Datasets:

wanadzhar913

/

crawl-bikesrepublic

like 0

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-2020-best-season-yet-for-red-bull-ktm/

MotoGP 2020 – best season yet for Red Bull KTM

The MotoGP 2020 season presented a lot of challenges where a lot of teams and riders rise up to the occasion, especially the Red Bull KTM squads. With four riders piloting the highly-upgraded KTM RC16, 2020 was seen as the best season so for the Austrian manufacturer. In total, they’ve managed to collect three race victories thanks to Brad Binder and Miguel Oliveira. Pol Espargaro also contributed to another five podium finishes whereas Iker Lecuona showed amazing pace as the developing rookie. Brad Binder became the first rider to win a race in all three classes using KTM machinery whereas Miguel Oliveira scored two amazing wins (also scored the second ‘KTM clean sweep’), an amazing feat which the Tech3 squad has been waiting for years. His second victory was even sweeter as it was done on home turf at the Algarve International Circuit in Portugal. It has been a challenging MotoGP season so far, but KTM proved that whatever they’ve been doing works, and they’ll continue to improve for the 2021 season. After 14 rounds, they’ve recorded the following. 3 wins (1: Binder & 2: Oliveira) 8 podiums (1: Binder, 5: Espargaro, 2: Oliveira) 3 Pole Positions (2: Espargaro, 1: Oliveira) 4 Fastest laps (2: Binder, 1: Espargaro, 1: Oliveira) 27 top ten finishes (5: Binder, 10: Espargaro, 3: Lecuona, 9: Oliveira) 5th in Riders Championship: Espargaro (highest yet for KTM) 4th in Constructors Championship (from 6, highest yet) 3rd in Teams Championship: Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 7th in Teams Championship: Red Bull KTM Tech3 Rookie of the Year: Brad Binder, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Average points per round comparison won by KTM: 2019 = 9.26, 2020 = 26.71 (increase of 188.4%) The Red Bull KTM squads is looking to break new goals in the 2021 season, but it won’t be easy as other manufacturers are also working hard to achieve the same thing – be the very best. After 2020, you can’t leave KTM out of that conversation anymore. Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/arrc-2017-taiga-hada-wins-race-2-azlan-shah-second/

ARRC 2017: Taiga Hada Wins Race 2, Azlan Shah Second

Taiga Hada - RAMA Honda by NTS T.Pro Ten 10 (Image source: ARRC) Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) latest 600cc race saw Taiga Hada impressing everyone yesterday with a Race 2 win after a podium finish in Race 1 Azlan Shah improved performance and decision paid off in Race 2 finishing in second Race 1 winner, Zaqhwan Zaidi crashed out in the second lap of Race 2 Taiga Hada chasing Zaqhwan Zaidi (Image source: ARRC) It was a rookie who stole the limelight in Race 2 of the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) 2017. After finishing on podium in Race 1, Taiga Hada from the RAMA Honda by NTS T.Pro Ten 10 squad rode brilliantly to the finish line in the 16-lap race. Check out the race highlights below. Rd1 Malaysia – SS600 Race 2 Highlights [REPLAY] What a way for ??Tiger Hadataiga ? to pick up his FIRST SS600 win ?SuperSports 600cc Race 2 Highlights – Rd1 MalaysiaRAMA Honda Racing – by NTS T.ProTen10#asiapower Posted by Asia Road Racing Championship on 2hb April 2017 The 18 year old and his Honda CBR600RR crossed the finish line with a 5.089 seconds’ gap in front of runner-up, Azlan Shah from the Manual Tech Kawasaki Racing team. He kept his cool and his lead to clinch the first 600cc win of his career with a time of 24’51.787s. “My rear tyre was a bit slippy throughout the race, but apart from that, I have no other complaints. It was a thoroughly enjoyable race,” said Hada. Azlan Shah – Manual Tech Kawasaki Racing After a wrong tire choice yesterday made by Azlan Shah, the 33 year old rider from Selangor managed to recover brilliantly in Race 2 with a race finish in second place. After having fought brilliantly with the other riders on board his Kawasaki ZX-6R, Azlan Shah ended the battle in front of another 18 year old rider hailing from Indonesia, Irfan Ardianshah. Image source – Astra Honda Racing Team The Supersports 600cc category witnessed another rookie on podium thanks to Irfan Ardianshah from the Astra Honda Racing Team. What seemed impossible for the young rider starting in P12, the Indonesian rider quickly recovered precious positions throughout the 16 laps around the Johor Circuit. Irfan finished the second race on podium but due to the many battles with other riders, he crossed the finish line 13.141 seconds behind the race winner. Round 2 of the 2017 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship will take place at the Chang International Circuit on April 14 and 5, 2017. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more ARRC updates. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/death-of-mohd-hafiz-nor-azman-a-wake-up-call/

Death of Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman a Wake-Up Call?

Condolences to Mohd Hafiz Nor Azman's family. Picture from Malaysian Cub Prix Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman passed away after crashing at the Cub Prix final race over the weekend. The organizers promised a thorough investigation. The tragedy was the second in the space of 18 months. “What about runoff areas? See that food truck over there?” The unfortunately incident and passing of Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman at a motorcycle race ought to serve as a wake-up call. This was the second death of a Cub Prix rider in 18 months. Two-time National Champion Norizman Ismail passed away at Kemaman, Terengganu in May last year when he slid into an air fence followed by his bike. What happened Hafiz paid the ultimate price at the final round of the Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix 2018 Championship, held at Dataran Bandar Penawar in Johor on Sunday. He had been competing in the CP150 race. Heading into a chicane, a rider in front of Hafiz had contacted a board at the side of the track, sending him to the ground. Hafiz ran over the rider and crashed heavily himself. According to NST’s report, he was unconscious and passed away at Hospital Bukit Tinggi. The aftermath The disaster sent shockwaves throughout all walks of life in Malaysia. Condolences poured in for Hafiz’s family. His team’s main sponsor, Petronas issued a press statement, announcing their sadness for the rider’s team. However, shock gave in to dismay and people started to speculate about what happened in the same breath. What had caused the young rider’s demise has yet been determined, but there are already many Horatio Canes in Facebook. Here’s when fingers start pointing in every direction. However, the paramount issue here is about safety. Hafiz’s grieving father queried, “Was the track safe or not? I felt the track was a little lacking in safety.” Past champion and national rider, Wazi Abdul Hamid shared his views at the funeral. Opinion We are not criticizing the organizers for they have done the best they could. The air fences have certainly reduced rider injuries by a wide margin since their introduction many years back. On the other hand, the best needs to evolve to stay the best. 150cc cubs are already super-fast these days in stock form. We tested the Yamaha Y15ZR when it debuted in 2015 and it hit almost a 150 km/h top speed. Just imagine how much faster they are in race trim. Having a fast bike where there’s lots of space isn’t much of a problem, but Cub Prix races are usually held on open air car parks. Car parks have high concrete curbs, typical deplorable surfaces and tight confines when converted into a racetrack. What about runoff areas? See that food truck over there? Solution? Is widening the track a better solution? That would seem good idea at first glance, but it would only create higher corner speeds. Faster crashes are not pleasant. The obvious choice is to hold the races at purpose-built facilities. Yes, there aren’t many in Malaysia apart from the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). On the other hand, there are many go-kart tracks scattered throughout the country. Problem is, these go-kart tracks are situated in hard-to-reach areas. Conversely, large numbers of spectators present another challenge as some go-kart tracks usually lack exciting views. Currently, Cub Prix spectators stand behind fencing that’s right up next to the track. But whatever is decided, it better be decided on by next year’s first practice. We Malaysians have an annoying obsession with the status quo until tragedy strikes. But what’s worse is that we start pointing fingers again. Like the bereaved father said, “I hope the relevant parties will look into the incident and prevent another tragedy.” Twice is once too many times. A third fatality, if due to lack of improvements to track safety is criminal. Bikes Republic and our sister site MotoMalaya would like to extend our condolences to Mohd. Hafiz’s family. Al-fatihah. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-shop-that-has-it-all-sheng-fatt-motor-of-penang/

The Shop That Has It All – Sheng Fatt Motor of Penang

It is said that variety is the spice of life, and no where can it further from the truth (other than the obvious) than when shopping for motorcycle accessories and gear. No one likes to travel to some place only to be offered limited options. Ever walked into a helmet shop and walk out disappointed because they only offered a single brand and helmet type? It’s quite frustrating. So then, let us tell you about a shop that is rumoured to be the most well stocked motorcycle shop in northern Malaysia. It’s called Sheng Fatt Motor and it is located just a stone throw’s away from Komtar, on Penang Island. It is so close you could almost have a regular conversation with someone standing on the Komtar side of the street. So to debunk the myth, we decided to visit it ourselves. Admittedly, we had visited it some years ago when it was first starting out. It was a very different story back then, but a colourful story right now. The shop, which also houses the Ducati Penang showroom and official merchandise area, also displays Aprilia and Moto Guzzi models. That’s because Sheng Fatt Motor is the official dealer for Ducati, Aprilia and Moto Guzzi in northern Malaysia. In fact, the company is also the company behind Harley-Davidson of Penang, which is located in Juru but is an entirely different story altogether. That’s context for you. So we will say it here – it is true that Sheng Fatt Motor of Penang Island is very well stocked. They offer 12 different brands and all of them original items. No pirated crap here. The shop is the official outlet for Alpinestars merchandise and as such offers quite an impressive range of Alpinestars gear such as shoes, tshirts, riding suits, gloves, jackets and adventure gear. They also offer GIVI merchandise, KYT helmets, Ixon riding gear, Five gloves, and even Quad Lock phone mounts and accessories. Besides a vast array of helmets from Arai, ARC and HJC, Sheng Fatt Motor is also the only shop in northern Malaysia that is able to offer a customised fitting for Shoei helmets. We learned that for a limited time, you can enjoy a customised fitting of any Shoei helmet that you purchase from Sheng Fatt Motor. Why bother? Because there is nothing more comfortable than a helmet that perfectly hugs your head with zero pressure points. You should try it. But besides that, the shop also prides itself in the fact that it is one of the only (or perhaps the only) shop in Penang that can “service” your helmet for you. So this is how it works – you can send your helmet of whichever brand to Sheng Fatt Motor, they will then carefully take apart whatever it meant to be taken apart, wash it properly, dry it, and put it back in place properly. And you have to admit that our helmets could do with a proper in and out wash. So why not let the pros handle that. Sheng Fatt Motor is fast becoming the place to hang out and shop in Penang, not just for its product diversity but also because it has something for every type of biker no matter what bike they ride. Want something today and pay for it later? Done. There is an easy payment program for every single item for sale in the showroom. Talk about convenience. And if you can’t get to Penang, Sheng Fatt can come to you. The company has an active social media and e-commerce team so you can check out their Facebook page here, and their Shoppee page as well as their Lazada page. Looking for that GIVI rain jacket or looking for that custom Shoei? Or perhaps you want that latest Scandinavian riding bag from Point 65 that is well known for giving you perfect lumbar support and spine protection. Give them a visit or call the team at Sheng Fatt Motor at 019 662 8932 or 04 227 8932. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ian-hutchinson-releases-limited-edition-isle-man-tt-arai-replica-helmets/

Ian Hutchinson releases limited edition Isle of Man TT Arai replica helmets

2017 British Superbike Championship, BSB R02, Brands Hatch Indy, Kent, UK. 15th April 2017. Ian Hutchinson, Bingley, Tyco BMW Motorrad 16-time Isle of Man TT winner Ian Hutchinson has introduced his very own limited edition Isle of Man TT Arai replica helmets. A total of 50 Arai RX7V helmets will be released to celebrate Hutchinson’s 16 wins which will come in five different hand-painted colours together with all the sponsor stickers. Each limited edition Arai helmet is priced at £1199 (around RM6,755) and those interested will need to place a £200 (RM1,126) at www.5timesiomtt.com. In celebration of winning his 16th Tourist Trophy victory at the infamous mountain course that is Isle of Man, Ian Hutchinson aka “The Bingley Bullet” has released a series of very special and limited Arai replica helmets. 50 hand-painted Arai RX7V helmets which come in five different colours have been manufactured to symbolize all the colours the 38 year old Brit has worn over the years competing at the Isle of Man TT races. All five colours (blue, red, green, orange and yellow) have been hand-painted and numbered by Paint Nation. To make them even more special apart from the limited 50 piece run, each and every helmet will be signed by Ian Hutchinson himself and if you’re lucky, the Bingley Bullet will hand over the helmet to you himself to further add his personal touch to these already awesome lids. Ian Hutchinson is known as one of the most successful Isle of Man TT races who ever lived. Currently sitting at fourth of the list of overall wins on the Island Course, Hutchinson is the only rider in existence who won all the solo races back in 2010 where he achieved the impossible; winning all five solo races. Each limited edition Arai RX7V helmet is priced at £1,199 (around RM6,755 after direct conversion). If you’re interested, head over to www.5timesiomtt.com and place a £200 (RM1,126) non-refundable deposit. Remember, there are only 50 pieces so better hurry! Source: MCN --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/more-intrigues-as-demak-dnc-asiatic-goes-into-receivership/

More Intrigues as Demak (DNC Asiatic) Goes into Receivership

Demak (DNC Asiatic) has gone into receivership as Maybank attempts to recoup the monies owed to them. It is now learned that two directors and the general manager of the Banting plant could not be located. Demak had been profitable for the last five years, despite some liabilities. We reported in May this year that the DNC Asiatic, the manufacturer and distributor of Demak motorcycles had shut its factory and service centres, including the MV Agusta showroom and workshop. However, no one could put a finger on why the company tanked so quickly after showing so much promise, especially after opening their new office building and factory in Banting, Selangor. The lack of a definitive answer meant speculations started flying. Now there seems to be a revelation of what happened. The Edge had recently reported that the company has gone into receivership as DNC Asiatic Holdings Sdn. Bhd. as Maybank seeks to recoup the monies owed to them. The Edge discovered that work halted at both the Banting and Kuching plants two months ago, following the disappearance of two DNC Asiatic directors and general manager six months ago. The business paper also performed a check with the Companies Commision of Malaysia (Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia or SSM), the shareholders are Gao Rong (70%), Dato’ Seri Feona Sim @ Norjanah. The directors are Gao, Sim, Sharifah Nong Jasima Syed Junaidi and Hu Ying. Lim Boo Hing is the company’s secretary as well as General Manager at the Banting plant. Both Gao and Hu are Chinese nationals who have since become Malaysian citizens. According to The Edge’s sources, Gao, Hu and Lim could not be located. Dato’ Seri Feona Sim the spouse of former Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. Sharifah, on the hand, is the couple’s daughter. Contrary to popular belief, the SSM revealed that DNC Asiatic had been profitable for the last five years. In fact, revenues had more than doubled to RM 195.59 million in the financial year ended 31st December 2016, compared to RM 92.57 million in FY 2012. Accordingly, net profit rose to RM 10.73 million in FY 2016 as opposed to RM 8.17 million in FY 2012. From that, DNC Asiatic’s accumulated profit was RM 73.38 million in FY 2016 with total liabilities of RM 129.33 million. Also, according to SSM, the company may owe Maybank as much as RM 54 million, besides other debts to Kuwait Finance House and Bank Islam. However, DNC Asiatic announced that they had entered the Cambodian market and would be shipping 25,000 motorcycles and parts worth US$ 56 million by the second quarter of this year. This is on top of the motorcycles being exported to Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Executive Hu quoted that they had started to shift their focus towards the export market, with half of the annual 60,000 units produced at Banting being exported. Production capacity at the Kuching plant was also reported to be at 60,000 per year. Additionally, DNC Asiatic had been building a plant in Colombo, Sri Lanka, as we have reported. That was the report be obtained but again, we could only speculated about the missing directors and general manager. However, we now know that production had stopped after their disappearance. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-1299-panigale-s-anniversario-debuts/

Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario debuts

Limited edition Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario unveiled as 90th anniversary special. As previously reported, Ducati had two models debuting to commemorate its landmark 90th anniversary during last weekend’s World Ducati Week 2016 (WDW 2016). Meet the new and limited edition Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario. Dubbed as the most advanced version of the Ducati 1299 Panigale to date, the special model was unveiled to loyal Ducatisti present at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli by Ducati MotoGP test rider Casey Stoner and CEO Claudio Domenicali on stage. On the surface, it is plain to see that the 1299 Panigale Anniversario boasts a special anniversary livery scheme. Adding some contrast to the base red and white colours are black and grey accents plus a set of gold-painted wheels. Aesthetics aside, this special superbike also boasts a bevy of technical upgrades. In the hopes of making this the closest thing in its roadbike arsenal to the superbike machine raced by Chaz Davies and Davide Giugliano in the WSBK, the Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario stands as the debuting platform for the uprated ‘EVO’ version of the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) suites. Both uprated rider aids make full use of the abundant data supplied by the Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) that already primed on board. Also new here is a Slide Mode feature that riders can activate when DTC Level 1 is selected. Riders can slide or ‘drift’ the bike through corners by modulating the throttle with this mode. The improved new DTC and DWC features will likely make their way into the rest of the Panigale superbike line up later on, but the Anniversario is the first and only one to have them primed. As you could probably tell already, the gold-painted wheels are lightweight forged Marchesini units. Receiving the same gold treatment here is the titanium Akrapovič exhaust unit whilst a laser-etched engraving helps to indicate this bike’s status as a limited edition model. Other changes in the Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario include the top triple clamps that and steering head inserts made from machines solid aluminium alloy. The inserts offer 5mm of adjustment room allowing this Panigale S to have a similar geometry as the racier Panigale R. Weight is saved by 2.5kg thanks to the adoption of a lithium ion battery unit plus carbon fibre heel guards, rear mud guard and shock absorber cover. Production of the Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario have already begun in Italy where each unit retails for €25,590 – €3,600 more over the regular Panigale S base bike. This special is in fact much cheaper than the Ducati 1199 Panigale Superleggera that retailed for €66,000. Said bike also fetched a RM488,888 asking price when it was launched locally back in 2014, but we reckon the Anniversario will retail at a much lower price, that is if it is launched here. Check out more images of the Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario in the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below. Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario Ducati 1299 Panigale S Anniversario DU 2016-05-30 PANIGALE ANNIVERSARIO DU 2016-05-30 PANIGALE ANNIVERSARIO --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/benelli-leoncino-800-leaked/

Benelli Leoncino 800 Leaked

Photo credit Bennetts UK Benelli Leoncino 800 picture was leaked from vehicle type approval submissions. It will use the 754cc engine from the 752S. The bike follows the Leoncino 502’s neo retro design. The Benelli Leoncino 800 concept was unveiled at EICMA last year but the picture of a production ready prototype was leaked recently. According to Bennets, the picture came from Benelli’s submission for vehicle type approval. The Leoncino 800 utilises the 754cc parallel-Twin from the 752S (not available in Malaysia), while retaining the neo retro styling of the Leoncino 502. The engine produces 74 HP and the manufacturer claimed a top speed of 190 km/h. The document also listed its weight at 223 kg, ready to ride. As the picture shows, the bike features the usual beefy forks clamped by equally thick triple clamps. Braking is handled by Benelli-branded calipers with large brake discs. ABS is standard as the sensor plate is apparent on the left disc. But unlike the concept, the production bike uses cast instead of spoked wheels. The bike should be launched officially soon and we shall see if it comes to Malaysia. While built in China, Benelli motorcycles are designed and engineered in Italy. The brand has grown stronger over the years and the TRK502 is now the third best-selling motorcycle in Italy behind the BMW R 1250 GS and Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin so far this year. Benelli is currently owned by Qianjiang Motorcycle Company. Recently, Harley-Davidson inked a deal with the company to produce smaller displacement models for China and Asia. Source: Bennetts UK --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/modenas-dominar-explore-the-unexplored-ride-returns-for-round-4/

Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” Ride returns for Round 4!

Attention Modenas Dominar D400 owners from Southern Malaysia, Modenas wants you to join their next “Explore the Unexplored” ride happening this Saturday on 12th January 2019! This ‘first come, first serve’ ride (via e-mail, details below) will start from Tebrau heading towards Mersing for a nice lunch (on them!) before making way to Kluang and back again. Those who are interested should email your details to dominar@bikesrepublic.com (full name, bike registration plate number, IC, and mobile phone number) where the first meet-up point will be at Sayed Bistro Tebrau at 7 am for breakfast (again, on them!) and the ride’s briefing. All wheels will roll out at exactly 8 am where the first stop of the day will be the Tanjung Leman Jetty for the first Motography photo contest location. What is the Motography photo contest, you ask? Well, those who participate in the ride can (and we highly encourage that you do) take part in the Motography photo contest where you’ll stand a chance to win a brand-spanking new Shark helmet and Alpinestars riding jacket! There will be two more Motography photo locations throughout the day ride so make sure to take loads of photos of the scenery (plus your beloved Modenas Dominar D400) AND submit them to be eligible for the contest. Everything will be covered by Modenas (except for fuel expenses) for the first-ever “Explore the Unexplored” ride of 2019. This epic ride series has been going on since last year where it has taken place around Peninsular Malaysia and this coming weekend, the fun is heading down South. Those interested should email your full name, bike plate number, IC, and mobile phone number immediately to dominar@bikesrepublic.com as the number of riders allowed to participate is limited. So hurry and be part of this epic adventure courtesy of Modenas and Bajaj! Modenas Dominar 400 Ride to Kuantan – “When Life’s a Beach” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/next-bike-sdn-bhd-launches-new-2017-ducati-monster-797-multistrada-950-rm55900/

Next Bike Sdn Bhd launches new 2017 Ducati Monster 797 & Multistrada 950! From RM55,900

Next Bike Sdn Bhd (Ducati Malaysia) has launched their latest 2017 Ducati Monster 797 and Ducati Multistrada 950. The two entry-level bikes from Ducati were launched earlier today at the NAZA Merdeka Autofair 2017 held at the NAZA Automall, Petaling Jaya. The new Ducati Monster 797 is priced at RM55,900 while the new Multistrada 950 is at RM85,900 (basic priced with GST). Next Bike Sdn Bhd, the sole importer and distributor of Ducati motorcycles here in Malaysia has launched two new entry levels bikes into their current line up. These new bikes are the 2017 Ducati Monster 797 and Ducati Multistrada 950. The launch was held in conjunction with the NAZA Merdeka Autofair 2017 which is happening now from 10 to 13 August 2017 at the NAZA Automall, Petaling Jaya. 2017 Ducati Monster 797 – RM55,900 (basic price with GST) Looking for that perfect bike which incorporates all the essence and spirit of the iconic Monster naked bike? This sporty, compact and versatile Ducati machine comes with all the sophistication and modern features into this entry-level package. Paying homage to the glory days of Ducati Monsters in the 90s, the new Monster 797 has all the bells and whistle of a modern day motorcycle. Powered by its air-cooled L-twin 803cc engine, the latest Monster powers out 75hp at 8,250rpm and 67Nm of torque at 5,750rpm. The Euro4-compliant power plant has been tuned for awesome performance without being too overwhelming which makes it perfect for beginners as well as veteran riders. As an added bonus for new riders, the Monster 797 also comes with Bosch ABS unit as standard that’s paired to the front dual 320mm and rear single 245mm Brembo disc brakes plus Brembo M4.32 radially-mounted callipers. Whether you’re commuting to and from work or just having some good fun riding down mountain roads in the weekends, the Monster 797 is a complete package to excite anyone and everyone. The 2017 Ducati Monster 797 is priced at RM55,900 (basic price with GST). There are three colours available for purchase; Ducati Red, Star White Silk and Dark Stealth. 2017 Ducati Multistrada 950 – RM85,900 (basic price with GST) Together with the Monster 797, the new Multistrada 950 joins Ducati’s line up as the main highlight of the brand’s entry-level sports touring machine. Being the smallest ‘multibike’ they’ve produced, the Multistrada 950 still packs a huge punch with its 937cc Testastretta twin cylinder engine that produces 113hp at 9,000rpm and 96.2Nm of torque at 7,750rpm. Lighter than its bigger brother the Multistrada 1200, the new 950 has all the iconic Multistrada design and chassis geometry. Paired with its 840mm seat height, even the riding dynamics offers excellent overall performance. Looking for something that offers both comfort and fun riding experience? The new 950 comes with 19-inch front wheel plus an outstanding suspension package which can be set according to the rider’s needs with its four riding modes; Touring, Sport, Urban and Enduro). Worried about maintenance? Fear not as the maintenance internal is at every 15,000km or 12 months. In short, you only need to get it serviced once a year with normal average use. To add more safety aspect into the brand new package, the Multistrada 950 comes with the Ducati Safety Pack which includes the Bosch 9.1 MP ABS unit and of course, the Ducati Traction Control (DTC). The 2017 Ducati Multistrada 950 is priced at RM85,900 (basic price with GST). Two colours options are available, Ducati Red and Star White Silk. To witness the bikes for yourselves, head on over to the NAZA Merdeka Autofair 2017 held from now until 13 August 2017 at the NAZA Automall, Petaling Jaya for great offers. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/custom-honda-ex5-dream-fi-shawn-seelan-creations-god-thunder/

Custom Honda EX5 Dream Fi by Shawn Seelan Creations – “God of Thunder”

During the recent Art of Speed Malaysia 2017, there was a very special custom Honda EX5 Dream Fi that was displayed at Boon Siew Honda’s gigantic showcase space. Created by Shawn Seelan of Shawn Seelan Creations, the low, mean and beautiful custom Honda EX5 dubbed “Raijin” or “God of Thunder” was created in conjunction with the Honda EX5’s 30th anniversary. Filled to the brim with one-offs and modern parts, the custom cub turned heads with its beautifully menacing facade which also pays homage to the great Honda C70 cub. During the recent Art of Speed Malaysia 2017 custom gathering, we were blessed to have witnessed so many custom motorcycles built by passionate people hailing from all over Malaysia and even some from overseas. Even big motorcycle manufacturers like Ducati, Triumph and many more joined in the “Kustom Kulture” mega get-together with new product launches and jaw-dropping beautiful machines. One of the biggest involvements in this year’s Art of Speed was none other than Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd (BSH). Apart from the official launch of the 2017 Honda Rebel 500 cruiser, they’ve embarked on a very special journey to reach out to the custom and lifestyle scene here in the country. AOS Promotion Video BSH buat julung kalinya akan menyertai AOS. Mari sertai kami untuk memeriahkan lagi event ini! The 6th Annual Art Of Speed Malaysia 2017 29 & 30 July 2017 MAEPS SERDANG #GayaKami #RoadToAOS2017 #aos2017 #jiwakustom #aosxbsh #boonsiewhonda #honda #malaysia Posted by Honda Motorcycles Malaysia – Boon Siew Honda on 19hb Jun 2017 Together with the tagline “Ini Gaya Kami” (This is our style), they commissioned four major custom bike builders from across the country to go crazy in customising three Honda MSX 125 and one Honda EX5 Dream Fi. While these custom creations drew massive crowds to Boon Siew Honda’s beautiful booth by showcasing what magical things that can be done to their already great bikes, they surprised everyone with another customised entry into the mix. This “fifth Horseman of the Apocalypse” is actually a humble Honda EX5 Dream Fi but based on the photos, it’s hard to tell but in a very, VERY good way. This is all thanks a particular master builder that goes by the name of Shawn Seelan from Shawn Seelan Creations. “Raijin” aka “God of Thunder” Dubbed “Raijin” or “God of Thunder”, this EX5 was meant to turn heads (which it did) and still does to anyone who lay their eyes upon the beast lowered way down to the ground. The minimalistic approach coupled with fierce looks is what Shawn intended in order to create a big impact in the custom community. When asked about this very special project, Shawn explained to us that he was inspired to create something different with the Honda EX5 Dream Fi but at the same time, he wanted to remind everyone about the classic looks associated with classic Honda cubs like the C70. Motivated by the EX5’s 30th anniversary, Shawn already knew in his mind what needed to be done in order to turn his vision into reality. After three months of intensive customising, “Raijin” was born and it is arguably one of the most outstanding customised EX5 of all time. To know more about the Honda EX5’s “The Joy of 30 years”, CLICK HERE. Working from the ground up, Shawn decided that the EX5 needed to pay homage to the classic and iconic Honda C70 cub. Hence why you’ll see the round headlight embedded with LED honouring the C70 which is known by a lot of old timers as the “motor lampu bulat” or “rounded-headlight moped”. Customised round LED lights to pay tribute to the iconic Honda C70 cub The customisation did not stop there as the master builder himself wanted to inject more premium modern parts into the iconic machine. What better way than to fit an upside-down front fork that makes the bike look low, mean and lightning fast even at standstill. Upside-down forks +Racing Boy wheel = beautiful As we move along to other elements of the bike, Shawn explained that there were a lot of custom hand-made parts using the latest laser-cutting technology which have been fitted to further accentuate the premium look of this custom creation. Out of all the parts, the most prominent that struck our hearts with joy has to be that suicide hand shifter. Such a simple mechanism but when done right, it is nothing short of stunning. To tie everything together, Shawn went with the black and gold colour scheme for the frame. “Suicide hand shifter, bro…” This awesome piece of rolling art however has a sadder side of the story to tell. Shortly after the event, Shawn Seelan announced that he’ll be putting his custom bike works on hold in order to pursue his studies abroad. The sprockets are currently being manufactured in Asgard by Thor himself using fragments of his magical hammer, Mjölnir. While the works of creating amazing one-off machines over at Shawn Seelan Creations have been put on standby due to other responsibilities and priorities, rest assured that someone like Shawn Seelan will be back in the game better than ever with more amazing machines. When that happens, we here at Bikes Republic will be the first ones there because at the end of the day, you can’t keep a good man down especially with his level of passion, creativity and mad skills. To know more about Shawn Seelan Creations, head on over to Shawn Seelan Creations official Facebook page. Posted by Shawn Seelan Creations. on 30hb Julai 2017 With luck and some cash, you can be a lucky owner of one his amazing creations which are open for purchase. To all customers,friends and family the time has come for us at ShawnSeelanCreations to put up on sale our Honda… Posted by Shawn Seelan Creations. on 14hb Ogos 2017 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/arlen-ness-passes-away-1939-2019/

Arlen Ness Passes Away (1939 – 2019)

Photo credit Wikipedia Famed American motorcycle builder and designer Arlen Ness has passed away. He was often referred to as the King of Custom Motorcycles. He also designed the Victory and Indian motorcycles. Famed American motorcycle builder and designer Arlen Ness has passed away. This sad news was confirmed by Ultimate Motorcycling. Ness became a giant in the custom motorcycle business and was often referred to as The King of Custom Motorcycles. He built a number of award-winning bikes in his lifetime, earning him the Builder of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. He was also inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in America. But he didn’t just build them, he also pioneered selling his custom parts and accessories through mail order. Just look around and see almost every Harley-Davidson has an Arlen Ness accessory. Additionally, he was tapped by Polaris to design Victory and Indian motorcycles. The most well-known model was the Victory Vision Tour. His empire also expanded to include riding gear in association Berik. Ness’s son Cory and grandson Zack will succeed him in the business. They are notable custom builders themselves. The motorcycle world has truly lost a patriarch. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/5-reasons-to-mount-your-device-with-opti-line/

5 Reasons to Mount Your Device with OPTI-LINE

Need to mount your smartphone or devices to your bike? Check out these products by OPTI-LINE. They are of high quality without costing a bomb. Mounting your smartphone or a GPS device on the bike isn’t a big thing these days. However, it’s goes without saying that we need to mount our all-important phone on sturdy and secure mounts, such as these from OPTI-LINE. Here are the reasons why. 1. Sturdy mounting Let’s start with the actual mounts – the part which is attached to the bike. There are a number of solutions here but let’s take the usual handlebar mount. The clamp at the base is split in two, with the bottom part shaped liked an “U.” The upper part slots into the “U” to clamp onto the handlebar, while the shoulders carry the Allen bolts. Together, they form a solid base to carry phone mountings and case. Furthermore, Allen bolts are not easy for thieves to loosen and steal the mount. 2. OPTI-LINE DUO-LOCK System The innovative DUO-LOCK system allows you to attach and detach your OPTI-LINE phone mount quickly. Easy attachment and detachment mean you don’t have waste time in fumbling around. Easy detachment also allows you to remove the mount and store it somewhere safe when you park your bike. Once the mount is locked on, it’s secure and won’t be blown off the bike. 3. Safety cable included for case and mount OPTI-LINE phone case and mount include safety cables. A clip hooks up to the case or phone mount, while the other end loops around the handlebar. That way, it provides extra security to keep the case or mount from falling off the bike altogether. 4. Many choices OPTI-LINE offers many mounting choices and solutions. Apart from the usual handlebar mount, there are also the Stick Swivel which glues on directly to any surface; Opti Arm which mounts the base of the mirror; Screw Mount which utilizes to the handlebar clamp; Mirror mount with clamps to the mirror stalk. There is also the handlebar-mounted USB charger which has a waterproof cover. It’s especially useful for keeping your device charged. There are also high-quality cables for your devices including micro USB, Apple 8-pin and USB Type-C types. OPTI-LINE USB Type-C Spring Cable OPTI-LINE Micro USB Spring Cable OPTI-LINE Apple 8-pin Spring Cable 5. Good value for money OPTI-LINE products are built to the highest quality in the interest of keeping your smartphone or device in place. But perhaps best of all is the price which are surprisingly affordable. We have seen lower quality products that cost almost as much as OPTI-LINE products in the market, so why don’t you invest a little more for something that’s of much higher quality and it proven to work? We have. Where to buy OPTI-LINE products are listed in our BikesRepublic.com e-commerce site. Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti-Case Universal Smartphone Case. Opti-Case Universal Smartphone Case Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti-Case Air Flow Universal Smartphone Holder. OPTI-LINE Opti-Case Air Flow Universal Phone Holder Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Action Cam Fixing Base. OPTI-LINE Opti Action Cam Fixing Base Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Stick Swivel Adhesive Mount. OPTI-LINE Opti Stick swivel adhesive mount Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Arm mount with flexible arm. OPTI-LINE Opti Arm smartphone case mount with flexible arm Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Handle Bar Mount. OPTI-LINE Opti Handle Handlebar Mount Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Screw Mount with M8 Screw. OPTI-LINE Opti Screw mount Please click >>> HERE <<< for the Opti Mirror Smartphone Case Mount. OPTI-LINE Opti Mirror smartphone case mount Please click >>> HERE <<< for the OPTI-LINE Handle Bar Mounted USB Fast Charger. OPTI-LINE Handlebar mounted USB charging hub Please click >>> HERE <<< for the OPTI-LINE Apple 8-pin spring cable. OPTI-LINE Apple 8-pin Spring Cable Please click >>> HERE <<< for the OPTI-LINE Micro USB spring cable. OPTI-LINE Micro USB Spring Cable Please click >>> HERE <<< for the OPTI-LINE USB Type-C spring cable. OPTI-LINE USB Type-C Spring Cable Please click >>> HERE <<< to visit the BikesRepublic.com e-commerce site. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-alex-rins-extends-contract-with-suzuki-until-2022/

MotoGP: Alex Rins extends contract with Suzuki until 2022

MotoGP 2020 has not even started yet (due to all the cancellations and postponements announced due to the COVID-19 pandemic) and Alex Rins has already signed a new deal with Team Suzuki Ecstar which will see them racing together until the end of the 2022 season. ?BREAKING NEWS? Suzuki and Alex Rins extend their partnership for 2021 and 2022! The announcement was made via a special Instagram Live event. The team are thrilled with the renewal, which sees Alex remain in Team Suzuki Ecstar colours for 6 years ? @MotoGP #SUZUKing @Rins42 pic.twitter.com/q6hOB7fRxZ — Team Suzuki Ecstar (@suzukimotogp) April 19, 2020 Why? Well, not a lot of riders can bring the fight to reigning world champion, Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda) and Alex Rins is one of those people who can. His only issue is consistency and he’s able to remedy that soon, there’s no doubt that he’ll be a very hot prospect in MotoGP, especially with the powerful Suzuki GSX-RR which has proven to be very competitive. According to Shinichi Sahara, Team Suzuki MotoGP Project Leader, “This renewal of two more years with Alex Rins makes me and Suzuki very proud because it represents a building block in our project to grow young riders and progress alongside them. With this extension, we have stayed with a young, talented, determined and fast rider like Alex for a total of 6 years, and this is exactly what we aimed for when we signed him the first time in 2017.” As for Alex Rins, “My wish was to continue with Suzuki and finally this is what I did. I believe that the project has the potential to be a winning one, I have the desire to win, and so we match perfectly. It’s the perfect place for me, and we are working hard all together to get big results. I have always believed in the team and for this reason it was easy to get to the basic agreement very early on. Then we took some time to finalise the details and follow all the internal processes. Now we have to understand what’s going to happen with the 2020 season, we are ready to compete at the maximum level, as we already showed in the pre-season tests.” Top Bike Prep Tips from a MotoGP Mechanic! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/custom-2003-ducati-monster-1000-xtr-pepo/

Custom 2003 Ducati Monster 1000 by XTR Pepo

Endurance race-inspired made by XTR Pepo Based in Madrid, Spain Looks like we’ve been bitten by the custom bike bug and it is hitting us HARD. Our thirst for beautiful custom bikes led us to this beauty all the way from Spain. This stunning monstrosity was brought to life by Ducati expert and custom bike builder, Pepo Rosell from XTR Pepo. The custom shop is based in the capital of Spain. The French-born used to be a fish biologist and once owned a different custom shop named ‘Radical Ducati’. After a one-year hiatus, he opened up his current shop called ‘XTR Pepo’. With the current shop, he now caters to a number of different bikes and owners who are looking for that special personal touch to their beloved machines. Even though he has given himself more freedom, he turned once again to Ducati to create his greatest masterpiece yet to promote his new custom shop. After obtaining the donor bike from a previous customer, he started the project with only visions in his head on how the bike should turn out. No sketches, no master plans, none of that. First, the Monster was stripped down and the engine went through a major overhaul. Fitted with new bearings, port work and a new flywheel for higher power band, Pepo then added an open clutch and belt covers for that extra spine-tingling sensation. The fuel tank was swapped with a tank from the Ducati 749 for a slimmer profile. With endurance races as the main source of inspiration, Pepo then added a quick-fill fuel cap and lights similar to the ones found on the old 750 Ducati F1 factory race bikes. A solo seat was added after some modifications were made to the rear sub-frame together with a wicked-looking exhaust. The bike was then fitted with a front fork taken from the Monster S4RS and a fully-adjustable Ohlin shock absorber took care of the back end.  Electronics proved to be quite a challenge when Pepo tried to install the Aviacompositi dashboard together with a Mycrotech ECU but Pepo being the Ducati expert that he is, it was nothing but a minor setback. The end result? Glorious, glorious beauty. The boys over at XTR Pepo came up with something so unique and so gorgeous, it’s hard to get our eyes off of it. With its bright red and blue paintjob together will all the race-inspired stickers, it is as radical as it looks. This is a perfect example for a bedroom wall poster to stir any soul and rock any motorcycle enthusiast’s boat. Like the great Steve Irwin used to say, “What a beauty!” To know more XTR Pepo, you can visit their Facebook page or Instagram. PHOTO SOURCE: Pipe Burn --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/aprilia-monopolise-the-podium-with-guintoli-on-top/

Aprilia monopolise the podium with Guintoli on top

Aprilia gets 1-2-3 at Phillip Island World Superbike Race 1. It’s the second time that the manufacturer from Noale monopolise the podium (first one was at Nurburgring last year) with works rider Sylvain Guintoli (Aprilia Racing Team) taking his 4th win of the career in his first race onboard the RSV4, ahead of team mate Eugene Laverty. The race started with Eugene Laverty moving off well from second position, trying to run away from his opponents. The Irishman was able to keep the gap between himself and the rest of the field until he was caught up by Guintoli, who overtook Laverty on lap 15 and led the race until the chequered flag. Later in the race Laverty had to deal with a confident Michel Fabrizio (Red Devils Roma Aprilia), who closed the gap and had a shot at 2nd place. Laverty waited until the last lap to make the perfect move on the Italian at ‘Lukey Heights’. Right outside of top-3 is Chaz Davies (BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team) who battled hard with fellow Englishman Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) up to the finish line, to end up ahead of his rival for just 0.051 seconds, with team mate Loris Baz to follow. After a competitive first part of the race, Leon Haslam (Pata Honda World Superbike) struggled a bit to keep the pace and eventually finished 7th ahead of team mate Jonathan Rea. Two potential contenders for the podium positions got out of the race during lap 13, as Carlos Checa (Team Ducati Alstare), accidentally hit Marco Melandri (BMW Motorrad GoldBet SBK Team) from behind after outbraking himself, while entering Turn 4. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hard-knock-lessons-part-1-the-chicken-coop/

Hard Knock Lessons (Part 1) – The Chicken Coop

There is always something to learn when riding. Sometimes these hard knock lessons can be funny. The important thing is to learn from them. I’ve had my share of hard knock lessons over the years. Oh yes, the mistakes and subsequent crashes were painful when the blood starts oozing. Looking back, though, they were funny ones when I just learned to ride. But I thankfully walked away from them. So, here are a number of funny and painful lessons I learned. Hope you can take away from knowledge from these. The Chicken Coop I was 11 years-old when my family and I visited my Mum’s ex-classmates in Padang Serai, Kedah. They had a chicken farm where they harvested the eggs. One of her friends had an old Honda C90. His 15-year-old son taught me how to ride on the loose pebble path next to the house which wound all the way into the farm. He showed me how to accelerate, shift gears, stop. The tricky thing was, the C90 had three gears arranged like on a big bike. Step the back of the see-saw lever for first gear, step to the front for second and third. He told me that I may not be able to handle starting off in first, so it’s better to start in second (pressing forward). I rode around a couple of times and they were confident enough to leave me alone to enjoy my new-found toy. I woke up the next day and looked out the window. The bike was there so I asked for the key and got it without question. And off I went up and down the trail. I didn’t even have breakfast. There’s just something about the wind in my face and hair and body that I liked. So, like all self-respecting rider, I decided to go faster. I twisted the throttle all the way, but the bike hesitated to go faster. Remembering the advice to shift gears I slammed my foot into the back part of the lever. I had forgotten the shift pattern, see. Thus, instead of going into third, I had downshifted into first. As soon as that happened, the engine gave out a huge roar, the rear tyre slid on the pebbles and came around. Both bike and I slid down the path, heading for a coop. I somehow stood up halfway through the slide, but the bike continued its path and went under the coop into a pile guano. I stumbled like a runner tumbling at the finish line and smacked into the enclosure. When I opened my eyes, I was kneeling on the ground with my face on the wire mesh of the coop and eye-to-eye with a fat chicken that was flapping its wings like a mad feather duster, screaming its lungs out. I felt something wet and sticky on torso. I thought I was bleeding but it turned out to be fresh eggs smashed onto my chest. (Egg Boy had nothing on me!) Everyone came out of the house upon hearing the commotion. My Mum’s friends had a look of fright at first then started laughing. My friend was doubled over with laughter. My Mum, on the other hand, was yelling everything incoherent like aliens have just attacked the world. Lesson learned that day: Always remember how the bike works. The C90 survived, by the way. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-bmw-s-1000-rr-2019-bmw-r-1250-rs-2019-bmw-r-1250-r-launched/

2019 BMW S 1000 RR, 2019 BMW R 1250 RS, 2019 BMW R 1250 R Launched

The 2019 BMW S 1000 RR, 2019 BMW R 1250 RS, 2019 BMW R 1250 R were launched today at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix. Only the S 1000 RR with M Sport Package is available at the moment. The R 1250 R and R 1250 RS adds to BMW’s Boxer family. The 2019 BMW S 1000 RR, 2019 BMW R 1250 RS, 2019 BMW R 1250 R were launched today at the 2019 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix. 2019 BMW S 1000 RR (from RM 138,500.00 for M Sport Package) The 3rd-generation S 1000 RR has been long-awaited even before its official launch at EICMA 2018. Suffice to say that it was one of BMW Motorrad’s worst kept secrets! It’s easy to see why BMW’s superbike is so popular these days. It’s one bike that would go fast as you dare and as slow as you want it to without complaining. It’s also a superbike that you could ride to track, whack off the mirrors and indicators, tape up the headlamps and taillamp, blast around the track, and ride it to work the next day. The bike launched today is the M Sport Package variant. Highlights: 999cc, liquid-cooled, 16-valve, DOHC, inline-Four with ShiftCam. The new lump produces 207 bhp (152kW) at 13,500 RPM and 113 Nm of torque. The ShiftCam technology varies both valve opening timing but also lift. Hollow-stem lightweight titanium intake valves. This allows the bike linear and good spread of power. But also good fuel consumption at 6.4 litres per 100 km. Oil pump and water pump integrated as one — saves weight and width. The coolant/oil pump Suspension is handled electronically by next generation of DDC (Dynamic Damping Control). The rear shock is moved further back, away from exhaust and engine heat. A new frame called Flex Frame — with specifically tuned zones of stiffness — provides better grip in corners and feedback. Leaner fuel tank, narrower midsection for better knee grip and support. The bodywork has short overhangs — the entire bike sits between the wheels. More compact dimensions are the goal including engine, frame, tank, bodywork. Revised exhaust system, engine, and M-lightweight battery. The M Sport package includes M sport seat, country-specific taillamp, M carbon fibre wheels and lightweight M battery. The revisions cut weight down to just 193.5 kg from the standard bike’s 208 kg. Standard electronic rider aid include Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race. Options are the “Pro Modes” — Pro 1, Pro 2, Pro 3 which includes DTC, ABS Pro, DTC Wheelie Detection, engine torque and engine braking adjustments. Also available are race assistance modes such as Launch Control and Pit Lane Limiter. Signature S 1000 RR smooth gearshifts are handled by the HP Shift Assistant Pro (standard). New 6.5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity. BMW Motorrad Malaysia brought in the M Sport package as the introduction as the S 1000 RR is of limited stock worldwide. As such, BMW Motorrad Malaysia will send a bike to each dealer for customers to view and place orders. The base S 1000 RR will arrive in Malaysia in 2020. 2019 BMW R 1250 RS (from RM 106,500.00) and 2019 BMW R 1250 R (from RM 102,500.00) 2019 BMW R 1250 RS The R 1250 RS and R 1250 R completes the BMW Boxer family. The RS is the sport-tourer (the R 1250 RT is the luxury sport-tourer), while the R is the Roadster (naked street bike). We feel that the R 1250 RS’s smaller size will make it easier to ride as a daily commuter, as well. 2019 BMW R 1250 R Highlights: Features the new 1254cc Boxer with BMW ShiftCam technology. Produces 136 bhp and 143 Nm of torque. The engine is also economical, consuming only 4.75 litres of fuel per 100 km. Two standard riding modes that adapt to riding style. Automatic Stability Control is standard, as is Hill Start Control. They also feature Riding Modes Pro which includes Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. The Dynamic Traction Control ties in with the Riding Modes Pro selection. New 6.5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity. BMW Financing BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia provides financing for these new bikes. You can ride the S 1000 R from RM 1,690 per month, R 1250 R from 1,250 per month, and the R 1250 RS RM 1,300 per month. These amounts are based on estimates 80 percent loan for 4-year tenure. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-rs660-patents-leaked/

Aprilia RS660 Patents Leaked

The Aprilia RS660 may just kick start the middleweight supersport segment. Its patent filings have been leaked online. The production-ready bike should debut at EICMA 2019. The Aprilia RS660 may just kick start the dormant middleweight supersport segment. At least, that’s what the manufacturer hopes. But are they serious in putting the concept into production? Patent filings in Australia seems to indicate as so. The CAD drawings show a bike which adheres to the concept’s silhouette, with some differences. Firstly, the forks look to be Sachs instead of the Ohlins fitted to the concept at EICMA 2018. The front brake calipers look to be “regular” monoblocs instead of Brembo Stylemas. The main reason for these has to be about cost savings, making the bike more affordable to the masses. But bear in mind that Aprilia usually offers different versions of their bikes i.e. standard and Factory variants. In the case of the RSV4 and Tuono V4, the Factory variants are fully kitted out in the chassis and electronics departments. It could also be true for the RS660. Good news is, the fairings take on aerobody applications. Going further, there’s been talk that the bike features an Aprilia Active Aerodynamics (A3) system. But what it does and how it works still remains to be seen. Anyhow, the production model is slated to be released at EICMA this year. Hope we get to test the bike for its media introduction. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/add-visibility-halobelt/

Add visibility with Halobelt

Being seen while riding at night might make the difference between life and death, Halobelt helps you to be more visible with its strip of flexible light and we get to play with it for about a month. If you are like me then riding at night is a normal occurrence thanks to either work or late night teh tarik sessions, mostly the second. And one of the main worries of night riding is visibility, to see and more importantly, be seen. While most rear light on a modern bike is bright now days, still statistically we all know the more visibility we have the better the odds of being spotted and avoided. Reflective strips or stickers helps but its a passive system whereby it needs a source of light to work and additional lighting on the bike might not be the best answer to many for various reasons from legality, electrical or warranty issues. So here is one simple solution, the Halobelt from America. As the name suggest its a belt or a loop with a simple clip and adjustment system to fit size 0 to 46. Half of the belt is made of a stretchable material with a reflective paint and the other half is where the magic is located. You have a 17inch long strip of what looks like a flattened fibre optic with a reflective backing and a small rechargeable Lithium Ion battery pack with built in LED at one end. You can wear it in several ways but we had it on like a trap of a sling bag across the back and on one shoulder with the light facing backwards. The battery pack has a switch and a mini usb port for charging, the switch feels ok but the usb port covering is a bit flimsy. Oddly enough instead of stamping its Halobelt brand name on the battery pack, it says rechargeable instead. According to the manufacturer the electrics are water resistant which is good enough for riding in wet conditions unless you plan to swim with it. We had it go through a few light to medium showers while riding and so far it still fires up whenever we turn it on. You have three choices of colours, blue, green and yellow and these can either be illuminated in Solid mode where its constantly on or Flash mode where the LEDs will blink at a quick pace. We found that having it lighted on solid mode is good enough in all conditions and could easily be spotted about 500meters away in pure darkness. In “bright” conditions where theres streetlights a rider with a Halobelt stands out even in heavy traffic. The Flash mode is too much of a distraction to other road users in normal conditions and maybe more suited in an emergency situation in case of a breakdown or something. As you can see how a rider looks with and without the Halobelt on. While there is a circuitry to make the light blink, it doesn’t look like it has a steady light feature where it could keep the light bright all the way till the battery is flat. Instead the light will slowly dim as time goes by. Luckily it stays bright as the battery power can last for several weeks with regular use of 30 to 40 minutes per night and its quick to recharge. The belt weights only about 4.4ounces in total and most of the time we didn’t notice we had it on until its time to take off the riding gear. And thats the best part for us, its a little less worry as a biker, its like having an angel right behind you while you ride. Recommended retail price is RM150, small price to pay for added safety but better yet as for now its on offer at RM80, for more information call 01117604492 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/khairul-idham-pawi-to-make-surprise-appearance-at-msbk-this-weekend/

Khairul Idham Pawi To Make Surprise Appearance At MSBK This Weekend

Former Moto3 rider Khairul Idham Pawi will feature at this weekend Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) with TKKR Racing Team. The announcement was made via TKKR Racing Team Facebook page yesterday. According to the post, the long-term plan is to prepare Khairul for the 2022 Asian Road Racing Championship (ARRC). However, MSBK will be a quick assessment for the 23-year-old. TKKR Racing was previously photographed prepping a race bike with the no. 89 which hinted at the return of Khairul Idham Pawi. MSBK will mark KIP returning to the grid after announcing his retirement last year after he part ways with Petronas Sprint Racing Moto3. The team then replaced KIP for the 2021 season with Darryn Binder. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-rossi-dominates-spanish-gp/

MotoGP: Rossi dominates Spanish GP

Valentino Rossi proves he is still MotoGP’s greatest by dominating Spanish GP race in Jerez. MotoGP kicked off its European leg of the 2016 season on a high note with Round 4 in Jerez, Spain last weekend. The Spanish GP in Jerez celebrates its 30th anniversary lat weekend and hosted a record number of spectators surpassing the 200,000 mark. MotoGP The weekend began strongly for the Movistar Yamaha Factory Team after reigning world champion Jorge Lorenzo dominated Friday practice session. But Saturday’s Qualifying belonged to his teammate and bitter rival Valentino Rossi after the Italian scored his 52nd career pole position. Lorenzo had to settle for second whilst fellow countryman and Repsol Honda rider Marc Marquez qualified up third on the grid. Sunday saw Rossi able to convert his pole position start into the race lead easily, but Lorenzo was keen to shake things up with his advances in the opening laps. But it didn’t take Rossi long to assert his authority over the race, with the Italian leading from start to finish from then on. With a comfortable gap of 2.386 seconds over Lorenzo in second place, Rossi went on to clinch his record 113th career grand prix win – his 87th in the premier MotoGP class. Repsol Honda’s Marquez settled for third and finished 7.087 seconds behind Rossi. The feat saw the Italian superstar proving all his doubters wrong and confirmed his intent for the title race this year. More importantly, this was a sweet vindication for Rossi after crashing out early in the previous race held in Austin, Texas. With two race wins and two third place finishes, Marquez still leads the championship with 82 points. However, Lorenzo has injected some life in his title defence with his second place in Jerez sees him rank second with 65 points. Rossi, on the other hand, ranks third with 58 points. Moto2 Also fuelling the excitement for the weekend was the close racing of the supporting Moto2 race. Taking a well-deserved victory was British rider Sam Lowes astride the Federal Oil Gresini Team’s Kalex bike. Lowes weekend began strongly as he dominated practice on Friday and scored pole position on Saturday. With defending class champion Johann Zarco struggling, Lowes’ only challenger was German rider Jonas Folger astride the Dynavolt Intact GP Kalex machine. Folger managed to steal the race lead for a brief moment, but a mistake left the door open for Lowes to charge ahead and eventually take the win, keeping Folger at bay in second whilst Spaniard Alex Rins astride the Paginas Amirillas HP 40 Kalex took the final podium spot by finishing third. Malaysian rider Hafizh Syahrin was dealt with a challenging weekend in Jerez astride the Petronas Raceline Malaysia Kalex machine. Having qualified 24th, Hafizh was able to pick his way up the order on raceday to finish in a respectable 11th place and collected some valuable points. Hafizh currently ranks 8th in the standings with 28 points. With his race win, Lowes leads the Moto2 standings with 72 points, giving him a good 10-point advantage over Alex Rins in second and further 16 ahead of defending champion Zarco in third. Moto3 Last but not least was the highly volatile World Moto3 race. Drama ensued even before the start as second place qualifier Brad Binder was penalised after a mistake by the Red Bull KTM Ajo team mechanics led to a technical infringement, relegating the South African rider to start from the back of the grid. Another drama during the start came when Nicollo Antonelli’s Ongetta-Rivacold Honda machine stalled on the grid after the warm up, forcing him to start from the pits and delaying the start slightly. But all eyes were focused on both the lead group at the front and at the rear on Binder. Binder’s was able to perform a sensational start, and it didn’t take the South African long to get into a rhythm that was only best descrbied as phenomenal. Binder picked his way up the order lap after lap, eventually reaching the lead group of four bikes by Lap 8. The lead group, comprised of pole-sitter and 16-year-oldItalian rookie Nicolo Bulega astride the Sky VR46 Team’s KTM, Aspar Mahindra’s Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia, Estrella Galicia 0,0 Honda’s Jorge Navarro and Binder. It only took Binder five laps to take the race lead and clear the pack whilst Navarro, Bagnaia and Bulega continued to fight for the remaining podium positions. Binder eventually took his maiden Moto3 race win with a comfortable 3.336 second lead. Pole-sitter Bulega managed snatch second place ahead of Pecco in third place, with Jorge Navarro relegated to fourth instead. Behind the lead group, there was a five-way battle for fifth that brewed throughtout the race. But it was Czech rider Jakub Kornfiel astride the Malaysian Drive M7 SIC Racing Team’s Honda that took the prime position and collected precious championship points too. His Malaysian teammate Adam Norrodin, on the other hand, settled for a 16th place finish having struggled with the tyres. Malaysian rider Khairul Idham Pawi fared better astride the Honda Team Asia machine and scored points by finishing in 14th place. South African Binder however, still leads the standings with his score of 77 points – 15 points clear of Honda-powered rival Jorge Navarro in second with 62 points. Italian rider Romano Fenati sits in third with 47 points. Round 5 – Le Mans, France Next, MotoGP heads to the iconic French circuit of Le Mans for its fifth round of the season. Round 5 in France is scheduled to take place from May 6 to May 8. Round 6 takes place a fortnight after that in Mugello, Italy from May 20 to May 22. (Image credits: MotoGP.com / Petronas Motorsports / Drive M7 SIC Racing Team / Honda Team Asia) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/attention-kawasaki-versys-x-owners-change-your-rear-light-now/

Attention Kawasaki Versys-X owners, change your rear light now!

Notification from Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd on the Kawasaki Versys-X replacement for the rear light or socket assembly. The rear light or brake light socket assembly has been found to become loose due to riding vibrations. The vibrations may cause the tail or brake light to not light up which can effect overall riding visibility to other road users. Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. has announced a proactive recall program of Versys-X 250 for replacement of the rear light or brake light socket assembly. Kawasaki had found that the tail or brake light may become loose by the riding vibration and will may cause the tail or brake light to not light up. This activity will be performed free of charge and the time required to inspect and replace the tail or brake light socket assembly is approximately 30 minutes. Only a certain batch of the Versys-X is affected, a highlighted below. Please refer to your chassis number before making your way to have the assembly checked by Kawasaki’s trained personnel. Frame Number JKALE250CCDA00171 ~ JKALE250CCDA01011   Kindly call Kawasaki Malaysia at 03-5566 5725 to arrange for an appointment. Their customer service line is open on the following days and times: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m 2:00 p.m to 5:00 p.m Friday : 9:00 a.m to 12:30 p.m 2:30 p.m to 5:00 p.m Please also refer to http://kawasaki.com.my/index.php?cat=707&page=1656 for more information. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/vespa-malaysia-expands-3s-concept-store-to-johor-bahru/

Vespa Malaysia Expands 3S Concept Store To Johor Bahru

Didi Group proudly announced the opening of Vespa Malaysia latest showroom in Skudai, Johor in partnership with Ng Brothers Motor (Vespa Skudai). The 3S showroom carries full range of the iconic brand which carries a comprehensive range of products including a customer service centre. The launch of Vesa Skudai (Ng Brothers Motor) marks a big step into expanding the Vespa branding throughout the country as it is the first Vespa 3S showroom in Johor Bahru. “I would like to thank and congratulate Ng Brothers Motor (Vespa Skudai) for introducing and carrying the Vespa brand in Johor, which will help us to further strengthen our positioning and boost our presence in Malaysia. “The opening of Vespa Skudai also reflects the strengthening of the distribution network of Vespa in Malaysia” said Mr Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman, Didi Resources Sdn Bhd. To celebrate the momentous occasion, a total of 150 Vespa owners also got together to celebrate the official launch of Vespa Skudai, that also adopted the new Vespa showroom corporate identity. Vespa owners in Johor Bahru drop by Vespa Skudai located at 33, Jalan Pakis 1, Taman Sri Pulai, Johor Bahru, Johor. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-tuareg-660-to-spearhead-aprilia-rally-raid-project/

The Tuareg 660 To Spearhead Aprilia’s Rally-Raid Project

Aprilia is set to return to the off-road arena after announcing its “Back To Africa” rally-raid programme, with the Italian firm set to utilise its Tuareg 660 motorcycle. Aprilia announced its return to off-road racing with the “Back to Africa” project.  Aprilia to develop a rally-raid machine with the firm’s latest Tuareg 660.    Italian rally raid and enduro rider Jacopo Cerutti will help to develop the new rally-raid version of the Tuareg 660 with the involvement of Romano Albesiano and Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola.  The project delivers a different challenge for Albesiano and Rivola, who have dedicated most of their lives to MotoGP. Nonetheless, Aprilia’s success in the world championship will provide a significant boost in developing a winning machine.  “With its ‘Back to Africa’ project, Aprilia Racing is returning to the world of off-road racing, to the races that forged the division.  “We want to keep growing in the world of Grand Prix motorcycle racing and in on-track races. We want to discover new talent through our SP 250 Championship and the RS 660 Trophy, but we are also embarking on a completely new project with the extraordinary Aprilia Tuareg.  “It’s an additional sign of development for a racing division that has grown significantly over the past years, achieving results never before seen by Aprilia,” said Rivola.  According to Aprilia, GCorse – a company run by the Guareschi brothers – will also provide technical assistance. GCorse already worked with the Tuareg 660 in the Italian Motorally Championship 2022; hence their hands-on experience is crucial for the programme.  Aside from Cerutti – a multiple-time Italian and one-time European enduro champion – the rally-raid Tuareg 660 will also be piloted by Francesco Montanari.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-golden-triangle-adventure-2017-day-two/

GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 (Day Two)

The GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 ride got on the road today. The GIVI Explorers (participants) rode out of Pattaya City, Thailand into Cambodia. The convoy stopped in the ancient city of Siem Reap. 13th November 2017, Siem Reap, Cambodia – The GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 epic ride has finally started today, leaving Thailand behind for the neighbouring Cambodia. I said “finally” because Ismadi and I have ridden into Thailand since the 9th, hence it was time to release all that pent-up energy. Participants were allocated their bikes last night after dinner. The convenience of having large-capacity GIVI side and top cases, besides tankbags and other storage accessories was not lost upon us, as we could carry virtually anything be brought in for this ride, with much space to spare. We got together for the final briefing before the ride began. The 25 participants were split into four groups, each led by a Marshal. “Assistant Marshals” were also picked to help, especially at stop lights to keep the riders from straying and losing their way. There were two support vehicles, one carrying tools, drinks and essential gear, the other as a medical vehicle. We rode out of Pattaya and headed to the Thai-Cambodian border town of Sa Kaeo, 209 kilometres away. The ride out was smooth, with traffic getting thinner and thinner the further we got away from the city. Thankfully, the day was overcast although it was still humid. Excitement and the freedom of the open road was apparent among the riders, smiling and laughing everytime we stopped.   For me who’s grown accustomed to Thailand, the scene at the Sa Kaeo border crossing kind of took me by surprise. There were many people pulling on large wooden carts in and out of Cambodia and poverty shows. Anyway, the border crossing was painless as Trans Asia, the tour operator contracted by GIVI, had assured so well in advance. We got our passports stamped and signed the paperwork for all the 25 bikes within 30 minutes and we were in Cambodia, although we had to stop at the Immigration Office a kilometer away for the officials to verify the details of the bikes we rode in. We were advised repeatedly about what to expect in Cambodia, and how different it would be to ride here compared to in Thailand. We were told to watch out for Cambodian traffic, particularly how chaotic it would be. Traffic in this country is lefthand drive, by the way. The road was rough at the border crossing but it was actually pretty smooth as we travelled further into the country, heading to our hotel in the ancient city of Siam Reap, 212 km away. Traffic was thin, but true enough, bikes, car, trucks, even pedestrians will cross everywhere without looking closely. They’ll also pull out onto the road without thinking twice. We kept the group as tight as we dared to avoid being cut off. The scenery in the countryside was natural and beautiful. Lush rice paddies stretched into the horizon like a green, plush carpet. Our pace was much slower than in Thailand, although steady. It was dark when we reached Siam Reap, but the Aspara Angkor Hotel was thankfully not too far into the city. We freshened up for dinner at a large restaurant called Tonle Sap not far away.  Here, there was a large selection of cuisines, Cambodian, Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean. We split up as a group headed back to the hotel rest, while the rest visited the Night Market and Pub Street. This is Siam Reap’s nightlife centre. There’s everything from pubs, restaurants, massage parlours, small hotels, bazaars, street food and just about everything else. We soon called it a night, more than elated that Day One of the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure 2017 has been a success. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/norton-commando-returns-to-production-line-vr4rr-atlas-to-follow/

Norton Commando returns to production line, VR4RR & Atlas to follow

After close to a year of inactivity, the Norton production line will be up and running once again after being acquired by India’s TVS Motor Company last April. The first model that’ll roll off the production line is the Norton Commando, and 40 units will be built to cater to backdated orders and a few extras. The new Norton Commandos will be built at the brand’s latest facility in Solihull, England. According to Norton’s interim CEO, John Russell, “We want to change from a cottage industry to a credible motorcycle manufacturer. We have set up an interim factory in Solihull and are laying down the production lines now. Even though it is temporary, it will still probably be the best facility Norton has ever had.” Once the first new batch of Commandos is produced, the manufacturing line will then focus on building the latest V4RR superbike and Atlas dual-purpose machines. This is due to the fact that these bikes still require some development in terms of components and suppliers. It has been a tough year for Norton with all the drama and COVID-19, but the team remains positive with what they have to offer for the motorcycle industry in the near future. TVS Motor Company also showcased its interest in maintaining the brand’s heritage as well as expanding the current line-up without diverting away from its original image, a pure British engineering masterpiece. MotoGP: Marc Marquez undergoes third surgery, out for another six months? Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-monkey-astro-boy-edition-storms-into-thailand-market/

Honda Monkey Astro Boy Edition Storms Into Thailand Market

Honda and Tezuka Productions have teamed up with Cub House Thailand to create a limited-edition Monkey Astro Boy model to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the original manga and the 60th anniversary of the beloved series.  The Honda Monkey X Astro Boy is a limited edition motorcycle to celebrate the original manga 70th anniversary.  Honda and Tezuka Productions teamed up with Cub House Thailand for the special edition bike.  The Astro Boy manga was brought to television screens by writer Osamu Tezuka in 1963 and went on to lay the groundwork for the anime of today. The Monkey Astro Boy Limited Edition pays homage to the iconic character with a white fuel tank adorned with red and black graphics, red-painted frame, plaid leather seat cover, and semi-clear air cleaner covers with stickers imitating Astro Boy’s mechanic heart and control board. Styled by Honda’s H2C Design team, the 300 Monkey Astro Boy units feature a serialized badge on the fuel tank, a stylized fuel lid, and a side panel flaunting a chrome coating treatment. Retailing for THB129,900 (RM16.7k), the limited-edition model also comes with a Monkey x Astro Boy-branded jacket, an Astro Boy-styled helmet, and a premium carrying bag. Thai Honda Executive Chairman Shigeto Kimura expressed his excitement about the creation of the Monkey Astro Boy Limited Edition and emphasized that it perfectly conveys the fun DNA of both Monkey and Astro Boy together, creating a unique and delivering a different experience. Cub House Thailand has a reputation for top-notch collaborations, having previously worked with Hot Wheels and One Piece. However, the latest joint project with Honda and Tezuka Productions is aiming for the stars. The limited-edition Monkey Astro Boy model is a perfect tribute to the classic anime and manga series and a must-have for die-hard fans. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/european-association-of-motorcycle-manufacturers-eamm-says-automated-cars-failed-to-detect-motorcycles/

European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (EAMM) Says Automated Cars “Failed to Detect Motorcycles”

Autonomous cars and bikes - Photo credit gearpatrol.com The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (EAMM) published a report saying that the current technology in automated cars “failed to detect motorcycles.” They found accidents that happened due to the car radars not picking up the bikes. Certain manufacturers are making their bikes more visible to radar. The European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (EAMM) published a report saying that the current technology in automated cars “failed to detect motorcycles.” The alarming report was made after the association found that accidents in Europe and US on “autopilot” failed to locate a motorcycle in all situations. Before continuing, let us see what it means by “automated cars.” Certain cars (especially the luxury ones) are fitted with radars to detect objects around it, especially in their blindspots besides the vehicles in front and behind them. An expended function is self-drive, which means the driver takes his hands and feet of the pedals. The car will move in a set speed and turn through long radius corners all by itself. When the radar detects an object in front, the control unit will apply the brakes to slow down or stop altogether. Remote sensing system on an autonomous car – Graphic credit innovationdestination.com It’s supposed to make driving safer. But it may not be safe for bikes. There are two aspects that confuse automated driving systems. Motorcycles have small cross sections, hence presenting very low visibility compared to cars and trucks. This is why we turn on our lights in daytime. Motorcycles are much more agile and can change directions quickly. Notice how we can move a couple of meters to either side when we come to stop at traffic lights? (Okay some don’t stop at the red light, but that’s a different matter.) We’ll give you another example. Presenting a small cross section to radars is exactly what a stealth fighter does. It’s designed to deflect radar waves away from itself so that there’s only a small return signature (some say the cross-section equivalent to that of a bird) to the receiving radar. (Stealth fighters also use radar absorbing material on their outer skins, by the way.) Consequently, radar operators couldn’t see the plane on their scopes. The EAMM deduced that modern cars don’t have reliable enough equipment to detect bikes. In fact, they also highlighted such statements as “the system may not detect small vehicles like motorcycles” in some automated car owner’s manuals. “(This) is simply not acceptable from a safety point of view,” they added. To combat this, Suzuki submitted patents for a bikes which is fitted by multiple radar deflectors to increase its visibility to radars. Graphic credit Suzuki Corporation However, Ducati and KTM are reportedly developing self-riding motorcycles, too. It doesn’t mean that the rider takes his hands and feet off the controls like car drivers do so they can continue playing PUBG. Instead, the system detects other vehicles and takes action quicker than the rider could. Check out the Ducati Multistrada 1260 GT and KTM 1290 Super Adventure prototypes. Graphic credit Suzuki Corporation There may be another way around this conundrum in mixed traffic. Bosch and their rival Continental are working on a cloud-based traffic management system using 5G interconnectivity. Each vehicle sends the data of its location, heading, speed and others to a central computer which then regulates its and other vehicles’ speeds for “better harmony.” Yes, just like what we see in movies of some utopian future. While it’s a great way to save lives, many feel that it will impede on personal freedom to enjoy driving. Well, not in KL downtown on Friday nights, but you get what we mean. This solution faces an uphill task as it will require every single vehicle to be equipped with the system. But you know they said that reaching the moon was impossible a long time ago. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/belgium-designer-develops-exchangeable-electric-motor-for-mopeds/

Belgium Designer Develops Exchangeable Electric Motor For Mopeds 

A Belgian designer is working on an electric motor aimed at converting combustion engine to electric for mopeds. E-Core is a swappable electric motor for mopeds. features a small 3-5 horsepower equivalent to a 50cc four-strokes mopeds. As the world is shifting towards electric, most small capacity electric two-wheelers offers the same power equivalent to a 125cc motorcycles. That said, it is likely that the demand for small capacity electric motorcycle – with 15 to 20 horsepower – will increase significantly in years to come. Moreover, with oil prices showing an upward trend, switching to electric is an option. However, Belgian designer, Benjamin Surain, foresee a feature of not just low-powered electric motorcycles, but also converting the existing combustion engine mopeds into electric.  According to reports, the electric motor, dubbed E-Core, is an exchangeable electric motor that could be swap with an old combustion engine.  The E-Core exchangeable motor is aimed at mopeds, which are popular globally. Interestingly, the electric motor allow existing combustion engine to be ‘reincarnated’ as electric instead of discarding the entirety of the old engine which could damaged the environment hence defeating the purpose of sustainability.  Also, this means that people would not be forced into getting a new electric two-wheeler when they can just upgrade their existing petrol-powered mopeds which is potentially more cost-effective. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-dt-07-concept-revealed/

Yamaha DT-07 Concept revealed

Yamaha USA revealed its latest creation, the DT-07 flat tracker concept at the AIM Expo motorcycle show in Orlando, Florida last week. Using a race-tuned version of the 689cc, parallel-twin engine that is powering the MT-07, the DT-07 is apparently a one-off concept that was built by Jeff Palhegyi Design and Yamaha USA’s race department. Sporting Yamaha’s 60th anniversary celebration Speedblock paint scheme,  the DT-07 also comes with a straight-through exhaust system from Graves Racing. Other notable highlights on the concept include the purpose-built frame, the swingarm with an adjustable pivot and link system, modified R6 conventional-style forks, Ohlins rear shock, as well as Propulsion Labs wheels. Derek Brooks, Motorcycle Product Planning Manager for Yamaha USA said: “One of our specific goals with the Yamaha DT-07 was to retain some of the FZ-07’s styling cues. I worked with Jeff Palhegvi on the design of the bike and we literally used the FZ-07’s fuel tank cover as the basis for the body mould on the DT-07 Concept. The entire bike was essentially built from scratch, and it is Yamaha’s interpretation of what a dirt tracker designed from the ground up in 2015 should look like.” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/buy-new-kawasaki-win-ninja-h2/

Buy a new Kawasaki and win a Ninja H2!

Supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2 grand prize up for grabs in special new KMMSB campaign. The promotional poster posted by @KMSB on Instagram. Yes, you read that right, you really can win yourself a brand new and supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2! The supercharged beast is being given away as the grand prize in a new campaign launched by Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (KMSB). Called the ‘Peraduan Hari Malaysia’ campaign, its prizes and details recently emerged online via KMSB’s official Instagram account – @kawasakimsia. Our insider source confirmed that this campaign is real, and here are some additional details regarding it. Z800 ER-6n ER-6f Firstly, the campaign runs from now until 31 December, 2016, and it is open exclusively to buyers of selected models only. Specifically, this campaign is open to anyone who purchases a brand new Z800, ER-6n or ER-6f during the campaign’s period. Ninja 1000 Besides the Ninja H2, a brand new Kawasaki Ninja 1000 sport tourer stands as the second grand prize that will be given away as well. Additionally, KMSB will also giveaway three brand new Kawasaki Z125 Pro and three brand new Kawasaki D-Tracker X models as monthly prizes as well. Up to 500 pieces of Ninja H2 polo shirts will be given away exclusively as consolation prizes as well. Visit any authorised Kawasaki dealer or showroom nationwide to take part in KMSB’s ‘Peraduan Hari Malaysia’ campaign and you might just win yourself any of the awesome prizes mentioned. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-gsx-s750-returns-for-2023/

Suzuki GSX-S750 Returns For 2023

Despite introducing major changes to its 2023 lineup by introducing the parallel-twin powered GSX-8S and V-Strom 800DE, the House of Hamamatsu decided to retain some of its popular model for the new year, mainly the returning GSX-S750.    Powering the 2023MY is the tried and tested 749cc inline-four, fuel-injected engine that continue to make 112.6hp and 81Nm. Power is delivered to the rear-wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission.  As usual, the GSX-S750 advanced traction control is an additional electronics that helps to harness the bike’s raw power.  The bike is suspended by KYB gold-painted front forks and dual radial-mounted Nissin 4-pot callipers.  Also retains for the 2023 is the iconic bodywork which thanks to its angular design and wide handlebars, the GSX-S750 is not only aggressive but also comfy.  For the new year, the Suzuki GSX-S750 comes in Pearl Brilliant White and Champion Yellow No.2.  Also return to Suzuki’s lineup is the 2023 GSX-R250 ABS. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motorcycle-events-28th-29th-july-weekend/

Motorcycle Events on This 28th – 29th July Weekend

This 28th – 29th July weekend will go down in history as one of the most hectic. There is at least one event in the Northern, Central and Southern regions. Good news is bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. This 28th to 29th July 2018 weekend is the most hectic for us than ever before, as motorcycle events are stacked on one another, albeit at different locations. That means you are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what to do over the weekend. Here is the list the events by region for your easy reference. NORTHERN Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha (Yamaha Gen Blue Bikers Carnival) is happening at Stadium Batu Kawan, Penang on Sunday, 29th July 2018. Touted as the largest gathering for Yamaha motorcycle owners, the event includes the launch of a new Yamaha model. There will also be activities for the whole family, besides convoys to the event, best custom Yamaha competition, stunt show, gymkhana, service campaign, rock concert, fun and games, test rides, motorcycle showcase and lucky draws. The Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha begins at 10am and ends at 6pm. Entry is FREE. Please click on this link for more details. Suzuki Malaysia’s All Big Bikers’ Penang Convoy followed by Suzuki Test Ride and Suzuki Direct Shop Opening Suzuki Malaysia is opening the Suzuki Direct Shop in Penang on Saturday, 28th July 2018. To commemorate the opening, there will be a convoy for Suzuki big capacity bikes from Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia’s HQ at Prai at 10am. Additionally, the company is organizing a test ride event at the same venue which is hilariously titled as “Suzuki Test Ride @ Penag (sic)” on their Facebook page. Please click on this link for more information. CENTRAL 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) – Round 2 The national superbike racing series returns after a hiatus since mid-May, and it’s worth the wait. Round 2 will be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). Moto3 Rider Adam Norrodin to Ride at MSBK The latest news has it that Malaysia’s current Moto3 rider, Muhammad Adam Norrodin, will contest in the SuperSport 600 class; the Asia Talent Cup will also join the party; as well as the addition of the TOC Desmo Cup for Ducati riders. Grandstand viewing is free, but spectators may purchase special paddock passes to view the action up close. Action starts today (Friday, 27th July 2018) for the qualifying sessions, Race 1 on Saturday (28th July 2018) and Race 2 on Sunday (29th July) for all classes. 7th Annual Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia 2018 powered by Petronas The Art of Speed (AOS) is the largest gathering of custom builders, retro, ol’ skool and artists for everything automotive. Art of Speed Malaysia 2018 Powered by PETRONAS But that’s just part of the story because there’s always something for everyone in the family at AOS. There are art shows, toy displays, lo-riders (customized bicycles), concerts, and a lucky draw with a custom motorcycle as the grand prize. Motorcycle manufacturers large and small will also be present, and the likes of Ducati and Kawasaki will use AOS as the platform to launch their latest models. AOS has prepared the event thoroughly to make your visit an unforgettable experience. They’ve organized shuttles to transport you and your family from the parking lots to the exhibition halls, for example. Or conversely, you may choose to get there by MyCar who are offering RM3 off the total amount by using AOS2018 promo code. The 7th Annual Art of Speed 2018 powered by Petronas will be held at MAEPS MARDI, Serdang on both Saturday (28th July) and Sunday (29th July). Please click on this link to find out more. SOUTHERN KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival 2018 Down south in Johore, KTM Malaysia is organizing the first stop for the KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival 2018. KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival Begins in Johor on 28th July Held at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) campus at Skudai, Johore, the carnival is a one-day affair, filled to the gills with a heady mix of activities for KTM owners, bikers in, motorcycle enthusiasts and the general public and families. Planned are test rides of the latest KTM models, a fun-hana (gymkhana), service campaign, lucky draw (stand to win a KTM Duke 390 as the grand prize), stunt show by Gabit Saleh and much more. KTM Malaysia will also launch the latest KTM 200 Duke Evo on the day. Please click on this link to find out more. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-newest-engine-makes-92hp-features-270-degree-crank/

Honda Newest Engine Makes 92hp – Features 270-Degree Crank

New Hornet Concept Update Honda has officially pulls the cover away from the firm newest powertrain, a 755c parallel-twin engine set to be the beating heart of the upcoming Honda Hornet. Honda 755cc parallel-twin engine set to power the firm’s newest mid-range motorcycle. The new mill makes 92hp and features 270-degree crank. In the meantime, let’s get something right first. Firstly, Honda already has a solid and reliable 745cc parallel-twin engine currently powering the X-ADV 750, Forza 750 and the NC750X. However, the new engine is a 755cc parallel-twin, 8-valve Unicam unit that capable of producing 92hp @ 9,500rpm and 75Nm @ 7,250rpm. Also, the new platform features a 270-degree crankshaft, a similar approach taken by other manufactures in developing a parallel-twin mill. Meanwhile, Honda deputy director of major projects, Fuyuki Hosokawa, explains the intention of developing the new mill. New Hornet Concept Update “The Hornet has always been a very special motorcycle for Honda. Exciting and engaging performance has always been combined with flexible and agile handling. “Before starting this project, we thought a lot about what kind of performance we wanted to give the driver.  We knew it was essential to maintain the classic Hornet’s peak power “punch” and at the same time, as a new generation Hornet for modern times, we wanted the engine to have a really strong torquey feel and a “throbbing” feel. in the low to mid rev range. “To get the kind of performance and lightweight handling we wanted, we knew we had to develop an entirely new short-stroke twin engine with a 270° crankshaft.  “This would not only deliver that peak power, but also the sporty low-end torque, ideal for driving in urban environments and coming out of corners on the highway.  For us, the Hornet has always been the epitome of the streetfighter concept and this new Hornet concept proudly continues this tradition,” Hosokawa said in a statement. Despite calling it a concept, we expect Honda to unveil the new engine in production form together with the new Hornet at the EICMA show in November.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/wsbk-russian-race-cancelled/

WSBK: Russian race cancelled

With the on-going Crimean peninsula crisis at hand, WSBK race promoters have moved to cancel the series’ Russian leg this year. The 11th round of the season was scheduled to take place in September this year at the Moscow Raceway. However, promoters DWO and YMS Promotion declared recently that the round was cancelled due to the on-going political turmoil in Crimea affecting several of the event’s key partners’ abilities to host the race. WSBK will instead return to Russia in 2015 where the race at the Moscow Speedway will be held in accordance with its contract that lasts until 2020. Source: WSBK via Asphaltandrubber Image: WSBK --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-z900rs-cafe-test-and-review-race-to-starbucks/

Kawasaki Z900RS Café Test and Review, “Race to Starbucks”

The Kawasaki Z900RS Café caters to the classic café racer look. Changes are cosmetic while everything is shared with the naked Z900RS. However, the riding experience was rather different. “Café racers” originally bikes modified from stock which owners bring to cafés to show off. There were no Starbucks in the 60s and 70s but restaurants and cafés such as Ace Café were the haunt of modified motorcycle riders. That’s in London, but we have plenty of mamaks here, intead. However, are bikes the Kawasaki Z900RS Café factory fads to milk the nostalgia? First off, the Z900RS Café is the factory café racer variant of the Z900RS modern classic. Kawasaki calls the latter the soul successor to one of the most iconic bikes of all time, the 1972 Z1. Conversely, the Z900RS Café is the tarted-up version with a headlight cowling, windscreen, forward handlebar and stepped-up seat. Kawasaki has (officially) called it the soul successor to the Kz1000R which dominated the AMA Superbike series in the hands of Freddie Spencer, Wayne Gardner, John Pace and of coure, Eddie Lawson. 1982 Kz1000R The Z900 RS Café shares everything else including the engine, suspension, chassis and electronics. The 948cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve engine produces 110 bhp at 8,500 RPM and 98.5 Nm of torque at a low 6,500 RPM. The new handlebar puts the rider in a sportier riding position, hence more weight on the front wheel. Firing up the engine let loose stirring “vroom” from the exhaust. To recap, Kawasaki made the exhaust system to mimic the note from the Z1. It even has that sound of a tuned inline-Four… “vroom… pause… vroom… pause”. Blipping the throttle returns a howl mixed with a growl. The clutch take-up and throttle are still “eager.” Well, that’s a diplomatic way to say snatchy. You have to be vigilant otherwise the bike will just take off with your brain still sitting in the parking lot. However, the sportier riding position lent a much better control over the front wheel. On the “standard” Z900RS, the front went light with hard acceleration. Similarly, charging into corners was much easier on the Café. Now it’s not just sweeping corners but also those pesky sharp ones at intersections. The suspension felt harsh and uncompliant at first, but it turned out that the previous tester had dialed in all the wrong settings. Imagine riding a bike with close to the forks adjusted to full compression damping and full rebound damping! If that’s not enough, the rear shock had its preload set to the lowest (which gave the bike a low rear and high front akin to a cruiser). The shock’s rebound damping was also almost fully dialed all the way out. WTF! Readjusting the suspension yielded a bike that’s easy to flick into corners and maneuver around traffic. Unfortunately, the rear suspension still hopped over sharp bumps. However, that wasn’t meant to say the bike’s suspension was bad. Instead, it as what we’ve always said that some Malaysian roads can be kidney-busting. The inline-Four based on the naked Z900 is tuned for low-down and midrange torque, hence it shows especially when riding in heavy traffic. Filtering through at 60 km/h in fourth gear still leaves plenty of acceleration. Blasting away was just a small throttle’s movement away, leaving everyting else to reverberate in the exhaust’s howl and burnt hydrocarbons. Bad points? The fuel tank is old school as per the Z1 so it’s plenty wide between the knees. The uptick, though, it’s easier to grip it with your knees during hard braking and cornerning. So, is the Kawasaki Z900RS Café merely a prettied-up bike? Well, depends on how you look at it. In our books, however, the revised riding position has made the bike much better. The snatchy throttle took lots of concentration at first, but you grow to manage it. But its looks were definitely a head-turner. The headlamp cowling, plus the classic lime green paint with white stripe gave it that real old school Kawasaki look. Just wished I had a Bell classic full-face and bomber leather jacket when I rode to Starbucks… It’s priced from RM 72,372 (basic selling price inclusive of 10% SST). PICTURE GALLERY 1 of 20 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-tenere-700-extreme-edition-breaks-cover-in-europe/

Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition Breaks Cover In Europe

Yamaha Europe has just announced the release of a new version of their popular adventure tourer motorcycle – the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition. The Tenere 700 Extreme Edition is heavily inspired by the Tenere 700 World Raid.  Powering the Tenere 700 Exterem Edition is the same 689cc liquid-cooled, inline twin-cylinder engine. The new variant of the motorcycle is more off-road-ready than its predecessor, with changes to the chassis and suspension, among other features. While the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition shares many mechanical components with the previous model, updates to the chassis and suspension have been made to improve off-road capabilities. The motorcycle now has fully adjustable KYB 43mm forks that provide an additional 20mm of travel, bringing the total to 230mm at the front. The rear shock has also been upgraded, with a 20mm increase in travel bringing it to 220mm. Additionally, the overall height of the bike has been raised by 20mm to provide a total ground clearance of 260mm. Other new features of the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition include adjustable off-road titanium footpegs with bear trap grips, a high enduro-style mudguard, a radiator protector, and a single, enduro-style seat with 20mm more padding than the standard version. However, the changes to the suspension and seat height bring the seat height to a towering 910mm. That said, the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition takes inspiration from the Yamaha World Raid model while adding its own accessories.  GALLERY: YAMAHA TENERE 700 EXTREME EDITION --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ducati-multistrada-v4-reborn-in-an-all-new-iceberg-white-livery/

Ducati Multistrada V4 Reborn In An All-New Iceberg White Livery

The Multistrada V4 is fast becoming Ducati’s most popular bike after ending 2021 as the best-selling model from the Borgo Panigale factory. The new Multistrada V4 already established itself as the go-to adventure bike in its debut year. For 2022, Ducati decided to revise the Multistrada V4 S with an all-new Iceberg White livery joining the already available Ducati Red and Aviator Grey colour options. Interestingly, Ducati also updated the Multistrada V4 electronic package. The semi-automatic function of the electronic suspension now gets a new feature called Minimum Preload. The new feature allows riders to reduce the height of the bike and make it easier to place their feet on the ground, especially during urban riding or manoeuvring at low speeds. Ducati also upgraded the Ducati Connect and Human-Machine Interface function. For current owners of the Multistrada V4 S, worry not, as these electronic updates are available to you. Ducati will reach out to you (gradually) via the MyDucati App and email and inform the availability of the updates. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kymco-dtx125-and-dtx300-adventure-scooter-launch-in-europe-from-rm26-6k/

Kymco DTX125 And DTX300 Adventure Scooter Launch In Europe – From RM26.6k

Kymco rolls out two new adventure scooter for the European market with the new DTX125 and DTX300 set to join the DTX360 introduced back in 2020.  The DTX125 and DTX300 is introduced to meet the demand of young and beginner riders. Features similar ‘adventure scooter’ aesthetic like the DTX300. The DTX125 makes 13hp while the DTX300 pumps out 23.1hp. The adventure scooter market has expanded ever since Honda brought upon the X-ADV 750 and ADV 150. Kymco also joined the fight with its DTX360, introduced back in November 2020, features knobby tyres, a 12.4L fuel tank and weighs 195kg. However, for 2023, the Taiwan-based company is expanding the DTX range with a new 125cc and 300cc variants to cater the beginner riders. The DTX125 features a similar off-road aesthetic to the DTX360 but carries a 125ccc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that makes 13hp @ 8,750rpm. Thanks to the smaller mill, the DTX125 is also lighter, at just 176kgs, making it the perfect ‘adventure scooter’ for first-time riders. Meanwhile, the DTX300 also features similar styling to the DTX360 and serves as a middle ground between the 125 and 360. Nevertheless, the DTX300 gets a 276cc liquid-cooled, a two-valve single-cylinder engine capable of churning 23.1hp @ 7,500rpm. Despite the country of origin, the DTX125 is surprisingly pricey for a 125cc scooter, starting at EUR5,640 (RM26.6k), while the DTX300 retails for EUR6,640 (RM31.3k) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/david-beckham-banned-from-driving/

David Beckham Banned from Driving

David Beckham leaving the court - Photo credit Economic Times David Beckham was handed a driving ban. He was charged with using his mobile phone while driving. The driving ban is in effect for six months. We wanted to not publish this story, but the temptation was too great. David Beckham was handed a driving ban by a British judge. A member of the public spotted Beckham using a mobile phone while driving his Bentley in Central London. He then lodged a report against the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and LA Galaxy star. Beckham’s counsel, Gerrard Tyrrell said his client had “no recollection” of the incident. However, Beckham pleaded guilty anyway. The celebrity already logged six points on his driving license for speeding previously. The District Judge handed out six more points for the mobile phone offence, bringing the total to 12 that’s needed to lose driving privileges. The ban is in effect for six months. Besides owning a bevy of exotic cars, Beckham also owns many motorcycles but his favourites are Triumphs. One of his motorcycles is a customized Triumph Bonneville on display in the Triumph Factory Visitor Experience in Hinckley. David Beckham and his Triumph – Photo credit harrolds.com.au --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-vr46-squad-to-enter-premier-class-in-2022/

MotoGP: VR46 squad to enter premier class in 2022?

It seems that Valentino Rossi had a sit-down with Yamaha about the possibility of his VR46 squad entering the premier class. While that might not be surprising considering all the success his team has had in the past few years, stepping up to MotoGP as early as 2022 is. The nine-time world champion himself revealed that he had the conversation in the recent past with Yamaha Motor Racing’s principal, Lin Jarvis. From a business point of view, Yamaha is most likely on board with the idea, probably the same level of enthusiasm with Dorna and the rest of the paddock. The thing that’s currently stopping this fast progress is his newly signed contract with the Petronas Yamaha SRT squad. For 2021, Valentino Rossi will compete in the Yamaha satellite team but with all the factory support he needs to pull in some impressive results. If things go well, we won’t be surprised if he continues his racing career well into 2022. Same Vale, different colours… The legend continues ? pic.twitter.com/AQ3y7R99HQ — MotoGP on BT Sport (@btsportmotogp) September 26, 2020 According to Rossi, “It’s a bit early but at the end of 2021, MotoGP changes for 2022 and maybe we can have an occasion to make a VR46 team in MotoGP but it’s really early. It is not easy because the organisation, the size is good for Moto3 and Moto2 but for MotoGP, it is a big step. Sincerely I don’t know.” “As for the bikes though, Yamaha, why not? We have already spoken to Lin, but before we have to decide whether we do the team or whether we continue in Moto3 and Moto2,” added the founder of the VR46 team and academy. Written by: Sep Irran 2020 Yamaha MT-25 launched in Malaysia – RM21,500 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/carl-fogarty-gets-a-road-named-after-him/

Carl Fogarty Gets a Road Named After Him

Four-time World Superbike Champion Carl “Foggy” Fogarty has a road named after him in his Blackburn hometown. Named “Carl Fogarty Way,” Fogarty wheelied past the ribbon. Foggy’s exploits in racing and the motorcycling world is the stuff of legends. Four-time World Superbike Champion Carl “Foggy” Fogarty has a road named after him in his Blackburn hometown. The road is named “Carl Fogarty Way.” To officiate the road, Fogarty wheelied past the ribbon, instead of the usual cutting with scissors. Only one way to open #carlfogartyway ..and that’s on the back wheel..?? #WheelieWednesday ⁦@CCMMotorcycle⁩ #Blackburn pic.twitter.com/fgh5liKg6R — FOGGY MBE (@carlfogarty) 26 June 2019 His name is still famous among bikers, especially Ducati owners. It was Fogarty who dominated WorldSBK for a number of years, scoring 59 victories and ultimately four WorldSBK crowns. He began racing for Honda in the Formula One World Championship for motorcycles and transitioned to the World Superbike series in 1988. He switched to the Ducati 888 in 1992 but inconsistency saw him finishing in ninth. He continued with the Ducati 888 in 1993 and exhibited the kind of fiery determination that won him an army of Ducati fans. He would go on to win 11 races and stood on the podium 4 other times. This was when his intense rivalry with American racer Scott Russell began. However, Russell would prove to be more consistent and beat Fogarty to the title for Kawasaki’s first superbike crown. Ducati released the game-changer for 1994, called the 916. Fogarty immediately found the bike suited his high mid-corner speed riding style and won 10 races and 4 podiums in a total of 22 races to snatch the title from Scott Russell and Kawasaki. Fogarty would repeat his dominance in 1995. Out of 24 races, he only finished off the podium 3 times and retired twice. He won 13 races and no lower than 2nd in the other 6 times. But a certain team, specifically Honda kept pounding on the point that the Ducati V-Twin had 166cc more displacement than their 750cc RC45 V-Four. There were also certain quarters and riders who charged that Fogarty had won the championships due to the superiority of the Ducati. Seemingly to prove them wrong, Fogarty went back to Honda in 1996. He won four times on the RC45, three more than long time Honda rider Aaron Slight but again consistency did him in. He eventually finished fourth. He returned to Ducati in 1997 and fought season long with ex-GP rider John Kocinski. He eventually finished second to Kockinski. He fought back in 1998 and retook the title, as he did in 1999. Year 2000 saw the undoing of his racing career as he hit privateer Ducati rider Robert Ulm. The crash caused Foggy multiple injuries including a shoulder injury that never really healed enough for him to race again. But that didn’t keep him away from the racetrack. Foggy became the manager for the Foggy PETRONAS team, hence the creation of the PETRONAS FP1. There are still more exploits of the plucky Englishman to list here, but we hope to still see him in the motorcycle industry. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-suzuki-v-strom-sx-250cc-adventure-bike-emerges-in-india/

New Suzuki V-Strom SX 250cc adventure bike emerges in India

The new Suzuki V-Strom SX is an interesting quarter-litre ‘baby’ dual-sport ADV machine, but it’s an India-only bike. All new Suzuki V-Strom SX is a ‘baby’ dual-sport packing the right style and features. It harnesses the 250cc single lifted from the Suzuki GSX250R, offering 26HP and 22.2NM. Key features include dual-channel ABS, digital dash with connectivity function, and more. Sadly, this is an India-only offering, but bike’s potential in similar Asian markets is undeniable. Meet the Suzuki V-Strom SX that just emerged in the Indian motorcycle market late last week. Aptly, this is a quarter-litre (250cc)entry-level  ‘baby’ iteration of Suzuki’s popular V-Strom dual-sport range. Whilst Suzuki had attempted a V-Strom 250 prior, it’s poor market reception in the EU region saw said model shelved. This new one that just emerged in India isn’t related to that, but that’s not bad news entirely considering what it reportedly features. For starters, it harnesses the same 250cc single derived from the Suzuki GSX250R, delivering about 26HP and 22.2NM of twist through a six-speed constant-mesh transmission. The Suzuki V-Strom SX reportedly weighs in at about 167KG, which makes said output figures rather adequate. Elsewhere, this pint-sized V-Strom features a telescopic front fork with 120mm of stroke dialled in, and it’s paired with a rear swingarm-mounted rear shock offering seven-level pre-load adjustment. The wheels, on the other hand, measure 19-inches un front and 17-inches at the rear. As for braking, it’s a single disc brake setup both front and aft, and both are tied to a dual-channel ABS suite as well. Other notable features include a digital meter panel display brimmed with Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging port, all-LED lighting, as well as the novel Suzuki Easy Start System electric ignition suite. Based on reports coming out of India, the Suzuki V-Strom SX retails with a sticker price of INR211,600 – roughly RM11,700. No word on whether Suzuki intends to have this baby V-Strom available in other markets just yet, but we’re certain it would do well in markets such as ours. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-cbr250rr-leaked/

Has the Honda CBR250RR leaked?

Is this the first leaked image of the upcoming new Honda CBR250RR entry-level sports bike? It appears that the new road-going version of the Honda Light Weight Super Sports concept bike, dubbed as the new Honda CBR250RR by many, has already leaked ahead of its planned debut. The bike was allegedly leaked through the featured image and came with a rather vague copy in it that read with the words ‘Lightweight’ and ‘coming soon’. Whilst we bask in this supposedly ‘leaked’ image with a pinch of salt for now, it is common knowledge that the mighty Japanese marque has green lit the Light Weight Super Sports concept for production. Fuelling this further were the recently leaked patent for a set of LED headlights reportedly destined for the new quarter-litre parallel-twin sports model. The leaked LED headlamp patent seems to be holding up in this leaked image too as we can see the silhouetted bike boasting the feature prominently up front. Officially, Honda remains tight-lipped about the project, but we can expect the marque to finally have its answer against rivals Kawasaki and Yamaha with their respective Ninja 250 and YZF-R25 entry-level sports models soon. To refresh your memory, the Honda Light Weight Super Sports concept was revealed last during the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. It featured a sharp and radical new styling language that’s complemented by modern touches such as LED lighting and, more importantly, its parallel-twin powertrain. As for its supposed launch or debut date, India-based sources indicate that the mighty Japanese red wing will officially unveil the new Honda CBR250RR sometime during the third quarter of this year. However, we’re more inclined to trust in UK- and European-based sources who have previously speculated for Honda to introduce the new bike during either the INTERMOT or EICMA shows slated for later this year. Sources: Car & Bike via Asphaltandrubber --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/petronas-raceline-malaysia-bids-hafizh-syahrin-farewell/

Petronas Raceline Malaysia Bids Hafizh Syahrin Farewell

Team Petronas Raceline Malaysia parting ways with Hafizh Syahrin in 2018. Hafizh Syahrin has finished on the podium twice this year. He has been with team Petronas Raceline Malaysia for the past 10 years. Kuala Lumpur 20 OCTOBER 2017 – Team PETRONAS RACELINE MALAYSIA has announced that Hafizh Syahrin will not be continuing with the team in the 2018 Moto2 season, after an illustrious 10 year partnership. (Click here for Team Petronas Raceline Malaysia’s official Facebook page.) Team PETRONAS RACELINE MALAYSIA has had a very successful relationship with Hafizh Syahrin, dating back to 2007, when the young rider made his debut at the PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship. Barry Leong, the Team Principal then, first discovered the budding star when he was racing in the Pocket Bike League.    “It has been a wonderful journey, seeing Hafizh progress throughout his career from racing in the PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix, moving up the different classes, and advancing on to the Asia Road Racing Championship. Hafizh, under Team PETRONAS RACELINE MALAYSIA, then participated in The Australian Formula Extreme Championship in 2011, before we moved on to race in the FIM CEV Championship in Spain” said Barry.   “It truly has been an honour and a privilege for us as a team, to have grown together with Hafizh. I have known and guided him since he was 12 years old, racing as a very talented boy, and now, a passionate young adult. However, for everything that has a beginning, there has to be an ending, and we have come to a natural and amicable one” he said.   “Malaysia still has a pool of untapped local talents that are waiting to be discovered. Moving forward, Team Raceline will continue to develop and groom these young talents in setting higher goals to fully maximize their potential” he added. Hafizh Syahrin has scored a few podium finishes in Moto2, including two this year, one of them at Motegi last week. Syahrin picked up his “Pescao” nickname when he was contesting in the CEV Championships in Spain. According to the rider, because he had always done well in the rain, his crew called him, “Pescao,” meaning “fish” in Spanish. True to his nickname, his podium finishes were mostly from racing in wet conditions. Since his full season debut in 2014, Hafizh has steadily improved on his overall standings – 19th in 2014, 16th in 2015, 9th in 2016, and is currently in 9th with three rounds to go. Click here for Hafizh Syahrin’s official Facebook page. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/dainese-mrmartini-teams/

Dainese and MrMartini teams up

Dainese and MrMartini partner up for a new series of gear plus a matching one-off custom café racer. Leading Italian riding apparels brand Dainese and world-renowned café racer specialist builder MrMartini have teamed up. Together, Dainese and MrMartini have created a one-off café racer prototype plus a series of retro-inspired heritage gear called the Speciale line. Through this partnership, both Italian powerhouses are celebrating their shared values in spirit, passion, and craftsmanship. Additionally, Speciale was named after MrMartini’s renowned Verona café that has acted a meeting point for all who share the common passion for café racers. Each garment from the Speciale theme is gifted wit ha graphic that reads out the following message: “This story speaks Italian, and it means passion. Passion for the future, for two wheels, for freedom, and for one’s own work. This story is about style and protection, friendship and knowhow. This special jacket and special motorcycle are there, inviting you to hit the road, because while a journey may only last a few miles, it can tell the story of a lifetime—a special story.” Developed for street riders, the Dainese Speciale Leather Jacket is made using full-grain cow hide that’s been vat-dyed and treated with a special wax-based finishing. It’s also primed with Removable certified Dainese Pro-Armor protection on the shoulders and elbows plus a back protector pouch for those adopting this option. Besides the jacket, the Dainese and MrMartini Speciale collection also features other apparels including sweatshirt and a T-shirt. The items from the Speciale project will be on sale in Dainese shops beginning in April this year. Notably, the gear was created to match the one-off café racer built by MrMartini to commemorate this partnership. Based on a Zaeta 530 DT motorcycle, the Dainese x MrMartini Diavoletto prototype features all the signature traits of any of the latter specialist builder’s signature traits. Highlights include a classic racer-like fairing, bubble-windshield, wire wheels, low clip-on bars and a custom exhaust system. Notably, the custom seat was made using the same leather material with the same treatment applied in the Dainese Speciale jacket as well. Unfortunately, the Dainese x MrMartini Davoletto protoype is a one-off and it isn’t for sale. The bike was however shown off at the recent Motor Bike Expo in Verona, Italy, garnering plenty of acclaim there too.Check out more images of the fruit from the Dainese and MrMartini tie up in the gallery we’ve prepared below. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-and-suzuki-to-make-250cc-tourers/

Kawasaki and Suzuki to make 250cc tourers?

Rumour has it that Suzuki and Kawasaki are developing parallel twin 250cc tourers to provide new entry-level additions to their dual-sport ranges. According to sources in Japan and India, Suzuki is developing the G-Strom 250 (basically a mini V-Strom 650), meanwhile Kawasaki is working on a Versys 250. The G-Strom 250, which is expected to be based on the Suzuki Inazuma 250, will apparently be providing an adventure-styled bike, with power coming from a 250cc parallel twin engine. The Kawasaki Versys 250 on the other hand, is expected to share the frame and the engine of the Ninja 250 and the Z250 sold here. Although there has not been any official announcement or any solid evidence regarding these two bikes, the idea of smaller-engined, cheaper bikes with the stance and look of ‘big’ adventure-style machines does sound possible as the 250cc bike market has seen rapid growth lately. With models like the KTM Duke 390, RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 250, and Z250 selling like hot cakes here, there is no reason for manufacturers to not take full advantage of the high demands of the sub RM35,000 segment. While the Versys 250 and the G-Strom 250 remain as rumours, let us stay tuned for further updates from the manufacturers. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/test-the-2020-modenas-pulsar-ns200-abs-this-weekend/

Test the 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS this weekend!

Looking for an awesome yet affordable street bike? The Modenas Power Store in Kota Damansara has just received the shipment on a bunch of brand-new 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS and this coming weekend (15-16 February 2020) is your chance to try it out! Since the partnership was forged between India’s Bajaj Auto and Modenas, they’ve brought in a number of interesting models into the Malaysian market and the most popular so far is the Pulsar NS200 naked bike. Knowing that enthusiasts are looking for something more, Modenas decided to bring in an updated version complete with a front ABS unit. This increases the safety aspects of the 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS by a margin as it allows for greater stopping prowess without losing control should you ever need to perform any hard-braking manoeuvres in emergency situations. If budget is of concern, fear not as the Modenas Power Store is offering quite a nice package for those who are interested in getting one. Priced at RM9,780, it’s a bargain considering that this is ‘on-the-road’ pricing with first-party insurance, road tax, and registration. New bike owners will also receive a complimentary full-face helmet and service charge waiver for the first two services (excluding parts). So, if you’re not doing anything this Saturday and Sunday (15-16 February 2020), make your way to the Modenas Power Store in Kota Damansara and experience the updated 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS for yourself! FIRST RIDE: 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/official-danilo-petrucci-to-2022-motoamerica/

OFFICIAL: Danilo Petrucci To 2022 MotoAmerica

Former MotoGP rider and 2022 Dakar Rally stage winner, Danilo Petrucci will return to track racing after officially confirming that he will race at the 2022 MotoAmerica Superbike Championship. The Italian is set to enter race with Warhorse HSBK Ducati Racing onboard the Ducati Panigale V4. He was previously confirmed to enter the race but needed the paperwork to be completed before making the official announcement. The day has officially arrived and the former Ducati rider is excited over his return on a Ducati machine. “I’m so happy that I am coming back to race with Ducati and I would like to give a special thank you to all the Ducait people who made this project possible,” said Petrucci in a statement. “I spoke about this project with Eraldo Ferracci (Advisor, Warhorse HSBK Racing Ducati NY) at Circuit of the Americas last year and all the management including Claudio Domenicali, Gigi Dall’Igna, Paolo Ciabatti and Davide Tardozzi, and they were really happy to have me on board again.” The 31-year-old Italian will ride a factory-build Ducati Panigale V4 R in the MotoAmerica series on April 8th. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/boon-siew-honda-launches-new-nc700-and-new-impian-dealership/

Boon Siew Honda launches new NC700 and new Impian dealership

All three bikes are now available for viewing and purchase nationwide at authorised Boon Siew Honda dealerships. The NC700S will retail starting from RM49,888 whilst the NC700X is priced from RM53,988. The Integra maxi scooter on the hand carries a retail starting price of RM64,688. OFFICIAL Malaysian Honda motorcycles distributor Boon Siew Sdn Bhd opened the doors recently to a new Impian Shop in the Kapar, Klang. Situated along Jalan Haji Sirat, the new full-fledged sales, service, and spare parts centre is operated by partners NS One Motor Trading Sdn Bhd. Crucially, the firm introduced three new models for our market during the facility’s launch. New to the Malaysian market are the NC700 streetbike series and the Integra maxi scooter. Two variants are available for the NC700, comprised of a naked NC700S and a full-fairing NC700X. Powering both bikes is a liquid-cooled 670cc parallel-twin mill, producing 47hp and 60Nm of torque in the NC700S. The full-faired NC700X however generates a higher output of 51hp and 62Nm instead. Base models for both variants are offered with a six-speed manual transmission, but higher-spec variants are offered with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) option packaged together with Combined ABS (C-ABS) brakes. The Integra maxi scooter on the other hand shares the same engine configuration and power figures as the NC700X. It is also primed with the DCT and C-ABS package as standard equipment. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-is-the-craziest-yamaha-niken-in-the-world/

This is the craziest Yamaha Niken in the world!

The Yamaha Niken is already regarded by many as one of the craziest motorcycles to date with awesome power and handling despite having an extra wheel at the front. To the folks over at Game Over Cycles (GOC) hailing from Poland, their reckoned that they can turn its crazy factor up a few notches (with the cooperation of Yamaha Motor Poland). The result? The world’s first fully customised Yamaha Niken and arguably one of the craziest builds we’ve seen yet. Making its public debut at the Custombike-Show 2019 in Germany, the Yamaha Niken built by GOC actually won the award for the “Craziest Bike” at the show. GOC is known for their work on American bikes but tackling a super high-tech Japanese was a whole different ball game. And they succeeded with flying colours. According to Stanisław Myszkowski, head of GOC, “Niken to many people is revolutionary, to others a controversial bike. This is exactly how people also react to our custom bikes, that’s why I got interested in it right from the beginning. In terms of technology, nothing should be changed in this machine. The Japanese technical solutions at the highest level provide Niken’s great driving abilities, but from the first moment I saw it live, I felt we could modify its appearance and give the machine a little different character.” “To achieve this, we changed the whole body. All plastic elements have been replaced by aluminium, thanks to which the vehicle’s shapes have become more sharp, even aggressive, without losing its aerodynamic properties. Bearing in mind Niken’s speed one can say, that now this motorcycle cuts the air almost like a samurai sword,” added Myszkowski. It took GOC over 1,400 hours of skilled labour to handmake each and every aluminium body part for this super crazy custom Yamaha Niken (YES, ALL BY HAND). What’s even crazier is the fact that each handmade part worked like a charm in displaying an outrageously beautiful look without comprising any of the bike’s astounding riding and handling capabilities. Now, that took some real skills to pull off. Magdalena Piskorz, Yamaha Motor Poland General Director commented, “Since the beginning of cooperation with GOC I have been extremely impressed with Staszek’s talent, his unconventional approach to customization and out of this world ideas that have been appreciated around the world for years. I am glad that for the latest project he chose this model, so innovative and unique for Yamaha. Working with such professionals is pure pleasure”. Source: Game Over Cycles --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bad-mechanics-horror-stories-for-your-bike/

Bad Mechanics: Horror Stories for Your Bike

Mechanics could make your bike a dream or a nightmare to ride. Manufacturers’ workshops are typically good. There are good third-party workshops also, worth the little extra money. All of us appreciate good mechanics but there are also downright horrible ones out there. Whether they’re improperly trained or just indifferent, we’ve had our fair share of bad ones through our long riding experience. 1. Fontaine de Motul I love Italian and French food, and have an equal fondness for Italian and French motorcycle products, including engine oils. On this one occasion, I decided to go French, thereby opting for the Motul 300V Factory Line 5W40. It had cost me more than RM 130 per 1-litre bottle in 2006. Let’s pamper the bike a little. After draining the oil incompletely because he never stood the bike straight up the entire time, the mechanic went ahead to start the engine and gave it full throttle immediately (rather than letting it idle first). A fountain of brownish-black liquid shot straight up the left side of his body and onto the workshop’s walls and ceiling. He had forgotten to recap the oil filler. Now he screwed the cap back on but he didn’t even bother to wipe the oil off, nor did he replace the oil that had sprayed out. Instead, he yelled to his supervisor, “Tukar minyak, siap (Oil change done)!” And you know what, the supervisor didn’t check and turned to me to say it’s done. That’s not all. My bike needed 3.6 litres thus there should be enough to top up. “Mana itu minyak lebih (Where’s the extra oil)?” I enquired. He went back into the workshop, came back and reluctantly handed over an unopened bottle. “Apasal ini botol tarak bukak? Pon tak kasi balik (Why isn’t this bottle opened and why didn’t you return it to me)?” I yelled this time. “Dah cukup mah (Because it’s already enough)!,” he actually yelled back. Well, of course it’s enough before the magical appearance of fontaine de Motul, because he hadn’t drained all the oil. In fact, the supposedly “new” oil looks all black! Why didn’t he inform me about the last bottle? Because he must’ve wanted to keep it for his own use on my expense. 2. Breaking the brakes Time for new front brake pads. The Senior Technician at the authorized workshop got it done and handed the bike back to me. “Please allow 300 to 500km for the new pads to bed in,” he advised. Out onto the main road, I came upon the first set of traffic lights. The brakes gripped but the front lurched ahead a little with a loud CLUNK. I pulled over to the roadside and stopped. Another “CLUNK!” I got off to inspect the bike and found the front brake calipers had jacked upwards, having pivoted on the top bolts! The bottom bolts and nuts were missing on both sides. 3. What, am I riding a lorry? I remembered when the rear end of my Cagiva Mito EV125 seemed to have suddenly collapsed. I discovered that both rear wheel bearings were busted, causing the rear tyre to lean to the left. The cause? An overtightened wheel nut. A buddy of mine bent the wheel nut spanner supplied with his Kawasaki ER-6n when he tried to loosen the nut to adjust his chain. He had just replaced the rear tyre. I wonder why some mechanics are so lazy and love to use the pneumatic impact wrench to tighten bolts and nuts (removal is fine). Tightening the fasteners to specified torques isn’t difficult, but my enquiries at one particular workshop disclosed an alarming revelation: “Apa itu tok lench (What’s a torque wrench)?” So, they go on using the air wrench on almost any fastener – KTEK! KTEK! KTEK! That’s not the end of the story, however, as the bolts/nuts would be so over-torque that even an pneumatic impact wrench couldn’t budge it the next time! They would then continue whacking at it until, congratulations, you’ve got yourself rounded nuts/bolts. What the…..! Are we riding motorcycles or driving lorries? 4. Dances with forks, and…. I blew the oil seals on both forks on a trip up north and they leaked like overflowed sanitary napkins on the way back, so I decided to stop at a workshop that’s attached to a large motorcycle dealership. The mechanic got work immediately. Everything went smoothly until he had to remove the bottom bolt to release the damper rod inside. Good workshop practice dictates that he should clamp the fork leg securely in a vice to remove the bolt, but noooooooo. He held the leg by hand then inserted a modified Allen key driven by – what else – the favourite pneumatic impact wrench into it. The PROPER way of doing it The strong twisting force of the air wrench meant that he couldn’t hold on to the fork leg hard enough, so the top of the fork (now at the bottom) danced all over the floor in a circle, deeply scoring the fork cap. 5. … clean it half-way After he’s managed to release the bolts and drain the remaining oil, he took the parts away for cleaning and came back with clean fork pistons. But the damper rods were still dirty, yet he inserted them back into the forks legs anyway, and poured in the oil. Without measuring, of course. Heck, he didn’t even check for debris when he refitted the seal housings and oil seals. What a funny guy. I wondered if he soaps only one side of his body when he showers. 6. Into the red zone When oil is drained out of the engine and refilled, the engine should be started and left to idle for 10 to 15 seconds to circulate the oil. However, I’ve met plenty of mechanics who’d start the engine and rev it all the way to maximum revs right away! No, they didn’t blip the throttle, they just went WFO (wide full open) until it hit the rev limiter. 7. Overinflating the tyres I wonder how many workshops ever calibrated their gauges. It’s not wrong to inflate new tyres to seat the beads against the rim flanges, but the pressures should then be reduced to the recommended amount. They’d usually leave it as so, but the pressures are always too high even if they did check with their gauges. 8. Just charge it Ooops. Battery’s about to “conk,” so let’s get a new one. At the shop, the mechanic filled the acid into a new AGM battery, sealed it and mounted it into the bike right away. Hey! He’s supposed to charge it first! 9. It goes the other way Buy new tyres, happy that your bike will handle great again and that you don’t have be scared witless when it rains. That’s if the mechanic mounted the tyre or tyres according to the rotational direction. Does it surprise you that I’ve had more than one mechanic telling me, “Talak ploblem punya (It’s not a problem),” run a tyre against the intended rotation direction? When I insisted that it should be remounted, they usually throw a tantrum by brutally prying out the new tyre on a rough cement floor. 10. No problem became mo’ problems I sent my bike into a manufacturer’s official workshop for a recall campaign. The bike was running good, had no issues and was clean. I wouldn’t want to look like an idiot who doesn’t take care of his bike right? I went to pick it up after a couple of days later. The bike sounded great, was now responsive to throttle inputs and… wait a minute, where’s my voltmeter? I looked down through the fairing’s opening and found it hanging like a roast chicken at the Chicken Rice Shop. Okay, nevermind. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, I passed it off as maybe the double-sided tape must’ve lost its adhesion properties. Further down the road, the fairing started flapping in the wind. Hey! They must’ve forgotten to tighten a few nuts on it! When I got home, my wife opened the gate for me. She ran out and yelled, “Stop the engine!” I did. She said, “Look! The bike’s leaking!” I peered down to see a pool of radioactive-green liquid. It was the coolant. We pushed the bike into the driveway, trailing Predator blood all the way. My initial thought was that they must’ve overfilled the expansion tank, but to my utmost horror, it was actually coming out of the coolant bleed bolt at the bottom of the coolant pump housing! Conclusion You’d most probably ask why I didn’t “sound” the mechanics when I saw their wrongdoings. Truth is, I’ve done that plenty of times before and most of them retorted, “Lu panlai, lu buat sindili loh (Do it yourself, if you’re so smart).” Therefore, these days, I’d save my frustration until the job is done then unload on them, usually with words pertaining to making babies and references to their elders. I’ve been a regular at that famous motorcycle workshop at Setapak and now in Jalan Pahang for over 20 years now. Yes, they charge more but they adhere to correct workshop practices and take good care of their customers’ bikes. That’s before even mentioning about the wealth of experience and expertise under their belts. None of these horrors had ever happened there. Certain manufacturers’ workshops are great too, especially in this age where aftersales service is a priority. They have the expertise and the correct tools to get the work done correctly My advice is this: Unless if you want to start servicing your bike by yourself, look for one or a few where their employees perform their tasks with pride. Even it means you need to pay a little more. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hlym-celebrates-5-millionth-bikes-milestone-with-special-edition-yamaha-135lc-fi-5mro-malaysia-edition-rm9198/

HLYM Celebrates 5 Millionth Bikes Milestone With Special Edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition – RM9,198

In conjuction with Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) achievement of producing five million motorcycles since 1979, the company celebrates the new milestone by introducing a special edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysian Edition. HLYM rolls out 5 million motorcycles since 1979. Limited edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition is priced at RM9,198.  The limited run motorcycle features the Malaysian flag colourway while also fitted with special components including Yamaha Premium Basket similar to the one found on the 135LC Fi SE.  According to HLYM, only 5,000 units of the limited edition motorcycle will be on sale beginning mid-October 2022.  All units will come with a unique serial number from 5,000,001 to 5,005,000 and is priced at RM9,198 (excluding registration and insurance). Meanwhile, Group Managing Director of Hong Leong Industries Berhad and Managing Director of HLYM, Dato Dr Jim Khor Mun Wei pointed out that this was HLYM’s fastest million-milestone ever achieved.  That said, it is a strong indicator that the Yamaha is still the most preferred brand in the country.  Meanwhile, every purchase of the new Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition is entitled to received Yamaha disc lock and a special commemorative 5MRO Bomber Jacket.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/guy-martin-and-triumph-to-replicate-the-great-escape-stunt/

Guy Martin and Triumph to Replicate “The Great Escape” Stunt

Guy Martin Triumph will replicate the scene of a Triumph jumping over the fences in “The Great Escape.” He will ride the new Scrambler 1200 XE for the attempt. It’s scheduled to take place on 8th December. Guy Martin Triumph will replicate the scene of Steve McQueen’s character jumping a Triumph over the fences in “The Great Escape.” However, he will attempt it on the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE, instead of the classic TR6. The new bike has better power, frame and suspension to go with it, but the technical crew will upgrade the suspension in some ways to cushion the landing, just like in the movie. The stunt will take place on 8th December, so stay tuned. In the 1963 movie, Captain Virgil (played by McQueen) attempted to break out of a German Nazi POW camp. He got his hands on a “BMW R75” but was soon surrounded by German troops as he tried to escape from a town. The only way out was past a series of lower fences and the main 4m (12 feet) perimeter fence. The image of him and bike suspended mid-air, clearing the fence became so famous that it even graced everything from t-shirts to song album covers – all propounding about freedom from oppression. Truth is, the bike was a Triumph TR6 which was dressed up to look like a BMW R75. The R75 was rare in those days after the war and when the film was shot. Also, it was McQueen’s stuntman buddy Bud Ekins who made the infamous jumps. However, we’d like to add that both McQueen and Ekins compete on TR6s in a number of rallies and winning them.   These were the reasons why Triumph introduced the commemorative Bonneville McQueen and Bonneville Ekins. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/haojue-xcr300-breaks-cover-in-china-28hp-27nm/

Haojue XCR300 Breaks Cover In China – 28hp, 27Nm

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, Haojue, has unveiled its new naked motorcycle, the XCR300, at the China International Motorcycle Expo. The XCR300 brings an all-new design, starting with the split LED headlamp reminiscent of the Yamaha MT-25. It also comes with a single-piece seat, twin exhaust and a full LED light setup. Moreover, it also features an impressive 16L fuel tank, 41mm KYB USD fork, assist and slipper clutch, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and digital LCD. Underneath the fairing sits a 298cc twin-cylinder engine capable of producing 28.4hp and 27.8Nm and mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Meanwhile, braking is done by a single disc at both ends clamped with Nissin axial callipers. Interestingly, the XCR300 also comes equipped with alloy wheels wrapped in premium Pirelli Rosso 3 tyres. According to reports in China, the Haojue XCR300 is priced at CNY28,000 (RM18.2k). --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-kawasaki-z650rs-gets-new-visuals-in-japan/

2023 Kawasaki Z650RS Gets New Visuals In Japan

Kawasaki has updated its neo-retro Z650RS with a new colour scheme for 2023.  Kawasaki Z650RS was launched back in September 2021.  Features the same 649cc parallel-twin engine found in the Z650 and Ninja 650.  Joining the already available Candy Emerald Green is the new Metallic Moondust Gray X Ebony for the 2023 model year. The Kawasaki Z650RS is the Japanese latest take on neo-retro naked bike jumping on the success of the bigger and bolder, Z900RS. Continuing the firm’s trusted 649cc parallel-twin platform, the Z900RS 650RS makes a decent 67hp @ 8,000rpm and 64Nm @ 6,500rpm.  The new colourway is already available in Japan since 1st November.  Like its Z650 and Ninja 650 cousin, the Z650RS is equipped with the same 41mm front fork and horizontal link rear shock with preload-adjustable. Braking is done by a dua twin-piston front callipers clamping on a 300mm disc while governed by a dual-channel Bosch ABS. Other features include: assist/slipper clutch 820mm seat height full LED light setup classic analogue dial with digital display --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/five-minutes-pol-espargaro/

2014 MotoGP – 5 minutes with: Pol Espargaro

Rookie MotoGP rider Pol Espargaro shares his insights towards this weekend’s Malaysian MotoGP. It’s been a sensational year for rookie MotoGP rider Pol Espargaro. Not only is he racing this season astride one of the satellite Yamaha race bikes, 23-year-old Spaniard Pol shares the grid with his 25-year-old older brother Aleix as well. (Read our interview with Aleix Espargaro here) We managed to have a quick chat with the young Spaniard about things and here’s what we managed to gain. What are your feelings about being in the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 outfit this year? “Yeah, it has been really nice. They are amazing. The team is like a family. They take care of me very much. They had some rookie riders before in past seasons and they know how to explain to the rookie riders on how to do things. I am happy here. I feel like I’m home with them.” How has it been racing alongside an experienced teammate like Bradley Smith? “Well, you know how it is. What we always say is that the first guy you have to win over (against) is your teammate. It has been really difficult this year, because he was really strong in the beginning especially. And, when I was in the young category, I was trying to follow him, but it was impossible. Now for me, it is starting to be a little more easier as I get comfortable with the bike.” Can you share with us the differences between your bike and the bike Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo uses? “Well, we really don’t know. It looks like it is really close, our bike. But you know, the most important part on this bike is the electronics systems, traction control, and everything. It looks like they know a little bit more how to improve it at each race, each track, they know how to manage in getting the best setting for each track. For me, being in my rookie year, it is really difficult to understand and tell on what to improve. I’m sure with a little more experience, it will be a little easier to get a good setting.” Personally, what are you looking forward to in Sepang this weekend? “Well, it is an important circuit and race for me, especially because this is the first track where I rode a MotoGP bike. During pre-season, we were here for testing. For me, it would be really nice to come here again to go on the bike to check what I changed during the season, to check what I improved or what I’m doing wrong than pre-season. It’ll be interesting to know what I change, and if I make a step forward or not. It would be nice.” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-rossi-happy-with-the-factory-m1-new-chassis-and-aerodynamics/

MotoGP: Rossi Happy With The Factory M1 New Chassis And Aerodynamics

Valentino Rossi concluded the five days of MotoGP pre-season test with Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT) in Qatar. However, the 42 year-year old could not get on his YZR-M1 on the final day due to strong winds which caused the track to be filled with sands. Nonetheless, Rossi expressed his satisfaction towards his new M1, with the Italian feels he is 85% done heading towards the season opener in Losail. Valentino Rossi, Qatar MotoGP test, 12 March 2021 “We wasted one day, but fortunately yesterday we did all the important work/ “It’s a shame because we have some other things to try, including a long run for a race simulation. “But for the rest, the balance is quite positive because especially in the last two days, we improved a lot the bike, the grip, the feeling,” he said. Rossi also showed some love to Yamaha after last season blunder with the factory-spec M1. “The positive is that Yamaha worked cleverly during the winter, and they brought here some good things like the new chassis and aerodynamics. “This is very important because we have a lot of problems to improve for me in the last years. “he second positive thing is the feeling with the new team and with all my staff [at Petronas] is beautiful, the atmosphere is good. So these two things make me happy,” he added. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-ktm-super-duke-debuts-malaysia/

New KTM Super Duke debuts in Malaysia

Malaysian KTM bikes importer and distributor Motonation Sdn Bhd last weekend marked the arrival of its latest offering, the highly anticipated KTM 1290 Super Duke R naked. This marks the bike’s first ever launch in an Asian market. Present during the launch were KTM’s top brass, as well as Malaysian Moto3 riders Zulfahmi Khairuddin, Amirul Hafiq Azmi, Husni Aizat Malik, and Hafiza Rofa, as well as celebrity comedian and bikes enthusiast Zizan Razak. Shortly after the media briefing, select members of the media were invited to have a go with the beastly new naked for a few laps around the Sepang Circuit with guidance from former MotoGP ace Jeremy McWilliams. Unlike its predecessor the Super Duke 990, the new 2013 model packs a bigger punch from its 1,300cc V-twin engine. The mill, essentially an enlarged version of the brand’s RC8 model’s 1,198cc V-twin, generates a maximum output of 180hp at 8,870rpm whilst peak torque of 144Nm is churned out at 6,500rpm. Power is transmitted via a six-speed transmission. Weighing in approximately 189kg dry, KTM states that the new Super Duke is able to sprint from standstill to 200km/h in just 7.2 seconds.   Keeping all the power in check, the 1290 Super Duke R boasts a wide array of standard-equipped electronic rider aids, namely Ride-by-Wire with three ride modes – Street, Sport, and Rain. In Street and Sport modes, all 180hp are available with optimised throttle opening curves on tap to the rider whilst in Rain mode, the system limits the output at 100hp and a softer throttle opening curve. Other than that, the electronic rider aid suite also includes ABS and Traction Control systems supplied by Bosch, as well as a neat Lean Angle Sensor feature. Matching its high-tech DNA are the LED daytime running lights and rear brake lamps that compliment and complete the new Super Duke R’s aggressive and modern exterior styling. The new KTM 1290 Super Duke R will retail in Malaysia starting from RM128,800 and is available in two paint schemes – KTM’s signature Orange and Black. Check out our first impression review of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R here. Check out more photos in the galleries below as well. KTM 1290 Super Duke R launch KTM 1290 Super Duke press photos KTM 1290 Super Duke in Sepang --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-v4-granturismo-engine-unveiled-no-desmodromic-valves/

Ducati V4 Granturismo engine unveiled – no Desmodromic valves?

The Ducati V4 Granturismo engine has finally dropped and on paper, it looks quite amazing but to some Ducati purists, it’s a bit of a sacrilege. While the numbers of good, the decision to omit the legendary Desmodromic valves away from this new powerplant is deemed to be blasphemous, but not without its advantages. First and foremost, this new Ducati V4 Granturismo engine will make its debut on the Ducati Multistrada V4 sometime next month. The 1,158cc displacement based on the Desmosedici Stradale unit found on the Panigale V4 offers a compact yet powerful performance intended for its various usages on any road conditions. Producing 170hp at 10,500rpm and 125Nm of torque at 8,750rpm, the Granturismo was designed to bring out the best of multiple aspects from off-road riding performance, reliability, and ease of mind. That’s where the 60,000km valve service intervals come into play where Ducati went with the more conventional spring-valve system, instead of what the brand has been highlighting since the very start, Desmodromic valves. In other words, it’s a more ‘durable’ engine that can last the distance without owners having to worry about the allegedly and dreadfully expensive ‘DesmoService’ from time to time. Without the Desmodromic valve, the redline of the Granturismo is considerably lower as well, but 10,500rpm is probably more than good enough for some fun off-road. The Ducati V4 Granturismo also has the ability to disable its rear cylinder bank, which helps in multiple aspects from conserving fuel, manage heat, and presumably torque delivery when travelling on the roads less travelled. Other specs include counter-rotating crankshaft, and bi-directional quickshifter, just like the high performing-oriented Desmosedici Stradale. In essence, the Ducati V4 Granturismo engine is lighter, more compact, and more powerful than any of the Testastretta V-twin engines produced by Ducati in the current and previous generation Multistrada. Even without the Desmodromic valves, we reckoned that most Ducati owners will be able to forgive thanks to the 60,000km valve service intervals. Written by: Sep Irran MotoGP: Valentino Rossi tests positive for COVID-19 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-harley-davidson-that-porsche-help-build/

The Harley Davidson that Porsche help build

We go back in time to marvel at the Harley Davidson V-Rod and how Porsche helped build a legend. Yes, you read that right. The famed Stuttgart-based purveyors of sports cars did help the bar-and-shield marque from Milwaukee in creating the Harley Davidson V-Rod. But, before we digress further into that, lets take a look at how Harley-Davidson ushered in a new era with the V-Rod. 2015 Yamaha VMax 2015 Honda F6C Valkyrie 2016 Ducati Diavel Carbon 2016 Ducati XDiavel S In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the muscle bike or ‘powercruiser’ genre had finally come of age. Also known as ‘dragsters’, its formula of cramming a powerful engine into a comfortable and low cruiser body with a fat rear tyre and limitless customisation potential held its own appeal. Some successful examples of this include the Yamaha V-Max, Honda F6C Valkyrie and more recently the Ducati Diavel and its XDiavel offshoot. In the V-Rod’s case, its development and debut came at the right time for Harley. The concept behind the V-Rod was conceived as early as 1995 when Harley-Davidson (H-D) realised that it needed something totally new and different to capture the next generation of consumers. The challenge here was to create a product for the new wave of riders that favoured performance over style. Image credit: Thesupermat via Wikipedia It didn’t take long before engineers found the base for this in the form of the Harley-Davidson VR1000 superbike racer project. The race bike was powered using a 60-degree 1,130cc V-twin that had dual over-head camshafts (DOHC) and liquid cooling. Called the Revolution, this engine was a dark horse in H-D’s stable simply because it was liquid-cooled – all H-D production engines built prior to it were air-cooled. H-D fans were up in arms and never accepted the Revolution engine as a pure Harley, but that is a different story altogether. But that liquid-cooling feature, plus the DOHC layout, was all that was needed as it allowed the V-twin to rev-higher, which in turn granted more power, torque and speed. In more ways than one, it really lived up to its namesake. However, this was a race engine built using components that weren’t going to last as a mass-production item. This was where the alliance with Porsche came into the picture, and rumour has it that hardcore engineers within Harley-Davidson itself did not want to work on the blasphemy that was the liquid-cooled Revolution engine, hence why Porsche was roped in. Porsche Engineering, Weissach, Germany. (Credit: porsche Media Centre) H-D’s alliance with Porsche AG came in 1996 when a select group of H-D engineers took up residency at the mighty Porsche Engineering centre in Weissach, Germany. By collaborating with their German peers, the critical knowledge traded between the two firms would eventually allow H-D engineers to turn the Revolution race engine into a powerplant that was both ready for mass production and application in a road-going bike. The result of this alliance was a monstrosity of a V-twin engine that allows one to perform epic burnouts as demonstrated in the video above. Besides that, another challenge for Harley-Davidson lay in the bike’s styling. Though it was totally new and different, it also had to remain true to its roots at the same time. In the documentary film posted above, you can see how engineers initially had to scrap the first clay prototype mock up of the V-Rod because it looked too much like a H-D Softtail with a liquid-cooled engine stuffed into its frame. Challenges also came when engineers and builders were ironing out some of the finer details to meet H-D’s brand identity. Notable instances here include the design and repositioning of the V-Rod’s fuel tank under the seat, as well as the countless attempts to camouflage the Revolution engine’s liquid-cooling components like the radiator and hoses. What was impressive though was how H-D went to the extent of adding faux cooling fins in the engine block’s design to make look like its air-cooled units, as well as the efforts in tuning the mill’s exhaust note to ensure it had the brand’s trademarked yet distinct rumbling V-twin soundtrack – it still had to sound like a proper H-D to match the looks. Finally, after hundreds of man-hours across six years or so, H-D unveiled the V-Rod at the turn of the new millennium in 2001. Besides the engine, the V-Rod also heralded plenty of other firsts for H-D. These included things like the hydroforming method used to build the V-Rod’s chassis frame, the adoption of a hydraulic actuated clutch, and the presence of the Automatic Compression Release (ACR) feature that aided with cold-starts. Until the arrival of the all-electric Harley-Davidson Project Livewire in 2014, the V-Rod stood as H-D’s biggest engineering breakthrough in its storied 113-year history. V-Rod Muscle Night Rod Special The V-Rod has been in the H-D stable for well over a decade now and has received plenty of refreshments. Presently, the V-Rod can be had in two forms – the V-Rod Muscle and Night Rod Special. Both share the same Revolution 2 liquid-cooled 1,247cc DOHC V-twin heart – an evolution of the first V-Rod’s 1,130cc unit – and offer whopping torque figures of 118Nm in Muscle form and 113Nm in Night Rod form. More importantly, both figures are significant hikes from the first V-Rod’s 100.3Nm figure when launched in 2001. Other differences were the aesthetics. Highlights here include the Muscle’s twin single-pipe exhaust flowing on each side as opposed to the Night Rod’s stacked twin-pipe layout, as well as the distinctively different taillight designs in both. You can study the differences more closely in the specification sheets and image galleries we’ve prepared at the end of this post. (From L-R) Jehan, Simon, Rambo somewhere in the mountains of China The success of the V-Rod is perfectly reflected in its larger than life fan movement worldwide. Check out our outing with the Malaysian V-Rod Owners Group last year and read up on how its founders and celebrity member Jehan Miskin rode their prized dragsters beyond their limits in epic overland trips to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam and more recently to Shangri-La, China. Check out more images and details in the galleries prepared below. First generation Harley-Davidson V-Rod Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle (2013 – 2016) V-Rod Muscle Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special (2013 – 2016) Night Rod Special Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle details Harley-Davidson Night Rod Special details --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-ducati-confirms-complete-line-up-for-2021/

MotoGP: Ducati confirms complete line-up for 2021

Ducati is set for the 2021 MotoGP season after announcing that Francesco Bagnaia will be moving up to the factory squad together with his current teammate in Pramac, Jack Miller. The 23-year-old Italian has shown very good progress on the Desmosedici GP20, good enough to secure the second factory seat. Welcome onboard @PeccoBagnaia! | It’s official ? Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia joins forces with the Ducati Team for the 2021 @motogp season alongside @jackmilleraus.#PeccoOfficial #ForzaDucati pic.twitter.com/MSJyCyZfB6 — Ducati Corse (@ducaticorse) September 30, 2020 According to Bagnaia, “I chose to be a Ducati rider even before becoming the Moto2 World Champion in 2018 and they chose me even before knowing that one day I would become one. This was our bet, because up until that moment I had always been a fast rider, but I didn’t have anything concrete in my pocket: Ducati decided to believe it even before everyone else. We didn’t know how it was going to go, but to date, if I had to go back, I’d do it all over again.” As for the Pramac Ducati squad, they’ve also announced that Johann Zarco and current Moto2 rider, Jorge Martin, will be the replacement riders for the upcoming season. It was also announced that these riders will also ride factory-spec Ducati Desmosedici GP21, a move similar to what KTM is doing at the moment. Pramac Racing Team together with @JohannZarco1 and @88jorgemartin for 2021 season pic.twitter.com/xyYfdhV1K3 — Pramac Racing MotoGP (@pramacracing) September 30, 2020 All that’s left is the Avintia Racing squad who has yet to confirm their riders. Word has it that they’re seriously considering the top two Moto2 riders, Luca Marini and Enea Bastianini. Time will tell if this comes into reality but for now, these two are battling it out for the Moto2 championship crown. Written by: Sep Irran MotoGP: Franco Morbidelli bags first premier class win in Misano --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/its-official-anita-yusof-first-woman-to-ride-around-the-world/

It’s Official: Anita Yusof Is First Woman To Ride Around The World

Anita hails from Ipoh and is a lecturer in the Physical Education Department.  Narrowly missed an encounter with a bear in Alaska.  Tough journey as some nights were spent camping in the middle of nowhere and going to sleep hungry.  Givi Ambassador Anita Yusof has become the first Malaysian ever to be inducted into the Asia Book of Records. Anita, who hails from Ipoh, Perak, received the recognition after she completed her solo ride around the world as the first woman to ride around the world. She was presented the award by GIVI Asia Managing Director, On Hai Swee (above, left) at the GIVI factory in Bukit Beruntung. Anita, who works as a lecturer in the Physical Education Department at IPG Campus Ipoh, began her journey from Putrajaya on September 11, 2015, returning home a year later through Bukit Kayu Hiram on September 16, 2016. Her incredible feat includes riding through 40 countries on four continents, racking up a total distance of 65,639 kilometres. Riding solo on a Yamaha FZ150i, Anita has been an avid traveller all her life. Preferring solo travelling to large groups, Anita says she has always travelled by herself, and had previously preferred backpacking, until she learned to ride motorcycles. The mother of two grown up sons says Patagonia was one of the most beautiful places she has ever been. but also had a run in with a bear in Alaska, managing to avoid disaster by just 30 meters. Naturally the ride was riddled with challenges, one that included her having to camp in the wild with no food, with the closest city being about 200km away. But she met some really nice people along the way too, including a mechanic that gave her a free oil change, did free bike maintenance, and even offered free tyres and such. While in Costa Rica, she was also interviewed by a local tv station, you can watch the video below: And another one from a local Malaysian station (jump to 1:27): And this is the moment she came home: Anita Yusuf had used only Givi accessories throughout the ride and put the equipment through the ultimate real world test. The result? Nothing broke, not the Givi products, not Anita’s spirit. Anita is a biker we admire and respect. We will be inducting her into our own ‘Most Interesting Biker’ series soon. Watch this space. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cfmoto-450sr-to-debut-in-malaysia-on-october-22/

CFMoto 450SR To Debut In Malaysia On October 22

We knew that CFMoto 450SR is coming to Malaysia awhile back but we just received confirmation from CFMoto Malaysia that the motorcycle is set for launch on October 22.  The highly anticipated CFMoto 450SR is set to debut in Malaysia. Features a peppy 449cc parallel-twin with 270-degree crankshaft, good for 50HP and 39Nm. According to latest confirmation by CFMoto Malaysia, the CFMoto 450SR will make its debut ahead of the 2022 Malaysia MotoGP.  CFMoto gains worldwide attention especially in Asia and Europe with their impressive range of motorcycles including the CL700, NK650, and the 650GT. The brand is known for bringing bike bike to the budget-conscious market including the quarter litre sportbike, the 250SR. However, CFMoto is about to expand the SR range with the all-new 450SR. First caught our attention as a concept at EICMA 2021, the upcoming 450cc sportbike is CFMoto latest attempt to attract the small capacity motorcycle segment.  Despite lacking some premium features from the SR-C21 concept bike, the CFMOTO 450SR still looks sharp and beautifully built, with an aesthetics reminiscent of a race bikes.  Powering the 450SR is a 450cc parallel-twin DOHC engine with 270-degree crank capable of pumping 50hp @ 9,500rpm and 39Nm @ 7,600rpm with a compression ratio of 11.1:5. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a final chain drive mated to a six-speed transmission. Other notable features include a 5-inch TFT curved instrument display with smartphone connectivity and USB charging port. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-petronas-yamaha-srt-waiting-for-valentino-rossi/

MotoGP: Petronas Yamaha SRT ‘waiting’ for Valentino Rossi

There are still many undecided issues concerning the world of MotoGP not just for this season to start, but how it’ll play out moving forward into 2021. While most riders already have their plans set, one particular Yamaha rider with legendary status is still on the fence – Valentino Rossi. Being replaced in the Yamaha factory squad by a much younger and supremely talented Fabio Quartararo for 2021 after a stellar performance in his rookie season with Petronas Yamaha SRT, Rossi is now contemplating on whether he should throw in the towel or continue racing with the Yamaha satellite team. According to an interview between Crash.Net and Petronas Yamaha SRT Team Principal, Dato’ Razlan Razali, “I keep checking my phone every day and so far, I haven’t seen anything! I’m hoping that at least Valentino will send a WhatsApp or something! So far nothing, so we are keeping it open for him. If it happens, it’s something that we will definitely look at.” “We will not shut it and ignore it. He is a nine-time world champion and carries a lot of weight in terms of marketing and exposure. But we really need to understand the deal. What are the dos and don’ts? We need to understand what he wants,” added Dato’ Razlan. In other words, to transfer over Rossi into a different team requires a lot of communication and effort. Will he bring his own team members? How will Petronas SRT work with Rossi getting full factory support from Yamaha? Will Rossi agree to all the PR work set out by Petronas and other main sponsors? Whatever the case may be, everyone is still waiting for Rossi to decide his future. His initial plan to gauge his performance in the first few races in 2020 is out and we can expect him to announce another year of racing before truly throwing in the towel. Rossi will confirm his plans sometime in June. MotoGP: Three rounds officially CANCELLED --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-to-compete-in-spanish-rally-with-a-stock-pan-america-1250/

Harley-Davidson To Compete In Spanish Rally With A Stock Pan America 1250

Harley-Davidson is set to put the Pan America 1250 to a proper test as the all-new adventure bike will compete at the Baja Espana Aragon. the Pan America 1250 will face the scorching heat of the Teruel desert in July.  Joan Pedrero will pilot the stock Pan America 1250.  While the Milwaukee-based company is well known in the MotoAmerica King of the Baggers series and in American Flat Track, the brand is still unknown for its racing exploit in Europe. However, things are about to change as Harley-Davidson will send a stock Pan America 1250 piloted by Spanish rider Joan Pedrero to the Spanish Rally. Although the brand is mostly known for its range of cruisers, the introduction of the Pan America 1250 has taken the brand into new territory and surprisingly well accepted by not just Harley owners’ but also adventure bike enthusiast. After establishing itself as an off-rad brand of sorts, the Baja Espana Aragon will further imprint the American brand in international racing. The Baja Espana Aragon, regarded as the most important races in the Spanish All Terrain Rally Championship will celebrate its 38th edition between 22-24 July 2022. According to Harley-Davidson, the Pan America 1250 will compete in the Trail category. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/travis-pastrana-going-jump-52-cars-16-buses-fountain/

Travis Pastrana is going to jump over 52 cars, 16 buses AND a fountain!

Travis Pastrana is planning to recreate three of the most iconic stunts performed by Evel Knievel. Using the new Indian Scout FTR750, Pastrana will jump over 52 cars, 16 buses, and the Caesar Palace’s fountain. A three-hour special called “Evel Live” will be broadcasted on 8 July 2018 where Pastrana plans to perform all three jumps in ONE NIGHT. The name Travis Pastrana is nothing short of legendary with a huge dose of balls-of-the-walls craziness thrown into the mix. Known for performing motorcycle backflips as easily as how normal people would open the fridge, Pastrana is again looking into performing something super insane. This time around, he’s going to recreate three of the most iconic stunt jumps which were performed by America’s greatest stunt rider, Evel Knievel. While Evel took years to accomplish just these three jumps, Pastrana will be doing all three in ONE NIGHT. A three-hour televised special called “Evel Live” will feature Travis Pastrana as he attempts to perform all three jumps using the Indian Scout FTR750 flat-track race bike. While Evel is made famous thanks to all his jumps made using his custom 1976 Harley-Davidson Sportster, Pastrana will be taking the jumps up a few notches using the new Indian Scout FTR750. According to Pastrana, “It was extremely important to use a motorcycle similar to the ones Evel jumped. The Indian Scout FTR 750 is just that, a modern-day evolution of the flat track motorcycles of the past. It has the power I need and handles well, but I’m only going to have a few days to get comfortable on it, not to mention I’ve never jumped a V-twin before. I’ve got my work cut out, but we’re used to going big at Nitro Circus, so we’ll make it happen.” The event is said to happen on 8 July 2018 in the US. The History Channel will be broadcasting the jumps live so if you happen to have access, make an event out of it and invite us over! Travis Pastrana backflips a motorcycle on a river! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/flux-motorcycles-rolls-out-primo-electric-dirt-bike-83hp-750nm/

Flux Motorcycles Rolls Out Primo Electric Dirt Bike – 83hp, 750Nm

We are in awe with Flux Motorcycles latest creation, the Primo electric dirt bike that’s not only boast an insane 750Nm of torque but also a list of premium components.  The Primo delivers a whopping 750Nm and 85 peak horsepower.  The electric dirt bike also features a newly built frame by HM Moto.  The Flux Primo, is setting a new standard for speed and power. Boasting top-of-the-line features such as KYB and Öhlins suspension, the Primo is already making waves in the industry. But the real standout feature of this incredible machine is its electric motor. Delivering a heart-stopping 85bhp, the Primo is already more powerful than most 450cc internal combustion engine motorcycles. And with 553lb-ft of torque available from zero revs, it has more grunt than a Tesla Model 3. Not only is the motor water-cooled, but each battery cell also has its own cooling circuit to help reduce voltage drop-off while riding hard. And with an energy recovery system to recoup energy from slowing down, the Primo can go the distance on longer rides. But that’s not all – the Primo also features a ‘virtual clutch’ system, which is sure to revolutionize the way we ride. Although details are scarce, we imagine it works similarly to the early Electric Motion trials bikes. With top-spec features such as KYB 48mm fully adjustable forks, an Öhlins TTX full adjustable rear shock, and a frame created by HM Moto, we’re pretty adamant that the Primo will quickly capture people’s attention.    --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-motorcycles-malaysia-officially-launches-2018-triumph-street-triple-series-rm52900/

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia officially launches 2018 Triumph Street Triple series – From RM52,900

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia (Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd) has officially launched three new 2018 Triumph Street Triple models which are the S, R Low Ride Height (LRH) and the RS. The latest generation high-performance naked motorcycles by Triumph cater to all sorts of riders from beginners to the most hardcore track day riders. The 2018 Triumph Street Triple S, R and RS are priced at RM52,900, RM59,900 and RM66,900 respectively (basic prices with GST). Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd (Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia) has officially launched the highly-awaited 2018 Triumph Street Triple 765 series earlier today. The latest Street Triple range series consists of three new exciting models; the Street Triple Low Ride Height (LRH), Street Triple S and the top of the range Street Triple RS. These next generation naked motorcycles from Triumph highlight on the future of two-wheels that will excite any bike enthusiast thanks to its light and nimble characteristics plus practicality and awesome performance. The Street Triple has enjoyed the status of being one of the most sought-after naked motorcycles in the world even since its debut back in 2007. With over 50,000 units sold worldwide, the latest 765cc range promises superior comfort as well as mind-blowing performance whether you’re cruising through cities of ripping through the race circuits. Together with a brand new design, the latest Street Triple range has evolved with all-new bodywork courtesy of new inner and outer radiator cowls, mudguards and rear body panels to make them more beautiful and aggressive. Speaking at the launch of the new variants, Dato’ Razak al-Malique, Chief Operating Officer of Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd, said that the previous generation Triumph Street Triple was one of the most versatile motorcycles in its segment. “The Street Triple offered practicality for those looking for a daily rider and manic performance for the weekend at the race tracks. The new Street Triple builds on an already proven formula and has made it even better. We are confident that Malaysians will find the Street Triple to be perfectly suited for their needs.  Be it for daily commuting, touring or outings on the tracks, they will love the performance of the new Street Triple S, R and RS,” he said. When it comes to power, the bigger yet lighter 765cc engine has been developed from their very successful 675cc inline-three engine found in the Triumph Daytona. With 80 new engine parts, the new 765cc engine comes with an increase in bore and stroke, crank, pistons, con-rods and balancer shaft. There are also the new nikasil-plated aluminium barrels that replace the old iron liners in the 675cc engine. All three 2018 models feature Triumph’s latest multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with SAI and electronic throttle control for optimum performance. A stainless-steel three-into-one exhaust system with a low single-sided stainless-steel silencer is standard on all three models. To make sure that all the power is delivered to the rear wheel as efficient as possible, all three 2018 Street Triples feature the wet, multi-plate clutch with slip and assist function. The Street Triple is still the lightest bike in its class, and aiding the already impressive handling is a new stiffer gullwing-type rear swing arm which has a new pivot point that provides a more natural resistance to compression under hard acceleration. The new swing arm helps deliver quicker and tighter corner exits, a more precise chassis behaviour, and better anti-squat performance. 2018 Triumph Street Triple S – RM52,900 (basic price with GST) The entry-level Street Triple comes in the form of the Triumph Street Triple S. With an updated LCD instrument panel screen, riders can easily access all important information regarding the bike such as fuel gauge, odometer and the trip meter. The Street Triple S comes with high quality finish and detailing which can be found throughout the bike from the front end all the way to its redesigned rider heel guards and the forged pillion footrest hangers. As for the frame, the Street Triple S gets a black powder coated main frame, subframe and swing arm. Although the S variant is the entry-level, do not be fooled as its 765cc triple-cylinder engine has been tuned to produce 111bhp at 11,250rpm, and 73Nm of torque at 9,100rpm which is perfect to excite any rider especially beginners. The Street Triple S gets two riding modes – rain and road – with ABS and Triumph Traction Control. The Triumph Street Triple S gets a new specially developed and tuned USD Showa SFF front suspension with 110mm of travel, and a preload-adjustable Showa mono shock at the rear with a piggyback reservoir and 124mm rear wheel travel for a controlled yet comfortable riding experience. Both the S and R variants have been fitted with some Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa rubbers that perform brilliantly in mixed weather conditions which make them perfect machines to roam all around Malaysia. As for stopping power, the S has been equipped with a Nissin twin-piston sliding callipers up front and a Brembo single piston sliding calliper. Interested in getting one of your very own Street Triple S? Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has priced it at a cool RM52,900 (basic price with GST) and it comes in two colourways; Diablo Red and Phantom Black. 2018 Triumph Street Triple R Low Ride Height (LRH) – RM59,900 (basic price with GST) Those looking for a street bike that will cater to most Asian riders can go for the latest 2018 Triumph Street Triple Low Ride Height (LRH). This very unique model offers the same level of performance with a special seat mounted 300mm lower than the standard seat found on the S and the RS. Suitable for beginners, the Street Triple LRH offers greater control even at low speeds which is a big benefit especially when going through city streets and traffic jams. The R together with its signature red rear subframe and wheel pinstripes has been fitted with the same 765cc engine but being the R, it has been tuned to produce a nice 116bhp at 12,000rpm and 77Nm of torque at 9,400rpm. The R variant features all the riding modes found in the RS, except the track mode. All variants come with ABS and switchable traction control as standard. The R gets fully adjustable Showa SF-BPF forks with 115mm of travel. The rear is kept in check by a Showa RSU monoshock with 131mm of travel with spring preload, rebound and single-speed compression adjustment. The rear shock also features a piggyback reservoir. With more power delivered to the rear wheel, an upgraded braking package is required. Triumph motorcycles Malaysia delivers that in the form of a Brembo M4.32 four piston radial Monobloc callipers upfront and Brembo single-piston sliding callipers at the rear. Available in three different colours (Crystal White, Phantom Black and Matt Silver Ice), the 2018 Street Triple LRH is priced at a cool RM59,900 (basic price with GST). 2018 Triumph Street Triple RS – RM66,900 (basic price with GST) Highly regarded as the crème de la crème when it comes to Triumph’s naked motorcycles, The RS has been developed with the most amount of high-tech specs, supreme power and torque plus a riding experience that caters even to the most hardcore track day riders. With an all-new five-inch TFT display (which is also available on the R model), the instrument panel has been credited to be one of the most advanced in the current motorcycle market. With four different themes which allow changes in the information layout, the display is also adjustable so that riders of all heights get a clear and precise view of the screen. Switching to different riding modes has been made more efficient thanks to some all-new redesigned switches that are ergonomically-placed for ease of use at high speed. The Street Triple R and RS now feature an all-new intuitive five-way joystick control to make it more ergonomic and easier to select riding modes while riding. Another premium feature of the RS that can be found on most high-end motorcycles to date is the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) which is available for the R and RS variants. Being 28 times brighter than the previous generation models, the R and RS offer better road visibility for the riders as well as other road users. In terms of looks, the RS is distinguished from the rest of the pack with its colour-coded belly pan, colour-coded pillion seat cowl with interchangeable pillion seat as standard, and a lower chain guard. The same liquid-cooled, inline-three, DOHC engine on the RS has been tuned to churn out a whopping 121bhp at 11,700rpm and 77Nm of torque at 10,800rpm. To make things even more interesting, the RS is the only variant that comes with a quick shifter as standard. Five different riding modes are available on the new Street Triple RS – rain, road, sport, track and one more rider programmable mode with customizable electronic interference. As for the overall suspension package, the RS comes with the highest specification Showa big piston front forks with 115mm of travel which is fully-adjustable for preload, rebound and compression damping. As for the rear, the RS gets an Ohlins STX40 mono shock with a piggyback reservoir which is fully adjustable as well. All that power and performance require some serious rubber. For the RS, the model comes with a pair of Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP which offers exciting grip performance for some serious track day fun. As for the stopping power, no worries on that as all the RS have been fitted with the range topping Brembo M50 four-piston, radial mono bloc callipers at the front. The rear of the RS is kept in check by a Brembo single piston sliding calliper. The top-of-the-range Street Triple RS is available in two colours — Matt Silver Ice and Phantom Black (Metallic) –at a price of RM66,900. All the prices quoted are inclusive of GST. To know more about the new 2018 Street Triple range, you can head on over www.triumphmotorcycles.my. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-triumph-special-edition-thruxton-ace/

New Triumph Special Edition Thruxton Ace

Triumph reveals Special Edition Thruxton Ace made to commemorate legendary Ace Café. Triumph took the wraps off yet another new Triumph Special Edition Triumph Thruxton Ace this month. Launched in the iconic Ace Café biker haven in London, the special and limited edition version of the brand’s Thruxton café racer features a bespoke exterior scheme. Setting it apart from other Thruxton, the Ace version is adorned exclusively in a special white and black paint scheme. Completing the special livery are Ace Café logos donned on its side panels, tank, and rear quarter. Other unique exterior traits include the ‘oxblood’ seat, bar-end mirrors, plus a handlebar plaque with ‘SE’ engraved on it. Underneath, the Triumph Special Edition Thruxton Ace retains the standard Thruxton’s 865cc parallel-twin heart, which offers a healthy output of 68hp and 72Nm to propel the classic. One of the brand’s most popular custom bikes, Triumph are also offering a rich variety of accessories for the Ace edition. Amongst them is an Arrows exhaust system, alternative seat designs, as well as various chrome parts and components. Only 100 exmaples of the Triumph Special Edition Thruxton Ace has been allocated for its UK customers, each carrying an undisclosed price tag. The Thruxton Ace is scheduled to arrive in Triumph’s UK dealerships by December this year. Source: Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-2024-kramer-gp2-890rr-138hp-100nm/

FIRST LOOK: 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR – 138hp, 100Nm

Krämer Motorcycles proudly announces the introduction of their latest masterpiece, the 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR supersport. Boasting class-leading specifications, the GP2-890RR promises to deliver an unparalleled track experience for racing enthusiasts. Powering the GP2-890RR makes 138hp and 100Nm. The GP2-890RR’s heart lies in its powerful 889cc parallel-twin motor from KTM, generating a remarkable 138hp @ 10,100 rpm and 100Nm @ 8,200 rpm. The motorcycle’s lightweight engine internals and advanced engine management software allow for an increased redline of 11,500 rpm. Built with German engineering precision, the GP2-890RR features a chromoly steel-trellis frame that ensures exceptional stiffness and rigidity while maintaining an astonishingly light racing weight of 142kg. Furthermore, the unique fuel cell design utilises a rotationally molded plastic fuel tank, doubling as the bike’s tail section and providing optimised weight distribution during races. Markus Krämer, the CEO and Founder of Krämer Motorcycles, expressed his pride in the GP2-890RR, calling it the pinnacle of their GP2 racing platform. This limited-edition masterpiece will see only 125 units produced for the global market, with each bike individually numbered and engraved on the triple clamp. Equipped with premium components like dual Brembo Stylema callipers, forged aluminum Dymag wheels, and top-shelf WP Apex Pro suspension, the 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR leaves no room for compromises when it comes to pure track performance. The motorcycle will be available in Europe beginning September 2023 with a recommended selling price of EUR41,990 (RM208k), making it the inaugural model to be manufactured at Krämer’s new factory in Burghausen, Germany, which will also debut the company’s fresh corporate branding. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-to-extend-the-gb350-range-with-an-s-version/

Honda To Extend The GB350 Range With An ‘S’ Version

Known as the Honda CB350 in India, Japan was the next recipient of the retro-modern, air-cooled single-cylinder motorcycle earlier this year. However, the Japanese manufacturer decided to expand the range of the GB350 with an ‘S’ version. The GB350 S offers a slightly sportier character than the standard GB350, which also comes with a new colour option for 2021.  While the GB350 S maintain the same 348cc with 19.7hp @ 5,500rpm and 29Nm @ 3,000rpm, there are slight changes in riding ergonomics. The GB350 S comes with a sportier handlebar, a sleeker plush seat, and a slimmer rear fender. The new model is also slightly lighter than the standard GB350, thanks to the used of resin instead of metal for the front and rear fender. Interestingly, the GB350 S also comes with full LED lighting. Honda will launch the GB350 S on July 15. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/electric-powered-ktm-duke-works/

Electric-Powered KTM Duke in the Works

According to a report by MCN, there’s an electric-powered KTM Duke currently in the works by the Austrian manufacturer. Spy shots circulating online clearly show a KTM 390 Duke with what looks like a square box in the chassis that’s most likely housing the battery unit. KTM has been involved in production electric dirt bikes for some time now with the E-Ride range that includes the Freeride E-SX, E-SM and E-XC. Image credit: MCN It looks like the Austrian motorcycling giant is putting in the works for an electric-powered KTM Duke. According to a report made by MCN, they have managed to gather a few spy shots (courtesy of BMH Images) of the weird-looking 390 Duke being tested in with what looks light a big metal box housing the battery in the frame. 2017 KTM 390 Duke spyshot. (Image credit: MCN) This can only mean one thing; KTM has big plans to make an electric street bike that’s easily available and affordable to the masses. As we slowly but surely moving into the future, the transition from petrol-powered engines to electric can no longer stay as a concept but a potential mode of transportation. KTM has been perfecting its skills when it comes to the green technology. In fact, they have already successfully manufactured a few off-road electric bikes in the form of the E-Ride range which includes the Freeride E-SX, E-SM and E-XC. The electric-powered dirt bikes has been proven to be a success and we have a feeling the E-Duke will be a hit as well. KTM Freeride E As most zero-emission bikes today will go for the automatic transmission, the spy shots of the possible electric Duke show the usual workings of a normal street bike with the presence of the clutch and gear lever. This means that KTM is probably going to offer the conventional gear-operated riding experience minus the internal combustion engine. Although we are still very much in the dark about the travel range and other aspects of the E-Duke, we reckon that it’ll be targeted for people commuting to work in city environments or places that are not too far from their homes. Considering that no one has successfully figure out how to recharge the batteries quickly enough, it’ll most likely roam around cities with various charging outlets for ease of use. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more KTM updates. In the mean time, CLICK HERE to check out all the KTM bikes available in Malaysia in our exclusive Bike Buyer’s Guide. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-vespa-sprint-s-primavera-s-special-edition-unveiled-from-rm16900/

2020 Vespa Sprint S & Primavera S Special Edition unveiled – From RM16,900

For the first time since Didi Resources was appointed as the new Piaggio and Vespa distributor here in Malaysia, they’ve officially unveiled their latest Vespa offering in the form of the 2020 Vespa Sprint S 150 and Vespa Primavera S Special Edition 150 for the Malaysian market. Due to restrictions placed during the Movement Control Order placed by the Malaysian government to curb COVID-19, the official preview was done online via the Vespa Malaysia Facebook page for both models. Nevertheless, both these 155cc special edition scooters are now available for booking for those who are interested. According to Mr Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman Didi Resources Sdn Bhd., “It is our utmost priority to deliver the best, latest Vespa products to our loyal customers. We are proud to announce on top of the latest models, our pricing for parts and accessories have also been adjusted lower and this is one part of many initiatives to provide greater value to our customers moving forward.” 2020 Vespa Sprint S 150 – RM16,900 Vespa’s youngest and sportiest offering just got a lot sportier thanks to some new colour offerings to suit today’s demands for stylish rides. Vespa lovers old and new can appreciate what the new Sprint has to offer in terms of looks as well as riding experience, thanks to its 12-inch aluminium wheels, USB charging port, and more. The new Sprint is powered by a slightly updated 155cc single-cylinder i-Get engine which produces a healthy 13hp at 7,750rpm and 12.8Nm of torque at 6,500rpm. This offers a fuel consumption rate as far as 44km for every litre of fuel. That’s quite a distance for travel considering its fuel tank capacity has been bumped up to eight litres. As stated above, the 2020 Vespa Sprint S is priced at RM16,900 (excluding road tax & insurance). Customers can choose between three colour options: Yellow Sole, Black Opaco, White Innocenza, and the best-seller of all, Grey Materia. Early birds who pre-order these models via Lazada will get a set of accessories worth RM700 together with the bike. 2020 Vespa Primavera S Special Edition 150 – RM18,300 If classic is what you’re after, then the new Primavera will definitely tick all the boxes with the addition of some tech upgrades to bring it up to date. Catered to someone with a more sophisticated taste in two-wheels, the combination of timeless bodywork plus contrasting sporty stickers further elevates the overall façade of the new Primavera. Some highlights of the Primavera S Special Edition 150 are 12-inch aluminium five-spoke alloy rims, all LED lights, daytime-running lights, front ABS, and anti-theft system (Immobilizer). The storage compartment up front also comes with a USB charging port for charging of small devices on the go like your phones, tablets, etc. Similar to the Sprint S 150, the Primavera comes ready with a 155cc single-cylinder i-Get engine that churns out 13hp and 12.8Nm of maximum torque. Performance-wise, both these models offer a smooth and comfortable riding experience perfect for some stress-free city riding as well as relatively low fuel consumption. The new Vespa Primavera S Special Edition is available in two different colour options: Matte glossy Orange Tramonto and matte Grey Stile. Head over to the nearest Vespa Malaysia authorised dealers or place your pre-order online via Lazada Malaysia & get accessories worth RM700. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-malaysia-sets-new-ducati-smart-service-campaign/

Ducati Malaysia sets New Ducati Smart Service Campaign

Ducati Malaysia (Next Bike Sdn Bhd) announced that there’s a new Ducati Smart Service campaign that will benefit all new Ducati owners. Starting this month, any new Ducati motorcycle purchase comes together with two years free service parts and lubricants or up to 30,000km including the DESMO service (whichever comes first, terms and conditions apply). New Ducati owners will enjoy great savings and lower cost of ownership greatly for the first two years thanks to this new initiative by Next Bike Sdn Bhd. Hear ye, hear ye! Ducati Malaysia also known as Next Bike Sdn Bhd (official distributor of Ducati Motorcycles in Malaysia) just made an exciting announcement regarding a new program called the ‘Ducati Smart Service’. The program has been set to benefit all new Ducati customers starting this month onwards. This new service program features a brand new Ducati ownership experience to a fresh new level where Next Bike Sdn Bhd hopes to provide a more fulfilling and high-end after sales service to all Ducati owners. Beginning of May 2017, those who purchase a Ducati motorcycle will enjoy two years free service parts and lubricants or up to 30,000km including the DESMO service (whichever comes first, terms and conditions apply). This is great news for those planning to own a Ducati as they can enjoy great savings and lower costs of ownership with this new two-year unlimited mileage warranty package. Next Bike Sdn Bhd hopes that this new objective in the company will further boost their sales on a few of their highlighted 2017 models which include the Ducati Multistrada 950, Monster 797, Supersport, Supersport S, Scrambler Cafe Racer and Scrambler Desert Sled. The new Smart Service Campaign is limited to all authorised Ducati dealerships and service centres nationwide. Visit your nearest Ducati showroom today to know more. It sounds like a very good time to get your very own Ducati bike. Interested to know all of the available Ducati bikes in Malaysia? CLICK HERE to check out our Bike Buyer’s Guide! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/limited-edition-gixxer-1000-se/

Limited edition Gixxer 1000 SE

Suzuki Limited edition Gixxer 1000 SE marked 50 years of its presence in the American market recently, launching a new limited-run GSX-R1000 SE. It features extensive cosmetic enhancements all-round but no engine or power upgrades were performed. Dominating the bike’s appearance are various blue-coloured components to match its blue and white livery. It also rolls on a pair of classic streetfighter-style chrome rims, and it has anodised forks equipped as well. Only 100 units will be built, with 50 units going to America and the remaining 50 to be spread across Suzuki’s other market around the globe. Check out the gallery below to see more pictures and details. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/three-custom-bike-builders-to-follow-on-instagram/

Three custom bike builders to follow on Instagram

If you are a custom bike aficionado with an Instagram account, here are three top builders you need to have in your daily feed. If you are reading this, chances are that you also share the same taste and appreciation for beautifully built custom bikes as we do. Of course, when it comes to custom bikes, the old saying of “each of us to our own” applies, but that does not mean one could not appreciate ones built by some of the planet’s most renowned of builders. And, in the European scene, three names stand out rather well, and worth following on Instagram. Here they are in no particular order: 1. Mr Martini Founded by renowned custom bike builder Nicola Martini, the Mr Martini brand prides itself on the fact that it is built upon sheer passion, dedication, research and unique creativity. Based in Verona, Italy, the brand is also widely known as Europe’s leading builders of custom café racers, a fact exuded brilliantly by its Scrambler Ducati-based Scrambler Café Racer concept that bowed in the Verona show last year. If you have always lusted over beautifully-built custom café racers, then give the firm a follow on Instagram via its official page: @specialmrmartini 2. Officine Mermaid Based in the Italy’s style capital of Milan, Officine Mermaid is a brand that has built a strong reputation in recent years for building some of the most outrageously unique custom bikes the world has ever seen. Like any other custom builder, the brand prides itself on its ability to create bikes unlike any other, promising that no two bikes that it builds are the same. The brand specialises itself specifically in building old school-styled customs, and have sprinkled its magic on a variety of European and non-European base bikes as well. You can follow Officine Mermaid on Instagram via its official page: @officinemermaid 3. Deus Ex Machina Lifted from Instagram: @deusmilano Last but not the least comes the ever-famous Deus Ex Machina franchise. Having roared into Australia’s cultural consciousness in 2006, building neatly customised motorcycles with a quaint notion that doing something is more fun than just owning something. Beyond customising bikes, the brand has also thanks to its stylish and popular apparels range, which has become a must-have for all custom bike fans alike in recent times. Reflecting its eclectic brand image is the franchise’s own Instagram feed, which we believe will brighten up your day as custom bike fan.Deus Ex Machina has a few official Instagram pages based on country, but our recommendation is to follow its Milan-based arm’s page at: @deusmilano Bonus:   And… While you’re at it, don’t forget to give BikesRepublic.com a follow too! We cover all bikes and bikers, including customs! Follow us now on Instagram via our official page: @bikesrepublic --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shell-launches-anda-beli-kami-derma-raya-campaign/

Shell Launches ‘Anda Beli, Kami Derma’ Raya Campaign

Shell Malaysia continues its annual 1-sen-per litre contribution to various causes for the fifth consecutive year. The campaign incorporates spending at Shell SELECT to provide motorists more opportunities to contribute during their ‘balik kampung’ journeys. Collection days increased from previous years. Shell marks its Raya CSR Campaign for the fifth consecutive year, making the ‘balik kampung’ experience for fellow motorists more meaningful by spreading the spirit of caring and sharing during the blessed Raya festivities with its 2019 ‘Anda Beli, Kami Derma’ campaign. Extending the duration from previous years, this year’s collection runs for 10 days, from       30 May 2019 to 8 June 2019, and contributions will be donated to National Cancer Society Malaysia, Food Aid Foundation and Malaysian Nature Society. During this period, every one litre of Shell fuels pumped will see the company donating 1 sen (RM0.01) to these selected organisations. On top of every 1-sen-per-litre, Shell will also donate 1 sen for every 1 Ringgit (RM1.00) spent in all Shell SELECT stores (excluding E-Pay products i.e. mobile reloads, Touch N Go purchases and other In-Store services i.e. utility payments). “The ‘balik kampung’ experience is a meaningful journey for everyone. It’s about loved ones coming together, safely, to celebrate the festivities. This year, we decided to add to the ‘balik kampung’ journey by spreading a little more cheer to those in need. That is why to mark our fifth year of running this campaign, we have increased our collection timeline to 10 days and incorporated spending at Shell SELECT to give our customers more opportunities to contribute to organisations in need. We have also chosen relevant causes that we believe are close to the heart of Malaysians, in line with our efforts to make life’s journeys better for communities in which we operate,” shared Shairan Huzani Husain, Managing Director of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn. Bhd. and Shell Timur Sdn. Bhd. Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail commended Shell’s campaign, “With simple acts of kindness, we can go a long way in doing our part during this giving season of Ramadan and Raya. I would like to commend Shell for working to make giving back so seamless and flexible. Customers will now be able to easily share their blessings with those in need and give everyone a ‘balik kampung’ journey worth celebrating even more.” Mastercard, joining in as a valued partner for the second consecutive year, will also be making additional contributions to the campaign. For every litre of Shell fuels pumped and every RM1 spent at Shell SELECT, paid with any Mastercard credit or debit card, an additional 1 sen will be contributed to the Food Aid Foundation. “Mastercard is honoured to continue the collaboration with Shell to encourage cardholders to contribute to a worthwhile cause each time they spend using their Mastercard card at Shell stations nationwide. The funds raised will go towards the provision of meals for children in need, especially during the Hari Raya festivities. This initiative aligns with both Mastercard’s philosophy of ‘doing well by doing good’, as well as efforts to increase e-payments usage for everyday transactions. Mastercard cardholders can create a positive impact in the community while enjoying the benefits of a safe, swift and convenient payments experience,” said Perry Ong, Country Manager of Malaysia and Brunei, Mastercard. With its 2019 ‘Anda Beli, Kami Derma’ campaign, Shell is giving motorists who pump at Shell or spend at Shell SELECT the option to choose the cause they believe in and influence contribution to their organisation of choice. To select their preferred choice of beneficiaries, customers must submit either the original or duplicate copy of their receipt at a Shell station and indicate their choice. Every contribution matters. Motorists are invited to take part in this initiative beginning Thursday, 30 May 2019 until Saturday, 8 June 2019 by simply fuelling up at any Shell station nationwide or purchasing selected items at Shell SELECT stores. Be sure to mark these dates in your calendar to show your support for these communities in need. For more information and details on the campaign, please visit www.shell.com.my/CSR LIST OF BENEFICIARIES: ORGANISATION FOCUS AREAS National Cancer Society Malaysia The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), also known as Persatuan Kebangsaan Kanser Malaysia, is the first not-for-profit cancer organisation in Malaysia that provides education, care and support services for people affected by cancer. Over the last 50 years, it provides holistic cancer support to patients and caregivers. Food Aid Foundation Food Aid Foundation is a food bank that salvages surplus food from producers, manufacturers, distributors, food operators and retailers for re-distribution to the needy. The organisation’s mission is to alleviate hunger and malnourishment. Malaysian Nature Society The Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) is Malaysia’s largest and oldest non-government environmental organisation. The organisation’s key role is to conserve Malaysia’s diverse habitats by protecting the natural heritage, especially ecologically sensitive landscapes. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/updates-on-arrc-injured-fighters/

Updates on ARRC injured fighters

JUNE 17, 2015 – PRESS STATEMENT FROM FIM ASIA ROAD RACING CHAMPIONSHIP We thank everyone for the outpouring of support and concern for Muhammad Zamri Baba, M. Fadli Immammuddin and Jakkrit Sawangswat. We understand that everyone is worried but we respectfully ask everyone to patiently wait for official news instead of spreading speculations. Below, please find approved official statements from the respective teams. 1. MUHAMMAD ZAMRI BABA – STATEMENT FROM MUSASHi BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM Zamri is still at the Siloam Karawaci hospital under the care of the neurosurgeon team led by Prof. Dr. Eka. He is beginning to show some improvement. He has been taken off the ventilator and has been able to breathe on his own. Zamri’s family and representatives from team MUSASHi Boon Siew Honda are with him in Jakarta to monitor the progress closely. 2. M. FADLI IMMAMMUDDIN – STATEMENT FROM ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM Fadli underwent a third surgery on his leg and has been transferred from the Intensive Care Unit to a normal room. In a tweet on June 17, 2015, Fadli said “I am grateful for having been blessed with a fantastic team and good friends who had all given me so much support.” 3. JAKKRIT SAWANGSWAT – STATEMENT FROM AP HONDA RACING THAILAND Jakkrit is recuperating at home, and there is a strong possibility that he will be back in action in time for the Suzuka round of the ARRC. On behalf of the teams and riders as well as the Asia Road Racing Championship family, we thank everyone for the outpouring of support and prayers.     --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marc-marquez-is-training-again/

MotoGP: Marc Marquez is training again

After months of inactivity, Repsol Honda MotoGP rider Marc Marquez is now back in training mode after being cleared by the doctors sometime last week. The eight-time world champion posted a post on Instagram of him riding an exercise bike with his right arm covered in armour.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Marc Márquez (@marcmarquez93) Although he is still deep within the recovery mode, Marc Marquez was given the all-clear to start some low-impact indoor training, such as cycling. The timeframe of his exact return is still unsure, but Repsol Honda has already considered Stefan Bradl to replace him in the first opening rounds if there’s a need to do so. MotoGP enthusiasts, especially Marquez’s fans, are hoping that he’ll be fit enough to take part in the Qatar test sessions, which will take place in March. HRC has made it clear that he’ll only be allowed on the bike once he is 100% fit and ready to fight for podium contention. It is clear that they do not want to repeat the same mistake, especially like last season when they allowed Marquez to jump straight onto the manic Honda RC213V days after he fractured his right humerus in Jerez. Stay tuned for more updates. Ducati Panigale V2 ‘White Rosso’ arrives in Malaysia – 2 units available! Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-cb300f-patent-surfaces/

Honda ‘CB300F’ patent surfaces

After Yamaha and Kawasaki’s patent files surfaced online the past few weeks, it is now Honda’s turn and this time, it depicts the brand’s possible upcoming naked single-cylinder model. This patent was spotted amongst the files recently submitted to the EU’s Office for Harmonization in the International Market (OHIM). Sources presume it could be called the ‘CB300F’. Besides these images, details of this potential new offering for the small displacement category are scarce. A quick assessment of the images shows the naked using similar components and chassis member derived from the CBR250R and CBR300R models, suggesting a single-cylinder mill’s presence underneath. Presently, it is not known whether Honda would prime this bike with either a 250cc unit (‘CB250F’) or a 286cc (‘CB2300F’) given that the two full-faired models this naked is based on overlapping each other. Honda could produce both versions, each tailored to its intended market’s needs and restrictions – i.e. the 250cc versions of the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Honda CB300R for our market. Source OHIM via Asphaltandrubber --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-tech-expected-for-next-generation-yamaha-yzf-r1/

MotoGP Tech Expected for Next-Generation Yamaha YZF-R1

The next-generation Yamaha YZF-R1 is expected to feature MotoGP technology. It may feature seamless transmission, VVT/L and counter-rotating crankshaft. The YZF-R1 has remained unchanged for the last five years. The current Yamaha YZF-R1 has gone pretty unchanged for the last five years since its. Introduction. But that’s about to change according to many motorcycle journalists, including us. By contrast, all the superbikes running in the WorldSBK championship were updated within last few years, except for the Yamaha. Could the upcoming Euro 5 emission standard be the determining factor? It might as well be, just as Honda is holding back the introduction of their next-generation CBR1000RR Fireblade. Euro 5 will cut emissions by half from the Euro 4 standard. Such reduction will no doubt rob engine power. As such, the new YZF-R1 ought to feature variable valve timing and lift. The BMW S 1000 RR, Suzuki GSX-R1000RR are already utilizing the technology, and it’s strongly rumoured that the upcoming CBR1000RR will follow suit. Yamaha has already employed VVT/L to their scooters as part of their Blue Core engine strategy, after all. As for MotoGP tech, Yamaha submitted patents for a seamless transmission for the R1. The technology takes much explanation, but you can read about it here. If this comes to plan, Yamaha will be the first manufacturer to adopt it to a roadgoing bike. Secondly, Yamaha was one of the first manufacturers to run a counter-rotating crankshaft in Grand Prix racing all the way back in the two-stroke era. It’s also employed in the in the current YZR-M1 MotoGP bike. A counter-rotating crankshaft reduces the effects of the wheels’ centrifugal force at high-speeds, making the bike easier to turn into corners. Ducati uses it in the Panigale V4 to devastating effect in WorldSBK. This article was brought to you by: Source: AMCN --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/volkswagen-plans-sell-ducati/

Volkswagen plans to Sell Ducati for 1.5 billion Euros!

Volkwagen has plans to sell over Ducati to interested buyers to streamline all of its operations Ducati was acquired by Volkswagen back in 2012 but following the emissions scandals back in 2015, the firm has suffered a huge financial blow There are a few interested potential buyers from China, India and even motor manufacturers such as Polaris, Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda and Kawasaki Volkswagen, Europe’s largest car maker, has plans to put Ducati up for sale due to the financial crisis faced following the car emission scandal in late 2015. The German firm acquired Ducati back in 2012 for around €860 million and was put under the Audi division. According to Reuters, the idea of putting up one of the world’s most recognized motorcycle brands came into play with plans to streamline all operations to raise crucial funds to remedy the emissions scandal faced back in 2015 that caused a major financial blow to the entire company. Hero MotoCorp, India News has also been travelling around regarding a few potential buyers and investors from China, UK and even Hero MotoCorp from India. Although Ducati has the technology and R&D that has put them on the map with race wins in MotoGP and WorldSBK, the possible transfer to the new owner is probably more interested in working a profit with the brand rather than acquiring their technology. There are also rumours going around that motoring firms like Polaris, Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda and Kawasaki are also interested in acquiring the Bologna-based bike manufacturer. Ducati Monster 1200 R It’s hard to put a price on a giant motorcycle manufacturer that makes some of the world’s most beautiful, powerful and sought-after motorcycles known to man but it has been evaluated (according to a few sources) that the sale could rack up to €1.5 billion big ones to the right buyer. That puts it at about 15 times its core earnings at €100 million which is in the same region as Ferrari. Only time will tell about the future of ownership for Ducati but one thing is for certain, the brand will thrive and grow stronger than ever. Plus, it wouldn’t be much fun if they’re not in MotoGP or WorldSBK anymore. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. Interested to look at all the Ducatis available in Malaysia? Check out our Bike Buyer’s Guide!CLICK HERE --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/reports-of-suzuki-hayabusa-death-greatly-exaggerated/

Reports of Suzuki Hayabusa Death Greatly Exaggerated?

The internet went crazy when with the news of the “death” of the Suzuki Hayabusa. The manufacturer is only stopping production of the Euro4-compliant ‘Busa. It did not mean there is no more of the model in the future. The internet went crazy last week with the “death” of the Suzuki Hayabusa. We decided to sit out the storm and see what actually happened.   Well, Suzuki Motor of America has issued a press release in the matter. “The news of my death has been greatly exaggerated,” said Mark Twain.   This was what they said: “Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (SMAI) has confirmed that U.S. market production of the Hayabusa sport motorcycle continues uninterrupted,”   “Production of the European-specification Hayabusa ceases due to Euro4 emission regulations. This situation, and resulting media reports, may have caused confusion and misunderstand among U.S. consumers, media, and dealers.”   It all started when Suzuki Japan’s website announced that they will cease production of the bike. Certain publications jumped on it, by assuming the worse. The “obituary” had circulated the globe about a kabizillion times before considering the backdrop.   The manufacturer is merely stopping production of the Euro4-compliant Hayabusa meant for the European market.   It’s not bad news at all, since they will definitely debut a Euro5-complaint ‘Busa for 2020. Some say it will feature turbocharging, 1440cc engine, IMU, active suspension, etc. and more rumours. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/someone-just-bought-a-shoei-j-force-2-jack-yellow-for-rm86000/

Someone Just Bought A Shoei J-Force 2 Jack Yellow For RM86,000!

Only in Malaysia is someone willing to pay a huge sum of money for things that were relatively cheap a few years ago.  For example, a new-old-stock (NOS) Yamaha RX-Z two-stroke motorcycle could cost more than RM30,000. A few years ago, someone allegedly paid RM70,000 for the bike, making it one of the most sought models today. However, the ludicrous price tag involved not only motorcycles but also helmets.  A few days ago, a seller on Facebook managed to sell the Shoei J-Force 2 Jack Yellow for an insane RM86,000!  While some might think that the price tag is absurd, according to the post, the sale was legit. The buyer – who is a lady – paid the amount in cash, which can be seen clearly in the shared photos.  The question is, are you willing to spend that much for a motorcycle helmet? --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-triumph-scrambler-x-steve-mcqueen-revealed-limited-to-1000-units/

2021 Triumph Scrambler X Steve McQueen Revealed – Limited To 1,000 Units!

In admiring the iconic Steve McQueen barbed wire jump in the 1963 Second World War classic “The Great Escape” and the star association to two-wheels, Triumph introduced the all-new Scrambler 1200 Steve McQueen Edition. The development of the limited-edition motorcycle was in partnership with the McQueen family. With only 1,000 units available worldwide, each bike is individually numbered on the billet-machined handlebar clamp and comes with a unique certificate of authenticity stating the bike’s VIN number and carrying the signatures of Triumph’s CEO, Nick Bloor, and Chad McQueen, son of the legend, Steve McQueen. Based on the standard 1200 XE specification, the Steve McQueen Edition comes fitted with: engine protection dresser bars laser cut and pressed aluminium radiator guard premium brown bench seat Triumph Motorcycles also pre-enabled the My Triumph connectivity system, allowing the rider to access phone calls, operate music, use turn-by-turn navigation, and manage a Go-Pro through the intuitive handlebar controls and TFT interface. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ultraviolette-unveils-f99-factory-racing-platform/

Ultraviolette Unveils F99 Factory Racing Platform

Indian electric mobility company, Ultraviolette made headlines when it introduced the futuristic-looing F77 roadster which subsequently blew the brand awareness. Interestingly, Ultraviolette does not plan to stop there, instead the company made another bold step at this year’s India Auto Expo by unveiling the F99 factory racing platform.  Despite its race-ready bodywork, the F99 borrows much of its design from the road-legal F77. However, while the F77 features the standard 60V system, the F99 boast a 120V powertrain.  Thanks to the bigger and more powerful mill, Ultraviolette claimed that the F99 makes 65hp and able to hit a max speed of 200km/h.  Ultraviolette also fitted the F99 with MotoGP-inspired winglets on the side fairings and rear tail. As a track-only machine, the F99 also replaces the headlamp with a face plate to improve aerodynamics. Other notable components includes a carbon fiber bodywork and a single-seat configuration. According to Ultraviolette, the F99 marks the company intentions to enter a race in the coming years. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2025-ktm-690-smc-r-and-690-enduro-r-prototype-caught-testing/

2025 KTM  690 SMC R And 690 Enduro R Prototype Spotted Testing 

As  KTM fanboys eagerly await the launch of KTM’s 1390 Super Duke range in 2024, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer is also giving its loyal off-road and supermoto market a taste of what’s to come. Recent sightings of prototype versions for the 690 SMC R and 690 Enduro R suggest significant updates are on the horizon. the 2025 model year is expected to also feature a heavily revised 692.7cc single cylinder engine.  A Sleek New Look At first glance, the prototypes sport matte black finishes, indicating their pre-production status. While their overarching aesthetic closely mirrors their current counterparts, closer examination reveals noticeable changes in bodywork. Shared features between the SMC R and Enduro R models, such as styling, remain consistent, but modifications have been made to the front nose cowl and fender. Interestingly, the new fender is borrowed from the GasGas ES 700 and SM 700 models.  Revamped side panels encasing the tank have also been redesigned for a more aerodynamic feel, seeming to envelop a larger radiator—hinting at significant engine modifications. Under the Hood: More Than a Facelift The engines of these prototypes appear to have undergone a comprehensive overhaul. While still based on the 692.7cc engine, there are cues that suggest an expansion beyond the 700cc mark. Observations reveal new billet alloy covers for both the clutch and generator, redesigned main engine castings, and changes to the cylinder bracing. Though the cylinder head looks relatively unchanged, these alterations imply that the engine could offer a longer stroke and potentially a larger bore, aiming for a more robust performance. *current KTM 690 Enduro R Chassis and Frame Tweaks The frame architecture remains largely similar to existing models but features a modified plate for the front engine bracket to accommodate the revamped engine. Additionally, the footpeg hangers for passengers have been extended, shifting backward and upward in their positioning. Tail-end Changes On the rear end, both models appear to feature redesigned bodywork. While side bags obscured the changes on the Enduro R in the spy photos, visible adjustments were made to the lower rear side panels of the SMC R, revealing more of the exhaust. This is in line with a potentially upgraded engine, as the exhaust exhibits a hand-welded finish.  What’s Being Retained? Not everything is changing. Elements like the swingarm, WP shocks, forks, brake calipers, and wheels seem to be carryovers from the current 690 series models. A 2025 Arrival? While KTM is known for its somewhat lax approach to hiding prototypes, the state of these spotted models suggests they are more likely to hit the market for the 2025 model year rather than in 2024. Following suit, KTM’s sister companies, GasGas and Husqvarna, are expected to launch their own versions, offering a stylistic alternative for consumers. (source: Cycle World) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/waze-debuts-motorcycle-feature/

Waze Debuts Motorcycle Feature

Waze has been updated to include motorcycles. It now obtains real-time information from other motorcycles, rather than automobiles. The developer has said the app will be able to send motorcycles through smaller roads that are inaccessible to cars. Community-based navigation and traffic app, Waze, has just introduced a motorcycle feature. Waze is the favourite navigation app among the majority of drivers the world over. It sources real-time data from other drivers before being processed and relayed to other users. For example, if the route you are travelling on experiences a slowdown, the crawling speeds affecting other Waze users will be construed as a traffic jam. The app will then attempt to reroute you through another faster route. Waze was created as a social navigation tool, after all. Traffic jam in Penang. Notice the 1 km/h speed! However, the app has always been based on automobile data since its inception. This creates some problems for bikers as we are able to squeeze through traffic, for instance. Consequently, the estimated time of arrival (ETA) presented to us bikers are virtually incorrect. Also, motorcycles are able to get through smaller streets and lanes as opposed to automobiles. The new feature should be able to guide us through these shortcuts. We hope it covers motorcycle lanes, too. To activate the motorcycle feature in, go to Settings, followed by Navigation, the click on Vehicle Type and select “Motorcycle.” Settings -> Navigation -> Vehicle type -> Motorcycle We will put it to the test soon and see if it works, and hopeful that it does not send us into a “Waze Daze.” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/6-things-bike-breaks/

6 things to do during a motorcycle breakdown

A simple six-step guide of things to do during a motorcycle breakdown. As hard as this may sound, motorcycle breakdown is a tough reality in motorcycling. Breakdowns can happen at any time of the day, but in most cases, it happens when you least expect it. Even for the most seasoned of riders amongst us, we still find ourselves scratching our heads at what to do in situations as such. We’ve recently dealt with such a situation first hand, and we decided to use it as a learning opportunity not just for us, but for you, our loyal readers too. This, along with our six-step safety riding guide for Hari Raya we published recently, could be the best reference for you when the inevitable happens, especially in times where a festive holiday is looming closer. With its belt snapped, we’re forced to sit by the road side. 1. Look for a safe place to stop Upon realising your bike has a problem, your first instinct should be to search for the first safest place to stop that’s nearest to you. Some of the ideal places include: I. The emergency lane – yes, that’s what it’s really for, EMERGENCIES! II. Bus stop III. Highway lay-bys or rest stops IV. Petrol stations V. Popular commercial areas Your main concern here should be getting out of harm’s way, which means getting out of the path of traffic safely. Signal others by using your signal blinkers or hazard lights (if equipped) and hand signals too if necessary whilst getting your bike and yourself to safety. Ensure your spot is highly visible and well lit. Should this happen at night, by all means try to stop under a bright light source like right under a lamp post for example. Avoid places of poor visibility at all costs such as corners and dark spots. 2. Secure your bike and yourself Once you’ve found a safe place to stop, immediately secure your bike in that spot. Drop your stand, engage it in gear if you’re on a gradient surface, and shut the engine down. This is also the best time to quickly assess your bike’s problem and ascertain if it is safe to continue riding or not. If your bike is unridable, then ensure your essential belongings like your wallet, phone and important documents (NRIC, license, road tax, etc) are secure – you’re going to need all of those. Be alert and vigilant of your environment, especially if it is an area of high vehicle or pedestrian traffic. Depending on the type of break down you’re suffering, keep good yet safe distance from your stricken bike if you have to. Top Tip: have a big enough gap to stay out of danger yet close enough to keep your bike within clear visual range. Keep yourself visible to others, especially in low-light conditions! 3. Stay visible at all times In such situations, making yourself and your bike visible to others is essential, most especially at night. Firstly, engage your signal blinkers – at least one of them. If your bike comes equipped with hazard lights, then by all means engage them here. Your next step is to ensure you and your bike stay visible at all times until help or rescue arrives. If your bike’s electrical systems have failed and you can’t activate any of your lights, then use any and every possible means to stay visible such. High-visiblity jackets and vests aren’t an eyesore, especially during emergencies. Top Tip: you can use your high-visibility jacket or vest, or even any bright coloured clothing or nearby object and turn them into makeshift signs or flags and signal others with it. 4. Call for help Once you and your bike are safe, secure and clearly visible to others, call for help at your earliest convenience. In no particular order, here’s a list of people you should be calling: I. Your insurance provider II. Your mechanic III. Your preferred vehicle rescue or towing service provider IV. Any nearby relatives or friends with own transport One thing we’d like to stress firmly to all bikers at the importance of purchasing insurance policies that offer 24-hour roadside assistance. In fact, a number of manufacturers also offer breakdown assistance that’s packaged together in your bike’s purchase deal. Alternatively, you should call your usual mechanic and ask for his recommended vehicle rescue or towing service. There are plenty of third-party establishments that offer round-the-clock and nationwide motorcycle recovery. These include the likes of Motobike Ambulance, Moto Aid Services, as well as AAM Bikers Assist. Lastly, call your nearest relative of friend with his/her own transport and ask for a safe ride home after getting your bike rescued. 6. Keep calm and wait until help arrives Once you’ve made all the necessary calls, keep calm and sit tight until help arrives. When it does, be ready to smoothen the process by unlocking your handlebars, disarming your alarms, and have all your necessary documents ready for them to inspect. Sadly, in this day and age, you’re bound to come across heartless opportunists, especially in such dire times. Do not be swayed by any individuals that ‘conveniently’ show up to ‘help’ you, especially ones that offer to do it quickly or cheaply. They can be persuasive at times, but firmly decline any advances as such until your designated help arrives. Motobike Ambulance helped us send the scooter to our preferred mechanic/workshop that happens to be Moto Aladdin. Writer’s note The scooter I was riding home with a few nights back suffered a snapped belt and forced me to the side of the road. I was fortunate it happened at night where traffic was scarce, and even more fortunate that I managed to park the scooter right across from a lamp post. I was safe under a bright light that kept me visible, and I also had a solid support system through my phone. The friendly faces behind Motobike Ambulance Having engaged them previously during our #Advance2Langkawi ride, Motobike Ambulance quickly came to mind and it only took 23 minutes from my initial phone call until their mechanic, Pablo, rescued me and the bike. Perhaps the seventh step in this guide that I can give you is to ensure you have a solid support system through your phone. Save the hotlines to reach your insurance provider, mechanic and preferred rescue services in your phonebook because you never know when you’re going to need their assistance. Again, I’d like to remind you folks to check out our safety riding tips and get yourselves, as well as your bikes, properly ready for the upcoming holidays. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/around-world-victory-cross-country/

Around The World With A Victory Cross Country

A look into the record-breaking attempt by Grisu Grizzly in riding around the world with a Victory Cross Country. His real name is Urs Pedraita. But in the motorcycle distance riding community, the Swiss motorcycle fanatic is known simply as Grisu Grizzly. He is the first Victory Cross Country owner attempting a solo ride around the globe in less than 100 riding days – the record currently stands at 120 riding days. We were fortunate enough to meet him and his trusted Victory Cross Country at Victory Malaysia HQ in Petaling Jaya recently where we got to find out more about his attempt to be in the record books. Grisu kicked off his epic journey from Daytona Beach, Florida earlier this year on March 11th. The Victory Cross Country is powered by a 1,731 cc, four-stroke 50-degree V Twin counter-balanced and fuel injected engine that develops 143.7Nm of torque and is mated on a 6-speed transmission. He admits that this bike is designed to ride on well-paved highways without breaking a sweat. But he is confident that this American bike will ride on any terrain, be it mud, ice, desert and more. Grisu wants to prove a point that Victory bikes can be ridden anywhere. There was no major modification made to Grisu’s Victory for this solo ride. The only changes here were the modified seat and increased fuel tank that now accommodates 15 litres more than the stock unit’s 22-litre figure – 37 litres in total now. And whilst charting across snow-covered roads and paths, Grisu only replaces the standard wheels by one inch that’s shod with spiked tyres. When we spoke to him, his challenge was riding non-stop and taking very little breaks to meet his deadline of less than 100 days. “It is mentally and physically challenging. What motivates me is the world record,” said the Swiss when we spoke to him recently. On average, Grisu only puts in about two to three hours of sleep a day during his ride; this is to ensure that he breaks the world record. The Victory Cross Country was his bike of choice because of the low center gravity and agility it offers despite the huge size of the machine – it measures 2,650mm long and weighs it at about 345kg dry. Most importantly, the bike is very reliable; giving Grisu all the confidence he needs to achieve this incredible feat where many can only dream of undertaking. Grisu needs to ride across all six continents in a solo ride – alone and without a service crew accomapanying him – in less than 100 riding days. So far, Grisu and his Victory Cross Country have completed his ride across Central- and South America, Australia, Africa, Europe and Asia. He is now on his last leg where he will be retuning back to the ride’s starting point in Daytona Beach. At the time of writing, Grisu has clocked up a total riding distance of 60,809 km. You can keep track of the progress made by Grisu Grizzly and his Victory Cross Country online at grizzlyraceteam.ch and through his Facebook page as well. (Images supplied by Victory Motorcycles Malaysia) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-drive-m7-carbonated-energy-drink-launched-malaysian-motogp/

New Drive M7 carbonated energy drink launched @ Malaysian MotoGP

Malaysian energy drinks brand Drive M7 launches new carbonated version of its popular energy drink in Sepang with Drive M7 Aspar MotoGP riders Nicky Hayden and Hiroshi Aoyama. Drive M7, a multinational energy drinks brand owned by local auto conglomerate Mutiara Motors Sdn Bhd, marked another important milestone during the recent 2014 Malaysian MotoGP weekend. The brand marked the arrival of a new carbonated version of its popular Drive M7 energy drinks at the Sepang International Circuit’s (SIC) welcome centre. Present to launch the product were Drive M7 Aspar MotoGP team riders Nicky Hayden and Hiroshi Aoyama. Alongside them were several members representing the Drive M7 brand’s owners and top management as well. Followng the launch and presentation, the two riders then treated fans with a meet and greet session, signing away autographs and various memorabilia items. The new Drive M7 carbonated drink is a lightly carbonated energy drink, with chlorophyll to give an all-new flavour and colour and also a more healthy character. All fans attending the presentation were able to try the new product as well which is expected to hit shelves nationwide soon. This is the brand’s second major event in line with the weekend’s Shell Advance Malaysian MotoGP 2014 race weekend. The first came prior to the weekend when former MotoGP world champion Nicky Hayden participated in a demo run in Putrajaya with several local riders (read about that here). Additionally, the Drive M7 brand also marked a major milestone, inking a sponsorship deal with the newly formed SIC Moto3 team that will debut next year. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/carlyle-group-acquires-dainese-for-e630-million/

Carlyle Group acquires Dainese from Investcorp for €630 million

US private equity firm Carlyle Group acquires Dainese brand from Investcorp for €630 million. Famed Italian moto apparels brand has Carlyle Group as its new owners. US private equity firm acquired brand from previous owners Investcorp. Dainese brand sale to Carlyle Group reportedly worth a whopping €630 million. The world famous devil-horned moto apparels brand Dainese has changed ownership once more. Standing as its new custodians now are US private equity firm Carlyle Group who reportedly purchased the brand earlier this month from previous owners Investcorp. The sale price Investcorp put Dainese up for to Carlyle Group? A whopping €630 million – over RM2.9 billion. Yup, that a lot of money, given the Dainese brand’s business growth in recent years, perhaps this is a worthy investment for its new owners. Investcorp first acquired Dainese from founder Lino Dainese back in 2014 for a reported sum of €130 million – over RM605 million. Since then, the Bahraini firm has doubled the brand’s sales under its stewardship, with yearly revenue pegged around €250 million – over RM1.1 billion. They also grew the brand’s portfolio – which includes the AGV helmets brand – after acquiring bootmakers TCX recently in 2020. Noteworthy here too is the brand’s acquisition by the Carlyle Group itself – the world’s  second-largest private equity group that boasts assets under management worth US$276 billion – over RM1.1 billion. Through this acquisition, the Carlyle Group plans to focus on further growing the brand in the United States and China through expanding Dainese’s distribution network, and perhaps by adding more brands into the group too. For now, the continued role of Dainese’s current CEO, Cristiano Silei, remains unclear. But given the brand’s profitable efforts under his watch, we reckon Silei’s place at the top of Dainese’s management will likely remain. This new investment from The Carlyle Group is certainly going to heat things up for Dainese, especially in its quest for supremacy in the airbag safety apparel market space against rivals Alpinestars. This, in turn, means good news for consumers as we can expect more innovation and product count to come. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bsa-scrambler-concept-revealed-at-motorcycle-live/

BSA Scrambler Concept Revealed At Motorcycle Live

BSA has revealed a beautifully-built scrambler-style concept motorcycle at the Motorcycle Live Show 2022.  BSA showcased the Scrambler concept bike alongside the BSA Gold Star at Birmingham. The Scrambler is equipped with a 652cc single engine.  The BSA Scrambler features long-travel suspension, off-road-ready tires, and a stealthy paint job with a #28 side plate. At the heart of the concept sits an all-new 652cc single-cylinder engine. Unfortunately, BSA did not disclose the engine’s detailed information at the time. From the photos, we can see the bike is also fitted with wide handlebars, a tall front fender, a retro-style fuel tank and wired-spoke wheels at the front and rear. There is also a single-disc brake setup with a dual-exit exhaust system and dual-shock absorbers. According to reports, there are no official words regarding the BSA Scrambler’s availability despite the bike already looking ready for production.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/husqvarna-introduce-the-2021-svartpilen-125-15hp-12nm/

Husqvarna Introduce The 2021 Svartpilen 125 – 15HP, 12Nm!

According to Husqvarna, this baby Svart is heading for the global market; hence we might have the chance to catch the smallest displacement Svartpilen here in Malaysia. The 125 is seen as a good move by Husqvarna to extend the brand towards younger motorcyclist. As you expect, the 125cc single-cylinder, liquid cool with twin overhead camshaft engine is now Euro 5 compliant and produces 15hp at 9,500rpm and 12Nm. The bike features ByBre disc brakes, WP Apex 43mm front fork (the same you get on its bigger siblings 250 and 401 Svartpilen), WP Apex rear mono-shock, and complete LED light set-up. Braking is done by Bosch ABS while the machine runs on a pair of 17-inch wheels complete with Pirelli tyres. Husqvarna listed the dry weight at 146 kilograms and in our book (even with a full tank of gas) this baby Svart is pretty lightweight hence should be relatively easy to manage for younger and newer riders. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-new-2018-hjc-rpha-11-deadpool-helmet/

Check out the new 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool helmet!

HJC Helmets has released their latest 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool full-face helmet. HJC’s top-of-the-line sports helmet now comes in the anti-hero’s iconic matte red and black colourway. For the US market, the HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool is priced at $599.99 (RM2,371). Attention to all you Marvel fans out there! There’s a new helmet in town and it is stunning. The folks over at HJC Helmets have introduced their latest 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool edition in conjunction with the anti-hero’s new movie, Deadpool 2. This is the second ever Deadpool helmet ever released by HJC where the first one was the entry-level and more affordable HJC IS-17. This time around, HJC has brought over the iconic matte red and black design to their top-of-the-line full-face sports helmet, the HJC RPHA 11. Constructed using HJC’s PIM+ materials, the RPHA 11 is super lightweight and offers amazing levels of shock-resistance. Get any design today from HJC Helmet Malaysia and each set will come with an extra smoke shield, Pinlock insert, chin curtain, breath box, and also a five-year warranty. Don’t be surprised if you see one being used this weekend at the fifth MotoGP round, the HJC Helmets Grand Prix de France. This is just one of two designs which will make their official debuts this weekend in MotoGP. Image source: MotoGP The HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool is both DOT and ECE certified and priced at $599.99 (RM2,371) for the US market. Now news on its availability for the Malaysian market yet BUT the HJC RPHA 11 special editions are priced anywhere from RM2,400 to RM3,000 depending on the design. Visit your nearest authorised HJC Helmet Malaysia dealer now to know more! 2017 HJC RPHA 11 Monster Energy helmets now in Malaysia – RM2,429! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/erik-buells-fuell-fllow-makes-its-electrifying-debut-47hp-750nm/

Erik Buell’s Fuell Fllow Makes Its Electrifying Debut – 47HP, 750Nm

In a bold move into the electric vehicle market, Buell, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, has launched its latest creation, the Fuell Fllow. While technically under the Fuell brand, the Fllow was created by none other than Erik Buell himself, the co-founder of the renowned Buell Motorcycles. The Fuell Fllow embraces its roots with a design that pays homage to the classic cafe racer style. At first glance, the Fuell Fllow boasts a neo-retro cafe racer appearance, eschewing the conventional front fairing and opting for a sleek, streamlined body with the battery serving as a central component. Speaking of the battery, the Fllow comes equipped with a 10kWh capacity, promising an impressive 150-mile range in urban environments. This power source drives a patent-pending 47hp (35kW) motor, ingeniously positioned in the rear wheel, giving the bike a unique ‘velodrome-style’ appearance and enabling a top speed of 136km/h. The Fllow 1S model takes the performance up a notch, offering the full 47hp, while the standard Fllow 1 begins with 15hp but can be upgraded post-purchase to match the 1S model. Regardless of the chosen variant, riders can expect a peak torque output of 750Nm, ensuring thrilling acceleration and smooth cruising. Eager to quell range anxiety, Fuell has emphasized fast-charging capabilities. In a video presentation, Erik Buell quoted an impressive 30-minute charge time when utilizing a super-fast charge point. However, it’s worth noting that charging via a standard mains plug at home takes 1.25 hours with a 6.6kW charger. The Fllow 1 comes with a 750W charger as standard, but for a quicker recharge, owners can opt for a 6.6kW (or a 3.3kW) charger, reducing charge times to 2.5 hours or 10 hours, respectively. The Fuell Fllow incorporates innovative features to enhance the riding experience and safety. Notably, the motorcycle employs regenerative braking, a patent-pending technology, to boost efficiency and increase the range. In combination with ABS at the rear wheel and standard ABS at the front, the Fllow ensures optimal braking performance. The motorcycle rides on 17-inch wheels, complemented by 40mm inverted front forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock, delivering a smooth and controlled ride on various terrains. Fuell has not held back when it comes to equipping the Fllow with cutting-edge technology and electronic aids. The bike comes with electronic traction control, launch control, and wheelie control, catering to both novice and experienced riders. Two distinct riding modes, “Urban” and “Audacious,” provide flexibility and adaptability to different environments and riding styles. An illuminated 50-liter storage compartment, another patent-pending feature, offers ample space for riders to store their belongings securely. Additionally, the Fuell Fllow boasts an interactive dashboard that seamlessly connects to the rider’s smartphone through a dedicated app, providing essential information and customization options. Safety is paramount, with blind-spot detection and collision warnings both at the front and rear, enhancing situational awareness on the road. A convenient walk and reverse assist feature further enhances the bike’s user-friendliness, making parking and manoeuvring a breeze. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/watch-kenan-sofuoglu-teaches-his-3-year-old-son-to-ride-a-gold-wing/

Watch Kenan Sofuoglu Teaches His 3-Year-Old Son To Ride A Gold Wing

Kenan Sofuoglu took the term ‘start them young’ to a whole different level as the ex-MotoGP and WorldSBK rider recently let his three-year-old son, Zayn Sofuoglu, take the Honda Gold Wing for a spin! The Honda Gold Wing is a 1800cc motorcycle that weighs more than 300kg.  The Gold Wing featured in the video is equipped with Honda’s DCT transmission.  Before we show you the video, it’s probably wise to remind you not to let your kids take on a bike as massive and heavy as the Gold Wing, especially if he’s been around for only 1,095 days.  In the video posted on Sofuoglu’s son’s Instagram account, we can see his kid approaching the Gold Wing, which is evidently taller and way bigger than him.    View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Zayn Sofuoğlu🇹🇷🇳🇱 (@zaynsofuoglu) Zayn continues to fire up the bike as if he is not bothered by the bike’s size before taking it for a spin under the watchful eyes of his dad. A quick scan through Zayn’s social media accounts shows that he’s ridden several motorcycles, including the Yamaha TMAX, Italjet’s Dragster and a Honda Ruckus. So for someone who was born in April 2019, it’s a surprise that a kid at that age can ride a full-size motorcycle. However, perhaps the video somehow proves how easy it is to ride a Gold Wing, even for a kid who can’t even reach the footpegs to ride it. But then again, we wouldn’t advise you to try this with your kids.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/jakub-kornfeil-joins-sic-moto3-team-2015/

Jakub Kornfeil joins SIC Moto3 team for 2015

Czech rider and 2009 Red Bull Rookies champion Jakub Kornfeil confirmed as SIC Moto3 team’s second rider for 2015 season. Shortly after the end of last weekend’s Moto3 race in the Shell Advance Malaysian MotoGP 2014 event, Sepang International Circuit (SIC) finally revealed its second rider for the newly formed SIC Moto3 team. Young Czech rider and 2009 Red Rookies champion Jakub Kornfeil will partner with Zulfahmi Khairuddin in the team starting next year. Making the announcement alongside Jakub was the new team’s manager, Swede racing personality Johan Stigefelt (aka ‘Stiggy’). “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I want to thank Dato’ Razlan and Johan for offering me this chance. I’m really looking forward to it and I’m very happy to be able to stay with KTM. I’m feeling positive and I think we can make a great season in 2015,” said the 21-year-old Czech rider during the impromptu media announcement held in the circuit’s Media Centre. Explaining the decision, Johan ‘Stiggy’ Stigefelt states, “It was also important to have another established and fast rider who can push together with Zulfahmi to get the results, for both himself and for the team and that I know is what Jakub is capable of. I have known him since 2012 and he has much talent. He is a dedicated rider who will work hard and I believe he can fight at the top next year.” As previously reported, the newly formed SIC Moto3 team has already garnered the support and backing from Tourism Malaysia, as well as local auto conglomerate Mutiara Motors Sdn Bhd via its Drive M7 energy drinks brand. The team will also adopt the KTM Moto3 250 GPR race machines for both Zulfahmi and Jakub. Images courtesy of SIC Photo Desk --Ads--