Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

FIRST LOOK: Zero DSR/X Electric Adventure Motorcycle

Electric motorcycle manufacturer, Zero Motorcycles, has pulled the wraps off its first adventure motorcycle, the Zero DSR/X.

The Zero DSR/X is a long-range electric adventure motorcycle.
The DSR/X is capable of hitting 290km city range and 137km highway range.

Coming in new for 2023, the Zero DSR/X features industry-leading Z-Force battery unit, powerful ZF engine and the Cypher III+ operating system that promises to deliver the best riding experience for an electric adventure motorcycle.

According to Zero Motorcycles, the introduction of the DSR/X is to fulfil the customers request of making an electric adventure bike.

“We have invested over 100,000 hours of design to make a model that lived up to our customers’ expectations, while delivering an incredible driving experience, a true mission from Zero Motorcycles,” said Abe Askenazi, Chief Technology Officer, Zero Motorcycles.

Despite its American origin, the DSR/X is injected with European motorcycle DNA.

“The DSR/X is a motorcycle that has European motorcycle culture in its DNA.

“A dual sport motorcycle that meets the needs of riders in the most important motorcycle segment in Europe,” said Umberto Uccelli, Managing Director, Zero Motorrycles Europe.

Thanks to a revamped Z-Force 75-10X engine the DSR/X makes a 100hp and a whopping 225Nm. In addition, Z-Force 17.3 kWh battery offers a city range of 290km and a highway range of 137km.

Meanwhile, DSR/X is built around a completely new perimeter trellis frame that allows for a greater ground clearance, 200mm to be exact. Also, the frame is suspended by an hand-adjustable front fork.

Zero Motorcycles also equipped the DSR/X with new Gates carbon belt drive, specially designed to withstand the massive torque.

In addition, the Zero DSR/X is also the first electric motorcycle to feature state-of-the-art Bosch Motorcycle Stability Control (BMSC) that allows for better stability during cornering and off-road condition.

While in off-road mode, users can disengage the ABS function and the BMSC will autonomously managed the rear grip.

The electronic package also includes Bosch Linked Braking and Bosch Vehicle hold.

Other notable features include:

park mode – low-speed reversing function
level 1 and 2 chargers – requires charging time of 2.5h
compatible with Zero Motorcycles app
Cellular Connectivity Module (CCM)
28L ‘faux’ tank storage

The Zero DSR/X comes in two colour option, Sage Green and Pearl White and is available at a price of EUR27,220 (RM123k).

QJMotor To Venture Into European Market With The SRK700

QJMotor is ready to set foot in Europe after successfully passing the safety and emission regulations.

QJMotor to enter Europe with three new models.
QJMotor is betting on the SKR700, SKR400 and SRV550 for its first batch of bikes to reach Europe.

For those who are not in the loop, QJMotor (Qianjiang Motorcycle) is a Chinese motorcycle manufacturer founded in 1985.

While the brand is less known in Europe, its subsidiary, Benelli, has been making waves, especially in Italy, with the TRK 502 emerging as the top-selling bike in the country.

That said, QJMotor wants a piece of the pie and is ready to explore the European market by the end of 2022.

Several models, ranging from small capacity motorcycles up to 800cc adventure bikes, have just been awarded European type approval.

According to reports, the first batch of bikes set to reach Europe is the SRK700, SRK400 and the SRV550.

However, the SRK700 is the most unique as there is no Benelli equivalent and runs on a 689cc parallel-twin that makes 74hp peak power and 55Nm of torque.

QJMotor also claimed the SRK700 hit both peaks of power at lower RPM than the Yamaha MT-07.

In addition, the SRV550 shares the same parallel-twin engine that MV Agusta uses in their Lucky Explorer 5.5.

French Exclusive BMW R 1250 GS Spirit Of GS Edition Launched

Since its introduction, the Gelande Strasse nameplate has been BMW Motorrad’s most successful motorcycle.

To this day, the GS is considered the most popular adventure motorcycle of the modern era while also setting a benchmark in the adventure bike segment.

That said, the R 1250 GS sits comfortably on top of the food chain despite numerous attempts by other manufacturer to try and have a piece of the throne.

Currently, the R 1250 GS is available in various trims and colours, but BMW up the ante with the latest rendition revealed at the Alpes Aventures Motofestival.

Exclusive to the French market, the BMW R 1250 GS Spirit of GS Edition is limited to just 1,250 units, all of which will be sold exclusively in the country.

The limited edition motorcycle set itself apart from the base R 1250 GS with several key features, notably the new colourway.

The Spirit of GS edition features grey and orange accents creating an eye-catching aesthetic.

Also, the bike gets black and orange side scoops, wheel accents and an aluminium handguard as standard. BMW also stamped the serial number on the handlebar clamp to remind you of its rarity.

Other notable features include a smoked windscreen, engine spoiler and engine crash guard.

The 2022 BMW R 1250 GS Spirit of GS Edition is priced at EUR27,990 (RM127k).

MotoGP: Marquez To Return This Weekend, Nakagami Gets A Lifeline

Six-time MotoGP world champion, Marc Marquez will return to racing this weekend, it has been confirmed.

Marc Marquez will return to racing at MotorLand Aragon this weekend.
Takaaki Nakagami to remain with LCR Honda after agreeing a 12-month deal.

The Spaniard will be back on board the RC213V at this weekend’s MotorLand Aragon for the first time since June following the Italian Grand Prix.

Marquez rode a Honda CBR600RR at the Aragon kart track before completing the full two day testing at the Misano Test last week.

“After numerous check-ups, consultations and tests, all involved are satisfied with the recovery made and the #93 will now take the next step in his rehabilitation – returning to competition,” said Honda in a statement.

Despite missing 110 days from the world championship, expectations for the rider is still high upon his return this weekend. The 29-year-old has a fantastic record at Aragon, winning every year between 2016 and 2019. The circuit even named Turn 10 after the rider.

Nevertheless, this weekend race is all about getting back to full race fitness as confirmed by his team.

“The objective for the weekend will be to continue improving Marquez’s bike fitness and assessing his performance during the intensity of a Grand Prix weekend and race,” said Honda.

Meanwhile, Takaaki Nakagami will feature at next season’s MotoGP after agreeing a 12-month deal with HRC.

The 30-year-old will remain with LCR Honda IDEMITSU until the end of the 2023 season.

That said, the confirmation ends all rumours regarding his future at the team.

Honda To Roll Out 10 New Electric Bikes By 2025

Honda has unveiled its plans for electrification including the introduction of 10 new electric motorcycles by 2025.

Honda to introduced 10 new electric motorcycles by 2025.
New electric models include Fun EV, a large capacity electric motorcycles.

Honda Motorcycle: Carbon Neutrality through Electrification

The announcement also include the Japanese firm’s effort to meet carbon neutrality by 2050.

“Honda will accelerate the electrification of motorcycles as the primary focus of environmental strategies for motorcycle business,” said Honda in a statement.

That said, Honda will continue the development of internal combustion motorcycle but it wants to decrease the carbon dioxide output of its internal combustion motorcycle engines.

Also, Honda wants to develop motorcycles that is compatible with carbon neutral fuels such as gasoline-ethanol.

Honda has also set 2025 as the date to roll out 10 new electric motorcycles which include models for commuting and fun models. Looking at the photos shared, we are probably looking at a bigger capacity electric motorcycle instead of the usual 125cc-equivalent electric bikes.

Specifically, Honda wants to launch three large fun EV models, including one EV for kids by 2024-2025 for Japan, USA and Europe.

In addition, Honda will also launch two commuter electrics in Asia, Europe and Japan and five electric bicycle and electric moped by 2024.

There are two types of batteries set to be utilised, including an all-solid-state battery and a swappable battery.

Honda is also working to expand the value of its electric motorcycles by working with its software subsidiary, Drivemode.

“Honda will offer user experience (UX) features that continuously enrich the quality of riding through connectivity, such as offering optimal route options that take into consideration remaining range, charging spot notification, safe riding coaching and aftersales service support.”

Honda Patents New Electric Scooter In India

Honda is likely to introduced an all-new electric scooter in India after filing a new patent application in the country.

borrows similar design cue from the Activa.
features 12v battery unit, telescopic fork and double-sided swingarm.

India’s motoring publication, AutoCarIndia published the new patent application showing what could Honda upcoming e-scooter would look like.

As expected, the image showcased an e-scooter that looks similar to the Activa.

Firstly, the front fascia – including the handlebar and headlight – shares similarities with the Activa. However, the rest of the bodywork looks new.

According to reports, the e-scooter is equipped with hub-mounted motor to reduce clutter and the production cost.

The patent also shows a 12v battery unit, telescopic forks, single rear shocks and double-sided swingarm.

The swingarm is mounted to the 10-inch rear wheels with drum brake.

The e-scooter is likely to be introduce in the Indian market in 2023.

2023 Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello Price Announced In Europe – Starts From RM72k

The introduction of the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello caught much of the world’s attention because it’s not just another motorcycle but also represents the brand’s bold move into the 21st century.

The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello is available in two variants, base and S-spec.
Features 1,042cc transverse 90-degree V-Twin engine that makes 115hp and 105Nm @ 3,500rpm.

This is because the V100 is the first Moto Guzzi motorcycle to feature semi-active suspension, 6-axis IMU, cornering ABS, quick-shifter and a liquid-cooled engine.

It is the first Moto Guzzi with everything modern, and we are surprised that the V100 Mandello even has an adaptive aerodynamics package.

During the recently concluded Moto Guzzi World Days 2022 festival, the 2023 V100 Mandello was the star of the show, with Moto Guzzi accepting pre-orders for the new bike.

That said, the V100 will come in two trims, the base model and an up-spec S trim. The base V100 Mandello goes for EUR15,749 (RM72k), while the S-spec is priced at EUR18,249 (RM83k).

Both trims run on the same 1,042cc transverse 90-degree V-Twin engine that makes 115hp and 105Nm @ 3,500rpm. In addition, the engine is also 103mm shorter than the one found in the V85 TT.

Nevertheless, as a sport-touring machine, the V100 Mandello still sport the classic element of a Moto Guzzi.

The V100 Mandello offers a smooth ride during accelerating and decelerating on par with a bike with a chain drive, thanks to a lower positioning of the drive shaft.

It also features a 17.5L fuel tank and a large saddle comfortable for riders and pillion.

However, to increase comfort, the V100 is equipped with adaptive air deflectors located at the front fairing, which extend to different degrees depending on the riding mode and bike speed.

According to Moto Guzzi, air deflectors can reduce wind disturbance by up to 22%.

On top of the already impressive package, the S-trim gets Öhlins semi-active suspension, traction control, three engine maps, three engine braking, quick-shifter, heated grips, Moto Guzzi multimedia package and a smartphone connector.

VR46 Racing Ducati Retains Luca Marini And Marco Bezzecchi For 2023

VR45 Racing Ducati has officially announced the decision to retain Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi for the 2023 MotoGP World Championship.

Luca Marini and Marco Bezzecchi to continue their partnership ahead of the 2023 season.
Bezzecchi currently leads the rookie standing after maiden MotoGP podium at the Dutch GP.

The announcement is a positive step from team Mooney VR46 Racing Ducati ahead of the new season with the pair showing good results throughout the team inaugural season in the premier class.

Marini showcased an impressive performance in the second half of the season with two consecutive P4 in Austria an Misano.

“I am very happy to be able to announce the renewal with the Mooney VR46 Racing Team also for 2023.

“It is important to give continuity to this working group and to the Ducati project that is leading us to obtain good results and to fight for the podium in this final of season.

“We are a rookie team, it is the first year that we have all worked together, and we will continue to use this method to achieve great satisfactions already in this 2022 and in the future together with Vale, whom I thank for this opportunity, and the VR46 Riders Academy that always supports me.

“Closing the current season in the best possible way and restarting strong next January is the goal: we want to fight for the positions that matter, the podium and the victory in every GP and as the best Independent Team of the Championship,” said the 25-year-old.

Meanwhile, Bezzecchi currently leads the rookie standings boosted by his maiden MotoGP podium at the Dutch GP.

“I’m so happy to confirm and announce, at the same time, that the agreement I signed last year was for two years, so in 2023 I will continue riding for the Mooney VR46 Racing Team on the Ducati!

“I’m proud to wear and represent the colours of the VR46 family, Vale and the VR46 Riders Academy, that have been always supporting me, together with the Team and personal partners,” he added.

Moto Guzzi Rolls Out V7 Stone Special Edition – Features Arrow Exhaust, 66hp

Moto Guzzi continue to bank on the brand most successful retro-inspired roadster, with the introduction of the V7 Stone Special Edition.

Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition features unique black colourway with red accent.
Gets a unique Arrow exhaust with Moto Guzzi branding.

Recently unveiled at the Moto Guzzi World Days event, the special edition motorcycle adopts a more discreet silhouette compared to the standard V7 Stone.

That said, the V7 Stone Special Edition features a glossy ‘Shining Black’ paint scheme with red colour accents on the side of the fuel tank.

Similar red-painted colour are also visible on the rear shock absorbers and contrasting stitching on the single-piece saddle.

However, the most standout piece on the V7 Stone Special Edition is an Arrow exhaust complete with the firm’s branding.

According to Moto Guzzi, the exhaust also helps to bump the power from 64hp to 66hp @ 6,700rpm.

Also, the Moto Guzzi V7 Stone Special Edition is priced at EUR9,999 (RM45.6k).

Honda Newest Engine Makes 92hp – Features 270-Degree Crank

Honda has officially pulls the cover away from the firm newest powertrain, a 755c parallel-twin engine set to be the beating heart of the upcoming Honda Hornet.

Honda 755cc parallel-twin engine set to power the firm’s newest mid-range motorcycle.
The new mill makes 92hp and features 270-degree crank.

In the meantime, let’s get something right first. Firstly, Honda already has a solid and reliable 745cc parallel-twin engine currently powering the X-ADV 750, Forza 750 and the NC750X.

However, the new engine is a 755cc parallel-twin, 8-valve Unicam unit that capable of producing 92hp @ 9,500rpm and 75Nm @ 7,250rpm.

Also, the new platform features a 270-degree crankshaft, a similar approach taken by other manufactures in developing a parallel-twin mill.

Meanwhile, Honda deputy director of major projects, Fuyuki Hosokawa, explains the intention of developing the new mill.

“The Hornet has always been a very special motorcycle for Honda. Exciting and engaging performance has always been combined with flexible and agile handling.

“Before starting this project, we thought a lot about what kind of performance we wanted to give the driver.

We knew it was essential to maintain the classic Hornet’s peak power “punch” and at the same time, as a new generation Hornet for modern times, we wanted the engine to have a really strong torquey feel and a “throbbing” feel. in the low to mid rev range.

“To get the kind of performance and lightweight handling we wanted, we knew we had to develop an entirely new short-stroke twin engine with a 270° crankshaft.

“This would not only deliver that peak power, but also the sporty low-end torque, ideal for driving in urban environments and coming out of corners on the highway.

For us, the Hornet has always been the epitome of the streetfighter concept and this new Hornet concept proudly continues this tradition,” Hosokawa said in a statement.

Despite calling it a concept, we expect Honda to unveil the new engine in production form together with the new Hornet at the EICMA show in November.

You Can Now Rest Your Leg On The BMW R 18

The leg rest is a common additional feature on a cruiser because it allows you to stretch your legs out now and then.

Wunderlich’s latest innovations allow you to rest your legs on the BMW R18.
The leg rest sits above the boxer cylinder heads, away from the engine heat.

Some cruisers allow you to rest your leg on the footboards, or if you don’t have any, the engine guard is probably the next thing you can think of.

Even so, if the cruiser you’re riding has a massive 1,800cc boxer twin (yes, we are referring to the BWM R18), you have absolutely zero space to properly rest your leg during long rides.

However, thanks to Wunderlich’s latest leg rest, you can now safely rest your leg on the cylinder heads of the R18.

Wunderlich’s latest leg rest for the R18 is mounted on three separate points on the boxer engine. Interestingly, it doesn’t need additional support to work but is just a simple plug-and-play.

The leg rest is made from steel tubing and is precisely welded to form a top-quality platform to rest your legs. Also, the component is handmade in Germany and fits the R18 overall aesthetics.

That said, the leg rest sits above the cylinder head, so you wouldn’t suffer so much from the heat coming from the engine.

As for the price, the Wunderlich leg rest will cost you EUR379 (RM1.7k). If it seems pricey, then it is likely you don’t have the BMW R18 in your garage, just like us.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR To Get More Power, Better Acceleration

The BMW S 1000 RR was notably missing when BMW Motorrad revealed the list of updated models for 2023.

2023 S 1000 RR to feature more power and better aerodynamics.
Noteworthy upgrades include an aerodynamic winglet taken from the M 1000 RR.

However, according to the latest development, the S 1000 RR sportsbike is getting a much-needed upgrade for 2023, according to a new type-approved document filed in Europe.

As expected, the 2023 S 1000 RR will adopt features from the firm’s flagship M 1000 RR, including aerodynamic winglets.

However, a noteworthy upgrade is done to the engine, which now makes 206.5hp @ 13,750rpm compared to 204hp available from the 2022 model.

Also, the electronics package is believed to receive some minor tweaks and adjustments; however, the ShiftCam engine with its unique VVT system will likely remain unchanged.

That said, BMW also adopted the M 1000 RR lower final-drive ratio onto the S 1000 RR. As a result, riders will feel the bike is quicker than the previous model.

The document also reveals a longer wheelbase, from 1440mm to 1457mm, similar to the M 1000 RR. However, the 2023 S 1000 RR weight is unchanged, which remains at 197kg.

That said, the 2023MY S 1000 RR will retain much of the bodywork from the 2022 model, and with the addition of an aerodynamic winglet and new paint job, there’s no doubt the upcoming S 1000 RR is eye-catching.

Based on reports, BMW will unveil the new motorcycle soon.

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Amirul Azreen