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The motorcycle’s air filter is another oft-neglected component. One can pick any motorcycle of age, open the airbox and find a filter that is totally caked in dust and bugs! And it is amusing to hear the owners lament that their motorcycles have “lost power.”

 

There are several brands of aftermarket air filters in the market; of some we have tried and discovered that some were good, while some were not so much. But there is one brand we have came to like and trust, called DNA High Performance Filters.

DNA are based in Greece and their filters of very high quality. Each piece is inspected before being packed and there are models available for almost every motorcycle in the market.

What does the air filter do?

Its task is as essential as it is simple: To filter the air inducted into the engine, ensuring that the air free of dust, water, and other objects that will damage the throttle bodies/carburettor and engine. In saying so, please DO NOT operate your motorcycle without an air filter!

A clean air filter allows for smooth airflow which in turn results in efficient fuel combustion. The mass airflow (MAF) sensor of EFI-equipped motorcycles sits between the filter and throttle body/bodies and measure the amount of air coming through. The engine’s ECU uses this data to inject the corresponding amount of fuel. Thus, low airflow will cause the incorrect amount of fuel being injected, hence causing a drop in engine performance.

But, the engine’s ECU can only be flexible to a certain degree. So, the insufficient airflow will also cause incomplete fuel combustion, therefore increasing relative fuel consumption.

Also, a blocked filter will cause abrupt throttle response. Air has density, hence momentum i.e. a body at rest tends to stay at rest, while a body that is moving tends to keep moving. As such, you may find that the engine is slow to respond when you first open the throttle, then it suddenly revs up quickly. That is not ideal especially for balancing your throttle input in midcorner!

Advantages of using an aftermarket air filter

Stock air filters are typically made of foam or paper for particulate filtration.

Sure enough, there are aftermarket filters use the same materials. However, good aftermarket filters such as DNA use oiled cotton as the filter material.

Better Airflow

This is the main advantage over OEM filters is better airflow due to the material. This feature causes many other performance benefits (more on this below). The cotton gauze of a lot of aftermarket filters is highly porous, meaning that it can still block out dirt and other contaminants while allowing maximum airflow.

DNA air filter for Yamaha Y15ZR

Improved Filtration

By using oil on the gauze, the filter is able to catch all of the dirty elements that may harm your engine. In fact, it is generally even more effective at filtering than paper filters.

Better Engine Protection

Thanks to better filtration, aftermarket air filters offer better engine protection than other stock filters. Since the oiled gauze is able to trap and keep out more dirt and dust than paper filters, your engine will be better protected from the damaging effects of these particulates.

Additionally, in environments with a lot of dust, OEM paper and foam filters will generally need to be replaced quickly. They can easily be clogged up with dust and dirt, which blocks air needed to power your engine.

There are foam aftermarket filters for off-road use but these need to be cleaned more often.

Longer filter lifespan

Aftermarket air filters are typically made to last longer than OEM ones. We know how paper responds to water. Similarly, in our experience, foam OEM filters tend to crumble in our humid environment.

Just make sure you or the garage you visit cleans and oils the aftermarket filter at regular intervals.

Performance benefits of aftermarket air filters

We will not mislead you by telling you that fitting an aftermarket air filter will result in an immediate high level of performance gain. Instead, you will need to recalibrate the ECU to fully exploit the benefits. However, there are several small gains from the outset, from our experience.

Horsepower

One of the reasons why riders may choose to upgrade their air filter is to gain more horsepower. However, this benefit is only noticeable when other recalibrations and modifications are made.

Why does an air filter need other modifications? An air filter simply allows maximum airflow into the engine, but it is the ECU which decides to inject how much fuel. More air plus fuel equals more bang.

Still, modern ECUs do have a wide range of mapping programmed in and are able to account for the extra airflow to a certain degree.

On the other hand, DNA offers several “stages” of air filters for motorcycle owners. for example, there is the “normal” Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 depending on the level of modification and ECU remapping.

DNA air filter for BMW R 1300 GS

Torque

There is no horsepower without torque. Along with the potential for power increase, an advanced air filter will allow for extra oxygen which in turn results in overall better combustion process which increases torque.

Throttle Response

As we mentioned earlier, a smooth flow of air will let then engine breathe easier. You can certainly feel that the engine has softer response when you install an aftermarket air filter, and the engine will rev much quicker when you snap the throttle open. You will also see smoother torque and horsepower curves should you place the bike on a dyno due to this.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the other main benefits of installing an aftermarket air filter is the improvement in fuel efficiency. When filters do not let in enough clean air, engines have to work overtime to compensate for this loss. This leads to excess fuel consumption.

Our experience with DNA saves between 10% to 20% fuel on different motorcycles compared to when using OEM filters.

DNA air filter for Triumph 400 series

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MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd. unveiled the 2025 Benda Napoleon Bob 250, boasting a bold design and striking aesthetics, was introduced at MForce Best Shop Hoong Fatt Motoworld Sdn. Bhd., Ipoh.

The classic aura of this latest model evokes nostalgic feelings and the spirit of freedom for anyone who sees it. Benda Napoleon Bob 250 can be own in two color options: Black and Silver.

With a 249cc engine, this classic model also features ABS on both the front and rear brakes, enhancing the rider’s experience on the road. The motorcycle’s front suspension uses telescopic forks, while the rear suspension is a dual shock-absorber system.

This model also comes equipped with a Traction Control System (TCS), designed to prevent the motorcycle from easily slipping. This system regulates the rotational speed of the wheel, reducing the chances of slippage, thus enhancing safety and stability while riding.

The Benda Napoleon Bob 250 is equipped with a V2, SOHC, 8-valve, liquid-cooled engine with bore and stroke measuring 53.5mm × 55.4mm, and a compression ratio of 11.8:1. It delivers a maximum power of 25.5hp (19kW) at 9,000rpm and a peak torque of 25N-m at 5,500rpm.

Despite its classic appearance, the 2025 Benda Napoleon Bob 250 keeps up with modern technology by featuring an electric starter system. Its dashboard uses LCD technology, providing clear visual indicators, and its fuel system utilizes Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), offering greater fuel efficiency without compromising performance.

The motorcycle has a 9.5L fuel tank capacity, making it ideal for long-distance travel or simply cruising around for fresh air. With a 6-speed transmission and a sliding clutch, this model ensures an enhanced riding experience.

In terms of dimensions, Benda Napoleon Bob 250 weight 182kg, with an overall length of 2,333mm, width of 838mm, and height of 1,038mm. The seat height is 748mm, making it easy for riders to mount and ride the motorcycle.

The 2025 Benda Napoleon Bob 250 is expected to launch in early 2025, with an estimated price range
of RM20,000 to RM25,000 (excluding tax and insurance).

2025 Benda Napoleon Bob 250 Photo Gallery

The 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 has finally been launched, following in the footsteps of the Svartpilen 801.

True to Husqvarna’s brief as being the heritage lineup in Pierer Mobility, the new bike carries a neo-retro look. The rest of the bike, apart from the tank, look adapted from the KTM 790 Duke R. So, of course, there are many shared components.

Highlights of the 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801:
  • 799cc, LC8c parallel-twin engine which produces 105hp and 87Nm of torque.
  • Service intervals have been increased to 15,000km.
  • Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder coated.
  • Adjustable WP Apex 43mm forks, and adjustable WP Apex monoshock.
  • J.Juan brake calipers at the front and rear, Cornering ABS is standard.
  • Standard ride modes are Street, Sport, and Rain. Owners can add on the Dynamic pack which unlocks the Dynamic ride mode.

  • The optional Dynamic Pack allows owners to customise the ride modes and 10 traction control levels, 5 levels of Anti Wheelie control, and Motorcycle Slip Regulation.
  • The quickshifter called Easy Shift is available as an option.
  • Cruise control is also an option.
  • 5-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity via the app.

  • A DRL ring surrounding the central LED projector headlight.
  • Weight without fuel is 180kg.

The 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801’s price has not been revealed.

The US Congress seems to be on the warpath to ban or curtail Chinese-made goods in their country. First it was Huawei, then TikTok, followed by a resolution against DJI (which has not passed yet). Now it seems that the US wants to ban CFMoto and possible Kove, too.

The US Commerce Department recently proposed rules that would ban vehicles with software and hardware links to China and Russia by model year 2027. Officials with the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced the new rules last week, which specifically target vehicles with “connected vehicles.” Hence, CFMoto is at the top of the list for motorcycles.

The BIS proposes to define a “connected vehicle” as meaning, “a vehicle driven or drawn by mechanical power and manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads, and highways, that integrates onboard networked hardware with automotive software systems to communicate via dedicated short-range communication, cellular telecommunications connectivity, satellite communication, or other wireless spectrum connectivity with any other network or device.”

CFMoto’s telematics-box (T-Box) and the CFMoto Ride app would constitute onboard networked hardware with automotive software systems to communicate, meaning if the proposed rules pass, CFMoto models that run this type of hardware and software would be banned by 2027.

Most Kove motorcycles are fitted with GPS, connect to your phone via Bluetooth, and have a dedicated app, which would theoretically also count those models out of the US by 2027.

An advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) was issued by the U.S. Department of Commerce in February, which included a quote from the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, stating, “It doesn’t take a lot of imagination to think of how foreign government with access to connected vehicles could pose a serious risk to both our national security and the personal privacy of U.S. citizens.”

Truth is, the language of the proposed act will carry little impact in the US motorcycle industry as CFMoto and Kove hold only a small piece of the pie. The real target, however, is Chinese carmakers such as BYD whose EVs are already slapped with a 100% import tax.

The motorcycling world had been waiting for the Yamaha YZF-R9 for so long that it is almost out of mind. But Yamaha USA had just dropped a teaser video in YouTube with the line, “A new era is rising. October 9th.”

It can be seen in the video that there is a fully-faired sportbike in the background and a countdown that stops and repeats at the number 9. Additionally, the video shows a centrally-located headlight in between side DRLs, an arrangement like that of the Yamaha YZF-R7’s. So, this video truly confirms the launch of the YZF-R9.

Now, Yamaha has the R7 as the “everyday” sportbike which occupies the same segment as the Honda CBR650R, Suzuki GSX-S800, Triumph Daytona 660, and Aprilia RS 660. As for the “pure” supersport range, there are only two horses here – The Honda CBR600RR and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R – after Yamaha dropped the R6 years ago.

On the superbike front, there is the Yamaha YZF-R1 taking the fight to the Aprilia RSV1100 V4, Ducati Panigale V4, Honda CBR1000RR-R, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.

So, where will the the 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9 fit in? There is only one other sportbike in this range, the Ducati Panigale V2. The Italian manufacturer had stopped producing the Panigale V2 with the Testastretta engine and are looking to produce a new V-Twin.

In any case, a practical sub-1000cc sportbike that is good for everyday riding and the occasional trackday is always welcome in our books. Let us look forward to 9th October.

The 2025 Honda X-ADV has been launched overseas, and features many useful updates.

Launched in 2017, the model has proven to be ultra popular the world over. It was already popular in Malaysia even prior to being officially imported and sold. Then, buyers had to wait for months for their bikes when it is officially sold. It is not difficult to understand the bike’s charms: A parallel-twin engine with raw torque combined with the ease of a scooter and the rowdiness of a conventional motorcycle.

But, we do have our complaints such as the screen is impossible to adjust on the move, the bum feels sore after riding for 100km, there is no storage space at the front despite having the shape of a step-through scooter, the LCD screen was too busy, and most of all the DCT was difficult to modulate at low speeds and causing me to dumb the bike (as with the CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT).

So, Honda must have heard the complaints so the 2025 Honda X-ADV features nine(!) upgrades.

1. New TFT screen

There is a new five-inch, TFT dash which is more connected, using the Honda RoadSync smartphone app. Honda also says that there is a new anti-glare coating on the screen.

2. Cruise control

Cruise control is now standard – a great addition for Malaysian riders because we love to tour everywhere on any motorcycle. The company also introduced panniers, as well as 50-liter and 38-liter top boxes as options in the European market, although we are sceptical if these make their way here. The 2025 Honda X-ADV also gets new backlit left-handlebar switchgear.

3. Updated power modes

The four power modes have been updated.The power modes change the power output, engine braking, traction controls, and DCT operation. There is also a USER mode that can be personalized. Additionally the DCT has also been modified for improved low-speed operation. (See? It was not my fault!)

4. Seat with thicker foam

The seat’s urethane foam is 10 percent thicker, but the seat is reshaped to make it easier for the rider to put his/her feet down. The seat is easier to open and close when accessing the underseat compartment.

5. Windscreen adjustable for three positions

The windscreen is adjustable for three positions. Adjustments are easier and only require your left hand to accomplish. The adjustment range is 14cm, and the screen rake moves over an 11-degree range.

6. Tilt sensor on the centrestand

The centerstand has a tilt sensor to alert you if you have parked on an incline that is too steep, so that the bike does not topple over when you walk away.

7. DRL with integrated turn signals

The new LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) have integrated turn indicators. This is the first motorcycle with this feature, according to Honda. The main headlights have been redesigned, too, with dual LEDs in each side, much like the Honda Civic.

8. Revised bodywork

While its silhouette remains, there are several updates to the bike’s bodywork. One is the design of the aforementioned headlamp, and gone is that black “shout” between the headlamps. The pictures also show transparent wind deflectors along the edge of the front fairing, although we are not sure if these are options or standard equipment.

9. Recycled materials

Honda says that they are using recycled materials called Durabio, a biomass plastic on various bodywork parts on the 2025 Honda X-ADV. The luggage box and seat base are made from recycled Honda automobile bumpers, while recycled plastic is used for panels and covers.

Lastly, there are four colours to choose from: Matte Gold Finch Yellow for the Special Edition and three shades of grey for standard models. The price has not been revealed.

 

BYD, already a global electric car giant, looks to be planning on building their own BYD electric scooter.

There had been many rumours regarding this, previously, and each was denied by BYD themselves. But it looks like they may be tapping into a huge market. They are already the world’s second largest EV battery maker, owning 15.8 percent of the total market in 2023. The company is dedicated to EV battery technology and their in-house “Blade” battery allows high loads with fast recharging and long life compared to other lithium-ion batteries.

The company is not a stranger to motorcycles altogether since they supply the batteries to other electric motorcycle and bicycle manufacturers. However, this would be their first sojourn into producing their own branded motorcycle.

Leaked patent drawings shows a standard step-through scooter, not unlike the super popular Yamaha XMAX 250/300. It is evident to see upside-down forks, a radial mount for the front brake caliper, twin rear shocks. These renders did not include the size and power of the motor, and the battery capacity, however.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn Bhd (“HLYM”) launched its highly anticipated Yamaha PG-1 (Playful Gear 1) bike last month, redefining standards for adventure riding. The PG-1, which comes with a rugged yet classic look, is easily customizable with accessories to match the rider’s personalized style for an elevated riding experience. In an exciting twist, HLYM is pleased to introduce the four different personas of the PG-1 which reflect the diverse lifestyles and preferences of motorcyclists, emphasizing the bike’s versatility to cater to every kind of adventure.

Persona 1: Adventure Seeker

The Adventure Seeker craves the thrill of adventure beyond the urban landscape. When the weekend arrives, he swaps the city life for freedom on the open road, driven by a desire to explore nature. With the Yamaha PG-1, he explores off-beaten tracks, reconnects with the wild outdoors and immerses himself in the natural beauty of Malaysia’s tropical forests.

Persona 2: Urban Classic

The Urban Classic is dashing and elegant, effortlessly balancing a love for exploration with a commitment to style. The Yamaha PG-1 is more than just a mode of transportation to him; it’s an extension of his refined tastes. This modern gentleman looks forward to uncovering Malaysia’s hidden gems on the PG-1, confidently navigating through rural and urban landscapes with a sense of purpose and elegance.

Persona 3: Culture Vulture

A lover of art, fashion and culture, the Culture Vulture is always on the lookout for charming hideaways, cozy cafes and beautiful street art that tell a story. With the Yamaha PG-1 as her trusty travel companion, the Culture Vulture explores urban landscapes while sharing her adventures on social media to capture the beauty in everyday moments.

Persona 4: Street Adventurer

Embracing the excitement of the city after dark, the Street Adventurer embodies a unique blend of mystery and adventure. He effortlessly glides through the city on the Yamaha PG-1 as he seeks out cool destinations that are bustling with nightlife. Whether it’s a midnight ride through neon-lit streets or an exploration to uncover hidden spots, the Street Adventurer balances urban sophistication with a spirited sense of adventure.

In line with its tagline, “Be Free, Be You!”, the Yamaha PG-1 is designed for convenient customization to suit the rider’s personal style. Riders who are gearing up for an exploration adventure can now get their hands on the GIVI PG-1 Exploration Pack at RM700 (limited to the first 500 units) or the Yamaha PG-1 Expedition Pack at RM1,200.00 (limited to the first 300 units). For those who wish to personalize their PG-1 further, they may be interested to check out Prelova Studio or Taymen Airbrushing.

TYM Accessories:

Recommended Retail Price: RM1,200 (Value: RM1,800) – Limited to 300 units only.

• Hand Guard Kit;
• Hand Guard Cover Kit;
• Front Carrier;
• Sub Frame Kit;
• Leg Shield Kit.

GIVI Accessories:

Recommended Retail Price: RM700 (Value: RM1,200) – Limited to 500 units only.

• Side Bag;
• Handlebar Bag;
• Duffle Bag;
• Bracket for Side Bag;
• Rack for Duffle Bag.

The Honda RC164 racebike made its debut in 1964, breaking new grounds with its 250cc inline-six engine, and ridden by Jim Redman. So, to commemorate its 60th anniversary, Honda of Japan authorised the Swiss watchmaker Baresi & Caine to create just 60 pieces of this commemorative Honda RC164 Stella watch.

The watch has a stainless steel case, bezel and case back, along with a black Onyx dial and 18-carat yellow gold Honda ‘wing’ motif and rotor. The mechanism is an in-house BC102MR Automatic Micro Rotor, boasting 70 hours of power reserve, while the strap is completed with a stainless steel and 18ct gold clasp.

It has to be said that genuine Honda RC164s are valued at nearly £500,000 (RM2,751,086.53), therefore the watch from Baresi & Caine looks like a relative bargain coming in at just £28,000 (RM154,060.84). Those looking to invest in one will have to pay a £14,000 (RM77,030.42) deposit. Buyers will also get a copy of the beautiful Honda Six – Recreating a Masterpiece coffee table book worth £65 (RM357.64) when they place their order.

Interested parties can place an order at the official website. Hurry, there are only 60 pieces of the Honda RC164 Stella watch and while the Malaysian Ringgit is at its highest level at the moment.

Meanwhile, I will make do with my RM99.00 Casio watch (no, it is not a G-Shock).

The 2025 MotoGP calendar has just been released. It is going to be an extra busy year with 22 rounds, and 44 races.

Like the previous seasons, 2025 will kick off with a fly-away (non-European) round. However, Thailand will host the opening round at the Chang International Circuit, instead of the usual venue at Qatar. It also means that Thailand will not be held back-to-back to Malaysia, as in the case of this year.

Mid-season period takes place from April to September, with the championship returning to the European continent. The Brno circuit in the Czech Republic returns, no doubt will be much welcomed by riders and fans.

Argentina is provisionally scheduled after the Thai GP, although it was cancelled this year.

A new additional for 2025 is Balaton Park, Hungary. The 2.5-mile venue was only recently completed and will be an interesting test for the teams and riders who will have little to no data and experience of the track. The circus will be heading to the Hungarian venue between August 22 and 24.

There are two missing venues for 2025. First is the Sokol International Circuit in Kazakhstan. It had been cancelled due to bad floods in the country this year. The other is the now infamous Indian MotoGP which has been delayed until 2026 due to what Dorna and the FIM stated as “operational circumstances.”

Rounding out the 2025 season is the traditional showdown at Jerez, with the stunning circuit playing host to the championship between November 14 and 16.

Provisional 2025 MotoGP Calendar

Event

GP Date

Thai GP

March 2

Argentina GP

March 16

Americas GP

March 30

Qatar GP

April 13

Spanish GP (Jerez)

April 27

French GP

May 11

British GP

May 25

Aragon GP

June 8

Italian GP

June 22

Dutch GP

June 29

German GP

July 13

Czech GP

July 20

Austrian GP

August 17

Hungarian GP

August 24

Catalan GP (Barcelona)

September 7

San Marino GP

September 14

Japanese GP

September 28

Indonesian GP

October 5

Australian GP

October 19

Malaysian GP

October 26

Portuguese GP

November 9

Valencia GP

November 16

It is perhaps the worst kept secret that Aveta will launch two adventure models, namely the Aveta VTM250LX and Aveta VTM250M in October. On top of that, the bikes had been spied undergoing trials in the vicinity of Rawang.

Both variants were present in the tests.

The Aveta VTM250LX is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. Its higher ground clearance and dual-purpose tires suggest that this model is ready to tackle challenging terrains and light road riding. Ideal for adventurers who need a machine that can withstand the rigours of dirt paths and at the same time casual road riding. So, it is more of an enduro.

The Aveta VTM250M, on the other hand, appears to be more road-oriented, with a sleeker design and a lower seat height. While it still holds true to the adventure DNA, this model seems better suited for urban explorers and long-distance touring, offering a more comfortable ride on highways and smoother surfaces. It looks a lot like a supermoto.

Both bikes share the same 250cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve, oil-cooled engine. It produces 20hp (15kW) at 8,500 RPM and 18Nm at 6,500 RPM. It is clearly tuned for torque and tractability. The VTM250LX is said to weigh 125kg, dry.

With both bikes undergoing testing, it’s clear that Aveta is gearing up to deliver something exciting for both off-road adventurers and urban riders alike!

After more twists and turns than in a Bollywood movie later, the India MotoGP has been “delayed” to 2026. Dorna and the FIM have confirmed it officially with a press release.

The release did not mention the words “cancelled” or “postponed” and instead stated that the event will be “included on the 2026 FIM MotoGP calendar”. At the same time, they confirmed that the Indian venue will be a standby event for the 2025 championship season.

The full press release from the FIM and Dorna reads:

“The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports confirm that the Indian Grand Prix will be included on the 2026 FIM MotoGP calendar, moving to become a reserve event for 2025.

“Operational circumstances have obliged the event to be delayed from its initial slot near the start of the 2025 calendar. With no available dates towards the end of the season, MotoGP will therefore return to India in the early stages of 2026.

“Both MotoGP and InvestUP are working hard to bring MotoGP back to Buddh International Circuit with a world-class event, and are committed to confirming India as a destination for global sporting events.

“Our collaboration with InvestUP to bring MotoGP back to India continues to lay fantastic foundations for the future and MotoGP looks forward to racing in front of our incredible Indian fans as soon as possible.”

Autosport reports that the troubles are down to a lack of financial support from a local government investment agency linked to the region where the race is to be held. Invest UP (UP stands for Uttar Pradesh – the region in which the Buddh International Circuit resides) took over the promotion of the event from Fairstreet Sports, who promoted the inaugural event in 2023. It was believed that Fairstreet Sports had failed to pay Dorna and FIM for the rights to hold the event, in addition to the vendors.

Even that inaugural event in 2023 was fraught with difficulties on more than one occasion in the days leading up to it.

The 2024 was originally intended to take place last weekend, was first cancelled due to financial concerns although Dorna and the FIM did not specifically mention it. The round was subsequently moved to early 2025 due to “weather concerns” ahead of the season’s first round at Buriram, Thailand. It was hoped that the weather in the Uttar Pradesh region will be cooler during that time.

The postponement of the Indian MotoGP meant that MotoGP remained in Misano for two back-to-back rounds, instead.

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