Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

2022 Honda CB250R Now Available In Malaysia – Features Showa SFF-BP Fork, RM23,999

Coming in new for the Malaysian market is the 2022 Honda CB250R that now features Showa Separate Fork Function Big Piston (SFF-BP).

The Honda CBR250R gets new Showa 41mm SFF-BP front forks.
The new CBR250RR is available two new colours; RM23,999.

The ‘neo-sports cafe’ motorcycle finally received a proper update for 2022 after its last revision in 2019.

The 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD front forks feature a separate damper in one tube and a spring mechanism in the other capable of delivering better dampening performance.

Together with a larger-sized piston, the front-end feel of the motorcycle is significantly improved, thus enhancing the riding experience.

Meanwhile, the rear shock offers a 5-stage of spring preload adjustment.

Other notable improvements include a new fully digital LCD that features a clearer gear indicator than the previous generation.

Mechanically, the 2022 Honda CB250R continue to draw power from its 250cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that produces 27.2hp @ 9,500rpm and 23.4Nm @ 7,750rpm.

Other features include:

Bosch ABS (dual-channel)
slipper clutch
full LED lighting
10.1L fuel tank

According to Boon Siew Honda, the 2022 CBR250R is available in two colour options; Matt Gun Powder Black Metallic and Candy Chromosphere Red and are priced at RM23,999 (exclude registration and insurance).

Belgium Designer Develops Exchangeable Electric Motor For Mopeds

A Belgian designer is working on an electric motor aimed at converting combustion engine to electric for mopeds.

E-Core is a swappable electric motor for mopeds.
features a small 3-5 horsepower equivalent to a 50cc four-strokes mopeds.

As the world is shifting towards electric, most small capacity electric two-wheelers offers the same power equivalent to a 125cc motorcycles.

That said, it is likely that the demand for small capacity electric motorcycle – with 15 to 20 horsepower – will increase significantly in years to come. Moreover, with oil prices showing an upward trend, switching to electric is an option.

However, Belgian designer, Benjamin Surain, foresee a feature of not just low-powered electric motorcycles, but also converting the existing combustion engine mopeds into electric.

According to reports, the electric motor, dubbed E-Core, is an exchangeable electric motor that could be swap with an old combustion engine.

The E-Core exchangeable motor is aimed at mopeds, which are popular globally.

Interestingly, the electric motor allow existing combustion engine to be ‘reincarnated’ as electric instead of discarding the entirety of the old engine which could damaged the environment hence defeating the purpose of sustainability.

Also, this means that people would not be forced into getting a new electric two-wheeler when they can just upgrade their existing petrol-powered mopeds which is potentially more cost-effective.

2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 Spotted Testing

It’s going to be a busy year for Ducati as the Italian motorcycle company has already planned to introduce seven new launches between September to November.

The 2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4 will feature a similar upgrade to the 2022 Panigale V4.
Notable changes include higher gear ratios, bigger fuel tanks and lighter chassis.

Based on the latest spy shots, we believe one of the upcoming motorcycles would be an updated Ducati Streetfighter V4.

According to these spy shots, the updated Streetfighter V4 might not change much from its predecessor, but upon closer inspection, some subtle changes are applied to the new model.

Firstly, the – black-painted – tank now features similar bodywork to the updated Panigale V4 superbike that was introduced globally last year.

That said, the 2023 Streetfighter V4 will feature a bigger 17L tank as opposed to the 16L previously available on the first-gen hyper-naked motorcycle.

Also, we expect Ducati to introduce the same engine upgrades made to the fully faired bike a year ago, including the redesigned oiling system and exhaust. As such, expect a slight increase of power for the 2023 model.

Ducati also revised the Panigale V4 gear ratios for 2022; thus, the Streetfighter V4 will likely adopt similar changes.

It is also relevant for the updated Streetfighter V4 to get a similar chassis upgrade to the Panigale, including a slightly higher swingarm pivot that helps reduce the bike’s squat under acceleration.

Lastly, it is safe to assume that Ducati will also introduce the higher-spec Streetfighter V4 S and the top-of-the-range V4 SP.

(source: CycleWorld)

TVS-Owned Norton Motorcycles To Fulfil The Commando 961 Backlog From Previous Owners

Norton Motorcycles announced they are fulfilling the 29 outstanding orders of the Commando 961 Classic.

Norton is fulfilling all 29 outstanding orders of Commando 961 left by previous ownership.
The first batch of orders has reached its customers.

The backlog was left from the previous ownership led by the disgraced former CEO, Stuart Garner.

Despite no legal obligation, the TVS-owned company, will fulfil all 29 outstanding orders.

Most importantly, all the Commando 961 have been developed and significantly improved by the firm’s new manufacturing plant in West Midland.

According to Norton, the first batch of bikes has already reached its customers.

Unfortunately, the revised Commandos do not meet Euro5 emission standard, hence the motorcycle were sold via Motorycle Single Vehicle Approval process.

That said, Norton did not disclosed the price and the spec sheet due to its limited volume.

Nonetheless, the British firm has confirmed a new generation of Commando 961 is in the pipeline.

Sungai Petani International Circuit Project Back On Track – Kedah MB

Kedah Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Noor has confirmed that the development of the Sungai Petani race track will resumed soon.

Kedah to resume its international race track project in Sungai Petani.
PKB Open Road will be responsible for developing the new circuit.

To ensure the project will continue as planned, PKB Open Road company has agreed to take over the RM75mil mega project.

In an exciting development, the new race track will be built as an international circuit instead of its initial plan of becoming a Litar Rakyat.

“We are aware that the original plan was to develop a Litar Rakyat however, due to several amendments, the state government has agreed to proceed to upgrade the project to an international circuit,” he said.

Muhammad Sanusi also claimed that the new 1.8km long circuit would also be equipped with commercial areas and exhibition centres.

Despite the upgrade to international standards, the Kedah MB assures that the facility will be accessible to the public.

Meanwhile, the track layout will be designed by a team from the UK who is also the same group of people responsible for developing the Formula 1 racing circuit in Miami.

Honda Plans To Develop New Electric Scooter For India

Electric is no longer the future; it’s already here, with every manufacturer keeping their hands busy working on the new platform as we speak.

HMSI to work closely with Honda Japan to build a proper electric scooter.
The upcoming electric two-wheeler is expected to be based on the popular Honda Activa.

Due to the rapid growth of the electric motorcycle segment, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) is set to launch its first electric scooter in India soon.

To ensure the progress of the upcoming electric scooter goes smoothly, HMSI will work closely with Honda’s headquarters in Japan to create the essential platforms for the Indian market.

Given the increase in petrol prices and dedicated subsidies for electric vehicles in India, the demand will likely shift towards electric motorcycles. As such, HMSI needs to develop a suitable platform for upcoming electric two-wheelers quickly.

In addition, HMSI has a hill to climb as a host of electric motorcycles are already available in the market, including Ola S1 Pro, TVS i-Qube, Ather 450X and Bajaj Chetak.

However, collaboration with Honda Japan will undoubtedly boost the brand’s establishment in the electric motorcycle sector.

According to the latest report, HMSI plans to debut an electric version of the highly popular Honda Activa; a motorcycle considered the most sought-after compact scooter in India.

The demand for a reliable and well-made electric motorcycle is currently high in India, and the close partnership could also expand HMSI’s reach to the Asian markets.

OFFICIAL: 2022 Petronas Grand Prix Of Malaysia Is Coming To You This October

The Malaysia MotoGP fever officially returns to Sepang International Circuit after a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) officially welcomes the 2022 Malaysia MotoGP after a two-year absence.
SIC announced Damok as the official ‘wildcard’ rider in Moto3.

This time around, Petronas – the new official title sponsor – welcomes all two-wheel racing enthusiasts across the country to witness the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia 2022 happening on the 21 – 23 October.

The 23rd edition of the Malaysian GP also marks Petronas’s official debut as the new title sponsor after successfully reaching an agreement with MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports earlier this year.

During the launch, Chief Executive Officer of Sepang International Circuit (SIC), Azhan Shafriman Hanif, also announced the ‘wildcard’ slot for the upcoming MotoGP Malaysia goes to FIM Junior GP rider Syarifuddin Azman @ Damok, who will race with team VisionTrack.

“This year marks the first year of PETRONAS as the title sponsor for the Grand Prix. SIC is set to #WelcomeHome all the local and international motorsports fans to Sepang after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“With no Malaysian riders competing full season in the championship, I believe Damok will be the pull factor for Malaysian to cheer fellow Malaysian on the grid,” said Azhan.

Also present is Petronas Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz, who shares her excitement about the latest project.

“PETRONAS is excited to see the return of MotoGP to Malaysia, and it gives us great pride to headline the event, as the championship is synonymous with passion, innovation, pace and performance – values that resonate well with PETRONAS.

“As such, to celebrate the occasion, PETRONAS has lined up a series of thrilling family-friendly experiences on and off the track, including around KLCC which will be announced in due course.

“The Grand Prix title sponsorship offers an opportunity for PETRONAS brand to grow and help re-energise Malaysia’s sports tourism and provides a unique platform for us to showcase PETRONAS Primax – the Official Fuel for the Moto2 and Moto3 championships – to the world,” she said.

Meanwhile, the most exciting catch for this year is the #MalaysianGP2022 Mega Lucky Draw contest, whereby two lucky winners will walk away with Yamaha NVX and Y15ZR, which features limited-edition SIC livery worth RM22,000.

Tickets can be purchased at www.sepangcircuit.com.

2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT Now In Malaysia – RM85,700

There is a new player in the sport-touring segment, and it goes by the name Suzuki GSX-S1000GT.

The new sports-tourer now available in Malaysia for a recommended price of RM85,700.
The new Suzuki GSX-S1000GT features everything you need on a grand tourer, including a comfortable seat and top-notch electronics.

Starting with the design, the GSX-S1000GT has an entirely different design concept than the current Hamamatsu range.

The alien-like fairing features a pointed nose and a non-adjustable windshield at the front paired to a LED headlights and DRL (daytime running light).

Although it was build based on the heavily revised GSX-S1000 frame and powerplant, the GSX-S1000GT brings an altogether different vibe.

With optional panniers, comfy riding ergonomics, and an all-new electronic system, the GSX-S1000GT could be Suzuki’s ultimate sport tourer motorcycle.

At the heart of the motorcycle sits the same inline four-cylinder 999cc Euro5 engine you get from the GSX-R1000 and is detuned with revised cams, new air-box, and new exhaust to deliver 152hp @ 11,000rpm and 106Nm @ 9,250rpm.

Major electronics upgrade is a new electronic actuated throttle and Suzuki Intelligent Ride system that brings together riding modes, traction control and most importantly, cruise control system.

While it may share the same twin-spar aluminium frame with the GSX-S1000, the Japanese firm has heavily revised the subframe to make it sturdier to allow the GT to carry extra load, including pillion and panniers (that comes as standard for the Malaysian market).

The dash offers a large 6.5″ TFT display that allows riders to access navigation features, accepting calls, music selection and more via the Suzuki mySPIN app.

Other features include:

19L fuel tank capacity
226kg dry weight
inverted telescopic front fork
rear link-type suspension
twin disc front and a single disc at the rear
17″ wheels

2022 Yamaha XMax 250 Gets New Visual Updates In Japan

Yamaha has updated the XMax 250 with visual updates for 2022 in Japan.

The popular Yamaha XMax 250 gets four new colours for 2022.
The maxi-scooter retains the same engine and bodywork.

The quarter-litre Japanese maxi-scooter is now available in four new colours; Matte Dark Green, Glossy Red, Glossy White and Dark Grey.

In terms of design, the 2022 XMax 250 retains the same bodywork as the previous year’s model, including the iconic sharp split LED headlight.

Mechanically, the 2022 XMax continue to feature the same 250cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 22.5hp and 24.3Nm.

Also retained for 2022 is the semi-digital instrument cluster and traction control.

Meanwhile, the scooter is suspended by a conventional telescopic forks and dual shocks at the rear while braking hardware consist of front and rear disc with dual-channel ABS.

According to Yamaha, the 2022 XMax 250 is available in Japan at JPY654,500 which translates to RM21.9k.

Japanese Aftermarket Specialist Makes Carbon Kit For 2019 Suzuki Katana

Japanese aftermarket parts specialist, Magical Racing, has introduced a number of carbon components for the 2019 Suzuki Katana 1100.

Magical Racing introduced a bespoke carbon parts for the 2019 Suzuki Katana.
The carbon kit includes the iconic longtail seat inspired by the 80s Katana.

The kit consist of bar ends, belly pan, headlight cowl. front and rear fender and a windscreen. However, Magical Racing also introduced the nostalgic longtail seat which was previously available on the 80s Katana.

The longtail unit includes a tail light and is available in three trims, FRP Black, Plain Weave Carbon and Twill Weave Carbon.

Also, there is an option to put a piece of carbon on the back of the tank.

Other carbon parts available for the 2019 Katana also includes a carbon-black BST wheels.

According to Magical Racing, the longtail unit is available from JPY177,000 (RM5.9k) up to JPY273,600 (RM9.1k).

Meanwhile, the Suzuki Katana is available in Malaysia for RM77,989.

Moto Morini Seiemmezzo STR And SCR Lands In Europe – 61hp, 54Nm

Moto Morini has introduced a new pair of middleweight motorcycles, the Seiemmezzo STR and Seiemmezzo SCR.

The Moto Morini Seiemmezzo is a middleweight motorcycle with a 649cc parallel-twin engine.
The Seiemmezzo range consists of a naked (STR) and scrambler (SCR) motorcycle.

For those who don’t speak Italian (including us), Seiemmezzo translates to “six and a half,” which is self-explanatory.

The Seiemmezzo range consists of two mid-range 649cc motorcycles, the STR (naked) and SCR (scrambler).

The main visual difference between the STR and SCR is the wheels, with the latter featuring wire-spoked wheels and the former getting alloy rims. However, both bikes get the same Pirelli Angel GT 120/70-18 front and 160/60-17 at the back.

The motorcycle is equipped with the same 649cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that makes 61hp and 54Nm.

Morini claimed the STR and SCR could hit a maximum speed of 170km/h despite weighing around 200kg (dry) and carrying a large 16L fuel tank.

Other notable features include:

dual 298mm front disc
single 255mm rear disc
dual-channel Bosch ABS

Also, the Seiemmezzo STR and SCR are suspended by 43mm Kayaba front forks with 120mm of travel and a Kayaba monoshock at the rear, with adjustable preload.

In addition, the rear shock is linked to the rear wheel by an aluminium swingarm.

According to Moto Morini, the Seiemmezzo STR is available in “Starlight White”, “Fire Red”, and “Smoky Anthracite”, while the SCR features “Navy Green” and “Night Black” colourways.

Ex-MotoGP Andrea Iannone Vows Return To Racing After Doping Ban

Andrea Iannone wants to return to two-wheel racing after his doping ban ends in 2024.

Andrea Iannone’s doping ban will end in 16 months.
Iannone wants to return to competitive racing after facing a four-year ban.

The former MotoGP rider was handed a lengthy ban after testing positive for a banned substance during a routine drug test at the Malaysian GP in 2019.

FIM gave Iannone an 18 month-ban before World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) appealed that the sanction was too lenient and requested a four-year ban.

The Italian rider took the case to the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) to fight the sanction. However, a successful countercase from WADA resulted in Iannone’s four-year ban.

As a result, Iannone refrained from racing or testing until 16 December 2023.

Despite being sidelined since 2020, Iannone is ready to put himself in the market and hopes to secure a top-level seat for 2024.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, the 33-year-old is adamant about returning to the track once his ban is lifted.

“I’ll be back. I don’t know where, how and when, if in MotoGP or Superbike, but I guarantee it: I still can’t fill my life with things [other] than the bike or the speed.

“Dancing with the Stars was like a diversion and I’m spoiled for choice for everything that’s offered to me. If I get offers from TV it means that people are interested in me, but I guarantee you that I am focused on one thing: to get back to [riding]. And I will do it,” he said.

While his effort to get back to competitive riding is commendable, it seems unlikely that the former Ducati, Suzuki and Aprilia rider to make the MotoGP list for 2024.

The championship has changed drastically since the rider’s ban, and with every team vying for MotoGP’s glory, Iannone’s – who will turn 34 by 2024 – chance is slim.

However, there is still a window of opportunity for Iannone at the WorldSBK, especially since more privateer options are available.

That said, Iannone still needs to prove that he can still compete at the highest level.

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Amirul Azreen