Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS, Z250 ASB Awarded MyMAP 5-Star Rating

MODENAS has been awarded Malaysia Motorcycle Assesment Program (MyMAP) five-star rating for the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS.

MODENAS awarded MyMap 5-star rating from Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).
The MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS dan Z250 ABS offers top of the class safety features.

The 5-star rating is awarded after both motorcycle features the necessary safety elements including ABS, assist and slipper clutch and lighter chassis.

Interestingly, both the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS registered the same score for meeting the necessary standard.

Meanwhile, Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of MODENAS, is elated over the MyMAP 5-star rating.

“This will be the first time for MODENAS to receive such recognition for its products.

“In addition, both models are the first motorcycles to receive the MyMAP 5-star rating in its class (250cc sports bike for Ninja and 250cc naked bike for Z250).

“By having so, we believe that it will help our customers to make a more informed purchase decision, especially on the importance of having advanced safety technology available on their motorcycles.

“In addition, MODENAS will continue to provide more safety features to its existing range of motorcycles,” he said.

KTM 790 Adventure Returns For 2023

KTM has remarkably announced the return of the 790 Adventure for 2023 alongside the 790 Duke.

KTM 790 Adventure makes the same 95hp and 88Nm of peak torque.
KTM’s Chinese partner, CFMOTO is in charge of manufacturing the 790 Adventure range.

The middleweight adventure bike revival is largely thanks to KTM’s Chinese partnership, CFMOTO who’s in charge of building the 2023 790 Adventure and the 790 Duke.

Mechanically, the 2023 KTM 790 Adventure makes the same 95hp and 88Nm however the throttle body has been reworked for a cleaner response.

Also new on the 2023 model year includes a new airbox and friction plates.

KTM also claimed that there is a 20 percent increase of rotating mass which boost the bike’s cornering ability. KTM also equipped the 790 Adventure with a knock control sensor.

However, the biggest update for the 2023 model is a new 6D IMU that features Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control, ABS, Motor Slip Regulation and riding modes.

Additionally, the revived 790 Adventure is also fitted with KTM’s Quickshifter+ as standard.

Other notable features include 43mm WP Apex forks with 200mm of travel, Pirelli Scorpion STR tires and a 20L fuel tank that can take you up to 450km of range.

FIRST LOOK: 2023 KTM 890 Adventure

KTM brings new updates to the 890 Adventure for 2023, focusing on comfort, adjustability and fresh graphics.

KTM 890 Adventure updated with new features for 2023.
The middleweight adventure bike now equipped with a new front windscreen inspired by the KTM 450 Rally.

The KTM 890 Adventure has been known for its off-road prowess since its introduction in 2021, replacing the 790 Adventure.

However, for 2023 it gets a refresh from the Austrian factory.

Firstly, the 2023 890 Adventure gets a new and reinforced front fairing which KTM claimed is explicitly designed to carry a larger GPS device.

In addition, the saddle can now be adjusted to a lower setting, 825mm to be exact and can even get down to 800mm with a seat-lowering kit. That said, shorter riders can now enjoy the 890 Adventure to the fullest.

Meanwhile, the WP 43mm Apex forks now come with rebound and compression adjustability that can be adjusted easily from the top caps.

KTM also revised the rear shock to meet the adventure-riding demand.

KTM also updated the electronic package with a new ABS, which is now linked with the riding modes—as such, turning on the ‘Off-Road’ or ‘Rally’ mode will automatically engage the ‘Off-Road ABS’ settings.

Other notable improvements for 2023 include a new screen inspired by the 450 Rally, which offers better protection from road debris and improves aerodynamics. Also new on the 2023 890 Adventure includes a new aluminium engine guard and a tank protector.

Benelli Panarea 125 Now Available In Malaysia – RM6,888

Benelli Panarea 125 officially lands in Malaysia as announced by authorized distributor, MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd.

The Panarea 125 is a neo-retro style scooter that takes design cues from the Vespa lineup.
The scooter is equipped with a 124cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine.

According to the official statement by Benelli, the Panarea 125 is a retro-style scooter that combines classic design by modern features.

As a result, the Panarea 125 is fitted with full LED lights and is fitted with an anti-theft magnetic lock system that significantly reduced the probability of theft.

Mechanically, the Panarea 125 makes 8.44hp @ 7,500rpm and 9.2Nm @ 6,000rpm from its 124cc 4-stroke with electronic fuel injection engine.

Power is delivered to the rear wheel via an automatic CVT transmission with belt final drive.

The bike is suspended via telescopic fork at the front with 90mm travel and a telescopic oil damped coil spring at the rear. and fitted with a 190mm front disc with dual-piston callipers.

Despite its retro bodywork, the Panarea 125 is equipped with modern features including a semi-digital meter, full LED light, hazard lights and a kill switch.

According to MForce, the Benelli Panarea 125 is available for a recommended price of RM6,888.

Gogoro Battery Swapping Technology Lands In The Philippines

Gogoro battery swapping technology is a revelation, not only it is convenient but also it pushes the electric mobility industry to greater heights.

Gogoro battery swapping system to be available in Manila.
Gogoro and SmartScooters will be used by the delivery service industry.

Also, the innovation allows Gogoro to record a huge spike in expansion in recent years.

After opening its doors to several countries around Asia, Gogoro will now make its way to the Philippines.

That said, Gogoro has announced a new strategic partnership with 917Ventures whereby the battery swapping technology will cater to the highly popular delivery service industry.

“Gogoro is honored to have the support of the Philippine’s Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to kick start this new smart mobility movement in Manila that utilizes Gogoro’s intelligent battery swapping, a new generation of EV refueling.

“Through our collaboration with Globe, 917Ventures and Ayala Corporation, we plan to unlock incredible environmental and sustainability benefits and introduce new smart mobility efficiencies for businesses by improving how they manage their fleets and deliveries,” said Horace Luke, founder and CEO of Gogoro.

Before implementing the battery swapping system at a full pace, there will be a pilot test conduct in the city of Manila which will also involved SmartScooters, that is powered by Gogoro’s Swap & Go battery system.

Using Gogoro’s battery swapping system and SmartScooters, 917Ventures hopes that it’ll kickstart the nation initiatives towards a greener future.

“We are committed to helping solve the climate crisis by introducing Gogoro to logistics businesses, helping them in their sustainability efforts. In addition, the Swap & Go technology will enable riders to be fully charged in just seconds and therefore eliminate the need for parking spots. Hopefully, this technology will encourage more Filipinos to switch to EV,” expalined Vince Yamat, Managing Director of 917Ventures.

FIRST LOOK: 2023 KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

Back by popular demand, KTM has announced the return of the 1290 Super Duke GT alongside the 790 Duke.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT makes a comeback for 2023.
Features the powerful LC8 V-Twin engine that makes 175hp.

Based on the potent 1290 Super Duke R EVO naked motorcycle, the GT is fitted with the proper equipment to make it suitable for touring.

That said, the 1290 Super Duke GT features the same 1,301cc LC8 V-twin engine that makes 175p and 141Nm.

Similar to the Super Duke R EVO, the GT trim gets a ride-by-wire electronic package that includes the following:

Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), cornering ABS, Motor Slip Regulation (MSR), Supermoto mode, Hill Hold Control (HHC), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and cruise control.

Riders can also add the (optional) bi-directional quickshifter.

Spec-wise, the Duke GT is fitted with WP Apex semi-active suspension that is tuned for sport touring. Riders can select from four modes that electronically adjust the suspension according to different payloads.

Meanwhile, the bike’s information can be accessed via a new 7-inch TFT display that also features a new Turn-by-Turn Plus navigation system powered by Sygic.

In addition, the 2023 1290 Super Duke GT gets lighter wheels that are shod with Continental ContiSportAttack4 tires.

KTM is yet to announced the price and availability.

Engineering Students To Take On The 2024 IOMTT With A 225HP Electric Bike

The University of Michigan’s SPARK Electric Racing Team is ready to take on the Isle of Man TT (IOMTT) challenge with an electric race bike.

SPARK Electric Racing Team to race at the 2024 IOMTT with an electric race bike.
The goal is to create a bike that can hit 300km/h and makes 225hp.

The engineering students from the University of Michigan have been experimenting with their electric bike build since 2013.

They even ended 2022 on a high, taking home second and third place in AHRMA’s Formula Lightning race in New Jersey thanks to an electric race bike called the Atlas.

However, their biggest aim is to compete at the 2024 IOMTT.

Despite not having the most considerable resources like a full-time race outfit, SPARK is adamant that their next electric bike project has what it takes to compete at the world’s greatest road race.

Meanwhile, the Atlas was a success at the Formula Lightning Race. The bike features a custom trellis frame and can do 0-100km/h in less than three seconds. SPARK’s claimed that the race bike makes 125hp and 119Nm and can hit a max speed of 257km/h.

It also features other top-of-the-line components, including Brembo, Ohlins and Galfer.

However, for the 2024 IOMTT, SPARK is building something even more powerful called the FBS, which stands for “Future Racing Bike of SPARK”.

The goal is to build an electric race bike that makes 225hp 200Nm and can hit a max speed of 300km/h. The target weight is less than 200kg, and can do 0-100 in under three seconds.

FIRST LOOK: 2023 KTM 790 Duke

Following a short hiatus, KTM has decided to reintroduced the original 790 Duke for 2023.

KTM 790 Duke makes a comeback for 2023.
Powering the 790 Duke is the same LC8c mill that makes 105hp and 82.3Nm.

KTM previously replaced the 790 Duke with a bigger 890 Duke in 2021 to meet the tighter emission standard while also increasing the peak power.

However, in an interesting development, the returning Original Scalpel will also eplaced the base 890 Duke while the up-spec 890 Duke R remains in the lineup for 2023.

Also, the 790 Duke revival comes with the help of KTM’s partnership with CFMOTO who’s now in charge of the 799cc LC8c engine.

That said, the parallel-twin mill continue to make 105hp @ 9,000rpm and 82.37Nm @ 8,000rpm.

Nonetheless, it’s important to take note that the reborn 790 Duke comes with a number of exciting updates for 2023.

In addition, the 790 Duke now features new Track mode joining the existing Sport, Street and Rain mode. There’s also nine levels of lean sensitive traction control, anti-wheelie, launch control and three throttle response settings.

Also new on the 2023 790 Duke includes Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) and Supermoto mode.

Suspending the 2023 790 Duke is the same non-adjustable 43mm WP Apex front fork and a preload-adjustable Apex shock.

An Entry-Level Ducati Not Happening Anytime Soon

In the last five years, we have seen a significant shift from a premium motorcycle company to not only offering top-of-the-range bikes but also a more affordable model for the masses.

Ducati to continue positioning itself as the number one premium motorcycle brand.
No plans to introduced an “affordable” Ducati.

BMW – in partnership with TVS Motor Company – introduced the G 310 R and G 310 GS to make motorcycle ownership more affordable.

Triumph is set to follow suit with an upcoming scrambler-type motorcycle built in partnership with India’s Bajaj Auto, while MV Agusta is currently developing an adventure bike called the Lucky Explorer 5.5 that borrows the same parallel-twin engine from Benelli’s TRK502.

All of these are part of an initiative to expand each brand’s presence towards a bigger market.

However, Ducati has no interest in following in the same footstep, according to the firm’s Head of Design, Andrea Ferraresi, during a recent interview with MCN.

“Actually, no, because we want to move the brand up more. We are already a premium brand, and we are already on the top of the premium segment.

“We want to stay there and raise a bit.

“To do this, one of the most important things is to keep the entry price into the range at a certain level. We want to keep this price not lower than the Monster.”

“What to do with the young riders? We have the Scramblers, which have a more affordable price.

“But there is no entry Ferrari or entry Porsche, so you start with other brands and keep in mind Ducati and then as soon as you can, you buy a Ducati,” he said.

That said, don’t expect an entry-level Ducati anytime soon.

(source: MCN)

Royal Enfield Takes Over UK Distribution

Royal Enfield will be taking over its UK distribution beginning 2023.

Royal Enfield UK takes over UK distribution from MotoGB.
The move is part of Royal Enfield’s initiative to increase the brad presence in the country.

The move is part of Royal Enfield’s plan to boost its presence in the UK after previously used third-party distributors, MotoGB to run its operation in the country including sales and marketing.

However, Royal Enfield UK will handle its UK distribution totally in-house on 1 May 2023, subsequently ending the 9-year relationship with MotoGB.

“The Royal Enfield senior leadership team extends sincere thanks and appreciation to MotoGB for their association with the brand over the last 9 years,” said Royal Enfield in a statement.

Meanwhile, Arun Gopal, Royal Enfield’s Head of International Business is adamant that the business will continue to grow despite ending long partnership with MotoGB.

“The United Kingdom is a key home market for Royal Enfield, having a long legacy of cooperation with India and a rich history.

“From the foundation of the brand in 1901 to the first UK import sale of India produced motorcycles in 1977 and the sales growth in recent years with the assistance of MotoGB, Royal Enfield has seen good sales momentum and acceptance in the UK market.

“We will continue to make investment in the UK localising our operations and giving our stakeholders the best possible brand experience,” he said.

WorldSBK: Danilo Petrucci Returns To Barni Racing Team Ducati

Danilo Petrucci is set to pilot the Ducati Panigale V4 R after inking a deal with Barni Racing Team for the 2023 WorldSBK season.

Petrucci to compete at the 2023 WorldSBK with Barni Racing Team.
The former MotoGP rider to ride the Ducati Panigale V4 R.

What started as a rumour is now confirmed that the Italian will race at the 2023 WorldSBK with Barni Racing.

Previously, Petrucci was linked with a move to the Ducati factory team at the WorldSBK before the factory team decided to renew Michael Ruben Rinaldi’s contract for the new season.

However, it turns out the ex-MotoGP rider will shift to WorldSBK with the Barni Racing Team riding the same Panigale V4 R as the factory team.

Interestingly, Petrucci s all too familiar with Barni, having raced with the team in 2011, finishing second place in the Superstock 1000 class before his big jump to MotoGP the following year.

“I’m really pleased to be back with Barni. 2011 was one of my best ever seasons, but, more importantly, I couldn’t say no to the chance to race in World Superbike with such a competitive bike,” said the 32-year-old.

Seeing the former Ducati and KTM MotoGP rider back on the grid at the WorldSBK is undoubtedly the news that the fans are hoping for. After all, we need someone experienced to take the fight to Alvaro Bautista, Toprak Razgatlioglu and Jonathan Rea next season.

SPY SHOT: Moto Morini X-Cape 1200

The Moto Morini brand is growing thanks to the introduction of the middleweight adventure motorcycle, the X-Cape 650, back in 2021.

Moto Morini is to introduce the X-Cape 1200 soon.
The big V-Twin adventure motorcycle is powered by the firm’s V87 twin-cylinder Bialbero Corsacorta engine.

The X-Cape 650 is currently doing well thanks to its affordability, as all bikes are now manufactured in China after the acquisition of Zhongneng in 2018.

Back in September, Moto Morini was reportedly working on a bigger adventure-type motorcycle, later confirmed by a CAD sketch that revealed a 1200cc V-Twin engine.

However, fast forward to November, and the X-Cape 1200 has appeared in a complete form, as revealed on social media.

The motorcycle is reportedly powered by the firm’s V87 twin-cylinder Bialbero Corsacorta engine, which is found in the 2005 Corsaro and 2020 Scrambler 1200.

While further details remain scarce at the moment, Moto Morini is likely to make an announcement soon as the bike is already in a finished form.

Nonetheless, from the spy photos, we can see that the X-Cape 1200 is equipped with premium features, including Brembo callipers, upside-down forks, twin discs, tubeless spoke wheels and an aluminium sump guard.

Interestingly, the side profile, including the front headlamp design, looks similar to the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin.

Could the X-Cape 1200 make its way to 2023? We’ll find out soon enough.

Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen