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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/zaqhwan-heads-thailand-high/ | ZAQHWAN HEADS TO THAILAND ON A HIGH |
Malaysian SuperSports 600cc rider, Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi is looking to set the newly completed Chang International Circuit (CIC) in Thailand ablaze in this weekend’s PETRONAS Asia Road Racing Championship following his recent success in the Malaysian Cub Prix.
Zaqhwan clinched his maiden CP130 title at Jempol, Negeri Sembilan last Sunday – an outcome that had long looked inevitable as he won six out of nine races ahead of closest challenger, Norizman Ismail. The Honda rider insisted the victory had taken off a lot of weight off his shoulders and he is more focused on hunting for wins in the remaining two rounds of the Asian Championship. The last time Zaqhwan won a SuperSports 600cc race was back in Indonesia (Round 2) in June.
Zaqhwan who competes for Musashi Boon Siew Honda Racing Malaysia in the Asian Championship is currently ranked fifth overall with 89 points, 43 points adrift leader, Katsuaki Fujiwara (BEET Kawasaki Racing) with 132 points.
“Last weekend was very special for me, the team (Givi Honda Yuzy Racing) and my family. I am still over the moon from winning the Cub Prix crown so naturally I’m hoping to do well in Thailand as well. I am feeling extremely motivated and optimistic I can fight for the chequered flag or at least a podium here,” said Zaqhwan. He added, “In the previous round (Suzuka), I had the opportunity to finish on the podium but the lack of experience saw our rivals get the best of me. But I believe things will be different at the CIC. None of the riders have competed there before so it will be fair game for all.”
Speaking about his overall target this season , “Mathematically we are still in the running to fight for the title but given the point deficit with Fujiwara, chances are quite slim. So I am only aiming to end the year among top three overall and return next season as a serious title contender.”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-tom-sykes-wins-dramatic-race-1-misano/ | WorldSBK: Tom Sykes wins dramatic Race 1 in Misano |
The first race of the WorldSBK Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round held at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” saw Tom Sykes (Kawasaki Racing Team) crossing the line in first place in the final lap drama.
All three front runners who are Chaz Davies (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati), Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team) and Marco Melandri crashed out in the final lap of the race.
Alex Lowes (Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team) secured second followed by Rea who managed to salvage the final podium spot after the huge collision with Davies.
It was an epic win for Kawasaki Racing Team rider Tom Sykes who miraculously crossed the finished line in first place during the first race of the Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round held at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli”. It was an amazing win considering that he was in fourth at the beginning of the final lap with a significant gap between Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team), Chaz Davies and his Aruba.it Racing Ducati team mate, Marco Melandri.
Unreal! The top three crash on the final lap and Tom Sykes 66 goes from seven seconds back to the very top of the podium in #RiminiWorldSBK Race 1!
Posted by Motorcycle on 17hb Jun 2017
The final lap looked to be set with Davies, Rea and Melandri all finishing on the podium but the Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round held at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” had other plans for the trio. Halfway through the final lap, Marco Melandri somehow lost the front end of his Ducati 1199 Panigale R which dropped him out of the podium contention. He managed to pick up his bike to cross the line in P15.
The battle at the front between Rea and Davies was put to a stop when Davies who was in the lead suffered a low side which took out Jonathan Rea as well without having enough time or space to avoid the fallen Ducati rider. While they were busy with the final lap drama, Sykes and Alex Lowes (Pata Yamaha Official WorldSBK Team) passed them with an easy finish in first and second.
Rea however managed to get back on his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR and salvaged the final podium spot while Chaz Davies was sadly taken out on a stretcher straight to the medical centre. According the medical official, Davies suffered “a fracture of the transverse process of L3 (3rd lumbar vertebrae), as well as contusion of the left thumb.”
With those injuries it is highly unlikely that the 30 year old Brit will be joining this afternoon’s Race 2 which will begin at 7.00pm local time right after the WorldSSP race at 5.30pm. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more WorldSBK updates.
Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round, Race 1 Results
Image source: WorldSBK
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kymco-xciting-s-400-new-standard-maxi-scooters/ | KYMCO XCITING S 400 – A New Standard for Maxi Scooters |
KYMCO launched the new XICITING S 400 at EICMA 2017.
The KYMCO XCITING S 400 features the best power in its class.
It will also have the first ECE-approved LED Daytime Running Lights for scooters.
Milan, Italy, 7th November 2017 – KYMCO has a good presence in Malaysia with their maxi scooters, but they also make motorcycles and ATVs. KYMCO has just added a new member to their family at EICMA 2017, called the XCITING S 400.
The KYMCO XCITING S 400 is the successor to the successful XCITING 400, which is renowned for its agile handling and the best horsepower in its class, apart from its smooth and quiet power delivery. The XCITING S 400 is designed in KYMCO’s “Win My Heart” spirit to surpass all that. KYMCO claims that it meets the stringent demands of riders seeking the best “sport touring scooter.”
The design of the new XCITING S 400 is built upon the “Powerful Simplicity” philosophy, combining the riding comfort and high-speed stability, perfect for the city commute and weekend excursions.
The new bike features the industry’s first ECE-approved Daytime Running Light for scooters to provide maximum visibility to other motorists, besides highlighting its identity.
The smoothly powerful engine produces 35.5 bhp (26.5 kW) and 37.7 Nm of torque. It guarantees responsive acceleration in urban traffic and high speed sprints.
Having a powerful engine also requires features to harness the power. KYMCO redesigned the hanger axle for a more rigid mounting point for the engine to the frame. The double bridge front suspension also increases rigiditiy. All these features add up to a maneuverable yet stable motorcycle.
There’s further proof of KYMCO’s desire to make the XCITING S 400 more accommodating.
The front seat tapers for easy feet placement during stops. The rear seat has a backrest to support the passenger. Instead of opening the entire seat to access the storage compartment underneath, the XCITING S 400 features a unique two-seat opening design. The windscreen is adjustable to accommodate different physiques and riding conditions. The handlebar is V-shaped to allow better line of view to the instrument cluster while riding.
KYMCO is also looking forward to adding the newly developed Noodoe Navigation feature upon the release of the XCITING S 400 next year. What distinguishes Noodoe Navigation from the rest is that it’s the world’s first rider-centric navigation system. Noodoe Navigation will be formally launced at the Tokyo Motorcycle show in March 2018.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-successfully-conquers-the-south-pole-onboard-the-himalayan/ | Royal Enfield Successfully Conquers The South Pole Onboard The Himalayan |
Two Royal Enfield Himalayan managed to overcome harsh weather and terrain to successfully capture the South Pole.
Ridden by Santhosh Vijay Kumar and Dean Coxson, the two begin their journey onboard two modified Himalayan from Novolazarevskaya research stations in Antarctica.
The pair took nine days to cover a distance of 3,200 kilometres and faced bone-chilling temperatures ranging from -30 degrees to -25 degrees Celsius before arriving at the location.
Other than facing a wind speed of 60km/h, the pair had to change their course more than once but still managed to reach the South Pole on December 16 together with a support crew.
In order to make the ride possible, the Himalayan’s underwent some modifications. The bike was also ridden on a compacted snow track from Ross Ice Shelf to the South Pole in an effort to reduce drag and limit emission.
Currently, the two Himalayan are still in Antarctica.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto2-hafizh-syahrin-scores-triumphant-third-japan/ | Moto2: Hafizh Syahrin scores triumphant third in Japan |
Malaysia’s own Moto2 rider Hafizh Syahrin (Petronas Raceline Malaysia) scored yet another brilliant finish making it his second podium finish in the past three races.
It was Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) who finished the Motul Grand Prix of Japan in top spot at a very wet Twin Ring Motegi followed by Xavi Vierge (Tech 3 Racing).
Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) still leads the championship as they move to Phillip Island next weekend to continue his Moto2 championship battle.
It was Alex Marquez (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) who came up on top at a very, VERY wet MotoGP race at the Twin Ring Motegi. Second spot went to Xavi Vierge (Tech 3 Racing) but the highlight of the race for all Malaysians was our very own Hafizh Syahrin (Petronas Raceline Malaysia) who scored yet another podium finish in the last three rounds.
Although it was home crowd hero Takaaki Nakagami (Idemitsu Honda Team Asia) got the hole shot from pole position, Nakagami and Marquez pulled away from the rest of the field before the 21 year old made his move.
Xavi Vierge maintained a steady performance throughout the race but with a strong resurgence from the young Malaysian, the 20 year old Spaniard managed to finish the race with just three seconds ahead of Hafizh Syahrin.
Starting from sixth, Hafizh Syahrin slowly but surely picked out all the big names in this year’s Moto2 championship. As Nakagami slowly dropped his position, Syahrin took the opportunity to make the best of the pouring rain and took down the likes of Francesco Bagnaia (SKY Racing Team VR46) and Mattia Passini (Italtrans Racing Team) who crossed the chequered flag in fourth and fifth respectively.
Miguel Oliveira (Red Bull KTM Ajo) finished the Japan GP in seventh ahead of the Moto2 championship leader Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) who managed to complete all 15 laps in eighth despite his rough starting grid all the way back in 15th.
Dominique Aegerter (Kiefer Racing) and Lorenzo Baldassarri (Forward Racing Team) completed the top ten finishers. As the team quickly pack things up to head to Phillip Island next weekend, the battle continues with a close battle between Morbidelli and Thomas Luthi (CarXpert Interwetten).
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-stolen-triumph-tiger-1200-has-been-returned/ | The Stolen Triumph Tiger 1200 Has Been Returned |
The stolen Triumph Tiger 1200 test bike was been returned early this morning.
The bike was returned by the thief’s father and brother.
We were informed that he had done so on a number of prior occasions.
As a follow-up of the Triumph Tiger 1200 test bike stolen yesterday, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia informed us that the motorcycle was returned early this morning. Triumph also wishes to extend their appreciation to those who shared the news.
The miscreant signed up for a test ride yesterday afternoon at around 3.46pm, but did not return after six hours. Thousands of netizens shared the news in social media.
We were then informed just after 1am that the thief’s father and older brother returned the motorcycle.
There were also netizens who pointed us to the person who rode off with the bike, and we were informed that this person Bro Superbike has done such a thing many times previously. His previous alleged crimes included driving off in his colleague’s car, plus a number of test bikes. Each time, his father and brother returned the vehicle.
His Facebook page shows him on a 2018 BMW S 1000 RR, and purporting to being affiliated to the S 1000 RR and Yamaha MT-07 owners groups in Malaysia and Singapore. There was only 1 posting in that FB account on 13th June 2019, calling on buyers if they are interested in purchasing a superbike.
The case is now handled by the police.
In our personal opinion, provided that he committed the alleged crimes before, this man is a pathological thief and requires rehabilitation.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-2018-hjc-rpha-11-mike-wazowski-monsters-inc/ | Check out this 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Mike Wazowski from Monsters Inc! |
Ahead of the HJC Helmets Grand Prix de France, HJC Helmets has launched the new 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Mike Wazowski helmet.
Their top-of-the-line sports helmet features the charismatic character from the movie, Monsters, Inc.
The US market will be able to purchase the new RPHA 11 at $599.99 (around RM2,382).
After the recent announcement of the superbly-unique HJC RPHA 11 Deadpool sports helmet, HJC Helmets again surprised us with something so “eye-catching”, it’s awkwardly beautiful. Just in time for the MotoGP round happening this weekend in France (sponsored by HJC, of course), they’ve released the 2018 HJC RPHA 11 Mike Wazowski from the movie Monster, Inc.!
The reason why HJC Helmets has chosen this Pixar character for their latest helmet design is due to its monstrous green beauty and lively character. Mike Wazowski’s design is clearly shown on the new helmet as wild, bright, and something that definitely will visibly stand out on the road and track.
This new graphic is featured on the RPHA 11 model, HJC’s premium sports helmet. The RPHA 11 is constructed of PIM+ materials for an ultra-lightweight shell with superior shock-resistance. Each helmet in the RPHA 11 series comes equipped with an extra smoke shield, Pinlock insert, chin curtain and breath box, as well as 5-year warranty.
Some Moto3 riders like Phillip Oettl were seen sporting the new RPHA 11 during the first Free Practice session at Le Mans earlier today. As for the pricing, the US market will be able to get it at $599.99 (around RM2,382). As for Malaysia, we will report if there are any official announcements from HJC Helmet Malaysia.
2018 HJC CL-17 Hulk & Punisher II unveiled
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-pol-espargaro-moves-to-repsol-honda-until-2022/ | MotoGP: Pol Espargaro moves to Repsol Honda until 2022 |
At last, the worst-kept ‘secret’ in MotoGP 2020 has finally been confirmed as Pol Espargaro was announced as the second rider for Repsol Honda beginning 2021. The Spaniard will be partnering up with HRC’s golden boy, Marc Marquez, and we think it will be spectacular next season.
According to HRC, “Honda Racing Corporation is pleased to announce the signing of Pol Espargaro. The former Moto2 World Champion will join the Repsol Honda Team on a two-year contract. He will join eight-time World Champion Marc Marquez aboard the Honda RC213V. Espargaro is one of the most experienced riders on the grid, having raced in the World Championship since 2006 and with 104 premier class Grands Prix contested.”
This means that Pol Espargaro will be replacing the rookie and younger brother of Marc Marquez, Alex Marquez. It’s a bit sad as the young Spaniard has not had a chance to prove his worth in the factory squad this season due to the delay caused by COVID-19.
HRC had to make some arrangements and fortunately for Alex, he was given the spot in LCR Honda and a one-year extension as a Honda rider until 2022. Unfortunately, Cal Crutchlow is the one he’s replacing, but Dorna seems to have plans for him in Aprilia. More details will be ironed out in the next few weeks, maybe days.
View this post on Instagram
?? Como ya sabréis, el año que viene KTM y yo separamos nuestros caminos después de lo que serán los 4 años más intensos y bonitos de mi vida. Sabiendo que en muchas ocasiones hemos tenido menos armas que los demás, hemos luchado y perseverado juntos superando todos los obstáculos que un proyecto tan nuevo como este nos ha planteado. He estado rodeado de un equipo técnico y humano fuera de este mundo, luchadores incansables que lo han dado todo siempre! En 2021 voy a competir para @hrc_motogp y voy a intentar demostrar lo que soy capaz de conseguir con el mismo esfuerzo y sacrificio, en una nueva etapa de mi vida que promete ser aún más intensa. Dicho esto, nos queda toda una temporada juntos en la que, como siempre, intentaré estar a la altura de esta gran fábrica! Gracias @ktmfactoryracing a por todas ?? ————————————————— ?? As you may already know, next year KTM and I will separate our paths after what will be the 4 most intense and beautiful years of my life. Knowing that on many occasions we have had weaker weapons than the others, we have fought and persevered together overcoming all the obstacles that a project as new as this has presented us. I have been surrounded by a technical and human team from out of this world, tireless fighters who have always given their all! In 2021 I am going to compete for @hrc_motogp and I am going to try to show what I am capable of achieve with the same effort and sacrifice, in a new stage of my life that promises to be even more intense. But we still have a whole season together in which, as always, I will try to be on the level that this great factory deserves! Let’s do it @KtmFactoryRacing ??
A post shared by Polyccio44 MotoGP Rider (@polespargaro) on Jul 13, 2020 at 2:08am PDT
MotoGP: Franco Morbidelli stays with Petronas Yamaha SRT until 2022
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/international/arai-rx-7v-hrc-limited-edition-helmet-announced/ | Arai RX-7V HRC Limited Edition helmet announced |
New Arai RX-7V HRC Limited Edition helmet is made especially for Honda fans.
Helmet makers Arai have created yet another special and limited edition full-face lid. Honda fans take note, the Arai RX-7V HRC Limited Edition is definitely one item worthy of any collector.
If you didn’t know, Arai and the mighty red wing marque have a standing agreement that allows the former to use the latter’s Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) logo in its products. Suffice to say, the Arai RX-7V HRC Limited Edition won’t be sitting in shelves for too long.
Adding a special touch to this lid is yet another collaboration with designer Aldo Drudi of the famed Drudi Performance design. Drudi has given this special edition RX-7V with yet another eye-catching and distinct livery design that Honda and HRC fans can appreciate.
The design features the signature Honda wing runs from the ends of the visor slot towards the back of the head. Besides the HRC logo donned on both sides and the forehead, the racing division’s colours are also donned on the lid’s rear whilst the Arai logo has been repositioned on the chin piece as well.
There’s also a serial number on the chin bar in these photos. However, this will not be in the final product as it was reportedly used in these promotional photos to further highlight the helmet’s exclusivity as a limited edition product.
Reports also indicate that European Arai merchants aren’t stocking up with this helmet as the firm has opened it up for pre-orders instead. UK-based sources report that pre-order prices for the Arai RX-7V HRC Limited Edition stand at £650, which roughly equates to RM3,778.57 for each unit.
Source: AutoEvolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/blind-man-rode-kawasaki-ninja-zx-10r-266km-h/ | Blind man rode his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R up to 266km/h! |
Ben Felten from Australia rode his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and broke the world record for riding a motorcycle blindfolded.
The 50-year-old went completely blind at the age of 37 but that did not stop him and his need for speed.
His record-breaking run was set during the World Speed Trials Australia 2018 where he went at an average of 266.685km/h!
Australian rider Ben Felten has broken the Guinness World Record as well as the one under FIM for riding a motorcycle blindfolded (pending approval) with his stock Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. What’s even more amazing is the fact that Felten is legally blind!
The record was broken just recently during the World Speed Trials Australia 2018, an event sanctioned by the FIM. The land speed record event was held at the Lake Gairdner salt flats located south of Australia. Apart from being blind after completely losing his sight when he was 37 years old, Felten completed the run this week at the wise age of 50!
According to a report made by AMCN, Felten and his crew have been working towards this feat for the past four years. It was back in October of 2014 when the first unofficial run was set at just under 220km/h. Their first official run was in 2016 but Felten came a bit short of the world record at a very impressive 251.45km/h.
At this point, we would like to remind the readers again that Ben Felten at the time was 48 years old and legally blind. This year’s World Speed Trials Australia 2018 saw Felten scoring his best ever average run of 266.685km/h which was enough to break the previous world record by a mere 1.355km/h with the help of his support rider on another Ninja ZX-10R.
The record falls under the Guinness World Record for fastest speed for a motorcycle ridden blindfolded & the FIM 1000cc Class Naturally Aspirated / Gasoline / Partial Streamline (fairings) Designated Blindfolded.
As for how he can ride the bike at high speeds without vision, the run was assisted by a support rider who happens to be a former Australian MotoGP rider, Kevin Magee aka “Magoo”. According to Felten, “I ride what we call the lead bike and Kevin Magee (Magoo), rides the chase bike. So there are two separate Ninja ZX-10R motorcycles and Magoo’s job is the navigator. We do this using analogue radio and I have secure ear mould earphones, plus a radio in my bum bag. Magoo gives me all of the commands via the radio, of which there are mainly three.”
“The words we use are ‘go’, when in a straight line. He will say ‘left’ or ‘leeeeeeft’ for a wider turn and ‘right’ for turning in that direction. The way I turn incrementally at high speeds is by putting pressure on the foot pegs. At the finish line and in the pits I navigate with Magoo’s guidance and people are amazed at our level of control,” added Felten.
As for the question of why the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R was chosen as his weapon, Felten stated the bike only lost a little amount of power on the salt flats. The bikes remained standard so that the entire duration of the event required no service or maintenance works. Other impressive features that also helped were the electronics package to help with traction plus easy rideability.
Upon breaking the record, Ben Felten said that he will be going at it again for next year’s event for an even higher top speed. Based on his testimony, we won’t be surprised if he does it again with the very capable Ninja ZX-10R.
Source: AMCN
Kawasaki Ninja series – There’s a Ninja for everyone!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/england-fans-15000-mile-charity-vespa-ride-world-cup/ | England fan’s 15,000-mile charity Vespa ride to the World Cup |
Whilst still on the subject of Vespas, here’s a piece about a passionate England football fan and his 15,000-mile ride to attend this year’s World Cup in Brazil with a Vespa and a sidecar.
44-year-old Chris Hallet is essentially your average English bloke who happens to be a strong supporter of his national football team. The ‘ordinary’ verb to describe him went out the window went he decided to quit his I.T. job, take out all his savings, and decided to ride to this year’s World Cup in Brazil riding a Vespa with a sidecar.
Chris’ journey will cover roughly 15,000 miles (more than 24,000km), travelling through Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay before subsequently reaching Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in time for the 2014 World Cup kick-off. At the same time, Chris will also be riding in aid of the UNICEF charity via his self-funded “Scooters for Goalposts” ride.
Not just merely riding through Latin America, Chris is also planning to challenge like-minded peers and fans at his stops in penalty shoot-outs, allowing people to lift up a replica of the World Cup trophy if they outscore him. Fittingly, the English football fan also hopes for his national team to do their best by saying: “”I just hope Roy Hodgson has got the England team practicing as many penalties as I am facing.”
You can follow Chris Hallet’s monumental Vespa ride on his blog and Facebook page.
Source: Visordown and Scooters for Goalposts
Images: Scooters for Goalposts Official Facebook Page
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-bmw-s-1000-xr-second-teaser-video/ | 2020 BMW S 1000 XR Second Teaser Video |
2018 BMW S 1000 XR
BMW Motorrad released the second 2020 BMW S 1000 XR teaser video.
The bikes sound like inline-Fours, pointing the way to the S 1000 XR.
It will be unveiled at EICMA 2020.
BMW Motorrad released the second teaser video for the 2020 BMW S 1000 XR with EICMA 2019 just a week away.
Every curve is teasing you. Go on – lean in! ?#EICMA2019 is just around the corner and we just can’t wait for it to start! How about you? #MakeLifeARide #NeverStopChallenging #EICMA #BMWMotorrad pic.twitter.com/58v80WyxOn
— BMW Motorrad (@BMWMotorrad) October 27, 2019
While we are also expecting an F 850 R or F 850 XR, the engine note from both videos belonged to an inline-Four, instead of a parallel-Twin. That would only point to the S 1000 XR, with its S 1000 RR superbike based engine. But expect the XR’s powerplant to be tuned for torque rather than outright horsepower. The RR’s engine is equipped with the BMW Shift Cam variable valve timing tech, which should also be brought over to the XR.
The 2020 XR will also be new from ground up, rather than having just an uprated motor for Euro 5 compliance.
Always riding ahead.
Stay tuned for news from EICMA 2019 on Tuesday 5 November. https://t.co/FeGn41dyL6#makelifearide #neverstopchallenging #bmwmotorrad pic.twitter.com/J69zTOO98Y
— BMW Motorrad UK (@BMWMotorradUK) October 24, 2019
The video also gave a glimpse of the rear suspension’s shock absorber. We can see the short plunger for the Dynamic Damping Adjustment’s (DDA) sensor. The suspension ECU takes readings from this sensor to adjust damping rates according to the selected preference.
BMW released the first teaser on 25th October consisting of snippets from the rider’s point-of-view. The second video showed a couple of bikes blasting by a roadside camera.
EICMA 2019 begins on Tuesday, 5th November in Milan, Italy. Stay tuned.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-announced-new-apex-factory-custom-paint-for-grand-american-touring-range/ | Harley-Davidson Announced New Apex Factory Custom Paint For Grand American Touring Range |
Harley-Davidson has announced a new custom colour scheme for the Grand American Touring Range for 2022.
The Apex factory custom paint is available for all of Harley-Davidson GAT range.
The colour scheme starts with a base of Vivid Black paint and combines with Gauntlet Grey graphics.
Dubbed the “Apex”, the new custom colour way will be applicable to selected bikes from Harley’s Grand American Touring family including the Road King, Street Glide and Ultra Limited bikes.
According to the American firm, a total of nine custom options are currently available, with one Road King, two street Glides, two Ultra Limiteds and four Road Glides.
The Apex option is an additional GBP1,900 for the Road King Special, additional GBP1,900 for the Street Glide Special Chrome while the Street Glide Black with Apex paint is pricier with GBP3,100.
“The Apex colour scheme starts with a base of Vivid Black paint. A graphic element adds Gauntlet Grey panels.
“The panels are surrounded by an accent stripe of Jet Fire Orange, the original colour applied to the XR750 competition models,” said Harley in a statement.
Harley’s Vice President of Design and Creative Director, Brad Richards said that the new Apex custom paint provides riders the chance to express the thrill of speed and competition on their bagger.
“This paint scheme communicates velocity and forward momentum with lines and colours inspired by Harley-Davidson competition motorcycles,” he said.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-ducati-streetfighter-v4-spotted-testing/ | 2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 Spotted Testing |
It’s going to be a busy year for Ducati as the Italian motorcycle company has already planned to introduce seven new launches between September to November.
The 2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 will feature a similar upgrade to the 2022 Panigale V4.
Notable changes include higher gear ratios, bigger fuel tanks and lighter chassis.
Based on the latest spy shots, we believe one of the upcoming motorcycles would be an updated Ducati Streetfighter V4.
According to these spy shots, the updated Streetfighter V4 might not change much from its predecessor, but upon closer inspection, some subtle changes are applied to the new model.
Firstly, the – black-painted – tank now features similar bodywork to the updated Panigale V4 superbike that was introduced globally last year.
That said, the 2023 Streetfighter V4 will feature a bigger 17L tank as opposed to the 16L previously available on the first-gen hyper-naked motorcycle.
Also, we expect Ducati to introduce the same engine upgrades made to the fully faired bike a year ago, including the redesigned oiling system and exhaust. As such, expect a slight increase of power for the 2023 model.
Ducati also revised the Panigale V4 gear ratios for 2022; thus, the Streetfighter V4 will likely adopt similar changes.
It is also relevant for the updated Streetfighter V4 to get a similar chassis upgrade to the Panigale, including a slightly higher swingarm pivot that helps reduce the bike’s squat under acceleration.
Lastly, it is safe to assume that Ducati will also introduce the higher-spec Streetfighter V4 S and the top-of-the-range V4 SP.
(source: CycleWorld)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-aprilia-rs660-extrema/ | FIRST LOOK: Aprilia RS660 Extrema |
While the rest of the motorcycle industry prepares a strong new lineup at EICMA, it wasn’t the case with Aprilia who brought just one new model to Milan.
The 2023 Aprilia RS660 Extrema pays homage to the Noale factory 125 Extrema.
Features carbon fiber components and new SC Project exhaust.
For 2023, Aprilia introduces the RS660 Extrema a lighter and better power-to-weight ratio than the base model. The name is taken from the firm’s 125 Extrema that was manufactured from 1992 to 1994.
The RS660 Extrema tips the scale at just 166 kilograms thanks to the number of carbon fiber component added including the belly pan and front fender. Given the 100hp it produces, the RS660 Extrema has an attractive power-to-weight ratio.
In addition, the RS660 Extrema is also fitted with a street-legal SC-Project exhaust system that helps to bring the bike’s weight further down.
In addition to the electronic package available on the RS660 including traction control, cornering ABS, engine brake, engine map and wheelie control the Extrema gets a new quickshifter software allowing riders to switch to GP-style upside-down shifting easily.
GALLERY: APRILIA RS660 EXTREMA
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-husqvarna-401-vitpilen-svartpilen-ready-malaysia/ | 2018 Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen & Svartpilen ready for Malaysia? |
Rumours have been going around regarding the possible launch of the 2018 Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen & Svartpilen here in Malaysia.
The stories have pointed towards the bikes being officially unveiled in a few weeks’ time.
Known as “White Arrow” and “Black Arrow”, both bikes are fitted with a 375cc single-cylinder engine with 44hp and 37Nm of torque.
Some very exciting news has been floating around town these past few days which indicated to the launch of the 2018 Husqvarna 401 series here in Malaysia. Officially unveiled a couple of years back during EICMA 2016, the Austrian bike manufacturer is ready to penetrate the world of street bikes with their highly-awaited 2018 Husqvarna 401 Vitpilen and Svartpilen.
Nicknamed “White Arrow” and “Black Arrow”, Husqvarna has big plans to dominate the road bike segment with their fresh yet simple style of modern-day entry-level motorcycles. Designed specifically for urban use, both the 401 Vitpilen and Svartpilen will surely be exciting additions to any market around the globe. The good news is that we might get them sooner than we think.
Powered by Husqvarna’s 375cc, single-cylinder engine, both Husqvarna 401 is able to generate around 44hp and 37Nm of maximum torque for an exciting bottom to mid power range. These figures make them suitable for city riding as well as the occasional trip to the countryside with long sweeping open roads.
Stripped right down to its bare essentials in terms of design, the ‘neo-retro’ bikes are sharp, futuristic and ready to take anyone on many grand adventures. While the Vitpilen carries a look fit for any modern city, the Svartpilen represents a more rugged off-road-ish appeal especially with its skid plate, knobby dual-purpose tyres, and wire-spoke wheels just to name a few.
Other top features include PASC anti-hopping clutch, WP Suspension package, ByBre brakes, dual-channel ABS, and all-around LED lights just to name a few. When absolute modern style meets with performance plus a dash of Swedish flare, the results are simply breathtaking and simply can’t wait for them to make their official appearance here in Malaysia.
KTM will start manufacturing Husqvarna bikes in India by 2020
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/will-the-2020-bmw-s-1000-rr-dominate-worldsbk-this-season/ | Will the 2020 BMW S 1000 RR dominate WorldSBK this season? |
This weekend will be the first round of the WorldSBK 2020 season where BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team is ready to take on the championship battle with their race-spec 2020 BMW S 1000 RR. After successfully completing their final pre-season testing at Phillip Island, Tom Sykes and Eugene Laverty will be throwing it down with the rest of the field at the same circuit this Saturday and Sunday.
BMW Motorrad spent the past two days finetuning the 2020 BMW S 1000 RR for both Sykes and Laverty to ensure that they have the best package to race this season. Testing new components and setups, Tom Sykes registered the fifth fastest rider in testing with only 0.472 seconds separating him and the top four riders, unsurprisingly led by Kawasaki’s Jonathan Rea.
Eugene Laverty, on the other hand, is still trying to get into grips with new test parts for his BMW S 1000 RR and only managed to place P11 at the Phillip Island test session. With that being said, he’s still only a second behind the top rider and BMW Motorrad will focus on further improving his pace this coming Friday during the Free Practise sessions.
According to Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad #WorldSBK Team, “We’ve had two good days of testing here in Australia. On Eugene’s side, we’ve had a lot of information to work through and we had satisfying results, mostly with the electronics and his feel for the delivery of the power. That has been his focus area and while we are happy so far, we will take some of this work into Friday.”
“On Tom’s side we’ve had a huge list of items for him to test over the two days. We are pretty happy with where we are. We’ve not managed to do much race simulation due to the extensive test items, so that will be Friday’s focus. We know we can qualify very well and aim to be on the front row in qualifying. But it’s not about qualifying, it’s about the race and we know that to be in contention for a podium position, we need to do consistent fast lap times in the latter parts of race. To do so and to be on the podium is definitely the goal for the season opener,” added Muir.
Up Close with the BMW S 1000 RR FIM Endurance World Championship (FEWC) Racer
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-inks-deal-motorex-oils/ | Husqvarna inks deal with MOTOREX Oils |
Husqvarna has signed a strategic global partnership with MOTOREX lubricants starting January 2018.
All new Husqvarna off-road and street bikes will be first filled with MOTOREX lubricants and future maintenance and service works.
MOTOREX Oils also became one of the official partners for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing in this year’s AMA Supercross Championship.
A strategic global partnership has been announced between Husqvarna Motorcycles and MOTOREX lubricant. As of January 2018, all new Husqvarna street and off-road bikes will be using its lubricants.
Additionally, the Swiss made lubricant will also become the official partner for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing. This will indeed help the manufacturer to perform in this season’s AMA Supercross Championship with a brand new rider line-up.
To know more about the 2018 Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team, CLICK HERE.
MOTOREX is brand which offers a wide range of engine lubricants, care and maintenance products hailing from Switzerland. The deal with Husqvarna will see all new models being filled with their lubricants first as they roll of the manufacturing line. Husqvarna will also continue to recommend the use of MOTOREX oils for all future service and maintenance works.
According to the CEO of KTM AG Stefan Pierer, “This agreement with MOTOREX successfully fulfils our goals for strong strategic group partnerships in both our motorsports activities and production sector. Husqvarna Motorcycles remain true to their commitment to offer premium motorcycles.”
Diego Clement who is the Head of Motorsport for Husqvarna also commented that “This new agreement with MOTOREX ensures we have a technical partner we can 100% rely on, allowing us to continue chasing victories in all championship and events around the world, across all disciplines,”
“MOTOREX products are well-proven at the highest level of racing and we are more than pleased that the entire Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team will be using them through 2018 and beyond” added Clement.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-arai-quantic-sport-touring-helmet-unveiled/ | 2021 Arai Quantic sport-touring helmet unveiled |
Arai is welcoming the new year with its latest 2021 Arai Quantic sport-touring helmet, the brand’s first full-face helmet that passes the new stringent ECE 22.06 safety regulations. The new Quantic offers greater protection not just for impacts, but also internal twisting motion from glancing impacts.
This was done thanks to its smooth design that minimises impact energy by promoting it to slide rather than continuous multiple impacts to its outer shell. The Quantic is targeted to reduce any brain tissue damage when twisting motions occur during unfortunate incidents.
Designed with even greater aerodynamic efficiency, the 2021 Arai Quantum also incorporates high levels of comfort thanks to a few additions, primarily the race-inspired rear spoiler for better airflow. In other words, you can all day long without facing any issues or discomforts.
Ventilation comes in the form of 12 ports (six for intake & six for exhaust). This also promotes to all-day comfort thanks to its optimum placements around the brow, neck, sides, and rear. Other features include:
VAS Max Vision Visor with De-Mist option
New shield latch system
Pinlock insert lens
Brushed nylon Liner material
Multi-density EPS liner
Emergency Release System (ERS) + many more
Price-wise, the UK market will be selling them from around £500-£600, depending on the design. That’s around RM2,727-RM3,272 in today’s currency exchange rates. It might be on the expensive side, but all the designs come from Aldo Drudi.
CONFIRMED: Ducati is NOT FOR SALE
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mv-agusta-to-be-locally-assembled-in-malaysia-by-afy-mobility-sdn-bhd/ | MV Agusta To Be Locally Assembled In Malaysia By AFY Mobility Sdn Bhd |
It’s official, MV Agusta officially returns to Malaysia with MV Agusta Malaysia Sdn Bhd appointed as the sole and exclusive of MV Agusta motorcycle, parts, merchandise and special parts in Malaysia.
MV Agusta to be distributed and locally assembled in Malaysia by MV Agusta Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
MV Agusta Malaysia Sdn Bhd is the subsidiary of AFY Mobility Sdn Bhd.
The announcement was made by none other than MV Agusta CEO, Timur Sardarov.
“I am particularly thrilled about this new, important partnership marking the consolidation and the expansion of the MV Agusta presence in one of the most dynamic economies in SouthEast Asia.
“The CKD assembly solutions found with our partners will boost our competitiveness in the region, in line with our global expansion strategy.
“I wish the newly born MV Agusta Malaysia every success,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, MV Agusta Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a newly formed company that is a subsidiary of AFY Mobility Sdn Bhd (AMI).
As mentioned by Sardarov, all MV Agusta motorcycles will be completely assembled at the AMI assembly and training facility in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/proactive-bikers-start-initiative-fight-motorcycle-parts-thefts/ | Proactive bikers start initiative to fight against motorcycle parts thefts |
A group of bikers have started an initiative to tackle the rising issue of motorcycle parts thefts.
A Google Survey form has been created to collect as much information as they can about the crimes.
The information will then be handed over to the proper authorities in hopes that the crime can be dealt with the best way possible.
With an increasingly alarming rise in the rates of bikes and parts thefts happening across Malaysia, a group of bikers have started an interesting initiative with hopes that it’ll be the first step of many in combating this worrying issue.
The first step to overcome this problem of ours is to start with collecting as much data as possible. To make the process simple for everyone no matter the location, a Google Survey document has been put out to get as much information as they can like the location of the crime, parts stolen, time and more.
Front ByBre caliper stolen from a Modenas Pulsar RS200.
All of this information will then be handed over to the proper authorities with hopes that they can solve the issues the best way possible and ultimately put a stop to all of this theft madness. Obviously tackling this issue head-on ourselves have a much lower chance of success or recovery and we need to convince the authorities on how serious this matter really is.
As most of you may already know, these scumbag thieves who are looking for a quick way to make money tend to target high-end motorcycles for their parts like Brembo brake calipers, master cylinders for the front brake and clutch, rear suspension and more. Most bike owners are properly pissed due to the fact that most basic insurance policies don’t cover parts theft.
Scumbag thieves are now stealing ByBre brakes!
Replacing these said parts will indeed cost thousands of Ringgit and when looking for used parts online, some pop up at ridiculously low prices that have probabilities of being stolen goods. As it is very hard to determine whether the goods on sale are legitimate or not, bikers would stay away rather than indulge and feed this circle of crime.
To bikers who have experienced this unfortunate event, you can fill in your details in the link below. Who knows? Maybe all proper authorities will look into this matter seriously and hopefully stop it from happening altogether. Let’s fight crime, people!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQS0vCI6FFn1qBDROsZBII8YmOxyBxOwI9ECnG9ztu6GcaBQ/viewform
In the meantime, you can also secure your precious motorcycles with a few important tips. To know more, check them out in the link below!
8 Ways to Secure Your Brake Calipers
*All photos in the article are for illustration purposes only
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/local-news/ktm-ckd-five-mountain-santai-ride/ | KTM CKD Five Mountain Santai Ride – Day One |
KTM CKD organised a Five mountain Santai Ride for a few selected media and we were one of the lucky few that was selected, naturally.
The plan is to ride over five mountains or hills as some of them is officially called, Genting Highland, Fraser’s Hill, Cameron Highland, Puncak Titiwangsa and lastly Gunung Jerai before returning back to Kuala Lumpur all in four days.
Three types of Dukes were on hand to be ridden as we rotate between the three, the 690, 390 and the 200.
We get to park right upfront, niiiice
Yesterday was the first day where we actually covered the longest distance of the four day ride. Slightly over 300km covered as we rode off from the BHP station at the start of the Karak Highway up to Genting Highland for breakfast at the “famous” Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.
Ulu Yam damn, low water levels
After the breakfast break we were off to the second “mountain”, Fraser’s Hill for lunch through Ulu Yam.
Part of the riding group
Done with lunch, it was a good stretch from Fraser’s Hill down to Sungai Koyan and climb up again to Tanah Rata in Cameron Highlands where we stayed overnight.
Theres always time for selfies in between the breaks
The word “santai” or relax definitely cant be used with the riding we were doing yesterday. The only time the word could be applied is the breaks we took in between the mountains.
Or the occasional updates
The roads covered yesterday could simply be from one end of the spectrum to the other as we went for the fast sweeping wide Karak Highway to the narrow and tight turning roads towards and after Fraser’s hill, a short “normal” B road as we head towards Sungai Koyan and the heavenly road full of sweeping corners up towards Ringlet.
For some this would be good enough to call it a ride and go home, but we’re off to the next “mountain in about an hour or so. More updates by the end of today.
The bikes this morning, all fueled and ready to go or as KTM’s tag line goes, Ready To Race
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shoei-release-limited-edition-opticson-heads-up-display-helmet/ | SHOEI Release Limited Edition Opticson Heads-Up Display Helmet |
In April, we first saw SHOEI’s Opticson heads-up display helmet prototype at the Osaka Motorcycle Show 2022.
SHOEI Opticson is to be available in limited numbers in Japan.
The Opticson is SHOEI’s first futuristic helmet that features a heads-up display.
At a glance, the SHOEI Opticson looks like a regular helmet, but there is a vertically-adjustable display piece that sits in front of the rider’s right eye.
SHOEI also fitted a projection unit hidden neatly inside the chin bar, which can be connected to the smartphone via Bluetooth. The projection unit will display information such as navigation instructions on the display pane for the rider to look at while riding.
While the feature seems exciting, at the time, the Opticson is still just a prototype.
That is, until now, as SHOEI is offering a limited run of the Opticson exclusively in Japan. The helmet will only be available in three Shoei Gallery around Japan and is priced at JPY137,500.
Unfortunately, SHOEI has no plans to release the Opticson in a market outside of Japan.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-modenas-pulsar-ns200-abs-unveiled-rm9655/ | 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS unveiled – RM9,655 |
Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) has finally introduced the latest 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS for the Malaysian market. After two years of successful sales here in the country, and an upgraded version was introduced with improved safety thanks to the addition of the front Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS).
Mr Roslan Roskan, CEO of Modenas, stated “At Modenas, we always look into making our motorcycles better and are equipped with the latest technology the market has to offer. Bikes with ABS are safer and we highly encourage those looking to purchase a bike to buy one equipped with ABS.”
This 2020 Modenas Pulsar NS200 ABS is now the most affordable naked street bike you can get here in Malaysia, apart from its full fairing counterpart, the Modenas Pulsar RS200 which already comes with front ABS since its debut.
The same 200cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DTS-I engine can be found in the updated NS200 ABS which produces 24.5kW at 9,750rpm and 18.6Nm of maximum torque at 8,000rpm. One of the owners of the NS200 who submitted its top speed run clocked it at around 150km/h.
Other specs of the NS200 ABS remains the same as the regular non-ABS unit apart from the pricing which comes in at RM9,655 (recommended retail price without insurance & road tax). Four colours are available for interested customers; Graphite Black, Mirage White, Wild Red and Yellow.
For more information, head over to www.modenas.my or visit the Modenas Power Store, Kota Damansara.
Financing (Loan) is Now Available at the Modenas Power Store, Kota Damansara
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/roctane-name-trademark-filed-by-bmw-motorrad/ | ‘Roctane’ name trademark filed by BMW Motorrad |
BMW Motorrad recently trademarked the ‘Roctane’ model name, but what will it be?
BMW Motorrad trademarks the ‘Roctane’ nameplate with intent for use on a new motorcycle.
As to what model or bike type will bear this name remains unclear for the moment.
Could this be the name for an upcoming high-performance R18-based cruiser iteration?
BMW R18 Malaysia
BMW Motorrad recently trademarked the “Roctane” name in Germany, and the firm also applied for international rights to the title with the intent to use it on a future motorcycle, reports US site Cycle World. However, what model or bike type this name will be applied upon remains a mystery.
BMW Motorrad is renowned for following a rather predictable naming convention for its bikes. The brand usually follows the pattern of a letter, which represents the engine configuration, then a number for the engine capacity, and a further combination of letters to describe the style of bike.
Occasionally though, the company switches to word-based names, and that’s exactly what is happening with Roctane name trademarking.
The German trademark confirms that the name is intended to be used on a motorcycle, with no mention of it applying to other goods. The fact that the name starts with an “R” is a strong indicator that it’s intended for one of the firm’s boxer twins
While these normally follow the letter/number/letter convention, the R nineT is the only exception with the German brand’s current range. Some of you may remember that from 2001 to 2006, there was the R1150R Rockster in the lineup too —BMW’s play on the term “roadster,” for a bike that was more of a streetfighter whilst underpinning using the mechanicals from the more straightlaced R1150R.
Of course, This isn’t the only trademark that BMW Motorrad has filed over the last few years for bikes it hasn’t launched.
Recently, the brand secured the rights to several “M”-branded titles for bikes to sit alongside the range-topping M1000 RR superbike, including the “M1300 GS” name. BMW also trademarked an “M1000 XR” name at the same time, alluding to plans for a high-performance version of the S1000 XR.
Another recent name trademarking effort done by BMW Motorrad revolves around the “R12”, which suggests the firm’s plans for a ‘baby’ version of its R18 flagship retro cruiser, likely powered by its R-series 1200cc boxer twin.
For now, our best guess is that the Roctane name may be associated with either the R18 or forthcoming R12 destined to slot below it. With BMW already integrating its M sub-brand on two-wheels for sportier and high-performance iterations, we’re not discounting the possibility that Roctane could be the name for a high-performance cruiser model too.
As to how soon we’ll finally see this Roctane model materialise remains to be seen. For all we know, BMW Motorrad may be just reserving this name for now. Clearly, this is a classic case of “wait and see” for all of us…
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-901-breaks-cover-ahead-of-official-launch/ | Husqvarna 901 Norden Breaks Cover Ahead Of Official Launch |
Husqvarna has unveiled their first-ever adventure motorcycle, the 901 Norden, ahead of the official.
The 901 Norden is the Swedish firm first attempt into the competitive mid-range adventure motorcycle market.
According to reports, the all-new motorcycle is currently in its final stage and is build based on 889cc parallel-twin engine taken from the KTM 890 Adventure.
However, the 901 Norden offers a different architecture thanks to its Kiska, the same company responsible for designing the Vitpilen dan Svartpilen motorcycle.
Interestingly, the 901 Norden delivers the same design aspect of the concept model shown at the 2019 EICMA in Milan.
You can catch all the latest videos of the 901 Norden on Husqvarna official YouTube channel.
While it might not show you the whole picture, but it definitely can get you feeling excited about the new adventure bike.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-ktm-1290-super-duke-gt-unveiled-at-intermot/ | 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT Unveiled at Intermot |
The 2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has been introduced at Intermot.
It features a host of updates to renew it from the 2016 model.
The front has also been redesigned and there is now a TFT screen.
KTM has also unveiled a couple of new bikes at the Intermot show in Cologne, Germany. New for 2019 are the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT and 1290 Super Duke R.
First introduced in 2016 before the advent of the 1290 Super Adventure S and R, the previous GT was “old tech.” Indeed, the 2016 model didn’t have a TFT screen and the LC8 engine was based on the older 1290 Super Duke R, although it did have excellent WP Semi-Active electronic suspension.
2019 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT spied
So it’s no surprise that the 2019 1290 Super Duke GT receives many updates.
The 1301cc 75o V-Twin engine has been revised to produce 175 bhp by using new resonator chambers, titanium inlet valves and engine mapping. There is now Track riding mode in addition to Tour, Sport and Rain.
The traction control system is now lean angle sensitive, while the quickshifter has been upgraded to Quickshifter+.
The WP Semi-Active suspension is retained and still allows the rider to select from Comfort, Street and Sport, besides picking the preload for single rider, single rider with luggage, rider and passenger, rider and passenger with luggage.
There is now a 6.5” TFT screen which displays all the needed data. It is also possible to operate it with just one hand.
The biggest cosmetic update is to the front of the bike, with the signature split LED headlamp and taller windscreen.
The smartphone connectivity feature KTM My Ride is still offered as an option.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/suter-mmx-500-two-stroke-racer-re-launched/ | Suter MMX 500 two-stroke racer re-launched |
Suter MMX 500 two-stroke race bike re-launch celebrated with much nostalgia.
After initially teasing it earlier this past week, Swiss race bike maker Suter has finally taken the wraps off its MMX 500 two-stroke race bike. Essentially, what Suter has done is re-launch its highly lauded two-stroke track machine, granting it with a modest visual makeover. Underneath the carbon fibre bodywork, the re-launched Suter MMX 500 features a fuel-injected 576cc V4 two-stroke mill housed within an adjustable twin-spar chassis design. Suter claims that the powerplant develops a whopping 195hp, with the ability to rev itself all the way up to 13,000rpm as well. The firm further claimed that the powertrain would propel the 127kg bike up to a claimed top speed of approximately 310km/h. The powertrain has its soundtrack further sweetened thanks to the presence of a titanium Akrapovič exhaust system. Other notable features include an adjustable aluminium swingarm, a pair of Öhlins FGR300 forks up front matched with the OEM brand’s TTX GP rear shock, a carbon fibre fuel tank, as well as the option between a set of aluminium or magnesium 17-inch wheels courtesy of O.Z. racing. No doubt, the Suter MMX 500 was built to celebrate the golden era of two-stroke 500cc Grand Prix bikes of the past, a fact that is further amplified with the Rothmans Honda-liveried display unit pictured. So, how much exactly does it cost to own this nostalgia-invoking two-stroker? About 120,000 Swiss Francs, which is about RM542,247.32. Only 99 units will be produced, each tailored to its respective customer of course. You can check out more of the Suter MMX 500 via its dedicated microsite: Suter500.com
Sources: Suter500.com , Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-sportster-malaysia-4th-annual-run/ | Harley-Davidson Sportster Malaysia 4th Annual Run |
As promised by Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya during their launch, there will be many rides and activities.
Apart for the inaugural Harley Owners Group of Petaling Jaya ride last month, the Sportster Malaysia group held their 4th Annual Run today.
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya welcomed the return of the Sportster Malaysia group.
30th March 2018, Petaling Jaya – The Sportster Malaysia 4th Annual Run got off to a great start today.
As promised by the new Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) during their official launch, the Sportster Malaysia 4th Annual Run is one of many activities to come for Harley owners. Starting from here, there will be more ambitions rides in the future.
The ride began at the Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) dealership. Some 35 riders on 30 motorcycles assembled at The Gasket Alley from 7.30am. HDPJ provided a light breakfast and refreshments for the riders while awaiting the flag off.
A safety briefing was called afterwards and participants were given a explanation of safe riding techniques in the convoy, such as spacing, formation riding, hand signals, and road etiquettes They were also briefed on the route and filling points, with attention given to those bikes with the peanut tanks (8 litres). The convoy will ride through towns such as Batu Pahat on the way to their destination at the Mutiara Hotel in Johor Bahru.
The ride was flagged off at 9.30am, with the bigger bikes leading the convoy.
Have a safe ride, guys and gals!
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/i-moto-my-educates-proper-bike-maintenance-to-bike-owners/ | I-Moto.my educates proper bike maintenance to bike owners |
I-Moto.my together with GB Workshop conducted a workshop on proper bike maintenance dubbed the I-Workshop.
Held at The Gasket Alley, the laid-back seminar targeted for Vespa, Scomadi, Benelli and Aprilia owners on how to properly maintain their bikes and what to look out for when it comes to servicing.
The workshop was successful in providing valuable knowledge and firsthand experience to the bike owners to ensure that their beloved bikes are always ready to ride.
Our dear friends from I-Moto.my conducted a very successful program earlier today dubbed the I-Workshop for a bunch of Vespa, Scomadi, Benelli and Aprilia bike owners and enthusiasts. With the goal of educating these bike owners regarding the importance of bike maintenance, the casual workshop / seminar was held at The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya with the help from the great folks over at GB Workshop.
We attended the morning session where the main focus was to educate modern Vespa and Scomadi owners in proper bike maintenance. This includes service intervals, wear and tear parts, pre-ride checks and many more. The afternoon session was specially-reserved for the Aprilia and Benelli participants.
Within the GB Workshop itself conveniently located in the Moto Guzzi Flagship Centre, the staffs have conveniently prepared a Vespa scooter primed for showcase to show the participants on what to know, expect and understand firsthand when it comes to proper bike maintenance. This includes wear and tear parts or services at a particular time or mileage.
Participants eager to know how their beloved machines work fired a number of questions to the bike experts and each and every one of them were answered with confidence and precision. This goes to show how knowledgeable the mechanics are regarding motorcycles of all shapes and sizes in which will entrust a sense of trust and confidence to any bike owner who sends their bike over for service at the GB Workshop.
One of the major highlights of this particular session was the introduction of the Piaggio Advanced Diagnostic System (PADS) to the participants. This system allows for the mechanics to plug into any bike under the Piaggio umbrella (Aprilia, Derbi, Gilera, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, Scarabeo and Vespa) for system and hardware checkups plus tuning.
The session then moved on to the presentation of a few key figures in the motorcycling world such as Hi-Rev Torque lubricants, Jarvish Smart Helmet Malaysia and RT Tech Motorsports. The presentations were held at the popular Makhan by Kitchen Mafia eatery which is located just across the Moto Guzzi Flagship Centre. All conveniently located within The Gasket Alley compound, of course.
To know more on Jarvish Smart Helmet Malaysia, CLICK HERE.
The session ended with participants having learnt some vital information regarding their beloved motorcycles and the proper ways of maintaining them. This will indeed assist in keeping their rides primed and always ready for a good day of riding ahead.
A big thanks to Roger from I-Moto.my and GB Workshop for this very unique workshop. There will be another workshop to come in the two weeks’ time for any interested Ducati, Benelli and MV Agusta bike owners. To know more, head on over to the I-Moto.my Facebook page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-indian-motorcycles-slapped-huge-import-tariffs/ | Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles Slapped with Huge Import Tariffs |
Image source: Brian J. Nelson
The EU will levy heavy tariffs against U.S.-made products.
The victims include Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles.
The tariffs are a retaliation against the U.S. adding tariffs on imported steel by 25%.
In the latest trade wars with the U.S., the European Union (EU) has just retaliated against American President Donald Trump’s decision to levy new import taxes on steel and aluminium from Europe. A hefty 25% tariff will be put in place for the American-made bikes, including a whole list of other American-made products.
The EU had threatened reprisals against the U.S., who adopted the new tariffs earlier this month by adding a 25% tariff on imported steel and 10% on imported aluminium.
The European nations unanimously supported the plan last week. The European Commission is due to meet later today. They have so far listed 10 pages full of American products. As for motorcycles, the tariff is worded as:
Motorcycles and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without sidecar. With reciprocating internal combustion piston engine of a cylinder capacity exceeding 500cc but not exceeding 800cc.
Motorcycles and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without sidecar. With reciprocating internal combustion engine of a cylinder capacity exceeding 800cc.
Which means any bike from the US that’s bigger than 500cc will be subject to the new tax.
This does not bode well especially for Harley-Davidson who are being hit hard by low sales in America and has been depending on international sales. Indian Motorcycles, on the other hand, had been performing well on all counts but this ruling will no doubt hit them hard, also.
But it isn’t only bad news from Europe, as India had also slammed US motorcycles above 800cc with a 50% duty, as a retaliation against the U.S. who had also levied a 25% tariff on Indian steel
The U.S. tariffs are part of President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign which seeks to protect the country’s industries.
Yes, you can say it in Trump’s voice: “This YUGE!”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marc-marquez-wins-france-rossi-back-podium/ | MotoGP: Marc Marquez wins in France; Rossi back on podium! |
Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda) secured his third MotoGP win of the season in France last night.
Danilo Petrucci (Alma Pramac Racing) finished second as the top Ducati rider.
Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) returns to the podium despite struggling with handling and grip.
It was an ultra-dramatic MotoGP race last night at the HJC Helmets Grand Prix de France. Many events unfolded which resulted in Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez winning his third race of the season and equalising the number of premier class wins to Casey Stoner’s total of 38.
Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) was the favourite to win yesterday’s race in front of his home fans after obtaining the pole position on Saturday. His dream of winning his first ever MotoGP race came to a screeching halt after crashing out in Lap 8.
The fall was resulted in Zarco’s own error whilst fighting at the front with the likes of Ducati’s Jorge Lorenzo, Andrea Dovizioso, and of course, Marc Marquez. Lorenzo surprised everyone yet again by performing a perfect race start and taking the holeshot into Turn 1.
Even Andrea Dovizioso crashed out after a surprising (and rare) race error which even the rider was surprised as to what had happened. Thanks to the fall, the Ducati factory riders dropped down hard in the 2018 championship all the way down to P9 with a total of 46 points.
After a number of laps, Lorenzo dropped his position which gave the opportunity for Danilo Petrucci (Alma Pramac Racing) to finish the race in second place as well as the top Ducati rider. Surprisingly, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) returns to the podium with his Yamaha M1.
Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing) also improved his pace significantly and finished the race ahead of Jorge Lorenzo. There were many rumours pointing towards Miller replacing Lorenzo in the Ducati factory team and his result today certainly helps out in his favour.
There were many fallouts in the race with the first casualty being Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar). He lost control of his Suzuki GSX-RR in the very first lap and ended Suzuki’s hope of getting their fourth podium of the season.
At the back, there was a great battle for the top MotoGP rookie between Moto2 world champion, Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) and Malaysia’s very own Hafizh Syahrin (Monster Yamaha Tech 3). Hafizh Syahrin finished the race triumphantly in P12 ahead of all the rookies and only 2.6 seconds behind KTM’s factory rider, Pol Espargaro.
The French round certainly opened up a lot of eyes and we expect that there will be many surprising announcements in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic to know more.
MotoGP: Andrea Dovizioso stays with Ducati until 2020!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kasma-daniel-will-race-cub-prix-fim-cev-repsol-2017/ | Kasma Daniel Will Race in Cub Prix AND FIM CEV Repsol for 2017 |
He will participate in the national Petronas AAM Malaysia Cub Prix in the 150cc category
In between the Cub Prix rounds, he will head to Spain to take part in the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior World Championship on board a 250cc Moto3 bike.
2017 will be an extra busy year for one Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin who will be competing in the national Petronas AAM Malaysia Cub Prix championship AND the FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior World Championship in Spain. The 17 year old hometown hero will be defending his championship title in the brand new premier category in the Cub Prix championship this year known as the CP150 or SuperCub 150.
Kasma Daniel will be piloting the Yamaha Y15ZR with the Petronas Yamaha Maju Motor outfit in the fight for glory against others in the upgraded premier class. For the past few years, the young rider has had major success in the Petronas AAM Malaysia Cub Prix especially last year when he was crowned as champion in the CP130 category.
This year, that job will be made much more difficult with him competing in the next stage of racing that is the FIM CEV Repsol Junior World Championship Moto3 category. The championship will run its course in Spain for eight rounds in total starting at the end of April until the middle of November of 2017. At this stepping stone into the world stage, Kasma together with the Petronas Sprinta Racing team will be racing with Moto3 250cc machinery. The first round of the FIM CEV Repsol Junior Moto3 will be on 30 April 2017 at the Circuito de Albacete.
For your information, our other national riders in the Moto3 and Moto2 category racing in the highest level of track racing that is MotoGP, Khairul Idham Pawi and Hafizh Syahrin, have raced in the FIM CEV Repsol Championship before heading over to MotoGP. The championship is seen as the next vital stepping stone into international waters as a test on whether riders are good enough to be absorbed into the big leagues.
Far right: Kasma Daniel
Those of you may have heard about Kasma Daniel in the racing scene as the boy who went to the famous Rossi’s Ranch in the Doctor’s hometown of Tavullia, Spain. Chosen and sponsored by Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd., he went to train at the VR46 Riders Academy organized by Rossi and other talented riders and coaches not just once but TWICE. Most riders can only dream to ride at what’s considered to be the place to train with racing gods.
Second from right: Kasma Daniel
The 2016 CP130 Cub Prix Champion will be heading for battle this weekend as the first round of the Petronas AAM Malaysia Cub Prix rolls into Temerloh, Pahang from 3 March 2017 until 5 March 2017. The 17 year old will go all out once again to not just dominate the races but to be crowned as the first 150cc champion ever with the introduction of the new and improved race category.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/tested-2017-modenas-pulsar-rs200-ns200-dynamic-duo/ | TESTED: 2017 Modenas Pulsar RS200 & NS200 – “The Dynamic Duo” |
Launched back in May 2017, Modenas introduced two brand new entries to the Malaysian market with the exciting 2017 Modenas Pulsar RS200 and NS200.
When it was launched, the NS200 was considered as a naked version of the RS200 but the differences are actually night and day.
We tested both bikes in different riding experiences and locations and both bikes offer great packages and affordable prices which we know will be a big hit here in Malaysia.
Launched back in May 2017, Modenas together with Bajaj Auto Limited formed a partnership that looked like the ultimate pairing to take over the market share majority here in Malaysia. While there are many models that Modenas could’ve pick for rebadging purposes here in the country, they’ve made a very interesting choice and went ahead with the Pulsar RS200 and NS200.
During the launch day, we were excited to know that Modenas is aware of the two-wheel market offering and how they work. With a clear unfilled gap in the small capacity sports bike and naked bike categories, it was a sensible yet brilliant decision to offer these two models for Malaysians to indulge on without breaking the bank.
We got the opportunity to test both of these bikes at the same time and honestly, we had a great time with both of the Pulsars especially the RS200. First off, we would to admit that we were misinformed when we said the NS200 is just a naked version of the RS200 sports bike but the differences are night and day.
In essence, both bikes are similar in terms of the engine which is the latest Bajaj-powered 200cc DTS-i, SOHC, four-valve, fuel injected power plant with triple spark technology for optimum combustion and performance throughout the rpm range.
Able to produce 21.5hp at 9,750rpm and 18.6Nm of torque at 8,000rpm, the engines on both the RS200 and NS200 are able to push the bikes to a maximum speed of 153km/h (based on the mysterious top speed run videos submitted to us earlier) before the engines reach their rpm limit and cut off (for safety reasons and also to avoid from catastrophic failure).
Both the RS200 and NS200 have the same suspension package with front telescopic forks and anti friction bush at the front ends and Nitrox monoshock absorber with canister handling the rear. We were pleasantly surprised on how well they do their job even at higher speeds. Both bikes offer stable riding experience but the NS200 is a bit more wobbly considering its slightly higher riding position and lack of wind protection unlike the RS200 and its adequately aggressive front fairing.
While the engines and suspensions are the same, everything else is completely different. Looking at the styling, the RS200 has a very aggressive sporty fairing that we feel can be very appealing to a lot of Malaysians. The fairing also provides great aerodynamics and cruising down the highway feels heavenly. Compared to the naked NS200 has a slightly wider body and no fairing which means that the rider feels the full force of the wind when riding at higher speeds.
Based on this, we feel that the NS200 is more suited for city riding whereas the RS200 can be good for long tours. The slightly higher seat height on the NS200 gives it a more aggressive stance but it also offers great manoeuvrability when going through traffic jams in congested cities. The RS200 is more suited for twisting roads like the ones riders often take after that Sunday breakfast session at Lemang To’Ki.
They also come with the same meter panel that indicates some important aspects of the bike like the analogue tachometer, digital speedometer and fuel range together other indicators like neutral gear position and rpm limit or shift light. The only downside of this meter panel is that it doesn’t indicate the gear position so most riders would more than once look for that legendary ‘seventh gear’ which is sometimes funny and embarrassing at the same time.
Another major difference between the two is the availability of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The RS200 does have single-channel ABS that works in tandem with its front 300mm brake disc. The NS200 doesn’t offer ABS as it only comes with a single 280mm hydraulically-operated front brake disc. Both bikes have the same rear brake setup which is a 230mm brake disc.
Obviously, stopping the RS200 feels more stable compared to the NS200. The single channel front ABS works great to provide braking stability but modulating the rear brake pressure still requires some practise as there’s no ABS working at the rear. The NS200 can also stop on a dime but without any ABS to help, careful operation is required to prevent any wheel lock.
We managed to take both bikes out for a ride all the way to Kuala Kubu Baru and we can say that both bikes offer something a bit different but the RS200 is obviously a better choice with slightly better equipment and impressive ‘big bike’ like styling. The NS200 also provides a good overall riding package and is more suited at lower speeds and great manoeuvrability in congested areas.
One would think that both the RS200 and NS200 look like motorcycles that will cost over RM15,000 but Modenas again surprised everyone when they announced that the RS200 is priced at only RM11,342 and the NS200 is even lower at RM9,222 (basic prices with GST). Those are some affordable figures that are considered as major selling points especially for those looking into starting their passion in motorcycling.
All in all, we think that the 2017 Modenas Pulsar RS200 and NS200 are great packages for awesome riding experiences available at unbelievable prices. We of course favour more on the RS200 and its sporty looking fairing equipped with Daytime-Running Lights (DRL), single-channel ABS and great design but the NS200 is just as good especially when lane-spitting through traffic. Whatever your choice may be between the two, you’ll always come up as a winner with either one.
CLICK HERE to know more on the 2017 Modenas Pulsar RS200 and NS200 during their Malaysian debut.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/should-triumph-build-a-trident-660-rr/ | Should Triumph build a Trident 660 RR? |
Digital designer Oberdan Bezzi sure thinks so, and this Triumph Trident 660 RR render of his gives us an idea how it should look like…
Digital artists Oberdan Bezzi gives us a glimpse of how a sporty offshoot of the Triumph Triden 660 could look like.
Effectively, this Trident 660 RR render could pass off as a ‘down-sized’, modern-day Daytona successor of sorts.
Should Triumph make this a reality, would you prefer a triple-powered alternative like this over the RS660 or R7?
Though Triumph has been on quite a roll with the bulk of fairing-less offerings like the Trident 660, we’re certain many fans are still left waiting for a proper successor to the brand’s brilliant supersport that was the Triumph Daytona 675.
Clearly, digital designer Oberdan Bezzi agrees with this sentiment, which is likely what inspired him to publish this rather tasty render. Effectively, Bezzi’s artwork answers the question of how will a sporty, Daytona-like offshoot of the Trident 660 could look like.
riumph Daytona Moto2 765
Though Triumph did release the Daytona 765 Moto2 limited-run special back in 2020, a true successor to the Daytona 675 hasn’t really materialised since it was discontinued in 2017. This render is perhaps the ideal picture of one should it get made in this day and age.
Christened as the Trident 660 RR, Bezzi justifies the ‘RR’ naming in this reimagination through the addition of Brembo anchors with a radial master cylinder assembly, matched with upgraded Öhlins suzzies up front (albeit not very visible), as well as a Daytona 765 Moto2-inspired exhaust pipe.
There’s also the sharp and aerodynamic full fairing Bezzi added, which really emphasises the supersport flavour of this reimagined Trident 660. You could say that this passes off well as a slightly ‘downsized’ Daytona of sorts.
Being based off the Trident 660 means this RR-badged ‘reimagination’ harnesses said naked’s respectably peppy liquid-cooled 660cc DOHC in-line triple-cylinder. With its 80HP and 64NM outputs plus claimed 189KG wet weight, it should – theoretically – match up against the likes of the Aprilia RS660 and Yamaha YZF-R7.
Yup, we’re in agreement with Bezzi here, and we’re sure plenty of you are too. Would you fancy such a sporty offshoot of the Trident 660 should Triumph make one?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-rider-training-with-auto-bavaria-bmw-motorrad/ | BMW Rider Training with Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad |
Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad organized the BMW Rider Training sessions over the weekend.
The lessons sought to make better riders and learn more about the capabilities of their bikes.
It also included basic emergency first aid training.
Bikes may be getting “smarter” but the soft science of riding – as in the rider – cannot be ruled out of the equation. This was why Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad organized the BMW Rider Training clinic over the weekend.
Sure, modern motorcycles are loaded with safety features such as ABS, traction control, wheelie control, combined braking and everything in between, but that doesn’t mean riders just need to sit back and let the systems do the rest. We may as well hang up our helmets and take Grab Car, if it was so.
You see, riders still get into trouble despite the advancement of motorcycle technology. In fact, 90% of motorcycle crashes could be attributed to rider error from one degree to another. Technology complements the rider, instead of the other way around.
BMW R 1250 GS HP
This is why rider training is important. Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad knows this, hence the rider training.
The sessions were carried out through the day and the number of participants was limited to only a maximum of eight. That low number allowed the instructor more time to focus on each student.
It kicked off with the introduction of certified BMW Motorrad trainer Wong K.K. K.K. has been riding extensively for many years, besides carrying out training for BMW car owners before switching to motorcycle training.
Class began with some reflective questions. The objective was to get the participants to recognize the risks, try to avoid them and solve threatening scenarios through training and learning to ride.
Therefore, subjects covered the basic tenets of riding including turning, braking, vision, throttle control, body positioning, cornering. Additionally, K.K. also touched on urban survival such as being visible to others, reading traffic flow, avoiding the blindspot, ATGATT (all the gears all the time), 3-second rule, being paranoid about other road users and situational awareness.
He also talked about group riding i.e. convoys which covered communication, rules, pacing oneself, avoiding fatigue, besides being fully prepared with emergency kits.
However, the main difference to this training was the basic life support talk and demonstration. The hosts roped in Dr. Khairul Azri, an Emergency Physician at the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre for assistance.
He spoke about the need for riders to learn basic life support (BLS) in order to save lives, those which could very well be our very own riding buddies’. As such, his talk covered subjects such as recognizing the severity of injuries, when and how to perform CPR, how to remove the helmet of a fallen rider, and other facets of emergency care.
It was a shame that his session was very compressed but AB will bring the good doctor back for a full-blown BLS course.
The participants and trainers then convoyed to the parking lot outside the Shah Alam Stadium for the practical part of the training.
The first exercise was for tight turns. It sought to provide the students with the confidence to turn their bikes within confined quarters and u-turns. It also highlighted the bikes’ abilities that are usually under-utilised by their respective owners.
For example, the participants needed to ride in a circle within a 2.2 metre square “box.” Most expressed surprise that their bikes including the R 1200 RT and R 1200 GSA could perform the task.
They proceeded to the slow speed slalom afterwards. This was to teach low-speed maneuverability to simulate riding through heavy traffic.
But perhaps one of the best module of the day was braking. Braking is a skill that not many riders are aware of and instead use that facet of bike control as an on/off switch. In fact, while riders everywhere specifically demand the ABS feature, not many are actually aware of what it does and how it works.
A sudden heavy downpour wetted the “track” and it became even more conducive to learn about ABS.
The exercise also served to emphasize BMW’s braking technology such as ABS Pro and Integral ABS.
ABS Pro is actually lean-angle-sensitive ABS, named as “cornering ABS” by other manufacturers. The system provides different braking strategy and brake pressure compared to when the bike is straight up to allow safe hard braking hard while leaned over in a corner.
Integral ABS, on the other hand, is called “linked braking system” or “combined braking system” by other makers. Pressing the front brake lever only will apply some rear brake pressure to stabilise the rear end and chassis. Vice-versa, applying the rear brake only will also trigger some pressure in the front brakes. Consequently, braking is more efficient and safer, in addition to providing more confidence to the rider.
With the ground drenched, the riders were told to ride to certain speeds and apply maximum braking pressure.
The most impressive part was watching a couple of riders who deliberately rode faster to test the limits of their bikes. Watching 250-odd-kg (the R 1200 GS Adventure) and almost 280kg (R 1200 RT) bikes being hauled down from high speeds to a complete stop without drama was probably the best spectacle of the entire class.
Lessons continued throughout the day with the riders learned more and more complex skills.
This writer also heard participants complaining that nothing of use was actually thought at driving schools. All they had to do was remember the procedures to pass. Not one was taught about steering, throttle control, braking, vision, steering and just about everything else. And some people kept wondering why we have so accidents and fatalities among motorcyclists. In any case, they were thankful that AB BMW Motorrad took the initiative to organise the clinic.
In the end, what mattered was eight BMW owners and riders rode home with better skills than when they first stepped into class that day.
PHOTO GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/shell-advance-asia-talent-cup-2015-drama-in-sepang/ | Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 – Drama in Sepang! |
Fakhrusy Rostam takes second podium finish for Team Malaysia after dramatic Race 2 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 Round 3 in Sepang.
As Race 2 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 Round 3 unfolded in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), it was hard to guess how the race would fare. Unlike yesterday, the Japanese brigade of riders got off to a strong start, but a red flag midway through the race and a last lap incident brought out several upsets.
At the start, Japanese riders Ayumu Sasaki, Ai Ogura, Kazuki Masaki and Takuma Kunimine stormed ahead, with Thai rider ‘Chip’ Nakarin Atiratphuvapat not far in tow. Also in the lead group were Malaysian Adam Norrodin, Fakhrusy Rostam, and Shafiq Rasol. Despite being bumped down the order, the Malaysian trio kept on fighting to stay with the lead group.
The first incident came after just 10 minutes into the session when Chinese rider Yuanhang Chen high-sided out of Turn 6. Soon after, Chen’s fellow countryman Pengyuan Chen suffered the same fate in Turn 15, forcing officials to red flag the session after completing just six of the scheduled 13 laps. The race would resume soon after debris and injured riders were cleared off the circuit, with just five laps left.
Little did many know, the remaining five laps would become one of the most dramatic moments in the series’ history. Again, the Japanese brigade got off to a good start here, but hot on their heels were the Malaysian riders plus Indonesian rider Andi Izdihar. Unfortunately, Malaysian rider Adam Norrodin lost control of his bike whilst under heavy braking into Turn 1, taking out fellow countryman and rookie Azroy Anuar plus Izdihar out of contention. This was a huge blow to Adam after taking second place in yesterday’s Race 1.
For the next four laps, the battle raged on between Sasaki, Masaki, Takuma Kunimine, and Chip Nakarin in the lead group whilst Malaysians Fakhrusy Rostam and Shafiq Rasol was battling Yuta Date and Gerry Salim in the second pack.
Drama again struck in Sepang’s infamous final hairpin turn on the final lap when riders Kazuki Masaki and Ayumu Sasaki collided whilst challenging for the lead. This then allowed room for Chip Nakarin and Takuma Kunimine, who were battling each other for positions three and four, to advance up the order, but it was Thai sensation Chip Nakarin that had the advantage through the corner exit, and was first to claim the chequered flag ahead of Kunimine in second place.
Malaysian Fakhrusy Rostam, who was running in fifth position, also took advantage of this, and crossed the line in third. In the process, Fakhrusy recorded his first podium finish and series best finish record simultaneously. It also brought Malaysia’s podium count up to two whilst racing on home soil this weekend.
“Today’s race was indeed tougher than yesterday’s, and I struggled quite a bit. But in the last part, I managed to create a gap ahead of Shafiq Rasol down the back straight. Then, when I saw Sasaki and Masaki’s collision from afar, I knew I just had to keep it steady,” explained the towering Pasir Gudang native shortly after the race. Though it was a hard race for him, Fakhrusy was indeed delighted and elated with the podium finish.
As the weekend concludes here in Sepang, Ayumu Sasaki still leads the championship standings with his total score of 101 points so far. However, Chip Nakarin has also scored major points over the weekend, with his second series win elevating him up to second place in the standings after collecting 82 points in total. Takuma Kunimine ranks third with 78 points.
Three Malaysians are in the top 10 for now, starting with Adam Norrodin in eighth and Shafiq Rasol in ninth, both sharing the same score of 46 points. Helmi Azman ranks tenth with 43 points in total.
Round 4 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 will commence in China next month. The series will race in the Zhuhai International Circuit from Sept 18 to Sept 20. Stay tuned to our site for more updates. In the meantime, you can check out our extensive photo gallery below or more on the official BikesRepublic.com Facebook page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2016-aruba-it-racing-ducati-wsbk-team-livery-revealed/ | 2016 Aruba.it Racing Ducati WSBK Team livery revealed |
Aruba.it Racing Ducati WSBK Team reveals new 2016 livery and donned on Ducati Panigale R race bike.
The Aruba.it Racing Ducati WSBK Team celebrated its 2016 livery launch last weekend. The team enters the 2016 FIM Motul World Superbike Championship (WSBK) season with a pair of Ducati Panigale R race machines that are piloted by Brtion Chaz Davies and Davide Giugliano.
Last year, Davies has shown strong performances astride the factory Ducati machine. The Brtion looks strong once again this season, and he is expected to chase more podium finishes this season.
As for the race bike, the 2016-spec Ducati Panigale R race bike looks similar to its predecessor, but it does sport a new GP-style Akrapovič exhaust system that debuted last year. Reports indicate that the Panigale R has been tweaked extensively during the winter tests, most critical of which being in the areas of electronics and suspension.
You can check out more images of the 2016 Aruba.it Racing Ducati WSBK Team and its new 2016-spec Ducati Panigale R WSBK race machine in the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below.
2016 Aruba.it Racing Ducati WSBK Team livery launch
Source: Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-ce-04-gets-recalled-due-to-faulty-horn-bracket/ | BMW CE-04 Gets Recalled Due To Faulty Horn Bracket |
BMW’s latest scooter, the CE-04, might be the most advanced electric scooter ever built, yet it’s still not enough to avoid a recall due to a faulty horn bracket.
BMW issued a recall for the firm’s electric scooter, the CE-04.
A faulty horn bracket could affect the motorcycle steering system.
If you think the issue is minor, think again because should the horn’s bracket loosen over time, the component could fall off and lead to a steering lockup when the operator turns to the left.
This is because the CE-04’s horn is tucked under the motorcycle’s front end.
Nevertheless, CE-04 owners are advised to contact the nearest dealership and make appointments to replace the affected components.
Powering the CE-04 is a permanent-magnet liquid-cooled synchronous motor capable of producing 42hp @ 4,900rpm and 62Nm @ 1,500rpm.
Thanks to a sizeable 8.9kWh battery, the CE-04 can hit a max range of 130km.
Other notable features include:
full LED headlight
10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster
keyless ride
three riding modes
BMW Motorrad ABS
electronic reverse
ventilated storage compartment with USB Type-C
The CE-04 is currently unavailable in Malaysia but is on sale in America for a recommended price of USD11,795 (RM54.8k).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-johann-zarco-getting-closer-first-podium/ | MotoGP: Johann Zarco getting closer to his first Podium of 2017 |
MotoGP 2017 rookie Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) was quick to get under the spotlight for the first three rounds of the season.
Following a great start in Qatar where the Frenchman actually led the race before crashing out, Zarco finish the Argentina GP and Americas GP in fifth position.
The 27 year old rider is looking to take his Yamaha M1 to his first ever MotoGP podium this weekend in Jerez for the Gran Premio Red Bull de España.
It’s only his rookie season in MotoGP after being crowned the Moto2 World Champion last year and Johann Zarco was quick to get under the spotlight for the first three races. Following an incredible first race in Qatar where the Frenchman blitzed through the MotoGP veterans before crashing out while leading the race, the 27 year old rookie riding for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad finished an amazing Fifth in both Argentina GP and also Americas GP.
It was also in his last race at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) where he duelled with none other than the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) himself, nine times MotoGP World Championship, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP Team). The controversial overtaking manoeuvre from the Frenchman saw Rossi having to go off-track in order to avoid collision but Race Direction in the end gave Rossi a 0.3 second penalty for taking an unfair advantage.
As we etch closer to the fourth round of the season, it seems like Johann Zarco is certainly hungry for a podium finish and he and his team know that their Yamaha M1 machinery is more than capable to do so. The next round in Jerez this weekend seems like the perfect track for Zarco to bag his first ever podium as a MotoGP rookie following a great track history back in Moto2 where he scored P2 in 2015 and P5 in 2016.
“The Jerez round marks the beginning of the European races and it certainly will be interesting for us because the first three Grand Prix took place at very big and long circuits in Qatar, Argentina and Texas. The Spanish circuit is much shorter and tighter so I am curious to see how I will control the bike at this venue,”
“After the great feeling in Texas and the solid fight to 5th position, I want to keep pushing and get as close as possible to the podium. By the end of the last race, I was not far from the top three so I will keep working hard in order to reach this target. In Andalucía, the weather should be clear and hot, but there is always the threat of rain, which we must be wary of. Let’s see what happens with the conditions but I will go to this Grand Prix with an open mind and I will do my best to score a strong result again.”
The Gran Premio Red Bull de España will see some action starting this Friday with free practise sessions starting at 3pm local time. The race will be on Sunday 7 May 2017 at 8pm local time after the Moto3 and Moto2 race at 5pm and 6.20pm.
Want to look like Johann Zarco? Interested in owning your very own Shark Helmet or Furygan riding gears? Head on over to the Spartan Concept Store located in Sunway for many great offers on both brands worn by the 2016 Moto2 World Champion.
Photo source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/rumour-kawasaki-working-new-250cc-four-cylinder/ | Rumour: Kawasaki working on new 250cc four-cylinder |
An Indonesian source is reporting that Kawasaki are developing a new performance-oriented 250cc four-cylinder engine with a supposed picture proving said rumour.
If the picture above and report posted by TMC Blog is true, then perhaps we could possibly see the return of the brand’s ZXR250. Dubbed as the original Kawasaki 250cc four, the ZXR250 model introduced in 1988 reached its prime when it received a considerable redesign in 1991, making it one 90s relic that many still talk about to this day. In other words, it could spawn the return of high-revving small displacement Japanese bikes that we once saw around the early to mid 1990s.
The development of such an engine in this day an age would indeed become a hot proposition, especially in the rapidly growing Southeast Asian motorcycle market for two good reasons: 1) The Southeast Asian bikes market, especially the 250cc and above segment, has seen a tremendous growth over the years, and 2) Government taxes based on a bike’s engine capacity means that there is a higher sales potential for smaller displacement bikes.
If such an engine returns today, it could work in favour of a certain bike brand when working against high taxes, especially in countries like Indonesia its market makes up for a large cut of the region’s total bikes sales. This is perhaps the leading drive towards the birth of the Yamaha R25 earlier this year, plus a slew of other 250cc machines present from Honda, KTM, and Kawasaki.
Given the recent report, it looks like Kawasaki is poised at becoming the first amongst its peers to reintroduce a 250cc four-cylinder model. The only challenge left for us fans is perhaps the daunting waiting game as there seems to be no indication of an arrival date for said engine just yet.
Source: TMC Blog via Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aveta-rolls-out-all-new-vzr250-in-malaysia-250cc-single-24hp/ | Aveta Rolls Out All-New VZR250 In Malaysia – 250cc Single, 24hp |
Coming in new for the Malaysian market is the entry-level Aveta VZR250 sportsbike which is dubbed to be the most affordable quarter-litre motorcycle in its class.
The VZR250 is Aveta’s eight model introduced in Malaysia.
The entry-level sportsbike is fully assembled in Malaysia.
Priced at just RM14,998, the VZR250 makes 24hp and 21Nm from its single-cylinder 250cc DOHC 4-stroke engine. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a manual six-speed transmission with chain final drive.
According to Aveta, the VZR250 offers precise fuel consumption thanks to its electronic fuel injection (EFI) system).
Stopping power consist of dual disc brakes with radially-mounted 4-pot brake callipers at the front and 2-pot brake callipers at the rear.
Unfortunately, while the rest of its competitors features ABS (anti-lock braking system), the VZR250 relies on CBS (combine-braking system) commonly found in smaller-capacity machines.
The CBS system works by activating both the front and rear brakes when engaging the rear brake.
According to our sources in Aveta, the VZR250 is assembled locally in Malaysia and is rebadge from the Taro GP1 motorcycle currently available in other global markets.
The Aveta VZR250 is available in Jet Black, Fire Bird Red and Air Force Blue.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-jorge-lorenzo-wins-first-ever-race-ducati/ | MotoGP: Jorge Lorenzo wins first ever race with Ducati! |
After 18 months of struggle, Jorge Lorenzo finally took home his first ever MotoGP win with Ducati.
Finally able to feel comfortable on the Ducati Desmosedici GP18, the man put the hammer down and gave his signature win.
Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) and Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) completed the podium.
It was a race of epic proportions yesterday in Mugello, Italy. As hundreds of thousands gathered for the Gran Premio D’Italia Oakley on Sunday, the lights went off with their hometown hero, Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) leading the pack from pole position.
The story, however, took quite a turn with Jorge Lorenzo (Ducati Team) taking the holeshot into Turn 1 and stayed there throughout the entirety of the race. It has been 18 months since we saw this classic signature win from Lorenzo and with no one getting in his way, he took home his first ever MotoGP win on board the Ducati Desmosedici GP18.
Putting the hammer down, he rode a perfect race to victory whist the others scrambled for position behind him. Rossi had his plates full from the likes of Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda), Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team), Danilo Petrucci (Alma Pramac Racing), and Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar).
With 19 laps remaining, Marquez lost control of his Honda RC213V at Turn 2 but rejoined the race only to cross the chequered flag in P16. Towards the end, it seemed that a full Ducati podium is in the works with Dovizioso and Petrucci gaining second and third positions but Rossi prevailed as both Petrucci and Iannone fell out of podium contention due to tyre grip issues.
Iannone and his teammate, Alex Rins, gave Suzuki yet another top 5 finish which proves that their Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP project is well on their way to fight with the top boys. Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda Castrol) manage to scramble to P6 ahead of Petrucci in P7 followed by Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) Alvaro Bautista (Angel Nieto Team), and Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) completing the top 10 finishers.
As for our Malaysian hero, Hafizh Syahrin, the battle for the top rookie was won by the 23-year-old as he crossed the finish line in P12 ahead of other rookies as well as Tito Rabat (Reale Avintia Racing) and Bradley Smith (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing). Hafizh is now tied in points with fellow rookie, Franco Morbidelli (EG 0,0 Marc VDS) with 17 points each.
The next round will be two weeks from now in Barcelona for the Gran Premi Monster Energy de Catalunya from 15 to 17 June 2018. Will Jorge Lorenzo able to keep this trend in front of his home fans? Our guts say he’s back and he’s ready to paint the whole season red!
Image source: MotoGP
MotoGP: Andrea Iannone confirms split with Suzuki
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/5-reasons-to-rely-on-shell-advance-premium-lubricants/ | 5 Reasons to Rely on Shell Advance Premium Lubricants |
Shell Advance lubricants are formulated to protect your engine in “5 Complete Protection” packages.
Each range has different properties, but all are formulated to provide the best engine protection.
Shell Advance lubricants are considered premium engine oils.
Engine oils. There are so many, in fact probably too many brands in the market. Which one should you choose? The one with the snazzy ads? The one which is stamped on your favourite MotoGP rider’s suit? Or should you choose the best through your research like Shell Advance premium range of lubricants?
Shell Advance lubricants from the Ultra, AX7 or AX5 ranges, are formulated to protect your engine in five ways. These “5 Complete Protection” packages maintain your engine’s horsepower, enhances fuel economy, protects against wear, guards against high temperatures, and keep the pistons and engine parts clean.
1. Protects against wear
Engine oil separates surfaces, preventing them from contacting each other hence eliminating friction.
Two surfaces at microscopic levels
Of course, lack of friction ultimately results in less wear and tear of engine parts. Less wear and tear convert to lower cost of maintenance and repairs.
The Ultra and AX7 provides 36% better protection versus industry limits, while the AX5 provides 29% better protection1.
2. Maintains horsepower
A good engine oil shouldn’t rob your engine of its power. It means that the oils have good viscosity and flow properties, thereby eliminating frictional losses.
Photo credit New Atlas
Besides that, good flow properties mean the oil doesn’t resist being be pumped around the engine.
Consequently, engine power is maintained. To the rider, he will feel that the engine is quick-revving hence more powerful, for example opening the throttle and the bikes takes off instead of feeling bogged down.
In lab tests, both the Ultra and AX7 had proven to be able to maintain the engine’s horsepower even after 12,000 kms2.
3. Enhances fuel economy
Less friction and resistance as the engine doesn’t have to struggle to overcome those forces highlighted earlier. The engine finds it easier to turn with the least amount of fuel.
Tests showed that the Ultra extended fuel mileage by up to 5 km per tank3, and the AX7 up to 3 km3. Fuel mileage is subject to traffic conditions and riding style, but it’s a good guard against escalating fuel prices.
4. Guards against high temperatures
To the engine, the difference of a few degrees results in better performance and fuel efficiency. To the rider, it’s a difference he can feel from the seat, making him more comfortable and worry less about performance and whether the engine is fully protected.
The Ultra provides a whopping 71% better protection against high heat1, while the AX7 does it by 29%1. The AX5 is also formulated to provide heat protection.
5. Keep pistons clean
Combustion by-products i.e. soot, carbon deposits will accumulate at the top the piston and its rings. The rings scrape these desposits downwards to be “washed away” by the lubricant.
Shell Advance Ultra, Shell Advance AX7 and Shell Advance AX5 are formulated with Shell Active Cleansing Technology to break dirt and soot particles, thereby preventing them from clumping.
This property is also due to them being derived from the Shell PurePlus Technology base oil. The base oil is 99.5% free of contaminants, hence is crystal clear. Being virtually pure means the oil is cleaner in the first place.
In this aspect, the Ultra and AX7 keeps pistons 49% and 33% cleaner, respectively1. The AX5 has this property, too.
Conclusion
Being premium lubricants may cost more, but as the saying goes, “Good no cheap, cheap no good.” Paying a little more for the benefits will outweigh the maintenance and repair costs by a large factor. Would you rather spend RM 68.30 for a bottle of Shell Advance Ultra or more than RM 1,500 (depending on bike) for a top-end overhaul before it’s due?
You can choose from different grades in each Shell Advance range.
The fully-synthetic Shell Advance Ultra is available in 10W-40, 15W-50, and Ultra Scooter 5W-40.
The semi-synthetic Shell Advance AX7 is available in 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-50, and AX7 Scooter 10W-40.
The premium mineral Shell Advance AX5 is available in 15W-40 and AX5 Scooter 15W-40.
Last but not least, do remember to purchase Shell Advance lubricants with bottles marked as “Untuk Pasaran Malaysia” (For Malaysian Market).
VISIT SHELL ADVANCE WORKSHOP TODAY.
Claims based on field trial results and/or lab based data.
Claims based on field trial results. Power comparison using chassis dyno.
Compared average results of Shell Advance Ultra and AX 7 to that of Shell Advance AX5. Fuel consumption can be affected by other factors including traffic conditions.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/prototype-ktm-1290-super-adventure-spied/ | Prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure Spied |
A prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure was spied undergoing road tests.
It appears to carry the fuel low and forward like the 790 Adventure.
Carrying the fuel low and forward results in lower centre of gravity.
A prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure was spied undergoing road tests over the weekend. According to Australian Motorcycle News, the mule was being tested alongside the new BMW R 1250 GS.
(Please click on this link to view the photos.)
The first we spotted in the pictures were the large bulges down below, ahead of the rider’s shins. They indicated the Austrian manufacturer’s recent initiative in moving the bulk of the bike’s fuel to a more forward and low position. The idea was first implemented in the 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R that we tested in Morocco, recently.
Moving the mass forward and low gives the bike a lower centre of gravity, consequently promoting stability and easy handling. It’s perhaps one of the most important revisions to the 1290 Super Adventure because of its tall height due to the 75o V-Twin engine.
Additionally, the radiators are split into two units, with the front cylinder head poking through. That could mean that KTM has shortened the fuel tank on top hence the frame, since the fuel’s moved to another location. Doing this allows the rider to move his weight further in front for an easier reach to the handlebars, but more importantly, better balance when standing up when riding off-road. Again, this design concept made was applied to the 790 Adventure.
Also apparent were the sidepanels enclosing the subframe beneath the rider. KTM used to leave this section exposed but has again taken the cue from the 790 Adventure to cover them up. Doing so adds storage space inside those panels. The 790 Adventure’s tool kit is carried in the left side.
Although unspecified and unseen in the photos, the new 1301cc LC8 engine will probably boast a power boost, too.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/how-the-covid-19-coronavirus-is-taking-a-toll-on-biking/ | How the Covid-19 Coronavirus is Taking a Toll on Biking |
Credit Daily Express
The Covid-19 coronavirus is taking a toll on motorcycle activities.
Production in China has stopped, although a number are running.
Shares of some motorcycle manufacturers have dropped.
You may already be aware that the opening round for the 2020 MotoGP Championship has been cancelled due to concerns about the Covid-19 coronavirus.
Since then, a number of other events have also fallen under the fear of spreading the disease. Travelers from certain countries to certain countries face the prospect of being placed in quarantine for 14 days, isolated from everyone else. That could mean missing transfers and pre-planned activities.
Let’s take a look.
1. Qatar MotoGP (6th to 8th March)
The Qatar MotoGP would’ve taken off by today (Friday). However, the Moto2 and Moto3 classes will go ahead, since the teams and riders have already been in the country for pre-season tests.
2. Thai MotoGP (20th to 22nd March)
Just hours later after Qatar’s announcement, the Thai MotoGP will be postponed. Thailand doesn’t have a problem of community spread, but the concentration of not only foreigners but also nationals from all over the country is the concern of the Thai government. The country reported 47 cases so far, but most of the patients have been cured.
The FIM published a new date for the Thai MotoGP yesterday, pushing it to 2nd to 4th October.
3. Phuket Bike Week 2020 (11th to 13th, 17th to 18th April)
The organizers of the Phuket Bike Week 2020 have not posted a message on the status of the event, but there are already bikers posting that it has been cancelled. This was the result of the Mayor of Patong’s announcement that Songkran activities on Patong Beach will be cancelled. The Phuket Bike Week coincides with Songkran on 13th April.
The Bike Week was planned to be held in two locations on two different dates. The first is at the customary Patong Beach from 11th to 13th April, while the second is planned to be held at the Phuket Boat Lagoon from 17th to 18th April. We await the organizers’ decision.
4. Osaka Motorcycle Show (20th to 22nd March)
The Osaka Motorcycle Show may not be well-known, but it’s been cancelled, nonetheless. The organizers apologized for the cancellation and hoped that those involved would understand. They will also refund advance ticket payments
5. Tokyo Motorcycle Show (27th to 29th March)
This show is the answer to the the Tokyo Auto Salon. Do bear in mind that such shows are not only for launching new bikes but are important trade shows for manufacturers and distributors.
In the balance
1. MotoGP of the Americas
Cancellation of the first two rounds means that the season will begin at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas, United States. There’s no change to this so far. The Vice President of the US urged citizens not to travel to Iran, South Korea and Italy. The country has since imposed a restriction to those who travelled from China, and those from Iran will be subject to a 14-day quarantine.
2. Motorcycle industry
The epidemic blew up suddenly in North Italy, where the country’s motorcycle industry is located. The Italian government’s put up restrictions in this area, meaning that tourists couldn’t visit the Ducati, Piaggio, Moto Guzzi and MV Agusta museums. Motorcycle production is continuing, however.
All Chinese manufacturers have ceased production, including the Honda and Suzuki factories, although a number have begun operations at smaller scales.
The closure of Chinese industry is bad news for everyone around the world since many parts are produced here. The shutdown has also played havoc on parts and items to be dispatched to outside China.
3. Motorcycle manufacturers’ stocks
Stock markets are also declining worldwide. Pierer Mobility, parent company for KTM and Husqvarna, saw their equity drop from € 52.00 on 21st January to € 43.40 on 4th March. BMW Motorrad’s shares dropped from $ 27 in January to $ 22 in February, while the Piaggio Group’s slipped from € 2.86 in mid-January to € 2.11 early this month.
What next?
We could only hope that the virus stops or at least slows its spread. Although its death rate is much lower than SARS or MERS, who would want to take the risk of contracting it. Motorcycle events and industry are not the only ones that’ve been affected, though.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/new-honda-superbike-rumoured-for-2017/ | New Honda superbike rumoured for 2017 |
New Honda superbike rumoured for debut in 2017 and could carry new ‘RVF’ nameplate instead of ‘CBR’.
The internet is alight with a rumour indicating that a new Honda superbike will be revealed in 2017. This would see the famed Japanese red-wing marque finally developing a worthy replacement of the highly revered but aging Honda CBR1000RR superbike model.
The rumour does get interesting with the prospect of a machine powered using a V4 engine configuration as oppose to the familiar in-line four-cylinder layout, thus fuelling the speculations as to whether the new superbike will carry a new ‘RVF’ nameplate instead of ‘CBR’.
Whilst many continue debating this, there is no doubt that the incoming new superbike has big shoes to fill – the CBR1000RR has been outgunned by rivals such as the new Yamaha YZF-R1, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and Suzuki GSX-R1000 as both have been fully updated with increased power and greater technology packages. What is certain is that the new Honda superbike will need to offer traction control at the very least.
One source even indicated that the new bike will likely be linked with Honda’s involvement in the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) now that it has star rider Nicky Hayden competing for them in the series. Honda will need to provide Hayden, who has a two-year contract with the HRC, with a decently competitive machine as well.
Another source, on the other hand, speculates that Honda’s new superbike could be a watered down version of the Honda RC213V-S limited edition and street-legal GP bike – further fuelling the aforementioned speculations on its nameplate and engine configuration. Furthermore, the prospects of a V4-powered Honda superbike at a much more affordable pricing than the RC213V-S holds plenty of market potential as well.
Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/wsbk-rea-bags-assen-hat-trick-locatelli-scores-maiden-podium/ | WSBK: Rea bags Assen hat-trick, Locatelli scores maiden podium |
Dramatic Assen WSBK weekend sees Rea bag hat-trick and Locatelli earning maiden podium.
The 2021 MOTUL FIM Wolrd Superbike Championship (WSBK) concluded its fifth round last weekend in Assen, Holland, with championship leader Jonathan Rea’s near-dominance of the weekend.
After securing Pole Position during Saturday’s Superpole session, the Northern Irishman proceeded to pilot his works Kawasaki ZX-10RR to conquer Race 1 on the same day, as well as Sunday’s Sprint Race.
In Race 2, Rea had it tougher after dropping down the order following an opening lap incident that saw the elimination of key rivals including Turkish Yamaha ace Toprak Razgatlioglu.
Despite dropping down as low as eighth, Rea kept things together and fought back up the order, making light work of Michael Van Der Mark, teammate Alex Lowes, Scott Redding and Michael Rinaldi before hunting down surprise leader Andrea Locatelli.
Rea eventually got past the Italian to claim the win, as well as his fourth career hat-trick (winning all three races in a single weekend) since WSBK introduced this three-race format in 2019.
Despite relinquishing a chance at his maiden victory, WSBK rookie Locatelli instead settled for his maiden podium whereby the the PATA Yamaha rider finished second ahead of Ducati’s Scott Redding in third during Sunday’s race.
With his Dutch hat-trick in the bag, and title rival Razgatlioglu knocked out on Sunday’s Race 2, Rea still commands the championship standings with 243 points to his name – 27 points clear of Razgatlioglu.
WSBK action resumes next month with its sixth round at the Most Circuit, Czech Republic on Aug 7 & 8.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-ducati-panigale-v4-r-debuts-at-british-superbikes/ | 2019 Ducati Panigale V4 R debuts at British Superbikes |
The 2019 Ducati Panigale V4 R finally broke its covers last weekend during the British Superbikes (BSB) round at Brands Hatch Circuit.
Demo laps were carried out by Ducati’s MotoGP test rider, Michelle Pirro.
The 1000cc Ducati Panigale V4 R will be making its racing debut next year in WorldSBK and BSB.
Image source: MCN
The recent British Superbike (BSB) round at Brands Hatch Circuit in Kent, England saw quite a few surprises thrown into the mix from championship winners being decided to a brand new race machine parade lap. The latter caught our attention as Ducati decided to debut the 2019 Ducati Panigale V4 R and its 1,000cc V4 configuration for racing purposes.
The 1,000cc race machine has been configured for the WorldSBK racing series and to break its first official cover to the public’s eyes (and ears), a few demonstration laps were completed last weekend by Ducati’s MotoGP test rider, Michelle Pirro. The 32-year-old Italian racer is one of the key figures responsible for developing the Panigale V4 R for its WorldSBK racing debut in the 2019 season.
Based on the video evidence gathered online, we can notice that there are several key differences to the Panigale V4 R compared to its other road-going siblings. The engine, however, is still relatively the same V4 configuration with Ducati’s desmodromic valves, MotoGP-inspired counter-rotating crankshaft, and the whole lot despite its smaller capacity (to conform to the rules laid out in WorldSBK and BSB).
With a smaller package producing higher power and RPM, the engine is suspected to run at a higher temperature range which explains the extra air channels in the fairings to help cool things down more efficiently. On a more exhilarating note is its dry clutch setup which not only carries an advantage in racing but also one of the most soul-inspiring soundtracks in the motorcycle industry.
Other inner changes which can be seen in the footage include a fuel tank placed under the seat (supposedly for better weight distribution and centre of mass), bigger airbox and air intake setup, updated exhaust works, plus many more which we can’t really confirm at the moment.
What we can say is that 2019 Ducati Panigale V4 R will be making its racing debut next season where four bikes will be handled by two teams and four riders which consist of Chaz Davies and Alvaro Bautista in WorldSBK and Scott Redding and Josh Brookes in BSB. Brace yourselves, 2019 is coming.
Image source: Maniac Riders
Win MotoGP Sepang 2018 passes with Ducati Malaysia!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kitacos-latest-185cc-big-bore-kit-revs-up-honda-monkey-125/ | Kitaco’s Latest 185cc Big Bore Kit Revs Up Honda Monkey 125 |
When it comes to taking your Honda Monkey 125 to the next level of performance, Kitaco has once again raised the bar with their groundbreaking 185cc Big Bore Kit.
Kitaco introduces big bore kit for the Honda Monkey 125 which is availble in 164cc and 185cc.
the big bore kit allows the Monkey 125 go gain more power and performance on the street.
Just when you thought the thrill of zipping around on this iconic mini bike couldn’t get any better, Kitaco’s engineering prowess and dedication to pushing boundaries have given birth to a game-changing upgrade.
Originally renowned for their big bore kits designed for the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub, Kitaco’s expertise has now expanded to cater to Monkey and Grom enthusiasts. Whether you seek a power boost for the city streets or a track-ready transformation, Kitaco’s Tuning Menu has you covered.
Available in stylish black or silver cylinders, the 164cc Light Big Bore Kit offers an impressive performance enhancement at an attractive price point of JPY17,600 (RM588) for black and JPY16,500 (RM523) for silver, taxes included.
For those seeking the pinnacle of power, the 181cc Regular Kit, priced at JPY18,700 (RM593) for black and JPY17,600 (RM588) for silver, promises an exhilarating ride that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
But for the true daredevils and performance aficionados, there’s the pièce de résistance—the Dual Overhead Cam 181cc Big Bore Kit. A symphony of reshaped ports, larger valves, a high-performance camshaft, and meticulously crafted components, this kit is the embodiment of Kitaco’s engineering prowess.
Exclusively available in silver, the Dual Overhead Cam 181cc Big Bore Kit is a masterpiece that comes with a price tag of JPY275,000 (RM8.7k) including tax—a testament to its unparalleled performance potential.
What sets Kitaco apart is their dedication to providing a comprehensive upgrade experience. While the Light and Neo kits don’t include supporting components like high-performance camshafts and large capacity fuel injectors, Kitaco has ensured these essentials are readily available for purchase, allowing you to tailor your upgrade journey to your preferences.
Installing the I-Map injection controller is a breeze, thanks to its plug-and-play nature—no complicated wiring modifications required. This means you can focus on what truly matters: the rush of wind as you push your souped-up Monkey 125 to its limits.
So, if you’re yearning for an adrenaline-infused ride that seamlessly combines style and substance, look no further than Kitaco’s latest 185cc Big Bore Kit.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-yamaha-yzf-r25-looks-dope-with-new-colours-rm19998/ | 2020 Yamaha YZF-R25 looks dope with new colours! RM19,998 |
2020 just got a bit better with Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) announcing new colour options for the 2020 Yamaha YZF-R25. Regarded as one of the best-selling 250cc bikes in the street segment, new owners can choose between two new colour options for their 2020 ride.
The 2020 Yamaha YZF-R25 is now available in two new colourways; Matt Silver and Matt Blue. The blue represents the iconic main colour of Yamaha, but our favourite seems to be the Matt Silver as it kind of pays homage to the Yamaha M1 special silver addition once ridden by Jorge Lorenzo back in 2009.
We love how the new R25 looks very similar to the 2019 Yamaha M1 Fiat ‘Estoril Edition’ and we’re guessing that this might just be the new hot colour for Yamaha in 2020. The new colours are also enhanced with new graphics to further accentuate its fine lines.
The rest of its specs are pretty much the same, especially its 250cc inline-two DOHC liquid-cooled engine that produces 26.5kW at 12,000rpm and 22.6Nm of maximum torque at 10,000rpm. HLYM has priced the 2020 Yamaha YZF-R25 at RM19,998 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration).
The new R25 is already available at all of Yamaha’s authorised dealers here in Malaysia so go check them out. To know more, head over to https://www.yamaha-motor.com.my/.
Yamaha Ténéré 700 takes home iF Design Award
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/video-triumph-looks-back-at-2015/ | Video: Triumph looks back at 2015 |
Triumph Motorcycles celebrates a highly successful 2015 with a special new video.
For the Triumph Motorcycles brand, 2015 was definitely a landmark year for the famed British motorcycles marque. Not only did its business returned towards profitability, Triumph also launched a sleuth of improved existing models alongside a number of brand new models for 2016 as well.
Leading this charge is non other than the revamped Bonneville range, which now sports a series of new liquid-cooled parallel-twin engines. Next up came the updated and refreshed Speed Triple S and Speed Triple R twins, with enhanced new electronics that increases this streetfighter’s ridability and versatility.
Next came the updated Tiger Explorer range with six variants in total, boasting improvements in several areas to make it an even better adventure than before. Much of the flagship Tiger Explorer’s refreshments does mimic those performed on its smaller sibling, the Tiger 800 range, but they are welcoming changes indeed.
As a result, 2015 was indeed a year for Triumph to look back at and relish again as it garnered plenty of traction and mileage both on and off the black top. And, much of those Triumph-ant achievements (pun intended!) can be found in the video attached above.
Source: Triumph Motorcycles via YouTube
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gopro-concept-store-now-open-sunway-pyramid/ | GoPro Concept Store now OPEN at Sunway Pyramid! |
The first ever GoPro concept store was launched earlier today which is located at the Sunway Pyramid mall in Petaling Jaya.
The full range of GoPro products such as action cameras, drones and accessories are now available under one roof.
Amazing discounts and offers in conjunction with the GoPro concept store launch, so hurry!
Malaysia’s very own exclusive distributor and importer of GoPro equipment FunSportz Sdn Bhd together with their authorised dealer Fotokem Sdn Bhd have just launched Malaysia’s first ever GoPro Concept Store. The new store is was launched and officiated today at the Sunway Pyramid mall in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
The first ever GoPro store in the country will sell the full range of GoPro cameras, drones and accessories from its latest GoPro Hero 6 action camera to their state-of-the-art GoPro Karma drone. To a lot of motoring enthusiasts looking for the perfect action camera to record and relive your biking adventures to the rest of the world.
According to Mr Khoo Boo Hian, Managing Director of FunSportz Sdn Bhd, “The opening of GoPro’s first ever concept store in Malaysia marks a major milestone for GoPro in Malaysia as well as for FunSportz. We look forward to providing customers with the unique GoPro experience when they visit the GoPro concept store.”
It was an extra special event for one particular GoPro fan who waited in line since yesterday to become the first ever customer to purchase from the GoPro concept store. His reward? Apart from his purchase of the GoPro Hero 6, he got to take home another GoPro Hero 6 action camera for free! Such a lucky guy.
For the rest of you, the GoPro is having some serious discounts and offers in conjunction with the launch. So head on over to Sunway Pyramid and get some GoPro products before the offer ends. We know for a fact that if you buy any of the action cameras this weekend, you can get the second unit at 40% off!
Not a bad idea for an awesome Christmas present. Check them out at LG2.63, Lower Ground, Sunway Pyramid.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-asian-journey-2016-travel-log-day-34-5/ | Honda Asian Journey 2016 Travel Log – Day 3,4 and 5 |
Sights from Day 3, 4 and 5 of the Honda Asian Journey 2016 tour ride to the 2016 Shell Malaysia MotoGP weekend.
It’s been a fruitful week for us at BikesRepublic whilst we charted our journey in the inaugural Honda Asian Journey Ride 2016 to the 2016 Shell Malaysia MotoGP race weekend in Sepang.
The action-packed schedule plus the temperamental weather meant that we succumbed to a mild sickness, explaining the delayed logs from Day 3,4 and 5 of the ride. Nevertheless, we strive to report to you on what went down, and here’s the gist of it.
Day 3 – Malaysian flavour in racing and touring weather
Having completed the journey into Penang from Sadao, Thailand, the next agenda planned by hosts Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd was a quick visit to its main plant in Batu Kawan, Penang on Friday morning.
We’re loving the Malaysian injection of speed in today’s edition of the Honda Asian Journey 2016! #honda #boonsiew #boonsiewhonda #cubprix #malaysiancubprix #hondaasianjourney #hondaasianjourney2016
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Oct 27, 2016 at 9:51pm PDT
The Malaysian firm opted to give visiting riders in the ride hailing from other parts of Asia a uniquely Malaysian taste of motorsports before we proceeded to Kuala Lumpur. To that, Boon Siew Honda spared no efforts in organising a mini Malaysian Cub Prix showcase for the riders.
Leading the bill of here were top stars like Zaqhwan Zaidi and Shafiq Ezzariq. The former also races for Boon Siew Honda in the Asian Road Racing Championship while the latter is a former Moto3 rider from the Asia Talent Cup series and is the top favourite to clinch this year’s Wira class title.
Together with four other riders under the Boon Siew Honda Cub Prix program, all six riders showed what the Malaysian-flavoured underbone racing was really like – nail-bitingly close and action-packed.
And the showcase wasn’t just limited to a mere demonstration too as Boon Siew Honda prepared a volley of if Honda Wave Alpha 110CV race bikes from its one-make series for participants to try out with. All six riders also lent a hand in guiding participants on how to master said machine around the mini course.
Once the morning’s racy affair ended, it was back into the hot seat to continue our 330km-long journey to wards the Pullman City Centre Hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city. After a quick lunch and prayer stop in Tapah R&R, riders then got to taste another uniquely Malaysian element – the weather.
If anything, the late afternoon thunderstorm that broke open on late Friday afternoon was a sign of things to come in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) for the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP qualifying and race sessions.
Day 4 – Buzzing in Sepang
It wasn’t until Day 4 that the Honda Asian Journey 2016 ride finally reached its main destination, which was SIC. The convoy ride from Kuala Lumpur to the circuit was relatively straightforward. Much of this was the result of Boon Siew Honda taking the extra effort at organising an official police escort and outriders.
Once in the circuit, participants were then given free roam in the circuit’s Mall Area for the Mega MotoGP Carnival. Housing a total of 80 booths, it became quite the bikers’ shopping haven. More importantly, Boon Siew Honda’s very own booth took centre stage here with a display of tasty machinery.
Boon Siew Honda had plenty of big bikes and special models on display, with all this concentrated coinciding with the Honda Asian Journey 2016 ride. Highlights here include a display of the new CBR1000RR SP Fireblade, the new CBR250RR and a blacked-out version of the Honda RC213V-S street-legal GP replica.
Besides that, Boon Siew Honda also had a display of Honda’s adventure and enduro models like the CRF1000L Africa Twin and the face-lifted CB500X. There was also a section dedicated to the upcoming MSX-125 (aka Grom) featuring a number of customised versions being displayed.
Clearly, this was a two-pronged attack for Boon Siew Honda. First of which aligned itself with the Honda Asian Journey 2016 main mission of painting a new image for Honda and its big capacity line up, with the second mission here aimed at enticing local consumers with the marque’s ‘Big Wing’ brand concept.
After catching the wet qualifying session, it was yet another ride out towards Putrajaya for the evening’s program later in Sama Sama Hotel, KLIA. A special meet and greet session with Repsol Honda riders Marc Marquez and Hiroshi Aoyama was held, giving lucky consumers taking part in this ride the once in a lifetime chance to meet with newly crowned world champion Marquez.
For the bulk of the journalists taking part in this ride though (us included), it was the Honda Racing in Asia regional press conference that took up our full attention. Together with Boon Siew Honda and new partners Sepang International Circuit, several interesting announcements were made here in regards to developing racing talents from the region.
Also present here were some of Honda’s top Asian riders including national rider Khairul Idham Pawi from Moto3 plus Moto2 riders Takaaki Nakagami and Thailand’s very own Ratthapark Wilairot. Honda’s regional execs gave us a detailed run through of the new plan, and we’ll have this for you in a separate special report very soon.
The night ended with a formal dinner event graced by Khairul, Takaaki and Ratthapark plus Honda’s top regional and local execs including Boon Siew Honda’s still fresh new CEO Nobuhide Nagata.
Day 5 – One last ride to Sepang
The fifth and final day of the Honda Asian Journey 2016 ride culminated with one more massive group ride to the circuit. This time, the international participants linked up with a number of local Honda bike clubs such as the CB650F Club, CBR-RR Malaysia and the RS150R Owners Club for a controlled massive convoy to the circuit to catch the race.
Arriving early, all were able to watch their national riders put on their best in the Moto2 and Moto3 classes before the MotoGP main event kicked off. And all this was done from the comfort of an exclusively cordoned off section of SIC’s South Grandstand and in the circuit newly opened South Paddock as well.
Together with their local Malaysian counterparts, the Honda Asian Journey 2016 ride was perhaps one of the many elements fuelling Sunday’s record-breaking turnout of 95,316 spectators. All in all, the Honda Asian Journey 2016 was one mighty fun and informative ride for all participants.
Surely, the interest and reception for the Honda Big Wing image and concept is steadily growing in the region, with Honda’s success in MotoGP plus regional and national racing championships fuelling things further. With that, expect greater things from the marque’s Malaysian partners Boon Siew Honda very soon too.
Check out more images in the extensive galleries we’ve prepared below.
Honda Asian Journey 2016 – Day 3
Honda Asian Journey 2016 – Day 4
Ride safe, everyone!
Honda Asian Journey 2016 – Day 5
(External images credits: Gregsvideo.com / Boon Siew Honda)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-bmw-ce-04-electric-scooter-to-enter-production-launching-soon/ | The BMW CE 04 Electric Scooter To Enter Production, Launching Soon? |
The all-electric BMW CE 04 scooter is inching closer to production after BMW Motorrad has recently filed the design with the European Union Intellectual Property Office.
The scooter was seen in a concept from November last year and has since garnered a lot of attention due to its futuristic design.
While other manufacturers tend to divert the design concept to something that is considered more realistic, BMW Motorrad seems to move ahead with the design’s reasonably close to the original concept.
The apparent changes are the addition of side mirrors and a rear fender to place the number plates and the rear LED light.
According to reports, the CE 04 will come packing with the same 10.25″ TFT screen found on the latest R 1250 RT.
Nonetheless, the design filings did not disclose the details regarding the electric motor powering the CE 04 or when the new model will become available.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-introduced-2016-honda-ex5-dream-fi-limited-edition/ | Honda Introduced the 2016 Honda EX5 Dream FI Limited Edition |
Boon Siew Honda Introduced EX5 Dream FI Limited Edition at Batu Kawan, Penang
Honda has released a limited edition of the Honda EX5 Dream FI earlier today at Batu Kawan, Penang. This is their first ever Honda that comes in the new Metal Chrome colour. As the name implies, it will be produced in limited numbers.
The limited edition comes with cast wheels and tubeless tires for added safety, durability and reliability.
They’ve also added a new chromed emblem logo, headlight cover and rear grip specifically for those who prefer the modern and premium look on their beloved motorcycles.
The 29-year history of the Honda EX5 has seen over 2 million units sold here in Malaysia and Boon Siew Honda designed this limited release to create a collection trend among EX5 enthusiasts in the country.
The all new Honda EX5 Dream FI Limited Edition is retailed at RM4,874.94 (basic price with GST). Boon Siew Honda is also offering a two-year or 20,000km manufacturing warranty (whichever comes first) and will be available at all Honda authorized dealership nationwide.
For more information on the new Honda EX5 Dream FI Limited Edition, you may visit the Boon Siew Honda website or the Boon Siew Honda Facebook page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kmog-borneo-ride-2017-pictures/ | KMOG Borneo Ride 2017 in Pictures |
Riding over the famed Crocker Range not far from Keningau
The just-completed KMOG Borneo Ride 2017 was truly memorable in many ways. it covered cities and villages, great roads and broken roads, mountains and sea, heat and rain, as the participants encountered excitement and exhaustion.
But as of every ride, it’s not only the journey or destination that truly makes a mark, it’s also the people and what they experience on their bikes. That’s right, rides or convoys as we like to call them in Malaysia, is what motorcycling is about.
It’s also worth mentioning the hard work and dedication put in by members of KMOG (KTM Malaysia Owners Group) and KTM Malaysia in ensuring the success of the ride.
So here is a collection of our favourite photos to relive the KMOG Borneo Ride 2017. It’s a shame that we could not follow the ride to its ultimate destination in Kuching, Sarawak.
The KMOG Committee members awaiting the arrival of participants and more importantly, the bikes!
Among the hardworking KMOG and KTM Malaysia crew
Kudos to this McDelivery rider (in GIVI rainsuit) who sent the food in heavy rain!
These guys have many kilometres of touring experience
Pretty Sabahan girls welcomed us to the dinner
Selfie!
All smiles as the participants were welcomed with traditional bead necklaces
Couldn’t wait to the ride to begin
Ong Soo Yong delivering the ride’s briefing
The KTM factory racing shirt was signed by KTM’s factory riders and presented to Soo Yong, who put it up on lucky draw
Participants visited the Tip of Borneo 2nd November – by bus – as the bikes have yet to arrive
Group photo at the special plaque
One for the moment
The current may be a bit rough but it was clear
Group shot with the cove in the background
I’m the Queen of the world!
We’re here!
Great view of the sea from the rocks below
Down at the cove
The Milky Way (our home galaxy) is visible on clear nights
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/updated-ducati-multistrada-950-spotted-testing/ | Updated Ducati Multistrada 950 Spotted Testing |
An updated Ducati Multistrada 950 has been spotted.
The new bike should include a number of new features.
Sources say it may also receive an IMU.
The Ducati Multistrada 950 is a more accessible option to Ducati’s sport-tourer line-up in both pricing and operations.
Compared to its big brother the Multistrada 1260, the Multistrada 950 is much simpler. Riders do not have to contend with fiddling around with the electronics, that’s for sure. Indeed, we have come across many riders who don’t have any idea on what they’ve set on their bikes.
Apart from that, the 950’s 113bhp power output is certainly easier to handle than the 158 bhp on the 1260.
So, the Multistrada 950 is in some ways a better and more versatile bike. But it’s definitely time for an update to keep it in the game.
Just as so, MCN spotted an updated Multistrada 950 undergoing road tests.
The upper fairing now matches the Multistrada 1260’s and swingarm is of lighter grey than the current version.
The engine looks similar outwardly, but the new bike will apparently receive a new hydraulic clutch. The Scrambler has gone that way, so we expect the Multistrada to follow suit. The engine may also be updated since there is a new Hypermotard on the way. If so, we ought to see a power increase to 120 bhp. There could be a bi-directional quickshifter, too.
The new Multistrada 950 may well receive an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), enabling Cornering ABS and lean-sensitive traction control. These will open up the bike’s safety spectrum together with the present ride modes.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mv-agusta-celebrates-the-iconic-nurburgring-with-limited-edition-brutale-1000/ | MV Agusta Celebrates The Iconic Nürburgring With Limited Edition Brutale 1000 |
When an automotive company introduces a model that adopts the name Nürburgring, you probably expect it to feature top-notch components.
In this case, MV Agusta has just unveiled the Brutale 1000 Nürburgring Edition to celebrate the legendary circuit.
Limited to just 150 units, the special edition Brutale 1000 comes equipped with carbon fibre components such as BST carbon fibre wheels that adopt an innovative billet hub. The company claimed that the innovative feature allows the wheels to be lighter and stronger, hence increases acceleration and handling.
The bike also comes with a full titanium Arrow 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system and features a longer manifold that helps achieve higher torque.
The Italian firm also redesigned the front headlight cowl, with MV Agusta claimed it helps increase aerodynamics, especially during high speeds.
You can also find a host of carbon fibre components around the rest of the motorcycle including the engine cover.
Anyway, with only 150 units available worldwide, it is safe to say that there’s no chance for any of us actually to witness this bike anytime soon.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-released-r-world-teaser-yzf-r7-to-debut-soon/ | Yamaha Released R/World Teaser – YZF-R7 To Debut Soon? |
Yamaha has just dropped a new teaser that could be a confirmation of its rumoured fully-faired MT-07.
Reports suggested that Yamaha plans to release an all-new fully-faired motorcycle based on the CP2 689cc engine found on the MT-07.
Despite the 28 seconds video not revealing anything about the motorcycle, we can safely assume it refers to the YZF-R7 based on a few factors.
The R/World video talks about a track and street motorcycle, hinting that the bike is build to suit both occasions.
Yamaha also includes the alleged motorcycle’s soundtrack, with closer inspection suggest it refers to the CP2 engine.
Nonetheless, Yamaha is expected to release a few other ‘teaser’ this coming months before officially revealing the launch date. Stay tuned!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marc-marquez-will-race-in-texas-this-weekend/ | MotoGP: Marc Marquez will race in Texas this weekend |
MotoGP ace Marc Marquez green-lit to race in Texas this weekend after missing two races due to new episode of double-vision.
Marc Marquez cleared by doctors to race in Texas this weekend.
This follows his successful first on-track training on a Honda CBR600RR earlier this week.
Former world championed has missed two races following return of double-vision episode.
Marc Marquez will return to race for this weekend’s Grand Prix of The Americas in Texas. The MotoGP star missed the last two races – Indonesia and Argentina – following a return of his double vision (diplopia) episode caused by a massive high-side crash during Sunday morning Warm Up in Indonesia.
This was perhaps expected following his first on-track bike training reported earlier this week aboard a Honda CBR600RR. With his vision seemingly restored now after a ‘conservative’ recovery period lasting a little over two weeks, the 29-year-old is poised to defend his near-perfect record in Texas.
“I really enjoy riding in Texas and have incredible memories there. We have some work to do after missing two races and the whole Argentina weekend so I am not here to set one target at the moment,” said Marquez to MotoGP.com ahead of his racing return.
Historically, the Repsol Honda rider has dominated almost all the MotoGP races held at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas – venue for this weekend’s Round 4 of the 2022 season. Since 2013, Marc Marquez has won all but the 2019 race where he crashed out from the lead.
“There’s many things to do and consider, but the important thing is that we are back on the bike this weekend,” added Marquez further modestly despite the expectation for him to dominate this weekend.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/vespa-primavera-red-launched-in-malaysia-rm19500/ | (Vespa Primavera) RED launched in Malaysia – RM19,500 |
Didi Resources, the official distributor of Vespa here in Malaysia, has launched its latest special edition model in the form of the (Vespa Primavera) RED. This collaboration between RED and Vespa for Children program was set up for a good cause in beating major illnesses around the world like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.
This latest collaboration will also see the Piaggio Group supporting the Global Fund to India, one of the countries that are most affected by these issues. There have been a number of Vespa (RED) models in the past and its latest form comes in one of the most successful modern Vespas, the Primavera 150.
This special edition beauty comes with the iconic red colour scheme from the entire steel chassis right down to those 12-inch wheels. Representing the evolution of style and timeless two-wheel design, the (Vespa Primavera) Red also comes with a nubuck leather seat, just like the one found on the ultra-premium Vespa 946.
For each of the special edition models sold, $100 (around RM416) will be donated to the Global Fund to fight AIDS. Want to help out for the cause? Each unit of the (Vespa Primavera) Red is priced at RM19,500 (excluding insurance, road tax & registration). Each model will also come with a special (Vespa Primavera) Red helmet.
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/dream-job-honda-collection-hall-caretaker/ | Dream Job – Honda Collection Hall caretaker |
Credit: CAR Magazine
Ever heard of the world-famous Honda Collection Hall at the Twin Ring Motegi Circuit in Japan? What if you were put in charge of all these iconic machines from MotoGP bikes to Formula 1 cars? To Kuniyoshi Iwata, that’s the dream job for a gearhead and we can’t deny one single bit!
Mr Kuniyoshi Iwata and a team of five mechanics are in charge of making sure that all these machines are in their prime conditions for visitors to enjoy all year round. Their task is not only to keep them clean and shiny but also perform maintenance works to ensure that they’re always in running conditions for parades and events.
The Honda Collection Hall comprises of mostly Honda bikes dating back to the 1940s. There’s also their very superbike, Honda CB750, together with the entire line-up of Honda GP bikes from the mighty Honda NSR500 two-stroke beasts all the way up the RC211V, RC212V, and of course, the RC213V.
Iwata is no mere mortal, ladies and gentlemen. Having acquired his skills through the golden era of GP racing back in 1980s and 1990s, he has worked on many great machines, including the NSR500 rode by the legendary Freddie Spencer and Mick Doohan. Hundreds of other machines are kept in perfect condition thanks to Iwata and his team of highly trained mechanics.
Credit: CAR Magazine
According to Iwata, “We maintain the machines, so they are ready for running at any time. I think it’s a very important job and I’m proud of it. The machines are strong and tough but maintaining them when they are very old is difficult. Most of the parts we use in the machines are one-off parts. Luckily, we get a lot of support from Honda R&D Centre Asaka [for motorcycles] and from Honda Racing Development Sakura [for cars]. We display a total of 350 machines in the Collection Hall – both two wheels and four wheels”
“I feel very happy when I see the machines we maintain being ridden and driven. Also, it makes me very happy when I see people enjoying watching the historic machines. Our machines run at events in many countries, but the Honda Racing Thanks Day is always very special for us, because it happens so close to the Collection Hall and it gives us the chance to run many of our historic machines. Machines never lie – success will always come if they’re really good. So, let’s show the world what we’ve done. Then they can see the real Honda!” added Iwata.
Honda has built 400 million bikes!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kbs-mam-kapcai-endurance-series-grand-finale-2014/ | KBS-MAM Kapcai Endurance Series Grand Finale 2014 @ Sepang International Circuit |
Sights and sounds from last weekend’s KBS-MAM Kapcai Endurance Series Grand Finale race held in the Sepang International Circuit.
After successfully staging eight state-level rounds throughout the nation, the KBS-MAM Kapcai Endurance Series 2014 held its Grand Finale race last weekend at the Sepang International Circuit. The grand finale was held as part of the weekend’s final rounds for the Malaysian Super Series (MSS) Bikes as well.
Up to 110 bikes in total took part in the special 4-hour enduro around the 5.5km-long course on Saturday afternoon, with each bike piloted by two- to four-rider teams. Present to flag off the race were Mohd Salleh Bin Ramli, director of recreational sports development in the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MYS), along with his colleague and deputy Mohd Nor Bin Md. Said.
As usual, things began with the usual prayer recital before the race was flagged off ‘Le Mans’ style, which saw 110 first stint riders making a dash across the start/finish grid towards their bikes, and heading off the line at speed.
The 4-hour enduro started on schedule 1:48pm, and was supposed to run its course up until 5:48pm. The first hour of the race went off without a hitch, but towards the second hour, the inevitable thunderstorm rolled in and wreaked havoc.
Light showers began to trickle down at about 3:30pm, but it intensified with flashes of lightning shortly thereafter, forcing organisers to red flag the session at 3:57pm. An 80-minute long pause then ensued as the thunderstorm drenched the circuit entirely.
It wasn’t until 5:24pm that the conditions were deemed safe enough to continue racing, albeit with the safety car leading the pack for several laps first. The rain and pause would inevitably fuel several upsets in the classification later on as well, but shortly after the safety car pulled in, things were up to speed once again.
The chequered flag finally waved just before sunset, ending the series’ 2014 season in its affect. Taking the overall win by surprise was the PMP Motorsports team of the Class 3 category and its riding duo of Muhammad Syawal Mohd Noor and Syazwanuddin Amat Akim.
Second overall was claimed by the Fuad Racing Team in the Open Class, with its riders Muhammad Yusof Omar and Muhammad Yusri Rasli completing 56 laps as well and just 38 seconds behind overall winners PMP Motorsports. The Capit Racing Team 6 bike ridden by Muhammad Razzi Hafizi and Mohd Nazree claimed third overall.
Riders Mohd Amiruddin and Mohd Radzi of the TSR-SMW Racing Team 1 took top honours in Class 1. The duo completed 52 laps in total with their Honda EX5 machine, finishing 18th overall in a grid of 110 starters.
Class 2, on the other hand, saw the Berjaya Motor Muar team led by riders Amirul Hakim Mohd Mansor and Muhammad Ezwan Masuri taking victory. They completed 54 laps on their Yamaha and finished in ninth overall as well.
With their overall win, PMP Motorsports and riders Muhammad Syawal Mohd Noor and Syazwanuddin Amat Akim took the win in Class 3. Similarly, with their second place overall ranking, the Fuad Racing Team duo of Muhammad Yusof Omar and Muhammad Yusri Rasli took title in the Open Class.
Here are the complete podium rostrum according to class:
Open Class
1.Fuad Racing – 56 laps
2. CAPIT Racing Team 6 – 56 laps
3. CAPIT Racing Team 7 – 56 laps
Class 3
1.PMP Motorsport – 56 laps
2. Akademi Pemotoran Pagoh – 55 laps
3. CAPIT Racing Team 4 – 54 laps
Class 2
1.Berjaya Motor Muar – 54 laps
2. Amat Ayam Moto Pagoh Motocross Team – 53 laps
3. WJJ Motorsport – 50 laps
Class 1
1.TSR-SMW Racing Team 1 – 52 laps
2. CAPIT Racing Team 1 – 50 laps
3. IKBN Chembong TJB – 48 laps
One of the biggest upsets came after the MBM-GM Racing Team 3 was slapped a one-lap penalty for infringement. This then saw the team placing sixth overall and fifth in the Open Class with 55 laps completed. The outfit were on top form, topping the time sheets with 38 laps completed before the race was stopped earlier.
Check out the gallery below for more photos from the race on Saturday. Also, do not forget to check out our report of the KTM 390 Duke Battle Malaysia support event’s Grand Finale as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-mv-agusta-superveloce-ago-voted-most-beautiful-bike-at-eicma/ | 2022 MV Agusta Superveloce Ago Voted Most Beautiful Bike At EICMA |
MV Agusta latest motorcycle, the 2022 Superveloce Ago voted as the “Most Beautiful Bike Of The Show” at EICMA.
The Superveloce Ago took home the top prize after collected of 47.2% of the votes from a total of 12,567 attendees.
Meanwhile, Aprilia’s latest ADV bike, the Tuareg 660 came second with 19% followed by Moto Morini X-Cape at 3rd place with 7.9%.
The award was presented to MV Agusta during the last day of EICMA in the presence of Timur Sardarov, CEO of MV Agusta, Pietro Meda and Paolo Magri, President and Managing Director of EICMA and Federico Aliverti editor-in-chief and Paolo Patruno Managing Director of Motociclismo.
“The best bike of the show is another great award for us, and further recognition of all the energy and the resources MV Agusta is consistently putting in the development of new products.
“Winning this award for the sixth time is a cause of great satisfaction for all of us. I would like to dedicate it to all MV Agusta employees, who put incredible passion in their everyday work,” said Sardarov.
The MV Agusta Superveloce Ago is a limited edition motorcycle built to pay homage to Giacomi Agostini. With a limited run of just 311 units, every bike is numbered and signed by Agostini personally.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-indonesian-gp-will-not-take-place-before-march-2022-dorna/ | MotoGP: Indonesian GP Will Not Take Place Before March 2022 – Dorna |
MotoGP promoters Dorna officially announced the inaugural Indonesia GP would only take place in 2022.
The Mandalika Circuit was initially due to held the MotoGP this year, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all parties involved agreed to hold the official race in 2022.
“Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, all parties involved agreed to hold the first MotoGP World Championship Grand Prix at the track in the first part of the 2022 season, in principle during March,” Dorna said in a statement.
Dorna and FIM recently flew to Indonesia to officially examined the track that is currently being built in Lombok.
“The visit to Lombok was very successful, and we can confirm that the Mandalika International Street Circuit will be one of the most important venues of the calendar in the future.
“Indonesia is a key market for Dorna, and for all the stakeholders of the championship,” said Dorna CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta.
However, the Mandalika Circuit is expected to host the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) on November 14.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/highlights-from-ktm-ag-booth-eicma-2015-milan/ | Highlights from KTM AG booth @ EICMA 2015, Milan |
After countless Dakar rally victories, motocross series titles and enduro championships, it is natural progression for KTM (Europe’s biggest motorcycle manufacturer) to share some of their vast experience and resources toward developing their Street bike segments.
On one hand, KTM has been the first mass producer of motorcycles to commit to electric motorbikes; meaning it now enjoys a substantial development lead. On the other, KTM has kept up its commitment to the development of two-stroke engines for motocross and enduro models even though they were abandoned by many competitors.
For 2016, KTM keeps expanding its two-cylinder Street models with the sensational LC8 engine, betting massively on electronic innovation such as the lean-angle sensitive ABS and stability control (MSC). Then again, the fans of the single-cylinder Duke cult are not neglected, but indeed spoiled with the introduction of the new 690 DUKE generation for 2016.
Here are the highlights of KTM’s latest models for 2016:
1. KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE GT:
With the 1290 SUPER DUKE GT, KTM forcefully extends its Street range at the upper end of street bike’s spectrum. The star for 2016 is a perfectly equipped, lightweight and agile marathon sprinter with plenty of power as well as a vast package of the latest riding assistance systems.
Besides the Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), traction control and the C-ABS (both lean angle sensitive), it includes the latest KTM Ride Mode technology as well as a quick-shifter as standard.
KTM shores up the long distance capabilities of the 1290 SUPER DUKE GT with a comprehensive touring package; a 23 liter tank, a lengthened rear subframe (with integral mounts for the optional panniers), heated grips, cruise control, comfortable seats, the wind and weather protection of an adjustable windshield, LED cornering lights and LED daytime running lights.
With a more than comprehensive equipment package as well as its 173hp LC8 engine and semi-active suspension, the 1290 SUPER DUKE GT masters the whole range from comfortable long distance motorway travelling to weekend thrills including the occasional track day visits.
2. KTM 690 DUKE
More than two decades after the very first DUKE, KTM launches a new generation of its popular street fighter in an impressive manner that the single cylinder engine is all but obsolete even in a Street bike whilst complying to Euro 4 emission control standards. The 690 DUKE is now more alive, more appealing and more modern than ever.
The brand new engine puts out a full 73 hp of maximum power. Despite this, it offers plenty of smoothness and refinement thanks to multiple balancers, as well as an even wider powerband than its predecessors. The modified steering geometry brings even more stability and precision to the agile chassis of the 690 DUKE.
And there are lots of other perks as well, like the on-board computer, a large, multifunctional TFT color display and ABS as a standard. In addition, the potent single can be adjusted with an optional Track pack which includes a Sport and Rain Ride mode, Traction Control (TC), Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) and a Supermoto mode.
3. KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE R SPECIAL EDITION:
KTM proves year after year there is never a standstill moment in their Mattighofen HQ. This has also resulted in the Special Edition of the 1290 SUPER DUKE R (entering its third production year in 2016).
For all those who long for even less weight, even more sound and even more individuality, the new SDR model now comes with the SPECIAL EDITION package.
This upgrade treats ‘The Beast’ with a whole host of top quality KTM PowerParts; an Akrapovič titanium silencer (reduces the weight while adding extra sound), wave brake discs (offer better feedback and braking stability) for extreme USE.
Stiffer CNC triple clamps help optimize steering precision under ferocious braking, coupled with the adjustable control levers. A revised seat profile serve to optimize ergonomics specifically for track use. Finally, a unique paint design and classy accessories (made of orange anodized aluminium or carbon fiber) make for exclusive finishing touches.
4. KTM 690 DUKE R
The new 690 DUKE is also available as an ‘R’ version for model year 2016, distinguished by a full 75 hp of durable maximum power.
Among others, the extra horsepower is a result of the 690 DUKE R’s high quality Akrapovič silencer. In addition, there is a Brembo Monoblock braking caliper and a fully adjustable WP suspension that also allows tuning and even greater lean angles than the 690 DUKE.
The 690 DUKE R comes equipped with lean angle sensitive ABS, Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), Motor Slip regulation (MSR) and the Supermoto mode. Of course the ‘R’ also benefits from everything that is new about the 690 DUKE, like the KTM Ride Mode technology, the new TFT display and the updated steering geometry. Great-looking parts like the cutting edge LED indicators and racy pillion seat cover round off the ‘R’ package. Insiders recognize the 690 DUKE R at the first glance by its wheels and frame in the typical KTM Orange.
So we’ve gone through the 4 latest street bikes by KTM AG.
With a positive attitude of the ‘doers’ at KTM reflected on their street bikes, offroad thumpers and race-track machines all over the world, they all share the goal of being among the best. So far, they are doing a great job at that!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/government-abolishes-motorcycle-toll-collection-as-first-step/ | Government Abolishes Motorcycle Toll Collection as First Step |
Photo credit Free Malaysia Today
The government has stopped motorcycle toll collection.
The tolls affected are at the First and Second Penang Bridges, and the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link in Johor.
The government says it is the first step toward full toll abolishment in the country.
The Malaysian government has abolished for motorcycle toll collection at three locations.
The move is the first step toward full abolishment of toll charges in the country. Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said that the government could not eradicate all toll payments at the moment due to the large debt accrued by the previous administration. Stopping toll charges would mean the government has to pay the highway concessionaires in order to subsidize the Rakyat’s toll payments.
“Abolishing motorcycle tolls at Penang’s First and Second Bridges together with the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link in Johor is the first step to completely abolish tolls,” said Guan Eng.
Singapore will also scrap toll payment for motorcycles on the Republic’s end from 21stJanuary.
Deputy Works Minister Mohd. Anuar Tahir officiated the removal of toll collection at the Tuas checkpoint. He said that Malaysian motorcyclists will save between RM 24.20 to RM 66.00 per month.
He also reiterated the current administration’s pledge in stopping all toll payments.
The Minister also spoke about fuel prices. While there was no cap (maximum price) before, RON 95 is now capped at RM 2.20 per litre, and diesel at RM 2.18 per litre. New retail prices will be in effect from 1stJanuary 2019 onwards.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/road-tax-expired-less-than-3-years-no-need-to-go-to-puspakom/ | Road tax expired less than 3 years? No need to go to PUSPAKOM |
If you have a car or motorcycle with an expired road tax of less than three years, you can now renew it without getting it inspected over at PUSPAKOM. This was announced earlier by Malaysia’s Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Wee Ka Sion.
The announcement was made yesterday during a collaboration program signing ceremony between the Road Transport Department (JPJ) Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and the Department of Skills Development (JPK).
The move was announced due to the fact that over 4.27 million private vehicles here in Malaysia were found to have expired road tax or Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM) between one-three years. Prior to this new announcement, any private-owned vehicles will need to get them inspected at PUSPAKOM if the road tax has expired for more than a year or 12 months.
COVID-19 has wreaked havoc to economies and livelihoods of many folks not just here in Malaysia, but around the globe. With inspections at PUSPAKOM requires more money to be spent to get the vehicle road-legal again, the government has decided to extend this period to 36 months. In order words, you can get your new road tax straight from JPJ without getting the vehicles inspected.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/sepang-international-circuit-opens-its-doors-after-2-month-break/ | Sepang International Circuit opens its doors after 2-month break |
After a long (and probably much needed) break, Sepang International Circuit is back in business with the official announcement of operation commencement since the start of the Movement Control Order (MCO) here in Malaysia due to COVID-19.
Easing their way into the ‘new norm’, only ‘personal training sessions’ are currently on offer for the time being with a limited number of participants at any given time. This is to continue complying with the rules and regulations set by the Ministry of Health to avoid any further infection cases here in Malaysia.
QUICK UPDATE: Group activities consisting of not more than 10 people (participants AND crew) will be allowed, not just personal training sessions.
Latest update by SIC
Motorsports enthusiasts who are keen to get back into training may contact the Sepang International Circuit personnel to book their slots. We’re guessing that this move will prioritise those who require training like the folks who are participating in various motorsports series like MotoGP, Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) and private track day organisers.
SIC will continue to monitor the number of attendants as well as keeping records on individual health by performing temperature checking at all entries as well as providing hand sanitisers and face masks to go along with the one-metre social distancing rule using newly-placed markers.
For each ‘personal training session’, not more than 10 participants are allowed to join in. To further amp up the safety factor, designated parking spots are placed two metres apart from each other to minimize contact with other people upon arriving at the circuit.
For more information or to book an appointment, event organisers may contact their respective Account Managers or call the SIC hotline at +603-87782222. During the holy month of Ramadhan, business hours is from 9.00 am to 4.00 am. Stay safe, folks!
MotoGP: Petronas SRT & Valentino Rossi deal is ‘done’
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-impression-new-benelli-trk-502-adventure-bike/ | First Impression: New Benelli TRK 502 Adventure Bike |
Walk around video of all three new Benelli motorcycles including engine start up.
The design of the Benelli TRK 502 has obvious influences from BMW, especially the fuel tank, sitting position and the shape and angle of the handle bar.
The damping is cushy so there is the usual dive under heavy braking typical of softish suspension, but the rear does a decent job at soaking up speed bumps and such, which gives it a comfortable ride.
Taller riders will find the TRK a bit cramped, but it makes up for that with good low speed handling, and a big comfortable seat.
Benelli Malaysia made quite a wave in the local motorcycling scene when it launched three new models last weekend. You can read about the launch here, but M Force Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, the local importer, distributor and soon to be assembler of Benelli motorcycles, also gave us an opportunity to sample all three bikes the following day.
The test ride route was just a small loop around the Equatorial Hotel in Penang, maybe about a kilometer long at most, which wasn’t exactly the perfect scenario to truly sample the capabilities of any motorcycle, but it was good enough to judge the basic handling and engine response of the new motorcycles.
We started the ride with the TRK502, Benelli’s new adventure bike. I must say that I was surprised with this bike, so surprised that I will go so far as to say that among Benelli’s new motorcycles, the TRK is the best.
The design has obvious influences from BMW, especially the fuel tank, sitting position and the shape and angle of the handle bar, but who can blame Benelli when the BMW GS is quite obviously one of the benchmark’s for almost all adventure bike builders.
Taller riders will find the TRK a bit cramped, but it makes up for that with good low speed handling, and a big comfortable seat.
It does not have a lot of technology, in fact it skimps out on things like cruise control, traction control, and tyre pressure monitoring sensors, but it does have ABS. And Benelli knew exactly what kind of motorcycle it wanted the TRK 502 to be, so they also threw in a well placed button (on the left handle bar, right within reach of your thumb) that allows you to completely switch off the ABS system. This is handy when you want to tackle dirt and mud off-road. Well thought out Benelli!
The TRK 502 isn’t exactly big on power either, the twin-cylinder, liquid cooled engine produces just 48hp at 8,500rpm and 45Nm of torque at 5,000rpm. There’s good grunt lower down the rev band, but there’s a feeling that more power will be needed on the highway, especially when you want to just squeeze the throttle and accelerate out of a situation. We’ll get to that when we actually get to ride this bike on a highway.
Gear changes are nice – short and precise. The final drive is of course chain driven which makes the TRK quite well suited for global riders who want to ride a bike to the end of the world without worrying about complicated or shortage of parts and such.
Suspension feels good too – the front consists of an inverted fork with 150mm of travel while the rear is made up of a steel swing arm with a single telescopic oil damped coil spring with 45mm of travel. The damping is cushy so there is the usual dive under heavy braking typical of softish suspension, but the rear does a decent job at soaking up speed bumps and such, which gives it a comfortable ride.
Brakes too are decent and are made up of twin 320mm discs up front grabbed by twin-piston calipers. The rear is made up of a single 260mm disc. Tyres are 120/70ZR17 up front and 160/60/ZR17 at the rear.
All in all the Benelli TRK 502 seems to be the ideal adventure bike for those looking to get into the segment with a unsophisticated machine with proven old-school technology. It is cheaper than the Kawasaki Versys 650 and there is still no news of Yamaha’s 700 Tracer, so that makes the TRK 502 the cheapest Adventure bike you can get in the market right now.
Complaints? Well I don’t quite like the patchy welding job and the frame could do with a bit more attention to detail, but that does not make this a bad motorcycle. Aesthetics aside, the TRK 502 seems to have it all, now we are just waiting on M Force Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd to make this bike available for a review so we can rack up about 1000 kilometers on it. We will be back with more on the TRK 502.
Click here to see the complete specifications of the Benelli TRK 502 and compare it against other bikes at the Bikes Republic Bike Buyer’s Guide!
Benelli Malaysia has strengthened its presence in Malaysia through a new distributor, click to read about the appointment of M Force Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd as Malaysian distributor.
The fuel cap is just that, a fuel cap.
LED daytime running lights are offered as standard.
Multistrada anyone?
The TRK 502 is a good sized bike, though a little cramped for taller riders.
The handle bar is perfectly positioned, we love the sitting position on this bike.
Really nice sitting position, we must say it again!
A combination of digital and analogue readout seems to be all the rage these days.
The seat is big and comfortable.
Handguards come as standard.
We are not fans of the welding work, too erratic and uncouth.
Just a regular meter panel but is big enough for a quick glance at speed.
The side boxes are a RM1,000 option, which is hella cheap.
Some inspiration from the Multistrada here.
LED turn signals come as standard.
Rear shock is oil damped with 45mm of trave.
Inverted fork up front, somethign you don’t see much of on adventure bikes.
The calliper guard comes standard.
Engine guard is standard too.
Rear brake is a 260mm single disc brake.
Exhaust is neatly placed underneath the bike.
Standard arrangement of switches.
Just your typical line up of switches except for the ABS on/off button.
Rubber foot pegs are great for slippery conditions.
A close up view of the LED turn signals.
Twin 320mm discs up front grabbed by a twin-piston calliper.
Good looking bike, we think.
Some influences from the Multistrada, admit it or not.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/toc-introduces-msf-motor-racing-study-course/ | TOC Introduces MSF Motor Racing Study Course |
TOC Automotive College has just signed an agreement with Malaysia Speed Festival.
The collaboration launches the MSF Motor Racing study course.
Students will learn about racing management and technical aspects in the 20-week course.
Hot on the heels of the launch of the TOC Superbike Technician Course, the TOC Automotive College (TOC) has signed another collaborative effort with the Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF) on 25th May 2018.
TOC Automotive College Launches Superbike Technician Course
As we mentioned before, motorsports is the fast lane to a student’s real world experience. That is why the TOC Automotive College has a fully-equipped Motorsports Division, which caters to both auto and now motorcycle racing.
The partnership seeks to enhance the knowledge of TOC’s students in the cutthroat world of motorsports before they hit the workforce. More specifically, this collaboration with train a select group of TOC students as future leaders and workers in Malaysia’s motorsport industry through the new “MSF Motor Racing” study course.
In Adian Yein, MSF’s Principal’s speech, it was revealed that while the motorsport industry is still small in terms of budgets compared to the international team, it was still worth RM 2 million a few years ago. As such, there exists a need for more new blood to take part. Besides that, it ought to be time to concentrate not only on the drivers and riders, but also those in the background.
Mr. Liew Chin Hooi, MSF Superbike Representative, iterated in his speech, “The technical portion of motorsports has traditionally been relegated to the blue-collar status. We aim to change that through the tie-up with TOC.”
Ms. Adelaine Foo, Founder and CEO of TOC Automotive College, added that, “Everybody knows who the drivers and riders are, but what TOC has done is to bring a lot of focus to the people who made the machine for the drivers and riders to drive and ride. There is no Lewis Hamilton if there’s no technicians.”
“It’s about bringing respect to the people behind the scenes,” she added.
The topics covered in the 20-week course are:
WEEK
TOPIC
OUTLINE
1
Introduction to Motorsports and MSF Racing
· Introducing MSF.
· Overview of the motorsports industry: Worldwide, US, Australia, Britain, Malaysia.
· Importance of regulations and safety.
2
Race technical operations – Registration and Scrutineering
· Registration – license checking, sign in.
· Scrutineering – safety checks, technical compliance.
3
Race Technical Operations – Race Control, Timing and Gridding
· Timing and gridding – results, labelling, gridding.
· Race Control – race diary, incidents reporting.
4
MSF 2018 Round 3
· Event duties.
5
MSF Race Car Body Preparation and Safety Items
· Body lightening.
· Body straightening.
· Installing safety items.
6
MSF Race Engine Preparation – Top-end Modifications and Improvements
· Improving breathing and volumetric efficiency.
· Improving ignition.
7
MSF Race Engine Preparation – Bottom-end improvements and Building
· Improving compression
· Lightening
· Building the bottom end
8
Race Technical Operations – Revision for all groups
· Briefing of responsibilities and revision.
9
MSF 2018 Round 4
· Event duties
10
Chassis and Suspension (Cars)
· Basic chassis and suspension design.
· Understanding suspension.
11
Suspension – Basics and Setup (Cars)
· Introduction to vehicle dynamics.
· Understanding damping.
· Basic vehicle set up.
12
Suspension – Basics and Setup (Bikes)
· Introduction to bike suspension.
· Understanding bike chassis dynamics.
· Basic superbike set up.
13
Race technical operations – Revision for all groups
· Briefing of responsibilities and revision.
14
MSF 2018 Round 5
· Event duties.
15
Aerodynamics
· Understanding air pressure and movement.
16
Drivetrain
· Gearbox and gear ratios.
· Flywheel and clutch.
17
Race Strategy and Testing
· Tyre and fuel strategy.
· Effect of weather.
· Communicating with the driver.
· Objectives of testing and understanding the data.
18
Race Technical Operations – Revision for all groups
· Briefing of responsibilities and revision.
19
MSF 2018 Round 6
· Event duties.
20
Assessment
Industry players in Malaysia will also give talks from time to time. Confirmed partners are Fawster Suspension, K-Tech Suspension, Hankook Motorsports Malaysia and Proton-R3 Motorsports.
As you could see, TOC and MSF want to breed race team engineers or race officials that are intelligent with solid technical backgrounds, instead of mere grease monkeys.
You may refer to TOC Automotive College and Malaysia Speed Festival Facebook pages for more information on the MSF Motor Racing study course. You may also visit TOC Automotive College’s website.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-teases-2020-ducati-scrambler-1100-pro/ | Ducati teases 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro |
Ducati has had a good year so far with the launch of several bikes but they’re looking to stir things up even more with the upcoming launch of the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro. The setting will take place sometime tomorrow in California, USA, one of the biggest playing grounds for Scrambler Ducati in North America.
View this post on Instagram
January 27th 2020, or as we like to call it, the beginning of the #JustPROs era. #scramblerducati #scrambler #ducati
A post shared by Scrambler Ducati (@scramblerducati) on Jan 15, 2020 at 7:23am PST
So, what does the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro pray tell? Not a lot, so far. The Scrambler Ducati Instagram feed has showcased several teasers of the bike’s close-ups and in short, the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro hopefully won’t be just a make-up upgrade the ones introduced into the Malaysian market back in 2018.
For starters, the seat looks like it’s going to better accommodate the pillion whenever you for riders, especially long distances. We’ve had the opportunity to test the current Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport and it was already comfortable, to begin with. Check out the link below to know more.
Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport – “The Scrambler Comes of Age”
The second photo teaser is probably the biggest change that’s going to be introduced for the big brother Scrambler Ducati family; double-side silencers. The current-gen 1100 carries the double cans under the seat but you can easily swap that out for a double-sided setup offering from Termignoni, with an injection of cash, of course.
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Double side silencers: It will be love at first rumble. STAY TUNED – JANUARY 27th 2020 #JustPROs #ScramblerDucati #Scrambler #Ducati
A post shared by Scrambler Ducati (@scramblerducati) on Jan 19, 2020 at 4:00am PST
Then there’s the “Larger fuel tank, larger adventures” post. The 15-litre unit is already considered adequate for some fair distance travelling but a bigger one would mean that you can go even further (duh) without having to worry about frequent fuel stops (or places where the petrol stations are far and wide).
View this post on Instagram
Larger fuel tank, larger adventures. STAY TUNED – JANUARY 27th 2020 #JustPROs #ScramblerDucati #Scrambler #Ducati
A post shared by Scrambler Ducati (@scramblerducati) on Jan 21, 2020 at 12:38am PST
Finally, the engine. Though it looks like the current 1,079cc L-Twin engine, we’re guessing that there might be internal tweaks that’ll boost the power output slightly higher than the current 86hp and 88Nm of torque. From a visual perspective, the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro has more blacked-out parts, most notably the exhaust manifold guard.
View this post on Instagram
Whatever your needs may be, the answer is simple: just performance & efficiency. In a few words: an Air Cooled 1100 engine. STAY TUNED – JANUARY 27th 2020 #JustPROs #ScramblerDucati #Scrambler #ducatisti
A post shared by Scrambler Ducati (@scramblerducati) on Jan 23, 2020 at 4:00am PST
The 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro will be unveiled very, very soon and we will share more details with you once we have them. In the meantime, enjoy your holidays and ride safe!
MotoGP: Ducati Desmosedici GP20 livery unveiled
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/ktm-ckd-five-mountain-santai-ride-bikes/ | KTM CKD Five Mountain Santai Ride with the Duke 690 R |
For the Five Mountain Santai Ride KTM CKD brought their Dukes to play, from the 200 to 390 to the 690 Duke R.
And over those four days I get to sample all three back to back especially on day one where I managed to swap between the three.
Being a legendary motocross and adventure bike maker the bikes that comes out of their stables tend to be having a lot of those characteristics.
The bikes are light, nimble, easy to manipulate and hardy and thats what you get with the Dukes. On those tight roads leading up and down Fraser’s Hill the Duke 200 and 390 is king. You’ll be smiling in your helmet from corner to corner.
But that doesn’t mean the 690 was bad, it was still quick but just a little bit held back by its size. However when you look at it as a whole over the four days of riding with a very varied type of roads covered, theres not much that could come close to the Duke’s riding experience.
Its a rare machine indeed so you’d be excused if you have not seen one on the roads. But if you ever get to ride one, the first thing that will catch your eye is the size of the Duke. Its not too big like its Adventure brothers or slim like its enduro siblings. Its just right for us Asians.
Weighing at just below 150kg without fuel, this is the lightest bike in its class as most are heavier by at lease over 40kg or more. And not only its light but also most of that weight is at the bottom, combine with the seat at 865mm off the ground, this makes it a very confidence boosting bike to any rider.
Suspension is fully adjustable from WP, USD forks and monoshock on the rear. These things soak up the bumps like a dry sponge to a wet spot. But it doesn’t numb you off because you’ll still be able to read the road surface by the wide handlebar.
You can either ride it like a motard or naked bike, either way this thing hugs the corners and stays on your trajectory. Its so easy to handle. And not forgetting is the stopping power, ample is the word and not surprising since its by Brembo.
Next is the heart of the whole bike, another technology derived from its motocross dna. The thumper engine, a single 690cc liquid-cooled tiny lump of metal under the fuel tank is just throbbing with the amount of torque it pumps out.
Now not to make you scared off it, the drive-by-wire engine combined with the
six-speed wet clutch transmission is easy to modulate especially thanks to the hydraulic clutch lever that makes easy to operate. And last but not least, everything is held together by the super stiff Trellis Frame and an aluminium swing arm.
As mentioned, the seat is 865mm off the ground and its wide at the back and tapers down to the front. This way you can start off by sitting up front as its easier for you to reach the ground from that position and move to the more
supple part at the back as you ride off.
The sitting position is very straight to the point that it reminds me of tourers instead of nakeds. While a motard sitting position puts the handlebars close to the rider, on the Duke 690 R its roomy and you have a lots room to move around.
So how does it really feel to ride the Duke R? It feels like a naked bike but built on the foundations of a motard. Naked bikes are already versatile machines as they come but the Duke is just ahead of the curve. Its the Jack of all trades, you can daily ride it to work, weekend blast in the hills and even go touring with it.
The engine will happily chug along at 3500rpm on fifth gear for 80kmh or 4300rpm on sixth gear for 110kmh. If you keep the revs between 3500rpm and 6500rpm and you hardly feel any vibration coming from the engine.
And keep the revs down and one can manage to get 120km per RM10 fill of RON 95 fuel, but I had to admit thats a stretch as this thing will urge you to give it more gas, whispering to you subconscious saying “more more more!”.
The throttle response on this thing is instantaneous and a lot of times on low speed you have to feather it rather than twist as theres enough torque to get you into trouble while negotiating slow traffic. And theres so much torque still at 110kmh, you don’t even need to downshift, just twist the throttle and off you go.
All you hear is a slow succession of pop pop pop from the exhaust but everything around you is going faster and faster, akin to Sebulba’s pod racer in Starwars episode 1.
Quality is there and looks wise to me its beautifully exotic, somewhat a cross between Lamborghini and Lotus in terms of the car world. Very edgy and form and function specific.
Of course no bike is really perfect, theres always things that don’t quite hit the spot. My only gripe is that it doesn’t come with a fuel gauge, instead you get a warning light on the great looking meter panel. And when it lights up you also get the occasional fuel surge.
And, though I did mention you can use it for touring it has limited luggage options. While KTM do make panniers for the Duke, its small and not the hardy hard plastic type. Its not even waterproof.
So yeah, only two things that I would change on the Duke 690 R if I could, for the rest, its a great bike to have.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/1full-throttle-challenge-malaysia-2015/ | 1Full Throttle Challenge Malaysia 2015 – UPDATED with results |
Talented youths and youngsters shine in 1Full Throttle Challenge Malaysia 2015 raceday in ELITE PLUS Speedway Go Kart Circuit, Subang.
Following their success in organising the 1Minimoto Challenge Malaysia event last year, local motorsports establishments HB Motorsports and PiTRIDES has once again collaborated in organising the new and revamped Facebook – 1Full Throttle Challenge 2015.
Held on Sunday, May 3, in the ELITE PLUS Speedway Go-Kart Circuit, Subang, the event brought some of Malaysia finest riding talents competing over several categories. Sanctioned by the Ministry of Youth & Sports Malaysia (KBS) as well as the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM), registered participants challenges were held for riders astride MiniGP bikes, Supermotos, as well as two-stroke race machines in the event’s specially-formulated ‘2T 150 Challenge’ category.
Making the event a true success were several key partners and sponsors – us at BikesRepublic.com and our sister site MotoMalaya.net included!. Amongst them included Shell Advance, KTM Malaysia CKD, Shark Helmets Malaysia (Winmaster Sdn Bhd), Alpinestars Malaysia (Iktikad Raya Marketing Sdn Bhd), AHM PRO Racing Exhaust, as well as Strada 7.
Fans were treated with plenty of on-track action as riders battled it out across the 1km-long PLUS Speedway Circuit on MiniGP bikes. Both sprint and endurance race formats were held for the bike type, followed by two Supermoto sprint races.
As one of the key partners of the event, KTM Malaysia CKD held a special Time Attack session for its owners, exemplifying the orange brand’s “Ready To Race” motto to its fullest.
However, as the organisers have put it, the mission for 1Full Throttle Challenge Malaysia was to incubate and inspire talented young Malaysians through a safe and sanctioned avenue. More important, the event’s second mission was to promote the idea of motorsports safety, preaching to youths about the dangers of illegal street racing in the process as well.
The latter mission became clear with the clear and present anti-street racing slogans plastered on the front fairings of all the MIniGP race bikes prepared by co-organisers PiTRIDES.
Supporting the first mission were the Malaysian riders from the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 grid. Shafiq Rasol, Helmi Azman, as well as Fakhrusy Rostam made their appearances during the one-day event, even taking part in a special demonstration free run session astride PiTRIDES’ fleet of MiniGP race bikes. The trio captivated many of the young boys and girls present, showing off their impressive skill and fitness levels on the MiniGP race machines.
As for the bigger and older ‘boys’, much of their thrills came from day’s scheduled Supermoto sprint races that saw one lady rider crowned as champion in the Supermoto CKD category. However, it was the specially formulated 2T 150 Challenge that took most of the older generation’s attention. The 2T 150 Challenge stands as one of the first competitions of its kind as entry is made exclusive only for two-stroke 150cc 2T-lubricated bikes.
The sight, sound, and even the smell of these two-stroke machines brought out much nostalgia amongst many older-aged fans. Amongst the entries here included legendary machines such as the Kawasaki Ninja 150 RR Super Kips, Yamaha TZM 150, as well as the Suzuki TRX 150 ‘Panther’. Many of the participants in this category hailed from various parts of the peninsula, all vying for the title as Malaysia’s undisputed ‘King of 2T’.
A late afternoon thunderstorm inevitably rolled itself in, wreaking havoc in the day’s last Supermoto Open sprint race session. But it did little at dampening the spirits of the participants, especially those competing the day’s final MIniGP Open sprint race event.
Though the final MiniGP Sprint race was shortened, it did brought some intense racing action that saw one of the day’s youngest competitors reign supreme over other entries who bigger and much older. Category champions not only received trophies, exclusive prizes from sponsors and partners were also part of their winning haul of the day – much to the delight of many.
Given the positive responses, organisers HB Motorsports and PiTRIDES have shared their intent in organising another edition of 1Full Throttle Challenge sometime later this year. Details on this will be announced at a later date.
Presently, we do not have the winners’ rostrum and results data just as it is still being tabulated and undergoing official procedures. We will have these up the soonest they are released.
In the meantime, you can enjoy our extensive photo gallery of the one-day event posted below, and on the official BikesRepublic.com Facebook page as well.
UPDATE – 6 May 2015
It took us a while, but here are the final results of Sunday’s 1Full Throttle Challenge 2015.
2T 150 Challenge
1. Mohamad Kanafi Kamaruddin
2. Wan Mohd Asri Wan Abdullah
3. Suresh
Supermoto CKD (KLX)
1. Shahrizal Salleh
2. Muhd Hafiz
3. Firdaus Al Shadiq
Supermoto CKD China
1. Siti Fatimah
2. Muhammad Hanis Syafiq
3. Mohd Safuan
Supermoto Open
1. Wong Chin Hun
2. Nik Mohd Izhar
3. Kishore
MiniGP Endurance
1. Hasmari / Ariff (63 laps)
2. Fizwan / Emmy (63 laps)
3. Mohd Radzi / Noor Fadzril (63 laps)
MiniGP Open (5 laps)
1. Muhammad Izam
2. Wan Nordaniel Aqim
3. Mohd Sapuan
1Full Throttle Challenge Malaysia 2015 @ ELITE PLUS Speedway Go Kart Circuit
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/custom-yamaha-xsr-900-monkeebeast-unveiled/ | Custom Yamaha XSR 900 Monkeebeast unveiled |
Custom-built Yamaha XSR 900 Monkeebeast joins the line up in Yamaha Yard Built Series.
If you haven’t realised it yet, we at BikesRepublic love modern bikes that’s been given a custom retro twist. Case in point is this, the Yamaha XSR 900 Monkeebeast built by Danish custom builders Wrenchmonkees.
This is the very latest addition into the Yamaha Yard Built series of custom bikes and it sees the venerable MT-09-based XSR 900 retro-styled bike transformed into a retro scrambler of sorts.
The folks at Wrenchmonkees were pretty detailed with their work at transforming this triple-cylinder retro into a scrambler. Highlights here include a set of Borrani 17-inch wheels with 9mm stainless spokes and black hubs wrapped in knobby Continental TKC tyres.
Also primed at the rear is a K-Tech Razor R rear shock, followed by a set of Gilles Tooling chain adjusters plus a TRW rear disc brake with steel braided brake lines. The seat is a bespoke one-off design made by Wrenchmonkees, which is matched by the modified Gilles Tooling rearsets that feature enduro footrests.
Up front, the XSR 900-based Monkeebeast gets a new Magura handlebar set equipped with a pair of Biltwell Renegade grips. The front brake was upgraded using a Nissin radial front brakemaster with steel braided brake lines. Adding a modern touch here are the Motogadget-sourced pushbuttons plus MT-03-styled headlight and LED taillight.
An SC Project exhaust kit mated to a modified MT-09 system ensures that the 850cc triple-cylinder mill has the right soundtrack to match its looks. Speaking of the latter, Wrenchmonkees also designed and built the bespoke aluminium rear fender, front fender, engine guard and tank covers.
Overall, this Wrenchmokees-built custom Yamaha XSR 900 Monkeebeast is one spectacular looking machine indeed. Despite being a one-off creation, some of the Monkeebeast’s custom parts will soon be available as aftermarket accessories that you can purchase directly from Wrenchmonkees.
You can check out more of this cool custom retro scrambler in the gallery we’ve prepared below and more about Danish custom outfit Wrenchmonkees via its official site, wrenchmonkees.com.
Yamaha XSR 900 Monkeebeast by Wrenchmonkees
Sources: Wrenchmonkees via MCN / AutoEvolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-custom-rizoma-r-nine-t-scrambler-accessories/ | New custom Rizoma R nine T Scrambler accessories |
New Rizoma R nine T Scrambler accessories range released and adds spice to BMW’s hip retro scrambler.
Leading Italian motorcycle accessories brand Rizoma just released its new range of accessories for the BMW R nine T Scrambler. In essence, the Rizoma R nine T kit does add some spice to this already tasty and hip retro scrambler.
Rizoma was one of the first few firms to offer aftermarket accessories for the base BMW R nine T. This new catalogue sees it riding on that initial success and giving R nine T Scrambler owners even more choice at hand.
Highlights of the Rizoma R nine T Scrambler accessories range include a headlight fairing with billet aluminium adapters, a cross bar for the standard handlebar, front fender with fork stabiliser matching the rear fender, LED fog lights with aluminium covers, as well as side, and top bags supports, headlight mesh guard plus engine protector bars with replaceable aluminium sliders.
For those seeking a more aggressive riding ergonomics, the catalogue also includes a pair of RALLY Rider pegs that comes with replaceable steel teeth. There’s also an adjustable shift lever, adjustable 3D brake and clutch levers plus a varied choice of handlebar grips too.
As an added bonus, the Rizoma assured that the kits it previously released for the regular R nine T are compatible with the Scrambler version as well. These include things like the cylinder head covers, engine covers, intake tips, brake and clutch fluid reservoir caps, handlebar top clamps set, tank caps, frame hole caps, exhaust tips and four license plate mounts options.
You can view the Rizoma R nine T accessories menu in full via its dedicated page on Rizoma’s official site by clicking here.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-electric-scooter-to-be-launched-in-2021/ | Husqvarna electric scooter to be launched in 2021 |
Pierer Mobility AG, the parent company of KTM and Husqvarna, has released its latest investors’ presentation outlining their current status for the year 2020 as well as some plans going into 2021 and 2022. One of the highlights is the market launch for the first Husqvarna electric scooter which will make its debut in 2021.
Called the Husqvarna E-Scooter, this eco-friendly machine will be powered by a 4kW electric motor. It’s not the most powerful but when it comes to urban mobility, we’re guessing that it’ll probably be enough (provided that Husqvarna can find a way to further speed up the charging time).
If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, perhaps the Husqvarna E-Pilen might just send you over the top. That’s right, they are currently developing an all-electric street bike that’ll fit into the Vitpilen/Svartpilen family.
Not much else has been said about the E-Pilen apart from the option of choosing between a 4kW or 10Kw electric motor. To put it into comparison, the Honda PCX Electric carries a 4.2kW electric motor. Again, not a lot but for short distances around city centres, it’ll most likely be more than enough. The E-Pilen will make its debut sometime in 2022.
Husqvarna Norden 901 will go into production
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-brings-next-evolution-abs/ | BMW brakes forward with ABS Pro |
First they bring ABS, then its RACE ABS and now the German bike manufacturer offers bikers the next evolution of braking technology, ABS Pro. This new system for now comes as an upgrade for the HP4 superbikes where owners can opt to retrofit on to their bikes at any Motorrad dealership.
While the Race ABS in the HP4 already provides a very high degree of safety when braking in a straight line, ABS Pro now goes a step further to offer increased safety when braking on bends as well. Here, ABS Pro prevents the wheels from locking even when the brakes are applied quickly; this reduces abrupt changes in steering force on shock-braking manoeuvres and stops the motorcycle from rearing up unintentionally.
The system works by adapting the braking force to the brakes depending on the motorcycle’s banking angle depending on the current situation on the road.
To do that, the system draws on the signals for roll rate, yaw rate and transverse acceleration as provided by the sensor cluster – which are already used for Dynamic Traction Control DTC and for the electronic suspension DDC Dynamic Damping Control. As the banking angle increases, the brake pressure gradient is limited more and more at the start of the brake manoeuvre. This means that the pressure build-up is slower. Of course BMW also mentioned that the ABS Pro system will in no way be able to change the law of physics and if the rider exceeds that limit may it be due to misjudgement or riding errors, which in extreme cases can still result in a fall.
Basically the ABS Pro was not developed to enhance individual braking performance when braking on bends – especially not on race tracks. Its purpose is to enable safer use of the HP4 within physical limits on public roads, for example in the event of unexpected dangers arising on bends. At the same time, the ABS Pro function can also be used in the “Rain” and “Sport” modes by less experienced riders so as to achieve significantly increased safety when undertaking their first rides on a race track.
As a start, the ABS Pro function will be available as a retrofit solution for the BMW HP4 from the end of October 2014 at the price of € 380.00 (price for Germany).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/valentino-rossi-is-the-most-popular-sportsman-in-italy/ | Valentino Rossi is the most popular sportsman in Italy |
The 2020 MotoGP season was not the best season for nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi, but that doesn’t mean that he is not loved by millions of Italians in his beloved country. Based on the latest social media rankings, Rossi is the most followed sportsman in Italy with over 28 million followers across several platforms.
This ranking produced by the Social VIP Observatory included all sportsmen from a variety of sport disciplines, including football. The number of followers from Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram was considered, and Valentino Rossi lands in first place with quite a commanding lead.
Mario Balotelli sits in second place with close to 23 million followers, followed by Gianluigi Buffon with 22.3 million. In fact, the majority of the sportsmen in the top 20 are all footballers, apart from a basketball player in 19th and another MotoGP rider in 20th, Andrea Dovizioso.
To be fair, Dovizioso is not really a person that portrays his life too much on social media. Thanks to his great riding skills and several achievements in motorsports, he lands in the top 20 with over three million followers.
As for Rossi, he has successfully built his brand to stratospheric heights and is arguably one of the most popular motorsports figures of all time. Being a nine-time world champion does have its perks, and we’ll see more of that in 2021 when he rides with the Petronas Yamaha SRT squad. Or…will the Yamaha satellite squad go back to Monster Energy? We’ll see in the coming months, eh?
Spotted! Aprilia Tuono 660?
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/rollin-wheelz-2016/ | Gallery: Rollin Wheelz 2016 @ Balok Beach, Kuantan |
Retro and custom bikes take over Kuantan’s Balok Beach for Rollin Wheelz 2016.
Story By: Michele Theseira
It was surely rockin’ and rollin’ at this year’s Rollin Wheelz 2016 (or Rollin’ Wheelz 2016) at Balok Beach in Kuantan, Pahang. For those who have no idea what this event is about, it’s basically a motorsport race unlike any other.
Initially, the event off as a reunion of old friends on Cherating Beach back in 2012 that rode old machines and retro bikes that covered makes like Harley-Davidsons, Triumphs, Nortons, BSAs and Japanese bikes that underwent old school modifications.
In 2013, Banajaros Malaya MC collaborated with Pahang Riders Club and rolled out the first edition of Rollin Wheelz – the event, at Balok Beach which suited the biking event concept better. Since the flagship roll out, Rollin’ Wheelz evolved to become what it is today.
Much more than just another biking event, it has drawn biking communities around the globe, attracting young and seasoned riders and opened up various motorcycle types to race. One thing’s for sure, the camaraderie and the love for their bikes and the sport is remarkable, standing out louder than the roar of the modified machines competing.
Celebrating the common love for bikes and the laid-back lifestyle, Rollin’ Wheelz 2016 witnessed an amazing turnout. This year’s race categories included the scooters, below 250cc, above 250cc and an open category.
Among the participants were customised bikes from Beautiful Machines, Art of Speed, 96 Garage, Ampang Bikers Community, BigCat/Rusty Factory, among many others including Rachun Motor Club who claimed the King of Balok title again this year.
Apart from the race on the beach, it was all good fun chillin’ with bike enthusiasts, a great family oriented camping event get-together and bonding with the ‘brotherhood’ (including the sistahs)!
For more on Rollin’ Wheelz 2016, visit the event’s Facebook page or its website. This writer rode for the event with the guys from Beautiful Machines – Jay Singh, Kelvin Theseira, Johnny Soo and wife Angie, Guan and family and their entourage, hence, the pictures…
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-honda-cb650f-test-review-the-all-rounder/ | 2018 Honda CB650F Test & Review: The All-Rounder |
The 2018 Honda CB650F is the naked version of the fully-faired CBR650F.
Both bikes share the same engine but different riding dynamics.
While the CB650F is meant to be a naked sportbike, it does well as an all-rounder, too.
We’ve tested many motorcycles. Adventure-tourers, luxury tourers, supersports, scooters, cruisers, standards, café racers, modern classics, classics that aren’t modern, etc., etc. Many fit into their respective categories and perform their roles well with singular purposes. But the 2018 Honda CB650F seemed to do just about everything.
Launched together with its CBR650F fully-faired brethren, the CB650F takes on the look of a naked sportbike. It does look the part with its multi-faceted bodywork, engine hung out in open with its four exhaust headers for all to see, a stepped seat.
2018 Honda CBR650F Test & Review – “Between Two Worlds”
The 650cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, inline-Four engine is shared with the CBR650F, so as almost every part of the bike, with the exception of the headlight and handlebar.
The CB650F’s seating position put me in a nice forward crouch without needing me to plop my (substantial) belly over the tank and offering my bum to the traffic behind. The angle was between the fully sit-up style of say the Yamaha MT-07 and aggressive Honda CBR650F.
The seat may look tall but has a nice height which is accessible to most riders, while the footpegs are placed relatively high and back for ground clearance.
Stabbing the ignition button brought the bike instantly to life with a “whooshing boom,” courtesy of four cylinders. The engine felt smooth when I blipped the throttle, although there was some vibration to tickle certain parts of the body.
The CB650F needed a little more clutch slip to get going put the power kicked in quickly, accompanied by a hair-raising burble from the airbox under the fuel tank. Just as Honda claimed, the engine was tuned for low- to mid-range torque and it accelerated surprisingly fast for a mid-range inline-Four through the slick gearbox as it surfed that wave of torque around heavy traffic.
Its engine served more like a three-cylinder bike, actually, because there’s always torque everywhere up to 8000 RPM. Heck, you could even filter through traffic at 60 km/h in fourth gear without any driveline snatch. It makes life a whole lot easier than having to constantly shift gears back and forth.
But when the roads opened up, so did the CB650F as it rocketed away and kept building speed briskly. It kept finding myself riding faster than I should. Well, why not, it’s got 90 bhp and 64 Nm of torque.
Now the bike has taken on the role of a sport-tourer, as it could hold on to any high-speed I chose. There’s another surprise here: Most naked bikes would have the windblast hammering on your chest at 130 km/h, but I found that I could sit up relaxed at 160 km/h. That’s true credit to the bike’s seating position.
The tingles typical of inline-Fours stayed with me at most times but it seemed to balance out at above 110 k/h. There’s still plenty of go at this speed as a twist of the throttle had me passing an entire line of cars in a hurry.
The Honda CB650F handled quite well and it’s more nimble than the CBR650F despite the same 25.5o rake and 101 mm trail. The taller handlebar means your arms are extended straighter while gripping the handlebar, hence your countersteering forces are more perpendicular (straight ahead) in relation the handlebar. Compared to bikes with their handlebars down in front the headstock, there is a tendency to push downwards on them as support for your upper body weight, resulting in slower steering.
The bike never protested when slammed it into corners considering the basic suspension package. The bike was suspended by the same non-adjustable Showa Dual Bending Valve Forks (SDBV) forks in front and a monoshock at the rear (adjustable for preload only). But the suspension definitely felt better on the CB650F as I didn’t have so much upper body weight on the front end.
The only thing I had to do was remind myself to hit corners with a gear higher as the engine’s torque results in heavy engine braking with the throttle off. However, this is just my personal preference as I prefer the bike to freewheel into corners. I would reduce a couple of teeth on the rear sprocket or install a slipper clutch if this bike was mine.
That brings me to what I didn’t like. The throttle was abrupt when it’s picked up from fully closed. Not from when the bike is idle, but when riding and shifting gears at low speeds, spoiling super smooth ride. I had to compensate by leaving some throttle on.
All-in-all, the 2018 Honda CB650F was a nice bike to ride around on a daily basis as it performed the role of an all-rounder remarkably well, whether it was commuting, long-distance blasting on the highway or weekend corner carver.
It’s offered at a price that’s hard to beat, considering that it has 90 bhp, great Honda build quality and comfortable, all at the same time.
2018 HONDA CBR650F
ENGINE
ENGINE TYPE
4-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled, inline-Four
DISPLACEMENT
648.72 cc
BORE x STROKE
67.0 mm x 46.0 mm
POWER
90 bhp (67 kW) @ 11,000 RPM
TORQUE
64 Nm @ 8,000 RPM
COMPRESSION RATIO
11.4:1
TRANSMISSION
6-speed
FUEL SYSTEM
PGM-Fi programmed fuel injection
CLUTCH
Multiple-plate wet clutch, cable-operated
CHASSIS
FRAME
Steel diamond
FRONT SUSPENSION
ø 41 mm Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) telescopic forks
REAR SUSPENSION
Monoshock with adjustable spring preload
FRONT BRAKE
2 X Two-piston caliper and ø 320 mm discs
REAR BRAKE
1 X Single-piston caliper, ø 240 mm brake disc
TYRE FRONT; REAR
120/70 ZR-17; 180/55 ZR-17
STEERING HEAD ANGLE
25.5o
TRAIL
101 mm
WHEEL BASE
1,449 mm
SEAT HEIGHT
810 mm
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
17.3 litres
KERB WEIGHT
214 kg
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/covec-bull-it-jeans-win-queens-award/ | Covec & Bull-it Jeans win Queen’s Award |
How do you get recognised for a great business in the UK? Apart from having a superb line of products, companies can also strive to get the Queen’s Award for Enterprise and Covec Limited, the parent company of motorcycle clothing brand, Bull-it Jeans, just got theirs and what an honour that is.
The award was given to Covec and Bull-it as a recognition for their success in exporting their products all over the world despite facing some tough competitions in the market for protective motorcycle clothing. Outside of the UK, you can find Bull-it Jeans in 14 other countries across Europe, North America, and more.
Their products have been getting huge demands thanks to their revolutionary textile embedded with ‘inflexible liquid crystal polymer’ that offers ‘abrasion resistance, moisture regain qualities and low thermal conductivity, all whilst enhancing the strength of the material.’ While Bull-it Jeans are made especially for riders, parent company Covec also caters to other markets from sportswear to military clothing.
Bull-it Jeans are also tied with a lot of big names in the industry such as Triumph Motorcycles, Rokker of Switzerland, KLIM USA, RevZilla, IXS, and The Bike Shed Motorcycle Club. Despite facing several major hurdles in the last few years, they have been grinding non-stop to build their brand and business to the point where they have successfully achieved the Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
Bull-it Jeans offer a wide range of casual-looking jeans that offer protection for fellow riders. Various designs and cuttings for both men and women can be found on their official website, www.bull-it.com, and they definitely look great for daily riding. Check out their range and up your daily riding gear!
The Differences Between Motorcycle Helmets and Car Helmets
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/upgraded-2022-modenas-dominar-d400-coming-in-june/ | Upgraded 2022 Modenas Dominar D400 coming in June? |
Upgraded 2022 Modenas Dominar D400 reportedly set for local introduction middle of this year.
Upgraded 2022 Modenas Dominar D400 set for local introduction, reportedly in June
It will get new features to enhance touring abilities plus a USB charging port.
Mechanically, it remains unchanged from current form.
Expect revision towards RM13,997 base price figure.
Word has it that an upgraded 2022 Modenas Dominar D400 model is poised for local introduction towards middle of this year, likely in June.
Though positioned as a ‘sport tourer’ in its current and recently revised 2021 model year form, the upgrades this 2022 model year version offers will further reinforce this image. Highlights include a taller windscreen, a pair of handguards, inclusion of a USB charging port, an engine bash plate, as well as a luggage rack and backrest setup.
Apart from that, the 2022 Modenas Dominar D400 will retain much of the mechanical specs as seen in its current form. At the heart of things is a liquid-cooled 373cc DOHC single-cylinder developing 40HP and 35NM.
Other bits reportedly unchanged in the 2022 model is its 13-litre fuel tank, single-disc brake setup front and aft, 43mm front forks and Nitrox pre-load adjustable rear monoshock suspension, as well as the novel dual-dash displays.
Upgraded with the aforementioned key new features, we can also see a slight change in price – the current Dominar D400 carries a base sticker price of RM13,997. We can likely expect a hike, perhaps a slight one, given the new features added.
What’s certain is that the upgraded Modenas Dominar D400 will still stand as an affordable offering in the rapidly growing local entry level and middleweight sport tourer segment.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hong-leong-yamaha-motor-launches-2019-extended-warranty-program/ | Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Launches 2019 Extended Warranty Program |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM”) rolled out a new Extended Warranty program for Yamaha motorcycle owners in Malaysia.
The program covers two years and up to 20,000km, whichever comes first.
The program is only applicable to new bikes registered from 1st July 2019.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM”) rolled out a new Extended Warranty program for Yamaha motorcycle owners in Malaysia, allowing them to enjoy better product value and longer protection terms for their motorcycles.
Yamaha owners are now covered for an additional year, over and above the existing one-year manufacturer warranty that comes with the purchase of a new Yamaha motorcycle. The new Extended Warranty program entitles Yamaha owners to two years coverage or up to 20,000km, whichever is to come first.
The specified coverage is applicable only for motorcycles registered on or after 1st July 2019, and includes all Yamaha models produced by HLYM Malaysia.
“With this new feature, HLYM looks forward to increase consumer confidence, as well as Yamaha’s competitiveness within the Malaysian automotive industry which would help bring a positive push to the industry as a whole,” said Dato’ Jim Khor, Managing Director of HLYM.
Please refer to the table below for the scope of warranty.
Scope of Extended Warranty-ENGLISH
HLYM has also imposed a pre-delivery checklist for the benefit of customers upon receiving their new motorcycles. Verification is undertaken by authorized dealers to ensure all motorcycles are delivered in its best condition, towards further enhancement of customer satisfaction.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/launch-wmoto-es250i-maxi-scooter-from-rm13888/ | Launched: WMoto ES250i maxi-scooter – From RM13,888 |
MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd debuts new Keeway-based WMoto ES250i quarter-litre maxi-scooter locally, priced from RM13,888.
WMoto ES250i is the latest entry into booming quarter-litre maxi-scooter segment.
244cc liquid-cooled SOHC single is good for 21HP and 21NM.
Extensive kit list includes dual-channel ABS, TPMS, full-LED lighting, and more.
Available through authorised dealers now with attractive base price of RM13,888.
Homegrown motorcycle brand WMoto launched its latest offering earlier today called the WMoto ES250i. Its arrival sees assemblers and distributors MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd poised for a slice of the pie in the booming quarter-litre maxi-scooter segment.
On the surface, the Keeway-based WMoto ES250i boasts edgy and somewhat premium styling, bolstered by the presence of full-LED lighting front and aft, snazzy 13-inch alloy wheels, as well as a tasty blacked-out flyscreen amongst its key traits.
In terms of size, it does lean more on the compact side of things – it’s a tad smaller than key rivals (read: Modenas Elegan 250, Yamaha X-Max 250.). But that’s not bad news entirely considering the styling, peppy powertrain and extensive list of kit it boasts.
Under its skin, the WMoto ES250i employs a liquid-cooled 244cc SOHC single that thumps out a decent 21HP and 21NM of twist to drive the rear wheel via twist-and-go CVT belt-drive – typical of such scooters.
Tipping the scale at a claimed 147kg, the powertrain proved peppy indeed when we took it for a quick spin around the block during its pre-launch press preview earlier today. This is also were a number of its key hardware shined, namely its suzzies and anchors.
Surely, the presence of dual-channel ABS will be a key draw towards the WMoto ES250i, as are its adjustable front forks and twin rear shocks – both supplied by KYB. Furthermore, the presence of a sizeable 12-litre tank ought to promise decent range as well.
Other key bits present include smart keyless ignition featuring a keyfob design akin to that of a certain German sportscar brand. Said fob even has a bike locator feature primed – nifty for when you park it in crowded parking lots.
Besides that, other notable standard features present consists of a USB port in the left-side of the centre dash, a neat hybrid digital-analogue instrument display panel featuring a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), not forgetting a decently sized under-seat bin capable of storing an open-face lid.
Offered in three snazzy colourway choices, the WMoto ES250i is now available through authorised dealers nationwide with a very attractive, near-bargain price RM13,888 – base price excluding on-road costs (insurance, registration, etc) and accessories.
Given the style, performance and features it packs for the price, this somewhat left-field quarter-litre maxi is poised to give its aforementioned rivals something to sweat about…
2022 WMoto ES250i Specs
Gallery: WMoto ES250i launch
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bikers-gallery-sdn-bhd-alor-setar-launches-first-kawasaki-ninja-shop-northern-malaysia/ | Bikers Gallery Sdn Bhd (Alor Setar) launches First Kawasaki Ninja Shop in Northern Malaysia |
The first ever Kawasaki Ninja Shop in Northern Malaysia was launched earlier today by Bikers Gallery Sdn Bhd.
Located in Alor Setar, Kedah, the Kawasaki Ninja Shop is also one of the largest in Malaysia covering over 33,000 square feet of space for the bike display area and Kawasaki Exclusive Service Center (KESC).
The Kawasaki Ninja Shop is a concept store dedicated to the Kawasaki brand which covers motorcycles, riding gears, merchandise and many more to suit all types of riders in the country.
Bikers Gallery Sdn. Bhd. located at Jalan Raja, Alor Setar, Kedah has become successfully launched the first ever Kawasaki Ninja Shop in Northern Malaysia. The Ninja Shop was officiated by Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Diraja Ahmad Bashah Md. Hanipah together with En. Ahmad Faez Tan Sri Yahaya (Executive Chairman of Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.), Mr. Hee Sze May (Director & Owner of Bikers Gallery Sdn. Bhd.), Mr. Wee Hong (Chairman of Malaysia Motorcycle and Scooters Dealers Association) and Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Jeffrey Lim (General Manager & Director of Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.).
What makes this particular Kawasaki Ninja Shop special? Apart from being the first Ninja Shop to open its doors in Northern Malaysia, it is also one of the biggest covering a massive 33,000 square feet which includes the display area and also the Kawasaki Exclusive Service Center (KESC).
Those who are unfamiliar with the Kawasaki Ninja Shop, it is actually a concept stop dedicated solely to the Kawasaki brand and all its offerings. Whatever you desire from the Kawasaki, you can be sure that the Ninja Shop will have something to suit your motorcycling desires from Sport, Super Sport, Scrambler, Touring and other categories.
The people of Alor Setar and nearby areas can now visit the Kawasaki Ninja Shop to have a look at all of their bikes and merchandise including all of their 2017 line up; Kawasaki Z650 ABS, Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS, Kawasaki Z900 ABS and Kawasaki Versys – X 250 . Already own their bikes? They also have a lot of official Kawasaki riding gears and merchandise to go along with that wonderful motorcycle of yours.
The service area is taken care of by trained personnel from the Kawasaki Exclusive Service Center (KESC) with the sole purpose of taking care of all Kawasaki bikes to ensure optimum performance every time a bike is sent in for servicing. There’s even a comfortable waiting area for bikers to hang out while waiting for their bikes.
To further support Bikers Gallery’s Ninja Shop and Kawasaki Exclusive Service Center (KESC) opening in Alor Setar, Kedah a convoy of Kawasaki CKD Ride 2017 which consist of about 100 Kawasaki bikers led by Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Jeffrey Lim himself attended the grand opening.
So if you’re nearby, don’t forget to stop by the new Kawasaki Ninja Shop located No. 380, Jalan Raya, 05000, Alor Setar, Kedah for great Kawasaki discounts and offers and we’re positive that they extend their great services to ensure the good times keep rolling with Kawasaki.
Interested to own your very own Kawasaki bike? CLICK HERE to check out all of the available models here in Malaysia via or Bike Buyer’s Guide!
Photo source: Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia)
Biker’s Gallery Kawasaki Ninja Shop Grand Opening Gallery
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-race-ready-2021-honda-msx125-grom-hrc-is-awesome/ | This race-ready 2021 Honda MSX125 Grom HRC is awesome! |
Honda just unveiled the 2021 Honda MSX125 Grom and like previous models, they’ve also unveiled a race-prepped model thanks to the folks from HRC. It might be an unusual proposal, but this 2021 Honda MSX125 Grom HRC race bike is simply one of the coolest looking things we’ve seen this year.
This is not just a bike that looks like it’s ready for some track-day fun. This is in fact, a race-prepped machine is kitted with all the fixings for next year’s HRC Grom Cup which will be held throughout Japan in 2021. And you can actually buy the race bike that they’ll be using next year.
The HRC kit for the 2021 Honda MSX125 Grom consists of a race cowl, muffler, and other race parts together with that signature HRC tri-colour scheme we all love (don’t deny this, it definitely looks awesome). Since it’s also a race bike, you won’t be able to ride it legally on the streets.
Internally, we’re still not sure if HRC has worked its magic on the 125cc single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine but the stock unit on the road-going machine puts out 9.6hp at 7,250rpm and 10.5Nm of torque at 5,500rpm. What’s also new is that it comes with a five-speed manual gearbox. SWEET.
2021 Honda MSX125 Grom launched in Europe
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/so-what-is-next-for-aprilia-in-malaysia/ | So what is next for Aprilia in Malaysia? |
Piaggio Group and Naza Premira recently announced that the companies have amicably decided to stop the distribution of Aprilia in Malaysia. Read about it here.
The next day, the Piaggio Group announced the appointment of a new company that will take on the distributorship of Aprilia. Read the full statement here.
The new company is Didi Resources Sdn Bhd, the distributor of Moto Guzzi and Harley-Davidson.
We caught up with the team at Didi Resources to find out their plans for Aprilia in Malaysia.
So as soon as it was announced that Naza and Piaggio had amicably agreed to cease the distribution of the Aprilia brand in Malaysia, we got in touch with the new company in charge of the Italian brand for Malaysia – Didi Resources Sdn Bhd (DRSB).
Some of you may remember DRSB as the company that has been handling the other brand under the Piaggio Group – Moto Guzzi.
DRSB took on the custodianship of the Moto Guzzi brand last year and has since done a stellar job. Moto Guzzi has been selling spectacularly well and the introduction of a number of new models, including the recent introduction of the gorgeous V7 III Carbon (you can read about it here), has given fans and potential owners a diverse choice of models, with at least three more models due to be introduced this year.
Not only that, but DRSB has proven that it does not only know how to sell bikes, but it also knows how to offer a great ownership experience through great after sales service with a dedicated workshop and specially trained technicians. The workshop is equipped with state-of-the-art Piaggio Advanced Diagnostics System and all of its technicians are trained to use the computer and its software, which is required to maintain all of the models under the Piaggio umbrella, Aprilia included.
Besides that, the team at DRSB has also been actively engaging its owners through specially organised rides such as a recent weekend ride to Melaka (you can watch the video here), and the first ever night ride to Penang for Sahur during the recent month of Ramadan.
So when it comes to selling, maintaining and taking care of its owners, DRSB has been impressive. But that is not entirely surprising, the company consists of some of the most experienced people in the industry. Helming the company is Mr Rewi Hamid Bugo (above), a successful businessman with diverse interests who serves as the Chairman of DRSB. The General Manager is Juan Chow Wee (below, left), whose experience includes managing the Ducati brand in its early years, and who has previously worked on the Aprilia brand before. And then there is the ever popular Idon Pang (below, right) who serves as the head of after sales for DRSB. He has also previously served as the head of after sales for Aprilia and other brands, so is perfectly placed to manage such an iconic brand.
I managed to catch Juan for a chat after the announcement was made that DRSB will take on the distributorship of Aprilia, and it was clear that there is huge excitement in the company for the Aprilia brand.
“We want to first assure all Aprilia owners everywhere in Malaysia that we are here to take care of them and to serve their ownership needs. It does not matter where they bought the bikes from, as long as it is an Aprilia, they can come to us,” said Juan Chow Wee.
The new distributor says it is committed to honoring all warranties for all new bikes sold, it will also offer servicing packages and will stock up on spare parts for Aprilia bikes. Besides that, it wants to make Aprilia more competitive in the market and so there will be a price adjustment that will make the brand more enticing to a wider demographic.
“We do not only want to sell Aprilia bikes, but we want to offer new and current Aprilia owners the full extent of the Aprilia lifestyle, which means we will be activating a number of events for owners including track days and even weekend rides. We want to be able to engage owners in a way they have never been before,” added Juan.
So what can Aprilia owners expect from the new custodian of the brand? Well the new flagship showroom will open at The Gasket Alley by November this year, so owners have a place to hang out. The official service centre too will be located at The Gasket Alley, and the company expects to be fully stocked with parts by September.
As for owners who live in other states, DRSB says that it will evaluate the dealership network and either retain current dealerships that show a genuine interest in growing the Aprilia brand, or it will let go some and sign on more promising dealerships that can better serve the needs of Aprilia owners all over the country.
Juan explained, “owning an Aprilia is not just about owning a great bike, but it also gives access to an exclusive lifestyle. Our dealers should be able to offer all their customers access to a great ownership experience.”
“We want to reactivate the Aprilia community, we want to engage them and offer them fantastic ownership experience through a fully stocked workshop, monthly events and we want to take a brand that has been flying under the radar for too long to greater heights. We are committed to taking back the glory of Aprilia to its true value.”
The company has plans to offer all-new models after the launch of its service centre and flagship showroom. And judging by its success with Moto Guzzi, we are actually quite excited about the growth of the Aprilia brand in Malaysia.
More to come.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/learn-ride-bmw-riding-clinics-auto-bavaria-glenmarie/ | Learn to ride with BMW: Riding Clinics by Auto Bavaria Glenmarie |
Official distributor of BMW cars and Motorrad motorcycles, Auto Bavaria of Glenmarie is hosting an interesting few days of great deals, and safety riding clinics for bikers.
The event is being held from Friday, 16th of Jan till Sunday, 18th of Jan at Car Park B of the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. It starts from 9am and goes on till 9pm.
Visitors can expect to view and test drive the latest range of BMW cars, but while all that is well and good, it is of no interest to us.
What is interesting though is that there is a special marquee for BMW Motorrad bikes, the entire Malaysian range is on display. And you get to ride them too! Well, not all of them but who’s complaining?
However you must register your interest earlier, but you could however head over to the location after 4pm, where you can be a walk in guest and, depending on whether or not there are slots available, be given a bike to ride.
We did it, and it was awesome!
We were part of the first batch of riders, and not only got to experience the dynamics and agility of BMW bikes – the S1000R and R1200RT to be specific – but also brushed up on our riding skills.
The organiser, Auto Bavaria Glenmarie organised a safety riding clinic with KK Wong, an advanced driver and rider trained by the boys of BMW AG at the firms own advanced driving clinics.
The 2 hour session involves a group of 8 riders going out together to a specially laid out course. It all begins with a warming up session where you get to do some exercises to get familiarised with the bike. This involves standing up on the bike, riding with one leg or hand, and all kinds of things that show you that you can trust the bike you are riding.
Next up is emergency braking, which was particularly insightful. This exercise involved listening to the instructors advise, watching him do it and then doing it by yourself. You basically had to ride up to speeds of either 30, 50 or 60km/h, and then jammed the brakes. You first work with the rear brakes, then the front and then both brakes to better understand how long it takes you to come to a complete stop. Bike stability was never an issue no matter which brakes you used.
And then after that was a section called the Slow Straight. This is where a line of cones are lined up straight for about 50 metres, and you have to ride the bike through that as slow as you can. Crawling was more like it. This was basically to improve your balance on the bike, and to understand the weight distribution of the bike. Apparently some riders can take up till 35 seconds to finish the course, which is unbelievable because it really is tough to keep the bike upright while riding at about 8km/h. Yours truly probably did it in 5 seconds.
After that was the slow slalom, which was even more treacherous because now not only did you have to ride really slow, but you had to ride through a bunch of cones that were placed so tight, even a cyclists would find it tough. But the bikes did it with ease. It looked really hard, and doing it for the first and second time was tough too. But then you learn to understand the basics which is to just look at where you want to go instead of where you are heading, in this case, the cone ahead of the cone that is coming towards you. Complicated I know, but it’s easier done that said. Trust me.
Then came something called the ‘steering lock drills’, this is where you need to ride the bike in a really tight circle. Quite simple because you just need to balance the throttle and the brake, but takes some getting used to. I was personally riding the RT, which can feel quite heavy at low speeds, but it is also known to have a perfect centre of gravity. So riding in ever tightening circles was actually quite easy, considering the heft of the bike.
The final session was possibly the easiest, and that is learning the four basic riding style – the Push Method, In Line, Hang Off and Spiegel Method. We got to practise each style by riding in a wide circle around a pre set set of cones.
The Push Method is where you have to push the bike into a corner, dirt bike or motard style. This riding style apparently is one of the best because it gives you full control of the bike, especially in emergencies.
Then there is the In Line method where you just stay on the bike and lean with the bike. This is an easy method too, but is not as comfortable.
The Hang Off method is something we are all familiar with, this is where half your body or butt cheek is hanging off the bike. Great if you are riding on a circuit, not good at all if you are riding on the road. Why? Well who is going to control the bike if half of your body is already hanging off it?
The Spiegel Method is interesting and is something I have never heard of before. But apparently it is named after a professor who is also a biker who just happened to find the best way to ride after studying over 500 bikers. Yup it is true, it is the most comfortable, and the most confidence inspiring, all of us were actually riding faster than all other styles and stayed in full control.
For the Spiegel Method, you basically just push your knee that is facing the corner inwards so as not to fully lean off the bike, but just a bit while still keeping your body on the bike and your foot firmly on the peg. It works.
That marked the end of the practise, and of course, food and drinks were served.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/and-the-legend-is-reborn-honda-africa-twin/ | And the legend is reborn – Honda Africa Twin |
After months of waiting Honda finally released two pictures of what they call the new Africa Twin with some details to follow.
The bike company showcased the ‘True Adventure’ concept bike at the Milan show in November last year, which looked production ready but offered little in detail about the new model or when it would be out for sale.
Heres what Honda said in their release –
Honda is delighted to announce the return of one of motorcycling’s most celebrated and evocative names – the Africa Twin. Having clearly shown the direction of its development and intent with the reveal of the True Adventure prototype at EICMA in November 2014, Honda can now confirm that the all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin will be in dealers across Europe in late 2015.
Some motorcycles encapsulate perfectly what an adventure motorcycle is all about. The original XRV650 Africa Twin – which debuted in 1988, after the first 3 out of 4 consecutive wins at the Paris-Dakar* – was one such machine. Its go-anywhere ability, rugged durability, easy-handling agility and all-day comfort made it the perfect partner with which to explore.
And it helped to define a motorcycling segment that has now grown into one of the most popular worldwide.
The new Africa Twin remains true to all the attributes and abilities of the XRV650 and its successor the XRV750, while adding the benefits of everything Honda has learnt on and off-road over the last decade, including Team HRC’s return to the Dakar in 2013**.
Furthermore, in a first for the category, the Africa Twin will feature the option of a new evolution of Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) *** technology, which remains unique to Honda in motorcycling.
This latest evolution of DCT has been specifically developed and programmed to provide the off-road ability with which the Africa Twin is synonymous.
The all-new CRF1000L Africa Twin is set to redefine expectations of just what a large-capacity adventure motorcycle can and should be capable of, both on and off-road, and opens an entirely new chapter in Honda’s illustrious history of dual-purpose motorcycles made for true adventure.
The NXR750V, a full HRC race machine, faced stiff competition in the gruelling Paris-Dakar through the late 1980s but won out in 1986 and 1987 in the hands of Cyril Neveu, in ’88 with Edi Orioli and finally in ’89 piloted by Gilles Lalay.
The road-going XRV650 Africa Twin was produced between 1988-9 by HRC in tribute to their efforts, and laid the foundation of what would become a legendary machine.
In late 1989 the XRV750 Africa Twin was launched and quickly became an adventure touring benchmark.
It featured a 742cc, 6-valve liquid-cooled V-twin engine (producing 45kW power and 62.7Nm torque), long travel suspension and large fuel tank, chain final drive, 21-inch front wheel (widening off-road tyre choice) and dual front disc brakes.
Revised twice and in production until 2003 it remains a sought-after machine today, with good examples commanding premium prices.
After a 24-year absence, Honda returned to the Dakar in 2013 with Team HRC. For that edition of the race (now run in South America) they developed the CRF450 RALLY – a motorcycle based around the enduro-spec. single-cylinder CRF450X and entered three riders; Team HRC reached their primary target of all machines reaching the finish line.
In 2014, with a completely new CRF450 RALLY, Team HRC brought a 5-man squad to the event; Spaniard Joan Barreda went on to take five stage wins.
2015 saw Team HRC come even closer to their ultimate goal, with Portugal’s Paolo Goncalves finishing runner-up in Buenos Aires.
Team HRC scored the greatest number of stage victories and Joan Barreda proved an unyielding leader throughout the first week of the rally, collecting more stage wins than any other rider in the Dakar 2015.
Laia Sanz, in ninth, surpassed all of her own objectives and made history by finishing higher than any other female in the history of the Dakar.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-t7-concept-adventure-bike-finally-going-production/ | Is the Yamaha T7 Concept adventure bike finally going into production? |
The latest teaser video posted by Yamaha Motors Europe entitled “Your adventure awaits” has got everyone excited with rumours that the Yamaha T7 Concept will go into production.
Introduced last year during the EICMA Milan show, the T7 Concept gained a lot of attention and praise with its futuristic yet rugged lines ready to conquer any terrain.
The fully-function concept bike has made a few appearances but on 6 September 2017, it might make its official appearance as Yamaha’s latest production middleweight dual-sport bike.
The world was super excited when Yamaha launched the futuristic T7 Concept last November during the EICMA show in Milan, Italy. Looks like the chance of the Yamaha T7 remaining a concept is slowly dissipating with the manufacturer’s latest teaser video for a brand new adventure two-wheeler.
The Yamaha Motors Europe-produced video entitled “Your adventure awaits” which has already made its way around many social media platforms such as Youtube points to the T7 Concept bike as there were no other new adventure bikes introduced during EICMA Show in Milan.
The middleweight dual-sport bike is said to be heavily-inspired by the brand’s MT-07 street bike which has gone through a major evolutionary process with futuristic designs plus rugged styling elements. The combination has proven to be very successful in the public’s eye.
With a look that’s already buff enough to take on rallies like Dakar with ease, the Yamaha T7 is powered by the same 689cc, twin-cylinder engine platform as the MT-07 but we’re confident that it’ll be tuned to be more aggressive in order to conquer multiple terrains.
Other interesting features include an all-new chassis design, high-tech Kayaba suspension package, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels plus that enticing Akrapovic exhaust which we think fits perfectly with that blue and grey silhouette of the T7.
The only thing we’ll know for sure whether the T7 remains like the beautiful concept or something different is by waiting for the launch on 6 September 2017. We were very impressed during EICMA 2016 and come 6 September 2017, we’re confident that most of us will be blown away.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
To know more about Yamaha during last year’s EICMA show in Milan, CLICK HERE!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hi-rev-racing-kicks-off-2017-style/ | Hi-Rev Racing kicks off 2017 in style |
Hi-Rev Racing set for another year of competition in Cub Prix and ARRC.
Leading homegrown lubricants brand Hi-Rev has kicked off its 2017 in style after officially launching its two racing teams for the Malaysian Cub Prix and Asian Road Racing Championship (ARRC) series.
The Hi-Rev Racing teams’ livery for 2017 were recently unveiled during the firm’s annual Chinese New Year gathering held last weekend in Petaling Jaya. The race machines for both series were unveiled during this swanky soiree.
Hi-Rev is no stranger in both series, having competed and won numerous titles in them for many years now. Like the years before, Hi-Rev Racing aims to use motorsports as a platform to both share and enhance its technologies and products’ performance even further.
With that, customers can also expect more motorsport-inspired activities throughout 2017 thanks to Hi-Rev Racing’s competition efforts in both the local and regional stage. Locally, the brand has already partnered up with veteran Soong Chee Kieong and his SCK Racing outfit in the local Cub Prix series.
You can stay up to date with Hi-Rev Racing online via Hi-Rev Junction’s official Facebook page. You can also visit the Hi-Rev Junction E-store to know more about Hi-Rev’s current range of products produced using strict manufacturing standards certified under ISO9001:2008 Quality Management System.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/harley-davidson-of-johor-bahru-officially-launched/ | Harley-Davidson of Johor Bahru officially launched |
Naza Prestige Bikes Sdn Bhd, the authorised Malaysian importer and distributor of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, marked a major milestone when it launched its latest full-fledge 3S centre in Johor Bahru today.
The new Harley Davidson of Johor Bahru 3S centre now stands as a one-stop centre and dedicated hub that will cater to all Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners in the Peninsula’s southern region.
Present during the launch were several top tier executives of the Naza Group led by group executive chairman Datuk Wira SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin. Also present here were Harley-Davidson Asia Emerging Markets’ managing director Peter Mackenzie.
Of course, no major milestone in the soutern state of Johore is complete without the approval of HRH Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, the Sultan of Johore. Sultan Ibrahim was present during a specially organised private launch ceremony and tour held prior to the scheduled press launch later in the afternoon.
The new Harley-Davidson 3S centre is located just next to Ducati Johore in the heart of Johor Bahru along Jalan Dato’ Abdullah Tahir. The two-storey facility measures roughly 470 square meters for each floor. Inside, it houses two state-of-the-art service work bays, a large showroom display area, a Parts & Accessories store, an official Harley-Davidson merchandise and apparels boutique, as well as customer waiting lounges.
The opening of Harley-Davidson of Johor Bahru was aimed at further enhancing the famed American brand’s presence in the peninsula’s southern region. It now joins in the brand’s Malaysian network along with the main Harley-Davidson of Kuala Lumpur flagship store in Petaling Jaya and Harley-Davidson of Penang.
Owners and customers can locate the new Harley-Davidson of Johor Bahru outlet via the following Google Maps link:
Harley-Davidson of Johor Bahru Launch
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto2-hector-barbera-fired-drunk-driving/ | Moto2: Hector Barbera fired for drunk driving |
Current Pons HP40 Racing team rider Hector Barbera has been fired for a drunk driving conviction.
The 31-year-old was found guilty of driving over the limit in Spain last week and was handed a one-year driving ban.
The parting of ways between the ex-MotoGP rider and the Pons HP40 Racing team is effective immediately.
The Pons HP40 Racing Team has issued an official announcement stating that they have parted ways with their current Moto2 rider, Hector Barbera. This is due to the fact that Barbera was convicted with drunk driving earlier this week in Spain.
It was around last week when the ex-MotoGP rider was arrested and found driving over the limit during a night out of town. He was brought to a court in Valencia where he was found guilty of the offense and was slapped with a one-year driving ban.
The former Reale Avintia Racing team rider was dropped from the premier class and with his less than impressive performance in this season’s Moto2, things are certainly not looking great for the 31-year-old Spaniard.
Barbera has issued his own personal statement which can be read below:
“I accept my mistake and accept the consequences. The worst is what has to do with my family, my friends and my partner, but also with my professional career. From the next Grand Prix of Catalonia I will not continue competing with my current structure.”
“Even those that you think is deserved, that can be, you will understand that it is a very hard time for me. The word ‘repentance’ falls short to express what I feel. I have taken my step to Moto2 very seriously, although things are not going well. I am training more than ever and working very hard.”
“I insist once again that I assume the consequences of what has happened. I will not stop fighting even though things are difficult, and this will be the attitude that I will continue to maintain. I apologize to anyone who has been affected by this situation, and I thank those who support me at a time like this.”
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more MotoGP news and updates.
Image source: MotoGP
Check out the 2019 MV Agusta Moto2 race bike
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-aprilia-tuono-v4-1100-factory-more-details-emerge/ | 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory, More Details Emerge |
The 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory has been upgraded.
More details have emerged since its launch last year.
One of the main highlight is the Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active electronic suspension.
Updates to the 2019 Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 Factory was released last year alongside with the 2019 RS4 RR, from which the former is based on.
We’ve covered it before, but more details have emerged since over the upgrades the Tuono V4 1100 received.
Highlights:
The engine produces 175 bhp at 11,000 RPM and 121 Nm of torque.
Wet weight is only 209 kg.
Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active electronic suspension. (More on this.)
Bosch IMU-based traction control and ABS.
Other electronic riding aids include wheelie control, launch control, quickshifter, pit lane speed limiter and get this: Cruise control!
Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active electronic suspension:
The Ösuspension is the latest in electronic suspension evolution. It not only performs the preset duties of semi-active suspensions of the past, but the rider could tune it to achieve different objectives.
The Objective Based Tuning Interface allows you to tune, for example:
Less fork dive when you brake for a corner.
Softer damping in the middle of the corner for more grip.
Harder rear shock when you accelerate out of the corner.
The suspension system’s ECU takes readings from the suspension movement, brakes, throttle and IMU (lean angle, yaw angle) to formulate a solution for the current riding mode. Besides that, it not only works on the suspension, it works on the electronic Öhlins steering damper, too.
The rider can switch the system to manual mode. The suspension will then react accordingly to the present modes – Track, Sport, Road – selected by the rider.
This system was first seen on the Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S.
Unfortunately, the Tuono V4 has always flown under the radar when it comes to naked sportbikes for some reason. That’s a real shame because it offers the raw performance that most bikes have damped out these days. Even the much-vaunted beast – the KTM 1290 Super Duke R – has mellowed, but not the Tuono. And we haven’t started on the V4 soundtrack yet!
This bike is the very essence of why we love bikes in the first place. In other words, that ability to leave everything behind including supercars without needing to sell both your kidneys.
When will it arrive it Malaysia? Soon, hopefully!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/fun-gym-mfg-mx-park/ | Most Fun Gym (MFG) – the MX park for all! |
We take a peek inside the Most Fun Gym (MFG) motocross park in Sungai Penchala.
Motocross riding is a seriously fun affair. Just ask any professional rider and they’ll tell you the same thing. And it seems that the Most Fun Gym motocross park in Sungai Penchala aims to bring that fun closer to all.
Opened sometime last year, Most Fun Gym (or MFG for short) is owned and operated by 63-year-old Oh Kah Beng. If the name sounds familiar to you, Kah Beng is in fact a living legend in the local motorcycle racing scene having raced two-stroke GP bikes back in the day – a story we’ll save for later.
“When I was offered this piece of land by the owners, they told me to turn it into fun place for all. Naturally, knowing that some of the most popular motocross paths are too far away from the city, I saw this unique opportunity,” said Kah Beng as he explained how the idea and concept of MFG got off the ground.
Tucked away up in the green hills of Sungai Penchala (near Damansara and TTDI), the premise is any motocross rider’s dream. The best part? MFG welcomes all walks of life regardless of skill level and age to come and try it out.
In other words, both novices and seasoned riders alike are welcomed here. Here’s what you ought to know about this dirt-busting haven.
The course
MFG features three separate course layous. First comes a short ‘Beginner’ track that’s comprises of a near-flat figure-8 layout. Next comes the slightly longer ‘Intermediate’ layout that features small jumps and banked dirt corners.
Image source: MFG Facebook
Image source: MFG Facebook
The third layout, which is the ‘Advance’ layout, is reserved for those who have passed the first two courses and for highly experienced MX riders. As you can see from the featured video, the jumps here high and will easily sate any avid MX rider’s appetite for some ‘airtime’.
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Sep 2, 2016 at 4:29am PDT
Coaching classes
Novices can sign up for any of the three coaching packages available. First of which here is a basic two-hour trial lesson that costs RM300. Next to it is MFG’s five-hour long plan that’s split into two sessions across two days – one session per day. This is priced at RM600 (price based on KX bikes).
But if you seek the proper and full experience, MFG also offers an eight-session package. Each session lasts for two hours, and this package costing just RM1,600 in its entirety.
Kah Beng himself will conduct the classes. Our junior editor recently had a go with his first trial lesson and, without any doubts, the retired national GP bike champion is one effective coach indeed.
Coaching Package
Duration
Price Per Pax
Trial / Pay n Play
2 Hours
RM300 (KX) / RM350 (YZ125)
Basic
5 Hours
RM600 (KX) / RM700 (YZ125)
Full
16 Hours (2 Hours x8)
RM1,600 (KX) / RM2,000 (YZ125)
Own Bike (With Protective Gears)
2 Hours
RM150
According to Kah Beng, the only pre-requisite here is that participant must know how to ride a bicycle at least. In short, MFG welcomes even the most greenest of novices to sign up for MX riding lessons in its premises.
And just before you think these classes are for newbies or the young only, Kah Beng reminded, “For veteran or experienced riders alike, it is always good to go a ‘refresher’ course once a while, and this is something we can provide as well.”
As far as age in concerned, the park welcomes riders from as young as six years old. Believe or not, MFG recently welcomed a 75-year-old grandmother as one of its newest members, and she’s living proof that you’re never too old to get started with MX riding.
Kah Beng further adds, “Dirt-riding isn’t just fun, it’s the best way to improve your riding skills too. If you can master riding on dirt, then riding on the road or track will be a cinch!”
Gears – rentals and retail
If you’re a true novice with little to no gear at hand, then worry not as MFG will sort these out for. MFG will be able to loan you a helmet plus all the necessary armour comprised of a knee + shin guards and elbow guards as well.
The only requirement here is that all participants must wear long jeans, ankle-high sports shoes and a long-sleeve top made of tee-shirt material. We recommend high-socks to go along with those shoes and perhaps investing in a proper MX dri-fit jersey.
Should you wish to buy your own MX gears instead, then you’d be glad to know that MFG also acts as a retailer for several brands such as Shark helmets and Furygan apparels.
Bike rentals
MX bike rentals are also available here in MFG, with the cost of which being packaged together with the coaching lessons. There’s a variety of vehicles to choose from starting with mini bikes and quad-bikes for kids and beginners.
There’s also mid-sized pit-bikes for intermediate riders, as well as full-sized two- and four-stroke MX bikes available. The latter however is reserved for the highly experienced.
Can I bring my own bike?
For the experienced MX enthusiast with your own bikes and gears, worry not as MFG also offers special track rental rates. For this, MFG charges just RM150 per bike for two hours of track time in total.
“I chose to keep this very affordable so that I can boost the local MX community here. You don’t have to travel so far and, at the same time, you don’t have to spend too much money as well,” explained Kah Beng about these affordable and special rates he devised.
The MX park for all
If you’re an avid MX enthusiast living in the Damansara, TTDI, Petaling Jaya or even Mont Kiara areas, MFG will easily cater to your dirt-busting needs. MFG operates daily from 10am to 6pm.
You’ll need to place your slot bookings in advance, especially for weekend sessions. You can place your bookings by calling Kah Beng direct via mobile: +6012 277 1770. Alternatively, you can also place your bookings by calling the park’s administrator Ms Julisa Neoh via: +6012 207 2516.
NOTE: MFG currently doesn’t have credit card facilities just yet. You’ll need to prepare cash or perform online transfers beforehand with the latter made through Maybank account number 514271051585 (OH KAH BENG).
How do I get to MFG?
If you’re familiar with the Sungai Penchala area, MFG is actually located near the Lotus Cars and Audi Damansara flagship centres. More specifically, it is sited within the City Car Plaza compound – drive uphill upon entering the gated warehouse.
For those unfamiliar with the area, you can refer to the map we’ve attached below. You can reach Kah Beng or Julisa Neoh via the aforementioned hotlines.
Alternatively, you can also stay in touch with MFG through its official Facebook page as well. Don’t forget to check out more images in the gallery we’ve prepared at the end of this post as well.
Most Fun Gym (MFG) – The MX Park For All!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/over-720000-allianz-motorcycle-plus-policies-sold-in-one-year/ | Over 720,000 Allianz Motorcycle Plus policies sold in one year |
If you’re looking for the best motorcycle insurance coverage for bikes below 250cc, one of those policies placed high on the list is the Allianz Motorcycle Plus policy. In essence, this particular policy from Allianz General Insurance Company offers riders with ‘bigger protection at no extra cost’.
Launched just over a year ago in April 2019, the Allianz Motorcycle Plus offers protection to fellow bike owners from damages or losses like accidents, fire, and theft. What makes them different is the fact that they also cover third party deaths as well as bodily injuries under the same policy.
There’s a reason why more than 720,000 policies were issued from May 2019 to May 2020 where bikers can opt between comprehensive coverage or third party only. Both of these offer an Accident Cover up to RM5,000 (for death or permanent disablement) and RM50 daily income for hospital stay (up to 60 days).
According to Horst Habbig, Chief Sales Officer of Allianz General, “What Allianz General offers customers is extra protection at no extra cost because what matters to us is providing protection that will truly make a difference in the lives of Malaysians. After all, if someone has got to look out for the kapcai (underbone) riders – let it be us.”
“Malaysians are very discerning, and they know good value when they see it. While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people think, they are still going to seek security in quality. That makes our jobs as insurers a little easier as we continue to provide affordable products with the best protection and the best coverage that money can buy,” added Habbig.
To know more about Allianz Motorcycle Plus, head over to www.allianz.com.my/motorcycle-plus.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colour-for-2018-honda-africa-twin-matt-ballistic-black-metallic/ | New colour for 2018 Honda Africa Twin – Matt Ballistic Black Metallic! |
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has introduced a brand new colour option for their 2018 Honda Africa Twin.
The new Matt Ballistic Black Metallic showcases a more sleek and stealthy appeal perfect for urban riding.
This new colour option is only available for the standard model which comes in either Manual or DCT transmission from RM69,999 (basic price without SST).
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) is proud to announce a brand new colour variant for their full-size adventure touring machine, the 2018 Honda Africa Twin. The standard model of the Africa Twin is now available in a sleek and stealthy colour option called ‘Matt Ballistic Black Metallic’ and it is kind of reminds of KITT from Knight Rider or the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird (both equally awesome, no argument there).
The new colour which offers a more subtle yet stylish appeal goes hand in hand with the performance of the Africa Twin for those who wishes to ride this baby around town and other urban areas. There’s no doubt that you’ll not look out of place in areas like Bangsar whenever this bad boy roll into town.
Do not be fooled by the new facade as the Africa Twin still packs a 998cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine which churns out a respectable 94hp at 7,500rpm and 99Nm of maximum torque at 6,000rpm. Paired with its sturdy chassis and bodywork, it’ll take you to any place at any given time. All you need is a good set of riding skills and you’re gold.
This new colour option is available for the Standard Honda Africa Twin model which is offered in two different variants; Manual Transmission and DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). As for the Adventure Sports model, the Tricolor option is still available for purchase.
To know more, head over to the nearest Honda Big Wing showroom or check it out online at www.honda-bigwing.com.my.
Honda Monkey Makes a Comeback Priced from RM 13,999
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/win-a-vespa-weekly-with-petronas/ | Win a Vespa weekly with Petronas |
Stand a chance to win yourself a brand new Vespa with Petronas in its latest Mesra Kad ‘Pump and Win’ campaign.
National oil firm Petronas is kicking off the New Year with a bang for its Mesra Kad members. Earlier today, the firm launched its latest ‘Pump and Win’ campaign in one of its key stations located in Ampang, and it is opened exclusively to all of its Mesra Kad holders.
Up for grabs in this campaign are exclusive prizes such as a brand new Mercedes-Benz CLA200 grand prize, eight customised Proton Iriz hatchbacks, as well as 16 classy Piaggio Vespa and 16 nifty JAVA foldable bikes – the latter two meant to entice its two-wheeled consumers. Both the Vespa and foldable bikes will be given out as weekly prizes throughout the campaign period.
*Not actual prize.
Additionally, winners of the Mercedes-Benz CLA200, Proton Iriz and Piaggio Vespa prizes will also receive RM1,000 and RM500 free fuel respectively while 1,600 consolation prize winners will receive 3,000 Mesra points.
The campaign is opened exclusively to all Mesra Kad holders at all participating Petronas stations nationwide. To enter, just spend a minimum of RM40 on Petronas fuels (Primax 97, Primax 95 or Dynamic Diesel) at any Petronas station in a single transaction and swipe your Mesra Kad during payment.
This new Petronas ‘Pump and Win’ campaign will run from Jan 5 until Feb 29. More information as well as contest terms and regulations can be obtained by visiting mymesra.com.my.
(Images courtesy of Petronas Dagangan)
(Vespa image lifted from Vespa Malaysia)
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