Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

MotoPlex Butterworth Opens In Penang, The Ultimate Destination For Bikers Up North

Moto enthusiasts and Italian biking aficionados, get ready to rev up your engines because Didi Group has just announced the grand opening of MotoPlex Butterworth – the ultimate destination for all your two-wheel vehicle needs!

This exciting new showroom offers not one, not two, not three, but FOUR premium brands under the Didi Group umbrella: Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi. And it’s all located in Penang, making it the go-to destination for Malaysian riders seeking the ultimate Italian biking experience.

But it’s not just the impressive lineup of brands that make MotoPlex Butterworth stand out. This dynamic concept store is also designed with Italian aesthetics in mind, reflecting the innovative vision of the Piaggio Group. With a total space of 3,200 sqf, the showroom area covers 2,600 sqf, while the service centre takes up 600 sqf. And with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of well-trained motorcycle technicians and mechanics, superior customer service and access to high-quality spare parts are guaranteed.

For Didi Group, the launch of MotoPlex Butterworth is a remarkable milestone as it becomes the second MotoPlex in Malaysia, and the first in Penang. Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Group, expressed his excitement saying, “Penang is one of the most vibrant states in Malaysia. I would like to thank GB Motorcycles for introducing this global concept of MotoPlex to the dynamic landscape of Penang, which will help us to further strengthen our positioning and boost our presence in Malaysia.”

The MotoPlex concept offers an exciting overview of the entire Piaggio Group, making it the house of Piaggio’s iconic brands. And with all of these premium brands under one roof, potential customers seeking an enriching Italian two-wheel experience backed by style, technology, superior performance, and rich heritage, will not be disappointed.

Mr. Kheoh Hock Seng, Director of GB Motorcycles, summed it up perfectly saying, “We are committed to serving riders with passion and dedication in our 3200 sqf concept store complete with a service area that is staffed by highly skilled two-wheel technicians. We don’t just make vehicles. We change the way people move.”

Upcoming BMW G-Series Likely To Get Variable Valve Timing

Hold onto your helmets, folks, because BMW might be gearing up to release a serious game-changer in the world of motorcycling.

Next-generation G 310 series to be equipped with BMW’s ShiftCam technology.
The ShiftCam system will boost the bike’s performance and fuel efficiency.

The German automaker has just filed a patent application that hints at a potentially groundbreaking development: a ShiftCam-type variable valve timing system for a single-cylinder engine. And if the rumors are true, this could be a major step forward in terms of efficiency, power, and emissions reduction.

The patent, which was filed in August 2021 and published by the German patent office on February 16, 2023, reveals that BMW has been working on a valve actuating system that can control the timing and lift of one or more valves simultaneously. By connecting multiple cam pieces, or using a single cam piece with multiple contours, the system can deliver enhanced performance across the board, from improved power and torque to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

The implications of this technology are huge, especially for BMW’s G 310-series of motorcycles. With a more compact design and a weight-saving valve train, these bikes could potentially offer even more agility and responsiveness on the road. And by incorporating two or more actuation profiles, riders might even be able to customize their riding experience based on their individual preferences or the specific demands of their chosen terrain.

Of course, BMW has yet to make any official announcements about the new technology or its plans for integrating it into future models. But given the company’s history of innovation and its commitment to sustainability and efficiency, it seems likely that we’ll be seeing some major updates to the G-Series and other models in the near future.

River’s Indie Electric Scooter Launches in India

Indian electric two-wheeler startup River has just launched its newest model, and it’s a game-changer. The Indie electric scooter has hit the Indian market with a bang, and it’s already causing a stir among two-wheel enthusiasts.

The River Indie electric scooter stands out from the crowd thanks to its 55 liters of storage space.
The Indie boasts an electric motor output of 6.7 kilowatts and a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity.

This premium electric scooter is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and it’s set to take the Indian electric vehicle market by storm.

The Indie is an SUV in the world of electric scooters, according to River, and it’s easy to see why. It’s been designed with practicality in mind, and it comes with a host of features that make it stand out from the crowd. One of the most impressive features is the 55 liters of storage space, with 12 liters in the front glove compartment and 43 liters under the saddle. The flat floorboard allows for even more storage space, and the footrests up front are a thoughtful addition.

But it’s not just about practicality. The River Indie electric scooter also boasts impressive performance specs. It’s powered by an electric motor with an output of 6.7 kilowatts, or around nine horsepower, and it’s powered by a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity. River claims a range of about 120 kilometers, or 75 miles, on a single charge, with a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour, or 56 miles per hour. While the scooter takes a while to charge, it’s well worth the wait.

But what really sets the River Indie apart from other electric scooters is its styling. The rugged, boxy design gives it a unique look, and the square-shaped LED headlights and built-in crash guards add to its distinctive appearance. The full-color TFT display and two USB charging ports are a nice touch, and the reverse parking assist feature is a welcome addition.

Of course, all these features come with a premium price tag. The River Indie retails for Rs 1,25,000, or around RM6.7k, but it’s worth it for the quality and versatility of this electric scooter.

For now, the Indie is only available for pre-order in Bengaluru, but it’s expected to hit other parts of India soon.

2023 CFMoto 250CL-X Now Available At Local Dealerships – RM16,888

CFMoto latest model, the 250CL-X are now available at local dealerships for Rm16,888.

The 250CL-X features the similar design language as the bigger 700CL-X.
Powering the 250CL-X is a single-cylinder 249.2cc engine.

Despite no official announcement from authorized distributors, the quarter litre ‘neo-retro’ motorcycle were seen at several local dealership across the country.

The CFMoto 250CL-X features a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 249.2cc. It produces 26 horsepower and 17.4 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to provide an exciting ride. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that offers smooth and precise shifting.

The motorcycle’s design is inspired by the classic café racer style, which is characterized by a slim and streamlined profile, clip-on handlebars, and a single-seat configuration. The 250CL-X also features LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and a digital display that provides real-time information on the motorcycle’s performance.

The motorcycle comes equipped with a high-performance suspension system, which consists of an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock absorber. The brakes are also impressive, with a 292mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc that provide excellent stopping power.

Riders who are looking for an entry-level motorcycle that offers a balance of style, performance, and affordability may want to consider the CFMoto 250CL-X as an option.

Ducati Unveils New Accessory Packages For The All-New Diavel V4

Last week, during the London Motorcycle Show, Ducati introduced the Diavel V4 power cruiser to the UK market. Now, the Italian manufacturer has announced a range of accessories for the Diavel V4 to help owners customise their new ride.

Ducati created three accessory packages for the Diavel V4.
The accessory packages are designed to help prospective owners customise their Diavel V4 based on their personal preferences.

Ducati’s Diavel model has undergone a transformation since its original V2 form launch at the start of the previous decade, thanks to the introduction of the Granturismo V4. To complement the new model, Ducati has created three accessory packages for the Diavel V4: Style, Sport, and Touring.

The Style package offers a carbon fibre rear mudguard, brake and clutch reservoir covers, levers, mirrors, and a billet aluminium oil filler cap, which are all part of the Ducati by Rizoma partnership. Additionally, Brembo brake callipers can be coloured red or black.

The Sport package features carbon fibre exhaust and tank covers, a carbon front mudguard, an anti-tampering system, and an anodised finish on the tank cap.

Finally, the Touring package offers heated grips, a backrest for the passenger seat, and two semi-rigid side bags. Additionally, the package comes with forged aluminium wheels.

According to Ducati, these accessory packages are designed to help prospective owners customise their Diavel V4 to their personal preferences, ensuring that they get the most out of their new motorcycle. With the introduction of these packages, Ducati is demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-performance, customisable motorcycles that cater to the needs of their riders.

The Diavel V4 is already a highly anticipated motorcycle, and these new accessory packages only add to its allure. The Style, Sport, and Touring packages will undoubtedly appeal to a wide range of riders, and we can’t wait to see how they customise their new Diavel V4s.

Honda Developing Advanced Motorcycle Crash Detection System

Honda is reportedly working on a new motorcycle crash detection system that goes beyond just alerting riders when a crash has occurred.

Honda is developing a new motorcycle crash detection system that can determine if the rider is unconscious and decide whether or not to call for emergency services.
The system uses the motorcycle’s IMU and sensors to detect a crash.
The system can differentiate between minor incidents and serious accidents and has the potential to save lives by quickly alerting emergency services.

The new technology is said to be able to determine if the rider is unconscious or not and decide whether or not to call for emergency services.

The system uses the motorcycle’s IMU and an array of sensors to detect when a crash has occurred. It then links to the rider’s smartphone and helmet-mounted Bluetooth headset to determine if the rider is still conscious or not. Based on this diagnosis, the system will decide whether or not to make an emergency call.

Interestingly, the system is also said to be able to differentiate between a minor incident, such as dropping the bike on its side at a driveway, and a serious accident that requires immediate attention. If the incident is deemed minor, the system will not make an emergency call.

While this new technology sounds promising, questions remain about its accuracy and reliability. For example, if the rider is not wearing a Bluetooth headset, will the system still be able to accurately determine their state of consciousness? Additionally, it will be interesting to see how the system performs in real-world scenarios.

Despite these questions, Honda’s new motorcycle crash detection system is a promising development in motorcycle safety technology. It has the potential to save lives by quickly alerting emergency services when a serious accident has occurred. Honda has not yet announced when the technology will be available to the public.

Dunlop Introduces New Trailmax Raid 50/50 Trail Tyre

Dunlop, one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, has launched its latest 50/50 trail motorcycle tyre, the Trailmax Raid, derived from the company’s rally raid programme.

The new Trailmax Raid is the most off-road capable tyre in the Dunlop lineup.
The new tyre combines Dunlop’s touring, adventure, and off-road experience and knowledge to offer superior on-road and off-road performance.

Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid tyre features tread blocks similar to those found in Dunlop’s D908 RR rally raid tyre, providing excellent traction on loose terrain.

Compared to the Trailmax Meridian, launched three years ago, the Trailmax Raid is specifically designed for riders who demand regular off-road performance.

The Dunlop Trailmax Raid will be available in three front sizes, covering 19- and 21-inch wheel sizes, and in six rear sizes, covering 17- and 18-inch wheel sizes.

The company plans to launch the initial sizes on 1 March 2023, with the remaining sizes arriving by the second quarter of the year.

According to Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, the Trailmax Raid offers an ideal 50/50 tyre that excels in various conditions.

Furthermore, the tyre delivers superior performance on wet roads, providing exceptional braking and traction on a range of surfaces, unlocking more versatility than riders might expect from a trail tyre.

The launch of the new tyre strengthens Dunlop’s trail offerings, providing riders with an opportunity to experience superior on-road and off-road performance. Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid is an excellent tyre for riders seeking a true 50/50 tyre that performs on and off the road.

FIRST LOOK: Zero SR/X Concept

Zero, the US electric motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest concept motorcycle, the SR/X, in partnership with designer Huge Machine.

The SR/X is the latest concept machine introduced by Zero in partnership with Huge Machine.
The SR/X features a distinctive design with half-fairing in light grey with red strip.

The SR/X was created as part of Zero’s “Design the Future Development Program” and is a reimagined version of the Zero SR/S sports bike. The bike features a distinctive design with a half-fairing in light grey with a red strip around the front, and a single wide headlight at the front. At the rear, the tail section appears to ‘float’ above the shock.

While there are not many specifications available yet for the concept bike, Zero says it is powered by their ZF75-10 electric motor and the ZF17.3 lithium-ion battery.

Bill Webb of Huge Machine said that the SR/X is an attempt to define a new sub-category for high-performance electric motorcycles, which combines clean lines and disciplined design with the aggressive proportions and raw functionality found in more traditional race bikes.

Webb explained, “The team wanted to create a dramatic and low ‘front-heavy’ silhouette with the bodywork that could juxtapose the fully exposed mechanicals towards the back of the bike in an unconventional way.

“The SR/S chassis/mechanicals that zero designed are impressive to look at and we wanted the raw bike underneath to be part of the final composition.”

Zero and Huge Machine have previously collaborated on the design of the Zero FXE and its concept motorcycle.

The SR/X is the latest example of their visionary concepts and Zero’s commitment to innovation. The new motorcycle strives to hit a design sweet spot for the near future of electric motorcycles, combining clean lines and disciplined design detailing with the aggressive stance and raw performance feel of modern litre bikes.

The concept bike aims to bridge the gap between a streetfighter and a track bike, with partial fairings and aero performance, as well as the raw attitude of the street.

CONFIRMED: Much-Loved KMT SMT Is Making A Return In April

KTM has officially confirmed that the brand’s supermoto touring capable motorcycle, the SMT is making a return as the KTM 890 SMT.

KTM 890 SMT set to make global debut in April.
The 890 SMT will feature the same 890cc parallel-twin engine as the one found in the 890 Adventure.

The Austrian motorcycle company also revealed that the 890 SMT – which was caught undergoing testing in Europe recently – will be officially revealed on 24th April 2023.

Looking at the spy shots published by Cycle World, the soon-to-be-launch 890 SMT sports a slightly slimmer bodywork than its cousin the 890 Adventure.

Unlike the adventure variant, the SMT also features a sportier fuel tank.

In terms of performance, it is likely that the 890 SMT will offer the same power figure as the 890 Adventure. That should mean around 100hp and 95Nm.

That said, the 890 SMT fits right in the likes of Yamaha Tracer 9 GT (117hp) and Ducati Multistrada V2 (113hp).

FIRST LOOK: 2023 Indian Sport Chief

Indian Motorcycle is launching a new model in its Chief range later this year called the Indian Sport Chief.

Indian Motorcycle to expand its Indian Chief range with the new Indian Sport Chief.
The Indian Sport Chief offers a wide range of accessories and will be available in three exciting colours.

It is designed to be sportier and comes with premium suspension from KYB, inverted forks at the front, and Fox for the rear shocks that extend wheel travel by 100mm over standard.

The Brembo braking system features radially-mounted, four-piston, semi-floating calipers on dual front brake discs, providing confidence and capability for a more aggressive riding experience.

Other new additions include a quarter fairing, moto-style handlebars, machined triple clamps, 152mm risers, and Night Dragon tires from Pirelli.

The bike comes with a 15.1-litre fuel tank, LED lighting, keyless start, and three selectable riding modes: Sport, Standard, and Tour. It is powered by the twin-cylinder Thunderstroke 116 motor, providing 162Nm of torque, and features a steel tubular frame.

The Indian Sport Chief also has a range of accessories available to customize your ride to your liking, including fully-adjustable Fox rear shocks, windscreen options, luggage bags, and a variety of seat options.

The Indian Sport Chief is available in three colors: Black Smoke, Ruby Smoke, and Stealth Grey.

KTM Develops Semi-Automatic Gearbox

KTM is reportedly developing a semi-automatic gearbox for its next generation of 1290-powered bikes, according to recent patents.

KTM’s upcoming semi-automatic gearbox to benefit the 1290 range.
The semi-automatic gearbox is not similar to Honda’s DCT.

Unlike Honda’s DCT system, KTM’s approach will use rocker arms, a centrifugal clutch, and a separate gear control unit to shift gears fully autonomously or with rider input. The semi-auto system will also feature a unique parking brake, which could serve as an additional anti-theft measure.

The patent suggests that the system could be featured in KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure S, Super Adventure R, 1290 Super Duke R, and 1290 Super Duke GT models.

However, it’s unclear how riders will manually shift gears with the new system.

The KTM system’s L-shaped lever physically locks driven gears in place and can’t be deactivated unless the bike is switched on, adding an additional layer of protection against motorcycle theft.

(source: Cycle World)

Starting April, Malaysian Motorcycles Must Adhere To Singapore’s Latest Emission Standards

Motorcyclists traveling from Malaysia to Singapore for work or other purposes are required to comply with the latest emission standards, which will be enforced starting from April 6th.

Malaysian motorcyclist must meet the latest emission standard in Singapore.
The new emission standard is set to take place from April 6th.

This recent development is important to note, especially for those who frequently travel to Singapore. According to a report by Paultan.org, every motorcycle in Singapore (including those from Malaysia) must adhere to the latest carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emission limits.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) has set the latest CO limit at 4.5 percent, while the HC limit is set at 7,800ppm for 2-stroke motorcycles and 2,000ppm for 4-stroke motorcycles.

To ensure smooth enforcement, NEA will conduct emission inspections at the Singapore border checkpoints. Motorcycles found to be non-compliant with the emission regulations will be immediately issued a fine of the same amount as those for Singaporean motorcycles.

(source: Paultan.org)

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Amirul Azreen