Wahid Ooi, Author at BikesRepublic.com

Indonesia was Largest Motorcycle Market in ASEAN in 2018

Indonesia saw the largest number of motorcycle sales in the ASEAN region in 2018.
The total was nearly half of the total of the entire region.
The country’s large population and income level contributed to the number.

We know for many years that Indonesia is the largest market for motorcycles in the ASEAN region, but it was a toss-up between them and Vietnam.

However, new data by the ASEAN Automotive Federation (AAF) and Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries (FAMI) confirmed that the largest number of motorcycles sold in 2018 was in Indonesia.

In that year alone, motorcycle manufacturers and distributors in the Republic of 260 million souls moved a total of 6,383,111 units. That number represents a whopping 47% of all motorcycle sales in the ASEAN region. In terms of ratio, 1 out of 40.7 persons bought a motorcycle.

The second largest market in 2018 was Vietnam, with 3,386,097 units moved. The population of the country is 94 million. Converting that to a ratio, 1 out of 27.7 persons purchased a bike.

So, although Indonesia contributed the larger total, more Vietnamese bought motorcycles. It could also means that there’s still much space for motorcycle sales, if we know the current motorcycle population in each country.

Anyhow, in third was Thailand with 1,788,323 bikes sold. The Kingdom’s motorcycle market looks to be reaching a saturation point. The Philippines followed closely with 1,582,901 units. Malaysia contributed a distant but not entirely small 494,254. Last was Singapore with 10,377 bikes.

2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE Have Arrived!

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched the 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE tonight.
The Scrambler 1200 XC and XE variants are all-new.
Other models are very much updated.

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched the 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE tonight. Prices range from RM 55,900 to RM 86,900.

The models are:

Street Twin.
Street Scrambler.
Speed Twin.
Scrambler 1200 XC.
Scrambler 1200 XE.

2019 Triumph Street Twin (from RM 55,900)

The Street Twin has enjoyed continued popularity since its launch in 2016. Being the most “contemporary” model in the Bonneville line-up means it’s the most sought after to play the role of a built platform. Yet, it is just as beautiful and unpretentious in its unmistakable Bonneville silhouette.

For 2019, Triumph has updated the Street Twin to turn into a class leader. Starting with the 900cc, 270o crank, DOHC, parallel-Twin which delivers a peak power of 65 PS at 7,500 RPM, while the maximum torque of 80 Nm is already available from 3,800 RPM. That’s a an increase of 18% in terms of power which equates to 10 PS.

Next, Triumph endowed the bike with dynamic handling, exceptional rider and pillion comfort, besides higher level of specification for greater control and improved ride. Now, there is a new 4-piston Brembo caliper up front for greater stopping power and rider control. The forks, too, have been updated to cartridge type.

Other highlights:

New Road and Rain riding modes for the optimum throttle map in all riding conditions.
Switchable traction control for the rider to choose optimum level of traction management for different riding conditions.
New Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as an accessory lets the rider monitor his tyre pressures for safety and confidence.

The 2019 Street Twin is offered in Matt Ironstone, Korosi Red and Jet Black.

2019 Triumph Street Scrambler (from RM 64,900)

This is one of BikesRepublic.com’s favourite bikes. Fun, easy to handle, full of character, and high-mounted exhaust pipes that garner as much attention as the bike itself (they won’t scald your and passenger’s thighs, we assure you).

As it shares the Street Twin’s engine, peak power is up to 65 PS and torque hikes up to 80 Nm.

Additionally, other highlights are the same, except for the rolling chassis. The forks are spaced wider for better control when riding off-road. They are cartridge forks, as well.

As for electronics, the 2019 Street Scrambler now features an off-road mode, in addition to Road and Rain.

The 2019 Triumph Street Scrambler is available in Fusion White, Cranberry Red and Khaki Green.

2019 Triumph Speed Twin (from RM 73,900)

The 2019 Speed Twin draws its inspiration directly from the 1937 Speed Twin, designed and engineered by the great Edward Turner. (We came across one at the Triumph Factory Visitors Experience in Hinckley.)

It may be easy to pass it off as a basic Thruxton, but that’s oversimplifying the model description.

As Triumph puts it, the Speed Twin “delivers comfort engaged with roadster ergonomics,” the riding position is adjusted for more comfort and straighter riding compared to the Thruxton’s café racer’s ergonomics.

The suspension consists high-specification cartridge forks and rear shocks that are adjustable for preload. Brakes are handled by dual 4-piston Brembo calipers that bite on dual discs.

The engine is the High-Power (HP) unit with the Thruxton’s racing tune. As such, it produces 97 PS at 6,750 RPM and 112 NM of torque at 4,950 RPM. That’s 49% and 40% more than the 2018 model, respectively.

As for the electronics suite, there are three modes: Sport, Road and Rain.

It is offered in three colours: Silver Ice and Storm Grey, Korosi Red and Storm Grey, and Jet Black.

2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE (from RM 80,900 and RM 86,900 respectively)

We’ve written about these two models at length as we were present during the launch in London. (Please click here for the full details and specifications.)

However, to refresh, these two bikes are the most off-road capable scramblers in the market. Triumph wanted to draw on the inspiration of their exploits in the off-road racing scene, specifically to when Steve McQueen and Bud Ekins rode their Triumph TR6 Trophy to multiple victories in the grueling Baja 500 desert rally.

As such, the new Triumph Scrambler 1200 is “The Real Deal.”

But it isn’t just a Bonneville with long-travel suspension. Triumph engineered it from the contact patch up.

Both variants utilize fully-adjustable Öhlins rear shocks with piggy reservoirs. The XC’s shocks provide 200mm of travel. The XE’s on the other hand, provide 250mm of travel.

As such, while both variants are fully off-road capable, the XC variant is biased more towards road riding, while the XE is for extreme off-roading.

The engine is derived from the High-Power version found on the Thruxton. However, it has a “Scrambler tune” for a flatter and fatter torque curve. It produces 90 PS at 7,400 RPM and 110 Nm at a low 3,950 RPM.

Highlights:

2^ndgeneration TFT instrumentation.Housed in the classic-looking nacelle is a truly modern TFT display, which is fully customizable.
Up to 6 riding modes.Both XC and XE feature Sport, Road, Rain, Off-road, and rider customizable. However, the XE has an extra Off-road Pro mode.
Optimized Cornering ABS.The XE uses a Continental IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) to provide the data for lean-angle-sensitive Cornering ABS. It means that the ABS system knows how much pressure and slip to apply depending when you are leaned over in a corner.
Optimized Cornering Traction Control.The IMU also enables lean-sensitive traction control.
World’s first integrated GoPro control system. This is an option which allows the rider direct control of his GoPro camera with taking his hand off the handlebar. It also means that the rider doesn’t have to second guess if the camera is turned on or off!
Turn-by-turn navigation system.Navigation system powered by Google. Fitted with the Bluetooth connectivity option, the direction to the desired is showed in the TFT display. Besides that, the rider also has a route planner and points of interest at his disposal.

The Scrambler 1200 XC is offered in Jet Black and Matt Black; Khaki Green; and Brooklands Green.

The Scrambler 1200 XE is offered in Fusion White and Brooklands Green; Cobalt Blue and Jet Black.

2019 Yamaha YZF-R25 (R25) Price Announced (From RM 19,998)

HLYM announced the price for the 2019 YZF-R25 today.
The 2019 R25 retains the engine of its predecessor.
But there are many new features.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has announced the pricing for the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R25 (R25) today, after the preview back in January this year.

The price from RM 19,998 (basic selling price, not on-the-road) remains unchanged from its predecessor’s.

But while the 2019 model retains the same 250cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC parallel-Twin engine, there are a number of new enhanced features:

Upside-down forks for better handling and road feedback.
New aerodynamic bodywork inclusive of YZR-M1 style air intake.
New fuel tank design for better seating position.
New handlebar and ergonomics for the roads and track.
LED lighting and new LCD instrument cluster.

The 2019 R25 is offered in two colours, Blue and Red and will be available from the 3^rdweek of March. Buyers will receive exclusive stainless steel Yamaha Disc Lock complete with “reminder” cable.

2019 BMW S 1000 RR Price Revealed in USA

2019 BMW S 1000 RR price was finally revealed in the USA.
Starting at USD 16,999, owners could opt for different packages according to their needs.
The pricing looks like great value compared to other European supersport motorcycles.

Finally, we get an idea of how much the much-awaited 2019 BMW S 1000 RR will cost.

BMW Motorrad revealed the price at USD 16,999. However, that’s for the base model. As with all BMW motorcycles, there are different levels of “packages” to fit every rider’s fancy.

“Select” Package

For an extra USD 1,400, the package includes BMW’s DDC (Dynamic Damping Control) semi-active electronic suspension, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system and heated grips.

The bike now costs approximately USD 18,400.

“Race” Package

Top up another USD 1,600 (to the Select Package) and you get the “Race” package. It adds the “Ride Modes Pro” electronic suite which includes launch control, wheelie control, race modes, dynamic traction control, slide control, etc. etc. You will also receive a lithium-ion battery and forged aluminium wheels.

The bike now costs approximately USD 20,000.

“M” Package

For the ultimate built, get the “M” package and will receive carbon fibre wheels with everything else in place.

And finally, the price is now approximately USD 22,100.

We would like to add that you do get lots of goodies at USD 22,100, compared to other current European supersport models.

Of course, the pricing will be different when it arrives in Malaysia, but at least we have an inkling of how much we need to save for. Wished we started saving from when we were six-years-old…

Tips for Riding in the Haze

Just as we thought we’re riding out the heat, here comes the haze!
Here are a number of tips for riding in the haze.
Reduce your exposure as must much as you possibly can.

There seems to be no respite for us Malaysian motorcyclists when it comes to the weather, is there? First it was the superheated days and now the haze is back with a vengeance. What’s next?

But here are a few tips to ease our daily battles with the environment.

Wear a balaclava. Wearing a balaclava covers your nose and mouth and filters out particulates. As a bonus, it keeps dust out and protects your neck, too. While not as effective as a surgical mask in filtering out smoke, a balaclava is made to fit inside a helmet.

Riding mask/Surgical mask. This is the best option. There are many types of masks, including activated charcoal-infused ones and, the N95 type for the ultimate filtration. Try and see which is best for you. The drawback is that the mask becomes displaced when you pull on your helmet.

Hydrate. Drink plenty of fluids. Water is the best in this case with the haze. Being inert means you can wash your face with it, too. On what liquids are the best for bikers, please refer to our earlier article.

Eye drops. Get a bottle and keep it in your pocket. It truly helps to keep your eyes from getting irritated, cutting down the chance of squinting while riding.

5. Quit smoking. We know, this is a long shot of a request. The haze presents the best chance of cutting back or even quitting altogether.

Relax, 2019 Kawasaki Z900 ABS Recall for US Market Only

The recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up for a potential ABS issue applies to the US only.
There is no notice issued for Malaysian owners yet.
The issue arose after improper machining of the ABS pump.

The factory recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up over potential ABS issues is for the American market, only.

BikesRepublic.com has sought the confirmation from Kawasaki Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (KMMSB) over the matter. According to KMMSB, Kawasaki Heavy Industries have not issued a notice on the recall in Malaysia.

The current notice is issued by Kawasaki together with the American National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA). Therefore, it applies to Z900 line-up owners in the United States, at the moment.

The recall was made after the discovery of improperly machined ABS pump. The machining process has the potential of leaving aluminium debris inside. If this happens, the ABS pump could malfunction and cause the wheel or wheels to lock up.

Kawasaki USA confirmed that 497 units are involved in the recall and will notify the owners. If you are reading this from the United States, you may contact Kawasaki customer service line there 1-866-802-9381 (regarding recall number MC19-01). Please have your VIN ready. You may get in touch with the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 and quote campaign number 19V083000.

Custom Parts? 3-D Print Them Like This Honda Monkey

You can probably 3-D print your own parts one day.
French design firm VIBA 3-D printed the components on this Honda Monkey.
The components are aluminium, not plastic.

Remember Bugatti showing off the world’s first brake calipers using 3-D print? Yes, 3-D printing is starting to take root these days. Take this custom Honda Monkey, for example.

The parts are aluminium, not plastic. The 3-D printing process is called Selective Laser Imaging. In this bike’s case, it’s the fancy name of using lasers to superheat aluminium alloy powder to create specific shapes. 3-D printing can also be used for polymers and other materials, resulting in solid projects. (Check out the video below.)

Anyhow, a French design firm called VIBA 3-D bolt-on parts for a Honda Monkey.

These aren’t just bunch of aluminium knock-off parts, mind you. For example, the fuel tank has an internal honeycomb structure to avoid fuel from sloshing around. The headlight’s frame is one piece with the fender and includes a luggage rack. That necessitated the change of the headlamp.

The brake and clutch levers are hollow to allow the wiring to run to the turnsignals at the end.

VIBA will only build 23 of these kits but did not specify if you could obtain the components individually. They look cool, though.

Prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure Spied

A prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure was spied undergoing road tests.
It appears to carry the fuel low and forward like the 790 Adventure.
Carrying the fuel low and forward results in lower centre of gravity.

A prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure was spied undergoing road tests over the weekend. According to Australian Motorcycle News, the mule was being tested alongside the new BMW R 1250 GS.

(Please click on this link to view the photos.)

The first we spotted in the pictures were the large bulges down below, ahead of the rider’s shins. They indicated the Austrian manufacturer’s recent initiative in moving the bulk of the bike’s fuel to a more forward and low position. The idea was first implemented in the 790 Adventure and 790 Adventure R that we tested in Morocco, recently.

Moving the mass forward and low gives the bike a lower centre of gravity, consequently promoting stability and easy handling. It’s perhaps one of the most important revisions to the 1290 Super Adventure because of its tall height due to the 75^oV-Twin engine.

Additionally, the radiators are split into two units, with the front cylinder head poking through. That could mean that KTM has shortened the fuel tank on top hence the frame, since the fuel’s moved to another location. Doing this allows the rider to move his weight further in front for an easier reach to the handlebars, but more importantly, better balance when standing up when riding off-road. Again, this design concept made was applied to the 790 Adventure.

Also apparent were the sidepanels enclosing the subframe beneath the rider. KTM used to leave this section exposed but has again taken the cue from the 790 Adventure to cover them up. Doing so adds storage space inside those panels. The 790 Adventure’s tool kit is carried in the left side.

Although unspecified and unseen in the photos, the new 1301cc LC8 engine will probably boast a power boost, too.

Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” Rides to Cherating

The fifth edition of the Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” took the owners from Kuantan to Cherating, Pahang.
The riders had lots of fun at the beaches.
They also took plenty of pictures and videos for the #motography and #motographymalaysia initiatives.

In this fifth edition of the Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” initiative, the owners rode from Kuantan to Cherating for fun and games.

The ride is part of the onging #Motography and #MotographyMalaysia initiatives which encourages Modenas Dominar 400 owners to submit photographs and videos of their travels. The footages can then be used by all Dominar 400 owners who wish to travel to those same exotic locations.

The riders grouped at Restoran Aliff for breakfast. Later, they were briefed on the day’s programmes and routes, and were soon flagged off. The first #Motography stop was at Pantai Teluk Mak Nik, or better known as Monica Bay.

At the beautiful destination featuring sand and surf line by casuarina trees, the riders went ahead to place their bikes for their best shots. The shots were then uploaded to the #motography social media site. The best shot wins prizes, by the way.

Moving on, the convoy rode to Warung Aziz Satar for lunch and refreshments.

The riders then travelled to another location at the Cherating beach for a five-a-side beach football match.

Finally, each rider partook a glass of fresh coconut water to bring this fifth “Explore the Unexplored” edition to a successful end.

Please follow us at BikesRepublic.com and www.facebook.com/DominarMalaysia/for more up-to-date updates.

Harley-Davidson of Penang Brings Heavy Metal Thunder to the North

Harley-Davidson of Penang has officially re-opened.
It is located at Auto Juru City, Perai, Penang.
The dealership is a full-fledged branch offering an entire ecosystem for Harley owners, including sales, aftersales, merchandize, riding gear and so forth.

Harley-Davidson owners and fans in the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia now have a new place to call home. This follows the official re-opening of the Harley-Davidson of Penang.

The opening brings the total of Harley dealerships to three. Together with the Penang branch, Harley-Davidson of Petaling Jaya (HDPJ) and Harley-Davidson of Melaka (HDOM) reinforces the brand’s commitment to expand its footprint and strengthening its dealership network in this growing market.

GB Motorcycles Sdn. Bhd. will operate the Penang dealership. GB Motorcycles is formed from a partnership between Goh Brothers Group (an automotive retail group with extensive expertise and reach) and Kheoh Hock Seng (a specialist in premium motorcycles in Penang).

The dealership’s opening was graced by the Directors of the company, Mr. Goh Kian Sin and Mr. Kheoh Hock Seng; Mr. Koh Jyn Woei, District Manager at Harley-Davidson Asia Emerging Markets; and scores of Harley owners.

Mr. Johan Kleinsteuber, Managing Director of Harley-Davidson Asia Emerging Markets, said,“With strong commitment to the Malaysian market since 2008, Harley-Davidson is devoted to building up a trusted community for local biking enthusiasts and establishing a robust dealership network across the country. Our dealerships are important to us as they lie at the core of delivering the full premium Harley-Davidsonmotorcycling experience to customers. We are excited to have GB Motorcycles Sdn Bhd as our partner, and will be working closely with them to inspire more people to experience the Harley-Davidson brand and build the next generation of Harley-Davidson riders”.

What can you look forward to?

The new dealership isn’t a just a place that sells Harleys. Instead, it is an entire lifestyle ecosystem for the Harley family.

Among the facilities:

A large 6,000 sq. ft. (557 sq. m.) showroom, which is able to fit display bikes, merchandize, accessories, riding gear and large groups of riders.
The company invested RM 6 million in the dealership, aftersales, bikes, merchandize, accessories and parts for the ultimate customer experience. It also means that customers do not have to wait for servicing and parts.

Full range of models from the Sportster, all the way to the Tri Glide Ultra trike.
New CKD bikes priced from a super attractive RM62,600 for the Sportster (installment of only RM32 per day) to the Softail from RM97,800 (installment of just RM46 per day).

Besides the awesome pricing, Harley-Davidson of Penang also offers 1-year free service and 2-years factory warranty.
Besides the bikes and merchandize, the 4S Centre also includes a fully-equipped 3-bay workshop, complete with trained and professional H-D service personnel who graduated from H-D University, and special tools.

The dealership is located at the northern auto hub of Juru Autocity. The strategic location allows H-D owners from Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak an easy location to ride to.
H-D of Penang will also set up a roadshow satellite outlet soon in Penang to better service the island’s customers.

Mr. Kheoh believes in personalized service to each and every customer, so you may contact him directly when you call on Harley-Davidson of Penang. You may also call 04-5062200.

New Graphics for 2019 Benelli RFS150i

The 2019 Benelli RFS150i features new graphics and exhaust muffler.
The Special Edition (SE) version also has new graphics and coloured wheels.
The SE is priced from RM 7,488 while the standard is from RM 7,328.

Looking for a 150cc super underbone that’s different from cookie-cutter Yamaha Y15ZR and Honda RS150R? Check out the Benelli RFS150i, then, especially with new graphics for 2019.

Distributed by Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. since two years ago, the RSF150i has seen encouraging sales in the northern states of Penang and Kedah, while still a rarity in the Central and Southern regions.

However, Mforce will up the ante this year with newer and more aggressive graphics plus other updates, on top of the bike’s already sporty styling. The 2019 model also features a new muffler which enhances both the bike’s styling and engine performance.

Additionally, the RFS150i Special Edition (SE) has also been updated to feature blue bodywork and fluorescent green rims. On top of that, the throttle grip and adjustable brake lever are made from lightweight alloy.

The 2019 Benelli RFS150i are available from all authorized Benelli dealers. The Special Edition (SE) is priced from RM 7,488.00 and the Standard is from RM 7,238 (nett selling prices excluding insurance and road tax).

Bikesrepublic

Wahid Ooi

A client in Germany commission this Boss Hoss Lamborghini.

It combines a Boss Hoss motorcycle and Lamborghini Aventador.

The engine is probably the 6200cc, V-8 LS 445 for the Corvette.

Indonesia saw the largest number of motorcycle sales in the ASEAN region in 2018.

The total was nearly half of the total of the entire region.

The country’s large population and income level contributed to the number.

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia launched the 2019 Triumph Street Twin, Street Scrambler, Speed Twin, Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE tonight.

The Scrambler 1200 XC and XE variants are all-new.

Other models are very much updated.

The models are:

2019 Triumph Street Twin (from RM 55,900)

Other highlights:

2019 Triumph Street Scrambler (from RM 64,900)

2019 Triumph Speed Twin (from RM 73,900)

2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE (from RM 80,900 and RM 86,900 respectively)

Highlights:

HLYM announced the price for the 2019 YZF-R25 today.

The 2019 R25 retains the engine of its predecessor.

But there are many new features.

2019 BMW S 1000 RR price was finally revealed in the USA.

Starting at USD 16,999, owners could opt for different packages according to their needs.

The pricing looks like great value compared to other European supersport motorcycles.

“Select” Package

“Race” Package

“M” Package

Just as we thought we’re riding out the heat, here comes the haze!

Here are a number of tips for riding in the haze.

Reduce your exposure as must much as you possibly can.

The recall for the 2019 Kawasaki Z900 line-up for a potential ABS issue applies to the US only.

There is no notice issued for Malaysian owners yet.

The issue arose after improper machining of the ABS pump.

You can probably 3-D print your own parts one day.

French design firm VIBA 3-D printed the components on this Honda Monkey.

The components are aluminium, not plastic.

A prototype KTM 1290 Super Adventure was spied undergoing road tests.

It appears to carry the fuel low and forward like the 790 Adventure.

Carrying the fuel low and forward results in lower centre of gravity.

The fifth edition of the Modenas Dominar “Explore the Unexplored” took the owners from Kuantan to Cherating, Pahang.

The riders had lots of fun at the beaches.

They also took plenty of pictures and videos for the #motography and #motographymalaysia initiatives.

Harley-Davidson of Penang has officially re-opened.

It is located at Auto Juru City, Perai, Penang.

The dealership is a full-fledged branch offering an entire ecosystem for Harley owners, including sales, aftersales, merchandize, riding gear and so forth.

What can you look forward to?

Among the facilities:

The 2019 Benelli RFS150i features new graphics and exhaust muffler.

The Special Edition (SE) version also has new graphics and coloured wheels.

The SE is priced from RM 7,488 while the standard is from RM 7,328.

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