Kawasaki Motors Corporation USA has issued a safety recall for the newly launched 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR KRT Edition bikes sold in the United States.
The recall comes after the discovery of a potential alternator malfunction that could lead to engine stalling, posing a significant risk to riders.
Kawasaki USA also issued a stop sale notice to rectify the matter.
The problem is attributed to an improper installation of the alternator rotor during manufacturing at the Kawasaki factory.
Approximately 991 units, accounting for one percent of the US market, are suspected to be affected. The recall specifically targets bikes produced between January 11, 2023, and March 29, 2023, identified by VINs ranging from ML5ZXCS11PDA00082 to ML5ZXCS10PDA01482.
In a statement released by Kawasaki, they have urged riders to take the matter seriously as there are currently no known warning signs of the issue. An unexpected engine stall could lead to dangerous accidents on the road.
Following the safety recall, Kawasaki Motors Corp USA issued a Stop Sale notice to its nationwide dealer network. The company aims to provide repair information to dealers in mid-to-late August 2023.
However, as of August 1, 2023, Kawasaki has not yet released a timeline for notifying affected owners or provided details on their remedy program for the issue.
In a bold move into the electric vehicle market, Buell, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, has launched its latest creation, the Fuell Fllow.
While technically under the Fuell brand, the Fllow was created by none other than Erik Buell himself, the co-founder of the renowned Buell Motorcycles.
The Fuell Fllow embraces its roots with a design that pays homage to the classic cafe racer style.
At first glance, the Fuell Fllow boasts a neo-retro cafe racer appearance, eschewing the conventional front fairing and opting for a sleek, streamlined body with the battery serving as a central component. Speaking of the battery, the Fllow comes equipped with a 10kWh capacity, promising an impressive 150-mile range in urban environments.
This power source drives a patent-pending 47hp (35kW) motor, ingeniously positioned in the rear wheel, giving the bike a unique ‘velodrome-style’ appearance and enabling a top speed of 136km/h. The Fllow 1S model takes the performance up a notch, offering the full 47hp, while the standard Fllow 1 begins with 15hp but can be upgraded post-purchase to match the 1S model. Regardless of the chosen variant, riders can expect a peak torque output of 750Nm, ensuring thrilling acceleration and smooth cruising.
Eager to quell range anxiety, Fuell has emphasized fast-charging capabilities. In a video presentation, Erik Buell quoted an impressive 30-minute charge time when utilizing a super-fast charge point. However, it’s worth noting that charging via a standard mains plug at home takes 1.25 hours with a 6.6kW charger.
The Fllow 1 comes with a 750W charger as standard, but for a quicker recharge, owners can opt for a 6.6kW (or a 3.3kW) charger, reducing charge times to 2.5 hours or 10 hours, respectively.
The Fuell Fllow incorporates innovative features to enhance the riding experience and safety. Notably, the motorcycle employs regenerative braking, a patent-pending technology, to boost efficiency and increase the range.
In combination with ABS at the rear wheel and standard ABS at the front, the Fllow ensures optimal braking performance. The motorcycle rides on 17-inch wheels, complemented by 40mm inverted front forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock, delivering a smooth and controlled ride on various terrains.
Fuell has not held back when it comes to equipping the Fllow with cutting-edge technology and electronic aids. The bike comes with electronic traction control, launch control, and wheelie control, catering to both novice and experienced riders.
Two distinct riding modes, “Urban” and “Audacious,” provide flexibility and adaptability to different environments and riding styles. An illuminated 50-liter storage compartment, another patent-pending feature, offers ample space for riders to store their belongings securely.
Additionally, the Fuell Fllow boasts an interactive dashboard that seamlessly connects to the rider’s smartphone through a dedicated app, providing essential information and customization options. Safety is paramount, with blind-spot detection and collision warnings both at the front and rear, enhancing situational awareness on the road. A convenient walk and reverse assist feature further enhances the bike’s user-friendliness, making parking and manoeuvring a breeze.
The European Union has given the green light to a comprehensive rules package aimed at enhancing the fast charging network for electric vehicles (EVs) across the continent.
The regulations mandate the establishment of facilities with at least 150kW of power every 60 kilometers along major transportation routes by 2025.
EU also requires each charging location must have minimum 400kW of output.
The primary objective of these rules is to address three key concerns faced by EV users including cars and motorcycles. Firstly, it aims to alleviate range anxiety by expanding the EV charging infrastructure along Europe’s main highways.
Secondly, it intends to simplify payment processes by eliminating the need for apps or subscriptions, making charging more accessible. Finally, the rules aim to ensure transparent communication of pricing and availability to prevent unexpected surprises for users.
The timeline set for implementation is ambitious. By the end of December 2025, each charging location must have at least 400kW of total output, including at least one 150kW charger. By December 31, 2027, the minimum requirement increases to 600kW of total output with at least one 150kW charger.
The regulations also tackle the issue of shared charging points. To avoid any drop in power caused by simultaneous usage, the new rules stipulate that at least one charger with a minimum capacity of 150 kW must be available at all times.
The scope of the initiative extends beyond major highways. The rules will also be applied to 50% of feeder roads connected to the Trans-European Transportation (TEN-T) network by 2027. The goal is to complete the buildout of EV fast charging stations on these roads by 2030, with each location required to have a total capacity of 600kW by 2035.
Furthermore, the regulations aim to standardize EV charging operations to resemble traditional fueling stations. The process will involve pulling up, plugging in, and making payments using credit cards, eliminating the need for multiple credentials and special payment cards.
The European Union’s push for a robust and user-friendly EV fast charging infrastructure is expected to bolster the EV revolution across the continent. By eliminating barriers and enhancing convenience, the new rules aim to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable transportation future in Europe.
Harley-Davidson’s latest move to tap into the booming Indian motorbike market has seen astonishing success, as pre-orders for their X440 model have exceeded all expectations.
Harley-Davidson X440 is surprisingly popular in India with the initial bookings exceeding expectations.
the X440 is said to go up against the formidable Royal Enfield in India.
The iconic U.S. big-bike manufacturer, in partnership with India’s Hero Motor Co, is making an aggressive comeback into the Indian market with their affordable and powerful X440 model, priced below INR233,000 (RM12.8k).
The X440, Harley-Davidson’s latest offering, marks a significant milestone for the brand as it re-enters the Indian market after a decade. The decision to collaborate with Hero Motor Co, the world’s largest motorcycle maker, has proven to be a strategic masterstroke, enabling them to penetrate the Indian market with a highly competitive product.
“We’ve been extremely pleased with the reception that the X440 has received since launch, with pre-orders exceeding initial expectations from launch,” said a delighted Jochen Zeitz, Harley-Davidson CEO, during an earnings call with analysts.
However, Harley-Davidson faces a formidable opponent in the form of Royal Enfield, the century-old Indian brand known for its strong fan base and widespread presence across the country.
The challenge of going head-to-head with Royal Enfield in a market that is deeply loyal to the domestic brand cannot be underestimated. Royal Enfield’s extensive network of showrooms and robust after-sales service has cemented its position as a preferred choice among Indian motorbike enthusiasts.
With the X440 generating a buzz in the Indian market, the motorcycle makers are betting on its success to pave the way for Harley-Davidson’s resurgence in the country.
The 12th Annual Art Of Speed (AOS 2023) concluded on Sunday at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS) with resounding success.
The premier Old-Skool & Kustom Kulture event witnessed a stellar crowd attendance of over 65,000 visitors across both days, reaffirming its position as Malaysia’s leading custom vehicle showcase.
The highlight of the event was the showcase of customized vehicles from overseas, featuring Wild Road Choppers and Cosmic Chopper from Japan, along with Side Yakotani presenting his Custom 1959 Volkswagen Type2 Safari.
The AOS 2023 tradition of inviting international guests continued this year, giving car and bike enthusiasts the chance to meet some of the most distinguished personalities in the industry. Notable guests included representatives from MOONEYES, Rough Craft (Taiwan), Kustomstyle, Joints Custom Show, and various other renowned names from Japan, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei.
Art Of Speed also featured an abundance of Hot Wheels activities, including the 1st Official Hot Wheels Collector Convention in South East Asia, which offered visitors a chance to engage with Hot Wheels designer Matt Gabe from America. Additionally, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour Malaysia made its debut, with Mohd Shahlan Bin Mohd Nasir and his Custom Proton Arena being crowned as the Winner to represent Malaysia on the world stage.
The event also saw the inauguration of The Inaugural Miss Art Of Speed 2023, a pin-up beauty pageant that showcased the elegance and allure of seven lovely participants, with Ms Fathmanny being crowned as the champion.
In commemoration of 10 years of Art Of Speed, the event collaborated with VANS to release two limited edition shoes and a special hardcover coffee table book. Several other event-exclusive collaborative merchandise was also made available.
Kustom & Koffee Talk, hosted by NoEqual.co, saw international panelists discussing the latest trends in the motorcycle industry, engaging enthusiasts in a lively and informative forum.
Numerous other activities kept the audience engaged throughout the event, including NEAT Fest, Off The Grid camping and outdoors exhibition, Hail Vintage, Streetware Con, Roda Rumble 2023, La Cultura, Food Park, Automotive Flea Market, Product Launching on Stage, and Test Ride Zone for bikes.
SoundCircus Festival, powered by Harley-Davidson and BRO ASIA, added to the excitement with a 2-day music festival that featured several renowned bands and artists, attracting over 6,000 attendees.
Lucky draw giveaways on both days rewarded visitors with exciting prizes, including a ZEUS e-bike, a fully customized 1979 Toyota Celica, and a Honda e-DAX motorcycle.
The winners of the Best of Show motorcycle and automobile categories secured package trips to the MOONEYES 31st Annual Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show in December as Guests of Honor.
BRO ASIA, a local e-devices manufacturer, served as the Title Presenter for AOS 2023, expressing their pride and excitement to be part of the event and contribute to its success.
With another successful year in the books, Art Of Speed continues to leave an indelible mark on Malaysia’s automotive and Kustom Kulture scene. Enthusiasts eagerly await the next edition of this exceptional event, which promises even more thrilling displays and attractions.
In a fierce showdown set for 2024, Honda’s iconic Africa Twin is gearing up to challenge BMW’s highly anticipated R 1300 GS in the competitive open-class adventure motorcycle market.
the next-generation Honda Africa Twin to feature radar-assist technology.
latest type-approval documents also confirmed the introduction of direct fuel-injection.
As both manufacturers vie for dominance, riders can expect groundbreaking advancements and cutting-edge technologies from these two renowned giants.
BMW has confirmed the imminent launch of its much-sought-after R 1300 GS in September of this year. Building on the success of the R 1250 GS, this latest iteration promises revolutionary construction and on-board innovations, signaling a significant leap forward in the world of adventure bikes.
On the other hand, Honda’s Africa Twin follows a different approach, placing an emphasis on off-road capability over on-road touring and raw power. Despite their distinct focus, these formidable machines will undoubtedly attract similar groups of adventurous enthusiasts, creating an exciting competition for customer loyalty in 2024. The stakes are high, and the stage is set for a remarkable showdown.
Amid the buzz and anticipation, evidence has emerged supporting the development of an extensively updated Africa Twin. Honda has discreetly filed type-approval paperwork for its 2024 model, which intriguingly carries the model code “SD14.” This move signals the manufacturer’s determination to deliver a game-changing offering that will challenge BMW head-on.
While specific details about the new Africa Twin remain scarce, Honda’s recent patent filings have shed some light on potential enhancements. Notably, the company is working on incorporating front and rear radars into the bike’s design, akin to rivals such as KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure, Ducati’s Multistrada V4, and the upcoming BMW R 1300 GS.
These radars, either offered optionally or as standard, are poised to improve rider safety and experience, ensuring the Africa Twin keeps pace with the rapidly evolving adventure bike segment.
Among the most thrilling developments is the prospect of a direct fuel-injected version of the Africa Twin’s SOHC engine. This innovation aims to elevate performance, enhance fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions, underscoring Honda’s commitment to environmental consciousness and engineering excellence.
Furthermore, enthusiasts and experts alike are buzzing about the intriguing possibility of a supercharged Africa Twin. If realized, this extraordinary advancement could propel Honda’s champion to new heights, rivaling the formidable powerhouses represented by KTM’s big V-twins and Ducati’s Multistrada V4 range, all without requiring the development of an entirely new engine.
Motorcycle enthusiasts in Malaysia were treated to a momentous occasion as the long-awaited Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 made its debut at the 2023 Art Of Speed event.
Having gained worldwide acclaim since its global release last year, the cruiser-style motorcycle is now up for pre-booking in Malaysia.
The Super Meteor 650 will be available in two variants, with the Tourer as the flagship model.
The Super Meteor 650 maintains Royal Enfield’s legacy of crafting exceptional cruisers and features the renowned 648cc twin platform that earned accolades with the Interceptor INT 650 and Continental GT 650 models. To ensure unmatched reliability and enjoyment, the motorcycle has undergone rigorous testing, covering over one million kilometers on roads across Europe and Asia.
This versatile cruiser comes in two variants, the Super Meteor 650 and Super Meteor 650 Tourer, each available in five striking colors. Its design exudes retro charm while incorporating modern elements, like the first-ever LED headlamp from Royal Enfield.
With an emphasis on rider comfort and ergonomics, the Super Meteor 650 boasts fully feet-forward foot controls, wide handlebars, and a low stance, providing an effortless and connected riding experience. The motorcycle’s frame and swingarm were entirely redesigned in collaboration with Harris Performance, ensuring a low center of gravity for high-speed stability and maneuverability.
For added convenience, the Super Meteor 650 is equipped with the Royal Enfield Tripper, a Turn-By-Turn navigation pod, as well as a USB socket for electronic devices.
For customization and touring enthusiasts, Royal Enfield offers a range of genuine motorcycle accessories to enhance the Super Meteor 650’s capabilities. The Solo Tourer theme provides solo touring amenities, while the Grand Tourer theme caters to two-up adventures.
Riders in Malaysia can now pre-order the Super Meteor 650 at authorized Royal Enfield dealerships, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late September 2023 with the official price is said to be below RM40k.
The 2023 Harley-DavidsonHomecoming Festival roared into Milwaukee from July 13 to 16, drawing moto-enthusiasts from all corners of the globe to celebrate the iconic motorcycle brand’s remarkable 120-year history.
The festival, featuring a thrilling blend of music and moto-culture, left attendees awestruck with its headline performances by Green Day and Foo Fighters, along with a variety of captivating events across the Milwaukee area.
Over the weekend, 73,000 motorcycles lined the museum grounds and Sixth Street, attracting 130,000 attendees.
At Veterans Park on the picturesque Milwaukee Lakefront, Green Day and Foo Fighters took center stage on Friday and Saturday nights, respectively, performing to electrifying crowds of more than 80,000 motorcycle and music enthusiasts.
Preceding the headlining acts were stellar performances by Abby Jeanne, KennyHoopla, Phantogram, and The Cult on July 14, while July 15 witnessed extraordinary sets by Ghost Hounds, White Reaper, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and Cody Jinks. Additionally, the Nitro Circus delivered an adrenaline-pumping freestyle motocross show, and the Ives Brothers’ Wall of Death & Ball of Steel showcased exhilarating stunts, offering a family-friendly experience.
The celebrations extended to the Harley-Davidson Museum grounds, where Bike Night kicked off the festivities on Thursday. Over the weekend, 73,000 motorcycles lined the museum grounds and Sixth Street, attracting 130,000 attendees who enjoyed food trucks, Flat Out Friday Boonie Bike races, motorcycle displays, and demo rides of the latest 2023 Harley-Davidson models, including the electrifying LiveWireand Stacyc electric vehicles.
The Division BMX Stunt Show, custom and vintage motorcycle displays, and evening musical entertainment featuring headliners Hairball, The Jimmys, The Now Band, Rust Bucket Road Trip, and The Toys and Rebel Grace added to the excitement.
Notably, the Harley-Davidson Powertrain Operations in Menomonee Falls hosted engaging activities such as demos of 2023 Harley-Davidson motorcycles, factory tours, and impressive Police Skills Riding Demonstrations.
The festival’s grand finale was the Harley-Davidson 120th Anniversary Motorcycle Parade on Sunday, which saw 7,000 motorcycles revving their engines as they paraded through Wisconsin Avenue to downtown Milwaukee, concluding at Veterans Park on the lakefront. Enthusiastic crowds gathered along the route, cheering and waving in admiration.
To ensure that all roads led to Milwaukee, Harley-Davidson devised six exhilarating Ride In routes starting from various points across North America, culminating in the Homecoming festivities. Riders had the freedom to join at any point along the routes and ride at their own pace, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow H-D enthusiasts.
Moreover, the festival witnessed the consumer debut of the new 2023 Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) Motorcycles, the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models, which showcased cutting-edge technology, enhanced rider comfort, and dynamic performance driven by the powerful new Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine. These awe-inspiring motorcycles were showcased at the Harley-Davidson Museum Garage area and available for demos at the Company’s Powertrain Operations facility.
The 2023 Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival was undoubtedly an unforgettable celebration of motorcycle culture, uniting riders from around the world to commemorate 120 years of the legendary Harley-Davidson brand. As the festival concluded, the anticipation for next year’s event, scheduled for July 25-28, 2024, reached new heights, promising even more excitement and thrills in the years to come.
Suzuki Malaysia proudly announced the launch of the 2023 Suzuki Raider R150Fi which now adorned in two vibrant colour options.
the Raider R150Fi continue to established itself as the most powerful 150cc underbone motorcycle in Malaysia.
the 2023 Raider R150Fi arrives in two new colourway; Bright Ivory/Titan Black and Matte Bordeaux Red/Metallic Matte Fibroin.
The first option is the captivating Bright Ivory/Titan Black, exuding a sense of elegance and sportiness. The second variant is the striking Matte Bordeaux Red/Metallic Matte Fibroin Grey, adding a touch of sophistication to the motorcycle’s aesthetic.
Enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled underbone riding experience can now witness the Raider R150Fi’s all-new colour variants at any authorized Suzuki Malaysia dealer across the nation with a recommended selling price of RM8,838. (excluding registration and insurance fees).
A part from the new visuals, the 2023 Raider R150Fi continue to offer the same specifications including the tried and tested 147.3cc single-cylinder DOHC with liquid-cooled engine that pumps out a respectable 18hp and 13.8Nm.
Ducati has announced a limited edition 2023 Monster 30th Anniversario, marking an exceptional milestone for the renowned Bologna brand, paying tribute to the original Monster that changed the course of Ducati’s history back in 1993.
the limited run Monster is to pay homage to the model iconic introduction back in 1993.
the 30th Anniversario is fitted with Ohlins suspension and Termignoni full-system exhaust.
With the first Monster’s groundbreaking debut, Ducati showcased its ingenuity by fitting a slightly aged L-twin t-valve engine into a fresh frame, accompanied by flat bars, creating a one-of-a-kind machine.
The gamble paid off, captivating the hearts of enthusiasts and winning accolades from the press. Now, three decades later, the 30th Anniversario emerges as a collectors’ dream, preserving the bike’s iconic DNA and exhilarating character while offering enthusiasts a limited opportunity to own a piece of motorcycling history.
In the design department, the Monster 30th Anniversario flaunts a captivating tricolour paint scheme, tastefully complemented by forged gold wheels and Ohlins forks.
The bike’s exclusivity is further enhanced with a Termignoni exhaust, previously found only on the Monster SP, and carbon mudguards, adding a touch of elegance and performance.
The attention to detail extends to the unique embroidered seat, setting this masterpiece apart from other models in the range.
Ducati has meticulously crafted this limited edition to resonate with the passionate community of Ducatisti, offering a bike that not only performs but also pays homage to the brand’s rich heritage.
Another compelling aspect of the 2023 Monster 30th Anniversario is its remarkable weight reduction. Ducati engineers have managed to shave off an impressive 4 kilograms from its overall weight, bringing the dry weight down to an astonishing 164 kilograms. This feat is a testament to Ducati’s commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in performance.
That said, the new Anniversario boasts the same engine specifications as its fellow Monster siblings, delivering a formidable 111hp and 93Nm of torque. The powerful engine pairs seamlessly with the chassis inspired by the Monster SP, featuring Ohlins NIX forks, an Ohlins rear shock, and a steering damper, ensuring a dynamic and exhilarating ride.
With production limited to a mere 500 units, the 2023 Ducati Monster 30th Anniversario is destined to become a collector’s gem and a cherished piece of Ducati’s illustrious history.
In a groundbreaking move to revolutionize the Indian motorcycle market, Hero MotoCorp has unveiled its grand vision for electric mobility by teaming up with California-based electric motorcycle manufacturer, Zero Motorcycles.
The partnership, fueled by a substantial USD60 million investment, is set to electrify the industry and drive a monumental shift towards sustainable transportation.
The announcement, which first surfaced in September 2022, left enthusiasts speculating about Hero MotoCorp’s intentions.
Hero MotoCorp
With a strong legacy in traditional combustion-powered two-wheelers, Hero ventured into the electric realm earlier in 2022 with the launch of their first electric two-wheeler, the Vida V1, developed in collaboration with Taiwanese electric scooter and tech company, Gogoro.
Now, the veil has been lifted as the Hero MotoCorp Annual Report for 2023 sheds light on the electrifying details of the Zero partnership. The report outlines Hero’s strategic plans to co-develop premium electric motorcycles, utilizing Zero’s expertise to create innovative and high-performance EVs. The collaboration aims to diversify Hero’s EV portfolio, reaching a broader customer base and capitalizing on the global trend towards electric mobility.
Notably, the report emphasizes that this partnership goes beyond just technological exchange. It combines Zero’s cutting-edge powertrain and electric motorcycle development prowess with Hero’s vast scale in manufacturing, sourcing, and marketing, creating a powerful synergy in the realm of sustainable mobility.
For Hero MotoCorp, the alliance with Zero Motorcycles represents a momentous opportunity to spearhead the electric mobility revolution in India. As the largest motorcycle market in the world, India is ripe for transformative change.
Hero MotoCorp envisions bridging the gap between international clean mobility options and Indian consumers by bringing the entire Zero portfolio into the country.
To achieve this, Zero Motorcycles will set up local manufacturing facilities in India, further bolstering the nation’s efforts to promote indigenous electric vehicle production. With Zero’s global reputation for excellence in electric motorcycles, combined with Hero MotoCorp’s extensive experience in manufacturing and distribution, the partnership is poised to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility not just in India but also across global markets.
Cardo Fam, get ready to rev up your riding experience to a whole new level with the latest and most thrilling update from Cardo System – the Cardo Record Intercom Recording Feature.
This revolutionary addition brings a whole new dimension to your motorcycle journeys, allowing you to capture every exhilarating moment and preserve your epic conversations with ease.
The new feature is only available for the Packtalk Edge and Packtalk Neo.
The new feature designed to make your rides more memorable than ever before. Now, as you embrace the freedom of the open road, you can also create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. With just a tap of a button, you can record your rides in high-quality audio, ensuring that no thrilling moment is ever forgotten.
Imagine reliving that breathtaking mountain pass, the soothing coastal ride, or that adrenaline-pumping race track experience – all at the tip of your fingers. The Cardo Record feature lets you do just that, preserving the essence of your motorcycle adventures like never before.
The voice recording function also allows you to capture those memorable conversations with your riding buddies. Whether it’s sharing a good laugh, discussing life’s intricacies, or planning your next road trip, you can now save these moments and cherish them forever.
To enjoy the new feature, owners of the Cardo Packtalk Edge and Neo can simply download the latest firmware, and you’re ready to roll. Once installed, you can easily start and stop voice recordings with intuitive controls, ensuring you can focus on the road while capturing the magic.
Below is the step-by-step guide on how to operate the recording feature:
