Bikesrepublic

Wahid Ooi

  • 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 25th Annual Goodwood Festival of Speed. It competed in the Hill Climb event.

But not before moving the Duke’s lawn.

  • 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.

This 28th to 29th 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, 29th 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, 28th 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, 27th July 2018) for the qualifying sessions, Race 1 on Saturday (28th July 2018) and Race 2 on Sunday (29th July) for all classes.

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

  • 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.”

  • 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.

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 2nd-placed question will win you 2 tickets to the 2018 Pirelli Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK).
  • The 3rd-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!

  • 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.

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)

  • 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.

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 4th 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.

Team DEL Michelin race bike

“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 11th August in Bangkok, Thailand. Stay tuned as we bring you’re the coverage of this exciting series.

  • 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.

2006 Yamaha YZF-R6

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.

  • 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 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

  • 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 28th 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.

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special

Powering the bike is a 1079cc, air-cooled, Desmodromic, 4-valve, L-Twin (90o 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 28th to 29th July 2018 at MAEPS Mardi, Serdang. Please refer to the map below.

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.

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’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.

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, 28th 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:

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

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