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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/putoline-hf204-oil-filter-first-impression/ | PUTOLINE HF204 Oil Filter First Impression |
The PUTOLINE HF204 oil filter has a very high quality.
The filter meets or even exceeds OEM specs.
Its performance is something we’ve never experienced before.
We thought we’ve tried them all and found them to be the same, but along comes this Putoline HF204 oil filter.
But first, a little background
The next most important consumable in your engine is the oil filter, after the oil.
The filter’s job is to capture contaminants in the oil. They include inorganic contaminants such as dust being pulled into the engine through a dirty air filter, besides microscopic to large metal shavings of internal engine parts. Organic impurities include oxidized petroleum and bacteria that can form sludge. Besides those, the filter must take care of moisture, too.
It’s critical that parts including the camshaft and cam lobes, piston rings, piston connecting rod bearings, cylinder walls, crankshaft bearings, transmission, clutch are not only lubricated, but lubricated by contaminant-free oil.
However, that’s not all. The oil filter needs to keep the oil flowing in a smooth manner while filtering it. Oil flow has to be constant, regardless if you are idling, shuffling through traffic or at a full blast at Karak or the track. It needs to keep up with engine RPM fluctuations during gear shifts.
The filter must not break down nor impede oil flow as the oil ages. If the filter element breaks down, it will find its way into the engine and cause claustrophobic damage. The same happens if oil stops flowing.
About PUTOLINE HF204 oil filter
Putoline oil filters are made to provide a reliable service from the very moment you spin them on.
They feature various types of synthetic filter media (elements) that capture inorganic and organic contaminants in oil. This nano fibre filter media is further supported by steel wire. As such, the filter has a service life of one year or 40,000 km (25,000 miles). (But do replace your oil and filter during every oil change interval.)
All this quality would usually see the product of being expensive, yet it is priced at a very reasonable price. We suspect this is achieved by careful sourcing of parts that constitute the final product. All Putoline filters get their steel from Japan, glues from Germany and filter element from Finland. The company is based in Holland, by the way.
First impression
We were (pleasantly) surprised to see its housing when we took the plastic cover off. It’s a type of coating we’ve yet seen. Smooth, deeply painted, we’re told by the (official distributor) Bikerzone that it’s the same type of coating used for grand pianos.
Any suspicion we had about the claim was quashed when we installed it. I had ordered the wrong oil filter wrench cap and it couldn’t fit squarely on the filter’s flutes. Consequently, it scratched up and warped the old filter’s top when I removed it.
But I didn’t have a choice. The old filter now sat in the drain pan, surrounded by used oil.
So, wrong wrench or not, the new Putoline filter had to go on. The wrench cap would grab the new filter on and off, on and off. Thank goodness that oil filters need only a quarter turn from hand tightening. I checked and checked, but there was not one scratch on the housing.
Impressive.
Next of course, is riding. I’ve since logged nearly 500 km by the time of this writing. My bike used to stumble when rolling on the throttle from around 2000 RPM, but that stumble has disappeared. The bike would also sometimes seem choked a bit after changing gears. That also vanished.
But it wasn’t just about on throttle. The bike has also smoothed out by heaps when I went off throttle. The ER-6f has a natural high back-torque (engine braking) which interrupts smooth midcorner rolling speed. Now it’s as smooth as a bike with slipper clutch.
Conclusion
The Putoline HF204 has changed how the bike feels and makes it a pleasure to ride. Of course, everything feels good when its new, but we’ll continue with monitoring the part through its lifespan. Stay tuned for the next review at 1500 km.
So, are all oil filters the same? “No” is the resounding answer.
Where to buy?
You can order the filter from our BikesRepublic webstore. For the record, we only sell products that we’ve used and/or trust, instead of pushing for profits. The filters meets or even exceeds OEM specs.
Please click on the link below for the Putoline HF204 synthetic filter:
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/putoline-hf204-synthetic-oil-filter-for-honda-kawasaki-mv-triumph-yamaha/
We also have the Putoline HF153 synthetic filter for Ducati models. Please click on the link below:
https://bikesrepublic.com/store/product/putoline-hf153-synthetic-oil-filter-for-ducati/
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-royal-enfield-himalayan-now-available-malaysia-rm36880/ | 2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan now available in Malaysia – RM36,880! |
The 2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan is now available for booking at RM36,880 (basic price without GST).
Powered by their latest LS 410 engine, the 411cc adventure bike produces 24.5hp and 32Nm of torque.
RE Motorcycles Sdn Bhd will be offering the new Himalayan in two different colours; Granite and Snow.
It was late last year when Royal Enfield launched the 2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan, an entry-level adventure bike with a bit more grunt, power, and style. It was promised to reach markets around the world around June and Royal Enfield Malaysia (RE Motorcycles Sdn Bhd) delivered the promise when the bike was brought over last week.
With a price tag of RM36,888 (basic price without GST), this purpose-built machine made for adventure and touring is now open for booking and it represents the future of Royal Enfield with a completely new bike and engine designed from the ground up.
Powered by their latest LS 410 engine which is a 411cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected power plant, the new Himalayan is able to produce a respectable 24.5hp at 6,500rpm and 32Nm of maximum torque at 4,250rpm. The result is a proper adventure machine with a flat torque curve that works brilliantly for both beginners and veterans alike.
According to Muhammad Syahrul, General Manager of RE Motorcycles Sdn Bhd, “The Himalayan is the culmination of Royal Enfield’s 60 years of enduring history in its spiritual home—the Himalayas. Large adventure tourers that currently define this category, do not fare well in the mountains like Himalayans as they are very heavy, extremely complicated, intimidating and not really designed for that environment.”
“With its purpose-built ground-up design, the Himalayan is a simple and capable go-anywhere motorcycle that will redefine adventure touring in Malaysia. Functionally, its non-intimidating Spartan design, a flat torque curve, accessible seat height and long suspension travel alongside the ease of ownership, make the Himalayan is an extremely versatile motorcycle that is adept for long rides while equally being the definitive choice to navigate our urban jungles. We believe the motorcycle will open gates for a new segment of customers for Royal Enfield in Malaysia”
Other featured specs on the new Himalayan include:
41mm telescopic fork with 200mm travel
Monoshock with linkage that provides 180mm of travel
15-litre fuel tank
300mm front disc with a two-piston floating caliper
240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper
21-inch front wheel; 17-inch rear wheel
There are two colour options available for the new 2018 Royal Enfield Himalayan; Granite and Snow. Priced at RM36,880 (basic price without GST), you can now head over to any of the authorised Royal Enfield Malaysia dealerships scattered across the country.
Royal Enfield flagship store launched in Shah Alam
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colours-for-2019-sm-sport-110r/ | New Colours for 2019 SM Sport 110R |
The 2019 SM Sport 110R will come with new colours.
The bike is a daily commuter for the city and town.
It represents value for money as it does include some useful features.
The 2019 SM Sport 110R will come in new colours. They are black, blue and red.
The SM Sport 110R belongs in the smaller, utilitarian category of underbone bikes (kapchais) to serve as daily commuters in both cities and towns.
However, it does boast a number of features despite of its greatly affordable price and capacity. It has a Fuel Saving switch to run it in economy mode. The air-cooled 109cc SOHC engine complies with Euro3 emission standards.
Furthermore, the bike has daytime running lights (DRL), LED turn signals all-around, Kayaba (KYB) suspension, safety key switch and a 5V USB charging port. Additionally, there is a large storage space. The SM Sport 110R ups the ante by using tubeless tyres.
Besides that, it has a sporty and aerodynamic styling which most riders could accept.
But what the bike truly represents is value for money, because at just RM 3,918.00 (basic selling price and not on-the-road), you’d be hard-pressed to find something like this in this price bracket.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/norton-motorcycles-faces-major-financial-issues/ | Norton Motorcycles faces major financial issues? |
One of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the industry, Norton Motorcycles, is currently in deep financial issues with the announcement of entering administration. It seems that they’re in deep waters when it comes to unpaid taxes to the HM Revenue & Customs of around £300,000 (around RM1.59 million).
Norton was taken over by entrepreneur, Stuart Garner, whose ambition is to bring back the Norton name into the elites of motorcycling but several news outlets have pointed out that accounting group, BDO, was appointed to administrate Norton and two other companies belonging to Garner, Donington Hall Estates and Priest House Hotel.
According to a recent report posted by Visordown, BDO commented “Our job is to determine and execute the most appropriate strategy as swiftly as possible to protect creditors’ interests, bearing in mind the need to minimise distress for all parties. We are currently assessing the position of each of the companies in order to conclude upon the options available to them and the most appropriate way forward.”
Norton Motorcycles revealed that their yearly profits ending March 2018 was only £33,701 (around RM178,950) and that’s before tax. With liabilities amounting to somewhere around £3.38 million, the company has been labelled as “dependent on the future financial support of its bankers and its creditors … a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the company’s ability to continue as a going concern.”
Is this the end of the line for Norton?
Supercharged Norton Superlight SS
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-aprilia-rsv4-factory-gets-new-colour-update-same-excitement-only-cooler/ | 2022 Aprilia RSV4 Factory Gets New Colour Update – Same Excitement, Only Cooler |
Aprilia begins its 2022 lineup with the updated RSV4 Factory that now features an Ultra Dark colourway.
The new colourway is set to meet a wider audience who seeks a darker and stealthier look, which adds excitement while riding the high-performance motorcycle.
However, no changes were made to its mechanics as the Noale Factory has already made a huge update to its flagship sportbike in 2021.
The RSV4 Factory gets a displacement bump from 1,077cc to 1,099cc and churns out even more peak power, 217hp @ 13,200rpm, while reducing its carbon emission to meet Euro 5 emission standards.
Aprilia also integrated the RSV4 bi-plane wings into the double-wall fairing that boosts engine cooling capabilities while optimizing its high-speed stability.
The RSV4 also gets a MotoGP-inspired swingarm that is now lighter and features a reinforced lower brace that helps improve stability and acceleration.
Last year, other upgrades included Ohlins Smart EC 2.0, a new LED headlight, a more prominent TFT display, and revamped ride-by-wire system.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/norton-opens-first-flagship-store-at-the-bike-shed-london/ | Norton Opens First Flagship Store At The Bike Shed London |
Norton Motorcycles has just opened its first retail store, the Norton Atelier, at The Bike Shed in London. This is a major milestone for the British brand, which has been steadily rebuilding after a period of tumultuous change.
The new flagship store to showcase the brand’s V4SV superbike and the iconic Commanod 961.
Norton also plans to establish showrooms at five other locations throughout the UK.
Norton’s new CEO and a £100 million investment have helped to revitalize the company, and the launch of the 2023 Commando 961 has shown that Norton is ready to compete once again.
The Norton Atelier showcases the V4SV superbike and the Commando 961, both of which are available for purchase or test rides. Additionally, the showroom features Norton apparel designed by Savile Row fashion designer Nick Tentis. Tentis has also played a significant role in designing the retail space, which he describes as reflecting the history and values of the Norton brand.
The launch of the Norton Atelier is just the beginning for the brand. The company plans to establish showrooms at five other locations throughout the UK, including Krazy Horse London, Crawley’s P&H Motorcycles, Sheffield’s Via Moto, Bodmin’s Thor Motorcycles, and Cheshire’s Oakmere Motor Group. All of these locations will offer test rides, maintenance, and parts and accessories.
Norton Chief Commercial Officer Christian Gladwell expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s expansion into the marketplace. “More dealers mean more riders enjoying the results of the hard work and dedication that the entire team at Norton has contributed towards,” he said.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-crf1000l-africa-twin-test-review-the-dakar-legend-returns/ | Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Test & Review – “The Dakar Legend Returns” |
The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin pays homage to the Africa Twin of the 90s.
This is Honda’s entrant in the heavyweight dual-sport market.
It’s big and tall, and biased towards off-road riding.
The “Africa Twin” moniker is one of the most celebrated names in motorcycling, so naturally, we were excited when Boon Siew Honda called us to pick up the new Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin.
Origins and Background
During the heydays of the Paris-Dakar Rally, the HRC-built NXR-750 tore up the Saharan dunes to four victories. It was no small feat. Being in the late-80s means there was no gimmickry of the modern bikes.
The first Honda Africa Twin was the XRV650, produced from 1988 to 1989, but the truly iconic XRV750 Africa Twin made its debut in 1989 for 1990 model year.
XRV650 Africa Twin
It is powered by a 752cc, four-sparkplug V-Twin (hence its name) and had all the trappings of an adventure bike including twin large headlamps, long-travel suspension, engine bash plate, wire spoked wheels, semi-off-road tyres. In short, it looked like it just got off the rally and straight into the dealerships.
XRV750 Africa Twin
Although the Africa Twin had stiff competition from the BMW R 100 GS, Yamaha Super Tenere, Cagiva Elefant, et al, the big Honda was a success. In fact, production carried on until 2003.
Introduction to the CRF1000L Africa Twin
Many fans and even motojournalists cheered when Honda announced their plans for a new Africa Twin. Heck, the romantics among us got teary-eyed when they recalled their exploits on the AT in the 90’s.
Designated as the CRF1000L Africa Twin, it’s a dual-sport more oriented towards off-road riding.
The new bike has a slim and tall front profile. Besides that, the front looks like an extended forehead above the tightly arranged headlamps. It’s the “Dakar styling” where a pace note scroller/GPS sits behind screen.
Moving back, the rear part of the bike from the head onwards invokes the profile of the XRV750. This is especially true when you view the back of the fuel tank and seat. Anyhow, we felt that Honda did a great job of amalgamating design elements of the old bike to the new.
Riding the CRF1000L Africa Twin
First impression? Oh my! This thing’s tall! We’ve tested plenty of tall dual-sport bikes, mind you. Of course, the Africa Twin isn’t as tall as motocrossers or enduros but it’s definitely the tallest among dual-sport bikes. Someone had adjusted the rear shock’s preload all the out to lower the rear end, but I still had to hang one leg in the air when I stopped.
I knew I should’ve worn my platform shoes. Just kidding.
However, traffic lights became my No. 1 enemy (for the moment). That’s because I had to first determine if the road was slanting to the left or right, before shifting my buttock and leg out while coming to a stop. The slim profile helped a lot, but the badly adjusted chassis meant that the handlebar was sitting too high up, making the bike feel like it’s carrying bricks on its fuel tank.
We decided to ride it to Kuantan together with the Honda X-Adv.
The engine’s torque was impressive, keeping the engine rolling at low revs at highway speeds. The 998cc parallel-Twin uses a 270oto mimic the firing order of a 90oV-Twin, so a smooth character was expected. It produces 94 bhp and 98 Nm of torque.
The AT picks up speed quick to the sound of a rumbling engine. Small pops accompanied the DCT upshifts.
But we wished the front end has a little more high-speed stability and the handlebar moved around at higher speeds. We could expect this of dual-sport bikes with high handlebars but the AT’s moved the most. Then again, this bike is biased towards off-roading.
As such, it didn’t like being slammed into corners. You need to brake and release early, coast a bit to let the chassis settle down before turning in. Similarly, you need to be super smooth with the gas during the lean to straight up transition. Being throttle happy will send the handlebar waggling back and forth.
These handling traits disappear when the road turns to no road. There’s a large button marked with a “G” (for gravel) right next to the instrument panel. Pressing that switches into gravel ride mode and the corresponding levels of electronic intervention.
The softly sprung suspension absorbed the bumps easily and the bike seemed to float. Again, the bike’s slim waist was advantageous as it lets you move around while standing up.
However, it still felt top heavy for me. It possibly has to do with my height. At 167cm, I’m probably too small for the bike. A person from 180cm and up ought to reap the benefits of its ergonomics.
DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission)
Oh yes, the test unit was fitted with Honda’s proprietary DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). It’s actually a semi-automatic/semi-manual gearbox. The rider could select D (Drive), S (Sport) or M (Manual). N (Neutral) position needs to be selected manually.
Shifting is via toggles on top and below the left switch cluster.
In D, the bike drives like a giant scooter. The transmission takes care of the upshifts and downshifts automatically. The rider can intervene at any time, but it upshifts early for smooth power and fuel savings
In S, shifting is still automatic but it will hold on to a gear until peak torque before shifting up. The gearbox will downshift when a certain limit is reached, and it will blip the throttle automatically. The rider can also intervene at any time.
In M, the rider is in charge of gear selection. The engine will also auto-blip the throttle when downshifting.
Riding the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin with DCT
Just like the VFR1200, the Africa Twin with DCT doesn’t feature a clutch lever and gear lever. This is when you have re-learn how to ride a motorcycle.
Using the fully automatic “D” feature was convenient but bear in mind that it shifts when you least expected it to. Like upshifting in the middle of a corner or downshift when you’re rolling to a stop. We found out the hard way.
DCT Lesson No. 1
I was riding with my wife as the pillion. The transmission was in D-mode, 2ndgear as I filtered past two rows of cars. It suddenly kicked down to 1stgear without warning. But since there was no clutch lever, it felt like the engine had cut out, followed by that sickening feeling of a bike toppling over.
There was a BMW 3-Series on our left, but thankfully my reflex kicked in and I pushed out my left elbow which landed on the car’s driver side window. It held the bike up from falling onto his car!
So, lesson learned. I tried S-mode for a while then decided to just use M-mode anytime I ride.
DCT lesson No. 2
Nearing my house, I shifted into 1st(you can’t shift into N when the bike’s moving) and stopped to let a car pass. I reapplied a little bit of throttle to drive the bike up to my gate.
BUT! The engine “caught” like what happens when you release the clutch lever with no engine RPM. It put out a “CLACK!” Again, no clutch lever. My reflex tried to reopen the throttle but it didn’t catch. The bike went over on the right side like a poor tree while blasts of profanities violated my neighbours’ ears. And I swear I didn’t touch the brakes!
It meant that you can’t pussyfoot with the throttle.
Conclusion
We know, it sounds like we didn’t enjoy ourselves with the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin. But we assure you that it was okay 75% of the time. It was too bad that the DCT and height needed too much concentration.
It’s a nice bike to ride if you’re an Africa Twin and Honda fan, not bad if otherwise.
The caveat is you need some time to learn it, especially if you opt for the DCT version. Besides that, the ergonomics really need some getting used to as it’s rather different from other dual-sport bikes we’ve ridden.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
ENGINE
ENGINE TYPE
2-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled, parallel-Twin with 270o crankshaft
DISPLACEMENT
998 cc
BORE x STROKE
92.0 mm x 75.1 mm
POWER
93.8 hp @ 7,500 RPM
TORQUE
98 Nm @ 6,000 RPM
COMPRESSION RATIO
N/A
TRANSMISSION
Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
FUEL SYSTEM
Electronic fuel injection with ride-by-wire throttle
CLUTCH
Multiple-plate wet clutch with slipper feature
CHASSIS
FRAME
N/A
FRONT SUSPENSION
Showa cartridge-type upside down ø 45 mm forks, adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping
REAR SUSPENSION
Monoshock with Pro-Link Arm, remote gas reservoir, remote preload adjuster, adjustable for rebound damping
SUSPENSION TRAVEL FRONT/REAR
252 mm / 240 mm
FRONT BRAKE
2x radially-mounted 4-piston monobloc calipers, ø 310 mm floating discs
REAR BRAKE
1X single-piston floating caliper, ø 260 mm brake disc
ABS
2-channel ABS (rear disengable)
TIRES FRONT/REAR
90/90-R21; 150/70 R-18 (both tube type)
STEERING HEAD ANGLE
N/A
TRAIL
N/A
WHEEL BASE
1,580 mm
SEAT HEIGHT
920 mm standard, 900 low seat position
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
24.2 litres
WEIGHT (READY TO RIDE)
243 kg
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-option-719-preview-at-auto-bavaria/ | BMW Motorrad Option 719 Preview at Auto Bavaria |
BMW Motorrad Auto Bavaria held a special preview for Option 719 last night.
Option 719 is part of the BMW Motorrad Spezial ex-factory customization program.
Option 719 is currently available for R nineT, K-Series and C-Series line-ups.
BMW Motorrad Auto Bavaria held a special preview for Option 719 last night. The special event was held in conjunction with their BMW Motorrad Fest.
Auto Bavaria unveiled four R nineT’s with various Option 719 paintjobs. A customer, Dato’ Ariffudin Mokthtar also took delivery of an R nineT Pure finished in Black Storm/Metallic Auburn.
It was appropriate to debut Option 719 on the R nineT series, since it was designed to be customized. It is perhaps high time to launch the program as the Option 719 has been around for some time.
Option 719 is part of the BMW Motorrad Spezial ex-factory customization program. Owners could specify the special options for their BMW motorcycles prior to them arriving at the showroom or order the parts later. Depending on model, customers could choose from a catalog full of components such as billet brake fluid reservoir caps, engine covers, hand levers and paint jobs.
Customization is carried out by BMW’s in-house artisans such as those who carry out pinstriping, polishing, billet machining, seat leather stitching and so forth.
Customizing one’s bike with Option 719 accessories also means that the bike’s warranty isn’t voided. Besides that, the customer is assured of work being carried out by trained personnel, hence his bike isn’t butchered.
Option 719 is currently available for the R nineT, K-Series tourers, and C-Series urban mobility (read: scooter) line-up, but there are plans to expand it to include the adventure (GS) and sport (S 1000 RR) series.
You may obtain more information about Option 719 by following the BMW Motorrad Spezial webpage.
Interested parties can view the bikes at BMW Motorrad Auto Bavaria. Please follow BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s Facebook page and BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s website for more information on BMW motorcycles.
PICTURE GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/do-you-have-bakat-besi-take-part-in-this-contest-and-show-us-what-you-have/ | Do You Have Bakat Besi? Take part in this contest and show us what you have! |
Modenas Malaysia had recently launched the Bakat Besi: Peraduan Reka Bina contest (translated vis-a-vis as Metal Talent), Malaysia’s inaugural talent search program for motorcycle design and engineering. (No, it’s not a talent show for heavy metal bands, sorry guys.)
Motorcycle builders, mechanics, students and enthusiasts standa chance to build a career out of their passion for designing and building motorcycles. The first instalment of the program is Bakat Besi: Peraduan Reka Bina (Metal Talent: Design and Build) which seeks to unearth the appropriate talents.
There has never been a lack of creative talents here in Malaysia. Instead, they are hidden from mainstream view due to either lack of continuous exposure or mainly just because these builders are driven by their passion alone.
But what Bakat Besi: Peraduan Reka Bina aims to do is to bring these talents to the fore, with the opportunity to put their motorcycle design and engineering skills on the table, and to ultimately build a source of income for themselves and seeding the creativity of the Malaysian motorcycle industry.
The contest is divided into two categories. The first, called Bina Sifu, groups of 12 top builders (shown above) in Malaysia to customise the latest Modenas V15, Pulsar RS200 and Pulsar NS200. Modenas is the main sponsor of the Bakat Besi: Peraduan Reka Bina and they are sponsoring those bikes.
The 12 participants will be divided into six teams, consisting of a builder and constructor in each, and an RM10,000 budget is allocated to each team for the build. Entries will be judged on the grounds of aesthetics, performance and commercial value. The winner will receive a cash prize, a new Modenas motorcycle, and perhaps most importantly a production contract.
In the second category called Reka Sifu, contestants will submit their conceptual designs of a Modenas motorcycle or sticker designs. The entries will be judged by a panel, besides the public on social media.
The panel of judges will score 60% of the total points, while the remainder will be determined by the public.
As the Bina contest will be filmed, the public will gain exclusive insights to the design and build processes. The series consists of nine episodes and will be aired on Modenas’ official YouTube channel.
For more information on the contest, please log on to www.r8der.my and follow Bakat Besi: Peraduan Reka Bina on R8DER’s Facebook page.
Watch the video below for more information regarding Bakat Besi!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/outings/riding-high-himalayan/ | Riding High in the Himalayan Range |
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Most bikers dream about getting to ride one of those twisty pass in Europe. Bragging rights, a once in a lifetime experience or whatever could be the reason, its child’s play compared to what few had gone through riding across some of the highest parts of the world, riding the Himalayan range.
We are talking about places like Khardung La, in the Jammu and Kashmir state, which is at 5,359m above sea level. That’s about 1km higher than Mount Kinabalu itself, the highest point in this country.
The story started a few years back when Fadil Ali went on to follow the annual Royal Enfield’s Himalayan Odyssey ride up the mountains in the Himalayan area. He joins the group a few more times before deciding to venture off on his own adventure, going for a different section of the Himalaya. He is joined by 15 other men and one female rider for a ride from Manali to Leh, using Royal Enfield Bullet 500 bikes.
Amazingly according to Fadil, the RE bikes which was almost the same bike built back in 1955 remained stock standard with no special modification done to it. “The bikes are so simple and rudimentary, less things to go wrong and hardy, making it just perfect for our ride up the mountains,” explained Fadil. If you had watched World’s most dangerous roads on the Discovery Channel then you can have some idea of what these guys went through as the road (if you can call it that) are quite similar to that.
Some are paved but most are just made of gravel, only passable during a short period of time, between May to September. Their journey started in New Delhi where they landed and took an 18-hour bus ride to Manali where they picked-up their rented bikes and their guide.
Two nights in Manali to acclimatise before they were off Sarchu campsite, which is 230km away. While dying of a high-speed crash is impossible since they were maxing out at 30 to 40km/h speed most of the time, there were many other factors that made the journey dangerous.
Sub-zero temperatures, land slides, falling rocks and high altitude sickness or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) were some of the dangers the group had to face throughout the ride. Amazingly they had to go through all of that on the Manali to Sarchu section itself. “It was one of the scary moments of the ride, though the group had done some preparation for the ride, it still took a lot out of the group,” said Fadil.
As the only female participant on the trip, Alison Murugesu didn’t see it as challenge as she puts it, “I have 17 heroic men to help me if I need so,” said Alison laughing. On tow with Alison was her ten-year-old son Adrian Ishak Ghani, who was happily being pillion whenever conditions permits, which was scarce. Most of the time the young traveler was safely following the group in the back-up crew’s 4×4.
After a night’s rest the group moved on to Leh, 260km away. Again it was a challenging ride for the group especially Mohd Ishar Ishak who was suffering from AMS.
“The most part of the routes were gravelly. I remember letting the bike fall, when I failed in my attempt to ride a shortcut via a 45deg slope. I could not remember the fall, it happened in a blink of an eye. However, I remember thinking, ah.. I fell,” explained Ishar.
“Lucky for me, I was wearing a full PPE for riding. I suffered neither a scratch nor a bruise. I did feel some weird feeling on my right hip joint, whenever I squat, but it went away after two days. After that, I discovered that I could sit cross-legged for a long time without pain – so, the fall had fixed my right hip joint.”
Ishar decided to play it safe and finish the section in the safety of the group’s 4×4 support vehicle. Upon reaching Leh, they had a free and easy time for the next two days where the group rest and gathered their strength while taking their time visiting some local attractions like the museum. Leh, located about 3500m above the sea is an important location for travelers to stopover since ancient time as it is located between India and China.
The last three days the group rode to nearby locations like Nubra Valley and Lake Pangong before returning to Leh and then to Delhi for the flight back. “It was an eye opener, everything is raw, the trip really gives me a new perspective in life,” said Mohd Hamka Mohd Hassan.
Are they going for it again? for sure, at least Fadil is, to a different location and interested bikers are welcomed.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hjc-helmets-sponsors-motogp-rider-andrea-iannone/ | HJC Helmets sponsors MotoGP rider Andrea Iannone! |
HJC Helmets has announced that they will be sponsoring Andrea Iannone for the 2018 and 2019 MotoGP seasons.
The 29 year old Italian from the Suzuki ECSTAR team will be using a brand new professional racing helmet based on their highly-regarded HJC RPHA 11.
Catch Iannone and his brand new HJC helmet this Sunday during the MotoGP 2018 Sepang winter test.
HJC Helmets is proud to introduce their latest sponsored rider, Andrea Iannone from the Suzuki ECSTAR of MotoGP. The number 1 brand helmet in North America has signed the 28 year old Italian rider for the 2018 and 2019 MotoGP seasons.
Image source: MotoGP
Andrea Iannone also known as “The Maniac” has been in the limelight for quite some time now ever since he joined the premier league. Once a rider for Ducati Team, he was the one who ended the top podium drought for Ducati in MotoGP two years back.
Image source: MotoGP
He then made his move to Suzuki to help them develop one of the most anticipated MotoGP race bikes that is the Suzuki GSX-RR. Paired with his wild riding style and charismatic personality, it’s no wonder that HJC made the deal with the talented Italian.
Image source: MotoGP
According to Andrea Iannone, “I am very excited to join the HJC Helmet family this year. HJC has a tradition of quality and race performance helmets. With their multiple MotoGP title sponsorships and the large portfolio of racers around the world, HJC is the brand of choice in MotoGP. I am glad to be one of their top ambassadors and I look forward to a long-term commitment to the brand.”
HJC Helmets also announced that Iannone will be wearing a brand new helmet developed specifically for professional racing purposes. This new race helmet will be developed from the flagship and most high-end helmet in the market, the HJC RPHA 11 full face helmet.
Image source: MotoGP
Catch Andrea Iannone and his brand new HJC helmet this Sunday during the first day of the MotoGP 2018 Sepang winter test happening from 28 to 30 January 2018. See you guys there!
2017 HJC RPHA 11 Monster Energy helmets now in Malaysia – RM2,429!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysia-speed-festival-2018-msf-ready-round-2/ | Malaysia Speed Festival 2018 (MSF) ready for Round 2 |
Round 2 of the Malaysia Speed Festival 2018 (MSF) is set to roll this weekend on 7 and 8 April 2018.
Over 60 bikes have registered for the track day sessions as well as the first round of the MSF Super400 and MSF Super1000 races.
Other events include MSF Drift Gonzo, MSF Cars Racing, and also MSF Car Track Day.
Over 60 motorcycles will be going head to head against each other this weekend (7 and 8 April 2018) at the Malaysia Speed Festival 2018 or otherwise known as MSF. One of the biggest national motorsports events will be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and where motorcycle racers will battle it out in the MSF Super400 and MSF Super1000.
This is your chance to get up close and personal with some very interesting race machines registered in the two bike categories. The entrance to Main Grandstand free of charge but it’ll be way more fun if you opt for the option to watch the races live from the paddock with just a small entrance fee of RM20 (RM35 after 11 am).
All track day enthusiasts and motoring fans are welcomed to join the activities where it’s not just superbikes that’ll battle it out in the first round of MSF Superbikes. Other planned activities include MSF Superbike Track Day on Saturday, MSF Drift Gonzo for all you drift junkies as well as MSF Cars Racing and track day for those who prefer four-wheelers.
To know more about this all-weekend motorsports extravaganza, check out the official MSF Facebook page.
Image source: MSF
“One state, one race circuit in 10 years” – Khairy Jamaluddin
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-yamaha-mt-09-photos-leaked-online/ | 2021 Yamaha MT-09 photos leaked online |
It was only last week that Yamaha Motor Europe released a teaser video for what looks like the new 2021 Yamaha MT-09. Not much info has been released for the bike apart from the message “Coming soon” but now, some leaked photos have made their way online and this is what it’ll look like.
Starting from the front, the new-generation Yamaha MT-09 comes with a new front headlight design that reminds us of the old KTM 390 Duke. The setup now has one main headlight and two strips of DRLs on the side which we assume are all LEDs. This design might be on the fence for Yamaha enthusiasts.
The fuel tank is now sculpted differently with new side air intakes which helps send some much-needed air to what we assume is a new and bigger triple-cylinder engine. Experts in the field have indicated that the new MT-09 has an updated 890cc unit that puts out around 120hp, a decent 5% increase from its predecessor.
Another new feature that we can see is a new TFT screen that displays a bunch of things like traction control level, selectable riding modes, fuel level, gear indicator, and a small display on the side that indicates the presence of an up/down quickshifter. Sweet.
And it that a set of Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 rubbers? Double sweet.
More details will be released soon regarding a possible new chassis and swingarm, but for now, this is all we can confirm via the leaked photos. There’s no indication on when the official launch will be, but these shots will certainly mean that it is soon. Really soon. Stay tuned, folks.
20% discount on spare parts @ Modenas Power Store, Kota Damansara!
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/guy-martin-quits-road-racing/ | Guy Martin quits road racing |
Legendary road racer Guy Martin has decided to call it quits on his career as an international road racer following an unsuccessful return to the road racing scene.
After an unexpected return to road racing by accepting an offer from the Honda Racing Team, everything went downhill from there for both Guy Martin and John McGuinness.
As McGuinness sat out of the Isle of Man TT race following a broken leg from a crash in the North West 200, Martin finally puts a stop on road racing after fruitless attempt with the Honda Racing Team.
Following his recent withdrawal this year’s Ulster Grand Prix prior the 2017 Isle of Man TT, legendary road racer Guy Martin has decided to call it quits on his career as an international road racer. After suffering a major crash at the 2015 Ulster Grand Prix road race, most of us would think that Guy Martin would count his lucky stars after making out alive from that horrible crash which resulted in weeks of hospitalisation.
He finally broke his road racing blackout after accepting a once-in-a-lifetime offer by Neil Tuxworth, the big gun of Honda road racing handling the Honda Racing Team for the Isle of Man TT race. Together with John McGuinness aka “The King of the Mountain” and the latest Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2, Martin accepted the offer. The fairytale completely ended even before the 2017 Isle of Man TT races concluded.
Image source: Grimsby Telegraph
The first blow was felt when the brand new Honda Fireblades were received late by the team which left both McGuinness and Martin not enough time for testing and development. Things turned for the worse for the entire team when McGuinness suffered a huge crash caused by an unexpected throttle blip from the race kit ECU which left him with a broken leg and out of this year’s TT race.
John McGuinness (left) with Guy Martin (right)
Martin did not have a good time as well during the TT race as he suffered a crash in the Superbike race when his bike unexpectedly suffered a false neutral that left Martin shaken and unconfident with the bike’s ability to compete at the highest levels. Martin sat out the final premiere class Senior TT race following the incident.
Image source: Grimsby Telegraph
Martin finally call quits for his long road racing career after one final test session in Cadwell Park. According to the 35 year old Brit, “Racing’s been good to me, but I’m bored of it. You spend the early part of the year preparing for the season – testing, racing, talking about it, and then doing it all over again. It’s like Groundhog Day. It’s time to stop.”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2021-ducati-multistrada-v4-lands-in-malaysia-rm135900/ | 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 Lands In Malaysia – RM135,900 |
Last year, we witnessed the official unveiling of the new Ducati Multistrada V4 at the 2021 Ducati World Premier.
Fast forward into September, Next Bike Sdn Bhd the official distributor of the Ducati brand in Malaysia has finally unveiled the all-new Multistrada V4 for the local market.
Starting with the design, the new 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 still carries that iconic Italian ADV bike looks where form blends exceptionally well with function.
At the front, the headlight is inspired by the very sporty Panigale series thanks to its full-LED setup and daytime-running lights with cornering illumination functions.
You’ll also see a strange square box embedded upfront, which is the bike’s internal radar system linked to its Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection systems.
A more sporty appeal is seen on the sides thanks to those wind-shaped curves that not only looks superb but also helps to increase stability as well as provide thermal and aerodynamic comfort.
This also helps with the overall riding ergonomics due to its slim subframe for ‘greater control and riding pleasure.
The heart of the new Multistrada V4 lies a 1,158cc Ducati Granturismo V4 engine that puts out 170hp at 10,500rpm and 125Nm of torque at 8,750rpm.
Features like a counter-rotating crankshaft (MotoGP inspired) and dedicated gearshift (Panigale V4 inspired) offer even more versatility, especially with its shorter first gear and longer sixth gear.
Safety features include:
Riding Modes
Power Modes
ABS Cornering
Ducati Traction Control
Ducati Wheelie Control
Daytime Running Light
Ducati Brake Light
Pricing for the new Multistrada V4 starts from RM135,900.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-colours-for-2020-yamaha-niken-gt/ | New colours for 2020 Yamaha Niken GT |
Yamaha has updated its Sport Touring models for the global market with a diverse line-up of bikes ranging from 700cc – 1,300cc. What you’re looking at the moment is the 2020 Yamaha Niken and Niken GT, which are now available in some new and very cool colours (not in Malaysia, though).
For those who are able to obtain the Yamaha Niken and Niken GT, the 2020 model gets new colour options. The range-topping 2020 Yamaha Niken GT is now available in the new ‘Tech Black’ colourway, featuring a bright red cowl, front fenders, and side panels that offer a more ‘sporty and dynamic’ façade.
If Tech Black is not up to your taste, the Niken GT is also available in Phantom Blue and Nimbus Grey. If you want a regular 2020 Yamaha Niken, that is now available in the classic Graphite finish. No matter what colour you choose, rolling around on this three-wheeled beast will certainly make you the centre of attention.
The Niken is powered by a powerful 847cc inline-three DOHC crossplane-crank engine (the same one in the very popular MT-09) that produces around 115hp, which is more than enough to offer an exhilarating sport touring performance no matter if you’re blasting down the highways or carving through mountain roads.
This is the craziest Yamaha Niken in the world!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-must-tools-motorcyclists/ | Ten Must-Have Tools for Motorcyclists |
Tools are essential in any motorcycle.
While modern motorcycles are as reliable as the atomic clock, that doesn’t discount emergencies.
It’s always best to be prepared for the worst.
Roadside motorcycle repairs are almost extinct in these times as motorcycles become ever more reliable. However, that doesn’t rule out breakdowns due to say, minor accidents (touch wood!), such as experienced by this writer during the recent GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling.
Time to break out the tools kit.
This is no time to discover that either you’ve got no tools or crappy and/or inadequate ones that came with your bike (depending on the manufacturer).
Here are Ten Must Have Tools. You could choose to store them under your bike’s seat or in the tool box, but best to we ride while adhering to the Scouts’ principle of being ready.
Multi-tool
A multi-tool is always handy as it combines many tools into one compact package. You’d usually find a knife, a pair of pliers, a pair of screwdrivers with different heads. Do get yourself a sturdy set such as those from Victorinox (the ever-popular Swiss Army knife), Gerber or Leatherman.
The caveat of a multi-tool is that it only contains basic tools, leaving out the wrench, among others.
2. Screwdrivers
The screwdrivers included with multi-tools are too short, thereby lacking the torque to turn stubborn screws, besides being unable to reach difficult places. You ought to include a pair of 15cm (6”) long Phillips and straight-edged screwdrivers under the seat. Also, best that they have magnetic tips to help you in retrieving metal objects.
3. Pliers
You may already have a multi-tool, but it’s still best to have a dedicated pair of pliers under the seat, in case you forget the multi-tool. We prefer the needle-nose (long nose) variety as it could fit into tight spaces. Do choose the pair with a sharp and strong cutter.
4. Allen/Hex Keys
Most bikes use both normal screws in combination with allen or hex (usually called “flower” locally) screws. Yes, you can find an entire set contained in a flip-out style holder, but we recommend that you obtain ones with long handles for the necessary torque. Additionally, find those with ball-ends as they slot in easier at acute angles. You can bring those corresponding to the sizes of the screws on your bike and leave the rest at home.
5. Adjustable wrench (spanner)
Honestly, we abhor the adjustable wrench as it never fits a bolt or nut exactly, leading to rounded bolts and nuts. Yet, it’s the only tool you could turn to when you don’t have enough wrenches or sockets. A locking type is recommended as it frees your hands to work on other things.
6. Wrenches (Spanners)
How could anyone leave these out? You don’t have to buy from the smallest to the largest, instead have those sizes on your bike. Please don’t be cheap when you shop for wrenches (or any tool for that matter) as low-quality ones with have you crying over rounded bolts and nuts.
7. Puncture repair kit
Every motorist, motorcyclists included, should learn how to fix a flat tyre and carry a set of puncture repair kit. Sure, you could call for assistance but what if you had a flat in some deserted location without telephone service. At night. We found this Oxford tyre repair kit in Hodaka Motoworld.
8. Torchlight
You could argue that any mobile phone has a torchlight function. Very true. But you need one hand to hold on to it or place it on somewhere secure. A headlamp is best. We found compact, bright, weatherproof and long-running LED ones from Energizer here in Malaysia.
9. Cable ties
No tool pouch or toolbox is complete without cable ties. You could repair just about anything with them, such a dropped number plate, loose bodywork, etc.
10. Duct Tape
No ducks were harmed in making duck tapes. Hahaha. Sorry, just a little joke. Duct tapes are excellent for temporarily repairing leaks for example a hose (hence the name “duct”) or patching up small leaks.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/10-reasons-why-you-should-attend-the-world-ducati-week/ | 10 Reasons Why You Should Attend The World Ducati Week! |
The World Ducati Week is a pilgrimage of sorts for any biker no matter the type of brand or bike they ride. It’s a congregation that happens every other year since 1998 at the Misano World Circuit ‘Marco Simoncelli’ in Misano, Italy.
The 2022 edition attracted over 84,000 people. This included world champions from different race series including MotoGP and SBK. In fact, there were 30 championship titles shared among all the world champions that were present during the 2022 edition.
But it’s not just a meeting of Ducatisti and passionists. It’s also a huge display of appreciation by Ducati for its fans. As a treat, Ducati organises the Race of Champions. This is where every big name racer who has ever competed on a Ducati in a major series is invited for an exhibition race where all of them race on standard bikes.
The bikes are Ducati Panigale V4S in their respective race liveries. Among the big names was Pecco Bagnaia, Jack Miller, Michele Pirro, Johann Zarco, Jorge Martin and Danilo Petrucci. Each a race winner, and all have done it on board a Ducati. The Race of Champions is a must watch!
But besides that, the World Ducati Week is also a chance to get close to the management of Ducati, ride the latest Ducati bikes and buy the latest Ducati merchandise. Just check out the video below to see how awesome the 2022 edition of WDW was.
If you are looking for a reason to go, here’s 10 reasons why you should attend the World Ducati Week!
1. It’s a party
With beer, coffee and lots of food to go around everywhere, the World Ducati Week is indeed one mega party that goes on for days! Then there is the Scrambler Beach Party too that happens at the coastal town of Riccione that is not too far from the Misano World Circuit. Legendary Italian DJ Benny Benassi headlined the beach party this year while there was another party during the closing at the circuit. This makes the trip a fun and memorable one beyond motorcycles.
2. Check out some amazing bikes, past and present
With thousands of people present, imagine the motorcycles present at the World Ducati Week. This is a great opportunity to check out some cool custom bikes, some rarely seen Ducatis and other models as well. This writer even saw a Honda Cub that was ridden over to Misano from the Czech Republic. It even had an arrows exhaust fitted on. The classic bikes are amazing too. If you are a gear head, the World Ducati Week is not to be missed!
3. Buy some cool merchandise
The great thing about the World Ducati Week is the sales of Ducati merchandise. You can literally get anything you want that has a Ducati logo on it. From the latest riding gear to the latest lifestyle merchandise. There’s even parts for your Ducati too. And guess what, there are some booths there that will even check out the condition of your Ducati to tell you whether or not anything needs to be replaced.
4. Experience the Italian culture
The Italian culture spans hundreds if not thousands of years. From the food to the coffee, everything is just amazing and it is something that needs to be experienced to be appreciated. Have wine for breakfast, drink a beer by the side of the street, experience gelato from every shop. No one is going to judge you. Just don’t be a nuisance.
5. Enjoy the beach life
World Ducati Week happens during the summer, and it can be extremely hot. This makes it perfect to hit the beach. Italians love summer, they love the beach life, they just love to hang out. Swim in the Adriatic Sea and just chill out. Don’t forget to turn off your phone!
6. Watch the Race of Champions
The Race of Champions is unlike any other race in the world. This race is only for those who have won races onboard a Ducati in major race series. And the best thing is they all do it on standard and the same bikes, particularly the Panigale V4S and the Panigale V2. You get MotoGP riders there, SBK riders and even riders from the Americas. The best thing is, you even get close to them unlike the elitist MotoGP or SBK where you see them from afar. There’s no other race like the Race of Champions.
7. Experience the latest Ducatis
Ducati won’t exactly let you ride the Panigale V4R or even a Superleggera, but you can experience bikes like the Desert X, Multistrada and the Scrambler. If you have always wondered some Ducatis feel like but your local dealer won’t let you ride one, the World Ducati Week has you covered.
8. Visit Borgo Panigale
This is holy ground for Ducati, the Vatican of Ducati even. Borgo Panigale is where the Ducati factory is situated and also the iconic Museo Ducati which houses some of the most iconic Ducatis ever to grace the planet. And the best thing is, the hills nearby is where Ducati test riders put prototype Ducatis to the test. So visit the factory and museum, then rent a bike and ride the hills. This is where Ducatis are born and given their character.
9. Learn from like-minded people
Young and old. Classics and modern. There are literally so many people to talk and learn from that it is impossible to get lonely at the World Ducati Week. Everyone is keen to show off their latest custom machine and share what they have done to their bikes. If you have a problem with your bike or are pursuing a custom job that you need some help with, World Ducati Week will be able to help you. The only barrier? Language. So brush up on your Italian or download a translation app to help you.
10. Ride Italy!
This is quite literally the best part and the main reason why you should attend the World Ducati Week. To ride Italy. Just remember to rent your bike much earlier because there are thousands of people who will be wanting to do the same. Ride the dolomites, experience the mountains, check out Cinque Terre, soak in Lake Como, ride south to Rome then to the Amalfi coast. Italy is the best place to experience motorcycling at its best, and the World Ducati Week offers the perfect chance!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/features/geared-up/bike-grooming-hpro/ | Bike grooming at H#Pro |
We all love our machine, some perhaps a bit too much. We love looking at them as much as we love riding them; nothing beats the feeling of a nice clean looking bike to gawk at and as that goes, a good wash is always a welcome thing.
And for that, we recommend you to try out H#PRO (yes, there really is a hashtag in the name) in Danau Kota. The company deals with high end detailing. Now when we say “high end” we don’t mean only Ducatis or BMWs need to apply, they cater to any bike big or small, cars even. What we mean by “high end” is how it’s done.
According to founder and business owner Sham Yunus, it all started a few years ago when he noticed that there was a bike helmet cleaning service in almost every mall he went to in Jakarta.
“The Indonesians seems to be more aware of helmet cleanliness, they don’t mind paying for such service and it does make lot of sense since being in this hot climate we tend to sweat a lot in it,” explains Sham.
From there he started to do some research before opening a helmet wash in the centre of Kuala Lumpur.
“It was still a big learning curve for me when that business opened in business terms, techniques, procedures and products used. From there more improvements were done before I decided to start this, H#Pro.”
And since the same techniques, products and equipment used to clean the helmets is about the same, Syam decided to expend to cleaning bikes and cars.
While every detailing company have either their favourite brand of products or cooked up their own concoctions which H#Pro does, the main difference H#Pro have over other detailing shops is that they use pressurised steam to clean the bikes rather than high-pressure water jets.
“Its less intrusive than the usual water jet way as the pressure exerted on the cleaning surface is a lot lower. It also allows us to get closer to the machine and thoroughly clean every nook and cranny.”
Another benefit of the whole system is that it’s environmentally friendly, I use less water and makes sure our products are bio-degradable.”
Once the bike is cleaned, its coated with a special silicone that is not sticky nor slippery to the touch but has that nice shine to the bike, just like when it was “new”.
Generally a helmet wash will take about or up to 90 minutes depending on how much cleaning it needs and a bike wash 30 to 40 minutes but waiting wont be a daunting thing as instead of a typical waiting room, H#Pro comes with its own bikers cafe right next door.
“I wanted to do it in such a way that the bikers feel comfortable and can actually hang out here and enjoy some drinks and food while waiting for their bikes or helmets to be cleaned instead of just sitting there on a sofa and getting bored. Or it’s the other way around, come here and hang around with your buddies and while you are at it, have your bike washed.”
He added that eventually he will open it up for franchise with either a permanent location such as this or a portable system that goes on a truck.
According to Sham, they are targeting August 16th as the official launch date for the detailing centre and from now till then, they are running a promotion campaign with a 50 percent off for the bike wash and detailing at RM30 instead of RM60. The cafe is open from 10am to 2am while the detailing centre is open from 12pm to 12am.
If you know any cool biker hangout or grooming centres such as this, do suggest it to us so can highlight it for the benefit of the biking community. So until then, maybe we’ll bumped into each other at H#Pro.
For more information about H#Pro, call 03-4131 2166 or visit their website at www.hpromotorsport.com or their FB site under hpmotorsport.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2019-yamaha-yzf-r25-r25-price-announced-from-rm-19998/ | 2019 Yamaha YZF-R25 (R25) Price Announced (From RM 19,998) |
HLYM announced the price for the 2019 YZF-R25 today.
The 2019 R25 retains the engine of its predecessor.
But there are many new features.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced the pricing for the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R25 (R25) today, after the preview back in January this year.
The price from RM 19,998 (basic selling price, not on-the-road) remains unchanged from its predecessor’s.
But while the 2019 model retains the same 250cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel-Twin engine, there are a number of new enhanced features:
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Upside-down forks for better handling and road feedback.
New aerodynamic bodywork inclusive of YZR-M1 style air intake.
New fuel tank design for better seating position.
New handlebar and ergonomics for the roads and track.
LED lighting and new LCD instrument cluster.
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The 2019 R25 is offered in two colours, Blue and Red and will be available from the 3rdweek of March. Buyers will receive exclusive stainless steel Yamaha Disc Lock complete with “reminder” cable.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/kawasaki-motors-malaysia-launch-h2-h2r-and-vulcan-s/ | Kawasaki Ninja H2 and Ninja H2R plus Vulcan S debuts in Malaysia |
New and supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2 and Ninja H2R hyperbikes debuts in Malaysia alongside new Vulcan S cruiser.
Kawasaki Motors Malaysia Sdn Bhd (KMMSB) marked the arrival of two new bikes for their 2015 line-up. The first being the brand’s flagship hyperbikes, the Ninja H2 and its track-only sibling the Ninja H2R.
Both are fresh from their European reveal and the most talked about bike of the year thanks to its supercharged engine and how Kawasaki had been releasing a million or so teaser videos of the bike.
So lets cut the chat and go straight to whats everybody have been waiting for, the Malaysian price. For the road-legal Ninja H2, KMMSB has priced it at just below RM154,000. The track-only Ninja H2R, on the other hand, will be priced at around RM300,000. Additionally, the Ninja H2R’s price includes six track day session at the Sepang International Circuit.
According to KMMSB’s general manager Jeffery Lim, the firm’s local technicians are already trained to work on the Ninja H2 and the special needs of the Ninja H2R. This also means that dealers who will be selling the bike will also be able to service it as well.
And its even bigger news for cruiser lovers as Kawasaki Malaysia brings in the Vulcan S.
A cruiser based on the brand’s popular ER-6 model, the Vulcan S is set lower and longer then the ER-6N with a relaxed straight up sitting and easy to reach handlebars and footpegs.
While the engine, transmission and central chassis remains the same, the Vulcan S differs in several parts like the rear sub frame, 14litre fuel tank, muffler, head light, LED rear light and a very comfortable and low seat.
Amazingly Kawasaki Motors Malaysia targets to price the bike below RM30,000. Yes you read that right, below RM30,000.
Along with the bike, Kawasaki Motors Malaysia is also planning to bring in accessories that’s been designed specifically for the Vulcan S such as windscreens, panniers, and more.
Jeffery Lim states that the Ninja H2, Ninja H2R, and Vulcan S will be available in the first quarter of 2015. He further added that KMMSB will also roll out the 2015 Versys 650 and 1000 by the second quarter of next year. However there were no price indication of the two models yet though.
Check out our extensive photo galleries below for more. Additionally, more photos are also available at the official BikesRepublic.com Facebook page.
Kawasaki Ninja H2, Ninja H2R, and Vulcan S Malaysian Launch.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/langkawi-plans-new-barcode-system-fight-motorcycle-theft/ | Langkawi police introducing barcode to fight motorcycle theft |
Langkawi police aims to fight motorcycle theft using new barcode system starting August this year.
Our friends at local Malay-language motoring site Careta.my recently published a report indicating that police in Langkawi are planning to introduce a new barcode system as a means to fight motorcycle theft.
In the report, District Chief of Police Supt Dr Che Ghazali Che Awang was quoted in stating that the innovative new system will be implemented starting August this year. The system’s introduction will be timed in conjunction with the popular resort island’s scheduled campaign against motorcycle theft.
An estimated total of 3,000 motorcycles registered in Langkawi will be the first to put the new barcode system through an initial trial phase. Authorities believe that this system has a strong potential in preventing motorcycle theft more effectively.
During the launch of Ops Selamat held in Langkawi ahead of the upcoming Hari Raya holidays, Supt Dr Che Ghazali was quoted further in stating, “Registration for the initial trial phase is free of charge for owners and these barcodes will placed in several areas the registered motorcycle that will make the scanning process easier.”
Motorcycle theft in Malaysia is a serious issue. In most cases, most bikes reported stolen are never recovered as many are cannibalised for spare parts. Should this barcode system prove its effectiveness, we may see a welcoming change in the legislation for motorcycle ownership sometime in the near future.
Source: Careta.my
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/study-certified-superbike-technician-toc-automotive-college/ | Study to be a Certified Superbike Technician at the TOC Automotive College |
Make a career out of your passion with the superbike technician course.
The new course by TOC Automotive College aims to prepare students with the knowledge to maintain almost any type of superbike.
The course offers a balance of class room studies and real-world experience.
And there is also a financing programme that aims to make the course affordable for all.
There’s no better way to become a certified superbike technician than enrolling at the TOC Automotive College.
Their latest 18-month Superbike Technician Course offers nothing but the best of both knowledge and real-world experience.
With over 70% of hands-on learning, becoming a certified superbike technician has never been easier or more fun.
There comes a time in everyone’s lives where there’s a great need to learn or improve oneself. The best method always goes back to education but what’s better is a combination of valuable knowledge and real-world experience. That’s exactly what you can expect when you pursue your studies at the TOC Automotive College.
There are many comprehensive automotive-related programmes suited to anyone and everyone regardless of their skills. Armed with just the passion and strive to succeed, anyone can become a certified technician upon completing their studies over at TOC.
Their latest Superbike Technician Course is a program where anyone can become a certified superbike technician in the shortest time possible whilst ensuring the highest levels of quality. Their three-level programme covers 18 months of comprehensive superbike knowledge from installation, maintenance, repairs, and motorcycle parts replacements.
This particular course offered by TOC is the first of its kind to provide extensive exposure to real-world working scenarios and workshop conditions. Through their many industry partners particularly the Malaysia Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA), valuable work experience can be collected through a wide variety of brands and manufacturers for all those who enrol for TOC’s Superbike Technician Course.
Those of you who are sceptical about the programme will be glad to know that they are highly-recognised by the Ministry of Education (MoE). Combined with the fact that the course is majorly focused on hands-on learning rather than books and exams, you can be sure that the end-product of the TOC Automotive College is nothing but the highest of qualities.
Worried about financing your journey to becoming the next top certified superbike technician? Fret not as TOC offers low upfront payment to begin the course together with easy monthly loan payments once you enter to working world after graduation. Thanks to their very own TOC Bina Bakat (Building Talents) program, future superbike technicians can start their training with up to 100% loan.
There are three different levels to complete the 18-month program. Each six-month level comprises of three months of building skills and knowledge at the college itself and the other three months for ‘Industrial Training’ over at any of the workshops stationed to gain real-world experience.
The first level covers the basics of motorcycle workshop safety, application of related study, basic metal works and introduction to motorcycle technology, plus many more. Level 2 focuses on repairs and maintenance of engines, transmission, chassis, services, and maintenance.
The final level dwells deeper into the world of motorcycle electrical system, performance, overhauling, and more. Combined with the fact that the TOC Automotive College has a wide variety of superbikes from major manufacturers hailing from Japan and Europe, becoming a certified superbike technician armed with the best qualities is easily done thanks to folks over at TOC.
All in all, there’s really no valid excuse you can give if you want to become one of the greats in the world of superbikes. Rest assured that the TOC Automotive College has got you covered through every step of the way. All you need to bring to the table is just your passion and willingness to commit your time as well as effort and TOC will take care of the rest.
Click here to know more about TOC’s Superbike Technician Course.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hafizh-syahrin-excited-to-drive-in-sepang-1000km-endurance-s1k/ | Hafizh Syahrin Excited to Drive in Sepang 1000km Endurance (S1K) |
Hafizh Syahrin in the S1K car - Photo credit NST
Hafizh Syahrin will take part in the Sepang 1000 km Endurance (S1K) this weekend.
The race is his preparation for the World Touring Car Races in December.
He will also ride in the FIM Endurance World Championship.
Hafizh Syahrin is excited to try his hand at four-wheels racing in the Sepang 1000km Endurance (S1K) this weekend.
Using his time out away from his usual vocation, Hafizh had been training with Hi-Re SIC Dream Chaser team a week before the season ending race at Valencia. The training aim to bring him up to speed in the world of four-wheeled racing at the Sepang International Circuit.
Hafizh said that the S1K will be his preparation for the World Touring Car Races (WCTR) which will be held back-to-back with the FIM World Endurance Championship (FEWC) motorcycle endurance from 13th to 15th December.
He will also race in the FEWC in a Petronas and SIC backed team which consists of Franco Morbidelli besides another rider.
“I have to prepare myself in mental and physical aspects. I have to familiarise myself with different sensations and feel in a car on the track.”
He will be driving a Toyota Vios with the number 910 along with 17-year-old up and coming driver Bradley Benedict Anthony, and Alister Yoong who is the son of former Malaysian Formula 1 driver Alex Yoong.
72 cars will fill the SIC grid this weekend.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/harley-davidson-low-rider-el-diablo-in-the-pipeline/ | Harley-Davidson Low Rider El Diablo In The Pipeline |
Harley-Davidson to expand the Low Rider range with a new version, which according to the latest emission documents filed in the US and German, will be called the Low Rider El Diablo.
The El Diabo will run with the same 117ci (1,923cc) Milwaukee-Eight V-Twin engine, according to the published documents.
However, the El Diablo weighs 4 kilograms more than the standard Low Rider ST, which struck a big question: it might sport a large batwing fairing and a pair of panniers.
Nevertheless, the El Diablo version will get a new paint job, Midnight Crimson/Neblu Red colour scheme.
Reports suggest that the Nebula Red paint combo will pay homage to the 1991 Harley FXRT SportGlide.
The El Diablo might appear in the coming months, probably right after the Low Rider ST goes on sale.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hero-motocorp-garners-over-25000-bookings-for-highly-anticipated-harley-davidson-x440/ | Hero MotoCorp Garners Over 25,000 Bookings For Highly Anticipated Harley-Davidson X440 |
Hero MotoCorp, India’s leading motorcycle manufacturer, has made a resounding entry into the premium motorcycle segment with the Harley-Davidson X440, as it announces an overwhelming response of 25,597 bookings.
The booking phase, which commenced on July 4, has now concluded, but a new booking window is on the horizon, as stated in a press release by the company today.
Scheduled to initiate production at the Garden Factory in Neemrana, Rajasthan, come September, Hero MotoCorp is primed to deliver the Harley-Davidson X440 to eagerly awaiting customers starting in October.
Niranjan Gupta, Chief Executive Officer at Hero MotoCorp, expressed his delight at the tremendous reception the Harley-Davidson X440 has garnered.
“We are delighted with the customer response to Harley-Davidson X440. It is heartening to see the confidence shown by the customers in Hero MotoCorp’s foray into this segment … and that majority of our bookings are coming from the top end model, indicating that customers are willing to pay higher price for the right brand and right model.
“This is just the beginning of our journey to win in the premium segment,” he said.
The Harley-Davidson X440 is a remarkable collaboration between the iconic Harley-Davidson brand and the innovation-driven Hero MotoCorp. As the bookings flood in, it is evident that the alliance between these two industry giants has struck a chord with Indian motorcycle enthusiasts.
Hero MotoCorp has positioned itself as a stalwart in the two-wheeler market, and the impressive response to the Harley-Davidson X440 only underscores the company’s commitment to excellence and its ability to cater to a diverse range of consumer preferences.
With the success of the Harley-Davidson X440’s initial booking phase, all eyes are now on the upcoming production and delivery stages.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/new-details-emerge-on-the-upcoming-aprilia-rs440/ | New Details Emerge On The Upcoming Aprilia RS440 |
Earlier this year, Aprilia was caught testing a smaller version of the RS 660, which was reported to be a 440cc sports bike.
The test mule was caught testing alongside the upcoming Moto Guzzi Stelvio.
In the latest development, new details emerge about the upcoming Aprilia RS 440.
Engine and Performance
The new Aprilia RS 440 is set to feature a 440cc parallel-twin engine, boasting approximately 45 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque. Designed for those looking to upgrade from smaller bikes, the RS 440 is equipped with a 6-speed gearbox and is likely to offer liquid cooling.
Design Elements
Spy shots reveal significant refinements in the motorcycle’s body design, displaying clear lineage to the Aprilia family. The LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are reminiscent of those on the new RS 660. These DRLs not only serve as accent lights but could potentially double as turn indicators, although this is yet to be confirmed.
The bike features a split headlight design, an integrated windshield for enhanced aerodynamics, and a sculpted fuel tank. The fairing, which encapsulates most of the engine, is one of the standout design features, adding a sleek yet aggressive look to the motorcycle.
Chassis and Braking
Contrary to the RS 660’s twin disc setup, the RS 440 will incorporate a single disc setup at both ends, likely featuring radial calipers at the front. The bike also sports a custom cast rear swingarm, which is less sophisticated than that of its bigger sibling, the RS 660.
Additional Features
The RS 440 is expected to come with a fully digital instrument screen and dual-channel ABS. Bi-directional quick shifting is also highly likely to be a feature. The absence of a tire hugger and a neatly integrated underbelly exhaust point toward the bike’s focus on mass centralization.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/walt-siegel-motorcycles-sbk-panigales-are-too-mainstream/ | Walt Siegel Motorcycles’ SBK – Panigales are Too Mainstream |
Walt Siegel Motorcycles (WSM) are custom Ducati builders.
They built this retro model called the “SBK.”
WSM builds it with the air-cooled or liquid-cooled Ducati engines.
Always wanted a Ducati superbike but the Panigale’s too common for your tastes? You can seek out this “SBK” from Walt Siegel Motorcycles (WSM), then.
WSM is based in New Hampshire and hand-builds custom Ducati-powered bikes. Sticking to two-valve air-cooled Ducati engines previous, WSM now build bikes based on the four-valve liquid-cooled engines.
The SBK can accommodate either engine. The classic Ducati ladder-trellis frame is used, instead of the monocoque design of the Panigale. However, the geometry of WSM’s frame is identical to Ducatis in the World Superbike Championship, that are different to volume production frames.
This particular example was built around the 4-valve, liquid-cooled 1098 engine (dry clutch, woohoo!), built by Bruce Meyers Performance. However, it features a custom WSM ECU. This ECU in turn features traction control, clutchless upshifts, full interface dashboard with data acquisition.
It was due to the 1098 engine that WSM chose the frame and chassis geometry. The SBK uses Öhlins FGR World Superbike forks and Öhlins TTX shock, revalved to WSM’s specifications. Brembo Monobloc calipers and discs are obvious choices for the brakes.
WSM used carbon fibre to reduce the bike’s weight. Lots of it. The large fairing is entirely carbon, weighing an incredible 4kg. The tail section and its subframe are also made of carbon fibre, weighing a next-to-nothing 0.8kg. The airbox and its intake tubes are carbon fibre, too.
There are certain differences between the air-cooled and liquid-cooled SBK. The former uses BST carbon fibre wheels shod with Metzeler racing slicks, and Arrow titanium mufflers. It tips the scale at 154kg. The “LC” model, on the other hand, is fitted with OZ Racing wheels and Dunlop Q4 tyres. The muffler is from SC Project. It weighs 161kg due to liquid-cooling.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogp-airbags-compulsory-2018-onwards/ | MotoGP: Airbags compulsory from 2018 onwards |
Airbags will be a compulsory gear for all riders in MotoGP starting 2018 onwards.
MotoGP commercial rights holders Dorna SL and ruling body FIM have announced that starting the 2018 season onwards, airbags will become a mandatory item for all MotoGP riders competing.
The announcement was made earlier this week following after a discussion with the equipment manufacturer’s working group, who are in agreement with the organisers.
Leading the field here are Dainese and Alpinestars as both Italian brands have pioneered the use of airbags in their race suits and also for road-going products. In fact Dainese has even begun licensing its D-Air Armor airbag technology to other brands, with both REV’ IT and Furygan being the earliest adopters.
Both the Dainese D-Air Armor and Alpinestars Tech-Air airbag systems have proven their worth on the race track. In MotoGP alone, both have contributed towards significantly lower collarbone and shoulder injuries in the MotoGP class over the recent years.
However, there are a few critics who have argued the effectiveness of airbags. Some medics have highlighted that little research has been done into the effect that airbags can have in regards to impacts away from the shoulder to other more vulnerable areas.
Critics aside though, this is a huge step forward in terms of safety for top-flight motorcycle racing. We reckon that through racing, both Alpinestars and Dainese would be able to evolve and mature their respective systems even further.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/motogpmarquez-stays-espargaro-leaves-ktm/ | MotoGP:Marquez stays, Espargaro leaves for KTM |
MotoGP silly season ramps up as Marc Marquez announces his stay with Honda whilst Pol Espargaro reveals new deal with KTM.
With the Catalan MotoGP race weekend looming, more contracts and being sealed amongst some of the sport’s top flight riders. 2016 is a landmark year for MotoGP for a number of reasons, one of which being the fact that many riders’ have their two-year contracts up for renewal with their respective teams this year.
The very latest from the paddock sees former world champion Marc Marquez and the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) announcing their renewed alliance. Marquez will be staying at the factory-backed Repsol Honda Teal alongside Dani Pedrosa for another two seasons lasting through the 2017 and 2018 seasons.
With his sensational performance of late despite the technical struggles Honda faces with the new spec electronics package in its RC213V machine, it was only right that the Japanese racing giant opted to keep Marquez a little longer.
Next comes the confirmation from the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team that its leading Spanish rider, Pol Espargaro, is leaving the team by season’s end. Shortly after the team’s announcement, Pol Espargaro’s representative made the timely announcement to reveal that he has signed a two-year deal with KTM.
Pol’s departure from the satellite Yamaha team also signals the end of his riding contract directly with Yamaha Racing. He joins British rider Bradley Smith, who is also his current teammate in the satellite Yamaha garage, in the factory-backed KTM MotoGP team for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.
Pol Espargaro’s move to the KTM MotoGP team has been rumoured for sometime. The Austrian manufacturer is making its debut in MotoGP next season and is understandably in need of riders that are both fast and technically minded.
KTM’s motorsports director Pit Beirer states: “We’re more than happy that we’re now able to sign Pol Espargaro as a young rider of form and with MotoGP experience for this dynamic project. Both Pol and Bradley are well suited to KTM.”
With both Pol and Bradley’s exit, the vacant seats at the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 team have become highly sought after. Rumours currently suggest that defending Moto2 champion Johann Zarco is vying for the seat left vacant by Spaniard Pol. Fuelling the Frenchman’s cause is the interest Tech 3 team founder and fellow compatriot Hervé Poncharal reportedly holds in him.
Sources: MCN (Link 1 / Link 2) / Asphaltandrubber (Link 1 / Link 2 / Link 3)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-versys-x-owners-road-to-southern-thailand/ | Kawasaki Versys-X owners’ Road to Southern Thailand |
Eight members of the Kawasaki Versys-X 250 Community (VEXCOM) have set on a journey towards Southern Thailand.
The road trip was organised to promote Kawasaki’s entry-level bike off-road capabilities.
The one-week trip is also hoped to create more interest in owning their very own machine and joining the VEXCOM family.
A total of eight brave and adventurous Kawasaki Versys-X 250 owners are currently on an epic journey towards Southern Thailand. Called the VEXCOM Road to Southern Thailand, the Versys-X Community (VEXCOM) members pushed off from the Kawasaki Motors Malaysia HQ last night located in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.
Supported by KMSB, they have a couple of objectives in mind which are to showcase the physical prowess of the Kawasaki Versys-X 250 in long distance riding and also to indirectly promote the true capabilities of the 250cc entry-level adventure machine. With this in mind, they also hope that more individuals will be interested in owning the bike as well as expanding their ever-growing VEXCOM family.
At 9 pm sharp last night, they were flagged off by the Executive Chairman of KMSB, Mr. Ahmad Faez Yahaya. Together with the rest of the VEXCOM members who came to show their support for their fellow brothers, these 8 Versys-X owners are planning to conquer Krabi, Hatyai, and Betong before heading back down to Kuala Lumpur all in a week’s time.
We wish the riders all the best in their endeavours and hope that their journey will be filled full of fun and wonder. Right safe, ride hard, and ride on! To know more about the Kawasaki Versys-X 250, check out our link, below.
Top things to love about the Kawasaki Versys-X 250
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-yzf-r25-coming-may-20/ | Yamaha YZF-R25 coming on May 20 |
Yamaha’s Indonesian arm has spilled the beans, announcing the launch date of the brand’s new YZF-R25 sports bike model.
In an effort to boast the new model’s supposed race-bred heritage, Yamaha have dubbed the YZF-R25 as a ‘baby YZR-M1’ MotoGP bike. While that remains to be seen, a parallel-twin 250cc engine will most likely power the R25, which is expected to deliver anywhere between 35hp to 37hp. Sources confirmed that the R25 will be built in Yamaha’s Indonesian manufacturing facilities.
If launch in our market, the YZF-R250 will compete directly against the Kawasaki Ninja 250 and Honda CBR250.
Previously, the Yamaha previewed a concept version of the YZF-R25 at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show, but it looked pretty much track-ready and not street-legal as you can see in the image below.
Nevertheless, all speculations and doubts will be thrown out the window once Yamaha unveils its ‘baby M1’ this week on May 20.
Sources report that Yamaha will also likely follow up with a 300cc version of the model destined for the European markets, bearing the designation YZF-R300 instead as well. The supposed R300 will then take the fight against the likes of the Ninja 300, CBR300, and perhaps the KTM RC200 or RC390.
It is widely expected of Yamaha to use the new R25’s platform to expand its MT naked range to spawn a MT-25 version as well.
Source: Visordown and Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/buell-baja-dr-to-arrive-in-2023-rm91k/ | CONFIRMED: Buell Baja DR To Arrive In 2023 – RM91k |
Buell Motorcycle recently made a comeback with a new range of motorcycles one of which is includes the upcoming Baja DR dirt bike.
Buell Baja DR to roll out in 2023.
Buell claimed the Baja DR is the world’s fastest production off-road motorcycle.
However, the Baja DR is not your typical dirt bike, it’s more of a hill climber/dune racer than a true motocross machine.
Bull first revealed the Baja DR back in March along with the SuperTouring 1190 which is claimed to be the world’s fastest touring bike.
Powering the Bajaj DR is the firm’s 1190cc 72-degree V-Twin capable of pumping 175hp and 137Nm. According to Buell, the Baja DR will be the world fastest production off-road machine.
In a latest development, the American company has confirmed that the Baja DR is set to roll out in 2023. However, Buell hasn’t exactly provided a specific date for the launch.
Nevertheless, if you’re still interested for the Baja DR, head over to the company’s website to submit your order for the USD19,995 (RM91k) dirt bike.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/treeletrik-e-bikes-debuts-malaysia/ | Treeletrik e-bikes debut in Malaysia |
Tree Movement (M) Sdn Bhd officially launches Treeletrik brand of electric bikes (e-bikes) in Malaysia.
The local market just welcomed its newest player in the eco-friendly vehicle game after local firm Tree Movement (M) Sdn Bhd officially launched the Treeletrik brand of electric bikes (e-bikes).
During the launch held in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, the firm rolled out 12 electric bike models of multiple genres. These included models destined as commercial fleet vehicles, commuters and recreational products.
In his speech, company chairman Majid Manjit Abdullah states, “We desire to provide transportation option that is clean, safe, affordable, requires minimal maintenance, saves money and is technologically advanced.”
He further adds that the firm is currently setting up its first integrated local assembly (CKD) and sales facility located in Balakong, Cheras that will be operational sometime next month. The firm will assemble its models using parts and components supplied by its strategic partner from China.
The firm is targeting to launch its first model, which is the Treeletrik T-90, towards the end of September this year. The scooter-styled electric bike is powered by an 84-volt DC electric motor paired with an 84-watt lead acid/lithium battery combination. It boasts a maximum travel range of 100km on a full charge whilst reaching an average top speed between 80 to 90km/h too.
Notably, the T-90, as well as other models in Treeletrik’s proposed range, will be affordably priced and requires no special equipment to charge. Treeletrik CEO Michael Yap was keen to point out that all Treeletrik bikes can be recharged using the regular three-pin wall socket that’s abundant nationwide. Tentatively, the firm is targeting to price the T-90 model at RM8,800 (without insurance).
Commuters and commercial fleet models aside, the firm is also targeting the recreational bike segment through a number of models. Highlights of this present in the 12-model launch showcase was an electric pit bike dubbed the T-30XR and a full-sized electric sport bike as well designated as the T-220.
A video posted by BIKES REPUBLIC (@bikesrepublic) on Jul 25, 2016 at 7:52pm PDT
With the Treeletrik T-220, its package as a sportbike appears sound. Besides sporting a ‘high-output’ in-wheel electric motor system, it came primed with sporty adjustable front forks to match as well. What was truly surprising with this model, as well as the rest of its stablemates for that matter, is its silent-operating nature – just see the video posted above.
Though not the first to spearhead electric bikes for the masses in Malaysia, Tree Movement’s exces expressed their high optimism in the firm’s performance within the local market.
During the post-launch press conference, CEO Michael Yap revealed the firm’s targets of selling 11,000 units of the Treeletrik brand of electric motorcycles within its first year. The range will begin with just three models starting with the T-90, but Michael did indicate the firm’s plans to release one new model type every six months as well.
You can find out more about Treeletrik via its official website, treeletrik.com or via its official Facebook page as well.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/max-biaggi-and-voxan-to-attempt-electric-motorcycle-speed-record/ | Max Biaggi and Voxan to Attempt Electric Motorcycle Speed Record |
Voxan Wattman - Photo credit RideApart
Ex-MotoGP and WorldSBK star Max Biaggi will ride a Voxan Wattman to claim the electric motorcycle speed record.
Voxan Motors claimed the Wattman as the “fastest electric motorcycle in the world.”
They will carry out the attempt at the Bolivian Salt Flats.
Yes, THAT Max Biaggi. The ex-MotoGP and WorldSBK star will attempt to break the electric motorcycle speed record.
Biaggi will ride the Wattman (as in “Watts”, geddit?) by Voxan Motors. Voxan is currently preparing the bike for Biaggi to ride at the Bolivian salt flats.
The current record is held by Jim Hoogerhyde who rode the electric Lightning SB-220 (close cousin of the LS-218). Hoogerhyde took the Lightning to 327.608 km/h (203.56 mph). Voxan and Biaggi are aiming for at least 330 km/h (205 mph) to break the old record and set a new mark.
Biaggi is the ambassador to Voxan’s parent company, Venturi since 2018.
Max Biaggi as Venturi’s ambassador – Photo credit RideApart
“When my friend Gildo Pastor (Venturi’s president) came to me with his plan for the world land speed record and the Voxan Wattman, I was obviously going to say yes. Gildo is both an expert and a pioneer in the field of electric mobility. Under his impetus, Venturi Automobiles has set a number of records and marked a host of world firsts,” said the charismatic race, also known as “Mad Max.”
Voxan is the direct competitor to performance motorcycle makers Lightning and Energica. They claim the Wattman as the most powerful electric bike in the world. The motor produces 200 hp and 200 Nm of torque, compared to the Lightning LS-218’s 200 hp and 228 Nm. The Wattman can hit 160 km/h in 5.9 seconds.
Even the beastly 2015 Kawasaki Ninja H2 needed 5.2 seconds to go from 0 to 160 km/h.
Other than brute power, the Wattman can charge from 0 to 80% in less than 30 minutes, and has a range of 180 km.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-malaysia-nightfuel-returns/ | BMW Motorrad Malaysia Nightfuel Returns |
BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s ultimate bikie party – BMW Motorrad Nightfuel returns.
It will be held at the Puteri Harbour Front, Johor this time.
Sources indicate that the F 850 GS will be launched at the event.
BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s ultimate party – BMW Motorrad Nightfuel – is back to rock the town.
The fifth edition of the lifestyle event will be held this weekend (6th October 2018) at the Puteri Harbour Front, in Johor Darul Takzim.
As with the previous editions, Nightfuel seeks to unite premium motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. And what better way to do so than to eat, drink while enjoying the best music and entertainment while in the company of your like-minded individuals who love motorcycles.
BMW Motorrad Nightfuel 2018 @ Putrajaya
Additionally, attendees will stand the chance to ride home with special prizes courtesy of the customary “Win with BMW Motorrad” lucky draw. Prizes are premium BMW items ranging from riding gear to motorcycle accessories to exclusive merchandize.
That’s not all, as BMW Motorrad Malaysia always launches new models during Nightfuel and this one is no different. We have been reliably informed that the 2018 F 850 GS will be launched at the event, and there could be possibly more.
Motorcycle convoys to BMW Motorrad Nightfuel Johor will also be organized. BMW owners are requested to get in touch with their dealers to book their spots.
2019 BMW F 850 GS spy shot?
Please register your attendance online as entry to BMW Motorrad Nightfuel requires a ticket. While registration is also available during the event itself, pre-registration means you could beat the queue and guaranteeing your T-shirt’s availability and sizing. You may register by clicking on this link: https://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/en/experience/events/bmw-motorrad-malaysia-nightfuel-johor-2018.html
Details of the event are:
Date : 6th October 2018
Time : 7.00 PM
Venue : Puteri Harbour Front car park
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-malaysia-previews-the-ce-04-official-launch-in-march-rm60k-est/ | BMW Motorrad Malaysia Previews The CE 04 – Official Launch In March, RM60k Est |
In line with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s plans for urban mobility, the CE 04 electric motorcycle officially debuts in Malaysia.
Powering the CE 04 is a liquid-cooled electric motor that produces the equivalent of 42hp and 62Nm.
The CE 04 is capable of hitting 0-50km/h in just 2.6 seconds.
Set for an official launch in March, pricing the fully electric motorcycle is estimated to be around RM60k.
BMW Motorrad opens its new chapter in electric mobility by introducing the all-new CE 04 two years ago in Europe.
The CE 04 is proof that BMW continues its pursuit of electromobility strategy for urban conurbations.
The CE 04 is powered by an electric motor capable of producing 31kW (42hp) and able to reach 0-50km/h in just 2.6 seconds.
Despite build as an urban commuter, BMW claimed the CE 04 has a maximum speed of 120 km/h while able to cover up to 130km thanks to a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 60.6 Ah (8.9 kWh).
According to BMW, the CE 04 is mounted with a permanent magnet electric motor located in the frame between the battery and the rear wheel.
As an added convenience, owners can charge the battery via a regular household socket, a wall box or at every public charging station.
BMW claimed that the charging time is around 4 hours and 20 minutes if the battery is completely flat, but owners can opt for a quick charger that cuts down the charging time to just 1 hour and 40 minutes.
However, if the battery level is at 20 per cent, the charging time to 80 per cent will take just 45 minutes.
Interestingly, like every petrol-powered BMW motorcycle, the CE 04 also offers Automatic Stability Control (ASC) as standard and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) as an optional package.
The CE 04 also features three riding modes consisting of ECO, Rain and Road, while the (optional) Dynamic mode allows better acceleration.
Other exciting features include:
full LED light setup
tubular steel frame
telescopic front fork with 35mm slider tube
single-sided swingarm with a spring strut
120/70-R15 front tyre
160/60-R15 rear tyre
ABS (ABS Pro *optional)
The CE 04 also features a 10.25″ TFT screen with integrated map navigation and connectivity to complete the look of a modern futuristic scooter.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/the-highly-anticipated-cfmoto-450sr-lands-in-malaysia-rm28888/ | The Highly Anticipated CFMoto 450SR Lands In Malaysia – RM28,888 |
We knew that CFMoto 450SR is coming to Malaysia awhile back but we just received confirmation from MForce Bike Holdings that the 450cc sportsbike is now available in Malaysia with a recommend selling price of RM28,888.
Features a peppy 449cc parallel-twin with 270-degree crankshaft, good for 50HP and 39Nm.
The 450SR also features a host of premium components, including Brembo M40 brake callipers and switchable ABS.
CFMoto gains worldwide attention especially in Asia and Europe with their impressive range of motorcycles including the CL700, NK650, and the 650GT.
The brand is known for bringing bike bike to the budget-conscious market including the quarter litre sportbike, the 250SR.
However, the 450SR is an all-new motorcycle altogether and features premium specs.
Powering the 450SR is a 450cc parallel-twin DOHC engine with 270-degree crank capable of pumping 50hp @ 9,500rpm and 39Nm @ 7,600rpm with a compression ratio of 11.1:5.
Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a final chain drive mated to a six-speed transmission.
Other notable features include a 5-inch TFT curved instrument display with smartphone connectivity and USB charging port.
With a 14L fuel tank and a kerb weight of 169kg, the CFMoto 450SR is definitely a strong contender in the 400cc to 450cc segment.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-brad-binder-wins-it-in-austria-after-huge-gamble-with-slick-tyres/ | MotoGP: Brad Binder Wins It In Austria After Huge Gamble With Slick Tyres |
Brad Binder recorded his second MotoGP victory in his career after gambling on slick tyres in the final five laps in the wet at the Austrian GP.
It was a miracle win for the South African who decided not to enter the pit to swap his bikes with wet tyres with just six laps to go.
The KTM rider was out of the picture for the first 23 laps as Francesco Bagnaia, Marc Marquez and Fabio Quartararo battling it out for a top spot.
With six laps remaining, the track was hit with heavy rain, resulting in Marquez, Bagnaia, Quartararo, and Joan Mir entering the pit to swap their bikes.
However, Binder decided to gamble on slicks and went on to finished the race in the first place, followed by Bagnaia and Pramac’s Jorge Martin.
After the race, Binder said he dreamt about going up the podium after missing out for so long.
“I went to bed last night thinking all I want today is a podium.
“It’s been so long! It’s been the longest in I don’t know how many years since I was on the podium.
“I’ve been close a few times, had a few fourth places, but haven’t been back. To be honest, I was having a horrendous race before I decided to stay out, and everyone else came in,” he said.
This was Binder’s first podium of the season after missing out at fourth place last week at the Red Bull Ring.
MotoGP action will return in Silverstone at the end of August.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-whats-going-on-with-valentino-rossi/ | MotoGP: What’s going on with Valentino Rossi? |
The first MotoGP race in the 2020 championship season went down with loads of drama and action, especially from Repsol Honda’s Marc Marquez and first-time premier class winner, Fabio Quartararo (Petronas Yamaha SRT). The race left us with many questions that needed answering, including the likes of Yamaha factory rider, Valentino Rossi.
It is known that the nine-time world champion has been struggling with his Yamaha M1. While the current package looks to be working brilliantly with Fabio Quartararo, Maverick Vinales (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP), and Franco Morbidelli, we were left wondering about the current situation Rossi is facing.
First and foremost, Valentino Rossi was forced to retire from last Sunday’s race due to what many assumed were electronic issues. Before that, he was struggling with grip presented by the soft rear tyre (which is the same option everyone else was using during the race).
Mechanical problems ended @ValeYellow46's afternoon early! ?
The Doctor will aim to bounce back next weekend! ?#SpanishGP ?? pic.twitter.com/0MTPaAPA0n
— MotoGP™? (@MotoGP) July 20, 2020
According to Lin Jarvis, Yamaha’s Managing Director, “Valentino had grip problems from the beginning. And when the rear tyre started to deteriorate, things got worse, making riding difficult. The bike later had a problem, the cause of which we still have to understand, and his race was over.”
With Fabio Quartararo claiming his first-ever MotoGP victory, Vinales scoring second, and Morbidelli finishing in P5, it would be vital for Rossi to solve the issues related to his Yamaha M1 before heading out into the same track again this Friday.
And another thing, wasn’t he supposed to announce his Petronas Yamaha SRT 2021 contract last weekend? Still having issues with finalizing his team is our best guess.
MotoGP: Marquez fractures arm – the end of his 2020 season?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-honda-cbr1000rr-r-fireblade-price-revealed-rm110000/ | 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade price revealed – from RM110,000 |
Honda Motorcycles UK has unveiled their official price tags for the all-new 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and man oh man, it is not cheap, to say the least. The base 2020 Honda CBR1000RR comes in at £19,999 (around RM110,000) while the SP version sits at £23,499 (just under RM130,000).
The new Fireblade was recently previewed sometime last week here in Malaysia when the Honda Asia-Dream Racing with SHOWA team introduced their entire 2020 rider’s line-up, which includes our very own Malaysian hero, Zaqhwan Zaidi. Boon Siew Honda, however, has not commented anything regarding the new Fireblade’s arrival here in Malaysia.
A price hike would make sense considering that the new Fireblade is a lot more advanced in terms of electronics, firepower, and aerodynamics. The price tags for the current generation CBR1000RR here in Malaysia are at RM91,999 for the base model and RM114,900 for the SP.
Compared to the newly introduced 2019 BMW S 1000 RR M Package, the current Fireblade SP is cheaper by RM23,501 and a whopping RM44,901 cheaper than the limited-edition Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR (only 500 units available worldwide). The Ducati Panigale V4 S is even more so with a price tag of RM169,900.
At the end of the day, the new Fireblade looks like a very powerful package to own and if the price is right, we’re pretty sure that there will be quite a few on the roads as well as the occasional track days at the Sepang International Circuit.
2019 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade Test & Review – “Everyday Superbike”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/more-ducati-v4-models-on-the-way/ | More Ducati V4 Models on the Way |
Ducati is looking forward to developing more V4-powered road bikes.
They will launch 29 new bikes in the next 5 years.
The new bikes will also cover segments in which Ducati is now absent.
Ducati’s CEO, Claudio Domenicali has revealed that more Ducati V4 models are on the way. Domenicali said it due was the Ducati Panigale V4’s success.
Ducati has planned to release 29 new bikes in the next 5 years, including in segments they are currently absent from. As such, the Italian manufacturer will utilize the V4 engine in different platforms.
Although they have not revealed where they will install the 213 bhp 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine next, many are of the opinion that Ducati are considering naked, touring and adventure bikes.
Domenicali also expressed surprise with the Panigale V4 R superbike racing homologation model. It uses a 998cc V4 engine instead of the 1103cc V4.
“The V4 R positively surprised us,” he said. “It was a difficult exercise already with the reduced capacity to keep the same horsepower, but the engine then responded quite strongly to the improvements that we made, so that by the end we found a bit more (power) than we expected. In many ways it is the most advanced bike we have ever developed.”
Wait a minute. Why is the V4 R “the most advanced bike” Ducati has ever created? That’s because MotoGP does not allow electronic package, winglets, electronic suspension and ABS.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/hong-leong-yamaha-motor-and-yamaha-motor-co-ltd-japan-celebrate-40-years-of-co-operation/ | Hong Leong Yamaha Motor and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Japan Celebrate 40 Years of Co-operation |
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Japan celebrate 40 years of successful co-operation tonight.
Hong Leong Industries signed the joint-venture agreement with Yamaha in 1979.
The guess of honour was Yamaha Motor Japan’s President and CEO.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Japan celebrate 40 years of successful co-operation tonight.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) Managing Director Dato’ Jim Khor said that the objective of the joint venture was to produce motorcycles of high quality that are affordable to the people. To that end, HLYM has come a long way to build the brand to its No. 1 position in Malaysia.
The brand had grown regionally to cover other product segments such as marine applications, even to countries such as Vietnam.
For that, he thanked customers, dealers, business partners for their support, co-operation and contributions that led to the current success.
He also thanked the Yamaha Motor Co. for their passion in creating the best motorcycles, for it would not have been possible.
The guest of honour tonight was Mr. Hoshihiro Hidaka, the President and Chief Executive Office of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. Japan.
Apart from thanking HLYM for the great work, he also stated that Yamaha finds that motorcycles are closest vehicles to people. Hence the company has always strived to create Kando (feeling of happiness and satisfaction) among their customers. To do so, Yamaha fuse cutting-edge technology with human sensitivities. This principle is reflected in the “Expanding human possibilities” tagline.
Both gentlemen hope that the co-operation will continue for the next 40 years and beyond.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-malaysian-cub-prix-is-back-on/ | 2020 Malaysian Cub Prix is back on! |
Looks like the 2020 Malaysian Cub Prix is back on after they officially announced that the final four rounds will be held this weekend (18-20 December 2020) and next week (22-24 December) at the Sepang International Circuit.
The approval was granted after a lengthy discussion with the National Security Council (MKN), Ministry of Health (KKM), and Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS). Due to the current Movement Control Order (MCO), there will be no live audience allowed during these rounds, but the races will be posted live online on Facebook and TV.
These back-to-back races will be a challenge for a lot of teams, riders, and organisers as they have to scramble whatever sources they have to be at the Sepang International Circuit for an extended period of time. We’re probably guessing that most of these folks are just excited to get back to racing after such a long delay.
At the top of the CP150 premier class, Azroy Hakeem Anuar (Idemitsu Honda Yuzy Racing) has a comfortable lead in the championship, but you can bet that these last found consecutive rounds will present a challenge to crown from the likes of Md Helmi Azman (Hi Rev SCK Honda Racing) who’s only 15 points behind, and other riders on the grid.
If you’re craving for some two-wheel racing action, don’t forget to tune in during these dates for the 2020 Malaysian Cub Prix grand finale. They will be aired on the Malaysian Cub Prix official Facebook page, TV2, RTM Sports, Astro SuperSports channel 811, as well as Astro Arena.
2021 Arai Quantic sport-touring helmet unveiled
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysia-superbike-championship-2018-round-1-happening-weekend/ | Malaysia Superbike Championship 2018 Round 1 happening this weekend! |
Image source: BMW Motorrad
The first round of the Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship 2018 (MSC) is set to happen this weekend from 11 to 13 May 2018.
Many will be going after this year’s crown including last year’s champion, Muhammad Farid Badrul Hisam.
Other interesting new entries are Azlan Shah together with Chia PJ Kawasaki and TOC Automotive College.
After an extraordinary moment in Malaysia’s history, the country’s motorcycle racing series that is the Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSC) is ready to kick things off this weekend. From 11 until 13 May 2018, the first round of the MSC 2018 will run its course at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Image source: BMW Motorrad
Last year’s champion Muhammad Farid Badrul Hisam is looking to defend his crown this year. He won last year’s title with six wins out of ten races and three podiums on board the BMW S 1000 RR supplied by the HKM Times Bike Racing Team.
Image source: BMW Motorrad
This time around, HKM is teaming up with the TOC Automotive College and Oh Kah Beng’s Most Fun Gym (MFG) to compete this season with their newly-acquired Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. The new team and partnership is part of TOC’s new Superbike Technician Course which was just launched last week.
One of the biggest names in the national racing scene will also be competing this season in MSC. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman has teamed up with Chia Motor PJ Kawasaki Racing Team which will see him compete in the Superbike class with their own Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.
Their first shakedown was successfully done last week during the Kawasaki Track Day 2018. Azlan will also take this opportunity to compete in this year’s MSC as training and preparations for next year’s first ever Superbike class in the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC).
Fans and enthusiasts should be able to witness the race free of charge as the entrance to the Main Grandstand is open for all. On Saturday (12 May 2018), practice and qualifying sessions will happen from 11.45am to 5.30pm.
As for Sunday, the race schedule is as follows:
Super 250 (Race 1) – 9.15am
Supersport (Race 1) – 10.15am
Superbike (Race 1) – 11.15am
Superstock (Race 1) – 12.15pm
Super 250 (Race 2) – 1.15pm
Supersport (Race 2) – 2.15pm
Superbike (Race 2) – 3.15pm
Superstock (Race 2) – 4.15pm
Azlan Shah signs with Chia Motor PJ for MSC 2018
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/vespa-elettrica-production-begins-in-september-2018/ | Vespa Elettrica Production Begins in September 2018 |
Piaggio Group had initially planned for the Vespa Elettrica to go into production in late 2017.
It has now been confirmed that production is set to go in September 2018.
Piaggio will produce two models: One fully electric and the other a hybrid.
Piaggio Group had originally intended to start work on their electric Vespa, appropriately called Elettrica, in “late 2017” but unspecified delays had set the date back to September this year.
Vespa @ EICMA 2016: An electrifying future ahead
The Vespa Elettrica still maintains the iconic “wasp” design, ensuring that the bike will continue for many years to come.
Vespa claims the electric motor produces 4 kW (5.36 hp) of peak and 2 kW (2.68 hp) of continuous power. The manufacturer also added that the Elettrica has the least range of 96.5 km (60 miles). There is an onboard charger hidden in the fuel filler cap so you can charge the bike where you stop, say at work.
Vespa will also be producing a hybrid “X” model alongside the fully electric variant. The hybrid will have a gas generator which recharges the batteries, extending the bike’s range to 193 km (120 miles).
Breaking it down, the smaller battery in the hybrid version has a range of 48 km (30 miles) on its own, while the extra 144.8 km (90 miles) is available with the gas generator switched on. The battery is smaller as space is needed to accommodate the generator.
Vespa also says that the Elettrica’s performance should be similar to a 50cc scooter, but there are two power modes: “power” and “eco.” Additionally, the Elettrica features a reverse mode.
Last but not least, the new bike will also include a TFT instrument display and Bluetooth connectivity in line with the latest contemporary motorcycles.
No prices have been released at this moment. Sales will start in Europe, before moving to the States and Asia. Piaggio hopes the Vespa Elettrica will be available worldwide by November 2018.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/all-new-triumph-tiger-1200-to-arrive-in-malaysia-by-q2-2022/ | All-New Triumph Tiger 1200 To Arrive In Malaysia By Q2 2022 |
Back in December, Triumph has officially launched the 2022 Tiger 1200, marking the British brand big step into the adventure-touring segment.
While no official release date was disclosed at the time, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has confirmed that the new motorcycle is scheduled to arrive in Malaysia sometime in Q2 2022.
The news did not come as a surprise considering Fast Bike Sdn Bhd (the sole distributor of the Hinckley brand in Malaysia) has frequently rolled out the latest model within a short period of time after its global launch. Talk about efficiency!
Anyway, the few months of waiting could give customers just enough time to start saving before the arrival of the new Tiger 1200.
The construction of the new Tiger 1200 focused solely on creating lighter and much powerful ADV bikes with class-leading handling and specs on and off-road.
At the centre of the building is an all-new T-Plane crank engine that was previously introduced on the Tiger 900 range.
The all-new 1160cc powerplant now makes 147hp @ 9,000rpm (8.5hp increase than the previous generation) and 130Nm @ 7,000rpm (8Nm up).
This time around, the Tiger 1200 features GT and Rally editions with the addition of new Explorer versions that boast a 30L fuel tank, higher-spec kit and added electronics.
The Tiger 1200 GT and GT Pro features semi-active Showa suspension and gets a 19-inch front and 18-inch rear cast aluminium wheel.
While the Tiger 1200 Rally and Rally Pro are equipped with 21″ front and 18″ rear tubeless rims for superior off-road handling and ability.
However, the Explorer variant boasts an innovative blind spot detection system like the one available on the Ducati Multistrada V4 and KTM 1290 Super Adventure S including a substantial 30L fuel tank.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-dovizioso-remain-open-as-marquez-replacement-in-season-opener/ | MotoGP: Dovizioso Remain Open As Marquez Replacement In Season Opener |
Andrea Dovizioso is adamant he will not return to MotoGP in 2021 but remains open as Marc Marquez replacement at Honda.
Dovizioso opted for a sabbatical in 2021 after failing to secure a seat as a test-rider.
However, Dovizioso expressed the desire to return as a replacement for Marquez who is expected to be sidelined after his third successful operation.
“I’m open, but at the moment I’m not looking for a place to return to at all costs.
“I am only interested in projects of a certain type, so if there is a possibility of returning to MotoGP in 2021 or 2022 I will be the first to be happy to talk about it,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Dorna Sports CEO, Carmelo Ezpeleta, has ruled out the possibility of fielding three factory team riders since it was outlawed back in 2012.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/test-ride-triumph-tiger-800-xcx-tigers-bite/ | Test-ride: Triumph Tiger 800 XCx |
The Triumph Tiger XCx 800 got us hooked with just one ride.
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing – Helen Keller
And an adventure is exactly what your life would be with a dual-purpose bike. Whether you are commuting around a city, riding back to your ‘kampung’ on weekends, or you are an occasional adventurer that rides to far away places, a dual-purpose bike is a brilliant partner for any adventure, urban or rural.
It is not uncommon to see these bikes around the city, or hustling down highways. You can recognise them by their upright sitting rider, panniers and top box fitted and brimmed for weeks long ride. Almost all the major motorcycling brands offer a dual-purpose bike.
The BMW GS seems to be the bike of choice for this school of riders. It is difficult to argue against that though because the GS is an impressive machine with features to match any needs.
Of course there are others from KTM, Triumph, Ducati, and the really hardcore world conquerers seem to prefer the lightness and extreme durability of Japanese bikes, which skimp on comfort but pack heavy on robustness and ease of maintenance.
There are also those who swear by certain motorcycles, like the Triumph Tiger. International media have been praising the bike for eons now. WhatsApp group chats with some of my riding mates are also constantly in praise of the Tiger. I just never got around to riding one, until recently.
I do have to admit that the BMW GSA is one of my all time favourite dual-purpose motorcycles, and the KTM 1050 Adventure was a pleasant surprise too. But nothing prepared me for what was to come as the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx completely blew me away. All those praises heaped on it, all of them, they are all true.
The reviews for the Tiger 800 XCx are always in praise of the 800cc, in-line, 3-cylinder engine and how the 6-speed gearbox seems to work in complete synchronisation with no loss of power in between shifts.
Just a wall of torque and power available from 7,850rpm all the way past 9,000rpm. And everything that has been said about the engine and gearbox is true as well, it really is a perfect unison and is one of the sweet spots about the Tiger 800 XCx.
The other thing that makes this Tiger 800 XCx such an excellent dual-purpose machine is it’s weight – 196kg dry, a little over 200kg fully fuelled and ready to go. The engine, gearbox and weight is what makes this such a brilliant riding machine. And that’s before mentioning the handling of the bike.
Up front is a 21-inch wheel and the rear is 17-inches. This rather odd combination actually works beautifully for the Tiger 800 XCx as the front picks up on the tiniest of adjustments, settles down to grip with zero effort and the rear complements it by offering all the drive with maximum grip.
The front 43mm upside down forks are adjustable for both rebound and compression, while the rear is also adjustable for pre-load and rebound damping, and offers a remote oil reservoir.
At the recent launch of the Triumph showroom in Johor Bharu, which we attended and you can read about here, a Triumph sales person mentioned that some people actually doubt the handling capabilities of the Tiger 800 XCx simply because the front wheel is too “thin”.
But on the contrary, the 90/90 profile and the 21-inch size makes this bike one of the best handling dual-purpose motorcycles you can buy today. No really, it handles beautifully, better than I expected to be honest.
Looks wise, the Tiger 800 XCx toes the dated design line – there is no daytime running lights here and doesn’t do much to take the fight to the BMWs and others. But for what it is, the Tiger 800 XCx is difficult to beat, especially when priced from RM71,900 (with GST). And there is cruise control too, which you will appreciate when the road rides straight for over 100km, I certainly did and I dare to say that for its price, nothing beats the XCx800.
So, seriously then, picking just one dual-purpose motorcycle is a tough job. Relying on forums will make it even more worse, but if you could have just one dual-purpose bike, you will not go wrong with the Triumph Tiger 800 XCx.
And Triumph Motorcycles has been enjoying significant growth in Malaysia with outlets in Penang, KL, Johor, and soon in the east-coast and Sabah, Sarawak as well. So you can be sure that after-sales service will be excellent.
Triumph Tiger 800 XCx specifications
ENGINE
800cc liquid-cooled DOHC
in-line three-cylinder
TRANSMISSION
6-speed manual with
wet multi-plate clutch and
chain drive
POWER
94hp @ 9,250rpm
TORQUE
79Nm @ 7,850rpm
CHASSIS
Tubular steel frame with
cast aluminium double-sided swingarm
SUSPENSION
Front:
Adjustable WP 43mm upside-down forks
220mm travel
Rear:
Adjustable WP monoshock
215mm travel
BRAKES
Front:
2x 308mm floating discs with
Nissin twin-piston sliding calipers
Switchable ABS
Rear:
255mm disc with
Nissin single-piston sliding caliper
Switchable ABS
WHEEL & TYRES
Front:
21-inch aluminium
36-spoke
90/90 R21
Rear:
17-inch aluminium
32-spoke
150/70 R17
FUELTANK
19 litres
WEIGHT
196kg dry
SEAT HEIGHT
840 – 860 mm
(Low seat version available:
790 – 810 mm)
PRICE
RM71,900 (basic with GST)
FROM
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia
(Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd)
http://www.triumphmotorcycles.my/
Triumph Tiger 800 XCx
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/top-ten-bikes-that-ruled-malaysian-road/ | Top 10: Bikes That Ruled Malaysian Roads |
There is no denying the fact that motorcycles are a big part of our lives. We are surrounded by bikes. We feel that it is safe to say that almost every Malaysian has been on a motorcycle at least once in their lives.
Although two-wheelers have been around Malaysia since independence, their popularity grew massively only after the Honda Cub took over the world. Since the first ever Honda Cub, hundreds of bikes landed on our shores, but only a handful went on to become icons, thanks to either good design or downright reliability.
That said, below is our list of the top 10 iconic bikes that basically ruled our roads. In fact, some of them are still going strong today.
1) Honda Cub (Also known as the Honda ‘Bulat’)
Unveiled in 1958, the Honda Cub did not only rule Malaysian roads, but the whole world. It is in fact, the bike that was responsible for changing the image of bikes on a global scale. Just like how Air Asia made flying accessible to the masses, the Honda Cub was the first motorcycle to reach homes. First introduced as the C70, the Cub has gone through many generations, and is still going strong. We won’t be surprised if this bike, which is also dubbed as the greatest bike ever built by many, outlives many of us.
2) Honda EX5
The EX5, which is the Honda Cub’s “grandchild”, is without a doubt, the most popular bike to be on our streets. Unveiled in 1986, the EX5 was the first motorcycle for many Malaysians. Initially powered by a 97cc made in Japan, the EX5 was updated with a 110cc engine. Known for its durability and reliability, the EX5’s legacy is still going strong, and doesn’t seem like it will be slowing down any time soon.
3) Yamaha Sport 100
Photo courtesy of malaysianbikers.com.my
Also unveiled during the same era as the EX-5, the Yamaha Sport 100, which is also more commonly known as the “100 sports” by Malaysians, was the next most popular thing after the EX-5. Still being used by many riders, both young and old, the Sport 100, which is infamously known for emitting white smoke(it is a two-stroker), is still being widely used nationwide, 30 years after its debut.
4) Suzuki RGV 120
In the 1990s, the Malaysian ‘Kapchai’ market saw a new buying trend – the demand for two-strokers was on the rise. Younger riders were more interested in “radical” models, that came with a clutch, and could easily go past the speed limit, and looked more modern than bikes like the EX-5 and the Yamaha Sport 100. This was when the Suzuki RGV 120 came into the picture and took over the streets. Sought mostly by the youth back in the days, the first thing that will come to our mind when we see the RGV 120 is definitely the infamous modified screaming exhaust pipes. How can we forget that?
5) Yamaha RX 115
Photo courtesy of Yamaha RX 115 Fan Club Facebook
The Yamaha RX 115 was a naked 115 cc bare-boned motorcycle which made its debut in 1981. Besides Malaysia, the RX 115 is also very popular in Thailand, Pakistan, Turkey, Uruguay, Singapore and Colombia. Today, the RX 115 will surely be present at any and every retro motorcycle show or gathering held in Malaysia.
6) Yamaha RXZ
If there was one bike that was guaranteed to get you attention from the ladies back in the 1990s, it was definitely the Yamaha RXZ. Powered by a potent two-stroke 135cc engine with insane amount of torque, the RXZ was not only good looking, but packed quite a punch in terms of performance as well. Truth be told, it was arguably the best looking bike of its time.
7) Kawasaki KR-150 Series (KIPS)
First unleashed in 1990 by Kawasaki, the Kawasaki KR-150, which is also known as the KIPS, was one of the favourites among speed-demons of the 90s. Looking like a mini GPZ 600, the KR150 was among the most powerful and reliable tw0-strokers to rule our streets. Even though the glory days of two-stroke engines are long gone, we can still see a few running around our roads till today.
8) Yamaha TZM 150
Photo courtesy of Motomalaya.net
A legendary bike based on the TZR 250 that could kick out an impressive 35hp at 10,500RPM. Thanks to the powerful liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine with 59.0mm x 54.0mm bore and stroke setup, the TZM could rev to insane rpm. Complemented by 30mm Mikuni carbs, the engine was capable of propelling this bike up to 208km/h. How is that for performance?
9) Suzuki TXR 150 Panther
If there was one bike that could match, or outdo Yamaha’s RXZ in terms of styling and performance, it was none other than the Suzuki TXR 150 Panther. Some say that it could even outperform the TZM. First launched in 1982, the Panther’s production ended in 1991. Although the official production of the Panther didn’t go on for as long as some of its rivals, the bike has a massive cult following and still remains popular among retro bike enthusiasts.
10) Yamaha 125Z
The Yamaha Y125Z or better known as Yamaha Z (in Europe) is a 125 cc two-stroke underbone bike which made its debut in 1998 as a successor of the Y 110 SS. It is said that the 125Z was the first 2-stroke underbone motorcycle to come with a catalytic converter. Beside being sold in most Southeast Asian countries especially in Malaysia and Singapore, it was also sold in Greece.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/take-break-petronas-hari-raya/ | Petronas Coffee Break returns this Hari Raya |
Petronas Coffee Break campaign returns this Hari Raya Aidil Fitri in 147 participating stations nationwide.
In conjunction with the festive Hari Raya Aidil Fitri holidays that’s just around the corner, national fuel retailer Petronas has kick started its annual Petronas Coffee Break campaign once again this year.
Just like previous editions, the campaign sees Petronas serving up to 900,000 cups of coffee plus an assortment of snacks in participating stations located along major highways and trunk roads nationwide.
The free coffee and snacks will be given out at these stations on July 2nd and 3rd from 6pm onwards and again on July 9th and 10th from 3pm onwards. Motorists will be served at participating Petronas stations whilst stocks last.
Notably, this year’s edition of the Petronas Coffee Break Campaign will be held across 147 Petronas stations nationwide, marking a significant increase from last year’s running held in just 40 stations. Besides that, the campaign sees Petronas offering free 20-point vehicle safety checks for all Proton owners at selected stations as well.
With its campaign, Petronas has reinforced its commitment towards road safety once again by contributing RM20,000 worth of Petronas Primax 95 fuels to the St John Ambulance of Malaysia (SJAM). The contribution will fuel up to 50 SJAM ambulances that are tasked with providing emergency responses along major highways during the upcoming festive holiday.
The Petronas Coffee Break campaign is held in collaboration with partners such as Nestle’ Products Sdn Bhd, Munchworld Marketing Sdn Bhd, Coca-Cola Refreshments Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Suntory Beverages & Food Malaysia Sdn Bhd, URC Snack Food (M) Sdn Bhd, Industri Makanan Snek Ku Sdn Bhd, Goodwill Marketing & Agency (M) Sdn Bhd, SJAM and Proton Holdings Berhad.
More information regarding the Petronas Coffee Break campaign and the locations of participating Petronas stations are available online at mymesra.com.my.
By the way, don’t forget to prepare yourself this festive season as well with our six-step guide towards riding safely this Hari Raya by clicking here.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-kawasaki-z900rs-cafe-is-coming-to-malaysia-rm72372/ | 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe is coming to Malaysia! RM72,372 |
Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) has officially previewed the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe here in Malaysia.
The preview was held at The Gasket Alley PJ in conjunction with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Kuala Lumpur 2018.
KMSB has priced the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe at RM72,372 (recommended sales price with 10% SST).
In conjunction with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Kuala Lumpur 2018, Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) took the opportunity to preview their latest upcoming machine to the modern classic crowd which is the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe. The preview was held in at Tiga Supply Co. located at the heart of The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya.
The Z900RS Cafe which made its debut late last year during the EICMA show in Milan, Italy took inspirations from the Kawasaki Z1 made in the 1970s and brought it to the present in the form of a powerful retro cafe racer. What Kawasaki did was took the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS and mixed it up with some attitude as well as flare.
Powered by the 948cc liquid-cooled inline four engine, the Z900RS Cafe is able to produce around 110hp at 8,500rpm and 98.5Nm of maximum torque upon hitting 6,500rpm. Everything that was excellent about the standard Z900RS is also available on the Cafe version and then some.
The most prominent feature of the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe is its bikini cowling which flows smoothly towards its seat and rear end. During last year’s reveal, Kawasaki also mentioned that its four-into-one exhaust has also been fine-tuned for a more soulful soundtrack which goes hand in hand with the bike’s sexy look and feel.
According to the Director of Kawasaki Motors Europe, Morihiro Ikoma, “The Z900RS CAFE widens the appeal of the new RS offering and personifies the True Spirit model tagline. Kawasaki took its time to enter the modern classic scene but the wait was worthwhile. The Z900RS CAFE and Z900RS have a unique heritage and an authenticity that sets them apart as the genuine article.”
To make the package even more enticing, Kawasaki has also fitted the Cafe with state-of-the-art riding electronics which include a KTRC traction control system, Assist-and-Slipper clutch, 41mm inverted front forks, all-round LED lights, adjustable rear shock (preload and rebound) plus many more.
We’ve been informed that the bike will be officially launched sometime next week and availability for purchase here in Malaysia will follow suit. As for the price, KMSB has priced it at RM72,372 (recommended sales price with 10% SST sans road tax & insurance). To know more about the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS Cafe, head over to www.kawasaki.com.my.
TESTED: 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS test & review
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-790-adventure-returns-for-2023/ | KTM 790 Adventure Returns For 2023 |
KTM has remarkably announced the return of the 790 Adventure for 2023 alongside the 790 Duke.
KTM 790 Adventure makes the same 95hp and 88Nm of peak torque.
KTM’s Chinese partner, CFMOTO is in charge of manufacturing the 790 Adventure range.
The middleweight adventure bike revival is largely thanks to KTM’s Chinese partnership, CFMOTO who’s in charge of building the 2023 790 Adventure and the 790 Duke.
Mechanically, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure makes the same 95hp and 88Nm however the throttle body has been reworked for a cleaner response.
Also new on the 2023 model year includes a new airbox and friction plates.
KTM also claimed that there is a 20 percent increase of rotating mass which boost the bike’s cornering ability. KTM also equipped the 790 Adventure with a knock control sensor.
However, the biggest update for the 2023 model is a new 6D IMU that features Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control, ABS, Motor Slip Regulation and riding modes.
Additionally, the revived 790 Adventure is also fitted with KTM’s Quickshifter+ as standard.
Other notable features include 43mm WP Apex forks with 200mm of travel, Pirelli Scorpion STR tires and a 20L fuel tank that can take you up to 450km of range.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/givi-malaysia-introduces-the-new-50-9-atomic-full-face-helmet-rm735/ | GIVI Malaysia Introduces The New 50.9 Atomic Full-Face Helmet – RM735 |
GIVI Malaysia has launched its latest innovation, the 50.9 Atomic full-face helmet priced at a competitive price of RM735.
the new 50.9 Atomic full-face helmet is packed with advanced features and superior safety measures.
the new helmet meets the latest ECE22.06 safety standards.
The GIVI 50.9 Atomic boasts a range of impressive features that make it stand out in the market. One of its key attributes is the triple shell construction, which ensures maximum durability and protection for riders. The use of multiple shells allows for a more precise fit and enhances the overall safety of the helmet.
Additionally, a built-in sun visor enhances comfort and convenience, allowing riders to quickly adapt to changing light conditions.
To ensure optimal airflow and ventilation, the 50.9 Atomic features two upper frontal air vents and one for the chin guard. This ventilation system effectively regulates temperature inside the helmet, preventing discomfort caused by excessive heat or stuffiness during long rides. Furthermore, two rear extractors aid in the expulsion of hot air, maintaining a cool and refreshing environment for the rider.
Safety is a paramount concern for GIVI, and the 50.9 Atomic helmet upholds the highest standards in this regard. It comes equipped with a micrometric stainless steel strap, ensuring a secure and precise fit for every rider. The removable breathguard and wind deflector further enhance the helmet’s aerodynamics and overall performance.
Riders will appreciate the convenience of the removable and washable inner lining, allowing for easy maintenance and hygiene. The lightweight design, weighing just 1490g, reduces strain on the neck and enhances comfort during long rides. Additionally, the anti-scratch visor guarantees clear vision and protection from debris on the road.
GIVI ensures that the 50.9 Atomic helmet meets the latest ECE22.06 safety standard, providing riders with peace of mind knowing that their headgear complies with the strictest safety regulations. The helmet undergoes rigorous testing and inspection processes to ensure its effectiveness in protecting riders during accidents or collisions.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/worldsbk-melandri-scores-100th-italian-win-misano-kawasaki-double-podium/ | WorldSBK: Melandri scores 100th Italian win in Misano, Kawasaki Double Podium again |
The second WorldSBK race in Misano saw an amazing first race victory for Marco Melandri (Aruba.it Racing – Ducati) since 2014 in front of his home crowd.
Starting from tenth, Melandri picked up his pace to cross the finish line first ahead of Kawasaki riders, Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes.
Chaz Davies was deemed unfit to compete in Race 2 due to extensive injuries sustained in the unfortunate Race 1 incident between him and Rea while fighting for the win.
It was a fairytale comeback for the Aruba.it Racing – Ducati rider Marco Melandri as he snatched his first ever WorldSBK victory since 2014. The victory was sweeter due to the fact that it was Melandri’s home race in front of his home fans at the Misano World Circuit “Marco Simoncelli” for the second race of the WorldSBK Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round yesterday.
In absence of his team mate Chaz Davies in Race 2 due to the unfortunate collision between him and championship leader Jonathan Rea (Kawasaki Racing Team) in the final lap of Race 1, Melandri gave a stunning performance starting the race from 10th place and crossed the chequered flag ahead of P2 finisher Jonathan Rea by over a second.
The Kawasaki boys again had something to celebrate with yet another double podium in Race 2 at Misano with Tom Sykes finishing the race just a fraction of a second behind his team mate, Rea. Yet another amazing result for the Brit riders and their competitive Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR.
With the Misano round over, Jonathan Rea still leads the championship with 296 points while his team mate Tom Sykes is trailing away in second position with a gap of 50 points at 246 points. Chaz Davies still sits at third with 185 points but looking at his injuries sustained in the unfortunate incident, there’s a big possibility that the 30 year old will miss a few rounds to recover.
The next round will see the WorldSBK boys in action at the iconic Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for the Geico US round from 7 to 9 July 2017. Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more WorldSBK updates.
Pirelli Riviera Di Rimini Round, Race 2 Results
Image source: WorldSBK
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/givi-asia-organizes-givista-ride-to-cameron-highlands/ | GIVI Asia Organizes GIVISTA Ride to Cameron Highlands |
GIVI Asia organized the GIVISTA Ride to Cameron Highlands over the weekend.
It was the first activity for the GIVISTA Community for 2020.
Guest of honour was world traveler, Bert Boute.
GIVI Asia organized the GIVISTA Ride to Cameron Highlands over the weekend.
The ride was the first of such activity for the GIVISTA Community for 2020. It had been planned for an earlier date but was put off due to the Chinese New Year and subsequent Covid-19 scare.
The GIVISTA Community accepted the invitation with glee, filling up the 35 spots in less than three days. Perhaps it was a great opportunity to get away from everyone’s self-imposed isolation from the Covid-19 epidemic, besides the spell of hot weather.
This time, the convoy gathered at the Rawang R & R Northbound area, instead of GIVI Asia’s headquarters in Bukit Beruntung, Selangor. Participants from the south and Klang Valley headed there, while those from the north waited at certain points along the way.
Joining us as marshals were Tun Shahir with his Honda Gold Wing and Boy from Desmo Owners Club on his Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro. The special guest this time was Bert Boute, the world traveler from Belgium.
The convoy was split into two groups – one for bikes 200cc and above, while the other was for bikes below 200cc. It wasn’t discrimination, we would like add, but for safety due to the speed difference. Doing so also divided the convoy into smaller groups of bikes, rather than having one large gaggle which could well disrupt traffic. The first group departed 10 minutes ahead.
We rode towards Simpang Pulai, while stopping for lunch at Restoran Tasik Raban in Canning Garden, Ipoh.
From there it was up the mountain on some of the best sets of twisties. The weather started as hot and humid but became cooler and cooler the more corners we negotiated.
The convoy made a number of stops along the way, including at the famous vantage point on the bridge overlooking a range of hills and the asphalt ribbon which winds its way around them.
We arrived at the Dear Dino Villa soon after. Everyone was elated to arrive safely, while the villa welcomed us with plump fresh strawberries and chocolate dip.
Being situated on top of a hill, the villa let in a cool breeze. Every participant ran around taking pictures, a few took lungful of deep breaths of the crispy air. They were also given free time to roam around Cameron Highlands, but few took up the offer as the roads outside were already choked with weekend traffic.
A BBQ dinner was prepared by GIVI. The honey marinated chicken had the group descending on it like a hungry horde.
Bert Boute presented a summary of his travels so far. He had ridden through Europe, Central Asia, parts of Southeat Asia and had stopped in Malaysia before continuing onwards to Australia and New Zealand. His photographs and stories had everyone glued to their seats.
After the presentation, we were allowed to carry on with our own activities. Some participants rode to the night market, others watched a movie set up by GIVI, or just got together to catch up.
We checked out the next day, but the community members decided to cancel the planned trip to the Boh Tea Plantation and factory. The traffic was picking up and it’s decided to best avoid that destination.
Every participant arrived home safe and sound to cap off another successful GIVISTA event.
PHOTO GALLERY
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-ktm-joins-tech-3-2019/ | MotoGP: KTM joins Tech 3 for 2019! |
KTM has announced their newly-formed partnership with Tech 3 for the 2019 MotoGP season.
After quite an improvement in 2017, the Austrian manufacturer is ready to run a satellite team on the grid.
Four KTM RC16 will run simultaneously starting 2019.
It’s official, folks! KTM has announced that they will be working with the Tech 3 squad starting 2019 where the MotoGP grid will see four KTM RC16s running simultaneously. After several impressive results compared to their maiden season in 2016, the Austrian manufacturer is ready to up the ante with a satellite team.
It was only a couple weeks back when Tech 3 announced that they’ll be parting ways with Yamaha at the end of the 2018 season. The long-term relationship with the Japanese manufacturer draws the curtain close on one epic 20-year partnership but it also signifies something that the French outfit has been looking for ever since the start of their efforts in MotoGP. We’re guessing a full factory support from KTM, perhaps?
According to Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsport Director, “We are very happy to join forces with Tech 3 in MotoGP from 2019. The team has many years of experience and achieved a lot of great results in this championship. Their professional structure will make us even stronger.”
“Having four KTM RC16 on the grid is also another big step for us, both for the development of our MotoGP bike and expanding KTM’s structure in the paddock. From the Red Bull Rookies Cup up to MotoGP there is a clear path to the top. We are looking forward to start a great cooperation and I’m thankful towards Hervé Poncharal for the future trust in KTM,” added Beirer.
Monster KTM Tech 3, anyone?
Image source: MotoGP
Tech 3 Parting with Yamaha in 2019
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/sst-will-start-1-september-2018-buy-new-bikes-now/ | SST will start on 1 September 2018 – buy new bikes NOW! |
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir has announced that the new SST or Sales and Services Tax will start on 1 September 2018.
From now until the end of August, the 0% GST rates will be implemented which will see prices drop for bikes, cars, and more.
Manufacturers have already begun promoting the new prices plus Hari Raya Aidilfitri promotions.
Gather around folks as this is big news for all Malaysians. Our beloved Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has just announced that the new Sales and Services Tax or SST will be implemented on 1 September 2018.
As promised earlier in the new government’s manifesto, the current Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be abolished and their first step is to start implementing the 0% GST rate beginning next month. This means that all goods and services will see drops in prices, including cars and bikes.
In the next three months of 0% GST tax regime is the best time to buy brand new cars and bikes. In fact, some manufacturers like Harley-Davidson, BMW Motorrad, Moto Guzzi, Ducati, Triumph, Honda, and Yamaha are already starting their 0% GST promotions plus Hari Raya Aidilfitri extras. In short, there’s no better time than now if you’re looking for your dream bike or car at lower prices.
In a press conference made by Tun Dr Mahathir this afternoon, he did not mention the new SST rate. As the previous SST tax sits at 10% prior the introduction of GST, what we can confirm is the fact that there will be new higher prices introduced again in September.
So what are you waiting for? Get your dream machine before the end of August!
Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya Releases 0% GST Prices
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-to-expand-the-klr650-range-with-a-new-variant-in-2023/ | Kawasaki To Expand The KLR650 Range With A New Variant In 2023 |
Kawasaki is set to bring another variant for its KLR650 dual-purpose motorcycle.
the new variant will join the already available Traveler, Explorer and base model.
the KLR650S claimed to feature a lower seat height.
While the motorcycle is not available in Malaysia, but the third-generation KLR650 is available in different trims in other parts of the world.
The base KLR650 comes as it is while the Traveler edition features top case for extra carrying capacity. However, the Explorer variant gets all the fancy panniers, crash bars and auxiliary lighting.
However, the Japanese marquee is set to introduce another variant, the KLR650S according to Australia’s vehicle certifications on June 16,2022.
Reported by Motorcycle.com, the documents hints that the new ‘S’ variant could make its way in 2023.
Other manufacturer tends to designate the ‘S’ as a Sport variant but in the case of Kawasaki, the KLR650S could refer to a lower seat variant.
Kawasaki applied the same nomenclature to its KLX230S motorcycle earlier this year. The KLX230S joins the KLX230 platform introduced in 2020 that features a lower 32.7-inch seat.
Not only that, Kawasaki also decrease the front suspension travel to 6.2″ from 8.7″. This allows shorter riders to enjoy the KLX230S without the intimidating height.
Such move could also benefits riders who wants to own the KLR650. Currently, the KLR650 boast 7.9″ of travel and 34.3″ stand-over height.
Nonetheless, it’s still just a speculation at this point and we just have to wait the official announcement from Team Green in the coming months.
(Source: Motorcycle.com)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysian-components-in-suru-scrambler-worlds-first-scrambler-e-bike/ | Malaysian Components in SURU Scrambler – World’s First Scrambler e-bike |
SURU Inc. uses Malaysian-made components to build the world’s first scrambler e-bike.
SURU builds their bikes in Canada to ensure high quality.
The SURU Scrambler is practical for urban and country mobility.
SURU Inc. introduced the world’s first scrambler e-bike.
SURU Inc. builds their bikes in Canada to ensure high quality. However, their key technological partner is a Malaysian tech firm called Ezee Kinetic. Ezee Kinetic is based just outside Kuala Lumpur. As such, the components used to make SURU bikes originate from Malaysia.
The SURU Scrambler is based on the SURU One Fifty, which is regarded as the “Honda Super Cub of e-bikes.” The Scrambler expands upon the One Fifty’s strengths and innovations to turn it into a practical town and country mobility vehicle.
The team behind the SURU Scrambler is the same folks who created the Amarok P1 electric motorcycle. Among them is the award-winning designer Michael Uhlarik.
SURU Amarok is in the background
“Many people love the look and feel of a café racer and dirt track style motorcycle,” observed Uhlarik. “But getting into motorcycling can be intimidating. The e-bike offers the ideal platform for all kinds of people to dive into the fun of the custom motorcycle experience without fear or high cost.”
Therefore, the SURU Scrambler seeks to open up the two-wheeled experience to a wider, younger audience.
SURU’s philosophy is to integrate motorcycle-grade engineering into lightweight and elegant e-bike designs. The SURU aluminium monocoque features a removable and lockable battery. The power electronics are contained inside the monocoque, protecting it from the weather and theft.
The frame is offered in 6 graphic designs. However, the owner can customize it.
All SURU bikes are street legal. Top speed is 32 km/h. Range is up to 70 km using the battery with the throttle only. The user may choose to pedal, if he so wishes. It takes 3.5 to fully recharge through a household electrical outlet.
Please visit www.ridesuru.comfor more information.
PICTURE GALLERY
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SURU Amarok is in the background
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-electric-superbike-has-200hp-from-rm102000/ | This electric superbike has 200hp! From RM102,000 |
The Consumer Electronics Show 2020 (CES 2020) saw the debut of the Damon Hypersport HS, a new-generation electric superbike that’s not only powerful but packed with high-tech goodies that some riders use to dream about.
We’ve recently wrote about how Damon Motorcycles are working together with BlackBerry for their latest generation eco-friendly machines and how it can change the direction of the motorcycle industry in the future. The Hypersport HS is a prime example of what the future entails and we are completely excited about it.
Starting with its amazingly powerful powertrain, Damon stated that it has the ability to produce over 200hp with a range of around 260km when travelling at a constant about 110km/h. That distance grows further when travelling around cities and trunk roads, all thanks to its 21.5kW battery pack.
Apart from its impressive power and distance, the latest Damon Hypersport HS also comes with two super impressive features; electronically adjustable riding positions and the advanced CoPilot advanced warning system (developed by BlackBerry). One allows for supreme adjustability between sport and touring while the latter offers a buttload of sensors and cameras for an ‘enhanced situational awareness’.
A combination of 1080P cameras, radars, telematic array, and sensors allow the superbike to actively scan its surrounding areas to ensure that the rider is always aware of things around him or her. The bike will let the rider know via haptic movements on the handlebars, LED lights placed on the windshield, and a large LED screen that’s able to give a live feed of what’s going on at the back.
Interested in getting one? Damon Motorcycles will begin delivering the bikes starting 2021 with prices starting from $24,995 to $39,995 (around RM102,000 – RM164,000). There are no dealers that carry these bikes in stock because Damon is planning a very questionable ‘consumer-to-customer’ method. Will it work? Only time will tell.
BlackBerry going into electric superbike production?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-rc16-motogp-racebike-for-sale/ | KTM RC16 MotoGP Racebike for Sale |
KTM is putting up the former RC16 MotoGP racebike for private sale.
The owner will receive a number of attractive gifts in the process.
Only two are available at €250,000 each.
Step right up, step right up! Your wish of owning a MotoGP bike is now answered. Just place your entire life savings for this KTM RC16 MotoGP racebike!
KTM’s CEO Stefan Pierer did announce that a road-legal bike based on the RC16 MotoGP racer will be available someday. The Austrian factory has yet to launch one, probably pending success in the series first.
But! You can now own a KTM RC16 MotoGP racebike. The factory is selling two former RC16 for private purchase.
KTM will throw in a dream goodie bag. It includes a full set of riding gear from Pol Espargaro (racesuit, gloves, boots, etc.) and a signed AGV helmet.
Additionally, the owner can choose to be apart of the Red Bull KTM MotoGP factory team for one weekend of his or her own choice. Goodies include paddock tour, pitbox tour, meet and greet with Johann Zarco and Pol Espargaro, and a set of Red Bull KTM team apparel.
It is still a good deal because a special weekend pass like that could cost at USD 10,000 (RM 41,865.00). RC16 not included.
Interested? Please prepare €250,000 (RM 1,190,273.23). Oh, they’re not street legal, of course.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bmw-motorrad-2015-sales-reaches-nearly-e2-billion/ | BMW Motorrad 2015 sales reaches nearly €2 billion |
BMW Motorrad recorded its 2015 sales revenue of nearly €2 billion.
2015 proved to be a monumental year for many bike brands including Austrian powerhouse KTM and rivalling German marque BMW Motorrad.
However, recent figures released by the latter German brand, which by the way is celebrating its centenary this year, sees it edge its Austrian rival significantly in terms of revenue figures.
Although KTM’s 2015 sales volume of 180,801 bikes sold last year eclipses BMW Motorrad’s total of 136,963 units, BMW Motorrad generated a higher revenue instead at €1.99 billion. Though KTM sold more bikes in 2015, it only raked in a sales revenue of just €1.02 billion. (Read our KTM 2015 sales report here and our BMW Motorrad 2015 sales report here)
With its near €2 billion revenue figure, BMW Motorrad recorded an 18.5% increase in turnover, which in turn raised its income at 62.5% or €182 million.
BMW Motorrad was able to achieve strong sales growth through its the high-margins of its large-displacement motorcycles unlike rivals KTM and Ducati. For the rivalling Austrian and Italian marques, both have charted recent growth in the smaller displacement segment that held a lower margin structure.
However, BMW Motorrad has a small-displacement competitor that’s hitting markets this year – the BMW G310R. The 313cc single-cylinder roadster’s performance and contribution to BMW Motorrad’s finances this year will be interesting to see.
Source: BMW Motorrad via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/bkm-extends-partnership-total-oil-malaysia/ | Benelli Keeway extends partnership with Total Oil Malaysia |
Benelli Keeway Motorcycles Sdn Bhd (BKM) extends working partnership with Total Oil Malaysia.
Benelli Keeway Motorcycles Sdn Bhd (BKM), the assembler and distributor of the Benelli and Keeway motorcycle brands, recently announced that it has extended its partnership with Total Oil Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Both BKM and Total Oil Malaysia initially began their partnership two years ago, with the latter firm supplying the former with engine lubricants other related products. This extension that was recently inked late last week sees BKM and Total Oil Malaysia continuing said efforts for two more years starting May 15.
Shortly after signing the partnership extension, Total Oil Malaysia director A.S Krishnan expressed his delight and states, “This partnership isn’t just meaningful for BKM, it also aligns well with Total Oil Malaysia’s aim at becoming a partner to two international brands that are growing in popularity within Malaysia.”
A number of popular Benelli Keeway models assembled and distributed by BKM have adopted engine lubricants and other related products supplied by Total Oils Malaysia. These include the likes of the newly launched Benelli TNT-25, TNT-300 and the popular TNT-600 middleweight, as well as the Keeway RKV200G, TX200G and Black 250 models.
Besides the introduction of the new Benelli TNT-25, BKM also had their hands full at enhancing their after-sales network. The firm had recently marked the launch of its first authorised Benelli Keeway service centre operated by one of its authorised dealer located in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur (read about that here).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/confirmed-motogp-and-moto3-dashboard-text-messages-approved/ | Confirmed: MotoGP and Moto3 dashboard text messages approved! |
Unlike Formula 1 teams who enjoy being able to communicate with their drivers in the thick of a race (with some heated and sometimes hilarious responses from the drivers), MotoGP teams on the other have always tried to find ways to be able to better communicate with the riders.
Riders say they often miss the outboards as they concentrate on staying ahead of their rivals. And in Moto3 races where riders are often bunched up together and everyone is trying to get a tow in the slipstream, riders say it is difficult to read the plt board and stay focused at the same time.
Teams were previously given permission to place a system to tell the rider when he has been red or black-flagged, and it is already in place. But it is no secret that Race Directions and the teams want a more thorough system that lets them communicate with the rider rather than just inform him of the colour of the flag.
According to popular MotoGP website Moto Matters, they have apparently been given the go ahead. The spec ECU and the dashboard in use in MotoGP and in Moto3 is already capable in a mode called the ‘duplex mode’, where messages can be sent and received via timing loops around the track. This will allow Race Direction to send messages to one or more riders, but whether or not the rider sees the message, reads it and actually understands the message is a different thing altogether.
Apparently at the Sachsenring MotoGP race last year multiple riders missed their pit boards, therefore missed out on the perfect time to swap bikes from wet tyres to slick tyres. It was then that some riders shared some opinions on receiving messages from their team.
And so, at the recently concluded Dutch GP, the Grand Prix Commission had met to discuss some revisions to the MotoGP rules, including permitting the use of dashboard messages by the teams from 2018. The rules have been changed, and MotoGP as well as Moto3 teams will adopt the dashboard message system that lets teams and riders share more than just the colour of the flag. Moto2 will follow in 2019 when Triumph begins supplying engines and Magneti Marelli will supply the electronics. There will be no limitations or restrictions to the messages sent.
The following is the statement from the FIM:
Dashboard Displays and Messages:
It has already been confirmed that machines in the Moto3 and MotoGP class must have the dashboard facility to display text messages, linked to the current warning lights, with effect from 2018. This will also apply to the Moto2 class from 2019. The GPC have now confirmed the precise list of messages that will be sent with the warning lights by Race Direction.
Some teams already have the facility on their machine dashboards to receive text messages and, following approval from the Safety Commission, the GPC confirmed that such teams may already use this facility as a “virtual pit board”. This does not require any amendments to existing regulations.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/first-ride-triumph-bonneville-bobber-black-tiger-800-xcx-tiger-800-xrx/ | First Ride: Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black, Tiger 800 XCX, Tiger 800 XRX |
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia had just officially launched eight new models: Bonneville Bobber Black, Bonneville Speedmaster, and six Triumph 800 variants.
We had the chance to test ride the Bobber Black, Tiger 800 XCX and Tiger 800 XRX.
The Tiger 800 XR is now offered at a special price of RM56,900 (basic selling price incl. of 6% GST).
Life probably couldn’t get any sweeter than this. Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched not just one, but eight new models at one go: Bonneville Bobber Black, Bonneville Speedmaster, and Tiger 800 XCX, XCA, XR, XRX, XRX LRH (Low Ride Height), XRT variants.
The launch coincides with the Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia’s Grand Dinner at the Berjaya Bukit Tinggi resort area. Some 400 Triumph owners attended the event, in addition to us motojournalists.
Please click on the link below for our coverage on the event.
2018 Triumph Bonneville Bobber Black, Speedmaster & Tiger 800 launched! From RM56,900
Motojournalists gathered in the early morning to sample the ensemble of new bikes – Bonneville Bobber Black, Tiger 800 XCX and Tiger 800 XRX. We rode from the Colmar Tropicale Convention Center down to the first security check point and back up to the Colmar. Each journalist was assigned a certain bike on the way out and exchanged for another for the return trip.
Anyone who’s ridden up and down Bukit Tinggi will attest to the challenging nature of the road. The lanes are narrow, the corners are sharp, bad road condition in certain sections and there are parts where dirt has been deposited by heavy rains. It’s a real good place to test the handling characteristics of any bike.
Image courtesy of PR Kraft
Although the test ride sessions were brief, it was enough to draw some preliminary verdicts as we’ve ridden the previous models, a few for more than 500km. However, rest assured that we’ll run extensive tests and reviews in due time, so stay tuned!
Let’s get to it.
BONNEVILLE BOBBER BLACK
First and foremost, the Bonneville Bobber Black isn’t the successor to the massively popular Bonneville Bobber, which happens to be the best-selling model in all of Triumph’s 30-year history.
The “original” Bobber launched for 2016 was already a wonderful bike by all means, featuring modern attributes such as ABS, traction control, Ride-by-Wire throttle, torque assist clutch among others. The highlight of the Bobber is of course the floating rider’s seat. One word sums up the Bobber’s styling: Attitude.
The Bobber Black, however, takes it further. Triumph calls it, “Darker. Meaner. Stronger.” therefore the stance is now more muscular and aggressive.
The 19-inch front wheel has been replaced with a 16-incher, shod with 130/90-size Avon Cobra tyre, specifically developed for the bike. To support the larger tyre, you’ll massive 47mm diameter Showa cartridge forks (like those you’d find on a high-end sportbike) vs. 41mm conventional ones on the Bobber.
Additionally, there are now dual disc brakes clamped by Brembo calipers. The Bobber Black also sees cruise control added to it which is actuated is by a single button. The headlight is now fully LED with Daytime Running Lights (DRL).
The other distinguishing features of the Bobber Black are the blacked-out theme: Fuel tank, side panels, fork tubes, exhaust, engine, handlebar, levers, wheel hubs and so on.
The original Bobber with its 100/90 front tyre would of course feel more flickable around Bukit Tinggi, but the Bobber Black was surprisingly almost as good too. The brakes were a little on the softer side in the initial pull but they do get progressively stronger further into the lever’s stroke. I suspected that the brake pads haven’t bedded in fully yet.
The front suspension was predictably awesome as it soaked up road irregularities and didn’t dive like a submarine under hard braking. They didn’t pogo back up when the brakes were released, either.
The rear mimics a hardtail, but that’s the key word: mimic; for it felt natural. It worked well over all road surfaces, except deep depressions and potholes, but it’d probably be worse for other bikes (except the Tiger, of course). By the way, the name “Bobber” eludes to the chopped styling, not the bike “bobbing” up and down – which the Bobber Black and Bobber never did.
Triumph left the 1200cc, liquid-cooled, 270o crank, HT (High Torque) engine alone. It performed brilliantly, punching the bike out of corners, while Triumph’s trademark linear throttle response gave you the confidence to crack open the throttle sooner. All the while being serenaded by a deep, throbbing exhaust note.
Want a factory custom which exudes all the style and character, plus good handling? Look no further than the Bonneville Bobber Black. Oh, I almost forgot: There are more than 300 items in Triumph’s accessories catalogue to fully bling out your Bonneville, so get bobbing today.
TIGER 800 XRX, XCX
We loved the previous Tiger 800.
We had ridden the previous Tiger 800 XR and XC versions on many occasions and it was our favourite 800cc adventure-tourer, by far. It was well-rounded in its performance, filling a wide range of riding styles and needs. It was so good that we wondered how Triumph could actually improve on it for the new model.
Well, it wasn’t just a facelift, that’s for sure. Not Triumph. Uh-uh. The Hinckley, UK-based manufacturer poured in more than 200 revisions just to the chassis and engine. That’s not including changes, upgrades and revisions to the componentry, bodywork, ergonomics.
Starting from the front, the Tiger 800 now has a new windscreen which is adjustable for five positions. That’s not all, as the screen is now mounted on four points, instead of two to eliminate buffeting at the top. It is now a one-handed operation. Additionally, wind deflectors below the screen channel wind away from the rider.
As for rider ergonomics, the handlebar is now 10mm closer to the rider. Standing on the footpegs to simulate off-road riding, all we saw was the instrument cluster. This is a good aspect of an off-roader, meaning that the rider could put more weight onto the front tyre.
The seat had felt much more comfortable than before, since seat compound is new, with a “3D mesh technology.” The rider’s seat is also adjustable for two heights.
Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia had prepared both XRX and XCX versions for the media on this occasion. As such, both bikes had the new 5-inch, fully-colour TFT instrument panel, a la Street Triple RS. The panel displayed every bit of information a rider would need, including a fuel range metre that ran down to zero, instead of annoying us with the number of kilometres travelled from whence the low-fuel warning began (found on other bikes). The TFT display also has an Auto Contrast feature which adjusted its brightness according to ambient lighting.
Since the TFT display was similar to that of the Street Triple RS, Triumph had also transplanted the hand controls to the Tiger 800, putting everything within easy reach of the rider’s thumb. Switching riding modes or toggling through the data is through a 5-way joystick. The rider no longer had to reach forward into the instrument cluster to change settings.
The cruise control has similarly been revised, now without an ON/OFF master switch.
Moving downwards the front brakes are Brembo items. They were progressively strong but not grabby. Grabby brakes are the last thing you want if you’re riding off-road.
The 800cc, inline-Triple engine has been revised with a more mass centralized cooling system, lower 1st gear ratio, lighter and freer flowing exhaust, lighter alternator, and the removal of the backlash gear in the transmission.
Where the Tiger 800 differs are the intended usage, which consist two versions: The road-oriented XR and the adventure-oriented XC (Cross Country). Each version is then split into further sub-variants depending on the level of accessories and equipment.
The XR lineup consists of four models: The base XR, the mid-tier XRX, the XRX LRH (Low Ride Height), and flagship XRT. The XR range uses cast 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear, instead of the spoked 21-inch front and 17-inch of the XC range.
The base XR gets all the new changes except for the Brembo brakes, TFT display, cruise control and riding modes, although it does have ABS and traction control.
The middle XRX version has 4 ride modes, cruise control, full colour 5” LCD, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and turn indicators, switchcubes and 5-way joystick, Brembo front brakes, 5-position windscreen and aero deflectors and handguards.
The bells and whistles version with fully-adjustable Showa front suspension, all-LED lighting, backlit switches, 5 riding modes, additional 3 LCD screen styles and auxiliary LED lighting is the XRT.
On the XC side, the base XC model had been eliminated and so had the XCX LRH. The lineup now starts with the XCX as the base model, instead.
Triumph Motorcycle Malaysia revealed that the manufacturer is looking to expand their influence in the off-roading world, hence the Tiger XCX and XCA have been given a few important updates.
Apart from the main features of the XRX, the XCX features 5 riding modes, including the new “Off-Road Pro” mode. In this mode, traction control is switched off as is the rear wheel’s ABS. The front wheel’s ABS remains active. This feature allows the rider to lock the rear wheel while still allowing for maximum braking pressure in the front tyre to retain the ability to steer the bike. It’s most useful to lock and drag the rear wheel while heading down a steep off-road slope, besides sliding the rear wheel around a turn in the dirt.
Also standard on the XCX are engine protection bars, aluminium sump guard and radiator guard.
As for the XCA, it shares the XCX’s features with a few additions. There are 6 riding modes, including one which is programmable by the rider; all-LED lighting; a total of 6 screen styles in two themes; and heated grips and seats.
So, what do these massive number of changes yield in the new Tiger 800?
The new engine sounded different from the outset. Whereas the previous bike’s exhuast sounded a little muted, the new bike’s was boomier. The engine is now quieter too.
The seating position felt similar, but the arms don’t feel so stretched forward. The previous Tiger 800 had been supremely flickable and that trait has been brought forward to the new model. However, the newer bike felt more stable, planted and suspension action was “tighter” when quick-flicked into a corner. Changing lines in the middle of corners were done even without being a concern to the rider. Think it and the bike does it.
Most tall bikes with long travel suspension don’t enjoy being trail-braked into corners, especially those with “manual” suspension. But not the new Tiger 800. You could be as aggressive as you want but the bike never seemed fazed.
Fueling was superbly linear and the engine revs up. But it was the availability of torque everywhere in the rev range that was truly additive. So much torque in fact that I just left it in 4th and 5th gear while riding around Bukit Tinggi. 3000 RPM in 5th gear equaled 60 km/h, but the bike could pull cleanly off from below 2000 RPM without juddering.
The third-generation Tiger 800’s engine was really smooth for a three-cylinder, but it’s even smoother on the new bike. Besides that, it felt like the bike had a slipper clutch although it didn’t, due to the removal of the backlash gears. Consequently, corner entries and midcorner attitude was super smooth.
Those confidence-inspiring traits were what endeared us to the third-generation Tiger 800, but the new bikes are absolutely even better now. It wasn’t only us who found the new Tiger 800 amazing, for every motojournalist gushed over them.
The new Tiger 800 is set to take the world by storm.
As a footnote, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia is currently running an introductory promotion for the new Tiger 800 XR. It’s priced at a mouthwatering RM56,900 (basic selling price incl. of 6% GST) so hurry over now for a test ride.
For more information, please visit Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia’s FB page.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-indonesia-to-launch-the-all-new-ninja-zx-4r-this-october/ | Kawasaki Indonesia To Launch The All-New Ninja ZX-4R This October? |
We knew that a bigger version of Kawasaki’s ZX-25R is on its way and it will be called the ZX-4R.
Kawasaki Indonesia to launch a new motorcycle on October 1, 2022.
The motorcycle is likely the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R.
We also knew that Kawasaki has filed a trademark application of the ZX-4R in various countries including in North America and Asia, signalling the arrival of the new motorcycle.
What we don’t know is that Kawasaki plans to introduced the ZX-4R much sooner than we predicted.
According to a new teaser video posted on Kawasaki’s Indonesia social media account, there is a new Ninja ZX on its way this October.
To be fair, the 30 second video provides little hints aside from revealing the ZX nameplate.
So far, Kawasaki already updated its current ZX range, including the ZX-25R, ZX-6R and ZX-10R.
That said, the new product launch is likely to be the upcoming Ninja ZX-4R inline-four motorcycle.
If the reports are true, then we have something to be excited about for 2023.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/akrapovic-now-makes-rear-silencers-for-the-bmw-r-18/ | Akrapovic Now Makes Rear Silencers For The BMW R 18 |
BMW R 18 is now getting an aftermarket rear silencers from Akrapovic.
Akrapovic introduced new rear silenceers for the BMW R 18.
Features lighter component and is tuned to the R 18 1,802cc engine.
The Akrapovic rear silencers is 97mm shorter than the standard rear silencers and is made from durable stainless steel, coated in matt black finish.
Together with a silver end cap adjustable in 90-degree steps, the rear of the R 18 now appears sportier than ever.
Interestingly, Akrapovic also designed the end cap with a stylised BMW brand symbol – the propeller – making it extra appealing for the R 18.
The exhaust also features screwed-in heat protection plate to help the rider’s footwear from the exhaust heat.
It’s also important to know that the Akrapovic rear silencers is 1 kilogram lighter than the stock exhaust and have been optimally tuned to the R 18 “Big Boxer” engine to create a powerful sound.
According to BMW Motorrad, the new rear silencers also compliments well to the BMW Motorrad Bobber Kit.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/bmw-motorrad-recalls-motorcycle-jacket-gloves/ | BMW Motorrad recalls motorcycle jacket & gloves? |
There are a lot of recalls in the motorcycle industry, but it’s very rare that one is being posted about riding apparel. In the name of safety and comfort, BMW Motorrad did just that pertaining to an issue related to one of their motorcycle jackets and riding gloves.
For those who have purchased the Club Leather Men’s Jacket (size M) and DownTown gloves in Europe, you may return them to the nearest authorised dealership due to higher-than-legal chromium VI levels used in the production which may lead to discomfort or allergic reactions.
Below is the official recall posted by BMW Motorrad pertaining to the matter.
BMW Motorrad recalls the Club Leather Men’s Jacket and the DownTown glove in Europe
Munich. Following instructions from the Munich Regional Administrative Authority, BMW Motorrad recalls the Club Leather Men’s Jacket size M, part number 76129899222 and the DownTown glove, part number 76218560843 to 76218560849 in Europe.
The Administrative Authority refers to a random test conducted on the above-mentioned articles of a supplier by the Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Rhein-Ruhr-Wupper (Rhine-Ruhr-Wupper Veterinary Inspection Office), which allegedly detected chromium VI above the legally standardised limit. Chromium VI can cause allergic reactions in some persons.
We regret any inconvenience caused to our customers. We regularly test the leather lifestyle products we sell for chrome VI and have not detected any abnormalities to date.
Owners are asked to hand the affected items of clothing in at an authorised BMW Motorrad dealership. Irrespective of their age, affected items can be exchanged for an equivalent BMW Motorrad product.
Who will be the 2020 Moto2 & Moto3 world champions?
Written by: Sep Irran
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/aos-2016-to-feature-inaugural-painthead-asia-exhibition/ | AOS 2016 to feature inaugural Painthead Asia exhibition |
Art of Speed 2016 (AOS 2016) will include the first ever Painthead Asia exhibition for creative artists.
Art of Speed 2016 (AOS 2016) celebrates its fifth edition this year and organisers Art of Speed Malaysia are taking things into overdrive. Announced as part of this year’s show programs is the first ever Painthead Asia exhibition.
The exhibition stands as the first of its kind in the region and stands to foster further collaborations among local and also international artistes. The exhibition is set to feature custom paintings and paintworks. The exhibition is sponsored by Japanese helmet brand Beetle Helmet.
Amongst the artists listed for the exhibition include the likes of Bacon Decoration “Jun” from Japan, Arkiv Vilmansa & Fahmi Freeflow from Indonesia, Mr. Pinman & Twocs Itthipong from Thailand, Mark SBTG & Feroze McLeod from Singapore and lastly representing from Malaysia are Adrian Nunis “Affa Project” & Ezudean Ishak “Rolling Ink”.
Notably, each and every helmet designed by the aforementioned artistes will also go on sale through a ‘Silent Auction’ event as well. Organisers also stated that 100% of the proceeds would be channelled directly to the artiste themselves.
Besides the Painthead Asia exhibition and silent auction, AOS 2016 will also feature a number of other attractions as well. Highlights include special appearances by Jason Webber from ATR Choppers USA, Jeff Leighton from The Wretched Hive USA, Steve Caballero from USA, Shige Suganuma & Wildman from MOONEYES Japan, Dino Dalle Carbonare from Speedhunters.com Japan, Hi-Technix Japan Lowrider Hopping Show from Japan, Koji Hamada from Hammer Sycle Japan, Kaichiroh Kurosu from Cherry’s Company Japan, The Nash from Burnout Magazine Japan, as well as art collective pinstripe group from Japan; Makoto, Mr. G, Jetwrench and Boo.
AOS 2016 takes place on May 28 and 29 this year in the massive air-conditioned halls of the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS) just like last year. Plenty of activities are being organised to cater to all demographics including children. Notably, the winner of this year’s Best of Show in the motorcycle and automobile categories will win package trips as guests of honour at this year’s MOONEYES Yokohama Hotrod and Custom Show in December.
More information is available at the event’s official website, artofspeedmy.com.
(Images courtesy of Art of Speed Malaysia)
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/prototype-ktm-390-duke-caught-testing/ | Prototype KTM 390 Duke Caught Testing |
KTM 390 Duke prototype - Photo credit RideApart
A prototype KTM 390 Duke was caught testing on the road.
The pictures show revised frame and chassis.
It is believed to be the 2021 model.
The KTM 390 Duke is one of the most rip-roaring bikes we’ve tested. Small as it may seem, the 2018 model rode more like a 500cc bike rather than a 372cc single-banger.
There isn’t others like it as most of its peers are dual-cylinder machines. But KTM made the 390 Duke in their “Ready to Race” spirit, hence the ability to use it for the daily commute and at a trackday. Many riders agree and it is actually KTM’s best-seller throughout the world.
And while we don’t see a reason to upgrade it, the manufacturer thinks otherwise, apparently.
Recently, RideApart reported that the prototype of the 2021 version was spotted testing.
Check out the photo. There’s a new headlight and TFT screen up-front. The front turnsignals are attached to the meter’s mount. Look closer and you’ll see the new frame and the engine is mounted on V-shaped hangers rather the single “bone” we see on the current model. The lower triple clamp behind the headlight is massive, hinting towards a change in geometry. Further back, the swingarm is likewise different.
The seats look thicker and bigger in the picture but they are probably dummies used during testing.
Source and picture: RideApart
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/meet-the-bonneville-killer-2023-brixton-cromwell-1200-rm58888/ | Meet The Bonneville Killer: 2023 Brixton Cromwell 1200 – RM58,888 |
Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Brixton brand in Malaysia, has introduced a formidable contender to the market with the launch of the Brixton Cromwell 1200.
powering the Cromwell 1200 is a twin-cylinder 1222cc water-cooled engine that makes 83hp and 108Nm.
the Cromwell 1200 is a combination between classic design and modern technology.
With its classic vintage design and modern features, the Cromwell 1200 has the potential to dethrone the ever-popular Triumph Bonneville 120 as the motorcycle of choice for enthusiasts in Malaysia.
Under the theme “Ride The New Old School,” this remarkable model is powered by a 1222cc engine and carries a competitive starting price of RM55,888 for the first 100 customers, rising to RM58,888 thereafter (excluding insurance and road tax). Prospective buyers can find the Cromwell 1200 at authorized Brixton dealerships throughout Malaysia.
The Cromwell 1200 boasts a parallel twin-cylinder, 4-stroke, and 8-valve engine, delivering an impressive maximum power output of 83Hp at 6,550rpm and a maximum torque of 108Nm at 3,100rpm. Weighing 235kg, this motorcycle is equipped with front telescopic suspension and adjustable suspension at the rear, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride.
Putting safety first, the Brixton Cromwell 1200 features dual ABS, with dual hydraulic type disc brakes on the front and hydraulic single disc brakes on the rear. Additionally, a traction control system is in place to prevent any loss of grip on the wheels.
To cater to individual riding preferences, the Cromwell 1200 offers two distinctive riding modes: Eco and Sport. The Sport mode provides a more responsive and aggressive throttle, adding to the overall exhilaration of the riding experience.
Not just a beauty in design, the Brixton Cromwell 1200 comes equipped with various additional accessories, such as an aluminum skid plate that protects the engine during off-road adventures, and a protective pad for the fuel tank to shield it from potential impacts. The package also includes a 10-liter capacity saddlebag, crafted from high-quality waterproof material and designed to retain its shape even when empty.
Buyers of the Brixton Cromwell 1200 enjoy the assurance of a manufacturer’s warranty for two years or 20,000 km mileage (whichever comes first), and can conveniently access the online genuine parts purchase service provided by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ducati-multistrada-v4-pikes-peak-edition-is-coming/ | Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak Edition Is Coming |
Ducati will introduce a Pikes Peak edition of the Multistrada V4 for 2021.
Had already offered the Pikes Peak edition for the previous 1260 Multistrada the Italian marque set to continue the tradition with latest Multistrada V4.
Pikes Peak has always been one of the most iconic streets for Ducati even after they switched from the Multistrada to the prototype, Streetfighter V4, during Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2019.
After Carlin Dunne tragic accident leads to the ban of two wheels from competing in the Hill Climb, Ducati went ahead with the plans to introduce a Pikes Peak edition for the Multistrada V4.
No further details of the said motorcycle are being disclosed yet, however, looking back at the previous Pikes Peak edition; we can make a few guesses such as unique colour scheme and Ohlins suspension.
We have yet to catch a glimpse of the all-new Multistrada V4 here in Malaysia, but we expect the new adventure motorcycle to be introduced soon!
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/boon-siew-honda-introduces-upgraded-2017-honda-cbr650f-cb650f-rm44995/ | Boon Siew Honda introduces upgraded 2017 Honda CBR650F & CB650F – From RM44,995 |
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has just released and upgraded versions of their 2017 Honda CBR650F and Honda CB650F with a bunch of internal and external upgrades.
The new 650F range now comes with a reworked engine with more power and torque as well as upgraded suspension, brake and lighting systems.
The upgraded 2017 Honda CBR650F and CB650F are priced at RM47,117.94 and RM44,995.94 respectively (basic prices with GST).
The folks over at Boon Siew Honda (BSH) have just introduced the latest 2017 Honda CBR650F and Honda CB650F upgraded for 2017. The middleweight sports bike options from BSH now comes with a bunch of upgraded specs as well as new colour schemes.
Looking at the engine specification, the 649cc inline-four, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected DOHC engine now produces close to 90hp at 11,000rpm and 64Nm of torque at 8,000rpm. That’s close to around a 10% power increase compared to the previous models. BSH were able to perform this feat with the introduction of a brand new intake and exhaust flow management system together with a shorter muffler setup.
Apart from the engine, the new CBR650F and CB650F come with new Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) front forks and Nissin brake callipers to provide a much improved overall riding package and experience. Other upgrades include the addition of built in LED headlights and taillights for both upgraded 2017 bikes.
Those who are interested in getting a 2017 Honda CBR650F of your very own, you’ll be glad to know that BSH will be offering the bike in three different colourway; Matte Gun Powder Black, Millennium Red and Pearl Metalloid White. The asking price? Only RM47,115.94 (basic price with GST).
As for the upgraded 2017 Honda CB650F, you’ll have four different choices instead; Matte Gun Powder Black, Millennium Red, Pearl Spencer Blue and Sword Silver Metallic. The naked variant of the 650F range will set you around RM44,995.94 (basic price with GST).
The new Honda CBR650F and CB650F will be available in Authorized Impian Honda Shop from 1st August 2017 onwards.
2017 Honda CBR650F
2017 Honda CBR650F
2017 Honda CB650F
2017 Honda CB650F
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/qjmotor-owned-mbp-rolls-out-the-t1002v-adv-motorcycle/ | QJMotor-Owned MBP Rolls Out The T1002V ADV Motorcycle – |
QJMotor has been making headlines in the global motorcycle industry over the last few years, particularly via its subsidiary, Benelli and Keeway.
MBP’s is the latest premium brand under Keeway that is owned by QJMotor.
Similar to the Benelli, MBP also has an Italian origin.
Benelli is going strong after the acquisition by QJMotor, with the TRK502 emerging as the most popular ADV bike in its home country, Italy.
Also, thanks to the wide range of models including the upcoming TRK800, TNT500, BKX250 and BKX250 S, the brand will continue to grow its influence with years to come.
That said, QJMotor now wants to carve similar success with Keeway after the brand recently gave birth to a premium subsidiary called the Moto Bologna Passione (MBP).
MBP recently showcased several models at EICMA, but the one that caught our attention is the T1002V adventure-tourer.
Mechanically, the T1002V is fitted with an all-new 997cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, 80-degree V-Twin engine that pumps out 95hp @ 7,600rpm and 96Nm @ 6,500rpm. Power-wise, it is on par with the KTM 890 Adventure R and BMW F 850 GS.
Adding to its ADV aesthetic is a set of tubeless wire-spoke wheels and adjustable KYB long-travel suspension. Braking is done via dual front disc brakes at the front and a single disc at the rear paired with Brembo-owned J.Juan callipers.
Similar to QJMotor’s current ADV range, including the SRT800 and TRK800, the MBP T1002V also features a full-colour dash, adjustable windscreen and a center stand.
However, pricing is yet to be made available, as well as when the T1002V will hit the market. Nonetheless, we’ll keep you updated on this interesting development.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2022-honda-cb500x-and-cbr500r-lands-in-malaysia-from-rm34449/ | 2022 Honda CB500X And CBR500R Lands In Malaysia – From RM34,449 |
Boon Siew Honda (BSH) officially welcomes the 2022 Honda CB500X and CBR500R for the Malaysian market.
The 2022 CB500X and CBR500R are now priced at RM36,099 and RM34,499.
Both motorcycles received significant updates for 2022, starting with the suspension setup that now comes in an adjustable Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SSF-BP) USD fork.
Apart from improved chassis dynamics, both the CB500X and CBR500R gets newly improved twin 296mm disc with Nissin two-piston callipers.
The improved braking allows riders to pull the lever when braking without much pressure.
Other significant improvement includes:
19-inch front and 17-inch lighter wheels (CB500X)
lightweight 5 Y-shaped spokes wheels (CBR500)
new headlight with a broader beam
optimised high/low headlight beam and front indicator position lights (CB500X)
Nonetheless, the CB500X and CBR500R continue to deliver 50hp @ 8,5000rpm and 45Nm @ 6,500rpm from its 471cc, 8-valve liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine.
Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a six-speed transmission with an assist/slipper clutch.
According to Boon Siew Honda, the CBX500X is available in three colour options; GP Red, Mat Gun Power Black Metallic and Pearl Organic Green, while the CBR500X is only available in GP Red.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-kawasaki-z900-abs-now-new-colour/ | 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS now with new colour! |
A brand new colour option for the 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS is now available for order.
The new Metallic Green Black will be available from 16 April 2018 along with the other three existing colour schemes.
The standard Z900 costs RM49,158 whereas the Special Edition is at RM50,959 (basic prices with GST).
Kawasaki Motors Malaysia (KMSB) has proudly announced that their 2018 Kawasaki Z900 ABS will be available in a brand new colour scheme. The new colour is called Metallic Green Black and will be available from 16 April 2018.
The new colour option has been introduced due to the overwhelming purchase of this particular model. The existing colour options which are Standard Grey and Green, Special Edition Metallic Blue and Metallic Red are considered by many as the ultimate naked performance machine.
Those who are interested in the Kawasaki Z900 ABS should know that its 948cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled engine produces a whopping 123hp at 9,500rpm and 98.6Nm of maximum torque at 7,700rpm. This allows for superb acceleration performance as well as exhilarating top end peak.
Other features include a 41mm inverted front fork, horizontal back-link suspension, dual-channel ABS, dual four-piston calipers attached to 300mm petal discs, assist and slipper clutch plus many more.
As for the pricing, the Standard model sits at RM49,158 whereas the Special Edition will set you back at RM50,959 (basic prices with GST).
TESTED: 2017 Kawasaki Z900 ABS & Z900 ABS SE – “Speed Demon”
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ktm-to-release-a-new-flagship-variant-of-the-390-adventure/ | KTM To Release A New Flagship Variants Of The 390 Adventure |
KTM’s partnership with Indian automotive giant Bajaj Auto has resulted in a lot of developments for KTM’s smaller-displacement machines. The latest news from KTM is the upcoming release of new variants of the 390 Adventure.
KTM developing a premium version of the 390 Adventure.
The upgraded 390 Adventure to feature adjustable suspension sourced from WP.
According to Indian motorcycling publication BikeWale, KTM is set to release a premium version of the 390 Adventure equipped with adjustable suspension. This upgraded suspension system, sourced from WP Suspension, will make the already capable 390 Adventure even more capable and could result in one of the most capable entry-level adventure bikes on the market. The new premium version is expected to be called the 390 Adventure R.
On the other end of the spectrum, KTM is also reportedly working on a lowered version of the 390 Adventure. With a seat height of 33.7 inches, the current 390 Adventure is much taller than most Asian inseams. The new lowered version will be a welcome addition to the Asian market, where accessibility is a key consideration for many riders.
Both new variants of the 390 Adventure are expected to hit the market as soon as May 2023, with India being the first to receive them. When mated to the bike’s advanced electronic rider aids, tried and tested engine, and lightweight chassis, the upgraded 390 Adventure could set a new standard in the adventure bike segment.
KTM’s partnership with Bajaj Auto has been ongoing for over a decade, with the Indian conglomerate holding a 48 percent stake in KTM AG. Bajaj Auto handles the production of KTM’s smaller-displacement machines, including bikes with engines ranging from 125cc to 390cc.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/meet-gannet-design-superleggera/ | Meet the Gannet Design Superleggera |
Now here is an interesting design piece submitted in our inbox recently by Swiss-based designer, Ulfert Janssen of the GANNET Design firm.
Based on the exclusive and limited edition Ducati 1199 Panigale Superleggera, Janssen’s rendition of the Italian superbike was aimed at developing a new form of design fluidity, elaborating more on the new surface development with styling language commonly found in fashion and architecture.
As you can clearly see in the images we’ve posted, Janssen has successfully done so and we think it is one exquisite design based on one f our favourites bikes ever produced.
For those of you who do not know, Ulfert Janssen is the founder and owner of a Swiss-based design firm called GANNET Design. Prior to founding the firm, Janssen had previously worked as a car designer at Renault. You can check out more designs by the firm, which also includes several other eye-catching bike designs by clicking this link.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2018-benelli-752s-402s-coming-soon-malaysia/ | 2018 Benelli 752S & 402S – Coming soon to Malaysia! |
A new billboard near the Penchala toll plaza is advertising the latest models from Benelli including their 2018 Benelli 752S.
The ad also showed another new model that is the 2018 Benelli 402S which we think is going to be launched soon.
We expect the 2018 bikes to be launched in the first half of 2018 with the price tag of somewhere below RM40,000.
Most of us who frequent the many highways especially in the Klang Valley area can notice a number of motorcycle advertisements placed on billboards. Not a lot of motorcycle manufacturer tend to use this particular service to promote their products except for one who has been going all out for this particular market method. We are of course referring to Benelli.
Parked under Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd who happens to handle a number of brands including Sym, Keeway and SM Sport here in Malaysia, Benelli has been seeing a lot of hardcore marketing on major highways. We are already familiar with most of their line-up which include the sporty 302R, TRK 502 tourer, RFS 150 supercub, and many more.
However, there’s one particular billboard right after the Penchala toll plaza near Damansara caught our attention the most. Unlike the usual ads where they only show one bike at one time, this billboard showcases the whole 2017 range; TnT 135, RFS 150, 302R, TRK 502, and the Leoncino 500.
That’s all good and all but there are two more bikes shown under ‘2018 new models’. The bikes? The 2018 Benelli 402S aka “Mini XDiavel” and the 2018 Benelli 752S aka “MV Ducati mash up”. The 402S has large similarities in terms of design to the powerful and super urban 1,262cc Ducati XDiavel.
To know more about the 2018 Benelli 402S, check out the story below.
2018 Benelli 402S – Mini Ducati XDiavel?
The 2018 Benelli 752S however caught the bulk of our interest and based on the specs, it could be a hot seller IF the price is right. Introduced just a few months ago during EICMA 2017 in Milan, this middleweight streetfighter or naked bike is going to against some very strong opponents in the field, particularly its very close rival the 2017 Ducat Monster 797.
To know more about the 2017 Ducati Monster 797, check out the story below.
Next Bike Sdn Bhd launches new 2017 Ducati Monster 797 & Multistrada 950! From RM55,900
Powered by a 750cc, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine, the 752S is said to be able to produce 81.6hp at 9,000rpm and 67 Nm of maximum torque at 6,500rpm. According to Benelli, the 752S is said to have better touring capabilities compared to their current and most popular model in Malaysia, the TnT 600.
Its front twin projector headlights fit perfectly well with its muscular body but we can’t help but noticed that it has almost the same tear-drop shape the manic MV Agusta Brutale 800. We recently took the Brutale 800 for a test ride and to know more about our extensive review, CLICK HERE.
Other impressive features include a solid 50mm Marzocchi inverted front fork, Brembo brakes (dual 320mm front discs with four-piston calipers & single 260mm rear disc) and one smart-looking exhaust.
There’s no news on when these new Benelli 2018 models will be launched but considering Mforce Holdings has already begun marketing both the 402S and 752S, we expect the bikes to be launched in the first half of 2018. There’s no news from them just yet regarding the matter but once we have new information, we will let you know as soon as we can.
Stay tuned to Bikes Republic for more updates.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/check-out-this-amazing-bmw-r-90-s-boxermotor-kit/ | Check Out this Amazing BMW R 90 S Boxermotor Kit! |
Check out this awesome BMW R 90 S Boxermotor model kit.
It’s in 1:2 scale which means it large sized.
It assembles into a working engine.
The current Movement Control Order (otherwise known as lockdown) has certainly made us itch over doing something about bikes. One of the things I did is building motorcycle model kits from Tamiya. But this BMW R 90 S Boxermotor kit from Franzis would perhaps be the ultimate build.
Apart from being the model of the “airhead” Boxer powerplant of the legendary 1973 R 90 S, it’s in 1:2 scale. That means it’s half the size of the real thing! In other words: It’s huge!
This is a real BMW R 90 S. Not the kit.
It contains some 200 parts that will constitute a working engine (minus the combustion, of course). As such, it includes the pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, pushrods, rocker arms, camshafts, gears and drives for the transmission, gaskets, carburetors, dummy sparkplugs, wiring, clutch, flywheel, stator, and various stuff that make up an engine. All these parts are then assembled and encased in see-through engine err… casings.
Did we say that it’s a working engine? That’s right, because there is a small electric motor that turns the internal parts. The internals can turn at different speeds depending on which gear you selected via a gearchange lever. Plus, the spark plugs emit light.
How cool is that?!
It isn’t cheap of course. It lists for some ¥ 34,000 (excluding freight) which equals RM 1,373.81 today. However, nothing beats the satisfaction putting pieces together into one beautiful unit.
Unfortunately, it isn’t sold here in Malaysia, so you would have to order it from overseas.
All pictures credit to Franzis
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/malaysian-motogp-premier-roving-tickets-promotion/ | Malaysian MotoGP Premier Roving Tickets on promotion |
MotoGP fans are in for some good news as Sepang International Circuit (SIC) is currently running a promotion for the Premier Roving Tickets for the 2014 Malaysian MotoGP happening this October.
Promotion price starts at RM250 and last till the end of this month. The Premier Roving Ticket allows you to get to various vantage points with access to both sides of the North and South Main Grandstand, the Main Grandstand Tower seats, the F Grandstand as well as the C2 Covered Hillstands instead of just one seat.
According to SIC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Razlan Razali, each seating area will have their own attraction. Fans at the North Grandstand, for example, can enjoy actions and activities at the starting grid and the pitlane. Those at the South Main Grandstand, on the other hand, will enjoy the best of track actions with clear view of Turns 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 as well as the back straight.
“For those at the Main Grandstand Tower, they can have a close view of the riders showing of their skills as they take the sharp Turn 15. This is also a very popular location for those who love photography. “Grandstand F, on the other hand, provides the thrills of watching these world class riders taking the fast corners of turns 5, 6, 7 and 8. While fans can enjoy the race from atop the hills at the C2 Covered Hillstands.
“With these Premier Rover Tickets, you can have all the enjoyment especially coming with a good SLR camera and getting all the different photos. In the absence of this special tickets, you would need to purchase tickets for all areas, which will come up to a total of RM640. Imagine a savings of up to RM340. However, it is only opened to the first 1,000 tickets so fans are urge to get theirs now as it is selling fast,” added Razlan.
Slotted as the penultimate round of an 18-round championship this season, the 2014 Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix would be held at the circuit fromOctober 24 to 26 – a week after the Australian Grand Prix in Phillip Island and a fortnight before the traditional season ender in Valencia.
Malaysia will have four local heroes in the world championship with Hafizh Syahrin Abdulllah and Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman competing in Moto2; and Muhammad Zulfahmi Khairuddin and Amirul Hafiq Azmi challenging the Moto3 class.
Targeting more than 80,000 spectators for the race day, SIC will be lining up a host of off-track activities at the spectators’ areas as value added excitement for the fans.
Tickets are priced as low as RM40 and they can be purchased via internet atwww.sepangcircuit.com or by calling TICKET HOTLINE at 03-87782222. SIC Ticket Counters are also available around town. Please visit the official website for locations.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/castrol-bike-mechanic-contest-2017/ | Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest 2017 |
Champions of the Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest 2017 to represent Malaysia in Asia-Pacific finals.
Only 3 winners were picked from 800 contestants.
The Asia-Pacific finals will be held in Pattaya, Thailand in November.
Kuala Lumpur, 10 October – The prestigious Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest 2017 came to a brilliant close after four months of intense competition, as Castrol Malaysia unveiled the best Castrol Bike Point Mechanic Team in Malaysia.
Teamwork is key in excelling in the Practical Challenge
The Grand Prize was won by the team from the Southern Region. Eng Lean Hui, Sivanathan Letchumanan and Tee Kok Jing outperformed five other teams in the competition’s Grand Finale. Apart from winning the Champion’s trophy and a brand-new Yamaha 125cc scooter each, more importantly, the Grand Prize winners will also go on to represent Malaysia in Asia-Pacific Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest in Pattaya, Thailand, in November. There, Malaysia’s best Castrol Bike Point mechanics will compete with two-wheeler mechanics from other countries in the Asia-Pacific region including Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and India.
From left to right: Tee Kok Jing, Eng Lean Hui and Sivanathan Letchumanan, the champions of the Malaysian Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest 2017
1st Runner Up was awarded to Goh Poh Joo, Tony Charles and Tan Tack Boon who represented the East Malaysian Region, while the 2nd Runner Up position went to Lim Kok Seong, Lee Yong Chang and Fakrurazi Abdul Ghafar from the Central Region.
The Central Team in deep concentration
The Malaysian Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest 2017 kicked off in June, where close to 800 contestants across the country’s five regions participated in the preliminary rounds. Out of that, only 18 mechanics, grouped into six teams of three each, qualified to advance to the semi-finals. After a gruelling battle to test their theoretical knowledge, just three teams were shortlisted to proceed to the finals to compete in a Practical Knowledge Challenge for the chance to be crowned the best Castrol Bike Point Mechanic Team in Malaysia. The mechanics were judged by an independent four-member judging team comprising of highly experienced technical & R&D experts from the motorcycle industry.
The final six teams competing at the Grand Finale
“The Castrol Bike Mechanic Contest is one of Castrol Malaysia’s many efforts to recognise and reward high level of skill amongst Castrol Bike Point mechanics in Malaysia. Through the contest, we ensure that mechanics can hone their skills further. Castrol works to raise their technical knowledge and improve customer service. This year’s competition is particularly significant as the winners will go on to represent the nation in the Asia-Pacific competition. We are very proud to recognise the skills of our mechanics in Malaysia and will continue to support them as they prepare for the upcoming battle,” said Keow Mei-Shan, Marketing Director Malaysia & Singapore.
Keow Mei-Shan, Marketing Director Malaysia & Singapore, Castrol Malaysia
Speaking at the prize presentation ceremony, Eng Lean Hui said, “My teammates and I are very happy to have won this challenging competition, and are honoured to be representing Malaysia in the Asia Pacific Bike Mechanic contest end of this year. We learned a lot during this competition. As individuals we were not perfect, but together, we made a perfect team! We thank Castrol Malaysia for this opportunity. We will continue to train and update our knowledge in the run up to it, and hope that we can do ourselves, our families and ultimately the nation proud!”
Audience cheering on their favourite contestants
To find out more about Castrol and its products, visit www.castrol.com/my.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/moto-guzzi-x-timberland-celebrates-100-years-with-special-collab/ | Moto Guzzi X Timberland Celebrates 100 Years With Special Collab |
Moto Guzzi has teamed up with American footwear company, Timberland, to produce a series of collections to celebrate the Italian company 100th anniversary.
The collection includes Moto Guzzi X Timberland Waterproof Winter Extreme Gore-Tex Super Race Boot, Moto Guzzi X Earthkeepers Boot, leather jacket, half zip hoodie, a long sleeve tee and selvedge denim pants.
However, the Waterproof Winter Extreme Gore-Tex Super Race Boot caught our attention as it remarkably features the Mandello iconic colour scheme of black and red.
It also offers ample ankle support with high top construction, while the Vibram rubber sole provides a better grip.
The Super Race boots are available via Timberland.com at USD332 (RM1.3k). By the way, we took a look at Timberland Malaysia, and the collection is yet to be made available. (not sure it ever will, though).
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/mv-officially-debuts-f3-800-ago/ | MV officially debuts F3 800 Ago |
Its been a long time coming, but MV Agusta have finally released the limited edition version of its F3 800 supersports called the F3 800 Ago.
First shown at the annual EICMA show last year, the Ago edition is essentially a tribute version in the name of living Italian MotoGP legend Giacomo Agostini.
The most prominent highlight of this fact is the man’s autographed signature on the right side of the fuel tank encased and protected by a clear coat of paint.
Elsewhere, the F3 800 Ago also dons a very prominent Tricolore paint scheme, plus various go-faster bits and lightweight carbon fibre kits from the MV Agusta Corse collection. These include the carbon fibre fender, forged aluminium wheels, as well as machined aluminium footpegs to grant the bike with a dry overall weight of just 171kg.
MV plans to produce only 300 such examples, each tagged with a price tag of €23,990. While it ain’t cheap, it is definitely one hot item destined to make it way into the garages of deep-pocketed collectors worldwide. See more images of the utterly gorgeous F3 800 Ago in the gallery below.
MV Agusta F3 800 Ago
Source: Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/max-biaggi-appointed-aprilia-global-ambassador/ | Max Biaggi Appointed as Aprilia Global Ambassador |
Max Biaggi had won five of his six world titles his with Aprilia.
Also known as “The Roman Emperor” he was the one who first made the brand famous, more than any other rider.
It is natural for the Italian manufacturer to appoint him as the Global Ambassador.
Six-time World Champion, Max Biaggi has been appointed as the global ambassador for Aprilia.
Popularly called “The Roman Emperor,” he has had much experience in working with the Italian brand, from the beginning of his 250cc GP career in 1991 and won five of his six titles in 250cc GP and World Superbike on Aprilias. In fact, it was Biaggi’s exploits that launched the Aprilia name to the masses, way before Valentino Rossi.
Indeed, he was among the riders who helped develop the Aprilia RSV250 to a winning bike and by taking the 1994 title with 5 wins.
Max Biaggi in 1991 – Courtesy of www.daidegasforum.com
He stayed with the Chesterfield Aprilia team and winning the world title again for the next two years, by winning 8 races in 1995 and 9 races in 1996, before hopping to another team in 1997.
Max Biaggi in 1995 – Courtesy of motogeo.com
Biaggi moved up to the 500cc class in 1998 and campaigned in the premier category on Hondas and Yamahas until his retirement in 2005.
2007 saw him contracted to the Alstare Suzuki World Superbike (WSBK) team, riding the Suzuki GSX-R1000. He finished third overall at the end of the year.
Biaggi then changed camp to the Sterilgarda Go Eleven team to ride the Ducati 1098 RS for the following year. Finishing 7th, he had a famous falling out with the team.
Aprilia picked up the ball in 2009 when both parties reunited. Biaggi now had a new weapon, the Aprilia RSV4. It was a year of learning and the rider steered the bike to 4th overall at the end of the season.
In 2010, the factory Aprilia team became known as the Aprilia Alitalia team and Biaggi scored his 5th world title by dominating the series with a total of 10 wins.
Max Biaggi on the Aprilia Alitalia RSV4 – Courtesy of asphaltandrubber.com
2011 was an unlucky year for him when he was sidelined by a broken leg, but still finished 3rd overall. Biaggi came back strong in 2012 to wrap up the WSBK title in an ultra-competitive season, finishing just ½-point in front of Tom Sykes.
Will we get to see The Roman Emperor at Aprilia Malaysia anytime soon given the large number of his fans here? How about during the Malaysian MotoGP?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/malaysian-motogp-team-2019/ | Malaysian MotoGP team in 2019? |
There’s a possibility that Sepang International Circuit (SIC) will run the first-ever Malaysian MotoGP team in 2019.
Rumours have indicated that the folks from SIC are heading to Jerez this weekend to work something out with MotoGP and Yamaha.
SIC might partner up with one of the existing private teams with hopes that they can bring in Hafizh, Yamaha, and some funds along with the deal.
We all know that 2019 will be a major season for the entire MotoGP grid. With the changes and additions satellite bikes and the possible reshuffling of riders, there are also rumours on Sepang International Circuit (SIC) securing the first Malaysian MotoGP team next season.
Sources indicated that the folks from SIC are heading to Jerez this weekend to try and work something out with getting a spot on the MotoGP grid next season. This might be harder than one thinks considering that all 24 spots are filled until the end of 2020.
With the Tech 3 squad ending the 20-year relationship with Yamaha at the end of the season, SIC is meeting up with the Japanese manufacturer as well in hopes that one seat of the Yamaha M1 can be reserved in 2019 (and hopefully, beyond) for our national rider, Hafizh Syahrin.
SIC’s initial goal of getting a Malaysian rider in the premier class by 2019 was fast-tracked this year when Jonas Folger decided to take a break from the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad. Due to a medical condition called Gilbert Syndrome, Tech 3 together with SIC made arrangements for our very own Hafizh Syahrin to join the team.
So far, Hafizh is currently the top rookie and with nine points collected in the first three rounds, he sits at P13 in the world championship ahead of the other four rookies AND seven other MotoGP riders (four of them are factory riders from KTM, Aprilia, and Ducati).
There are a few ways on how SIC can achieve this but none of them will be cheap. The fastest (and probably, the easiest) way to accomplish this is if SIC is able to ‘buy out’ or partner up with one of the existing MotoGP private teams like Aspar, Marc VDS, or Avintia.
Some teams are keen on the idea of running Yamaha machinery next season and with a big budget boost from SIC, everyone might be happy with the move should everything go well. Currently, SIC is already handling four riders which include Adam Norrodin and Ayumu Sasaki in Moto3 (Petronas Sprinta Racing) and Zulfahmi Khairuddin in Moto2 (SIC Racing Team).
Whatever the case may be, it’s good to hear how fast and proactive Sepang Circuit is when it comes to not only the welfare and development of their riders but also, the future of continuing with the motorsport in the long run. Good on ya’, SIC.
Image source: MotoGP
MOTOGP: Johann Zarco to KTM factory team in 2019?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/this-125cc-equivalent-electric-bike-has-a-range-of-more-than-400km/ | This 125cc Equivalent Electric Bike Has A Range Of More Than 400KM |
Chinese electric bike maker Alrendo introduced the TS Bravo, which features a remarkable range and a fast charging time.
The company claimed TS Bravo offers more than 400km range.
Delivers 58kW and 117.4Nm of torque.
Runs on a 17.4kWh battery and weighs 245kg.
While you might think it’s just another e-bike from China, the Alrendo TS Bravo is quite interesting to take a look at.
Mainly because the makers at Alrendo somehow manage to develop a 17.4kWh battery that can deliver a range of 438km in a bike that weighs 245kg.
The bike can pump out 58kW (77.7hp) and 117.4Nm, but for the European market, the TS Bravo is restricted to just 11kW (14.7hp) and 54Nm.
Mechanically, the TS Bravo gets adjustable suspension while dual four-piston callipers handle braking at the front with a 300mm disc and a 240mm disc at the rear.
It also runs on 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear tyres.
According to reports, Alrendo is also set to expand its range with the TS Alpha, which will share the same frame and design but offers higher performance.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/aprilia-sr-gt-200-adventure-scooter-debuts-in-japan-rm20k/ | Aprilia SR GT 200 Adventure Scooter Debuts In Japan – RM20k |
The Aprilia SR GT 200 first caught our attention after making its global debut at EICMA, last year.
Aprilia introduced two variants, the SR GT 125 and 200, with the latter being launched in the Japanese market, recently.
Following a similar design concept as the Honda ADV 150, the SR GT 200 features the same rugged and aggresive design.
Appropriately labelled as an ‘urban adventure scooter’, the SR GT 200 comes with a wider handlebar, long-travel suspension and knobby tyres.
Aprilia also fitted the SR GT 200 with the firm signature tri-LED headlights with DRL functionality at the front.
The SR GT 200 also features ADV elements which include a smoked windscreen heavily faired front panel and a slightly forward-set footpegs.
Other exciting features include:
full digital LCD instrument cluster
auto engine start/stop
9L fuel tank
Showa 33mm telescopic fork
Showa rear twin shock
260mm front petal disc
220mm rear petal disc
Powering the SR GT 200 is a 174cc single-cylinder engine that pumps out 17.43hp @ 8,500rpm and 16.5Nm @ 7,000rpm.
The SR GT 200 is available in Japan for JPY550,00 (RM20k).
Could we see the SR GT range make its way to Malaysia anytime soon?
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/husqvarna-vitpilen-701-interview-with-the-designers/ | Husqvarna VITPILEN 701 – Interview with the Designers |
The VITPILEN 701 is Husqvarna’s new street bike concept.
It marks their return to street motorcycling and is the next step towards Husqvarna Motorcycles’ future vision; a sophisticated single-cylinder 4-stroke bike, housed within a minimalistic yet high-tech layout.
The VITPILEN 701’s designers believed strongly that something fresh was long overdue in the motorcycling world, so they set out to create a bike that is free of any gimmicks, gadgets, fairings or over-the-top-styling. A throaty single-cylinder motor and a neutral riding position signal that everything a rider need for a raw, authentic and thrilling riding experience.
Here is Q&A with Maxime Thouvenin, designer of the VITPILEN 701 and Craig Dent, Creative Lead Transportation Design about the Concept Vitpilen 701 (extracted from Husqvarna Media Kit @ EICMA 2015):
Yellow central line
What is the distinct yellow line down the middle?
Maxime:
During the design process we called it ‘the split’. It is a single connection between front and rear. We pushed for the simplest architecture, and the split was the most straight-forward way to merge the front with the rear of the bike. Visible from the side, the yellow line runs from the front of the seat to the centre of the silencer – it is one flat aluminium plain, that the rear section bolts onto.
Light vs Dark
Is there a reason for the distinct contrast between the light front and dark rear?
Maxime:
The dark part is the main underlying structure of the bike. The light area is where the rider interacts with and controls the bike.
Craig:
Riding is an emotional experience that happens on a machine – the bike. The dark rear lower section houses the raw machine. The light top by contrast is the point of contact between bike and rider.
Purpose
Who is this bike built for?
Craig:
It’s for a modern rider. This is a real street bike for ‘new-school’ and free thinking riders who want more from their riding experience. fresh and clearly different from any street bike there has ever been. Its nakedness and simplicity appeals to the timeless enjoyment of riding a motorcycle, but in a very modern and technically advanced package.
Differences between VITPILEN 701 and 401
How is it different from the VITPILEN 401?
Craig:
The VITPILEN concept is of a compact, simple, pure and raw riding experience. While the 401 is a compact and cheeky little urban-styled charger, the VITPILEN 701 is more of a serious rider’s bike. The VITPILEN 701 adds serious power and torque to the mix, but where the 401 is simple in form, the VITPILEN 701 takes it even further and is simpler in both form and function.
Inspiration
Is there any non-motorcycle inspiration behind the bike’s design?
Craig:
Yes, for sure. Over recent years consumer products have evolved really far. The trend has been towards simplicity, practicality and ease of use, without compromising any of the aesthetic appeal. This trend has been slow in arriving on the motorcycle scene unfortunately. We feel that this new bike will finally translate a very overdue and necessary trend into the motorcycle world.
Maxime:
The design world is moving at lightning speed. We looked to fields at the pinnacle of performance. Beyond formula one, we drew cues from the aerospace industry’s simplicity, precision of construction and use of ultra-lightweight materials. Even performance footwear design is phenomenally advanced and gave us some inspiration and new angles. The efficiency of modern architecture and even advances in computer modelling and construction processes have opened up new possibilities in all fields of design.
Favorite features
As the designer of this bike, what are you most proud of on it?
Maxime:
Well ‘the split’ down the middle really excites me. Seeing how well it has worked. The practicality, transparency and honesty of the design. Very little of the bike is hidden in any way.
Craig:
I’m proud of the fact that we see so much machine, yet overall the bike still appears so dynamic and emotional.
Rider’s perspective
What does this bike reflect of you as a rider?
Maxime:
I like a bike to be fun to ride. It must be ride able and enticing to climb on. But also, it needs to be aesthetically exciting. It must still be an attractive object. I think this bike reflects that.
Craig:
Honestly? I’d say that finally there’s a modern street bike that I would actually like to buy.
Cafe-racer or not
Is it an issue that this bike could get painted into the same corner as the recent fad or ‘fashion’ of production bikes styled as retro-rehashes and café racers?
Craig:
Is it an issue? No. Will some people want to call it a café racer? Sure they might. That could be the easiest thing for them to do. But there’s nothing old or revamped about this bike. It is 100% progressive and modern. It is bold and brave and doesn’t need to belong to any club. The simplicity it represents for a pure motorcycle riding experience is timeless, but other than that this is no dressed up classic bike. It is very innovative, modern and even though you can customise it if you want to, it doesn’t need any tinkering or fabrication to make it special.
On carbon monocoque
What is the rear section made from?
Maxime:
It is a one-piece carbon composite on this prototype. Very strong, very light. Just one section makes up the rear end of the bike – integrating the subframe and airbox as well as the base for the seat.
Question on Swedish roots
How are the Swedish roots reflected in this bike?
Maxime:
The bike has the same Scandinavian simplicity evident in modern Swedish architecture and industrial design. Meticulous attention to detail in a design that is subtle, logical and functional.
Craig:
Very focused and practical in approach, this bike managed to avoid having the design idea and engineering concept compete with each other – as is often the case – but instead it all works together harmoniously.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-uses-wd-40-motorcycle-maintenance/ | Ten Uses of WD-40 in Motorcycle Maintenance |
WD-40 is well-known for almost all uses.
They are also specialized in making penetrant and lubricant products that are perfect for motorcycle maintenance.
WD-40 has also launched a whole range of motorcycle specific products called “Specialist Motorbike”
The name WD-40 has been so synonymous with motorcycle riders and mechanics that we seem to just reach out for the blue and yellow can and spray it on whenever and wherever we needed it, without much thought.
But truth is, WD-40 has found universal use in virtually every aspect of everyday life. I can’t remember how many times have I used it to unjam the gate’s lock or lube the sliding door’s tracks. Or to remove crayon and ink graffiti from the walls and furniture – souvenir from my gregarious nephews.
WD-40 isn’t only for lubing but it’s also a penetrant which er… penetrates oxidation (read: rust). Anyhow, since we’re on the subject of motorcycles, here are the ten top uses for motorcycle maintenance:
Stuck/Stubborn Bolts/Screws/Tools
Did the mechanic overtighten the rear axle nut by using an air wrench? Need to install new handlebar grips and you don’t have compressed air? Got a pair of pliers whose jaws are stuck together like a corpse’s jaws?
What else? Spray on some WD-40 and see them work like miracles. In fact, a little WD-40 residue on your tools keep them from rusting (if they’re made of steel).
Stuck/Stubborn Footpeg
If you’re like me who likes to ride with the passenger footpegs stowed up, rain water, humidity and fine dirt will get into the spindle and cause them to stick over time.
Spray some WD-40 in there and watch the black icky stuff ooze out.
Lube/Protect Rubber Parts/Plastic Parts
Rubber’s main enemies are UV rays, heat, water and humidity. Things that our climate contributes plenty. Rubber will harden and brittle over time so one needs to lube them from time to time.
Similarly, black, uncoated plastics don’t stand a chance against the same enemies of rubber, turning them into unsightly grey, brittle and prone to cracking.
You may use the original WD-40 to coat them, but WD-40 has a new product for this, called the “Specialist MotorbikeTotal Shine.” There is also the WD-40 “Specialist Motorbike Silicone Shine,” which is the perfect product for this application. Just spray on directly or onto a cloth and wipe. But please, DO NOT, spray directly onto the tyres’ tread surfaces!
Lube Squeaky Parts
You ride up on your shiny bike and everyone looks your way. Suddenly something starts squeaking like overused bed springs as you roll to a stop. How embarrassing!
You do a quick diagnosis which leads you to the rear shock absorber mounts. Yes, water and fine dirt gets in there too. A quick spray of WD-40 in there helps real quick.
Lube Keyholes
Water seems to find its way into almost anything, and keyholes are not excepted. So, stop riding in the rain or washing the bike? Bad news, unseen humidity is also a culprit.
Lock mechanisms get rusty hence sticky over time. I keep the ignition, fuel cap and seat release keyholes working by protecting them with the famous lube.
Displace Water
A good practice for bikers is to go around your bike after riding in heavy rain or washing the bike with the blue-and-yellow can to spray some lube into the bolts and nuts, besides whichever part water shouldn’t be present. Electrical connectors might be hard to access, but spraying some WD-40 in there helps to remove water and prevent future build-up of water, as with battery terminals and switches.
Remove Sticker Residue
You’ve removed a sticker which challenges your good taste, but it’s left behind a sticky residue. Left alone, that patch will turn brown after picking up dirt. Scraping is out of the question as that’ll scratching the paintwork too.
Part of Chain Cleaning
I used to spray WD-40 onto the chain after cleaning it with kerosene. The WD-40 will displace the kerosene and the dirty residue, resulting in a clean chain ready for lubing. Spray on, allow a few minutes to penetrate and scrub with a brush if necessary, and hose off with water. The formula carries away grease, grime dirt and oil more effectively. It can also be used to clean the swingarm and sprockets.
After cleaning, a shot of WD-40 Specialist™ Automotive chain lube completes the job to ensure smooth and stress-free operations when on the go.
Clean Parts of Rust/Grease
If there are parts starting to rust, that’s what WD-40 can take care of.
Spray it on, let it penetrate and rub off. Likewise, If your battery’s terminals have corroded, you know what to reach out for by now.
Lube Clutch/Brake Cable
Clutch or throttle cables are best lubed with grease. But removing them may present a level of difficulty. Just spray some WD-40 into the tube to lube them to ensure smooth operation.
Spraying some WD-40 on it, wait for a few seconds and rub it off gently with a cloth.
There are so many wonderful bike-related things that you can do with all the products made by WD-40. To know more on WD-40® Specialist™ Automotive range, CLICK HERE.
Additionally, you can also head over to their website by clicking HERE.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/yamaha-patents-fj-09-nameplate/ | Yamaha patents ‘FJ-09’ nameplate |
Sources are reporting that Yamaha have filed a patent for the ‘FJ-09’ nameplate in the US.
Whenever a car or bike company files a patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), it usually gives us hints of an upcoming new model. In this case, it looks like the Japanese brand is readying a sports touring version of its highly acclaimed MT-09 using its traditional ‘FJ’ cruiser nameplate for its sports tourer models.
However, the move could also indicate that the firm could be introducing a whole different model for the US market. Yamaha have given different names for several models depending on its intended market. Example, the MT-09 as it is called in Europe is christened as the ‘FZ-09’ in the US instead (read our report about the MT-09’s reveal).
Yamaha has openly disclosed its intention on fully utilising its new three-cylinder engine used in the MT-09. The firm’s first triple-cylinder engine in over three decades displaces 847cc, outputting 115hp and 87Nm.
Realistically, it appears that it would not take much for Yamaha to transform the MT-09 middleweight sports naked to create perhaps a desirable middleweight sports touring with full-fairings and panniers.
Source: Visordown and Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/ten-unusual-production-motorcycles-part-8/ | Ten Most Unusual Production Motorcycles (Part 8) |
BRP Can-Am Spyder
Please click here for Part 1 (Suzuki RE5), here for Part 2 (Honda CBX1000), here for Part 3 (Yamaha GTS1000), here for Part 4 (Suzuki Katana), here for Part 5 (Böhmerland), here for Part 6 (MTT Y2K and 420RR), and here for Part 7 (Honda DN-01).
Wait a minute… This isn’t a motorcycle. It isn’t a car either. It’s a trike but two wheels are in front. So, that makes the Can-Am Spyder a reverse-trike, which means it’s a motorcycle.
Since Can-Am is a subsidiary of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), it fashioned like a snowmobile for the road: Tyres in place of a caterpillar tread behind and skis in front. There’s a large trunk space up front.
The bike… err… trike is built around an ATV-like chassis, called Surrounding Spar Technology (SST). But just a car, the front suspension features double A-arms with anti-roll bar. There’s Dynamic Power Steering, too.
There are four models, called the F3-S, F3-T, RT-S and RT Limited, powered by either a Rotax 998cc, liquid-cooled, V-Twin or a Rotax 1330cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-Triple. Both engines utilize electronic throttle. Other electronics include ABS, traction control and stability control.
Can-Am Spyder range updated for 2017
Besides that, the Spyder’s brakes are linked front and rear. There are also four types of transmission, 5-speed manual with reverse, 5-speed semi-automatic which uses paddle to shift, 6-speed manual with reverse, and a 6-speed semi-automatic with shift paddles.
First launched in 2007, the Spyder’s variants had sold more 100,000 units worldwide. They’ve found a large audience here in Malaysia too.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/gopro-hero-7-black-sliver-and-white-launched-reaching-malaysia-soon/ | GoPro Hero 7 Black, Sliver and White Launched: Reaching Malaysia Soon |
The GoPro Hero 7 line-up has been launched.
The range consists of Black, Silver and White with distinctively different available functions.
The Hero 7 ought to arrive in Malaysia in the next two weeks, according to Funsportz Sdn. Bhd.
For GoPro fans, we have news for you. GoPro, the world’s most prolific action camera maker has launched the Hero 7 line-up which consists of the Black, Silver and White editions.
We got in touch with Funsportz Sdn. Bhd., the sole distributor of GoPro cameras in Malaysia and they the Hero 7 line-up may arrive within the next two weeks. No prices have been set, though.
GoPro is so famous for their action cams that almost everyone calls any action camera a “GoPro” irrespective of manufacturer.
But as GoPro’s stocks took a hard dip together with a total of four layoffs last year, the San Mateo, California based company is streamlining its bloated line-up by eliminating certain products, while consolidating on what they do best.
The three versions of the Hero 7 are the result of that strategy.
Let’s see some of the stuff the top-of-the-line Hero 7 Black does first:
GoPro Hero 7 Black
The GoPro Hero 7 uses the GP1 processor chip which is homegrown. As CEO of GoPro, Nick Woodman says, using their own chip solves the problem of using a third-party chip which is available for all other competitors’s products.
The most important feature of the Hero 7 Black is the new “HyperSmooth” image stabilization function. Judging from the videos posted on GoPro’s website and reviews by users, the footages shot looked uncannily similar to being shot using professional-level gimbal-stabilizers. So much so, that there is not a need to purchase the Karma handheld stabilizer anymore.
As a direct benefit of HyperSmooth is the TimeWarp video function.
In the previous GoPro Heros, the function records photos at regular intervals then combine them into a video. The problem was the photos were shot at different angles resulting from moving the camera around and results in super jerky videos when combined.
The Hero Black 7’s TimeWarp, on the other hand, shoots actual videos while utilizing HyperSmooth’s algorithms to create a super-smooth time lapse video. Cool!
Another new function is SuperPhoto. No, it does not turn your old, beat up bike into a Panigale V4. SuperPhoto works by “looking” at the scenes you are shooting and judges to provide the best picture quality by using Auto Low Light and HDR (High Dynamic Range) to boost colour and tone ranges. Maximum resolution is 12MP and you may shoot in RAW, too.
Besides that, shooting in 4K resolution can now be done in 60, 30 and 24 fps at wide FOV (field of view). Shooting in SuperView FOV will result in the frame rate dropping to 30 and 24 fps.
1080p videos can now be shot at up to 240 fps.
Your videos can also be live streamed either through Wi-Fi connection to your smartphone or directly via a Wi-Fi network.
GoPro has also sought to improve sound quality by using a 3-mic processing Advanced Wind Noise Reduction technology. There is also a 3.5mm mic adapter for external mics, too.
The Hero 7 Black is waterproof to 10 metres right out of the box without the needs for a waterproof casing.
The rechargeable 1220 mAh lithium-ion battery is removable for charging, which means you could swap it for another fully-charged one.
Last but not least, voice command and touchscreen functions are retained, although the latter’s UI (user interface) has been much improved.
The GoPro Hero 7 Black retails for US$ 399.99.
As for the mid-level Hero 7 Silver, the features are a little lower than the Black’s, of course, but not by much.
GoPro Hero 7 Silver
For starters, it does not utilize the GP1 chip.
It does not feature HyperSmooth, instead it inherits the already not bad video stabilization found in the previous Hero 6 Black.
There is also no TimeWarp and SuperPhoto and shoots photos at a maximum of 10MP.
It does have 4K video shooting ability albeit at a maximum of 30 fps, apart from the basic 24 fps. 4K only allows for Wide FOV.
The battery is built-in hence cannot be removed for charging.
As with the Hero 7 Black, the Silver edition is also waterproof to 10m, and voice and touch control are enabled.
The GoPro Hero 7 Silver retails for US$ 299.99.
Lastly, the entry-level Hero 7 White.
GoPro Hero 7 White
As with the Silver, the Hero 7 White does not utilize the GP1 chip, nor the HyperSmooth video stabilization function, TimeWarp and SuperPhoto.
Its video stabilization is inherited from the Hero 6.
Maximum video resolution is 1080p in either 60 or 30 fps in Wide FOV only.
The battery is also built-in, meaning you have to put the camera out of action in order to charge it.
It is also waterproof to 10m, and has voice command and touchscreen features, but no GPS tagging.
The GoPro Hero 7 White retails for US$ 199.99.
GoPro Hero 7 Black’s new touchscreen UI
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/news/bulletin/fim-womens-european-cup-announced/ | FIM Women’s European Cup announced |
FIM Women’s European Cup racing series for women racers announced and added as WSBK’s European-leg support event.
Ladies, suit up! World governing body for motorcycle racing, FIM, recently announced the formation of a new ladies-only racing series called the FIM Women’s European Cup.
The new series for lady racers has been added into the European Junior Cup (EJC) series calendar, and both will run alongside the World Superbikes Championship (WSBK) as a support event.
The FIM Women’s European Cup will run alongside the EJC series as a separate class on its own. Sparing Europe’s speedy young lady racers from choosing between it and EJC, competitors in the FIM Women’s European Cup will score points in both series as well.
Running as part of the EJC series, which is now known commercially as the PATA European Junior cup, the FIM Women’s European Cup is set to become one of Europe’s premier talent grooming grounds for future champions together with its principal the PATA European Junior Cup.
The FIM Women’s European Cup will open its grid exclusively to ladies between the ages of 14 and 23 years old. With its formation, Europe’s finest lady racers are set to show off their mettle against the boys very soon.
If it grows to be successful, it is hoped that the series will inspire the formation of a Asian-leg as well.
Source: WorldSBK via Asphaltandrubber
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/motogp-marc-marquez-back-to-winning-ways-after-581-days/ | MotoGP: Marc Marquez Back To Winning Ways After 581 Days |
Marc Marquez marks his return to Sachsenring with a sensational first win of the season 581 days after securing his last win in the premier class.
The victory in Sachsenring means the Repsol Honda rider extends his unbeaten record to 11 (nine wins in the premier class).
Despite starting at P5, the Spaniards managed to propel himself up to second place behind Aprilia’s Aleix Espargaro at Turn 1 before taking the lead later on.
The six-time MotoGP champion looks like his old self on board the RC213V as he crosses the finish line ahead of KTM’s Miguel Oliveira and championship leader Fabio Quartararo.
Marquez now sits at 10th place in the championship standings with 41 points.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/2020-ktm-1290-super-duke-r-launched-at-eicma-2019/ | 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R Launched at EICMA 2019 |
The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R was launched at EICMA 2019.
Power remains at 177 bhp, but torque is up to 140 Nm.
Lighter components bring weight down to 189 kg dry.
The 2020 KTM 1290 Super Duke R was launched at EICMA 2019.
KTM had teased us with three videos leading up to this launch. We were imagining a bike that’s not only more advance, but of course, more powerful than its predecessor.
The 1290 Super Duke R was a game changer in the supernaked segment, utilising brute power to blow everything else away and came to be known as “The Beast.” Some came close for 5 years since its launch in 2014, but it still ruled the roost as the King of Supernakeds.
Until the Ducati Streefighter V4 which debuted this year.
It’s because the 1290 Super Duke R’s 1301cc, 75-degree V-Twin still makes 177 bhp. But it’s torque is the highest at 140 Nm.
But as beastly as it is, that power is held in check by some really smart electronics and chassis combination. KTM was the first manufacturer to utilise the inertial measurement unit in the 1190 Adventure, and the component is in The Beast, as well. As such, there’s all the cornering traction control, cornering ABS, cornering lights, and so forth. But KTMs have one extra “supermoto” ride mode which allows the rider to power slide the rear wheel.
The new bike has a new subframe which is made of aluminium and carbon composite (gone is the steel trellis). Some weight is also shed through lighter wheels, brakes and the new swingarm. The revisions bring its dry weight down to 189 kg.
Suspension is now WP APEX front and rear, with 48 mm forks. The front brake calipers are now Brembo Stylema.
The Beast may not longer be king on paper, but we are certain that it’s still an entertaining/scary thing to ride.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/take-a-bow-toprak-razgatlioglu-is-your-new-2021-worldsbk-champion/ | Take A Bow, Toprak Razgatlioglu Is Your New 2021 WorldSBK Champion! |
Toprak Razgatlioglu crowned 2021 WorldSBK champion after finishing second behind Jonathan Rea in Race 1 at Mandalika Circuit, Indonesia.
The win also witnesses Razgatlioglu becoming the first rider to beat Kawasaki’s Rea to the WorldSBK title since 2015.
The final round at Mandalika was delayed once again as the rain began to fall moments before the scheduled race before it finally get going 15 minutes later.
Rea made a brilliant start and took the lead before Turn 1 while Razgatlioglu pushed down to 4th place however the Pata Yamaha quickly made his move to take second place off Garrett Gerloff and Scott Redding.
With 2 laps to go, the Turkish rider began catching up to Rea however it wasn’t enough as Rea held on for the win while Redding took third place.
Nevertheless, it was enough for Razgatlioglu to take his first WorldSBK championship from Rea and also became the first Yamaha rider to win the title since Ben Spies in 2009.
Razgatlioglu also joins Fabio Quartararo in winning the world titles in the same season for Yamaha.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/kawasaki-z250-to-get-a-four-cylinder-treatment/ | Kawasaki Z250 To Get A Four-Cylinder Treatment |
After the success of Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX-25R, the Japanese firm is said to be working on another 250cc four-cylinder engine.
The ZX-25R was a huge success since its launch and probably the most powerful quarter-litre bike to date.
It’s probably thanks to the Ninja success, Team Green is rumoured to be developing a naked version of the 250cc screamer.
Similar to the ZX-25R, we can assume the quarter-litre naked bike feature the same high-spec goodies such as premium inverted forks, radially mounted brake callipers and quickshifter.
Nonetheless, the new motorcycle will feature the same 250cc four-cylinder engine capable of producing 51hp @ 15,500rpm and 22.9Nm @ 14,500rpm.
Based on how strong the ongoing rumour is, we can expect that the development of the new motorcycle is already underway.
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https://www.bikesrepublic.com/featured/honda-has-built-400-million-bikes/ | Honda has built 400 million bikes! |
It has been 70 years since Honda launched and built its first Dream D-Type way back in 1949. 70 years in the motorcycle industry is already something to shout about but going strong with over 400 million bikes produced worldwide? Now, that’s an achievement worth celebrating.
1949 Dream D Type
Honda has come a long way since the days of the World War and with 35 factories located in 25 countries around the globe, the production continues to be strong as the demand for their ever-evolving bikes of all shapes and sizes. No matter who you are, there’s always a perfect Honda bike for you.
According to Takahiro Hachigo, CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd, “For 70 years Honda has provided to customers worldwide motorcycles that make life easier and enjoyable. As a result, we have achieved our 400 million-unit milestone. I am grateful to all our customers, and everyone involved in development, manufacturing, sales and service of our products. We will continue to do our best to provide attractive products that meet the needs and dreams of customers worldwide.”
Malaysians are blessed with the current offerings presented by BSH from the entry-level Wave Alpha that basically anyone can afford to the cult-following RS150R super cub. Malaysians also have the luxury of getting premium big bikes with the introduction of Honda Big Wings like the CBR1000RR Fireblade.
The brand reached its first major milestone back in 1997 when 100 million units produced followed by 300 million in 2014 and in just five years, they’ve successfully added another 100 million to their super thick portfolio. We’ve had the luxury to test and review some of these machines from petite PCX Hybrid all the way up to the monstrous CBR1000RR Fireblade SP. Click on the links for more details.
2019 Honda CBR650R Test & Review – “The Baby Fireblade”
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