Wahid Ooi, Author at BikesRepublic.com

2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship Round 2 – TOC HKM Racing Team Makes a Comeback

Round 2 of the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship saw see-saw results for the TOC Automotive College-backed TOC-HKM Racing Team.
However, the team’s technicians did a great job to restore one heavily and another slightly damaged bikes.
Team rider Amirul Hafiq Azmi won the Superstock Race 2 and finished 2^nd in the Superbike Race 2 at the Sepang International Circuit.

In campaigning in the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit, TOC HKM Racing Team had started the event well initially; Amirul Hafiq Azmi fought his way up the field from his 11^th qualifying grid to finish 2^nd behind a hard-charging Azroy Hakeem, in Saturday’s Superstock Race 1.

The team’s BMW S 1000 RR was well-prepared has the speed and Amirul Hafiq has the skill but Azroy was already too far in front to chase down.

However, he crashed spectacularly in the subsequent Superbike Race 1 and destroying the bike in the process. He was holding on to 3^rd position at that moment.

His teammate Muhammad Jamalul Tarmizi, on the other hand, was caught in a see-saw battle with Thailand’s Michael Muesel, often swapping positions. However, just a handful of laps left to go, Muhammad Jamalul overshot a corner and low-sided in the gravel trap. He was able to pick the bike back up and crossed the line in 15^th. (Please click on the link below for a detailed report.)

2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Round 2 (Saturday)

Not a very good day to remember.

TOC HKM Racing Team’s crew worked through the early Sunday morning to repair Amirul Hafiq’s bike for Race 2 of the Superstock and Superbike categories.

In Superstock Race 2, Amirul Hafiq once again charged up the field and closed the gap to Azroy Hakeem and shadowed the latter from Lap 5. Amirul Hafiq made his move by outbraking Azroy into Turn 4 (a great feat by its own) and pulled away immediately to win the race.

Next was Superbike Race 2. While Azlan Shah Kamaruzan and Rajini Krishnan of India blasted off into the distance, Amirul battled with a number of riders into 4^th. Rajini then overshot Turn 9 and dropped to fifth. That meant the Swiss rider Jonathan Serrapica was in 2^nd. Amirul hunted down Serrapica mercilessly and passed the rider to take 2^nd spot which he held on until the finish.

Muhammad Jamalul also rode a smart race on the TOC HKM Racing Team Kawasaki ZX-10R to cross the line in 6^th.

Sunday’s comeback showed the experience and resilience of the team and they did an amazing job to go from a trashed bike into a race-winning machine. In fact, pundits in the paddock were adamant that it was the end of the TOC HKM Racing Team for this round following the previous day’s misfortunes.

But this demonstrates what we’ve been harping about in the last few articles: If Certified Technicians are important outside the racetrack, they are crucial (to the stage of performing miracles) during a race weekend. To cite what Dato’ Ahmad Razlan Razali said during our interview last week, the developments in racing activities creates a huge demand for certified and trained technicians. The results today showed what he said was correct.

The TOC Automotive College upped the ante in projecting their branding from this round, by putting up boards of their Bina Bakat program and also the Superbike Technician Course in the paddocks.

Please visit TOC Automotive College’s Facebook page or their campus (map below) or call call (+603) 7960 8833 for more information. Likewise, you can find more information about the TOC Bina Bakat Program here, or email info@toc.edu.my. Please click on this link for further information on the TOC Superbike Technician Course.

2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Round 2 (Saturday)

Round 2 of the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) went off without a hitch.
It was an exciting day as the riders and their teams showcased their effort and skill at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Race 1 for all classes (except the TOC Desmo Cup) were held today. Race 2 is due tomorrow.

If there’s any indication of tomorrow, today’s (Saturday 28^th July 2018) track action in the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Round 2 at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) demonstrated just how much excitement will be in store tomorrow (29^th July 2018).

The morning started with another torrential downpour like the one during Round 1, forcing the riders to go out on Pirelli Diablo Rain tyres and getting fully drenched. They had to do so to gather setup data in case the rain continued throughout the day.

Of important note, SIC has revised the race program for the MSBK series, featuring Free Practie and Qualifying on Friday, Race 1 on Saturday and Race 2 on Sunday for all classes apart from the TOC Desmo Cup.

IDEMITSU ASIA TALENT CUP (ATC)

The ATC riders were the first to hit the track for Race 1 at 1pm. The rain had stopped by this point and the track was drying quickly.

Characteristic of the ATC, the teenagers fought tooth and nail from the green light. However, Mario Aji (#7) from Indonesia and Bill Van Eerde from Australia (#19) managed to break free of the chasing pack halfway through the race.

The pair then started trading the lead with some almost impossible and heart-stopping passes. However, Aji turned up the pace in the last few laps (recording his best on the final and 13^th lap) to keep Eerde at arm’s length, to finish 1^st and 2^nd, respectively.

In 3^rd was Malaysian Danial Sharil (#21) who did well to fight off the other riders and found space to ride a steady race to finish 5 seconds ahead of the 4^th place man, Lucky Hendriansya (#13) also from Indonesia.

TOC DESMO CUP

This class is open specifically for Ducati owners to test their skills in a competitive environment. As mentioned earlier, the Desmo owners went out for Qualifying today. It was an awesome sight and aural pleasure to hear the Thundering Twins roaring around the Sepang International Circuit.

Syamsul Bakhtiar Esa (#14) on a Ducati 1198 recorded the fastest lap of 2:35.576 and astounding 8.166 seconds faster than 2^nd placed qualifier Zulkiply Yahya (#12) on a Ducati 1098. 3^rd fastest was Muhammad Danial Afiq Zamry (#98) on a Ducati 1198.

It was an important affair for both the Desmo Owners Club and TOC Automotive College as TOC supplied the technician workforce which consisted of their lecturers and students, allowing them to get their hands on racebikes as part of their education. Desmo Cup participants, on the other hand, have experienced lecturers working on their bikes.

The TOC Desmo Cup race will be held tomorrow.

SUPERSPORT

The big news prior to this weekend was Malaysia’s current Moto3 rider, Adam Norrodin would be racing in this 600cc class.

Moto3 Rider Adam Norrodin to Ride at MSBK

But Muhammad Helmi Azman (#32) had different plans as he blasted into the lead when the red lights went out, trailed by Adam and the rest of the field. As the race progressed, Helmi kept his blistering pace to open up a huge lead, which he held on to win the race.

Fakhrusy Syarikin Rostam (#66) had been shadowing Adam for many laps until he overtook the latter with a daring move into Turn One. The pair then started trading places until the last lap when Adam managed to capitalize.

Adam came home 2^nd with Rostam less than 0.2 second behind him.

SUPER 250

It’s time for the ultra-competitive, hence ultra-entertaining Super 250 class in mid-afternoon. Competition is extremely close (and cutthroat) as the bikes are closely matched in terms of horsepower, meaning one has to work really hard to break away.

And fought they did, from even before they started braking for Turn One on the opening lap! The competitors banged fairings and elbows into Turns One and Two, almost causing a couple of crashes.

Championship leader, Indonesian Surya Narayana (#9) fought his way through to lead from Turn Two and held on to the finish, although he was hounded closely Jailani Kosma (#71) from Malaysia. Narayana kept his nerve and crossed the finish line as the winner with Kosma 0.5 second behind.

There was pandemonium as the riders fought each other hard, until Yokeshwaran K (#6) from India crashed hard just after the apex for Turn Two, causing the field to slow down and string out.

Malaysian Luth Harith B. Erwan (#38) picked up the final podium spot.

SUPERSTOCK

As opposed to Supersport, the Superstock class consists of 1000cc sportbikes.

Azroy Hakeem’s (#5) aggression worked well to allow him to decimate the field of 17 riders. He crossed the line a full 30 seconds faster than Amirul Hafiq Azmi (#80) of TOC-HKM Racing Team in 2^nd.

Ahmad Khan (#66) came home in 3^rd.

SUPERBIKE

With so many races lined up throughout the day, the premier Superbike class started at 6.15pm. The weather had cooled tremendously by this point, much to the relieve of the riders and tyres.

Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (#25) of Chia PJ Kawasaki knew he had to contend with MSBK’s ex-champion, Rajini Krishnan (#67) who hails from India.

Indeed, the two rode in close formation at the head of the field from the start, with Rajini poised to capitalize on Azlan’s mistakes. Their teams and spectators held their bated breath as Rajini started to close the gap. The pass was going to happen soon.

But Azlan dug deep into his experience in the Asia Road Racing series and turned on his beast mode and started attacking every corner aggressively to open up an immense lead.

That forced Rajini to ride safe and he backed off his pace by the end of the race as he has a comfortable cushion over Jonathan Serrapica (#48) from Switzerland.

The trio completed the race in that order.

It was however, a day to forget for TOC-HKM Racing Team as both riders crashed in the race. Amirul Hafiq Azmi was holding on in 3^rd when crashed heavily, destroying the bike. Fortunately, he was okay. His teammate and championship leader, Muhammad Jamalul Tarmizi (#89) was fighting for 4^th place with Michael Muesel (#78) of Thailand when the former low-sided into the gravel trap. He was able to remount his bike and finished in 15^th for a single point.

The 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Round 2 concludes tomorrow.

“Pelumba Malam” Suzuki GS1000E Reborn

This 1978 Suzuki GS1000E starred in the 1989 movie “Pelumba Malam (Night Racer).”
Its rich history included being raced at the Batu Tiga Circuit and stolen for a joyride.
It has now been reborn through the efforts of Legend Racing Garage, Taymen Airbrush and others.

Rebuilding a vintage or retro motorcycle may suck up one’s resources but it is worth the effort when it looks as good as this 1978 “Pelumba Malam” Suzuki GS1000E.

Let us rephrase that, it’s especially worth the while and money when the bike has a colourful history as this one.

This particular motorcycle was one of the two GS1000Es used in the filming of the 1989 movie, “Pelumba Malam (Night Racer).” The film starred A-list artists Mustapha Kamal, Sabree Fadzil, Sidi Oraza, Edika Yusof and Noreen Noor.

The bike made its first appearance at the opening credits, before being seen again during a racing scene in the Menora Tunnel near Jelapang, Perak. The tunnel had just been completed at the time of the film’s shooting.

Built in 1978, this Suzuki GS1000E was brought into the country via a grey importer. It had belonged to one of the actors of the aforesaid movie and was regularly raced competitively at the equally-legendary Batu Tiga Circuit, Shah Alam.

It was then sold to another owner, but thieves stole it and took it on a joyride around Kuala Lumpur. Thankfully, it was later recovered in Kampung Baru.

With forty years on its timing chain, the “Pelumba Malam” Suzuki was in a sad state when it arrived at Legend Racing Garage, Setapak. A decision was reached to strip it down completely for a thorough rebuild.

The rebuild process focused on returning the GS1000E to its original state while updating it for 2018 at the same time, rather than taking the custom or café racer path. It has now been repainted to the original red and white scheme, the same as the bike Wes Cooley campaigned in the 1979 AMA Superbike Championship in the United States.

The engine was rebuilt with Wiseco pistons that bumped its capacity to slightly above 1000cc from the original 998cc. Other new parts are the valves, engine internals and a new custom-made exhaust.

The Suzuki GS1000E “Pelumba Malam” was painstakingly restored by Legend Racing Garage throughout. The paintwork was applied by Taymen Airbrush which is next door to Legend Racing Garage; the seat was handcrafted by Has Kusyen in Subang Jaya; and powercoating and surface treatment and restoration were performed by Malaya Electro Plating.

Now fully restored, it showed why motorcycles such as this Suzuki GS1000E (collectively called the UJM – Universal Japanese Motorcycle) was so popular not only back then but still remains in the psyche of contemporary enthusiast and builders. The bike is beautiful in its simplicity and purposeful purity with nothing superfluous. Indeed, its purpose was to conquer the ultra-competitive AMA Superbike Championship.

But perhaps more importantly, this bike a tribute to how motorcycles formed an integral part of Malaysian popular culture for decades; and it’s now ready to carry that legacy for many years to come.

You may view the “Pelumba Malam” Suzuki GS1000E at the Art of Speed 2018 this weekend (28^th – 19^th July 2018) at the MAEPS Mardi Serdang exposition centre.

PICTURE GALLERY

Honda Stuffs CBR1000RR SP Engine into Lawn Mower!

Honda held the record for the World’s Fastest Lawn Mower recently.
But was beaten by a Norwegian group.
Honda UK retaliated with the second machine powered by a CBR1000RR SP engine.

We at Bikes Republic cover every two-wheeled news but wait, this is a four-wheeler. But it isn’t a car or an SUV.

It’s a lawn mower. A what? Yes, a sit in lawn mower which cuts grass (so, it still means we don’t cover car news).

You see, Honda built the first Mean Mower which could hit 185km/h some time back and it rightfully earned them the World’s Fastest Mower record. All was happy, happy for the Japanese manufacturer.

Until some mad(der) Norwegians stuck a GM LS1 small-block V8 (a 5.7-litre is considered considered small for the Americans *rolls eyes*) in a Viking T6 lawn mower and it hit 215km/h.

You see, it doesn’t matter if you’re Honda Japan or Honda Timbuktu or Honda UK, Honda is Honda and Honda hates getting beat.

In the spirit of one-upmanship, Honda UK went on to build the Mean Mower V2 to reclaim what was theirs – the world’s fastest mower record.

They started with a Honda HF2622 lawn tractor (okay so now it’s a tractor), custom made the chassis, which saved some weight and also to harness the mower’s new power. A Scorpion titanium exhaust full-system was added. The ECU, clutch and transmission were transplanted over as stock from the donor engine. All four wheels are driven by chains.

Yes, the engine came from a CBR1000RR SP, complete with 189 bhp and 115 Nm of torque, pushing the “tractor” from 0 – 60mph (96km/h) in under 3 seconds.

But surprise, surprise, this new vehicle could still mow your lawn at a maximum speed of 80km/h. There are two electric motors that spin carbon fibre blades underneath.

The Mean Mower V2 had been raced at the recently concluded 25^th Annual Goodwood Festival of Speed. It competed in the Hill Climb event.

But not before moving the Duke’s lawn.

Motorcycle Events on This 28th – 29th July Weekend

This 28^th – 29^th July weekend will go down in history as one of the most hectic.
There is at least one event in the Northern, Central and Southern regions.
Good news is bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts are spoilt for choice.

This 28^th to 29^th July 2018 weekend is the most hectic for us than ever before, as motorcycle events are stacked on one another, albeit at different locations.

That means you are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding what to do over the weekend. Here is the list the events by region for your easy reference.

NORTHERN

Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha

Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha (Yamaha Gen Blue Bikers Carnival) is happening at Stadium Batu Kawan, Penang on Sunday, 29^th July 2018.

Touted as the largest gathering for Yamaha motorcycle owners, the event includes the launch of a new Yamaha model. There will also be activities for the whole family, besides convoys to the event, best custom Yamaha competition, stunt show, gymkhana, service campaign, rock concert, fun and games, test rides, motorcycle showcase and lucky draws.

The Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha begins at 10am and ends at 6pm. Entry is FREE.

Please click on this link for more details.

Suzuki Malaysia’s All Big Bikers’ Penang Convoy followed by Suzuki Test Ride and Suzuki Direct Shop Opening

Suzuki Malaysia is opening the Suzuki Direct Shop in Penang on Saturday, 28^th July 2018.

To commemorate the opening, there will be a convoy for Suzuki big capacity bikes from Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia’s HQ at Prai at 10am.

Additionally, the company is organizing a test ride event at the same venue which is hilariously titled as “Suzuki Test Ride @ Penag (sic)” on their Facebook page.

Please click on this link for more information.

CENTRAL

2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) – Round 2

The national superbike racing series returns after a hiatus since mid-May, and it’s worth the wait. Round 2 will be held at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

Moto3 Rider Adam Norrodin to Ride at MSBK

The latest news has it that Malaysia’s current Moto3 rider, Muhammad Adam Norrodin, will contest in the SuperSport 600 class; the Asia Talent Cup will also join the party; as well as the addition of the TOC Desmo Cup for Ducati riders.

Grandstand viewing is free, but spectators may purchase special paddock passes to view the action up close.

Action starts today (Friday, 27^th July 2018) for the qualifying sessions, Race 1 on Saturday (28^th July 2018) and Race 2 on Sunday (29^th July) for all classes.

7^th Annual Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia 2018 powered by Petronas

The Art of Speed (AOS) is the largest gathering of custom builders, retro, ol’ skool and artists for everything automotive.

Art of Speed Malaysia 2018 Powered by PETRONAS

But that’s just part of the story because there’s always something for everyone in the family at AOS. There are art shows, toy displays, lo-riders (customized bicycles), concerts, and a lucky draw with a custom motorcycle as the grand prize.

Motorcycle manufacturers large and small will also be present, and the likes of Ducati and Kawasaki will use AOS as the platform to launch their latest models.

AOS has prepared the event thoroughly to make your visit an unforgettable experience. They’ve organized shuttles to transport you and your family from the parking lots to the exhibition halls, for example. Or conversely, you may choose to get there by MyCar who are offering RM3 off the total amount by using AOS2018 promo code.

The 7^th Annual Art of Speed 2018 powered by Petronas will be held at MAEPS MARDI, Serdang on both Saturday (28^th July) and Sunday (29^th July).

Please click on this link to find out more.

SOUTHERN

KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival 2018

Down south in Johore, KTM Malaysia is organizing the first stop for the KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival 2018.

KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival Begins in Johor on 28th July

Held at the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) campus at Skudai, Johore, the carnival is a one-day affair, filled to the gills with a heady mix of activities for KTM owners, bikers in, motorcycle enthusiasts and the general public and families.

Planned are test rides of the latest KTM models, a fun-hana (gymkhana), service campaign, lucky draw (stand to win a KTM Duke 390 as the grand prize), stunt show by Gabit Saleh and much more.

KTM Malaysia will also launch the latest KTM 200 Duke Evo on the day.

Please click on this link to find out more.

RCB Partners with Petronas Sprinta Racing and SIC Racing Team

Malaysian motorcycle accessories giant, RCB, has partnered with Petronas Sprinta Racing and SIC Racing Team.
The deal sees RCB as a technical partner for the rest of the 2018 season.
RCB is better known as Racing Boy among the biker community.

RCB has always been involved in sponsoring teams and riders in motorsports and they have inked a deal with Petronas Sprinta Racing as a technical sponsor for the remainder of the 2018 season, the SIC Racing Team website reported.

Many Malaysian bikers would be familiar with the name “RCB” or better known as “Racing Boy.” RCB is our own homeground accessories maker with an entire catalogue chock full of strikingly coloured motorcycle bling, ranging from anodized hand levers to alloy wheels to braking parts such as brake discs and calipers to electronic items like LCD instrument clusters.

You’ve probably also recall seeing the “RCB” logo on Valentino Rossi and Maverick Vinalez’s Yamaha YZR-M1. (Please click on the link below to read more.)

Racing Boy introduces Race Ready Collection 2018 for 150cc motorcycles!

Well, RCB has always been involved in sponsoring teams and riders in motorsports and they have inked a deal with Petronas Sprinta Racing as a technical sponsor for the remainder of the 2018 season, the SIC Racing Team website reported.

The Petronas Sprinta Racing Team contests in the world Moto3 championship, fielding Malaysian Muhammad Adam Norrodin and previous Asia Talent Cup Champion, Ayumu Sasaki from Japan as their riders.

Moto3: Petronas Sprinta Racing ready for 2018!

RCB’s partnership also extends to the SIC Racing Team in Moto2 which has Finnish rider Niki Tuuli as the sole rider.

Meet Niki Tuuli, the NEW SIC Racing Team Moto2 rider!

“It’s important to have RCB as our Technical supplier for our team because as a team we’re always looking for technical parts to improve our performance. This partnership has allowed us to make the most of RCB’s R&D to develop some important components for our Moto2 and Moto3 machines,” said Johan Stigefel, Team Manager for both teams.

Bruce Lee, CEO of RCB said, “The Petronas Sprinta Racing Team members are professionals who are passionate with motorcycle racing. For this reason, RCB is delighted to be part of the team’s project. Together, we believe, both parties’ philosophies match in terms of passion, innovation and work ethics. We are very confident this new partnership will help us achieve great things together. We believe both parties will benefit with this partnership and look forward to achieving great results together.”

TechTOC with “Foreman” Oh: Your Chance of Being Coached by a Legend

Our new column, TechTOC with Foreman Oh seeks to assist you with your technical questions or issues with your motorcycle.
The winning question earns the sender a complimentary session at Most Fun Gym (MFG) worth RM300.
Prizes are also available for 2^nd and 3^rd placed questions.

We have been featuring the TechTOC with Foreman Oh column for a couple of weeks now and we’ve received a few interesting questions. Please click here for the first and here for the second column.

We’ve received many enquiries from our readers and followers in the past and although we attempted to answer every question, we couldn’t answer all due to our heavy schedule and time constraints.

But we now have “Foreman” Oh Kah Beng, also known as “KB” among his friends and “Sifu” by his students (us included).

We’ve featured KB and his current Most Fun Gym (MFG) motocross school extensively, as we discovered that riding in the dirt has immensely improved our riding skills. Please click on the link below about MFG.

Mastering All Roads by Riding Where There is No Road

As we’ve also written before, KB was the very first Malaysian GP rider, who raced on classic race bikes such as the two-stroke TZ750 against other GP greats such as Wayne Gardner and Ron Haslam. And won. Please click on the link below to read more about KB.

Most Interesting Biker –Oh Kah Beng

To refresh, KB has now been appointed as the Motorsports Consultant at the TOC Automotive College (TOC) due to his racing, wrenching and coaching background.

Not only that, the riders and even the mechanics of the TOC-HKM Toyo MSBK team are undergoing MX training at MFG in order to upgrade their skills.

So, since TOC and KB are providing motorcycle-based training, who better to answer your questions than the legendary Foreman Oh Kah Beng himself.

But it gets better, because in the interest of training more riders the fundamentals of handling a motorcycle:

The winning question receives a complimentary training session at MFG, coached by KB himself. Don’t worry about the motorcycle and equipment, as MFG will loan you the appropriate riding gear from head to toe and put you on the bike corresponding to your skill level. The package is worth RM300. Yes, absolutely free!
The 2^nd-placed question will win you 2 tickets to the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK).
The 3^rd-placed question will earn you a coveted Most Fun Gym t-shirt.

Please send in your questions now (PM us at https://www.facebook.com/BikesRepublic/), but please be specific about the issue(s) you are facing, and include your full name and your city of residence. So, start typing!

Moto3 Rider Adam Norrodin to Ride at MSBK

The Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2018 is back with Round 2 during this 27^th, 28^th, 29^th July weekend at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).
Muhammad Adam Norrodin, Malaysia’s current World Moto3 rider, will be contesting in the 600cc Supersport Championship.
The TOC Desmo Cup 2018 Championship will also commence from this weekend.

Malaysia’s current World Moto3 rider, Muhammad Adam Norrodin, who is currently on MotoGP summer break, will put his time at home to effective use by taking part at the Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2018, which enters its much-awaited second round this weekend in Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

Adam will contest in the 600cc Supersport Championship. His participation in the national championship is made possible through the hard work of his racing friend and ZK Racing team owner, Muhammad Zulfahmi Khairuddin, who has flown the Jalur Gemilang in the 125cc, Moto3, Supersports World Championship and most recently, the Moto2 World Championship with SIC Racing Team.

“I am really looking forward to the weekend; especially with the opportunity to race side by side with my brother, Muhammad Ibrahim Norrodin under ZK Racing. I am using this event to prepare myself better for the second half of this 2018 Moto3 season. I would like to thank ZK Racing for this chance and I aim to make full use of this opportunity to do my very best for the best result possible,” Adam said when asked to comment on this weekend’s race.

Commenting on Adam’s participation, Zulfahmi said that it is truly an honour for his newly-formed racing team to have Adam and his SIC Racing Team mechanic, Habibtullah Fuad Mohamad in his team this weekend.

“I hope that my other riders will take this opportunity to learn as much as possible from Adam. Similarly, for the team crew, they can learn from Habib with his experience; preparing the bike for a very challenging world championship. Hopefully, everything works well and ZK Racing can achieve good results this weekend,” said Zulfahmi.

The MSBK enters its second round after a lengthy break with Round 1 held in mid-May. Apart from the Supersports Championship, which is run based on rules of the 600cc WSBK.

MSBK Round 2 will also feature the opening round of the Desmo Ducati and Round 3 of the Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup apart from the traditional MSBK categories of the Superbike, Superstock and the Super 250.

After races at the Qatar Grand Prix in Losail and WSBK Thailand in Buriram, the Asia Talent Cup (ATC) is currently topped by Japanese youngster, Haruki Noguchi. He has a total haul of 95 points – courtesy of three wins and one second place after four races; holding a 25-point advantage over Australian Bill Van Eerde, who has 70 points. Mario Aji of Indonesia is third with 53 points. ATC is a junior development programme backed by the MotoGP worldwide rights holder, Dorna. Danial Shahril is the highest placed Malaysian in a field of 20 riders in 5th place; with a total haul of 35 points; trailing fourth placed Afridza Munandar of Indonesia by 13 points. Another Malaysian, Ibrahim Pawi – the younger brother of Moto2 rider Khairul Idham Pawi – is 15th in the championship standings with 14 points.

As for the TOC Desmo Cup 2018, it is organised by Desmo Owners Club Malaysia in collaboration with TOC Automotive College (TOC). The new season takes off this weekend for a three-leg championship this year. Riders in the competition are expected to be racing Ducati models such as the newly-launched Panigale V4, Panigale 899, Panigale 1299, Panigale 1199, Panigale 959, 848, 1098, and 1198. Each round will only feature a single 10-lap race around the 5.543-km MotoGP track.

The MSBK event officially opens this Friday with free practice sessions with qualifying and Race 1 on Saturday. Race 2 is on Sunday.

Fans can catch all the actions for free from the Main Grandstand. Fans can also purchase Paddock passes to access to the Paddock area and view from the covered rooftop of the Pit Building. The passes will be sold at the Paddock entrance. Fans can also follow the races LIVE on SIC’s Facebook. After the opening round of the MSBK, viewers have reached more than 417,813 people.

PIRELLI MALAYSIA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2018

ROUND 2 – RACE PROGRAM

Friday, 27 July 2018

1130 hrs – 1200 hrs Idemitsu ATC Free Practice 1

1215 hrs – 1245 hrs Supersport Free Practice

Break / Friday Prayer

1415 hrs – 1445 hrs Super 250 Free Practice

1500 hrs – 1530 hrs Superstock Free Practice

1545 hrs – 1615 hrs Idemitsu ATC Free Practice 2

1630 hrs – 1700 hrs Superbike Free Practice

1715 hrs – 1745 hrs TOC Desmo Cup Free Practice

Saturday, 28 July 2018

0915 hrs – 0945 hrs Idemitsu ATC Qualifying

1000 hrs – 1030 hrs Supersport Qualifying

1045 hrs – 1115 hrs Super 250 Qualifying

1130 hrs – 1200 hrs Superstock Qualifying

1215 hrs – 1245 hrs Superbike Qualifying

1310 hrs – 1345 hrs Idemitsu ATC Race 1 (13 laps)

1415 hrs – 1445 hrs TOC Desmo Cup Qualifying

1510 hrs – 1550 hrs Supersport Race 1 (12 laps)

1615 hrs – 1645 hrs Super 250 Race 1 (8 laps)

1710 hrs – 1750 hrs Superstock Race 1 (12 laps)

1815 hrs – 1845 hrs Superbike Race 1 (12 laps)

Sunday, 29th July 2018

1000 hrs – 1040 hrs Supersport Race 2 (12 laps)

1105 hrs – 1135 hrs Super 250 Race 2 (8 laps)

1200 hrs – 1240 hrs Superstock Race 2 (12 laps)

1305 hrs – 1345 hrs Idemitsu ATC Race 2 (13 laps)

1415 hrs – 1455 hrs Superbike Race 2 (12 laps)

1515 hrs – 1555 hrs TOC Desmo Cup Race (10 laps)

Team DEL Michelin to Compete in 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship

A new team will be competing in the 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship.
Team DEL Michelin was set up by the series’ pioneer, Dato’ Eric Loo.
The team’s rider will be Simon Vilhelmsen, the 24-year old Danish who finished 4^th in the 2017 S-1GP Championsip.

As the momentum builds towards the start of the 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championsip season, Dato’ Eric Loo, the founder of the FIM Asia Supermoto and AAM Malaysian Supermoto Championships will operate his own team called Team DEL Michelin.

Simon Vilhelmsen flying high at Bukit Jalil – Pic courtesy of Asia Supermoto

Any spectator and rider would have seen a fast and high-flying Danish rider in action during the final round last year at Bukit Jalil. He was Simon Vilhelmsen, the 24-year-old who hails from Denmark and finished 4^th overall in the 2017 S-1GP championship.

The FIM S-1GP is the premier European supermoto championship. As there are no other FIM sanctioned “world” supermoto series, the S-1GP is considered the MotoGP for supermoto.

Dato’ Eric had always “imported” the world’s best riders in order for the Asian riders to gauge their own standards besides presenting a motivation to improve their skills. He had brought in Chris Hodgson, the 14-time British Supermoto Champion, among others in the past.

“Riders outside Asia aren’t allowed to compete in the FIM Asia Supermoto Series, actually,” explained Dato’ Eric, “that’s why we have the International Invitational Class.”

“But I would like to see our Asian and especially Malaysian riders going toe-to-toe with international riders to gauge their own levels and see how they stack up against international riders. Also, it’s a great opportunity for Asian riders to learn from those who are based in Europe as they (the latter) have lots of experience. So, Vilhelmsen is the best choice.”

Team principal Dato’ Eric Loo (hence “DEL”) is assures us that the team will compete in all five rounds of the 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship.

On his decision to set up his own team, Dato’ Eric iterated, “We’re doing this to support the series. Seeing how it grew from just a few guys getting together to ride supermoto on the weekends to the stage of recognition it now enjoys, it’s only right that we continue to expand it.”

“I’d like to also thank our main sponsor, Michelin. We selected them because they have the best supermoto tyres. In fact, they make tyres specifically for supermoto racing.”

“We’d like to also thank our other main sponsors, Bike Nation and Wee Bikers. Bike Nation is now the official dealer for Husqvarna motorcycles in Malaysia and we are proud to be able to compete on one,” continued Dato’ Eric.

“Our co-sponsors are Ohlins, Tekmo, RK-Takagaso, MVD and Gaerne Boots. Thank you for your support.”

The 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship starts on 11^th August in Bangkok, Thailand. Stay tuned as we bring you’re the coverage of this exciting series.

Ten Technological Advancements that Improved Motorcycles (Part 2)

Motorcycles are still getting more and more advanced.
However, there are a number of technological advancements that improved the motorcycle.
These have made motorcycling both more enjoyable and safer.

We published Part 1 of this article a few days ago (please click on the link below for the first instalment) and we are completing it today with Part 2.

Ten Technological Advancements that Improved the Motorcycle (Part 1)

If necessity is the mother of all inventions, that quote certainly applies to these technological advances. We can’t imagine what would the state of motorcycles and motorcycling be today if not for these advancements.

4. Electronic fuel injection

High power output, low fuel consumption and low emissions are desired by every motorcycle owner. But you can’t have them at the same time. Well, traditionally, anyway. However, while emissions standards are tightened ever more and fuel prices are on the rise, owners continue to demand more and more powerful engines.

Fuel injectors – from treperformance.com

Electronic fuel injection (EFI) is the answer. Electronic fuel injection systems only inject very specific amounts of fuel for specific requirements, as opposed to the carburetor. EFI is also used to regulate engine power and torque when attached to traction control and ride modes.

Cross section of a fuel injector – from www.diytrade.com

3. Ride-by-Wire (RbW) throttle

Ride-by-Wire throttle technology was first introduced on a road bike in the 2006 Yamaha YZF-R6, which Yamaha called YCC-T for Yamaha Computer Controlled Throttle.

The technology was adopted from Formula 1 racing, which in turn was developed from military fighter aircraft. RbW means that the throttle grip isn’t linked directly to the throttle bodies. Instead, signals of grip movements are sent to the ECU (engine control unit) which then governs throttle body openings and fuel-injection timings and amounts according to a host of parameters. RbW has also brought on other electronic rider aids such as ride or power modes to suit riding conditions, traction control, cruise control, wheelie control, engine braking control, cornering engine control and many more.

2. Electronic rider aids

As motorcycle engine power creep ever higher, electronic rider assistance such as traction control and ride modes become increasingly important. These systems harness the power of modern motorcycles, making the motorcycle safer and more fun to ride. Yes, electronic rider assistance systems are way smarter and faster acting that any of us. Electronic rider aids are derivatives of the Ride-by-Wire throttle and electronic fuel injection.

Ride modes on the Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro

Since an RbW throttle isn’t connected directly to the throttle bodies, the ECU intervenes with the throttle openings, and/or the fuel injection timing and amounts when a loss of traction is encountered. The amount of electronic intervention is dependent on the selected ride mode or traction control level.

1. Pneumatic tyres

John Boyd Dunlop (yes, the very Dunlop) has wanted to create something like a balloon surrounding a wheel when his son complained of discomfort while riding his bicycle. His invented and patented his first pneumatic tyre in 1888.

It was also Dunlop who created the vulcanisation process to harder rubber.

John Dunlop with a bicycle fitted with pneumatic tyres – from progress-is-fine.blogspot.com

All other current tyre technologies such as as radial construction, multi-compound thread, tubeless lining, steel belting, etc. wouldn’t have been possible without the pneumatic tyre. And would’ve meant that probably none of these other technologies would exist without Dunlop’s invention.

That’s why the pneumatic tyre is the No. 1 technological advancement which improved motorcycles.

Managing Marquez and Lorenzo Likely a Challenge: Repsol Honda MotoGP

Honda MotoGP Team admits it will be “challenging” to manage the relationship of both riders.
The manufacturer will also have to build a bike which suits both riders.
Pundits are rubbing their hands together in glee to see how it works out.

Repsol Honda MotoGP Team, like everyone else knows it when they signed Jorge Lorenzo to partner Marc Marquez. It has always been known that different riders have not only different riding styles but also different personalities. Besides that, it obviously no secret how they demand for the equipment to suit their riding styles.

There have been many times when the manufacturer builds a motorcycle which favours the No. 1 rider – he who finished the previous season in a higher position than his teammate.

Marquez and his Repsol Honda MotoGP team

As such, many MotoGP pundits are wondering how Marc Marquez and Honda will cope with Jorge Lorenzo when he moves to the team next year from Ducati.

Although the signing of Lorenzo gives Honda two MotoGP title-winning riders in the same team since Eddie Lawson partnered with Wayne Gardner in 1989, Repsol Honda MotoGP team Boss, Alberto Puig admits that it’ll be a challenge to manage the mercurial pair’s relationship.

“Of course, not easy,” he said during the press conference at the Sachsenring, “But if wanted things to be easy, probably we wouldn’t run a team at this level. It’s complicated, but it’s a challenge.”

Marquez rides a V-shaped line – from MotoGP.com

On the rationale behind signing up Lorenzo, Puig replied, “The understanding is that the team wants to have the best riders, this is the principle. The possibility to sign him up was there and we took it. For Honda it’s important to prepare the best bikes we can and give them to the riders that are faster.”

Speaking about the “best bikes,” Honda will have their hands full in building a bike that suits the riding styles of both riders. Marquez rides a “V-shaped” line: Brakes late, snaps the bike over at the apex and stands it back up early, using the engine’s power to blast away. Lorenzo’s style is the opposite: He uses the traditional “long arc” of braking early and carrying more corner speed, hence he needs the most stability at the turn in and most lean angle.

Jorge Lorenzo carries more corner speed hence needs lots of lean angle – from MotoGP.com

“We don’t know Jorge, which kind of machine he wants,” said Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) General Manager Tetshuhiro Kuwata, “But of course we will try to adapt to his requirements. And also Marc has a lot of requests to us, and we try to achieve this.”

Kuwata-San rubbished claims that the current RC213V is developed entirely around Marc Marquez’s needs, “Now we are developing for Marc and also for Dani. It’s not only for one rider. So we will continue the same way next year.”

Honda and Yamaha to Introduce Hybrid Scooters in Thailand

Honda and Yamaha will promote hybrid motorcycles in Thailand.
Honda had released the PCX 150 Hybrid in Indonesia earlier this month while Yamaha will launch the Grand Filano hybrid in Vietnam, soon.
Although the new Honda PCX 150 was launched in Malaysia a few weeks ago, it is not the hybrid nor electric as we hoped.

Honda Motor Co. and Yamaha Motor Co., are confident in promoting hybrid scooters in Thailand as global attention shift to such motorcycles.

Honda has plans to launch the PCX Hybrid in August while Yamaha released the Yamaha Grand Filano Hybrid last week in the Kingdom. Both models are incidentally the first hybrid motorcycles for each manufacturer.

The 150cc PCX Hybrid is equipped with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, boasting fuel economy of 52.3 km/liter, and will sell for less than THB 120,000 baht (RM 14,600).

A.P. Honda Co., Honda’s Thai sales arm, is confident in selling 2,000 units of the PCX Hybrid per year.

On the other hand, the Yamaha Grand Filano starts at THB 55,500 (RM 6,700). Thai Yamaha Motor Co., plans to sell 7,000 units per month, on merit of a more competitive pricing.

The Thai domestic motorcycle market has around 2 million units, with A.P. Honda accounting for 80% share, and Thai Yamaha at approximately 15.2 percent, in the first half of this year.

The Thai government intends to shift the tax base for motorcycles from cylinder capacity to carbon dioxide emissions following a similar change for automobiles implemented in 2016.

The duopoly’s hybrid model launches could raise awareness of eco-friendly vehicles in the country.

Surapong Paisitpattanapong, a spokesman for an automotive group at the Federation of Thai Industries, said that demand for hybrid motorbikes in Thailand is expected to gradually grow, like hybrid passenger cars, as manufacturers need some time to raise recognition about the new technology.

Honda released the PCX Hybrid in Indonesia early this month and will start selling it in Japan on Sept. 14, while Yamaha plans to launch the Grand Filano in Vietnam.

Boon Siew Honda had just released the new PCX 150 in Malaysia a few weeks ago, but we are also waiting for either the hybrid or electric model.

2018 Honda PCX Launched by Boon Siew Honda

Bikesrepublic

Wahid Ooi

Round 2 of the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship saw see-saw results for the TOC Automotive College-backed TOC-HKM Racing Team.

However, the team’s technicians did a great job to restore one heavily and another slightly damaged bikes.

Team rider Amirul Hafiq Azmi won the Superstock Race 2 and finished 2nd in the Superbike Race 2 at the Sepang International Circuit.

Round 2 of the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) went off without a hitch.

It was an exciting day as the riders and their teams showcased their effort and skill at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

Race 1 for all classes (except the TOC Desmo Cup) were held today. Race 2 is due tomorrow.

IDEMITSU ASIA TALENT CUP (ATC)

TOC DESMO CUP

SUPERSPORT

SUPER 250

SUPERSTOCK

SUPERBIKE

This 1978 Suzuki GS1000E starred in the 1989 movie “Pelumba Malam (Night Racer).”

Its rich history included being raced at the Batu Tiga Circuit and stolen for a joyride.

It has now been reborn through the efforts of Legend Racing Garage, Taymen Airbrush and others.

PICTURE GALLERY

Honda held the record for the World’s Fastest Lawn Mower recently.

But was beaten by a Norwegian group.

Honda UK retaliated with the second machine powered by a CBR1000RR SP engine.

This 28th – 29th July weekend will go down in history as one of the most hectic.

There is at least one event in the Northern, Central and Southern regions.

Good news is bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts are spoilt for choice.

NORTHERN

Karnival Bikers Gen Blue Yamaha

Suzuki Malaysia’s All Big Bikers’ Penang Convoy followed by Suzuki Test Ride and Suzuki Direct Shop Opening

CENTRAL

2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) – Round 2

7th Annual Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia 2018 powered by Petronas

SOUTHERN

KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival 2018

Malaysian motorcycle accessories giant, RCB, has partnered with Petronas Sprinta Racing and SIC Racing Team.

The deal sees RCB as a technical partner for the rest of the 2018 season.

RCB is better known as Racing Boy among the biker community.

Our new column, TechTOC with Foreman Oh seeks to assist you with your technical questions or issues with your motorcycle.

The winning question earns the sender a complimentary session at Most Fun Gym (MFG) worth RM300.

Prizes are also available for 2nd and 3rd placed questions.

The Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2018 is back with Round 2 during this 27th, 28th, 29th July weekend at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

Muhammad Adam Norrodin, Malaysia’s current World Moto3 rider, will be contesting in the 600cc Supersport Championship.

The TOC Desmo Cup 2018 Championship will also commence from this weekend.

PIRELLI MALAYSIA SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIP 2018

ROUND 2 – RACE PROGRAM

A new team will be competing in the 2018 FIM Asia Supermoto Championship.

Team DEL Michelin was set up by the series’ pioneer, Dato’ Eric Loo.

The team’s rider will be Simon Vilhelmsen, the 24-year old Danish who finished 4th in the 2017 S-1GP Championsip.

Motorcycles are still getting more and more advanced.

However, there are a number of technological advancements that improved the motorcycle.

These have made motorcycling both more enjoyable and safer.

Honda MotoGP Team admits it will be “challenging” to manage the relationship of both riders.

The manufacturer will also have to build a bike which suits both riders.

Pundits are rubbing their hands together in glee to see how it works out.

Honda and Yamaha will promote hybrid motorcycles in Thailand.

Honda had released the PCX 150 Hybrid in Indonesia earlier this month while Yamaha will launch the Grand Filano hybrid in Vietnam, soon.

Although the new Honda PCX 150 was launched in Malaysia a few weeks ago, it is not the hybrid nor electric as we hoped.

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Team rider Amirul Hafiq Azmi won the Superstock Race 2 and finished 2^nd in the Superbike Race 2 at the Sepang International Circuit.

This 28^th – 29^th July weekend will go down in history as one of the most hectic.

7^th Annual Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia 2018 powered by Petronas

Prizes are also available for 2^nd and 3^rd placed questions.

The Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) 2018 is back with Round 2 during this 27^th, 28^th, 29^th July weekend at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

The team’s rider will be Simon Vilhelmsen, the 24-year old Danish who finished 4^th in the 2017 S-1GP Championsip.