Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

Transport Expert Wants Killer ‘Kapcai’ To Be Phased Out

Wan Argyl Wan Hassan, a former head of policy and planning at the now-defunct Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), suggest that ‘kapcai’ (slang word for underbone motorcycle) should be phased out from the market.

“In Malaysia, the ‘kapcai’ is a killing machine that has caused a lot of deaths – at an average of 4,100 deaths a year over 12 years – and this is a loss in productivity to the country,” said Wan Argyl during a talk show on Astro Awani, recently.

He also mentioned that the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) findings showed that the country suffered a massive economic loss of RM18.15 billion from the deaths of motorcycle users from 2015 to 2017.

“This is a huge loss to the country. Do we still want to have this kind of motorcycle on the road,” he added.

According to statistics by the federal traffic police, a total of 79,916 motorcyclists were killed in road accidents from 2001 to August this year, while motorcycle users accounted for 70.2% of road fatalities up to August.

Meanwhile, Wan Argyl also highlighted that due to the nature of ‘kapcai’, the vehicle is also popular among underage kids.

“This kind of motorcycle is light and easy to handle, so young kids use it in rural areas to go to school or buy groceries. We need to think whether or not we want to maintain this type of motorcycle or slowly phase it out,” he said.

Two years ago, during the National Road Safety Council annual meeting, a senior police officer requested that the transport ministry draft a long-term policy to introduce a new licensing category for motorcyclists aged 16 to 25 to ride only small engine capacity scooters or low-powered electric motorcycles.

(Source: FMT)

MotoGP: Ducati Conquers Final Race, Rossi Says Goodbye To Illustrious Career

The 2021 MotoGP season ends with tons of emotion as the season concludes at Valencia.

Francesco Bagnaia puts in another sensational performance to lead a Ducati 1-2-3 while Valentino Rossi finishes tenth in his final MotoGP race.

Despite making history with Jorge Martin and Jack Miller for the first-ever all-Ducati MotoGP podium, Bagnaia’s only focus was on his mentor and big brother, Rossi.

“It was incredible! The only way possible to celebrate him was to win with this helmet, and to have Vale (Rossi) on the top of the podium with me made me so happy.

“This year, we have grown a lot. Next year I think we are ready to start the season fighting for the world championship.

“But now the only thing is to celebrate Vale, and I would like to be there with him in his garage already.

“Vale for us (academy riders) is a friend, a big brother, and he helps us a lot every time,” said Bagnaia.

Rossi concludes his 25 years career at the world championship with 372 races, 199 podiums, 89 wins and nine world titles.

It was a beautiful sight at the end of the race as the 42-year old rider was given a standing ovation by the crowd and was also congratulated by the entire grid.

While the attention was mainly on the Petronas Sepang Racing Team rider, KTM’s Danilo Petrucci also says his goodbye to MotoGP as he is confirmed to represent the Austrian team at next year Dakar Rally.

Meanwhile, Remy Gardner was crowned as the Moto2 World Champion despite finishing the race at tenth place.

Title contender and teammate, Raul Fernandez did his best to win the final race of the season however Gardner only needed a top 13 finish to secure the title.

The 2022 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP Is Your Secret Carbon Fiber Fixation

Frankly, we thought that the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S was just too powerful for the road and too scary for inexperienced riders like us.

The V4 engine is a screamer with 205hp, yet here we are with a lighter version of the Streetfighter range, the not so subtle 2022 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP.

Dressed in carbon fibre components, the V4 SP weighs at just 196kg, 3kg less than the Streetfighter V4 S.

The BST carbon fibre wheels are 1.4kg lighter than the forged aluminium fitted o the Streetfighter V4 S, and it also features Brembo Style R front brake callipers.

The Streetfighter V4 SP is also equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 that offers adjustable damping capabilities while on the move according to the rider’s riding style.

Nonetheless, the lighter V4 SP makes 208hp and 123Nm @ 9,500rpm from its 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. However, the SP gets slightly better treatment, thanks to the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, which helps improve anti-hopping even in the most aggressive shift.

Other exciting features include:

aluminium CNC machined footpegs
carbon front mudguard
lithium-ion battery

2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2 Breaks Cover – 178kg, 153hp

The latest episode of Ducati World Premier 2022 witnessed the unveiling of the new Streetfighter V2.

The idea behind the new V2 is simple, take the Ducati Panigale V2, strip the fairing and boom! The Streetfighter V2 is born.

This also means that the Streetfighter V2 is powered by the same desmodromic Superquadro 955cc engine that makes 150hp and 102Nm.

However, the Streetfighter V2 is in a more approachable form for street riding compared to the Panigale V2.

It also features a longer single-sided swingarm, fully adjustable Showa Big Piston front forks, Sachs rear shocks (also adjustable) and Sachs steering damper.

Meanwhile, braking is done by the same Brembo M4-32 monobloc radial callipers with 320mm disc available on the Panigale V2.

Despite entering the market as a subtle version of the Streetfighter V4, the V2 still carries the entire Ducati electronic package which includes:

ABS Cornering EVO with ‘slide by brake’ function
Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2
Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVP
Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) EVO 2
Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO
three riding modes (Sport, Road, Wet)

Other exciting features include:

full LED headlights with DRL
4.3″ TFT display
Ducati Quickshifter
3-riding modes with 3-engine mapping

Despite not getting the iconic biplane wings as standard unlike its bigger siblings, owners can still get it as an added accessory that is designed to guarantee an additional downforce of 28kg at 265km/h.

New Yamaha Ego Gear Launched – RM5,418

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) launched the new Yamaha Ego Gear, priced at just RM5,418.62 (excluding road tax, insurance and registration).

According to HLYM, the Ego Gear is built to meet those constantly on the move, such as students, housewives, and even delivery riders.

Powered by a 125cc DOHC single-cylinder with Stop/Start function, the Ego Gear makes 9.38hp @ 8,000rpm and 9.6Nm at 5,500rpm.

Despite the small engine, it carries a 4.2L tank, good enough to take you around town or for daily commuting.

Moreover, thanks to a built-in charging socket, the Ego Gear is practical for those who need to charge their smartphone while on the go.

Suspension is handled by telescopic front forks and rear shock absorbers, while braking is done by a single-hydraulic disc at the front and mechanical drum brake at the rear.

Other exciting features include an LED front headlight, well-lit multi-function meter panel and hazard lights.

The new Yamaha Ego Gear is available in three colour options – Silver, Red and Blue.

2021 Yamaha MT-09 Price Announced – RM54,988

The 2021 Yamaha MT-09 is finally available in Malaysia for a price of RM54,988 (excluding road tax, insurance and registration).

The new price is a significant increase of more than RM7,000 than the previous generation MT-09.

Looking at the differences with the previous-gen model, it would be easier to say that the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 is a completely new model built from the ground up. Its key features are more power, less weight, and cleverer than ever before.

First and foremost, its firepower has been increased to 117hp and 93Nm of torque thanks to the newer and bigger 890cc inline-three engine. New upgrades to its pistons, conrods, camshafts, and crankcase also mean that this engine is lighter than its smaller predecessor.

In other words, the new 890cc unit is lighter but more powerful, even though it is now Euro5-compliant.

All this power is sent to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission, which is now upgraded with the presence of a slip/assist clutch. All of this is now housed within a new diecast aluminium Deltabox frame matted to a new subframe and swingarm (which are also made out of aluminium).

In total, the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 weighs only 189kg (kerb).

Also new to the 2021 model is its braking package which consists of dual 298mm discs up front paired with Nissin callipers and radial master cylinders. The suspension comes in the form of a fully adjustable KYB front fork and a rear shock unit with preload and rebound adjustability.

The biggest upgrade for the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 has to be its electronic riding aids, which is inspired by the brand’s top-of-the-line superbike, the Yamaha YZF-R1. The MT-09 now features a six-axis IMU unit that works together with its lean-angle sensitive traction control, slide control, cornering ABS, and rear-lift mitigation features.

Other features include a 3.5-inch TFT screen, quickshifter, and auto-blipper for clutchless up and down gear shifts. The front headlight design now houses the main projector headlight and two sides DRLs that present a completely new presence for the new MT-09. Looking at the specs, we don’t mind the looks on a single bit.

According to Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM), the new models will make their way to the authorised Yamaha dealership beginning November 11.

CONFIRMED: Petrucci To Make 2022 Dakar Rally Debut With KTM

Danilo Petrucci will fulfil his lifetime dream switch to Dakar Rally after the 2021 MotoGP season concludes.

The Italian rider is a skilled off-road rider in enduro and motocross; however, he understands the discipline and demands of rally racing is on a different spectrum.

Petrucci has already begun his rally preparation with a little help from the experts, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s 2018 Dakar winner and recently crowned FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Champion Matthias Walkner.

Two-time Dakar champion Toby Price, and reigning Dakar champion Kevin Benavides will also help the former Ducati rider in getting the right mindset ahead of the 2022 Dakar Rally season.

“For me, it is a dream come true to race the Dakar. It’s an event I’ve always wanted to do since I was a child when I was watching videotapes of the Dakar Rally from the 80s and 90s,” said Petrucci.

“Now, thanks to KTM, this dream is coming true. First, I would like to thank KTM for this great opportunity; I think I will be the only rider that has competed in MotoGP and then the Dakar Rally in just over one month – so it is with great pride that I go there.

“My main target is just to finish the race and enjoy it. The first approach was to have some roadbook training with Jordi, he competed in the race many times and finished on the podium, so he has been great in helping me learn this special art,” said Petrucci.

Petrucci began his career in MotoGP with Came Ioda Racing Project in 2012 before moving to Pramac Racing three years later.

He was then promoted to the Ducati factory team in 2019, where he achieved his first premier class win at home before ending the season in 6th place.

Petrucci left Ducati at the end of the 2020 season after agreeing to join Tech3 KTM.

FIRST LOOK: 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S Arrived In Malaysia – RM92,900

From concept to reality in under two years, the all-new Harley-Davidson Sportster S now lands in Malaysia with a starting price of RM92,900.

Didi Resources, the sole distributor of the Harley-Davidson brand in Malaysia, recently unveiled the new Sportster S officially at Tropicana Grandhill Property Gallery in Genting Highlands.

We also had the opportunity to test out the new Sportster S; however, we will hold on to our thoughts until we have the bike for a proper review later.

Harley-Davidson first unveiled the 1250 Custom in July 2018, a concept motorcycle dubbed to be the heir to the throne of the ageing Sporster range.

Three years later, the Milwaukee-based company finally unveiled the finished product with the 2021 Sportster S.

The new Sportster S is set to take the world by storm thanks to the acclaimed 1250 Revolution Max, a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 1,252cc V-Twin powerplant capable of producing 121hp and 127Nm.

In an effort to make the riding experience even better, the Sportster comes with variable valve timing (VVT) and self-adjusting lifters, the same function available on the Pan America.

According to Harley-Davidson, the powertrain also function as a stressed member, thus eliminating the traditional frame, which significantly reduces motorcycle weight to just 227kg and results in a very stiff chassis that contributes to precise handling.

The Sportster also comes equipped with a preload-adjustable Showa (piggyback) rear shock connected to the steel trellis swingarm and a fully adjustable 43mm Showa upside/down fork.

A four-piston Brembo radial calliper handles the braking with a 320mm disc at the front and a two-piston Brembo calliper at the rear with a 260mm disc.

Harley’s even generous enough to fit the motorcycle with a six-axis IMU that offers cornering enhanced antilock brakes, enhanced traction control, Drag-Torque Slip Control System, and tire-pressure monitoring system.

To complete the 21st-century features, the Sportster S sport a spherical 4″ TFT instrument, all-around LED-lighting, three riding modes with two custom setups and Bluetooth connectivity.

Other notable functions include:

two dedicated power points for pre-wired heated grips
USB-C port
Cruise control
Temperature sensor
12L tank

Triumph Motorcycles Rolls Out Three Special Edition Bikes

Triumph Motorcycles has unveiled the special edition Street Twin, Thruxton RS and Rocket 3 R & GT for 2022.

Each of the motorcycles carries its own story and styling and is made available for one year only, beginning December 2021.

Triumph Rocket 3 R and 3 GT 221 Edition

Triumph has always been proud of the Rocket 3 line, and the special edition celebrates the monstrous 221Nm of peak torque available from the largest production engine on the planet.

The number 221 is also inscribed on the tank to remind you how powerful the engine is.

The 221 Editions also feature a Red Hopper fuel tank and front mudguard with Sapphire Black rear mudguard, flyscreen and front fascia.

Triumph Thruxton RS Ton Up Edition

Claimed to be the ultimate cafe racer, the special edition Thruxton RS was inspired by the ‘Ton-Up Boys’ of the 1950s and 60s.

It features an Aegean Blue fuel tank with jet black knee pad graphics, Fusion White seat cowl with ‘100 Special Edition’ graphics and hand-painted coach lining.

Triumph Street Twin EC1 Edition

Inspired by the two-wheel culture in East London, the EC1 Edition takes you back with a unique paint scheme to reflect the East End.

The EC1 Edtion features Matt Aluminium Silver and Matt Sliver Ice fuel tank with hand-painted silver coach lining.

All three models are not limited but are restricted to just a one-year production beginning from December 2021 until December 2022.

BMW Motorrad Unveils Bespoke BMW R 18 By Shinya Kimura

BMW Motorrad has reached out to Shinya Kimura to bring his distinctive “Zero-style” to the new R 18.

Interestingly, Kimura took the stock R 18 for a ride to understand the character of the big-bore cruiser.

As a result, the custom R 18, dubbed as “The Wal”, gets a bigger fuel tank that was extended rearward and a new subframe that raises the seat height.

The bike also features a bucket-style seat by Japan’s Backdrop Leathers and a newly designed tail section.

Kimura also installed a metal bubble fairing with two asymmetrical headlights at the front, including a teeth-like design that mimics The Wal (German for whale) concept.

To further enhance the esthetics, Kimura also adds a bronze powder coat finish.

Fast facts about the custom R 18:

Handlebars: 8 inches narrower, 6 inches lower.
Fuel tank: Made longer to move the seating position rearward and gain additional fuel capacity of about 1 gallon for longer trips.
Seat pad designed by Kimura himself, handmade by BACKDROP Leathers in Japan in bucket style for more bottom support.
Seat is designed so that it creates a natural flow from the seat cushion and leads to the round rear light.
Semi-shell fairing for comfortable handling at high speed.
The side covers have been designed in such a way that they do not destroy the look of the original frame.
Special paint finish in the form of a bronze powder coating after the components have previously been hammered to give the surface texture.
After Kimura had completed all the bodywork, he decided to keep the classic symbolic shape of the standard exhaust system, but paint it black.

Honda RC213V-S Becomes The Most Expensive Japanese Bike Sold At Auction

The Honda RC213V-S has become the most expensive Japanese motorcycle to be sold at an auction.

The road-legal MotoGP-spec bike was put on auction in a Japanese Bingo & Yahoo Auction on the final day of October 2021, for a price of JPY27.1mil (RM995k).

The bike broke the previous record held by a 1-of-4 Honda CB750 Prototype (1968) sold for JPY25.1mil (RM921k).

Build strictly based on a MotoGP replica, the value of the RC213V-S is said to go up each year despite over 200 units being produced in 2016.

According to reports, the particular model auctioned off comes with the Sports kit included with just 191km on the clock.

The RC213V-S makes around 212hp and is road legal.

Kawasaki To Expand The RS Range With A Smaller 400cc Engine?

There could be another version of the RS range from Kawasaki, as reported by Young Machine.

We usually ignore baseless rumours, but considering the allegation comes from the most reliable Japanese publication, we know there is more to it than rumours.

Team Green recently expanded the RS range with a new Z650RS – prompted by the well-received Z900RS – powered by the same parallel-twin engine found in the Z650 and Ninja 650.

While it is unclear the type of engine to be used on the Z400RS, the Japanese firm is said to introduce an overhauled 400cc engine taken from the Ninja 400.

Nonetheless, it is an exciting time for Kawasaki as the company recently announced plans on dedicating significant resources to developing an all-new hybrid engine to phase out all fossil-fuel vehicles by 2035.

Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen

Transport Expert Wants Killer ‘Kapcai’ To Be Phased Out

MotoGP: Ducati Conquers Final Race, Rossi Says Goodbye To Illustrious Career

The 2022 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP Is Your Secret Carbon Fiber Fixation

2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2 Breaks Cover – 178kg, 153hp

New Yamaha Ego Gear Launched – RM5,418

2021 Yamaha MT-09 Price Announced – RM54,988

CONFIRMED: Petrucci To Make 2022 Dakar Rally Debut With KTM

FIRST LOOK: 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S Arrived In Malaysia – RM92,900

Triumph Motorcycles Rolls Out Three Special Edition Bikes

BMW Motorrad Unveils Bespoke BMW R 18 By Shinya Kimura

Honda RC213V-S Becomes The Most Expensive Japanese Bike Sold At Auction

Kawasaki To Expand The RS Range With A Smaller 400cc Engine?

Ducati Dirt Bike Project Announced

Touratech Offers An Array Of Accessories For The New BMW R 1300 GS

Royal Alloy Youth Edition Launched – From RM12,800

14-Year-Old’s Joyride Ends In Fatal Motorcycle Collision

Daewoo To Make A Comeback With Electric Motorcycles

Female Rider Becci Ellis Sets New Top Speed Record On A 350HP Suzuki Hayabusa

Bridgestone Rolls Out New Battlax Hypersport S23

YADEA E8S Pro Electric Scooter Now Available In Malaysia – RM5,999

Ducati Rolls Out Panigale-Powered Ducati Multistrada V4 RS

CFMOTO Goes Electric With Company’s First Dirt Bike

EU Court Of Justice Ruling Redefines E-Bikes

Honda’s Next-Gen Gold Wing Features Auto-Adjusting Windscreen

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