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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/where-have-the-600cc-supersport-bikes-gone-part-2/ | Where have the 600cc Supersport Bikes Gone (Part 2)? |
600cc supersport bikes were once developed on par with their bigger counterparts.
It was the most popular class and outsold the bigger bikes.
The class has been in decline but why?
We looked at the genesis of the 600cc supersport models in Part 1, so let’s take a look at more of the groundbreaking models in this part.
As we mentioned earlier, the class became a hotbed for sales across the world as riders sought bikes that are not only cost less to buy, they cost less to insure, too. Besides that, 600cc bikes were getting pretty fast but were still relatively easier to ride than their 750cc and 1100cc counterparts. The category should have seen ongoing developing and good sales, but something happened along the way to cause its decline.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R (1995)
Sure, the ZZ-R600 was fast and handled reasonably well, but there’ no getting away from its sport-touring platform. No one is going to race that and win.
So, Kawasaki chucked out that format and returned to with a sporty 600 in 1995. With a bodywork based on the Ninja ZX-9R, the ZX-6R had ram air intake too, which upped engine power to 101 hp. That made it the first production 600 to go above the “ton.” It went faster too, hitting 262 km/h.
Now the power wars were on.
Suzuki GSX-R600 SRAD (1997)
Suzuki finally got on the ball and released the GSX-R600 a year after the groundbreaking GSX-R750T. The smaller Gixxer was based almost thoroughly on the 750, albeit with a sleeved-down engine, adjustable but conventional telescopic shocks and 4-piston front brake calipers. But it did have Suzuki Ram Air Direct (SRAD).
It was a manic bike on the road, suited to twisty roads that’ll have bigger bike riders holding back on the throttle.
Yamaha YZF-R6 (1999)
The class is going to get even hotter. Yamaha finally fought back with the sublime YZF-R6, a year after launching the YZF-R1. However, the R6 didn’t share any parts with the R1 except for a compact, light and agile concept.
As per the R1, the R6 received a “stacked” transmission. It shortened the engine and provided the bike with a short wheelbase (shorter than the FZR400RR). That allowed engineers to move the fuel tank backwards and consequently the handlebars toward the rider. It was the beginning of mass centralisation.
The manic inline-Four spun to 13,000 RPM and put out 120 hp. Since it was also light, it accelerated faster and had a 265 km/h top speed.
Triumph TT600 (2000)
Triumph decided to get into the middleweight market too, since it was thriving. It was a brave decision since the new Triumph had to contend with what the Japanese had done for many decades.
So, the Hinckley manufacturer gave the TT600 the best components such as an aluminium frame, fuel-injection, forged pistons, fully-adjustable suspension and top-of-the-line Nissin brakes.
It handled really well, as a result but the engine was blighted by spotty fuel injection programming.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R/ZX-636 (2003)
With the everyone in the class now fighting tooth and nail, Kawasaki decided to up the power of their ZX-6R. Not in the conventional term, instead by upping engine capacity to 636cc. This “cheater” engine was for the road, while the manufacturer offered a 600cc machine for racing (like how what Ducati is doing currently with the Panigale V4).
It may have been a 636, but it was as close to an engine tuning gone mad. This is why the engine is a favourite among stunt riders (including one Aaron Twight).
Triumph Daytona 675 (2005)
Triumph wasn’t going to give up and 2005 saw the much-loved Daytona 675. Again, they held nothing back in terms of chassis components but the engine also saw it being changed to a triple. The three-cylinder engine has natural primary and secondary balance, besides having the right amount of torque and top-end horsepower. The 675cc is based on the extra capacity allowance for three-cylinder bikes in racing.
Years of development saw the engine grow to the current 765cc, which also powers the Moto2 grid.
The bike and its later variants were the best-handling 600 supersport. Period.
It had to end…
Suddenly, the 600s were gone. Much of it was due to riders moving on to sport-touring and dual-sport motorcycles. Sportbikes, whether 600cc, 750cc or 1000cc were suddenly spurned as riders seek something more practical to fit a whole variety of uses and roads.
Currently, there are only the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, Suzuki GSX-R600 and Yamaha YZF-R6 soldering on as pure 600cc supersport bikes. However, only Kawasaki and Yamaha are really pushing the development on their bikes. Hang on, though, Aprilia is about to launch their RS660.
There are bikes in the 600cc class at the moment, such as the Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650 but these aren’t true supersport bikes. Still, they’re much more practical at the price of all-out performance.
2019 Honda CBR650R
Will the 600cc supersport class ever see a resurgence? We do hope so.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-release-prices-2018-bmw-g310r-k1600gtl-rm20534-rm110647/ | BMW Motorrad release prices for 2018 BMW G310R and K1600GTL – RM20,534* and RM110,647* |
BMW G 310 R (K03)
BMW Motorrad has released their latest pricing for four of their 2018 models; K1600B Bagger, K1600GT, K1600GTL and the highly-anticipated G310R.
While BMW Motorrad Malaysia has finalized the prices for the K1600B Bagger and K1600GT, we are only seeing the US prices for the K1600GTL and G310R for the very first time.
The 2018 BMW K1600GTL and G310R are priced at $25,595 (around RM110,647) and $4,750 (around RM20,534)*
*Prices stated for the US market after direct conversion without tax, insurance or GST.
BMW Motorrad has finally released the official prices for four of their 2018 models including two models which have not been labelled with any figures before until yesterday. The recommended prices for three of their 2018 models in the US are as follows (note: the prices stated below are of direct conversion without adding tax, insurance or GST):
2018 BMW G310R – $4,750 (RM20,534)
2018 BMW K1600B Bagger – $19,995 (RM86,438)
2018 BMW K1600GTL – $25,595 (RM110,647)
While we know that BMW Motorrad Malaysia has only confirmed the price for their beautiful 2018 BMW K1600GT seen above at RM159,900 (basic price with GST), there are still no news on the other three models for our Malaysian market.
CLICK HERE to know more about the 2018 BMW K1600GT.
CLICK HERE to know more about the 2018 BMW K1600B Bagger.
CLICK HERE to know more about the 2018 BMW G310R.
CLICK HERE to check out BMW Motorrad’s showcase at EICMA 2016 in Milan, Italy.
BMW G310R at it’s debut last year at EICMA, in Milan
So far, there are no updates yet on when the bikes will be available in the Malaysian market or the pricing, we know that the G310R will definitely sell like hot cakes IF they play their cards right by putting a suitable number on it.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/emotional-moto2-win-for-japan-in-qatar/ | Emotional Moto2 win for Japan in Qatar! |
If you’ve watched the first Moto2 race of 2020 last night, you would know that it was a fantastic race with an emotional win for Japan as Tetsuta Nagashima (Red Bull KTM Ajo) from Japan claimed his first-ever win in the MotoGP intermediate class.
Why was it so emotional? 10 years back, his close friend, the late Shoya Tomizawa, won the first-ever Moto2 race at the same track. That very same year, Tomizawa lost his life in the 11th round when a race incident occurred competing at the San Marino Grand Prix. The victory was obviously dedicated to his close friend.
What a way to pay tribute to the late Shoya Tomizawa ❤️
10 years since his famous victory and @tetsuta45 delivers Japan a #Moto2 winner again! ??#Moto2 | #QatarGP ?? pic.twitter.com/vzwSMJ3Z5s
— MotoGP™ (@MotoGP) March 8, 2020
Going back to the race, it seems that the race was in the bag for Luca Marini (SKY Racing Team VR46) as he got off to a flying start against the likes of Joe Roberts, Jorge Martin (Red Bull KTM Ajo), and Enea Bastianini (Italtrans Racing Team). It was like a Moto3 battle as the top riders battled it out for the very first win of the season.
With most riders running the ultra-soft front tyre option, tyre conservation was key in maintaining a good pace throughout the race. Unfortunately for Marini, his tyres just dropped along with his leading position before crashing out at the very last lap.
Lorenzo Baldassarri (FlexBox HP 40) took on the lead with a close battle against Bastianini. What they did not know at the moment was Tetsuta Nagashima was setting back-to-back fastest laps and was catching the front runners. Bear in mind that the 27-year-old Japanese rider started the race back in P14.
While the top 3 riders were busy tripping each other, Nagashima powered on his Triumph-powered KTM machine to the front before taking over the position and leaving them in the dust under the floodlights of the Losail International Circuit. The Japanese crossed the chequered flag in P1 followed by Baldassarri and Bastianini.
Our homeboys, Hafizh Syahrin (Aspar Team) and Kasma Daniel (Onexox TKKR SAG Team) had a tougher time as the former MotoGP rider finished the race in P19 after having late issues with his bike and an unfortunate DNF for Kasma Daniel. The entire Moto3 and Moto2 teams will have quite a rest to recover before their next round in the US this coming April.
Thai govt suspends MotoGP round in Buriram
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/suzuki-plans-develop-heads-display-helmet/ | Suzuki Plans to Develop Heads-Up Display Helmet |
Suzuki's latest patent for a heads-up display (HUD) helmet
Suzuki has plans to develop their very own heads-up display (HUD) helmet for the future of motorcycling
The usual HUD unit will not just display vital information but also relays live video feed of the rear which plans to replace the conventional rear view mirrors
Nuviz Rider POV
Suzuki is currently working on helmet development technology that will enable riders to receive vital information related to their motorcycle or journey via a heads-up display unit. As this is a great potential in the future of motorcycling, more and more major bike manufacturers are getting involved in this high-tech wizardry.
DigiLens System
To most riders, being able to receive vital information on the fly displayed within their helmets sounds incredible. Information such as speed, navigation and even answering phone calls while riding in theory would be much safer as the rider won’t need to stray their vision away from the road to look down at the equipment.
Heads-Up Display vision from BMW Motorrad
Suzuki plans to do all of the above with plans to take it even further by substituting the motorcycle’s side mirrors with a display feeding live images from a rear-mounted camera within the helmet itself. This means that if the system is successful, it’ll be one less thing for the rider to worry about when there’s a need to overtake or switch lanes.
Rear view camera from the Honda 150SS RACER
Now, we all know that there’s a possibility of the rear view video feed to be too overwhelming for the rider especially when they need to concentrate going at highway speeds. The jitters and shakes from the camera can be a major distraction which is why Suzuki came up with another ingenious yet simple solution; by putting the camera on a gimbal that stabilizes images and also extend the rider’s field of vision to greater lengths.
How a gimbal works
There is however a risk of the system not being widely accepted by the masses just yet and other affecting factors. A perfect example would be Skully Helmets who provided such helmets for purchase but later closed its doors due to internal problems and politics.
CLICK HERE to read Skully Helmet’s story.
There are a lot kinks and progress that need to be worked on. Even BMW Motorrad and KTM who have started much earlier are still in the midst of prototyping. From what we can see, the future of motorcycling requires high-tech progress in order for it to thrive which can only be done with futuristic high-tech wizardry such as the HUD display system.
CLICK HERE to know more on BMW’s HUD system.
KTM HUD helmet with Nuviz System
CLICK HERE to read up on KTM’s version of the heads-up display helmet.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/scumbag-thieves-now-stealing-bybre-brakes/ | Scumbag thieves are now stealing ByBre brakes! |
Recent news has shown that thieves are now beginning to steal ByBre brakes.
ByBre is short for ‘By Brembo’ is a brand developed by the major brake manufacturer specifically for small to medium displacement motorcycles.
Bikes like the Modenas Pulsar RS200, Modenas Pulsar NS200, KTM 250 Duke, KTM 390 Duke and many more all use ByBre brakes.
Being a motorcycle owner has its ups and downs. Apart from owning some very lovely machines that make heads turn in excitement, we also have to constantly worry about the physical wellbeing of our beloved motorcycles. This is especially true when it comes to bike thefts.
It’s hard not to think about your beloved bike’s safety & well-being (Image source: MotoGP)
We’ve seen countless cases where a number of motorcycle parts have been stolen but the most popular has to be the brake system. Consisting of calipers, discs, master cylinders and levers, these are probably the number one part scumbag thieves tend to target if they’re not eyeing on stealing the entire bike.
We know for a fact that major brands like Brembo are the most susceptible to thefts and it is both heartbreaking and annoying at the same time considering that insurance companies generally don’t tend to cover this particular aspect. Now, a few cases have come to light where criminals have begun stealing ByBre brakes.
ByBre is actually short for ‘By Brembo’ which is a brand developed by Brembo dedicated for small to medium displacement motorcycles and scooters. In Malaysia, the most popular bikes that use ByBre hardware are the Modenas Pulsar RS200 and NS200 and also some KTM models like the KTM 390 Duke.
Owners of small to medium sized bikes usually don’t have to worry about this since thefts usually occur for more premium brands which can fetch a higher price in the black market. With the fact that more and more people are beginning to understand that ByBre is a brand developed by Brembo, it is just a matter of time before they start gaining more attention (the unwanted kind).
As a side measure to avoid or at least delay any theft attempt, there are several ways on how motorcycle owners can do so such as using specialised caliper bolts or ‘thread lockers’. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic as we soon bring you some ways on how to protect your motorcycle parts from being stolen.
In the mean time, do take countermeasures by parking your bike at well-lit or crowded places. You don’t have to go all paranoid but keeping a close eye on your beloved bikes can probably help to deter some possible theft attempts.
Front ByBre caliper stolen from a Modenas Pulsar RS200. Such a heartbreaking sight…
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-bmw-s-1000-xr-now-available-in-malaysia-rm121500/ | 2020 BMW S 1000 XR now available in Malaysia – RM121,500 |
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has officially listed the 2020 BMW S 1000 XR sport-touring model (or Adventure Sports) for sale here in Malaysia. If you’re looking for a long-distance tourer that also carries some ‘sporty aggressiveness’, the BMW S 1000 XR should be on your watchlist.
In essence, it’s like taking the heart out of BMW S 1000 RR superbike and placing it into a frame that will let you travel further with high levels of comfort. With sharp and aggressive lines flowing from front to back, the new S 1000 XR comes with revised riding ergonomics for smooth riding experience for you and your pillion rider.
Powered by a 999cc inline-four engine, the new S 1000 XR produces 165hp at 11,000rpm and 114Nm of maximum torque at 9,250rpm. All that power is sent to the rear wheel via a six-speed synchromesh gearbox with spur gears plus final chain drive. Top speed? Over 200km/h, obviously. You can view those speeds and more on its beautiful 6.5-inch TFT screen.
The new BMW “Flexi Frame” was adopted from the brand’s superbike range, which helps to cut down some significant weight. New suspension and subframe also help to reduce the overall weight by 9%. In other words, the new 2020 BMW S 1000 XR is a whopping 10kg lighter than the previous model (223kg kerb weight).
Other standard features include:
Full LED lights
Riding Modes Pro (Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro)
Self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch + electrically controlled engine drag torque control (MSR)
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) + DTC Wheelie
Integrated pannier holders
Toll card compartment
storage compartment underneath seat
There are several options for you to further elevate the new S 1000 XR such as:
Main centre stand
Hand protection guard
GPS preparation kit
Cruise Control
Heated grips
Daytime riding light
Dynamic ESA Pro
Gear Shift Assist Pro
Headlight Pro (iconic DRL/ position lights & Adaptive Cornering Lights)
Keyless Ride
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has priced it at RM121,500 (recommended retail price excluding insurance + 3 years warranty & roadside services). Customers can choose between two colour options: Ice Grey and Racing Red.
The BMW R 18 was also previewed for the Malaysian market. For more information, check out the link, below.
Online booking now available for 2020 BMW R 18 First Edition in Malaysia
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2024-bmw-motorrad-international-gs-trophy-to-take-place-in-namibia/ | 2024 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy To Take Place In Namibia |
The 2024 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy is set to take place in Namibia.
Namibia chosen as the official venue of the 2024 BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.
A total of 16 men’s teams and six women’s teams will compete for the ultimate prize.
Namibia also marks the event coming to a full circle, having been held on all continents around the globe after it first started in 2008 – Africa.
The off-road adventure will take GS owners through a remarkable landscape and unique flora and fauna in line with the Spirit of GS.
“After Tunisia, South Africa, Patagonia, Canada, Thailand, Mongolia, New Zealand and most recently Albania, BMW Motorrad was again on the lookout for perfect GS terrain – and found it in the beautiful country of Namibia.
“Countless off-road kilometres with challenging route profiles passing through marvellous landscapes with fascinating flora and fauna once again ensure an exciting GS Trophy,” said Dr Ralf Rodepeter, Head of Brand Management BMW Motorrad.
According to BMW Motorrad, there will be 15 national qualifying events and one international qualifying to take place worldwide.
Each participant is required to perform a series of tasks to secure a spot on one of the 22 national teams, including; a GPS navigation exercise, off-road rides and a technical test.
In addition, the women’s teams that succeed at the national level will win a trip to the international female qualifying round. Six women’s teams will be selected to fly to Namibia with the 16 men’s teams.
The qualifying rounds for the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 are as follows; Brazil, China, Germany, France, Italy, India, Japan, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Columboa, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Mexico, UAE, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, UK and the US.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-dovizioso-extends-championship-battle-final-round-sepang-win/ | MotoGP: Dovizioso extends championship battle to the final round with Sepang win |
The penultimate MotoGP round of 2017 saw a battle in the wet where Ducati duo Andrea Dovizioso and Jorge Lorenzo celebrated a one-two finish.
Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) completed the podium with Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) settled for fourth.
Dovizioso and Marquez will battle it out in the final round in two weeks’ time upon arriving in Valencia.
The final flyaway race saw the things that made the Shell Malaysia MotoGP one of the most interesting rounds in the calendar each year. Just as the Moto2 race ended with a one-two finish from the Red Bull KTM Ajo duo and of course the 2017 Moto2 World Champion Franco Morbidelli, the skies opened up and unleashed a fury of rain. Although it was short, the rain was enough for Race Direction to declare it as a Wet Race.
With a few minutes to go, teams and mechanics scrambled to get the bikes set for the wet. Starting from pole, Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) started from pole with Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) and Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) joining in the front row.
The rider who’s currently leading the 2017 MotoGP championship that is Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team) started from seventh following a rough qualifying session. The race began with Marquez having to battle it out with Valentino Rossi, Maverick Vinales and Jorge Lorenzo who qualified in front of the 24 year old Spaniard.
From the get go, Marquez blasted through the pack and was first to reach Turn 1 before going wide which affected Andrea Dovizioso as well. Johann Zarco and Jorge Lorenzo took the opportunity to jog away from the rest of the pack. Zarco managed to lead the race for quite some time before Lorenzo overtook the Frenchman as his rear soft option tyre started to degrade.
Marquez and Dovizioso managed to claw back up the rankings but it was Dovizioso who managed to ride brilliantly in the wet and passed Zarco and Lorenzo in the final laps of the race.
At the chequered flag, Dovizioso took the victory closely followed by team mate Jorge Lorenzo and this season’s top Independent and Rookie of the Year, Johann Zarco in third. Marquez settled for fourth.
After Marc Marquez, there was a significant gap with the other finishers from Dani Pedrosa (Repsol Honda Team) who crossed the finish line in fifth all the way to Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) who completed the top 10 riders.
As of now, Marquez still leads the championship with 282 points which is 21 points more than Andrea Dovizioso. That’s a considerable gap so even if Dovizioso wins the final race in Valencia, all Marquez has to do is finish in eleventh or higher to seal the deal. Not a difficult thing to do but when it’s racing, anything can happen anywhere at any time.
The final round will head to Valencia in two weeks’ time on 12 November 2017. Will the Spaniard be triumphant in front of his home crowd or will the Italian finally give Ducati another champion after Casey Stoner? Stay tuned to Bikes Republic as we head to the final showdown.
And have you heard that Petronas wants to give some lucky people a year’s worth of engine lubricants? You can be one of those lucky people too by taking part in a simple contest. For more information on the contest, you can visit www.mymesra.com.my/pengejarimpian
Source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/back-from-extinction-erik-buell-racing/ | Back from extinction: Erik Buell Racing |
American exotic superbike maker Erik Buell Racing restarts production following hiatus after announcing bankruptcy.
Its been turbulent 12 months to say the least for the defunct Erik Buell Racing brand. Also known as EBR for short, the brand announced its bankruptcy and ceased its operations back in April last year where it was placed in the receivership process.
However, things are finally looking up for the American manufacturer as reports are trickling in of a revival under its new owners called Liquid Asset Partners (LAP). Under its renamed banner of EBR Motorcycles LLC, sources report that LAP recently restarted production in the brand’s facility located in East Troy, Wisconsin, with the first roll off slated for March 17.
However, the announcement appears to be rather symbolic if anything as it remains unclear as to where these newly produced EBR motorcycles is destined for. Fuelling this is the fact that EBR’s does not have a solid dealership network anymore whilst its former dealers are still plagued with having plenty of old EBR stocks sitting on its floors.
Sources report that the new EBR Motorcycles LLC team promises more news to come over the next few months surrounding pricing, warranties and racing. At the same time, owners LAP are also actively looking for parties interested in investing in the EBR Motorcycles brand. LAP is also reportedly gearing up to sell excess factory assets in an auction slated for March 18th.
Sources: Asphaltandrubber / AutoEvolution
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/german-gp-quartararo-delivers-sachsenring-masterclass-bagnaia-goes-down-again/ | German GP: Quartararo Delivers Sachsenring Masterclass, Bagnaia Goes Down Again |
Fabio Quartararo produced another masterclass display to win the German GP.
It was Quartararo’s third win of the season.
Francesco Bagnaia dramatically crashed out at the early stage of the race.
Bagnaia made a good start after securing the first pole at Sachsenring; however, it wasn’t enough to hold off current MotoGP champion Quartararo.
The Frenchman recorded his third win of the season to secure his championship lead with 172 points ahead of Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro (130 pts) and Johann Zarco (111 pts.)
Fellow Frenchman Zarco took his fourth podium at second-placed, followed by Ducati’s Jack Miller, who, despite being handed a long lap penalty, managed to come in third.
Nevertheless, it was a disastrous day for Ducati teammate, Bagnaia, who, despite starting the race at pole position, went down after just five laps.
It was the Italian fourth DNF this season, thus putting him further behind Quartararo in the championship standings with just 81 pts.
After the race, Bagnaia expressed his disbelief at what had happened.
“I’m trying to replay in my mind what happened, and I cannot explain my crash.
“For sure, if I crashed, it’s because I made a mistake. But in this situation, it’s very difficult to understand why.
“Looking at the data, it’s impossible to understand. I was angry like this because I can’t explain it. I’m very angry because when you crash and you know why it’s your mistake, normally I’m very self-critical.
“But today, the reason why I crashed is something I can’t explain. So it’s more difficult to understand, it’s more difficult to accept,” he said.
Mathematically, Bagnaia now needs to beat Quartararo by an average of over nine points per race to salvage his hopes of challenging the title, a daunting task over the remaining ten rounds.
MotoGP action will be back at the end of the week at the Dutch GP in Assen.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-honda-cbr1000rrw-ready-suzuka/ | 2018 Honda CBR1000RRW ready for Suzuka |
The 2018 Honda CBR1000RRW has been unveiled to compete in this year’s Suzuka 8-Hours endurance race.
The bike will be handled by the HRC full factory team to bring the fight to Yamaha who has been dominating the scene.
Takumi Takahashi together two other Honda riders from MotoGP or WorldSBK will race this baby at the end of July 2018.
As the competition heats up for this year’s Suzuka 8-Hours endurance race, giant Japanese manufacturer Honda has unveiled the 2018 Honda CBR1000RRW with high hopes to conquer the entire field. This bike will be operated by the HRC full factory squad for the very first time in this race series.
With the Yamaha factory team having dominated the race for the past three years now, Honda decided to bring out the big guns in terms of their own HRC factory team, high-level riders and this outstanding piece of machinery.
When it comes to specifications, the 2018 Honda CBR1000RRW is that different from the ones currently used by Leon Camier and Jake Gange in WorldSBK. Some factors have been added to help cope with the endurance racing style.
Things like custom wheel setup for ultrafast tyre swaps, functional lights, modified bodywork, and Magneti Marelli electronics are just some of the additions to ensure that the HRC squad can hopefully stay at the front of the pack.
Other specs include Ohlins suspension package, Nissin brakes, Bridgestone tyres and more complete this factory squad beast. There is still no news on who will race this baby in Suzuka except for Takumi Takahashi who is HRC’s test rider and experienced endurance racer.
The next obvious question is who are the other riders? We won’t be surprised if they’re able to get Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa thrown into the mix.
MotoGP: Johann Zarco to race with Repsol Honda?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shark-skwal-i3-worlds-first-motorcycle-helmet-with-integrated-brake-lights/ | Shark Skwal I3: World’s First Motorcycle Helmet With Integrated Brake Lights |
Shark, the renowned helmet manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest product, the Shark Skwal i3, which is set to become the first-ever production motorcycle helmet with integrated brake lights. The helmet boasts two new patented technologies and is homologated to ECE 22.06 standards.
world’s first helmet with integrated brake lights.
features Shark’s latest ‘Best Fit’ system.
The Skwal i3 utilizes a three-axis accelerometer to detect when braking is occurring, and the helmet-integrated brake light operates accordingly. The brake light flashes three times per second during steady braking and five times per second in hard braking, which enhances visibility for riders and motorists alike.
In addition to the integrated brake lights, the Shark Skwal i3 has white LED lights on the front that improve visibility in traffic. Three modes determine the front lights’ operation, but they do not alter the brake lights’ patterns. The helmet’s battery can be charged via a USB-C cable in just three hours, providing 12 hours of usage. If the helmet is left switched on for 24 hours, it will turn itself off to conserve battery life.
The Shark Skwal i3 is constructed with a Nexan-injected polycarbonate shell, which allows for deformation in extreme heat conditions. It also features a Shark-patented toolless visor removal system, an Optical Class 1 anti-scratch visor with Pinlock 70, an integrated sun visor with anti-scratch and anti-fog properties, and space for 40mm speakers in the helmet’s EPS multi-density padding.
Moreover, the Skwal i3 is the first helmet from Shark to use the brand’s new ‘Best Fit’ system, which follows a campaign of 3D head shape scans. The helmet is available in two shell sizes, XS-XXL, and 13 graphic options. Unfortunately, pricing for the Malaysian market is yet to be available.
The Shark Skwal i3 is a revolutionary helmet that combines advanced technologies, comfort, and safety. Its integrated brake lights provide an additional layer of safety to riders, while the front LED lights enhance visibility, making it an excellent choice for all types of riders. The Skwal i3 is set to hit the market soon and is expected to be a game-changer in the motorcycle helmet industry.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/upcoming-honda-africa-twin-to-feature-front-facing-camera/ | Upcoming Honda Africa Twin To Feature Front-Facing Camera |
New patent drawings from Honda revealed that the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin would soon be equipped with a front-facing camera.
Honda to feature a front-facing camera on the Africa Twin.
The camera will feed the necessary information to the riders.
*image by Motorrad
The camera will monitor the traffic and feed the active rider aids with accurate data.
According to reports by Motorrad, the camera would operate similar to a smartphone camera, which uses sensors rather than a lens.
In addition, Honda also patented a specially-design mount for the camera.
*image by Motorrad
The mount will protect the camera from debris and stones while on the road and also from light sources that could disrupt the camera’s operation.
Interestingly enough, the camera is not fixed in position in the mount but rather suspended to protect the camera from vibrations.
Nevertheless, while the patent showcased the camera being mounted on the Africa Twin, we expect Honda to apply the same features to future models.
(Source: Motorrad)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-ninja-h2-soundtrack-sounded-like-a-forced-induction-engine/ | Kawasaki Ninja H2 soundtrack – Sounded like a forced induction engine |
For the past few days the internet have been abuzz with the rumours that the next Ninja will come with a forced induction engine.
That rumour is now confirmed with Kawasaki releasing a sound clip on youtube of a bike accelerating hard and a chirp similar to a forced induction vehicle would have in between upshifts.
All the rumours are based on Kawasaki’s showcase at the last Tokyo Motor Show where they revealed a concept supercharged inline-four engine.
Unfortunately except for the designation Ninja H2, just like a ninja, things are still clouded in mystery.
Click on the link below and go fuyo!
Ninja H2: Vol.2 Mysterious
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/brake-calipers-stolen-off-thai-bikes-in-malaysia/ | Brake Calipers Stolen Off Thai Bikes in Malaysia |
A group of Thai riders visiting Malaysia had the brake calipers stolen off one of their bikes.
The bikes were in a 5-star hotels’ parking lot.
The theft of brake calipers is a scourge in our country now.
What is this country coming to? We hear about brake caliper thefts almost every single day now, but when it especially stinks when it involves motorcycles from other countries, like to these unfortunate Thai riders.
Information is scant but according to the original poster, the Thais had stopped at the Gurney Hotel in Penang for the night. The woke up to missing brake calipers on their bikes the next morning.
The first bike in the video is a Ducati Multistrada 1200. The Brembo calipers are missing, disconnected at the anchor points and hose’s banjo bolt. Brake fluids has leaked out everywhere.
The next bike is a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure. The calipers were thankfully in place, but the hose was already disconnected. The scum probably didn’t have time to finish his dastardly deed.
We couldn’t for the lives of us describe just how embarrassed we are about this. This wasn’t the first case. A Frenchman who was travelling around the world also lost the brake calipers on his motorcycle.
Are thieves in Malaysia so brazen now that they could steal from 5-star hotel parking lots? And do we have to remind the police that not one single thief has been caught since we posted the tips on securing brake calipers a year ago? Or should street justice prevail but sentencing the thieves to impalement with a KLX250 fork?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-look-2023-mv-agusta-dragster-rr-scs-america/ | FIRST LOOK: 2023 MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America |
MV Agusta, known for its love of special editions and nostalgia, has once again delighted motorcycle enthusiasts with its latest creation, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition.
Unveiled on July 11, 2023, this bike pays homage to the original 750S America introduced by MV Agusta in 1975.
the limited edition motorcycle was inspired by the 1975 MV Agusta 750S America.
While the model name draws inspiration from its predecessor, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition is a distinct machine that showcases the advancements in motorcycle technology over the past five decades.
Powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 12-valve, 798cc triple engine, it boasts impressive performance figures. With a claimed output of 140hp @ 12,300rpm and 87Nm @ 12,800rpm, this bike offers exhilarating power. The engine is coupled with a six-speed transmission featuring MV’s Smart Clutch System (SCS) 3.0, an innovative hydraulically-actuated automatic clutch.
In terms of suspension, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition is equipped with an upside-down Marzocchi fully adjustable front fork with diamond-like coating (DLC) treatment and anodized fork legs.
At the rear, it features a fully adjustable progressive Sachs monoshock unit. Braking power is provided by Brembo components, including a pair of radial four-piston calipers and 320mm floating discs at the front, as well as a single two-piston caliper and 220mm disc at the rear. The bike is equipped with Continental ABS, offering rear wheel lift-up mitigation and cornering functionality.
Sporting 17-inch alloy wheels, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition catches the eye with its carbon fiber cover on the rear wheel, adding a touch of style and solidity. The bike’s striking appearance is further enhanced by its red, white, and blue livery, showcasing a patriotic tribute to America.
The dry weight of the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition is listed at 175kg. For those seeking an even lighter machine, the optional Special Parts full exhaust, intended for track use only, can bring the weight down to 167kg.
With its combination of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, the MV Agusta Dragster RR SCS America Special Edition is set to captivate motorcycle enthusiasts looking for a unique and powerful riding experience.
GALLERY: MV AGUSTA DRAGSTER RR SCS AMERICA
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-triumph-thruxton-tfc-launches-triumph-factory-custom-line-up/ | 2019 Triumph Thruxton TFC Launches Triumph Factory Custom Line-up |
The 2019 Triumph Thruxton TFC breaks cover.
It also kickstarts the Triumph Factory Custom (TFC) range.
The Thruxton TFC is not just a repainted Thruxton R.
Triumph Motorcycles have launched the eye-popping and stunning 2019 Triumph Thruxton TFC. In doing so, Triumph formally launched their Triumph Factory Custom range at the same time.
The Thruxton TFC prototype was spotted undergoing road tests just earlier this month. But here it is, ready to turn heads and melt the toughest moto-hearts like diamonds to ladies.
At the same time, the Triumph Factory Custom creates custom bikes without the owners voiding warranties, having the bike butchered, spaghetti-bowl wiring, and ending up with impractical and unrideable Frankensteins. It means TFC bikes will hold their values, if not appreciate.
Styling highlights
Carbon fibre racing “bubble” cowl, front fender, seat cowl, heel guards and exhaust silencer.
Details included billet top triple clamp, tinted windscreen, leather seat with stitching, billet oil filler cap.
LED headlight and taillight.
Blacked out colour scheme with gold pinstriping. (Remember JPS, anyone?)
Triumph didn’t just take a standard Thruxton R and repaint it, instead, the Thruxton TFC features a whole list of upgrades.
Performance upgrades
Lighter engine components, high compression pistons, revised ports, higher profile cams, Vance & Hines silencer add 9.8 bhp to 105 bhp. Torque is up at 115 Nm.
Weight is dropped to 198 kg with the carbon fibre bodywork, besides the revised engine internals.
Additional weight loss came from the aluminium engine cradle rails, removal of the rear mudguard, and lighter battery.
Handling upgrades
Fully-adjustableÖhlins NIX30 forks, an upgrade from the Showa BFF.
Adjustable Öhlins piggyback rear shocks.
Brembo M4.34 Monobloc brake calipers.
Updated ride modes, traction control and ABS.
Metzeler Racetec RR tyres.
Special package
Only 750 will ever be built. Each bike is individually numbered.
TFC handover pack and certificate signed by CEO Nick Bloor.
Personalised custom build book.
TFC motorcycle cover.
We can’t wait to see the bike when it arrives at Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia! The “standard” Thruxton R is already the best cafe racer we’ve had the pleasure to test, so we can’t imagine how the Thruxton TFC is like!
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-rc213v-s-in-detail/ | Honda RC213V-S in detail |
A closer look at the all-new Honda RC213V-S MotoGP-based street-legal hyperbike.
RC213V-S
It has been a long time coming, but the mighty red-wing H-brand has finally unwrapped its new street-legal hyperbike. And, at first glance, the new Honda RC213V appears to have all the right attributes of a proper hyperbike indeed.
RC213V-S
As previously reported, Honda has made its road-going MotoGP bike available in two forms starting with a ‘basic’ RC213V-S, followed by a more powerful RC213V-S fitted with an optional ‘sport kit’ meant for track use only. Each unit will be built exclusively in Honda’s Kumamoto factory with a reported production pace of one motorcycle per day. Though unconfirmed, we reckon production may be limited between 200 to 300 units only with first deliveries slated towards the end of this year.
RC213V-S
Two colour choices will be offered, one being the ‘tricolor’ scheme seen in the featured images, whilst the other being finished in plain carbon fibre, with both scheme available with carbon fibre fairings as well. Unlike the race bike it is based upon, the road-going RC213V-S has been changed slightly to make it more street-friendly. Amongst these changes include the adoption of coil spring valves instead of pneumatic ones seen in the race bike, followed by the adoption of different gearbox, tires, and brakes, plus a recalibrated maximum steering angle.
RC213V-S
Some items from the race bike are retained though. These include the slipper clutch, the swingarm, the 17-inch Marchesini magnesium wheels, the pressurised Öhlins forks, adjustable footrests and foot controls, and the bulk of the Brembo-supplied braking hardware with steel discs instead of carbon. Also unchanged is the fuel tank’s position being hidden behind the carbon fibre bodywork underneath the rider’s seat.
RC213V-S
The RC213V-S’ electronics will offer a total of five riding modes, which is then matched with a ‘sophisticated’ traction control system. Other notable race-derived features primed in the RC213V-S include engine braking control, a quick-shifter, and an inertial measurement unit (IMU).
RC213V-S
All in all, Honda claims that the RC213V-S tips the scale at 170kg dry, with the optional ‘sport kit’ reducing that further to 165kg. All that mass is propelled by the RC213V-S’ race-derived 999cc DOHC 90° V4 heart primed with Honda’s signature PGM-FI electronic fuel injection system, plus titanium connection rods and sand-cast aluminium crankcase.
RC213V-S
Unfortunately, the mill’s output is regulated depending on which market it enters. For example, American buyers will have to make do with just 101hp and peak torque of 89.4Nm – both generated at 8,000rpm. In other markets that allows, the RC213V-S will offer its full potential of 156.8hp developed at 11,000rpm and peak torque of 102Nm generated at 10,500rpm.
RC213V-S
The optional ‘sports kit’, on the other hand, offers greater power of course. Honda claims that the kit will allow the mill to develop ‘over’ 212hp at its limit of 13,000rpm, and ‘over’ 118Nm of peak torque developed at 10,500rpm. Unfortunately, Honda will reportedly not offer this option for American buyers, whilst buyers in countries where it will be offered will have to likely deal with a voided warranty.
RC213V-S
Presently, Honda is offering the RC213V-S to buyers in its domestic Japanese home market, followed by America, Europe, and Australia. Interested buyers will need to first register their intent via a special site, www.rc213v-s.com. Honda states that customers outside these regions will be issued a special set of instructions sometime next month instead.
RC213V-S
As far as pricing goes, Honda has reportedly open the order books for UK buyers at £137,000, €188,000 for buyers in Germany US$184,000 in America, and ¥21.9 million in its Japanese domestic home market. What this equates to in our currency is roughly between RM690,000 to RM794,000 (based on direct conversions of stated prices by country).
Check out the mega gallery we’ve prepared below. Additionally, here are more details surrounding the new street-legal hyperbike:
Model name
RC213V-S
RC213V-S (with kit)
Overall length (mm)
2100
2100
Overall width (mm)
790
770
Overall height (mm)
1120
1120
Wheelbase (mm)
1465
1465
Minimum ground clearance (mm)
120
120
Seat height (mm)
830
830
Vehicle weight (kg)
170 (dry)
160 (dry)
Maximum number of riders
1 person
1 person
Minimum turning radius (m)
3.7
6.4
Engine type
Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, DOHC 4-valve V4
Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, DOHC 4-valve V4
Total displacement (cm3)
999
999
Bore × Stroke (mm)
81.0 × 48.5
81.0 × 48.5
Compression ratio
13.0
13.0
Maximum output (kW[PS]/rpm)
117[159]/11000
Over 158[215]/13000
Maximum torque (N･m[kgf･m]/rpm)
102[10.4]/10500
Over 118[12.1]/10500
Fuel supply
PGM-FI (Programmed fuel injection system)
PGM-FI (Programmed fuel injection system)
Starter
Self
Self
Ignition
Full transistor, battery ignition
Full transistor, battery ignition
Fuel tank capacity (L)
16.3
16.3
Clutch
Dry multi-plate, coil sring
Dry multi-plate, coil spring
Transmission
Constant mesh, 6-speed return
Constant mesh, 6-speed return
Transmission gear ratio
1st
2.125
2.125
2nd
1.647
1.647
3rd
1.368
1.368
4th
1.217
1.217
5th
1.100
1.100
6th
1.032
1.032
Reduction gear ratio(primary/secondary)
1.933/2.471
1.933/2.353~2.933
Caster angle (degrees)
24.6
【24.6】
Trail (mm)
105
【105】
Tire
Front
120/70ZR17M/C
120/70ZR17M/C
Rear
190/55ZR17M/C
190/55ZR17M/C
Brake
Front
Hydraulic double disc
Hydraulic double disc
Rear
Hydraulic disc
Hydraulic disc
Suspension
Front
Telescopic
Telescopic
Rear
Pro-Link
Pro-Link
Frame
Diamond
Diamond
Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) / www.rc213v-s.com
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/revamped-kawasaki-versys-650-coming-2015/ | Revamped Kawasaki Versys 650 coming in 2015 |
Revamped Kawasaki Versys 650 expected to arrive in 2015.
According to one source, Japanese bike maker Kawasaki is set at revamping its Versys 650 model for 2015. The same source indicates that the new-for-2015 Versys 650 would sport a sharper new look, and perhaps a new chassis as well.
The firm has subtly released most of its 2015-year models that appear unchanged on its website, making it easy to deduce which of its models will likely receive extensive updates for next year. A quick glance revealed that the both the Versys 650 and 1000 versions fall in the latter category.
It is widely believed that the smaller Versys 650 would gain a more modern and sharper looks replacing the current bike’s seemingly awkward rounded looks. Our source reports that the 2015 model would lose its stacked headlights, and perhaps gain a ‘beak’ much like the Ducati Multistrada and Hyperstrada.
We are also likely to see the 2015 Versys 650 incorporating the current ER-6’s frame underneath its new metal. Presently, the Versys 650 is built using the first generation ER-6’s tubular steel spaceframe design that is perhaps a little too dated for today’s standards.
In the powertrain area, there are speculations suggesting that a larger 800cc engine would make its way into the model, allowing it to compete better against the likes of the BMW F800 GS and Triumph Tiger 800. However, this remains to be seen as there are no conforming signs just yet.
What is certain as well are the Versys 650’s similar exterior changes and internal upgrades for 2015 making it way into its larger sibling the Versys 1000. Revamps made to the brand’s Z1000 and Ninja 1000 (Z1000SX) models, which are closely related to the Versys 1000, would be carried across as well. Expect improvements in power delivery, traction management, as well as the suspension units.
Source: Visordown
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shark-nano-big-on-features-big-on-value-for-rm500-only/ | SHARK Nano – Big on Features, Big on Value, for RM500 Only! |
The SHARK Nano is small in size but big on style, features, comfort and value.
The features are as innovative as they are functional.
Going for only RM500!
The SHARK Nano open-faced helmet is designed to be radical and head turning, no matter what bike you wear it on. Intended for “metro” usage, it provides safety, comfort and a distinctive style that are not found on other helmets.
Sometimes wearing just any open-faced helmet wouldn’t cut it in terms of style. And definitely not in terms of safety either. The two factors seem to be at odds with each other, like my ex-wife and I.
That’s why you need the SHARK Nano.
Styling
SHARK Helmets opted for a futuristic styling to allow the helmet to stand apart from the crowd. One look at it and you’d probably think “astronaut” or an “intelligent extraterrestrial being.” No, those thoughts aren’t far out – it’s SHARK’s intention to bring forth those creative thoughts in the Nano.
The Nano also features Johann Zarco’s distinctive sunrise graphics. No one will mistake you for wearing another helmet.
Features
There are several innovative features on the helmet. Chief among them is the air vent at the bottom part of the visor. These little vents form an air intake to demist the visor when you’re riding in the rain. The visor’s bottom lip is shaped like an aerofoil to push air upwards through the intake.
The visor has little “fins” near where they attach to the helmet. SHARK call these “air deflectors.” While small, they actually function to smoothen airflow just before the “sidepods.” Consequently, the helmet is quieter and more stable.
As with most helmets from the brand, there is an integrated drop-down sunvisor. The mechanism is placed in the left sidepod for easy operation.
Comfort
Riding in the city needs an ultra-comfortable helmet. As such, the shell is streamlined to provide a closer fit, resulting in a small and lightweight helmet. As an added advantage, you can store the helmet in a top case or carry bag easily.
The comfort lining is supple and uses bamboo charcoal to fight odours. They are extractable and washable, too. Besides that, the surface feels cooling against the skin.
No worries for eyeglass wearers as there are the SHARK Easy Fit glasses pockets.
Safety
The helmet is (UN) ECE 22.05 standard compliant. That means it went through rigourous testing for protection before being produced.
How much?
The SHARK Nano is specially priced to offer an unbeatable value. You get great features, comfort and safety in a great-looking helmet for only RM 500.
The offer is only available at The Power Store in Kota Damansara for limited units and time only.
POWER STORE
3-G, Street Wing, Persiaran Mahogani
Sunsuria Avenue
Kota Damansara
47810 Petaling Jaya.
Contact Number: +60128003470
PHOTO GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kbs-mam-kapcai-endurance-series-rd-2-sintok-kedah/ | KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance series Rd 2 @ Sintok, Kedah |
The second round of this year’s KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance series concluded on a high note last weekend in Kedah.
The second round was held in the UUM International Go Kart Circuit located on UUM’s campus grounds in Sintok, Kedah. As per local customs, the race weekend started earlier than usual on Friday with practice and qualifying sessions, followed by raceday on saturday. Also making waves in the Sintok round was the second round of the KTM 390 Duke Battle one-make series held as a support event.
More than 60 youths registered to compete the four classes in this round, whilst the Duke Battle saw 15 riders short-listed to battle it out for their spot in the series’ finals.
Winning in the Class 1 category were the Sabah Motorsports Association racing team and its three-strong rider line-up comprised of Mohammad Amier Rossi Bin Amidi, Mohammad Azman Bin Agusman, and Mohd Nur Fahmi Bin Mohd Kamaruden. The trio completed 85 laps in the gruelling two-hour enduro on the 1.246km-long UUM Go Kart Circuit.
Class 2 category honours went to the Berkat Moto team. Comprised of riders Mohd Ikmal Fitri Bin Mohamad and Mohamad Aznil Bin Jaafar, the duo rode their Yamaha to complete a total of 90 laps in the two hour enduro.
Conquering the Class 3 category was team ZM Berkat Motor. The team’s trio of riders, comprised of Muhd Firdaus Bin Zainal, Muhammad Izhanshah, and Muhd Saiful Aiman proved to be the strongest amongst the classes after riding their Honda race machine to complete 94 laps in total, ranking them second overall in the process as well.
Last but not least, the Open Category honours was clinched by team Gababn GCR Motorsports. The team’s riding duo of Yunazri Yusof and Mohd Edzuan Bin Ab. Ghani completed a total of 96 laps in the two hour-long enduro on their Yamaha, ranking themselves first overall as well.
However, the highlight of the weekend has to be the action and drama-packed KTM 390 Duke Battle. The first race held in on Saturday morning saw two entrants crashing out within the first few laps while Race 2 saw one entrant involved in a dramatic crash in the circuit’s Turn 1.
Claiming top honours in both races, as well as a spot in the series’ final round, was rider Vinod Dhanabala Singham who posted a fastest time of 1:07.028 in Race 1 and 1:07.191 in Race 2 held later in the afternoon.
Winning the podium’s second spot in both races was Muhammad Imran Zulkafli. Fondly addressed as “Uztaz”, Imran also earned his spot in the series’ final round scheduled for later this year.
Young rider Nurahmad Fariz Nazreen completed the podium with his two third place finishes in both races. Despite missing out on the chance to compete in the finals, the youngster does take home a trophy, and a prize money worth RM300.
Vinod and Uztaz Imran will join Round 1 winners Wafi Hassan and Mohd Azrald Azmi at the finals.
As the weekend in Sintok, Kedah, concludes, the KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance series will hold its fourth round in Selangor at a still undisclosed location on September 6 and 7. The KTM 390 Duke Battle on the other hand resumes on August 16 and 17 in the Sepang International Circuit.
Check out our extensive gallery of the recently concluded KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance race weekend in Sintok, Kedah in the extensive gallery below.
KBS MAM Kapcai Endurance Series Rd 3 / KTM 390 Duke Battle 2014 Rd 2
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-msx-125-finally-launched-rm11128-94/ | Honda MSX 125 finally launched @ RM11,128.94*! |
Honda MSX 125 mini-moto finally launched in Malaysia at RM11,128.94 (Basic with GST).
We saw this coming for quite some time, and we even saw Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd previewing the bike to local fans throughout the Honda Asian Journey 2016 program. Now, the long-anticipated Honda MSX 125 is finally here in Malaysia!
Also known as the Honda Grom in certain markets, the red wing marque’s cult favourite mini-moto model is finally here in Malaysia officially. Assembler and distributors Boon Siew Honda have set a basic selling price of RM11,128.94 (with GST) for the pint-sized new addition.
Said price includes Boon Siew Honda’s standard offer of a two-year or 20,000km full manufacturer’s warranty as well.
To refresh your memory, the Honda MSX 125 is powered by an air-cooled four-stroke 125cc single-cylinder that thumps out roughly 9.7hp @ 7,000rpm and peak torque of 11Nm @ 5,250rpm. The mill is primed with electronic fuel injection and a four-speed manual transmission.
The powertrain in encased within a traditional backbone chassis design, with the entire bike boasting a light claimed kerb weight of just 104kg too. The chassis is primed with telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock, a 5.7-litre fuel tank, as well as all-round hydraulic disc brakes front and aft.
Besides an electric starter, the Honda MSX 125 also boasts a digital instrument display panel plus a stacked LED headlight design up front, all of which were meant to supplement the compact mini-moto’s stylish design.
The new Honda MSX 125 can be had in either Burning Red or Hyper Yellow paint scheme options. Crucially, Boon Siew Honda have also prepared a catalogue of accessories for owners to customise their MSX 125s with. You can view the full catalogue in the gallery we’ve prepared below.
With the arrival of the Honda MSX 125, Malaysian mini-moto fans are now spoiled for choice in this segment. Earlier this week, rivals Benelli had introduced its TnT 135 model too. Both models are set to give the long-dominant Kawasaki Z125 Pro (Kawasaki KSR 125 replacement) a run for its money indeed.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-asia-celebrates-25th-anniversary-and-launches-new-2019-products/ | GIVI Asia Celebrates 25th Anniversary and Launches New 2019 Products |
GIVI Asia celebrates their 25thAnniversary today and launches the 2019 line-up of products.
The launch was presented to the media and dealers from around Asia.
The company launch 15 new products today and there will be more to come.
GIVI Asia celebrates their 25th Anniversary today and launches the 2019 line-up of products. The launch was held at the Grand Ion D’elemen Hotel in Genting Highlands.
The company also organized a convoy for the Malaysian motorcycle media to kick off the proceedings. The ride began at GIVI Asia’s headquarters and factory in Bukit Beruntung. Foreign dignitaries and dealers were given a tour of the factory, before heading up to Genting Highlands.
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2019 Range of Products
GIVI has always strived hard to provide the best solutions for all riders in every conceivable situation. As such, they boast some 75,000 products of all types. The launch of the 2019 range adds to this massive collection.
Showcased at the launch were hard cases, soft bags, waist bag, waterproof garments and helmets.
Hard cases
Monolock B32N-Advance Bold Top Case. An “upgrade” of the popular B32 Bold, it features a pair of stainless steel rods on top of the lid, an elastic net strung between the rods and a backrest. The 32-litre case and its features caters to riders who tour, but do not want a larger case.
Monolock B32N-Advance Bold
Monolock B270N Top Case. A compact but aerodynamic 27-litre case for riders who want something compact yet stylish. GIVI fitted it to a number of motojournalists’ motorcycles to gain more insight to their use. The lid also has a carbon fibre-like panel to impart a sporty look.
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E23 Monokey Side Case. These new side cases offer 23-litres of storage capacity each, but small enough to be mounted beside scooters, kapchaisand lightweight adventure bikes. The lid has handles on both ends, enabling more items to be tied down on top of the lid. They also feature prismatic reflective strips for extra visibility, hence safety.
G12 Fixed System Centre Case. The G12 centre case replaces the ubiquitous “basket” of kapchais/scooters. It has a 12-litre load capacity hence the rider can store items such as his wallet, phone, etc. It’s secured with a lock and waterproof.
Rider Tech Range
The Rider Tech range consists of soft backpacks, waist bags and saddle bags.
RBP03 Rider Tech Camo Backpack, 15-liters.
RWB05 Rider Tech Camo Waist Bag, 3-litres.
RSB01 Rider Tech Saddle Bag, 15-litres.
Waterproof garments
GIVI is also synonymous with high quality waterproof garments. New products are:
PRS04.AX Prime rainsuit.
CAM01.AH Camouflage rain suit.
CRT01.AX Comfort rain trouser.
HPS M30.1 Cielo Helmet
GIVI adds more colour options to the HPS (Head Protection System) M30.1 Cielo helmet range.
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Mod Ice White.
Mod Black
Slide Titanium.
On hand to brief the assembled media were Mr. On Hai Swee – Managing Direcor of GIVI Asia and Mr. Joseph A. Perucca – Overseas Operational Manager of GIVI Groups.
L-R: Mr. On Hai Swee, Mr. Joseph A. Perucca, Mr. Sam Sharman
A question was brought up if GIVI Asia will open new GIVI Point concept stores in Malaysia. Mr. On answered that the company is currently looking to expand to other states in both West and East Malaysia. He also stated that there are GIVI Specialized dealers currently in place and they serve specific motorcycle types.
On another question regarding GIVI’s sponsorship and involvement in Rimba Raid, Mr. Perucca said that he was surprised at the turnout in the 2018 event. As such, the company will continue their involvement for 2019 and hopefully beyond.
Ms. Anita Yusof, GIVI Asia’s Brand Ambassador was also present at the event to promote her new book, Global Dream Ride (Siri 2).
While the media event ended in the afternoon, Asian dealers descended on the hotel for the official launch in the late evening and through the night.
PHOTO GALLERY
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Monolock B32N-Advance Bold
L-R: Mr. On Hai Swee, Mr. Joseph A. Perucca, Mr. Sam Sharman
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-opens-new-store-in-penang/ | Royal Enfield Opens New Store In Penang |
Royal Enfield, the world’s leading mid-size motorcycle manufacturer, has opened a new store in Penang, Malaysia, to expand its presence in the Asia Pacific region.
The store, located at 1681 G1, Jalan Perusahaan, 13600 Perai, Pulau Pinang, will provide customers in Malaysia with greater accessibility to the brand’s motorcycles, apparel, and accessories.
The Royal Enfield-Penang store is located in the heart of the commercial center and provide easier access for customers in Penang Island, Kedah & Perak. The exclusive store will showcase the brand’s philosophy of “Pure Motorcycling” in every aspect of the ownership experience.
Didi Group, the Malaysian distributor of Royal Enfield, has achieved a 500% growth in bike registrations in 2022 and plans to expand further by opening five pop-up stores and a new official store in Johor Bahru in 2023. The company is also set to launch two new bike models, the Hunter 350 on March 9, 2023, and the Super Meteor 650 tentatively in July 2023.
According to Anuj Dua, Head of Business for Asia Pacific, Royal Enfield is committed to becoming the global leader in the mid-size segment, and the Asia Pacific region is of strategic importance.
The Malaysian market has seen a surge in Royal Enfield riders subscribing to leisure motorcycling and the “Pure Motorcycling” fold. The exclusive brand store and the accessible price points will appeal to motorcycling enthusiasts, he said.
The new Royal Enfield store in Penang, Malaysia, is expected to provide customers with a complete range of motorcycles, services, and Genuine motorcycle accessories under one roof.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ktm-1290-super-duke-r-based-tourer-coming/ | KTM 1290 Super Duke R-based tourer coming |
New KTM 1290 Super Duke R-based touring bike coming very soon.
Austrian brand KTM have been spotted testing prototypes of what is believed to be a new touring bike based on the manic KTM 1290 Super Duke R super-naked (pictured).
Dubbed as the ‘Super Duke GT’ by sources, the prototypes have been spotted recently undergoing road tests in Spain. Sources report that the prototype has likely retained the Super Duke R’s basic chassis architecture, with its subframe strengthened further in order to support luggage and house a larger pillion seat.
Other changes reported include a slight revision in rider ergonomics, with a more upright riding position thanks to a raised handlebar position. Other reports suggest that this new ‘GT’ model will likely retain the base bike’s 180hp 1,301cc V-twin heart, as well as several other componentry such as the wheels, brakes, and front forks.
The final production version will likely succeed the brand’s 990 SMT, which was developed based on the discontinued 990 Supermoto model. KTM is expected to reveal this new ‘Super Duke GT’ sometime later this year during autumn.
Source: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown ( Link 1 / Link 2 )
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aragon-gp-bagnaia-claim-maiden-motogp-win/ | Aragon GP: Bagnaia Claim Maiden MotoGP Win |
Francesco ‘Pecco’ Bagnaia secured his maiden MotoGP career win after a sensational display at the Motorland Aragon.
Despite leading the race since the start, the Ducati rider faced a late charge from Honda’s Marc Marquez as the two exchange lead 14 times.
However, Bagnaia managed to withstand Marquez pressure, especially during the last 2-laps to secure his first MotoGP win.
“I have a lot of emotions today. I’m so happy! We worked a lot to achieve this result.
“Every time that we were close (to winning before), something happened. This dream to get my first victory was always far.
“To win today is a great liberation. I’m so happy. It’s difficult to say something now, but to finish first is a dream come true,” said the 24-year-old Italian.
Despite trying his best to challenge Bagnaia, Marquez was satisfied with his only second podium appearance of the season after Sachsenring win.
“I gave all that I had, and he did an incredible race, so congrats to Pecco. It’s extra motivation for us in a difficult year.
“But, this kind of results even like this, even riding with some difficulties, we are able to fight with the top guys,” he said.
Suzuki’s Joan Mir secured his fifth podium of the season at third place after battling it out against Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia).
Meanwhile, current championship leader Fabio Quartararo could only secure an 8th place finish despite starting in the front row.
The result saw Quartararo world championship lead cuts to just 53pts ahead of the emerging Bagnaia.
Below are the full result:
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/what-roles-do-satellite-teams-play-in-motogp/ | What Roles do Satellite Teams Play in MotoGP |
Why are there satellite teams in MotoGP?
What are they and what do they do?
Why the disparity in machinery?
We were coming through social media when we came upon an article comparing factory and satellite teams in MotoGP.
We thought we could add more details as we’re currently looking at the 370-page 2020 FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix Regulations. The questions revolved mostly around why satellite team riders are on factory-spec bikes, too.
What’s a “factory team”?
A factory team is a team entered directly by the manufacturer. Consequently, the team has the highest budgets hence the best riders and team members; and first priority to parts and upgrades; and of course, top sponsors.
This why every rider on the grid aims to join a factory team. Factory teams also provide much higher levels of technical, PR, physical and even psychological support. The salary is also much higher. Along with these perks come bikes that can actually perform because which rider doesn’t want to perform well and win?
What’s a “satellite team”?
A satellite team has no bike of their own. As such, they have to rent them from a manufacturer. Yes, rent because MotoGP bikes are (usually) not for sale. What level of machinery or parts depends on how much they could shell out.
A satellite team’s budgets are from sponsors and are more constrained, hence the disparity in terms of support for the riders.
Traditionally, the factory usually provides lesser equipment to the satellite team because they don’t like to be beaten by the “lesser team.” However, we’ve seen manufacturers extending one or two of their latest bikes to satellite teams lately.
Reasons to run satellite teams
1. Data collection
Credit Motor Sport Magazine
Data here pertains to information which could be used to speed up development for building and setting up a race winning bike. Even the factory team has to justify the astronomical costs for going racing to the management and shareholders.
Data consists of suspension, chassis balance, traction control, engine map settings, etc.; sector times, lap times, corner speeds, top speeds; performance of parts, tyres, the engine; and almost everything else.
The role of data supplier is even more critical in these last 3 years when FIM reduced the number of test sessions to cope with including extra rounds. Gone were the days of unlimited testing, tyres, engines and development throughout the year. Doing so reduces costs to encourage more manufacturers to join the championship and create closer racing.
So, since there are fewer opportunities to test and gather data, having a satellite team in effect doubles data collection.
2. Exposure
Quartararo may be in the PETRONAS Yamaha Sepang Racing Team, but he’s still on a Yamaha.
Having more than one team running the same brand provides the higher chances of being spotted by spectators at the track and those in front of their TV screens.
3. To bring in new riders
New riders are usually signed to satellite teams before being “promoted” to the factory teams. There is no point in putting someone who may struggle to perform on a full factory machine when there could be other better riders. There are exceptions of course, but this is normally the case.
How does this affect teams?
Suzuki may have run at the front and won a number of races, but they also suffered from inconsistent form in 2018 and 2019. The same goes with Aprilia. These two teams also couldn’t audition new riders in satellite teams.
KTM on the other hand, suffered from not having a MotoGP-winning rider to develop their bikes, as Dani Pedrosa was sidelined from his role throughout the 2019 season.
The Yamaha team definitely benefitted from Fabio Quartararo’s surprising and amazing debut. This was one reason why we saw the resurgence of factory rider Maverick Vinalez at the end of the season.
Honda, well… they’ve got Marc Marquez.
So, why not give everyone equal machines?
The simple answer is: Cost.
Renting a top MotoGP bike is around € 2 million per rider per season these days. No electronic part is less than € 1,000. A carbon fibre part is valued at € 2 per 100 g. A Marchesini magnesium alloy wheel costs € 4,000.
A manufacturer will find it more productive and cost efficient to support the best rider in their stable, hence building a bike which suits his riding style. Marc Marquez is the best example. The other best Honda rider, Cal Crutchlow found himself in mid-pack almost throughout last season as he couldn’t get used to the bike. Even three-time world champion Jorge Lorenzo had to call it quits.
A manufacturer with vast resources like Honda couldn’t even build two different bikes for each of their riders. Hold on, what we meant by two different bikes was two variants instead of just two bikes. Each rider may have two bikes per round, but the constructor may well build three or four bikes per rider for the entire season. The number could be higher but the true quantity has never been revealed.
Apart from that are the costs arising from crashes.
Photo credit MotoGP.com
Hence, the satellite teams usually made do with the older bikes. Oh, they come without wheels and suspension. Consumables such as tyres are sponsored but the FIM had placed a limit on the number each team could use per season. Anything extra would have to be paid by the team. Could they afford higher prices?
As we mentioned earlier, the top manufacturers such as Honda, Yamaha and Ducati are now providing factory-spec bikes to the best riders in their respective satellite teams. This was why we have closer competition these days.
Conclusion
Hope you find the above information useful. You’re always welcome to share your thoughts with us.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-rolls-out-2022-k-1600-model-range-160hp-180nm/ | BMW Motorrad Rolls Out 2022 K 1600 Model Range – 160HP, 180Nm |
Scheduled for March 2022, BMW Motorrad unveiled the new K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, K 1600 B and K 1600 Grand America.
The introduction of the brand new K 1600 range coincidentally coincides as borders and interstate travels are beginning to open up worldwide.
The major upgrade includes updating the in-line six engine to comply with Euro 5 emission; however, it still delivers the same 160hp but at a lower rpm. Moreover, the revised engine also saw an increase of torque to 180Nm @ 5,250rpm.
The 2022 range is also equipped with multiple riding modes consisting of Road, Dynamic and Rain, and the Dynamic Traction Control ensures smooth sailing in every road condition.
BMW also introduces next-gen Dynamic ESA electronic suspension with auto-load compensation, which will adjust on the fly based on riding scenarios.
Apart from getting the new BMW adaptive LED light setup, the K 1600 also features a new 10.25″ TFT instrument cluster, which can be fully accessed via BMW Motorrad Connected app and a 26.5L tank.
Meanwhile, the GTL and Grand America get BMW’s audio system 2.0 as standard.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-triumph-scrambler-1200-us-prices-revealed/ | 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 US Prices Revealed |
Triumph has revealed the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 prices.
However, the prices are for the US market, at the moment.
They are considerably cheap, considering that they have more technology than their peers.
There was lots of excitement accompanying the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 launch in October. This was the Scrambler that will destroy the scrambler wars. However, Triumph withheld the prices during the time.
It finally has, courtesy of a motojournalist who was attending the media ride in Portugal.
The 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 features two “terrain-centric” variants. The Scrambler 1200 XC is more road-oriented but still off-road capable. On the other hand, the Scrambler 1200 XE (“E” for extreme) is more off-road oriented but still road-capable.
Both models share the same 1200cc Hi-Power engine, new LCD display, LED lighting, backlit switches, torque-assist clutch, cruise control and optional GoPro control.
The XE, however, features longer-travel suspension, IMU-optimised Cornering ABS and Cornering Traction Control, extra Off-Road Pro engine map, Brembo M50 Monobloc calipers and a couple more wonderful things.
Okay, okay, how much? Triumph in America recommends US$ 14,000 for the Scrambler 1200 XC, and US$ 15,400 for the Scrambler 1200 XE. But bear in mind that these are retail prices in the States. Still, the prices are super competitive among its peers. They are considerably cheap even, given the amount of technology it carries!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/atac-minigp-rider-training/ | ATAC MiniGP Rider Training |
An exclusive insight of ATAC’s (ALPHA Training Academy) newly formed MiniGP Novice training program.
Last weekend, we were offered an exclusive slot in the third running of ATAC’s Novice MiniGP riding course held on Saturday in the PLUS Speedway, Subang. This gave us a proper insight into one of the most unique, yet effective rider courses available in Malaysia currently. Last weekend was the firm’s third successful Novice class after holding two other sessions previously in the Sepang International Circuit.
Introduction
On hand as trainers are active Malaysian Super Series (MSS) rider Remon Azreem, assisted by California Superbike School (CSS) alumni Haizal Omar. The program’s key mission is to firstly educate riders in the essentials of track riding preparations, understanding the requirements of bike preparations for track, and to instil correct track riding techniques amongst participants. With these knowledge, the ultimate goal however is for participants to enjoy improving their fast laps safely.
The classes are small and limited to just 10 pax per session. Explaining the reasoning behind this policy, course trainer Haizal states that this will ensure greater teaching effectiveness by having a trainer-to-student ratio of 1:3 or 1:4 at all times. This way, participants will absorb their new knowledge with greater ease as well. ATAC also has an Intermediate and Advanced stage programs besides the Novice program we participated in.
The course teaches participants using rental Kayo 150cc MiniGP bikes available in the PLUS Speedway Go Kart Circuit. Besides the obvious size difference, and the racing-style five-speed manual transmission, these MiniGP bikes are identical to actual-sized bikes and stands as one of the most perfect training tools available that is both safe and cost-effective.
Intensive Theory Classroom
The full-day Novice course is divided into two sessions, the first of which being a 2 and a half hour-long intensive theory class. The classroom-based theory course includes an on-bike demonstration session before an the second session’s equally intensive on-track drill course.
The classroom modules covers the very basics of track riding preparation, as well as detailed steps towards preparing both rider and machine. Teachings here include correct handlebar adjustments, tyre pressure and suspension setting, as well as the all important rule of ATGATT (All The Gear, All The Time). Riders are also given detailed teachings about cornering lines and apexes, as well as ideal braking points, plus correct head and eye movement for increased cornering vision.
The same amount of focus is applied with the on-bike demonstration part. Here, the module covers ideas such as correct riding body positions and postures, cornering techniques, as well as advanced visual sighting techniques. The theory class is designed for riders to combat common amateur mistakes. This includes learning the correct way to grip a tank whilst under braking, the ideal body hang-out position for cornering, as well as the correct use of hips-on-tank instead of arms-on-handles technique when switching over in back-to-back corners. The classroom session ends with a quick briefing of the on-track drills.
On-track Drills
Following a short meal break after the classroom session, participants and instructors will then suit up for the on-track sessions. The session begins with a three-lap familiarisation and warm up stint, allowing riders to fully grasp the course’ braking points and cornering lines. Instructors aid the process even further with on-track ‘X’ markings using duct tape placed strategically.
After this, participants will then break up into three groups to perform on-track drills with an instructor. Each group will undergo several stints, each detailing a specific drill set by the instructor (i.e. correct cornering line, correct body position and posture, correct visual sighting, etc).
At the end of each drill stint, a debriefing is conducted. The debrief will allow instructors to give feedback based on their observations, followed by additional guidance in fine-tuning each participant’s riding style. After concluding all the drills, participants will then be granted with an open free run session until the day’s scheduled end time.
Our Experience
After a full day out with the ATAC trainers and participants in last weekend’s Novice class, we can safely report that this program delivers its promises rather well. While the MiniGP bikes may appear as child’s play at first, mastering it proved to be quite challenging, and in our view, also much more effective for learning.
The other beauty of learning on such a small-size is the lowered costs and risks. We say this not only because of the affordable asking price, but the lowered tendency for riders to suffer low- or high-siding. This is a programme we highly recommend to both amateur and seasoned riders alike. Newbies, especially fresh Full-B holders or those in the midst of acquiring one, will find the teachings immensely valuable towards the start of their riding life whilst seasoned veterans can use this as a perfect re-training platform.
And, just like our Time Trials, the program’s circuit and racing-based exercises will definitely play a key role in making riders safer on public roads as well.
Costs, Requirements, & Program Dates
To enter, interested individuals only need to put down the program’s tuition fee of RM699. The price covers circuit and bike rental, as well as food and beverage provisions. Participants are advised to bring their own gears, but rental gears are also available for an additional RM30 and are subject to size availability.
ATAC will conduct more classes following a break to mark the upcoming holy month of Ramadhan. Dates and details can be obtained by following the academy’s frequently updated official Facebook page.
ATAC Novice MiniGP Riding Course 2014 @ PLUS Speedway
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-johann-zarco-confirms-move-ktm/ | MotoGP: Johann Zarco CONFIRMS move to KTM! |
Johann Zarco has finally announced that he’ll be joining the KTM factory racing team for the 2019 and 2020 MotoGP seasons.
The French rider will be paired with Pol Espargaro who has also renewed a two-year contract with KTM.
KTM is confident that Zarco will be able to put the KTM RC16 onto the podium.
MotoGP rider Johann Zarco has finally confirmed all the suspicions regarding where his riding career will head next season. It was recently announced that he’ll be joining the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team for 2019 and 2020 and will be riding the KTM RC16 machinery.
This announcement was made following Pol Espargaro’s two-year contract extension where the Spaniard will also continue his racing career with the KTM factory racing team until the end of the 2020 season. This means that Bradley Smith will get the boot at the end of this season and his future in MotoGP is still uncertain.
According to Johann Zarco’s Facebook page, “My career will continue where everything began, from Red Bull Rookies Cup to the conquest of the MotoGP title. You understand it, I join KTM Factory Racing for the next two years. I’m very happy to ride this KTM, which we have the same ambitions: Ready to race!”
As for Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director, he stated that “There has always been a good contact with Johann and since the Red Bull Rookies Cup. We supported the Moto2 project through WP and our Moto3 Team Manager Aki Ajo is a good friend of him. We also have a nice connection with his manager Laurent Fellon.”
“It was a group effort to get this done. We had to trust in our capability to build a winning bike and Johann would not come over if he did not see and feel that trust. We feel very responsible now to get that package strong enough so that he can continue on the level where he is. It is our big target.”
“You always want to get the best possible riders on board and it’s obvious with Johann beating the factory guys on satellite machinery and consistently qualifying on the front row means he is a strong fighter with a strong spirit. I’m convinced we can reach the next level with a rider like Johann with us,” added Beirer.
Image source: MotoGP
Malaysian MotoGP team in 2019?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/modenas-unveils-upgraded-kriss-110-for-2023-from-rm3917/ | MODENAS Unveils Upgraded Kriss 110 For 2023 – From RM3,917 |
MODENAS, the Malaysian motorcycle manufacturer, has recently announced the latest upgrades for its Kriss 110 and Kriss 110 Disc Brake variants.
The “Ikon Rakyat” received a host of upgrades for 2023.
Powering the Kriss 110 is the tried and tested single-cylinder 108cc engine.
The 2023 models come with a host of new features and updated colour schemes at affordable prices.
The Kriss 110 and Kriss 110 Disc Brake have been popular mopeds for years and are now more versatile and convenient than ever before. The new features include a redesigned headlamp and a built-in USB charging port, perfect for riders who rely on their smartphones for navigation and communication on the go.
*drum brake
*disc brake
In addition to these features, both models have been updated with new colour and graphics schemes. The Kriss 110 is available in Blue, Black, and Yellow, while the Kriss 110 Disc Brake is available in Blue, Black, and Red. These new colours and graphics are sure to appeal to riders who want to stand out on the road.
Despite the upgrades, MODENAS has managed to keep the prices of both models affordable. The Kriss 110 is priced at RM3,917, while the Kriss 110 Disc Brake is priced at RM4,437 (both prices are without insurance and road tax).
Both models feature a single-cylinder EEV, 4 stroke, SOHC, 108 cc engine that produces 6.57 hp @ 8000 RPM maximum power and 6.7 Nm @ 6000 RPM maximum torque. These specifications ensure that riders get the power and performance they need while riding.
The 2023 Kriss 110 and Kriss 110 Disc Brake models are now available at all MODENAS dealer showrooms. Interested customers can visit the showrooms to view the new colours and graphics schemes. For more information or enquiries, customers can visit the MODENAS official website or contact the Toll-Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hjc-debuts-all-new-v10-retro-full-face-helmet-in-europe-from-rm1-5k/ | HJC Debuts All-New V10 Retro Full-Face Helmet In Europe – From RM1.5k |
HJC (Hong Jin Crown) is ready to take on the Shoei Glamster, Arai Rapide Neo, Biltwell Lanesplitter and Bell Bullit with the new V10 retro full-face helmet.
HJC finally has its own retro-style full face helmet.
The V10 will go up against the Biltwell Lanesplitter and Arai Rapide Neo.
The South Korean brand has been busy in the last few weeks as the company launched a range of new RPHA ranges, including the RPHA 1, RPHA 11, RPHA 71, RPHA 91 and the latest RPHA 31.
Nevertheless, the HJC V10 has captured our attention thanks to its retro build.
Unlike the rest of its competitors, HJC has never produced a full-face retro-style helmet, with the V90 being the closest you could get to vintage-style headgear.
That said, the V10 marks a new direction for HJC.
The HJC V10 seems to be inspired by the Biltwell Lanesplitter, especially the boxy chin bar.
In addition, the V10 features premium components, including a fibreglass construction shell and emergency release cheek pads. More importantly, the new V10 helmet meets the UN’s new ECE 22.06 safety standard.
According to their website, the V10 is listed for EUR329.90 (RM1.5k) and is available in seven different colours ranging from White, Black, Flat Black, Nardo Grey, Deep Green, Deep Red and Depp Yellow.
Meanwhile, the graphic option comes with a slightly higher price tag at EUR369.90 (RM1.7k).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/daimler-interested-mv-agusta/ | Daimler interested in MV Agusta? |
Reports have surfaced indicating that German multinational auto firm Daimler AG has its eyes set at buying a minority stake in the MV Agusta brand.
As previously reported, Italian motorcycle artisans MV Agusta is planning transform itself into a public listed firm by 2016. Presently, MV Agusta is looking to offer up to 30% of its shares in the stock market.
According to several German sources and global newswires, Daimler AG is reportedly interested with the offer. While it has been previously rumoured, this is the first credible report of its interest in the two-wheeled brand.
Previously, Daimler AG was allegedly engaged in heavy talks with Ducati about acquisition. However, things did not transpire after rivals Audi AG stepped in with a much more lucrative offer and subsequently acquired the Ducati brand.
Is MV’s move at going public wise? Some experts have doubts about the venture leading towards success given the fact that the brand is not as flourishing as rivals Ducati. Daimler AG’s involvement however could alter this outcome, but experts also believe that it will take a lot of effort to turn around the MV brand.
Source: Reuters via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bittersweet-fim-cev-2015-season-for-khairul-idham/ | BITTERSWEET FIM CEV 2015 SEASON FOR KHAIRUL IDHAM |
Malaysian rider will be in FIM Road Racing Moto3 World Championship 2016
Khairul Idham Pawi debuted this year in FIM CEV Repsol Moto3 Junior World Championship and his performance at the beginning of the season was really impressive. In four races, Khairul managed to get on three podium finishes (Le Mans and Barcelona races).
Consecutively, the Honda Team Asia rider continued to ride with more determination as other rivals were also getting stronger. He had to adapt to this new situation while gathering more experience in subsequent races.
Next year, Khairul will step up to the FIM Road racing Moto3 World Championship. After finishing the FIM CEV 2015 season, our Malaysian rider said: “At the first few races I was fighting in the top three for the Championship, after dropped because every race was difficult to fight with other bikes stronger than us.”
He added, “For the next year I will be in Moto3 World Championship and I will try to do the best, is a big challenge for me and a year for learning, to be more concentrate and push hard in every race. I would like to thanks Bruno San, mechanics and all Honda Team Asia staff.”
CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS – FIM CEV REPSOL MOTO3 JUNIOR WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2015
1 – Nicolò Bulega (KTM) 189 points
2 – Albert Arenas (Husqvarna) 185 points
3 – Aron Canet (Honda) 176 points
Selected
6 – Khairul Idham Pawi (Honda) 99 points
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hog-pj-breakfast-ride-kodai-sarapan-dsawah-kuala-pilah/ | HOG PJ Breakfast Ride to Kodai Sarapan D’Sawah, Kuala Pilah |
Harley-Davidson Petaling Jaya hosted the HOG PJ Breakfast Ride to Kodai Sarapan D’Sawah in Kuala Pilah yesterday.
Around 80 bikers consisting of current and new HOG PJ chapter members joined in festivities.
The famous breakfast destination was chosen due to its great food located near a beautiful paddy field surrounded by a mountainous background.
For a lot of bikers here in Malaysia, Sunday morning is the time to get their bikes rolling for a nice ride to their favourite routes and locations. These include having a nice breakfast with good friends at beautiful destinations, which was what the Harley Owners Group (HOG) Petaling Jaya chapter did yesterday.
Around 80 Harley owners joined in the festivities where they rendezvoused at Harley-Davidson Petaling Jaya located at The Gasket Alley, PJ. It was a nice sight of friends and comrades catching up with each other before the convoy captain and marshals gathered them around for a short briefing before the ride starts.
Before we knew it, these 80 bikers were already geared up and ready on their bikes to head to their planned destination for the day, Kodai Sarapan D’Sawah located in Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. The preferred route of LEKAS Highway was chosen due to its scenic location and low volume of traffic to ensure that the group arrived safely.
Upon arriving at the famous breakfast spot, the bikers were greeted with a nice paddy field surrounded by a majestic mountainous background. It’s not hard to see why the breakfast spot is a popular one amongst bikers as well as the locals.
Kodai Sarapan D’Sawah is known for their delicious breakfast items such as nasi lemak, asam laksa, assorted roti canai, and a selection of local desserts. Due to the volume of breakfast goers that day, we were only able to sample some selection and not the whole banquet but what’s important was the bikers got fed with good food, had fun, and enjoyed the journey with their HOG PJ comrades.
The ride was opened to non-members who were interested to register themselves as a member of the Harley Owners Group, Petaling Jaya chapter. Whether it’s old friends or new, HOG PJ chapter welcomed all with open arms and what better way to do so than a nice Sunday ride to a popular breakfast destination out of the Klang Valley.
To know more about the HOG Petaling Jaya chapter, head over to www.facebook.com/petalingjayahog/ or visit the Harley-Davidson Petaling Jaya showroom conveniently located at the Gasket Alley.
FIRST LOOK: 2019 Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric cruiser!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-triumph-trident-more-details-revealed/ | 2021 Triumph Trident – more details revealed! |
Triumph’s upcoming new middleweight big boy is almost ready for its official launch but before that happens, they’ve decided to tease us even more with a bunch of photos of the upcoming Triumph Trident (heavily disguised in camo, of course).
The first time the Triumph Trident was teased, it was a concept covered in white. This time around, you can see a lot more details of the middleweight from the brakes to suspension. Riding on Showa USD front forks, the chassis also reveals a set of Nissin brake calipers and Michelin Road 5 tyres.
All of these indicate two things – a good all-round riding package that is targeted to be more competitive in the pricing department. You’ll also see a lot of modern features on this retro-inspired machine like its front LED round headlight, ride-by-wire throttle, and smooth lines running from front to back.
As for the engine, we can see that it’s a parallel-twin and folks are saying that it might be a 660cc unit. Power output? Possibly no more than 94hp considering the fact that the Triumph Trident will be A2-compliant for the UK market.
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has been showcasing the Triumph Trident on its official Facebook page and looking at their past records, it won’t be long before it arrives here on our shores (after the official global launch, that is). We won’t be surprised if this middleweight flies out of the showroom before you can ask “Is that the new Triumph Trident??”
Written by: Sep Irran
Brace yourselves, the 2021 Triumph Trident is coming!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bikes-republic-rider-year-2017-johann-zarco/ | BR’s Rider of the Year 2017: Johann Zarco |
Looking back at the 2017 MotoGP season, Johann Zarco topped our list for ‘Rider of the Year’.
After winning two Moto2 titles back to back, the young Frenchman moved up to MotoGP as a rookie but rode like a seasoned veteran chasing the championship.
All in all, he finished the season with three podiums, 174 points and the title “MotoGP 2017 Rookie of the Year”.
The 2017 MotoGP season has been nothing but breathtaking ever since the very beginning where the season started off under the floodlights of Qatar. Apart from a few monumental shifts in the series such as the great Jorge Lorenzo converting over to the scarlet red Ducati team and Maverick Vinales taking his place in Movistar Yamaha, there were a few more unexpected surprises thrown into the mix.
While most of us thought that the on-going battle between Honda and Yamaha factory teams would continue in 2017 especially with Maverick Vinales (Movistar Yamaha MotoGP) blasting through the pre-season’s tests (and of course winning the first two opening races in Qatar and Argentina), it was Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso and Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez who gave us some of the most amazing battles of modern day MotoGP.
It came as no surprise that the now more mature Marc Marquez took home the championship at the very last race of the season. However, the rise of Ducati is just beginning and they are indeed a team all of us should pay attention to for 2018.
Apart from all the happenings, we honestly have to say that we were most impress with one particular French rookie rider who stepped up to MotoGP for the very first time this year. We are of course referring the world’s only two-time Moto2 world champion and current rider for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team, Johann Zarco.
At the time where most eyes were glued to Yamaha, Honda and Ducati, no one really gave much thought on the 27 year old Frenchman. That all changed abruptly in the opening laps of the 2017 season in Qatar where he blasted pass every rider and actually led the race before unfortunately crashing out. This is the defining moment where everyone really asked the question “Who is Johann Zarco?”
Zarco is unlike any other rider in the field who had the luxury of growing up with racing in their blood and went to schools or academies dedicated to the art of motorcycle racing. It was different for young Zarco who theoretically started his racing career a bit late.
While every young rider had the support from family members, Zarco was thinking on how to break the news to his parents about pursuing his dreams to become a motorcycle racer rather than furthering his studies.
17 year old Johann Zarco during the 2007 Red Bull Rookies Cup (Image source: Red Bull)
At age 17, he gave up everything and turned to his number one mentor Laurent Felon. Through unorthodox methods of learning and training, Zarco made it through the ranks and managed to win the Rookies Cups in 2007. His mentor knew deep in his heart that young Johann was a special boy and eventually made the ultimate sacrifice; Felon mortgaged his house to get Zarco into the 125cc World Series.
Image source: Motomag
It took Zarco almost two seasons to have a taste of what it’s like standing on the very top of the podium. Knowing that he could do better, the move towards Moto2 happened in 2012 where he finished the season as the top rookie.
Zarco with his mentor, Laurent Felon.
It was 2015 that everything changed monumentally when he joined forces with Ajo Motorsport where he dominated the season with eight wins and 14 podiums. He was crowned champion and repeated it again the very next year making the young Frenchman the only rider in the world to win two Moto2 world titles back to back.
Yamaha took notice of his incredible skills and took him on board as one of the riders for the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 together with another promising young rider, Jonas Folger. While both riders performed brilliantly in the 2017 season, it was Zarco who was always in the spotlight ever since he led the race in Qatar.
Being a 2017 MotoGP rookie, he surprised everyone again by finishing fifth in Argentina followed by a daring performance in the Circuit of the Americas where he aggressively battled with the great Valentino Rossi who happens to be a nine-time World Champion and Yamaha factory rider.
It was never a dull moment every time Zarco ‘irritated’ the other top factory riders but that just goes to show how good the Frenchman really is even with a technically outdated race machine run by a private/satellite team. He was indeed a threat to the championship and all riders took notice of this.
In the fifth round, Zarco performed brilliantly in front of his home crowd in Le Mans where he led the majority of the race before losing out to Maverick Vinales. Finishing just three seconds behind the race winner on a full factory Yamaha M1 is indeed a major accomplishment for the young rider after only five rounds.
He repeated his brilliant performance in the last two rounds in Malaysia and Valencia where he finished third and second respectively. The result? Johann Zarco scored a total of 174 points in his rookie MotoGP season in which he was awarded with the title “MotoGP Rookie of the Year 2017”. Not bad for a rookie, not bad at all.
All in all, Johann Zarco is a different kind of champion who is humble and cheerful around his adoring legion of fans but at the same time one of the most promising riders we’ve seen outside of Spain and Italy. There was a time when all eyes were only on the factory riders and not so much of the privateers, things have now changed for better thanks to this man.
Johann Zarco is indeed something special and these are the reasons why for 2017, he is our very own ‘Rider of the Year’. Félicitations, young Zarco.
Image source: MotoGP
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/pirelli-unveils-new-diablo-rosso-iv-tyres/ | Pirelli unveils new Diablo Rosso IV tyres |
Pirelli is kicking off the new year by unveiling its latest Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV high-performing rubbers for those looking for the ultimate all-rounder tyre that can handle all weather conditions whilst offering dynamic performance and feedback for your supersports, hypernakeds, and superbikes.
The details of this new Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV are still new and Pirelli isn’t really doing much in explaining what this new sport-touring tyre has to offer. What they did mention is that the fourth-generation Rosso is a tyre that offers a more dynamic riding style with high levels of grips for all types of road and weather while providing ‘precise feedback and great handling.’
And that’s about it. The rest of the press release explains how they’ve successfully sold over five million tyres since the first Diablo Rosso was launched back in 2008. That’s a lot of satisfied customers and considering how popular the Diablo Rosso III is, we won’t be surprised if the fourth-gen sells like hotcakes.
Developed from the brand’s vast experience in WorldSBK, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV is essentially a tyre that you can enjoy riding hard on the weekends, but also comfortable and versatile enough to tackle daily rides to and from the office. Unlike hypersport tyres, the Rosso range won’t diminish your riding confidence when it rains.
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-yamaha-lifestyle-station-opens/ | New Yamaha Lifestyle Station Opens |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) launched the new Yamaha Lifestyle Station today.
The entire Sungai Buloh complex has been totally renovated.
It forms a new “lepak” place for customers and visitors.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) launched the new Yamaha Lifestyle Station today.
The HLYM Complex in Sungai Buloh has been totally renovated to a facility that reflects the times and to cater for the new motorcycle lifestyle. Additional aftersales support infrastructures were also added to ensure that dealers, customers and even the general public will benefit.
For starter, there is a new service reception area, which affords a full view of the spare parts section. Customers can see spare parts being picked for their bikes.
The service area is now visible to the customers — separated by a glass panel, of course. There are 12 service bays equipped with hydraulic lifts in the covered area. The workshop is fully air-conditioned to provide a conducive working environment for the fully-trained technicians. Such an environment will benefit customers in the end as the technicians can concentrate fully on the work at hand. They are also provided with complete tools including the electronic diagnostic system.
In the waiting area, the previous hard chairs have been removed and replaced with comfortable sofas. There is also a section with multiple charging points for smart devices and laptops.
A few metres away is a Hong Leong Bank ATM machine, allowing customers to carry out their banking needs.
Customers step through a glass door into the showroom area. At 1208 sq. m. (13,000 sq. ft.), it is the biggest Yamaha showroom in the country. Yamaha management joked that they will expand it if they find another showroom which is bigger.
Here, customers will first see the Gen Blu Café which serves a mix of local, Asian, Japanese and fusion delights. There is also aromatic coffee for java lovers.
A friendly robot named Shila Sakura serves the floor. “She” is currently armed with a tablet showing the menu and directory but HLYM is currently programming her to take orders and receive payment for food and beverages in the future.
But the main highlights here are the Yamaha products on display including a collection of Yamaha motorcycles sold by HLYM since 1979, current CKD models and motorsport bikes classic and current.
There are also sections for Yamaha music instruments; outdoor products such as side-by-side buggy, off-road bike, portable generator; marine products such as the Waverunner jet ski and outboard engines.
A Yamaha museum will be added in Phase 2.
The corporate office and reception area were likewise renovated. There is a section for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), highlighting HLYM’s role in helping the less fortunate, besides road safety education.
On the corporate front, HLYM renovate level 2 of the building to expand on their training facilities. That includes adding more classrooms for theoretical and practical training, and a resource centre (library) called META for Motorcycle Education & Training Academy Centre. The library will soon be open to not only dealers and their technicians, but also students and the public.
HLYM also provides detailed training for new dealers right down to managing cash flow and one-to-one relationships with customers.
The new Yamaha Lifestyle Station will be the flag-off point for future convoys and events. As for customers and visitors, it is definitely a new place to lepak (chill out).
PHOTO GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-ceo-is-now-the-president-of-motor-valley-association/ | Ducati CEO is now the President of Motor Valley Association |
A press conference was held recently at Ducati’s HQ in Borgo Panigale where the current Ducati CEO, Claudio Domenicali, was announced as the new President of the Motor Valley Association. Delegates from district companies and international race circuits were also present for the major announcement.
What is the Motor Valley Association and why is it important? Basically, the association unites all of Italy’s car and bike brands in the nearby region to work together to ‘make the very best of this heritage in terms of tourism’. The high concentrations of brands and institutions will work alongside to ensure that everyone benefits from the association.
In other words, brands like Dallara, Ducati, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more will form a huge network with each other to not only boost tourism in the region (thanks to their many facilities like race tracks, museums, etc) but also focus on developing a futuristic yet sustainable automotive ecosystem for the Italy and its people from education, motorsports, to the motoring industry as a whole.
According to Claudio Domenicali himself, “Motor Valley brings together a series of brands that are unique, renowned and appreciated around the world for their design, technology and performance, all of them located within a radius of just 150 km. As Ducati, we take pride in being part of this association, just as I am personally proud to take on the Presidency.”
“For me, accepting this role is an act of responsibility and recognition towards an extraordinary part of Italy that has given me so much. This Region enjoys an unparalleled academic culture and unmatched motoring and technological skills. It’s also a magnet for enthusiasts, new talent and businesses and as such deserves our wholehearted support,” added Domenicali.
This initiative is still quite young, and they’ll only have room to improve with time and experience. The world will see its foundations being brought to life during the seconds Motor Valley Fest which will take place from 14-17 May 2020 in Modena, Italy. Anybody going?
Dubai Police Gets Ducati Panigale V4 R
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bering-latest-riding-gear-adopts-recycled-materials/ | Bering Latest Riding Gear Adopts Recycled Materials |
Popular French motorcycle apparel and gear, Bering has released the company first eco-friendly certified jacket, the Portland.
According to Bering, the Portland jacket is made entirely from recycled materials and provides improved protection as a standard textile riding jacket.
The riding jacket is built with reinforced recycled polyester (equivalent of 100 recycled plastic bottles per jacket).
Despite built as a winter jacket, the Portland comes with a host of features including a fixed mesh lining (also made with recycled fibers), and removable overshirt made from waterproof Shelltech ining (also made from recycled materials).
The jacket also has integrated ADS ventilation system keeping it breathable.
Other features include adjustable press-stud collar with extension, adjustment sleeves strap to prevent from flapping at high speeds and a zipper to allow riders to connect to compatible riding pants.
Riders can also cary wallets and other belongings easily thanks to its variety of six pockets.
According to Bering, the jacket meets EN 1621-1:2013 and EN 17092 standards and also holds class A Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) rating.
The Bering Portland riding jacket is available for EUR499.99 (RM2.3k).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/art-of-speed-malaysia-2020-postponed-to-30-december/ | Art of Speed Malaysia 2020 postponed to 30 December |
There are a lot of great events that take place annually and one of the biggest highlights has to be the Art of Speed Malaysia. Going to its ninth year, the Art of Speed Malaysia 2020 (AOS 2020) was supposed to take place later this month at the I Utama shopping complex in Bandar Utama, but fate got in the way.
Due to new Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) placed in Selangor, Wilayah Persekutuan and Putrajaya to combat the third wave of COVID-19 here in Malaysia, Art of Speed Malaysia decided to keep things safe and announced that their ninth annual show will be moved to 30 December 2020.
UPDATE: The 9th Annual Art Of Speed Malaysia 2020
Pengumuman khas oleh Art Of Speed Malaysia berkenaan acara tahun ini.The 9th Annual Art Of Speed Malaysia30 Dec 2020 ~ 3 Jan 20211 Utama Shopping CentreMASUK PERCUMA‼️Korang ingin memenangi sebuah VESPA PRIMAVERA BARU, dapatkan "AOS LUCKY DRAW COMBO" anda SEKARANG!https://aos.qtic.my/i/https://aos.qtic.my/i/https://aos.qtic.my/i/Terima Kasih atas sokongan padu anda! Kita jumpa nanti!#aos2020 #artofspeedmy #kitabuatdia #malaysia #rakyatjagarakyat
Posted by Art of Speed Malaysia on Rabu, 14 Oktober 2020
The good news is that there’s probably no better place to celebrate New Year’s Day as the AOS 2020 will take place from 30 December 2020 until 3 January 2021. One show, one place, two different years. Rest assured that they’ll deliver all the great things when it comes to the Art of Speed Malaysia.
This year’s grand prize will be a brand-new Vespa Primavera and like previous years, we’re guessing that there will be a lot more surprises and exciting stuff in store. To know more, head over to the AOS 2020 official Facebook page for more details.
Written by: Sep Irran
Vespa Primavera Sean Wotherspoon now in Malaysia – RM24,960
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/free-service-for-flood-affected-yamaha-owners-in-klang-valley/ | Free Service For Flood-Affected Yamaha Owners In Klang Valley |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) is offering free service for flood-affected Yamaha owners in Klang Valley via its Yamaha Cares campaign.
According to HLYM, the campaign begins today (27th December) until 31st December 2021 at every Yamaha service centre and authorised dealership.
Below is the list of official Yamaha authorised dealership that’s involved in this campaign:
However, HLYM is requesting that all flood-affected owners make an appointment first before dropping by the nearest service centre.
“Be advised to make an appointment before making your way to the service centre.
“Other than free service, we are also offering free engine oil replacement, free gear oil, free oil filter, free air filter and free spark plugs,” said HLYM in a statement.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/video-supermoto-fun-with-chase-guthrie/ | Video: Supermoto fun with Chase Guthrie |
See the fun of supermoto racing in this epic compilation of on-board footages with pro rider Chase Guthrie.
Supermoto or supermotard racing is fun to watch, but perhaps it is even more thrilling to be in the hot seat of one itself. Case in point is the aptly titled compilation of on-board videos courtesy of American supermoto racer Chase Guthrie.
Based out of Indiana, Guthrie has competed in the world famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) a few times in his career as well. Perhaps that should explain some of the epic “oh sh*t!” moments you see in the featured compilation video above.
In fact you can see his exploits in the 2011 edition of the Race To The Clouds in the second video posted below.
In Malaysia, the supermotard scene has indeed grown healthily over the years. Just read our coverage of the 1Full Throttle Challenge we covered not too long ago that featured a supermoto support race. If you think it is exciting in dry conditions, wait til you see how the brave men are separated from the timid boys when the rain comes.
You can also check out the epic Superbike vs Supermotard video we posted not too long ago too and judge for yourself on which bike genre is more exciting to watch and race.
Source: LaneSplitter@Jalopnik / Vimeo
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-bmw-s-1000-rr-to-get-more-power-better-acceleration/ | 2023 BMW S 1000 RR To Get More Power, Better Acceleration |
The BMW S 1000 RR was notably missing when BMW Motorrad revealed the list of updated models for 2023.
2023 S 1000 RR to feature more power and better aerodynamics.
Noteworthy upgrades include an aerodynamic winglet taken from the M 1000 RR.
However, according to the latest development, the S 1000 RR sportsbike is getting a much-needed upgrade for 2023, according to a new type-approved document filed in Europe.
As expected, the 2023 S 1000 RR will adopt features from the firm’s flagship M 1000 RR, including aerodynamic winglets.
However, a noteworthy upgrade is done to the engine, which now makes 206.5hp @ 13,750rpm compared to 204hp available from the 2022 model.
Also, the electronics package is believed to receive some minor tweaks and adjustments; however, the ShiftCam engine with its unique VVT system will likely remain unchanged.
That said, BMW also adopted the M 1000 RR lower final-drive ratio onto the S 1000 RR. As a result, riders will feel the bike is quicker than the previous model.
The document also reveals a longer wheelbase, from 1440mm to 1457mm, similar to the M 1000 RR. However, the 2023 S 1000 RR weight is unchanged, which remains at 197kg.
That said, the 2023MY S 1000 RR will retain much of the bodywork from the 2022 model, and with the addition of an aerodynamic winglet and new paint job, there’s no doubt the upcoming S 1000 RR is eye-catching.
Based on reports, BMW will unveil the new motorcycle soon.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-collaborates-grabbike/ | Honda collaborates with GrabBike |
Honda Motorcycles inks collaboration agreement with motorcycle ride-sharing app GrabBike.
Mighty Japanese manufacturer Honda revealed recently that it has signed an agreement with ride-sharing start up Grab Inc. It is understood that the agreement involves Honda’s motorcycling arm and Grab’s GrabBike division.
Little is known about the deal and Honda’s official release is just as vague as it read: “Honda and Grab will work together and strive to realise new mobility services in the area of sharing by conducting experimental initiatives in Southeast Asia while utilising resources of the two companies.”
Nevertheless, the partnership between the two seems like a sound thing to do. Honda, as we know it, is the planet’s largest motorcycle manufacturer while the GrabBike motorcycle ride-sharing service is now active in a number of key ASEAN cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam; Bangkok, Thailand; as well as Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia.
Honda says that it will work together with Grab and strive to realise new mobility services in the area of sharing by conducting experimental initiatives in Southeast Asia while using the resources of both companies. This includes the data that Grab has amassed through its ride-hailing businesses plus Honda’s own vast line up of motorcycles and its vast sales and service network.
Honda further added that, through the collaboration with Grab, it will work towards the mitigation of urban traffic congestion by using its original telematics and other technologies. Suffice to say, the fruit of this Honda and GrabBike collaboration will be interesting to see.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/hadi-adventurer/ | Hadi the adventurer |
Bragging about going on along distance ride is kind of cliché these days, a lot of Malaysians have actually done it. Its like the must do thing for almost every biker, an epic ride to somewhere.
I’m not saying riding to a distant destination is boring or over done or not cool anymore but it all depends on the reason for the ride. If its to show off then too bad as not many will be impressed with so may world travellers going around. But if its to see the world then go forth and roam the earth.
And that what Hadi Hussein went for, it is was the thrill of seeing the world before its gone forever, before it “ends”. You wont be blamed if you never heard of this rider.
Hes humble about his adventures, usually the quiet one sitting at the end of the table at the mamak listening to bikers telling about their gruelling overlander ride to Melaka.
He’ll grin and he’ll nod but thats about it. Just like you, most bikers don’t know, behind all that humbleness is a nutter who actually rode a cubcai alone from Kuala Lumpur to London in 2010. Yes all alone without any help or support crew on tow.
But this is not a story about his epic ride, which has been told many times in various places by various people. This is a story on what led to the ride and how now Hadi is enriching the local riding scene with his know how after that.
According to Hadi, his passion for travel started when he was young and so was his passion for motorcycles but the two never really come together until a long time after.
After completing his studies here Hadi went for further studies abroad, in Florida, USA in aeronautics. He had big dreams but the 9-11 incident killed that dream and Hadi had to make some changes.
Back in Malaysia he settled as a humanitarian worker, going to disaster zones and helping the needy. At the same time he was testing bikes whenever he could, most sports bike as most of the people his age would do as he explained.
But one day while he was about to purchase a Kawasaki Ninja 600 with trading in his ZXR 250 at Sunny Cycle, Uncle Sunny made him a an offer that made him think.
“He asked me if I was not bored already with Awana or Genting? He then offered me a BMW F650 GS and said he will show me the world if I get that bike. So he showed me pictures of him riding in exotic places on it. WOW!”
But it was out of his budget so Uncle Sunny offered him a Kawasaki Versys instead and he took it. Not for the London trip though as he thought if he made it to London it was mainly tanks to the bike and not him. It was already too common to hom for bikers to do such journey on a big DP.
“My first actual wake up call was when I was in Iran, I realised that iran was such a beautiful country.then I was off to Pakistan, Aceh and then Gaza. Beautiful place but very torn from the war, that was the point when I realised if I don’t go now these places will not be there anymore after this.
I knew I want to travel the world and take all the pictures as I can so that when the end comes and it gets destroyed, I can say I’ve seen and done it.
Told my boss the plan, quit my job and somehow from that point things started to snowball and I got an interview with a newspaper and thats how my mum found out abut my trip.
I went to her place the day before I was flagged off in TV3, and she greeted me by asking where I’m going, I said nowhere but she said she already know. The look on her face was priceless.
Luckily shes not too worried about my survivability as I had been to the worst places imagines, war torn or disaster areas. “
So from there he went off for the ride to London, got there came back in six month, but he still don’t call himself an expert on overland adventure trips with a bike yet.
“I only had two weeks to prepare and I was not really ready until I reached Bangkok where I took some time to rest and reset things according to what I have learned so far.” Though Hadi had gone backpacking before but he never really combined backpacking and biking.
“The bike is your medium, going backpacking you just pick up your bag and go, with a bike you need to take care of your bike.
However you are limited in backpacking in a sense that you are at the mercy of the transportation around you, while as with a bike you can always make that detour if something comes up along the way like a concert or a show that you want to see and somehow its much cheaper.”
The two weeks of prep work Hadi went through was too much of a blur for Hadi to register things and it only hit him with a moment of clarity and the scale of his adventure in Surat Thani, Thailand.
Being a seasoned rider by that time, even to the point of running in his Versys with a ride to Bangkok, he was already accustomed to the comfort, power and speed of that machine. The cubchai was starting to feel too small and too slow.
“So here I am, sitting on my cubchai, about to ride out of Surat Thani, in the rain, and thinking what the freak have I got myself into.”
Luckily all went well, even with the red tapes one had to go through at border crossings. “I did logistics before and I know what needs o be done, who to see and what not at border crossings so that part was easy for me.”
While he went on to a few other adventures after that, currently Hadi is scheming for a way to ride the original Paris Dakkar route. Not in the race but the route, the toughest in the world.
And while waiting for that he, will either be at his bike shop, V Care Centre in Petaling Jaya or giving tour guides for riders or even teaching them in the “art” of exploring the world on two wheels.
So approachable with his knowledge that he will just tell you what he knows, so if you want to learn from a proper adventurer, you know who to disturb.
One of the most common things he preaches is the the five things to consider when choosing a round the world bike, first you have to be able to pick it up if you tip over, able to change the headlight bulb, adjust the chain, service the bike and the most important bit, able to do all of that by yourself.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2016-shell-malaysian-motogp-tickets-selling-fast/ | 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP tickets selling out fast! |
Tickets to the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP race weekend are selling out fast!
We’re guessing the thrills and spills of last year’s edition, not forgetting the presence of our three heroic national riders, have spurred fans into a ticket buying frenzy for the upcoming 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP.
In a press release issued just minutes ago, the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) management confirmed that it is experiencing a huge spike in ticket sales. This is indeed good news for the circuit with barely two weeks left until the event.
As stated in the featured image above, tickets to the VR46 Tribune, the Marc Marquez Triubune, the Drive M7 SIC Racing Team Tribune, K1 Grandstand as well as the Premier Roving passes and the luxurious Club Suite package are all SOLD OUT.
In light of this, SIC CEO Dato’ Razlan Razali said: “Thanks to the passionate support of fans this year, we have broken our sales record from last year. The F Grandstand was already sold out more than two months ahead of the race.”
Nevertheless, SIC were keen to highlight that other tickets and packages are still available. These include tickets for the regular Main Grandstand, C2 Hillstand, as well as the special Ducati Grandstand section prepared as part of the brand’s 90th anniversary celebrations.
Priced at RM416 each, the Ducati Grandstand three-day access tickets also includes a special Ducati Grandstand Kit that features exclusive gifts, namely a Tribuna t-shirt, Ducati cap, Ducati helmet bag and gadgets. Also packaged here is entry into the Ducati riders Meet & Greet event plus Food & Beverage on Sunday.
Dato’ Razlan further adds: “With the overwhelming response, not just from diehard motorcycle racing fans, but also from other Malaysians who simply want to support to their countrymen on the track, I believe that there will likely not be any tickets available for sale at the circuit during race weekend I urge all fans who have not purchased their tickets to act quickly to secure their tickets.”
Fans can purchase their tickets online at SIC’s official website or by calling the circuit’s Ticket Hotline at 03-8778 2222. On top of that, you can still win tickets from SIC by taking part in the SIC Live Viewing Party of the Japanese GP on October 16 in Podium By Daun @ Plaza Damas, Seri Hartamas.
Also, don’t forget that you can also win Main Grandstand tickers by taking part in the on-going nationwide Shell Advance campaign and roadshow. Shell Malaysia, who is also the event’s title sponsor, will be giving away up to 500 tickets to winners in this campaign that’s scheduled to end very soon.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/next-gen-husqvarna-svartpilen-spotted-testing/ | Next-Gen Husqvarna Svartpilen Spotted Testing |
KTM’s parent company, Pierer Industrie AG bought Husqvarna from BMW back in 2013.
The Austrian firm then proceeded to unveil the Svartpilen and Vitpilen concept a year later at the 2014 EICMA show in Milan, before the production version successfully made its way to the showroom around the globe.
However, the latest spy shot has confirmed that the Svartpilen is getting a significant update soon.
While the prototype may look similar to the current generation of Svartpilen, the new generation model sports different styling cues.
The test mule features a rectangular TFT dash – similar to KTM’s – new radiator panels, new side sections and a redesigned tank mount to carry luggage.
While the previous Svartpilen tank section flows straight to the side of the rider’s saddle, the new generation features a more exposed subframe.
At the tail sits a new conventional license plate holder instead of the previous swingarm-mounted unit.
Husqvarna also wholly redesigned the steel trellis frame and swingarm, which shares similarities with KTM’s Duke prototypes.
Nonetheless, the next-gen Svartpilen continues to use WP Apex front fork and ByBre brake callipers.
Moving on to the best bits, the Svartpilen will run on the same single-cylinder platform; however, the photos showed what could be a prototype motor as it shares no visible components with the current 373cc engine.
While the exact capacity is still unknown to us, reports suggest it features a similar-looking engine spotted in the KTM Duke test mule.
Other notable changes include an underbelly exhaust, replacing the side-mounted pipe on the previous generation Svartpilen.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-suzuki-raider-r150fi-now-available-in-two-new-colours-rm8838/ | 2023 Suzuki Raider R150Fi Now Available In Two New Colours – RM8,838 |
Suzuki Malaysia proudly announced the launch of the 2023 Suzuki Raider R150Fi which now adorned in two vibrant colour options.
the Raider R150Fi continue to established itself as the most powerful 150cc underbone motorcycle in Malaysia.
the 2023 Raider R150Fi arrives in two new colourway; Bright Ivory/Titan Black and Matte Bordeaux Red/Metallic Matte Fibroin.
The first option is the captivating Bright Ivory/Titan Black, exuding a sense of elegance and sportiness. The second variant is the striking Matte Bordeaux Red/Metallic Matte Fibroin Grey, adding a touch of sophistication to the motorcycle’s aesthetic.
Enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled underbone riding experience can now witness the Raider R150Fi’s all-new colour variants at any authorized Suzuki Malaysia dealer across the nation with a recommended selling price of RM8,838. (excluding registration and insurance fees).
A part from the new visuals, the 2023 Raider R150Fi continue to offer the same specifications including the tried and tested 147.3cc single-cylinder DOHC with liquid-cooled engine that pumps out a respectable 18hp and 13.8Nm.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/gopro-hero5-black-session-lands-malaysia/ | GoPro Hero5 Black & Session lands in Malaysia |
New generation GoPro Hero5 Black & Session action cameras arrive in the local market.
We’re not foremost experts on the subject of tech and gadgets, but when leading action camera giant GoPro extended an invite to us for the local launch of its newest offering, we were indeed tempted to see it first hand.
Held last Saturday in the vibrant new Zouk KL superclub in TREC, Kuala Lumpur, authorised distributor FunSportz Sdn Bhd held a special and swanky launch ceremony for the new generation GoPro Hero5 Black & Session action camera for the local market.
Also present here were two representatives from the specialist American tech firm who gave guests, avid tech journalists and fellow geeks alike a detailed presentation of the Hero5 Black, Hero5 Session, its new range of accessories plus a detailed walkthrough of the new softwares and apps available too.
Here’s a quick walk through of the new Hero5 Black and Hero5 Session action cams.
GoPro Hero5 Black – RM1,849 (RRP)
Dubbed as the its finest creation yet, the flagship GoPro Hero5 Black stands lightyears – literally – ahead of its predecessor. Smaller, lighter and packed with even more functions and features, this is the mack daddy of all action cams.
For starters, the Hero5 Black now shoots high definition videos up to 4k quality at a rate of 30 frames per seconds. Complementing that is this seemingly tiny action camera’s ability to shoot high-resolution photos of up to 12MP quality.
Enhancing those capturing abilities are the Hero5 Black’s professional-grade electronic video stabilisation, a new linear-view setting for distortion-free wide angle videos and photos, as well as the ability the shoot in RAW format and WDR photo modes. Capping things off is the fact that this action cam is now GPS-enabled as well, allowing you to geo-tag all your videos and photos.
The user interface, on the other hand, has been enhanced further as well. You still get GoPro’s signature one-button control and the 2-inch touch display. However, the Hero5 Black is now loaded with voice command as well – a segment-leading feature in fact.
Other notable improvements include the camera’s enhanced waterproofing of up to 33 feet (10 metres) without a housing, increased battery life, not forgetting a heavily revised audio capturing abilities via three on-board mics offering stereo recording and GoPro’s Advanced Wind Noise Reduction functions.
Available for purchase now via authorised dealers, distributors FunSportz Sdn Bhd has set a recommended retail price of RM1,849 for the all-new GoPro Hero5 Black.
GoPro Hero5 Session – RM1,399 (RRP)
Also launched alongside the flagship Hero5 Black was its smaller ‘mini’ sibling, the Hero5 Session. Essentially, the Hero5 Session picks up from GoPro’s original pint-sized Session and comes loaded with a volley of upgrades.
The Hero5 Session can shoot videos up to 4k quality at 30 frames per second, but it makes do with high quality photos at a slightly lower 10MP resolution instead. Electronic video stabilisation plus distortion-free wide-angle video and photos abilities come standard in this pint-sized action cam.
Whilst the Hero5 Session makes do without the nifty touch display interface and GPS-enabled functions of the flagship Hero5 Black, it still offers other segment-leading features, namely voice-command and Advanced Wind Noise Reduction.
Available now through authorised dealers, FunSportz Sdn Bhd’s recommended retail price for the smaller yet equally capable Hero5 Session stands at RM1,399 – RM450 less than the flagship Hero5 Black.
Cloud connection
Besides all that we’ve laid out above, both the new GoPro Hero5 Black and Hero5 Session share yet another segment-leading functionality, which is instant connectivity with GoPro Plus – a subscription-based Cloud Drive service developed by GoPro.
Designed to complement and fully capitalise on the built-in wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity that both the Hero5 Black and Hero5 Session are primed with, GoPro Plus makes it easier for users to access, edit and share GoPro contents anytime, anywhere through both desktop computers and mobile devices.
Unfortunately, the GoPro Plus service isn’t available in Malaysia just yet. Nevertheless, GoPro assures that the service will be offered to Malaysian customers and distributors FunSportz Sdn Bhd will announce its availability here at a later date.
Karma drone
Also arriving at a later date is the revolutionary new GoPro Karma drone suite. FunSportz Sdn Bhd says that this revolutionary all-in-one solution will only arrive in the local market sometime next year.
In the meantime, you can get to know more about the Karma drone through the featured video or via this link.
Quik app
Beyond hardware and accessories comes the new GoPro Quik app for desktop and mobile devices. The new editing software or app is now much more user-friendly than GoPro’s previous software, allowing users to import, edit and select soundtracks easily for their videos before sharing them.
Interestingly, both the desktop and mobile versions of the Quik app are able to automatically edit videos according to the beat of the music selected. You can download the Quik app for free via the Apple App Store and Google Play whilst the desktop version can be downloaded via this link.
Enhanced accessories – Quik Key and REMO
Last but not least comes the volley of new accessories made available for the new Hero5 Black and Hero5 Session. Highlights here besides an array of casings and mounts include the Seeker Backpack, Karma Grip stabiliser stick plus the Quik Key and REMO.
Quik Key is a key-chain-shaped micro-USB card reader that compatible with a variety of mobile devices. It allows users to plug in and quickly transfer photos and and videos from a GoPro into a mobile device.
REMO, on the other hand, is a new voice-activated remote that further extends the Hero5 series’ voice-command abilities whilst offering the same one-button control interface as well.
FunSportz Sdn Bhd
For more information regarding, you can get in touch with authorised distributors FunSportz Sdn Bhd via its official Facebook page, its official site http://www.funsportz.com.my, email via info@funsportz.com.my or by calling its hotline at +603-7733 8939
GoPro Hero5 Black & Session launch @ Zouk KL
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/castrol-introduces-all-new-power1-ultimate-engine-oil/ | Castrol Introduces All-New Power1 Ultimate Fully Synthetic Engine Oil |
Castrol Malaysia has launched the Castrol Power1 Ultimate, a new fully synthetic engine oil line for two-wheelers.
According to Castrol Malaysia, the new Power1 Ultimate Full Synthetic engine oil is designed to provide superior acceleration and performance for motorcycles.
The Power1 Ultimate is available in different viscosity:
5W 40 (scooters)
5W 40 (small displacements motorcycles)
10W 50 (big bikes)
“The newly introduced engine oil was created not just for the power it provides, but also to keep up with Castrol’s reputation of protecting the heart of the vehicle as well.
“Our primary goal is to amplify the riding experience for the riders by providing them more power, confidence and acceleration. Motorcycles, just like us, experience fatigue and stress. Without proper care and attention, it could affect its performance and longevity.
“Castrol Power1 Ultimate goes the extra mile to provide and protect your bike and its engine,” said Keow Mei-shan, Marketing Director of Castrol Malaysia & Singapore.
The Castrol Power1 Ultimates also promises performance in five key areas which include:
Surprising acceleration
Better protection
Smooth riding
Keeps engine Cool
Enduring performance
The Castrol Power1 Ultimate 5W-40 4T, 10W-40 4T and 5W-40 4-AT is available for RM55, while the 10W-50 4t and 15W-50 4T is priced at RM60.50.
All of the products are available at Castrol Bike Point and Castrol’s Official Store in Shopee.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/shoei-rf-1400-gt-air-ii-gets-limited-colourway-for-2022/ | The Shoei RF-1400 & GT-Air II Gets Limited Colourway For 2022 |
Japanese helmet company Shoei has introduced a limited colourway for the RF-1400 and GT-Air II.
The two popular variants will be available in a new paint scheme that combines various colours and graphics.
The popular RF-1400 now comes in an Accolade colourway that features a flat grey base with blue and neon graphics laid on top.
The helmet displays a modern and futuristic design, and it also carries a set of Japanese characters that can be found at the back of the shell. It’ll probably go well with any naked bikes, especially the Yamaha’s MT range.
Meanwhile, Shoei’s popular touring helmet, the GT-Air II gets the unique Tesseract colourway and is available in TC-1 (grey), TC-5 (glossy white with red, black) and TC-10 (blue).
The new colourway combines various patterns, including a gradient colour and asymmetrical graphics, along with a small Shoei logo on the side.
According to Shoei, all colourways for the RF-1400 and GT-Air II will be available beginning May 2022 as a limited-run production.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/you-can-now-renew-motorcycle-road-tax-license-online-at-myeg/ | You can now renew motorcycle road tax & license online at MYEG |
MYEG has announced that its online services related to the Road Transports Department of Malaysia (JPJ) will now include the renewal of motorcycle road tax and Competent Driving License (CDL). These new services will be available starting 9 October 2020 for motorcycle road tax and 16 October 2020 for CDL.
Customers of MYEG can also enjoy other related value-added offerings from its online portal for ‘added convenience and peace of mind.’ These include online motorcycle insurance renewal as well as motorcycle road tax and CDL delivery services. Now that’s convenient.
These new offerings were introduced to ease some of the tasks involved in completing and obtaining these documents due to the rising concerns of COVID-19 here in Malaysia. MYEG and its online platform cater to those who want a wide of array of services that are reliable, safe, and easy without having to leave the comforts of their homes.
For more information, head over to www.myeg.com.my to gain access to all of these wonderful services. No need to waste your time waiting at the crowded JPJ, folks!
Written by: Sep Irran
‘Fishing pool’ to be opened at flooded Federal Highway motorcycle lane
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ewc-suzuki-increases-lead-at-very-wet-sepang-8-hours/ | EWC: Suzuki increases lead at ‘very wet’ Sepang 8 Hours |
The inaugural 8 Hours of Sepang FIM EWC (Endurance World Championship) concluded with YART Yamaha taking home the win at a very wet and drama-filled race. After a long delay which saw the race cut down to less than half, the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team (SERT) managed to extend their EWC championship lead up to 15 points (79 points total) in the second race of the series with a P5 finish.
The shortened race which was restarted only at 6 pm on Saturday saw riders and teams scrambling to get everything in order as the rain finally slowed down enough for conditions to be deemed ‘safe for racing’. The SERT squad and their three riders, Vincent Philippe, Etienne Masson, and Gregg Black, charged from P11 up to P5 to secure valuable points to continue their championship lead in the still very tricky conditions.
Due to time constraints, difficult riding conditions, and revised team strategies to get the best results by 9 pm, Gregg Black started the race and clocked an impressive pace to get his Suzuki GSX-R1000 up to P5. The bike was then passed to Masson where he maintained the position before crossing the chequered flag after 79 laps and three pit-stops.
According to Damien Saulnier, SERT’s Team Manager, “When you are not on the top step of the podium you always wish you had a better place, but for this race with tricky conditions, our goal was a Top-5 and the job has been done. I am satisfied with the work we’ve done during the week while being aware that there is still some more work to do. The team keeps on growing up and everyone works hard. We are also very pleased with Yoshimura’s engineers’ support.”
“I would also like to thank the organiser for this amazing event. Bringing 38 European teams to Malaysia was not an easy task! And last but not least, I would like to say a word for Vincent Philippe, who didn’t race today because of the circumstances. He is a very professional man and I had great confidence in him. I am filled with emotion, but also proud to have been able to work with this remarkable rider,” added Saulnier.
It’s an amazing result for Suzuki and it’ll be quite a show going to the next round at Le Mans in April. With SERT being a French-based outfit, it’ll be an advantage not only with a championship lead but also an added home advantage. The 24 Heures Motos 2020 at the famous Bugatti Circuit will commence from 18-19 April 2020.
BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team currently sits in second of the championship series with 64 points while Wójcik Racing Team (Yamaha) remains in third with 48 points despite not being able to secure any points at Sepang this past weekend.
Image credit: FIM EWC
EXCLUSIVE: Inside the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team at the 8 Hours of Sepang FIM EWC Race
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-vespa-primavera-50th-anniversary-launched-from-rm16300/ | 2019 Vespa Primavera 50th Anniversary launched! From RM16,300 |
Naza Premira (Vespa Malaysia) has officially launched the 2019 Vespa Primavera 50th
The special edition was launched in conjunction with the Vespa Primavera 50th anniversary celebration held at the Curve, Mutiara Damansara.
The 2019 Vespa Primavera special edition model is priced from RM16,300 (on-the-road price without insurance).
In conjunction with the Vespa Primavera 50th anniversary celebration, the official custodian of the Vespa brand here in Malaysia (Naza Premira) officially launched the 2019 Vespa Primavera 50th Anniversary edition. The launch and festivities were celebrated at The Curve Mutiara Damansara in front of hundreds of loyal Vespa owners from across the country.
Initially launched way back in 1968, the Vespa Primavera took the world by storm with its youthful yet agile appeal which has been packaged together with innovation and safety aspects. After 50 years of production and innovation, the new 2019 Vespa Primavera promises even greater levels of comfort, style, as well as superb design.
A quick glance at the new Vespa machine tells us that there are two colour options available which are pastel-like Light Blue and Matte Brown that come together with coordinated saddle, 12-inch grey 5-spoke aluminium forged wheels, and a new front shield logo plus badges to commemorate its 50th year in the industry.
Other new aspects of this special edition Vespa Primavera model are:
Dedicated 50th anniversary logo
New dashboard graphics
New rear light design
New front tie
New chromed crest on mudguard
As for power production, the 2019 Vespa Primavera 50th Anniversary edition comes with the 155cc I-Get single-cylinder four-stroke engine which produces a healthy 12.9hp at 7,750rpm and roughly around the same amount of maximum torque around 6,000rpm. All the power is transferred down to its rear wheel via a CVT with torque server transmission and automatic dry centrifugal clutch with vibration dampers.
Naza Premira (Vespa Malaysia) has priced the new 2019 Vespa Primavera 50th Anniversary at RM16,300 (on-the-road price without insurance).
Naza Premira is also offering a collaboration package with Aeon Credit where customers can enjoy a low interest rate of 6% per annum for all Primavera, Sprint, and GTS models purchased from now until 31 March 2019. This package also includes 1-year extended warranty plus 90% high-margin financing.
To know more, head over to www.vespa.com/my_EN/ or check out the official Vespa Malaysia Facebook page.
2018 Vespa Primavera 150, Sprint 150 & GTS 300 Super Sport launched – From RM15,600
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-sym-vf3i-185-limited-edition-is-back-with-5000-added-units-rm9338/ | 2020 SYM VF3i 185 Limited Edition is back with 5,000 added units – RM9,338 |
MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor for SYM motorcycles here in Malaysia, has announced the return of the 2020 SYM VF3i 185 Limited Edition onto the production line. Due to high market demands, they’ve decided to add 5,000 more units for enthusiasts to own and enjoy.
The first batch of the 2020 SYM VF3i 185 Limited Edition was unveiled earlier this year in May and since then, they’ve received close to 10,000 orders. As previously announced, the production numbers were limited to only 5,000 lucky owners here in the country.
Being the first kapcai in Malaysia to be fitted with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) as standard, the SYM VF3i 185 Limited Edition got a lot of positive feedbacks in terms of sales. Each bike comes with a very impressive 20,000km manufacturer’s warranty or two years (whichever comes first).
This super moped is also equipped with the biggest capacity engine in its category, a 183cc single-cylinder engine that produces a cool 19.7hp at 9,000rpm and 17.4Nm of maximum torque from 7,500rpm. If you want to cop one of these bad boys, better make a beeline straight to any of their authorised dealers because the demand is definitely higher than the supply.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-begin-testing-2023-motoe-race-bike-with-michelle-pirro/ | Ducati Begin Testing 2023 MotoE Race Bike With Michelle Pirro |
Ducati has already built and begun testing its 2023 MotoE race bike in Italy with Michele Pirro.
The test is crucial as Ducati will supply the entire MotoE World Cup grid beginning 2023 in a four-year deal.
Ducati will replace the outgoing Energica who previously supplied the entire grid since 2019 with a production-based Energica Ego Corse model.
However, Ducati takes over from 2023 will witness a brand-new, prototype-based sportbike that the Italian firm previewed in an artists’ rendering.
Despite there being talks the MotoE race bike will mark the Borgo Panigale first step into developing a production-based electric machine, Ducati has confirmed the MotoE model will stand alone as a race bike only.
Based on the rendered image, it is safe to assume the MotoE machine will share design similarities to the Ducati Panigale range.
*Michelle Pirro
“Right now, Michele Pirro is with MotoE in Misano, where our electric bike is going on the track for the first time,” said Ducati CEO, Claudio Domenicali.
While Ducati is all out excited with the new project, the announcement came as a surprise for everyone else especially since the Italian marquee has regularly dismissed the idea of moving forward with a high-performance electric motorcycle.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/khairul-idham-pawi-wins-wet-german-moto3-race/ | Khairul Idham Pawi wins wet German Moto3 race! |
Malaysian Moto3 rider Khairul Idham Pawi takes second career win in wet and dramatic German GP!
Malaysian rider Khairul Idham Pawi has charted another historic race win in the world Moto3 championship after winning the rain-hit German GP held in the Sachsenring circuit. He is now regarded as Moto3’s undisputed king of the wet.
The 17-year-old Perak native and Moto3 rookie showed his commanding mastery of the rain astride the Honda Team Asia machine just as he did in Argentina earlier this year. Khairul Idham Pawi’s performance in Germany could only be described as ‘heroic’.
Well done @khairulidham89 Malaysia is proud of you! #moto3 #germangp #superkip #bikesrepublic #motomalaya
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jul 17, 2016 at 2:55am PDT
Starting from 20th on the grid, Khairul picked up eight to nine bikes whilst at Turn 1 itself during the opening lap. After that, the Malaysian youngster slowly picked his way up the order and took the race lead by lap 4.
He also successfully defended his lead from the charges of Japanese rider and teammate Hiroki Ono – the only other rider able to keep up with him, albeit briefly before crashing out.
Again, the Honda Team Asia mechanics had to give him subtle warnings from the pitwall to keep him in check. Despite the challenging wet track surface and low temperatures, Khairul was pushing hard throughout the race.
Khairul only made one major mistake where he went wide and into the gravel whilst under braking for Turn 1. However, his 14-second lead gap at the time meant he was able to continue leading the race when he recovered back on track.
Well done @khairulidham89 ! #moto3 #germangp #superkip
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jul 17, 2016 at 2:59am PDT
By the time the chequered flag rolled out, Khairul had an unbelievable gap of 11.131 seconds from Andre Locatelli who finished second astride the Leopard Racing KTM machine and a further 13.359 seconds ahead of Enea Bastianini in third astride the Gresini Moto3 Team Honda machine.
With two race wins under his belt plus a further four points, the Malaysian rookie now ranks 10th in the Moto3 championship standings. On top of that, he is now the first Malaysian double race winner in the world Moto3 championship as well.
Congratulation @khairulidham89 and well done @redbullmy ! Good luck and full gas in Assen this weekend bro! #kip #superkip #moto3 #Repost @khairulidham89 with @repostapp ・・・ Alhamdulillah dan sangat berbangga dapat menjadi sebahagian daripada keluarga @redbull ????Terima Kasih @RedBullMY | It’s a dream come true and proud to be part of @redbull family. Thank you #RedBullMY
A photo posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jun 23, 2016 at 6:05pm PDT
We at BikesRepublic have nothing short of love, respect and an epic ‘tabik spring’ for this 17-year-old youngster from Perak. Well done and congratulations Khairul Idham Pawi!
Featured image: MotoGP.com
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/will-the-harley-davidson-bronx-be-revived/ | Will the Harley-Davidson Bronx streetfighter be revived? |
Harley-Davidson Bronx streetfighter
Reapplied trademark rights indicate the Harley-Davidson Bronx streetfighter might be revived.
Reapplied trademark rights suggest the Harley-Davidson Bronx may be revived.
The radical modern streetfighter initially broke cover as a concept way back in 2017.
The Bronx was ‘cancelled’ as Harley-Davidson changed CEOs.
Initially, a total of nine models underpinning the Bronx platform were planned.
When the Harley-Davidson Bronx concept was initially announced back in 2019, it was poised to form a three-model onslaught – Pan America and Sportster S included – that were powered by the bar-and-shield’s groundbreaking Revolution Max 1,250cc liquid-cooled V-twin.
Today, only the Pan America adventure bike and Sportster S custom have become a reality, with the streetfighter supposedly cancelled following a raft of reforms when the brand changed CEOs. Since then, Harley-Davidson has remained coy about the fate of the Bronx concept.
However, CycleWorld reports that recently reapplied trademark rights filed by Harley-Davidson indicates that the Bronx may not be dead after all. The move was likely a response to the recently revised Trademark Modernization Act in America, which aims to make it easier to clear unused trademarks from the federal register and stop companies from sitting on unused names.
If anything, the reapplication means Harley-Davidson intends to use the Bronx brand name one way or another, be it for a new motorcycle model or perhaps a parts range for it at least – as per the ratified act enforced by the US government.
Currenty, all signs point towards the Bronx being ‘delayed’ rather than ‘cancelled’ altogether, but whether the final bike will deliver the promises of the 2019 concept remains to be seen still despite all the development that has been poured into it.
Initially, the Harley-Davidson Bronx would’ve been the first to harness the new downsized 975cc iteration of the Revolution Max V-twin that now powers the recently debuted Nightster. A higher-spec version featuring the Pan America’s 145HP 1,250cc V-Twin was expected to follow suit after which.
This was all part of the “More Roads” plan pitched by ousted CEO Matt Levatich, which entailed to a total of nine standard/streetfighter model range based on the Bronx’s engine and platform by 2022. This, of course, was revised by Levatich’s replacement Jochen Zeitz later on.
Nevertheless, despite its challenges as a concept that never made it to production, we’re hopeful the Harley-Davidson Bronx gets the revival it deserves. Given the Pan America’s critical market reception and success, perhaps the timing is now right for the bar-and-shield to introduce a proper streetfighter.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-triumph-bonneville-speedmaster-launched/ | 2018 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster launched! – The new British custom icon |
Triumph Motorcycles has just introduced their next generation 2018 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster.
The modern classic cruiser uses a similar frame found in their Bobber and powered by their T120’s 1,200cc parallel-twin high-torque engine.
The 50s-inspired Speedmaster produces 76hp and 106Nm of torque with other modern features such as cruise control, ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, ABS, traction control and many more.
Triumph Motorcycles has just unveiled their latest 2018 Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster yesterday. The rebirth of the Speedmaster model which was first launched back in 2002 has gone through quite an evolution specially planned for its return into the modern classic world.
The all-new Bonneville Speedmaster is based on a similar frame as the Bobber which gives it a very sleek and modern appearance. Housed within the said frame is a 1,200cc parallel-twin high-torque engine similar to the one found on the T120 but with a few updates and setups that are unique to the Speedmaster.
Producing around 76hp at 6,100rpm and a high 106Nm of torque upon hitting 4,000rpm, the 2018 Speedmaster can probably carve the mountain roads even with its overall weight of 245.5kg. The handling is further improved with a 41mm KYB front fork and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock.
Stopping power comes in the form of a front twin 310mm disc with a pair of two-piston Brembo calipers mounted on the Speedmaster’s 16-inch wheel whereas a single 255mm disc with a single-piston Nissin caliper takes care of the rear.
Unlike the Bobber, the Speedmaster has been fitted with a rear subframe that allows for a pillion rider to join in the fun. Inspired by the classic Americana appeal from the late 50s and early 50s, the new Speedmaster is all about smooth lines and laid-back persona.
The Speedmaster also adopts a more cruiser-like riding experience with its forward-mounted foot pegs with a lower seat height and higher ground clearance compared to the badass Bobber. Those who enjoy long journeys will benefit greatly from the new Speedmaster as it offers higher levels of comfort with a punch of excitement with a slight twist of the throttle.
To make sure that riders can travel further and longer, the 2018 Speedmaster comes with a 12-litre fuel tank. This means that you’ll be spending less time refuelling at petrol stations and more time cruising down highway and coastal roads with a wide grin on your face.
Other features include cruise control, ride-by-wire throttle, selectable riding modes, ABS, traction control just to mention a few. Triumph is also proud to announce that there will be over 150 custom accessories for the Speedmaster to help make their prized bikes as unique as their owners.
Just check out all these custom fuel tanks for the Speedmaster and other Triumph 2018 models!
No price figures have been released just yet for the 2018 Speedmaster, though. Expect the bike to arrive in stages around the world sometime around the first quarter of next year.
Source: Triumph Motorcycles
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/max-biaggi-takes-delivery-of-aprilia-rsv4-x/ | Max Biaggi Takes Delivery of Aprilia RSV4 X |
Max Biaggi took delivery of the Aprilia RSV4 X and rode it straight away at the Mugello circuit.
The bike produces 225 hp and weighs only 165 kg (dry), and only 10 were built.
Andrea Iannone will receive his soon.
Max Biaggi took delivery of the Aprilia RSV4 X and rode it immediately at the Mugello circuit.
“Tackling the corners at Mugello astride the RSV4 X is always a fantastic thrill. On this bike, the sensations are exactly like those of a racing bike and, as soon as I got on it, I felt like I had never quit racing,” said Biaggi in the press release. (Note the different swingarm on Biaggi’s bike.)
Aprilia is currently handing over the ultra-exotic and ultra-limited RSV4 X to only 10 lucky owners. Another MotoGP rider, Andrea Iannone is set to receive his shortly.
The RSV4 X commemorates Aprilia’s 10th anniversary in World Superbike (WorldSBK) racing, hence limiting it to only 10 units. But it isn’t just another lightly enhanced model with anniversary colours. Like Biaggi said, the bike is as close to a WorldSBK racer as you could get.
That heavenly sounding 1078cc V4 engine produces 225 hp hp and carries a bike that weighs only 165 kg (dry). that 1.36 hp to 1 kg in terms of power-to-weight ratio.
Aprilia engineers removed 26 kg from the RSV4 1100 Factory by lightening a number of components, fitting carbon fibre bodywork, installing a lighter fuel tank and utilizing a titanium Akrapovic exhaust system.
To increase power, the RSV4 X’s engine features new intake camshaft, valve return springs, bucket tappets and more aggressive cam profiles. The ECU was also updated.
But perhaps the most important feature is its gear shift pattern. Instead of the normal 1-N-2-3-4-5-6, the Aprilia uses a fully race N-1-2-3-4-5-6 pattern. Called the Aprilia No Neutral (ANN) shift, the manufacturer reports that it cuts the time to shift from 1st to 2nd gear and eliminates catching a false neutral. It’s the first time such a pattern is used in a roadbike.
Hey, how about featuring it in ALL roadbikes?!
Handling braking duties are the Brembo GP4-MS front brake calipers, clamping down on Brembo T-Drive discs.
The bike cost £39,900 (RM 205,225) a pop.
You lucky buggers!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-harley-davidson-pan-america-1250-to-be-launched-in-february/ | 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 to be launched in February |
The 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 will be officially launched globally on 22 February 2021 along with other models for the year. It’s been three years since it was first teased and we initially thought that it was already opened for booking as the model was previewed at several Harley-Davidson dealers across America back in October.
It turns out that there will be another preview of the 2021 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 on 19 January 2021, which is most likely the model that will go to the production line. The brand’s first ADV bike is currently making waves due to the brand’s extensive social media presence and it would be interesting to see how the bike will handle in off-road conditions.
What we do know about the Pan America is that it’ll run a 1,250cc 60-degree V-twin engine which may be a similar setup to the brand’s Custom models. Not too sure about the power figures, though but we feel that this bad boy may have loads of torque for some fun time on the gravel.
Other visible features include a huge TFT screen, fancy switchgears, aluminium belly pan, all-LED lights, and a rear subframe setup that looks a lot like the Honda X-ADV. For the rest of the specs, we just have to be patient and wait for 22 February 2021. Stay tuned for more updates.
Jorge Lorenzo in hot water for tax evasion?
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-launches-three-new-2018-cvo-models/ | Harley-Davidson launches THREE new 2018 CVO models! |
Following the recent 2018 Softail launch, Harley-Davidson also introduced three new 2018 CVO models; the CVO Street Glide, CVO Road Glide and CVO Limited.
The new CVO models come with H-D’s biggest engine yet; a brand new 117 cubic inch (1,923cc) engine that produces over 165Nm of torque.
H-D also introduced four new ‘Special’ models as well which are the Street Glide Special, Road Glide Special and two 115th anniversary models; 115th Street Glide and 115th Ultra Limited.
The biggest and most badass Harley-Davidson CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) has been launched together with the other EIGHT brand new 2018 Softails which were unveiled yesterday in a major worldwide showcase. The three brand new CVO models for 2018 are the CVO Street Glide, CVO Road Glide and the CVO Limited.
The new 2018 CVO models have gone with the badass blacked-out image, awesome graphics and Harley-Davidson’s meanest engine yet; a brand new 117 cubic inch (1,923cc) engine that produces over 165Nm of torque.
To increase efficiency plus reliability on the monstrous engine, a dual-cooling system has been added by utilising air and oil. This means that the engine can run cooler for longer and it won’t release residual heat to the surrounding limbs of the rider while riding or waiting at traffic lights.
In terms of graphics, the new CVO models will take you on a trip to the wild side with dark and aggressive colour schemes to match the uber-cool blacked out 1,923cc engine block. Other changes include colour-coded inner fairings, bigger wheels and multiple exhaust finishes.
Want to add some rocking while you’re rolling? Opt for the 2018 CVO Street Glide and you’ll get a new sound system that includes a 900-watt speaker for quality tunes all the way to your destination. A Bluetooth unit has been added to allow more ease and flexibility.
Much like the eight new 2018 Softail models, those who can’t get their hands on the limited CVO models can opt for the five new ‘Special’ models which are the Street Glide Special, Road Glide Special, Road King Special and two 115th anniversary models; 115th Street Glide and 115th Ultra Limited.
The latest Special models have been fitted with H-D’s 107 cubic-inch power plant (1,753cc) with the classic chrome finish except for the Street Glide and Road Glide Special which come with blacked out engines. Both the 115th anniversary models have been garnished with special anniversary logos and graphics.
We have not confirmed on when any of these bikes will land on Malaysian shores but once they do, we will be the first to inform you. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
Interested in the 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail models? CLICK HERE!
Source: Harley-Davidson
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-vitpilen-401-husqvarna-vitpilen-701-husqvarna-svartpilen-401-in-malaysia-now/ | Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 701, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 in Malaysia Now |
Husqvarna is venturing into the road motorcycle segment as well.
The Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 701, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 have arrived in Malaysia.
Each model line-up caters to a different sub-category, although they share the same engine platform.
Husqvarna is very much well-known for their dirt bikes, but the manufacturer has recently forayed in road motorcycles. The recently-launched Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 701, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 have made their way to Malaysia.
The Swedish brand is now under the KTM umbrella. They produce their own motorcycle line-up, although their engines share the same architecture as KTM’s.
We found the bikes listed in Chia Motor PJ’s Facebook page. So please refer to the attached links for more information.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 (Selling price from RM 44,500)
Husqvarna calls the Vitpilen 401 as a fresh and simple approach to motorcycling. It is subtle and style focused, stripped of everthing superfluous.
Those are the company’s lines, produced by a copywriter. We see the bike as a modern interpretation of the evergreen café racer layout.
Highlights
373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
The engine produces 44 bhp (32 kW) and 37 Nm of torque.
Bosch fuel injection engine management system (EMS).
Ride-by-wire throttle.
6-speed transmission.
PASC assist and slipper clutch.
Steel trellis frame.
WP upside-down forks.
WP monoshock rear suspension.
BYBRE front and rear disc brakes.
Bosch 9M+ two-channel ABS.
Spoked wheels.
148 kg dry.
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701 (Selling price from RM68,500)
As the name suggests, the Vitpilen 701 is the more powerful version of the Vitpilen 401. However, there are many styling and component differences between the two models.
Highlights
692.7cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
The engine produces 75 bhp (55 kW) and 72 Nm of torque.
Keihin EMS.
Ride-by-wire throttle.
Traction control.
Up and down quickshifter.
6-speed transmission.
APTC assist and slipper clutch, hydraulically actuated.
Steel trellis frame.
Fully adjustable WP upside-down forks.
Fully adjustable WP monoshock rear suspension.
Brembo front and rear disc brakes.
Bosch 9M+ two-channel ABS.
Cast wheels.
157 kg dry.
Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 (Selling price from RM 44,500)
The Svartpilen 401 is the “scrambler” of the line-up, with a higher handlebar and knobby tyres. Its lines follow those of the Vitpilen 401 but with differences in the details. The seats are longer and lower, too.
Highlights
373cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
The engine produces 44 bhp (32 kW) and 37 Nm of torque.
Bosch fuel injection engine management system (EMS).
Ride-by-wire throttle.
6-speed transmission.
PASC assist and slipper clutch.
Steel trellis frame.
WP upside-down forks.
WP monoshock rear suspension.
BYBRE front and rear disc brakes.
Bosch 9M+ two-channel ABS.
Spoked wheels.
150 kg dry.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/naza-premira-launches-vespa-drive-lets-ride-campaign/ | Naza Premira Launches “VESPA, WHY DRIVE? LET’S RIDE…” Campaign |
New Vespa Sprint 150 ABS and Primavera 150 ABS from as low as RM370 monthly
Six months’ worth of FREE PETROL when you purchase a Vespa during the campaign period
Naza Premira Sdn. Bhd. the sole importer and distributor of Vespa scooters in Malaysia today launched its “Vespa, Why Drive? Let’s Ride…” sales campaign.
According to Mr Farouk Faisal, CEO of Naza Premira Sdn Bhd, he stated that “In the prevailing conditions of rising fuel costs, tolls and parking charges, we are promoting the idea of riding Vespas to work as an alternative to driving cars whilst maintaining the spirit of style and adventure. Vespa models now come equipped with new fuel-injected I-Get engine, anti-lock braking system (ABS) as well as USB port which provide fuel efficiency, safety, as well as convenience”.
The “Vespa, Why Drive? Let’s Ride…” campaign ends 30 June 2017 with each Vespa purchase entitled to 6 months’ worth of free petrol at all participating dealers nationwide (selected models only, consumption may vary from rider to rider, terms and conditions apply). The Vespa Sprint 150 ABS and Vespa Primavera 150 ABS are affordable with instalments starting from only RM370 per month.
The new Vespa Sprint 150 and Primavera 150 now come with anti-lock braking system (ABS), a safety feature that is usually available with higher end models of bigger capacity. When it comes to the Primavera 150 ABS, it is essentially the current Primavera model that’s been updated with a new power train and an enhanced features list.
At the core of the Primavera is the new Piaggio i-Get engine that boasts optimised efficiency, lowered emissions and increased reliability over the mill it replaces. The four-stroke 154.8cc single-cylinder three-valve mill primed with fuel injection outputs 12.7hp @ 7,750rpm and 12.8Nm @ 6,500rpm, with both sent to the rear wheel via a twist-and-go automatic box.
Looking at the Sprint 150 ABS, the 2016 version of the sporty model with the distinct square headlamp design also gets the same treatment as its sibling the Primavera. Leading its bill of changes and upgrades here is the same new Piaggio i-Get four-stroke 154.8cc single-cylinder three-valve mill with fuel injection, as well as the addition of ABS to complement its front disc and rear drum anchors – again, a feature previously unavailable in its outgoing predecessor.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hafizh-syahrin-conferred-excellence-in-sports-award/ | Hafizh Syahrin Conferred Excellence in Sports Award |
Malaysian MotoGP rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah was conferred the Excellence in Sports Award.
The award was presented by the DYMM Sultan of Selangor on the occasion of His Excellency’s birthday.
Hafizh Syahrin is the country’s first full-time MotoGP rider.
Malaysian MotoGP rider Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah has been conferred the Anugerah Darjah Kebesaran Bintang Kegemilangan Sukan (Excellence in Sports Award) today. However, the award does not carry the title of “Dato’.”
The award was presented by His Excellency DYMM Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Al-Haj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Al-Haj today as part of His birthday celebrations.
Hafizh Syahrin distinguished himself as the country’s first full-time MotoGP rider when he was picked to join the Monster Tech3 Yamaha MotoGP team this year. He partnered two-time Moto2 Champion, Johann Zarco.
The rider will move onto a factory KTM RC16 works MotoGP bike next year following Tech3’s move to the new camp. Partnering Hafizh is Moto2 frontrunner Miguel Oliveira.
Hafizh began racing on pocket bikes. His exploits earned him the title “King of Pocket Bikes.” He moved on to Cub Prix racing before moving to Spain for the CEV series. It was there that he picked up the “El Pescao” nickname. “Pescao” means “fish” in Spanish as the rider had always excelled during wet races.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-mv-agusta-superveloce-800-price-specs-revealed/ | 2020 MV Agusta Superveloce 800 price + specs revealed |
Back in May, MV Agusta introduced the 2020 MV Agusta Superveloce 800 in two very sexy colours which are the Metallic Carbon Black/Dark Metallic and Ago Red/Ago Silver combinations. Now primed for full production, the Italian premium motorcycle manufacturer has released the full specs for the Superveloce but is it really worth the hefty price tag?
For the European market, fans can get their very own 2020 MV Agusta Superveloce 800 at €19,900, which is around the RM98,200 mark after direct conversion. So, what do you get with at this price point from MV Agusta? How about one hell of a beautiful bike for starters? I mean, how can you not fall in love with these curves?
The Superveloce 800 brings together elements of the brand’s past with the latest riding technology and it reflects the best of both worlds. Carrying some specs over from the over-the-top Brutale 1000 Serie Oro, the Superveloce 800 comes with a host of modern equipment such as a full LED lighting system, 5-inch TFT instrument panel, and many more.
For firepower, the new Superveloce 800 is primed with a 798cc inline-three DOHC liquid-cooled engine that punches out a powerful 148hp at 13,000rpm and 88Nm of max torque at 10,600rpm. This is further managed by the brand’s integrated ignition – injection system MVICS, upgraded ECU, ride-by-wire, torque control, traction control, and more.
It is safe to say that the electronics department from MV Agusta is top-notch and that is well-represented in the new Superveloce 800. To make things even more fun, it also comes ready with the MV EAS 2.1 electronic quickshifter which works both ways.
Other notable specs include:
ALS Steel tubular trellis frame
Fully adjustable 43mm Marzocchi USD telescopic hydraulic fork
Progressive Sachs, single rear shock absorber (fully adjustable as well)
Front 320mm dual disc brakes + Brembo 4-piston radial monoblocs
Rear 220mm single disc brake + Brembo 2-piston caliper
Bosch 9 Plus ABS system (with Race Mode and Rear wheel Lift-up Mitigation)
17-inch aluminium alloy wheels + Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres
With no one currently handling the MV Agusta brand here in Malaysia (apart from aftersales by the folks from Spokes & Wheels, formerly known as GB Workshop at The Gasket Alley PJ), we probably won’t see one on our shores anytime soon. For now, you can drool over the mega photo gallery provided by them. What a tease.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/production-ready-aprilia-rs-660-teaser/ | Production-Ready Aprilia RS 660 Teaser |
The production-ready Aprilia RS 660 appeared on social media.
It may well be real supersport machine.
Rumoured to have more than 100 bhp and weigh a little more than 100 kg.
Remember the Aprilia RS 660 concept which made its debut at EICMA 2018? Well, Aprilia is now teasing with the production-ready form on social media.
Click here to read: Aprilia RS 660 Concept Unveiled at EICMA 2018
Harked as the beginning of a new age, it points to the Noble-based manufacturer creating a true supersport machine, instead of a sport-tourer/commuter machine like the Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Indeed there are rumours that the bike will produce more than 100 bhp and weight just north of 100 kg. Such power-to-weight ration would make any bike fly. Which is fine by us.
RS 660: a new era begins.#Aprilia #RS660 #eicma2019 pic.twitter.com/tj1owDZJc1
— Aprilia (@ApriliaOfficial) October 29, 2019
If you haven’t been following our updates, the RS 660 takes the RSV4’s engine and cuts off the rear two cylinders, leaving behind a parallel-Twin. But knowing Aprilia, it will not be “just any” parallel-Twin. Add in their Factory APRC package and you have a real sportbike ready to do battle.
Not much can be seen in the picture. However, with some Photoshop work by our friends at Asphalt & Rubber, we could just make out fairing sides that are a little different to the concept’s. There appears to be an aerobody as the manufacturer suggested.
We could also see that it has upside-down forks with lowers for radial-mounted brake calipers.
There are also rumours that suggest the price to be around USD 13,000, which equates to RM 54,342.60. However, it would end up being more expensive than that, given our tax structure.
Still, we couldn’t wait to see it when unveiled at EICMA 2019 next week.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/post-race-sentul-team-malaysia/ | Post-race in Sentul with Team Malaysia |
We caught up with all seven Malaysian riders for a few minutes just after their race earlier today before they jet off back home, garnering some of their thoughts after what seemed to be a trying weekend.
Team Malaysia’s outing earlier today in Indonesia for the second round of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup (Shell Cup) wasn’t dismal, yet it wasn’t what the boys had hoped for either. Of the seven, only Ibrahim Norrodin crashed out on lap 8 while the pint-sized Cheras native Helmi Azman was the only one to make in the top 10 with his 9th place finish.
Helmi Azman: “At first, I struggled after making a bad start and dropped down the order into 15th by the first corner. I kept fighting hard and started chasing the rest of the field then. I gave it my all in the final lap, which resulted with my ninth place finish.”
Despite a good start, Fakhrusy Rostam, who was the best qualifier amongst the seven, suffered from an issue with his bike’s sprocket. “I had the perfect start but by things didn’t go too well after. The race was quite tough for me with the bad sprocket, so I got left behind by the second corner. I had good corner exits but the bad sprocket impeded my bike’s power delivery to keep up. After discovering this, I adapted to the situation and decided to try hard and maintain my position.”
While showing good pace all weekend and out-qualifying his older brother Adam, Ibrahim Norrodin showed some excellent riding on track up until his crash that is. Describing his race, the former series reserve rider said “Starting from 13th, I also had a less than perfect race start. I began pushing hard from the start and was already in sight of the grid’s second group and into the top 10. But by the fifth or sixth lap, I had to deal the other rider’s aggressive advances. The pressure eventually led to me high-siding myself and crashing out of turn 6.”
Clearly, Ibrahim was disappointed as this was his second DNF in two races. But it has to be noted that since starting out initially as a reserve rider, his training and mileage on the Shell Cup’s Honda NSF250R isn’t as extensive as the rest of his compatriots. But his performance from Friday practices and Qualifying clearly showed he can keep up with the rest of is teammates.
Adam Norrodin stated that he had a good start from his 19th place on the grid, moving up the grid to finish in 15th. “I was right behind Ibrahim by lap 2, but by lap 3, one of the Japanese riders overtook me and then braked hard into a corner, which led to our bikes touching at the tyres and I went off into the gravel. Fortunately, I didn’t fall and I could still continue, but my RPMs were too low to power out of the situation. At this point, I rejoined the race with Nazirul and Shafiq Rasol and decided to just keep up with both of them from then on.”
Shafiq Rasol, who had shown promise in practice sessions, started from 12th dropped down the order to finish in 16th. Shafiq shared with us that a last-minute setup change led to him having an unfamiliar bike to race with. “Prior to the race, the crew swapped by rear absorber for a new one and the sprocket as well in the process. But it didn’t feel right compared to my setup from yesterday and I struggled in the race to keep up.”
Nazirul Bahauddin was quick to apologise to Adam Norrodin after race for the unintended roughness during the start where both bikes touched. “I over-revved at the start and in the heat of the moment chasing the pack down into first corner, I took a more aggressive style going into it as most of the pack were. Here, I mistook Adam for one of the Japanese riders and was probably too aggressive with him.” Adam on the other hand did not take it too seriously, and even said: “I’m ok with that. If anything, it was a good way to learn on how to properly handle myself against tougher opponents when racing. After all, this is racing and contact is inevitable.”
Starting from 17th, Shafiq Ezzariq capitalise on his good start and entry into turn 1. Shafiq mentioned that he began pushing to chase the second group during the race. “For me, I feel that I’ve improved from yesterday in terms of pace and position. I tried to chase the middle of the three groups throughout the entire race, but the gap was too large and I eventually decided to fight hard in maintaining my position from then on.”
The next step
Like we’ve reported before, the boys have initiated their own meetings in the hotel at the end of the day during a race weekend. Shafiq Ezzariq revealed that last night’s meet up was just amongst the boys without any of the accompanying parents present. “We had a short meeting last night, where we decided to stick together and united, plus a quick rundown on our starting procedures” said Shafiq Ezzariq.
Again, the boys made it very clear that the first thing they want to do upon getting back to Malaysia were immediate training stints on track in Sepang. Minus Shafiq Rasol, Adam Norrodin, and Helmi Mazlan, the rest of the boys will get to do just that with the coming weekend’s Malaysian Super Series in Sepang. Adam will instead head over to Spain to compete in CEV.
Additionally, Fakhrusy revealed that he intended to train further in the Pasir Gudang Circuit in his home state of Johore as well in preparation for Zhuhai. Joining him after school is Ibrahim Norrodin where he shared his view by saying “Zhuhai is a small circuit with a plenty of bumpy surfaces, so Pasir Gudang’s similar would be more than perfect for us to train on.”
“More support from home would be good”
Last but not least, all seven also shared one common request, and that is to receive more support from home. While some have their parents with them as mechanics, the rest aren’t able to do so due to work schedule and financial limitations. Fortunately for Helmi, this weekend saw his two elder sisters and a family friend present trackside to support him whenever possible. The boys also had a special visitor over the weekend. Representing Datuk Razlan Razali and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) was Nor Lina Ayob, the circuit’s national press officer.
Unanimously, all seven express their wish to see a good-sized crowd when the series comes the Sepang. The Shell Cup will race in Sepang twice this year, the first will be held in conjunction with the Malaysian Super Series Bikes weekend from Sept 19 to 21. The second will run as a support event for the 2014 Shell Advance Malaysian MotoGP from Oct 24 to 26.
2014 Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup Round 2 – Sentul, Indonesia – Team Malaysia
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-kawasaki-z-h2-se-get-showa-skyhook-suspension-brembo-stylema-brakes/ | 2021 Kawasaki Z H2 SE get Showa Skyhook Suspension + Brembo Stylema brakes |
The top-dog in the Kawasaki Z range has a new updated model in the form of the 2021 Kawasaki Z H2 SE. Marketed to be more comfortable and better rideability than the previous-gen, the 2021 Z H2 Special Edition comes with two major updates and they’re great additions.
First and foremost, Kawasaki decided to include its Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension with Skyhook EERA Technology into the mix. This translates to an electronic adaptive suspension setup that provides millisecond adjustments to any bumps and imperfections of the road.
This keeps the Z H2 SE level and stable, even during hard braking as it also takes fork dive and deceleration forces into account. Its rideability is further enhanced with the addition of a new LED headlight, full-colour TFT screen like the new 2021 Ninja ZX-10R, as well as smartphone connectivity.
Speaking of braking and deceleration, the 2021 Kawasaki Z H2 SE also comes with the new Brembo Stylema monobloc brake calipers and Brembo front brake master cylinder. When it comes to the latest powerful motorcycles, the Brembo Stylema is seen as the benchmark for superior braking performance.
Other specs remain the same, including its 998cc inline-four supercharged engine, chassis, transmission, and exterior design. In other words, the 2021 Kawasaki Z H2 SE is a powerful beast that offers better comfort and performance than ever.
2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR revealed – 500 units only
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/q1-2019-motorcycle-sales-up-23-6-in-europe/ | Q1 2019 Motorcycle Sales Up 23.6% in Europe |
Motorcycle sales in Europe grew by 23% in Q1 2019.
The biggest growing markets were a number of former Eastern Bloc countries.
The traditional EU markets also grew.
While motorcycle sales is languishing in the United States and dropped markedly around the world, sales in Europe has actually picked up.
Q1 2019 sales picked up by a heady 23.6% in Europe against a 5% general drop worldwide. Even China and India saw a drop in the number of bikes moved, dragging down the worldwide market average.
The result surprised even KTM CEO Stefan Pierer, whose brand increased by 10%.
The fastest growing European markets were the former Eastern Bloc countries including Poland (+87.3%), Romania (+86.9%), Hungary +72%), Lithuania (+71%) and Slovakia (+54%). Many riders from other countries have taken to riding in these countries recently, perhaps sparking the local interest in motorcycles.
Traditional EU markets also saw growth including France (+31.8%), Italy (+17%), Spain (+19.1%), Germany (+22.1%), and the United Kingdom (+10%) despite Brexit fears.
By contrast, the Asian motorcycle market saw a drop of 9.9%. However, the ASEAN region recorded a 5.9% growth, spurred by a 15% increase in the Indonesian market. Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam recorded reductions, on the other hand.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gpx-legend-150-gpx-gentleman-gpx-demon-gr-and-gpx-demon-gn-preview/ | GPX Legend 150, GPX Gentleman, GPX Demon GR and GPX Demon GN Preview |
We previewed the GPX Legend 150, GPX Gentleman, GPX Demon GR and GPX GN Demon.
The bikes offer looks and performance of bigger machines at affordable prices.
GPX is a Thai manufacturer who produces almost all of their bikes’ components.
We were given a preview of the GPX Legend 150, GPX Gentleman, GPX Demon GR and GPX Demon GN tonight by Bike Continent Sdn. Bhd.
These GPX models represent great-looking bikes at prices that’s easier on your bank account balance. GPX also assures us that these motorcycles are built tough and reliable.
GPX is a Thai motorcycle manufacturer. They produce the frames, bodywork and other parts of the motorcycle except for the running stock. The engines are built in China, but GPX stations their Thai and Japanese engineers at the production plant to monitor the quality closely.
The manufacturer is now the 3rdlargest selling brand in Thailand by volume. They are active in organizing rides and special events for their customers, such as the mega gathering at Hard Rock Café Siam Square in Bangkok.
GPX Legend 150 (from RM 8,XXX available from April 2019)
The Legend 150 is a retro model for those who like simplicity and customization. Indeed, the Legend is bare-bones in its stock form.
This model is already doing very well in Thailand, its country of origin. The customizers in that country have shown off a number of awe-inspiring customs. The long bench-seat and fuel lends that classic 1950’s look.
As such, it should bode well for motorcycle fans in Malaysia who wish to own a motorcycle which reflects their own personalities, instead of owning something which you could find anywhere.
The Legend 150 is powered a 150cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. From our observation, the powerplant looks solidly-built with fine finishing.
The chassis handled by a pair of telescopic forks and a pair of shocks at the rear. The frame is a welded spaceframe which utilizes the engine as a stressed member.
GPX Gentleman 200 (from RM 10,980)
The Gentleman is GPX’s café racer in the lineup.
The model has a number of interesting features:
LED running lights and taillight.
LCD instrument display (meter).
A shapely fuel tank with Monza-style fuel cap.
Stitched seats, rear seat cowl.
A large round airbox which kind of looks like an intake for a turbocharger.
Sculpted subframe and tailsection.
Upside-down forks.
Monoshock rear suspension.
The Gentleman is powered by a 200cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. The quality of the components can readily be seen.
This model is also very popular in Thailand and hundreds of owners will turn up for convoys.
GPX Demon GPR 150 (from RM 9,XXX available from February 2019)
Mini-Panigale? You bet!
The Demon GPR’s styling takes after the already gorgeous Ducati Panigale with a number of differences.
For example, there are also LED running lights sited in where the air intakes of the Panigale are.
Key features:
Aggressive raptor fully-LED headlamps.
LED taillight.
Full-fairing with which has slats and vents.
Split, sporty seats.
Upside-down forks, monoshock rear suspension.
LCD instrument panel.
Steel trellis frame.
Cast swingarm.
The Demon GPR rolls on 14-inch cast-alloy wheels. It is powered by the same 150cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine of the Legend 150.
GPX Demon GN 150 (from RM 8,XXX available from March 2019)
The Demon GN is the “naked” version of the Demon GPR. It takes the look of a streetfighter.
Key features:
Sharp fully-LED headlights.
Fully-LED taillight.
Split, sporty seats.
Upside-down forks, monoshock rear suspension.
LCD instrument panel.
Steel trellis frame.
The way we look at it, the Demon GN
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/10-best-sounding-bikes-part-2/ | 10 Best Sounding Bikes (Part 2) |
1992 Suzuki GSX-R750
Good sounding bikes brings out a certain emotion in us.
Sounds are subjective.
But some truly sounded great.
As we conclude this “10 Best Sounding Bikes” series, I would like to say that I truly miss the sounds of not just big bikes but of most bikes. The Covid-19 lockdown has brought on an even stronger sense of yearning to ride.
Till then, the sounds of a number of bikes do bring back a sense of nostalgia. The older bikes seem to sound better, since there wasn’t any or much regulation that emasculated their sounds. These sounds emanated not from just the exhaust but also from the engines, which added a character to the bike.
5. BMW R nine T
One of our friends pointed out this bike. We won’t disagree. The BMW Boxer has been liquid-cooled since 2003, bring along lots of refinement. However, the R nine T retro series is still oil/air-cooled. They have this low-down “vrom.” Not “vroom,” but “vrom.”
4. Suzuki GSX-R 750/1000
1985 Suzuki GSX-R750
We’re talking about the classic Gixxers here. With the right pipes, they had a distinctive bark when blipped then sounded like Imperial TiE fighters (watch Star Wars and you’ll understand) at high revs. Suzuki sounds best with Yoshimura exhausts, right? That’s because the factory worked with the fame tuner for a long time. Check out this 1986 Yoshimura Suzuki Suzuka 8 Hours endurance racer, ridden by Kevin Schwantz and Satoshi Tsujimoto.
3. Any two-stroke(!)
Ah, ye ol’ smokers. Nothing sounded dangerous like an angry swarm of bees under the tank than a two-stroke singing “on the pipe” at 10,000 RPM. Never mind that some two-strokes (especially Yamahas) sounded like they’re wet farting during tickover. Watch this video below and see how the engine comes alive from 9,500 RPM onwards.
2. Honda CBX
No other bike could ever sound like the Honda CBX1000. That’s because it was an inline-Six, produced to be the fastest production bike. Oh, it braps. Yes, it howls. But with the right mechanical symphony mixed in.
1. Ducati 888
It was hard to decide between the CBX and 888. But maybe because the 888 not only sounded like thunder from far away, it also sounded like a (smaller) piston engine fighter plane flying too low. Its rumble reverberates inside your rib cage, while that dry clutch rattles like a trash compactor eating a metal spoon. Added together with a goose-like intake honk under the tank, it was a sound that stirred the soul. Even its predecessor, the 851 and roadgoing 900SS cousin sounded (almost) like that. This was one of the last bellowing V-twin sportbikes ever produced, besides the 916.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/limited-edition-2018-royal-enfield-classic-500-pegasus-unveiled/ | Limited edition 2018 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Pegasus unveiled |
Royal Enfield has just unveiled the limited edition 2018 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Pegasus.
Based on the Classic 500, the Pegasus edition is highly-inspired by the brand’s 1930s Flying Flea and the British Army’s Parachute Regiment.
Only 1,000 units will be made and priced around £5,000 (RM26,656).
Royal Enfield has just launched their latest limited edition model yet which comes in the form of a 2018 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Pegasus. This very special and very limited version of the Classic 500 is highly-inspired by the brand’s 125cc Royal Enfield Flying Flea which was built and served in World War II.
The Flying Flea was a very lightweight 125cc machine which was built in the 1930s and served until the 1960s. Dropped from planes alongside army personnel, the Flying Flea helped soldiers to get around at an excess of over 60km/h which made it a success around the world serving its troops.
To make sure that the details of the 2018 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Pegasus were all accurate, the manufacturer collaborated with the British Army’s Parachute Regiment and the Ministry of Defence. The end result? A bike filled with great history and legacy which can only be done by the folks from Royal Enfield.
Other details include the Pegasus emblem in maroon and blue, the official Parachute Regiment crest, unique serial number etched on the fuel tank, wartime brown and olive green colour scheme, period-accurate brown handlebar grips, strapped brass knuckles air filter, and blacked out silencers, wheels, pedals, and more.
How rare is the 2018 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Pegasus edition? Well, they will only produce 1,000 units for the entire world. As for the pricing, the UK market has confirmed it at about £5,000 (around RM26,656). Production will start in July.
Image source: MCN
Royal Enfield flagship store launched in Shah Alam
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/200hp-damon-hyperfighter-colossus-open-for-booking-rm147k/ | 200HP Damon HyperFighter Colossus Open For Booking – RM147k |
Damon Motorcycles new HyperFighter Colossus is now open for booking but will only be available as a limited-edition model with just 100 units slated for production.
However, the worldwide orders for the HyperFighter Colossus are on a ‘first-in-line’ basis, meaning by the time this news is published, it is safe to assume the entire slot has already been taken.
Interestingly, none of the future owners will get to see the finished design of the HyperFighter Colossus during the reservation process.
Instead, the new machine can only be seen once it is put on display a the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas scheduled to take place on January 5 2022.
According to Damon, the HyperFighter Colossus makes 200hp and over 200Nm as well as a top speed of 273km/h with a 0-100km/h in less than 3-seconds. This is achievable with the help of Damon new HyperDrive powertrain.
The 20 kWh battery takes just 45 minutes to get to 80 per cent charge with DC fast charging, 2.5 hours to 90 per cent on a 240V outlet and 15 hours to 90 per cent on a 110V outlet.
Besides the impressive powertrain, the HyperFighter Colossus is equipped with Damon’s CoPilot system, which features a 360-radar camera and sensor that tracks up to 64 objects.
The bike also gets Damon’s Shift System, which electronically changes riding ergonomics on the go.
Damon says the HyperFighter Colossus will feature more top-notch electronics once it is officially unveiled in Vegas.
Other specifications include:
17″ front and rear wheels
32″ seat height
57″ wheelbase
Öhlins suspension
Brembo brakes
The Damon HyperFighter Colossus is priced at USD35,000 (RM147k), and you can reserve on with a USD250 deposit on Damon’s official site.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/special-programmes-planned-to-celebrate-25th-malaysian-motogp/ | Special programmes planned to celebrate 25th Malaysian MotoGP |
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) officially launched the 2015 Shell Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix (Malaysia MotoGP) yesterday at the KL Hilton.
Set to be held from 23 to 25 October 2015, the race, which will be the 17th round of the 2015 MotoGP World Championship, is also the 25th edition of the Malaysia MotoGP.
“This is a very special year for the Malaysian MotoGP as it marks the 25th anniversary of the event, from 1991 at the Batu Tiga Circuit in Shah Alam to its move to Sepang International Circuit in 1999 until now. It was the first major international motorsports event to be held at the Sepang Circuit and is the longest running international motorsports event hosted in Malaysia. The Malaysia MotoGP also continues to excite fans, as we can see by the consistent growth in attendance. In the last five years, we recorded more than 120,000 fans over three days annually from 2010 to 2014. This year, fans can expect exciting activities to mark the silver anniversary of this race,” said Dato’ Razlan.
This year’s Malaysian MotoGP season will see many special activities such as the Mega Moto Carnival – Malaysia’s biggest auto carnival with 108 booths, a MotoGP Wall of Fame, exclusive 25th anniversary merchandise sale, social media contests, as well as popular recurring activities like the SIC Zoomers road show happening from 25 September to 18 October 2015.
Meanwhile, the race week will see new events including a MotoGP pre-anniversary party, stunt shows, a Riders Mini GP Race, a public pit lane walk, riders’ autograph session, safety car ride, grid walk and much more.
“Malaysian fans will have many opportunities to wave the Jalur Gemilang with pride when they cheer on the Drive M7 SIC Racing team as well as our other Malaysian riders, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah and Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman in Moto 2, and five young talents in the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup (ATC) – Shafiq Rasol, Adam Norrodin, Helmi Azman, Fakhrusy Syakirin Rostam and Azroy Anuar. Sports has a special ability to unify all Malaysians and we look forward to seeing Malaysians from all walks of life coming together to cheer on our riders and team,” he added.
For fans of Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez, they can enjoy a special experience with the tribune areas. The VR46 Tribune, the special seating zone for Rossi’s supporters will be located above Turn 1, also Rossi’s favourite stop to honour his fans after the race.
As for Marc Marquez fans, the Marc Marquez Tribune is located at the Main Grandstand’s Diamond zone, which sits above the starting grid, offering the best view of the circuit and all the action.
MotoGP Malaysia 2015 tickets are selling at RM212 for the Main Grandstand, RM 116.60 for the K1 Grandstand, RM84.80 for the F Grandstand and RM42.40 for the C2 Hillstand, all inclusive of GST. The three-day Premier Roving tickets, which allow fans to move around in all spectator areas, are available at RM318. This year, it includes a complimentary exclusive transfer service between the Welcome Centre, C2 Hillstand and F Grandstand for ticket holders.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-docm-annual-general-meeting-welcomes-450-ducatisti-all-over-malaysia/ | 2022 DOCM Annual General Meeting Welcomes 450 Ducatisti All Over Malaysia |
Ducati Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) recently concluded its 5th Annual General Meeting 2022 held at the Movenpick Hotel and Convention Centre, Sepang.
The 5th DOCM Annual General Meeting was organized by DOCM members in partnership with Ducati Malaysia and various partners, including Monster Energy, Shell and Allianz.
Also present at the meeting, Next Bike Sdn Bhd Head of Company, Dennis Michael.
Apart from selecting a new committee members for 2022, the Annual General Meeting also witness the largest Ducatisti gathering in Malaysia.
According to Ducati Malaysia, over 450 Ducatisti had gathered at Sepang thanks to the unwavering support from Ducati Hyper Club Malaysia, Panigale Kingdom, Ducati All-Monster Malaysia and Ducati Multistrada Club Malaysia.
During the gathering, DOCM has also been named as the official Ducati community representing Malayisa along with the unveiling of a new DOCM logo.
To help strengthen the community, Ducati Malaysia also donated a cheque of RM30,000 to further grow the community of passionate Ducati riders.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/speed-limit-on-the-german-autobahn-nein-say-lawmakers/ | Speed Limit on the German Autobahn? NEIN! Say Lawmakers |
Environmental groups called for speed limits throughout the German autobahn network.
They were concerned that speeding vehicles produce more emissions.
But the country’s lawmakers shot down the idea.
The German autobahn has a certain sense of fascination attached to it, since it’s probably the last stretch of road in the world where speed is not limited.
It’s also a symbol of pride and identity of a nation well-known for cutting edge engineering and technology. It’s somewhat like saying “our vehicles can go fast, but they are safe, too.” In fact, that’s exactly what country’s Federal Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer boasted that German highways are the safest in the world.
So, when a group called National Platform of Future Mobility recommended that speeds are culled to a 130 km/h limit, lawmakers responded with a resounding “Nein! (“No” in German)” Of the 631 votes cast in the Bundestag (parliament), 498 were against.
Interestingly, the proposal was not not made from the point of the dangers of speeding. Instead, it was due to environmental concerns that speeding vehicles consume more fuel, thereby releasing more noxious emissions compared to those cruising at “middle” speeds.
The minister’s response may seem off the mark but he countered that there are better solutions than to impose speed limits.
Truth is, the vision of blatting WFO (wide, full, open throttle) down the entire 12,993 km network around Germany is a myth. While it’s true that only 30 percent have a speed limit of 130 km/h, the rest are “limited” by what’s called “speed at your discretion.” Besides that, the limit-free zones are outside urban areas and clearly marked.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-cb4x-concept-one-step-closer-to-production/ | Honda CB4X Concept one step closer to production |
Japanese motoring giant, Honda, pulled out all the stops last year at EICMA when they unveiled several highly notable motorcycles including the Honda CB4X Concept, a four-cylinder sport-touring beauty. Now, new patents have emerged which got us wondering if Honda is serious about bringing it into production.
Applied at the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), the new Honda CB4X Concept patents are said to be based on Honda’s 650cc platform which in our opinion would make a very interesting middleweight sports-tourer (and replacement for their current offering, the two-cylinder Honda CB500X).
Looking at the new patents, it seems like Honda is keeping the overall aesthetics similar to the original Honda CB4X Concept from its sharp yet simplistic exterior design right down to the wheels and double-barrel side exhaust.
The Honda CB4X Concept patent designs are said to come out of their R&D facility in Rome, Italy. We’re probably guessing that the European market is very interested in this Honda four-cylinder middleweight sport-touring prospect, which also means that getting it into production might be a reality after all.
If it does, you can be sure that the production version of the CB4X will make its debut at the end of the year during one of the big motorcycle shows like EICMA (hopefully). Keep in mind that history has showcased a lot of concept reveals and patents but still very few made it to the production line. We sure hope that this one does.
New Middleweight 800cc Honda Africa Twin in the Works?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/2016-hrc-honda-rc213v-gp-racer-unveiled/ | 2016 HRC Honda RC213V GP racer unveiled |
Will the Honda RC213V MotoGP bike get a DCT in the future?
HRC unwraps the updated 2016 Honda RC213V GP race bike in Indonesia.
The Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) took the wraps off its updated 2016 Honda RC213V MotoGP race bike in Indonesia over the weekend. This is in fact the first glimpse of the mighty H-brand’s revised 2016 MotoGP race machine ahead of the new season.
The new 2016 bike holds a lot of promise as reports indicate that it is slightly ‘tamer’ than the 2015 bike it replaces. HRC had a disastrous outing in the 2015 season as both its riders – former world champion Marc Marquez and Dani Pedrosa – struggled to perform with the 2015 bike. The factory-backed team even had to revert back to its 2014 bike midway through the 2015 season as well.
Underneath, the 2016 Honda RC213V racer still packs the monstrous 90-degree 1,000cc V4 engine. But the 2016 version now sees the mill paired with MotoGP’s new and unified electronics package. Whilst it makes for closer competition, Honda appears to be struggling with the new electronics package from the beginning of pre-season tests right up to the recent tests held in Sepang.
Despite these drawbacks, the Honda encampment appears rather optimistic still about how it would fare this season, especially with the revised bike’s tweaked engine. The firm states that it has been made “lighter, more power and [have] rider-friendly characteristics.”
Of course, we can only speculate for now until the bike actually proves itself during the final string pre-season tests leading up to the Qatar season-opener.
DIMENSIONS
Length: 2,052mm
Width: 645mm
Height: 1,100mm
Wheelbase: 1,435mm
ENGINE
1,000cc liquid-cooled four-stroke DOHC V4 with four valves per cylinder
CLAIMED POWER
Over 240hp
FRAME TYPE
Aluminium twin tube
WHEELS
Front: 17-inch
Rear: 17-inch
SUSPENSION
Front:
Telescopic forks
Rear:
Pro-link
FUEL CAPACITY
22 litres
2016 Honda RC213V MotoGP race machine
Will the Honda RC213V MotoGP bike get a DCT in the future?
Source: Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-organizes-marshal-safety-riding-course-with-motowazi/ | GIVI organizes marshal safety riding course with MotoWazi |
GIVI Asia together with MotoWazi successfully conducted a marshal safety riding course yesterday at the Melawati Stadium, Shah Alam. Around 40 bikers joined in the festivities to learn the vital skills needed not only on how to ride motorcycles safely but also how to do so while managing a ride with other riders on the road.
This was the first-ever collaboration effort between GIVI Asia and MotoWazi as part of the brand’s CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) program with the goal to explain, clarity, and create a clear understanding the roles of marshal riders in motorcycling handling as well as communication between other marshals while on the road.
Both theory and practicum were focused on producing quality marshals so that they’re able to conduct future rides safer and ultimately more fun for other riders. Safety was and always will be the number one priority, which is also why the course focused a lot of proper motorcycle check-ups, correct usage of riding safety gears, and other necessities when riding with a group of people.
Helmed by renowned motoring icon and die-hard riding enthusiast, Haji Wazi, this safety riding course hopes to create more responsible road users through their riding mannerisms and conduct, which will hopefully have a ripple effect amongst other riders who will join any rides organised by these fine individuals.
New GIVI B42N Antartica top case unveiled – RM420
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/touring-to-thailand-10-basic-tips/ | Touring to Thailand: 10 Basic Tips |
The holiday season is here again.
Many Malaysian bikers will start touring to Thailand.
Here are 10 basic tips to get you up to speed.
It’s that time of year again when we will have long holidays. As such, it’s also the time when many among us will be touring to Thailand.
Riding through our neighbouring country is a different experience altogether, with lots of great sights to see, awesome food, and amazing hospitality (hence why Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles”).
However, there are certain things we should look out for to remain safe and have a happy ride. Seasoned cross-border riders know these, so let’s take a look at the dos and don’ts.
1. Documents
Your travel documents are No. 1. No documents, no entry. It’s as simple as that. You need your Malaysian international passport (or border pass for those staying in northern Peninsular Malaysia), of course, but you also need to bring along the necessary documents for your bike.
Read: Documents required for riding to Thailand.
2. Travel Insurance
Sadly, many Malaysians still fail to buy travel insurance when they travel. Unlike the normal insurance, travel insurance is one-off and cheap. Good ones will cover for lost or damaged luggage, documents, currency, personal effects and so forth. But do check for those that provide for PERSONAL LIABILITIES, which covers damages to the other party. We remind you that foreigners are always considered the wrongful party, even if it was the local at fault.
You can find out more about travel insurance here.
Read: Malaysian Stranded in Thailand
3. Plan your route and use Google Maps
Travel Trip Map Direction Exploration Planning Concept
Always plan your route to your destination beforehand, unless you’ve been there many times before. That’s because everything may look similar and it’s a bother to turn around. Also, we recommend that you use Google Maps instead of Waze. We’ve experienced the latter app sending us all over the place!
4. No buts for Thai Baht
Do carry some cash with you as most places outside of the hotel and malls deal in hard currency. However, remember to change to Thai Baht before you enter the kingdom. If you didn’t get the chance to do so in the city, there are plenty of places to do so around Changlun as you near the border. Thai businesses generally don’t accept the Ringgit anymore; and you’ll lose a lot if they do.
5. Be prepared for the weather
Weather in Thailand can be varied from one province and time of the year to another. It’s generally hot and humid throughout the year but you can run into sudden heavy downpours along the way. Arm yourself with a set of rainsuit and waterproof materials for your luggage and belongings. Thankfully, there are many PTT petrol stations along the way for you to stop for fuel and refreshments.
6. Learn Some Thai
A few Thai words will take you far. Even just sawadeekahp (hello) and kohkhunkahp (thank you) will be nice. If you’re a lady saying those words, replace “kahp” at the end of “kah,” for example, sawadeekah. Most Thais know English, but you could use Google translate if you tour to less touristy areas. As for the Thai traditional greeting called the “wai” (palms together and a slight bend at the waist), don’t get all Taliban and think it’s some sort of prayer, for it’s just the Thais’ formal greeting. So do return it in kind.
7. Get a tourist sim card
We usually recommend this to anyone who goes there as it saves a LOT of money. A local tourist simcard usually costs you between THB 200 to THB 400, and is valid for 14 days. Compare this to roaming charges of between RM 28 to RM 38 per day or up to 3 days. Voice calls are also super cheap, costing between THB 1.00 to THB 3.00 per minute.
8. Respect
Respect the Thais and their customs like how you would respect our own. Bear in mind that we are the ambassadors of Malaysia and that a good image must be maintained at all times, whether when we’re on or off the bike. So, don’t hog the right lane if you’re not overtaking; or don’t pressure other drivers to get out of the way; or worse, stop traffic for your buddies to pass. Don’t rev your engine all over the place and don’t even think about racing with the locals, even if they want to. The Thais are among the most hospitable and friendly people, but if you raise your voice at them, it’s considered that they lose face and they will show you the way out – not necessarily in a good way.
9. Ride carefully and with full attention
Riding in Thailand isn’t like riding in Malaysia. The only expressways are in Bangkok and even then, motorcycles aren’t allowed on them. So, you’ll be riding on trunk roads all the time. Watch your speed and always keep an eye out for the locals. Thai roads are also very slippery due to their surface aggregate so no abrupt throttle, brake and steering inputs, please. Keep a cool head at all times.
10. Scooter/Car Rental
Make sure you purchase extra collision waiver insurance if you want to rent a scooter or car when you get there. Remember the two cases of Malaysians who got stuck in the country? Besides that, it’s best to get yourself an International Driving Permit. It’s probably best to wear your own helmet on the scooter, as they will provide kids’ bicycle headwear. Always take good care of the vehicle and return in good condition.
Read: Risks of renting a motorcycle in Thailand
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/french-blogger-turn-his-aprilia-rsv4-into-the-iconic-rs250/ | French Blogger Turn His Aprilia RSV4 Into The Iconic RS250 |
The Aprilia RS250 is considered one of the grails of a two-strokes machine.
Aprilia produced the road-going RS250 between 1995 and 2002.
The RS250 runs on a repurposed Suzuki RGV250 V-twin engine with a modified ECU that makes 65hp.
The ultimate pocket-rocket of the 90s features a low-capacity, lightweight and high-revving engine inspired by the race bikes competing in the 250GP World Championship ridden by Max Biaggi and Valentino Rossi alike.
The current-day Aprilia RS 125 is a modern-day version of the iconic RS250; however, it lacks the same fun factor as its predecessors.
However, if you still adore the RS250 and coincidentally own an RSV4, you might want to consider doing a complete retro makeover.
French blogger Le Week-end De Course has done it by taking his RSV4 and turning it into the RS250.
The retro makeover successfully captures the RS250 bodywork with Aprilia’s traditional black and white colourway.
As a result, the RSV4 turned RS250 still looks like every 90s kid’s dream motorcycle with its curved nose and chunky headlamp.
The motorcycle also features the RS250 bubbled rear tail that helps to complete the overall look.
While there’s zero chance for Aprilia to bring back the RS250 due to the strict emission shenanigans, sportsbike manufacturers might want to consider applying a similar design language to modern motorcycles.
(source: Le Week-end De Course)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/you-can-now-rest-your-leg-on-the-bmw-r-18/ | You Can Now Rest Your Leg On The BMW R 18 |
The leg rest is a common additional feature on a cruiser because it allows you to stretch your legs out now and then.
Wunderlich’s latest innovations allow you to rest your legs on the BMW R18.
The leg rest sits above the boxer cylinder heads, away from the engine heat.
BMW R18 MALAYSIA
Some cruisers allow you to rest your leg on the footboards, or if you don’t have any, the engine guard is probably the next thing you can think of.
Even so, if the cruiser you’re riding has a massive 1,800cc boxer twin (yes, we are referring to the BWM R18), you have absolutely zero space to properly rest your leg during long rides.
BMW R18 MALAYSIA
However, thanks to Wunderlich’s latest leg rest, you can now safely rest your leg on the cylinder heads of the R18.
Wunderlich’s latest leg rest for the R18 is mounted on three separate points on the boxer engine. Interestingly, it doesn’t need additional support to work but is just a simple plug-and-play.
The leg rest is made from steel tubing and is precisely welded to form a top-quality platform to rest your legs. Also, the component is handmade in Germany and fits the R18 overall aesthetics.
That said, the leg rest sits above the cylinder head, so you wouldn’t suffer so much from the heat coming from the engine.
As for the price, the Wunderlich leg rest will cost you EUR379 (RM1.7k). If it seems pricey, then it is likely you don’t have the BMW R18 in your garage, just like us.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ride-jalil-raises-rm850000-charity/ | Ride for Jalil raises over RM850,000 for Charity |
The second day of the Ride for Jalil event continued at the Renaissance Hotel in Johor Bahru for a luncheon session
The activities included performances from Black and Harith Iskandar who also led the auction session selling off items donated by the JDT football squad and riding gear donated by the Tunku Panglima of Johor
Day 2 of the Ride for Jalil event finalised the total raised funds for the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation (TLJCF) to a total of RM850,170
More than 300 superbikers and high performance motorcyclists from across the country rolled around a few parts for Johor for the Ride for Jalil charity fun ride on Saturday. The ride was led by none other than the Tunku Panglima of Johor, Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Tunku Putera of Johor, Tunku Abu Bakar.
The event continued on to the second day at the Renaissance Hotel in Johor Bahru where they conducted a few other activities to raise more funds for the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation (TLJCF).
Things kicked off with a montage about the happenings from the day before where the entire convoy started the ride from the Muar Stadium to Hamawangsa Auto Mall, Batu Pahat. They then continued to Dataran Kluang and the last stop of the convoy was the legendary Johor Circuit in Pasir Gudang before everyone rolled over to Johor Bahru for some rest and relaxations at their designated hotels.
CLICK HERE to check out what happened during Day 1 of Ride for Jalil Charity Fun Ride.
During lunch, there was a moving performance by none other than Black where he sang a few songs but the first “Jeritan Batinku” really motivated the soul. Local comedian Harith Iskandar then stepped up to the mike to lighten the mood a bit with a comedic skit related to motorcycling as well.
The day continued with an auction session handled by the world’s funniest man himself, Mr Harith Iskandar. The auction session started off with a few valuable items and memorabilia donated by the JDT Football team which included a football jerseys and a football signed by the whole team, figurines, a pair of football boots and a JDT smartphone.
The second part of the auction involved motorcycling gear donated by Tunku Panglima of Johor himself which included a pair of Dainese gloves which he wore during the Saturday’s ride, a Ducati leather jacket and a full racing suit. All the bids were channelled to the TLJCF all for a good cause.
At the end of the luncheon session, the organizers together with Tunku Panglima of Johor announced that they have raised over RM850,000 (RM850,170 to be exact). The ‘Ride for Jalil’ has been proven to be super successful in raising almost a million ringgit in just two short days all for a good cause.
Thank you to those who donated and participated for the event and we’re confident that the Ride for Jalil charity ride will grow into something much bigger and better in the future.
Ride for Jalil Charity Fun Ride Event (Day 2) Gallery
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-yamaha-y15zr-v2-price-revealed-from-rm-8168/ | 2019 Yamaha Y15ZR v2 Price Revealed from RM 8,168 |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) revealed the price of the 2019 Yamaha Y15ZR v2 today.
The recommended selling price is RM 8,168 (not inclusive of insurance, road tax and registration fee).
Certain dealers are taking deposits but do check to see when the bike will be available.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) revealed the price of the 2019 Yamaha Y15ZR v2 today. The pricing follows the launch about a fortnight ago.
HLYM recommended basic selling price is RM 8,168 (not inclusive of insurance, road tax and registration fee). Customers will receive a sturdy Yamaha disc lock with reminder cable, free-of-charge.
The highly anticipated v2 (for Version 2) replaces its predecessor, the Y15ZR. The v2 still uses the same 150cc high power engine. However, there are a number of important updates to extend the model’s lifeline.
New features are:
New streamlined headlamp design with LED lighting.
Fully digital speedometer.
Wider front tyre size (90/80-17) for better handling, especially around corners.
Hazard lamp and passing lamp.
New graphics.
The new Yamaha Y15ZR is offered in four exciting colours:
Striking Cyan.
Storm Blue.
Blazing Red.
Dynamid Gray.
Certain authorized dealers are already taking bookings. However, do check to see when the bikes will arrive. New Yamaha models are known to sell out even before they hit the dealerships!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-suzuki-plans-to-break-records-and-hearts-today/ | MotoGP: Suzuki plans to break records (and hearts) today |
The penultimate MotoGP round in Valencia will mark a huge moment for Suzuki and their progress in the premier class if Joan Mir and Alex Rins are able to deliver in today’s race. The first thing that’s on everyone’s mind is if Mir is able to finish the race on the podium because if he does, he will be the 2020 MotoGP world champion.
Alex Rins, who’s currently in third (and 2nd place finisher in last week’s race at the same track) will also have something to prove for his manufacturer. If any of the Suzuki Ecstar riders managed to complete the race on the podium, they’ll be the first Suzuki riders to finish the race on the podium in four consecutive races since Kevin Schwantz back in 1994.
However, these challenges have proven themselves to be more difficult than initially anticipated as Joan Mir will start today’s premier class race from P12, while Alex Rins will be doing so from P14. All season long, we can see that the Suzuki GSX-RR is a masterful bike when the lights go out, but their opponents up front won’t be taking things lightly.
The riders on the first two rows alone will be a challenge to pass where Franco Morbidelli (Petronas Yamaha SRT) will start from pole position followed by Jack Miller (Pramac Ducati), Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda), Johann Zarco (Esponsorama Racing), Pol Espargaro (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing), and Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP).
All these riders had good paces all weekend long, and both Mir and Rins will have to do a lot of work from the fourth and fifth rows. Will they be able to succeed and deliver Suzuki’s first-ever triple crown since their return to the premier class, or will they have to wait for Portimao, Portugal next weekend?
Don’t forget to watch the race tonight because it might just a historic one!
Modenas to launch new 300cc scooter on 19 November 2020
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gtad-man-loses-yamaha-125zr-in-attempt-to-sell-it/ | GTA’d – Man Loses Yamaha 125ZR in Attempt to Sell it |
A man lost his Yamaha 125ZR to a thief during a sale yesterday.
The thief ran away with the bike while “testing” it.
The victim acquiesced to the thief’s request as the latter left his car key as a “guarantee.”
A man lost his Yamaha 125ZR to a thief during a test ride yesterday.
The victim, Muhamammad Zuhaili Ahmad Zarudin, had advertised his immaculate-looking Yamaha 125ZR on Facebook for RM 7,500. His post was answered, and the “buyer” called to meet at the Sungai Buloh Toll Plaza at 9pm.
The buyer arrived alone in a Perodua Myvi a few minutes later. He insisted that he wanted to test ride the bike before making a decision. He promised Zuhaili that he only wanted to ride the bike in the area around the toll plaza. But when Zuhaili balked at the request, the buyer handed over the key to the Myvi.
With that, Zuhaili handed the bike over.
Zuhaili said he could see the would-be thief riding in his vicinity before he took a slip road and disappeared from sight. He attempted to call the “buyer,” but his phone was switched off.
The victim then drove the Myvi to the nearest police station to report the theft. The police believed that the car was stolen, as well.
The case is being investigated under Section 379A of the Penal Code for vehicular theft. It’s better known as “grand theft auto (GTA)” in the United States.
Source and Photo: Harian Metro
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-andrea-dovizioso-to-continue-aprilia-motogp-testing-at-misano/ | MotoGP: Andrea Dovizioso To Continue Aprilia MotoGP Testing At Misano |
The third time’s the charm.
It seems Aprilia might hand Andrea Dovizioso the factory seat for 2022 after the team confirms the rider to continue testing for the third time this season.
The three-time MotoGP runner up will continue testing onboard the Aprilia RS-GP next month in Misano ahead of a possible return to the grid next season.
The third test will take place on the 23rd and 24th of June at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.
The move will allow Aprilia to assess the strength and weakness of the RS-GP properly ahead of next season.
Moreover, since the second test at Mugello was heavily impacted by bad weather, the third test is crucial for Aprilia’s preparation.
“Since I wasn’t able to test at Mugello in dry conditions, I’m pleased that Aprilia Racing asked me to continue the work we started in Jerez and to be able to provide my contribution to developing the bike.
“I think this will be beneficial for both of us – for me, to continue training on a MotoGP bike in anticipation of a possible return in 2022 and for Aprilia to receive what they feel to be interesting information. For this reason, we decided to do more tests,” said Dovizioso.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kijima-unveils-new-utility-oriented-accessories-for-honda-ct125-hunter-cub/ | Kijima Unveils New Utility-Oriented Accessories For Honda CT125 Hunter Cub |
Japanese parts and accessories supplier Kijima has expanded its product range with a new line of components for the popular Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.
Kijima has customized three distinct Hunter Cubs, showcasing the versatility of its new line of utility-oriented parts.
Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.
The first custom model is aimed at maximalists and weekend glampers. With a large top box and tactical side bag, riders can pack provisions for all their outdoor adventures. The modified Hunter Cub also comes with extra protection in the form of crash guards, a headlight grille, and handguards. A front rack enhances the carrying capacity, allowing riders to strap everything from sleeping pads to six packs to the front end. Auxiliary lighting and larger heel-toe shifter add to the adventure-ready features.
The second custom model is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. It carries over many of the same features as the first model, but with a high-mounted fender and a large rear carrier rack for increased storage. The rugged design is perfect for diehard off-roaders, and a bar-mounted bag adds to the carrying capacity.
The third model takes a more restrained approach, with a classic Honda red color scheme and fewer accessories. The crash protection, headlight grate, and taillight grille all come from Kijima, as does the custom front, rear, and side racks. The bags and top box have been removed to minimize the footprint of the Hunter Cub, making it ideal for urban environments. Kijima also offers the components in chrome for a more polished look.
Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub. With options for maximalists, off-road enthusiasts, and urban riders, Kijima’s accessories are a must-have for anyone looking to customize their Hunter Cub.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/docm-presidential-ride-2019-lights-up-penang/ | DOCM Presidential Ride 2019 lights up Penang |
Over 140 members of the Desmo Owners Club Malaysia (DOCM) joined the DOCM Presidential Ride 2019 to Penang last weekend.
It was the club’s first mega ride of the year to kick things off on a high note.
We joined all the festivities on board the latest Ducati Multistrada 1260 S (review coming soon!)
The members DOCM (Desmo Owners Club Malaysia) got together last weekend for the year’s first big ride up north called the DOCM Presidential Ride Penang 2019. How big? Around 140 Ducati owners made their way to ‘The Pearl of the Orient’ for some good food, great culture, and not to forget, excellent company.
We were more than happy to be invited to the mega gathering where the first group of around 30 DOCM members were flagged off by the Selamat Pagi Malaysia TV show at Angkasapuri early Saturday morning. The boys and girls of DOCM quickly made their way to the first rendezvous point where we joined forces with the rest of the pack before making our way up north.
Cultivating the spirit of family and brotherhood, the DOCM fraternity welcomes everyone and anyone into the club and the range of bikes gathered that day said it all. Ducatis of all shapes and sizes participated from the Monsters, Diavels, Multistradas, Hypermotards, Panigales, and Scramblers. We even caught up with the boys from the Ducati Streetfighter Malaysia Owners Community who decided to join in the festivities as well.
Riding up to Penang was a breeze thanks to the club’s trained elite marshals who made sure that everyone rode safely to the first destination of the day upon arrival onto the island, which was the D’Seafood Paradise restaurant located at Batu Maung. An array of glorious seafood was prepared for the hungry riders and crew and boy were they good.
Folks from Ducati Club Penang, Ducati Perlis Riders, and Ducati Club Kedah met with the rest of us at the second Penang bridge to made sure that we entered the island in style where we had in abundance thanks to the sheer number of riders who joined the DOCM Presidential Ride.
Lunch was on the house courtesy of the folks from the PG Gold Museum, which was where we headed to after lunch. Located at the heart of George Town, the museum featured several interesting displays and activities related to one of the world’s most sought-after minerals. It was indeed an interesting place to visit instead of the usual places found in Penang.
It wasn’t long before the huge convoy made their way to the Gurney Resort Hotel and Residences where our fellow DOCM members rested and freshened up before proceeding to their own favourite activities for night. Some of them took the opportunity of the cool night riding around the island while others indulged in one of the many staples of the island that is Nasi Kandar.
On Sunday, the troop of Ducati owners checked out to head back to KL, but it wouldn’t be complete without a proper Penang lunch. Sustenance was taken care off in the form of the world-famous Pen Mutiara restaurant’s fish head curry. All in all, the DOCM Presidential Ride 2019 to Penang was a blast and one for the history books.
A special shout-out to Dewi and Ruby from DOCM for letting us tag along in the ride and a special thanks to Ducati Malaysia for providing us with one of the very special Ducati Multistrada 1260 S to make sure that we don’t get left behind. Stay tuned for our official review on the latest Ducati adventure bike that we have dubbed “The Hunter”.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-much-loved-kmt-smt-is-making-a-return-in-april/ | CONFIRMED: Much-Loved KMT SMT Is Making A Return In April |
KTM has officially confirmed that the brand’s supermoto touring capable motorcycle, the SMT is making a return as the KTM 890 SMT.
KTM 890 SMT set to make global debut in April.
The 890 SMT will feature the same 890cc parallel-twin engine as the one found in the 890 Adventure.
The Austrian motorcycle company also revealed that the 890 SMT – which was caught undergoing testing in Europe recently – will be officially revealed on 24th April 2023.
Looking at the spy shots published by Cycle World, the soon-to-be-launch 890 SMT sports a slightly slimmer bodywork than its cousin the 890 Adventure.
*KTM 890 Adventure
Unlike the adventure variant, the SMT also features a sportier fuel tank.
In terms of performance, it is likely that the 890 SMT will offer the same power figure as the 890 Adventure. That should mean around 100hp and 95Nm.
That said, the 890 SMT fits right in the likes of Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (117hp) and Ducati Multistrada V2 (113hp).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/electric-yamahas-coming-2016/ | Electric Yamahas coming in 2016 |
Yamaha confirmed via its annual report that it will begin production of its two electric models, the PES1 sports and PED1 dirtbike, by the year 2016.
In its report, the Japanese brand promised that both bikes will meet expectations similar to existing fossil-fuelled bikes whilst offering the advantages of electric power. First seen in the Tokyo Motor Show last November, both the PES1 and PED1 share the same central chassis architecture and propulsion from a brushless DC motor paired with a lithium ion battery.
The PES1 naked also has a claimed weight below the 100kg mark while its dirt-busting sibling the PED1 is said t weigh less than 85kg. In case you were wondering, the acronyms actually stands for “Passion, Electric, Sports” and “Passion, Electric, Dirt”.
In its published report, Yamaha stated: “We are working to create new value with EV sports motorcycles, which we aim to launch in two years, with the development of the small, on-road sports PES1, as well as the PED1, which are being developed to expand the scope of electric vehicles to the off-road world. In addition to the advantages of being electrically powered, these motorcycles will offer the operability expected by existing motorcycle fans, together with a new riding experience.”
Source: Visordown and Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-tenere-700-takes-home-red-dot-award/ | Yamaha Ténéré 700 takes home Red Dot Award |
Shortly after taking home the prestigious iF Design Award, the beautiful Yamaha Ténéré 700 got hold of another prized recognition in the form of the Red Dot Award. The awards for the best product designs went to the Yamaha adventure touring bike as well as another surprise product, a Yamaha drone called the YMR-08.
Truth be told, the world of adventure touring is popping off all around the globe and the Yamaha Ténéré 700 sits comfortably in between beautiful form and practical function. Designed to have that simplistic look, the Ténéré 700 is packed with state-of-the-art riding technology that propels itself to be a contender in off-road riding.
The US market has priced this beauty with a very competitive price tag of $9,999 which is right under the RM45,000 mark. This makes its one very affordable middleweight adventure bike with a 689cc crossplane crankshaft parallel-twin engine that punches out a respectable 72hp and 68Nm of maximum torque.
Other notable specs of the Yamaha Ténéré 700 are:
Lightweight double cradle tubular steel frame
Slim, compact and ergonomic body & seat
Aggressive rally-bred face + four LED headlights
Adjustable long-travel 43mm USD front forks
Remotely adjustable rear suspension
Rally style cockpit with tapered handlebars
21-inch/18-inch spoked wheels + adventure tyres
Ergonomic 16-litre fuel tank
Compact rally-style multi-function instruments
Switchable ABS
We sure hope that Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) can do us Malaysians a solid and bring this baby over to our shores. The adventure riding market is growing at a respectable pace and if they catch that wind just right, sales will be through the roof, IF it’s competitively priced that is.
10 Greatest Yamaha Motorcycles (Part 2)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-day-2014/ | Coming Soon! BMW Motorrad Day 2014 |
Our friends at BMW Motorrad Malaysia are organising BMW Motorrad Day 2014 for all Malaysian Motorrad fans and owners in Putrajaya on Saturday, 3 May.
The event will be held in the car park area just behind Putrajaya’s Palace of Justice on Saturday, 3 May 2014. The festivities will start at 9:30am and will go on until 5:30pm.
Besides the largest gathering and display of BMW Motorrad bikes, organisers have also planned plenty of activities for the day including live band performances, as well as a stunt riding showcase by BMW Motorrad France rider Big Jim. Fans and owners in attendance are also encouraged in participating in a specially organised ‘Slow Joe’ precision riding contest. Spaces are limited, so those interested will have to come in and register as early as possible.
For those coming from out of town, below are the GPS coordinates as well as the Google Map view to make your trip much easier.
GPS Coordinates: 2⁰54’59”N 101⁰41’16”E
Mark your calendars and see you folks at BMW Motorrad Day 2014!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-yamaha-mt-09-tracer-ckd-now-available-malaysia-rm52000/ | 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer CKD now available in Malaysia – RM52,000 |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) Malaysia has announced their 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer CKD will now be available in their big bike range.
The locally-assembled Yamaha MT-09 Tracer is the fourth Yamaha big bike model to be assembled at Yamaha’s assembly plant in Sungai Buloh.
The 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer CKD is priced at RM52,000 (basic price with GST).
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) Malaysia has announced that their latest big bike addition is the 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer CKD (completely knocked down). This means that the MT-09 Tracer will be assembled locally in their Sungai Buloh factory together with the other Yamaha big bike like the XJ6 series, MT-07 and MT-09.
The latest addition to the ever growing MT-09 range is powered by the 847cc, inline-three with liquid cooling and fuel injection is able to produce a good 113.4hp @ 10,000rpm and 87.5Nm of soul-inspiring torque at 8,500rpm. All that power is transferred down to the rear wheel via a six-speed constant mesh manual gearbox and a final chain drive.
Considered to be one of the most exciting touring bikes available anywhere in the world, the MT-09 Tracer offers a great package with an overall light weight and loads of power to add some zing to any Sunday rides.
To further elevate the overall safety aspects of the high torque machine, the MT-09 Tracer comes with Yamaha’s Traction Control System (TCS) and Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. Other features include Tracer-specific D-Mode Selectable Running Modes, multi-function DOT Matrix instrument Panel, aerodynamic cowling with twin LED headlights and a height adjustable windscreen.
Previously, the MT-09 Tracer is only available as a CBU unit fully imported and assembled prior entering the country. Due to the size and extra effort put into shipping due to the nature of the completely build up motorcycles, all CBU bikes are priced slightly higher even for the MT-09 Tracer CBU which is priced at RM59,900.
The move towards assembling the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer locally also means that HLYM can drive the cost further down so that customers can enjoy the Tracer at a much lower price compared to the fully-imported CBU units. The Yamaha MT-09 Tracer CKD has been priced at RM52,000 (basic price with GST) starting next week and customers will have two colour options; Yamaha Blue or Matte Grey.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-certified-italys-top-employer-third-consecutive-year/ | Ducati Certified as one of Italy’s Top Employers for Third Consecutive Year |
Received “Top Employers 2017” granted by Italy’s Top Employer Institute
Certification awarded to companies that provide excellent working conditions, offering training and developing skills at all levels of the company
Ducati has been certified by the Italian Top Employer Institute as the “Top Employers 2017”. This is the third year running that the Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer has received such high recognition from the institute that certifies Italy’s best companies in terms of their Human Resources.
Aspects that were considered for the certification were working conditions, training and development on all levels and further improving in the field of human resources. According to Ducati’s CEO, Claudio Domenicali, he stated that “We aim to distinguish ourselves not only for the beauty of our motorcycles but also for our ability to attract the most talented employees”.
Each year, a strict and in-depth audit was carried out by the Top Employer Institute called the HR Best Practices Survey to ensure validity of all results collected. This certification goes to show that Ducati has gone through high levels of care for their employees that made the bike manufacturer eligible to be certified as one of Italy’s Top Employers.
In reference to the Top Employer’s Regional Director for Brazil, Italy and Spain, he said “An excellent working environment has the ability to encourage not only the professional but also the personal and human growth of a person. The Top Employers study has verified and certified that Ducati has excellent conditions in the field of HR and provides employees with a wide range of benefits and proactive initiatives, from working conditions to non-monetary benefits and structured training and development policies, all coherent and in-line with the company philosophy.”
To all Ducati owners and enthusiasts out there, rest assured that the company has good heart and a special place for all of their employees as much as their customers. All the joy that Ducati bikes bring to the customers were made, run and managed by a company who knows how to treat their employees’ right in bringing the best out of them.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hjc-introduces-latest-rpha-70-black-panther-helmet/ | HJC introduces latest RPHA 70 Black Panther helmet! |
The latest offering by HJC comes in the form of the RPHA 70 Black Panther helmet.
Following the Marvel cinematic universe, the latest HJC sport-touring helmet comes ready with all of the Wakanda superhero’s fine details.
No news on when the helmet will be made available here in Malaysia but expect the price to be below RM3,000.
The creator of some of the world’s best helmets that is HJC has unveiled their latest addition yet in the form of the RPHA 70 Black Panther helmet. The sport-touring lid is perfect for daily use, long tourers and even approved for track use.
What started off as a joint-venture project between HJC and Marvel has led to many limited edition helmets portraying some of the most loved and popular superheroes of all time. The latest addition into this ever growing list is none other than the Black Panther.
The RPHA 70 Black Panther features some impressive tribal details inspired by the Black Panther’s place of origin which is Wakanda. Designed to replicate the T’Challa’s Black Panther suit, this particular RPHA 70 has all the features replicating the superhero from bright eyes to metallic accents.
Although the Black Panther’s suit is made largely from Vibranium (the same metal used to make Captain America’s shield), the RPHA 70 however is constructed using HJC’s PIM+ materials that makes the helmet super lightweight, evenly distributed and shock resistance which is somewhat similar to Vibranium and ultimately approved by both ECE and DOT.
There is no news on when the helmet will be made available here in Malaysia but considering how the previous HJC RPHA 70 Iron Man Homecoming lid is priced at RM2,779, we can expect the Black Panther edition to be priced around the same figure.
HJC RPHA 70 Iron Man Homecoming – RM2,779!
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