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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fim-petitioning-international-olympic-committee-to-include-trial-e/

FIM Petitioning International Olympic Committee to Include Trial-E

Yamaha TY-E - Credit enduro21.com The FIM is lobbying the International Olympic Committee to include Trial-E riding. Trials riders are supreme athletes in order for them to scale and clear obstacles. If accepted, Trials-E will be the first motorsport in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motorcyclisme) is lobbying to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to include electric trial motorcycle competition in the Olympic Games. Trial riding is an awe-inspiring motorcycle sport in which competitors are challenged to ride over seemingly impossible obstacles. As such the riders are true athletes who have gone through years of conditioning and training. The FIM is already organizing their own E-Trial series as part of the Trial World Championship. The riders ride electric trial bikes in the E-Trial series, which began in 2017. Yamaha-TY-E In view of this, the FIM hopes the IOC will include Trial-E in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Each Olympics games add new sports. For example, baseball, softball, surfing, sports climbing, karate and skateboarding will be added to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In order to enter a new sport, the IOC states that the activity must be youth-focused, allows both men and women to join, sustainable, spectacular, available on all continents and requires no new infrastructure. Trials riding does look like it meets all these requirements. Jorge Viegas, FIM president, says “We are convinced that the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024 represent a unique and historic opportunity to allow Trial-E to become the first motorsport discipline to be part of the Olympic Games. This great première will be the foundation for a strong relationship that will bring the FIM, the IOC and all the Olympic family closer together for many years to come.” Trial-E will become the first motorsport in the Olympics if it is accepted. Malaysia has our own premier trial rider, Acoi Pangkolo. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/updated-triumph-street-triple-in-2020/

Updated Triumph Street Triple in 2020?

Photo credit RideApart.com The Triumph Street Triple will be updated for 2020. A filing with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) shows updates to the exhaust system and emission levels. The new bike looks to have new headlights and radiator shrouds. Filings with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) suggests that the Triumph Street Triple will be updated for 2020. With the spate of updates and new model testing carried out by Triumph, it’s perhaps of no surprise that the rip-roaring fun Triumph Street Triple will also be updated for next year. 2019 is a busy year for all motorcycle manufacturers as they prepare for the implementation of Euro5 emission standard in 2020. However, updates to the Street Triple isn’t confined to just the engine or exhaust system. The bike will get a makeover, as well. The headlights will be more streamlined, while retaining that praying mantis look. Robo mantis, anyone? The radiator shrouds are also new. However, suspension and wheels look identical to the 2018/2019 model. The frame and subframe look somewhat different, though. The upper spar looks more streamlined and squarish, compared to the present one which is rounder. According to the document, the exhaust collector hides two catalytic converters, one more than the present one. The picture shows the bike undergoing road tests. The GIVI top case tacked on behind the rider contains the data logging equipment. Interestingly, Triumph submitted two models in the CARB document, leading us to believe that only the S and RS versions will be available henceforth. Source: Ride Apart, Motorcycle.com --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colours-announced-for-mv-agusta-superveloce-800/

New colours announced for MV Agusta Superveloce 800

MV Agusta is restarting their operations strong with the announcement of two new colour schemes for their latest and arguably most beautiful superbike yet, the MV Agusta Superveloce 800. This neo-retro beauty was amongst the first to roll off the factory line after the Italian manufactured resumed their operations after the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy. By listening to their most loyal fans from around the globe, the premium Italian bike manufacturer opened up their hearts and produced two very sexy colourways after getting feedback following the first public presentation of the MV Agusta Superveloce 800 in Milan, Italy. The first new colour is actually the brand’s classic corporate colour combo, Ago Red and Ago Silver. Paying homage to their glory days of Grand Prix racing. The red-silver combo is further elevated with gold wheels and frame because that’s how MV Agusta rolls, baby. For modernists, the second colour option should float your boat; a combination of Metallic Carbon Black and Dark Metallic Matt Grey. Simple, sexy, and classy are the best words to portray this beauty and it too gets the gold treatment for the wheels and frame. Do us a favour and try not to drool too much on yourself. We know we’re trying hard not to, the MV Agusta Superveloce 800 is just too sexy! Not to mention its F3 800 inline-three engine that punches out 148hp at a screaming 13,000rpm. We love inline-threes. Heck, we love all engines, big and small (but we have to admit, this one is a bit special). MV Agusta offers three-month warranty extension for all bikes --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-mooney-announced-as-title-sponsor-for-vr46-racing-team/

MotoGP: Mooney Announced As Title Sponsor For VR46 Racing Team

After the endless saga with Saudi Aramco over the last few months, VR46 Racing Team has officially announced Italian company, Mooney as the team title sponsor for the 2022 MotoGP season. Mooney will also be backing the Moto2 team with Celestino Vietti and Niccolo Antonelli. “Following the agreement, the new team naming will be Mooney VR46 Racing Team and will be used in all images of the Team (including bikes and rider suits) and in all official communications. Further information will be revealed on January 3rd,” said VR46 in a brief statement. Despite the uncertainty and almost weird situation with Aramco, the confirmation with Mooney is excellent news for Valentino Rossi and his team as they now can look ahead to compete the new season with Luca Marini and Marco Bezzechi onboard two Ducatis. The saga with Aramco began in April 2021 with a press release that said: “In 2022 the VR46 Team will debut in the MotoGP class together with Tanal Entertainment Sport & Media with Saudi Aramco, as the new Main Sponsor for the period 2022-2026.” However, the Saudi Arabian oil giant later denied any involvement and continued to deny it had agreed on a deal with Tanal or VR46. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/exclusive-inside-the-bmw-motorrad-world-endurance-team-at-the-8-hours-of-sepang-fim-ewc-race/

EXCLUSIVE: Inside the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team at the 8 Hours of Sepang FIM EWC Race

We were given the honour to cover the 8 Hours of Sepang FIM EWC race from inside the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team. We had an unprecedented access to what made them tick and the strategies involved. The team finished third overall. Excitement fills the air as the bikes were fired up for 8 Hours of Sepang FIM Endurance World Championship (FIM EWC) race. As adrenaline started coursing through the veins of the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team members, their cheerful disposition gave way to steely stares and clenched jaws. It’s time to go racing. The Planned Start A technician pushed the BMW S 1000 RR onto the pitlane with rider Ilya Mikhalchik following closely behind. As he reached for the started button, I braced myself as if squeezing my ear canals in anticipation of an exhaust blast. But… nothing… there was a slight roar from the titanium Akrapovic exhaust silencer but that was it. No eardrum assaulting, chest punching roar. Read: Up close with the BMW S 1000 RR FIM EWC racebike And away he went along with other riders. The technicians grabbed their equipment and hurried to the gate to the grid. By then, the first riders had completed their warm-up lap. When the bikes returned to the grid, they were wheeled backwards and parked against the pitwall at an angle. The riders then went to the other side of the start finish straight. The factory BMW sat in fifth while the crew blanketed the rain Dunlop tyres with warmers again. Alas, the rain started coming down in earnest with just 25 minutes before the start. The Safety and Medical Cars were sent out to check but it was visible that the sheer volume of water had overwhelmed the drainage. The cars sent up huge plumes of spray. By then there was a delay in starting the race and the field was given another sighting lap. The riders roared away in a whiteout wall of spray. Back in the pit, the team had their eyes transfixed on the TV monitors. The riders tip-toed through every corner and there was still lots of standing water including at the apexes of Turns 5, 9, 13 and 14. There was a river-like puddle running across the track at the braking area for Turn 15. Upon reaching the start/finish line, marshals instructed the riders to their bikes, away from the where they were supposed to start running from. A few minutes later, race direction suspended the start. Team managers were then called to the briefing room at 1:15pm. We feared the worst i.e. outright cancellation, but that decision never came. Now, the long wait began. The BMW Motorrad World Endurance crew didn’t look agitated, but they didn’t seem relaxed, either. We waited. This is how the stripped down BMW S 1000 RR endurance racebike looks like The 1st Restart The rain began abated somewhat by 2:30 pm. At 2:40 pm, a message flashed across all monitors at the track: PITLANE OPENS FOR 2 MINUTES AT 3:05 PM. Yes! We’re finally going racing. As per endurance racing rules, the duration was shortened to 6 hours. However, there was no Le Mans style start. Instead, the riders were flagged off one by one by a marshal holding the Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian flag). Again, a wall of spray hung in the air as the bikes made their way to Turn 1. Also this time, they had to follow the Safety Car (SC). Photo credit FIM EWC The spectators in the grandstands were excited. Kids who’ve been running around suddenly sat ran back to their parents’ arms and pointed excitedly at the track. The SC took the grid past the finish line for Lap 1. There was still too much spray. They went past for Lap 2. Then Lap 3, Lap 4, everyone in the pits was hoping for the SC to turn off its emergency lights. It would mean that it would peel into the pits and let racing commence. All teams began to prepare for the eventual pitstop by placing tools, axle stands, refueling rigs near the pit entrance. They also place spareparts and assemblies such as front ends, rear subframes, bodywork, radiators, etc. where they are within easy reach (in case of crashes or breakdowns). The refueling can was placed nearby together with a large fire extinguisher. The refueling man’s helmet and Nomex gloves were placed on top of the fuel can. There’s no time to rush back into the pits for something! Sadly, the SC never turned off it lights and pulled in at the end of Lap 8. The red flags went out signaling another race suspension. Another team managers meeting was called at 5.00 pm. BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team’s manager Werner Daemen ran up the steps again to the briefing room. The organizers, stewards and teams deliberated for more than an hour before coming to the decision to either race or suspend it outright. However, should they choose to restart, the race has to end at 9.00 pm. Sources told us that the teams were eager to go on and it’ll be a shame to cancel since they had travelled so far for this race. It would’ve been 8 Hours of Rain if it were cancelled. The 2nd Restart Soon, the message RACE TO RESUME AT 6.00 PM appeared on the monitors. Mechanics rushed to the holding area to pick up their bikes. They were pushed back to outside the pits and parked on the “hot pit lane” (the red line) and waited for the signal from Race Direction. At the sound of the air horn, mechanics rushed their bikes into their respective pits to begin working on them. Why such ruling? So that everyone starts working on their bike from the same time as everyone else. No handicap. The team mechanics jumped in to change the rear sprocket for a taller gearing, fresh wet tyres were installed. They gave the bike a one-over to make sure everything was alright. The pit reopened at exactly 6.00 pm and every single person at the track was eager to see the race get going. The field first formed up behind the Safety Car and the riders must be in their qualifying order before the car turns off its warning lights to let the 50 riders loose. Finally, it was time to race after a couple of laps behind the SC. The 8 Hours of Sepang was go. By the end of the first restarted lap, it was Mike Di Meglio of F.C.C. TSR Honda (#5) who was challenging Michael Van Der Mark from the Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (#21) for the lead. The #37 bike of the BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team was in sixth at the end of the same lap, in a pack of four bikes including the Tecmas Racing #9 BMW S 1000 RR (older model). The Tecmas team’s pit neighbor’s the Motorrad’s pit. Soon, a fierce battle developed up front between #5 and #21, as if it was the last few laps of a WorldSBK race. The rain had stopped by the 4h 15 minute mark, but the track was still wet. But neither leading rider backed down and they were pushing so hard that their bikes squirmed under hard braking. That frenetic racing saw a pace that no one else on the field could or want to match. While most of the field was lapping in the 2m 30s bracket, the dueling duo was circulating around in 2m 15s. Meanwhile, #37 and #9 were locked in a battle of their own, and the former was briefly in fourth by the 4h 40 minute mark. The team members were glued to the TV monitors, a few mini-hopping up and down, a few chewed their fingernails. Then it happened. V.D. Mark outbraked Di Meglio into Turn 15, but he went wide. Seeing the gap, Di Meglio stuck his bike up the inside. As V.D. Mark tried to tighten his line for the exit, he was surprised to find #5 there and lifted his #21 bike. Di Meglio was also surprised by the move and probably dabbed his front brake and lost the front tyre, which slid into #21’s rear tyre. It sent both men skidding off the track. You can watch the video >>> HERE <<< A huge roar went up all around the circuit and in the pits. Di Meglio managed to pick up his bike first and continued racing, while V.D. Mark’s Yamaha was heavily damaged and had to return to his pit. To give you an idea of how far they were ahead, Di Meglio rejoined the race in first place. Into the Night At the same time, #9 got the better of #37 and the latter dropped back to sixth. But four laps later, there was huge plume of white smoke leading into Turn 1. #9’s engine had gone bang in spectacular fashion. Peeking into our neighbours’ pit saw them slumped into their chairs. One of the crew members had told me during the start that they’re using Michelin tyres and gave the thumbs up. Michelin makes arguably the best rain tyres. The Safety Car was called into action as the track crew removed the stricken bike from the gravel trap and to assess if any oil was dumped onto the track. It led the field for five laps. During this time, BMW Motorrad team manager Daemen ran back and forth between the pit and pit wall, discussing their fueling strategy. He had told me earlier that the 24-liter tank could last between 26 to 27 laps in rainy conditions. But with the Safety Car period thrown into the mix, they needed to recalculate the bike’s fuel consumption. They also needed to figure out their pace in comparison to other competitors. Calling for a stop at the wrong time would be out of sync with field and cost them track position. The mechanics began arranging different types of “stands” on the pit lane. They were all custom made for different purposes, including those to place the wheels. A loose wheel rolling down pit lane will be punished by a penalty. They also prepared two types of Dunlop wet rear tyres, one intermediate and one full wet. The current rider will advise the team on which to choose. At last, the #37 got the “BOX” message on his pit board. So do the other teams. The bikes may appear slow on TV as they headed down pit lane, but they were fast in real life as the riders held on to the pit lane speed for as long as possible. The #37 flew into position in the blink of an eye and the four-man crew descended on it in that split second it stopped. The wrenches went “rat-tat-tat-tat” in unison, the front and rear wheels came out, new ones went on, and and “rat-tat-tat-tat” again. But the mechanics also checked the nut with a torque wrench. (Here it was, where every second mattered, yet they still used torque wrenches, whereas most real-world mechanics never touch them.) They yelled “GO!” to the fuel man and cleared away from the bike. With one swift motion, the biggest man in the pit (dressed in flame retardant suit) heaved the can above bike’s fuel tank and plunked it down into the dry break female coupling with an audible click, while another man stood by with the fire extinguisher. It took only a few seconds. He pulled the can off and the rider jumped on the bike, punched the starter button and away he went. All these in less than 20 seconds. You can watch video of the lightning fast pit stop below. Countdown to the 8th Hour We thought the field would settle into a rhythm. Instead, it was a crash fest. Most riders crashed at Turn 5. Local riders know to stay away from apex as moisture seems to cling to that spot. The track was starting to dry but again, we local riders know that the Sepang International Circuit’s new surface may look dry while it’s still damp. The most prominent crasher during this period was Mike Di Meglio on the #5 bike. While the earlier crash caused minor scrapes, this one saw extensive damage to the bike. He had to pit for repairs. His partner continued the race dead last but managed claw his way back to 21st at the 8th hour. As the minutes ticked away, the top three began to emerge: YART Yamaha, Honda Asia-Dream Racing and BMW Motorrad World Endurance. A second and last pitstop was called with 20 minutes to go. Again, the team did their choreographed magic. Again, they sent the rider and bike out in less than 20 seconds. It’s all up to the rider now. YART Yamaha was in an unassailable lead with one lap in hand, while the Honda Asia-Dream team was 1m 40s ahead in second. Read: YART Yamaha wins inaugural 8 Hours of Sepang FIM EWC race By now, the BMW rider Mikhalchik was lapping 3 seconds a lap faster the leading pair, but there was no way in catching the second-placed team. The team climbed atop the pit fence to welcome their rider home. It was their second podium finish in as many races. It’s a fantastic result by all means, considering that this is the first season for the factory BMW Motorrad team. It was also the second podium of the year for Dunlop. (Remember, there’s a tyre war in the FIM EWC, unlike in MotoGP and WorldSBK.) The next race will be the 24 Hueres Motos at the Bugati circuit in Le Mans, France on 18th and 19th April 2020. We wish to record our heartfelt thanks to the BMW World Endurance Team for allowing us to cover the race along with them. Them team was very professional and they were very focused on their tasks at hand. It was a true honour to experience it firsthand. A big thank you and appreciation to BMW Motorrad Malaysia also, for setting up the coverage. Last but not lease, congratulations to the team and BMW Motorrad as a whole. PHOTO GALLERY --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-suzuki-gsx-r1000-patents-revealed/

New Suzuki GSX-R1000 Patents Revealed

A patent filing for the new Suzuki GSX-R1000 was leaked online. The chassis looks similar, but the bodywork sees some changes. The real change should be the engine where it features a new VVT system. It’s not surprise that a new Suzuki GSX-R1000 is on the way, given that the Euro 5 regulations are coming into effect in 2020. But just what will be new in the new Suzook? The patent filed in Japan has been revealed. The patents show a new outline for the new Gixxer. The fuel tank seems a little longer, the seat a bit thinner, there’s a new vent on the main fairing, the tailsection is slimmer and the nose is sharper plus lower. The frame and swingarm look identical to the current bike. But the biggest change ought to be in the engine. There was another Suzuki patent filing months ago, particularly for a new variable valve timing (VVT) system. New Suzuki GSXR-1000 VVT patent In the current GSX-R1000, Suzuki uses the centrifugal forces of the inlet camshaft to drive the advancer. To sum it up, the faster the camshaft spins, the longer the inlet valves stay open. Suzuki did this to circumnavigate MotoGP’s ban of electronic and hydraulic VVT systems. The system seems to work better in MotoGP, since the riders usually utilize the upper RPM ranges. It’s a different story on the streets. In that patent we mentioned earlier, the manufacturer may switch to a hydraulic system with actuates both inlet and outlet cams. The hydraulics are computer-controlled, in turn. This should cater for the wide range of RPM utilization on the streets which usually hovers in the low and mid RPM ranges. We should be able to see the new bike at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, if bike is slated for 2020. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-cb1000r-neo-sports-cafe-test-review/

Honda CB1000R Neo Sports Café Test & Review

The new Honda CB1000R is the flagship of the Neo Sports Café line-up. It offers easy handling for the everyday rider. New riders can learn on it and not outgrow it quickly. The new Honda CB1000R Neo Sports Café takes over from its predecessor, also named the CB1000R. However, the previous model featured some funky designed which polarized fans, although it did have a nifty single-sided swingarm. So, Honda reworked the model and initialized a new segment, called the Neo Sports Café. The Neo Sports Café family of bikes feature stylings that combine the traditional with a new twist. The bikes have round headlights combined with unmistakably newer elements. Honda were clear in their description of the family not being naked sportbikes nor replicas. The 998cc, inline-Four engine is typically Honda smooth and quiet without the gnashing or grinding sounds. Adopted from an earlier version of the CBR1000RR Fireblade, it offers more low-down and midrange torque. But the manufacturer didn’t just plunk in the engine: Their engineers reworked it almost thoroughly to feature forged aluminium pistons, larger valves, higher valve lift, larger intake ports, and new combustion chamber for better gas flow. Other details include closer gear ratios optimized for street performance i.e. better acceleration and a slipper clutch. On the electronics front, the bike uses a ride-by-wire throttle, opening up the inclusion of four riding modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, User). Additionally, there’s traction control called the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). As for the chassis, the forks are fully-adjustable Showa BPF while the shock is adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping. A wide wheel shod with 190/55ZR17 tyre is fitted to the single-sided swingarm. Ok, enough about the bike. Let’s see how it rides. The engine starts up with a bassy vroom. The stock exhaust may not look the prettiest, but it sounded good and roars at higher revs. The riding position was between all-out sporty aggression and everyday practicality. It’s just like its contemporaries in the open-class naked bikes. But although the bike may sound like a beast on paper, it turned out to be supremely manageable. It rides like a pussy cat when you want to relax but turns into a panther when you decide to go bananas. Its straight-line acceleration gives your arms a good stretch but it doesn’t threaten to rip them off like a Doberman chasing after the postman. The CB1000R has pretty good handling manners in town. It’s easy to ride in and out of a traffic jam, and you can use the torque to blast away. The brakes were fantastic too, offering a strong initial bite even from one finger. Besides that, we liked the soft suspension, especially in the city. Bumps and potholes were taken care of admirably. However, it’s exactly that softness to watch out for when riding fast on twisty roads. The forks are fine, since they are fully adjustable. But the rear shock will soon be overwhelmed by the type of undulating roads we have here in Malaysia. Many a times the rear end exhibited pogo-ing (pumping up and down). That’s not a problem for long-wheelbased bikes, but the CB1000R’s short wheelbase compounded that behavior, causing the front to push wide in corners. But we soon learned to steer the bike into corners in smoother and more relaxed fashion. It doesn’t like to be flicked in late, so you have to set up your corner earlier. Still, we found the CB1000R Neo Sports Café a good bike for beginners to the open-class category. It’s a bike that you could learn on, yet not get bored of it too quickly.     --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/asia-talent-cup-2015-sasaki-wins-in-zhuhai/

Asia Talent Cup 2015: Sasaki wins in Zhuhai

Ayumu Sasaki leads an all-Japanese podium in Asia Talent Cup 2015 Round 4 Race 1 in Zhuhai, China. The fourth round of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2015 got underway earlier today for Race 1 in Zhuhai, China. Once again, drama unfolded towards the later stages culminating in one of the closest race finishes in the series once more. As the lights turned green, the 17-lap quickly turned into a tight five-way battle for supremacy between Japanese riders Ayumu Sasaki, Ai Ogura, Yuta Date and Takuma Kunimine with Malaysian pole-sitter Adam Norrodin in the mix as well. The melee also saw Japanese rookie Kazuki Masaki in the mix early on, but a mistake saw Masaki crash out after just three laps, leaving the other five to slug it out across the 4.3km-long Zhuhai International Circuit (ZIC). Despite having the advantage of pole position, Adam was working hard fending off the charges from the four front-running Japanese riders. Alas, Adam’s luck ran out on the penultimate lap after a mistake during corner braking saw the Batu Pahat youngster making contact with one of the four Japanese riders, forcing him into the gravel trap. Adam would recover only to cross the line all the way down in 11th. The climax of the close five-way battle then came at the exit of ZIC’s final turn towards the start-finish straight. This was when championship leader Sasaki and his well-devised race tactic allowed him the advantage to overtake second-placed countryman Ai Ogura down the straight and claim victory with just 0.032 seconds separating them. Claiming the final podium spot in third was Yuta Date who crossed the line just 0.870 seconds behind Sasaki. Sasaki’s victory today was indeed a solid redemption from his DNF in the last race in Sepang, with his defence for the 2015 title strengthened further too. Sasaki continues to lead the standing with 126 points in total. Kunimine retains his second place in the standings with a total of 91 points so far whilst Thai rider Nakarin ‘Chip’ Atiratphuvapat ranks third with 89 points in total. Team Malaysia was hit with a huge blow today. Besides Shafiq Rasol sitting out due to injury and Adam’s costly final lap error, rookie Azroy Anuar’s day ended early after crashing out on lap 3 while Helmi Azman was plagued with bike setup issues that hampered is pace. Despite starting strongly from fourth, Helmi would eventually settle for an 8th place finish, making him the best performing Malaysian today. Also the up-side, towering Pasir Gudang youngster Fakhrusy Rostam ended the day in 10th despite difficulties he faced due to his still healing leg injury. Wildcard rookies Ahmad Idham Khairuddin and Luth Harith Erwan, on the other hand, charted yet another successful race finish with Idham classifying 13th and Luth in 16th. The two would once again amass more mileage and race experience, further increasing their chances on becoming full-time series riders for next year. As far as the points standings go for Team Malaysia, things look difficult as Adam and Helmi, who are ranked 9th and 10th respectively, are in danger of losing their top 10 ranking. Fakhrusy is ranked in 11th and ties with Shafiq Rasol in 12th for points. You can see the full points standings in the results gallery below. Race 2 is slated to take place tomorrow at 12:30pm local time, with both Adam and Helmi determined to redeem themselves as they still hold strong starting positions in pole and fourth respectively. Stay tuned to our site as we bring you more updates after tomorrow’s race.   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/triumph-unveils-behind-the-scenes-insights-into-the-creation-of-its-new-motocross-powerhouse/

Triumph Unveils Behind-The-Scenes Insights Into The Creation Of Its New Motocross Powerhouse

The anticipation for Triumph Motorcycles’ highly anticipated motocross bike has reached a fever pitch as the company unveils an exciting series of ‘Vision to Reality’ films, offering an intimate look into the meticulous development process behind the bike’s revolutionary chassis and engine. With its launch scheduled later this year, Triumph’s latest masterpiece promises to revolutionize the world of motocross. Triumph has taken enthusiasts on a journey deep into the heart of their innovation hub. The ‘Vision to Reality’ films grant viewers a rare glimpse behind the curtain, offering a front-row seat to exclusive interviews with the brilliant minds responsible for crafting the all-new aluminum chassis and engine. Through these interviews, riders and fans alike gain insights into the engineering marvel that has been meticulously designed to cater to a diverse range of abilities. Motocross legend and Triumph Ambassador Ricky Carmichael, who is known for his unmatched prowess on the track, highlighted the distinctive features of the new engine. “This engine has its own identity,” Carmichael remarked, “and I think one of the best things about it is the way that it’s designed and developed, which enables riders with a very wide range of abilities to be able to ride the bike. It’s light and compact, and the power delivery is great for all forms of riders.” You can catch the exclusive behind-the-scene series HERE. The ‘Vision to Reality’ films also shine a spotlight on the exceptional team of individuals who have brought this motocross dream to life. High-profile members from the Triumph Racing fold, including Bobby Hewitt, Dave Arnold, Ivan Tedesco, Stephen ‘Scuba’ Westfall from the SuperMotocross team, and Vincent Bereni from the MX2 team, share their perspectives on the journey from conceptualization to realization. As the world counts down to the grand unveiling, excitement is palpable in the motocross community. Mark your calendars for September 5th, when Ricky Carmichael will finally take the new Triumph Motocross bike for a ride, providing enthusiasts with a tantalizing taste of the thrilling experience that awaits them. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/desmodovi-storms-victory-2016-shell-malaysian-motogp/

#DesmoDovi storms to victory at 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP

#DesmoDovi combination of Andrea Dovizioso and Ducati reigns supreme in rain-hit 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP. The temperamental Malaysian weather brought out some magic today in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) during raceday of the 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP. Despite the adverse weather conditions, it did little at dowsing the excitement of all three classes, culminating with a spectacular win by Andrea Dovizioso for the factory Ducati squad in the premier MotoGP class’ race. After seizing pole position under somewhat similar wet conditions during yesterday’s Qualifying, Dovizioso cruised to a spectacular victory astride his factory Ducati machine that was fuelled by Shell V-Power and lubricated by Shell Advance – the team’s technical partners. The race began with Dovizioso’s teammate Andrea Iannone seizing the race lead on the second lap away from top favourite Valentino Rossi astride the Movistar Yamaha Factory Racing team’s machine. Dovizioso, on the other hand, held on in third position for most parts of the race and conserved his tyres. A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Oct 30, 2016 at 1:05am PDT Despite having the initial advantage, Iannone inevitably succumbed to pressure and crashed out of contention on lap 12, ending an otherwise stellar run. Yamaha’s Rossi went on to take the lead after but Dovizioso pulled a spectacular overtaking move at Turn 1 on lap 15, pulling away from Rossi for the win. As the chequered flag waved to end the 19-lap melee, Dovi on the scarlet Italian machine held a good 3.115-second lead over Rossi in second. Coming in third to complete the podium was Rossi’s own teammate and bitter rival Jorge Lorenzo. Today’s race in Sepang proved that the Ducati Desmosedici GP16 had what it took chart victory under the challenging wet conditions just as good as in the dry conditions too – the latter done in an equally spectacular way back in Austria earlier in the season. More importantly, the win in Sepang today was a victory for technical partners and the event’s title sponsors Shell. The firm supplies the squad with its proven Shell V-Power racing fuels and Shell Advance lubricants that provided the storied Italian racing team its well-deserved victory today. Though both of this year’s constructor and team titles have been secured before the Malaysian round today the factory-backed squad are returning on a winning path, with partners Shell fuelling this journey. 2016 Shell Malaysian MotoGP results --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-yamaha-tracer-900-gt-launched-by-hong-leong-yamaha-motor-from-58888/

2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT Launched by Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (from 58,888)

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor launched the 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT sport-tourer today. It is an evolution of the “standard” MT-09/Tracer 900 and with many revisions. Its GT name reflects the Gran Turismo spirit of a performance tourer, which carries its rider over long distances in speed and comfort. Finally! The 2019 Yamaha Tracer 900 GT was launched by Hong Leong Yamaha Motor today. After months of waiting the middleweight sport-tourer, three-cylinder Tracer 900 GT is here. The bike is the next step in the evolution of the Yamaha Tracer 900, and it carries more features over the “standard” Tracer. As the GT (Gran Turismo) name suggests, Yamaha promises the bike to carry the rider over long distances with more comfort while at speed. But the GT is not just a kitted-out standard Tracer 900. Instead, Yamaha has carried many revisions to arrive at the GT. Highlights 847cc, inline-three-cylinder, crossplane crankshaft, engine. The engine produces 115 bhp at 10,000 RPM, 87.5 Nm at 8,500 RPM. Quick Shift system. Adjustable windscreen. Cruise Control system. New Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument display (no more “TV screen” from the old Super Tenere). Fully-adjustable front suspension. Adjustable rear shock absorber with new remote preload adjuster. YCC-T Yamaha Computer Controlled Throttle (ride-by-wire throttle). D-Mode ride modes with integrated Traction Control System (TCS) and ABS. 60mm longer swingarm to keep more weight over the front wheel. 30mm longer passenger footpegs for more comfort. Narrower handlebar. Comfort seats. Full-LED lighting all-around. The 2019 Yamaha Tracer GT is priced at RM 58,888 (basic selling price with SST but not on-the-road). Its competitive pricing will place it as a serious contender of the Malaysian middleweight sport-touring market. The bike was launched at HLYM’s annual Dealer Conference in Genting Highlands. Keep following us today as HLYM will also launch the 2019 YZF-R25 tonight. PICTURE GALLERY 1 of 12 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-to-unveil-16-new-models-on-june-6/

Kawasaki To Unveil 16 New Models On June 6

Kawasaki USA has some exciting news for motorcycle enthusiasts as they plan to unveil 16 new models on June 6, 2023.  The upcoming event has created a buzz among fans, and the official Kawasaki USA webpage features a countdown clock that builds anticipation for the grand reveal. Although not all of the 16 new vehicles will be motorcycles, there will be a considerable number of them. The webpage features silhouettes of new vehicles, which include street bikes, dirt bikes, and at least one UTV. Fans are eagerly waiting to see what Kawasaki has in store for them. Kawasaki has provided some hints on its YouTube and Facebook pages, adding to the excitement of fans. A video posted on YouTube teases viewers with the caption “6.6.23 – Your Supersport Obsession begins.” The social media post suggests that an updated Ninja ZX-6R and/or RR will be showcased during the event. Kawasaki also posted the same video on its Facebook page, along with two additional teaser images. One of the images showcases a closeup of a single round gauge, while the other is an extreme closeup of the front right corner of a UTV. Fans can also expect to see the much-awaited 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator 450 during the event. The Eliminator 450 was first introduced in Japan in March 2023 and later made an appearance at the Bangkok Motor Show. In April 2023, the 450cc model was spotted in California Air Resources Board filings, indicating that it will soon be released in the American market. With just three weeks left until the event, fans are eagerly waiting for more teasers from Kawasaki. Although there have been no announcements on Twitter or TikTok, the upcoming event has generated a lot of excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-not-working-on-a-390-adventure-rally-heres-why/

KTM Not Working On A 390 Adventure Rally, Here’s Why

A few days ago, there were reports along with a spy shot photo as proof that KTM is working on another variant of the 390 Adventure. However, latest development has debunked that allegation as it turns out the photos was actually by Turtle Tech, an aftermarket parts firm specialising in adventure components. The 390 Adventure in the photo is fitted with Turtle Tech additional hardware which includes, rally towers, bash plates and ADV upgrades for motorcycles. The rally tower is developed in collaboration with Monkey Auto Crafts, Motourenn and Barageness. A recent post by Turtle Tech on the company Instagram page has confirmed that the photos were actually a standard KTM 390 Adventure fitted with the prototype kit. “Last week has seen quite a lot of speculation with our test proto spy pics. We thought it’s about time we set the records straight. “We are Turtle Tech and we are coming soon. “A first of its kind Rally Tower for the KTM Adventure developed in collaboration with @monkeyautocrafts @motourenn @barageness and tested by @asadracing from @motorsportmagnum “We are currently under beta testing for our 4th prototype. Preorders will start soon so make sure you follow the @turtletechx page and watch this space. “So, there we have it, not a new model from KTM, although the rally-spec additions to the popular lightweight adventure bike will be pleasing to riders of a certain disposition,” said Turtle Tech. While it is a disappointment, we do hope that KTM would seriously consider expanding the 390 Adventure range with a Rally variant. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/cfmoto-700cl-x-ready-for-delivery-starting-2021/

CFMoto 700CL-X ready for delivery starting 2021

It is safe to say that the CFMoto brand here in Malaysia is definitely getting bigger and being noticed by a bigger crowd, especially with its recently launched 2020 CFMoto 250SR. With a wide range of models ranging from 250cc up to 650cc, the company wants to make waves with their latest and biggest model yet, the 2021 CFMoto 700CL-X. When it was unveiled at EICMA last year, there were three variants on display which are the CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage, Adventure, and Sport. The Heritage is the first model to be publicly displayed on their official website, which also means that it’ll be arriving at all showrooms worldwide starting in early 2021 in stages. The CFMoto 700CL-X Heritage tips in the balance between modern naked bike and retro machine. Modern being equipped with a 693cc parallel-twin engine that punches around 74hp and 68Nm of torque while maintaining its ‘retro’-ness with its looks and wide range of accessories and customizable parts. Other specs include: 41mm KYB USD front forks (fully adjustable) Rear KYB single shock (preload & rebound adjustability) Retro-looking front LED headlights (all-round LED lighting system) 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels + Pirelli MT60 RS tyres Slipper clutch Selectable riding modes, cruise control + LCD dashboard Juan brake package Continental ABS system On paper, the specs seem to point towards the direction of an amazing bike that you can ride daily and even off-road (according to CFMoto, probably the Adventure variant). But the best thing about this brand is how it is able to pack everything with a very competitive price tag. Let’s just hope that fact is true when it arrives here in Malaysia. 2020 CFMoto 250SR officially launched in Malaysia – from RM15,800 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-royal-enfield-meteor-350-gets-new-visuals/

2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Gets New Visuals 

Royal Enfield revealed new colours for the 2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350. Royal Enfield brings new colours for the 2023 Meteor 350 range. The Fireball variant features two new colours.  The new colour scheme is introduced for the Fireball and Supernova variants. Despite the new colourway, technical aspects remain unchanged, with Royal Enfield only using the new colours to refresh the Meteor 350 for 2023. According to the Indian firm, the Fireball gets two new colours; Fireball Blue and Fireball Matt Green. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-range Supernova edition now features “Supernova Red”. However, the third variant, Stellar, continues to feature the same visuals. For those unaware, the Fireball is the base model; the Stellar features a backrest, while the Supernova is fitted with a front windscreen and a backrest.  Powering the Meteor 350 is a 349cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air/oil-cooled engine capable of pumping 20hp @ 6,100rpm and 27Nm @ 4,000rpm.  Despite the retro look, the Meteor 350 is fitted with modern features, including dual-channel ABS, LED taillights and Bluetooth connectivity.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-is-developing-a-facial-recognition-helmet/

Honda is Developing a Facial Recognition Helmet

Honda submitted the patents for a facial recognition helmet. It serves as the security “key” to the bike’s ignition. How soon will we see this technology in the market? First it was the mechanical key, then electrical key, followed by keys embedded with microchips and now, a facial recognition helmet. That’s what Honda is working on for motorcycle security. It works pretty much like the current proximity key – or better known as the keyless system. The security system is available on more and more motorcycles from scooters all the way up to tourers. But that still means we need to rely on remote key fobs. Worse, thieves have the ability to scan the signal propagating from the key to the receiver on the bike. (This writer’s car was broken into that way.) The helmet has a camera embedded in the crown’s inner lining. The wearer looks into the helmet in the process of putting it on, the facial recognition camera sends a signal to a control unit in the helmet. From there, another signal goes to the motorcycle’s security control unit which unlocks the handlebar lock. It’s a novel idea but it also means that you can’t lock your helmet under your scooter’s seat. Locking it inside a top case is fine since you use a separate key. Will we see this tech soon? Who knows? Honda is pushing out new tech all the time and they make it to the market in short order from their introduction. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-adorable-honda-monkey-upgraded-with-5-speed-gearbox-for-2022/

The Adorable Honda Monkey Upgraded With 5-Speed Gearbox For 2022

The Honda Monkey is the most fun and adorable motorcycle you can get your hands on in the market right now. For those planning to buy the Monkey, you are in luck as the Japanese manufacturer has upgraded the fun bike with an all-new 5-speed transmission for the 2022 model year. The update should not come as a surprise as the Honda Grom received the same treatment last year. Thanks to the upgrade, the 2022 Monkey offers a taller final ratio and shorter fist ratio, thus allowing a better pickup and higher top speed. Nonetheless, the overall look is expected to remain the same as the previous generation. The 2022 Honda Monkey is avaialble in the U.S for USD4,199 (RM17.7k). --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/octane-really-means-part-2/

Octane: What it Truly Means (Part 2)

Display at a typical gas pump in the U.S. We’ve covered on how a fuel’s octane rating affects your engine. Now we explore on how its octane rating is actually determined. Truth is, there are many ratings being used but Malaysia only publishes the RON rating. We’ve covered on what petrol octane means and what it helps with in yesterday’s article. (Please click on the link below to read more.) “Octane”: What it Truly Means (Part 1) To reiterate, the higher a fuel’s octane rating, the more it resists self-ignition when it’s being compressed in the ignition chamber. Self-ignition or more correctly known as pre-igntion caused engine knock which could destroy the engine in a matter of minutes. But how is the octane number derived and how is the octane increased? It surely isn’t an arbitrary number picked out of the sky, right? The name “octane” is actually one of a family of hydrocarbons (HC) resulting from the refinery process of crude oil. When the crude is “cracked” (broken down into different types of substances), different lengths of hydrocarbon chains are were produced. These are then separated and blended to form different fuels, such as methane, propane, butane, among others. Methane consists of a single carbon atom. Propane has three carbon atoms chained together. Butane has four, pentane with five, hexane with six, heptane has seven and octane has eight carbon atoms. The top diagram is for 100% octane, while the bottom is for heptane which is 0% octane Octane is a family of colourless liquids that boil at approximately 125 oC. A member of the octane family, 2,4,4-trimethyl pentane which we now call “iso-octane” is used a reference standard to determine the tendency of gasoline or LPG to resist self-ignition. A test engine is used to measure the octane rating, by comparing to a mixture of iso-octane and heptane. The mixture of the two types of HCs by volume is the octane number of the fuel, i.e. 95% iso-octane and 5% heptane means 95 octane. The test engine, known as a Cooperative Fuel Research engine is a specialist single-cylinder with a bore and stroke of 82.5 mm and 114.3 mm respectively which equates to 612 cc, with a variable compression ratio from 4:1 to 18:1. The piston has four compression rings and one oil control ring. Both the head and cylinder are one piece and can be moved up and down to obtain the desired compression. It has a four-bowl carburettor, allowing for quick switching between the reference fuel and samples. The Waukesha CFR Knock is detected by using a magnetorestrictive sensor in the combustion chamber and measured on a “knockmeter.” A complete system costs in the regions of USD 200,000 and is made by only one specialist Waukesha Engine Division of the Dresser Industries in Wisconsin, USA. This is how it works. The CFR engine is turned at 600 RPM and technician will test the sample fuel corresponding to the iso-octane/heptane mixture’s knock resistance properties. The octane rating called RON (Research Octane Number) is produced, it’s tested in a controlled environment. However, if we go on further, a certain rating doesn’t mean the gasoline has only the corresponding mixture of iso-octane and heptane, as fuels commonly contain other HCs and additives. Because of this, as some fuels are more knock-resistant than pure iso-octane, the RON could go above 100. Racing fuels, avgas (aviation gasoline), LPG and alcohol based fuels such as methanol may have octane ratings higher than 100. Octane boosters such as additives include MTBE, ETBE, iso-octane and toulene. Tetraethyllead or more commonly known as just “lead” was once used widely as an additive, but has since been banned as lead is poisonous to the environment and humans. There are however, other fuel octane ratings, one of those called Motor Octane Number. Testing is similar to that for the RON rating. However, the engine is run at 900 RPM, the fuel is pre-heated, engine is run at higher speeds and ignition timing varied to determine the fuel’s knock resistance. Depending on the fuel’s composition it’s MON rating may be between 8 to 12 octane lower than RON, although there isn’t a direct link between the two. The SINPAR RON & MON Rating Unit Because of RON and MON ratings, certain countries require petroleum companies to specify the Anti-Knock Index (AKI) or more commonly, (R+M)/2. The United States and Canada are among some countries who specify this rating on the pumps. It’s also called Posted Octane Number (PON) (which is sometimes mistakenly called “Pump Octane Number”). Display at a typical gas pump in the U.S. There is also Observed Road Octane Number (RdON) which is produced from testing petrols in real-world multi-cylinder engines at full throttle. First developed in the 1920s, it’s still reliable until today. As you may have envisioned, early testing was performed on cars on the road. As digital and other technologies advanced further, testing has moved onto dynanometers in environmental controlled quarters for consistency.   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/mv-agusta-rush-1000-delivery-in-june/

MV Agusta Rush 1000 Delivery in June

The MV Agusta Rush 1000 was launched at EICMA 2019. It features an outrageous styling. Besides that, the engine produces 208 hp. While the motorcycling world was closely watching the launch of the Ducati Streetfighter V4 and Kawasaki Z H2, the MV Agusta Rush 1000 was akin to a bomb dropped on all of them. It started out as just a styling exercise for the Italian firm. However, they decided to turn it into production – albeit a limited run. The bike will feature both MotoGP and Formula 1 technology, including a 1000cc, inline-Four engine with radial valve arrangement (they are set all around the head, rather than pairing them in different locations). This boosts engine power to 208 hp. Not enough for you? Then you should purchase the Rush Racing Kit to bump it up to 212 hp. The kit also includes a titanium exhaust system, a carbon fibre passenger seat cover and obviously, a remapped engine ECU. The use of carbon fibre parts drops the wet weight from 186 kg to 184 kg. The MV Agusta Rush 1000 is already equipped with 8-level traction control, launch control, anti-wheelie electronics, electronic Öhlins suspension and Brembo Stylema front brake calipers. The manufacturer claims a top speed of “over 300 km/h.” Customers in the UK and Europe are set to receive their orders beginning June 2020. Only 300 will be made. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/delhi-traffic-policeman-holds-up-mirror-to-violators/

Delhi Traffic Policeman Holds UP Mirror to Violators

A Delhi traffic policeman holds up a mirror to traffic violators. He does it to encourage violators to start wearing helmets while riding. The measure has so far worked according to him. A Delhi traffic policeman holds up a mirror to traffic violators to reflect upon themselves and their wrongdoings. Prior to this, the cop Sandeep Shahi gave out free helmets to motorcyclists riding without them. Still, many are riding without helmets although the law mandates it, the risking being fined INR 1,000 and their lives. Motorcyclists are often seen zipping around traffic at high speeds without helmets, while carrying up to three pillions. The pillions themselves often shun head protection, too. Shahi told AFP, “I was riding pillion with a helmet one day and say myself in a mirror. I felt ashamed. But at the same time, I thought it would be a great way of raising awareness. A mirror never lies.” He says the measure is working so far. Offending riders apologized and promised to wear their headgear after that. “I’ve also slides about road safety which I show to road users. But using the mirror is a much simpler way.” A 2018 World Health Organization report showed 150,785 deaths due to road accidents in India, making it the highest in the world in terms of numbers. The number corresponds to a rate of 22.6 deaths per 100,000 people. Source: The Express Tribute, the photo originally appeared here https://tribune.com.pk/story/1912065/3-delhi-policeman-holds-mirror-motorbike-law-breakers/?amp=1 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-thailand-launches-2017-honda-cb150r-exmotion-rm12810/

Honda Thailand launches 2017 Honda CB150R Exmotion – From RM12,810

A.P. Honda (Honda Motorcycle Thailand) has launched the 2017 Honda CB150R Exmotion, the production version of the Honda 150SS Racer concept. The CB150R carries the same exterior design as the 150SS Racer concept with big bike features such as all-round LED lights, 41mm USD forks, radial-mounted four-port callipers and ABS with a G-force sensor. The most modern 150cc street bike ever produced by Honda to date has been priced from RM12,810 with a number of different limited edition models being released in the near future. Not all awesome concept bikes turn out exactly or anywhere near the original version when they move over to the production stage. A.P. Honda (Honda Motorcycle Thailand) has delivered brilliantly by sticking to their guns with the launch of their latest 2017 Honda CB150R Exmotion, the production version of the Honda 150SS Racer concept. Although the new CB150R Exmotion and the 150SS Racer concept are not exactly the same, you have to give credit to Honda Motorcycle Thailand for keeping it as close as possible to the original concept introduced not too long ago during the Bangkok Motor Show. To check out the Honda 150SS Racer Concept, CLICK HERE. In terms of styling, the CB150R carries the same DNA as the 150SS Racer with muscular body design plus big bike appeal injected into the small capacity motorcycle. Apart from not having the carbon fibre wheels and rear view camera as on the 150SS Racer, all is forgiven as the CB150R still looks alluring considering it is only 150cc. Targeted specifically for the Asian market, the CB150R has been designed for perfection from every aspect. Inspired by Honda’s top high-powered motorcycles like the RC213V-S, the CB150R carries the same profile with similar inspirations as its bigger and more powerful siblings. The 150cc, DOHC, 4-valve engine has gone through a major evolution of its own designed to provide top riding performance and excitement. The power plant is also said to be in compliance with the latest Euro emissions regulations and together with liquid-cooling, the CB150R screams maximum efficiency and durability. The power and torque figures are still unknown but our money is around 20hp. Other awesome features that can be found on the CB150R that are rarely found on other small capacity bikes around the entire planet are 41mm upside-down front forks, radial-mounted four-port callipers and ABS with a G-force sensor. Previously, you can only get these kinds of specs on high-powered Hondas like the X-ADV 750 or even the CBR1000RR. To make the CB150R even more special, the bike has been garnished with some special Japanese accessory parts courtesy of Moriwaki, G’Craft and Kitaco to further enhanced the exterior appeal of the Honda CB150R. Unsurprisingly, the response for the newly-launched 2017 CB150R has been very overwhelming. To date, Honda Motorcycle Thailand has received over 1,000 pre-bookings. The standard model has been priced  at around RM12,810 while the ABS variant comes in at just above RM14,000. A.P. Honda will also release two more limited editions of the CB150R which are the Street Cafe (500 units) and Scrambler Cafe (1,000 units) later this year. Our only wish now is to get these babies quickly into Malaysia because based on what we have seen and read, the 2017 Honda CB150R is going to send shockwaves across the Asian motorcycle scene and we want some of that action, too. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-issues-recall-for-the-hypermotard-950-due-to-faulty-kickstand/

Ducati Issues Recall For The Hypermotard 950 Due To Faulty Kickstand

Ducati has issued a recall on a small batch of Hypermotard 950 due to a faulty kickstand. According to the recall documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some of the kickstands on the 2019 Hypermotard 950 may not be adequately welded. The improper weld could affect the reliability of the side stand and may break at the weld that joins the tube to the part at the top, resulting in a fall and increasing the risk of injury. The document suggests that the recall affected 205 units of the Hypermotard 950 manufactured between January 7 2010, and March 29, 2019. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-vespa-range-gets-new-colours-in-malaysia/

2021 Vespa Range Gets New Colours In Malaysia

Vespa Malaysia introduces new colours for its Vespa range from the 150cc to 300cc model. According to Didi Resources, the sole distributor of the Vespa brand in Malaysia, the new colours consist of: Grey Delicato (Primavera S and GTS Supertech) Orange Tramonto (Sprint) Blue Audace (Sprint S) Grey Materia (GTS Supersport) For those interested to get up close with the new colours, Vespa ownership experience, service maintenance, accessories and merchandise, you can do so by watching a two series video by Vespa Malaysia below. Meanwhile, customers can enjoy special deals if you buy the new Vespa range via Lazada and Shopee and get them delivered to you via the nearest dealers available nationwide. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/100th-anniversary-suzuki-gsx-r1000r-unveiled/

100th anniversary Suzuki GSX-R1000R unveiled

Suzuki is celebrating its 100th anniversary in style with its most powerful road-going superbike yet, the GSX-R1000R. The 100th anniversary Suzuki GSX-R1000R comes with retro-inspired livery found on the current Suzuki GSX-RR MotoGP machine currently competing this season with Joan Mir and Alex Rins. Retro-inspired, you ask? Yes. The traditional blue and silver colour combo dates back to the 1960s during the early years of the Japanese manufacturer in Grand Prix racing. This lovely GSX-R pays tribute to those lovely years of racing as well as the official company’s inception back in 1920. With race records and victories collected over the years, this particular Suzuki GSX-R1000R also shares some common traits with its race-going brothers and sisters, particularly the inclusion of the same variable valve timing system to boost both torque and peak power. It is also packed with the latest electronic aids, 10-level traction control, up/down quickshifter, cornering ABS, and that sweet, sweet launch control, baby. The 100th anniversary Suzuki GSX-R1000R will be produced in limited numbers and for those living in the UK, you can cop one at £16,999, which is around RM92,000 after direct conversion. Will it make its way to Malaysia? We sure hope so and we have high hopes that the new custodian of the brand will do wonders. FYI, it’s Kawasaki Malaysia Motors (KMSB). Yup, they will convert to Suzuki Malaysia Sdn Bhd and we’re just days away from the official announcement! 2021 will be a good year for the Suzuki motor brand in Malaysia, ladies and gentlemen. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-vespa-and-aprilia-3s-showroom-opens-in-kedah-by-chj-motors/

First Vespa And Aprilia 3S Showroom Opens In Kedah By CHJ Motors

CHJ Motors officially open a brand new Vespa and Aprilia 3S showroom in Alor Setar, Kedah. This dynamic concept store offers a wide range of the iconic Vespa and Aprilia scooters, making it a must-visit destination for two-wheel motor vehicle enthusiasts. The new showroom is located at Alor Setar, Kedah.  The newly opened showroom, located in the heart of Alor Setar, carries a comprehensive product range, as well as a dedicated customer service center. This marks the first Vespa and Aprilia 3S showroom in Kedah, a remarkable milestone for CHJ Motors. To celebrate their 50th year anniversary, CHJ Motors is also launching an exciting campaign called “Anda Beli, Kami Payung!” which offers Northern customers the opportunity to participate in a lucky draw.  The winners of this campaign will enjoy the incredible benefit of 100% cashback, with CHJ Motors covering the full settlement and giving them the chance to own a motorcycle completely free of charge. Existing customers can also benefit from the services provided by CHJ Motors. The center offers complete sales and after-sales service, ensuring a seamless ownership experience for Vespa and Aprilia scooter owners. With the opening of this new showroom, Vespa and Aprilia enthusiasts in Kedah can now indulge in their passion for stylish and high-performance scooters, all backed by the expertise and support of CHJ Motors. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-ducati-900-supersport-ten-things-know/

Ducati 900 SuperSport – Ten Things You Should Know

2017 900 SuperSport S The 2017 Ducati 900 SuperSport has just been launched. The Ducati SuperSport lineage is long and interesting. Ducati now has a bike that’s sporty and practical. Ducati Malaysia has just launched the 2017 Ducati 900 SuperSport tonight. Also known as the SS , the SuperSport name is steeped in rich heritage. Here are Ten Things about the 900 SuperSport you should know. 1. HERITAGE It all started in 1972, when Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari both rode the Super Sport prototype based on the 750 GT to victory and second place respectively, at the Imola 200. The desmodromic-valved V-Twin was designed by none other than the great Fabio “Dr. T” Taglioni (We wrote up about Fabio Taglioni in our Top Motorcycle Designers series). Paul Smart at Imola 1972 The significance of these results meant that: 1. Ducati will forever be elevated into the ranks of superbike makers; 2. The use of the desmodromic (desmo) system in virtually every Ducati thereafter; 3. Ducati’s superbikes of that era were named Super Sport. The desmodromic valve system 2. MIKE HAILWOOD “Mike the Bike” came back to motorcycle racing in 1978 after an 11-year hiatus, joining the Isle of Man TT Formula 1 race, and rode the Ducati 900SS to an emphatic victory. Mike Hailwood at the 1978 Isle of Man TT The following year’s 900 Super Sport were painted in black with gold accents, but a limited-edition Mike Hailwood Replica was also produced, complete with green and red colours. 1979 900 Super Sport Mike Hailwood Replica 3. TAMBURINI’S 900SS The “Michaelangelo of motorcycles,” Massimo Tamburini joined the Cagiva Group in 1985; Cagiva had already acquired Ducati by then. Tamburini’s first Ducati was the Paso 750 which made its debut in 1986. It featured “boxy” front and rear ends, plus a bodywork which wrapped tightly around the mechanical parts of the bike. 1986 Paso 750 Taking cues from the Paso, he next designed the 851 superbike for 1987. The 851 was the Ducati which started the Italian firm’s dominance in World Superbike. 851 SP3 And from the 851’s design, the 900 SuperSport was reborn in 1988. It was during this time that the SS name had started to be promoted by Ducati. The engine was the 904cc, air-cooled, two-valve, 90-degree, “Desmodue” V-Twin based on the Pantah, with crankcases derived from the 851. This same engine also went on to power the M900 Il Monstro. 1991 900SS But it was in 1991 that the 900SS found great popularity. Between 1991 to 1998, there were many special versions, including the SP (Sport Production), CR, and ultra-sexy SL (SuperLight). Although it was based on the design of the 851, the SS was far more practical for everyday riding and touring to some extent. The riding position didn’t fold the rider in half, instead it was more upright. 900 SS SuperLight Sales of the 900SS started to decline in 1997, due to the popularity of the Monster and 916/996/998 superbike. Ducati offered the 900SS FE (Final Edition) in 1998. 1998 900SS Final Edition Motorcycle enthusiasts of that era would still fondly remember the 900SS as the Ducati with a volcano-like exhaust rumble. 4. DECLINE OF THE SUPERSPORT Tamburini had decided to stick with Cagiva who was now concentrating on the MV Agusta marque, leaving Pierre Terblanche to helm the design department at Ducati. Terblanche designed the SuperSport for 1999, which was inspired by the Supermono he had penned years earlier. The design was too big of a departure from what the Ducatisti had been accustomed to and met heavy resistance in extreme cases. 1999 900SS The SS saw an increase in engine capacity up to 1000cc ultimately, but continued poor sales saw the model axed in 2007. 5. ALL-NEW 2017 DUCATI SUPERSPORT Ducati revealed the 2017 SuperSport at Intermot 2016. While Ducati has an extensive lineup in almost every segment, there was a glaring void in the “everyday sportbike” department. Ducati has the Multistrada for both sport-touring and adventure-touring. Conversely, the Panigale as the all-out sportbike. The Monster is a more practical naked sportbike, but doesn’t tour well. The Scrambler is more of a modern classic. The Diavel is a power-cruiser. The result is this bike. But what should it be called? Why, the SuperSport, of course! 6. RIDING POSITION The main draw of the 2017 900 SuperSport is its riding position – sporty yet comfortable. As highlighted above, Ducati heard the requests of the bike buying crowd and built a bike that’s practical for everyday riding, sporty for weekend canyon bombing, comfortable for long-distance touring, and fast enough for the odd trackday. Just like the 1991 to 1998 900SS.   7. REWORKED POWER DELIVERY The new 900 SuperSport’s engine is shared with the 939 Hypermotard’s 937cc Testastretta, but has been retuned for low-end and wider torque spread throughout the engine’s range. 80% of the 96.7Nm of peak torque is available from just 3000 RPM. Low-down and midrange torque is what’s most important when you ride on the streets, as it makes overtaking easier, besides saving your concentration and energy from having to shift often. Additionally, torque is what allows a bike to haul a passenger and luggage easier. While 113bhp doesn’t seem a lot on paper, it’s already more powerful than the 916 superbike in 1994. 900 SuperSport engine 8. DAILY RIDING/TOURING It may look like the Panigale, but the clip-ons are high set, the footpegs are lower, and the windscreen is adjustable by 50mm. Ducati also offers the “Touring Pack,” which includes a pair of semi-rigid panniers, a larger windscreen and heated grips. Panniers in the Touring Pack 9. SPORT RIDING/CANYON BLASTING Ducati also offers the “Sport Pack,” which includes a carbon front mudguard, carbon fuel tank cover, articulated racing lever kit, and billet aluminium covers for the front and rear brake fluid reservoirs. 10. VERSIONS The 2017 Ducati SuperSport is offered in two variants. The SuperSport S is equipped with fully adjustable 48mm Ohlins fork and Ohlins rear shock.  It also features a quickshifter that works on both upshifts and downshifts (the engine blips itself on downshifts). The clutch is therefore only used when starting and stopping. The SuperSport S comes in Ducati Red and Star White Silk. A colour-coordinated rear seat cover is included. 2017 900 SuperSport S The base SuperSport model gets fully adjustable 41mm Marzocchi forks and Sachs shock that’s adjustable for preload and rebound only. It is available only in two-tone Ducati Red and Saturn Grey. Owners may install the quickshifter of the SuperSport S. 2017 Ducati SuperSport However, both models feature front and rear ABS, ride modes and Ducati Traction Control as part of the Ducati Safety Pack. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/modenas-to-introduce-a-rebadge-versys-650-in-2023/

MODENAS To Introduce A Rebadge Versys 650 In 2023

MODENAS and Kawasaki are set to get things rolling for 2022, beginning with the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS. rebadged MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS to reach dealership by end of July 2022. MODENAS Vulcan S 650 will launch later this year.  The Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS are among the models set to be rebadged by MODENAS as part of a new partnership with the Japanese manufacturer, Kawasaki. The agreement will also witness MODENAS assemble between 250cc and 650cc Kawasaki motorcycles, including the Vulcan S 650, Ninja 650 and Z650. While MODENAS will launch the Vulcan S later this year, the Malaysian motorcycle manufacturer has confirmed that the Versys 650 will follow suit in 2023. The Versys 650 has been among the most popular sport-touring motorcycles since its introduction in 2006. The Versys 650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin 4-stroke, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine that makes 65.7hp @ 8,500rpm and 60Nm @ 7,000rpm. Recently refined to meet the Euro 5 emission standards, Kawasaki updated the new Versys 650 with Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) and a 4.3-inch full-colour TFT display. The display can also be paired to a compatible smartphone device and the Kawasaki Rideology app, which allows riders to access instrument functions. Other updated features include a full LED light setup, new graphics, revised styling (in line with its larger Versys 1000 cousin) and a new four-way adjustable windshield. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-yamaha-nmax-now-available-in-new-colours-rm9798/

2023 Yamaha NMax Now Available In New Colours – RM9,798

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced that its popular scooter model, the NMAX, will be available in two new stylish colours: Red and Blue. The Yamaha NMax gets new colour scheme for 2023. Powering the scooter is the refined Blue Core liquid-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC, 155cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve fuel-injected engine. The updated models will be available at all authorized Yamaha dealers nationwide starting from 16th March 2023, with an updated recommended retail price of RM 9,798.00 (excluding registration fees and insurance coverage). The Yamaha NMAX has been a favourite among Malaysian riders since its launch. The model is powered by a refined Blue Core liquid-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC, 155cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve fuel-injected engine with CVT, and comes with a large fuel tank of 7.1L. The new Red and Blue colours are expected to add more excitement and style to this already-popular model. New owners of the NMAX can enjoy additional benefits with their purchase. They will receive a Yamaha safety disc lock worth RM 100, providing added security and peace of mind while riding their new scooter. Yamaha Malaysia is confident that the new colours will be well received by Malaysian riders. “We are excited to offer our customers two new colours for the NMAX,” said a spokesperson for Yamaha Malaysia. “The Red and Blue colours look fantastic on this model and will add more style and excitement to the ride. We believe that the new colours will be very popular among Malaysian riders.” The Yamaha NMAX has become a popular choice for city commuters who want a comfortable, practical, and stylish scooter for their daily commute. With the new Red and Blue colours, Yamaha is hoping to attract even more riders to its popular model. If you are interested in purchasing the Yamaha NMAX in one of the new colours, visit your nearest authorized Yamaha dealer starting from 16th March 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to add more style to your ride with the Yamaha NMAX in Red or Blue. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/for-all-two-wheeling-socialites-kl-bike-week-12/

For all two wheeling socialites – KL Bike Week ’12

Returning for its fifth instalment, KL Bike Week 2012 (KLBW12) was held just last month at the open-air parking lot, opposite the KLCC shopping centre. The two-day event opened its grounds to visiting bikers and enthusiasts early on Friday morning. Organised by local KL-based motorcycling institution Red Garage, KLBW12 saw the arrival of more than 30 bike clubs and 400 bikes from around the peninsula – not to mention the respectable few that rode in especially from neighbouring countries such as Brunei, Thailand, and Singapore. Special parking spaces were allocated for each club as they arrived one group at a time. Naturally, these bikers came in full force and passionately adorned their club colours, adding more energy to the testosterone-filled carnival atmosphere. Like their owners, the number of bike types present in this large parking area was equally eclectic. We’ve always pride our humble site as the haven for all bikers, but the sight of this parking lot really deserves our utmost respect. Outrageous and unique custom-crafted choppers, rare and pristinely maintained classics, high performance supersports, the ultra-cool café racers, vespas, and even three-wheeled types were part of this foray. Only at such an event will you see a Ducati 1199 Panigale park itself on the same spot of dirt next to a Triumph Thruxton. Naturally where people come en-masse, food and drinks were being served. KLBW12 organisers also managed a small (actually very large!) carnival section. A true bikers affair, plenty of things could be found here. The stuff being traded by small and large vendors in this carnival included new and used bike parts and accessories, used and reconditioned imported motorcycles, novelty tee-shirts, custom artworks, and all the biker-related things you could possibly imagine. Arguably, most of the attention (that was not taken up by the performances on the main stage) was centred on the two largest tents fielded by the Naza Group and Moto Guzzi. Our friends at the Naza Group tent were selling original merchandises and accessories of the group’s bikes brands managed at an unbelievable 75% discount, allowing for some to have their Christmas come early. However, we also could not argue with the attention drawn from the rivalling Moto Guzzi tent, where plenty eagerly flocked to have the first glimpse of the country’s newest Italian bikes brand to arrive. Besides that, the 30,000 plus visitors were also treated to KLBW12’s competitions held for Best Custom Paintjobs, Best Custom Bike, and other fun two-wheeled activities. The main stage also gave plenty of entertainment. Local rock and roll bands (who are bikes enthusiasts themselves) gave spectacular and respectable performances for fans, despite the temperamental heavy downpour and scorching tropical heat. Even local celebrities made their appearances with their beloved machines such as rockstar and actor Awie, legendary songstress Fauziah Latiff, and comedian Zizan. Making a special appearance, as well as to pick up the KLBW12 ‘Biker Icon of the Year’ award was our beloved and young Moto3 hero Khairuddin Zufahmi, accompanied incognito by close friend and mentor SIC CEO Razlan Razali. To say the least, KLBW12 only reaffirms the fact that our country has an extremely large and eclectic biking community that is growing ever more rapidly. Rest assure, we are patiently anticipating the next edition of KLBW in 2013 and we only hope to see more international participation, as well as the presence of more bikers alike. Check out our Facebook Page for MORE photos --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/video-guy-martin-breaks-wall-of-death-speed-record/

Video: Guy Martin breaks Wall of Death speed record

Legendary British road racer Guy Martin breaks the Wall of Death speed record at 125.77km/h!!! Guy Martin and his specially modified Indian Scout Calling TV presenter, road racer and IOMTT legend Guy Martin crazy or brave is perhaps an understatement. After all, the 34-year-old British motocelebrity is regarded as one of the best road racers of his generation. Whilst a win at the IOMTT still eludes him, Guy Martin can instead use his new status as a Guinness World Record holder for bragging rights now after breaking the speed record on the Wall of Death earlier this week. Guy Martin undertook the attempt as part of a live TV show special for Channel 4 UK. Martin’s machine of choice for the task as hand was a specially modified Indian Scout. The attempt was done in a specially built Wall of Death with a diameter of 40 metres – the largest Wall of Death ever built in fact. The target to beat was the previous record’s figure of 60mph (approx. 96.5km/h). Astride the modified Indian Scout, Martin was able to break the record on his first attempt when he clocked in a top speed of 70.33mph (approx. 113.19km/h). With a diameter of 40 metres, this was the largest Wall of Death ever constructed But, this is Guy Martin after all, so one run wasn’t enough – he knew he could go much faster. Martin then whipped out his home-built BSA R3 motorcycle instead for his second run and did just that. TMartin went even faster on his BSA R3 where his top speed was clocked at a higher 78.15mph (approx. 125.77km/h). The Wall of Death at high speeds poses its own risks. After the attempts were done, Guy Martin stated that the extreme G-forces he was subjected to whilst going round the wall led him to lose his vision briefly. Later, officials confirmed that the Brit experienced up to 5.2g whilst riding the wall – almost the same level of stresses typically faced by fighter pilots in combat in fact. You can watch Guy Martin’s attempt in full in the video posted above. Sources: YouTube / Visordown / MCN / AutoEvolution --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-quick-tips-enhance-riding-skills/

Ten Quick Tips to Enhance Your Riding Skills

One of the best aspects of riding is the never-ending quest to ride better. Riding skills should be learned correctly and refreshed from time-to-time. It applies to all riders regardless of age and experience. With the New Year long weekend coming up, there are surely many bikers who will go out riding and touring. Besides preparing yourselves in terms of logistics, please make sure that you’re prepared in terms of riding, too. We’ve assembled these Ten Quick Tips to Enhance Your Riding Skills to assist. The fundamentals, of riding any motorcycle is the same whether if he’s just obtained his license or a veteran who has been riding since Merdeka. Similarly, while motorcycles and their related technologies such as tyres, brakes, chassis, electronics, weight distribution have improved exponentially within the last decade alone, that doesn’t mean the rider only has to sit onboard and do nothing. Those technologies assist in riding enjoyment and safety but are virtually useless if the rider isn’t equipped with the necessary skills. 1. Steering Bikes don’t steer by themselves. You need to countersteer. You push on the left handlebar to go left, and push on the right to go right. The rate of steering (how quickly the bike tips over and turns) corresponds to the amount of force and speed you apply it to the handlebar. That means: If you shove on the right handlebar hard and abruptly, the bike will snap over to the right faster, and vice versa. Learning to countersteer actively allows you to place your bike precisely on where you want to go. Countersteering – Courtesy of sPEEDY pADDY 2. Throttle Control Don’t treat your throttle as an on/off switch. Instead, good throttle control plays a tremendous role in controlling the bike’s front and aft weight distribution, hence tyre traction, suspension action, smoothness and overall speed. It should be rolled on and rolled off, not whacked open or snapped shut in like a light switch. This is especially important when cornering or riding on slippery roads. When approaching a corner, trace a line which will allow you to come on the throttle as soon as possible. Turn the bike in, come one the throttle smoothly and keep applying it as you leave the corner. Do not oscillate it on and off in midcorner as that’ll unbalance the bike and reduce tyre traction. So, what’s the perfect line through a corner? It’s the line which allows you to open the throttle the soonest, all the way through, and on the exit. Throttle control – Courtesy of dreamtime.com 3. Vision “Your bike goes where you look.” Repeat that to yourself as soon as you wake up, on the bike and off the bike until you go to sleep. Admittedly, looking away from danger is difficult as our brains are hardwired to “Keep an eye out on danger.” On a motorcycle, however, keeping your eyes on the taik lembu in your patch guarantees that you will run through it. It’s called, “Target fixation.” Target fixation – Courtesy of Cycle World Watch this video below (courtesy of RNickey Mouse channel): When danger presents itself, look for escape routes and steer towards the best option, instead of towards the thing you want to avoid. That’ll keep you from spraying dung all over your bike and yourself, and similarly from hitting that car which swerved into your lane. 4. Braking What’s the single most powerful component of your motorcycle? The engine? No. It’s the brakes. No other component translates so much of the rider’s input into such big reactions. Just like the throttle, you should start thinking of brakes as the device you use to achieve your target speed – say for a corner – instead of being an on/off switch. And as with the throttle, the brakes should be applied smoothly. Never grab it abruptly with the grip of death. In fact, if done right, rolling off the throttle as you transition to the brakes and getting back on the throttle smoothly does wonders for your riding. Also, do remember to clamp your knees onto the fuel tank and leave your arms and elbows as relaxed as possible when you apply the brakes. Stiffening up your arms and elbows by locking them will render them useless in helping you to steer the bike away from danger. Besides that, stiffening up your arms and elbows will transfer all of the deceleration forces to them and your body, fooling you to think that you’ve reached the limit of your suspension, brakes and tyres, when you could actually apply more brakes. 5. Let it Slide We know, blood rushes through your body when a tire breaks traction and “kicks out.” Is that a bad thing? Unless your bike has swapped ends (the rear had overtaken the front), there’s always the possibility of saving it (although you may need new underwear). The best way to practice slides is on a dirtbike on a dirt track. Dirtbiking teaches your body how to respond to slides by using all the skill sets you’ve learned so far. Once you’re back on the pavement, you won’t panic when the tires get loose. (Best place to learn this is at Most Fun Gym where we train.) However, the basic technique is to always ride relaxed even when the bike slides. A sliding bike doesn’t mean it’s out of control. Instead, a sliding tyre is only trying to find a stable position. Riding stiff just means you’re resisting it from finding this position. So let it slide, while you stick to steering, throttle control and vision. 6. Turn and Burn What are bikes for if not for corners! Apply what you’ve learned above about countersteering, throttle control, braking, vision and sliding – in the correct order, of course – and soon find yourself confidently sweeping through corners without too much thought. 7. Visit the Track The best place to apply all the skills you’ve learned is of course, the racetrack. Track sessions are usually divided into “classes,” so you may start with newcomers to avoid getting scared senseless by the faster riders. Needless to say, the track provides the best environment not just for racing but for pure riding, since there are plenty of run-off areas and everyone else is going the same direction; no punk driving his mom’s car; no zombie pedestrians with their faces stuck in their phones; definitely no babi hutan crossing the road; no diesel spill from the bus whose driver’s practicing for F1. Since you ride at elevated speeds on the track, you’ll find yourself in so much control when you get back into the real-world – just don’t apply racetrack speeds on the roads. 9. Iqra (Arabic for “Read”) Buy books and watch videos. Study, then go out and practice, because there’s no two ways about it. Books we recommend are A Twist of the Wrist Vol. II by Keith Code, Sport Riding Techniques: How to Develop Real World Skills for Speed, Safety, and Confidence on the Street and Track by Nick Ienatsch, and Total Control by Lee Parks, among others. Getting advice from your buddies could work, but if (while we’re not doubting their skills) he’s the kaki tapao at Kuala Kelawang, you may want to look for more reliable sources. Most, if not all, good riders take it easy on the road and only ratchets it up at the track. Best is to learn from a real teacher, or at least a buddy who has attended an official riding school or two. 9. Find a (Real) Sifu As mentioned in No. 8, the best way to learn is having an instructor watch you ride and  critique your riding. Riding schools teach the fundamentals and you could always develop your own riding style in a correct manner. Learning to ride by yourself is open to interpretation and you may end up harbouring bad riding habits. We always recommend that any rider learn dirt riding. As Most Fun Gym’s motto puts it, “Learn offroad, master all roads,” dirt training makes you a much, much better and safer rider. That’s why all the top riders learn dirt riding. 10. Maintain Your Own Bike Performing your own maintenance means you could invariably find out more about your bike. Besides, you’re more likely to develop a personal bond with your bike and treat it with respect, instead of just being a machine that you’d flog without remorse. Performing your own maintenance could also allow you to spot potential problems with the bike. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-suzuki-wants-worldsbk-champion-jonathan-rea-2018/

MotoGP: Suzuki wants WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea in 2018?

Rumours have been floating around regarding the effort of trying to lure WorldSBK champion Jonathan Rea to join Suzuki in MotoGP. With Team SUZUKI ECSTAR’s current star rider Andrea Iannone not performing as they had hoped, Dorna and Suzuki are said to be in talks in trying to pull in the WorldSBK World Champion. If the transfer is successful, there’s a huge possibility that Suzuki will be able to fight against other factory teams as well as making the WorldSBK competitive again for other riders. Image source: MotoGP The last MotoGP round was full action, drama and action despite the exclusion of nine-time World Champion, Valentino Rossi from the Movistar Yamaha squad. It was yet another unfruitful race for Team SUZUKI ECSTAR as their supposedly number one rider Andrea Iannone had retire after 12 laps in the rain. Image source: MotoGP This time around, it was quite an unbelievable reason as on why the 28 year old Italian had to stop his race efforts. According to Iannone himself, it seemed that his rain suit which he wore over his racing suit was too tight. That led to problems to his arm pumps which resulted in extreme muscle pain. Image source: MotoGP This is something that both the Suzuki MotoGP factory team and Dorna themselves weren’t really impressed with. This led to a huge rumour floating around that both parties are trying to lure one of the biggest names in the World Superbikes today that is Jonathan Rea of Kawasaki Racing Team. Image source: WorldSBK With more wins and a super comfortable lead in this year’s WorldSBK season, Jonathan Rea has been the dominant force on board his Kawasaki ZX-10RR. The past weekend in Portugal saw Rea took yet another double win. Out of 20 races in the past 10 WorldSBK rounds, Rea has stood on top of the podium 11 times so far. Image source: Kawasaki This has caught the attention of both Dorna and MotoGP in trying to make Suzuki more competitive against other factory teams as well as make WorldSBK competitive and exciting again. The domination of Rea is WorldSBK will end and with his skills, Suzuki hopes that Rea will answer their prayers in bringing in more podiums if the transfer is successful. Jonathan Rea winning his second consecutive WorldSBK title in 2016 Despite all the rumours, it seems that Suzuki will keep their word of maintaining Andrea Iannone until the end of 2018 according to their contract. Whatever the plans may be, we are confident that Suzuki definitely has something up their sleeves and once the time comes, they will drop the bomb. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/latest-type-approval-documents-confirms-upcoming-qjmotor-400cc-motorcycle/

Latest Type-Approval Documents Confirms Upcoming QJMotor 400cc Motorcycle

QJMotor is finally getting the attention it deserved ever since MV Agusta unveiled the near-production Lucky Explorer 5.5 at this year’s EICMA. The Lucky Explorer 5.5 is born thanks to the collaboration between MV and Qianjiang Motorcycles, the parent company of QJMotor and Benelli. Underneath the 5.5 sits a 550cc parallel-twin engine, the same platform taken from Benelli’s TRK 502 and QJMotor ST500. In the latest development, the Chinese motorcycle manufacturer is said to be working on a new 400cc platform based on new type-approval documents published in China. Usually, no one bats an eye but considering that it could also be the perfect basis for small displacement MV in the future, any new development from QJMotor is treated as crucial. Yet to disclose even in China, the new motorcycle goes under the name QJ400GS-J but could also be renamed as GS400RR based on the decals on the fairing. According to the documents, the new motorcycle features a 400cc parallel-twin engine and makes 44hp. Interestingly the GS400RR is also equipped with a single-sided swingarm, something that could perfectly be fitted on an MV Agusta. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-honda-st125-dax-breaks-cover-107kg-9-25hp/

2023 Honda ST125 Dax Breaks Cover – 107kg, 9.25hp

Honda has officially announced the return of the Dax to its MiniMoto portfolio alongside the Monkey and MSX125 Grom. Japanese publication, Young-Machine, revealed the so-called ‘speculative’ render image back in February, but boy, the finished product looks suspiciously similar. At this point, we firmly believe they have someone working on the inside. Back to the bike, which has been missing from Honda’s lineup for more than 40 years, the ST125 Dax returns with a 124cc SOCH air-cooled motor that makes 9.25hp and 10.8Nm. While power is delivered to the rear-wheel via a four-speed gearbox, the bike also comes with a centrifugal clutch. The Dax weighs 107kg and gets a 31mm upside-down fork, twin-rear shocks, 12-inch mini bike wheels wrapped around with balloon tyres and a full LED light setup. Other notable features include an LCD and chrome handlebars. Despite the miniature size, Honda fitted the Dax with a pillion grab rail since the bike is designed from the get-go to support up to two people with the help of the steel frame. Additionally, the 2023 ST125 Dax will come with single-channel ABS paired to a 220mm front disc, 190mm rear disc and hydraulically-operated brake callipers. The ST125 Dax is available in two colour options; Pearl Nebula Red and Pearl Cadet Grey. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-test-ride-weekend-bentong/

BMW Motorrad test-ride weekend in Bentong

2016 BMW R 1200 GS Auto Bavaria is hosting a special BMW Motorrad test-ride session in Bentong, Pahang this weekend. Authorised BMW Motorrad dealers Auto Bavaria will be hosting a special two-day test-ride session this weekend in Bentong, Pahang on August 13 and 14 (Saturday and Sunday). The event will take place from 8:30am to 5pm in Bentong town’s infamous Lemang To’Ki restaurant that’s located along Jalan Tras – a hugely popular hangout and stopover for local bikers. Auto Bavaria has prepared a number of models for the test-ride such as the GS range, both the S1000RR and S1000XR, the R1200RT, as well as the refreshed C650GT maxi-scooter. Test-ride sessions aside, visitors will also get to enjoy the famous establishment’s menu of delicacies such as lemang and cendol durian. And, we need not mention the fact that the route towards Bentong would be a good weekend ride for all bikers as well. For your ease, you can refer to the map we’ve attached below: And while you’re at it, you can also sign up for test-rides in the BMW Motorrad Centenary Celebration campaign. Click here to know more about the campaign and how you can sign up for the campaign’s test-rides and stand a chance to be rewarded by BMW Motorrad Malaysia as well. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/dainese-spacesuit-heading-space/

Dainese spacesuit heading into space again

ESA stands for European Space Agency Groundbreaking Dainese spacesuit scheduled for second stint in November 2017 mission. Not too long ago, we brought you news that leading Italian motorcycle apparels specialist Dainese successfully developed a series of suits designed to protect astronauts in space. In fact, the Dainese spacesuit had a stellar first run when astronaut Andreas Mogensen wore it during the IRISS Mission back in September 2015. Mogensen donned the Dainese SkinSuit which, as previously reported, was designed to compress from shoulders to feet, thus re-creating the effects of gravity on the body. This helps to reduce post-space trauma such as herniated discs and spine elongation – the result of spending long durations in zero gravity. Following its initial success with Mogensen, the famed Italian devil-horned brand has confirmed that it will supply another SkinSuit for Proxima Mission astronaut Thomas Pesquet when he blasts off into space this November. Like Mogensen, Pequet will have his suit made-to-measure in his size as well. The suit features grey lines running the length suit are nylon belts whilst the white lines running horizontally are tasked with constriction duties. Positioning of these lines are customisable to each individual, which are determined based on studies by the ESA (European Space Agency) on the optimal placement. You read up about the specially developed Dainese spacesuits in our previous report by clicking here. Though we haven’t seen it just yet, we reckon that Dainese will have technologies developed in its spacesuits transferred into its Earth-bound riding gears sometime in the near future. Surely, this is one brand that’s now a cut above the rest by being out of this world – literally. ESA stands for European Space Agency --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/grab-now-offers-motorcycle-hailing-services-in-kl/

Grab now offers motorcycle hailing services in KL

After the recent announcement of Dego Ride offering its motorcycle ride share services around Klang Valley, Shah Alam, and Putrajaya, Grab Malaysia decided to launch their very own motorcycle hailing offering in Kuala Lumpur called GrabBike. Grab Malaysia is taking the opportunity to test out their very own model of ‘first and last-mile connectivity’ during the six-months trial period announced by the Transport Ministry regarding the feasibility of such services by offering GrabBike but only at selected locations in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Similar to Dego Ride, GrabBike also gives the option for female app users to choose female riders to help than ferry around town in greater comfort and ease. For now, interested customers can choose to travel at locations such as KLCC, Bukit Bintang, Pudu, and Chow Kit which are prone areas for major traffic congestions. GrabBike offers an alternative for a faster yet cheaper mode of travel with the first 3km being charged a base fare of RM3.70 (plus RM0.30 service charge). For every subsequent kilometre after that will be charged RM0.55 up until 5.5km and every kilometre beyond that is set at RM1.00. You can give the service a try if you’re around the vicinity but be warned, every cancellation of booking after five minutes will cost you RM2.00 (or if the rider has waited for more than two minutes at the pickup point). Grab is Hiring Motorcycle e-Hailing Riders --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/isle-of-man-tt-2021-cancelled/

Isle of Man TT 2021 CANCELLED

The organisers of the Isle of Man TT 2021 have announced that next year’s event has been officially cancelled due to ongoing concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re pretty sure that fans and enthusiasts are disappointed by this news as the event was planned to take place from 28 May to 11 June 2021. The good news is that the Classic TT and Manx GP will take place as usual next year as these events have been scheduled later in 2021. Although the Isle of Man TT 2021 event is six months away, we’re guessing that the organisers do not want to take any chances, especially considering the huge number of people who come to the small island to watch the races every year. According to Laurence Skelly, MHK, Minister, Department for Enterprise, Isle of Man Government, “We do not underestimate the disappointment that this decision will cause to many people. However, we are making an early and logical decision to provide certainty and clarity to race fans and everyone else involved in our event.” “The TT relies on thousands of volunteers and officials across a wide range of organisations and we could not move responsibly towards operating to that date and commit to welcoming tens of thousands of people to the Island in June, despite the progress towards a vaccination programme globally and on the Island,” added Skelly. “We evaluated all possible options including moving the TT to a date later in the year but there are complexities and risks, including scaling up of certain infrastructure and critical delivery elements of the TT, as well as existing resident and visitor travel in late August, which would cause further disruption to thousands of people.” Onexox TKKR SAG Team pulls out from Moto2 2021 Written by: Sep Irran --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-arrival-new-shark-spartan-carbon-skin-shark-evo-one-2-shark-d-skwal-shark-ridill-at-power-store-kota-damansara/

New Arrival! New SHARK Spartan Carbon Skin, SHARK Evo-One 2, SHARK D-Skwal, SHARK Ridill at Power Store Kota Damansara

SHARK Spartan Carbon Skin New batch of SHARK helmets has arrived at the Power Store Kota Damansara. They are the SHARK Spartan Carbon Skin, SHARK Evo-One 2, SHARK D-Skwal, SHARK Ridill. Great timing for the new year! Looking forward to having a new helmet for 2020? Good news, because the new New SHARK Evo-One 2, SHARK D-Skwal, SHARK Ridill in Stock at Power Store Kota Damansara. A new batch with new exciting colours and graphics has just arrived. Let’s take a look at some of them. SHARK Ridill 1.2 The SHARK Ridill 1.2 is probably the best value-for-money full-face helmet in the market. That’s because the helmet is equipped with some of the features available on more expensive helmets, for example the scratch-resistant visor, built-in sun visor, large vents for optimum airflow, and an aerodynamic shell. Priced at only RM 450, it’s unbeatable. New colours are DRIFT-R Actif, STRATOM Anthracite Black, STRATOM MAT Black Red White, STRATOM MAT Anthracite Mat, STRATOM White Blue Red. 1 of 5 SHARK Ridill 1.2 DRIFT-R Actif Shark Ridill 1.2 STRATOM Anthracite Black SHARK Ridill 1.2 STRATOM MAT Anthracite Mat SHARK Ridill 1.2 STRATOM MAT Black Red White SHARK Ridill 1.2 STRATOM White Blue Red SHARK D-Skwal The SHARK D-Skwal was developed from the Skwal without the LEDs. The D-Skwal features and aerodynamic shell, an internal built-in sunvisor, anti-scratch visor and Pinlock anti-fog insert. All these for only RM 600. New colours are BLANK KMA Black Mat, MERCURIUM MAT KAO Black Anthracite, MERCURIM KWR Black White Red, DHARKOV Mat KGX Black Green Glit, HIWO KWK Black White Black, HIWO MAT KAK Black Anthracite. 1 of 6 SHARK BLANK KMA Black Mat SHARK D-Skwal MERCURIUM MAT KAO Black Anthracite SHARK D-Skwal MERCURIM KWR Black White Red SHARK D-Skwal HIWO MAT KAK Black Anthracite SHARK D-Skwal HIWO KWK Black White Black SHARK D-Skwal DHARKOV Mat KGX Black Green Glit SHARK Evo-One 2 The Evo-One 2 is a distinctive and radical modular helmet. Rather than just flipping the visor and chinbar up, the two flip all the way to the back for a clean-looking jet-style helmet. It’s ideal for both touring and urban riding. Priced at RM 2,060. New colours are LITHIOM DUAL KUR Black Chrome Red, LITHIOM DUAL KUR Black Chrome PU, SKULD MAT KWR Black White Red, SLASHER WKS White Black Silver. 1 of 4 SHARK Evo-One 2 LITHIOM DUAL KUR Black Chrome Red SHARK Evo-One LITHIOM DUAL KUR Black Chrome PU SHARK Evo-One 2 SKULD MAT KWR Black White Red SHARK Evo-One 2 SLASHER WKS White Black Silver SHARK Spartan Carbon Skin The Spartan is an aggressive-looking helmet without breaking the bank to own one. But the Carbon Skin pushes its street cred quotient to another level. Light, quiet and stylish, it’s one helmet that gets everyone’s attention. Priced from RM 1,700. SHARK Spartan Carbon Skin POWER STORE KOTA DAMANSARA 3-G, Street Wing, Persiaran Mahogani Sunsuria Avenue Kota Damansara 47810 Petaling Jaya  Contact number: +6012-8003470 --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/evil-knievel-stunt-bike-sale-rm340000/

Evil Knievel Stunt Bike for Sale – From RM340,000!

Image source: Limelight Legacy Want an Evil Knievel stunt bike of your very own? One of his stunt bikes will be on auction this 27 June 2017 at the Profiles in History Hollywood Auction, California. The heavily-customised 1976 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLHC1000 was used in Evil Knievel’s 1977 movie “Viva Knievel!” The bike has predicted to go for auction at a price range between $80,000 to $120,000 (RM340,800 to RM511,200)! Image source: Motorcycle-USA One of the most famous and iconic stunt motorcycle riders of all time has been through a lot of ups and down is his stunt riding career. Ten years on after his death, the name Evil Knievel is still one of the most recognised figures in the motorcycling industry. Evil Knievel was so big during his time that there was even a movie made by him entitled “Viva Knievel!” Image source: Hot Rod Network Although the movie starring the stunt rider himself portraying a stunt hero which goes out to battle an international drug ring is not really a memorable once (considering the fact that it was released around the same time as Star Wars), starring in your very own movie as yourself is a huge deal especially for someone like Evil Knievel who’s no Hollywood actor.   Let’s get back to the real story, folks. Fans and enthusiasts of the world’s greatest stunt riders will fork out big bucks to own any of the late star’s riding memorabilia and on 27 June 2017, the Profiles in History Hollywood Auction house will be selling off the super-customised Harley-Davidson stunt bike used by the Evil Knievel himself in the movie. Image source: Auto Evolution However, don’t get choked up on the predicted price figure. The auction house plus Hollywood memorabilia experts predict that the bike will probably fetch somewhere in between $80,000 and $120,000 price range later this month in California. In Malaysian Ringgit, that’s in the region of RM340,800 to RM511,200! At its maximum predicted price, that’s in the same price tag as the Ducati Panigale 1199 Superleggera! Image source: Visordown The 1976 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLHC1000 has been confirmed to belong to Evil Knievel himself thanks to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The bodywork has been made to resemble the XR750 with quirky specs like its right hand gear-shifter and front drum brake which are unusual for bikes post dating 1973. Image source: Visordown After careful and meticulous inspection with the bike’s history and movie appearance, it was confirmed that the bike was indeed built by Evil Knievel’s legendary bike builder, Bud Ekins. Ekins was also a fellow stunt rider whose hands built all of Knievel’s awesome stunt bikes for the movie. Although Evil Knievel is no longer with us, his spirit and passion for motorcycles still live on in the hearts of many motorcycle enthusiasts today. With the bike going for those figures at a well-respected auction house in Hollywood also proves that he was and in fact still is The Greatest of All Time. Source: Visordown --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-benelli-tnt600i-bn600i-pictures-leaked/

New Benelli TnT600i (BN600i) Pictures Leaked?

Pictures of a new The Benelli TnT600i (or BN600i in other markets) were seemingly leaked over the internet. The new bike shows aesthetic changes. Mechanical parts look the same. Pictures of a new The Benelli TnT600i (or BN600i in other markets) were seemingly leaked over the internet. The new bike shows aesthetic changes, while the rest of its parts look status quo. Starting from the front, the “new” bike will have a twin headlamp setup, differing from the current type which has been in circulation for a long time. The fuel tank also appears to have changed. Apart from that, the exhaust silencers are no longer sited under the seat and are instead underslung under the engine. Doing so may save some weight as well as giving the bike a more centralized center of gravity. With the silencers relocated, the tailsection looks tidier and a splash guard is mounted on the swingarm. It might carry the number plate plus turnsignals a la MV Agusta Brutale. There is also speculation that this bike will receive a new TFT screen, which remains to be seen. Benelli has stuck with the conventional analogue RPM meter and an LCD screen for too long. That howling inline-Four engine looks the same, although the exhaust headers are now aligned and parallel to each other. We just hope that the previous random starting problems have been sorted. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/marc-marquez-is-the-2018-motogp-world-champion/

Marc Marquez is the 2018 MotoGP WORLD CHAMPION!

Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda has been crowned the 2018 MotoGP world champion in Motegi, Japan. The 25-year-old Spaniard has successfully clinched his seventh world title after Andrea Dovizioso dropped out from contention with two laps remaining. It was quite a showdown but Marquez managed to secure the championship at the home of Honda in Motegi. With 77 points ahead of his closest rival this year who happens to be Andrea Dovisioso from Ducati and also having obtained the worst qualifying session of the season in sixth, Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda has been crowned the 2018 MotoGP world champion at the Motul Grand Prix of Japan! After eight wins and 5 other podium finishes, it was only a matter of when the young Spaniard will secure his seventh world title. And what a way to do so at the home of Honda of Twin Ring Motegi in front of all his Japanese fans and compatriots with his fifth premier class crown. With the setting set at the home ground of Honda in Motegi, it was clear that the pressure of obtaining his next world title finally caught up with him this weekend after a difficult start. Marquez who is usually happy and upbeat about most things seemed a bit ‘passive’ after the Q2 session yesterday afternoon after qualifying in the last spot of the second row. It was apparent that he had to pull off something remarkable in order to defeat all the riders in the grid especially Andrea Dovizioso in P1 followed by other tough opponents, Johann Zarco (Monster Yamaha Tech 3), Jack Miller (Alma Pramac Racing), Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda CASTROL), and Andrea Iannone (Team Suzuki Ecstar) who all qualified in front of the main Honda man. It was a good start for Dovizioso as the red lights went off but Marquez was already behind his closest contender for this season in the very first lap. As predicted by most folks, it was yet another showdown between Andrea Dovizioso’s Ducati Desmosedici GP18 and Marc Marquez’s Honda RC213V. The first part of the race saw Dovizioso maintaining his position in first place followed by Marquez and Crutchlow. It seemed as if the Honda factory rider was struggling just to keep up with the Ducati man and there was one point where Marquez dropped to third after Crutchlow completed his overtaking manoeuvre. Marquez, however, quickly gained back his ground and continued to pressure the strong Italian rider in front of him. With 11 laps to go, Marquez made his move but almost lost everything when he went wide at Turn 9. Dovizioso quickly took advantage of the situation and gained the front position back at the very next turn. The trend continued until the final 4 laps where Marquez completed a textbook block pass on Dovizioso. The championship was finally cemented as Dovizioso suffered a low side with two laps remaining. The pressure to catch up with the 2018 MotoGP world champion was too much for the Italian. It was even more difficult as the front end of his Ducati Desmosedici GP18 was equipped with a soft tyre option compared to Marquez’s medium. Whatever the case may be, it has been yet another monumental season for Marquez and Repsol Honda and there’s no better time and place for them to celebrate the 2018 championship at the home of Honda. Congrats, Marc Marquez and Repsol Honda! Level up! #Level7 ⬆️Marc Márquez wraps up his 7th World Championship ??????? Posted by MotoGP on Sabtu, 20 Oktober 2018 Honda Excited to Learn About Ducati from Jorge Lorenzo Image source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-yamaha-yzf-r15-now-available-malaysia-rm11988/

2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 now available in Malaysia – RM11,988

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has officially launched the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15. The 155cc sports bike is able to produce 19hp and 14.7Nm of maximum torque. The third-generation Yamaha R15 will be available at RM11,988 (basic price with 0% GST). Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) is known for introducing some of Yamaha’s very special machines here into the Malaysian market. Their latest offering which might be the most interesting one yet comes in the form of the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 and it is indeed a stunner. The launch was officiated earlier today at the Batu Kawan Stadium, Penang in conjunction with the Yamaha Gen Blu Carnival. There are not that many 150cc sport bikes with full fairings available here in Malaysia and HLYM took this opportunity to break into the market with a very interesting bike which has been a popular choice in Indonesia and India. The third-generation Yamaha R15 comes with an interesting 155cc single-cylinder SOHC engine further enhanced with Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) which is able to produce around 19hp at 10,000rpm and 14.7Nm of maximum torque at 8,500rpm. All that power is transferred down to its rear wheel via a six-speed manual gearbox. To ensure that the rideability is smooth as butter, the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 is further elevated with an assist and slipper clutch which allows for easier roll-off from standstill and a more controlled stopping performance when going down through the gears for this 137kg sports bike. Other impressive features include: Upside-down front forks Updated Deltabox chassis Aluminium swingarm All-round LED lights Fully-digital speedometer Updated body panels Digital instrument panel with rev limiter or shift light Front 282mm disc brake Rear 240mm disc brake 11-litre fuel tank HLYM has priced the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R15 at RM11,988 (basic price with 0% GST) and it’ll come in three different colour flavours; Blue, Black, and Yellow. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-r-nine-t-5-commemorates-bmw-5-series/

BMW R nine T/5 Commemorates BMW 5 Series

The BMW R nine T/5 commemorates the classic BMW /5 series which made its debut in 1969. It also happens to be the 50th anniversary of BMW Motorrad’s Berlin Spandau factory. There are many classic touches and a badge on the bike. The BMW R nine T/5 commemorates the classic BMW /5 series which made its debut in 1969. It also happens to be the 50th anniversary of BMW Motorrad’s Berlin Spandau factory. As such, the R nine T/5 is finished in Lupine Blue with white pinstripes and features many other classic touches. They include silver and black finishes smattered throughout the bike, such as the chrome mirrors, exhaust manifolds and silencer. The seat is reminiscent of the BMW /5 with white lining, grab strap and embossing. The forks are covered with rubber gaiters. The aluminium silver wheels and spokes are definitely vintage looking. The footpegs and fork brace are anodized aluminium. The black knee pads on the fuel tank is a nice classic touch, too. The R nine T is BMW Motorrad’s modern-classic line-up hence they are modern bikes, of course. There are heated grips, instrumentation that combines classic and modern features, ABS and ASC (Stability Control) are standard. Sure, one could take a standard R nine T Pure and build it too look exactly like the R nine T/5, but the latter comes with a commemorative badge on the tank. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-ducati-multistrada-1260-enduro-unveiled/

2019 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro Unveiled

Ducati has unveiled the 2019 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro. It uses the same engine as the road-going Multistradas and XDiavel, bumping its power to 158 bhp and 127 Nm. Ducati has revised the ergonomics to make it accessible to medium sized riders. The 2019 Ducat Multistrada 1260 Enduro has been unveiled after the Italian manufacturer teased us with shots of a muddy bike. The launch of the Multistrada 1260 Enduro followed in the footsteps of the Multistrada 1260 and Multistrada 1260 S road models. The new Enduro’s main highlight is the new engine, of course. The 1262cc, DVT-equipped Tetastretta 11o, 90o V-Twin (Ducati calls it “L-Twin”) is a common platform among other two Multistradas and XDiavel. The extra 64cc pushes power output to 158 bhp and an arm stretching 127 Nm of torque.  The Multistrada Enduro ought to benefit the most as 85% of the peak torque is available from below 3,500 RPM, in addition to the smoother power delivery of the DVT-equipped engine, especially in off-road conditions. Of course, where would the Multistrada 1260 Enduro be if without Ducati’s extensive electronics suit that’s akin to a two-wheeled supercomputer. Cornering ABS and IMU-based traction control, cornering lights, wheelie control, hill-start assist, up and down quick shifter, semi-active Sachs suspension are all standard on the Enduro. The display layout on the TFT display has also been revised to mimic that of the Ducati Panigale V4. Riders can use the Ducati Link App to adjust various riding modes, rider aid besides recording routes. Ducati has also reworked the bike’s ergonomics, although it looks similar to the previous model’s. As a result, the 1260 Enduro has a lower centre of gravity and seat height, making it more accessible to a wider range of riders. The massive 30-litre fuel-tank remains. So do the spoked 19” front and 17” rear wheels. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-valentino-rossi-will-try-ride-aragon-weekend/

MotoGP: Valentino Rossi WILL TRY to ride in Aragon this weekend

Nine-time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) will try to ride this weekend at the 14th round in Aragon, Spain. The 38 year old Italian has had a very positive result following a fitness assessment on board the Yamaha YZF-R1M around the Misano World Circuit a couple of days ago. After just three weeks since he sustained the broken leg, Rossi will need to convince MotoGP officials and medical staff if he plans to rejoin the 2017 MotoGP title chase this coming Sunday. Our theories about motorcycle racers have been confirmed yet again, ladies and gentlemen. These folks are MENTAL. We found out that Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi will attempt to ride his competition Yamaha YZF-M1 at the 14th MotoGP round in Aragon, Spain this coming weekend. As we all know especially Rossi enthusiasts around the globe, The Doctor was unfortunate to have been involved in an enduro training accident which led to a double fracture in his right leg. This was only 20 days ago and in that period of time, the 38 year old Italian has gone through surgery AND rode a Yamaha YZF-R1M around the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli to determine his level of fitness. Image source: MCN To know more about his fitness session on board the Yamaha YZF-R1M, CLICK HERE. Now, he’s saying that he will try to race at this weekend’s MotoGP round in Aragon after having missed the last round in Misano where Repsol Honda rider Marc Marquez won in the wet. The nine-time World Champion will make his way to Aragon but it won’t be that easy for him as he has to clear quite a few hurdles before he is able to join the race this coming Sunday. First, he has to convince the entire MotoGP officials and medical staff that he is quite capable of standing and possibly jumping using his now healed broken leg. Bear in mind that he sustained the injury only 20 days ago, folks. DOUBLE FRACTURE. Even if he’s able to convince everyone that his injury has healed enough for him to ride, Rossi has to withstand all the stress and physical pressure of piloting one of the most demanding race bikes in the world, Movistar Yamaha’s full factory Yamaha M1. A couple of laps should be no issue for Rossi BUT going through four practice sessions, one qualifying AND a full race in Aragon is something else. We’ve also reported earlier that WorldSBK factory Yamaha rider, Michael van der Mark has been planned to replace Rossi at this weekend’s MotoGP round. Van der Mark will still make his way to the circuit just in case that Rossi won’t be able to rejoin. Image source: WorldSBK To know more about WorldSBK factory Yamaha rider Michael van der Mark replacing Rossi, CLICK HERE. Who will race this coming Sunday still remains a mystery. We will only get the answer after Rossi gets clearance from all the MotoGP officials and medical team as well as after his first stint the Free Practice 1. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates. Source: MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-alvaro-bautista-pens-new-ducati-deal/

WorldSBK: Alvaro Bautista Pens New Ducati Deal

Alvaro Bautista will continue to ride the Ducati Panigale V4 R for the 2023 WorldSBK Championship. Bautista has signed a one year contract extension with Ducati. the 37-year old will continue to ride the Ducati Panigale V4 R for the 2023 season.  Ducati has announced that the Spanish rider will remain with the team next season after signing a new contract extension. “I am very happy to be able to continue at least one more year with the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team, which represents a family to me. “I have always felt good with this team and since I have returned, the feelings have been even more positive than in the 2019 season. “When something works so well, we can only keep working, looking ahead. I feel I am still at the top, I feel I can still give a lot. “Physically and mentally I think this is the best time of my career. I am also delighted to continue working with Ducati, a very important factory, tech-oriented, always looking for development: to be part of this project, of this team is something incredible on a personal level,” said the 37-years-old. During his debut season at the 2019 WorldSBK, Bautista finished second in the championship with 220 points after taking Ducati to 16 victories and 24 podiums in total. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/skully-goes-business/

Skully goes out of business

Innovative motorcycle helmet startup Skully ceases operations. Remember Skully? Yes, the firm that showed off the innovative Skully AR-1 helmet that featured a high-tech integrated heads-up display (HUD) two years back. Sadly, the news surrounding it is bleak following reports of it ceasing operations. Trouble began brewing when the San Francisco-based startup when production of the AR-1 was delayed a few times. Internal problems reached its peak about a fortnight ago when the startup’s shareholders ousted founding brothers Marcus and Mitch Weller. Sometime this week, reports by US-based sources indicate that the firm has ceased its operations and will be swiftly closing its doors. This comes as a real shame despite having secured the support of major motorcycle manufacturer Aprilia and raising US$15 million in seed money from a Series A funding round that was led by tech giant Intel. Sources close to the firm reportedly indicate that Skully simply didn’t have the funds to fulfil pre-order deliveries, leaving many customers fuming. What didn’t help were the reports that less than 50 helmets have been made, with said volume being insufficient to garner DOT certification for safety as well. Further reports indicate that Skully was in the midst of securing a second round of fundraising and were even in talks with Chinese firm LeSports towards the latter firm acquiring Skully. However, it was either Skully’s rapidly deteriorating finances or the terms given by its shareholders that doomed the acquisition deal. In other words, the dream of building advanced helmets with an integrated HUD display for all is seemingly over. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hong-leong-bank-and-malaysia-motorcycle-scooter-dealers-association-mmsda-sign-mou-to-boost-sme-growt/

Hong Leong Bank and Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) Sign MOU to Boost SME Growt

Hong Leong Bank Berhad and Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) sign an MOU to cooperate in banking solutions. The MMSDA plus 16 of their State Associattions and 6,000 members are set to benefit. HLB will provide a tailor-made financial programme to the dealers and members. Hong Leong Bank Berhad (HLB) and Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) today officially inked a partnership to provide a comprehensive suite of banking solutions to bolster the motorcycle and scooter industry and overall small and medium enterprise (SME) growth in the country. From the partnership, MMSDA, as well as, 16 State Associations under MMSDA and over 6,000 of their members stand to benefit from the holistic financial products and solutions specifically designed to meet their business and individual banking requirements. This includes a tailor-made financial programme, Motorcycle Dealers Programme (MDP) offering clean working capital financing with a limit up to RM5 million and eligibility for Auto Loan Packages, Cash Management, Payments and Merchants Services, Foreign Exchange Service and Digital Business Solutions. According to Domenic Fuda, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HLB, “The reality is while 98.5% of business establishments in Malaysia are SMEs, they cut across all sizes and sectors. At HLB, we believe financial products and services must be built around the needs of specific customer segments. We simply cannot provide a one-size fits all solution to SMEs as they operate in different industries and market segments and serve their customers differently and face different challenges and needs for business growth.” “MDP which provides financing of up to RM5 milion on a clean basis underwritten by the Bank is a testament to our commitment in delivering products and services that are tailored specifically to the needs of the motorcycle and scooter dealers. The portfolio has experienced three-fold growth in the past 18 months, thanks to our engagement with MMSDA and its’ members, and us listening to their needs and delivering financial solutions that meet their requirements for business growth.  We hope with the Bank’s dynamic products and services, more dealers and retailers will be able to enjoy benefits that such financial solutions deliver,” added Fuda. Rapid expansion of e-commerce, ride-hailing and delivery services have and will continue to increase the demand for motorcycles as primary vehicles for private and commercial mobility. According to the Malaysian Association of Motorcycles Manufacturers, market dynamics have largely been positive since 2016 and the motorcycle and scooter industry is expected to witness continuous growth over the next 5 years with a projected 25% increase over the period. “Working capital is always a concern for the SME and as a Bank with strong entrepreneurial roots, we understand the need for supportive financial arrangements to support entrepreneurs’ in their quest of business growth opportunities. Together with our existing flagship SME banking products including SMElite, digital banking solutions as well as Priority Banking, merchant facilities and payment products, we strive to provide the ultimate banking experience and other support with an aim to be the preferred banker of choice for Malaysian SMEs. Today’s partnership with MMSDA will be one of the many strategic partnerships that we will embark on,” said Terrence Teoh, Head of HLB SME Banking. Teoh also shared that HLB was named Best SME Bank in Malaysia for 2019 by The Asian Banker, and that the Bank takes pride in having a strong pulse on the ground and having insights on what SMEs require to grow their business. President of MMSDA, Mr. Wee Hong noted, “On behalf of the association, I am very excited to work with HLB who has identified our challenges and tailored their SME Banking services to the specific needs of the motorcycle and scooter industry. As automation and digitisation are rapidly changing the business landscape, this special partnership will empower dealers and retailers to further develop their business and remain competitive in the industry.” The partnership covers the following benefits to the various stakeholders: For MMSDA and the 16 Associations under MMSDA: Current and Saving Accounts (CASA) & Fixed Deposits For SME – Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers and Retailers: SME Loans (MDP, SMElite, Business Auto Loan) Cash Management Payments and Merchants Services Business and Key Man Insurance Digital Business Solutions via HL ConnectFirst Lite: • Biztory, an e-accounting and e-invoicing software solution, • Kakitangan, an e-human resource and e-payroll platform, • SimpleTax, an online Sales and Services Tax and Income Tax advisory tool WeChat Official Account Foreign Exchange Personal Financial Needs for Members: Personal Property Loan/Financing Current and Saving Accounts (CASA) Fixed Deposits Credit Card Forex For more information, please visit: www.hlb.com.my/sme --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/first-impression-benelli-rfs150i/

First Impression: Benelli RFS150i

Yellow is just one of three colours available. The RFS150i is Benelli’s first ever moped/kapcai. It runs on three spark plus instead of the usual single spark plug typical of single-cylinder engines. Starts from RM6,988, making it the cheapest in its class. The Benelli RFS150i is one of the most popular motorcycles of this week. Launched just about a week ago in Penang by new Malaysian Benelli distributor M Force Bike Holdings S/B, every motorcycle rider from here to Vietnam has been talking about Benelli’s first ever moped on all our social media channels. The Benelli RFS150i is now available and starts from RM6,988 up to RM7,338. The RFS150i was designed in Italy by Benelli’s team of designers, but was assembled in China, and there are plans to eventually assemble the bike here in Malaysia. We are fans of the overall design of the bike, and love the fact that it comes with LED daytime running lights. There is no other moped in the market right now that offers these lights, credit to Benelli.* (Ed – Actually the Yamaha Y15ZR has had LED DRL’s since 2015) The RFS, which stands for Riders For Speed, has another unique feature in its engine, it runs on three spark plus instead of the usual single spark plug typical of single-cylinder engines. Three spark plugs may be more expensive to maintain and complicate to change, but it ensures that fuel is properly burnt with no wastage. Fuel that is burnt to its full potential gives you the maximum performance it is capable of, and reduces wastage thus making this bike run cleaner and more efficient. The 149.8cc engine is liquid-cooled and puts out 15.5hp and 13Nm of torque; nothing to boast about but it actually performs better than the figures suggest. In real world conditions, there is good power for uphill climbs and decent acceleration. Fuel efficiency is what this bike was designed for, and though we can’t tell you how economical it is without riding it for longer than the 10 minutes we had with it, but with a six-speed gearbox and engine technologies designed to keep engine temperatures down to a minimum, we believe Benelli’s claims, for now. It is a fairly light bike too, about 115kg’s dry and slightly over 120 ready to ride, the RFS150i felt nimble and sporty. The great handling of the RFS was aided by a upside down telescopic forks with 88mm of travel as well as an oil damped, single coil spring with 27mm of travel at the rear. The RFS150i is also the only moped with upside down front forks. Extra brownie points for Benelli again. Overall quality was decent too, but we were riding bikes that were hastily assembled just a day or two before the launch, so we expect the final production model to feel better than. Price starts from just RM6,988 for the standard motorcycle, and goes up to RM7,338 for the special edition model which features special colours. This officially makes this the cheapest 150cc kapcai in its class. Click here to see how the Benelli RFS150i compares to other motorcycles in its class at the Bikes Republic Bike Buyer’s Guide! Overall quality of the RFS150i, is decent but we expect the production bike to be better. Carbon-fibre effect on this seat, it’s big and comfortable too. No under seat storage space here, battery is placed out of sight at the edge towards the passenger grab handle. LED lights are used all over the RFS150i. 17 inch wheels front and rear, sport rims are standard too. The RFS150i is the only kapcai to offer upside down telescopic forks. LEDS again. LED daytime running lights look great. The RFS150i was designed in Italy but built in China. LED daytime running lights make this bike visible in day and night. Build quality is good. Front brakes are discs grabbed by twin-piston callipers. The meter panel is part analogue and part digital, looks great too. Sport rims come as standard. The 149.8cc engine is a smooth operator and is connected to a 6-speed gearbox. Yellow is just one of three colours available. The Benelli RFS150i is now available and starts from RM6,988 up to RM7,338. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-launches-eight-new-2018-softail-models/

Harley-Davidson launches EIGHT new 2018 Softail models!

Harley-Davidson has launched their biggest Softail line-up yet with EIGHT new models for 2018. The new 2018 Softail series includes the Fat Bob, Fat Boy, Street Bob, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Deluxe, Breakout and lastly, the Heritage Classic. All new 2018 Softail models come with new frame, suspension and powertrain for improved riding experience and power delivery that combines H-D’s iconic look with modern technology. Harley-Davidson has launched their biggest 2018 line up yet embedded with the most cutting edge technology. 115 years of experience and R&D has resulted in not one, not two, not even five but EIGHT brand new 2018 Softail models. The all-new 2018 Softail series includes the Fat Bob, Fat Boy, Street Bob, Low Rider, Softail Slim, Deluxe, Breakout and lastly, the Heritage Classic. All these new models share the same brand-spanking new frame and suspension package plus redesigned Milwaukee-Eight powertrain. Those who were in love with the discontinued Dyna series due to its superb riding performance will be blown away with the new 2018 models launched. Based on facts and specs we’ve read, these new H-D bikes will be able to tackle corners better than ever before. According to H-D Product Manager, Paul James, these new cruisers have been rebuilt from the ground up by taking the riding experience to a whole new level. The heritage and iconic aspects of H-D have been injected with next-generation technologies thus improving every single aspect of the H-D cruisers. The chassis of the 2018 Softail models has gone through an evolution of its own. Designed to carry both the Milwaukee-Eight 107 (1,746cc) and 114 cubic-inch (1,868cc) V-Twin engines, all the power and torque output has been further stabilised with a brand new underseat monoshock design. This means that all the new 2018 models offer great controllability without messing with any of the iconic facade of the H-D Softail series. A bit of warning to those who say that Harleys can’t handle corners; this new frame will allow greater lean angles, turn responses, faster acceleration and corner exit speed and easier roll-off. How did H-D managed to pull this facts that are usually reserved when explaining sports bikes? Well, the new frame is now 65% stiffer than the previous generation Softail with a 50% reduction in components and 22% weld reduction. This also means that the bikes are now significantly lighter compared to the 2017 models, some with over 15kg difference! The 2018 Softail series also uses Showa’s latest dual-bending-valve front fork for optimum performance. Thanks to the Showas, these new H-D bikes now have improved ride quality, braking, traction control and everything else in between. Showa’s latest dual-bending-valve front fork As for the engine, there are two choices of Milawukee-Eights to choose from; the 107 (1,746cc) or the 114 (1,868cc) cubic-inches. All the 2018 Softails come with the 107 as standard but if you’re interested in the 114, you can only get it with the Fat Bob, Fat Boy, Breakout and Heritage Classic line-up. Both engines have been fitted with dual counter-balancers to greatly reduce vibrations usually associated with big capacity V-Twin engines. The power plants are claimed to have better power delivery with improved acceleration and linear torque output for a more satisfying riding experience. For styling, each 2018 model has their own unique characteristic and new design while still maintaining that timeless appeal and facade; a look that will remain beautiful as time goes by. 2018 Fat Bob Large treaded tires – 150mm (front) and 180mm (rear) 13.6-litre fuel tank Twin front disc brakes 2-into-1-into-2 upswept exhaust Inverted 43mm cartridge-style fork 15kg lighter than 2017 model 2018 Fat Boy Large tires – 160mm (front) and 240mm (rear) Lakester wheels Standard ABS system 14kg lighter than 2017 model 2018 Street Bob Redesigned 13-litre fuel tank Black-out spoke wheels Reworked fenders 7.7kg lighter than 2017 model Digital instrument panel 2018 Low Rider Tank-mounted speedometer and gauges Redesigned fuel tank with graphics Large wheels – 19 inches (front) and 16 inches (rear) 2-into-2 shotgun exhaust 2018 Softail Slim Completely-redesigned front end Reworked seat for improved style and comfort Biggest weight reduction from 2017 model – almost 16kg 2018 Deluxe All-round signature LED lights Pull-back handlebar Standard ABS system 15kg lighter than 2017 model 2018 Breakout Newly-designed 13-litre fuel tank Low ride height Large wheels and tires – 21-inch with 130mm tire (front) and 18-inch with 240mm tire (rear) Daymaker LED headlight 15kg lighter than 2017 model Standard ABS system 2018 Heritage Classic Removable windscreen New saddlebags (waterproof) 14.5kg lighter than 2017 model Standard ABS system Standard Cruise Control Source: Harley-Davidson --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/say-hello-2018-honda-monkey/

Say hello to the 2018 Honda Monkey!

Honda Europe has unveiled the 2018 Honda Monkey which is ready for production. The new 125cc Monkey features modern specs like LCD meter, LED lights, ABS, IMU, and USD forks. Its 125cc single-cylinder engine is able to produce 9.3hp and 11Nm of torque. Honda’s most famous mini-bike is back in its latest evolution yet. The 2018 Honda Monkey is the most updated mini-bike in its series which comes with the latest specifications and electronics you wouldn’t normally find on a 125cc bike. For 2018, Honda went through all the stops to make sure that the 2018 Honda Monkey is not lost in the 21st century. Things like inverted front forks, twin rear shocks, LCD instruments, and LED lights are just some of the modern features fitted on the new Monkey. Inspired by the original Monkey from the 1960s, the styling as well as paint of the new 2018 Honda Monkey is all heavily-inspired by the original. From chromed parts to circular mirrors and high-rise handlebars, this baby will sure take you down memory lane for those who have owned one in the past. The 107kg (wet weight) mini-bike features a reworked 125cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that now produces 9.3hp at 7,000rpm and 11Nm of torque at 5,250rpm. Thanks to its bore and stroke of 52.4mm and 57.9mm, the new Monkey is not that different from the Honda MSX125 or Honda Grom in terms of power output. It does, however, carry something extra apart from its alluring retro appeal. Honda has fitted their new Monkey with an IMU-based ABS system to help with braking and traction. This is paired with its front single 220mm disc brake which works brilliantly with its rear 190mm single disc unit. The IMU unit even helps with rear wheel lift mitigation when the Monkey is presented with hard braking. Dude, that is something that you’ll usually find on high-end premium superbikes like Ducati and MV Agusta! Honda Europe also stated that the new Monkey has a fuel efficiency of 67km/litre (WMTC Mode) which translates to an amazing 375.2km for every full tank of fuel! That’s not bad considering you only need to fill in 5.6 litres of petrol to ride from Kuala Lumpur all the way to Penang. Looking at its ‘wave’ pattern key that also features the Honda Old Wing motif, there’s the ‘answer back’ system where the Monkey’s light will flash at a push of a button to help owners locate their bike, especially in crowded places. Though it won’t be necessary since everybody will be too busy taking closer looks at this new Monkey. Other features include an updated frame with a perfect balance between rigidity and feel, plush seat, 10-spoke 12-inch aluminium wheels, and many more. Those who are interested should know that there will be three colours available; Banana Yellow/Ross White, Pearl Nebula Red/Ross White, and Pearl Shining Black/Ross White. No news on price and availability yet. Honda Releases 50th Anniversary Monkey Bike --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/next-generation-mv-agusta-to-adopt-four-cylinder-engines/

Next generation MV Agusta to adopt four-cylinder engines

Next generation MV Agusta bikes will adopt new series of four-cylinder engines. It appears that Varese-based motorcycle artisans MV Agusta will be gaining a new series of engines destined for its next generation models. A report is stating that the brand’s Turismo Veloce 800 will be the last MV Agusta to be fielded with its current signature range of triple-cylinder mill. The report went on further to state that MV Agusta are presently in the midst of developing a new four-cylinder engine family that will likely be shown as early as this year’s annual EICMA motorcycle show. Whether MV Agusta will display its 2016 models using its new four-cylinder at EICMA 2016 remains to be seen. However, we have reason to believe that MV Agusta will likely field its new four-cylinder in its flagship F4 supersport model. The F4 has been the staple model in MV’s range since 2006, making it the oldest model in its current range as well. 2014 has proven to be a pivotal year for the MV Agusta brand. After Mercedes-AMG’s acquisition of its shares earlier this year, the brand also secured a major financial loan for a reported long-term development and expansion plan. And it seems this new four-cylinder engine range is just the start of things. Source: Asphaltandrubber --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/risk-of-broken-gearbox-input-shaft-bmw-announced-recall-for-all-2019-2023-r-1250-gs/

Risk Of Broken Gearbox Input Shaft, BMW Announced Recall For All 2019-2023 R 1250 GS 

BMW North America has issued a safety recall for all 2019-2023 BMW R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure and R 1250 RTP due to the potential risk of a broken gearbox input shaft.  The massive recall involved the bike’s gearbox input shaft that could potentially broke due to overload.  The safety recall involved all 2019-2023 BMW R 1250 GS/GS Adventure and R 1250 RTP in North America.  The safety recall was announced on January 18, 2023, whereby the gearbox input shaft could break if become overloaded in certain situations.  According to BMW, all 18,489 units of motorcycles in North America are affected by the recall including 6,812 units of R 1250 GS, 9,401 units of R 1250 GS Adventure and 2,276 units of R 1250 RTP.  The recall was established after BMW received a complaint from a GS owner back in 2020 that his bike suffered a broken gearbox input shaft which also subsequently blocked the rear wheel.  Two similar incidents emerged not long afterwards.  However, the most concerning incident came in 2022, whereby two riders got into an accident due to similar instances with one of them suffering an injury.  The incident triggered BMW to intensify its analysis of the matter and determined that due to an abrupt difference between the engine speed and the rotational speed of the final drive component, the gearbox input shaft could overload and eventually break.  However, it is yet to be determined whether the incidents affect the same model currently on sale in Malaysia.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-is-back-in-worldsbk/

Aprilia is back in WorldSBK!

Ah yes, Aprilia, the prodigal son returns to WorldSBK. The 2020 season is ready to restart once again but this time around, you’ll see an Aprilia RSV4 1000 strutting its stuff thanks to the Nuova M2 squad and their rider, Christophe Ponsson. Unlike MotoGP, WorldSBK will still allow wildcard entries to compete in the 2020 championship. Thanks to this, the Nuova M2 Aprilia outfit will be racing their Aprilia RSV4 in five different rounds. Christophe Ponsson will be put to the task and considering that he is the Spanish Superbike Champion, we reckoned that we would see some interesting results. According to Nuova M2 Racing’s team manager, Enzo Chiapello, “We worked very hard to come to an agreement with Christophe and Aprilia Racing. For that, I wish to thank all our sponsors and the support of Massimo Rivola who, together, allowed us to make this step.” View this post on Instagram ? Eye of the tiger for @chrisponsson23 during the first day of @circuito_de_jerez @worldsbk winter test‼️ ➖ #nuovaM2racing @aprilia A post shared by Nuova M2 Racing Team (@nuovam2racing) on Jan 23, 2020 at 1:24am PST As for Ponsson, the 23-year-old Spaniard commented “I am very happy to have reached an agreement with Nuova M2 Racing and Aprilia. After the recently ended season, this is the best opportunity that could have come my way. We are already in Jerez for the Superbike tests. I’m ready to begin testing this RSV4 and to learn working with the entire team. I wish to thank Enzo and Aprilia Racing once again for having given me this opportunity.” With that, six manufacturers will be taking part in the WorldSBK 2020 championship season and if it all goes well, we might once again see a factory Aprilia outfit returning to Superbikes. As for MotoGP, 2020 looks to be a promising year and we’re confident that they’ll have some podium fights thanks to the latest developments of the Aprilia RS-GP. 2020 Aprilia RS-GP breaking new grounds in MotoGP --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-tokyo-motorcycle-show-cancelled/

2021 Tokyo Motorcycle Show CANCELLED

2020 is a year that most of us would like to forget and forget quickly. With so many events cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, things have certainly improved in some sense but not all of it. Just when we think 2021 would be a year where things get back to normal, we find out that the 2021 Tokyo Motorcycle Show has been officially cancelled. The official announcement comes from them regarding the 48th Tokyo Motorcycle Show which is scheduled to take place in March 2021. The message from the Chairman of the Tokyo Motorcycle Show Association, Masato Akasaka, is as follows. Regarding the “48th Tokyo Motorcycle Show” scheduled to be held in 2021, we would like to invite all concerned parties and visitors to the event in view of the situation caused by the recent coronavirus (COVID-19) infectious disease. As a result of giving top priority to the safety and health of our customers, we have decided to cancel the event, although it is a difficult decision. We sincerely regret to all the motorcycle fans who were looking forward to the visit, as well as the companies and organizations who are planning to exhibit and are considering exhibiting, but we appreciate your understanding.   All hope is not lost folks. Manufacturers are taking this time to work on developing their presentation skills and event launches online and we’ve already seen some examples from Honda and Suzuki. There will be a lot of interesting models primed for launch next year, with or without these major bike-related events. Written by: Sep Irran New Suzuki GSX-R to be launched in Malaysia --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-riders-blink-less-than-normal-cal-crutchlow-doesnt-blink-for-3-minutes/

MotoGP Riders Blink Less Than Normal, Cal Crutchlow Doesn’t Blink For 3-Minutes!

Did you know that an average person blinks about eight times a minute to restore the eyes’ natural tear film? However, a recent study by DVS (Driving Vision Science) created by SIFI (a leading pharmaceutical company in the ophthalmic sector) finds a remarkable result after conducting a visual test with LCR Honda MotoGP Team. The research, dedicated to studying the reactions of the visual apparatus of riders racing on circuits all over the world, finds that MotoGP riders only blink once every three minutes. The unusual reaction is due to extreme conditions generated by visual stress and physical and mental concentration faced by the riders to perform well on the track. This means that considering that a lap at Mugello takes around 1 minute and 50 seconds, riders only blink after doing one lap and a half. Thanks to the collaboration between SIFI and LCR Honda Team with riders Takaaki Nakagami and Cal Crutchlow, researchers can collect important data that allows new studies to be carried out to find a solution for dry eyes. According to SIFI, the research objective is to test products capable of improving visual performance for those subjected to high ocular strain. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/hpro-official-launch/

Official launch of H#Pro – The premier bike detailing centre

The latest bike bistro and detailing centre, H#Pro had just been officially launched on Saturday August 16 by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Datuk Haji Ahmad Haji Maslan. In his speech, Datuk Haji Ahmad said he was intrigued by the ingenuity of H#Pro in introducing an innovative way of washing vehicles. He foresees that H#Pro will do well in the competitive market thanks to the special technique used by H#Pro that is not only green and friendly to the environment but also cleans better than the normal way. Also announced at the launch is the Mobile Kiosk Programme which entrepreneurs can join the franchise under H#Pro. The mobile kiosk consists of a cleaning centre and cafe which could be easily packed up and moved t differrent location. And in conjunction with the launch, there was a mini bike week with vendors retailing helmets, riding gear, bike accessories and more. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-ducati-v4-superbike-will-introduced-september/

New Ducati V4 superbike will be introduced in September?

The new Ducati V4 superbike might be unveiled earlier than we expected based on a few Italian motoring medias receiving an invitation to a Ducati event on 7 September 2017. The event organised by Ducati is in conjunction with the MotoGP Misano round which is happening that weekend from 8 to 10 September 2017. It is said that the event will be introducing “the sound of a new era” which points to the direction of Ducati’s four-cylinder production superbike engine coming to life during the event. Ducati Desmosedici According to a few recent reports made by the Italian international media, they’ve reportedly received invitations to an event organised by Ducati at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli on 7 September 2017; a day before the MotoGP weekend starts at the legendary circuit. While it’s not uncommon to hear manufacturers like Ducati organising events in conjunction with major motorsports events such as MotoGP, we have a reason to believe that they might be unveiling their latest V4-powered Ducati production superbike. Based on the Italian reports, they’ve claimed that the event will signify “the sound of a new era” which will be introduced by Ducati. That alone gives us a strong impression that the introduction of the new V4 engine will come sooner than we think in replacement of the iconic Ducati V-twin powered superbike found in the Ducati Panigale range. There’s also the speculation of Ducati only giving the Italian media a taste of what they’re new four-port superbike will sound like by just introducing the new engine instead of the entire new bike. We suspect as much due to the probability that Ducati might be saving the big announcement for the EICMA Milan Show later in November instead. Whatever the event may be, we’re positive that the new Ducati V4 superbike will send thunders down the motorcycling universe. The question is whether it’ll be enough to dominate WorldSBK and the two-wheel market. Source: Asphalt & Rubber --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/introducing-2021-pirelli-diablo-rosso-iv/

Introducing 2021 Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV!

Pirelli officially announces the 2021 Diablo Rosso IV’s arrival, a new high-performance rubber catered to supersports, hypernakeds, and superbikes. According to Pirelli, the 4th-Gen Diablo Rosso provides excellent grip in every road condition and weather while increasing the bike control. It is ideal for riders seeking thrills, mainly on weekends or for a short trip out of town. The Diablo Rosso IV, albeit a high-performance rubber, has more road nature than the Diablo Supercorsa SP, designed for track use. While the Diablo Rosso Corsa II can also balance between road and track, the Diablo Rosso IV offers superior mileage and better handling on wet surfaces. Diablo Rosso IV construction uses a zero-degree steel belt that enables the tire to adapt brilliantly to different stress levels. The use of Rayon ropes for greater stiffness at the front also helps improved riding precision. Meanwhile, for rear tires 190/55 ZR 17 and above or motorcycle with more than 200hp, a three-filament Lyocell structure has been adopted. The result is a new structure capable of offering more excellent resistance to the stress during cornering or acceleration. The Diablo Rosso IV will be made available starting Q1 2021 with the 120/70 ZR 17, 160, 180, 190, 200, and 200/60. The official price is yet to be announced. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/latest-patent-reveal-bmw-motorrad-working-on-gesture-control-system/

Latest Patent Reveal BMW Motorrad Working On Gesture Control System

Imagine controlling your motorcycle with a slight movement of your finger. Well, that is what BMW Motorrad is planning to do, as the latest patent reveals. The patent drawings show what appears to be a set of sensors that is mount somewhere on the handlebar capable of detecting gestures from the rider’s fingers. This new technology is expected to increase a rider’s mobility on the bike while navigating through a series of rider-aids, such as setting up cruise control and selecting riding modes. According to reports, the sensors will read specific gestures to engage particular functions on the motorcycle. Who would’ve thought communicating with your bike is possible via sign language? Modern bikes now come with an array of settings and buttons on the handlebar, which is sometimes a hassle to navigate around. The gesture control system will set a benchmark for other manufacturers if it ever manages to materialise in the near future. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldssp300-ana-carrasco-becomes-first-woman-win-world-championship-motorcycle-race/

WorldSSP300 – Ana Carrasco becomes the first woman to win a World Championship motorcycle race!

Yesterday’s WorldSSP300 race in Portugal saw Ana Carrasco (ETG Racing) became the first ever female rider to win a World Championship motorcycle race. The 20 year old Spaniard was locked in battle throughout the race but was able to pull off a stunning win at the very last corner and finish straight where she crossed the chequered flag first. Currently, Italian Alfonso Coppola (SK Racing) still sits on top with only a single point separating him and the runner up, Marc Garcia (Halcourier Racing). The WorldSBK round last weekend held at the iconic Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal saw quite a few historic moments. One of the most memorable events has to be the photo finish at the end of the WorldSSP300 race where 20 year old Spaniard Ana Carrasco crossed the chequered flag in first place. Carrasco became the first woman ever to win a World Championship motorcycle race in history. Eurosport – Ana Carrasco makes history with win in Portugal Historic scenes in Portimao as Ana Carrasco becomes the first woman to win a World Championship motorbike race! Video: Eurosport Posted by Motorcycle News on 17hb September 2017 Riding her Kawasaki Ninja 300 built by ETG Racing, it was an incredible 11-lap race in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship. Starting from P3, the 20 year old hailing from Spain gave her best fight throughout the entire race where she maintained in the top three positions with Alfonso Coppola (SK Racing) and Marc Garcia (Halcourier Racing) who both piloted the Yamaha YZF-R3. It was at the very final corner where Carrasco gained some massive corner exit speed plus some much needed slipstream that slingshot the 20 year old Spaniard to her first ever victory. Coppola and Garcia were only 0.053 seconds and 0.062 seconds behind the race winner. Yesterday’s win marked the first time ever a female rider has won a major world championship motorcycle race. Carrasco became the fifth winner of the 2017 WorldSSP300 season and yesterday’s win has put her in the fifth overall championship standing. Currently, Italian Alfonso Coppola still sits on top with only a single point separating him and the runner up, Marc Garcia. Pay attention to this lot, ladies and gentlemen. They will battle it out until the very end of the season. Source: WorldSBK --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/video-valentino-rossi-the-greatest-of-all-time/

Video 1: Valentino Rossi – The Greatest of All-Time

Valentino Rossi is undeniably the greatest motorcycle racer of all time. No matter what your opinion is of him, the statistics prove him to be the best the world has seen. In honour of the great ‘Doctor’, as he is fondly known, Monster Energy has released this five episode video called ‘The Greatest of All-Time’. The video is about Rossi of course, but also provides an insight into the appeal and reach of the most popular motorcycle racer in the history of Grand Prix racing and MotoGP. Watch Valentino speak about his success, as well as Colin Edwards and others from the Italians inner circle, and from the close-knit community from Rossi’s hometown of Tavullia, Italy. This first chapter lasts for about nine minutes and dives into questions on what makes Rossi the greatest. Episode 2 will be released at the end of May, but for now, enjoy the video below: --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/are-snell-motorcycle-helmet-standards-meaningless-now/

Are Snell motorcycle helmet standards meaningless now?

Move towards relaxing its motorcycle helmet standards may be a big mis-step by The Snell Foundation. As riders, we all ought to be aware about the motorycle helmets we to wear. Key to choosing the right one of course lies in what safety standards the lid meets, and most would look for either FIM, ECE or perhaps The Snell Foundation (or Snell) certifications. However, a recent investigative feature by world famous Canadian moto-vlogger and YouTuber Fortnine may have just shed light on the shortcomings of one of these motorcycle helmet standards that most of us still put in high regards – Snell. It seems what The Snell Foundation did was introduce a new and rather relaxed rating that allow helmets that already have ECE and FIM certification to also acquire and bear the foundation’s somewhat coveted certification sticker. Here’s where the ‘relaxed’ bit stems from: Snell simply made this second new standard, its M2020R rating, which omits its famed double-bounce hard-shell tests whilst also adding none of the rotational damage mitigation testing developed by ECE and FIM. Though Snell kept its double-bounce test for its M2020D rating, here’s the kicker: the D and R suffix might have a different decal on the inside of the helmet, but both get the same Snell logo on the outside! DOT certified helmets – picture for illustrative purposes With this double-standards in place, it is now entirely possible to build a terrible hard helmet, like a rather deadly DOT-rated one, and still get a Snell rating. Surely, this is the opposite of progress in safety – the very pillar The Snell Foundation claims to stand for. While this isn’t a bad thing entirely, Snell’s compromise may just be its biggest undoing as  it affects said rating’s relevance in the global consumer market. In short, it looks like ECE and FIM ratings will continue to stand as the gold standards for a while at least. You can watch Fortnine’s deep dive video embedded below and draw your own conclusions on the matter.   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-aprilia-rs660-trofeo-now-available-to-the-public-for-rm74k/

The Aprilia RS660 Trofeo Now Available To The Public For RM74k

Aprilia introduced the RS660 Trofeo as a track-legal machine to compete in the MotoAmerica Twins Cup and the one-make Aprilia Racing RS660 Trophy series in January. However, the Noale-based company has now made the RS660 Trofeo available to the public as well for a price of USD17,892 (RM74,000) with orders can be made online via  FACTORYWORKS.APRILIA.COM. Nonetheless, the RS660 Trofeo remains a track-only motorcycle as all the homologation parts have been removed. The motorcycle now weighs at just 153 kilograms (dry) compared to the 169 kg found on the road-legal model. The Trofeo edition also makes 5hp more than the standard RS660 (100hp). Other than that, the Trofeo also comes with a lot of goodies such as: full power engine mapping SC Project race exhaust MotoGP-inspired switchgear seat cowl brake lever guard racing triple clamp adjustable clip-on race footpegs front fork with Misnao by Adreani cartridge kit Ohlins AP948 shocks Meanwhile, the standard RS660 and the Tuono 660 are now available in Malaysia. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/ktm-390-adventure-rumoured-again/

KTM 390 Adventure rumoured… again

New rounds of reports from India-based sources indicating that rumoured KTM 390 Adventure plus smaller 200 version will debut this year. It seems many are still fascinated with the idea of a pocket-sized KTM Adventure bike as new rounds of reports indicating the previously rumoured KTM 390 Adventure and an even smaller KTM 200 Adventure will debut this year. According to Indian-based sources, KTM and its India-based partner Bajaj Motorcycles will launch the Austrian brand’s new series of ‘baby’ Adventure bike as early as April or May this year. However, this is news that we take with a pinch of salt… or rather a big pinch at that. Rumours of a smaller-sized KTM Adventure bike has been around since 2014. Each report since alleges that the bike is coming sooner and sooner each time, but this has not materialised as yet. The rumour is kept alive now following a series of reports published by India-based sites, which have also published a series of rendering of the rumoured new adventure bikes. As the name suggests, the supposed KTM 390 Adventure will underpin the KTM 390 Duke model, but it will likely sport Adventure-esque aesthetics such as a raised ride-height, large windscreen, or perhaps it could get a set of spoked wheels with knobby off-road tyres too. What is new in this report though are allegation of an even smaller KTM 200 Adventure model. Naturally, we assume this could be based on the smaller KTM 200 Duke model just as how the 390 Duke stands as the basis of the 390 Adventure. Both bikes are reportedly being developed jointly by KTM with India’s Bajaj Motorcycles, with the latter also tasked with mass-producing the models in its plants. However, both the Austrian marque and the Indian two-wheeled manufacturer have not confirmed anything just yet. Suffice to say, we will be keeping a close eye on this story as it develops over the next few months. Until then, if you wanted an entry-level adventure bike from the marque, you’d be looking at the KTM 1050 Adventure which we test-rode earlier this year. You can read our launch reports here and here as well as our test-ride here or watch the video here. Source: RushLane.com / Indian Autos blog --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-unusual-motorcycles-part-4/

Ten Most Unusual Motorcycles (Part 4)

Here in Part 4 of the Ten Most Unusual Motorcycles, we look at a Suzuki which has gone on to a cult status.: The GSX1100 and GSX750 Katana. Please click here for Part 1 (Suzuki RE5), here for Part 2 (Honda CBX1000), and here for Part 3 (Yamaha GTS1000). The name “Katana” alludes to the Japanese Samurai sword, hence the symbol. The name and logo went on to grace many other Suzukis thereafter. Here in Malaysia, remember Suzuki Best and RG owners would apply the stickers to their bikes? That was part of the Katana’s legacy. The Suzuki Katana was designed by Hans Muth and his company, Target Design. Muth was the ex-design chief at BMW and was tasked with overhauling the Japanese manufacturer’s image. Suzuki chose one of Muth’s designs and the first production Suzuki GSX1100S Katana was made public in 1980. While they didn’t follow the concept’s design to the letter, many important design cues were adopted. The design was avant-garde from the cookie cutter bikes of the era. Most notable feature was how the rear part of the fuel tank and front portion of the seat blended together. Also, the passenger’s seat was slightly raised and coloured differently, lending to a solo-seater look. Yes, it was the Suzuki Katana that started it. The 1075cc, air-cooled, DOHC, inline-Four produced 109.5 bhp and Suzuki claimed the Katana as being the fastest production motorcycle. It ran the ¼-mile (400m) in 11.9 seconds at 191.5 km/h. Following in the 1100’s tyre tracks, Suzuki launched the GSX750S Katana in 1981 and it had no windscreen. The model with the windscreen was the 750SS. The 747cc, air-cooled, DOHC, inline-Four produced 68 bhp. 1981 also saw the superbike racing homologated 1000S, since superbike racing capped the engine capacity at 1000cc. it had Mikuni smooth-bore carburettors among other racing accoutrements. This was the rarest Katana and collectors will pay a ransom for one! 1982 saw the Katana’s futuristic looks being modified to feature a round headlamp and tail unit from the previous year’s GSX1100E for the American market. Buyers there were obviously slow in adapting to change. Not many changes were afoot for the Katanas in 1983, but it was 1984 when the 750 was forever known as the legend. For that year, the GSX750SE Katana was a completely new model. The 16-valve, oil-cooled, inline-Four was taken from the GSX750R/ES/EF and made 90 bhp. It was also given the Positive Damping Forks up front and Suzuki Full Floater rear suspension which did away with the dual shocks. The frame, parts of the wheels and engine were painted in gold. The most well-known feature was of course the pop-up headlight. The Suzuki GSX750S continued into its last year of production in 1985 for the worldwide market and 1986 for the domestic market, making these models somewhat rare. Many collectors would love to have one in their collection. It was sadly the same on the GSX1100S Katana front as it faded in obscurity as Suzuki had launched the GSX-R750F sportbike in 1985. Affectionately known as the “Slabside” or “Slabby,” the first Gixxer heralded the new age of race replica sportbikes and Suzuki went all out to capitalize on it. Perhaps realizing their mistake, Suzuki in America tried to revive the Katana name in 1988, by slapping the name and symbol on a host of sport-touring and touring models, but it was not to be the same. It’s a great shame to lose the Katana as it is still beautiful even after 27 years. It was truly unusual for its time and it still is somewhat today (that’s why there are many customized Katanas around today). Please click here for Part 1 (Suzuki RE5), here for Part 2 (Honda CBX1000), and here for Part 3 (Yamaha GTS1000). --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hafizh-syahrins-replica-helmet-now-available-booking-rm1500/

Hafizh Syahrin’s replica helmet now available for booking! RM1,500

Nolan Helmets Malaysia is now accepting bookings for Hafizh Syahrin’s helmet design used in MotoGP. Their entry-level Nolan/X-Lite N60-5 Hafizh Syahrin Replica helmet can be booked at several locations. From now until the end of June 2018, they’re offering the replica helmet at a special price of only RM1,500.00. Image source: Monster Energy It was only a few days when we wrote a very special feature regarding the helmet worn by our Malaysian MotoGP rider, Hafizh Syahrin. Dubbed the “Stripes of Glory”, his X-Lite full face helmet is painted with the colours of the Malaysian flag is a symbol of pride and hope for Malaysian motorsports talents on an international scene. Image source: Monster Energy While his helmet is the top-of-the-line X-Lite X-803 Ultra Carbon full-face helmet, Nolan Helmets Malaysia has something special up its sleeve to commemorate Hafizh Syahrin’s outstanding achievement. They are now offering the world exclusive limited edition helmet which is now open for booking! The 2018 Nolan/X-Lite N60-5 Hafizh Syahrin Replica is now available for the rider’s fans to book with a very special price of RM1,500.00 (normal price RM1,688.00). This pre-booking offer is only up to the end of June 2018 so better hurry. Pre-orders can be placed at these locations: QBEEmotor – Johor Bahru, Johor (017-7899088) Hock Hing Motor – Banting, Selangor (012-3550571) MotorSim – Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur (016-3308905) Motor Simma – Seremban, Negeri Sembilan (016-2561443) The Nolan/X-Lite N60-5 is an entry-level full-face lid that comes with a sport-inspired design paired with ample technological specifications which makes it an essential and versatile full-face helmet making it perfect for everyday road use. To know more, head over to the Nolan Helmets Malaysia official Facebook page. Hafizh Syahrin’s MotoGP helmet – ‘Stripes of Glory’ --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/misbehaving-car-drivers-caught-on-gopro/

Misbehaving Car Drivers Caught on GoPro

It is alarming that people are generalizing all motorcyclists are evil. Every motorcycle crash or motorcycle-related happening is being sensationalized. We’ve caught misbehaving car drivers on our GoPro. You only have to check out the comments for the posts and see just how ignorant the Malaysian public can be when it comes to motorcycles. Even some non-motorcycle related senior journalists have joined the fray of criticizing motorcycles without one iota of research. Well, we’ve got GoPro videos to prove that misbehaving car drivers are equally at fault in causing motorcycle accidents. But these are only two of the most blatant that we’ve recorded on a daily basis. 8 Things Drivers Don’t Understand About Motorcycles Before we proceed further, we would like to say that we are not saying that all motorcyclists are saints and all car drivers are maniacs. Truth is, there are always the nut behind the handlebar or steering wheel. I see the same kind of bad driving and riding behaviours regardless when I ride or drive. VIDEO 1 This was shot during a convoy to the East Coast. The truck squeezed in front of me from the right without as so much a signal, much less checking to see if his left was clear. I pointed to the GoPro mounted to my helmet to warn his off. But he still kept shoving his way in. He went from the rightmost lane to the leftmost lane without signal, before overtaking a lorry without signaling. The driver kept looking straight ahead at all times. VIDEO 2 This maniac driver in the red Proton Saga could not wait for the motorcycles to overtake a few vehicles. He resorted to overtaking on the emergency lane. I had to warn him off, in case he surprised another vehicle to swerve into the path of the convoy. If you think the convoy hogged the overtaking lane, we were back in the left lane in 30 seconds. We did not ride the entire way in the right lane as one convoy did. CONCLUSION Malaysian road users must find a way to co-exist instead of generalizing and pointing the finger at an entire group. Ten Things Motorcyclists Should Never Do (Part 1) Besides that, the majority of vehicle owners, including bikers, know only the basics of handling their vehicles and not much else. Although the initiative for self-improvement lies within the individual, almost no one is willing to attend advanced riding or driving classes. The only way around this conundrum is for the authorities to make it mandatory. Many advanced countries have done so. Student who graduated will be given discounts on insurance and other goodies. We also recommend that every motorcyclist be equipped with a video recording device. There are affordable ones in the market besides the top-of-the-line GoPro Hero 7 Black. In the meantime, however, let’s live and let live. Stop riding and driving like the entire road leads to the finish line at SIC. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2023-ktm-890-adventure-r-updated-with-fully-adjustable-suspension/

2023 KTM 890 Adventure R Updated With Fully-Adjustable Suspension

Ensuring the KTM 890 Adventure R remains to be the most capable motorcycle, the house of Mattighofen has introduced a host of technical and electronic updates for 2023. 2023 KTM 890 Adventure R now features serious off-road capabilities. Latest upgrade include fully-adjustable suspension and revised bodywork.  Coming in new for 2023, the KTM 890 Adventure R now gets the fully-adjustable WP XPLOR forks and WP XPLOR PDS rear shock inspired by the firm’s Dakar Rally beast, the KTM 450 Rally.  Thanks to redesigned bodywork, the KTM 890 Adventure R features new fairing, revised fuel tank and cowling to boost the bike’s aerodynamic and ergonomics. In addition, KTM also fitted the 890 Adventure R with a shorter windshield, higher front fender and engine protector.  Electronically, the middleweight dual-purpose motorcycle now features a new 5-inch TFT instrument cluster that include turn-by-turn navigation and coloured pictograms. Also new on the 2023 model is a new Offroad ABS setting and the optional Rally Mode. According to KTM, owners can also have a taste of Demo Mode, which allows riders to experienced all the specs and options for the frist 1,500km before deciding which pack to acquire. Nevertheless, the KTM 890 Adventure R continue to pumps out 105hp @ 8,000rpm and 100Nm @ 6,500rpm from its 889cc parallel-twin, 4-stroke 8-valve powertrain.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto3-super-kip-ready-to-race-again-in-jerez/

Moto3: Super KIP ready to race again in Jerez

Malaysian Moto3 rider, Khairul Idham Pawi aka “Super KIP” is eager to race again after a long halt due to COVID-19. Upon his return to the 250cc class with the Petronas Sprinta Racing squad, the young Malaysian is primed and ready to make amends after a poor start to the season in Qatar following injuries that put him on the side-lines last season. Khairul Idham Pawi will make his way to Jerez, Spain this weekend which is two weeks before the Moto3 season restarts again in Europe. A hectic calendar presents a challenge not just for the young Malaysian but the entire race grid all the way up to MotoGP. Nevertheless, Khairul is excited to get back to racing following three months of training at home under the MCO ruling. When asked about his goals for this season, his initial answer was to get back in rhythm with the Honda Moto3 machinery, especially in corners. With a brief yet successful history in the category, KIP has set a target to obtain as many points as possible for this season. If all is well, his position in the Petronas Sprinta Racing squad is relatively safe. It’s not going to an easy road for KIP as he will be constantly compared to his teammate, John McPhee who has had more success in not just point-scoring positions, but also fighting for podium contention. With two victories under his belt (in the wet), KIP will need to prove his worth in the Malaysian squad. In the opening race of the 2020 season, Khairul Idham Pawi finished 26th in the Qatar round, whereas John McPhee scored the second podium spot after a hard-fought battle with the best Moto3 riders of the season. Hopefully, the temporary halt in the season will bring some good results for KIP as well as Petronas Sprinta Racing. MotoGP: Petronas SRT & Valentino Rossi deal is ‘done’ --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/fsr-technology-debuts-new-tuneboss-products-at-the-2018-malaysian-motogp/

FSR Technology Debuts New TuneBoss Products at the 2018 Malaysian MotoGP

TuneBoss introduced new products at the 2018 Malaysian MotoGP. The products will unlock the performance potential of stock motorcycles. They include ECUs, quickshifters, electric water pump, fuel injector and fuel pump. FSR Technology, our own Malaysian electronic tuning experts, revealed a range of new TuneBoss products at the recent 2018 Malaysian MotoGP. The new products are: High-performance ECUs; ShiftBoss quickshifters; CoolBoss electric water pump kit; Racing fuel injector; Racing fuel pump kit. High-performance ECUs There are four models specifically optimized for the Yamaha YZF-R15, Yamaha NMAX 155, Honda CBR250R and Honda CRF250. TuneBoss will announce the ECUs for motorcycle models based on the same platforms at a later date. The price range of the new products are expected to be “within range of existing products.” ShiftBoss quickshifters Quickshifters are in demand from almost all current motorcyclists. TuneBoss responds by introducing the ShiftBoss for the Yamaha YZF-R25 and Honda RS150R. Unlike most aftermarket quickshifters, ShiftBoss includes a new load sensor for more precise gear shifts. The new ShiftBoss products will be sold alongside current models and are priced between RM600 to RM800. CoolBoss electric water pump kit Traditional and stock water pumps rely on engine speed to circulate coolant. As such, the flow rate may not be sufficient, especially in the heat (pun intended) of competition. The new CoolBoss electric water pump kit consists of an electric brushless water pump and smart algorithms to control the functions of the fan according to engine load and cooling needs. Such functions prolong the engine and engine oil lifespan. Parasitic loss is also reduced. TuneBoss claims the CoolBoss kit gains 0.3 to 0.5 bhp throughout the rev range besides fuel savings. The product will be available for the Yamaha YZF-R25 only from next year. It should be available for other motorcycles later. TuneBoss Racing Fuel Injector This product has been available in the market for a number of months now. This 370cc injector provides a super high flow rate with ultra-linear control. The injector is good for 15 to 40 bhp applications and is compatible with the Yamaha Y15ZR (1stmodel) and Yamaha FZ150i MY 2014 and MY 2016. TuneBoss Racing Fuel Pump Kit This product is an integrated system consisting of fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines and fuel injector. The kit was specifically developed for the Open Drag Bike Category. Racing fuel is allowed in this category. The stainless-steel tank has a capacity of 3 litres and is specially treated to resist corrosion from racing fuels such as the Elixir Powered E85R or K2. Conclusion All the above add-on products are compatible with TuneBoss ECUs. They have been tested in various drag events and at the Sepang International Circuit before being made available to the buying public. FSR Technology Sdn. Bhd. can be reached at: Address: 43 Jalan PJU 1A/18, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia Phone: 603-7831 5041 Email: sales@fsrtech.com Facebook: FSR Technology --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-to-roll-out-10-new-electric-bikes-by-2025/

Honda To Roll Out 10 New Electric Bikes By 2025

Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification Honda has unveiled its plans for electrification including the introduction of 10 new electric motorcycles by 2025. Honda to introduced 10 new electric motorcycles by 2025. New electric models include Fun EV, a large capacity electric motorcycles.  Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification The announcement also include the Japanese firm’s effort to meet carbon neutrality by 2050. “Honda will accelerate the electrification of motorcycles as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business,” said Honda in a statement.  Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification That said, Honda will continue the development of internal combustion motorcycle but it wants to decrease the carbon dioxide output of its internal combustion motorcycle engines.  Also, Honda wants to develop motorcycles that is compatible with carbon neutral fuels such as gasoline-ethanol.  Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification Honda has also set 2025 as the date to roll out 10 new electric motorcycles which include models for commuting and fun models. Looking at the photos shared, we are probably looking at a bigger capacity electric motorcycle instead of the usual 125cc-equivalent electric bikes.  Specifically, Honda wants to launch  three large fun EV models, including one EV for kids by 2024-2025 for Japan, USA and Europe.  Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification In addition, Honda will also launch two commuter electrics in Asia, Europe and Japan and five electric bicycle and electric moped by 2024.  There are two types of batteries set to be utilised, including an all-solid-state battery and a swappable battery. Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification Honda is also working to expand the value of its electric motorcycles by working with its software subsidiary, Drivemode. “Honda will offer user experience (UX) features that continuously enrich the quality of riding through connectivity, such as offering optimal route options that take into consideration remaining range, charging spot notification, safe riding coaching and after­sales service support.” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/benda-bd500-v4-cruiser-breaks-cover-in-china-55-5hp-45nm/

Benda BD500 V4 Cruiser Breaks Cover In China – 55.5hp, 45Nm

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, Benda, has just launched a new cruiser in its home market. The BD500 V4 is the latest middleweight cruiser from Benda. The motorcycle features a 496cc liquid-cooled V4 engine.  Dubbed the BD500 V4, the cruiser-style motorcycle features an appealing design and a unique engine configuration. That said, the Benda B500 features a 496cc, liquid-cooled V4 motor that pumps out 55.5hp @ 10,000rpm and 45Nm @ 8,000rpm. That’s ten horses more than the Honda Rebel 500.  Unfortunately, the BD500 V4 tips the scale at 241kg compared to the Rebel’s 185 kilograms.  Nevertheless, the BD500 looks the part with the chunky bodywork, long profile, beefy USD forks, fat tyres and a distinctive flat exhaust. Unlike some Chinese two-company that tends to copy other established bike designs blatantly, we certainly praised Benda’s originality. Meanwhile, the Benda BD500 rides on 17-inch wheels and is suspended by upside-down forks and dual shocks. Braking is done by a single disc front and rear and regulated by a dual-channel ABS. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/saatc-race-2-indonesia-wins-for-the-first-time/

Indonesia wins for the first time in Asia Talent Cup

It was a day of celebration for Indonesian rider and his fan when rider Andi Izdihar took his first ever victory at the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup. Andi beat Japanese rider Sasaki and Thai rider Chantra to take 1st place, but it did not come easy for the 17 year old Indonesian. It was a tough dice between the top two with both swapping places continuously throughout the 14 lap race. Ultimately the top two were separated by just 0.029 seconds at the finish line. Race 2 of the second round in Losail Circuit in Qatar however was essentially a carbon copy of the first one, which took place on Saturday. 20 riders stars on track (2 riders Australian Taylor and Philippino rider Paz withdrew from the race), but a leading group of 11 riders quickly formed. Saturday’s race winner Kunimine stayed at the middle of the pack, while the pace of the race was slightly faster than Saturday with winds staying calm at about 11km/h. Interestingly, the 11 leading riders were separated by just 1.5 seconds, and this made for some fabulous and often hairy race moments as all the riders aimed for the racing line at the same time. This however led to Thai rider Atiratphuvapat and Kunimine touching slightly, with the latter unfortunately crashing out. After the race, Race Direction reviewed the incident between Atiratphuvapat and Kunimine, and decided to give the Thai rider a one-minute penalty, which relegated him down to 18th, and promoted Chantra onto the podium in 3rd place. With the leading ten riders split by just a second as they started the final lap, the action became even more frenetic as riders tried to get themselves into the best position to allow them to take advantage of the slipstreams on offer on the long straight, in the race to the line. Atiratphuvapat was the first out of the last corner, but it was Izdihar, who managed to gain the biggest advantage from the leaders breaking the air in front of him, taking the race win by just 0.029s from Sasaki in 2nd. The Malaysian riders too had a good race, with four of them making it into the top 10. Adam Norrodin made it up to second place, and only lost it on the last corner, on the last lap. He eventually finished in 6th place, while Helmi Azman took 5th. Fakhrusy Rostam took 9th and Shafiq Rasol took 10th. New comer Azroy Anuar finished in 13th. Director of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup, Alberto Puig: “In this second race we have seen a good fight just like yesterday, especially on the last lap, where we saw the riders set the fastest lap. Here we have finished a run of four races in two weekends, and the conclusion is very positive, since both Sepang and Chang and have seen riders set a very good pace. We now have a break of three months; it’s time to train and for riders to continue their preparation at home. “ Ayumu Sasaki has ended up on the podium in each of the four races so far (three 2nd’s & one 3rd) and he leads the standings in the 2015 Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup with a total of 76 points, ahead of Chantra and Masaki by 15 & 24 points respectively. The Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup returns in Sepang between 31 July – 2 August, and will form part of the WorldSBK round taking place that weekend. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/honda-rs-x-gets-new-visuals-for-2023-from-rm9698/

Honda RS-X Gets New Visuals For 2023 – From RM9,698

Boon Siew Honda introduced three new colours for the 2023 Honda RS-X including the iconic Trico colour.  The Honda RS-X now comes in a bolder colourway of Lemon Ice Yellow and Caribbean Blue alongside the Trico. In addition, the Trico edition now equipped with a gold-painted rims.  Aside from the new visuals, the Honda RS-X continue to feature the same specifications, including the liquid-cooled 150cc DOHC single-cylinder and six-speed manual powertrain setup delivering a peppy 15.8hp and 13.6Nm.  According to BSH, the standard trim (Lemon Ice Yellow/Caribbean Blue) is available for RM9,698 while the Trico edition is priced at RM9,748.  The 2023 model year will be available across all authorised Honda dealership beginning 4th January 2023.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-husqvarna-fs-450-announced-supermoto-enthusiasts-wet-dream/

2018 Husqvarna FS 450 announced – A Supermoto Enthusiast’s Wet Dream

The 2018 Husqvarna FS 450 was announced by the Swedish manufacturer as their latest race-ready supermoto race bike. The latest FS 450 has a brand new anti-hopping clutch mechanism sourced from race expert, Suter. The supermoto is powered by Husqvarna’s 449cc single-cylinder engine which churns out around 63hp that drives all that power down to the rear wheel via a five-speed gearbox. Want to be a part of the Supermoto scene but don’t want the hassle of building and customising your own race machine? Well, one Swedish manufacturer has you covered. We are of course referring to the latest 2018 Husqvarna FS 450, the race-ready supermoto with all the tech goodies. One of the biggest changes that everyone should know is the brand new slipper clutch obtained from Suter. Each and every MotoGP enthusiast will know the Suter brand and even if you don’t just take a look at the Suter MMX 500 two-stroke monster machine and you’ll suddenly drool uncontrollably. The new anti-hopping clutch together with Magura hydraulics provides maximum control when racers put the FS 450 under constant hard braking. Besides the new Suter clutch mechanism, Husqvarna also installed a new switch on the handlebar to toggle between different map settings on the fly to give riders that extra edge when competing in the tracks. The rider has the choice to decide on the best settings in terms of the FS 450’s traction control, engine mappings and launch control setup. Husqvarna has stuck with their iconic and very recognisable graphics for the new FS 450. The same has been used on many of their current and previous models. The only difference in terms of looks for the 2018 FS 450 is that the seat now comes in blue. The supermoto is powered by Husqvarna’s 449cc single-cylinder engine which churns out around 63hp that drives all that power down to the rear wheel via a five-speed gearbox. Coupled with a new cast aluminium swingarm that provides complete control and stability, the latest FS 450 is indeed a worthy supermoto weapon. Going to the chassis section, the FS 450 has a brand new composite rear sub-frame which has been constructed with 30% carbon fibre to give strong yet light performance. The suspensions package is covered by WP Performance Systems with a ‘springless’ design together with a conventional yet reliable WP rear shock. A couple of Bridgestone R420 racing slicks are wrapped around Alpina spoke wheels are appointed as the point of contact between the bike and road surface. Together, these babies provide the maximum levels of grip, traction and agility which are equally important in supermoto races. Stopping power comes in the form of radial-mounted Brembo brake calliper to ensure superior and controlled stopping power from the 310mm front disc and 220mm rear disc. Husqvarna has also announced that the 2018 Husqvarna FS 450 will be available at all dealerships around the world sometime in July with no official price yet to be stated. We figured that it will most likely be over the RM60,000 mark. YIKES. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/why-motogp-bikes-dont-use-bmw-style-telelever-suspension/

Why MotoGP Bikes Don’t Use BMW-Style Telelever Suspension

The BMW R 1200 GS uses the trademark BMW Telelever front suspension. The system separates suspension forces from steering forces. In doing so it provides superb manoeuvrability and comfort. A newfound friend and I were chatting about bikes and more, of course but let’s keep it to bikes here since this is Bikes Republic and not the Sarawak Report. He owns a 2016 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure, on which he had toured all the way to the Mae Hong Son loop and back a few times on it besides many other places. 2016 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure LC Now, although I don’t own a GS, I’ve ridden one over quite some distance too. If you could recall the GIVI Golden Triangle Adventure in November last year, I had ridden a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS LC from KL to Pattaya and back, covering around 3200 km. 2013 BMW R 1200 GS LC That trip firmly convinced me why BMW owners swear by it. It’s when you have to ride through treacherous conditions, or when your mind and body are exhausted, the R 1200 GS just keeps going. And going. And going. A large part of that character is due to the bike’s Dynamic ESA /ESA II electronic suspension. It controls the damping electronically, removing bumps that would otherwise tire out the rider in a hurry. 2017 BMW R 1200 GS However, as much as having a “smart” suspension, there’s no going around the Telelever’s basic setup at the front. The spring and damper are moved out of the fork tubes and placed at a separate location. The spring and fork tubes are then connected via an A-arm, also known as a wishbone to the frame. BMW did this to separate the damping forces from the steering. We wondered why the set up isn’t used in performance bikes. A little research revealed some interesting answers. BMW R 1200 GS Telelever set up The traditional telescopic forks, whether “normal” or upside-down, suspend and also steer the bike. Let’s take a look at the picture below. The forks connect to the frame via the headstock and forms a triangle. This makes the headstock as the weakest point in this connection, yet the forks and frame transmit loads into it. Motorcycle frame headstock. This belongs to a custom bike and is very simple Imagine the forces pushing up into the headstock from the rear tyre when accelerating, and the forces pushing up the fork under heavy breaking. At the same time, consider the bike’s and rider’s weights squashing down from above. All these forces threaten to split the fork-frame triangle like Jean-Claude Van Damme right at the headstock. This is why the front fork and wheel assembly comes off in some heavy accidents. While this is happening, the rider steers the bike using the exact same components that are transmitting the forces to the headstock, frame, etc. Yes, those very same forces that threaten to tear the forks off the frame. BMW S 1000 RR frame What that means is the forces you feel at the handlebar are the total, the sum, of all these forces acting in unison, plus the cornering forces such as camber thrust, weight, rolling drag torques, etc. That’s not necessarily a bad thing since that’s what riders call “front-end feedback.” The darker side, on the other hand, is when the rider lets off the throttle or applies the front brake abruptly in mid-corner, consequently transferring weight to the front and pushing the bike wide. That self-righting torque (the bike standing up) usually panics riders, causing them to think that they’ve run out of grip hence not forcing the bike back down to make the turn. This is why one overshoots a corner. 2016 BMW S 1000 RR The Telelever and Duolever remove those forces from the steering; although the former still leaves some load through to the headstock and frame, while the latter completely isolates steering from suspension duties. The Telelever is the reason why the R 1200 GS is so easy to manoeuvre even extremely slow speeds, as exhibited by the tests in the GS Trophy. The Duolever system fitted to the K 1600 full-dress tourer line-up gives the bikes surprisingly light steering, despite their heft. Duolever on K 1200 By if the Telelever is that good, why isn’t it used on performance bikes, much less in competition, say MotoGP? Part of the feedback is missing at full lean. It may be okay for road riding where speeds and tyre loads are much lower but not in racing where the rider needs to listen to the tyres. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kelantan-police-chief-gives-advice-about-travelling-to-thailand/

Kelantan Police Chief Gives Advice About Travelling to Thailand

Courtesy of Bangkok Times Kelantan police chief issued a travel advisory to Malaysians travelling to Thailand Malaysians are not prohibited from riding into Thailand Southern Thailand has been the scene of violence Kelantan police has issued an advice to Malaysians travelling to southern Thailand to be more vigilant, following the fatal accidental of a Malaysian national in Tak Bai, Narathiwat Province, on 16th October. It was learned that Wan Mohd. Zain W. Hussain, 46, from Kampung Ketil, Tumpat, Kelantan was visiting his relatives when he was hit by a stray bullet when a group of armed men fired upon the police at the Ban Taba checkpoint. Later, the superintendent of Tak Bai police station, Police Colonel Patcharapol na Nakhon, was lucky to escape a bomb explosion near a petrol station as he led a team to the scene of the attack. The blast brought down power lines and caused a local blackout. An inspection of the scene of the bombing revealed what bomb technicians believed to be an IED (improvised explosive device) weighing between 22 to 25kgs. Daylight inspection revealed a food stall and an electricity pole riddled with bullet holes. Police collected spent bullet casings from M16 assault rifles. Patcharapol believed the attacks were the work of Famee Mudo, who leads a militant group active in the district. He is a suspect in similar attacks on Oct 21, 2012. The attacks were believed to be linked to the approaching 13th anniversary of the “Tak Bai incident” on Oct 25, when 85 Muslim men suffocated after being arrested and stacked on top of each other in the back of army trucks after soldiers violently broke up an anti-government protest. Courtesy of zashnain Southern Thailand has been the scene of bombings and violence. On 9th October, a bomb planted on a roadside killed a Ranger and seriously wounding another. On 26th September, a bomb disposal team defused a roadside 20kg IED. On 29th September in Mae Lan district a motorcycle bomb exploded at a checkpoint. Another bomb killed one and wounded 18 in Yala when bomb disposal units went to investigate after two explosions. So please be careful when riding into Thailand. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/royal-enfield-twin-cylinder-debut-eicma/

Royal Enfield Twin-Cylinder to Debut in EICMA

Royal Enfield’s twin-cylinder engine and motorcycles slated for EICMA 2017 debut Widely speculated to be a 750cc engine May even go above 800cc Spyshots of the Royal Enfield twin-cylinder motorcycles have been circulating around the internet for some time now, more or less confirming the manufacturer’s claim of working on a twin-cylinder engine, Autocar India reported. It’s also obvious that Royal Enfield are also working on different models around that twin-cylinder engine, as evidenced by the photo above. The model in the foreground appears to be a cafe racer-styled model, while the one on the right looks to be a standard model. The cafe racer has a rounded fuel tank with deep knee recesses, and a single seat. The standard model has a bench seat, which is offered as an option to the current Continental GT 535 buyers. Apart from those features, both bikes are mechanically identical. The engines of bikes appear to be the same air- and oil-cooled parallel-Twin. The suspension and brake components looked to be identical, too. Building many different models based on one engine or chassis platform saves development and production cost, while customers enjoy lower maintenance costs as most parts are shared amongst a few models. Although widely speculated as 750cc, Royal Enfield has not officially confirmed it to be so. But, the mule has been testing extensively in Europe before being tested in India. Royal Enfield sold 651,107 bikes in India alone, compared to 15,383 exported last year. However, the current 500cc and 535cc variants made up less than 10% of the domestic number; the bulk of the sales were the 350cc models. That has lent fuel to the speculation that the new bikes may even feature a capacity higher than 750cc, possibly even going above 800cc to rival Triumph’s best-selling 900cc Bonneville Street Twin lineup. These new parallel-twin motorcycles are to make their international debut at the EICMA show in Milan this November, with an India launch slated for early 2018. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/next-gen-bmw-r-ninet-urban-g-s-and-scrambler-caught-testing/

Next-Gen BMW R nineT Urban G/S And Scrambler Caught Testing

Despite announcing withdrawal from the upcoming 2021 EICMA, BMW Motorrad has been busy lining up a new range of motorcycles for 2022/23. A couple of months ago, the Bavarian manufacturer was caught testing the all-new R 1300 GS at BMW’s Enduro Park Hechlingen. However, in the latest update, the German automaker is back in the limelight as they were spied testing out another two models, the R nineT Scrambler and the Urban G/S. According to reports, the R nineT Scrambler features a revamped upside-down fork, swingarm and frame, while the 21″ wire-spoke wheels are paired to a Metzeler Karoo 3 tires. BMW also likely improve the riding ergonomics to increase the off-road capabilities. The R nineT Scrambler and R nineT Urban G/S are expected to arrive between 2022 to 2023, along with the all-new R 1300 GS. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-2019-hafizh-syahrin-ktm-rc16-in-detail/

MotoGP 2019: Hafizh Syahrin KTM RC16 in Detail

We got up close with the KTM RC16 that Hafizh Syahrin rides in MotoGP 2019. Most of the bike was hidden in tight-wrapping bodywork. But there were a number of details that caught our eyes. You must have noticed the KTM RC16 which Hafizh Syahrin posed on during yesterday’s press conference. Yes, it’s the bike he’ll be riding in the MotoGP 2019 season. We’ve seen almost all the MotoGP bikes up close before and have grown used to them. However, there are a number of intriguing details on the KTM RC16 that aren’t found on other MotoGP bikes. WP Suspension Virtually all bikes (Moto2 and Moto3 included) in the paddock run Öhlins suspension. WP Suspension is a Dutch company set up in 1978, but it currently fully-owned by KTM. That’s why all on-road and off-road production KTMs wear WP suspension. The use of the suspension brand also extends to KTM’s factory race teams in Moto2 and Moto3, so it’s natural to use them in MotoGP. Hafizh said during the press conference that he needs to adapt to the new suspension. That’s because he had been riding bikes with Öhlins for a long time. Look at the size of that thing! One of our BikesRepublic.com Instagram follower observed, “Whoa! Look at the size of those front brake discs!” He’s right, those are the 340mm carbon discs. They are only used at a small number of racetracks on the MotoGP calendar, such as Motegi. Motegi is called a “stop-start track” where long straights precede super-hard braking zones before corners. Increasing the size of the discs isn’t about extra braking power. That’s because the standard 320mm discs already generate enough power for the riders to lift the rear wheels off the ground. Instead, the increased diameter is for cooling purposes, so that the discs don’t overheat. Talk about an evolution. When carbon brakes first appeared on the grid many years ago, riders had to drag their brakes at the beginning of the race to build up and retain heat in the discs. Now, they can even overheat! Show some backbone All KTM road bikes utilize the steel trellis frame, so KTM decided to use what they know best in the RC16, too. In fact, KTM’s Moto2 and Moto3 bikes use the trellis layout, as well. You can see the orange-coloured frame’s top truss just jutting out from above the fairing, besides the downtubes which anchor the swingarm. Everything else then bolts to this frame. The seat and tail unit not only includes the rider, but also most of the fuel tank. Yes, MotoGP fuel tanks actually start from just behind the normal fuel tank and extend to underneath the rider’s seat. The front part of the “tank” includes the airbox and electronics. In your face The exhausts of the RC16 looks familiar to MotoGP observers, of course. Their arrangement is similar, if not identical to those on the Honda RC213V. 1 of 5 The RC16 is also a V-Four. Consequently, the front pair of cylinders vent their gases through a pipe down low, while the rear pair vents through a pipe set high underneath the seat. Hafizh’s office The bike’s cockpit is clear of clutter, as it should be. Note the machined-from-billet upper triple clamp. This one turns back down at the ends to bring the centerline of the forks closer to the centerline of the headstock. Doing so reduces trail, making the bike turn into corners quicker. There could be other triple clamps as well with different arrangements to affect the trail or even rake angle of the front end. The KTM teams are carrying out their shakedown tests for the next three days beginning today at the Sepang International Circuit. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/217893/

The BMW GS Trophy is a dirty laboratory to test the GS 1200

The BMW GS Trophy is one of the most important races you have never heard about. Organised in various parts of the world bi-annually, the GS Trophy has been running since 2008 and has been organised in Tunisia, South Africa, South America, North America and recently in Thailand. The GS Trophy is a specially designed challenge unique to BMW GS owners, however it is not a race. BMW continuously pounded that fact when we visited the final day of the race recently in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Challengers represented their home country (i.e., Team South Africa, Team Great Britain, etc) and will have to endure three days of various kinds of challenges, sleeping out in tents, and basically having a damn good time. As Mr Heiner Faust (above, second from right), Vice President of Sales & Marketing for BMW Motorrad, so eloquently replied when asked what was one of his favourite parts about the GS Trophy, “… one of my favourite things is watching the teams from all over the world mingle together. They hardly understand each other but still they make an effort to talk, sometimes with gestures, with their hands and feet even. Everyone is making new friends, everyone is smiling.” The day before it all began was particularly tough for the competitors as after having pitched their tents, unseasonable weather brought heavy rain and power outages to the GS Trophy base camp – but you would expect GS owners to be prepared, and prepared they were, with a Coleman head torch. Before we get to why the GS Trophy is so important for everyone, let’s first see what the race challenge is actually like. The participants had to ride through seven days of various challenges like a special stage that included a 57 kilometre ride through muddy conditions and even a ‘slow race’ where the most points are awarded to the team that could ride the bike the slowest Points were deducted from teams whose riders put their foot down, or stalled the engine. And that is only on the first day. You should watch the video below for everything that happened on day one. BMW’s official press release after day 2 had ended couldn’t have said it better, “if day one had been a gentle introduction, this was a taste of the tough, demanding reality that will be the week ahead.” Riders covered 170km but it was a tough trail called the ‘Helicopter Trail’. Riders passed through quiet rural villages, along centuries old paths between paddy fields, before ascending into the mountains. The high point came at 1,686 meters, which is marked by the wreckage of a crashed ‘Huey’ military helicopter, which gives the trail its name. The weather in Day 2 was also unpredictable as temperatures rose, from 20 degrees at the highest points, to 32 degrees in the valleys. Other challenges like the ‘Dead End’ trail was especially challenging, you can watch it all in the video below. Day 3 was also brutal as participants had to ride over 250 kilometres on dirt trails and roads, with two special tests. The test involved riding on ridge-lines from one mountain range to another. The first special test demanded the participants to guess how many bamboo stalks where growing in a certain area, climbing a court metre high tree to find a hidden message, and guessing how many metres above sea level they were, without looking at their GPS units. Teams also had to cross a wide river and deal with the second special stage of the day, which you can watch in the video below. Day 4 was one of the toughest – it was a 136 kilometre loop, and though not as long in terms of distance, it was more challenging. Participants had to ride 150 metres through the river, and a special challenge called ‘Big Timber’ demanded participants to lift the BMW GS 1200 and over a huge tree, and then park it on its side-stand. It was so hot, that the Japanese team jumped into a nearby creek in full riding gear just to cool off. You can watch all the drama in the video below. Things took a different turn in Day 5. After days of travelling west and south on its seven day loop of Thailand’s Golden Triangle region, the GS Trophy circus headed east for the first time. It took a gruelling 270 kilometre ride from Mae Sariang to Khun Tan in extreme heat, interspersed with the usual series of special stages. Covering a mere 85 kilometres took a painful four hours. Teams were also tested on their GPS and navigational exercise, and so by the time some teams came back to base camp, it was pitch dark, forcing them to pitch their tents in the dark with head torches. All the drama is listed in the video below. Day 6 was easily the toughest ever – riders faced challenges on the infamous Ho Chi Minh trail. Chief Marshal Tomm Wolf had earlier in the day warned that the riders should expect the day to be seriously tough. One part involved a 10 kilometre single track section that took two hours to get through, proving it to be the roughest terrain seen yet. The temperature was recorded at 37 degrees celsius with high humidity. The trails were tough for small enduro bikes, and so were a real test for the BMW GS adventure bike. The slopes were particularly unforgiving with nearly every rider requiring some form of assistance. Watch the video below to see the slopes and a 100 kilometre ride through the jungle. By the time the final day came around, things were mostly settled. The leading team, Team South Africa, which led the standings from day 2, had only 19 points separating the top three teams. But at the final special stage, team South Africa kept their cool, rode smart and took the trophy back for the first time. However, in a historical first, both Team Germany and Team UK were tied for second place. Team Brazil were the champs of this special stage but it was hard fought, check out the video for highlights from the final day. The only all women’s team competing in the GS Trophy 2016 So why is the GS Trophy so important? There is no better way to market adventure bikes than to prove their worth in tough situations, and there is no better way to seal the fact that the BMW GS is one of the, if not the, ultimate adventure bike. At the end of the day, each rider had ridden about 1700 kilometres in dense jungles and near seemingly suicidal cliffs, and there were some bikes that had been ‘accidentally’ dropped off broken bridges, some were dragged through boulder-strewn river crossing, hauled over huge logs, and ridden really damn hard. But there were no breakdowns. Some flat tyres, but not even a single bike broke down. Is there a better test for a bike than the GS Trophy? Sure you have rallies races for bikes, but how many of them allow stock standard bikes? You should now know that all the bikes are stock, with some parts from BMW’s options list like the engine guard, but the GS 1200 itself is 100% stock. The GS Trophy is the ultimate test bed for BMW, all of the riders feedback is delivered back to BMW to analyse for the next generation of BMW GS motorcycles. The participants are given the option of buying over the bike after the race, but it is not immediately clear how did actually make a purchase. There is another round coming in May in South Africa, you can read more about it here, perhaps even considering participating in the most gruesome race BMW has ever organised. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/car-driver-gets-a-condom-for-parking-in-a-motorcycle-lot/

Car Driver Gets a Condom for Parking in A Motorcycle Lot

Photo credit Erin on Roads.sg FB A car driver in Singapore received a condom for his inconsiderate behavior. The driver had parked his car in a motorcycle parking lot. A note told the driver to not reproduce. A car driver in Singapore received a condom for his inconsiderate behavior. In the picture which has made rounds in the internet, a Mercedes-Benz was parked in a motorcycle parking lot. Someone got ticked off by the crass behavior and stuck a condom and note on the car’s windshield. The note read, “This is a bike lot, you idiot. Here is a condom so you don’t reproduce.” The report said that the picture “memo” received many positive comments from motorcyclists who often encounter such instances. They even uploaded pictures of cars that committed the same offence. C’mon, just admit it. All of us felt like doing this to a car that’s parked in a motorcycle lot. There are so many of such cases here in Malaysia. We pull up to a parking area for motorcycles only to find it occupied by a car. Then we had to park elsewhere and ended up getting fined or worse, finding the city council minions had clamped the front brake lever. Yet cars, especially luxury ones get away scot-free. This isn’t to say that motorcyclists are angels when it comes to parking. Many a time when motorcycles are slotted in between parked cars, marking life difficult for car drivers. So, let’s all be considerate and park accordingly. Source: Coconuts.co --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/victory-octane-sets-world-record-for-longest-burnout-with-video/

Victory Octane sets world record for longest burnout (with video)

Newly launched Victory Octane dragster sets world record for longest burnout at 2.23 miles (approx. 3.59km). It may be still very new, but there was little challenge for the recently launched Victory Octane in its bid to set a new world record for the longest burnout ever set by a bike. Victory Motorcycles USA released a video on YouTube depicting the recent attempt in Orlando Speed World, Florida as a marketing tool. The stunt riders tasked in the attempt made several attempts before the Victory Octane eventually blew out its rear tyre from the punishing forces it is subjected to. Nevertheless, the attempts weren’t in vain as the official from the Guinness World Records committee present during filming awarded them with the record after one successful attempt that lasted 2.23 miles or approximately 3.59km. This will no doubt add further to the Victory Octane’s credential’s as a powerful dragster bike. To refresh your memory, Victory recently unveiled the Octane late last month in America. It stood as the Polaris Industries-owned brand’s most powerful model to date thanks to its liquid-cooled DOHC 1,179.3cc V-twin engine that generates a whopping 103hp and 98.86Nm of torque. You can read more about the Victory Octane in our launch report here. Sources: YouTube via AutoBlog --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/yamaha-announces-special-retro-kit-for-the-xsr900/

Yamaha Announces Special Retro Kit For The XSR900

Yamaha officially introduced the retro kit for the XSR900 allowing owners to create their version of a retro cafe racer.  the retro kit consist of two major elements including headlight cowl and a seat cowl.  powering the XSR900 is Yamaha’s CP3 engine producing 117hp and 93Nm.  The standard XSR900 already pays homage to the brand’s iconic models but the introduction of the retro kit allows fans to take their bike on step further.  According to Yamaha, the kit consist of several elements including a front headlight cowl – created from reinforced fiberglass plastic – that surrounds the headlight. Next is the boxy seat cowl which is heavily inspired by classic GP race bike.  Also, the kits are available in Legend Blue and Midnight Black matching the colour schemes of the new XSR9000. Yamaha will begin selling the racer kit from June 2023 via official Yamaha dealerships in Europe.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/ktm-ckd-five-mountain-santai-ride-day-3-4/

KTM CKD Five Mountain Santai Ride – Day Three and Four

Day 3 The day started a bit late as the ride was expected to be a short one even though with a slight detour south to Batu Kawan to visit a KTM dealer. So in the morning some of us took the advantage to visit the local military museum which is just a walking distance from where we stayed the night at the Belium Rainforst Resort. With full anticipation of another awesome riding day, KTM style we got ready and rolled out from the resort close to lunch time as the lunch venue was only 30km away. After lunch we continued on the Gerik highway this time on the newest part of it so the tarmac was well and smooth. But as soon as we cleared the twisties and hit the kampung roads, the clouds rolled in and started dumping buckets and teasing us with the occasional dryness before starting to pour again. The pattern seemed to follow us for the rest of the day until we reached Gunung Jerai. However as mentioned we headed south first to a KTM dealer in Batu Kawan to show support as the dealer was in the midst of conducting a KTM roadshow. The rain stopped just short enough for Amir, the KTM CKD stunt rider had a chance to wow the crowd with his stunt act using a purposely modified for stunts Duke 200. But even without that show Amir was an entertaining guy to ride with and not to mentioned helpful. You can spot him occasionally doing crazy stunts like legs over the bar or one side of the bike as we go through some of the more sedate sections of the ride. After the stunt show and some drinks and “kuih”, we went on for the last mountain in the list, Gunung Jerai, which is just a few kilometres after exiting toll Gurun on the Plus Highway. However there was one last detour that needed to be done, to MAksu’s special laksa place. What makes Maksu’s laksa stand out is that its cooked using charcoal, and you know what they say, anything cooked that way taste way better. Done with the hot meal which was a welcome after braving the cold rain, we head off for the final push to the top. Though Gunung Jerai or Puncak Kedah as it was formerly known is just 1217m high, the road leading up is narrow, same as you could imagine riding on Fraser’s Hill. However the Gunung Jerai road is not only narrow but steep, on a few corners we actually had to shift down to first gear and use our feet to balance the bike to negotiate around the bend. Good thing we were riding Dukes but more about the bike later. It didn’t help also that by the time we started the climb it was already 7.30pm and the road was wet from the rain. Stray too far away from the centre of the road and wet leaves are waiting to catch you at the side of the road. Thrilling climb it was, the scariest of all four days. For first timers like us it would seem that the only thing that could be up there is an open camping ground for us to stay for the night but surprise surprise that there is an actual four star resort run by the Regency. Day 4 The dreaded day home but everything will an end. It has been an exhilarating riding experience that few countries could rival thanks to our Titiwangsa mountain range. So after three days of riding and conquering five mountains, the last challenge for us was to ride down Gunung Jerai and head south towards home. The decent was as tricky as the climb up, the roads we still damp when we went for the decent, small miscalculations on the brakes meant the bike would actually slide which happened to a few of the riders. As we all got down safe at the bottom, it was the boring part of the whole ride which was a long ride on the highway so we’ll spare you on this. As a conclusion, this could be considered as one of the most epic ride a Malaysian biker could do. You don’t need to leave the country to do it and you get to see scenery you never knew existed in this country. We covered close to 1200km in four days on all types of roads and if anything that could be added to the route it would be the Kuala Kelawang stage from Hulu Langat down to Kuala Kelawang town and head up north into Karak before going up Genting. I will surely repeat the Five Mountain Santai Ride route again in the near future, may add the Kuala Kelawang route just for kicks. Or if you have any suggestion I would love to hear it, put it in the comments below and lets plan. Some of the pictures are from the KTM CKD facebook page --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-is-the-2020-ducati-scrambler-1100-pro/

This is the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO

The Scrambler Ducati family has received its well-deserved upgrade for its biggest sibling, the 1100. Introducing the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO as well as the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sport PRO. The new PRO series comes with updated exterior features to keep things fresh for the big-bike scrambler market. The new updates that can be clearly seen for the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO series are: New double-side exhaust Updated graphics New seat trim Compact rear fender Low plate number holder Starting with the looks, the Scrambler 1100 PRO will definitely stand out from the crowd thanks to its two-tone “Ocean Drive” colourway, which complements its black frame and subframe. As stated earlier in the teaser article, you can see a lot more blacked-out details from its aluminium covers that help to blend in all that new graphics. As for the 1100 Sport PRO, this beauty is further intensified with Öhlins suspension, low-slung handlebars and Café Racer rear-view mirrors. Tying it all together is the Matt Black colour scheme, complemented by side panels sporting a painted 1100 logo. Very badass, in our opinion. There’s also that ‘X’ in the front headlight, which is now black. Despite looking at the teasers on their Instagram page, the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO series carries the same 1,079cc engine paired with the same 15-litre fuel tank. You’ll also find electronics like Ducati Traction Control (DTC), ABS Cornering, and three standard Riding Modes (Active, Journey and City). Pillions will probably appreciate it more as the new seat trim is designed to provide more comfort thanks to a new coating applied in the manufacturing process. For those who are interested in the updated 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO, they’ll be available worldwide in stages starting July 2020. If our guess is correct, we might just see them at this year’s Art of Speed Malaysia where Ducati Malaysia introduced the first 1100 models back in 2018. Ducati Superleggera V4 second teaser video released --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-03gen-f-and-03gen-x-concepts-revealed/

Yamaha 03GEN-f and 03GEN-x concepts revealed

Yamaha releases two new three-wheeled concept scooters called the 03GEN-f and 03GEN-x. Japanese manufacturer Yamaha released images and details surrounding its two latest three-wheeled concept scooters recently. Christened as the Yamaha 03GEN-f and 03GEN-x, both concepts sheds light into what Yamaha thinks of what’s ahead for its three-wheeled leaning multi-wheel (LMW) scooters of the future. Both concepts appear to continue following the idea that was first pioneered by the Tricity LMW production scooter that debuted last year. As the images clearly show, the 03GEN-f boasts a sporty partly-faired outlook, but retains its essence as a scooter by having both its engine and automatic transmission combined in its rear swingarm. The 03GEN-x, on the other hand, takes things up a few notches. It clearly has taller handlebars, accompanied by knobby tyres, not to mention a set of wire wheels, all of which point towards the concept being as more of an enduro or off-roader. Its mechanicals appear similar to the Tricity production scooter, with this tougher sibling set apart from the more ‘urban’ 03GEN-f thanks to its oddly shaped headlights, brown leather seats, plus the adoption of brass and wood trimmings. Yamaha’s production intentions with either remain uncertain for now. But, like all other concept bikes, both the 03GEN-f and 03GEN-x concepts likely stands as design studies with Yamaha taking note of public reactions towards them. Source Visordown and Asphaltandrubber ( Link 1 / Link 2 ) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-developing-g-r10-r-sized-electric-motorcycle/

BMW Developing G R10 R-Sized Electric Motorcycle

BMW has been a pioneer in the electric two-wheeler industry for more than a decade, but it has yet to release a fully electric motorcycle.  powering the bike is the same batter and electric motor from the CE 04. the new electric motorcycle is likely to have the same size as the G 310 roadster.  However, that may soon change as the company has been working on a small electric bike as reported by Cycle World. Patent applications reveal that BMW’s latest electric scooter, the CE-04, has provided the powertrain elements for the new bike, which is around the same size as the G 310 roadster. *credit: Cycle World (BMW) The innovative design features a motor that is positioned at a 45-degree angle and the motor’s shaft running longitudinally, allowing it to be relatively large while remaining narrow enough to fit between the rider’s legs.  The battery is also at an angle, running parallel to the motor and just ahead of it. By moving the parts around and tilting them at an angle, the wheelbase can be shorter, and the center of gravity raised, providing sharper handling. The battery and motor are from the CE-04, with a peak power of 42 hp and 63Nm of torque. The top speed is electronically limited to 120km/h, and the range is around 128km between charges.  The motor drives through a new reduction gearbox with a bevel gear to take drive to the front sprocket, and a belt final drive transfers the power to the rear wheel, reducing maintenance and noise compared to a chain drive. The fuel tank area is left clear, providing space for storage, including a helmet, while several different models based on the same components could be made, including a GS-style adventure model and a full-faired bike. That said, the plug-in roadster is still in an early stage and it could take a couple of years before we’re able to see the finish product. Nevertheless, we are excited to see how it could turn out.  --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2017-worldwide-sales-roundup-european-manufacturers/

2017 Worldwide Sales Roundup for European Manufacturers

Most European brands saw positive growth in 2017. Biggest earners were BMW, KTM, Piaggio and Triumph (in alphabetical order). Is this a resurgence of European motorcycles over the once unassailable Japanese? It’s that time of the year when the European motorcycle manufacturers release their 2017 worldwide sales figures. While BMW Group and BMW Motorrad had revealed their 2017 sales figures last month, here’s a collection of how all the European motorcycle manufacturers performed in the same year. With fresh models in almost every segment from co-operating with Indian manufacturers and wide distribution networks, besides competitive pricing, it looks very much like a resurgence of the once dominant European motorcycles, over the might of the Japanese. Here they are, listed according to alphabetical order. BMW Motorrad As we’ve reported earlier, BMW Motorrad reported a 13.2% increase (numbering 164,153 units) being sold in 2017, their seventh consecutive record-breaking year. To recap, 2017 marked the first time that the GS (R 1200 GS, F 800 GS) adventure lineup had sold more than 50,000 units in a single year. The R nineT segment also saw a 9.6% increase with the introduction of three new models: Pure, Urban G/S and Racer. Besides that, 11,595 units of the new G 310 R and G 310 GS models were delivered. Even the sales of the six-cylinder models were positive, driven by the new K 1600 B (Bagger) especially in the US market. 6,719 units were sold, marking a 50% increase in sales. Please click on the link below for more information. Another Record Breaking Year for BMW Motorrad in 2017 Ducati Ducati delivered a total of 55,871 units in 2017, constituting a scant 410 bike increase over 2016. Please click on the link below for our earlier report. Ducati sold over 55,800 bikes worldwide in 2017! While the increase is small, it was still a positive result for the Audi/VW-owned Italian manufacturer. Ducati has stated that every model was important to them, but it was the Multistrada 950 which proved to be the most popular. The Scrambler lineup continued to performed well, contributing to approximately 25% of total sales, augmented by the Desert Sled and Café Racer. The two markets that saw strong growth was Spain at 28.3% (due to Jorge Lorenzo joining the MotoGP team?) and China at 31%. Ducati is looking forward to the Panigale V4, Multistrada 1260, Scrambler 1100, the renewed 821 Monster and 959 Panigale to drive sales in 2018. KTM Industries AG Leading the charge is Austrian KTM Industries AG who reported a 17% increase in sales with 238,334 units in 2017. It’s KTM’s seventh year of record sales, in addition of being an all-time high in revenues and profit. From the sales, KTM’s 2017 revenues increased 14% at EUR 1.533 billion. Net profit before taxes increased to EUR 117.0 million against EUR 108.9 million in 2016. With the number of KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles sold in 2017, KTM says that it will “further strengthen our Number 1 position as the biggest motorcycle producer in Europe.” Sales was further bolstered by the smaller capacity models built in India by KTM’s partner Bajaj Auto (namely the 250 and 390 Dukes and RCs), who sold 35,000 units in India along, besides exporting CKD kits to other countries including Malaysia. Being aware that continual growth is imperative, KTM invested EUR 92 million in product development in 2017. Most of that investment incudes tools, machinery, plant and infrastructure focused on the new high-performance drivetrain production at Pankl and expansion of KTM’s R&D department at Mattighofen. The entire investment program of EUR 179.6 million was financed by KTM Industries Group’s own cash flow. This strategy also saw suspension supplier, WP Group, fully integrated into KTM AG. The continuing growth also saw an increase of 818 employees worldwide, bringing the total to 4,568 including in Austria. KTM expects further growth of their core model segments in 2018, as they are also optimistic about the KTM 790 Duke and Huqvarna Vitpilen and Svartpilen. The Austrian manufacturer has targeted to sell 360,000 motorcycles annually by 2021 (up from the 2017 forecast of 300,000) and 400,000 for 2022. The increased volume is envisaged as the result of KTM’s joint venture agreement with CFMoto in China to increase KTM’s presence in the Chinese market. KTM owns 49% of the venture known as CFMoto-KTMR2R. Piaggio Group (Q3 2017) The Italian manufacturer has not published its annual 2017 sales figures, but did see a 12.4% increase in the third quarter, representing 266,400 motorcycles. That translates to a net sales of € 771.8 million. Piaggio Group owns a number of motorcycle brands, including Piaggio itself, Aprilia, Derbi, Gilera, Moto Guzzi, Scarabeo and Vespa. However, Piaggio Group did not publish the sales figures for the individual brands. Moto Guzzi did say they were happy with the “positive sales trend of the V7.” Triumph Motorcycles We’ve also reported on Triumph Motorcycles’ growth, by a hefty 22%, no less! 2017 was Triumph’s best in 30 years. The increase equates to £90.9 million for a total of £498.5 million. Net profit before tax increased to £24.79 million. A total of 63,404 units were sold, 86.1% of those outside of the UK. Triumph has performed strongly considering the challenges of the current economic condition and currency fluctuations, besides uncertainties arising from Brexit. Triumph continues to focus on R&D, spending £29.2 million in 2017 compared to £26.9 million in the previous year. As a result of that R&D, as mentioned by Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Stroud during our interview, Triumph has introduced 19 new models in the space of 2 years. Triumph launched 5 new bikes in 2017: Street Triple 765, Bonneville Bobber Black, Bonneville Speedmaster, Tiger 800 and Tiger 1200. The latter four bikes will be launched in Malaysia this weekend (3rd March 2018). Triumph has also revised the Speed Triple 1050. Another exciting prospect is Triumph’s deal as the exclusive Moto2 engine supplier beginning 2019, which will bring even more recognition to the brand. Please click on the link below for our earlier report on Triumph Motorcycles’ performance in 2017. Triumph Motorcycles sees sales growth in 2017 – Over 63,000 sold! --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-graphics-for-2019-benelli-rfs150i/

New Graphics for 2019 Benelli RFS150i

The 2019 Benelli RFS150i features new graphics and exhaust muffler. The Special Edition (SE) version also has new graphics and coloured wheels. The SE is priced from RM 7,488 while the standard is from RM 7,328. Looking for a 150cc super underbone that’s different from cookie-cutter Yamaha Y15ZR and Honda RS150R? Check out the Benelli RFS150i, then, especially with new graphics for 2019. Distributed by Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. since two years ago, the RSF150i has seen encouraging sales in the northern states of Penang and Kedah, while still a rarity in the Central and Southern regions. However, Mforce will up the ante this year with newer and more aggressive graphics plus other updates, on top of the bike’s already sporty styling. The 2019 model also features a new muffler which enhances both the bike’s styling and engine performance. Additionally, the RFS150i Special Edition (SE) has also been updated to feature blue bodywork and fluorescent green rims. On top of that, the throttle grip and adjustable brake lever are made from lightweight alloy. The 2019 Benelli RFS150i are available from all authorized Benelli dealers. The Special Edition (SE) is priced from RM 7,488.00 and the Standard is from RM 7,238 (nett selling prices excluding insurance and road tax).   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/nicky-hayden-memorial-garden-planted-misano/

Nicky Hayden memorial garden to be planted in Misano

Misano officials have just approved for the Nicky Hayden memorial garden to be planted in Rimini, Italy. Located where the incident happened just last year, the garden will be named “Giardino Nicky Hayden”. The garden will only be a few minutes away from the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli and will be launched on 22 May 2018. It has been almost a year since the tragic passing of MotoGP Legend, Nicky Hayden who was unfortunately involved in a road traffic accident last May while riding his bicycle in Rimini, Italy. This year, the Misano officials have approved for a Nicky Hayden memorial garden to be planted in commemoration of the American rider who passed away at 35 years of age. In a report made Italians news team Rimini Today, the memorial garden is a joint effort by some of Nicky Hayden’s closest friends. One of them is none other than Denis Pazzaglini who happens to be his chief mechanic during his Repsol Honda days. Their friendship was formed when Hayden was riding with the Repsol Honda team which also resulted in him becoming the 2006 MotoGP World Champion. Those who are interested to visit the garden after it has been completed should know that it’ll be located where the incident happened between Ca ‘Raffaelli and via Tavoleto which is only five minutes from the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. The opening ceremony of the garden which will be named “Giardino Nicky Hayden” has been scheduled for launch on 22 May 2018; the first anniversary of Nicky Hayden’s passing. Nicky Hayden’s Accident Investigation Report Released --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/super73-unveil-limited-edition-e-bike-in-partnership-with-hot-wheels/

SUPER73 Unveil Limited Edition E-Bike In Partnership With Hot Wheels

American electric motorcycle manufacturer SUPER73 has unveiled a limited edition e-bike in partnership with Hot Wheels. Limited to just 24 units, the unique e-bike was build to celebrate the legacy of the Hot Wheels brand as the number one selling toy in the world. According to SUPER73, the unique collaboration project is based on the SUPER73-RX, the company’s premium model. The e-bike is equipped with a powerful 960kW battery and offers four riding modes that can be selected via the SUPER73 smartphone app. Other features include: 4-piston aluminium brake calliper inverted front fork with air assist adjustable rear-monoshock aluminium-alloy frame To pay homage to the Hot Wheels brand, the e-bike comes with the iconic orange and blue graphics located on the tank and subframe. Further customisation includes a custom embroidered Hot Wheels edition seat and handlebar pad. To further elevate customer experience, every purchase of the Hot Wheels x SUPER73-RX will include a collectable Hot Wheels diecast of a SUPER73 Ford Bronco adventure vehicle. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/chinas-cyclone-unveils-retro-roadster-with-reimagined-norton-engine/

China’s Cyclone Unveils Retro Roadster With Reimagined Norton Engine

After the unfortunate downfall of Norton Motorcycles in 2020, the prospects for the company’s promising range of 650cc twin-cylinder models seemed bleak. The Atlas Ranger scrambler, Atlas Nomad retro-roadster, and the Superlight sportbike were poised to make waves, but the company’s collapse put a halt to those plans. Zongshen to revived Norton’s 650cc twin-cylinder engine with a new roadster.  Nevertheless, the resilient spirit of the Norton twin-cylinder engine refused to fade away. In a remarkable turn of events, the rights to this modern marvel were licensed to China’s Zongshen, a well-respected player in the motorcycle arena. Armed with determination, Zongshen embarked on a journey of redevelopment, breathing new life into the engine that had once stirred the ambitions of motorcycling enthusiasts worldwide. The result? The awe-inspiring Cyclone RX650 adventure bike, which recently debuted in the Chinese market, capturing the essence of Norton’s original vision. With a power output of 71hp @ 8,500 RPM and a peak torque of 52Nm @ 7,000 RPM, this reincarnated twin-cylinder engine stands apart in the crowded realm of similarly sized twins. But the story doesn’t end there. Zongshen’s ingenuity has given birth to an enlarged 850cc version of the engine, promising even more power—98 horsepower and 80Nm of torque. The possibilities of what this revived engine can achieve seem boundless. As for the design, the Cyclone RE650, an homage to Norton’s legacy, exudes a retro-inspired charm. The trellis-style steel frame pays homage to the RX650 adventure bike, while a genuine aluminum alloy swingarm and KYB upside-down fork contribute to the bike’s poised and modern appeal. The symphony of elements—wire-spoked wheels, an LED headlight, and meticulous proportions—creates a fusion of timeless aesthetics and contemporary sophistication. One cannot overlook the eccentric asymmetry of the design, a clever nod to the flat-track heritage. The left side sports a distinctive side panel reminiscent of a number board, while the right unveils the rear shock in a bold fashion. An air intake on the left adds an element of intrigue that’s absent on the right, adding to the mystique of the Cyclone RE650. Zongshen’s reputation in the industry speaks volumes, standing alongside esteemed brands like CFMoto and Qianjiang. The company’s association with Piaggio has yielded fruitful collaborations, including the recent RA900 V-twin roadster—a product of Zongshen’s creativity and the engine from the Aprilia Shiver 900. And the excitement doesn’t stop there; whispers of a reborn Aprilia Shiver, under the Gilera banner, echo in the air. (Source: Cycle World) --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/asia-talent-cup-wsbk-malaysia-2016-izdihar-wins-race-1/

Asia Talent Cup @ WSBK Malaysia 2016 – Izdihar wins Race 1

Indonesia’s Andi Izdihar wins Race 1 in Round 3 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016. After concluding two practice sessions yesterday, Round 3 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup kicked itself into high gear in the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) today with the morning’s 30-minute Qualifying session, followed by Race 1 held at noon. The series shares the newly resurfaced Malaysian circuit this weekend with both the Malaysian Superbikes Championship 2016 and WSBK Malaysia 2016 main events as well. Qualifying Leading the front row was Japanese rider Kazuki Masaki who set the session’s fastest time at 2:21.705. Just 0.139 seconds off his pace in second was Indonesian Andi Izdihar, followed by Ai Ogura who placed third on the grid with his best time of 2:21.877. Malaysian riders Ahmad Idham Khairuddin and Izam Ikmal, on the other hand, fared out with mixed results. Whilst Ikmal could only manage to qualify 18th on the grid, Ahmad Idham placed higher in ninth after posting his fastest time at 2:22.975. With the lead six riders separated by just 0.722 seconds altogether, it was certain that Sepang would bring out yet another fantastic battle by some of Asia’s finest young racing talents. Qualifying Results Race 1 As the lights went out for Race 1, a seven-way battle quickly ensued in the lead group. Leading this were front-runners Ogura, Masaki, Izdihar, as well as Yuki Kunii, Gerry Salim, Somkiat Chantra and Ryusei Yamanaka joining in on the 13-lap melee. Throughout the race, both Indonesians – Izdihar and Salim – and Thai rider Chantra slugged it out against the four lead Japanese racers right down to the wire on the last lap. Alas, it was Sepang’s technically challenging and re-profiled final Turn 15 that incubated one of the season’s closest ever finishes yet again. Winning the final spring towards the chequered flag was Izdihar, followed by Yamanaka in second and Salim in third. Chantra just missed out on the podium and takes fourth place ahead of Ogura, Masaki and Yuki Kunii. The top five riders were only separated by less than a second. Just 0.520 separated Izdihar and Yamanaka in second whilst Salim was a mere 0.710 seconds down in third. Nevertheless, this third season of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup sees the rising dominance of both Indonesian riders as their performances eclipse the long-dominant form of the series’ Japanese riders. For the Malaysian encampment, the news got better as both riders successfully finished in the points. Rookie rider Ikmal finally ends his drought of points by finishing in 12th place. Ahmad Idham, on the other hand, fared even better by finished in a solid ninth place from an equally fierce battle in the second group. Race Results Race 2 Race 2 of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016 Round 3 in Sepang will take place tomorrow on Sunday at 1pm local time. For those wishing to catch the race at home, you can do so online via its YouTube-hosted live streaming via this link –  Race 2 Live Stream @ YouTube Alternatively, you can stay tuned to our site all weekend long as we bring you all the trackside updates. Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup 2016 – Round 3 – Race 1 – Sepang, Malaysia --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/the-apple-doesnt-fall-far-from-the-tree/

THE APPLE DOESN’T FALL FAR FROM THE TREE

16-year-old Saiful Izman Ahmad Zamani’s life had always revolved around the motorcycle. Son of former Malaysian top rider Ahmad Zamani Baharudin, motorcycle racing had always been a big part of his life. With so many offsprings of former riders now entering the sport, Saiful Izman’s entry into Cub Prix was neither the first nor expected to be the last. Racing in his sophomore year of the PETRONAS AAM Malaysian Cub Prix, Saiful Izman is beginning to show glimpses of his family’s racing heritage, especially when he won the Wira Final during the curtain raising leg of the 2015 season in Temerloh last weekend. Although always placing within the top five during the practice sessions, Saiful Izman was never quite the fastest rider on the grid. He was consistently a few split seconds behind Kozi Yam Honda’s Mohd Harith Farhan Baharudin. But during the finals, Saiful Izman’s aggressive and rough riding style tore through Harith Farhan’s defense strategies and resulted in Saiful netting the first open-make win of his career. “While all riders thank their families for their success, in my case, it is doubly so as my father and uncles are also directly involved in my career,” said Saiful during the post-race press conference. “Growing up, none of them ever pressure me into taking up racing professionally but it was a hard topic to avoid as racing was always the centre of their conversation. Every time the television set was turned on at home, it was always to watch more motorcycle races.” Saiful made his Cub Prix debut in 2014 through team FELDA AFB Tech Racing which was then managed by Ahmad Fuad Baharudin. This year, the Felda outfit has spun off into two squads – team FELDA PB Racing managed jointly by Ahmad Zamani and Ahmad Nashrul Baharudin that is taking part in the CP115 class and team FELDA AFB Tech Caldinals Racing owned by Ahmad Fuad Baharudin and focused on new talent identification in the age-capped Wira category. The young rider who is just in the early stages of his racing career admits that he has big boots to fill. “My father and uncle were both counted as some of the top riders in the Asian region. With their support and training, I hope to equal if not exceed what they have done.” --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-ktm-790-adventure-and-2019-ktm-790-adventure-r-launched/

2019 KTM 790 Adventure and 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R Launched

The 2019 KTM 790 Adventure and 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R have finally been launched. The base model is more road-centric while the R version is for off-roading. They were unveiled at EICMA 2018. The 2019 KTM 790 Adventure and 2019 KTM 790 Adventure R have been finally unveiled at the EICMA show. The two models have spent much time in development, while KTM launched the 790 Duke first. There are two versions with both sharing the same basic specs. However, the base 790 Adventure is biased more for road use, while the 790 Adventure R is for hardcore off-roading.   As with any KTM, there are a bucket load of features, but we’ll cut to the chase. The engine produces 94bhp and 88 Nm of torque. The engine power is down by 11bhp from the 790 Duke’s engine, as it tuned for a broad spread of torque rather than outright speed. The base 790 Adventure uses the WP APEX 43mm forks and WP rear shock, providing 200mm of travel on both ends. On the other hand, the 790 Adventure R is equipped with WP XPLOR forks and WP rear shock, both with 240mm travel for more ground clearance. Both models use 21” front and 18” rear wheels. Besides that, the base model’s seat is a flat 2-seater, while the R has a stepped dual-seat arrangement. As for electronics, both bikes utilize an IMU (inertial measurement unit) for lean-sensitive Cornering ABS and traction control. The ABS can be turned entire off or just for the rear wheel. There are three standard riding modes in addition to an extra “Rally” mode. Rally modes is optional for the base model and standard on the R. The styling gives the bike the look of a Dakar Rally race bike and utilizes the split LED headlamp. --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/leon-haslam-to-head-to-bsb/

Leon Haslam to head to BSB

Uncertain about his future in the WSBK World Superbike Championship, rider Leon Haslam is all set to make a return to the MCE British Superbike championship in 2016. Sources say that the 32-year-old will be teaming up with JG Speedfit Kawasaki, and will ride alongside James Ellison and Peter Hickman. It is said that this will be the first Haslam will be riding a Kawasaki machinery in his career. And with a brand new bike closely developed with the factory team of Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes, it could be the chance that Haslam needs to finally bury his demons in the domestic series. Although no official announcements have been made, Haslam did mention that he was looking at BSB options, and that interesting offers have already been made by certain parties.   --Ads--

https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-multistrada-v4-s-wins-2021-european-bike-of-the-year/

Ducati Multistrada V4 S Wins 2021 European Bike Of The Year

2021 was an exciting year as we got the chance to see a long list of new models from various manufacturers. Nevertheless, as the year 2021 already come to an end, it’s only fair to determine which of the 2021 Model Year motorcycles came out on top. The ten most respected European motorcycle publications came together for the 2021 European Bike of The Year award in order to find out which model is regarded as the best bike in Europe for 2021. After tallying the ballots, the 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S came out on top of the pile. The new adventure motorcycle from the Borgo Panigale factory wins 2021 European Bike of The Year after coming out on top followed by Harley-Davidson’s Pan America and the Yamaha Tracer 9. Interestingly, the revamped Ducati Monster came in fourth, while Aprilia’s RS 660 takes fifth place followed by the Trident 660 at sixth. --Ads--