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Shoei GT-Air 3 Smart Helmet with HUD Introduced

Riding a motorcycle elicits many emotions, and one of them is like flying almost in a pure sense since we are enclosed in a cage. Therefore, we have always wondered by motorcycles do not have Head Up Displays (HUD) like in a fighter jet. The Shoei GT-Air 3 Smart Helmet with HUD has just been introduced for that.

The HUD in fighter jets, some commercial airliners, (and expensive cars) project important information such as heading, speed, altitude, bank angle onto a piece of glass to keeps the pilot’s eyes up through the front of the plane without needing to look down and search for the data all the time.

This may be a great thing for motorcyclists, too, especially when riding on a twisty road or hurtling down a highway. We do not take this lightly, especially that contemporary motorcycles, even small capacity ones now feature LCD and TFT screens that are loaded with so many features such as navigation, music streaming, and phone connectivity. Imagine glancing down to see who is calling when approaching a ravine or road intersection.

However, the human eyes can only focus on objects that are either near or far at any one time, rather than both, thus there is concern whether the data displayed via HUD in a helmet could also prove to be distracting. A picture releasd by Shoei shows that data is superimposed in “far” distance, but we can only be sure if we tried the helmet. Indeed, Shoei’s collaborator in the project, EyeLights, claimed that their technology increases reaction time by up to 32 percent.

There have been many helmets that promise such a technology in the past, including one infamous Skully. Shoei had also debuted another “smart” helmet several years ago, but it came with unwieldy attachments. This time, the Shoei GT-Air 3 Smart Helmet is more refined and appears similar to our regular everyday helmet.

The company unveiled the helmet at EICMA, incorporating EyeLights’ technology into one of its GT-Air 3 helmets. As such, the helmet is robust, comfortable, and meets both DOT and ECE 22.06 standards.

Within the technology is a communications system that allows you to issue voice commands (as is already possible on a number of comms systems) and make use of a ‘universal’ intercom system that is reportedly compatible with most other brands.

There is no word yet as to when the so-called GT-Air 3 Smart Helmet will go on sale, but when it does it will reportedly come with a price tag of €1,199 (RM5,713.00).

VOGE DS800X Rally Claims Adventure Motorcycle Sales Scalp in UK

The VOGE DS800X Rally has scored a major win in the UK motorcycle market, by becoming the best-selling 750cc-1000cc adventure model in October.

According to UK-based Visordown, Voge dealerships already could not keep up with the orders for the bigger DS900X, and as such, the DS800X Rally turned out to be popular, too. It is even more impressive to see that although the latter model had only arrived in the UK in August, it had helped to push VOGE’s sales up by 165% compared to October 2024.

Additionally, VOGE’s sales surge last month was amidst a 9% drop in the overall UK motorcycle market.

VOGE’s success has also seen the brand climb the market share ladder to seventh place.

VOGE has been a major player in the adventure motorcycle segment for a few years in the UK, mainly due to their DS900X, which uses the same engine as the BMW F 900 GS.

VOGE is the high-end in-house brand of Chongqing-based Loncin Holdings, which has had a partnership with BMW for roughly 20 years, building a number of its bikes, including the current F 900 R, F 900 XR, and F 900 GS. Loncin also used to make the engines for the BMW C-series scooters and F 750, F 800, F 850.

VOGE is distributed by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. in Malaysia. The DS800X is set to be launched in Malaysia in 2026.

JAWI Investigates Use of Motorcycle Brake Disc with Obscene Symbols

The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) is conducting a further investigation regarding a viral video involving the production and use of motorcycle brake discs bearing obscene symbols.

Its Director, Hanifuddin Roslan, said that it involves the production of indecent goods which are contrary to the morals of the Malaysian people.

However, he said the production location of the goods in question has not been disclosed.
“Therefore, our party will conduct a further investigation and cooperate with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDNKK).

“JAWI also advises manufacturers and users not to use any obscene symbols on their products and goods for use,” he said in a statement today.

Earlier, he said his team detected the issue through a video uploaded by a social media user named Shinji Nagato.

Through the post, the said user expressed frustration regarding the production and use of motorcycle brake discs bearing obscene symbols and urged the authorities to act immediately.

However, Shinji Nagato appeared to mock the report in response through a post stating that he could not show the front brake disc of a motorcycle because it was “too obscene.”

Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 Launched, from RM49,888

Finally, the best of the best. the flagship Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 was launched during the same event, and at an unbelievable price of RM49,888.

Although the in-house developed and built 1200 engine does not produce as much power as its European competition, it still produces a lot of useable torque, while graced with great handling, brakes, and top-notch features. So, it is a great starting point.

Highlights:

Powered by a 1187cc, 87° V2, DOCHC, 8-valve engine which produces 129 hp @ 8,750 RPM and 106 Nm @ 7,000 RPM.
This V2 engine, called the CorsaCorta has been continuously developed and produced in-house since 2005, but the X-Cape 1200 uses the evolved CorsaCorta Evo version.

The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission, with a bidirectional quickshifter.
Front brakes are twin 320mm discs gripped by Brembo 4.32 Monobloc calipers.

The rear brake consists of a Brembo 280mm disc.
The front suspension utilises Marzocchi fully-adjustable inverted forks, while the rear uses a fully-adjustable and progressive monoshock.

The Moto Morini X-Cape 1200 has many electronic features, making it a legit challenger it in the modern adventure-tourer segment.
A six-axis intertial measurement unit (IMU) provides the data for cornering ABS, cornering lights, and cornering traction control.

Radar assisted cruise control is also standard and the radar also provides blindspot detection.
As per Chinese motorcycles, a front facing dashcam is a standard feature.

Photo gallery

Moto Morini X-Cape 700 Launched, from RM33,888

Continuing with the Moto Morini launch, the next model was the Moto Morini X-Cape 700, before we move on to the X-Cape 1200.

Click: Moto Morini Alltrhike 450 Launched

The X-Cape 700 sees several upgrades from the previous X-Cape 650. It could be said that the 650 was the breakthrough model for Moto Morini’s reemergence is several markets, so this upgrade is important for the brand in many respects.

The bike is marketed as both a road and off-road-going adventure-tourer.

Highlights:

Powered by a 693cc, DOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled parallel-twin which produces 73.7 hp @ 8,500 RPM and 68 Nm @ 6,500 RPM.
The engine strikes a good balance between strong torque and peak horsepower.

The front suspension system consists of Marzocchi ø50mm USD forks that are adjustable for spring preload, and rebound and compression damping.
At the back, there is a Kayaba monoshock which is adjustable for spring preload (remote adjuster for the spoke rims version), and rebound damping.

Brakes are 298 mm double discs gripped by 2 piston Brembo calipers in front, and a 255mm disc gripped by a 2 piston caliper the back.
Tyre sizes are 110/80-19 (front) and 150/70-17 (rear) in alloy or spoked options, and fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR for spoked rims.

The fuel tank has an 18-litre capacity.
Moto Morini claims the dry weight is 218 kg.

7-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation.
Manually adjustable windshield for two positions.

The Moto Morini X-Cape 700 was launched at a selling price of RM33,888. The price includes three Moto Morini-branded aluminium storage cases.

MOTO MORINI AllTrhike 450 Launched for Malaysian Market, from RM28,888

The last, but not least, motorcycle brand we sampled during our trip to China was Moto Morini. It was followed by the launched of three models, namely to Moto Morini AllTrhike 450, X-Cape 700, and X-Cape 1200. But we shall start with the AllTrhike 450, first.

A (very) brief history of Moto Morini

Before moving on further, Moto Morini is one of the legendary Italian motorcycle brands, and was established in 1937 by Alfonso Morini in Bologna, Italy. Bologna should sound familiar to you because it is also where Ducati’s headquarters is located and oh, where the world famous Bolognese pasta sauce originated from.

Back to the modern day, the brand went several episodes of growth and decline, which saw it change hands several times, including a stint under the Cagiva group, before Cagiva fully sold the Ducati brand to the Texas Pacific Group to concentrate on the MV Agusta name. Ultimately, Moto Morini was purchased by the Zhongneng Vehicle Group (better known as ZNEN) in 2018.

However, while production was moved to Taizhou in the Zhejian Province in China, the brand’s design and R&D departments remain in Italy.

Right, back to the bikes.

1. Moto Morini AllTrhike 450 (RM28,800)

The all-new AllTrhike 450 is a lightweight adventure model which puts it squarely in the off-road biased midrange adventure tourer to challenge the likes of the CFMoto 450 MT and KTM 390 Adventure.

Power is supplied by a 449cc, DOHC, 8-valved, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine which produces 44.2 hp (33 kW) @ 8,000 RPM and 44 Nm at 6,250 RPM.
It is apparent that engine is tuned for strong torque delivery for off-road duties and long-distance touring while carrying cargo.

The bike uses fully-adjustable 41mm Kayaba USD forks with 210mm travel up front.
Rear suspension consists of an adjustable Kayaba monoshock, mounted to a progressive linkage and offers 190mm of travel.

The front wheel has a 21-inch diameter, while the rear wheel is 17-inches.
Braking duties are handled by a single 320mm disc gripped by a J.Juan 4-piston caliper up front, and a 255mm disc gripped by a 2-piston caliper at the back.

Dual-channel ABS is a standard feature.
There is also a TFT screen which provides connectivity, including a smartphone screen-mirroring navigation.

18-litre fuel tank.
Moto Morini claims that the AllTrhike 450 weighs 170 kg, wet.

A sturdy centrestand is included.
The selling price includes three aluminium cases.

Photo gallery

ARIIC Touch 250, ARIIC Gobi 250, ARIIC 400GS First Look

Another treat awaited the Malaysian motorcycle media during our tour among Chinese motorcycle manufacturers in China. This time, it was ARIIC where we previewed the ARIIC Touch 250, and ARIIC Gobi 250 during a visit to their factory, while the ARIIC 400GS prototype was revealed at the ARIIC mega party later.

The brand made their first appearance in Malaysia with ARIIC 318 GT earlier this year. Local distributor, MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. said that it has been seeing encouraging sales.

Here is the preview of the models we saw today:

1. ARIIC Gobi 250

Named after the Gobi desert which is located inn Central Asia, covering some 1.2 million square kilometres and spanning across southern Mongolia and northwestern China, the bike is the latest addition to adventure scooter segment.

Powered by a 249cc, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine.
It produces 22.5 hp @ 7,500 RPM and 23.5 Nm @ 5,000 RPM.
The engine is mated to a 2-stage CVT with belt final drive.

A dual-channel ABS supports the 240mm front and rear brakes.
The fuel tank has a 12.5-litre capacity.
Seat height is 780 mm.

ARIIC claims a 176kg curb weight.
Adjustable windscreen which moves by up to 60mm front/back.
7″ TFT screen with smartphone connectivity.

Front facing dashcam camera.
One-touch start button.

2. ARIIC Touch 250

Compared to the 318 GT, the Touch 250 is more of an urban scooter, due to its compact size.

Powered by a 249cc, single-cylinder, water-cooled engine.
It produces 22.5 hp @ 7,500 RPM and 23.5 Nm @ 5,000 RPM.

The engine is mated to a 2-stage CVT with belt final drive.
A dual-channel ABS supports the 240mm front and rear brakes.

The fuel tank has a 11-litre capacity.
Seat height is 760 mm.

ARIIC claims a 147kg curb weight.
Adjustable windscreen which moves vertically.

7″ TFT screen with smartphone connectivity.
Front facing dashcam camera.

One-touch start button.
The most novel feature of this model is the expandable storage space.

3. ARIIC 400GS

The bike is still in its prototype stage at this moment, although it appears to be almost ready for production. Not much was revealed apart from that it is powered by a 469cc single-cylinder engine.

Interestingly, MForce is proud of this model as they have a direct role in its development. As such, the production-ready bike will be officially launched at the upcoming MForce Autoshow in May 2026.

Photo gallery

MForce Launches Morbidelli F252, Morbidelli T250X, Morbidelli T252X, Morbidelli T502X

MForce Bike Holdings also launched four new Morbidelli models during the Top 68 Dealers event, held in Taizhou, China. They are the:

Morbidelli F252;
Morbidelli T250X;
Morbidelli T252X; and
Morbidelli T502X.

Here are more details and their respective net selling prices.

1. Morbidelli F252 (RM14,888)

The F252 takes the form of a naked/roadster. However, the maker told us that the “F” designation is for “Fighter” as in “Streetfighter.” Honestly, the bike looks great and the finishing on the components are up to par with the best. The “252” designation means 250cc, 2 cylinder engine. If the specifications sound familiar, they are because most of it shared with the Keeway RKR250, as Morbidelli is now under Keeway’s umbrella.

Powered by a 249.5cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine.
It produces 31.5 hp @ 11,000 RPM and 21.0 Nm at 9,500 RPM.

The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission.
Seat height is 790 mm.

Its fuel tank has a capacity of 15 litres.
Front forks are 41 mm and USD.

The front brake system consists of a 300mm floating disc and 4-piston caliper, while there is a 240mm disc at the back.
The rear suspension features a monoshock with Pro-Link attachement.

5″ TFT display.
Electronic rider aids include Bosch dual-channel ABS, TCS, and 3 ride modes.

Morbidelli listed its wet weight at 175 kg.

2. Morbidelli T250X (RM9,988)

The T250X is the entry-level adventure model of the family, suitable for adventure beginners. The air-cooled engine is also a good advantage for those who travel to isolated places as it is easier to maintain.

Powered by a 249cc, air-cooled, single cylinder, SOHC, four-valve engine.
It delivers a maximum power output of 24.4 hp @ 7,500 RPM, and maximum torque of 22.3 Nm @ 6,000 RPM.

Seat height is not too tall at 820 mm.
The fuel tank has a capacity of 11.7 litres.

The front suspension uses 41 mm telescopic forks, while the back has a monoshock with adjustable preload.
There is a 265mm brake disc up front and 2-piston caliper.

Rim sizes are 19 inches, front, and and 17 inches, rear.
Electronics include a 7″ colour TFT display mounted in a vertical position, dual-channel ABS, and TCS.

The maker listed its curb weight at 154 kg.

3. Morbidelli T252X (RM16,888)

As with the aforementioned F252, this model utilises a 250cc, 2-cylinder engine, which is in fact the same 252 platform.

Powered by a 249.5cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin engine.
It produces 31.5 hp @ 11,000 RPM and 21.0 Nm at 9,500 RPM.

The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission.
820 mm seat height.

180 kg curb weight.
18-litre fuel tank.

41mm USD front forks with longer travel than the F252’s.
The rear suspension features a monoshock with Pro-Link attachement.

The front brake system consists of a 300mm floating disc and 4-piston caliper, while there is a 240mm disc at the back.
Rim sizes are 19 inches, front, and and 17 inches, rear.

Electronics include a 7″ colour TFT display mounted in a vertical position, dual-channel ABS, and TCS.

4. Morbidelli T502X (RM28,888)

Following the brand’s naming convention, the T502X denotes a 500cc, 2-cylinder, adventure bike.

486cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin, with Marelli EFI.
It makes 47.0 hp @ 8,500 RPM, and 45.0 Nm @ 6,750 RPM.

The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission.
840mm seat height.

210kg curb weight.
18-litre fuel tank.

43mm USD front forks.
The rear suspension features a preload adjustable monoshock with Pro-Link attachement.

The front brake system consists of twin 300mm floating discs and J.Juan 2-piston calipers, while there is a 240mm disc at the back.
Rim sizes are 19 inches, front, and and 17 inches, rear.

Electronics include a 7″ colour TFT display mounted in a vertical position, dual-channel ABS, and TCS.

Additional features

One shared feature among all four models is the SOS call function. In the event of an emergency, the rider only needs to hold it down for 3 seconds, making the bike call the emergency number stored in your phone.

These models will be available in Malaysia soon.

Photo gallery

KEEWAY BX200i Launched, from RM7,988

Here is another warrior in the Malaysian scooter war, proudly brought to you by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. Called the KEEWAY BX200i, it is set to fight in the 150-200cc sporty scooter segment.

Its sharp profile, fat tyres, and bright col announce its intentions from the get-go, and the spec-sheet is truly impressive, showing that Chinese motorcycle makers are serious in building a worldwide empire in the two-wheel market.

Highlights of the KEEWAY BX200i

Powered by a 174cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, single-cylinder engine.
It produces 18.2 hp @ 8,500 RPM and 17.2 Nm @ 6,500 RPM.

Engine power is sent to the rear wheel through a CVT transmission.
The bike is built around what Keeway calls a ‘flat frame’ – we shall cover more about this in the future.

The seat height is a low 790 mm off the ground.
Its fuel tank has a capacity of 11 litres.

Keeway claims a wet weight of 153 kg.
The front suspension consists of conventional telescopic hydraulic forks.

Suspending the rear is a pair of shock absorbers with remote reservoirs, that are adjustable for spring preload.
Braking duties up front is handled by a 2-piston caliper squeezing on a 220 mm disc.

The rear brake also features a 220mm disc, gripped by a 1-piston caliper.
The brakes are supported by dual-channel ABS.

Moving on to the electronics and electrics, the meter panel features a colour LCD screen.
As with contemporary scooters, ignition is via a Keyless Start system.

Front-facing dashcam.

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. launched the KEEWAY BX200i along with 5 other models in Taizhou, China, as part of their Top 68 Dealers’ Gala Dinner. Selling price for the bike is RM7,998.

KEEWAY RKR250 Lightweight Sportbike Launched, from RM13,888

The KEEWAY RKR250 was launched last night, bringing a new contender into the lightweight sportbike ring.

It was launched during the MForce Top 68 Dealers Gala Dinner, held at the Taizhou Sheraton Hotel. As the name suggests, the event honoured the top 68 motorcycle dealers in Malaysia who carry the brands distributed by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd., such as ARIIC, Benda, CFMoto, Keeway, Morbidelli, and Motomorini.

Highlights of the KEEWAY RKR250

Powered by a 249.3c, DOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin.
It produces 31.5 hp @ 10,500 RPM, and 22.5 Nm @ 9,500 RPM.

The engine is mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed transmission.
The bike’s frame is a diamond type which uses the engine as a stressed member.

Seat height is a low 770 mm.
Its front suspension utilises 40mm USD forks with 100 mm of travel.

The rear suspension features a monoshock with a Pro-Link.
Brakes feature a 320mm floating disc up front with a 4-piston caliper, while the rear has a 240mm disc with a 1-piston caliper.

The fuel tank carries 12 litres of unleaded.
Keeway claims a curb weight of just 165 kg.

Electronic rider assistance systems include dual-channel ABS, traction control system (TCS), and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
There is a 5-inch TFT display.

Lighted switchgear.
LED lighting.
Type-A and Type-C charging ports.

Interestingly, the model was first shown off in January this year, along with its pricing but had not been available yet, possibly undergoing testing.

Fast forward to last night, it now wears a performance exhaust muffler complete with a carbon fibre end cap and heat shield.

As with MForce’s objective in providing an opportunity for Malaysian enthusiasts to enjoy the sport without mortgaging the house, the KEEWAY RKR250 carries a net selling price tag of just RM13,888 (not on-the-road), making it the most affordable multi-cylinder 250cc sportbike in the country.

MP Hopes Genting Highlands Toll is Reasonable, Not Burdensome

Bentong Member of Parliament, Young Syefura Othman, hopes that the toll rate collection on Genting Highlands Road will be reasonable and not burdensome to users.

This is part of several proposals presented to Genting Malaysia, which will impose a Private Road Charge rate on the entry route to the Genting area from the Karak Highway and the entry route from Batang Kali.

In a statement, she said Genting Malaysia also needs to ensure an efficient payment collection mechanism that does not cause multiplied traffic congestion.

Additionally, Genting Malaysia should also provide special exemptions or discounts for the Private Road Charge, at the very least to residents, workers, and those with children attending school in Genting Highlands.

According to her, the company needs to ensure continuous monitoring and maintenance of the road conditions and slopes along the Genting Highlands route on a regular basis.

“Therefore, I hope all parties receive a clear explanation for the safety and comfort of visitors and users of the road to Genting.

“I will continue to hold discussions with Genting Malaysia to ensure its implementation is done well and does not adversely affect the residents,” she said.

Young Syefura said, in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the Genting Highlands resort is a popular area that will receive a very large number of visitors.

“Therefore, I support any efforts and cooperation to ensure the road and slope conditions in the Genting highlands are always in a safe state,” she said.

She also clarified that the 24-kilometer Genting Highlands Road route has been confirmed by the Ministry of Works (KKR) as a private road and not a federal road.

She said since the 1960s, the maintenance of the road, slopes, and disaster mitigation works along that route have been borne cost-wise by Genting Malaysia to ensure user safety and comfort.

According to her, the construction of the Private Road Charge collection structure was done not under the jurisdiction of the Malaysian Highway Authority because it is on private land.

“However, the construction specifications and Planning Permission (KM) have already been approved by the Bentong Municipal Council.

“From discussions with Genting Malaysia, I understand the decision regarding the justification for collecting the Private Road Charge,” she said.

Benda P51 – 62hp 250cc Hybrid

Benda distinguishes itself as a manufacturer who creates bold motorcycles. As in bold overall, both in looks and engine performance. Let us take this new Benda P51 as an example.

It was first unveiled at the Chongqing Motorcycle Expo in China before being displayed before the international crowd at EICMA 2025 in Milan, Italy.

The maker says that the name was inspired by the P-51 Mustang WWII fighter plane. But whether you can see past the relevance or otherwise is another matter because the most significant feature of this bike is its engine.

That is a 250cc flat-twin or better known as a ‘Boxer.’ Ok, that was interesting point Number 1. To boost its performance, Benda mated that engine to an electric motor, making the P51 a hybrid. So far so good? Now how about 62 hp and 100 Nm when both the engine and motor work together?

62 horses put the bike in the regions of 600cc bikes, by the way. What is more, Benda claims that the P51 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds, as the motor’s output shaft is geared directly to the front sprocket. It means that this bike will out accelerate any 250cc to some 600cc bikes.

But the real advantage of the Benda P51 should be its agility. The maker claims the bike weighs just 177 kg, wet. Furthermore, the horizontal placement of the opposed engine cylinders, and the battery at the bottom promotes a low centre of gravity, something that can be fully felt especially at low speeds.

In the looks department, the bike follows Benda’s philosophy of making a statement, looking like prototypes that bigger manufacturers show off only to water down for production. Lest we forget, the headlight features an aircraft-like propeller which forms an ‘X.”

By the way, the Benda Motorcycles company is a subsidiary of the Hangzhou Saturn Power Technology Co., Ltd. who has a strategic partnership with Keeway Motorcycles. Keeway, on the other hand, is under QJMotor. Going further up, QJMotor is a subsidiary of a certain Geely Holding Group.