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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/triumph-motorcycles-america-recalls-certain-2022-trident-660-due-to-side-stand-issue/
Triumph Motorcycles America Recalls Certain 2022 Trident 660 Due To Side Stand Issue
Certain 2022 Triumph Trident 660 is getting a recall by Triumph Motorcycles America due to a potentially faulty side stand. According to Triumph, the side stand of the affected units might bend over time, which could cause to bike to stumble and tip over. The process may happen gradually with the bike will lean further than usual before it finally falls. A total of 314 Trident 660 sold in the U.S are affected by the recall, produced between February 7, 2021, to May 15, 2021. Triumph has since changed to a robust side stand unit which is no longer believed to be affected. As it turns out, a third-party supplier had used an incorrect material that did not meet specifications and has since been corrected. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-malaysia-launches-new-ducati-pj-showroom/
Ducati Malaysia launches new Ducati PJ showroom
Ducati Malaysia has just launched the new Ducati PJ showroom which is now the second-largest Ducati showroom in the whole of Southeast Asia. Covering an impressive 16,339 square feet plus over 5,000 square feet of service area, Ducati PJ plans to ramp things up in both sales and aftersales services for 2020 and beyond. The official launch was graced by the attendance of both Ducati MotoGP factory riders, Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci. They’ve made the special appearance just in time for the MotoGP Sepang winter test this coming weekend at Sepang International Circuit where they will be testing out the latest Ducati Desmosedici GP20. Speaking of aftersales, the new Ducati PJ showroom is equipped with eight working bays and trained mechanics to service up to 450 bikes every month. Located right at the entrance of Naza Automall Petaling Jaya, you can guarantee to find anything and everything related to Ducati at a well-positioned location. According to Dato’ Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan, Deputy Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings., “The Ducati brand was made for those with a passion for speed, self-expression and love living life on the edge. As every Ducati model is designed to exude its own aura and character, we want Ducatistis to be able to have a 360˚ holistic Ducati experience.” “Incorporated with the Ducati signature brand CI, we believe that the new Ducati PJ showroom will enhance the customers’ experience to interact with the latest products and technology, and at the same time elevate the Ducati brand image.” “Apart from the opening of the new Ducati PJ flagship showroom at a prominent location, there are expansion plans in the pipeline to elevate the Ducati brand nationwide. This also includes a new dealership in the Southern region by the second half of the year,” added Dato’ Nik. 2020 Ducati Superleggera V4 photos leaked --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fancy-this-flame-emblazoned-bell-eliminator-stockwell-retro-lid/
Fancy this flame-emblazoned Bell Eliminator Stockwell retro lid?
Bell Eliminator Stockwell sees signature retro lid gain a hot new flavour thanks to its flame-emblazoned graphics. Bell Eliminator retro full face now sports a cool flame-emblazoned design choice. Flames are the work of London-based custom builder and dirt oval racer Charlie Stockwell. Design takes on a tasty and subtle monochrome approach with gold pinstripes. Does not cost too much more over regular Eliminator – just US$10 more. We’re certain this will go well with any avid fans of cruisers and retro bikes. American helmet makers Bell have added a new flame-emblazoned iteration of its signature Eliminator retro full face helmet range – the Bell Eliminator Stockwell. Aptly, this is Bell’s already popular Eliminator retro-styled full-face bucket that boasts a special flame graphics motif designed by famed London-based custom bike builder and dirt oval racer Charlie Stockwell. The design itself draws inspiration from Stockwell’s racing experiences and Motor Company roots. Unlike other similar flame paintjobs that uses bright candy colours, this one adopts a more subdued approach instead. It sees a balance between a black base paint with white flame licks, as well as gold pinstripes. Apart from its striking yet tasty design, this is the same Bell Eliminator that’s proven popular amongst many classic and cruiser fans alike. The composite fiberglass shell comes in three shell sizes plus three EPS liners covering XS right up to XXXL. Besides a removable and washable interior liner, the Bell Eliminator also employs the American brand’s Velocity Flow Ventilation System, anti-fog ProVision visor, as well as a Magnafusion chin strap retainer amongst other key features. Whilst the regular Eliminator commands an RRP of US$419.95 (approx.. RM1,765.68), this new Stockwell design offshoot’s RRP doesn’t cost too much more at US$429.95 (RM1,807.72) – just US$10 (approx. RM42) more in fact. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/desmo-cup-returns-for-2018-first-round-happens-this-weekend/
Desmo Cup returns for 2018: First round happens this weekend!
The TOC Desmo Cup is the best way for Ducati owners to fully exploit the potential of their bike. Race is open to all owners of the Ducati 848, Panigale 899 and 959, the 1098, 1198, Panigale 1199, 1299 and the brand-new Panigale V4. Registration is open. Round 1 takes place this weekend during the Malaysia Superbike Championship. The Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) will be hosting the first round of the TOC Desmo Cup 2018 during the second round of the Malaysian Superbike Championship. However, unlike the MSC series which has two race rounds per weekend, the TOC Desmo Cup will only race once in a 10 lap race format. Taking place on the 27,28 and 29 of July at the Sepang International Circuit, the 2018 installation of the TOC Desmo Cup sees DOCM partnering the TOC Automotive College who comes on board as the title sponsor of the series. Participants taking part in the series will be racing on their own bikes and the series is open to those riding the Ducati 848, Panigale 899 and 959, the 1098, 1198, Panigale 1199, 1299 and the brand-new Panigale V4. Entry fee to the series is set at just RM500, while the price is as follows: Race winners: – 1st RM600 and trophy – 2nd RM500 and trophy – 3rd RM400 and trophy – 4th trophy only – 5th trophy only Overall season championship prize money as follows: – Overall points champion RM3000 and thropy – Runners up champion RM2500 and trophy – 3rd Overall RM2000 and trophy – 4th Overall RM1500 and trophy – 5th Overall RM1000 and trophy The series will receive technical support from Ducati Malaysia who will be sending their trained mechanics to work on bikes. Lubricants will be supplied by Toyo Lubes while Kratos Motorsport, the distributor of K-Tec suspensions in Malaysia, will offer ride and handling support to all riders. All riders intending to join the series must have a valid AAM license to take part in the races. The following is the MSBK TOC Desmo Cup Supersport and Superstock Calendar: – Round 1 : July 27th, 28th and 29th 2018 – Round 2: September 14th, 15th,16th 2018 – Round 3 and 4 : October 5th, 6th, 7th 2018 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/is-this-the-new-benelli-600cc-sports-bike/
Is this the new Benelli 600cc sports bike?
QJMotor, the Chinese parent company of Benelli, made one hell of a presentation yesterday by introducing seven new models for 2021. One of the biggest highlights is the QJMotor SRG 600, which is highly destined to be the first Benelli 600cc sports bike for markets outside of China and it looks quite good if you ask us. These are just introductions to the new models, so there are not a lot of information to go around regarding these new bikes at the moment. What we can confirm is that the QJMotor SRG 600 or Benelli’s sportbike runs a 600cc inline-four engine that produces 80hp at 11,000rpm. To put it into comparison, the current Honda CBR650R produces close to 94hp at 12,000rpm. Other good things that can be found on the SRG 600 are an LED lighting system, quickshifter, slipper clutch, backlit switches, Brembo brakes, KYB shocks, 5-inch TFT screen, and keyless ignition unit just to name a few. SRT 750 Moving on, the new QJMotor SRT 750 is the new adventure-touring offering that will make its way into the European market as the new 2021 Benelli TRK 800. Both these models will run the same 754cc parallel-twin engine found in the 752S and Leoncino 800, which churns out 80hp at 9,000rpm. SRK 350 Other new models include the SRT 500, which is heavily based on the Benelli TRK 502, SRK 350 (based on the Benelli 302S), Turismo Sport 250, and the very Diavel-like SRV 500, a model ‘inspired’ by Benelli’s 502C. QJMotor is looking to conquer the majority of the bike market in 2021 and judging by how these bikes look, we’re guessing they’ll make a pretty penny out of them. SRV 500 Turismo Sport 250 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yuki-ito-wins-wet-and-wild-supersports-race-at-suzuka-arrc/
Yuki Ito wins wet and wild supersports race at Suzuka ARRC
Yamaha’s Yuki Ito won SuperSports 600cc Race 1 in the rain-hit Japanese round of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship while poleman Yuki Takahashi crashed out at the complex Suzuka Circuit, Japan on Saturday. The PETRONAS Hong Leong Yamaha rider led the field across the finish line in 32’16.873s, negotiating precarious track conditions that steadily worsened throughout the 13-lap race. Ito however had to wait until lap-7 to take command of the race from Yuki Takahashi (Musashi Boon Siew Honda Racing) who lost control of his bike and crashed into the gravel bed in lap-7. Tomoyoshi Koyama (T.Pro Yuzy Honda NTS) completed the race second with 32’24.233s ahead of Noriyuki Haga (Team Kagayama Suzuki ASIA) in third place, 32’25.549s, making it an all Japanese affair. “I am very happy to win here because the first two rounds this season did not go so well. However, this win did not come easy because I struggled a lot from the start. I could not keep the pace with Takahashi and almost crashed midway through the race. At that point I was about two seconds behind and thought that there was no way I could win,” said Ito. “To to my surprise, Takahashi retired with six laps remaining. I took a safe approach and maintained a steady pace without taking much risk because behind, Koyama and Haga were gaining on me. Thank you to the team for giving me a good setup. Hopefully we can secure another win for Race 2 tomorrow,” he added. Separately Takehiro Yamamoto continues to assert dominance at his home track after he took a commanding victory in the Asia Production 250cc. Takehiro who last won in Malaysia was challenged by AP Honda Racing Thailand duo, Nakarin Athiratphuvapat and Apiwat Wongthananon in the early parts but his experience racing in the wet at Suzuka paid off as he steadily pulled a gap over his rivals. The Trickstar Racing rider eventually wrapped up the 8-lap race in 22’05.316s ahead of the Thai riders. Race Direction however later disqualified Nakarin’s result after he was found guilty of a dangerous maneuver in the opening lap, moving Apiwat who timed 22’05.316s to second while Takehiro’s teammate, Ryunosuke Hyodo was promoted to third with 22’12.477s. Lastly Norizman Ismail did everything right to win a frantic Underbone 130cc battle that saw a lot of riders retire due to slippery track surface. The Harian Metro Y-TEQ SCK Honda Racing rider was seen going neck-to-neck with Ferlando Herdian (BKMS Indonesia Racing Team) at the start of the race before the latter crashed out. With his closest rival out of the picture, Norizman rode a lonely but consistent race, crossing the finish line in 18’33.199s. Meanwhile poleman, Gupita Kresna (Manual Tech KYT Rextor) finished second after overtaking Sasitharen Sukumaran (T.Pro Yuzy Honda NTS) at the last turn. Both riders completed the race in 18’44.552s and 18’44.831s. Results: SuperSports 600cc 1.Yuki Ito (Yamaha) 32’16.873s 2.Tomoyoshi Koyama (Honda) 32’24.233s 3.Noriyuki Haga (Suzuki) 32’25.549s 4.Dimas Ekky (Honda) 32’39.770s 5.Hazlanshah Mohd Noor (Kawasaki) 32’41.941s Asia Production 250cc 1.Takehiro Yamamoto (Kawasaki) 22’03.084s 2.Apiwat Wongthananon (Honda) 22’05.316s 3.Ryunosuke Hyodo (Kawasaki) 22’12.477s 4.Gilang Hendra (Yamaha) 22’34.721s 5.Ayumu Tanaka (Yamaha) 22’40.578s Underbone 130cc 1.Norizman Ismail (Honda) 18’33.199s 2.Gupita Kresna (Kawasaki) 18’44.552s 3.Sasitharen Sukumaran (Honda) 18’44.831s 4.Fareez Afeez (Yamaha) 18’56.788s 5.Wahyu Aji Trilaksana (Yamaha) 19’04.996s --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sepang-circuit-postpones-all-events-from-14-27-october-2020/
Sepang Circuit postpones all events from 14-27 October 2020
The Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) which is set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Putrajaya from 14-27 October 2020 (starting midnight tonight) has pushed a few things back, including all events scheduled during that period at the Sepang Circuit (SIC). An official announcement by the folks from the Sepang International Circuit was posted on their website. This follows after The Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) announced yesterday that the second and final round which is set to take place this weekend has been postponed until further notice. Following the rising number of cases of COVID-19 infection across Malaysia, this move was made to ensure that we stop the spread of the virus from getting worse. The third wave saw record-breaking infection cases as well as a rise in the number of deaths across Malaysia. Below is the official announcement posted by SIC. POSTPONEMENT OF EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES FROM 14-27 OCTOBER 2020 AT SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT (SIC) DUE TO CONDITIONAL MOVEMENT CONTROL ORDER (CMCO) In light of the CMCO enforcement in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya, effective from 14-27 November 2020, all scheduled events and activities will be postponed. Should you have any scheduled events at SIC during this period, please contact our respective Account Manager to rescheduled and/or make necessary arrangements. As a responsible venue provide, we are committed to adhere to all Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and guidelines imposed by National Security Council (MKN) to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We thank you for your kind understanding. Meanwhile, stay vigilant, stay safe, and let’s work together to overcome this! Written by: Sep Irran Malaysia Superbike Championship Round 2 postponed --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-er2-n-patented/
Kawasaki ‘ER2-n’ patented
Now here is another news sourced from patent-filing, this time its our favourite green-liveried brand Kawasaki. Sources report that Kawasaki has just filed a patent to trademark the design and nameplate for a model called the ‘ER-2n’. According to the images we managed to find, it appears to be a naked version of the brand’s recently released Ninja 250SL single-cylinder entry-level supersport. Also known as the 250RR Mono is certain markets, it was thought that the Ninja 250SL would only be destined for the Indian and Asian markets. However, since this patent was filed in the EU, it suggest that Kawasaki could be offering the naked ‘ER-2n’ version in Europe sometime soon. The submitted EU patent, dated February 27, indicates that the ER-2n will share many components with the Ninja 250SL such as the frame, powerplant, and exhaust. Kawasaki remains silent about its plans with the bike, but sources believe that the ER-2n could make its market appearance in Europe alongside said bike type’s more lucrative Indian and Asian markets. Source: Visordown Image source: Autoevolution --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-triumph-speed-triple-1200-rs-now-in-malaysia-rm99900/
2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS Now In Malaysia – RM99,900
Early this year, Triumph Motorcycles unveiled their latest’ streetfighter’, the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS. However, a few months later, the motorcycle has reached our shores via Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of Triumph Motorcycles in Malaysia. If you’re in the market for a very muscular roadster that can deliver high levels of performance both on and off the track together with a stunning design, the new Speed Triple 1200 RS should be highly considered. Starting with the design, you can instantly tell that this is indeed a true Triumph roadster that combines smooth lines, sharp and aggressive features that’s very well-proportioned. What defines the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS are the new LED headlights with DRLs, compact bodywork and tail unit, carbon-fibre mudguard, colour-coded belly pan, and those black 17-inch aluminium V-spoke wheels. A host of other premium finishes like the graphics and branded handlebar clamp further amps up the RS-ness of the new Speed Triple 1200 where customers can choose to have it in either Sapphire Black (with red and silver graphics) or Matt Silver Ice (with sliver and yellow graphics). All the exterior features highlight the star within its all-new lightweight mass-centralised chassis, which is the also new 1,160cc inline-three DOHC liquid-cooled engine that punches out 177.5hp at 10,750rpm and 125Nm of torque at 9,000rpm. Tuned with a slightly higher redline, Triumph claims that this beauty sounds like a beast thanks to new intake and exhaust systems. In other words, it’s the most powerful and best sounding Speed Triple yet. Developed using the brand’s knowledge and experience in Moto2, the new Speed Triple 1200 RS’s engine is 7kg lighter and produces around 30hp more compared to the previous-gen model. This also translates to a 25% improvement in the power-to-weight ratio thanks to the brand’s know-how in cutting its wet weight down to an impressive 198kg (15.5-litre fuel tank included). Other noteworthy specs include: New six-speed transmission + new slip & assist clutch 5-inch TFT screen Five riding modes (including Track Mode) New Triumph Shift Assist quickshifter (up & down) Cornering ABS Switchable Optimised Cornering Traction Control Enhanced front wheel lift control Full keyless system Fully-adjustable Öhlins suspension (Öhlins NIX30 upside-down front forks + Öhlins TTX36 twin tube rear monoshock) Brembo Stylema brakes (320mm front discs + radial monobloc callipers, 220mm single rear disc + twin-piston calliper) Metzeler Racetec RR K3 tyres Dedicated Speed Triple accessories + many more The 2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is priced at RM99,900 (excluding road tax and insurance). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-royal-enfield-himalayan-scram-411-to-break-cover-on-march-15/
2022 Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411 To Break Cover On March 15
Road-biased Himalayan Scram 411 is set to be unveiled on March 15 2022 as announced by the Indian firm via its social media platform. The Himalayan Scram 411 is a continuity of the capable Himalayan adventure motorcycle but with increased usability in an urban environment.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Royal Enfield (@royalenfield)  Despite the Scram 411 retaining a similar silhouette of the Himalayan, the motorcycle missed out on the tall windscreen, handguards, raised front fender and dedicated rear and front luggage racks. Other fundamental changes include a 19-inch front wheel in place of the off-road friendly 21-inch on the Himalayan. While the Scram 411 is closer to the ground at 200mm – 220mm on the Himalayan, it features spoke-wheels and a dual-purpose tyre. Other significant features include cast metal headlamp cowl, offset speedometer, urban badge plate with Royal Enfield branding and single-piece saddle. Nevertheless, the Scram 411 continue to run on the same 411cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that generates a humble 24.3hp @ 6,500rpm and 32Nm @ 4000-4,500rpm. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. Other features include: telescopic front forks rear monoshock with linkage 300mm front disc 240mm rear disc dual-channel ABS --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-italjet-dragster-125-is-coming-to-malaysia/
The Italjet Dragster 125 Is Coming To Malaysia?
Italjet announced some good news last year as the company has confirmed that the Dragster 125 and Dragster 200 will land at dealership beginning December 2021 in Europe and Asian markets. However, in the latest news, it is understood that the Italjet Dragster 125 will make its way to Malaysia via Cheer Global. According to Paultan.org, the Italjet Dragster 125 is scheduled to arrive in Malaysia sometime in mid-2022. The Italjet Dragster caught our attention when it was introduced back in 2019 as a 2020 model. However, the emerging of Covid-19 in the following year disrupted the company plans before announcing that the Dragster will be available in December as a 2022 model at EICMA. The 125 variant makes 13hp from its single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, while the Dragster 200 offers 18hp. While the power figure is not too exciting, the Dragster comes equipped with premium components, such as an Akrapovic exhaust system, Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension. Meanwhile, Italjet also confirmed its plans to unveil the company first electric motorcycle in 2022.  (Source: Paultan.org) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/didi-resources-appointed-as-new-piaggio-and-vespa-distributor-in-malaysia/
Didi Resources Appointed as New Piaggio and Vespa Distributor in Malaysia
Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd. has been appointed as the new Piaggio and Vespa distributor in Malaysia. A Motoplex concept shop will also be opened to offer all brands under the Piaggio Group umbrella. The news follows Naza Primera’s announcement to cease Vespa operations. Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd. has been appointed as the new Piaggio and Vespa distributor in Malaysia. The announcement was made by the Piaggio group. As such, Didi Resources will take over the role from Naza Primera Sdn. Bhd. The news follows the announcement made by Naza Primera yesterday. Read: Naza Premira to Stop Vespa Operations Mr. Gianluca Fiume, Chairman & General Director of Piaggio Vietnam cum Executive Vice President Asia Pacific 2 Wheeler, said, “The appointment of Didi Resources is part of Piaggio’s business strategy to group the Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands under a single entity to maximize efficiencies across all aspects of the business and reinforce customer commitment in Malaysia. With the Piaggio Group brands under one roof established under the Motoplex concept, we are able to better offer a wider range for potential customers who seek an enriching Italian two-wheel experience backed by style, technology, superior performance and rich heritage. We look forward to collaborating closely with Didi Resources to push forward the brands to greater heights.” According to Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd, “In addition to handling Aprilia and Moto Guzzi, we are very honoured to be presented with this opportunity to manage Piaggio and Vespa, the premium scooter brands which have transformed the concept of individual mobility and freedom. With this acquisition we can now manage Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi under the iconic Motoplex concept of the prestigious Piaggio Group for the Malaysian market. Didi Resources is firmly committed to strengthening the positioning of the brands by intensifying marketing and communication efforts, offering dedicated aftersales support, affirming the communities, and ensuring that engagement with the brands is continuous in the light of a competitive two wheel environment in Malaysia.” Motoplex is the most innovative retail model for the two-wheeler industry and enables importers and dealers to leverage the potential of the Group brands and products in the same outlet. Each Motoplex store provides the full offer of the Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi brands in a single location, together with services, accessories, merchandising and entertainment, to give customers an exciting global overview and a unique experience of the two-wheeler world. Launched in 2015, the Group has already passed the significant milestone of 500 Motoplex stores open around the world in Europe, the Americas, Oceania, Asia, and the Indian subcontinent, alongside the traditional distribution network. Among the main cities in which Motoplex Stores have been opened are New York, Bangkok, Tokyo, Milan, Pune, Malta, Madrid, London, Berlin, Vienna, Lisbon, Stuttgart, Sydney, Jakarta and Bali. The official appointment of Didi Resources as sole importer and distributor for Piaggio and Vespa will take effect from 1 January 2020. Plans for the construction of the Motoplex are underway with the launch scheduled in early 2020. A complete listing of Vespa dealers is available on  https://www.vespa.com/my_EN/store-locator.html. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brisk-x-line-racing-brisk-premium-lgs-spark-plugs-more-spark-more-power/
Brisk X-Line Racing, Brisk Premium LGS Spark Plugs – More Spark, More Power
The spark plug is at the centre of the spark ignition engine. This is why it plays a vital role in unlocking the engine’s potential. The Brisk X-Line Racing and Brisk Premium LGS are designed to extract this performance. Look at what’s just landed in our e-commerce shop: The Brisk X-Line Racing and Brish Premium LGS spark plugs. Needless to say, the spark plug is at the heart of a spark ignition engine. You may have the most sophisticated fuel injection and ignition systems but what’s there to ignite the spark? No, a couple of rocks don’t cut it. However, the performance of the spark plug plays the crucial role in unlocking the engine’s potential. That’s not only for “power” but more specifically in terms of torque, horsepower, fuel economy, smooth throttle operation, easy starting (whether the engine’s cold or hot), and the plug’s longevity. Image source: shreebykepoint.com The Brisk X-Line Racing spark plug has multiple ground electrodes to ensure that any one of them or all of them are closest to where the fuel-air mixture is concentrated. This means quick and complete burn of the mixture. A completely burned mixture produces higher torque and horsepower, in addition to better fuel economy and cleaner emissions. Users of Brisk spark plugs have always remarked about noticeable increase in acceleration and smooth “pulling” through the entire rev range. This is the direct result of complete burning, as we outlined earlier. This is also why Brisk racing plugs are used by virtually all teams in the Malaysian Superbike Championship and PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship. But there is one more advantage to the Brisk X-Line Racing spark plug. This plug is specifically developed for our Southeast Asian market to deal with the high ambient temperatures and humidity. Besides that, it can also deal with different fuel octanes which means you can tour with your bike anywhere. Also available in our e-commerce store is the Brisk Premium LGS. The LGS was first developed hand-in-hand with Lamborghini and is now their OEM plug. From here, Brisk developed the plug further for other applications. One particular brand is Ducati and thus the AAOR10LGS is designed for them. You can order these products here: Brisk X-Line Racing AOR12-X8 (replaces the NGK CR8E, CR8EA, CR8EAIX, CPR8EA-9, MR8E-9, MR8K-9). It’s meant for lower capacity bikes such as the Yamaha Y15ZR, YZF-R15, FZ150i, LC135 and Honda RS150. Brisk X-Line Racing AOR10-X9 (replaces the NGK CR9E, CR9EIX, CR9E-9, MR9C-9N). It’s meant for larger capacity bikes. Brisk Premium LGS AAOR10LGS (replaces the NGK MAR10 A-J). It’s meant for Ducati motorcycles. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/wsbk-malaysia-2016zulfahmi-qualifies-fifth/
WSBK Malaysia 2016:Zulfahmi qualifies in fifth
National rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin qualifies strongly in fifth ahead of Sunday’s WSSP race in WSBK Malaysia 2016. Fahmi and his wife in the circuit paddock earlier today. The excitement for WSBK Malaysia 2016 is heating up especially for local fans after national rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin qualified strongly in fifth place ahead of Sunday’s race in the Sepang International Circuit. Zulfahmi has already shown his strong pace on home soil yesterday during the Free Practice sessions, most notable being his outing during the wet second session that secured his slot for today’s WSSP Superpole 2 session. With confidence running high, especially in the newly resurfaced and re-profiled Sepang Circuit, Fahmi again was on top form during Superpole 2 held this afternoon. His best time of 2:08.475 astride the Orelac Racing VerdNatura Kawasaki ZX-6R granted Fahmi with his second row starting position for tomorrow’s race. Leading the WSSP pack is the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing ZX-6R duo of Kenan Sofuoglu in pole position and Randy Krummanacher in second. Turkish rider Kenan led the day’s timing board with his fastest time of 2:08.055 whilst Krummenacher took second with his best time of 2:08.155. Briton Gino Rea lines up third astride the GR Racing Team MV Agusta F3675. The supporting WSSP race is scheduled to take place tomorrow on Sunday at 2:20pm local time. WSSP Superpole Results WSSP Starting Grid Fahmi and his wife in the circuit paddock earlier today. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-malaysia-to-launch-the-belang-r150-gsx-r150-gsx-s150-soon/
Suzuki Malaysia To Launch The Belang R150, GSX-R150 & GSX-S150 Soon
Suzuki Malaysia first dropped a teaser of its small capacity motorcycle back in September 2021 during the all-new Hayabusa and V-Strom 1050 XT launch. During the launch, Suzuki Malaysia has announced that the upcoming 150cc motorcycle is due to roll out in early 2022. However, we are already in the middle of February, and there is still no update on Suzuki Malaysia small capacity bikes. Regardless, Suzuki Malaysia’s Executive Chairman, Ahmad Faez Yahaya, has posted an update on his Facebook account regarding the company’s upcoming motorcycle. Interestingly, what can be seen here is a photo of a new set of tyres, and while it did not reveal much, the tyres are the wheelset for the Belang R150. Moreover, according to reports, Suzuki Malaysia is scheduled to launch the three new models sometime in March this year. However, we were told that Suzuki Malaysia might not be using the ‘Belang’ name; instead, the motorcycle could be named as Raider F150, but we are still waiting for further clarification. Nonetheless, the long wait is over as a small capacity Suzuki motorcycle will finally be upon us soon. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-yzf-r25-updated-with-new-colours-for-2023-rm22998/
Yamaha YZF-R25 Updated With New Colours For 2023 – RM22,998
Yamaha Malaysia has announced the release of two new colours for its popular Yamaha YZF-R25 motorcycle. The new colours, Midnight Star and Racing Blue, have been added to the model’s existing range of colours. These new colours are expected to give the Yamaha YZF-R25 a stylish and trendy look. the R25 continue to appeal to younger and new riders with the introduction of two new colourway.  powering the R25 is the tried and tested 249cc inline-two engine.  Starting from 23rd March 2023, the Yamaha YZF-R25 in the new colour selection will be available at all authorized Yamaha dealers nationwide. The recommended retail price for the new model is RM 22,998.00, excluding registration fees and insurance coverage. Additionally, new owners of the YZF-R25 will be able to enjoy an added benefit by receiving a Yamaha safety disc lock worth RM 100 with their purchase. The Yamaha YZF-R25 is a popular model that is well-known for its power and speed. The motorcycle is powered by a 249 cc, in-line two-cylinders, Dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine producing 26.4 kW at 12,000 rpm and 22.6 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm. It also comes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) & LED Turn Signals Lights. The addition of new colours is expected to make the Yamaha YZF-R25 more appealing to young riders who are looking for a trendy and stylish motorcycle. The Midnight Star colour gives the motorcycle a sleek and elegant look, while the Racing Blue colour gives it a more sporty and aggressive appearance. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-unusual-production-motorcycles-part-9/
Ten Most Unusual Production Motorcycles (Part 9)
Honda NR The 1992 Honda NR (often mistakenly referred to as the NR750) was the most expensive production motorcycle at the time. Please click here for Part 1 (Suzuki RE5), here for Part 2 (Honda CBX1000), here for Part 3 (Yamaha GTS1000), here for Part 4 (Suzuki Katana), here for Part 5 (Böhmerland), here for Part 6 (MTT Y2K and 420RR), here for Part 7 (Honda DN-01), and here for Part 8 (BRP Can-Am Spyder). Honda had pulled out of motorcycle grand prix racing in 1967, only to re-enter in 1977. Two stroke machines had taken over the entire field in their absence, but Honda has always preferred to develop and race four-stroke bikes. Honda knew that they’d be beaten by two-strokes and there was no allowance for bigger capacity four-strokes to compensate. The rules had stated 500cc engines with a maximum of four-cylinders, regardless if they’re two- or four-strokes. Honda engineers worked around this by creating a high-revving V-4 engine, but with oval pistons. The oval pistons looked like two pistons being joined as one (think of a burger oblong).   With two conrods and eight valves per cylinder (yes, eight, for a total of 32 valves!) the engine gave the impression of a V-8. The engineers hoped that the bigger piston area would provide a higher volume air/fuel mixture, resulting in more power. Honda unveiled the NR500 (NR stands for New Racing) in 1978 but the bike only made its debut in the 11th round (British GP) of the 1979 racing season. However, both bikes retired. The engine was overly complex. But Honda kept developing the bike and engine and came away with 130 bhp at over 20,000 RPM, matching the two-strokes. Yet, the bike wasn’t competitive and Honda ultimately went on to develop the NS500 two-stroke tiple in 1982, ridden by Freddie Spencer, Marco Lucchinelli and Takazumi Katayama. Still, Honda kept plugging away and came up with the NR750 endurance race bike. The technology was finally transferred to a road bike in 1992. Built in limited numbers, the NR (also known as the RC40) made 125 bhp at 14,000 RPM in the standard configuration. Priced at US$50,000, only 300 were built. The NR featured many other innovative technology, including a single-sided swingarm, side-mounted radiators (a la NR500), and underseat exhausts, among other things. It’s also no secret that Massimo Tamburini was inspired by the Honda NR when he penned his iconic Ducati 916. BONUS TRIVIA: One of the engineers who worked on the oval piston project revealed that while trying to reduce the number of valves to the more conventional 4 valves per cylinder to improve combustion and power in the low- and middle-RPM range. That development led to one of Honda’s most famous technology and was first featured on the CB400 Super Four. The VTEC. So, the VTEC wouldn’t have been possible if not for the oval piston research and development. Please click here for Part 1 (Suzuki RE5), here for Part 2 (Honda CBX1000), here for Part 3 (Yamaha GTS1000), here for Part 4 (Suzuki Katana), here for Part 5 (Böhmerland), here for Part 6 (MTT Y2K and 420RR), here for Part 7 (Honda DN-01), and here for Part 8 (BRP Can-Am Spyder). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/an-entry-level-ducati-not-happening-anytime-soon/
An Entry-Level Ducati Not Happening Anytime Soon 
In the last five years, we have seen a significant shift from a premium motorcycle company to not only offering top-of-the-range bikes but also a more affordable model for the masses. Ducati to continue positioning itself as the number one premium motorcycle brand.  No plans to introduced an “affordable” Ducati.  *BMW G 310 GS BMW – in partnership with TVS Motor Company – introduced the G 310 R and G 310 GS to make motorcycle ownership more affordable. Triumph is set to follow suit with an upcoming scrambler-type motorcycle built in partnership with India’s Bajaj Auto, while MV Agusta is currently developing an adventure bike called the Lucky Explorer 5.5 that borrows the same parallel-twin engine from Benelli’s TRK502.  *Lucky Explorer 5.5 All of these are part of an initiative to expand each brand’s presence towards a bigger market.  However, Ducati has no interest in following in the same footstep, according to the firm’s Head of Design, Andrea Ferraresi, during a recent interview with MCN.   “Actually, no, because we want to move the brand up more. We are already a premium brand, and we are already on the top of the premium segment. “We want to stay there and raise a bit.  “To do this, one of the most important things is to keep the entry price into the range at a certain level. We want to keep this price not lower than the Monster.” “What to do with the young riders? We have the Scramblers, which have a more affordable price.  “But there is no entry Ferrari or entry Porsche, so you start with other brands and keep in mind Ducati and then as soon as you can, you buy a Ducati,” he said. That said, don’t expect an entry-level Ducati anytime soon.  (source: MCN) --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/tissot-to-be-official-motogp-timekeeper-until-2022/
Tissot to be official MotoGP timekeeper until 2022
wmc world motorcycle racing 2015 - motogp, valencia race - comunista valenciana - press conference Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP announced yesterday that watchmaker Tissot will remain as the official timekeeper for the championship until 2022. It is said that the partnership, which began in 2001, will allow Tissot to gain significant exposure at each race via trackside advertising and enhanced TV visibility across global media outlets, plus it will also benefit from a large presence in the MotoGP official social media pages and in the Hospitality area with special experiences. François Thiébaud, Tissot President, said, “The spirit and focus on excellence that MotoGP embodies perfectly reflects Tissot’s spirit. We are therefore very proud to continue our successful partnership with MotoGPTM. These new timepieces in tribute to them, celebrate this relationship and position as Official Timekeeper. We remain committed to providing absolute accuracy.” Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports Chief Executive Officer, said, “These new watches speak of the high quality of their work. We can always rely on our Official Timekeeper for perfect precision. At Dorna Sports, we are extremely proud to have extended MotoGP’s long and productive relationship with Tissot until 2022. It has proven to be the perfect partnership over the last 14 years, and we look forward to continue to develop and grow together until 2022.” Currently, there are two timepieces which have been infused with the dynamism of the MotoGP race – the Tissot T-Race MotoGP Automatic Limited Edition 2016 and the Tissot T-Race MotoGP Limited Edition 2016. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-moto-guzzi-mgx-21-arrives-in-malaysia-rm172000/
2019 Moto Guzzi MGX-21 arrives in Malaysia! RM172,000
Moto Guzzi Malaysia has offically unveiled the 2019 Moto Guzzi MGX-21 for the Malaysian market. The state-of-the-art “Flying Fortress” is powered by a 1,380cc 90° V-Twin Big Block engine with 96.6hp and 121Nm of torque. The recommended selling price has been set at RM172,000 (without tax or insurance). Moto Guzzi Malaysia which is brought to you here in Malaysia by Didi Resources Sdn Bhd has officially introduced the brand’s latest and most advanced model yet, the 2019 Moto Guzzi MGX-21. Dubbed the “Flying Fortress”, this is the next step in Moto Guzzi’s technological advancements when it comes to their world of two-wheels. Just from its stance alone, the MGX-21 is covered with carbon fibre goodness from top to bottom which wraps around a monstrous 1,380cc 90° V-Twin Big Block engine. This behemoth of a cruiser is able to produce 96.6hp @ 6,500rpm and 121Nm of torque from 3,000rpm. That’s more than enough to have a good time on the wide-open road. This goes exceptionally well with the bike’s overall futuristic touring bike look, especially its ‘Batwing’ like front fairing which was designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics technology. This resulted in a very efficient aerodynamics package that offers a great overall riding experience for future owners. According to Mr Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Resources Sdn Bhd, “We are proud to extend our range of Moto Guzzi bikes in Malaysia. I had the great pleasure in riding the MGX-21 in Tuscany, Italy last year and this bike is suitable for someone that wants something different and special, Moto Guzzi bikes somehow wins your heart.” Considered to be one the most unconventional, rich, and technologically-advanced grand cruisers to ever rolled of for the factory in Mandello del Lario, the 2019 Moto Guzzi MGX-21 comes ready with specs such as state-of-the-art electronic management with ride-by-wire throttle, selectable power maps, evolved traction control, Cruise Control, plus many more. One of its most impressive features has to be its front 21-inch alloy wheels which comes prepared with lenticular carbon fibre protection that is both stylish and provides increase in performance, particularly the stability department. This feature goes exceptionally well with the bike’s three different engine maps setup which are VELOCE (fast), TURISMO (touring), and PIOGGIA (rain). Those who are interested can visit any of Moto Guzzi Malaysia’s authorized dealers located across the country as the recommended selling price has been set at RM172,000 (excluding road tax and insurance). For more information, head over to www.motoguzzi.com/my. Moto Guzzi Tuscany Experience: For the love of the brand and exploration --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-masterful-quartararo-wins-in-portimao-claim-championship-lead/
MotoGP: Masterful Quartararo Wins In Portimao, Claim Championship Lead!
MotoGP: Quartarao Wins In Portimao, Claim Championship Lead! Fabio Quartararo grabs his second win of the 2021 MotoGP season with a spectacular ride on Sunday in Portimao. The Yamaha factory rider now leads the championship standings after Johann Zarco crashed out at Turn 10, ending his chance of adding the 40 pts he claimed after two races in Qatar. Despite starting from pole, Quartararo had to fight his way up from sixth place after losing his spot after Turn 1. However, after just three laps, he was back in contention, piling the pressure on Suzuki’s Alex Rins and Pramac’s Zarco. The 21-year old managed to overtake his opponents and lead the pack, with only Rins able to chase him down. However, heading into the final five laps, Rins lost his front grip at Turn 4 and immediately crashed out of the race, giving Quartararo a comfortable win. Meanwhile, Francesco Bagnaia bagged his second podium of the season as he finished runner-up, followed by defending champion Suzuki’s Joan Mir. Speaking to the press after the race, Quartararo admitted he feels confident with the YZR-M1 pace. “I knew that we had a little bit extra pace compared to Alex [Rins]. He was running so fast but he made a mistake. “But honestly, the pace that we set today was unexpected from myself, but it feels great to enjoy this track, this unique track,” he said. Apart from an improved Factory-spec, Quartararo admitted he is mentally stronger than last season. “Yamaha made a big step compared to last year. But for me mentally I feel stronger. “Last year after Aragon we more or less lost the opportunity to fight until the end with Joan [Mir] for the championship. I was even more frustrated that we lost that moment. “But I’ve learned a lot. When the bike was not going so great, I was always thinking negatively, but I totally changed this, and now I’m always thinking positively, which I think is great,” added the 21-year-old. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tuneboss-introduces-new-performance-ecu-with-atas/
TuneBoss introduces new performance ECU with ATAS
Homegrown brand TuneBoss introduces new performance ECU with newly added ATAS feature for added safety. TuneBoss introduces new performance ECU product featuring new ATAS fuction. ATAS prevents accidental acceleration during engine start-up. It works by sensing throttle opening rate and warns riders by blinking engine warning light. All future TuneBoss ECU products will have ATAS programmed-in as standard. Homegrown motorcycle performance ECU brand TuneBoss have introduced a new Yamaha 135LC Fi-specific performance ECU product today. On top of added performance tuning, this product also boasts a newly added safety feature called ATAS. ATAS, which is short for Accidental Throttle Activation Safety, is designed to prevent accidental acceleration during engine start-up. This is perfect for motorcycles equipped with auto clutches like the Yamaha 135LC Fi whereby the rider may not realize that the motorcycle is in gear while starting it up and twisting the throttle open. While an uncommon risk, this type of accidents does occur according to studies done by TuneBoss. ATAS works by preventing engine start-up if the starter button is pressed whilst the throttle is opened simultaneously by more than 10%. In such a scenario, the ECU will blink the engine warning light to remind the rider. Instead, normal engine start-up is allowed only when the ECU detects throttle opening below 10%. Also included with every ECU is an Engine Immobilizer feature, which enables in the TuneBoss Manager Pro smartphone app that’s available for free for Android users specifically. FSR Technology COO Suffian Zamali (left) and CEO Farhan Ali (Right) “TuneBoss is more than just a performance tool. Safety and security are just as important, and we always ask our users to be mindful of these points,” said Farhan Ali, founder and CEO of FSR Technology – parent company of TuneBoss. “This feature is especially important for motorcycles with an automatic clutch such as the Yamaha Lagenda and NMax models, as well as the Honda Wave and EX5,” continued Farhan. Furthermore, the Stage1 ECU is preloaded with a performance mapping for a stock bike, priced at just RM399 for the Yamaha 135LC Fi model. the ECU can also be upgraded or unlocked to Stage 2, which gives the user greater tuning range for the fuel and ignition mapping. Moving forward, TuneBoss says all its future ECU products will have ATAS included as standard. Prices for other available models are as listed below: --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/filings-to-carb-shows-2020-triumph-lineup/
Filings to CARB Shows 2020 Triumph Lineup
riumph Daytona Moto2 765 Filings in CARB website shows 2020 Triumph lineup. Some very interesting models are afoot. Triumph have been busy with introducing 2020 models. Triumph Motorcycles have announced a number of exciting bikes for 2020 lately but a recent filing with CARB shows that there are actually more in the pipeline. In the space of just a few months, Triumph had unveiled the new 2500cc Rocket 3, Moto2-inspired Street Triple RS, plus the upcoming limited-edition Daytona Moto2 765 sportbike. Those are besides the Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) models. All new bikes, geared up for 2020 and Euro 5 compliant. And those don’t include the models that were teased such as the Thruxton RS and Bobber TFC that will be unveiled at EICMA. But you have to also wonder about other models such as the Tiger 800 and 1200, in addition to the Bonneville T100 and T120 lineup. Thanks to CARB (California Air Resources Board) who always publishes filings by manufacturers, we can see that there are a number of interesting models being planned. Let’s start with the Tiger 1200. The current generation was able to challenge the BMW R 1200 GS in terms of handling, comfort and equipment, before BMW moved the goal post by introducing the new R 1250 GS. But Triumph isn’t a company that sits still. So, for 2020 there will be the Tiger 1200 Alpine and Tiger 1200 Desert to complement the 1200 XCA, XCX, XR, XRT, XRX variants. Over to the Bonneville T120 range. One name popped up like the colour red in a sea of black: Bonneville T120 Bud Ekins. This great man’s name has appeared plenty times along with his buddy Steve McQueen in BikesRepublic. Ekins was the stuntman double for McQueen who did all those incredible jumps on the Triumph TR6 in the movie The Great Escape. He also raced the Baja Rally together with McQueen and won a few along the way. We’d love to see how this bike will look like and wonder if it will be like the “regular” T120s or based on the Scrambler 1200 platform. But bless you, Triumph, for there will also be a T100 Bud Ekins. You want a café racer? Oh yes, Triumph’s got the perfect factory café racer in the Thruxton R. But for 2020 there will be the Thruxton RS which we saw the teaser video. But there will also be a Thruxton RS Showcase. If our imagination was running wild after the RS teaser, we’re now slack-jawed to learn of the RS Showcase! There are a number of other models listed in the CARB website but are unfortunately password-protected — we guess at the manufacturer’s behest. We’re really curious to see what they are! Anyway, the models listed above will be unveiled at EICMA 2019 next week. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/quickie-paolo-ciabatti/
An exclusive chat with Ducati’s Paolo Ciabatti
An exclusive chat with Ducati’s MotoGP project leader, Paolo Ciabatti, ahead of this weekend’s Shell Advance Malaysian MotoGP 2014. “I’m hoping for a dry race on Sunday” said Paolo Ciabatti, Ducati Corse Sporting Director and MotoGP Project Director as we caught up with him for a short chat about the Sepang race and Ducati in MotoGP. He is one of the key turning points on how Ducati have managed to make a positive change in MotoGP. And he said that despite continuing on to saying that the current Ducati race machines tend to use the tyres faster than their competitors and wet conditions favours the team more. “Its for the benefit of the spectators and for the fans, its more enjoyable, if its raining we are ok, but as you know when we talk about rain in Malaysia, you don’t know how much rain. Our riders have to be leaning more in the corners and this is not helping to preserve the tyres over a long race distance. On the other side, Sepang has been very favourable circuit to Ducati in the past and our riders like it very much. It has very long straights and our bike is very powerful so think we expect a good result. Its not going to be easy but being fifth or fourth I think is not our dream but a reasonable target, obviously if we have a chance to be able to be fighting for the podium position our riders will try. Of course this will depend on how we can preserve the tyre throughout the race distance and the weather condition.” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-motomice-childrens-book-motorcycling/
Check out Motomice: A children’s book about motorcycling!
Looking for a perfect way to get children into bikes? Look no further than Motomice: A children’s book about motorcycling! Written by American author Paul Owen Lewis, the picture book revolves around biker mice of all kinds from old-school choppers, superbike racers and even classic bike enthusiasts. Priced at $16.99 (RM68.20), it’s also perfect to teach children about family, diversity and unity using the world of motorcycles as examples. Most motorcycle enthusiasts who have made the journey into parenthood have the tendency to get their children into the same love and passion for motorcycling. While there are many ways to do, there’s no better way to do so then to begin with a storybook filled with colourful characters. When one particular Paul Owen Lewis had the same epiphany when he walked in into a Harley-Davidson showroom and saw a whole line-up of children’s products – but not a single book in sight. Upon further research, it was actually quite difficult to find a children’s book about motorcycling. In fact, the latest book he found on that particular genre was from 50 years back! That’s when he decided to solve the matter with his own hands. After two years of intensive editorial work, his dreams became reality when he finally published Motomice to celebrate how bikers really are in real life. There are seven main characters in total (mice bikers, not to be confused with Biker Mice from Mars) that revolves around fun animal characters, adventures and of course, motorcycles. This is Roxy, the superbike racer The book has the usual characters in the world of motorcycling such as Rat the bad-to-the-bone chopper biker, Glide the old-school classic enthusiast, Roxy the superbike racer, Knobby the enduro rider, and many more! There’s even Sparky where the author mentioned that his character makes the world a “greener place” so we’re guessing he rides an electric bike. BRILLIANT. Sparky and his electric motorcycle While it’s all good and all for kids, it’s the parents that need to be convinced. The author assures everyone that Motomice is all about teaching kids not just about motorcycling but also family, diversity and unity in a world of peace and harmony. The 32-page hardcover picture book is meant for children aged between 3 and 8 but we’re pretty sure that adults of all ages will definitely enjoy this book just as much. We know we will. Motomice is priced at $16.99 which is around RM68.20. Not a high price to pay to ‘start ‘em young’. To know more about Motomice (or if you want to buy straight away), CLICK HERE. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/10-greatest-yamaha-motorcycles-part-1/
10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles (Part 1)
The Yamaha brand is synonymous with revolutionary styling, great handling and innovation. They have made a number of legendary bikes over the years. Here we count down the 10 best. The name Yamaha has always been at the forefront of revolutionary styling and great handling, if not innovations. Set up in 1955, the Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd. now produces almost anything that’s motorized. They are currently the world’s second largest motorcycle manufacturer and leader in water vehicle sales. The company has seen great success in motorsports, as well, and is the second most successful manufacturer after Honda. So, let’s count ‘em down. Note that this list is for CBU Yamahas. We shall cover the CKD (local assembly models) in Malaysia on a later date. 10. Yamaha YA-1 (1955) The YA-1 was Yamaha’s first model. Although influenced by the German DKW RT125, the YA-1 had many engineering, material and production upgrades. It was the first Japanese bike to have a primary kick starter (the engine can be kickstarted while in gear). The bike was then entered in two Japanese races that year and won the 125cc class. When it won again the following year, riders took notice of its high quality and reliability. Enthusiasts would soon give it the “Red Dragonfly” nickname. Talk about an auspicious start! 9. YZF-R7 “OW02” (1999) The YZF-R7 was Yamaha’s answer to the World Superbike Championship. Built with exotic materials and engineered based on the YZR500 Grand Prix racer, the company called it a racer out of the box. It had flat slide carburetors, titanium conrods, titanium valves, Öhlins suspension and weighed only 189 kg, dry. It was delivered with 106 hp, but a second race kit would bump that up to 162 hp. And it had Yamaha’s signature 20-valve Genesis head, too. The bike did win a number of races but never won a championship. Only 500 were ever built at an astronomical price of USD 32,000 circa 1999. 8. V-Max (1985) No Yamaha list will be complete without the fearsome V-Max power cruiser. Designed solely for straight line acceleration, the V-Max’s 1,197cc 70-degree V-Four put out a tyre spinning 145 bhp (measured at the wheel, not crank!). That power would see it hit a 240 km/h top speed. Remember, this was in 1985. On top of that, the entire bike was held together by a steel tube frame. The V-Max was updated through the years, cumulating in the VMAX in 2009. Sure, the new bike handled better – because it’s needed for the new 197 bhp engine. Unfortunately, the VMAX was axed from Yamaha’s in 2019. 7. XTZ750 Super Ténéré (1989) The Super Tenere was made to commemorate Yamaha’s win in the Paris-Dakar Rally, in the same veins as the BMW R 80 G/S, Honda Africa Twin and Cagiva Elefan. The YZE750 race version won the rally twice, while the upgraded 850cc version won four times. Enthusiasts say that “Super Ten” had a more aggressive behavior compared to its peers. It certainly looked so, as well. The bike would grow to 1200cc. 6. YZF-R6 (1999) The YZF-R6 followed immediately in the footsteps of the YZF-R1. Consequently, its engineering concepts were derived from its bigger brother, too, except for the 20-valve Genesis head. The R6 has a major upgrade in 2003 when it featured a ride-by-wire throttle which Yamaha called the YCC-T (Yamaha Computer Control – Throttle). The argument continues today as to whether it’s the R6 or the Aprilia Shiver 750 which introduced that system on a streetbike. Another revision in 2008 saw the debut of the YCC-I (Yamaha Computer Control – Intake) variable intake length system. Chaz Davies took the R6 to the World Supersport Championship in 2011. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-andrea-dovizioso-wants-to-return-to-honda/
MotoGP: Andrea Dovizioso wants to return to Honda?
Though there’s still no MotoGP racing yet in 2021, there’s plenty of wacky and silly stories coming out of all corners. The latest one came from Alberto Puig, Team Manager of Repsol Honda, and Ducati’s current number one rider, Andrea Dovizioso. It seems that the Italian had a talk with the HRC boss regarding a possible return to the Honda factory squad. According to GPOne.com, Alberto Puig stated “Some time ago, not long ago, Andrea Dovizioso came to us and asked if he could ride for Honda again and now, suddenly, he wonders why Marc has re-signed? I don’t understand it. He knows what I’m talking about.” Alberto Puig We’re not really sure when ‘not long ago’ was but it must’ve been in the past season or two for Puig to come up with such a statement about Dovizioso. For those of you who are in the know of MotoGP, the Italian once raced with Repsol Honda back in 2009-2011 with only one win to his name. Not really a talking point of his career, especially compared to his teammates at the time, Dani Pedrosa and Casey Stoner. In three seasons with Honda, Dovizioso only managed to obtain one race win and 13 podium finishes. Most of his success came when he joined Ducati back in 2013 but only saw huge results starting from 2017. We’re guessing that after seven championship seasons with the Italian manufacturer and constant pressure to award them with their first crown since 2007, patience is wearing thin. MotoGP: Dovizioso thought that Marquez would leave Honda? --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-honda-cmx1100-rebel-launched-1084cc-86hp/
2021 Honda CMX1100 Rebel launched – 1,084cc, 86hp
It has finally happened, folks. Honda has finally launched the highly-anticipated 2021 Honda CMX1100 Rebel and it looks way better than anyone expected. We first heard about this news earlier this year with filed patents and this Japanese bobber has everything that its smaller 500cc sibling is missing. Honda has labelled the 2021 Honda CMX1100 Rebel as a bike with a dual personality. On one end, you’ll get a bike that has the power to offer leisure cruising capabilities and on the other, something that can provide an exhilarating riding experience on the twisties. In other words, going up Genting or Cameron would just as fun on the 1,100cc Rebel. This is all powered via its 1,084cc parallel-twin engine (based on the CRF1100L Africa Twin) but tuned for strong low to mid-range performance thanks to a 32% increase in flywheel mass. This resulted in a bobber that produces 85.5hp (65kW) at 7,000rpm and 98Nm of torque (the current Africa Twin has 101hp and 105Nm). What you’ll also get with the CMX1100 Rebel are ride-by-wire throttle system, selectable riding modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control and Wheelie Control, cruise control, and Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission as an option. We love the DCT but when riding a cruiser, you can probably do without. In terms of looks, the CMX1100 Rebel has that minimalist appeal just like the Rebel 500 which opens up countless possibilities when it comes to custom works and accessories. As standard, it still has that old-school round headlight design but housed within it are LED bulbs. There’s also the LCD instrument display which looks simple yet complete for that whole bobber vibe. Other specs include: Two-tone 13.6-litre flangeless fuel tank 3-litre underseat storage with USB-C port 43mm cartridge-style front forks & piggyback rear shocks (both spring preload-adjustable) Radial mount four-piston front brake caliper and 330mm floating disc 130/70B18, 180/65B16 front & rear tyres 223kg wet weight (233kg with DCT) 700mm low seat height Dual-channel ABS + a wide selection of accessories Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-2015-rd-1-helmi-azman-take-pole-position-in-thailand/
Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 Rd. 1 – Helmi Azman take pole position in Thailand
Malaysian rider Helmi Azman snatches pole position in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 season-opening weekend in Thailand. The Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 season kick-starts itself this weekend in the new Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand. The series is being run at the circuit this weekend as the support event to the FIM World Superbike Championship (WSBK) main event. Both events mark their debut appearances on this new South East Asian circuit. The 4.554km-long track has a layout favouring ultra high speeds with several tight low-speed turns, giving all 22 riders on the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup grid a good challenge. The weekend kicked with two practice sessions held on Friday, with the first half-hour session held at noon, followed by a second half-hour stint shortly after lunch. Unsurprisingly, the home ground advantage favoured ‘Chip’ Nakarin Atiratphuvapat and fellow countryman Somkiat Chantra. While the hot and very high temperatures on Friday proved to be a challenge for the rest of the grid, the conditions were of little concern for 20-year-old Chantra. The local rider dominated the time sheets in both sessions combined, followed by countryman Chip Nakarin who ranked third in the combined results. Unlike Friday, today’s weather for qualifying is a stark difference as a result of light showers in the late evening and early morning, making the track slightly damp and cool. Despite his best effort and a good run towards the final parts of the session, Chip Nakarin suffered a huge set back to his campaign after crashing out in this morning’s 30 minute-long Qualifying practice. Nevertheless, the young Thai’s exceptional qualifying performance sees him secure his second place on the grid after lapping the new Buriram Circuit in 1:48.093. Japanese rider Kazuki Masaki held the top spot for most of the session, before Chip Nakarin subsequently beat him in the session’s last stages, followed by returning Japanese rider Ayumu Sasaki who shared the same timing as chip at 1:49.093. The biggest surprise however came when returning Malaysian rider Helmi Azman topped the time sheet in his final flying lap towards the tail end of the session. Helmi’s surprisingly quick pace saw him clock the session’s fastest time of 1:47.775, making him the only rider on the grid to clock in a laptime within the 1:47 mark. Helmi effectively claimed his first pole position of the series with the feat as well. Another Malaysian who showed strong performance today was none other than Adam Norrodin. Adam ended the session in fourth with his fastest time of 1:48.134, securing him with a promising starting position on the second row of the grid. Fellow Malaysians Shafiq Rasol and Fakhrusy Rostam, on the other hand, ended the session with respectable performances as well to place in eighth and eleventh respectively. Amongst the five, only rookie Azroy Anuar suffered a setback with his aforementioned crash, forcing him to start from the tail end of the grid. With the way things are progressing, all eyes will be glued to the weekend’s first race scheduled to take place later today at 1:30pm(local time). Race 2 will take place tomorrow morning at 11:30am (local time). Stay tuned to our site for more updates from the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand. Check out more photos on our official Facebook page and in our extensive gallery below. (Additional trackside photos courtesy of Mauro Talamonti / Crunch Communication PR for Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup)   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fake-givi-rainsuits-seized-raid/
Fake GIVI Rainsuits Seized in Raid
Courtesy of KPDNKK A total of nearly 500 fake GIVI rainsuits were seized in a raid this morning The raid was carried out by KPDNKK officers with representatives from GIVI Asia Sdn. Bhd. The business owner sells the counterfeit products online Kepong, Kuala Lumpur, 4th October 2017 – A raid was carried out by the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism (better known as KPDNKK – Kementerian Perdagangan Dalam Negeri, Koperasi dan Kepenggunaan), under the jurisdiction of Tuan Haji Wan Mohd. Yusof bin W. Taib, Chief Enforcement Officer of the KPDNKK for the state of Wilayah Persekutuan. Trustees of the GIVI brand had tipped off KPNKK after finding the suspect selling fake GIVI rainsuits on the 11Street.com online shopping platform. KPDNKK proceeded to stake out the business owner’s modus operandi since May 2017, discovering that he had stored the fake GIVI rainsuits at his personal premises before transferring them to the rented warehouse in Kepong where they will be dispatched to the respective customers. Courtesy of KPDNKK A total of nine uniformed KPDNKK officers descended upon the warehouse at 11am, which they found locked by with a keycard access. The GIVI representatives who were present identified themselves to the workers at the premises but were refused entry. The business owner showed up 15 minutes later and was requested access by the KPDNKK officers. Courtesy of KPDNKK Upon gaining entry, the officers called upon the GIVI representatives to identify the products, at which point the business owner became belligerent and cut off the power supply, in an attempt to make off with the fake products through the backdoor. He even tried to provoke the parties by threatening that he had gangsters in two cars on standby to intervene. A negotiation ensued among the officers, GIVI representatives and the businessman, resulting in the fake GIVI rainsuits being seized and a hefty fine issued. The owner will be charged under Sec. 8(2) of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011 (Akta Perihal Dagangan 2011), pertaining to counterfeit goods with intellectual property infringements. Under the Act, the business owner stands to face a fine of up to RM10,000 per item, or a jail sentence of not more three years, or both; for the first offence. A total of 445 pieces of fake GIVI rainsuits were seized, worth RM22,500 on the market. As a piece of advice: Buy GIVI goods from GIVI Point concept stores or official GIVI dealers. Please follow GIVI Malaysia’s official Facebook page (click here) to identify the original items. And remember, if a product is too cheap to be true, it usually is. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/heres-chance-win-motogp-motul-vip-experience/
Here’s your chance to win the MotoGP Motul VIP experience!
Motul is currently running the Motul Rhythm contest where winners will be rewarded with the MotoGP Motul VIP experience at this year’s Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix. To enter, contestants will need to create and submit up to five 15-second clips consisting of catchy beats create using motorcycles as the main sound creator. Grand prize winners will also co-produce original soundtracks with some of Malaysia’s renowned DJs to be unveiled during the MotoGP private Motul event. Attention all MotoGP fans! Motul is currently running the “Motul Rhythm” contest where motoring enthusiasts stand a chance to win the Motul VIP Experience at this year’s Shell Malaysia MotoGP round coming up next month. All you have to do is create a catchy beat using nothing but a motorcycle. You can beat, drum, redline your motorcycle or use any instruments or tools to create your desired tunes. Produce a short 15-second audio clip and upload that catchy beat on the Motul Rhythm contest website. Each individual is allowed to submit a maximum of five different audio clips and if you’re selected as the grand prize winner, get ready to experience one of the best moments of your life, Motul X MotoGP style. Image source: MotoGP Two grand prize winners will be a part of the music track created by Motul’s renowned DJ’s which will be unveiled by Terence C at a private Motul event during this year’s MotoGP weekend in Sepang. Image source: http://www.youredm.com The grand prize winners will also get to participate in the Motul VIP experience as Motul will also reward you with tickets to watch the MotoGP race aka “the world’s greatest motorcycle race”. Those selected as the second, third and consolation prize winners will also receive one year supply of Motul products, Motul premium merchandise and many more. Hurry up and submit your amazing soundtracks as contest ends on 10 September 2017! Image source: MotoGP To know more about the Motul Rhythm contest, head on over to http://motulrhythm.com/my/. Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions before you enter! --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/good-guy-modenas-offers-temporary-bike-customer-whose-bike-caught-fire/
Good guy Modenas offers temporary bike for customer whose bike caught fire
The Modenas after Sales team provided Mr Zulkifli Nasir with a temporary Pulsar NS200 after his own bike caught on fire earlier this week. His bike was burned down a few days back due to a short circuit caused by improper battery terminal connection. The national bike manufacturer has taken care of this matter swiftly and professionally on the matter to ensure customer s Just a few days after the unfortunate incident that has befallen upon one Modenas Pulsar NS200 owner whose bike caught fire due to a shorted circuit, the good folks from Modenas came to the rescue with a temporary bike for Zulkifli Nasir to continue his daily journeys to and from work. The Pulsar NS200 owned by Zulkifli, unfortunately, caught on fire earlier this week. The event unfolded when the bike suddenly turned off and white smoke emitted from under the seat before sparks engulfed his precious bike in a huge ball of flame. Some bystanders managed to get their hands on a fire extinguisher and put out the flames before any more serious damage or the general public is put in harm’s way. Modenas quickly took over the case and promptly issued a public notification announcing their full investigation on the matter. The latest posting by Zulkifli Nasir himself in the Modenas Pulsar RS200, NS200 V15 Malaysia (MOPAR) stated that the short circuit was caused by the battery terminals being installed incorrectly. The Modenas after Sales team found the cause and will be taking immediate actions to resolve the case the best way possible. Mr Zulkifli also stated that he is very impressed and happy with how Modenas is dealing with the matter and he’ll continue his support for the brand and manufacturer. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/desmo-cup-2020-ready-for-ducati-racing-action/
Desmo Cup 2020 ready for Ducati racing action
DOCM (Desmo Owners Club Malaysia) has just launched the Desmo Cup 2020 racing series. Going into their second season, the Desmo Cup will be partnering up with Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF) where four rounds will take place from March to November of this year. Being the only customer-focused race event dedicated to Ducati owners (and organised by DOCM itself), close to 30 riders will compete in three different categories; Superbike, Super Sports, and Super Naked. It’s definitely a race cup worth watching as not only the Panigales will duke it out wheel to wheel, but also other beloved Ducati models like the Hypermotard, Monster, Streetfighter, and even the Multistrada. Expanding their racing efforts even more this year, DOCM created an entirely new entity that will responsible for organizing the Desmo Cup 2020 and beyond. Known as Desmo Racing, this particular committee handles every aspect of the Desmo Cup from organizing races and other motorsports-related areas. For 2020, the race cup has gathered some high-profile support from the likes of Malaysia Speed Festival, GIVI, Welly World Cycle, Country Heights, and many more. If there are other companies out there who are interested in promoting their brand, Desmo Cup 2020 is certainly one great way to do so (AND they’re always open for sponsorships). The first round will take place on 14 March 2020 at the Sepang International Circuit and if you’re indeed a Ducati enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to make your way to SIC at that particular weekend. Other rounds will happen in June, August, and November. MSC: TOC Desmo Cup concludes maiden racing season --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/vespa-and-bieber-teamed-up-for-special-collaboration-in-2022/
Vespa And Justin Bieber Teamed Up For Special Collaboration In 2022
Justin Bieber has just inked a deal with Vespa to put his own spin on the iconic scooter. Still only 27 years old, Bieber has amassed millions of fans all over who called themselves ‘Beliebers’. On ‘Instagram’, the American singer has a total of 202 million followers. Despite his past shenanigans, the man deserved a huge amount of respect for what he is today, an icon not just in the music industry but also brave enough to openly discuss his struggles with mental health and addiction which also prompt others who are struggling to come forth for help. Nevertheless, his love for motorcycles including owning one of the limited edition Vespa X Sean Wotherspoon makes him an ideal candidate for the next collab with the Italian brand. “My fans know how much I love the sport: skateboarding, hockey, basketball, BMX. “I’ve always been attracted to that mix of style, grace and speed. I’m thrilled to give my touch to the iconic Vespa design,” said Bieber. The Vespa X Justin Bieber special edition is set to debut in early 2022. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ducati-scrambler-club-italia-unveiled-and-you-cant-buy-it/
2020 Ducati Scrambler Club Italia unveiled – and you can’t buy it
If you’re in the market for the most luxurious Scrambler Ducati, take a look at this 2020 Ducati Scrambler Club Italia. Based on the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO, this exclusive version was birthed in collaboration with the Scuderia Club Italia, a premier sports-cultural association in Italy. The bad news is that the limited-edition Ducati Scrambler Club Italia is currently offered only to the members of the association first before making its way for public purchase. This is not the first time these two parties joined forces to release a special-edition model as they’ve done so back in 1995 with the highly sought-after Monster 900 Club Italia (only 36 units ever produced). Think of it as a physically enhanced version of the 1100 PRO that features unique graphics and a host of accessories. We’re talking specially embroidered red leather seat by Poltrona Frau, metallic blue fuel tank and frame, red side panels, Giugiaro-designed Ducati logo, tricolour finished fenders, blacked-out wheels, and a serial numbered aluminium plaque as the cherry on top of the icing. The 2020 Ducati Scrambler Club Italia also features Termignoni titanium silencers and a bunch of billet aluminium parts from the tank cap (tastefully embedded with the Club Italia shield logo on the underside), levers, fluid reservoir covers, footpegs, frame plugs, and LED indicator bodies courtesy of Rizoma. As stated earlier, members of the Scuderia Club Italia will have first dibs in buying this beautiful model. In the fight against COVID-19, Ducati will be donating 500 euros to the S. Orsola Hospital in Bologna for each bike sold to the association members to assist their efforts in combating the deadly virus as well as all recovery efforts. Each bike comes with a personalised bike cover, a certificate of authenticity and a hand-crafted Bell helmet that match with the bike’s exclusive façade. As the rules of the club state that there will be no more than 80 members at any given time, we’re probably guessing that the production number of this beauty will never surpass that figure. So, good luck if you’re planning to get one if you’re not a member. How it’s built – 2020 Ducati Superleggera V4 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/alpinestars-and-dainese-airbag-tech-feud/
Alpinestars and Dainese airbag tech feud
Two of motorcycling’s biggest and leading apparels brands are tangled in a legal battle over a groundbreaking piece of safety technology. The two are none other than Alpinestars and Dainese, and the tech in question are their respective Tech Air and D-Air airbag technologies. According to a trusted source, Alpinestars had initiated the legal manoeuvre first by issuing a cease and desist letter to Dainese for the latter’s use of its D-Air tech. Alpinestar’s move comes from its claim that rival Dainese and its D-Air products are infringing its own Tech Air technology. Alpinestar Tech Air. In response, Dainese had its D-Air patents evaluated and brought a suit against Alpinestars in both Germany and Italy claiming how Alpinestar’s Tech Air uses an algorithm in its operation. Dainese is claiming from this point that it has the controlling patent on the use of a computer-deployed airbag system that registers when an airbag deployment should occur. Due to the rapidly efficient nature of Germany’s legal system, Alpinestars were forced to remove its Tech Air-equipped products out of the German market. Another damning after effect of this lawsuit sees Alpinestar halting its development of Tech Air suits for BMW Motorrad – ironically, a project that BMW Motorrad initially began with Dainese. Presently, the legal proceedings between Alpinestars and Dainese seem to be taking place in Germany and Italy only – the latter being both brand’s own home market. This is perhaps due to the fact that Alpinestar has been slower in rolling out its Tech Air products around the region as how Dainese has with its D-Air products. Seasoned readers would also remember that Dainese have even opted to license the D-Air tech to other brands starting early this year. The result of this lawsuit in Italy will likely affect things on a global level for both brands. One possible result in the motorcycle industry could see the emergence of a sole manufacturer of self-contained airbag apparels. Should it pan out this way, it will undoubtedly be a huge bonus for the winning side of this lawsuit, whereby it will control perhaps the most revolutionary safety equipment to hit the two-wheeled scene in decades. How this, and the ensuing monopoly by a single entity, will affect consumer trends is something only time would tell. The biggest ripple of this lawsuit would instead be felt in the worldwide racing community. Both Dainese and Alpinestars will have difficulty in retaining top-level riders, who act ad their brand ambassadors, should either one lose its ability to fulfil the demands of those who are highly conscious of safety. Since Dainese has already begun licensing its D-Air tech to other brands, it most certainly has much more to lose here on this front. We will have more on this battle as it develops. Source: Asphaltandrubber --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-iconic-100-collection-celebrates-brands-centennial/
BMW Iconic 100 Collection celebrates brand’s centennial
BMW Iconic 100 Collection limited edition bikes revealed to celebrate brand’s 100th anniversary. BMW Iconic 100 Collection BMW Group is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and its BMW Motorrad bikes division have released a special BMW Iconic 100 Collection series of limited edition models for the occasion. The range is comprised several models from the boxer-engined R1200 series starting with the BMW R1200GS and BMW R1200GS Adventure, followed by R1200RS and the R1200RT sport touring and touring models. The BMW Iconic 100 Collection treats these models firstly with a series of unique paint schemes, followed by custom-trimmed seats. Additionally, each of these models are individually numbered as well, turning them into collectors’ items in the process as well. Each of these special models are based on range-topping variants in their respective model ranges. Here’s a breakdown of the models: BMW R1200GS Iconic Based on the R1200GS TE Alpine, the custom paint it wears pays homage to BMW Motorrad’s Dakar models from the 1980s. The special red seat boasts diamond stitching patterns and an embossed ‘Iconic 100’ logo as well. BMW R1200GS Adventure Iconic Based upon the R1200GS Adveture TE, the treatment is similar to the R1200RS Iconic mentioned above. It also wears a paint scheme inspired from the brand’s 1980s era Dakar models and also features the same red seat with diamond stitching and an embossed logo. The only difference lies in this Adventure model’s Enduro-esque trims such as the engine guards, rear pannier mounts, higher suspension and added spotlights on each side. BMW R1200RS Iconic Based on the R1200RS Sport SE variant, this sport-tourer gains with a unique custom paint scheme derived from the ‘smoke grey’ paint from the 1976 BMW R 90 S. It also features a custom seat design that boasts red stitching in a diamond pattern too. BMW R1200RT Iconic This R1200RT LE-based offering also dons a special burgundy smoke effect paint scheme inspired by the 1970s era R100RT model’s ‘lava rot’ paint job. The seat is once again a custom unit complete with the embossed ‘Iconic 100’ logo as well. 2016 BMW Iconic 100 Collection BMW Iconic 100 Collection Sources: Visordown / MCN / AutoEvolution --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/livewire-reveals-the-s2-del-mar-full-specification/
LiveWire Reveals The S2 Del Mar Full Specification
LiveWire, the electric motorcycle OEM born out of Harley-Davidson, has unveiled the full specifications of its highly anticipated LiveWire S2 Del Mar model. the S2 Del Mar is a stylish electric mobility designed for urban commuters.  the S2 Del mar Launch Edition sold out in less than 20 minutes. Powering the S2 Del Mar is an electric motor that delivers 84 horsepower and 194 pound-feet of torque. With a top speed of 103 miles per hour and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.0 seconds, the motorcycle offers impressive performance capabilities. Equipped with a 10.5 kilowatt-hour battery, the LiveWire S2 Del Mar supports J1772 Type 1 charging standards. Riders can charge the bike using a standard 110V household outlet or Level Two charging stations. Charging times range from 8.4 hours for a full charge using an L1 charger, to just 2 hours and 22 minutes using an L2 public charger. The S2 Del Mar is primarily intended for city riding, boasting a city range of 113 miles on a single charge. Highway range is estimated at 70 miles at a sustained 55 mph speed, and 43 miles at a sustained 70 mph speed. Combined range for mixed city and highway riding is projected to be 86 miles at 55 mph and 62 miles at 70 mph. The motorcycle features a modular frame constructed from cast aluminum, along with adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes, and 19-inch cast aluminum wheels fitted with Dunlop tires. Five ride modes are available, offering various combinations of power, throttle, regen, traction control, and ABS settings. Other notable features include a four-inch color TFT display, over-the-air software updates, smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth, and full LED lighting. With its attractive design, impressive performance, and range, the LiveWire S2 Del Mar is poised to make an impact in the electric motorcycle market. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-launches-new-honda-impian-x-concept-showroom/
Boon Siew Honda launches new Honda Impian X concept showroom
Boon Siew Honda has officially launched its first ever Honda Impian X concept showroom here in Gelang Patah, Johor. Pioneered by Swee Seng Heng Sdn Bhd, the Honda Impian X showroom focuses on the sales and after sales expertise focusing on Honda bikes up to 300cc. More Honda Impian X showrooms will be launched in Perak followed by other states for the year 2018. Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has officially launched its first Honda Impian X concept showroom here in Malaysia earlier today. The new one stop sale and service centre which focuses solely on Honda bikes up to 300cc is open for business in Gelang Patah near Nusajaya, Johor.  This concept showroom is pioneered by Swee Seng Heng Sdn Bhd who has been in the motorcycle business in Johor since 1990. According to the Managing Director of Swee Seng Heng Sdn Bhd Mr David Ker, “Being Honda’s authorised dealer for more than 25 years, I’m really proud to be appointed as the first Honda Impian X dealer in Malaysia. This unique showroom has impressed many of my new and old customers, even before the grand opening. With BSH’s continued support, I’m confident and looking forward to the successful business for Honda Impian X.” Equipped with the latest facilities and equipment specifically designed for small capacity Honda bikes, the showroom is planned to cater to the ever growing demand for quality after sales service from BSH. The Honda Impian X showroom also comes ready with all of the latest lifestyle necessities for the modern generation such as a comfortable waiting lounge, free Wi-Fi and complimentary beverages. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BSH Mr Nobuhide Nagata also added that “With the launch of the Honda Impian X, BSH is expecting a 21% increase in sales over the next 12 months. We are also happy to announce that we are looking to open 10 more Honda Impian X across the country by the end of 2018.” For the record, BSH recorded a total sale of 120,613 units in 2017, an increase of 19% compared to 2016. Johor contributed approximately 14% of BSH’s total sales in 2017, translating into more than 16,000 units and was the second highest sales contributor among the 13 states. Apart from the showroom and sales department, the workshop area has also been upgraded to suit the needs of both customers and mechanics of Honda. Upon entering the service area, all bikes will be treated professionally from start to finish ensuring premium levels of motorcycle maintenance procedures are carried out. Together with trained staff and personnel, all Honda genuine parts come ready for all of the customers’ service needs. Additionally, the Honda Impian X showroom will also focus on the customer’s safety through its Pre Delivery Safety Advice (PDSA) for all customers who purchase any new motorcycle from them. Aspects from road safety measures to advice from safety instructors are given out as part of the new bike delivery process. More Honda Impian X showrooms will be opened soon in the first quarter of 2018 by Hip Seng Motors and Kin Wah Motors in Perak. BSH also stated that there will approximately seven more Honda Impian X showrooms to come for this year. To know more, head over to Boon Siew Honda official Facebook page. TESTED: Honda NSS300 – “Luxo Scoot” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mannol-launches-specially-formulated-harley-davidson-v-twin-engine-oil-for-malaysia/
Mannol launches Specially Formulated Harley-Davidson V-Twin Engine Oil for Malaysia!
Specially formulated for all Sportster, Big Twin and Milwaukee 8 engines. Improves performance, enhances fuel economy, superior wear protection and reduces engine temperature. One oil for all – Engine, Transmission and Primary. Mannol is not a new name to the world of lubricants in the motorsport industry worldwide. SCT Germany, the parent company, has been producing world class lubricants for nearly three decades and has since engineered what is known as the ULTIMATE Harley-Davidson lubricant. Following years of success in the EU and US markets, Mannol Malaysia has finally landed the Mannol SAE 20w-50 V-Twin Fully Synthetic Harley-Davidson engine oil for the Malaysian market. Mannol designed this oil particularly with two things in mind, an oil that maintains overall engine performance and one lubricant for all three sumps. Yes you read that right, the same lubricant SAE 20w-50 Fully Synthetic can be used in the engine, transmission and primary case. Feedback from tests done on the Dyna, V-Rod and various Softail Touring models came back with remarks like, “smooth and increased engine performance; less engine vibration, lighter gear shifts and easier to engage neutral”. The specially formulated synthetic additive in the oil reduces engine stress, prevents unwanted wear, reduces engine heat and contributes to a cleaner, more efficient and prolonged engine life. The oil also boasts a unique capability of maintaining a thin film of protection over parts to prevent excessive friction during cold starts. Paired with the SCT Premium Microflow Oil Filter, it cleans and provides superior protection to engine components while maintaining viscosity over varying temperatures. Just as all fully synthetic oils, the recommended oil change interval is 10,000km or one year, whichever comes first. However, it is recommended to maintain oil changes at 8,000km due to engine idles and the legendarily hot Asian climate. Mannol V-Twin oil comes with API SM, JASO, MA/MA2 certification which meets or exceed the standards set for motor lubrications. SM is the highest rating given for a motor oil by API(American Petroleum Institute) and oils that are given the API SM are much superior in performance and can effectively lubricate engines. Due to the ongoing MCO, Mannol Malaysia was only able to soft launch the Mannol SAE 20w-50 V-Twin Fully Synthetic Harley-Davidson engine oil and SCT Premium Microflow Oil Filter at its flagship sales & service outlet, ‘Roaring Motor’ located in Setapak recently. Beginning 1st June 2021 Mannol rolled out promotional oil change packages with free gifts for all Harley model. The SAE 20-50 Fully Synthetic is priced only at Rm65 per 1L tin and oil filters from Rm45 for Sportsters and Rm48 for big twins. The free gifts range from Mannol universal cleaner, injector cleaner, chrome polish, tyre inflator any many more. For appointments you may call or visit: Klang Valley Roaring Motor by Stimroll No 8, Jalan 5A/6 Taman Setapak Indah 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 016 337 8484 (Kayrul) Ipoh SYK Custom No 3, Jalan Industri Paloh 4, Kg. Paloh, 30000 Ipoh, Perak 016 534 6186 (Sam) Mannol Malaysia also welcomes workshops servicing Harley-Davidson bikes throughout Malaysia to be a Mannol HD Service Partner to enjoy exclusive support and benefits. For more enquiries the number to contact is 016 668 5077. Mannol V-Twin for Harley-Davidson oil is exclusively marketed and distributed by Enspek Oils. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-cbr500r-updated-for-2016/
Honda CBR500R updated for 2016
Its official! The Honda CBR500R has been updated for 2016, and it is all set to make its global debut at the American International Motorcycle Expo in Florida, US next week. While no technical information has been disclosed, Honda has released a few teaser images to give us a glimpse at how the bike will look. From what we can see, the 2016 Honda CBR500R is going to look much more aggressive than the existing model. The whole design of the bike looks sharper, and gets complemented by a massive exhaust canister. Honda says that in addition to what we can see, the 2016 CBR500R gets new dual LED headlight setup and “numerous refinements” to the motorcycle. Technically, we are assuming that the bike will be carrying over the current chassis and engine setup with possible tweaks to improve performance and fuel consumption, but yet again, they are just our assumption. That said, let us stay tuned and wait for Honda to officially unveil the 2016 CBR500R next week and see for ourselves how much the bike has changed. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/uncategorized/jedi-motors-to-debut-the-vision-k750-sportbike-soon/
Jedi Motors To Debut The Vision K750 Sportbike Soon
Jedi Motors, a new motorcycle manufacturer from China, had expressed interest in entering the global market. Now, it seems that this plan is becoming a reality as the company has announced its latest sportbike, the Vision K750.  Jedi Motors is another Chinese motorcycle company aims to make it big in the global market.  The Vision K750 is Jedi’s first attempt to penetrate the two-wheel segment.  Set to debut in 2023, the Vision K750 started as a futuristic concept before gradually evolved into a production-ready model in late 2022, with significant changes to its styling.  While the concept looked like it belonged in the Star Wars universe, the production model’s aesthetics now resemble the MV Agusta F3, with diamond-shaped headlights and aggressive lines on the bodywork.  The sportbike appears to feature premium technology, including radially mounted Brembo calipers, inverted forks, a rear monoshock, and a single-sided swingarm on the rear end. Mechanically, the Vision K750 is expected to feature a 730cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine, with an output of around 70 horsepower.  It is uncertain whether it will have an uneven firing order or a 180-degree crank, but it will likely be comparable in power to the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Yamaha YZF-R7. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-hinged-and-strapless-vozz-helmets/
The hinged and strapless Vozz Helmets
As it is, the modern safety helmet has come a long way indeed. However, a firm called Vozz Helmets is out to change that with its range of helmets that feature a rather unorthodox yet ingenious design. Vozz’s unconventional design features a rear access application without straps. The shell opens rearwards and makes wearing it much easier compared then the regular top-down insertion method. As a result, the design negates the need for chinstraps whilst boasting several benefits such as enhanced aerodynamics and increased protection. Despite the narrow lower rim design, the Vozz’s rearward entry appears much easier to don. We also cannot help but notice that this rearward and strapless entry will favour riders who wear spectacles as well. Check out the video attached above for a better grasp of how this works. Furthermore, the design also has several extras to protect its users beyond the point of operation. One of which is the rear shell doubling up as a head cup for attending paramedics during emergency extraction. The six-step disassembly can be accessed quickly via scanning a QR code placed in the helmet’s bottom rim by attending paramedics or emergency services personnel. Vozz currently holds the master patent for the helmet design and is open towards licensing its technology to other parties. More information about the Vozz Helmet can be viewed via its official website, vozzhelmets.com. Source: YouTube via CarBuzz.com Images: VozzHelmets.com --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/12-alternative-bikes-to-the-bmw-g310r/
12 Alternative Bikes to the BMW G310R
With the BMW G310R coming soon into Malaysia, we list down 12 alternative bike models it will likely compete against. So right after we published the story about BMW dealers taking reservations for the new BMW G310R, everything hit the fan and the story went viral (you can read the story here). That is great because it shows people are excited about the new baby BMW. But what is not so great is that a ‘source that shall not be named’ later sent a Whatsapp message to our editor stating that we got our facts wrong. Everything from the price, to the launch date was wrong. The ‘source that shall not be named’ did not divulge any further information. So to make up for all the hype, and for those who simply cannot wait for the baby Bee-M, we compiled a list of bikes you could buy. Waiting is a terrible game, so this list should be useful. For this article’s sake, we’re capping our speculative budget at just about RM35,000, and are limiting things to just naked bikes, considering that the G310R roadster is classified as a naked too. With its speculative ceiling price of RM30,000, it not only eclipses some of its class rivals, said figure also sees the G310R roadster possibly going up against a few middleweights too. But considering that the KTM 390 Duke’s price hovers around RM27,000 depending on dealer prices, and that it is locally assembled in Jitra, Kedah, KTM has a price advantage over the BMW. The BMW 310R is instead assembled in India by the TVS Motor Company, the company that BMW went into an agreement to build sub-500cc bikes with back in 2013. So, should you find yourself not feeling the baby beemer or not being able to wait any longer, here’s a list of alternative bikes of the same segment and speculated price range: For B2 license holders – 250cc and below Boasting a ‘revolutionary’ 313cc single-cylinder engine, the G310R will technically need potential buyers to hold a B-Full class license. But if you currently only hold a B2 class license here’s a list quarter-litre bikes that the G310R will face off against. The 310 R may be the larger 313cc bike, but the high affordability the rest of these bikes offer will likely convince many bikers otherwise. Benelli TNT 25 We start our list with one of the most affordable lightweight naked bikes currently on sale in our market, the Benelli TNT 25. Launched just last month, this locally-assembled bike has a stylish Italian design and a 249cc single-cylinder engine at a very affordable starting price of RM12,990. While it lacks in both power and brand prestige, it offers impressive value for money instead. (Read our launch report of the Benelli TNT 25 here). 2. Kawasaki Z250SL The first of the Japanese offerings comes in the form of the Kawasaki Z250SL. We have already tested this single-cylinder Japanese quarter-litre naked sometime ago and we loved its easy handling, lightweight chassis, perky powertrain as well as the renowned build quality that a Japanese brand such as Kawasaki typically offers. All that comes with the base price tag of just RM15,739 as well. (Read our launch report here and test-ride review here). 3. Kawasaki Z250 If you seek a little more top-end power from a quarter-litre, then it is best to opt for a twin-cylinder model such as the Kawasaki Z250. Unlike its Ninja 250 sport-bodied twin, the Z250’s standard riding ergonomics is much more comfortable for daily use whilst its 249cc parallel-twin mill stands as one of the most powerful units in its segment presently. The affordable starting price of roughly around RM20,000 and upwards has led to the Z250 flooding our streets, they seem to be everywhere! Furthermore, the vast array of aftermarket accessories also grants it with plenty of versatility, and perhaps the potential to match the G310R in terms of power and performance through performance modifications. 4. KTM 250 Duke Launched during Ramadhan last year, KTM ended its absence in the quarter-litre segment when it introduced 250cc versions of its acclaimed Duke naked and RC sport models. Powering the 250 Duke is a downsized 249cc version of KTM’s 373cc single-cylinder from its 390-series models, giving B2 license holders a slightly more powerful option as opposed to the brand’s less powerful 200 Duke model. Though not as dynamic as some of its Japanese rivals, it is the only proper European offering in the segment presently and holds some prestige there. To have that at the affordable starting price of RM17,888 also made it a top choice amongst many B2 license holders. (Read our launch report here). 5. Naza N5 Like the Benelli brand, Naza Bikes is also a brand that is considered to be very ‘left field’. Still, the stylish N5 quarter-litre single-cylinder naked has garnered a huge fan base in Malaysia, making it one of the most popular non-Japanese and non-European models in its segment. We tested this cool-looking Korean some time ago where we praised its easy handling, comfortable rider ergonomics and its perky 249cc single-cylinder engine. The fact that Naza are selling it with starting prices of RM13,988 meant that it holds tremendous value for money against a number of its segment rivals too. (Read our launch report here and our test-ride review here) 6. Naza Blade 250 Naked The Naza Bikes brand’s answer to the parallel-twin Kawasaki Z250 comes in the form of the Naza Blade 250 Naked. What really sets this Korean bike apart from the rivals is its adoption of a 249cc V-twin engine layout. It has been in the market for a few years now and underwent a decent update in 2014, but this Hyosung-based bike has plenty of fans as well thanks to its affordable starting price tag of RM13,988. (Check out the updated 2014 Naza Blade 250 in our report here) For B-Full license holders – 300cc + Middleweights Of course, if you already have a B-Full license, then you have a much wider range of choices against the new incoming German naked bike. Firstly, the BMW G310R has a number of rivals that have similar engine displacement of 300cc and higher. But the expected starting price between RM25,000 to RM30,000 also means it will need to face off against a number of naked middleweight bikes too. While you may think it is unfair for us to compare the BMW G310R against larger-cc middleweight bikes, the bike’s speculative ceiling price of RM30,000 does pose its own challenge. At that price, some will reckon that they are better off with a larger middleweight instead, but this is only feasible for B-Full Class license holders only mind you. Furthermore, there are a number of popular middleweight bikes on sale in Malaysia today at affordable prices below RM35,000. With just RM5,000 on top of the BMW G310R’s speculated price, we also listed a few alternative middleweight naked bike models that we know many will likely consider as well. 7. Benelli TNT 300 The first amongst the 300cc bikes to rival the G310R is the Benelli TNT 300. Like its TNT 25 quarter-litre sibling, the TNT 300’s highly affordable basic price of RM19,800 gives it tremendous value for money. For that amount, you get a 300cc parallel-twin engine and a seemingly stylish Italian design, making this locally assembled bike worth considering for many avid newbies. The lower price tag could offer stiff competition against the incoming new German bike, but we reckon the G310R will likely trump the Benelli easily with its German brand prestige, as well as its slightly bigger engine displacement and power figures. 8. Kawasaki Z300 Essentially, both the Z300 and its sport-bodied Ninja 300 sibling are up-specced versions of the Z250 and Ninja 250. While they may look the same as their quarter-litre siblings, the 300-series models benefit from a larger 296cc engine that offers increased torque and power. Furthermore, the Z300’s affordable on-the-road price of RM25,989 only eclipse the Z250’s pricing marginally, begging one to consider it. The Z300 holds the advantage here as a multi-cylinder model too, but we suspect that the G310R’s larger displacement will even things out. (Read our initial spyshot report here). 9. KTM 390 Duke One of the BMW G310R’s chief rivals will be none other than Austrian brand KTM and its highly successful 390 Duke naked bike. We pitted this Malaysian-assembled Austrian naked against its sport-bodied RC 390 twin in our special test, and it was fairly easy to see that its fun factor have fuelled its popularity. This popularity perhaps reached its peak not too long ago when KTM Malaysia held a special one-make racing series for owners and fans of the 390 Duke. This Austrian bike’s popularity was also fuelled by its affordable price tag of RM24,716.98 (excluding GST, Insurance, etc.). However, the BMW G310R could soon give the 390 Duke a run for its money in Malaysia despite the latter Austrian bike having the advantages of nearly 10hp more and a displacement that is 60cc larger. We reckon that the G310R vs 390 Duke debate will undoubtedly gain traction amongst many fans in Malaysia. (Read our KTM 390 Duke Battle Malaysia 2014 archives here and also our special 390 Duke vs RC390 twin-test here) 10. Benelli TNT 600 We start with yet another Benelli in the middleweight segment, this time with the brand’s popular TNT 600 model. Prices start from RM31,800 and, on paper at least, what you get is significantly more than what the G310R’s package offers. Chief amongst which is a more powerful 600cc in-line four-cylinder engine, perhaps a slightly larger physical size and a stylish Italian design too – this bike  closely resembles the Aprilia Shiver 750 that costs twice as much. Perhaps the only area the BMW G310R trumps this Benelli lies in brand prestige. (Read our test-ride report here) 11. Kawasaki ER-6n Next up is the Kawasaki ER-6n naked. Together with its fully-faired ER-6F sibling, the ER-6 series also offers a larger and more powerful 649cc parallel-twin engine that’s coupled with a lightweight chassis that has neutral handling traits. Priced from RM34,500, the Kawasaki ER-6n will likely stand not too far off the incoming baby beemer in terms of pricing. As a bike, it is neither at the top or bottom of the scale in terms of abilities, but the G310R’s more exciting looks would probably trump this standard Japanese bike’s muted design. 12. Yamaha XJ6 Finally comes the Yamaha XJ6 series. Available in naked, semi-faired or fully-faired variants, this locally assembled middleweight also has a strong fan base in Malaysia. The naked version barely made our list with its basic starting price tag of RM35,000 and upwards, making it the priciest alternative in our list. Still, it trumps the BMW G310R with a bigger 600cc in-line four-cylinder engine that offers more power plus decent outlooks and easy handling abilities. But like the rivalling Kawasaki ER-6n, the XJ6 does look a little dated when compared against the BMW G310R’s newer and more current design, but this is a very subjective matter and it boils down to one’s own desire in this department. (Read our launch report of the fully-faired Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F here) Co-written with Keshy Dhillon --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/local-news/ktm-1290-super-duke-gt-launched/
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT launched @ RM125,080*
KTM 1290 Super Duke GT launched by KTM Malaysia at RM125,080 (basic price with GST). If you’ve followed our previous reports, you’d know by know that KTM Malaysia is re-energising its entire CBU range starting with the Malaysian debut of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT model. Earlier this evening, the firm did just that and the new sport touring model is priced from RM125,080 (basic price with GST). Based on the manic KTM 1290 Super Duke R supernaked, the new KTM 1290 Super Duke GT stands as one of the fastest V-twin-powered sport touring machines currently available in the market. More importantly, it stands as the fabled Austrian marque’s first ever creation in this segment as well. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is built around KTM’s signature lightweight chrome-moly steel trellis frame design, boasting a claimed weight of 205kg (dry). Notably, the chassis is suspended by semi-active WP suspension all round – 48mm forks up front and single rear monoshock. Of course, the centrepiece of the 1290 Super Duke GT is its LC8 1,301cc DOHC 75-degree V-twin engine lifted from the 1290 Super Duke R supernaked. The package outputs 173hp @ 9,500rpm and peak torque of 144Nm @ 6,750rpm in GT form, all of which being managed by a six-speed transmission primed with a quickshifter and chain final drive setup. Besides that, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is also primed with a pair of Brembo 320mm floating disc brakes up front grabbed by quad-piston calipers whilst the rear gets a 240mm single disc paired with dual-piston calipers. More importantly though, KTM’s new sport touring bike is primed with a multi-mode traction control feature that grants added control over the monstrous power figures it boasts. Complementing that is the presence of Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), multi-mode combined ABS brakes, ride-by-wire throttle, not forgetting three ride modes as well – Sport, Street and Rain. Other features in the list include LED Cornering Lights plus self-cancelling turn signals whilst hill hold control (HHC) and engine drag torque control systems (MSR) are offered as optional extras at a cost. Notable touring-friendly traits here include the adjustable windscreen, heated grips, electronic cruise control, not forgetting the all-important panniers set as well. As mentioned at the start, the fully imported (CBU) KTM 1290 Super Duke GT carries a basic retail price of RM125,080 (basic price with GST). The model is now on sale through authorised KTM dealers nationwide. Speaking about CBU models, KTM Malaysia also took the opportunity to quietly relaunch its entire CBU model range as well. Making their appearance alongside the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT were the KTM 1290 Super Duke R Special Edition, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, as well as the KTM 1190 Adventure and Adventure R twins. Both the KTM 1290 Super Duke R and 1290 Super Adventure share the same basic retail price as the Super Duke GT at RM125,080 (basic price with GST). The 1190 Adventure and Adventure R, on the other hand, are priced from RM103,880 and RM105,788 instead (basic price with GST). KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Launch @ Glasshouse, Seputeh KTM 1290 Super Duke GT --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rumoured-new-ktm-490-range-set-to-debut-this-year-with-five-variants/
Rumoured new KTM 490 range set to debut this year with five variants
Naked, sport, supermoto, adventure and enduro flavours of the rumoured KTM 490 range confirmed, launches later this year. Leaked slide reveals four variants planned for rumoured new KTM 490 range. Included are a naked, sport, supermoto, adventure and enduro variants. All will harness KTM’s upcoming new 450cc parallel-twin with a 270-degree offset crank. KTM’s Chinese arm, CFMoto, will also likely use this mill as a basis for its upcoming 450SR. Thanks to this leaked internal presentation slide published by German site Motorcycle News, we now know that the upcoming KTM 490 range will see no less than five iterations – naked, sport, supermoto, adventure and enduro – powered by KTM’s upcoming new 450cc parallel-twin mill. The imminent addition of the KTM 490 range would see the Austrian brand’s roster stretch right through the displacement range, which now covers from 125 to 1290 through 390, 490, 790, and 890. Additionally, Motorcycle News also reports that the CFMoto 450SR, made by KTM’s Chinese arm CFMoto, could be the first result of the development of KTM’s 490 range. In other words, the 450cc motor planned for said model could use the same architecture as a new KTM 490 range’s engine. Notably, this new 450cc mill from KTM will likely make use of a 270-degree crankshaft in similar fashion to the 689cc twin that Yamaha fields in several of its models. What’s also interesting here the seeming appearance that KTM will discontinue its RC390 sport model in favour of a new RC490. BY having a 450cc twin, the supposed RC490 could see KTM finally having an upper hand over rivals like the Yamaha YZF-R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 400 that dominate this segment. There is still no clear indication as to when KTM will launch any of these 490-series models but, based on what this leak suggest, we may see at least one of these five debut later this year. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ducati-panigale-v4-and-2020-ducati-panigale-v4-s-updated/
2020 Ducati Panigale V4 and 2020 Ducati Panigale V4 S Updated
The 2020 Ducati Panigale V4 and 2020 Ducati Panigale V4 S were also updated. They were revealed at the Ducati World Premiere. Outwardly, they look like the Panigale V4 R. More on Ducati; this was why they chose to debut new bikes away from EICMA because there are so many all at once. Included in the Ducati World Premiere were the 2020 Ducati Panigale V4 and 2020 Ducati Panigale V4 S. The updates were aimed at moving the two bikes a little closer to the WorldSBK homologation Panigale V4 R model, but of course, the R still has more race-ready components. First and foremost, they gain the V4 R’s winglets and fairing, complete with gills. The fairing is also wider along with a taller windscreen to provide the rider with more wind protection. Those winglets really work, and provide 30 kg of downforce at 270 km/h — the same figures as the R’s. The downforce they provide allows the rider to open the throttle earlier and keep on the gas while accelerating as wheelies are kept in check without having the anti-wheelie electronics cutting in. Ducati claims they obtained a 2.43m advantage over the 2019 model from the last corner to the finish line at Jerez. The front of the frame was also made less stiff to provide more feedback. Better feedback equals better confidence. Additionally, the centre of gravity was moved 5 mm higher for better turning leverage. Lastly, the already excellent traction control strategy was upgraded to DTC EVO 2, as per the new Streetfighter V4 and Panigale V2. Ducati also released the prices. The Panigale V4 costs € 23,490 and the Panigale V4 S costs € 28,790. That marks a € 500 increase for both bikes. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kymco-ak-550-gets-euro-5-upgrade-51hp-55-6nm/
KYMCO AK 550 Gets Euro 5 Upgrade- 51HP, 55.6Nm!
KYMCO, a Taiwan-based motorcycle manufacturer known for its scooter lineup, has updated its biggest scooter available, the AK 500. The AK 550 maintains the parallel-twin engine but now boasts Euro 5 compliance, making it on par with the famous Yamaha TMAX 560. The motorcycle also received a revised exhaust system to meet the Euro 5 standards. Although the AK 550 is 10cc lower than the TMAX, the engine produces a higher power, at 51hp and 55.6Nm compared to 47.5hp available on the Yamaha. For 2021, the AK 550 also received modern electronics consist of a throttle-by-wire system that offers better finesse and control at low and high RPM. Nevertheless, the AK 550 still maintain other goodies such as Brembo brakes, lightweight aluminium frame, upside-down fork and adjustable mono-shock. The bad news is, the AK 550 is currently not available in Malaysia. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fim-asia-supermoto-2017-cornish-wins-round-1/
FIM Asia Supermoto Championship 2017 – Cornish Wins Round 1
Lewis Cornish converted his pole position to win both Motos in Round 1 of the FIM Asia Supermoto 2017 Championship.  Returning 2015 Champ, Trakarn Thangthong finished 2nd overall. Defending 2016 Champ, Muhd. “Gabit” Habibullah ended the day 4th overall. NAKHON CHAI SI, THAILAND, 3 SEPTEMBER 2017 – Beautiful weather and a  , wonderful circuit welcomed Round 1 of the FIM Asia Supermoto 2017 Championship. The competition saw 17 riders from 13 countries striving for national and personal pride. The day began with Free Practice, and as expected, the top three spots were dominated by United Kingdom’s Lewis Cornish, returning 2015 Champion, Thailand’s Trakarn Thangthong, and defending 2016 Champion Malaysia’s Muhd. “Gabit” Habibullah, respectively. MOTO 1 Moto 1 started with the sun shining directly above the riders. Pole sitter Cornish grabbed the holeshot, but was followed tightly by all riders onto straight of the tarmac section, instead being diverted into the off-road section. Round 1 winner, Lewis Cornish The tight hairpin turn immediately after the last table top remained as the biggest challenge, serving as an advantage to some riders and vice-versa for others. With Cornish speeding ahead on an empty circuit, he opened up a two-second gap within a few laps to the pursuing Gabit and Thangthong. That left the latter two to battle between themselves, giving Cornish an even bigger cushion. The top three remained the same, until five minutes before the end of Moto 1, when Gabit was overtaken by Thangthong. The Thai rider had planned his move at the right moment, giving Gabit no time to regain the second spot. Gabit (#1) leading Thangthong (#5) Lewis finsihed Moto 1 in 22:236.002, followed by Thangthong and Gabit in 22:42.962 and 23:14.056, respectively. Dutchman Marcel Van Drunen, who had fought tooth and nail against Cornish in Qualifying and SuperChrono, was stuck in a fierce battle with another of Malaysia’s ace, Khairi Zakaria throughout the race to finish fourth, with the latter in fifth. Marcel Van Drunen MOTO 2 Cornish stole the holeshot again at the start and never looked back to win his second Moto of the day, finishing the race comfortably five seconds ahead of Thangthong. “It was a very technical track. Most of us were using slick tyres to race on the track. With the triple dirt section, it feels more like a motocross track instead. I made multiple mistakes in Moto 1 but reduced it in Moto 2. I believe Trakarn and Gabit made mistakes as well, which gave me an advantage to the race,” said Lewis. “I was fortunate when Gabit hit on a hole at the third dirt section. That was when I passed him. He grew so much since we last faced off in 2015. I enjoyed riding with all the riders, and hopefully, I can perform better in Indonesia,” said Thangthong. Trakarn Thangthong Seemingly making amends to his fourth place finish in Moto 1, Van Drunen fought with Gabit for the final podium spot. The two exchanged places multiple times with high-risk maneuvers in the tighter corners. The contest ended just two laps from the end of the race, when Gabit ran off the track. It was a brave performance from the Malaysian, however, when the KTM Malaysia factory rider revealed later that he had lost his brakes. Whereas most riders would have called it quits, Gabit Habibullah soldiered on to finish the race “My front and rear brakes malfunctioned, and I lost control of my bike. This makes it even harder for me to maintain my pace, especially on this track. I tried my best to ensure the best possible result in this condition,” said Gabit. Gabit landed the sixth spot in Moto 2, clocking a total time of 24:20.495. Van Drunen (#17) battling with Gabit (#1) Malaysia’s Khairi Zakaria attempted to close the gap to the Dutchman, but his efforts were forlorn when he made a mistake at the transition between the road and off-road section. Khairi landed fourth in Moto 2, finishing nearly two seconds behind Marcel with a total time of 23:50.924. Khairi Zakaria Japan’s Naoto Takayama performed well in Moto 2, and came home fifth . “It was a perfect and successful race. We would like to congratulate the Asia Supersports Group, FMSCT, all the partners and all the riders. The opening round of the season was exciting, and everything was in order. The track is probably one of the most challenging tracks in the season’s history, but all safety aspects were taken into consideration,” said Stephan P. Carapiet, FIM Asia Safety Officer. The 2017 FIM Asia SuperMoto Championship will commence in Jogjakarta, Indonesia on 7 and 8 October 2017. For more information, visit www.supermotoasia.com or watch the race live for free in HD on www.twenty3.tv powered by E-Plus Global Sdn Bhd. FIM Asia SuperMoto Championship is promoted by Asia Supersports Group, a consortium of three companies namely Bikenation Motorsports Sdn Bhd, Trade My Superbike and E-Plus Global Sdn Bhd; sanctioned by FIM Asia and FMSCT; and supported by Malaysia Major Events, a division of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (an agency under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture Malaysia), Malay Mail, Kelab Blogger Ben Ashaari and TX Sports.   Moto 1 Race Result: Pos No. Name National Laps Best Time Total Time 1 8 Lewis Cornish GBR 18 1:11.606 22:36.002 2 5 Trakarn Thangthong THA 18 1:12.526 22:42.962 3 1 Muhd Habibullah MAS 18 1:13.472 23:14.056 4 17 Marcel Van Drunen NED 18 1:15.169 23:31.190 5 32 Khairi Zakaria MAS 18 1:14.316 23:33.763 6 162 Farhan Hendro INA 18 1:17.095 23:55.446 7 300 Naoto Takayama JPN 17 1:16.645 22:37.403 8 12 Kenneth San Andres PHI 17 1:18.520 23:10.666 9 28 Natthapat SuksanWatthana THA 17 1:15.368 23:34.965 10 97 Arten Teslenko RUS 17 1:20.359 23:36.386 11 7 Pedro Wuner INA 16 1:19.964 22:39.942 12 77 Hasroy Osman SGP 16 1:18.960 22:40.996 13 720 Lin Chin Pei TPE 16 1:18.960 22:40.996 14 40 Lee Wei TPE 15 1:22.517 22:43.571 DNF 102 Tsang Wai Kei HKG 13 1:30.587 23:46.389 DNF 27 Sun Tong CHN 12 1:25.996 19:4.087 DNF 101 Takashi Sasaki JPN 7 1:18.032 9:30.062   Moto 2 Race Result: Pos No. Name National Laps Best Time Total Time 1 8 Lewis Cornish GBR 18 1:12.459 23:00.233 2 5 Trakarn Thangthong THA 18 1:14.494 23:27.317 3 17 Marcel Van Drunen NED 18 1:15.223 23:48.316 4 32 Khairi Zakaria MAS 18 1:16.522 23:50.924 5 300 Naoto Takayama JPN 18 1:17.768 24:07.549 6 1 Muhd Habibullah MAS 18 1:12.741 24:20.495 7 162 Farhan Hendro INA 18 1:18.292 24:26.555 8 12 Kenneth San Andres PHI 17 1:20.493 23:35.442 9 101 Takashi Sasaki JPN 17 1:22.063 23:56.181 10 28 Natthapat Suksanwatthana THA 17 1:18.431 24:03.932 11 7 Pedro Wuner INA 16 1:22.101 23:01.271 12 77 Hasroy Osman SGP 16 1:22.921 23:03.908 13 720 Lin Chin Pei TPE 15 1:25.411 23:32.197 14 27 Sun Tong CHN 15 1:29.510 24:09.029 DNF 102 Tsang Wai Kei HKG 13 1:32.737 23:45.547 DNF 97 Artem Teslenko RUS 11 1:21.761 24:31.701 DNF 40 Lee Wei TPE 5 1:25.683 7:43.684   Overall Standing Pos No. Name National M1 M2 Total Point 1 8 Lewis Cornish GBR 25 25 50 2 5 Trakarn Thangthong THA 22 22 44 3 17 Marcel Van Drunen NED 18 20 38 4 1 Muhd Habibullah MAS 20 15 35 5 32 Khairi Zakaria MAS 16 18 34 6 300 Naoto Takayama JPN 14 16 30 7 162 Farhan Hendro INA 15 14 29 8 12 Kenneth San Andres PHI 13 13 26 9 28 Natthapat Suksanwatthana THA 12 11 23 10 7 Pedro Wuner INA 10 10 20 11 77 Hasroy Osman SGP 9 9 18 12 720 Lin Chin Pei TPE 8 8 16 13 101 Takashi Sasaki JPN 0 12 12 14 97 Artem Teslenko RUS 11 0 11 15 27 Sun Tong CHN 0 7 7 16 40 Lee Wei TPE 7 0 7 17 102 Tsang Wai Kei HKG 0 0 0 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/logistical-nightmare-for-motogp-in-argentina/
MotoGP: Logistical nightmare in Argentina
Photo Credit: MotoGP MotoGP riders, teams, and bikes stranded in Argentina whilst enroute to Austin, Texas as adverse weather conditions forces flight delays and cancellations. With Round 3 of the 2016 MotoGP season set to take place this week, the sport’s entire community is facing one of its worst logistical nightmares to date. Adverse weather conditions have led to numerous flight delays and cancellations within certain regions of Argentina. Photo Credit: MotoGP Reports have flooded the web and social media by teams and riders about the situation. Amongst those affected include Malaysian Moto3 riders Khairul Idham Pawi and Adam Norrodin who are still reeling from the buzz generated after their heroic performances last weekend. This chaos ensued on Monday as the bulk of riders and teams from all classes including Moto2 and Moto3, were leaving Rio Hondo via Tucumàn airport to Buenos Aires airport before transiting to Austin, Texas. Bad weather led to the delay and subsequent cancellation of flights in and out of Tucumàn airport, forcing several teams riders to consider other options. A photo posted by DRIVE M7 ENERGY DRINK (@drivem7) on Apr 5, 2016 at 6:27pm PDT One picture we found on Instagram posted by local energy drinks giant and title sponsors Drive M7 sees it re-posting Drive M7 SIC Racing Team manager Johan Stigefelt’s image with riders Adam and Jakub Kornfeil with the caption: “@sic_racingteam Boo! @jakubkornfeil84 @adamnorrodin07 and Manager @jstigefelt are not impressed about spending a possible 16hrs on a bus to Buenos Aires!” Photo Credit: Drive M7 SIC Racing Team It is believed that the Malaysian team’s riders and crew are taking up one option a number of other teams have opted for, which is taking a 16-hour overland bus trip from Rio Hondo to the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires in order to catch remaining flights available or even charter flights to Austin, Texas. A number of riders also undertook a long eight-hour bus journey to Cordoba, where they will then fly to Houston via Panama, which is another 15 hour journey. Photo Credit: MotoGP However, this still leaves many of the bikes and equipment stranded in Rio Hondo still and several sources are reporting that much of them will only arrive in Austin tomorrow morning by 9am at the earliest. Besides the Malaysian Drive M7 SIC Racing Team and Khairul Idham’s Honda Team Asia, other teams affected include the Aprilia Gresini Racing Team, the Avintia and Marc VDS outfits plus riders Scott Redding, Hector Barbera, Loris Baz, Cal Crutchlow, Franco Morbidelli, Alex Marquez, Tito Rabat and Jack Miller amongst others. Reports are also indicating that the upcoming round in the Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas could be faced with a delayed scheduled. MotoGP’s commercial rights holder Dorna and FIM haven’t issued any statements regarding the matter, but sources close to both bodies indicate that discussions of contingency plans are already underway. Sources: NST / MCNews / MCN / GPOne / Instagram --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-ktm-400-adventure-rumoured/
New KTM 400 Adventure rumoured
Indian-based sources report of a new KTM 400 Adventure model destined to debut later this year. According to reliable sources in the Indian motorcycle market, Austrian brand KTM looks set at expanding its Adventure model line up yet again, this time in the smaller-cc segment. (Note: EU-spec 2015 KTM 1050 Adventure pictured for illustration purpose). The rumoured new KTM 400 Adventure model could indeed propel the brand further within the adventure bike segment, especially in the Asian region where tax and licensing laws, and a significantly lower selling price favours such small or mid-range capacity bikes. This was proven with the recent introduction of the new KTM 250 Duke and RC250 in Japan. Sources in India report that the new KTM 400 Adventure will lift the DOHC 373.2cc single-cylinder mill primed with fuel injection as found in the 390-series Duke and RC (RC390 pictured above), but will reportedly re-optimise it for the Adventure for better low- to mid-range torque generation. Presently, the mill generates 43hp@8,500rpm and 35.5Nm of peak torque at 6,750rpm. Reports also indicate that the KTM 400 Adventure will gain with a re-tuned transmission as well to suit its dual-purpose nature. Matching that will be a large 19-litre fuel tank, followed by 19-inch wheels up front wrapped in 90/90-sized tyres and an 17-inch unit in the rear wrapped in 150.60-sized rubber. Reports claim that all this will see the upcoming KTM 400 Adventure tip the scales at just 185kg dry. As you would expect of any KTM ‘Adventure’ series model, various accessories will be offered – this upcoming 400 Adventure model being no exception to the clause. Amongst the items set to be offered include an adjustable winscreen, a series of decal designs, not forgetting the all-important Akrapovic exhaust can as well. If these reports are true, the Austrian brand could reveal its new 400 Adventure model in the Indian market first around June this year. The reports did not indicate KTM’s intent on introducing the model in other markets in the region, but we expect the brand would do so provided that the model garners a significant level of demand. Source: BikeIndia via BikePortal --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/rg-introduces-a-wide-range-of-accessories-for-cfmoto-450sr/
R&G Introduces A Wide Range Of Accessories For CFMoto 450SR 
R&G, the renowned motorcycle accessory manufacturer, is expanding its product lineup to cater to CFMoto’s 450 SR (also known as the 450 SS in some countries).  This move comes in response to the growing popularity of CFMoto’s super sport bike, which has garnered attention in the United States and gained significant traction across Europe. Recognizing the need for enhanced safety, R&G is stepping in to provide riders with essential accessories. For motorcycle enthusiasts, accessories and support can often be decisive factors when making a purchase. CFMoto 450 SS owners, as well as prospective buyers, will now have access to a wide array of R&G’s offerings designed specifically for this model. The British accessory maker has developed an extensive range of equipment to safeguard the bike from potential accidents, including Bar-End Sliders, Fork Protectors, Lever Guards, PRO Radiator Guards, Tank Traction Grips, a Fender Eliminator, Dashboard Screen Protector, Blanking Plates, and various other components. The CFMoto 450 SR has already established itself as an exceptional bike within its class. Competing against the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and other Japanese counterparts, the 450 SR is poised to become CFMoto’s flagship model. Simon Hughes, the managing director of R&G, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We are excited to introduce our cutting-edge range of crash protection and accessories for the CFMoto 450 SS. Owners can now ride with confidence, knowing they have equipped their motorcycles with industry-leading protection and personalized touches that reflect their unique style and preferences,” he said. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-ce-04-vagabund-moto-concept-a-fresh-take-on-urban-mobility/
BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept: A Fresh Take on Urban Mobility
Austrian customizing specialist Vagabund Moto GmbH has teamed up with BMW Motorrad Austria to create a new e-scooter based on the BMW CE 04. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept combines style and practicality.  The urban e-scooter delivers mobility that fits every individual personality.  The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept is a stylish and multifunctional urban e-scooter that aims to provide mobility that is as individual as each personality. With a fresh and modern design, the vehicle features a range of functional elements and attractive color scheme that targets young and sporty urban users. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept retains the impressive technical concept of the BMW CE 04, with key data such as 31 kW (42 hp) maximum output, dynamic acceleration of 2.6 seconds from 0 to 50 km/h, a range of 130 km (according to WMTC), and a charging time of just 65 minutes from 0% to 80% with an optional fast charger at maximum charging current. The custom e-scooter also features a friendly smiley face on the front wheel hub, and the glass of the indicator lights. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept is a vehicle that appeals in particular to young, sporty people in an urban environment while being suitable for every type of customer.   In keeping with the motto “Action meets Fashion,” the BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept was given a functional top case to supplement the standard storage space, along with a surfboard with a transport system integrated into the vehicle. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept combines work, leisure, and individual flair, demonstrating that there needs to be no contradiction between any of these areas. Oliver Balzer, head of BMW Motorrad Austria, said that the customizing project aimed to emphasize the enormous variability of the BMW CE 04 while appealing to young, sporty people in an urban environment. The fresh, modern design of the CE 04 is particularly in keeping with its aspiration to a sporty lifestyle. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept represents a unique project that highlights the creativity and excellent craftsmanship of the international customizing scene around BMW Motorrad. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/year/2021/india-only-2021-honda-cb350-rs-launched-21hp-29nm/
India Only 2021 Honda CB350 RS Launched – 21HP, 29Nm!
Last year, Honda introduced the H’ness CB350 to go against the famous Royal Enfield Classic 350 in India. The introduction of the H’ness led to speculation that the manufacturer is also seeking to launch a modern cafe racer-ish motorcycle for 2021. And here it is, the new CB350 RS, a modern take based on the H’ness CB350 with the main differences are with the styling and a few mechanical tweaks. The RS comes with a new paint job and dual colour option with black finishing visible on the engine and exhaust. Nevertheless, the RS is still powered by the same 348cc single-cylinder engine that produces 21hp and 29Nm mated to a 5-speed gearbox with slipper clutch. However, currently, the CB350 RS is only available in India, and we have no idea whether we will be able to see it up close anytime soon. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bullit-motorcycles-unveils-2017-hero-125-scrambler/
Bullit Motorcycles Unveils 2017 Hero 125 Scrambler
Image credit: Bullit Motorcycles Bullit Motorcycle’s Latest Addition for 2017 – The Hero 125 Scrambler Bullit has just revealed their latest addition to their 2017 line up, their answer to all ‘millennials’ looking for that modern-retro look in a motorcycle is the Hero 125 Scrambler. To those who are unfamiliar with Bullit, they’re actually a company based in Belgium that specializes in producing small displacements motorcycles that are super stylish, affordable and fun to ride. They have quite a following in countries like France and the UK. Bullit Motorcycle’s main inspiration comes from classic British designs. Their vision is to take this classic yet stylish look and pair it with modern motorcycle technology to create a machine that is a pleasure to ride. The Hero 125 Scrambler obviously has that iconic scrambler look with its compact design and other aspects like a raised exhaust, wire wheels and scrambler-like tires. The price that they are offering in the available markets is around £2,400 (around RM11,242.02). The main heart that drives the Hero 125 Scrambler is a 125cc fuel-injected, air-cooled engine that produces 11.5hp @ 9,500RPM and all that power is transferred to the rear wheel with the help of a 5-speed transmission gearbox. It is also equipped with a a 43 mm USD fork, wavy disc brakes front and back, and an electric starter. This package is bundled up at 119kg dry and it comes with a 10.6 liters fuel tank. Bullit Motorcycles also stated that there will be many other options for the Euro 4 emission compliant Hero 125 Scrambler. The Hero 125 Scrambler will be available in selected markets in 2017. For us folks here in Malaysia, we can only stare in awe for now at this beautiful piece of work from Bullit Motorcycles. To know more about Bullit Motorcycles, you may visit their official website or their Facebook page. Image credit: Bullit Motorcycles --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/richard-hammond-crashed-motorcycle-filming/
Richard Hammond Crashed Motorcycle during Filming
Image source: www.motorcyclenews.com During The Grand Tour filming in Mozambique, Hammond fell off his motorcycle and was knocked unconscious Fellow show host Jeremy Clarkson stated that he was hurt quite badly but has made a full recovery Image source: www.motorcyclenews.com Top motoring television host Richard Hammond was involved in a motorcycling incident while filming an episode for one of Amazon’s chart-topping show, The Grand Tour. It was informed that the crash happened while filming an episode over at Mozambique, Africa. The accident left the former Top Gear host unconscious for a while but has since made a full recovery. According to his co-host, Jeremy Clarkson, he stated to The Sun saying that “He (Hammond) really did hurt himself quite badly.” The entire crew at the time were quite worried about the situation considering the fact that they were located in a quite remote location when the incident occurred around two weeks ago. Luckily, the British presenter did not require any serious medical attention or hospital treatment at the time. As you can see, Hammond is quite all right and still full of humour about it. The update was made via Drivetribe, a social media platform setup by all three hosts with the statement “Thanks for enquiries re my slight shunt whilst filming for GT. I can confirm that yes, I fell off a bike, many times, in fact and yes, I banged my head and everything else. But life goes on.” The reason this crash is huge news is because Richard Hammond was involved in a very serious crash back in 2006 when he was filming for Top Gear. He was driving a jet-powered car at the time and was going around 464km/h when the front right tire blew up and overturned the car. Check out the extensive news report made regarding the crash. The crash left him in a coma for while from significant brain injury where he had to endure a lot of trauma and stress following the recovery process. We’re glad that Hammond is okay and cheerful about the whole thing and we wish all of the Grand Tour hosts and crew well in their future endeavours. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-triumph-tiger-800-xrx-test-review/
2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRx Test & Review
The Triumph Tiger 800 XRx is more of a sport-tourer compared to the Tiger 800 XCx. Both the XR and XC ranges were launched just over a month ago (click here for the report). Prices for the XR range begins from RM 56,900 (basic selling price with 6% GST) but hurry, offer lasts until July 2018 only! Humans are resistant to change by nature. Despite some of us propounding to accept change, we tend to fall back to what we’re familiar with. We go on doing the same thing day in day out but when something unfamiliar comes along to disrupt that equilibrium, we resist, we fight, we rant on Facebook. Like Linus in Peanuts, we keep running back to our security blanket. One of them was me, especially when it concerned motorcycles. I loved sportbikes. No, I didn’t mind stretching my arms out, plopping my gut on the tank and offering my bum to the sky gods. To me they offered something familiar: Front tyre feedback, gruesome cornering angles and the exhilaration of blowing everything on the road away. Then, one day, a few motojournalists and I joined the Ratpack on a ride to Khao Sok National Park in Thailand. The centrepiece of that ride was the then new 2015 Triumph Tiger 800 XRx and Tiger 800 XCx.  They may have won accolades the world over, but I was a little sceptical if I would like it. Because, truth be told, it wasn’t my security blanket. But I sucked my thumb and kept quiet. You may have remembered the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XR lineup’s launch hand-in-hand with its brethren the XC range, along with the Bobber Black and Speedmaster in Bukit Tinggi. (Please click here for our report of the event.) To recap quickly, the XR line-up consists of the base XR, XRx, XRx LRH (Low Ride Height) and range-topping XRt. The XC range consists of the XCx and flagship XCa. We’ve tested the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XCx (please click here for the full review) and fell in love with it, and we tested the 2018 Triumph Tiger 800 XRx later as it’s more road-oriented than the XCx. As such, the XRx has cast wheels instead of laced spokes. The front is a 19-incher, compared to 21 on the XCx. Suspension is duly shorter with 180 mm front and 170 mm rear travel compared to 220 mm and 215 mm respectively, hence the XRx has a 810 – 830 mm seat height compared to 840 – 860 mm on the XCx. Other than the rolling stock, both bikes are virtually the same except for the shorter “beak” on the XRx. It had been some time since I last rode the Tiger 800 XCx and I sighed a relief when I got on the XRx. I was Linus and this was my security blanket. The seating position felt the same although the handlebar felt a little more forward due to the smaller front wheel. Additionally, both my feet could reach the ground comfortably. A short press on the starter button awoke the bike with a deep vroom. Just a little throttle and I was on my way. The XRx flicked around lightly on its contact patches like Muhammad Ali (Allah bless his soul). It didn’t take much time to grow acquainted to the bike and I was cutting through traffic effortlessly. The throttle, clutch, engine, transmission combination worked so smooth even butter has lumps. All I had to do was focus on getting through traffic and let my hands and feet work subconsciously, because the Tiger 800 XRx (and XCx) took the load off me. Besides that, the twin headlamps were large and bright and they had the psychological effect of presenting a much more authoritative presence to other road users. We were now returning from Khao Sok. It was my turn on the Tiger 800 XRx (before the XCx). I was resistant at first. But 30 minutes into the ride, something changed. I smiled in my helmet. I started to wave and signal thumbs up to the Ratpack riders. Just as what the XCx did, the XRx induced insomnia in me. Somehow, parts of me, not limited to the heart and brain, had just wanted to go riding. It’s like this little voice that kept going on and on like a bad track, “Let’s ride. Let’s ride. Let’s ride.” Earplugs didn’t work on this one (unlike for the wife’s nagging). So again, I got up at 5am and went riding. There’s something eerie about the Karak Highway before dawn. A light mist hangs a few metres above the road and everything seemed to be out from a scene in Insidious. (Man, I’ve to stop watching scary movies.) Anyhow, a tap on the PASS/HIGH BEAM button bathed everything ahead in righteous light. It was just a boon for the sweeping corners of Karak. This was where I could find the true distinction between the two Tiger 800s. As soon as the bike tipped over into the corner it was rock solid without a bounce or wiggle. I had the choices of either braking deeper or charging in harder into the corners – the Tiger 800 XRx conformed to both tasks without complaint. It didn’t have a slipper clutch but it felt way smoother than actually having one! However, as stable as it was in mid-corner, it didn’t hesitate when I had to alter my line or direction. If you’ve the chance to test both bikes, they’d feel so much smaller than they seem. The Genting Highlands road alternated between total darkness to total whiteness during these hours. Still, I didn’t have to worry much since the bike just took over, leaving me to actually enjoy myself even without full vision. I had so much fun I kept grounding the footpeg feelers on both sides. Had someone followed behind they’d surely be reminded of the fireworks on New Year’s Eve (sorry, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia). Then the rain poured down on us. In SPORT mode, the throttle felt as if my hands were connected directly to the butterfly valves, so I didn’t switch to RAIN. I just kept riding and riding, invincible against the rain. I soon came up to a fork in the road so I stopped since I didn’t know the direction. One of the riders who had been following me on his Speed Triple all this while pulled up beside me. He flipped up his visor and yelled, “You crazy ah?!! You were doing 160 km/h in the rain!!! In Thailand!!!” I reached the First World Hotel, aimed for the Petron station and made a left turn onto a newly tarred road. It was very narrow and as sinewy as a clump of intestines. I stopped at the summit with the Triumph Tiger 800 XRx juxtaposed against the backs of mountains and hills in the distance, just as the horizon started to turn to orange. And I did this four days in a row in the five that we had the bike. My surroundings turned bright quickly from then on. I felt on top of the world everytime that happened because not only had I climbed the mountain in the dark and fog, but I had also done it on wet roads. The Tiger 800 XRx and XCx were never fazed by soggy roads. A few more deep breaths of the fresh air and it was time to head back. Taking it easy this time due to heavier traffic, I flicked through the LCD display. It was so easy to use with the new switchgear, joystick and menu system. Every bit of pertinent information was there, presented in easy to read format. Back in the stifling traffic of KL, the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx continued to perform sweetly. It had gone from a daily commuter to a sport-tourer to a canyon blaster and back to daily commuter in supreme comfort without even having to touch a single ride mode switch, although it would’ve been so easy to do so. It must’ve been a match made in heaven because the Tiger 800 had gone beyond what I had expected of any bike. My paradigm had been shattered, shredded and scorched. But I didn’t resist. I couldn’t resist. I had loved adventure-tourers from that point on, and it was the Triumph Tiger 800 that was responsible for the change. I have a new problem now. It’s no secret that I love the Tiger 800 XCx, but I’ve fallen in love with the Triumph Tiger 800 XRx, too. Especially the “White Tiger” such as this one we tested. The XCx is a superbly capable bike on both road and offroad, while the XRx is superbly capable on the road and can do some light offroading. Why not both? Oh dear. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATONS ENGINE Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, inline-Triple Compression ratio 11.3 : 1 Bore X Stroke 74.0 mm X 61.9 mm Displacement 800 cc Fuel system Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection Maximum power 94 bhp (70 kW) @ 9500 RPM Maximum torque 79 Nm @ 8050 RPM TRANSMISSION   Clutch Wet, multi-plate Gearbox 6-speed CHASSIS Front suspension Showa 43mm upside down forks, 180 mm travel Rear suspension Showa monoshock with hydraulic preload adjustment, 170 mm travel Front brakes Dual 305 mm Brembo floating discs, dual Brembo two-piston sliding calipers Rear brake Single 255 mm disc, Nissin single-piston sliding caliper ABS ABS standard, swtichable on/off Front tyre 100/90-R19 Rear tyre 150/70-R17 FRAME & DIMENSIONS Frame Tubular steel trellis frame Swingarm Two-sided cast aluminium allow Trail 86.6 mm Rake 23.8o Wheelbase 1350 mm Seat height 810 – 830 mm Dry weight 200 kg Fuel capacity 19 litres   PICTURE GALLERY --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/msbk-team-hiap-aik-suzuki-racing-ready-for-2020-assault/
MSBK: Team Hiap Aik Suzuki Racing ready for 2020 assault
The first round of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSC) or MSBK is ready for its first-ever triple-header weekend happening next weekend from 25-27 September 2020. Team Hiap Aik Suzuki Racing and its two main riders, #66 Khoo Chee Yen and #7 Tee Wee Jin, will be continuing their assault this season onboard the Suzuki GSX-R1000R plus its new blue/silver livery inspired by the manufacturer’s 100th anniversary. This season will be harder than ever for everyone who will be taking part in the Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship as there will only be two weekends of racing competition and for each weekend, teams and riders will be pushed to their limits with three races (one on Saturday, two on Sunday). The launch was attended by every party involved in the Team Hiap Aik Suzuki Racing and its many years of racing in MSBK. This includes Shark Helmets Malaysia, Furygan apparels, Sketchers, K-Tech Suspensions, and many more, including its latest partnership, Mobil 1. Both riders will be putting on quite a show against the other riders in the same category, which is Superbike 1000. The live races will be live-streamed online via Facebook as the Sepang International Circuit is still not allowing live spectators at the venue due to all the SOPs imposed by the Malaysian government. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/iomtt-full-360-degree-view/
Video: IOMTT in full 360-degree view
Get to grips with the infamous and deadly Isle of Man TT (IOMTT) road racing course in full 360-degree view. Action cams have since become the ‘in’ thing amongst many motorcycling enthusiasts, both professionals and weekend warriors. One of the biggest evolution is the advent of 360-video recording ability, which now allows us to have a better view of events like the annual Isle of Man TT (IOMTT). This year’s running of the infamous and deadly road race garnered the support of 360-degree camera experts 360Fly, resulting in this epic ride-along video shot from the helmet-mounted cam of seasoned TT racer Gary Johnson. This year, Johnson competed astride a Kawasaki ZX-10R in the annual IOMTT Superbike race category – amongst others – and this 360-degree video gives us perhaps the best view of the event’s Snaefell Mountain Course. Fondly referred to as the ‘Mountain Course’, racers charge through a 60.725km stretch with more than 200 turns. The course is made up entirely of public roads used by the residents of this British isle and racers thunder across hazards like towns and huge cliff drops amongst others. This year’s edition saw living IOMTT legend and active veteran Michael Dunlop setting a new speed and lap record around the course astride a BMW S1000RR of 16 minutes 53.926 seconds and 215.591km/h respectively – the first rider to clock a sub 17-minute laptime and 214km/h barriers. (Read about that here) Check out the featured video above and see just how treacherous it is to tackle the deadly 60+km-long road racing course at speeds above 200km/h. Sources: YouTube via Lanesplitter@Jalopnik --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-2022-indian-ftr-championship-edition/
FIRST LOOK: 2022 Indian FTR Championship Edition
Indian Motorcycle welcomes its latest addition to the FTR range with the Championship Edition to celebrate the FTR success at the American Flat Track race series. The FTR Championship Edition debuted last week during the opening of the AFT season at the Volusia Half-Mile. With just 400 made, the 2022 FTR Championship Edition features a mechanical combination of existing FTR models. First and foremost, the FTR CE gets the Scrambler tall seat height, longer suspension travel and 18-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels, fully adjustable Sachs front fork and piggyback shocks. The FTR CE also fitted with the same ride mode selection, ABS and TFT instrument cluster with touchscreen capability found on the S and the R Carbon variants. This, in turn, made the FTR CE a different variant altogether, not just an esthetic upgrade. Nevertheless, FTR Championship Edition does not fall short on the cosmetic end either as it gets exclusive red spoked wheels, red frame, colourful tank and tail accents, and a championship commemorative bezel mounted on the tank. By the way, the bike also features a host of carbon fibre components, including the front fender, seat cowl, airbox covers, and headlight. According to the American firm, the FTR Championship Edition is priced at USD16,499 (RM70k). --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/230671/
WorldSBK: Aruba.it Racing Unveils Ducati Livery
Ducati Panigale 1199 R Chaz Davies and his new team mate, Marco Melandri The Ducati Superbike Squad from WorldSBK has unveiled their 2017 livery ahead of the season opener in Phillip Island, Australia in two weeks time.  Chaz Davies together with Aruba.it Racing has acquired their latest team mate and legendary former MotoGP rider, Marco Melandri. The 35-year-old Italian is probably one of only a few riders who have ridden most of the top machines in MotoGP which includes the 2003 Yamaha M1, 2007 Honda RC212V, 2008 Ducati Desmosedici GP8, 2009 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-RR and the 2015 Aprilia RS-GP. With his vast background in MotoGP machineries, Melandri is looking to conquer the World Superbikes again with the assistance of his newly-acquired ride, Aruba.it’s Ducati Panigale 1199 R. Chaz Davies is also looking to throwing the hammer down this year after having an impressive season last year. With 11 races wins and finishing third overall behind the Kawasaki power duo, Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes, the 30-year-old Welsh will be more determined than ever to chase for 2017 world championship title. Here’s the gallery of the 2017 Aruba.it Racing’s Ducati Panigale 1199 R and their riders, Chaz Davies and Marco Melandri. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/dainese-sale/
Is Dainese up for sale?
Rumour has surfaced that renowned motorcycling gear and accessories brand Dainese of Italy is up for sale. According to a report by Asphaltandrubber, the brand could possibly be bought over by a yet-unnamed private investment group. There has been no sign of trouble coming out of the famed Italian brand in recent times, but it is worth noting that the firm is presently led by interim CEO Frederico Minoli who previously led the Ducati Motor Holding towards its acquisition by Texas Pacific Group before taking the brand to be listed in the New York Stock Exchage. Founded by Lino Dainese in 1972, the brand is a powerhouse name when it comes to motorcycling and extreme sports gear. Though still a Euro-centric brand, it has garnered a lot of fame in recent times sponsoring notable figures such as Valentino Rossi in MotoGP, as well as famed BBC Top Gear host and celebrity Richard Hammond. In present times, the firm looks like it has heavy investments placed on its groundbreaking series of airbag-equipped gear called the D-Air (Read about Dainese’s partnership with BMW Motorrad here). The D-Air technology has immense potential application even outside of motoring and could yield high profits if steered by the right hands. This is still a rumour, so nothing is verified as yet. We will have more if things progress within the coming months. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-helmet-tech-koroyd-may-replace-eps-liners-in-helmets/
New Helmet Tech Koroyd May Replace EPS Liners in Helmets
Koroyd in Klim F5 - Picture from motorcyclenews.com A new helmet liner called Koroyd make take over from the current EPS material. It’s absorbs more shock and allows more airflow. The lead scientist studied crash data for 40 years before developing it. A new helmet liner technology called Koroyd make take over from the current EPS material. All current helmets use EPS (expanded polystyrene) as the impact absorbing liner. Look inside your helmet and lift the top comfort padding. You can then see the EPS liner which looks uncannily like the stuff on polystyrene cooler boxes that are used to keep the BBQ meat cool. In the case of helmets, on the other hand, the EPS is shock absorbing material underneath the hard outside shell. EPS is favoured because each node contains lots of air and acts to soften the blow by deforming. Arai EPS liner for different helmets. The different colours denote different densities for different zones However, the material is can be easily damaged and susceptible to erosion by chemicals. This is why you need to replace your helmet every five years. Scientists and helmet manufacturers have long sought to produce something better than EPS. But behold, there’s a new liner called Koroyd which made its debut in Klim K5 adventure helmet. Instead of layers of poly, Koroyd is made up of polymer tubes. The tubes are then attached together, forming a honeycomb. As such, it’s able to absorb shocks but will bounce back from low-impact ones. It means that dropping the helmet may not deform the liner. Koroyd deforms up to 84%, compared to EPS’s 60%. This translates to higer shock absorption thereby providing higher protection to the wearer’s head and brain. Besides being more shock absorbent, the new material provides better cooling to the head as there are much more open spaces to allow for better airflow. Conversely, EPS granules are packed tightly together hence doesn’t flow air unless punched/drilled through like in all current helmets. Koroyd’s lead scientific consultant Dr. Priya Prasad studied accident data for 40 years. “The current safety standard are over 20 years old. This new liner is a major step in the right direction that will improve rider safety significantly,” he said. But as with most new tech, it isn’t cheap. In the UK, the Klim Krios Pro with Koroyd costs £525 compared to £375 for the standard model. The price will drop given widespread use, if it finds industry-wide acceptance. Source: MCN --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto2-miguel-oliveira-scores-third-race-victory-of-the-season-for-ktm/
Moto2: Miguel Oliveira scores third race victory of the season for KTM
Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) gave KTM their third ever race victory for 2017 with their latest win in Valencia. Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) settled for second after struggling for tyre grip towards the end of the race. Oliveira’s team mate, Brad Binder, recovered brilliantly by finishing in third after struggling with gear shifts in the first few opening laps. The Red Bull KTM Ajo squad closed off their 2017 Moto2 efforts with a bang thanks to Miguel Oliveira who finished the last race of the season with a super race win. Starting from fourth position, the 22 year old rider from Portugal has awarded KTM with three race victories in their first ever year in the Moto2 race series. Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) settled his Moto2 racing career with yet another podium finish after a long battle with several riders including the pole sitter and team mate, Alex Marquez. After a strong start in the early parts of the race, the 22 year old Italian and of course the 2017 Moto2 World Champion struggled with tyre grip towards the end of the race. Morbidelli settled of second in the last Moto2 race before graduating to MotoGP for 2018. The other Red Bull KTM rider and Moto2 rookie Brad Binder managed to salvage the final podium spot after struggling for the first few laps of the race. According to 22 year old South African rider himself, he kept missing  gear shifts for the first eight laps of the race but managed to recover brilliantly by the time he crossed the chequered flag. Malaysia’s very own Hafizh Syahrin (Petronas Raceline Malaysia) also gave quite a brilliant race in Valencia where he finished the race in P6. Starting from P11, the 23 year old Malaysian fought with the best and at one point was sitting in P5. Overall, Hafizh Syahrin closed off his 2017 Moto2 efforts with 106 points putting him in the top ten of the world’s best riders of the intermediate class. Image source: MotoGP --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tvs-motor-unveils-limited-run-apache-rtr-165-rp-in-india-19hp-14-2nm/
TVS Motor Unveils Limited-Run Apache RTR 165 RP In India – 19HP, 14.2Nm
TVS Motor Company has launched the all-new limited-edition RTR 165 RP, the first model produced under its Race Performance (RP) series. Limited to just 200 units, the Apache RTR 165 RP is the first model from the company racing lineage ushered into the TVS Apache series of motorcycles. The RTR 165 RP makes 19hp @ 10,000rpm and 14.2Nm @ 8,750rpm from its 164.9cc single-cylinder 4-valve engine. Power is delivered to the back wheel via a 5-speed super-slick transmission. The RP is not just a nameplate, to ensure the best performance in its segment, the RTR 165 RP gets a new cylinder head with a 35 per cent increase in intake. The engine also gets a 15 per cent bigger valve controlled by Hi-Lift Hi-Duration cams and dual spring actuators for increased performance. TVS also revised the bore stroke ratio of 1.37, to allow free-revving up the redline. Other features include a new headlamp assembly and a 250mm rear disc brake claimed to be the first in its class. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/aprilia-malaysia-brings-in-the-sr-max-300/
Aprilia Malaysia brings in the SR Max 300
Heads up scooter fans, its been rumoured for months now that Aprilia might be launching something new, well in a surprise move they have just announced a pre-launch promo for the SR Max 300 on their FB page. Not much information on the whole reveal except that it will be launched soon, the scooter are targeted to be priced at RM29,999.00 as CBU units and there is a special discount for early birds. From the Aprilia website its stated the scooter makes 21.7bhp and a seat height of 815mm, big underseat storage will fit one fullface helmet and even comes equipped with the all important 12v socket. The scooter is at home as a commuter or even a tourer. More infos as it comes so stay tuned. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/wmoto-introduces-new-sx2-300-dirt-bike-for-malaysian-market-priced-at-rm18888/
WMoto Introduces New SX2 300 Dirt Bike For Malaysian Market – Priced at RM18,888!
The WMoto SX2 300 offers motocross like looks.  It was also used by the Malaysian military as part of Ops Benteng.  The off-road bias motorcycle is priced at RM18,888 and comes with a 2-year or 20,000km warranty. MForce Bike Holdings, the sole distributor of WMoto motorcycles in Malaysia has introduced its latest model – the WMoto SX2 300. The new SX2 300 is a ‘motocross’ like motorcycle that first made headlines last year when the Malaysian army chose the model to be part of ‘Ops Banteng’, an operation targeting human traffickers. The SX2 300 keeps things simple with a traditional motocross design that includes a raised front mudguard, spoke wheels and slim seat. Powering the SX2 300 is a 292.4cc 4-stroke liquid-cooled engine paired to a six-speed gearbox. It also features a 11-litre fuel tank and 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. Adding to that list is a LCD screen, off-road tyres, hand guards and upside down forks. Priced at RM18,888, the WMoto SX2 300 also features a USB slot and ABS brakes, and comes with a two year or 20,000km warranty. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/gallery-tryharder-x-aos-gasolina-tour-2016-penang/
Gallery: Tryharder x AOS Gasolina Tour 2016 @ Penang
Highlights from last weekend’s Tryharder x AOS Gasolina Tour 2016 custom bikes gathering held in Penang. The BikesRepublic & MotoMalaya team opted to stay back in little while in Penang last weekend, and we managed to visit the Tryharder custom bikes gathering held in the island’s popular seaside retreat of Tanjung Bungah. Tryharder is a term coined by local Penang-based custom builders Rotten Motocycles who are renowned for restoring and customising classic English bikes. The gathering it organised last weekend was one of the first home-grown custom bikes community gathering held in Penang. Also present here were our friends from Art Of Speed Malaysia. The KL-based outfit supported the Tryharder stage last weekend by including it as one of its stops in its AOS Gasolina Tour 2016. Though small, this custom bikes gathering by the beach was a success nonetheless. Here are some of the best sights from this local community gathering by the beach. This is Rotten Motocycle’s Zam and his creation called the ‘Triton’. A hybrid between a Triumph and a Norton, this custom is made even more unique by having a ‘reverse head’ engine modification as well. Despite the short rain spell that hit the Tryharder grounds, the Triton still looked spectacular. It was also one of four motorcycles Rotten Motocycles entered in the Art Of Speed 2016 competition and one of three that won a trophy as well. We have absolutely no idea what this custom bagger is, but it stood as one of the wildest-looking custom bikes we found on display at Tryharder. All we know is that it has one very meaty V-twin lurking underneath its eclectic custom exterior. Yes, that’s a Honda CB750-based custom retro cafe racer. This was one of our favourites. They say “Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder…”, but we reckon the owner of this KTM200 Duke (or maybe 390 Duke?) thought the stock bike didn’t look edgy enough. Say what you will about this Duke’s overall custom looks, we’re liking the attention to detail given in its build, embodying what the ‘Tryharder’ spirit is all about. With Penang having a rich colonial history, classic English bikes are hugely popular here. These include classic Triumphs, Nortons, BSAs and A.J.S. Not just a local community gathering, Tryharder also managed to attract enthusiasts from other neighbouring states in the northern corridor like Perak. Hipster feels much… Like any other custom bikes gathering, Tryharder also featured a mini bazaar of sorts. Plenty of goodies were up for sale, satisfying all retro hipster bikers in attendance. Aloha shirts were the dress code of the three-day soiree. Who says classic cubs aren’t cool? Part of the special activities held included a canoe race between custom builders. Speaking of which, here’s a bunch a familiar faces. The folks from Beautiful Machines were also present during the weekend. Click here to read our recent feature inside the firm’s garage. We also spotted some very tasty-looking classic Vespas present at Tryharder. We absolutely love the pristine and gorgeous restoration work of the lime green-coloured classic. Nothing like basking at the sight of a beautiful custom bike whilst slurping on that tasty laksa utagha being served to visitors at Tryharder. Art of Speed Malaysia’s Asep Ahmad having a blast supporting his team in the inter-builders canoe race. What’s better than a retro JDM ute? A retro JDM ute carrying a retro custom UJM of course! Though small, the quality of the bikes, atmosphere and people during Tryharder was bigger than life so to speak. We got ourselves a good glimpse of the northern region’s custom culture movement and we liked what we saw. Rest assured, the custom culture movement Penang is alive and well thanks to the spearheading efforts by both Art Of Speed Malaysia and Rotten Motocycles. Look out for more of these folks in the near future. Check out more images from Tryharder x AOS Gasolina Tour 2016 in the gallery we’ve prepared below.   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-eicma-2016-road-going-401-twins-bows/
Husqvarna @ EICMA 2016: Road-going 401 twins bows
Husqvarna @ EICMA 2016: KTM-owned Husqvarna debuts final road-going versions of 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen. KTM’s sister brand Husqvarna buzzed the show halls in Milan this week with the debut of its 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen models in final production form. Alongside them came a radical new concept too. Here’s what went down for Husqvarna @ EICMA 2016. 401 Svartpilen & 401 Vitpilen After showing both off in concept form earlier, the 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen are ready to go on sale in 2017. Based off the KTM 390 Duke platform and powered by the same 373cc single-cylinder powertrain with 44hp on tap, the ‘neo retro’ styling looks dazzling in the flesh. The way Husqvarna’s designers mask its KTM 390 Duke roots perfectly using a sharp and futuristic design deserves some high merits. Notable scrambler traits of the Vitpilen model include a skid plate, knobby dual-purpose tyres, wire-spoked wheels, plus the taller and wider handlebar set. Added practicality comes from an optional luggage rack fitted across the 9.5-litre tank. The single-dial digital instrument display is both neat and novel, whilst the LED lighting front and aft – including a halo-shaped DRLs – adds a more current touch to things as well. Not just about looks, Husqvarna has also added a slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS brakes and WP suspension in the mix. Said features ensure that the Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen will ride and handle as good as it looks too. The Husqvarna 401 Svartpilen, on the other hand, takes on a more recognisable ‘neo café racer’ design approach. Differences between this and its scrambler sibling can be seen in the adoption of road tyres wrapped around its wire-spoked wheels, the clip-on handlebars that gives it a sporty riding ergonomics. Apart from that, everything else remains identical to its 401 Svartpilen twin right down to the single-dial digital instrument display. Also retained here are the WP suzzies, dual-channel ABS plus the novel and neat LED lighting all-round. Overall, this two-pronged approach by Husqvarna is a much sleeker and sexier offering compared to its face-lifted 390 Duke cousin. We reckon that both the 401 Svartpilen and 401 Vitpilen will amass a huge fan base once they both go on sale sometime in late 2017. 401 Aero concept With both the 401 Svartpilen and 401 Vitpilen now heading for production, Husqvarna took the chance to show off its next step for the KTM 390 Duke platform after unveilimg the 401 Aero concept. IF you thought the 401 Vitpilen wasn’t café racer-ish enough for you, then the 401 Aero concept should seal the deal. It gets treated with a retro-styled front cowling, pillion seat cover to boot and bikini fairings to give it a more complete retro racer stance. Though merely a concept for now, we wouldn’t be surprised if Husqvarna puts this into production over the next two years or perhaps quicker provided that the 401 Vitpilen and 401 Svartpilen sell well when released next year. Husqvarna @ EICMA 2016 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-monster-energy-to-sponsor-suzuki-ecstar-in-2021/
MotoGP: Monster Energy to sponsor Suzuki Ecstar in 2021
The MotoGP 2021 season will see a new major partnership between Monster Energy and Team Suzuki Ecstar after signing a multi-year agreement with the Japanese manufacturer. This makes a lot of sense considering that both Joan Mir and Alex Rins are already sponsored riders under the Monster Energy flag. The sponsorship will change the entire look for the Suzuki Ecstar squad, including its championship-winning Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP machinery. Looks like there will be two Monster Energy teams in the 2021 grid next year, including the Yamaha factory squad. According to Rodney Sack, Chairman and CEO of Monster Energy, “We are very proud to announce the partnership between Monster Energy and Team Suzuki Ecstar, commencing from the 2021 season, as we further expand and solidify our continued commitment and support for MotoGP and motor racing around the world. Having spent the last two years supporting both Alex and Joan as they raced for the team with great success, it is a very natural progression to come on board as an official partner.” As for Davide Brivio, Team Manager, “We are very happy to announce this agreement with Monster Energy. It’s a company which has been very active in MotoGP and other motorsport disciplines. We started negotiating before the beginning of the year and we are very proud to have Monster Energy branding on our bike for the years to come.” 2020 Yamaha NMAX unveiled in Malaysia – RM8,998 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-ktm-450-rally-replica-gets-wp-xact-pro-suspension-akrapovic-exhaust/
2023 KTM 450 Rally Replica Gets WP XACT Pro Suspension, Akrapovic Exhaust
KTM 450 Rally Replica is back for 2023, featuring race-winning technology that makes it the closes production bike you can get to a factory race machine.   Exclusive electronic injection 450cc SOHC engine. Competition chassis developed during the race. 48 mm WP XACT PRO closed cartridge fork with Cone Valve technology. Fully adjustable WP XACT PRO mono-shock. Akrapovič race exhaust system. Designed for cross-country competitions. Dominating the Dakar Rally for the past two decades, the 2023 edition gets all the exciting goodies beginning with WP XACT Pro 48mm with Cone Valve front suspension and a fully-adjustable shock at the rear. Not only that, but the new 450 Rally Replica also gained the same steel frame and transmission as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing uses. In return, the 450 Rally Replica is about as close as a production bike is going to get to a factory machine.  The bike’s 450cc single-cylinder SOHC 4-stroke powertrain delivers 60hp and is further enhanced by an engine management system from Keihin and Akrapovic race exhaust. Ensuring the bike can keep going, the 450 Rally Replica is fitted with a massive 35L fuel tank.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tvs-to-develop-310cc-adventure-bike-with-bmw-motorrad/
TVS To Develop 310cc Adventure Bike In Partnership With BMW Motorrad
The BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS has been making wave in India and other parts of the world thanks to the collaboration between TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad. The G 310 duo is an ideal motorcycle for budget-conscious customers who are just getting started in riding. *BMW G 310 R 2021 The collaboration benefited BMW Motorrad in producing small-displacement motorcycles and TVS in the form of the small displacement sports bike, the Apache RR 310. *TVS Apache RR 310 This time around, a report emerged suggesting TVS is developing an all-new adventure bike with BMW Motorrad using the same 312cc single-cylinder. *BMW G 310 GS It is expected the new motorcycle will be heavily based on the G 310 GS but with some notable change to achieve a friendlier price tag. The motorcycle is expected to be revealed sometime next year. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-and-supercharged-kawasaki-ninja-s2-speculated/
New and supercharged Kawasaki Ninja S2 speculated
New and supercharged Kawasaki Ninja S2 rumoured for reveal at Tokyo Motor Show 2015. Japanese magazine Young Magazine doesn’t always have a good hit-rate with its speculations, so we’d rather take a pinch a salt with its most recent report. The Japanese magazine recently reported that Kawasaki is set to produce more supercharged models in the near future starting with new middleweight. The magazine alleges that Kawasaki is set to unveil a new Ninja S2 at this year’s edition of the Tokyo Motor Show. A middleweight, the alleged new supercharged Kawasaki model will harness power from a supercharged two-cylinder engine, which Young Magazine claims will be based upon the brand’s ER6 model’s twin-cylinder. However, other Japanese sources are countering that the alleged Ninja S2 will instead use a 600cc four-pot derived from Kawasaki’s ZX-6R. Despite this counter report, Young Magazine has gone to the extent of publishing a render based on its twin-cylinder lead. The render sees the Ninja S2 adopting a trellis chassis design just like the manic Ninja H2, complete with a prominent intake hose design running down the bike’s left side, which is believed to channel much-needed air to the powerplant’s supercharger mounted behind the engine. As we’ve disclaimed at the start, speculations from Young Magazine aren’t always on target, so we reckon it is best to sit and wait until the Kawasaki says otherwise. Sources: Young Magazine via Visordown --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/spyshots-ducatis-new-monster-800-scrambler/
Spyshots: Ducati’s new Monster 800 and Scrambler
Here are several new snaps of Ducati’s upcoming new Monster 800 and ‘Scrambler’ models spotted in the wild recently. Monster 800 First comes the Monster 800. The 800 version of the new generation liquid-cooled Monster was expected after the launch of the new Monster 1200 (read our exclusive test ride here). According to sources, it would probably have the same 821cc Testastretta 11° L-twin as seen in the new second generation Hypermotard (read our test ride of the new Hypermotard here). The mill is expected to churn out roughly 110hp as how the Hypermotard does. However, we reckon the 1200’s standard-equipped ABS and traction control package would not be primed as standard; it could perhaps be a cost-option package when it hits showrooms. Visually, the Monster 800 looks very similar to its larger Monster 1200 sibling. The only key difference lies in the swingarm where unlike the 1200 that has adopted a single-sided unit, the 800 would instead have a double-sided unit to hold the rear tyres. The Monster 800 is expected to make its debut later this year during Intermot or EICMA, but some sources suggest Ducati could speed things up and introduce it as early as summer. Scrambler We have previously reported that the Bologna-based institution was working on a scrambler. Spyshots have emerged before, but this latest set is one of the clearest ones we have seen by far. Experts reckon that underneath the camouflaged body, the bike is using a whole new frame plus swingarm design. Several sources believe that a version of the Monster 796’s air-cooled engine with 84hp and 79Nm is encased in said new scaffolding. Sources also believe that the bike will have an exterior styling inspired by Ducati’s original Scrambler model from the 1960s. This means that it will likely feature tall handlebars and a slim dirt-style fuel tank. It is also widely expected that the prototype’s street tyres would be replaced with knobby dirt tyres as well. Ducati’s Scrambler will hit markets sometime next year. Images: Bikesocial ( link 1 / link 2 ) Source: Visordown / Visordown and Asphaltandrubber --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-fj-09-leaks-online/
Yamaha FJ-09 leaks online
New Yamaha FJ-09 triple-powered sport tourer leaks ahead of EICMA debut. Following rumours floating online, the cat is finally out of the bag as the all-new Yamaha FJ-09 images leaks ahead of its scheduled debut at this year’s EICMA show. Essentially, the FJ-09 is a sport-touring version of Yamaha’s acclaimed MT-09 triple-powered naked. Not much details are available right now but the FJ-09 is expected to retain much of the original MT-09 base bike’s chassis and powertrain. As you can see from the image we’ve posted, the FJ-09’s biggest difference over the naked MT-09 version lies in its front fascia, with the FJ-09 adopting a sizable wind deflector plus a headlamp a cowling. Yamaha will likely position the FJ-09 as its offer as an inexpensive sport/adventure-touring bike More details are expected as soon as the bike bows at this year’s annual EICMA show in Milan, Italy. Source: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-morbidelli-raring-to-go-with-latest-upgrades-on-his-old-m1/
MotoGP: Morbidelli Raring To Go With Latest ‘Upgrades’ On His Old M1
Despite finishing the 2020 season as a runner-up, Franco Morbidelli will once again jump on his older ‘A-spec’ YZR-M1 for 2021. The Italian race the entire 2020 season with a slightly modified 2019 M1 but came out as the top Yamaha rider with 158 points, just 13 points behind champion Joan Mir. The former VR46 Academy rider was ahead of Maverick Vinales (132pts), followed by Fabio Quartararo (127pts) and Valentino Rossi (66pts). Nonetheless, the 26-year-old rider admitted it came as a surprise when Yamaha brought upgrades to the bike for Qatar pre-season testing. The upgrades is expected to solve some of the issues that surfaced last year. “Well, yes, because they were pretty simple, pretty substantial and in pretty easy directions. “So, I think the updates that Yamaha brought will also work in the other tracks. “This is what I think and what I hope at the same time,” he said to Autosport. Morbidelli ended the pre-season testing in Qatar fourth overall with just 0.140 seconds behind Vinales and Quartararo. The 2021 MotoGP will kickstart on March 28 in Qatar. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-j300-scooter-test-ride/
Kawasaki J300 scooter test ride – Priced at RM31,489
The Kawasaki J300i is an export model scooter built by Taiwanese based motorcycle manufacturer, Kymco. It is built for long commutes and is perfectly comfortable and adapted to life on the move in vibrant cities. We covered 160 kilometres with it during the test ride organised by Kawasaki Malaysia, but hardly felt the distance, and I am not even trying to sugar coat anything here. The J300 is a handsome looking scooter and tops that off with plenty of party tricks. So what is it really? If you have heard that the new J300 is based on a Taiwanese scooter that is already on Malaysian roads, you would have heard correctly. Kymco first introduced the Downtown 300i in 2011, and that is what the Kawasaki J300 basically is, but redesigned and repackaged of course. Kawasaki has re-engineered the design of the J300 to keep it within the Ninja design family, but the platform, engine, brakes and suspension are all from Kymco. This rebranding exercise is not a bad thing as some would imagine. The updates to the J300 to keep it unique from the Downtown 300i are all brilliant, but most of all buyers will benefit from Kawasaki engineering and know how, as well as its well-known aftersales service. How is it like? Comfortable, a delight to ride but a little cramped for long legs. Other than that it is brilliant. The ride began in Putrajaya to Sungai Pelek to Morib, Teluk Panglima Garang then back to Palm Garden hotel. A 160km loop with a good mix of bad roads, curves, highways and traffic – all of which are situations the J300 is designed to excel at. And excel it did. The big seat is plush and comfortable with a tad bit of back support from the heightened rear seat; the pillion sits taller than the rider. Handling is swift and nimble thanks to a 13-litre fuel tank that is placed at the bottom of the frame, and a seat height of just 775mm from the floor, which lowers the centre of gravity, giving better low speed control at the same time. But space is cramped, as it is on the Kymco Downtown 300i – which is fine if you are only going to be running around town, but it could be a pain if you want to munch some distance with the J300. However, the scooter makes up for that with some nifty storage space. There is a cubbie hole near the handle bar that lets you store your phone (an iPhone 6 Plus can fit in there), house keys and a fat wallet at the same time. The under seat storage area is capable of holding a few loose items like gloves or a water bottle, and a full face helmet together with a half shell helmet as well, so there is no lacking in storage space. Handling is light and nimble with an upright sitting position that makes it easier to control the bike with your hips and thighs. What about the engine? The J300 is powered by a 299cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC with four valves engine which gives 27.2 hp at 7,750rpm and 28.7Nm of torque at 6,250rpm. And the whole package is connected to a CVT transmission with a centrifugal clutch. 299cc engine develops 27.2 horsepower and gives instant power without any lag. Scooters usually suffer from a lag in power delivery, like an elastic band that first has to be coiled before releasing its power, but not the J300. Power is surprisingly instant and smooth, but some more torque would have been nice for accelerating away from about 120km/h, though I doubt many J300 riders will find themselves in such a situation. Exhaust system looks like it has been designed after a jet engine. So is it comfortable? Yes! Very! Too comfortable perhaps because it was difficult to stay focused on the road ahead, though I suspect I could have had too much coffee before getting on the bike. The suspension is managed by a 37mm telescopic fork up front, and a twin shock, 5-way adjustable with preload at the rear. The seat is big, plush and very comfortable, though taller riders may find it a bit too low. It does a beautiful job at soaking up the bumps and combine that with a plush soft seat, you get perfection. Front brake is a 260mm petal disc with a twin piston caliper gripping the disc. ABS is for the rear brake and comes as standard. It looks big, how are the brakes? Easy peasy. The braking system consists of a single 260mm petal disc with a dual-piston caliper up front, and a single 240mm petal disc with a dual-piston caliper at the rear. It comes standard with ABS and having tested the ABS system, I must say that it is not one of those systems that violently shakes the brake lever, rather it sends gentle pulses to your fingers to tell you that the system is working, and that it is okay to take an evasive manoeuvre if you have to. ABS is for the rear brakes only. The meter panel is clear and well lit, blue hue makes it easier to see at night. So should you buy one? RM31,489 with GST is a lot of money considering that the Kymco badged version of the same bike is priced at around RM24,000 before GST. But then again, it comes backed up with Kawasaki’s aftersales service which is available throughout Malaysia. Can’t say the same about the Kymco though. The Kawasaki J300 is only available in Black and White in Malaysia. Being so comfortable and with a cruising speed of around 110km/h, it is the perfect scooter for those who live around the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, or any other city for that matter, and have to commute to the city and back daily. From left: Encik Awalludin Mohammed Lip, Assistant General Manager of Kawasaki Motors Malaysia, Dato Jeffrey Lim, General Manager/Director of Kawasaki Motors Malaysia, Mr Satoru Akitsu, Technical and Factory Controller of Kawasaki Motors Malaysia. There are other pleasant touches like a 12V power socket to charge your electronics, a foldaway cargo hook for when you want to “bungkus balik” your food, and plenty of cargo space. Under seat storage fits a full face helmet and a half shell helmet at the same time with enough space for jacket, gloves and a water bottle. It is not the most athletic in terms of size for when you want to squeeze past traffic to get to the traffic lights, but it makes up for that in so many other ways. So if you are looking at something to beat the traffic with and want something reliable and comfortable, yes you should buy the Kawasaki J300. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/expanded-four-day-racing-schedule-for-arrc-finale-in-buriram/
EXPANDED FOUR-DAY RACING SCHEDULE FOR ARRC FINALE IN BURIRAM
The 2015 season finale of the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will see an expanded race programme as the Asian series head to Buriram, Thailand for the second time this year. Scheduled to be held from December 3 to 6, 2015, the high level of local interest in the sport has encouraged the race organisers to incrase the number of days in the programme from the usual three day weekend to four. Apart from the five Asia Road Racing classes (SuperSports 600cc, Asia Production 250cc, Underbone 130cc, Asia Draem Cup and Suzuki Asian Challenge), the race programme for the final round in Thailand will be supplemented by three national-level races. These are the Thailand Honda Dream Cup (Groups 1 and 2) as well as the Yamaha R3 Thailand Challenge Cup. “The motorsports industry in Thailand underwent an overnight boom the moment the Chang International Circuit opened in late 2014. The Thais have always had a love for motorcycles and all that racing passion simmering under the surface erupted into a vibrant motorsports industry,” said Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing, the race promoters of the ARRC. Spectator attendance and media interest at Chang are consistently high. Added with a professional management team, the circuit has become the latest must-go destination for many of the world’s top motorsports events. The upcoming final leg of the 2015 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will be the first time in 20 seasons in which the race weekend is extended into a 4-day event. “More than 200 riders will be racing at the Chang Circuit this weekend and we expect the racing to be competitive and exciting in all the race classes,” Ron added. In the SuperSports 600cc class, MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda’s Yuki Takahashi is but one point away from the title while Gupita Kresna has got the Underbone crown in the bag. But there is still plenty to fight for with riders still contending for points to boost their ranking. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/horex-vr6-silver-and-black-edition-revealed-at-2015-eicma/
HOREX VR6 Silver and Black Edition revealed at 2015 EICMA
The long-established German brand HOREX revealed new details about their Silver Edition already presented at the IAA in Frankfurt and another new model, the Black Edition at the EICMA, the world’s largest trade show for two-wheeled vehicles, in Milan, Italy. With the Horex VR6 Silver Edition, the 3C-Carbon Group AG from Landsberg am Lech is revitalising a great motorcycle tradition in several aspects. In 1923 Fritz Kleemann founded the Horex firm in Homburg, with the name formed from an composition of “Ho” for Homburg and “Rex”, the tradename of his parents’ jam jar factory. The Horex motorcycles were often far ahead of their time. Thus, in 1932, a parallel two cylinder was designed with triple mounted crankshaft and overhead camshaft. In 1950 the camshaft lying between the cylinders in the engine of the “Imperator” model was patented. The most successful and best known Horex model, however was the “Regina” that still enjoys cult status today. In 1953 the 350 cm³ motorcycle became the most widely sold bike of its class with over 20,000 sold. In the years that followed, the firm struggled to keep up sales, as cars became affordable for broad swathes of the population and motorbikes were gradually replaced as the preferred means of transport. Later the company and brand rights were passed from one owner to another. By taking over the Horex brand, the 3C-Carbon Group is also revitalising the tradition of Landsberg as a “motorbike city”. It was in this city’s historic centre that Alois Wolfmüller and Hans Geisenhof built the very first series motorbike with a combustion engine in 1893. Wolfmüller even coined the German word for motorbike, “Motorrad” and had it protected by patent. Once again the brand-new HOREX V6 Silver Edition was the centre of attention at the HOREX stand. The Silver Edition special series, limited to just 33 units, defines the absolute pinnacle of the market both visually and technologically, as well the future of the HOREX product line. The exclusive special model provides a first look at the new production model in the HOREX VR6 series for spring 2016. The HOREX VR6 Silver Edition, a high-end power cruiser, captivates through its unique technological solutions, as well as through its great versatility. The motorcycle is designed as fully-fledged two-seater, but can be converted into a single-seater if desired. The customer can choose between two different equipment options as well. As a result, HOREX offers both a newly developed carbon cover for the pillion seat as well as genuine leather saddle bags made of the same high-quality saddle leather as the seat. In addition to the Silver Edition, the long-established German brand HOREX is shedding light on a well-kept secret. With the Black Edition, announced as a “special guest” for EICMA, HOREX granted a first look at a second model series with a different target in cafe racer style. The Black Edition, unlike its sister model, the Silver Edition, is a purely single-seater and can therefore be ordered with an optional cafe racer handlebar configuration. The HOREX VR6 production model, derived from the Black Edition, will likewise be presented in spring 2016. Sales of the limited Black Edition will start in December 2015.   --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/sic-launches-wsbk-malaysia-2016/
SIC Launches WSBK Malaysia 2016
SIC officially launched WSBK Malaysia 2016 as it celebrates its third annual edition this year. Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has officially launched the 2016 edition of the FIM Motul World Superbike Championship Malaysia round (WSBK Malaysia 2016) earlier today. WSBK Malaysia 2016 will be the circuit’s first major racing event of the year following its scheduled closure for resurfacing and upgrading works. (read about that here) Present during the launch event held this afternoon in Saloma Bistro, Kuala Lumpur were SIC CEO Datuk Razlan Razali and national World Supersport Championship (WSSP) rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin. The launch event featured a display of several road-going superbikes and Zulfahmi’s very own Orelac Racing Team Kawasaki ZX-6R WSSP race machine. The highlight of the day was perhaps the special launch gambit that saw the national rider making an entrance with a group of young riders using pocket bikes. As previously reported, WSBK Malaysia 2016 will take place from May 13 to May 15 this year, marking its third ever outing in Malaysia in the process as well. Malaysia will host Round 6 of the championship. SIC has already initiated special programs to boost ticket sales for the upcoming event including special ‘Early Bird’ discounts and more. This year, normal ticket prices range between RM38.16 and RM387.96. The special ‘Early Bird’ ticket sales are still on going until March 31, offering tremendous discounts especially for grandstand tickets with prices ranging from RM79.50 to RM197.16. SIC have also prepared a special grandstand section for Zulfahmi fans called the Fahmi 63 Tribune. You can refer to the chart we’ve prepared below for more details, or visit the circuit’s official website, sepangcircuit.com. Despite the less than ideal spectator figures during last year’s leg, Datuk Razlan expressed his confidence that the circuit will host more spectators this year. Datuk Razlan states that the circuit aims to increase last year’s total figure of 22,664 spectators across its three-day course up by a modest 5% this time round. Interestingly, he added: “Although we already have a full-time national rider competing in the WSSP category, we (SIC) are also in the midst of negotiating the entry of another national rider as a wildcard for WSBK Malaysia 2016.” Datuk Razlan declined to give us hints as to who the wildcard candidate is, but the exec states that an announcement will be made as soon as negotiations between the circuit, the unnamed candidate’s current racing team and WSBK officials are done. On top of the WSBK and WSSP races, fans can also look forward to the action and thrills from its support event, which is Round 3 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Moto3 series. The series currently features two Malaysian riders in the form of Ahmad Idham Khairuddin, who happens to be Zulfahmi’s own younger sibling, as well as rookie Izam Ikmal. Also planned are an assortment of off-track activities that should keep fans entertained in between races as well. Presently, the WSBK 2016 season has progressed with much excitement after just two rounds. Round 3 of the championship is scheduled to take place in Aragon, Spain from April 1 to April 13. Riders from the Kawasaki Racing Team currently lead the championship standings starting with defending WSBK world champion Jonathan Rea who has scored 95 points so far, followed by his teammate and former WSBK champion Tom Sykes in second with 65 points. In the supporting WSSP category sees yet another Kawasaki rider leading the standings in the form of Swiss rider Randy Krummenacher from the Kawasaki Puccetti Racing outfit. National rider Zulfahmi Khairuddin, on the other hand, currently ranks 11th in the standings after picking 12 points. Check out more pictures from today’s launch event in the gallery we’ve prepared below. WSBK Malaysia 2016 launch @ Saloma Bistro, KL --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-sena-acs10-released-tailored-specifically-for-three-arai-lids/
New Sena ACS10 released, tailored specifically for three Arai lids
New Sena ACS10 Bluetooth comms released, and they’re tailored specifically for three Arai lids – Quantic, RX-7V, and RX-7V Evo. New Sena ACS10 Bluetooth comms released, all made to selected Arai lids. Units available now seamlessly fits into the Arai Quantic, RX-7V and RX-7V Evo lids. All boast Bluetooth 4.1-enabled features, HD speakers, plus noise-cancelling ability. Bluetooth comms specialist Sena have released a new trio of modules that are specifically tailored for three core Arai helmets. Called the Sena ACS10, these units were developed to seamlessly integrate into the Arai Quantic, Arai RX-7V, and Arai RX-7V Evo helmets. According to Sena, the made-for-Arai ACS10 units all feature its high-definition (HD) speakers as standard, along with its proprietary Advanced Noise Control tech. Typically, the ACS10 can accommodate a multitude of smartphone-based Bluetooth 4.1-powered and -enabled functions such as music playback and navigation audio, as well as Bluetooth-enabled rider-to-rider and rider-to-pillion intercom capable of hosting up to four riders at once. Other highlights in the Sena ACS10 include up to 10 hours of talk time, claimed maximum Bluetooth intercom connectivity distance of 1 mile (1.6KM), as well as a full charge in 2.5 hours via micro-USB charging plus smartphone app-connectivity via a dedicated Sena iOS and Android app. Crucially though, the key USP for the Sena ACS10 is of course its seamless integration into the three aforementioned Arai lids. Unlike other third-party units, the ACS10’s package delivers a slimmer control panel plus a separated battery pack that fits perfectly into the rear neckroll area. As for availability, it greatly varies depending on market, but the RRP for the ACS10 units start from about US$211 – approx. RM925.55. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-r-nine-t-heritage-line-confirmed/
BMW R nine T Heritage line confirmed
BMW R nine T line set for expansion with new ‘Heritage’ spin offs destined for EICMA 2016 debut. Leading motorcycle site MCN has set the internet ablaze – as far as BMW Motorrad fans are concerned – with its report that the BMW R nine T will welcome several new spin off models that will debut during EICMA 2016 later this year. BMW Concept Stunt G310 BMW G 310 R BMW Concept Path 22 BMW R nine T Scrambler With BMW Motorrad having just shown off its R nine T-based Concept Lac Rose bike earlier this week, this was something we have long predicted. If you haven’t realised, BMW have a knack at turning its concepts into production realities. Cases in point include the Concept Path 22 becoming the R nine T Scrambler and the Concept Stunt G310 becoming the G310R baby roadster. BMW R 5 Hommage concept Besides the Lac Rose, BMW Motorrad also showed off another boxer-powered concept before hand in the form of the stunning R 5 Hommage, sparking rumours that the firm may make a classic-styled cruiser for production too. Coming back to the R nine T spin offs, we can expect at least three new models that will be marketed as ‘Heritage’ models according to MCN’s exclusive report. The first in this new BMW R nine T Heritage line will be a road-going version of the Dakar rally-styled Lac Rose concept. MCN reports that the road-going version of the Lac Rose marks BMW’s aim at giving its original and legendary R80G/S model a proper modern tribute. Crucially, the R nine T’s air- and oil-cooled 1,170cc boxer-twin engine will offer greater performance versatility that the original R80G/S could only dream of. Moreover, this model will also benefit with plenty of BMW Motorrad’s high-tech arsenal of modern electronics starting with ABS followed by things like traction control and selectable ride modes as the report states. Those seeking a more high performance edge can also rejoice at the fact that BMW will reportedly develop a half-faired classic-styled sports bike out of the R nine T. This will more or less be the long-awaited successor of the brand’s R1200S that was last seen in 2007. Essentially, the half-faired R1200S successor will be more akin to a BMW HP2 in its intent, minus the exotic parts and an expensive price tag of course. Nevertheless, it is safe to say that BMW Motorrad will likely prepare an extensive catalogue of optional performance parts to turn it into a proper high performance retro bike. The last spin off in this upcoming R nine T Heritage line will be a ‘base model’ of sorts. Despite being a huge global success already, the BMW R nine T has been regarded by some as a bike that’s simply too expensive and too high-tech to become a base for hardcore custom builders. Realising this, BMW will develop a special base model that’s destined to become the perfect blank canvas of sorts to those who pride is customising their bikes into bespoke creations. With that in mind, we can expect this base model to make do without expensive electronics or componentry whilst BMW’s own ever-expanding catalogue of parts will further enhance its customisable nature too. With that, the upcoming BMW R nine T Heritage spin offs will undoubtedly expand the R nine T beyond its standard and Scrambler range whilst also allowing BMW enter multiple buying segments and buyer demographics at once. This is one brand that will make headlines come EICMA 2016 later this year. Source: MCN --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-aprilia-tuareg-660-gets-akrapovic-exhaust-system/
The Aprilia Tuareg 660 Gets Akrapovic Exhaust System
The Tuareg 660 is Aprilia’s answer to tackle the middleweight adventure segment which previously dominated by the likes of Yamaha’s Tenere 700 and KTM’s 890 Adventure. Akrapovic features a new exhaust system designed specifically for the Tuareg 660. adds 1.2hp and 2Nm.  Despite being a fresh model, the Tuareg 660 garnered a lot of attention ever since the motorcycle was teased at the 2019 EICMA. Modeled after Aprilia’s newest 660 platform, the Tuareg also features top of the range electronic package and suspension. While the 660cc parallel-twin mill makes a good throbbing sound, it still missing that robust adventure voice note like a proper ADV. This is where Akrapovic comes in as the Italian expert has a new exhaust system developed specifically for the Tuareg 660. Made out of lightweight titanium with stainless steel link pipe, the exhaust system is designed as a slip-on for the Tuareg. Apart from delivering a proper ADV sound, the exhaust shed 1.9 kilograms from the stock pipes. Given how tall the Tuareg is, the weight loss is definitely a plus for any ADV riders. Akrapovic also claimed that the new exhaust adds 1.2hp @ 4,800rpm and 2Nm @ 4,800. Like the rest of the material, the link pipe and the optional header are also built out of stainless steel material. However, it is important to take note that the installation for the new exhaust will invalidates the bike’s Euro5 compliance, making it not street legal. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-givi-b42n-antartica-top-case-unveiled-rm420/
New GIVI B42N Antartica top case unveiled – RM420
GIVI Malaysia has unveiled its latest generation top case for the Malaysian market in the form of the GIVI B42N Antartica top case. The monolock top box features the latest design and features embedded with its iconic Italian brand DNA. Hailed as their best polymer case produced to date, the GIVI B42N Antartica features a new polygon exterior shapes as well as a much stronger structure. Through years of research and development, the Antartica is further amplified with reflective prismatic elements on each front corner to ensure that the motorcycle with this top box is clearly visible to other road users. With its 42 litres of storage capacity, one can easily store a modular helmet along with other riding essentials like a raincoat or two demi-jet helmets in this one single top box. The addition of the brand’s latest-generation Micro 3 locking system, you can easily open and close the Antartica with just one hand. According to Mr. On Hai Swee, Managing Director of GIVI Asia, “We saw that the E43 became one of the most popular top cases among motorcyclists everywhere. They loved the large capacity and shape as it allowed them to carry almost anything in just one place. Riders of all motorcycles regardless of sizes love it.” “So, that is why the B42N Antartica has a 42-liter capacity and is boxy in shape, but of a revolutionary design and with enhanced visibility. We are confident that this product will do well, despite the current challenging situation,” added Mr. On. Kami perkenalkan buat pertama kalinya "GIVI B42N ANTARTICA MONOLOCK TOPCASE" !#GIVI #GIVIASIA #THISGIVIDNA #ANTARTICA Posted by GIVI Malaysia on Selasa, 14 Julai 2020 Want one? You can get your very own GIVI Antartica 42-litre top case from all GIVI Points and authorised dealers nationwide starting August 2020. The price is set at RM420 and all new Antartica case comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Michelin Power 5, GP, Cup 2 & Slick 2 launched in Malaysia – From RM423 --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-limited-edition-brabus-1300-r-sold-out-in-just-two-minutes/
The Limited Edition Brabus 1300 R Sold Out In Just Two Minutes!
A few days ago, German-tuning house Brabus launched the company’s first-ever motorcycle build, the Brabus 1300 R, in partnership with KTM. Brabus took the KTM 1290 Super Duke EVO and injected the firm’s DNA by upgrading every panel of the motorcycle with bespoke components.   While it may come with a hefty price, GBP34,549 (RM195k) to be exact, as it turns out, Brabus managed to sell all 154 units in less than two minutes! Don’t worry if you missed out because there is a waiting list you can sign up for if you are hoping to get a second chance at the 1300 R. The Brabus 1300 R is also clad with carbon fibre components, including the headlight shroud, tail and fuel tank. Nevertheless, the Brabus 1300 R continue to get power to the rear wheel via the same 1,301cc V-Twin engine that makes 180hp and 140Nm. Other features brought forward from the KTM include the PASC slipper clutch and PANKL transmission. Other significant changes include a black paint job, a thicker saddle with heated seat function, and fully-adjustable hand levers. Brabus also retains the same electronic package from the EVO, which includes: five riding modes throttle control traction control stabilitty control motor slip regulation anti-wheelie function quickshifter cruise control ABS and Supermoto ABS --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/updated-benelli-trk-502x-appears-in-china-with-new-aluminium-swingarm/
Updated Benelli TRK 502X appears in China with new aluminium swingarm
An updated Benelli TRK 502X surfaces in China, sporting a few changes including a new aluminium swingarm. Grainy images surfaces showing what appears to be a newly updated Benelli TRK 502X. Various minor revisions can be spotted including a new aluminium swingarm assembly. Other new on board is a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and heated grips. Considering that Italian brand Benelli is wholly owned by Chinese two-wheeled manufacturing giant Qianjiang Group, the fact that this leak stems from the Republic comes to no surprise. Say hello then to what appears to be an updated Benelli TRK 502X. These grainy photos published by Moto.it may not seem like much, but some key updates are easy enough to spot. Key amongst which here is a new – presumably – aluminium swingarm assembly. This should see some decent weight savings – reportedly up to 3.6KG – over the existing steel assembly. Other key changes reportedly include revised control surfaces that promises to feel better in quality, not forgetting a revised TFT digital dash display with a newly added tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as well. Additionally, Benelli have also equipped this updated model with new heated grips – this ought to ring well amongst riders in climates that warrant said feature. Another change reported too is the ability to prime tubeless tyres with the spoked wheels the TRK 502X variant rolls on. Apart from these, no other changes can be seen and, presumably, this applies to the liquid-cooled 500cc parallel-twin powerplant brimmed at the heart of the Benelli TRK 502X. Regarding availability, this remains to be seen but we reckon introduction will vary according to market region. Locally, the Benelli TRK 502X, as well as the brand’s entire TRK dual-sport line up, has proven to be a popular bargain choice amongst many. Much of this stems from its styling, features count which also includes ABS, as well as its sheer affordability – the TRK 502X base price current reads at RM33,888. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-to-add-a-fully-faired-xsr-900-to-its-lineup/
Yamaha To Add A Fully-Faired XSR 900 To Its Lineup
Yamaha could introduce its own retro-style fully faired motorcycle to its lineup to compete with Honda’s Hawk 11 and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR. Yamaha is developing a fully-faired retro-style motorcycle. To feature the firm’s newest 890cc CP3 engine.  Japanese publication Young Machine claimed that Yamaha is working on a new motorcycle called the XSR GP.  If you’re an avid reader, you know that we are a fan of Young Machine because they have insider information about what’s happening behind the scenes at the Japanese Big Four factory. In its latest issue, Young Machine reveals a rendered image of what the upcoming XSR GP could look like. At a glance, the XSR GP resembles the Honda Hawk 11 and MV Agusta Superveloce 800, but Yamaha could also intend to take the fight to Triumph’s Speed Triple 1200 RR. Like the XSR 900, the fully-faired GP will likely feature the same 890cc CP3 (inline-three) engine that produces around 117.3hp and 93Nm.  In addition, the XSR GP could also be a strong indicator that a fully-faired race-type YZF-R9 is in the works, as Yamaha previously patented the XSR GP and R9 nameplate earlier this year.  While we are excited about the upcoming motorcycle, sadly, it is unlikely the bike will ever make its way to Malaysia anytime soon; this is because none of the XSR range (including the XSR 155 and XSR 900) is available here.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/2013-motogp-winter-test/
2013 MotoGP Winter Test – Sepang Circuit
It’s February and that can only mean one thing – MotoGP Winter Test in Sepang! Fans of this exhilarating, gravity-defying sport will be kept at the edge of their seats as these young and handsome speed demons race their bikes on the tarmac track for the best lap time. Despite a forecast of rain on the first day of MotoGP Winter Test in Sepang International Circuit, it was only hot and humid throughout the whole day, thank goodness.This was definitely a prayer answered, for both the riders and the photographers. The testing started at 10 am with most of the teams going out to test their gears for the new season. It was definitely exciting especially with all the changes of top riders in teams for 2013. This season we see Marc Marquez replaces Casey Stoner in Repsol Honda Team, Andrea Dovizioso joins Nicky Hayden in Ducati Team, rookie Bradley Smith teams up with Cal Crutchlow for Monster Yamaha Tech 3, and emergence of several new teams, but the most talked-about news is certainly the reunion of Valentino Rossi with Yamaha Factory Racing after two somber years of poor performance with Ducati Team. I bet in those two years, if not for never-ending support from his massive fan base, Rossi would’ve been diagnosed with depression. Well now with him rejoining Yamaha, we all know that would mean one thing: last year’s champion, Jorge Lorenzo, is his teammate. So, our question is: Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi, can they really be teammates? Is this an A-Team or an internal personal competition between two world champions? On the first day, Valentino Rossi went out quite early in the morning session to work on the bike settings. His bike is still the same fluorescent yellow on dark grey test bike he used in Valencia.  As predicted, the Yamaha M1 was like an old friend who never disappoints.  One thing noticeable on the first day test was whenever Rossi went out, Lorenzo stayed inside the pit, and vice versa. What does that tell you eh? Though DaniPedrosa nailed the best lap time, intense best time competition between Lorenzo and Rossi was much anticipated and enjoyed by everyone. It wasn’t mentioned but we could feel the heat between these two ‘teammates’. The 19-year-old champion of Moto2 last year, Marc Marquez was impressive on the first day test, proving he’s qualified to replace the retired Casey Stoner in Repsol Honda Team. He finished third in an all-Spanish top threewith Repsol Honda Team’s all new bike design which emphasizes white on orange. Another worth mentioning rider is Stefan Bradl; he was consistent throughout the whole day, with elbow to curb lap action at most corners. The German looked comfortable riding the Honda machine and started strong on the first day posting the 5th fastest lap time behind Valentino Rossi. However, Ducati Team can only be happy with a 10th position by Nicky Hayden, whom quoted as saying “the departure of Valentino Rossi from Ducati will allow the team to make a ‘fresh start’ with ‘fresh ideas’ ahead of the 2013 MotoGP season”. Perhaps this is the reason why the pits of Yamaha and Ducati are at different ends of the paddock building, to keep the ‘fresh start’ from getting stale with Rossi nearby. The timesheets of the first day test was clearly telling fans that this season is going to be a fantastic one. Any rider at the top seven will have a chance of winning a race looking at the time consistency throughout the whole day. The test continues until Thursday and will continue with the second test on late February. The first race of the year will take place under the floodlights in Qatar on 7 April.     --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ducati-scrambler-1100-pro-now-available-in-malaysia-from-rm75900/
2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO now available in Malaysia – From RM75,900
Ducati Malaysia has officially announced the arrival of the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO as well as the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport PRO for the Malaysian market. The latest models from the “Land of Joy” can be yours at RM75,900 and RM80,900 respectively (excluding insurance, road tax & registration). The 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO models come with the same yet powerful 1.079cc L-Twin engine that produces around 83.5hp at 7,250rpm and 90.5Nm of torque at 4,750rpm. This is further enhanced with some electronic riding aids such as Ducati Traction Control (DTC), ABS Cornering, and three standard Riding Modes (Active, Journey and City). Some of the highlighted features of the PRO that are different from the standard Scrambler 1100 are: New double-side exhaust Updated graphics New comfort seat trim Compact rear fender Low plate number holder You can get the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO with its very beautiful two-tone “Ocean Drive” finish, but if you’re looking for something more, opt for the 1100 Sport PRO model. This beauty comes with premium Ohlins suspension package for both front and rear. It also carries a more ‘café racer’ like appeal with its low-slung handlebars and unique rear-view mirrors. Finished in Matte Black, the 1100 Sport PRO model also comes with a painted 1100 logo on the side panels to tie up the whole look together. Price starts at RM75,900 for the 1100 PRO but if you want Ohlins, the 1100 Sport PRO is available at RM80,900. Visit the Ducati Petaling Jaya showroom to view it live. Written by: Sep Irran Ducati Streetfighter V4 now open for booking – RM120k --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/where-is-the-2019-bmw-s-1000-rr/
Where is the 2019 BMW S 1000 RR?
The new 2019 BMW S 1000 RR has yet to arrive in Malaysia. The delay is due to the great demand for the M Package S 1000 RR worldwide. BMW Motorrad is currently working on clearing the supply bottleneck. Besides the just-launched new 2019 BMW R 1250 GS and GS Adventure, one has to ask where in the world is the 2019 BMW S 1000 RR? Even we at BikesRepublic.com were hoping to see it launched during the BMW Motorrad Night Fuel Kuala Lumpur lifestyle event a few weeks ago. Alas, the bike didn’t appear. So, we decided to post the question to BMW Motorrad Malaysia. Apparently, it turned out that BMW Motorrad’s factory in Munich is overloaded with orders for the “M Package.” Based on the standard S 1000 RR, the M Pakcage adds motorsport paint, carbon fibre wheels, lightweight battery, M Chassis kit which includes rear seat height and swingarm pivot adjustment, sport seat and Pro Mode. It has to be said that this is the first time BMW Motorrad is offering an M Package for their bikes. BMW cars have had the M option for a long time, in contrast. It’s due to this demand for the M Package that reduced the number of the standard S 1000 RR. This delay is worldwide and affects not Malaysia alone. In any case, you can bet that BMW Motorrad is working to clear the supply bottleneck. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-indian-scout-range-announced/
2019 Indian Scout Range Announced
Indian Motorcycles have released their 2019 Scout line-up. The updates include paint options and accessories. The Scout, Scout Sixty and Scout Bobber should retain their competitive edge with the updates. Indian Motorcycles have announced their updated best-selling Indian Scout range for 2019. First and foremost, ABS (anti-lock braking system) is available for every model apart from the black Scout Sixty, Scout and Scout Bobber. Buyers of the Thunder Black colour version may opt for ABS or non-ABS. The Scout and Scout Bobber will also feature a USB charging port, located next to the speedometer for easy access to smart devices or GPS. If already own the current version of the Scout, fret not, as Indian Motorcycles provides the USB Charging Port Kit which could be retrofitted to the 2015 to 2018 Scout or Scout Bobber and 2016 – 2019 Scout Sixty. The 100-bhp, 69 cubic inch (1130cc), liquid-cooled V-Twin will now equip the Scout in Thunder Black, Deep Water Metallic, Metallic Jade, Indian Motorcycle Red over Thunder Black, and Willow Green over Ivory Cream colour options. The 60 cubic inch (983cc), liquid-cooled V-Twin is blacked-out and will equip the Scout Sixty in Thunder Black, White Smoke, Ruby Metallic and Star Silver of Thunderblack colours. Indian Motorcycles also offers a comprehensive accessories line-up. In the Scout touring accessories side, there are bags, passenger seats, windscreens. For upgrading the Scout’s performance, there are Fox Shocks, Stage 1 slip-on exhaust and air intake. There are also accessories to customize the Scout to reflect the rider’s personality such as seats, handlebars, foot controls and so forth. The 2019 Indian Scouts will be released first in the US before making their way to the rest of the world. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-to-expand-the-r-18-range-with-a-performance-cruiser-variant/
BMW To Expand The R 18 Range With A Performance Cruiser Variant
BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane. The Swiss type approval data for the Roctane reveals that it has much in common with the existing R 18 models, but with some notable differences.  BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane. The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range. The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560 kg. Firstly, the Roctane has an internal model code of “0N61,” which suggests that it differs from the other models with a different form factor or a chassis update. Additionally, the Roctane’s name indicates that it may be a more performance-focused model. The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range. The homologation filing confirms the same engine code and peak performance numbers as the other models, with a maximum power output of 67 kW (90 hp) at 4,750 rpm, and 116 lb-ft. (157 Nm) at 3,000 rpm.  The filing also confirms that the Roctane has the same silencer code as the Classic, B, and Transcontinental models, indicating that it will have the same straight pipes instead of the bulbous fishtail exhaust on the regular R 18. The Roctane’s wheel sizes (including accessory options) are the same as the other R 18 models. The type approval data makes no mention of suspension, and the braking data only confirms dual front brakes and ABS. However, if the Roctane is indeed a more performance-oriented cruiser, we can expect the suspension and braking to be different from the rest of the R 18 family. The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560kg, which suggests that it will not have luggage. This weight is the same as the R 18 and R 18 Classic models, while the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental models have a higher GVWR of 630kg due to their non-removable cases. The Roctane’s release date and pricing have not been announced yet. However, with BMW’s reputation for quality and performance, the R 18 Roctane is expected to be a popular addition to the R 18 range. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fim-and-dorna-allegedly-misappropriated-the-minigp-trademark/
FIM And Dorna Allegedly Misappropriated The MiniGP Trademark
The 2021 FIM MiniGP World Series was a success, with Spain’s Izan Rodriguez Alvarez emerging as the world champion at the final MotoGP round in Valencia. The championship is a part of an effort to grow future MotoGP riders and a race endorsed by FIM and MotoGP organizing body, Dorna Sports. Unfortunately, it might seem that someone else has already held the MiniGP trademark since 2008. Ryan Fleming founded the NJminiGP race organization back in 2008, proving that he holds the right to the MiniGP name. “We have spent over a decade working to build a program that this sport is in dire need of,” Fleming explained. “We have worked to create a sustainable instructional and developmental program that supplies top talent for the highest level of motorcycle racing. “We have franchised this product up and down the East Coast successfully. Our name is everything that we are. We can’t lose our name.  “It’s who we are,” he said. Moreover, the MotoAmerica Mini Cup series also goes by FIM MiniGP North America Championship; hence Fleming believed that Dorna is infringing the MiniGP name that belongs to him. According to Fleming, he argues that the confusion could negatively impact his business despite the FIM-sanctioned race requiring Ohvale race bike while his NJminiGP rules include various bikes and models. Despite the huge claims by Fleming, Dorna has yet to respond to the matter. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/arai-to-release-new-rx-7x-maverick-vinales-replica-helmet-in-september/
Arai To Release New RX-7X Maverick Vinales Replica Helmet In September
he excitement is building among Maverick Viñales’ fans as the highly anticipated RX-7X Maverick GP5 helmet from Arai is set to hit the market in early September 2023.  This race-ready lid, adorned with the Spanish Aprilia Racing Team rider’s name and graphics. Arai has a long-standing history of producing top-quality racing helmets, and the RX-7X has garnered immense popularity both on and off the track. With Snell and JIS ratings, the RX-7X has earned the trust of riders worldwide for its exceptional safety standards. Additionally, certain models, like the RX-7V Evo, have received FIM homologation and ECE 22.06 approval, further solidifying Arai’s commitment to providing helmets that meet the highest safety standards. Priced at JPY72,600 (RM2.3k), this graphic-rich helmet features a design approved and used by Maverick Viñales himself during his races, with the exception of a larger spoiler at the back. The helmet boasts a sophisticated ventilation system with three massive vents on the top, brow vents, a chin vent, and multiple extractors at the rear, ensuring optimal airflow and rider comfort. The aerofin design reduces rear turbulence, enhancing aerodynamics for an improved racing experience.     Inside the RX-7X, riders will find Arai’s Eco Pure interior, which not only keeps the helmet fresh but also inhibits bacterial growth. The helmet is also equipped with intercom compatibility, catering to the communication needs of professional riders. Maverick Viñales enthusiasts and motorcycle racing aficionados alike are eagerly awaiting the helmet’s release, eager to get their hands on this iconic piece of safety gear.  --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/how-its-made-bmw-s-1000-rr-video/
How It’s Made: BMW S 1000 RR + VIDEO!
Ever wondered what it takes to build one of the most popular superbikes in the world? We’re referring to BMW Motorrad’s BMW S 1000 RR and we’ve always wondered how its factory keeps churning out these beautiful machines on a regular basis. If you’ve ever wondered about the processes, we’ve got the solution for you. Image credit: WorldSBK There’s a free documentary that you guys can watch on YouTube posted by Free Documentary. The 50-minute video showcases the BMW plant in Berlin where they are able to assemble a complete BMW S 1000 RR in just two hours. The process of manufacturing each part, however, is a completely different yet exciting story. The factory is by far the biggest one in the world, covering an area that can fit 30 football fields. Being the only motorcycle factory in the country, they have to accommodate with building and manufacturing all of the bike’s 4,500 parts. According to one of the engineers in the video, “This is Champion’s League stuff.” Yeah, we know it’s not the latest 2019 model but watching the assembly process of the previous-gen S 1000 RR is still very interesting with ‘Formula 1 precision’. Over 2,000 staff members of the factory are able to build and assemble around 800 BMW Motorrad bikes and scooters every single day, which is roughly one bike every 65 seconds (according to their working hours). Anyway, enjoy the documentary and hopefully, you’ll be inspired to get one of your very own. We’ve had the opportunity to test many BMW Motorrad bikes this year. For those who are interested, below is our complete review on the previous generation BMW S 1000 RR. Enjoy! 2018 BMW S 1000 RR test & review – “German Masterpiece” --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-riding-tips-from-ten-pro-riders-part-2/
Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders (Part 2)
Kevin Schwantz - courtesy of bikes.suzuki.co.uk Here are the next five riding tips from pro riders. Pro riders started out riding using the same techniques as all riders. Those basic techniques were then honed to fit the type of bike they ride. Continuing from Part 1, here’s the conclusion to our feature Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders. As we wrote in the previous edition, motorcycle racing pros may have different riding styles but be aware that their riding techniques were honed from the same basics of motorcycle riding. Ten Riding Tips from Ten Pro Riders (Part 1) For example, Marc Marquez’s elbow dragging style was developed when he rode in Moto2. Jorge Lorenzo’s high mid-corner speed style was brought over from 250cc GP. So here are the basics. We hope all of us (including us) could apply these lessons. 6. John Kocinski – “Scrub your tyres” John Kocinski – courtesy of www.greatprints.co.uk Pushing hard on new or cold tyres is, but John-Boy worked around them when he was racing in US before heading to the World 250cc GP. He’d show up on the grid on shiny, unscrubbed slicks then push the front a couple of times during the warm up lap. Kocinski would slide his tyres at will due dirt training taught by his mentor, Kenny Roberts Sr. Always break in your new tyres and warm them up before you banzai through the very first corner you see. 7. Kevin Schwantz – “Look where you’re going” Kevin Schwantz – courtesy of bikes.suzuki.co.uk This may sound like a superfluous advice from one of the most popular GP riders, but let’s admit it: We will still stare at the outside of corner when we panic or the tyres slide unexpectedly. The motorcycle goes where we’re looking, and we should keep looking towards where we want it to go, even when we feel it’s out of control. This technique is taught at every advanced riding school for a reason. 8. Keith Code – “Keep a wide view” Keith Code Speaking of “views,” Keith Code is the founder of the California Superbike School and his books, A Twist of the Wrist and A Twist of the Wrist Vol. II are considered the “bible” of how to ride a motorcycle around corners. His protégés included GP greats such as Wayne Rainey, Doug Chandler, among many others. In summing up all the lessons he taught, he wrote, “All the best riding skills you have is only as good as your visual skills.” Apart from looking towards where you want to go, we should also keep a wide view of the road ahead. “Keeping a wide view” means utilizing your peripheral vision to resist your view from tunneling down. As the name implies, “tunnel vision” is like staring down a toilet paper tube as your senses eliminate everything else to a narrow field of view of only what’s directly in front, usually at high speeds. Yes, it’s thrilling because it’s like the view you get when the Millennium Falcon goes to light speed, but it’s downright dangerous on the road and track. Tunnel vision fools us into thinking that we’re travelling much faster than we actually are and that “fake speed” will overwhelm us when we approach a corner or a hazard. On the track, we’d end up braking too hard, too soon and losing speed and consequently time. However, on the roads, coupled with target fixation, we could even think we’ve run out of brakes or road hence running wide or smashing into the hazard. Conversely, keeping a wide field of vision “slows” things down, giving us a better sense of our surroundings, effectively opening up space around ourselves. On the road, it’s one of the most important safety techniques as we could anticipate other vehicles or hazards that are starting to encroach into our path. 9. Doug Chandler – “Don’t do anything” Doug Chandler – todayinmotorcyclehistory.blogspot.com We understand the feeling. We’re sweeping through a beautiful set of corners and the suddenly, the rear tyre kicks out under us. Our instinct instantaneously shuts off the throttle and the rear end let go completely. There were times when the bike almost high-sided us. Shutting the throttle abruptly when a tyre slides is against motorcycle dynamics and will cause a crash, more often than not. Learn from the pros: A sliding tyre isn’t the end of your riding. As mentioned earlier, Doug Chandler came up through the American National Dirt-Track and supermoto championships before heading over to Superbikes and the world 500cc GP, so sliding around is second nature to him. So, what should we do when our tyres slide? Nothing, according to Chandler. We just need to stop adding throttle, keep looking through the corner and maintain a relaxed body. Think of a sliding tyre as looking for a stable position because it will hook back up naturally. A sliding tyre will also slow down. Fighting the slide only exacerbates it as we are preventing it from carrying out its duty. Of course, this takes some nerve, but nerves can be polished out by training. Controlling your instincts and slides are taught at Most Fun Gym. 10. “Use both brakes” – Dario Marchetti Dario Marchetti You may not have heard of his name, but Dario Marchetti is the Technical Director and Chief Instructor of the Ducati Riding Experience (DRE) Racetrack Academy. Having raced in 250 GP, 500 GP, Superbikes, Endurance besides winning at the Battle of the Twins on a Ducati at Daytona in 2004, 2006 and 2007. He and his panel of DRE instructors include racing greats such as Carlos Checa, Manuel Poggiali and other regional champions. Among many advices that he provides during the recent Ducati Panigale V-4 test ride at the Sepang International Circuit, he expounded explicitly on using both brakes. Using the rear brake together with front stabilizes the rear especially under hard braking. It’s a boon especially when the road condition is iffy or wet. 2018 Ducati Panigale V4S Test & Review He also said, “If we don’t need to use rear brakes, Ducati don’t need to install one.” He’s correct, because Ducati MotoGP riders Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso use thumb activated rear brakes on their Desmosedicis. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-malaysia-ushers-in-merdeka-celebrations-with-a-special-offer/
Ducati Malaysia Ushers In Merdeka Celebrations With A Special Offer
As Malaysia gets ready to embrace the spirit of Merdeka and Malaysia Day, Ducati Malaysia is ensuring that bike aficionados across the country have an extra reason to celebrate. Ducati Malaysia latest campaign, “Massive Deals for Merdeka”, is offering prospective and current Ducati enthusiasts unbeatable deals on a range of world-class motorcycles and premium gear. If you’ve ever dreamt of feeling the rush of owning a Ducati, now might be the best time to make that dream a reality. Prospective buyers can benefit from generous cash rebates, going up to RM8,000, on certain models. This enticing offer, which lasts until 30th September 2023, caters not just to seasoned riders but also to those newly smitten by the Ducati charm. This move is set to make the joy of possessing Italian elegance and power in a motorcycle more accessible. For those still contemplating, Ducati Malaysia is offering a unique chance to take their elite bikes for a spin. As part of their Merdeka campaign, dedicated test rides have been arranged for aspirants. The experience isn’t just about the ride; it’s about understanding the lifestyle, the passion, and the sheer pleasure of being atop a globally renowned bike. And what better period than the Merdeka festivities to hop on and feel the magic for yourself? But Ducati doesn’t stop at just motorcycles. Reflecting their tradition of unmatched quality, they have also unveiled attractive promotions on Ducati merchandise. Buyers can avail up to 35% off on select official Ducati apparel, merchandise, as well as services and spare parts. Whether it’s the high-performance riding gear or the everyday lifestyle wear, Ducati ensures that fans can wear their pride, echoing the brand’s heritage of unmatched excellence. To dive deeper into the “Massive Deals for Merdeka”, or to explore what Ducati has on offer, bike enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the official Ducati Malaysia website or drop by their nationwide dealerships including locations such as Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Sungai Buloh, and Penang. --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-kawasaki-zx-10rr-unveiled-aint-broke-dont-fix/
2018 Kawasaki ZX-10RR unveiled – “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”
Kawasaki has just launched their latest 2018 Kawasaki ZX-10RR which comprises of mainly two colour changes to the components. The 2018 ZX-10RR still carries its race-ready 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four, DOHC engine which has been slightly refined for better performance and reliability. The latest generation ZX-10RR has been priced from £16,249 (around RM90,959) in the UK market. Kawasaki has just revealed the latest generation superbike that is the 2018 Kawasaki ZX-10RR. Highly regarded as one of the best superbikes around and proven at the hands of the 2017 WorldSBK World Champion Jonathan Rea of Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT), the latest evolution comprises of mainly ‘two colour changes to the components’. Based on the photos of the new ZX-10RR, these two colour changes are to its front fork reservoir canisters (which has been changed from red to silver) and fork top cap (from red to green). With such an impressive package and sheer dominance in this year’s WorldSBK season, Team Green is going ahead with the saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” So far in the ongoing WorldSBK season, the current 2017 Kawasaki ZX-10RR piloted by KRT riders Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes have collected 13 race wins in the past 11 rounds (22 races) and a total of 35 podium finishes. Now those are some impressive numbers right there. According to Kawasaki Motors Europe Director Morihiro Ikoma, he commented “In the hands of our KRT riders, Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes, the Ninja ZX-10RR has achieved Superpole wins, fastest laps, race wins and, ultimately, the 2017 World SBK title in its first year of production. For motorcycle racing teams, track day enthusiasts and committed road riders, the 2018 Ninja ZX-10RR represents a great performance package and perfect base for racing success.” The 2018 ZX-10RR still carries its race-ready 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four, DOHC engine which has been slightly refined for better performance and reliability when it comes to tearing up the circuits at incredible pace. In total, the latest Kawasaki crotch rocket produces a whopping 207hp at 13,000rpm (with RAM air) and 113.5Nm max torque upon hitting 11,500rpm. 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 and more. MUCH MORE. Currently, the 2018 Kawasaki ZX-10RR has been priced from £16,249 (around RM90,959) in the UK but if it’s made available here in Malaysia, we won’t be surprised if it breaks the RM100,000 mark. Available only in the Ebony colour option for now. To know more about the 2018 Kawasaki ZX-10RR, CLICK HERE. Source: Kawasaki --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-mt-10-tracer-ruled-out/
Yamaha MT-10 ‘Tracer’ ruled out
No plans for ‘Tracer’ touring version of the Yamaha MT-10 streetfighter. For those of you hoping for a ‘Tracer’ touring version of the new Yamaha MT-10 streetfighter will be disappointed. A reliable source reports that the Japanese manufacturer ruled out any plans of producing a touring version of the new streetfighter that’s based on the Yamaha YZF-R1S. Perhaps the final nail in the coffin to that is the fact that when the Yamaha MT-10 was released in Europe recently, part of its optional accessories packages included a touring pack for added practicality. The pack adds a taller Tracer-like windscreen plus luggages, which should complement the MT-10’s standard-equipped electronic cruise control feature. Yamaha MT-09 Tracer preview by HLYM. Rumours of a MT-10 Tracer version began cropping up as soon as the bike debuted, much of which being fuelled by the successes of the smaller Yamaha MT-09 Tracer model that is based on the MT-09 tri-cylinder naked. As a refresher, the Yamaha MT-10 was officially released into the European and UK market recently. Official specifications see the R1-derived 999cc crossplane in-line four-cylinder outputting 158hp and 110.9Nm of peak torque in the Yamaha MT-10 streetfighter. You can read up more about the MT-10 from our initial launch report here and the recent European market launch report here. Source: MCN --Ads--
https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/elly-storms-to-victory-in-batu-kawan-thriller/
ELLY STORMS TO VICTORY IN BATU KAWAN THRILLER
Elly Idzlianizar Ilias proved he is a serious threat to the CP130 title as the seasoned contender scored an emphatic win in Round 2 of the PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship at Stadium Batu Kawan, Penang on Sunday. Elly who returned to the premiere class after spending a year in the intermediate CP115 started from second row after the SuperPole was called off due to an oil spill took victory in 16’17.765s ahead of Harian Metro Y-TEQ SCK Honda Racing teammate, Mohd Zamri Baba by 3.589 seconds. Abdul Muhaimin Roslan (PETRONAS Yamaha Maju Motor) denied SCK from conquering the podium steps as he overtook SCK rookie, Hafiz Nor Azman in the final lap to finish third with 16’22.058s. SCK was hoping to make a clean podium sweep when all four riders, Norizman Ismail, Zamri, Elly and Hafiz dominated the first four laps but their plan fell apart when race leader, Norizman pitted in due to a broken exhaust. “Winning here in Batu Kawan came as a huge surprise. I still have a hard time believing it because to be perfectly honest, I did not expect to win here,” said an overjoyed Elly. “But at the same time I feel bad that we failed to secure the top four positions. Our strategy was to dominate from start to finish and not to let anyone through but things went South when Norizman had to pit in. Nevertheless, I am pleased with the results and I’m glad to see at least one of my teammates is here with me on the podium today.” “I dedicate this win to the team who has worked endlessly to provide me with a perfect setup, my family and fans for their undying support,” he added. Hauling 25 points from this leg, Elly moves up to second overall in the CP130 standings while Zamri leads with 40 points. Ahmad Fazli Sham who finished 13th sits in third, 28 points. Meanwhile Tengku Amirul Haffiruddin chalked his season’s first back-to-back win as he dominated the CP115 race from start to finish. The Motul Yamaha YY Pang rider capitalized on pole position to steal an early lead while teammate and reigning champion, Mohd Izzat Zaidi Salehan held back the rest of the field. Helping the Terengganu born rider escape with ease was the first lap pile up caused by Iqbal Amri Abdul Malek (Felda PB Racing) that took out Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin (PETRONAS Yamaha Maju Motor) and Izrul Huzaimie Amran (PETRONAS Yamaha CKJ). Tengku Amirul came out on top against Ahmad Syukran Aizat (PETRONAS Yamaha CKJ) in 13’53.509s while the latter crossed the finish line 12.207 seconds later with 14’05.716s. Iskandar Raduan (M Seki Liberty Honda) who last year competed in the CP130 took third place in 14’07.092s. Tengku who finished third overall last year now leads the CP115 standings with 50 points followed by Izzat and Ahmad Syukran with 29 points and 26 points respectively. Lastly Harith Farhan Baharin secured his maiden victory for the season in the WIRA category at Batu Kawan. Earmarked to be the successor of Khairul Idham Pawi at the Kozi Yam Honda camp, Harith wrapped up the 12-lap race in 11’15.525s with a massive 12 seconds lead over his rivals. Temerloh winner, Saiful Izman Ahmad Zamani (Felda AFB Tech Cardinals Racing) came in second with 11’27.581s after struggling with mechanical issues while Khairul Ikhwan Ajis (Espada Wiliam Racing) rounded up the podium steps in 11’34.019s. Picking up 25 points from this leg, Harith is now locked in a tie with Saiful Izman on top of the WIRA standings with 45 points followed by Khairul Ihkwan third with 27 points. Round Three of the 2015 PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship will be held in Muar, Johor on May 1 and 2. Results CP130 Race 1.Elly Idzlianizar Ilias (Honda) 16’17.765s 2.Zamri Baba (Honda) 16’21.354s 3.Abdul Muhaimin Roslan (Yamaha) 16’22.058s 4.Hafiz Nor Azman (Honda) 16’22.708s 5.Fitri Ashraf Razali (Yamaha) 16’29.594s Overall Standings 1.Zamri Baba (Honda) 40 points 2.Elly Idzlianizar Ilias (Honda) 38 points 3.Ahmad Fazli Sham (Yamaha) 28 points 4.Abdul Muhaimin Roslan (Yamaha) 25 points 5.Hafiz Nor Azman (Honda) 23 points Team Awards 1.Harian Metro Y-TEQ SCK Honda Racing 69 points 2.PETRONAS Yamaha Maju Motor 60 points 3.Motul Yamaha YY Pang 30 points 4.PETRONAS Yamaha CKJ 23 points 5.Yamalube AHM 20 points CP115 Race 1.Tengku Amirul Haffiruddin (Yamaha) 13’53.509s 2.Ahmad Syukran Aizat (Yamaha) 14’05.716s 3.Iskandar Raduan (Honda) 14’07.092s 4.Izzat Zaidi Salehan (Yamaha) 14’07.228s 5.Sharifuddin Shamsuddin (Yamaha) 14’15.075s Overall Standings 1.Tengku Amirul Haffiruddin (Yamaha) 50 points 2.Izzat Zaidi Salehan (Yamaha) 29 points 3.Ahmad Syukran Aizat (Yamaha) 26 points 4.Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin (Yamaha) 20 points 5.Iskandar Raduan (Honda) 16 points Team Awards 1.Motul Yamaha YY Pang 79 points 2.PETRONAS Yamaha CKJ 37 points 3.M Seki Liberty Honda 24 points 4.Jetron Apido Team PJM 22 points 5.PETRONAS Yamaha Maju Motor 20 points WIRA Race 1.Harith Farhan Baharin (Honda) 11’15.525s 2.Saiful Izman Ahmad Zamani (Yamaha) 11’27.581s 3.Khairul Ikhwan Ajis (Yamaha) 11’34.019s 4.Qhuwarismi Mohd Nasir (Yamaha) 11’37.990s 5.Shafiq Ezzariq (Honda) 11’38.011s Overall Standings 1.Harith Farhan Baharin (Honda) 45 points 2.Saiful Izman Ahmad Zamani (Yamaha) 45 points 3.Khairul Ikhwan Ajis (Yamaha) 27 points 4.Shafiq Ezzariq (Honda) 18 points 5.Nazirul Izzat Bahauddin (Yamaha) 16 points --Ads--