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GIVI Rimba Raid

The excitement is brewing as the highly anticipated GIVI Rimba Raid Taman Negara returns for 2023.

  • The off-road competition for large capacity adventure and dual-purpose motorcycles is set to kick-off on 31st August 2023 at Kuala Tahan, Pahang, and will be the 8th Edition of this thrilling series.
  • The event is already shaping up to be grander than ever before, boasting a record-breaking number of participants and diverse representation from 25 nationalities.

With 270 participants, 32 Race Teams, and 19 unique brands of manufacturers, the GIVI Rimba Raid Taman Negara 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience for both riders and spectators alike.

Among the participants, 20 daring female riders (there was only one female competitor last year) from 6 countries will join their 250 male competitors, all vying for the honor of conquering the challenging 220km route surrounding the ancient 130-million-year-old rainforest in Taman Negara Kuala Tahan (National Park). The Jungle Rally will take racers through long-abandoned trails, crossing through primary and secondary rainforests, along with numerous hills, mountains, and river crossings.

The event will feature several iconic obstacles along the route, such as the renowned “Bukit Tobat,” the formidable “Cerun Neraka,” the challenging Tembeling Sandbank, and the infamous “Gate of Despair.” These obstacles test the mettle of even the most seasoned riders, contributing to the event’s allure and excitement.

In 2022, only 40% of the participants managed to complete the demanding trail, with 99 out of 242 riders reaching the finish line. However, this year, organisers are anticipating an increased success rate of 65% as competitors have been engaging in early training on similar trails, improving their mental and physical states.

Additionally, many participants have upgraded their motorcycles to better tackle the challenges, adopting a more aggressive and competitive attitude.

The GIVI Rimba Raid Taman Negara 2023 has not only attracted individual racers but has also given rise to the “Road to Rimba Raid” selection competitions held by various sponsors worldwide.

Motorcycle manufacturers have also capitalised on the event’s popularity by organising their own peripheral events and riding clinics with similar classifications and rules. Notably, the KTM Road to Rimba Raid selection process held in 8 countries provides winning racers with the opportunity to participate in the GIVI Rimba Raid event using the famed KTM 790 Adventure R.

The grid will feature a comprehensive assortment of motorcycles, divided into three distinct classes based on engine capacities:

  • MasterClass A: Adventure/dual-purpose (series production) motorcycles with multi-cylinder engines above 1000cc.
  • Class B: Adventure/dual-purpose (series production) motorcycles with multi-cylinder engines between 250cc and 999cc.
  • Class C: Single-cylinder series production motorcycles of 250cc and above.

The GIVI Rimba Raid Taman Negara 2023 boasts an impressive lineup of 53 participants in MasterClass A, 66 in Class B, and a whopping 151 in Class C.

Meanwhile, Class B will feature an intense battle between the Yamaha Ténéré 700 and the KTM 790 Adventure R, with KTM determined to dethrone the reigning champion from last year’s podiums.

With 119 multi-cylinder large capacity adventure motorcycles already confirmed, and the possibility of 20 last-minute joiners, Class C, limited to 150 participants, has an additional 60 participants on the waitlist, making it one of the most successful rally races of its kind, regionally or even globally.

Notably, the GIVI Rimba Raid series stands out for its exclusive use of series production motorcycles, ensuring that the competition remains accessible to riders and does not rely on expensive one-off purpose-built prototypes. This setup also serves as a proving ground for motorcycle manufacturers, putting various motorcycles through their paces in a real-world environment, thus showcasing their strengths and weaknesses.

The popularity of the event was evident as race slots for GIVI Rimba Raid Taman Negara 2023 were filled within a week of the announcement, with Class C slots snapped up within just 45 minutes of registration opening. Foreign participants, especially from far-flung countries like Canada, Russia, and Colombia, confirmed their attendance early on to ensure a smooth and trouble-free race effort.

Thailand is emerging as a strong contender to watch, having dominated the top spots in various classes during the 2022 edition. This year, Thai racers are even more prepared and determined to maintain their supremacy, though there could be surprise podium threats from selected riders representing various ASEAN countries, chosen through KTM Asia’s Qualifier Events.

GIVI Rimba Raid returns for 2022, which saw Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan, as the chosen battleground for the world’s largest adventure motorcycle race. 

  • 2022 GIVI Rimba Raid witnessed the largest participation with 241 competitors.
  • Only 99 riders managed to complete the 158km trail. 
  • 60 motorcycles were stuck in the jungle by 8pm. 

Rimba Raid is the only platform that allows you to enjoy the big bore adventure bikes battling against one another in the most hardcore off-road condition. 

The 2019 GIVI Rimba Raid edition witnessed Malaysian racer Gabit Salleh claim victory in the Class A race, riding on board his KTM 1050 Adventure.

However, the 2022 edition saw a total domination by Thailand in three of the four categories up for grabs, including clocking the overall fastest time on the 158 kilometer trail, among the 223 competitors.

  • Class C – Enduro Rally (single-cylinder 250cc to 800cc enduro motorcycles) 

Malaysian rider Mohd Zulkarnain Tahir took home the winners medal after emerging as the first rider to arrive at the finished line in 3 hours, 4 minutes, and 37.312s on his KTM 300 EX/C. 

Mohd Zulkarnain had a 10-minute lead ahead of Thailand’s Chiapuek Sangaroon (KTM 350 EX/C-F). Singapore’s Kelvin Chia completes the podium with 3h 19m10.901s. 

  • Class C – DP Rally (single-cylinder 250cc to 800cc) adventure motorcycles)

Thailand’s Traiphop Boonthang shocked the crowd after he crossed the finish line in under 3 hours onboard his Honda CRF250 Rally ahead of fellow countrymen Manop Abdulkareee (3h 11m44.030s) and Canadian Dustin Richardson (3h 20m40.660s).

 

  • Class B (multi-cylinder 250cc to 999cc adventure motorcycles)

Class B category showcased a clean sweep by the Thais, with Saphon Somroop clocking the fastest time of just 2h 51m28.300s ahead of Suradet Taweelap and Charod Khumchat. 

 

Interestingly, all three riders’ weapon of choice is the Yamaha Tenere 700. Sadly, it’s not available in Malaysia. 

  • Class A – The Premier Class (1000cc and above adventure/dual-purpose motorcycles)

The Class A category is the cream of the crop as it puts riders and their chosen big-bore adventure bikes to the test.

Surprisingly, the Honda CRF1000L/CRF11000L Africa Twin has proven to be the most capable adventure as all the Top 3 finishers crossed the line with the said motorcycle. 

Thailand’s Theera Putta claimed the winners medal with 3h 8m47.710s ahead of Pisanu Chimma and Malaysian Alan Ng. 

Alan took home the third spot with his brand-new Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin. 

INTERESTING FACT

  • Only 99 out of 223 competing riders managed to complete the race. 
  • More than 60 motorcycles were stuck on the 158km trail by 8 pm.
  • 2022 GIVI Rimba Raid witnessed the largest participation ever since its inception in 2015.
  • 2022 Rimba Raid is the largest international participation in Malaysia, next to the Malaysian MotoGP.

 Meanwhile, Malaysian riders vowed to return with better results to salvage national pride, and we are already hyped up with the prospect of Malaysia vs Thailand and the world in the next edition of GIVI Rimba Raid.

  • Rimba Raid 2020 is set to be held at Mat Daling from 24th to 26th July 2020.

  • The route is between 360 to 420 km.

  • The number of spots for competitors has grown to a total of 230.

Mark your calendars – Rimba Raid 2020 is set to be held at Mat Daling from 24th to 26th July 2020.

Details are scant at the moment, but here’s what we gathered from Rimba Raid’s official Facebook page:

ROUTE

  • 360 to 420km route consisting mostly of jungles.
  • 10% of consists of plantations with a mix of medium- and high-speed sections.
  • 10% are technical but unlike Green Hell in Janda Baik.

DURATION

  • Day 1 for scrutineering.
  • Day 2 for race to Mat Daling.
  • Day 3 for a race to a yet determined venue.
  • Day 4 event ends.

NAVIGATION

  • Electronic roadbooks issued on GIVI mounts and brackets.
  • Secondary navigation tool are GPS units supplied by competitors themselves. This is mandatory.

CHANGE OF ELIGIBLE BIKES

  • Class C will be dropped.
  • An Enduro Rally Class consisting of Open to singles 250cc above will replace Class C.
  • FEs (four-stroke enduros) and TPIs (two-stroke transfer port injection) are eligible but subject to certain conditions.
  • Roadgoing trail bikes such as the Honda CRF-L, Kawasaki KLX, Suzuki DR can be fitted with bigger fuel tanks and other modifications.
  • Pure enduro bikes must be in near-stock configuration with standard fuel tanks (exhaust and suspension mods are acceptable).

ENTRY DETAILS

  • Entry fee will be announced later.

NUMBER OF COMPETITORS

  • Class A – 100
  • Class B – 30
  • Enduro Rally – 100

Rimba Raid has definitely gone from a hobby event to a full-fledged competition on the motorsport calendar. The number of competitors has grown tremendously and is attracting more and more overseas riders. However, Malaysian riders still hold the title as “Kings of the Jungle” up to this year’s event.

Rimba Raid could also be seen as the breeding ground for talent. Recently, the three members of the Malaysian team in team BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy had competed in Rimba Raid.

So, do join Rimba Raid and bring your family along to witness some of the best off-road action.

  • GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 was the biggest and best to date.

  • Such a huge event will send ripples through the region’s motorsport scene.

  • Take a peek of the excitement in this video.

GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 may be over for close to two weeks now, but many are still reminiscing over the biggest and best edition to date.

The scars may have healed, broken bikes fixed, the glow of winning slow fades but memories will remain forever with the competitors.

Surely the spectators who showed up in droves were amazed to no end seeing heavyweight (read: expensive) adventure bikes being used for such purpose instead of blasting down Karak and parked outside Nanyang Kopitiam and Starbucks Gohtong Jaya (10% discount here for “BMW bikers” says the receipt, but they give it to all big bikers). Perhaps it was even more heartwarming to see the excitement of the children. Who knows, they may dream of owning such a bike when they grow up.

The GIVI Explorers who rode in with the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 were equally, if not more awed at the event. Bear in mind that among these men and women from 16 different countries have large motorcycle rallies in their backyards. For example, Jeremias Israel who was an ex-HRC Dakar Rally rider who also took park in other world-class rallies. The Chilean even took part in the Janda Baik race and came away mighty impressed with the event and may well return. And then there were GIVI Explorers from Australia, Mexico, Thailand, Italy, and so forth. These are nations where motorcycle rallies are the norm. Yet, they were impressed with the organization and scale of GIVI Rimba Raid.

But if the event was amazing, it’s due to the extraordinary effort and hard work put in by the organizers led by Dato’ Captain Nik. He had only a number of people to rely on. It wasn’t merely a case handing the competitors their jerseys and telling them to ride through the jungle. If planning a trackday was hard enough, no amount of imagination can tell you how hard it was to plan and execute GIVI Rimba Raid. And yet there were critics.

Let’s not forget GIVI, of course. Together with the Rimba Raid crew, the GIVI crew had spent four days and nights to set up Kampung GIVI, ILMU and the surroundings along the track andoff the track.

Which brings us to the motorcycle manufacturers and sponsors. We have one question: Who says off-road riding on dual-purpose motorcycles isn’t a big thing?

BMW Motorrad sees the event as an opportunity, hence sending in their dealers (Auto Bavaria this time) at each edition, since many competitors ride the GS anyway. Ducati had the presence of mind to brand their Scrambler albeit last year, as they had to consolidate at Art of Speed this year. Bombardier were there to promote their latest side-by-sides, buggies and ATVs. But where was Honda? Yamaha? KTM? The field was filled with bikes from these brands. A little support to the competitors riding their brands would’ve gone a long, long way.

Anyhow, we hope that you enjoy the video. We can’t wait for the next GIVI Rimba Raid.

  • Day 8 of the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 was scheduled to coincide with the GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 from the very start.

  • It was GIVI’s second year of involvement with Rimba Raid.

  • The overworked GIVI and Rimba Raid crews did a superb job to prepare the event.

Day 8 of the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 was scheduled to coincide with the GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 from the very start.

There were a number of reasons for this. Firstly, it was the second edition of Rimba Raid with GIVI’s participation. Secondly, it was a great opportunity for the GIVI Explorers to witness the event first hand. Thirdly, it was GIVI’s 25th anniversary in Malaysia.

Rimba Raid has definitely grown from a hobbyist event set up by Dato’ Capt. Nik Huzlan just 5 years ago. Whereas last year’s GIVI Rimba Raid at Mat Daling drew in 105 competitors from 11 countries, this year’s had to be capped at 150 participants from 16 countries.

The overworked crews from Rimba Raid and GIVI had set up the event areas at Rimba Valley Motorcamp, ILMU and flag-off point extensively by the time we arrived from the National Elephant Sanctuary at Kuala Gandah.

Like at Mat Daling, the competitors convoyed to the flag-off area a short distance away from ILMU. There, they were let loose one at a time by Dato’ Capt. Nik, Joseph Perucca, and On Hai Swee.

We then rode to the finish line at Kampung GIVI at the Rimba Valley Motorcamp. The GIVI Malaysian Adventure marshals helped to ride our bikes in. It’s a much better solution rather than convoying in en masse on the dirt road as there was heavy traffic going in and coming out of the area.

We had spent about an hour at the flag-off point for pictures and such. The first finishers including Gabit Saleh, Bee Wong, Alex Wong and a few more were already at the parc ferme. (You guys are crazy!)

Alex Wong (left) and Bee Wong (right)

GIVI’s envoy in the race, ex-Dakar racer Jeremias Israel was there, too. However, it was a heartache for him and us GIVI Explorers as he crashed the specially-prepared Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE and retired. He had swerved to avoid a course marshal and went down hard. Thankfully, he was unhurt. It was hard to see the disappointment on his face. But that’s racing.

The Explorers had a great time mingling around with the riders and were moving about everywhere snapping pictures and selfies. Remember, the GIVI Explorers were from 14 countries so those images are circulated around the world.

At lunchtime, GIVI arranged for a number of dirtbikes for the Explorers to ride to a farm. The smiles under their helmets were very visible as soon as they got on! They were led by four marhsals, including one lady.

The farm consists of a few fish rearing ponds and the Explorers got right into fishing mode. Everyone caught one. GIVI somehow managed to convince the Rebung Restaurant to serve lunch in the jungle, so we ate while watching race competitors blast by.

We went back to Kampung GIVI to follow the rest of the race. Evidently, the course was much harder this time. Only 17 of 40 Class A competitors completely the race. A Thai rider nursed his cut hand and almost-destroyed bike back to the finish line and then shouted for the medic like in war movies. He actually finished fourth overall!

We stayed until the prize-giving ceremony. Dato’ Capt. Nik commended all those who joined regardless of where they finished.

I guess we could say that joining GIVI Rimba Raid itself was a personal victory in itself for each participant.

The Explorers were entertained not only by a basker band, but also by Sam Sharman who worked the mike and Joseph Perucca who played percussions!

GIVI Rimba Raid will definitely be bigger next year. GIVI’s white and red together with Rimba Raid’s green and yellow logos are now synonymous with each other, working symbiotically rather than merely alongside each other.

Let’s hope the adventure continues.

Please click on this link for our report on GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Seven.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Six.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Days Four and Five.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Three.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Kick Off.

 

  • The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 is about to hit its climax on Day Seven.

  • It was time for the GIVI Explorers to visit GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019.

  • The route consisted of corners all the way!

The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 is about to hit its climax on Day Seven (26th July 2019). It was time for the GIVI Explorers to visit GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019.

This was the second year of GIVI’s involvement in Rimba Raid and it promises to be the biggest one yet. The organizer of Rimba Raid, Dato’ Capt. Nik Huzlan had to limit the entries at 150 participants, but that’s already nearly 50% more than the 105 at GIVI Rimba Raid at Mat Daling 2018.

GIVI’s involvement also opens up the branding to off-road motorcycles besides the usual adventure bikes.

So today, on Day Seven of the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019, we needed to travel from Melaka to the Rimba Valley Motorcamp site.

Leg One – Melaka to Si Thian Kong Temple, Johol, Negeri Sembilan

Rather than hoofing it down the featureless highways the Explorers took a circuitous route that crossed three states.

Leaving Melaka, we headed toward Durian Tunggal, instead of the usual Ayer Keroh way.

The road got twisty not long after we left Melaka. I wished I could see the faces under those helmets but am sure every Explorer was smiling. We locals ride this route just for the corners! There was whoops of elation from almost everyone when we stopped afterwards.

Everyone was having such a great time that we were already at the Si Thian Kong Temple in Johol.

The site was just a clearing three years ago and a large temple complex has now taken shape. It’s not fully complete yet, but the main structures with intricate carvings were in place, including the worship hall. Two large Tao deities greeted us as we rode through the front gate.

 

The temple is being built at great expense and it should soon rival some of the Taoist temples around Malaysia.

Leg Two – Si Thian Kong Temple to Bera

From here, the road turns into a mini racetrack style layout with chicanes, sweeping turns and decreasing radius corners all thrown in. Thankfully, the road has been resurfaced.

I personally worried about the convoy’s safety in negotiating two very tricky decreasing radius corners up ahead, but the Explorers were all experienced and good riders. The marshals also did a great job in controlling the pace, instead of letting everyone dive bomb the corners, kamikaze style.

Past those corners, I started to get excited. Very excited. That’s because we were going to ride through Kuala Pilah.

Now, Kuala Pilah is pretty much unchanged for the last decade and it’s always hot. This sleepy town is my wife’s hometown and where we got married. It’s not everyday that 40 riders from 16 countries ride through, while being escorted by the police. I felt my pride welling up.

We passed Juasseh, then Batu Kikir before turning northeast to Route 10 which took us past Bera Lake and into Bera town for lunch.

Again, there were so many corners! In Bahasa Melayu we would say, “Korner sampai muntah,” which translates to “Cornering until we puke.” That’s to say it in a happy manner, of course.

We passed the Bera lake which was a shadow of its former glory, unfortunately. Many people missed it because instead of being a body of blue water, it now looks like a giant mud pit.

We stopped at a mamak restaurant in Bera for a quick lunch.

Leg Three – Bera to National Elephant Conservation Centre, Kuala Gandah, Pahang

The National Elephant Conservation Centre is a must for anyone travelling along this route. This is where injured elephants are rescued and rehabilitated before being returned to the wild. It’s also from here that the mahouts (elephant handlers) mount missions to relocate elephants that are in vicinity of human settlements to the National Park (Taman Negara). Actually, it’s human encroachment, not the other way around.

We were extremely lucky to have arrived at the time to bathe the elephants in the river! We swore we saw them smile when they hit the river. Bathing was carried out by the mahouts, not visitors, by the way.

They then continued with an elephant show for educational purposes. One elephant was 60 years old! These elephants were rescued many years ago and are reared as guides to “talk to” wild elephants to be relocated.

Lastly, visitors were given the opportunity to feed the beautiful animals with watermelons for lunch.

As a personal note, the centre has changed much since my last visit three months ago. It’s now much more organized and cleaner. A kind-hearted soul donated a large sum of money to renovate the centre. It’s great to see that the elephants in our country are well cared for.

Leg Four – Kuala Gandah to Rimba Valley Motorcamp, Janda Baik

The final leg of the day took us to the site of GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019. The area was already a hive of activity, when we got there. The camping grounds were full and there were adventure and dirt-bikes everywhere. We had the option of riding into Rimba Valley ourselves on the dirt road, but there was took much traffic. So, the marshals helped us ride our bikes in to Kampung GIVI.

 

It’s great to see GIVI Rimba Raid being so colourful now. While it’s mainly an amateur event, GIVI’s presence, plus BMW Motorrad, KTM, Bombardier, et al certainly lent it a professional set up. This is important especially for competitors who travelled in from all over the world.

We mingled for a while before leaving the bikes at Kampung GIVI and headed to ILMU (which used to be UMNO’s indoctrination centre) to settle down.

We attended the GIVI Rimba Raid briefing at night. It was great to see so many familiar faces among the 150 riders here.

The Explorers turned in early as tomorrow morning (27thJuly) is GIVI Rimba Raid’s main event.

Please click on this link for our report on GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Six.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Days Four and Five.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Day Three.

Please click on this link for GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 Kick Off.

Gabit Saleh meneruskan kemaraan di hari kedua GIVI Rimba Raid apabila memenangi kategori terbuka perlumbaan Enduro semalam selepas mempertahankan kejuaraan Kelas A pada Sabtu.

Pelumba ‘off-road’ negara itu menamatkan lima pusingan dengan catatan masa terpantas di antara 37 pelumba lain dengan 1 jam 20 minit 36.490 saat sekaligus mengukuhkan namanya dalam arena off-road.

Tempat kedua jadi milik Ahmad Lezzam Roslim dengan catatan masa 1 jam 20 minit 42.859 saat diikuti Richard Lim ketiga dengan 1 jam 25 minit 15.784 saat.

Sementara itu bagi kategori veteran menyaksikan 53 pelumba berentap bagi merebut kejuaraan dengan Rohaizam Rizal Mansor muncul juara dengan catatan masa 47 minit 40.073 saat diikuti Mohd Fauzi Ali kedua dengan 49 minit 26.849 saat dan Lai Kok Hing ketiga yang hanya dipisahkan beberapa saat di belakang.

Kategori novice menyaksikan Muhammad Fareez Burhanuddin juara dengan 55 minit 51.473 saat diikuti Mohammad Syamin kedua dengan 56 minit 46.992 saat sementara Michael Soh ketiga dengan 56 minit 50.331 saat.

Aksi Enduro melengkapkan GIVI Rimba Raid yang memasuki hari kedua semalam sekaligus mengukuhkan pertandingan itu dipersada tempatan dan antarabangsa.

Hari pertama yang berlangsung pada Sabtu melibatkan acara tumpuan ‘jungle race’ menyaksikan Gabit berjaya mempertahankan kejuaraan dimenangni tahun lalu di Mat Daling.

Perlumbaan itu turut menampilkan pelumba jemputan dari Chile, Jeremias Israel yang merupakan pelumba raki Dakar Honda.

Saksikan rangkuman hari kedua Rimba Raid di bawah:

  • Gabit Saleh won in the Class A category at GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019.

  • He won on the KTM 1050 Adventure despite falling three times.

  • This was the biggest and best GIVI Rimba Raid to date.

Gabit Saleh won in the Class A category at GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019, yesterday (Saturday, 27thJuly).

Gabit is the defending champion from the GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling 2018. He rode his trusty KTM 1050 Adventure as KTM Malaysia’s factory rider.

Class A is the premier class of the competition and is for bikes above 800cc.

However, the win didn’t come easy. “Alhmadulillah I managed to defend the title. I was aiming to finish only, actually and didn’t think about winning actually,” the 2016 FIM Asia Supermoto Champion said. “The competition had gotten tougher since last year, especially with the entry of Jeremias Israel who represented the GIVI team.”

When GIVI Rimba Raid stalwart and organizer Dato’ Captain Nik Huzlan wasn’t joking when said the trail was going to be tough. In fact, he dubbed the third and final section as “The Green Hell.”

“The first section was easier with loose gravel, so I used the opportunity to make up time. I managed to catch up to Bee Wong. But the second section was difficult, but I didn’t expect it to be so hardcore! I was surprised to see the big rocks and river!” Gabit revealed. “Then I dropped in the second river. The fall snapped the front brake lever.”

 

But Gabit didn’t become champion because he gave up easily.

“I kept going and maintained a steady pace and caught Bee Wong again. At that point I started calculating the fact that Bee was the first rider to be flagged off, while I was the thirteenth. So, I knew that I had made good time and we crossed the finish line almost together.”

What was more incredible was him finishing in 48 minutes, 40.440 seconds despite dropping it three times. That speed was incredible enough on the road, but this was off-road!

GIVI Rimba Raid attaches a transponder to each bike for accurate timing. The participants are flagged off one at a time, hence the best time wins.

Bee Wong was so close to winning the race but as always, he was cheerful of being able to finish at all, let alone in second place.

“It’s easy in the first stage but I was beat by the second due to the difficult and muddy terrain. I saw Gabit behind me a number of times, but he crashed each time. So, I decided to play safe and maintain a good pace,” he said.

Bee was riding one of only two of the new KTM 790 Adventure R currently in circulation in the country.

His brother, Alex Wong finished in third. He rode the same BMW F 800 GS as he did in the Mat Daling.

It was heartbreak, however, for Chilean and GIVI Explorer rider Jeremias Israel. He had shown great pace from the start by conquering the terrain and other riders on the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t his side.

“I was enjoying myself, smiling in my helmet and passing many guys on the trail,” he told us during the post-race interview. “Then I started coming downhill to a part which opened up wider and I decided to go faster. Ahead of me was another competitor, on a BMW R 1200 GS, perhaps. He started to struggle and paddle with his feet when he hit the puddle. Behind him was a marshal on a green bike (Kawasaki KLX150) and in a yellow vest. At that point, he decided to overtake the rider and moved wide, which was directly in my path. Since I already committed to the line, I had nowhere to go and laid the bike down.”

Jeremias Israel on the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE

The crash messed up his front brakes. “I picked the bike up and continued, but the brakes had pressure at one moment and none the next. It was too dangerous to continue that way. I feel bad for Triumph, but racing’s that way.”

But Jeremias has some good thoughts about GIVI Rimba Raid, “It was good to see all the guys with so much motivation that they’d bring their expensive bikes into the jungle. I met riders with many different skill levels but I’m sure they’ll improve by the next GIVI Rimba Raid.”

The trail was definitely tougher than at Mat Daling as many riders attested. While the trails at Mat Daling was 126-km long, it was only less than 60 km in Janda Baik. Many probably thought it was going to be too easy, but it was apparently otherwise. Apart from that, rains in the past two days had turned the ground soggy. Consequently, the start was delayed from the planned 9am to 11am in an attempt to let the sun dry out the track.

Of the 150 riders who started the event, 40 were stuck. There were 70 riders in the big dual-purpose Class A but only 17 finished.

Dato’ Captain Nik has said many times before, “I wanted to give the competitors a tough race, but not an impossible race.”

Gabit had this to say, “It was tough for me so I could only imagine how hard it was for the other guys, especially those on the big adventure bikes.”

“It was way tougher than in Mat Daling,” said Bee Wong, “That’s why I was pancit (exhausted) in the second sector.”

Jeremias had a different view, “It was okay, I guess. I’ve ridden in many races and countries such as The Dakar Rally, also in Colombia, Qatar and so forth. The weather was quite cooling in the jungle, too.”

In addition to Gabit, Bee and Jeremias, the Thai riders were the ones everyone looked out for. They had held qualifying rounds in their country and sent the top 20 of their best riders. Anusorn Ubonsuk finished fourth. One guy crashed heavily but nursed his injured hand and destroyed bike to the finish.

But no matter how you cut it, GIVI Rimba Raid has grown up to be a major event and brand. There were 150 participants from 16 countries, up from 105 of 11 nationalities. There were many more applications, but the organizers had to limit it to the final number of 150 due to space and logistical constraints.

GIVI’s support had also lent the big brand image that the race deserves. The hardworking crew were already on site 3 days before the event to set up. Another part of the crew had to also work in conjunction with the GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 ride. The epic ride consisted of 40 riders, among them GIVI’s dealers from 14 countries. Malaysia was selected this year to commemorate the brand’s 25th anniversary in the country.

“Thank you GIVI, because the race has definitely grown a lot from before,” commented Gabit. “Also, thank you to Rimba Raid and my sponsors.”

The Tourism Board of Pahang also joined in this time, as it was an unprecedented opportunity to promote eco-tourism in the state.

There were also other classes in GIVI Rimba Raid. But this particular event included an exhibition race for buggies and quads. The Bombardier Maverick X turbocharged quads were a sight to behold!

Class B (for bikes 800cc and below) was won by Shamsul Azhar Bin Abu Hazim, better known as Acoi Pangkolo on the AJP7.

Class C for dirtbikes up to 250cc was won by Muhammad Hazlami Bin Mustapha Kamal.

As for the environment, GIVI Rimba Raid organizers worked hard to minimize the impact on the jungle as much as possible. No trees were cut down and no part of the trail was hewn. Bridges were built over certain streams. Riders were told to bring hydration packs instead of water bottles into the trail. They also employed a cleaning crew to sweep the trail for rubbish. The jungle will then return to its normal state within six months.

PICTURE GALLERY

  • The GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 is set to be held from 26th through 28th.

  • There are 150 competitors from 16 countries this year.

  • It is the only event in the world for large capacity dual-sport motorcycles.

The GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 is set to be held from 26th through 28th July and we’re really excited about it. We think hundreds – if not thousands – more fans are also counting down the days until the start.

The GIVI Rimba Raid series has grown to be the event among adventure and off-road motorcycle community from its humble beginnings. The brainchild of Dato’ Captain Nik Huzlan, it’s one event that dual-sport and adventure motorcycle enthusiasts look forward to each year.

Here are 10 reasons to witness this awesome event yourself. (There are way more than 10 reasons, but we wanted to keep it simple.)

1. Witness big bikes getting hammered

Surely you’ve gotten used to seeing heavyweight adventure bikes such as the BMW R 1200 GS/GS Adventure, KTM 1050/1190/1290 Adventure, Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin, Triumph Tiger 800 blasting down the highways. But have you seen them being used in the other environment they’re designed for?

We’re talking about off-road riding. Dual-purpose bikes can be ridden off paved highways and roads, hence the term. However, seeing these RM 80,000 to more than RM 100,000 bikes being bashed over rocks, “washed” in the river and sliding on gravel is something rare.

GIVI Rimba Raid provides that opportunity to not only the riders but also spectators.

2. GIVI Rimba Raid is unique

GIVI Rimba Raid is currently the only event in the world which pits men and women on heavyweight dual-purpose bikes against the off-road environment. In fact, when Capt. Nik approached the Automotive Association of Malaysia for the rulebook, they had none. Instead, it’s GIVI Rimba Raid who are now writing the rulebook.

3. Top Malaysian riders

That said, the event remains an enthusiast’s event. They are known as privateers, in other words.

However, top pro riders are starting to be drawn to joining up. One of them is Mohd. Habibullah Salleh, better known as Gabit. The 2016 FIM Asia Supermoto Champion and multiple Malaysian MX champion is the defending champion of the Open Category.

Left to right: MG, Gabit, Capt. Nik

So, this a great opportunity for Malaysians to support our rider in battling against the best of the world.

4. Top international riders

There is a total of 150 riders from 16 countries this year. Among them is Jeremias Israel, the Chilean ex-HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) rider in the Dakar Rally. He’s flown in specially by GIVI to compete in the race. He will ride the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE.

There is also news of Thais holding their own qualifications to determine the riders who will represent the country. The qualified riders have been practicing almost daily in preparation for GIVI Rimba Raid 2019.

5. Stiff competition

If the previous years were competitive, this year’s promises to the closest fought yet. The riders not only chase positions and prizes but are also out there to prove it to themselves that they could live up to the challenges.

6. Specially chosen course

The organizers have laid out a course to challenge the riders physically and mentally. You can be assured that it will bring out the best in human drama and emotions.

Perhaps more importantly, you can spectate all the action up close rather than being seated tens or metres away.

Do note that the course will return to its normal environmental state within months of the event.

7. Different skill levels

Since there are pros mixed with privateers, GIVI Rimba Raid will be interesting to you in terms of entertainment. It means that there will be plenty thrills and spills.

8. Great fun for the family

Got kids who are interested in motorcycles? Need to explain to your wife or girlfriend why you love bikes? Bring ‘em here! It’s all wholesome fun for the entire family and your family members will thank you for it.

9. Great setting

Forget about going to the mall every weekend. Come here to breath some fresh air and waddle in the crystal-clear stream for a change. Besides that, the location is near many other resorts that offer eco-tourism and sports. There are also many camping grounds.

10. Vendors

There will be plenty of vendors. Main sponsor GIVI will have their pavilion up, offering their latest products for every biker. The GIVI Malaysian Adventure 2019 will also make a stop at GIVI Rimba Raid for two days, so you can witness the bikes and GIVI equipment they carry.

Conclusion

GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 is a exciting event that shouldn’t be missed by anyone, bikers and non-bikers alike.

It will be held from 26th to 28th July 2019, at the Rimba Valley Motorcamp site. Please click the map below for the location and you may refer to GIVI Rimba Raid’s official Facebook page for the latest updates.

  • Jeremais Israel is set to rock GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 on the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE.

  • Jeremais was a works HRC rider in the Dakar Rally.

  • The Scrambler 1200 XE had finished fifth overall at the recent Mexican 1000 Rally.

Chilean Dakar Rally and off-road racer, Jeremais Israel is set to rock GIVI Rimba Raid at Janda Baik 2019 on the Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE.

The rider was present at Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia this morning to receive the bike and prep it. He will be using the #09 number plate in the race. Jeremais was specially flown in by GIVI to compete in Rimba Raid. He will also conduct a special off-road riding clinic tomorrow morning at Ukay Perdana.

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE is a true-blood off-road bike, dressed up in the classic Bonneville body. It’s inspired by the TR6 Trophy ridden by Steve McQueen and his stuntman Bud Ekins to a number of wins in the Baja 1000 Rally.

It features long-travel fully-adjustable Öhlins suspension, cross-spoke wheels, engine crash bars, under-engine skid plate, bark-buster style hand protectors as standard. The electronics are also geared towards off-road performance, although the bike rides pretty well over paved roads, too.

British stunt rider Ernie Vigil had proven the bike’s toughness and ability to duke it out with 450cc dirtbikes in the Mexican 1000 Rally recently. He finished fifth overall on a bog-stock bike.

Jeremais will also be riding a fully stock bike in GIVI Rimba Raid.

PICTURE GALLERY

  • Ex-works HRC Dakar Rally rider Jeremais Israel and Malaysia trails rider Acoi Pangkolo will hold the GIVI Big Trail Clinic.

  • It will be held on 20th July 2019 at Ukay Perdana.

  • Jeremais is also here for the GIVI Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019.

Get ready for the best trail riding clinic of your lifetime as GIVI presents the GIVI Big Trail Clinic by Jeremais Israel and Acoi Pangkolo.

The clinic is specially set up in view of the Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 at the Rimba Valley Motorcamp on 27th and 28th July. This is a great opportunity for the competitors to learn the finer points of motorcycle control in rough and tough environments. The classes are open to non-Rimba Raid participants, also.

It will take place on 20th July 2019, at Ukay Perdana, Kuala Lumpur. Registration begins at 8am. Breakfast will be served.

The classes include:

  • Throttle and clutch control.
  • Turning (advanced).
  • Braking point and position (advanced).
  • Technical uphill and downhill.
  • Challenging terrain (sand, stones, mud).

The event is part of the epic GIVI Explorer Malaysian Adventure set to begin in a fortnight, and also the GIVI Rimba Raid 2019 at Rimba Valley Motorcamp. It’s also part of GIVI’s doctrine in inculcating the correct and safe handling of motorcycles in every ride.

The clinic will be conducted by Jeremais Israel and Acoi Pangkolo. The former hails from Chile and formerly competed in the Dakar Rally for the Honda HRC team. Acoi, on the other hand, is a well-known trails, enduro and stunt rider among the Malaysian off-road riding community. Acoi has taken part in the FIM Asia Trails Championship in Chiang Mai, Thailand a number of years ago and is still an active participant in many local races.

Acoi Pangkolo

GIVI specially flew Jeremais Israel into Malaysia to compete in the GIVI Rimba Raid. He will be riding the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC. British stunt rider rode the XE version of the bike to an impressive fifth-placed finish in the Mexican 1000 Rally recently, among purpose-built 450cc dirtbikes!

To register, please Whatsapp your details below to Acoi Pangkolo at 018-3770635. You may also call him at 016-7250434.

Name:
Date of Birth:
Blood type:
Years of riding experience:
Bike make/model:
Rimba Raid Janda Baik 2019 Race No.:
Contact number:
  • Registration is now open for the GIVI Rimba Raid 2019 at Janda Baik.

  • The event will be held from 26th to 28th July.

  • Some 150 entries are expected for this event this year.

After last year’s massive success, the GIVI Rimba Raid 2019 returns to Janda Baik. The event will be held from 26th to 28th July and registration is now open for competitors, camping spectators and hotel spectators.

Before we go further, let’s recap on 2018. Rimba Raid was held in two locations namely Janda Baik and Mat Daling.

Rimba Raid Janda Baik featured a “test” style format where competitors navigate different sections and tests on Day One; scoring points accordingly. On Day Two, the rode through a short-distance rally in the surrounding jungles. 60 competitors signed up.

At GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling round, on the other hand, the format was that of a 120-km jungle rally on Day One and a jungle enduro/sandbank race on Day Two. A total of 105 participants from 10 countries including Malaysia took part.

A whopping number of 150 entries are duly expected this year.

It was also at Mat Daling that GIVI became the official sponsor of the event. Other vendors included BMW Motorrad Auto Bavaria, Ducati Malaysia, KTM Malaysia, Red Bull. There’s bound to be even more this year.

Additionally, the famed Italian motorcycles luggage and accessories maker, GIVI Asia celebrates their 25th anniversary in Malaysia this year. As such, they will hold their annual GIVI Explorer “The Malaysian Adventure” ride on our shores this year to commemorate the silver jubilee. The entourage of GIVI dealers worldwide, plus the presence of ex-Dakar Rally HRC factory rider I. Jeremais will grace Rimba Raid for the proceedings.

Looking back, Rimba Raid stalwart Dato’ Captain Nik Huzlan started the series as the first off-road event for dual-purpose enthusiasts with machines above 650cc in Malaysia. That is why one could see heavyweights such as the BMW R 1200 GS, KTM 1090/1190 Adventure, Ducati Multistrada Enduro, et al bash it out in tough conditions.

As the event became more and more successful over the last few years, so does its reputation. So much so that the Thai competitors held a qualifying round in their country to determine the “representatives” to this year’s edition.

Along with the popularity came the need to expand the series to cover more types of bikes. Instead of being lumped together wholesale, they are now divided into three categories. A class for quads and ATVs is also added this year.

Speaking about grouping and classes, Rimba Raid splits the field into the Main Race (200 competitors), Enduro (50 participants) and Quads (20 participants). They are split further into sub-categories such as Class A, B, C, Quad/Side-by-Side (buggy), Enduro Open, Enduro Veteran, depending on motorcycle power-to-weight ratio, suspension travel, wheel size, recommended service intervals.

Success also started to attract pro riders such as Malaysian MX and Asian Supermoto Champion Gabit Saleh, 2004 Dakar Rally winner Mateo Graziani, Malaysian trial rider Acoi Pangkolo, multiple Rimba Raid winner Bee Wong and many more.

The location will also play a vital role in the success of GIVI Rimba Raid 2019. Dato’ Capt. Nik has developed the Rimba Valley Motor Campsite into a true eco destination. Nestled in a valley, there’s fresh air to clean out your city lungs a mere 55km away from Kuala Lumpur and a stone’s throw from Genting Highlands.

Anyhow, you can check out the details in Rimba Raid’s official Facebook page. You may also click here for the entry form.

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