Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen

Five high-powered motorcycles got into an accident on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway at the KM26.5 (Kuala Lumpur bound) around 1.45 pm, today. 

The incident caused a massive eight kilometres crawl after the right lane remained closed as of 2.30 pm, said Selangor Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Norazam Khamis. 

“Six firemen along with a fire tender from the Selayang Fire and Rescue Department rushed to the scene.

“Upon arrival, they were informed of a fire involving a motorcycle that was completely burnt due to an accident.

“It was understood that five people were involved in the accident. One of them suffered burns,” he said in a statement today.

Earlier, several videos of the incident went viral online. Reports also suggest that the accident involved four BMWs S 1000 RR and one Honda CBR1000RR.

Ex-MotoGP rider Andrea Dovizioso now owns the Monte Coralli motocross circuit in Faenza, Italy, after the tender for the track management was won by the rider’s company, RPM. 

  • Andrea Dovizioso now owned the Monte Coralli motocross circuit in Faenza, Italy.
  • Dovizioso plans to turn the track into a complete off-road facility. 

As a result of the takeover, the Crossdromo Monte Coralli will now be named ’04 Park – Monte Coralli di Faenza, paying homage to the Italian’s MotoGP race number.

Interestingly, Dovizioso plans to turn the track into something more than just a motocross circuit. It will become a circuit complete with facilities focusing on off-road motorcycling. 

That said, the track will also house the Italian Motorcycle Federation’s (FMI) Technical Centre, which will feature an office, classroom and motorcycle garage used to train riders and technicians.

“This is a dream I’ve had for years. And when you have the chance to realise a dream like this, on a track like Monte Coralli, which for me has always been a reference (as well as being close to home), it really seems that all the pieces to complete that desire have fit perfectly. 

“04 Park – Monte Coralli is an exaggerated place, very large and in which we want to carry out important projects. I would like it to become a place where off-road enthusiasts, and not only, can meet, interact and share experiences, having fun. We will organise events and competitions. 

“You can come there to tour or simply to spend a different day, in an environment made of and with passion. 04 Park – Monte Coralli is an ambitious project, a terrain in which off-road, mini cross and pump track will coexist and evolve together at the highest level, in a ‘full gas’ atmosphere,” said the former Ducati MotoGP rider.

The Ministry of Transportation is proposing an amendment to the Road Transport Act of 1987, which will increase punishment involving modifying motorcycle engines and exhaust pipes.

  • MOT is proposing a heavier fines for individuals involved in illegal motorcycle modifications and illegal racing. 
  • Parents will face stern action for allowing their kids to modified their motorcycles. 

Under the new provision, those guilty of modifying the engines and exhaust will face a heavy fine of RM10,000 instead of the current RM300.

Also, those participating in illegal motorcycle racing will face a jail term if found guilty by the court.

According to Transport Ministry secretary-general Datuk Isham Ishak, the proposed amendments are still in the “good regulatory practice (GRP) stage.

“It is necessary to raise the fines because many youngsters blatantly break the law and join motorcycle races nowadays.

“They can afford to pay the RM300 fine, which is why we propose pushing the penalty to RM10,000 to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal racing.

“Furthermore, parents who allow their children to use bikes for illegal racing and workshop owners who modify the bikes will also be slapped with compounds.

“Besides giving bikers a sense of self-gratification, illegal racing could also lead them to indulge in unhealthy activities,” said Datuk Isham to Berita Harian.

Isham added that the proposed amendments would be tabled in the Parliament in Q3 next year.

(Source: Berita Harian)

Just a few months ago, CFMoto unveiled its NK-C22 concept motorcycle that was likely to make it to production anytime soon. 

  • CFMoto to introduced the 800NK roadster.
  • Features KTM 799cc LC8c parallel twin-cylinder engine. 

The naked-type roadster were believed to be powered by KTM’s 799cc parallel twin-cylinder engine. 

However, latest development has confirmed that a production model, resembling the NK-C22 concept already in the works with the finished product bearing the 800NK name emerged in a new type-approval documents filed in China. 

The documents not only showed one but two versions of the 800Nk are to be made.

Based on the single photo shared, the 800NK looks like a proper roadster with sharp bodyworks and exposed frame. 

Interestingly, the production model mirrors most of the NK-C22 features except a couple of key changes with the main alteration is the adoption of a conventional double-sided swingarm. 

Similar to other CFMoto machines, the 800NK is likely designed by Kiska Studios, the same company responsible for many KTM’s in recent years.

CFMoto also claimed that the KTM-powered 800NK makes 99hp from the 799cc LTM LC8c engine. The same mill also powered CFMoto’s 800MT adventure motorcycle. 

According to the documents, both iterations of the 800NK also shares the same key figures including engine and other components. They also have similar parts, including an USD front fork,  J.Juan radial-mount brake callipers and TFT instrument display. 

However, we expect the higher-spec 800NK to feature an additional electronic package, possibly similar to KTM’s 790 Duke range.

The all-new CFMoto 800NK is likely to hit the global market in 2023. 

Ducati officially marked a big step towards a sustainable feature with the opening of a new eco-friendly facility in Bologna. 

  • Ducati latest facility includes an underground rainwater storage. 
  • Equipped with photovoltaic system that provides clean energy. 

The new facility, called the Finitura e Delibera Estetica (Finishing and Aesthetic Resolution) will host the final phase of Ducati’s production cycle which include verifying the quality of each bikes produced. 

The 13,000 square-foot building features photovoltaic system and a rainwater recovery system which contributes to making the build nZEB (nearly Zero Energy Building). 

However, the photovoltaic system played a bigger role in achieving nZEB status as it helps to produced more than 200 MWh of clean energy pear. 

“This year has been truly splendid for Ducati, and the inauguration of the new Finitura e Delibera Estetica manufacturing represents yet another moment of pride. 

“This building embodies an investment that brings value to the company but also to the territory in which Ducati operates. 

“The new space will house a strategic phase of production where we focus on the attention to detail and beauty of our motorcycles so that they are perfect when they arrive to our passionate Ducatisti,” said Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati. 

Interestingly, the facility took less than eight months to complete with the construction work only began April this year. 

Other notable features also includes an underground rainwater storage tank that guarantees the recovery of 90 per cent of the rainwater. 

Ducati recently celebrated the success of taking home the 2022 MotoGP and WorldSBK world championships with two special Ducati Panigale V4 S series.

  • Ducati introduced two special series of the Ducati Panigale V4 to celebrate Bagnaia and Bautista world championship title at MotoGP and WorldSBK.
  • Only 260 unit for each series is made. 

Limited to just 260 units (each), the special edition Ducati Panigale V4 S was inspired by the Desmosedici GP and Panigale V4 R.

Now, Ducati found another reason to celebrate after successfully selling all 520 units of the race replica Panigale V4 S in just a few hours.

“2022 has been an incredible year for Ducati both on the track and in the market, confirming the integration and continuous transfer of technology and expertise between production and racing that is unparalleled in the world of motorcycling.

“We thought the best way to share the successes of 2022 with the most passionate Ducatisti was to provide them with exclusive, numbered bikes, individually signed by Pecco (Bagnaia) and Álvaro (Bautista).

“At this time, when our brand is as solid as ever and projected into the future, we also wanted to pay homage to our history, recalling with both replicas the founding of Ducati, which dates back to 1926,” said Francesco Milicia, VP Global Sales & After Sales Ducati.

Each race replica costs USD63,00 and features unique characteristics, including the signature of each rider and carbon fibre components.

In conjunction with Harley-Davidson turning 120 next year, the American motorcycle company is set to celebrate the momentous occasion with some special Anniversary Edition models. 

  • Harley-Davidson to introduced several Anniversary Editiion model in 2023.
  • The Fat Boy 114 and Heritage Classic 114 set to features special paint job to celebrate Harley’s anniversary. 

According to reports by Dennis Chung from Motorcycle.com, the latest vehicle certification data from Australia has confirmed that the Fat Boy 114 and Heritage Classic 114 are getting 120th Anniversary Editions. 

The document mentioned two new model codes, “FLBSANV” and “FLHCSANV”. The FLB refers to the Fat Boy 114, whereas the FLHCS is the code for Heritage Classic 114. 

That said, the ANV stands for Anniversary Edition. 

Currently, only the Softtail models are confirmed to get the Anniversary Edition. Still, reports suggest that there could also be an anniversary edition for one of Harley’s touring models. 

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) announced new visuals for the 2023 Yamaha Ego Avantiz. 

  • Yamaha updated the Ego Avantiz scooter with new paint job. 
  • The 2023 Ego Avantiz registered an increase in pricing for Malaysian market.

The 125cc compact scooter is now available in three exciting colours; Grey, Cyan and Red.

The updated model will be available at all Yamaha-authorised dealerships from 22 December 2022 (today) with an updated selling price of RM5,998

Nevertheless, no changes are made to the Euro4-compliant engine that continues to make 9.3hp @ 8,000rpm and 9.6Nm @ 5,500rpm. 

Triumph has penned a new deal with MotoGP commercial rights holder Dorna Sports to test sustainable fuels that could be used in Moto2 for the 2024 season. 

  • Moto2 to move to E40 fuel in 2024. 
  • Triumph to test sustainable fuels in Hinckley. 

The plan is to have E40 (40 per cent non-fossil) fuel in Moto2 by 2024 and E100 by 2027. 

Triumph will conduct the testing programme at the firm’s Hinckley base. The aim is to ensure sustainable fuel can produce the same performance as standard fossil fuels.

According to Triumph, the project further underlines the company’s focus on ensuring that motorcycles can be enjoyed responsibly for many years to come.

“Ultimately, our aim is always to take all the learnings we gain from racing to make our road bikes even better, which of course, encompasses not just performance but also their impact on the environment. 

“I can tell you that everybody here at Triumph is very excited to be involved in such significant developments at such a pivotal moment in motorcycle history,” said Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer.

Recently, six-time MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez was in Jarama to test renewable fuels with Repsol after MotoGP was required to meet the E40 standard in 2024. 

Repsol also completed a test of renewable fuels with Honda’s trial team riders, Toni Bou and Gabriel Marcelli. 

The 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R gets a minor update for 2023, focusing on refining the Austrian brand’s flagship adventure bike. 

  • The KTM 1290 Super Adventure R gets minor update similar to the 2023 Super Adventure S.
  • The Super Adventure R makes 160hp and 132Nm of torque. 

The “R” nomenclature represents the most ‘off-road’ capable variant of the brand’s big-bore adventure bike, designed to overcome the most extreme terrains.

Coming in new for 2023 is a new 6D lean angle sensor from Bosch, a new WP XPLOR suspension which now features a split cartridge technology in the front fork.

Additionally, the 2023 1290 Super Adventure R gets Bridgestone AX41 tires as standard and a new ‘Turn-By-Turn’ navigation system previously introduced on the 2023 Super Adventure S.

However, the most visible update is the new colour scheme, with the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R donning a more standout white paint job. 

Mechanically, the 2023 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R features the tried and tested LC8 V-Twin engine that makes 160hp and 138Nm. 

Other key features include:

  • customisable ABS settings
  • ‘Race On’ remote key system
  • 7-inch TFT display
  • adjustable windshield
  • LED lights

A self-balancing motorcycle is a technology that several motorcycle manufacturers have been working on in the last few years.

  • Yamaha developing Advanced Motorcycle Stability Assist System for road-legal machines. 
  • AMSAS is regarded as a more relevant approached compared to Motobot and Motodroid system introduced in 2017. 

Brands like Harley-Davidson, BMW, and Honda are all reportedly working on robotic technology.

However, Yamaha is the one brand pushing for innovation, beginning with the project Motobot, announced in 2015 before it was superseded by Motodroid two years later.

However, the Motobot and Motodroid have yet to make significant progress, until now.

In the latest development, Yamaha provides a glimpse into a new self-balancing bike that could soon make its way to production.

The standard-looking Yamaha R3 features an innovative self-balancing system called Advanced Motorcycle Stability Assist System. 

Unlike the Motobot and Motodroid, the AMSAS system is bolted directly onto the R3 chassis. It features a six-axis inertial measurement platform that offers self-stabilisation at speeds below 5km/h.

Interestingly, the system works while the rider sits on the saddle but with no hands on the handlebars. 

According to Yamaha, 70 per cent of bike crashes occur within two seconds after the initial moment of cause, allowing zero time window for riders to react to avoid a collision. This is where AMSAS will play a significant role in saving the day. 

However, it remains to be seen whether the technology will find its way to street bikes soon. 

Voge presents the new 525 ACX scrambler-type motorcycle in Europe, a rendition of the brand’s 500 ACX range.

  • Voge expand its 500cc range with a new scrambler-type motorcycle. 
  • The Voge 525 ACX features similar specification with the 500 AC albeit a more rugged bodywork. 

The introduction of the new 525 ACX is set to boost Voge’s presence in Europe alongside the smaller 300 ACX. 

Borrows much of its components from the naked 500 AC, the scrambler trim features raised tailpipe, wire-spoke wheels, a shorter front mudguard and a small windshield.

However, while the 500 AC features a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder DOHC engine, the 525 ACX retains a similar configuration but with the displacement increased from 471cc to 494cc.

As a result, the scrambler version gets a power bump to 47.6hp and 44.5Nm. Also, the bike tips the scale at 185kg (dry).

In the meantime, the 525 ACX now features 19-inch wire-spoke wheels replacing the 17-inch wheel on the 500 AC. 

Nonetheless, the Voge 525 ACX continue to run on the same chassis, suspended by a tubular steel frame with a 41mm USD fork at the front and an adjustable rear shock absorber. 

Braking is done by two-piston Nissin callipers on a dual 300mm front disc and a single-piston Nissin calliper on a single 220mm rear disc.

Pricing and availability are yet to be announced, but it might be reasonable to expect the Voge 525 ACX to be available in early 2023 with a price tag slightly similar to the 500 AC currently on sale in Europe for EUR6,199 (RM29.2k)

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