Admin, Author at BikesRepublic.com

BMW issues recall for helmet

BMW Motorrad announced that it has launched a recall for its ‘BMW Sport’ helmet in the UK as it did not meet European standards.

According to BMW, the helmets that are affected by the recall have the reference ‘059241/P’ printed the chin-strap label.

It is said that the involved helmets will be exchanged irrespective of age. The German manufacturer said that owners can return their helmets to the nearest authorised BMW dealers, who will exchange them for a product of equal value.

The firm said that there was no safety risk to users’ but the helmets ‘do not fully meet the approval test requirements according to the European standard UNECE [Regulation] 22.05’.

According to the Department for Transport, UK law requires motorcycle helmets to either meet UNECE Regulation 22.05 or British Standard BS 6658:1985 or ‘a European Economic Area member standard offering at least the same safety and protection’.

BMW said no other helmet models were affected.

Yamaha updates the FJR1300

Yamaha has officially taken the wraps off the 2016 version of the FJR 1300 sport tourer, featuring a number of improved cosmetic and technical upgrades.

The biggest change for 2016 is the addition of a new six-speed gear box, which will be replacing the outgoing five-speed transmission. Complementing the new gearbox is a new A&S slipper clutch, similar to the one that is fitted on the R1 to be exact, which promises to offer better riding dynamics.

The bike also gets a new instrument cluster which looks slightly more modern and sophisticated compared to the current unit.

In terms of cosmetics, Yamaha is now offering two new Matt and Silver paint schemes, a reshaped tail unit, as well as LED headlights and tail lights with adaptive cornering feature.

According to Yamaha, how the adaptive cornering lights work is that three aditional LEDs that are added above the left and right main headlights come on as the bike corners to help illuminate turns, using an inertial measurement unit to detect lean angle.

Unveiled yesterday at the Motorcycle Live show in Birmingham, UK, is expected to go on sale next year. However, Yamaha has not revealed any details on its pricing yet.

BMW R1200RS Test Ride: Back to Basics

With adventure tourers being all the rage over the past few years, sports tourers have definitely lost their charm.

The change vitalized over the past few years with the release of models such as the Yamaha Super Ténéré, Triumph Tiger Explorer, KTM 1290 Adventure, and Ducati Multistrada 1200, which are basically upright sport-touring motorcycles that provide endless comfort and mindless speed.

However, BMW Motorrad, the brand which invented the segment back in 1973 with the R90S, vows to bring sports tourers back to their glory days with the introduction of the 2016 R1200RS. Believe it or not, the bike we are looking at here is the first RS model to be offered by the company after nine years, since the 2005 K1200RS – a hefty sport-tourer featuring a 130-horsepower flat four.

This latest version, however, is a bit more faithful to its R100RS roots and features a boxer engine. The 1,170cc boxer, which is the same 125-horsepower semi-water cooled engine that is powering the GS, is capable of producing 125hp at 7,750 rpm, and 125Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm.

In terms of design, it is obvious that the guys behind the drawing board in Munich were looking to cater to the sportier side of the spectrum. From what we can see the R1200RS is nearly identical to R1200R, with the RS sporting a half fairing and two-way adjustable windscreen for better aerodynamics at speed. The highlight is of course, the symmetrical twin headlights, similar to the S1000RR and the S1000XR.

Our favourite feature on the RS was the bike’s exposed frame, which gives it a very radical and sporty appearance, unlike its predecessor which looked rather conservative. Complementing the sportiness is the wheels, as well as the massive exhaust pipe.

With a wheelbase length of 1,529mm, and seat height of 820mm, the R1200RS is a pretty bulky bike, but its dimensions make it ideal for both touring and inter-city riding. It also features a handlebar setup that puts the body in a slightly more forward and lower position, but not one that compromises comfort, even for big-sized riders.

As much as the technical equipment is concerned, the R1200RS comes with shaft drive, an upside-down, 45mm Sachs telescopic fork up front, Paralever suspensions setup at the rear, Dynamic ESA , and a whole lot of the BMW electronics, including ABS, Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and two riding modes as standard.

Performance wise, the R1200RS’ engine has been tuned for more torque at lower rpm compared to other BMWs that use the same engine. So, we had to be gentle on the throttle as it was a case of ‘ask and you shall receive’. Regardless of whether we were overtaking in the city, or cruising on the highway, power delivery was just instant, and so seamless.

Adding to the smooth riding experience was the anti-hopping oil-bath clutch which had a light feel, and could be pressed with only two fingers. Upshifting and downshifting could be done effortlessly throughout our stint with the bike. Overall, the engine never showed any signs of struggling, and power was always present, inspiring us to push it further and have quite a bit of fun.

With two riding modes to choose from (Road and Dynamic), we were in Road mode most of the time, which offered a much snappier power delivery and less intervention of electronic aids such as DTC and ABS. We also had the liberty of choosing between two damping modes – Road and Dynamic – where each was available in three spring preload selections (single rider, single rider with luggage, or two-up).

Braking duties were handled by dual 320mm discs up front squeezed by radially-mounted Brembo four-piston calipers, and a single 276mm disc squeezed by a Brembo two-piston caliper out back. Feel at both the front-brake lever and rear-brake pedal was exceptional, the front allowing for one-finger slowing most of the day.

As good as it looked and performed, the R1200RS wins big in terms of practicality and convenience as well. One item that stands out on the RS is the new instrument cluster. It was definitely among the best there is in the market. Featuring a combination of both digital and analog readings, the TFT screen layout offered all the info we needed, and it could be customized to display different views as well.

Adding to convenience was the keyless system, which allowed us to keep the key-fob in the pocket at any given moment, even when we needed to start the bike, or to unlock the handle or popping open the gas cap.

And as for fuel capacity, the 18-litre tank allowed us to clock about 300km before the fuel warning indicator lit up. In terms of consumption, the R1200RS returned an average of 24km/l, which was more than what we had expected.

In all, the R1200GS is more than just a fairing-equipped R1200R. Thanks to the small, yet significant changes such as the slightly longer wheelbase for touring stability, the handlebar, and the tweaked engine, it definitely has its own distinct characteristics.

It does not only offer the same level of performance as a sports bike, but does it without sacrificing comfort and practicality. Complemented by the sporty looks, the R1200RS is a dream come true for those who have been longing for a proper sports tourer.

Specifications

Engine: Air/liquid-cooled four stroke flat twin boxer engine
Displacement: 1,170cc
Max power: 125PS at 7,750rpm
Max torque: 125Nm at 6,500rpm
Top speed: Over 200km/h
Fuel consumption: 4.1-l/100km
Fuel tank capacity: 18-litres
Drive: Shaft
Seat height: 820mm
Weight: 236kg
Price: RM101,900

Moto Guzzi @ EICMA 2015: Four new models debut

Moto Guzzi has just unveiled four new bikes at the ongoing Eicma show, which are the V9 Roamer, V9 Bobber, and the Stornello.

In addition to the three bikes, the company also confirmed that the MGX-21 Flying Fortress will be a part of its 2016 product line up.

The new V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber

The V9 Roamer and V9 Bobber, which are the latest addition to the brand’s stable, share the brand’s new 850cc two-valve, transverse 90 degree V-twin engine.

While Moto Guzzi has not revealed the exact output figures, maximum torque readings stand at 62Nm at 3,000rpm.

According to the manufacturer, the Roamer is the conventional version of the V9, while the Bobber is the sportier version with its black bodywork.

Weighing at 200kg, both V9 variants come with ABS and adjustable traction control as standard (which can be disabled), and also feature an immobilizer, a USB port, and a single, circular dash.

Moto Guzzi says it will be offering a range of accessories for the bikes, including a system to connect the bike to the rider’s smartphone and options to personalize it according to their tastes.

MGX-21 Flying Fortress

Unveiled as a concept at last year’s EICMA show, Moto Guzzi has announced that the MGX-21 has entered production under the ‘MGX-21 Flying Fortress’ name, and that it will be a part of Moto Guzzi’s 2016 product range.

Powered by a 1,380c air-cooled V-twin engine which puts out a claimed 120Nm of torque which is transmitted to the rear wheel to using a cardan final drive, the production model also gets a ride-by-wire throttle, ABS, adjustable traction control, cruise control, and a 21 inch front wheel with carbon covering.

V7 II Stornello

Looking pretty similar to the V7 racer we have in Malaysia, the Stornello, which is basically a scrambler version of the existing V7 II, is powered by the same 744cc V-twin engine, but the bike is fitted with a new clutch and a six-speed gearbox.

Weighing at 186kg, the Stornello has been given a few trick bits including an Arrow exhaust, wire-spoked wheels with ‘off-road’ tyres. It’s also got aluminium mudguards, footpegs and injector bodies, plus three sets of number plate holders. Also standard is ABS and traction control.

As for the V7 II Racer, the company has given it an update as well, including revamped and updated matte finish graphics.

EICMA 2015: KTM 1290 Super Duke GT unleashed

After teasing us for months, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has finally been unveiled officially by the Austrian manufacturer at the ongoing EICMA 2015 show in Milan, Italy.

In terms of styling, KTM has ticked all the right boxes with the manic sport tourer. According to the brand, the bike’s aggressive design reflects on its characteristics, which focuses primarily on ‘speedy travelling’.

Powering the GT is a re-tuned version of the 1301cc four-stroke two-cylinder 75 degree V-twin engine found in the 1290 Super Duke R, which produces a whopping 173hp and 144Nm of torque.

It is said that the crankshaft, cylinder heads, combustion chambers, valve timings and injection mappings have all been given attention to deliver maximum power higher up the rev range.

In the suspensions department, the Super Duke GT is fitted with semi-active WP suspension both in front and at the rear, which can be toggled between three modes(Comfort, Street and Sport), via a suspension control unit.

Brakes on the other hand, comes courtesy of Brembo. Up front, there are two monobloc four-piston radial calipers biting on to 320mm discs, while the rear brake is a two-piston caliper with 240mm disc.

Since the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is a sport tourer, the Austrian manufacturer has fitted the bike with a few features that make it ideal for long distance riding, such as cruise control, tire pressure monitoring system, heated grips, LED cornering lights, and a 23-liter fuel tank.

Weighing at 205kg dry, KTM claims that the Super Duke GT has the best power-to-weight ratio compared to any sport tourer out there.

Other notable features on the bike include the riding assistance package from the 1290 Super Adventure, which comprises a lean angle sensitive stability control system, ABS, as well as traction control. It’s also got a quick shifter, and a supermoto mode for those who want to have some ‘naughty’ moments with the bike.

Ducati @ EICMA 2015: Nine new models revealed

In conjunction with its 90^th anniversary next year, Ducati has taken the wraps off nine new models for their 2016 range ahead of the EICMA show in Milan, Italy.

The nine models were:

Scrambler Sixty2
Scrambler Flat Track
XDiavel
Multistrada 1200 Enduro
Multistrada 1200 Pikes Peak Edition
Hypermotard 939
2016 Hypermotard SP
2016 Hyperstrada
Panigale 959

Present during the media preview to unveil the new line up were Ducati’s CEO Claudio Domenicali, three-time WSBK Champion Troy Bayliss, Ducati MotoGP riders Andrea Iannone and Andrea Dovizioso, as well as Ducati WSBK rider Davide Giugliano.

Scrambler Sixty2

The Scrambler Sixty2, which Ducati is targeting towards new riders and new markets, is powered by a 399cc, 41hp desmodromic air-cooled L-twin, with styling largely identical to its larger capacity siblings in the Scrambler range. Its Sixty2 moniker is drawn from 1962, the year of the first Ducati Scrambler.

Scrambler Flat Track Pro

Based on last year’s Scrambler’s 803, the Scrambler Flat Track Pro features a dedicated livery, side panel and seat along with a full throttle exhaust. Inspired by Ducati riders Troy Bayliss and Johnny Lewis at the 2015 American AMA Pro Flat Track championship, the model also comes with low variable section handlebars, a Termigoni exhaust and alloy wheels.

Multistrada 1200 Enduro

Designed to go against bikes like the BMW R1200GS and the KTM Adventure 1190, the new 1200 Enduro is a reworked machine that was built primarily for off-road use with 19 inch front and 17 inch rear spoked wheels, semi-active Sachs suspension and a massive 29-litre fuel tank, which Ducati is claiming will get up to 448km per tank. According to Ducati, the new Multistrada is its first full-fledged off-roader, and comes with a huge range of accessories designed exclusively for it, including all aluminum panniers and top boxes.

Multistrada Pikes Peak

The 2016 Multistrada line sees a continuation of the Pikes Peak nameplate, and the same style of upgrades on the DVT version of the Multistrada 1200. Notable features include an Öhlins fork and Öhlins TTX36 shock, Termignoni mufflers, a carbon fiber windscreen, red stitching on the seat, and stripes on the 3-spoke wheels.

XDiavel

Featuring an aggressive ground-up redesign from the 2011 Diavel, the XDiavel is the first Ducati to come with belt drive, and is aimed at those looking for a cruiser. The main highlight of the XDiavel is that its ergonomics are adjustable up to 60 different positions, with a standard fitment which includes an extended seat and passenger backrest. Power on the other hand, is supplied by a 1262cc Testastretta DVT (Ducati Valve Timing)-equipped L-twin that’s been tuned for massive low-rpm torque.

959 Panigale

The Ducati 959 Panigale is essentially the updated 899 panigale with bigger engine capacity, more power and some stylistic and feature related changes. Sharing the stylistic features with the bigger 1299 Panigale, Ducati claims that the 959 is a more useable everyday bike which is also a potent race track tool.

Hypermotard 939

For 2016, Ducati has fitted the Hypermotard with a larger, more powerful 939 motor which will also power the track-oriented Hypermotard 939 SP, as well as the touring-tuned Hyperstrada 939. All three bikes will have fully adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes with Bosch-backed ABS, adjustable traction control, and ride modes.

Check out more pictures in the extensive gallery we’ve prepared below.

2016 XDiavel S

2016 Multistrada Enduro

2016 Multistrada Pikes Peak

2016 959 Panigale

2016 959 Panigale (non Euro 4 compliant)

2016 Hypermotard 939

2016 Hypermotard 939 SP

2016 Hyperstrada 939

2016 Scrambler Flat Track Pro

2016 Scrambler Sixty2

BMW Motorrad reveals electric superbike

BMW Motorrad has unveiled a very interesting model recently – an electric superbike called the eRR.

Using the same chassis as the S1000RR, BMW said that it created the eRR to unite the high-speed performance of the S1000RR with the the quick acceleration of the c-Evolution scooter, which is able to go from standstill to 50km/h in under three seconds.

Stephan Schaller, Head of BMW Motorrad, said, “Since it’s market launch, the RR is giving the creeps to motorsport athletes. Regardless of whether it is acceleration, handling or top speed – the RR is setting standards.”

“However, if acceleration on the first metres, up to 50 or 60km/h, is the point, the RR’s 199 bhp has to admit defeat by another BMW product: the C evolution with its electric drive.”

BMW Motorrad added that the motivation behind the eRR ‘experimental vehicle’ was to find out what happens when a sports bike gets an electric drive, and also to produce a bike with zero emission.

Revealed at a corporate news announcement, BMW Motorrad has not revealed any technical details on the eRR, yet.

Product review: Shark Skwal LED Sak Art Design

When Winmaster Sdn Bhd, the authorised distributor of Shark helmets in Malaysia announced the arrival of the Skwal; the market’s first helmet to incorporate LED lights into its design, the level of excitement in the air was definitely on the higher side, as it was nothing like we have seen before. Although the brand had many other models that ranked higher in the product line up, it was the Skwal which got all the attention, as it was a potential game changer.

So, in order to find out if the Shark Skwal was just a novelty or if it really delivers, we managed to get our hands on one, thanks to Winmaster Sdn Bhd, to get a first-hand feel of the helmet.

Now, for those who are unaware, the Skwal is the latest helmet to be released by Shark into the existing Pulse range, and is the first helmet to incorporate LED lights into its design in the market. According to Shark helmets, it is confident that the Skwal marks the beginning of a new era in rider safety and electronic helmet functionality.

The Skwal has three cleverly integrated neon green LED’s, which are situated in the front mouth piece, the front air intake, as well as the rear air vents, which not only enhance the sleek and aggressive look of this helmet, but is also a huge factor in visibility and rider safety.

Among all the colours in the spectrum, neon green was the colour chosen by Shark for the LED as it was a prime colour, alongside red and blue. However, since red and blue are used by authorities, green was the best option for visibility.

In case you’re wondering how the LED’s operate, they are powered by a small in-built battery, which is fully rechargeable via a micro USB cable. The company said that the helmet’s battery has up to 5000 recharge cycles and an impressive battery life of five hours on the continuous light mode, or ten hours on the flashing light mode. The two light modes can be selected with a press of the button positioned on the lower right side of the helmet.

Although it seems like there are a lot of components involved, the Shark Skwal only weighs 1,470 grams, including the lights and battery pack, putting it into the feather weight category of the helmet market.

In terms of standard features, the Skwal comes with a flip-down internal sun visor, Shark ‘easy fit’ feature for riders who wear glasses, a micro-lock buckle system, a fully removable and a washable lining made of bamboo.

A couple of interesting things about the bamboo inner lining is that it has a generous dosage of anti-bacterial properties to keep it clean at all times. In addition, the material is much more odour resistant than other materials that are usually used to make inner linings.

It also features a clever Autoseal visor adhearing gasket, which makes the helmet one of the most stable helmets today. What the Autoseal feature does is that it pushes the visor inwards when it is pulled down, making it air-tight, quiet, and waterproof.

As much as the design is concerned, the Shark Skwal is quite neutral. It doesn’t look too futuristic or too traditional, not too complicated or too simple, and not too rounded or too angular.

The good thing about this is that it suits riders who are astride any type of motorcycle, regardless of whether it’s a cruiser, a sports bike, or even a scooter. Simply put, it looks good with anything.

What we love most about the Shark Skwal LED helmet is the drop down integral anti-scratch and anti-UV sun visor. Not only is it scratch-proof, but it is designed in a way that it drops much lower than many helmets out there in the market, making the rider feel like he or she is wearing sunglasses.

As safe as it is from wind, and water, it couldn’t escape from the infamous fogging woes. However, Winmaster Sdn Bhd said that it will not be an issue for its customers as a helmet pinlock worth RM120 will be given for free with every purchase of the Shark Skwal LED helmet.

Catered towards riders of all age, the Shark Skwal is available in black, white, matte and gloss finishes, as well as a wide range of graphic and colour scheme for those who would like to stand out from the rest. The model you are looking at now, however, is more special, as the livery was designed by Sak Art design; an internationally renowned graphic design house that has collaborated with numerous companies in the automotive industry.

Priced very competitively at RM950 for solid finish and RM1,030 for the units with graphics, the Shark Skwal is worth every sen it asks for. Not only does it look good, but it is feature-packed, comfortable and has decent build quality. Although it is not the quietest helmet around, features like the LED lights, and the visor systems work well. Besides that, most importantly, for what is being offered, RM1,030 is as sweet as a deal can get.

Helmet: Shark Skwal LED Sak Art Design
Type: Full face
Distributor: Winmaster Sdn Bhd
Weight: 1.47kg
Price: RM950.00 (solid) / RM1,030 (graphics)

Tissot to be official MotoGP timekeeper until 2022

Dorna Sports, the commercial rights holder of MotoGP announced yesterday that watchmaker Tissot will remain as the official timekeeper for the championship until 2022.

It is said that the partnership, which began in 2001, will allow Tissot to gain significant exposure at each race via trackside advertising and enhanced TV visibility across global media outlets, plus it will also benefit from a large presence in the MotoGP official social media pages and in the Hospitality area with special experiences.

François Thiébaud, Tissot President, said, “The spirit and focus on excellence that MotoGP embodies perfectly reflects Tissot’s spirit. We are therefore very proud to continue our successful partnership with MotoGP^TM. These new timepieces in tribute to them, celebrate this relationship and position as Official Timekeeper. We remain committed to providing absolute accuracy.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports Chief Executive Officer, said, “These new watches speak of the high quality of their work. We can always rely on our Official Timekeeper for perfect precision. At Dorna Sports, we are extremely proud to have extended MotoGP’s long and productive relationship with Tissot until 2022. It has proven to be the perfect partnership over the last 14 years, and we look forward to continue to develop and grow together until 2022.”

Currently, there are two timepieces which have been infused with the dynamism of the MotoGPrace – the Tissot T-Race MotoGP Automatic Limited Edition 2016 and the Tissot T-Race MotoGP Limited Edition 2016.

BMW Motorrad concludes GS Trophy Southeast Asian qualifier

BMW Motorrad recently hosted the BMW Motorrad GS Trophy Southeast Asia Qualifier 2015, which was basically an adventure motorcycle rally competition to select the representatives from Southeast Asia who will compete at the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2016 competition in Chiang Mai, Thailand next year.

Held over the weekend of October 30th through to November 1, 2015, the competition was also organised in conjunction with the BMW Motorrad Days Thailand 2015 motorcycle festival.

Judged by GS Trophy icon and organiser Tomm Wolf, the qualifying round tested riders on their riding skills and strategies to successfully complete a series of obstacles over a specially designed Enduro course.

All participants were required to complete a total of 20 exercices, which were divided into two sessions. While the first session had 11 exercises, the second session had a total of nine.

This year, six Malaysian competitors took part in the Southeast Asian Qualifier of the GS Trophy. They were Dr. Suhaimi Bin Said, Dato Hamzah Bin Mazlan, Eimran Ben Jettey, Mohd.Faizal Sukree, Khaizatul Akmar Binti Zabidin, and Mohd Aswade Bin Ali.

After completing all the challenges, Mohd.Faizal Sukree, who rode a BMW F650GS, emerged victorious with the highest amount of points, followed by Dr.Suhaimi Bin Said who was astride an R1200GS. Coming in at third was Dato Hamzah Bin Mazlan, who was also riding a BMW F650GS.

However, only the highest scoring participant, Mohd.Faizal will be representing Malaysia in the global BMW Motorrad GS Trophy next year in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Joining the Malaysian from this region will be Mr. Peerapat Woratham from Thailand, and Tommy Lee from Singapore among other participants from other nations.

According to BMW Motorrad, the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy next year will have 19 teams representing their countries including an all-women special team.

The International GS Trophy, which has been organized once every two years since 2008 – has seen BMW GS riders from numerous countries around the world come together to engage in sporting competition not just on a motorcycle but in a wide range of other disciplines as well.

Husqvarna 701 Enduro variant introduced

After much anticipation, Husqvarna has finally announced the addition of the 701 Enduro off-road variant to the 701 Supermoto model lineup.

All set to go on sale later this month, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro will be powered by the same 690cc single-cylinder engine in the supermoto version, which is capable of churning out a maximum output of 67hp.

Fitted with a 13-litre fuel tank, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro also comes with a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame. As much as the damping department is concerned, there are the WP 4CS forks fitted in front, and WP shocks at the rear; both providing 275mm of travel.

A 21-inch front wheel and 18 inch rear wheel replace the 17 inch items on the 701 Supermoto, with Continental TKC80s providing the grip off road.

It is said that the bike will also feature a dual-spark ignition system, ride-by-wire with different riding modes, ABS system, the ATSC slipper clutch, and use a SOHC setup.

Expected to weigh between 140 to 150kg, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro, which is basically a rebadged KTM 690 Enduro R, is set to go on sale in Europe later this month.

Kawasaki Z125 breaks cover

Kawasaki has discreetly released a promo video, some details and also a few official images of its newest model – the Z125.

Expected to be offered in two variants (Kawasaki Z125 automatic and the Kawasaki Z125 Pro with clutch), both models are powered by Kawasaki’s 125cc four-stroke single cylinder engine.

Kawasaki has announced that the bike will also come with a 24mm throttle body along with upside down forks, petal brake discs (200mm front, 184mm rear) and 12-inch wheels, while the claimed kerb weight stands at only 101kg. while its overall length is 1,700mm and the seat height is 780mm.

As much as the design is concerned, Kawasaki has given the Z125 an aggressive sense of styling, inspired by the other Z models in the stable.

It is said that the Kawasaki Z125 will be available in three colours – ‘Candy Lime Green’, ‘Metallic Graphite Gray’ and ‘Candy Burnt Orange’.

Bikesrepublic

Admin