action-packed Qatar GP race weekend was a busy one, especially for a number of Malaysian riders and teams competing across several categories. MOTO2 Leading this charge in the World Moto2 class was the all-Malaysian combination of the Petronas Raceline Malaysia team and rider Hafizh Syahrin in the Moto2 class. A foul up with the bike’s setup saw Hafizh managing only to qualify in 16th position on the grid, but a quick fix allowed him to carve up the order and cross the line in fifth position before being elevated up to fourth thanks to a technicality that resulted from the high number of jumpstarters ahead. Shortly after the race, Hafizh expressed: “I tried hard and pushed all the way. About four laps to go, my right hand went numb and I could not feel anything. It was difficult to maintain the same lap time towards to the end but I tried my best to maintain my position. I am thankful things worked out well and I will definitely give my best for the whole season.” Adding to that was Petronas RacelineMalaysia team manager Barry Leong. He states: “If not for the numbness that he felt on his hand, who knows what would have happened. We are happy to see this kind of result and this will boost everyone’s confidence to push harder for the upcoming races. Thank you everyone for believing in us and we will strive to do better.” Hafizh now sits in fourth position of the championship standings after earning himself 13 points from his fourth place classification. Further down the order was Spanish rider Efren Vasquez astride the JPMoto Malaysia team’s Suter bike, who was the last classified finisher in 22nd place. MOTO3 In the World Moto3 Championship stage, the Drive M7 SIC racing team celebrates yet another strong performance from lead rider Jakub Kornfeil. Despite the challenges of mastering the team’s new Honda machinery, the young Czech rider was able to pull himself up the order to finish in a respectable 10th position. Shortly after the race, the Czech rider expressed delight by stating: “I really enjoyed riding! It was a beautiful race because we had so many battles and so much passing every lap. I’m happy that I won the fight in my group.” For rookie Adam Norrodin, who comes straight off the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup series, the Johore-native was simply elated to have completed his first World Moto3 race without a hitch. Adam started from 27th on the grid and was able to move up the order as well to finish in 20th. The youngster further added: “I knew it would not be easy starting from 27th place, so I prepared so much last night and this morning about how to be in the race. Warm Up went really well and I finished the session in 16th; I felt a lot more confident and comfortable with the bike. The team did a really good job with the set-up today and I must thank them. I hope to continue my progress and improve more every round.” Adam isn’t the only Malaysain rider debuting in the World Moto3 stage this year as fellow countryman Khairul Idham Pawi who rides for the Honda Team Asia outfit joins him on the grid. Khairul Idham also completed his first outing in the world championship without a hitch, classifying himself not far off Adam’s pace in 22nd place. The youngster had previously proven his mettle in the CEV Junior World Moto3 category with a few podium finishes to his name, so we can expect him to progress further up the order this season. ASIA TALENT CUP Ahmad Idham Khairuddin and Izam Ikmal represent Malaysia in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup feeder series this year. In Qatar, Idham was able to finish in 14th position in Race 1 on Saturday and he improved on it slightly with a 13th place finish in Race 2 on Sunday. Ahmad Idham current sits in 15th position in the series’ standings with 11 points scored after four races. Having already raced in the series as a wildcard last year for several rounds, Ahmad Idham’s progress this season is one to look out for in the series. Next up comes rookie Izam Ikmal. Even for an established Malaysian MiniGP champion, the pint-sized youngster is having a tad bit of a tough time adjusting to the competition level here. Izam still hasn’t scored a point and he will be looking to change that come May when Round 3 gets underway alongside the Malaysian leg of the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK) in Sepang. Gallery – hafizh Syahrin & Petronas Raceline Malaysia Suter @ Qatar GP 2016 Image credit: Petronas Motorsports Gallery – Drive M7 SIC Racing Team @ Qatar GP 2016 --Ads--

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2021 Vespa Sprint S 150 Lands In Malaysia – With TFT Screen, RM19,900

Vespa Malaysia has just unveiled the 2021 Vespa Sprint S 150 for the local market, priced at RM19,900. While the new Sprint S 150 comes in two distinct colourways, Bronzo Antico and Nero Opaco, it is also the first Vespa to feature a 4.3-inch TFT-LCD instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity. The new feature allows the rider to access functions such as answering calls, receive notifications and music player.   Putting aside the new feature, the Vespa Sprint S 150 continues to offer 12.7hp @ 7,750rpm and 12.8Nm @ 6,500rpm from its IGET single-cylinder 154.8cc engine. Other technical specifications include: single shock absorbers (front/rear) 200mm front disc mechanical drum rear brake single-channel ABS 12″ rim 7L tank --Ads--

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MOTOGP: Johann Zarco to KTM factory team in 2019?

Image source: MotoGP It seems that MotoGP rider Johann Zarco is set to make his move to the KTM factory team in 2019. The latest rumour has indicated that the Frenchman has reached a ‘verbal agreement’ with the Austrian manufacturer. If this is true, Zarco will be a KTM factory rider and will ride their latest KTM RC16 MotoGP bike in 2019 and 2020. A recent report made by Motorsport.com has stated that current Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Johann Zarco is ready to make his move to KTM next season. The French rider has long been associated with the Austrian manufacturer even since his current team confirmed their move to KTM machinery next season. During the last round in Austin, Texas, news were circulating regarding Zarco reaching a ‘verbal agreement’ with Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director and Thomas Uberall, Red Bull Motorsports Manager for the KTM factory squad. If this is all well and true, Johann Zarco will be a factory rider for the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team. Once everything is formalised, we will see Zarco on the KTM RC16 for 2019 and 2020. The bad news? Bradley Smith might get the boot as the other current KTM rider Pol Espargaro has already collected eight points in the 2018 championship compared to Smith’s zero. The other speculation of Johann Zarco moving to Repsol Honda has apparently been swept under the rug (for now). The Frenchman once expressed his interest to join the Honda’s ‘dream team’ and rumours were certainly pointing towards that direction. If this happens, this would also mean that Dani Pedrosa will be kicked off and Zarco will be Marc Marquez’s new teammate (unless they pull off another crazy three-rider factory squad as how they did in 2011 with Dani Pedrosa, Andrea Dovizioso, and Casey Stoner). This, however, did not sit well with Zarco. Some reliable sources have stated that being Marquez’s teammate is something that is ‘not easy to accept’. It is understandable as Honda prefers Marquez’s bike setup compared to Pedrosa’s since he has won four MotoGP crowns in his five years of racing in the premier class. With KTM still having a lot to prove this season (and not being where they need to be at the moment), do you think that Zarco is making the right choice? Whatever the case may be, a MotoGP factory seat is certainly an interesting offer. As for Zarco’s current teammate and national rider, Hafizh Syahrin, things are still a little too early to tell. So far, he is doing well with sitting in P13 with nine points in this year’s championship ahead of other high-profile riders like the Espargaro brothers, Jorge Lorenzo, and eight other riders below him. If all goes well, he might actually retain his seat in the new Monster KTM Tech 3 squad in 2019. Image source: MotoGP --Ads--

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Great Malaysian effort at BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2020

The Malaysian team recently completed the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2020 with competition against the best BMW Motorrad off-road riders from around the globe. It was a tough yet fruitful experience for the national representatives, Norizuan Abdullah, Chan Kiang Wei and Mohd Zulfakar bin Mohd Alghaus. Out of 23 teams who participated, the Malaysian trio finished in 18th place ahead of Team India, Team North Africa, and more. Contestants from 40 different nationalities went head-to-head in an exhilarating 3,000km adventure which many have regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious premium adventure motorcycle competition. According to Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, “The BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy is the world’s most prestigious premium adventure motorcycle competition with diverse participants from across the globe coming together to celebrate Make Life a Ride. We are proud to see our local team at the competition, representing not just Malaysia but all of Southeast Asia as well for the very first time – making a name for themselves on the global stage.” Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia meanwhile said, “What a ride the past weeks have been at the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2020 as well as on our BMW Motorrad social media channels. Our three local riders managed to push the boundaries to show what Malaysians can achieve as a team in their very first outing at the trophy. This truly is the spirit and camaraderie that International GS Trophy aims to create!” Norizuan Abdullah, member of Team Malaysia said, “It is a huge achievement for us to represent Malaysia in the International GS Trophy this year. Even though we had a bumpy start, we worked hard and came out better riders. I believe this is what the GS is about, bringing people together through the thrill of the ride, despite the challenges we have to face. It takes true grit to make it to the finish line and I am so proud we did it. Thank you for believing in us, Malaysia!” To know more about the International GS Trophy 2020, head over to www.bmw-motorrad.com/en/experience/stories/adventure/gs-trophy-2020.html. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/updated-2016-triumph-tiger-sport-debuts/

Updated 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport debuts

2016 Triumph Tiger Sport Refreshed 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport debuts in the UK. After being teased earlier this month, the new and updated 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport has finally been unveiled in the UK. As expected, the adventure sport model gained with several mild revisions over its predecessor, most notable of which being its powertrain. Underneath, the 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport comes powered using the very latest version of the brand’s venerable 1,050cc in-line three-cylinder engine as used in the revised 2016 Triumph Speed Triple naked. Besides Euro 4 compliance, Triumph also claims that the triple-cylinder mill has improved fuel efficiency and torque figures as well. Typically, Triumph have yet to fully reveal exact power and torque figures. Such data will only be available just before the model hits showroom floors in the UK and subsequently worldwide later this year. On board, the new Tiger Sport’s update treatment is rather similar with the Speed Triple too. Highlights here include a new ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, multi-level traction control, as well as a slipper clutch unit. Also present on board is a cruise control feature, making this adventure sport bike more touring friendly too. Other changes include a revised exhaust system, improved footpegs, an adjustable windscreen that is also tinted, as well as a pair of new and redesigned side mirrors. Check out more of the new 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport in the gallery we’ve prepared below. 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport 2016 Triumph Tiger Sport Source: MCN / Asphaltandrubber / Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-250cc-adventure-bike-in-the-works/

Yamaha 250cc adventure bike in the works?

A new trademark filing by Yamaha Motor India has indicated that they might be working on a 250cc adventure bike of their very own. Labelled as the Yamaha FZ-X, it’ll most likely be based on the current Yamaha FZ 25 platform. Interesting? Most likely. Judging by the name, the Yamaha FZ-X could be any bike as it was filed under the “motorcycles, motor scooters, mopeds, three-wheeled motorcycles, three-wheeled motor scooters, three-wheeled mopeds and parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods.” In other words, it could be anything, but the X in itself has almost always indicated an adventure-style something. Experts in India have also indicated that the current Yamaha FZ 25 isn’t doing so well in terms of sales, and they think that the FZ-X will be the future replacement for the FZ 25. Fitted with a 250cc single-cylinder unit, the FZ 25 produces close to 21hp and 20Nm of torque. It also comes with dual-channel ABS, LED lights with DRLs, an LCD meter panel, and a wet weight of just over 150kg. To turn this into an exciting adventure bike shouldn’t be too hard as the base specs are admirable, but they must include something to ensure that the upcoming FZ-X has several unique selling points, especially if they want to do well in countries like India and the rest of Asia. PDRM suggests 70cc bikes for Malaysian youths by 2025 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-next-electric-bike-called-revelation/

Harley-Davidson’s next electric bike is called the Revelation?

Harley-Davidson has just filed a trademark application under the name Revelation. The trademark applied at the USPTO is for batteries for vehicles and drivetrains for both electric motorcycles and vehicles. The Revelation sounds more like the technology H-D will use to power their next electric bike instead of a brand new one. Some interesting news from the United States of America has been going around in regards to Harley-Davidson and their next electric motorcycle. It seems that the manufacturer has just filed for the latest trademark application for the name Revelation at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The trademark application consists of two different things under the Revelation name. H-D is trying to trademark their batteries for vehicle use and also drivetrains for both electric motorcycles and vehicles. Most people who got to know about this might think that the Revelation will be their next electric motorcycle but this might not be the case. The trademark suggests that it is not an entire motorcycle but instead, the technology that Harley-Davidson will use to power their next upcoming electric bike (and other electric vehicles). In other words, the next electric H-D cruiser OR production version of the LiveWire will most probably be powered by the ‘Revelation’ technology. The trademark application also signifies that the American bike manufacturer is that much closer to getting their electric motorcycle into the production stage. It might not be something right now but it’ll sure be something huge once everything is ‘revealed’. Harley-Davidson electric bike coming in 2019! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/refreshed-2016-honda-msx125/

Refreshed 2016 Honda MSX125

The popular Honda MSX125 mini bike has received a well-deserved update for 2016. Also known as the Honda Grom in other markets, the update grants the mini bike with a facelift that gives it a more streetfighter-like looks. The top half has been restyled with the fuel tank and side panels now integrated to create sharp and angular lines in the process. Up front, there’s also a new set of stacked LED headlights to give the Honda MSX125 a more current outlook. Besides that, the updated 2016 model also receives a new exhaust that’s slung underneath plus a restyled tail unit that is now upswept with a higher pillion seat height. The raised seat height was also made possible with the adoption of a new frame structure courtesy of its steel mono-backbone frame. The updated 2016 Honda MSX125 will be offered in four colour schemes and it includes this funky-looking ‘Lemon Ice Yellow’ scheme pictured. Will wee see a Blind Spot Warning System integrated in Honda models soon? Source: Visordown / AutoEvolution --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-limited-edition-casio-g-shock-timepiece-was-inspired-by-malaysian-motorcyclists/

This limited edition Casio G-SHOCK timepiece was inspired by Malaysian motorcyclists

Malaysian motorcyclists inspired this new and limited edition Casio G-SHOCK timepiece made in collaboration with local streetwear label Against Lab. New and limited G-SHOCK DW-6900AL22 is a collaborative effort between Casio and local streetwear label Against Lab. The special design penned by Against Lab comes inspired by Malaysian motorcyclists and their mental toughness. This special timepiece sees its sale exclusively limited to Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand only. You can cop one now online or selected retailers at RM550 each. Despite the negative imagery drawn by Malaysian motorcyclists recently, here’s a really positive note many of which can be proud of. That’s because they were the inspiration behind this limited edition Casio G-SHOCK timepiece made in collaboration with local streetwear label Against Lab. “Inspired by the human mental toughness of folks who wake up daily to life challenges, this collaboration embodies the ultimate Malaysian spirit – The Grind. For Malaysians, anytime is the right time to grind. Built by toughness, durability, as well as resilience, this limited-edition timepiece captures the essence of what Malaysian Grinds are made of, especially motorcyclists. Motorcyclist spirits reflect the ethos of G-SHOCK, both are built and made out of the same pillars,” read the press release jointly issued by Casio and Against Lab announcing this collaboration. Christened as the Casio G-SHOCK DW-6900AL22, this timepiece is based off the Japanese watch brand’s venerable DW-6900 series digital timepiece model. The collaboration with Against Lab sees the local outfit giving it a unique design twist, which they say mirrors the design language of motorcycle components. The result brings forth a matte black overall finishing with the dial face sporting orange accents surrounding a chrome face, which is meant to look like the materials common of motorcycle exhaust pipes. The dial face is then finished off with an ‘AGAINST’ typeface logo plus a hidden ‘A’ logo backlight. Elsewhere, the timepiece sports a custom ‘AGAINST’ tire tread typeface graphic plus the Against Lab brand’s slogan “ALL ENDEAVOUR, NO SURRENDER”, both printed on the signature resin straps. Lastly comes the metal caseback that’s been customised with an engraving of Against Lab’s brand mascot, “A-Man”. Apart from this, there are no changes to report, and this timepiece retains much of the original DW6900 timepiece’s features such as the “Triple Graph” layout of its LCD display, its renowned shock-resistance abilities plus a 200-meter water resistance rating. Notably, this special edition of the Casio G-SHOCK DW-6900 is made available exclusively in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia only. Locally, each commands a retail price tag of RM550. Keen to cop one for yourself? Well, after dropping this digitally over the weekend on May 28 via the Casio Malaysia Official Store on Lazada, this timepiece will soon be available through selected G-SHOCK stores and authorised dealers starting June 3. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-tenere-700-to-get-gytr-treatment/

Yamaha Tenere 700 To Get GYTR Treatment

Yamaha is working on a factory bolt-on rally-raiding kit for the Tenere 700 range as part of Yamaha Europe’s Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing (GYTR) programme. Yamaha Tenere 700 will soon receive GYTR’s specially-built riding aids. The Tenere 700 is Yamaha’s most popular adventure-capable motorcycle.    For those who are unaware, GYTR is Yamaha’s racing division that offers authentic Yamaha performance-oriented components, including bodywork and electronic package for track and motocross riders. Yamaha’s Leon Oosterhof disclosed the new project to MCN. “It could be interesting. We are looking into if that could be an option,” he said. Apparently, the all-new Tenere 700 World Raid played a significant role in spawning the idea of introducing GYTR’s parts for the Tenere 700.  “That bike had a lot of interest, so that was very motivational for us. “Sometimes you make a concept and then show it and see how the market reacts and if there’s enough curiosity and interest. We are looking into whether that could be an option. “In off-road, we are also active with the GYTR programme.  “So, in motocross, we are almost as active as we are in our R series. We have chassis parts and engine parts – both used by the factory teams. Products derived from those teams are then brought to customers,” Oosterhof added. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/asb1000-azlan-shah-all-set-and-ready-defend-title/

ARRC: Azlan Shah ready to ‘defend’ ASB1000 title

38-year-old Malaysian ASB1000 ace Azlan Shah is all set for his title ‘defence’. FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) returns this weekend after two-year pause due to pandemic. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman poised to defend ASB1000 title after long break. Season-opener takes place in Buriram, Thailand, this weekend. After a two-year hiatus forced by the Covid-19 pandemic, the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) series finally resumes competition this week. At the centre of its premier ASB1000 category is reigning champion Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman. “You could say I unofficially became a three-time ASB1000 champion – in 2019, 2020 and 2021!” joked the 38-year-old native of Klang, Selangor earlier this week as he looks ahead at the season-opening round slated this weekend at Buriram, Thailand. Jokes aside, Azlan Shah also recalled the uncertainties and worry over the last two years as the ARRC when the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship was shackled due to the aforementioned pandemic. “Of course, it was worrying. I wasn’t getting any younger,” expressed the two-wheeled racing veteran who rides for the ONEXOX BMW TKKR Team. “I wondered if my career would end just like that. But I was heartened when I saw the motorsports industry in Asia working hard to get back in action. So I kept hope,” he added. Despite the downtime, Azlan Shah didn’t stay idle throughout, moonlighting as a guest commentator for the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship and setting up the AS25 Racing Academy – a personal endeavour of his to train the next generation. He even inked a brand-new partnership with Shark Helmets Malaysia recently. But the call to arms and start racing again proved hard to ignore, and Azlan Shah further expressed his eagerness to get going again and battle it out against the region’s best this weekend in Buriram. You can catch Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman, as well as fellow countrymen Zaqhwan Zaidi, Kasma Daniel and Adam Norrodin take on Asia’s finest in the ASB1000 category of the ARRC this weekend via the official ARRC YouTube channel’s live broadcasts. Alternatively, you can also catch the action via: SpoTV2 (HyppTV) Race 1 – March 26 (Sat) – 1400 MYT Race 2 – March 27 (Sun) – 1400 MYT Astro Arena (Astro) Race 1 – March 26 (Sat) – 1400 MYT Race 2 – March 27 (Sun) – 1400 MYT   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-yamaha-teamed-up-to-build-hydrogen-engines/

Kawasaki And Yamaha Teamed Up To Build Hydrogen Engines

While the majority of motorcycle manufacturers are shifting towards the development of electric motors, some are investing heavily in alternative fuel with bio-renewable components. Kawasaki has been working on the hydrogen-powered engine for quite a while now. Despite Kawasaki Motors President Hiroshi already confirming that three new electric motorcycles are scheduled for a global launch this year, the development of hydrogen engines is still a top priority. However, in an interesting turn of events, Yamaha has decided to join forces with Kawasaki in developing hydrogen engines together. The new collaboration will further boost the development of the new engine which will be used for future models. Kawasaki has been focusing on hydrogen as a next-generation energy source since 2010 and has since developed technologies for the production, transportation and use of hydrogen along the supply chain to support the company. According to reports, Honda and Suzuki are also expected to join the project in the near future. (Source: Motociclismo.it) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-2018-no-airbag-racing-suit-no-race/

MotoGP 2018: No airbag racing suit? No race!

The MotoGP 2018 season will see all permanent riders wearing an airbag racing suit if they wish to compete in the race categories. All racing suits must be fitted with an airbag system that will provide protection for the shoulders and collarbone. This is a good move considering the manufacturers will invest more on airbag system which in turn will be made more available for consumers. A very interesting update has just been confirmed by the folks over at MotoGP where beginning of the 2018 season, all riders must wear a racing suit equipped with airbag systems. The rule applies to each and every rider across all three categories (MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3) except for wildcard riders. This is an indeed a welcomed turn of events and very much expected to come sooner than later. The only racing suit manufacturers that are heavily invested in airbag technology are Alpinestars and Dainese. Other brands such as Furygan, RS Taichi and others will have to get with the programme if they wish to continue racing in the highest level of two-wheeled motorsports. According to rules, the airbag-equipped racing suits must be worn in every session by every permanent rider and must be functional or activated upon entering the circuit. While wildcard riders are exempted from this ruling, replacement riders are also in the same category but only for the first two rounds. These replacement riders are then subjected to the same ruling upon entering their third round in competition. As for the airbag system, Dorna clearly states that is should protect at least the shoulders and collarbone. Anything beyond that (which includes a part of full back) is entirely optional. However, if a certain manufacturer does choose to offer the back protection, it must then cover the whole spine. Slight minor variations are allowed to of course accommodate the different types and sizes of riders. When it is all said and done, this is actually a good move for the world of motorsports as they are promoting higher levels of protection while lowering the risks of major injuries such as broken collarbones. It will also be good for consumers as more manufacturers will offer their airbag systems rather than just the two main brands which most of us would agree is a bit pricey for our budget. Source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-zero-dsr-x-electric-adventure-motorcycle/

FIRST LOOK: Zero DSR/X Electric Adventure Motorcycle

Electric motorcycle manufacturer, Zero Motorcycles, has pulled the wraps off its first adventure motorcycle, the Zero DSR/X. The Zero DSR/X is a long-range electric adventure motorcycle. The DSR/X is capable of hitting 290km city range and 137km highway range.  Coming in new for 2023, the Zero DSR/X features industry-leading Z-Force battery unit,  powerful ZF engine and the Cypher III+ operating system that promises to deliver the best riding experience for an electric adventure motorcycle.  According to Zero Motorcycles, the introduction of the DSR/X is to fulfil the customers request of making an electric adventure bike. “We have invested over 100,000 hours of design to make a model that lived up to our customers’ expectations, while delivering an incredible driving experience, a true mission from Zero Motorcycles,” said Abe Askenazi, Chief Technology Officer, Zero Motorcycles. Despite its American origin, the DSR/X is injected with European motorcycle DNA. “The DSR/X is a motorcycle that has European motorcycle culture in its DNA.  “A dual sport motorcycle that meets the needs of riders in the most important motorcycle segment in Europe,”  said Umberto Uccelli, Managing Director, Zero Motorrycles Europe.  Thanks to a revamped Z-Force 75-10X engine the DSR/X makes a 100hp and a whopping 225Nm. In addition, Z-Force 17.3 kWh battery offers a city range of 290km and a highway range of 137km. Meanwhile, DSR/X is built around a completely new perimeter trellis frame that allows for a greater ground clearance, 200mm to be exact. Also, the frame is suspended by an hand-adjustable front fork. Zero Motorcycles also equipped the DSR/X with new Gates carbon belt drive, specially designed to withstand the massive torque.  In addition, the Zero DSR/X is also the first electric motorcycle to feature state-of-the-art Bosch Motorcycle Stability Control (BMSC) that allows for better stability during cornering and off-road condition.  While in off-road mode, users can disengage the ABS function and the BMSC will autonomously managed the rear grip.  The electronic package also includes Bosch Linked Braking and Bosch Vehicle hold.  Other notable features include: park mode – low-speed reversing function  level 1 and 2 chargers – requires charging time of 2.5h compatible with Zero Motorcycles app Cellular Connectivity Module (CCM) 28L ‘faux’ tank storage The Zero DSR/X comes in two colour option, Sage Green and Pearl White and is available at a price of EUR27,220 (RM123k).  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/want-to-help-local-food-businesses-go-to-shell-stations/

Want to help local food businesses? Go to Shell stations!

The folks over at Shell Malaysia are constantly finding ways to help out the local communities and during the holy month of Ramadhan, their latest initiative is amplifying their efforts to help local businesses or SMEs. If you head over to any nearby Shell petrol station, a wide array of delicacies from these SMEs are being sold and promoted as part of their #RamadanWithShell campaign. The MCO and CMCO have been devastating to a lot of small businesses, especially local food vendors. Shell Malaysia’s latest initiative helps them by providing ‘an avenue to market their goods during this difficult time and to bring Ramadan local delicacies to customers’ which you can find at their petrol stations nationwide. Craving for some Nasi Beriani? Perhaps, Asam Laksa? How about those delicious local Kuih, Bubur Lambuk, and more? From now until 23 May 2020, you can find these and other local delights (provided by these small-time food vendors) at 950 Shell stations ready for you to take home for breaking fast. Shell SELECT is also offering other promos on their deli2go snacks plus other combos which you can order via FoodPanda at selected Shell stations. Key in the promo code ‘SHELLRAMADAN’ using the FoodPanda app and enjoy 30% discount in PandaMart for all Shell SELECT items (with a minimum purchase of RM15). According to Shairan Huzani Husain, Managing Director of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd, “At Shell, our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Now more so than ever, with the uncertainties and unpredictability brought about by the COVID-19, we need to hold steadfast to the values that define us as an organization and enables us to contribute back to Malaysians.” “Our latest initiative allows us to help our fellow Malaysians carry on conducting their businesses. We want to offer our customers local delicacies and Ramadan combos for the breaking of fast which can be bought from our stations or via delivery through FoodPanda. We believe in doing things that matter and at the same time we try to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.” Part-time vendor Mazlan and his 14-year-old son Mohd Alif Mazlan said, “In the beginning, we were rather worried for this year’s Ramadan. Every year we would sell Air Tebu at the local Ramadan bazaar, and things looked bleak this year without the yearly Ramadan bazaar. Thankfully, with the Shell initiative, we are able to sell about 30-40 bottles of Air Tebu a day at Shell Station Inderapura in Kuantan, Pahang. Thanks to Shell for helping us through this difficult time and providing us the avenue to promote our product.” For more information on Shell’s initiatives, please visit www.shell.com.my. Shell Malaysia takes extra steps to make petrol stations safe --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cfmoto-450sr-to-launch-in-malaysia-soon/

CFMoto 450SR To Launch In Malaysia Soon?

New CFMoto 450SR middleweight sport will reportedly launch in Malaysia during MotoGP this October. Radical and sporty CFMoto 450SR will be launched locally in Malaysia later this year. It packs a peppy 449cc parallel-twin with 270-degree crankshaft, good for 50HP and 39Nm. The CFMoto 450SR is an exciting prospect. The Chinese brand unveiled what appears to be the road-going version of its SR-C21 concept last month, and it seems local fans need not wait too long to see this bike hit our shores. According to reports, local distributors CFMoto Malaysia are set to introduce the CFMoto 450SR locally later this year. While there is now official word from CFMoto Malaysia, but there is a strong indicator that the 450SR could make an appearance in October during the Malaysian MotoGP weekend at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). Surely, this move aligns with the brand as it is present in the World Moto3 Championship through the CFMoto Racing PrüstelGP team. Aptly, the CFMoto 450SR slots above the brand’s smaller 250SR quarter-litre model. It reportedly packs a liquid-cooled 449cc parallel-twin brimmed with a 270-degree crankshaft. The mill promises 50HP and 39NM – figures that see it rival against the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and KTM RC390. Notably, the CFMoto 450SR will feature MotoGP-inspired winglets that CFMoto claims are capable of generating nearly 2KG (4.4 pounds) of front downforce at 120KM/H. It will also feature Brembo braking and ABS, though it won’t be the same race-spec unit seen in the SR-C21 concept. Though CFMoto have yet to reveal full specifications for the 450SR model, the brand has already begun taking orders in its home market (China) right now where it commands a price of RMB31,980 – approx. RM21,368.72. More details in terms of specification are expected to arise in the coming months. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-dovizioso-delivers-masterclass-victory-wet-motegi/

MotoGP: Dovizioso delivers masterclass victory in wet Motegi

Andrea Dovizioso delivered yet another masterclass finish in today’s wet MotoGP race over at Twin Ring Motegi. The Italian blasted from behind and even had yet another amazing last lap battle with P2 finisher Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda). Danilo Petrucci (OCTO Pramac Racing) led the race for quite a number of laps before settling for third. Dovi takes on Marquez at the #JapaneseGP What a battle. What a race. WHAT A RIDE Andrea Dovizioso! ?This Championship ain't over! Posted by MotoGP on 15hb Oktober 2017 It was yet another exciting race delivered by MotoGP heroes Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) and current championship leader Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda). At a very, VERY wet Twin Ring Motegi, these boys delivered quite a performance in front of their Japanese fans. Starting from ninth, Dovizioso was actually seen struggling to cope with the wet conditions. It was his team mate Jorge Lorenzo who surprised everyone by the hole shot at the beginning of the race as he sets out to achieve his first ever victory of the Ducati. Danilo Petrucci (OCTO Pramac Racing) also took advantage of the difficult conditions and was leading the race for some time before Marquez and Dovizioso made their way to the front and engaging in one of the best final laps seen this season. Petrucci ended the race in third. Marquez was leading coming in the last few corners before he made a mistake and Dovizioso took the opportunity to blast to the front at the long straight. Marquez however tried again with a daring dive at the final corner but having experienced this move before, Dovizioso calculated his move brilliantly and crossed the Japanese chequered flag in front of the Repsol Honda rider. Team SUZUKI ECSTAR riders also had something to celebrate about with their best race finishes yet in fourth and fifth by Andrea Iannone and Alex Rins respectively. This goes to show that they’ve develop quite a lot including the use of a brand new aero fairing which imparted quite an impressive performance even in the pouring rain. Jorge Lorenzo managed to finish in sixth and proving to everyone that he is just as competitive in the wet as he is in the dry. Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) also had something to shout about with a P7 finish on board the Aprilia RS-GP race machine. Pole sitter Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) suffered from lack of grip with his Yamaha M1 race machine as he slowly dropped from first all the way to eight when he finally crossed the finish line. The good news is that he did finish in front of the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP factory rider Maverick Vinales who managed to salvage P9 despite a poor starting position from P14. Loris Baz (Reale Avintia Racing) completed the top 10 finishers’ list with a gap of over 48 seconds behind the race winner. The team now will move on to Phillip Island next weekend where Marquez and Dovi are separated by only 11 points in the 2017 MotoGP world championship standings. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP updates. Source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/japanese-company-plans-to-sell-flying-bikes-by-2022/

Japanese Company Plans to Sell Flying Bikes by 2022

Japanese company A.L.I. Technologies plans to sell their flying bikes by 2022. The vehicle is developed to travel in developing countries with poor roads. The company is pushing to sell a limited edition model by late next year. Boy, aren’t flying cars and motorcycles the hot topic these days. But let’s put aside the embarrassing D.I.Y.-like flying car prototype that was revealed a number of a days ago and talk about flying bikes. A Tokyo-based company named A.L.I. Technologies Inc. is aiming to sell a mass-market flying motorcycle by 2022. The company is currently involved in drones, but is stepping up their game to develop a hover bike in developing countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia with poor roads. Most companies are developing flying cars but only a handful are working on flying motorcycles. “We’ll create a flying bike first, in order to get flying cars widely used in society eventually,” said Chief Executive Officer Shuhei Komatsu. “Our hover bike is an ensemble of drone technologies,” he added. He also expressed his confidence that his company can popularize flying motorcycles. A.L.I. targets the bike to hover dozens of centimetres off the ground by using propellers. Sensors will tell the machine to maintain its altitude over uneven ground and obstacles. The company is already on its way to pushing out the first limited edition model late next year. Bookings will be open from May 2019. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ride-charity-rainbow-life-forces/

Ride for charity with the Rainbow of Life Forces

Calling all bikers, the Rainbow of Life Forces (ROLF) is looking for friendly bikers to help them distribute some happiness to underprivileged children on their Grant-A-Wish campaign. The campaign will commence in November where the ROLF will distribute the gifts to the selected homes. Each child already have a wish thats been collected by ROLF and bikers can contribute by buying the gift for the child, you can log on to http://www.rolfcommunity.org on how to do that. Or you can give your time instead and join the ROLF team at the event venue and interact with the kids. There will be games and also a fun ride session where you give the kids a ride on your bike. Rainbow of Life Forces or ROLF is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Campaign which is initiated to give hope to all children regardless of race, religion, background and nationality. ROLF brings nations together in mutually supportive relationships when it comes to enhancing the quality of life for children, particularly in mitigating pains and sufferings of the young. ROLF consists of 7 campaigns. They are Blue Ribbon Campaign, followed by Gold, Orange, Red, Yellow, Green, and Purple. Each of the campaigns is formed to support and help children in different situation. Interested bikers to join the charity event can contact Kev of Bikingmsia at 0173233363. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-and-santander-introduces-online-financing-application-system/

Yamaha and Santander introduces online financing application system

Yamaha teams up with UK bank Santander, brings online financing application system to buyers. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, the idea of buying a motorcycle online from the comfort of your couch at home is no longer a strange concept. In the UK, Yamaha is taking that a step further after recently teaming up with major UK bank Santander. The collaboration sees the new Santander Consumer Finance (SCF) Finance Calculator feature now integrated into Yamaha UK’s webpage. The feature allows buyers to fully tailor their own monthly finance quote, create a finance application and get a decision in real-time. Besides the bike’s base price, this feature can also calculate a deposit, financing term, annual mileage and any accessories as well. Approval is as simple as getting a green (yes) or red (no) light display, and buyers can sign the agreement digitally after receiving the former. This new financing calculator and online application method is reportedly welcomed by many of Yamaha UK’s authorised dealers, which is perhaps good news indeed for Yamaha fans in the UK. Closer to home, Malaysians can also indulge in this luxury of purchasing bikes online, albeit in a slightly different method… In case you didn’t know, motorcycles are available on sale via popular online shopping platforms such as Shopee. A number of authorised dealers are present on such platforms, offering a multitude of bike models plus monthly instalment plans through select banks. Depending on your credit limit and product price, purchases using credit card instalment schemes with 0% interest are available too. However, these are limited in terms of their tenure length and monthly payment amount options. Given how easy it is, would you opt to buy a bike online? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brake-system-works-part-2-abs/

Brake System: How it Works (Part 2 – ABS)

The ABS (Antilock Brake System) is now integral with motorcycling. It allows the rider to apply maximum braking pressure without locking the wheel(s). ABS technology has evolved to the stage that it allows for added functionalities. We covered the basics on how a motorcycle brake system works in Part 1 and now let’s expand it to the Antilock Brake System (ABS). The basic premise of ABS is to prevent the wheel or wheels locking up (stop rolling or jem brek, as we call it locally) when the rider grabs a handful of brake lever or when braking hard on slippery surfaces. ABS is now an integral part of motorcycling, although there are a number of models not equipped with it in Malaysia. The European Union has mandated that all motorcycles above 125cc are equipped with it since 2016. BMW was the first to introduce an electronic/hydraulic ABS on a motorcycle, on the 1988 K100. It added 11 kg to the bike. Honda and Yamaha followed suit in 1992, offering the system as an option on the ST1100 and FJ1200, respectively. In comparison, the current system offered by Bosch weighs a scant 0.7 kg for the base version and 1.6 kg for the enhanced variety. ABS was once viewed as a weight handicap, besides added complexity and cost, as such, most motorcycle manufacturers offered it as an extra option. The first versions were adopted from cars. Whereas cars have all four tyres on the road and isn’t very prone to large fore-and-aft weight transfers, certain challenges were faced when adopted to motorcycles. For example, the system triggered too early even before a rider could really brake hard enough, in addition to the brake lever and pedal pulsating upon activation and surprised riders into releasing the brakes. It was an unnecessary distraction riders could live without. However, the continual advancement in electronics has brought on many positive improvements in ABS technology to where it is presently. New ABS systems work almost imperceptibly. Maximum braking force for any wheeled vehicle is when the wheel is just about to lock. However, it’s a different story when the wheel does lock up as there are many variables depending on road friction which in turn depends on weather and road conditions. Moreover tyre wear, tyre pressure, different tyre sizes, suspension, the dynamics of weight transfer during acceleration or deceleration, and cornering. This is where ABS comes into play. Wheel speed sensors are mounted above slotted rings on each wheel to measure and compare wheel speeds. The signal is sent to the ECU (electronic control unit) for monitoring. The ECU calculates based on information from both wheels for two parametres: whether the deceleration of one wheel exceeds a fixed threshold, and the other whether there is brake slip. These factors indicate a locked wheel. The ECU signals the hydraulic unit to hold or release brake pressure, just momentarily before reapplying the brake pressure, to get the wheel back to the point of maximum braking force just prior to locking up. This pressure modulation allows the tyres to regain grip and enable the rider to control and steer his bike. In other words, ABS allows the rider to apply maximum braking force without locking the wheels and losing control. That’s why ABS is banned from top echelon racing such as superbikes, and all classes of MotoGP. There are a few types. The first and older ABS I (in 1988) was also known as piston systems. Using a spring-tensioned piston, a motor pulls back the plunger piston to open increase the space for the brake fluid, effectively lowering its brake pressure. ABS II (in 1993) still uses the spring-tensioned piston, but replaced the plunger with an electronically controlled friction clutch. Both were used on BMWs although Honda used the second system on their touring and large bikes. The newer valve and pumps systems uses solenoid inlet and outlet valves, pump, motor and accumulators/reservoirs. When the system is activated, the brake fluid is stored in accumulators to release the pressure. A pump er… pumps back the fluid. That’s what cause the pulsation on the brake lever or foot pedal. The best ABS systems cycle through this process at 24 Hz (Hertz, times per second). No human could possibility emulate this feat. Again, with the advancement of electronics, the ABS has seen some intriguing added functionalities, too, such as dual-channel, combined braking, cornering, rear lift-up mitigation (anti-stoppie, or anti-wekang), supermoto, and offroad ABS. Even traction control depends on the sensors and ECU for speed and tyre slip signals. But those are stories for another time. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/can-am-ryker-900-sport-set-to-debut-in-2022/

Can-Am Ryker 900 Sport Set To Debut In 2022

Bombardier Recreational Products is revising its Can-Am Ryker lineup for 2022 with a new Ryker 900 Sport. The Ryker 900 Sport will replace the Rally Edition, which had been around since 2019. This was confirmed by both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board, who had approved the Ryker 900 Sport alongside the standard Ryker 900 for 2022. Can-Am will also introduce a 600cc version of the Ryker 900 in the same year. According to reports, the Ryker 900 range will be powered by a three-cylinder Rotak 900 ACE engine capable of producing 81.9hp @ 8,000rpm mated to a continuously variable transmission. Nonetheless, the Ryker 900 Sport will be a road-focused machine compared to the Rally edition, which was features off-road capabilities. More details on the 2022 Ryker 900 are expected to be unveiled nearing the official launch. --Ads--