Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

Suzuki 8 Hours: BMW Motorrad To Make Official Debut In Japan

BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team is off to Japan for the third round of the FIM Endurance World Championship 2022.

BMW Motorrad to make official debut at the Suzuka 8 Hours.
The team will field Markus Reiterberger (GER), Ilya Mikhalchik (UKR) and Jérémy Guarnoni (FRA).

BMW Motorrad will debut at the Suzuka 8 Hours in great spirit having celebrated victory at the home race in ealry June.

Markus Reiterbger, Illya Mikhalchik and Jeremy Guarnoni will once again teamed up to ride the BMW M 1000 RR at Suzuka.

This will be BMW Motorrad World Endurance Team first appearance at the Suzuka 8 Hours after Covid-19 restriction prevented the team from taking part in the 8-hour race at Suzuka over the last two years.

“I am really looking forward to the Suzuka race. I’ve already been there twice with the Penz13 team, once for the test and once for the race.

“The track is breath-taking but very difficult to learn so it took us some time to get acquainted with it. Jérémy knew it already but for me it has been some time since I have been here and Ilya had not been here before at all.

“We then improved step by step, rode a lot and tested a lot of different things. We are still lacking a bit to the top teams but we don’t give up and continue or hard work. It will be an exhausting weekend,” said Reiterberger.

2022 WMOTO RT3S Launched – Gets TFT Display, RM17,888

Introduced last year in Mac, MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of WMOTO brands of motorcycle in Malaysia has officialy launched the new WMOTO RT3S for the local market.

the WMOTO RT3 is a maxi-scooter introduced by MForce in 2021.
features dual-channel ABS and 17L fuel tank.
rated 5-stars by Malaysian Motorcycle Assesment Program (MyMAP).

Priced at RM17,888, the RT3S maxi-scooter now features TFT instrument display, replacing the digital LCD cluster found on the previous RT3.

Also, the RT3S comes in three exciting colours; Union Red, Youth Grey and Justice Blue.

According to MForce, the new dash is also equipped with three new user interface (UI) that features light and bright night mode. In addition, the light and bright night mode can be adjusted accordingly.

Also new on the RT3S is tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that allow riders to be on alert with the current tire pressure condition while riding.

Other notable features available include:

dual-channel ABS
Smart Key system
17L fuel tank
telescopic front suspension
dual-shock absorbers

However, no changes is made to the engine as the WMOTO RT3S continue to makes 23hp @ 8,000rpm and 22.5Nm @ 6,500rpm from its 247cc single-cylinder 4-valve DOHC powertrain. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via CVT transmission and final belt drive.

Upcoming MV Agusta Lucky Explorer 9.5 To Out Grunt DesertX, Tiger 900 – 121.4HP, 102Nm

For the first time in MV Agusta history, the Italian motorcycle company is set to venture into the adventure bike territory with the upcoming Lucky Explorer 9.5.

The 9.5 makes 121hp @ 10,000rpm and 102Nm @ 7,000rpm.
to feature 7-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity.
quickshifter, slide control, cornering ABS comes as standard.

Complete with a 21-inch front wheel and off-road focused suspension and frame, MV Agusta is scheduled to launch the Lucky Explorer 9.5 some time in 2023.

The motorcycle is currently still in its prototype stages but some reputable media were given the taste of the new adventure bike in Europe, recently.

The Lucky Explorer 9.5 set to face a list of strong contenders in the middleweight ADV category including the KTM 890 Adventure, Triumph Tiger 900 range and the newly launched Ducati DesertX.

Although the 9.5 is MV first attempt in ADV segment, but CycleWorld – who one of a few able to try out the prototype mule – claimed that the motorcycle has genuine touring and off-road potential.

The 9.5 features an all-new 931cc inline-triple engine derived from the 800cc platform taken from the F3 and Brutale. However, MV made a host of modifications, including a new cylinder head, piston and valve train.

As a result, the inline-triple makes 121.4hp @ 10,000rpm and 102Nm @ 7,000rpm. That said, the 2023 Lucky Explorer 9.5 is set to out grunt the DesertX, 890 Adventure and Triumph’s Tiger 900.

Gear change is done effortlessly thanks to the quickshifter while braking is done by a pair of Brembo Stylema callipers up front.

Other notable features include:

fully-adjustable Sachs suspension.
20L fuel tank.
Bridgestone A41 tyres .
7-inch TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity.

Meanwhile, the Lucky Explorer 9.5 is also fitted with a host of electronics:

cruise control (standard).
switchable cornering ABS.
four riding modes; Urban/Touring/Off-Road/Custom.
six-Axis IMU
eight stage slide control/traction control
front-wheel lift control

For those who wonder about the price, rest assured MV Agusta is keeping it a secret until its official launch date in 2023 however given the firm’s position at the premium end of the market, we expect the Lucky Explorer 9.5 to be priced higher than the DesertX.

(Source: CycleWorld)

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Updated With New Visuals For 2023

Honda has introduced three new exciting colours for the 2023MY CRF1100L Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports.

2023 Honda Africa Twin and Africa Twin Sport to feature new visuals.
2021 Africa Twin and Africa Twin Sport DCT variants accounted for 51% of the model’s sales.

The Honda Africa Twin is a strong candidate in the dual-purpose motorcycle segment and is one of Honda’s most popular models in its current range.

To ensure the big bore ADV continues to carry on the fight into 2023, Honda is bringing three new visual updates to the Africa Twin.

Firstly, the base Africa Twin will remain available in “Grand Prix Red”, but Honda adds two new colours; “Mat Ballistic Black Metallic” and “Glint Wave Blue Metallic Tricolour.”.

According to Honda, the “Black Metallic” colour scheme features an all-black frame, while the “Blue Metallic Tricolour” offers a new blue headlight cowl with a blue front fender.

Meanwhile, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports gets “Mat Iridium Grey Metallic” with black detailing and rims. Nonetheless, Honda still retains the “Pearl Glare White Tricolour” colour scheme.

Mechanically, both trims (base AT and AT Sports) are available in manual or dual-clutch transmission (DCT) gearbox.

Triumph-Bajaj Partnership To Roll Out First Motorcycle In 2023

We’ve been hearing about Triumph-Bajaj collaboration for a while now and although we’ve seen the motorcycle they are working on, both parties have yet provided the exact launching date.

Triumph-Bajaj partnership to debut the new motorcycle in 2023.
Expected to feature between 200cc to 250cc engine capacity.
Bajaj to manufacture the motorcycle in a new manufacturing plant in Chakan, India.

However, according to recent speculations, the Triumph-Bajaj partnership will release their first motorcycle in 2023.

The motorcycle is expected to make a mark in the premium entry-level class that is now high demand especially in India, Asia and Europe.

Despite no words on the engine capacity, the collaboration is likely to have engine sizes ranging from 200cc to 250cc.

If the launch is due in 2023, the debut model could make a surprise appearance at the EICMA show in Milan, Italy later in the year.

While it may carry Triumph’s badge, the motorcycle will be manufacturer out of Bajaj new manufacturing plant in Chakan, India.

This would aid greatly in ensuring the price point of the motorcycle which could also lead to a higher sales volume.

Husqvarna Norden 901 Now In Malaysia – RM98,800

Calling all adventure riders, the all-new Husqvarna Norden 901 has officially land in Malaysia with a recommended selling price of RM98,800 excluding road tax, insurance and registration.

the Norden 901 features the same 890cc parallel-twin engine taken from KTM’s 890 Adventure.
Husqvarna claimed the company first ADV bike makes 103hp and 100Nm.

The Norden 901 officially made its bow in November 2021, two years after the Swedish company unveiled the concept at EICMA.

Build based on the KTM 890 Adventure platform, the Norden 901 carries a different styling set than its Austrian cousin.

It has a more extensive body panel than the 890 Adventure, thus making it a proper dual-purpose bike for long-distance touring.

Nonetheless, underneath the fairing sits the same 890cc parallel-twin engine that makes 103hp and 100Nm.

The Norden also features a 21″ front and 18″ rear wheel paired with a tubeless Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR.

Moreover, it also comes equipped with taller suspension travel from the WP APEX suspension setup, 215mm and 220mm, as opposed to KTM’s 200mm.

If you fancy some electronics, the ADV bike comes with three standard riding modes (Rain, Street and Off-Road) but should you fancy ‘exploring the world’, Husqvarna offers the option “Explore” mode. (Which we thinks is another fancy name for Touring mode).

Other exciting features include:

quickshifter
slipper clutch
traction control
cornering ABS (with off-road mode)
auxiliary LED lights
19L tank

KTM 890 Duke R And 890 Adventure Lands In Malaysia – From RM75,800

KTM Malaysia has officially launched the new KTM 890 Duke R and 890 Adventure for the local market.

The KTM 890 Duke R and 890 Adventure gets a host of upgrades.
Both motorcycle features moden electronic package and the same 890cc parallel-twin engine.

KTM 890 Adventure – RM96,800

The new motorcycle made its global appearance when the world was in the midst of Covid-19 madness back in October 2020.

At the time, KTM unveiled the 890 Adventure and the 890 Adventure R Rally but only the former is available for our market, for now.

Nevertheless, the KTM 890 Adventure runs the 889cc parallel-twin engine which has significant upgrades from the previous 790 generation. They’ve also upgraded other things like traction control, ABS, and electronics to make them more ‘wholesome’ for everyday riding.

They’re also coming in hot with a new set of fully adjustable WP XPLOR 48mm front forks while the rear is handled with the WP XPLOR PDS unit. This combo offers separate compression settings for low and high speeds, so you don’t have to mess with it too much once you get off the highway and onto the dirt.

KTM 890 Duke R – RM75,800

Also joining the Malaysian market is the new KTM 890 Duke R retailed at RM75,800.

As usual, the 890 Duke R offers a weird yet perfect contrast of colours, which only KTM can deliver.

First introduced in 2020, the KTM 890 Duke R continue to be the undisputed champion of the middleweight naked bike category.

Underneath the fancy paint sit s the famous 890cc parallel-twin engine that boasts an impressive 121hp and 99Nm.

The KTM 890 Duke R remains a no-nonsense middleweight naked bike, equally capable of tackling twisty corners on normal roads as it is on the racetrack.

Dubbed The Super Scalpel due to its lightning-fast steering geometry, the KTM 890 Duke R continue to feature a tubular steel chassis and adjustable WP Apex suspension.

Also available on the 890 Duke R is a pair of
Brembo Stylema callipers with 320mm front disc, and adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder to counteract the enormous power.

The 890 Duke R also features a host of electronics wizardly, which includes:

Cornering ABS
Cornering MTC (traction control)
6D lean-angle sensor (roll, pitch & yaw)
Riding mode (Rain/Street/Sport and Track)
9-levels adjustable traction control slop
anti-wheelie
throttle control settings

As always, a full range of KTM PowerParts has been developed to allow owners to personalize the 890 Duke R accordingly.

Barkbusters Introduces Handguards For Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Australian motorcycle accessories specialist, Barkbusters has a new toy for Triumph’s Tiger Sport 660.

The Barkbusters handguards include the guards and sturdy metal brackets for the Tiger 660.
Owners can choose from a wide variety of colours from a retail price of USD100.

Owners of the new middleweight sports-tourer can now fitted the bike with Barbusters’ handguards. The kit is plug and play, hence riders can equipped the handguards without any modification for fitment.

Also available is a set mounts that allows owners to pick any handguard design available.

While handguards are mostly suited on a more ‘adventure-ready’ motorcycle as it helps to deflects debris but the component are increasingly popular on sport tourers as well since it also helps to protect from cold win and rain during long journeys.

Handguards also protects your levers should the bike tips over. In this case, Barkbusters handguards are made off aluminium so they’ll be sure to provide the best protection needed.

With a wide variety of colours to choose from, you can certainly find the one that fits your Tiger Sport 660.

Anyway, if you are looking for the product code, just search for BHG-095-00-NP on Barkbusters’ website.

2023 Ducati World Premiere To Kick Off In September, 7 Episodes Leading To EICMA

We are into the second half of 2022, and you know what that means? That’s right, Ducati World Premier (DWP) is set to return for 2023.

Ducati to unveil seven new motorcycles at the DWP 2023.
New Panigale and second-generation Multistrada V4 could make an appearance.
The 2023 DWP is likely a lead-up to something even bigger at EICMA 2022.

Although Ducati announced that they plan to make an appearance at EICMA 2022 this year, the Italian firm has opted to continue its virtual web series to introduce its 2023 models.

That said, Ducati has announced seven new episodes for DWP 2023, beginning with episode one on September 2, 2022, while the final episode will be aired on November 7, a day before the start of EICMA 2022 on November 8 in Milan.

As usual, Ducati is keeping mum about what’s in store for us in 2023 but during the recently concluded World Ducati Week (WDW) 2022, what we know so far is that a new Scrambler made an appearance.

Previously, titles for each episode sometimes provide a glimpse of what the upcoming models could be, but this year’s episode seems generic, and we have no clue what Ducati has for us. Take a look for yourself:

Episode 1—The Unexpected (September 2)
Episode 2—Ready for More? (September 15)
Episode 3—Unlock Earth (September 29)
Episode 4—This is Racing (October 7)
Episode 5—Push Forward (October 20)
Episode 6—Dare to be Bold (October 28)
Episode 7—Next Gen Freedom (November 7)

Now that’s seven-episode in three months. Too long? Well, Ducati wants to keep us on the edge of our seats with this one, which tells us something significant is coming.

Nevertheless, a few of those titles are slightly suggestive, but we could be wrong. “This is Racing” most likely refers to a Panigale, while the 2023 finale, “Next Gen Freedom”, could hint at a second-generation Multistrada V4.

However, something tells us that Ducati doesn’t plan to stop at just seven episodes, as they could do a big unveiling at EICMA to mark the brand’s return to the biggest motorcycle event in the world.

2022 Yamaha MT-03 Gets New Paint Job In Thailand

The Yamaha MT range has been doing well since its introduction back in 2005, and since then, the naked bike family has grown to become one of the most famous street bikes from Yamaha.

2022 Yamaha MT-03 features new Dark Blast edition.
Equipped with the same 321cc parallel-twin engine that pumps out 37.1hp and 28Nm.

While the nameplate “Master of Torque” (MT) is best represented by the MT-07 and MT-09 motorcycles, the smaller variants, including the MT-03 (MT-25 in Malaysia) are also popular, especially in Asian countries.

That said, Yamaha has unveiled the MT-03 with a new Dark Blast edition in Thailand that features new colour schemes.

The 2022 unit comes in two new colourway, the first features a grey bodywork with cyan-coloured wheels while the second gets an all-black treatment in place of the prior blue/grey scheme.

Nonetheless, no changes are made to the engine that still carries the same 321cc parallel-twin powertrain that makes 37.1hp @ 10,590rpm and 28Nm @ 9,010rpm.

Other notable features include:

dual-channel ABS.
digital LCD instrument cluster,
full LED lights.

According to Yamaha, the 2022 MT-03 Dark Blast Edition retails at THB195,510 (RM23.8k).

Geely To Debut New Motorcycle Brand PFMoto On August 16

Chinese motorcycle brand is growing, and despite the negative stigma, companies like QJ Motor and CFMoto are doing pretty well in their native country and also in Europe.

PFMoto set to become Geely’s third motorcycle company after QJMotor and Benelli.
To be position as Geely’s most high-end motorcycle brand.

A Chinese-owned company like Benelli is doing really well in Italy, with the TRK 502 emerging as the country’s best-selling bike.

CFMoto is also a surprise package, with the 800MT receiving good reviews from industry players thanks to its partnership with KTM.

The 700CL-X Heritage, Sport and the upcoming ADV also showcased top-quality components paired with a reliable – Kawasaki-sourced – 649cc parallel-twin engine.

However, there is a new player in town set to emerge on August 16. Chinese automotive giant Geely Group is scheduled to introduce PFMoto.

Presently, Geely already has Benelli and QJMotor under its wing, but PFMoto could position itself as a high-end motorcycle brand.

While not much detail is revealed, the report suggests that PFMoto could introduce a high-capacity touring motorcycle soon after its official introduction.

Based on a rendered photo, PFMoto is currently working on a grand-tourer motorcycle called the Starship 3.

EP Manufacturing To Manufacture Blueshark Electric Motorcycles In Malaysia

Despite a slow start, Malaysia is set to expand its electric two-wheels sector with the introduction of Blueshark brand of electric scooters.

EP Manufacturing to sells Blueshark’s electric motorcycle in Malaysia.
The Blueshark R1 electric scooter features fingerprint starter system (keyless) and a total of 72 sensors.

Malaysian-based EP Manufacturing will produced and distributes Blueshark electric two-wheelers in Malaysia and other markets in Southeast Asia after signing a deal with Sharkgulf Technologies Group and CIS Pride Silver Rock Fund, back in March 2022.

Sharkgulf is a China-based company that’s responsible for the Blueshark electric scooters while CIS Pride Silver Rock Fund is an investment fund.

According to EP Manufacturing, the company will set up a new facility including a sales and distribution centre for Blueshark’s electric motorcycles in Malaysia.

Sharkgulf currently offers the Blueshark R1, an electric scooter with an output rate of 5kW (6.7hP) and 201Nm of torque thanks to its two 1,440Wh batteries.

Sharkgulf claimed that the Blueshark R1 has a maximum range of 160km at 25km/h. In addition, the Blueshark R1 weighs just 92kg (without batteries) and has a paylod rating of 200kg.

Other notable features include a fingerprint starter system, 10-inch full colour touchscreen, front and rear cameras and a rear-facing ultrasonic sensors (to monitor distance from other vehicles).

(Source: The Edge Markets)

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Amirul Azreen