Wahid Ooi, Author at BikesRepublic.com

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

2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 to Debut at Art of Speed

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 was first unveiled at EICMA 2017.
Next Bike will unveil it to the Malaysian public at Art of Speed 2018 this weekend.
The Scrambler 1100 range is set to bring more riders into the “Land of Joy”.

Ever since the 2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 was unveiled to the public during EICMA 2017, Malaysian enthusiasts have been anticipating its arrival at our shores. (Please click on the link below to check out our report.) The good news is Next Bike Sdn. Bhd., the sole distributor of Ducati motorcycles in Malaysia will unveil both the Scrambler 1100 Special and 1100 Sport variants at the Art of Speed (AOS) 2018 exposition on 28^th July.

2018 Ducati Scrambler 1100 – The most powerful Ducati Scrambler yet

The Scrambler 1100 will expand the Scrambler’s “Land of Joy” range and it set to increase the ranks of Scrambler fans throughout Malaysia.

Powering the bike is a 1079cc, air-cooled, Desmodromic, 4-valve, L-Twin (90^o V-Twin) which produces 86 bhp @ 7500 RPM and 88 Nm @ 4750 RPM. That’s not all as the new models receive electronic rider assistance such as ride modes with 3 settings, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Bosch’s latest Cornering ABS.

The 3 ride modes are ACTIVE which offers full engine power and limited traction control (akin to SPORT mode), JOURNEY which offers full power and appropriate power delivery (akin to TOURING mode), and CITY which limits power to 74 bhp and provides the smoothest power delivery (much like URBAN or RAIN mode).

As for rolling stock, all three models (“basic”, Special and Sport) are equipped with Brembo 4.32 Monobloc 4-piston calipers, and adjustable suspension, although the basic model and Special shares ø45mm fully adjustable USD Marzocchi forks and Kayaba monoshock. The Sport, on the other hand, features ø45mm fully adjustable USD Öhlins forks and Öhlins monoshock. Additionally, both the “basic” and Sport share the same 10-spoke 17” allow rims, while the Special uses 17” spoked aluminium wheels.

Other details have also been updates to distinguish the 1100 from the 821cc and 400cc models. The headlamp now features a prominent “X” and a new LCD instrument cluster. Although the 1100 is air-cooled, there are aluminium “radiator” shrouds behind the forks.

However, the most distinguishing styling feature has to be the dual high-mounted exhaust silencers which the Italian manufacture says will produce the “pure Ducati V-Twin” exhaust note.

Next Bike is confident that the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special and Scrambler 1100 Sport will steal the show from the many new bikes set to be launched during AOS, so be sure to visit the show this weekend.

Art of Speed 2018 will be held on 28^th to 29^th July 2018 at MAEPS Mardi, Serdang. Please refer to the map below.

PICTURE GALLERY

Benelli Opens First BEST-Shop in Selangor

Italian motorcycle brand Benelli and their authorized dealer have opened their first ever BEST-Shop in Kajang, Selangor.
It is the fourth BEST-Shop in Malaysia, containing a showroom, service centre, accessories and spare parts counter.
The shop address is No. 2, Jalan Hentian 2, Hentian Kajang, Jalan Reko, 43000 Kajang, Selangor.

Benelli Malaysia and authorized dealer Kedai Motorsikal Tenaga Sdn. Bhd. have opened their first ever Benelli exclusive station called BEST-Shop in Selangor. It is also the fourth BEST-Shop in the country.

Located in Kajang, Selangor, the BEST-Shop is situated in a new-renovated corner-lot and houses a motorcycle gallery which showcases the full range of Benelli’s motorcycles, a state-of-the-art service centre, and a genuine accessories and spare parts corner.

“Benelli has received overwhelming response in Malaysia since the launch of few popular demand models including super cub RFS 150i, touring bike TRK 502 and classic Leoncino. Backed by this demand, an exclusive showroom and service centre in Selangor state will ensure all Benelli owners can enjoy the best-in-class ownership experience that our brand stands for.”, said En. Asri Ahmad, Operation General Manager of MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd.

En. Asri added, “Benelli Malaysia has recently been selected and appointed as the sole Road Test Center in South East Asia by Benelli Global. Therefore, all new motorcycles will be tested in Malaysia before launching in other ASEAN countries. This new milestone gives us immense pleasure and motivation indeed! In 2017 Benelli Malaysia was awarded the best in Global Sales, Network Sales Management & Product Launching, we are on track to achieve the feat again for 2018 and also en route to be the best in After Sales Service for the year 2018 as well”.

The shop address is No. 2, Jalan Hentian 2, Hentian Kajang, Jalan Reko, 43000 Kajang Selangor. Opening hours are from 9am – 7pm from Mondays to Fridays, 9am – 6pm on Saturdays and is closed on Sundays. For more information, please contact BEST-Shop Kajang at Tel 03-8737 2161, Fax 03-8741 0891 or log on to Benelli’s official website at https://malaysia.benelli.com/ or Facebook page at http://fb.com/malaysia.benelli

KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival Begins in Johor on 28th July

KTM Malaysia’s largest event, the KTM Orange Carnival will kick off its first leg on Saturday, 28^th July 2018.
Starting in Johore, it will be held at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai.
Many activities are in store and KTM owners, owners of all othe brands and general public are welcomed to attend.

It carnival time in the south as KTM Malaysia will launch the KTM Orange Carnival at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai, Johor, on Saturday, 28^th July 2018.

Judging by the program list stated by KTM Malaysia, the carnival looks set to be the biggest ever organized by the official distributor, as it includes a large number of activities KTM owners, non-KTM owners and the public at large.

The first is the test ride session. Attendees have the opportunity to test ride the latest KTM models, from the Supersport, Duke, and Adventure series. But that’s not all, as those who test rode the motorcycles will receive a KTM multipurpose bag and one lucky draw ticket. Talk about having your cake and eating it. KTM Malaysia will also hold technical briefings on the features of the motorcycles before the commencement of the test rides.

The next great attraction is the Fun-Hana competition, which tests riders’ skills in recording the fastest time in negotiating a gymkhana course. It is open to bikes of all makes. Participants can join the following classes, but the numbers are limited to 16 per category:

Below 200cc.
200- to 500cc.
500cc and above.

Prizes for the Top 4 riders are:

1^st place: RM200 plus a medal, Gracshaw helmet and ELF engine oil.
2^nd place: RM100 plus a medal, Gracshaw helmet and ELF engine oil.
3^rd place: A medal.
4^th place: A medal.

KTM Malaysia is also offering a special service campaign exclusively for KTM owners which includes a FREE 13-point safety check from 9am to 5pm. Owners who purchase 2 bottles of ELF engine oil will also receive a lucky draw ticket. The items being checked are:

Electrical systems,
Tyre condition,
Tyre pressures,
Brake system,
Engine oil level,
Coolant condition,
Chain tension,
Chassis bolt/nut check,
Side stand,
Suspension condition,
Engine oil leak,
Cables, and
Systems diagnostics with the KTM XC1 Diagnostic checker.

There will be a special sale with items going at up to 60% discounts. Those who purchased more than RM150 of KTM PowerWear merchandize or RM500 of KTM PowerParts items will be eligible for a lucky draw ticket.

As for visitors who didn’t take part in the above activities or wish to increase their chances in the lucky draw, KTM Malaysia offers Orange Carnival Pack which is priced at RM30 each. The pack consists of a lucky draw ticket, KTM Malaysia Orange Carnival T-shirt, and KTM lanyard.

Among the lucky draw prizes are KTM PowerWear and KTM PowerParts worth RM20,000. The grand prize is a brand new KTM 390 Duke.

KTM Malaysia’s Factory Rider, who is also the winner at the recent GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling, besides Malaysian MX and enduro champion, and 2016 FIM Asia Supermoto champion, Muhd. Habibullah Muhd. Saleh, better known as Gabit, will perform at the stunt shows at 11.30am and 4.00pm.

Other vendors include Gracshaw Helmet and ELF engine oil. Sponsors of the carnival are Gracshaw Helmet, ELF Lubricants and Corporate Hero.

Please refer to the map below for the location.

Ten Technological Advancements that Improved the Motorcycle (Part 1)

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.

Motorcycles have advanced by leaps and bounds over the years (thank you, Capt. Obvious), but there are certain technologies that are the most important. These are the ten technological advancements make riding safer and more enjoyable.

10. Alloy frames
The progress of stickier tyres meant that engines could be built with more power but the steel tube frames of the 70s and early 80s couldn’t keep up with the progress. It wasn’t uncommon to find the world’s fastest bikes of the period wobbling in the corners.

Eddie Lawson on the Z1000. Look at that spindly frame and swingarm steel tubes!

The tubes had to be made bigger and bigger, causing its weight to offset the power gains of the engine. Besides that, steel is inflexible and caused tyre wear as well as grip issues.

Suzuki was the innovator during the manufacturer’s peak years. They decided to go aluminium for the frame. The first aluminium frame’s first appeared in the iconic 1986 Suzuki GSX-R750, otherwise affectionally known as the “Slabside” or “Slingshot.” Aluminium was the answer as the material was both strong and light. The engineers could tune its stiffness characteristic through different thickness or webbing to achieve specific flex attributes.

Almost all high-performance motorcycles are fitted with aluminium frames these days.

Aluminium has replaced the monocoque structure on the Ducati Panigale V4

9. Fairings
Race teams and riders had known for many years that fairings on the motorcycle allow for better aerodynamic flow and consequently more speed. But fairings didn’t make it to production motorcycles until 1973 when BMW launched the R90S. Its successor, the R 100 RS in 1976 was the first production motorcycle to be fitted with a full fairing. Street riders could now seek protection from windblast.

8. Disc brakes
There’s no substitute the hydraulic disc brake system. The working principles are very easy to understand: Hydraulic fluid is squeezed through a tube to push the calipers that hold the pads onto a disc that’s mounted solidly to the wheel. (Please click on this link to find out how it works.)

The disc brake has many other advantages over its drum brake predecessors, too. It is self-cleaning as brake dust is blown away, it cools faster since the disc and pads are in the airflow, doesn’t get waterlogged, suspension movements doesn’t affect braking, and easier to check for wear.

That’s why the hydraulic disc brake system hasn’t been replaced. Instead, improvements are sought elsewhere as in disc/pad material, hoses, master cylinder, calipers and caliper mounting.

7. Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
There was a time when ABS was scorned by riders for being unreliable and adds extra weight to the motorcycle. But truth is, ABS is the one technology which has saved many lives and limbs. ABS have been developed extensively through the years to include cornering ABS or work with other systems such as traction control. (Please click on this link to discover how ABS works.)

ABS ring on the Modenas Dominar 400’s front brake

6. Multi-cylinder engines
The earliest combustion engines were single-cylinders. However, as the quest for ever more power production took hold, more cylinders were added to give birth to Twins, Triples, Fours, Sixes and even Eights of various layouts and crankshaft spacings. Imagine how our motorcycling world would be if we had none other than single-cylinder thumpers now.

5. Hydraulically damped telescopic forks
Forks were first designed to connect steering stem with the wheels at one time and they didn’t provide any damping. It all changed when BMW Motorrad introduced hydraulically-damped forks in the R12 in 1935. Motorcycle forks have seen so much development since then and even alternative solutions such as hub-centre steering, girder fork arrangements, et al couldn’t unseat hydraulic forks as the preferred front suspension set up.

Ohlins fork fitted to the Ducati Panigale V4S

Motorcycles-Only Bridge at Federal Highway Takes Shape

The Federal Highway motorcycle lane upgrading project will include a motorcycle-only bridge.
It spans the busy Jalan 222 – Jalan Templar – Federal Highway intersection.
The project had been delayed and is slated to be ready by early-October 2018.

The Jalan 222 – Jalan Templar – Federal Highway may be the most congested during the rush hours, but it is for a good thing in the future, reports The Star.

As part of the 8.1km-long motorcycle lane and drainage upgrade project which costs RM28 million, a motorcycles-only bridge which spans the intersection will be ready for use by early October. The project starts from Kelab Gold Negeri Selangor along the Federal Highway near Subang Parade and ends at the Kota Darul Ehsan arch, which marks the Selangor-Kuala Lumpur border.

The bridge’s underpass – Courtesy of thestar.com.my

The project had been slated to be completed in June this year, but heavy rain which began in May and change of design delayed it for over a month, explained a Public Works Department (JKR) spokesman. Other factors that caused the delays were theft of equipment, the general elections and long stretches of public holidays.

The project seeks to repair or upgrade damaged road surface and alleviate flooding problems in sections of the bike lanes which spans a total of 16km in both directions.

A check by Bikes Republic revealed that a section of the bike lane after Jalan Barat heading towards Kuala Lumpur had been given a new asphalt cover, although it had not been widened as most expected. However, the section remains closed for some reason.

A section of the bike lane near Jalan 222 is still closed – Courtesy of thestar.com.my

In the time being, motorcyclists are forced to share the Federal Highway’s main throughway with other heavy vehicles, putting their lives and those of others in danger. (Please click on the link below to read our earlier report.)

Motorcycles Allowed on Federal Highway Due to Bike Lane Works

As such, we recommend that motorcyclists remain in the left lane as much as possible should you choose to use the Federal Highway. Since the old highway’s lanes are narrower, heavier vehicles drive closer to one another, and this represents dangerous challenges to motorcyclists, especially if you are caught in the faster lanes when the traffic suddenly becomes less congested and speeds of other vehicles pick up.

We hope the Public Works Department and their contractors pick up the pace and complete the project as soon as possible in the interest of safety of all road users.

TechTOC: “Foreman” Oh Answers About Suspension

TechTOC is a weekly technical column moderated by “Foreman” Oh Kah Beng (KB).
KB is now the Motorsports Consultant at the TOC Automotive College’s motorcycle racing venture and Principal Trainer at his Most Fun Gym (MFG) MX-school
Send in your technical questions, and the winner receives a complimentary session at KB’s Most Fun Gym MX-school!

We began with TechTOC last week, when “Foreman” Oh or as he likes to be called, “KB”, answered a reader’s query about engine operating temperatures (please click on the this link to read about it). This week, KB answers a good question about motorcycle suspension, namely the terminologies.

Question:

I always hear my friends talking about set up. Can you explain what is preload, compression and rebound damping?

— Wong Siew Seng, Selangor

Answer:

To answer your question needs to take up and entire article so I’ll try to be as brief as I can and cover only the basics.

The short answer is, preload is to adjust suspension sag. Sag (there are unladed and laden sag) is the name given to the amount of suspension travel used up when the bike settles under the bike’s own weight (unladen) and when the rider sits on the bike (laden). You alter its settings by rotating the collars or ramp clockwise, which loads the spring. It will cause the spring to push back on the collar, thereby reducing the sag and raising that end of the bike’s ride height at the same time. Move the collars up and the ride height drops.

But do not be fooled! The frustrating misconception is that altering the preload also changes your suspension’s stiffness (spring rate). This is totally wrong! You DO NOT change the spring rate unless you replace the spring. The suspension feels harsh when you add in too much preload as you have reduced the sag too much and the suspension sinks into its stiffer stroke. Think of sag as “freeplay.” However, too little preload is also a bad thing, as the suspension will have to much “freeplay” and compress all the way to its bump stop.

Before we proceed to the subject of damping, let us get this out of the way:

A spring if left to work alone (without damping) is prone “oscillations.” A compressed spring stores energy and when that energy is released, the spring will re-extend past its original length. When that happens, the elongated spring now stores potential energy and will recompress the spring when released. This process happens over and over again, the spring will “oscillate” until the energy turns translates totally to heat. You will feel the bike wallow up and down, like sitting on a motionless boat on a stormy sea – up and down, down and up, up and down.

Spring oscillation graph – hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu

This is where damping comes into play. Damping controls the movements of the spring.

Compression damping (marked as “COM”on the fork/s or shock/s) pertains to how “quickly” or “slowly” the wheel is allowed to push upwards when it contacts a bump. If you increase compression, the valves inside the fork or shock shuts off the flow of hydraulic oil or gas, thereby resisting the wheel’s upward movement. Conversely, if you decrease compression, the valves open up and oil or gas is able to flow more freely, hence the wheel comes up faster.

But DO NOT go to extremes. Just because you ride fast, it does not mean you need more compression damping. If you increase it too much, there will be too much resistance to the wheel’s movement, rendering it difficult to “soak” up bumps i.e. the suspension could not comply with road irregularities. This will cause the wheel to hop and lose traction. Additionally, a lot of bump energy is transferred to the rider. A bit less compression works for cornering at times, allowing the tyre to absorb the bumps and “dig” into the road (better mid-corner stability, too).

Rebound damping is opposite to compression damping. It regulates how quickly or slowly the wheel returns to its normal position after compression. Too much rebound will cause the suspension to “pack up,” as in it returns too slowly and that end of the bike will feel loose as the wheel stays up too long from its optimal position. Too little rebound, conversely, causes the wheel to be pushed back down too quickly (“packing down”) and the bike will feel harsh.

Too little rebound can be confused with too much compression but pay attention to whether the “hit” is felt immediately when you contact a bump or just after it. If it is felt immediately when you hit a bump, it is due to too much compression (or a spring that is too hard). Conversely, if the bump is felt after contacting it, it is due to too little rebound damping.

So, adjust the preload to obtain the correct sag (30 to 40 mm or 1/3 of total suspension travel) and ride height, compression damping for bump absorption and rebound damping for how the wheel returns after bump absorption. Understanding this will do wonders to the handling of your motorcycle.

Although suspension settings are subjective as every rider has a different comfort zone and riding environment, personally, I always like to set both compression and rebound damping on the softer side, and work my way up, using the factory (stock) setting as the baseline. An overly soft setting is more forgiving than overly hard one, as the former is more pliant while the latter is harsh and unforgiving, which could lead to extreme occurrences such as tyre slides and tank slappers.

You can learn more about this in the TOC Automotive College’s Superbike Technician Course. 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.

You may also visit Most Fun Gym for off-road training, as it improves your riding skills for all riding conditions. Please call +6012-2072516 for more enquiries or to book an appointment.

Ten Must-Have Tools for Motorcyclists

Tools are essential in any motorcycle.
While modern motorcycles are as reliable as the atomic clock, that doesn’t discount emergencies.
It’s always best to be prepared for the worst.

Roadside motorcycle repairs are almost extinct in these times as motorcycles become ever more reliable. However, that doesn’t rule out breakdowns due to say, minor accidents (touch wood!), such as experienced by this writer during the recent GIVI Rimba Raid Mat Daling.

Time to break out the tools kit.

This is no time to discover that either you’ve got no tools or crappy and/or inadequate ones that came with your bike (depending on the manufacturer).

Here are Ten Must Have Tools. You could choose to store them under your bike’s seat or in the tool box, but best to we ride while adhering to the Scouts’ principle of being ready.

Multi-tool

A multi-tool is always handy as it combines many tools into one compact package. You’d usually find a knife, a pair of pliers, a pair of screwdrivers with different heads. Do get yourself a sturdy set such as those from Victorinox (the ever-popular Swiss Army knife), Gerber or Leatherman.

The caveat of a multi-tool is that it only contains basic tools, leaving out the wrench, among others.

2. Screwdrivers

The screwdrivers included with multi-tools are too short, thereby lacking the torque to turn stubborn screws, besides being unable to reach difficult places. You ought to include a pair of 15cm (6”) long Phillips and straight-edged screwdrivers under the seat. Also, best that they have magnetic tips to help you in retrieving metal objects.

3. Pliers

You may already have a multi-tool, but it’s still best to have a dedicated pair of pliers under the seat, in case you forget the multi-tool. We prefer the needle-nose (long nose) variety as it could fit into tight spaces. Do choose the pair with a sharp and strong cutter.

4. Allen/Hex Keys

Most bikes use both normal screws in combination with allen or hex (usually called “flower” locally) screws. Yes, you can find an entire set contained in a flip-out style holder, but we recommend that you obtain ones with long handles for the necessary torque. Additionally, find those with ball-ends as they slot in easier at acute angles. You can bring those corresponding to the sizes of the screws on your bike and leave the rest at home.

5. Adjustable wrench (spanner)

Honestly, we abhor the adjustable wrench as it never fits a bolt or nut exactly, leading to rounded bolts and nuts. Yet, it’s the only tool you could turn to when you don’t have enough wrenches or sockets. A locking type is recommended as it frees your hands to work on other things.

6. Wrenches (Spanners)

How could anyone leave these out? You don’t have to buy from the smallest to the largest, instead have those sizes on your bike. Please don’t be cheap when you shop for wrenches (or any tool for that matter) as low-quality ones with have you crying over rounded bolts and nuts.

7. Puncture repair kit

Every motorist, motorcyclists included, should learn how to fix a flat tyre and carry a set of puncture repair kit. Sure, you could call for assistance but what if you had a flat in some deserted location without telephone service. At night. We found this Oxford tyre repair kit in Hodaka Motoworld.

8. Torchlight

You could argue that any mobile phone has a torchlight function. Very true. But you need one hand to hold on to it or place it on somewhere secure. A headlamp is best. We found compact, bright, weatherproof and long-running LED ones from Energizer here in Malaysia.

9. Cable ties

No tool pouch or toolbox is complete without cable ties. You could repair just about anything with them, such a dropped number plate, loose bodywork, etc.

10. Duct Tape

No ducks were harmed in making duck tapes. Hahaha. Sorry, just a little joke. Duct tapes are excellent for temporarily repairing leaks for example a hose (hence the name “duct”) or patching up small leaks.

Bikesrepublic

Wahid Ooi

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.

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 was first unveiled at EICMA 2017.

Next Bike will unveil it to the Malaysian public at Art of Speed 2018 this weekend.

The Scrambler 1100 range is set to bring more riders into the “Land of Joy”.

PICTURE GALLERY

Italian motorcycle brand Benelli and their authorized dealer have opened their first ever BEST-Shop in Kajang, Selangor.

It is the fourth BEST-Shop in Malaysia, containing a showroom, service centre, accessories and spare parts counter.

The shop address is No. 2, Jalan Hentian 2, Hentian Kajang, Jalan Reko, 43000 Kajang, Selangor.

KTM Malaysia’s largest event, the KTM Orange Carnival will kick off its first leg on Saturday, 28th July 2018.

Starting in Johore, it will be held at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai.

Many activities are in store and KTM owners, owners of all othe brands and general public are welcomed to attend.

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.

The Federal Highway motorcycle lane upgrading project will include a motorcycle-only bridge.

It spans the busy Jalan 222 – Jalan Templar – Federal Highway intersection.

The project had been delayed and is slated to be ready by early-October 2018.

TechTOC is a weekly technical column moderated by “Foreman” Oh Kah Beng (KB).

KB is now the Motorsports Consultant at the TOC Automotive College’s motorcycle racing venture and Principal Trainer at his Most Fun Gym (MFG) MX-school

Send in your technical questions, and the winner receives a complimentary session at KB’s Most Fun Gym MX-school!

Question:

Answer:

Tools are essential in any motorcycle.

While modern motorcycles are as reliable as the atomic clock, that doesn’t discount emergencies.

It’s always best to be prepared for the worst.

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BikesRepublic

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.

KTM Malaysia’s largest event, the KTM Orange Carnival will kick off its first leg on Saturday, 28^th July 2018.