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Adventure Motorcycles for New Riders (2025) – Part 1

Adventure motorcycles are already known for their comfort and versatility, hence why the segment is still growing. While we ride 99.9% of the time on paved roads, adventure bikes still provide many advantages, including long-travel suspension is able to soak up bumps and irregularities, tall ride height which gives the ride great all-round vision, comfortable ergonomics, and the ability to be fitted with luggage and bags.

Then of course, there is ever present capability for off-road exploring although that potential depends on the specific motorcycle and rider.

Speaking of the rider, it is perhaps unwise for a new rider get the most powerful and fastest adventure bike, especially if you plan to do some off-roading. So, here are XX adventure motorcycles for new riders, which we have updated for 2025.

1. Honda CRF250 Rally

It all began with the CRF250L in 2013, then the CRF250L Adventure, before becoming the present CRF250 Rally. Built to look like the CRF450 Rally Dakar racer, this bike looks the part and is easy to ride. There is even a built-in tool space in the left underseat panel.

250cc, single cylinder engine, which does 24hp at 9,000 RPM, 23Nm at 6,000 RPM.
12.8-litre fuel tank, 153kg.
885mm seat height.
Selling price: RM28,599.
Pros: Easy to ride, lightweight.
Cons: Seat height may be too tall for new riders.

2. Modenas Versys-X 250

The Versys-X 250 is a popular model as it has a lower seat height, and is gear more towards a sport-tourer although it does have some off-road capabilities. But get this: Modenas equips the bike with a pair of side cases as standard equipment in Malaysia.

249cc, parallel-twin engine, producing 32.5hp at 11,500 RPM, 21.7Nm at 10,000 RPM.
17-litre fuel tank, 181kg.
815mm seat height.
Selling price: RM24,900.
Pros: Fast for a small cc adventure bike, low seat height.
Cons: Peaky engine (needs lotsa revs), rudimentary suspension.

3. Suzuki V-Strom 250SX

The V-Strom 250SX is a long-awaited model and had just been launched in Malaysia last year. All we can say is it was worth the wait. While the engine does not boost any new tech and looked underpowered on paper, it was full of low- and mid-range torque. And when coupled to a superb suspension, the bike was actually sweet to ride. In fact, it felt a lot like riding the KTM 250 Adventure, but at a much lower price. Build quality was the best even beating out the Honda.

249cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, two-valve, oil-cooled engine, producing 26hp, 24Nm.
12-litre fuel tank, 167kg.
835mm seat height.
Selling price: RM17,800.
Pros: Torquey engine, compliant suspension, great value for money.
Cons: No assist and slipper clutch.

4. KTM 250 Adventure

The KTM 250 Adventure is gear more towards the adventure side of purpose, hence you can hit the trails put of the box. However, it is also a practical bike everyday riding and touring. The suspension is also more supple compared to its 390 Adventure sibling’s. It is also much simpler.

249cc, single-cylinder, DOHC, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine, producing 29.5hp at 9,3000 RPM, 22.72Nm at 7,300 RPM.
14.5-litre fuel tank, 156kg.
855mm seat height.
Selling price: RM24,000
Pros: Torquey engine, compliant suspension, the most adventure-ready of the lot.
Cons: No assist and slipper clutch.

5. BMW G 310 GS

This bike always seems to escape everyone’s attention for some reason. Is it due to price? Maintenance costs? Reliability? Do let us know because we have reviewed it and found it to be a rather good all-rounder.

313cc, single-cylinder, DOHC, four-valve, liquid-cooled engine, producing 34hp at 9,250 RPM, 28Nm at 7,500 RPM.
11.5-litre fuel tank, 175kg.
855mm seat height.
Selling price: RM31,500
Pros: Torquey engine, compliant suspension, best all-rounder.
Cons: You tell us!

Vespa 946 Snake Limited Edition Launched in Italy

The new Vespa 946 Snake limited edition has been launched to celebrate the Lunar Calendar’s Year of the Snake celebration. Vespa had also released the 946 Dragon to celebrate the Year of the Dragon, in 2024. In any case, the Vespa 946 snake is limited to just 888 units.

Vespa says the design is “inspired by icy landscapes”: Simple yet eye-catching, the model features a series of accessories, and has been created with particular attention to design and functionality.

Snake-inspired details are evident in the handlebar grips and the seat, which mirror the reptile’s characteristic skin texture, while there are chrome elements featured across the fuel tank and mudguard to complete the model’s aesthetics.

Additionally, Vespa has a helmet with a removable interior and smoked visor along with a very stylish Bomber jacket specifically made to suit the model. By contrast, the 946 Dragon had a jacket only.

Vespa is planning to implement an international retail strategy through pop-up stores in various locations. The tour for the 946 Snake will begin in Rome, at Rinascente Tritone, followed by Galeries Lafayette on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. This is already ongoing and will end on 5 February. The itinerary also includes stops at flagship stores in Milan, Vienna, Beijing, Istanbul, Bangkok, Singapore, Hanoi, and Jakarta.

Pre-orders for the new Vespa 946 Snake began on 8 January with further information on the official Vespa website.

70-Year-Old KTM Controlled Foundry goes Bankrupt

A 70-year-old KTM controlled foundry has gone bankrupt.

The Austrian foundry, called Vöcklabrucker Metallgießerei Dambauer GmbH (VMG) was a family business and Pierer Beteiligungs GmbH took over 70 per cent of the business in 2022. The news outlet OÖNachrichten (OON) reported that the company had 150 employees and a turnover of €32 million at the time of the takeover.

Half of VMD’s sales was to KTM, while the other half came from other clients, including some from BMW.

OON further reported that KTM Components AG had promised VMG’s bosses that the former will keep the foundry afloat by providing funds including for the workers’ salaries, despite KTM’s struggles.

Unfortunately that did not come to pass as there seems to be no plan to restructure the company. It is a big blow to the staff, who are reported to be still owed wages, and also for the family that built the company. VMG was slated to celebrate their 70th anniversary in 2025.

A spokesman from the creditors’ protection association KSV1870 said, “We assume that the debtor company will be closed in bankruptcy court as quickly as possible after a prior examination by the insolvency administrator and that the remaining assets will be utilized in the best possible way.”

In other words, the creditors are keen to be repaid and VMG’s assets will be sold off.

MACC Arrests Another 13 Puspakom Vehicle Inspectors

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested 13 more Puspakom vehicle inspection officers. The total number of arrests now stands at 19 Puspakom officers, 1 agent, and 2 runners.

All the male suspects, aged between 20 and 40, were detained between 1pm and 2pm yesterday and 10am and 3pm today while they were giving statements at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya.

“Initial investigations found that all the suspects were believed to have received bribes of between RM150 and RM1,500 per month in cash from runners in return for helping to pass vehicle inspections where they were working.

“The arrest of all the suspects follows the arrest of six vehicle inspection officers last Monday and also the result of interrogation conducted by the MACC on an agent who was handed over by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) earlier,” said a source.

Meanwhile, MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations), Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya when contacted confirmed the arrest and said that the case is being investigated under Section 16 (b) (A) of the MACC Act 2009.

However, he said that all 13 vehicle inspection officers who were arrested yesterday and today will be released on MACC bail after their statements are taken.

We have featured news on the arrest of 6 Puspkom vehicle inspection officers by the Anti-Corruption Commission Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) a few days ago. Following that, there were some rather interesting comments such as, “Provide a bigger lockup.” There was also an allegation by a lorry driver that he was denied approval three times until he hired the services of a ‘runner.’

1,300 Bookings for Zontes 368G Scooter Within One Week

It looks like Zontes has hit the sweet spot here in Malaysia, as there are already 1,300 bookings for the Zontes 368G scooter within one week of its official launch. It was launched on 2nd January 2025.

Begin Press Release:

ZONTES Malaysia is delighted to announce that, until now (9th January) the recently launched ZONTES 368G has received more than 1300 bookings. With a basic selling price (BSP) of RM28,800, this adventure scooter has become a popular choice among Malaysians who are seeking a versatile ride on the road, whether it is for daily commutes or light off-roading.

The ZONTES 368G Adventure Scooter is a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) model manufactured in a local CKD assembly plant in Jitra, Kedah. Riders can enjoy top-quality scooter features such as a larger-than-average fuel tank and extensive safety features at an inexpensive price. After the production and inspection stages, this model is scheduled to be delivered in March 2025, ensuring owners receive their product with utmost satisfaction.

In the meantime, interested buyers are welcome to arrange a viewing and make a booking at any authorised ZONTES dealer across Malaysia. On top of that, ZONTES Malaysia will be hosting a nationwide roadshow from 3rd January to 6th April 2025. Biking enthusiasts can seize this opportunity to have a closer view of this adventure scooter.

You may refer to this table for specific dates and details:

For more information on the ZONTES 368G, please visit the official website of ZONTES Malaysia at https://zontesmalaysia.com/

Zontes 368G First Ride Review, The Game Changer

Bajaj Hit 3.1 Million Registrations in 2024

Bajaj Auto recorded 3.1 million motorcycle registrations worldwide in 2024, a 10.6% rise. It was not far from their highest record.

The data was provided by the website MotorCycles Data who track actual registrations by consumers, rather than sales invoiced to dealers by the manufacturers.

The company’s sales growth was almost entirely driven by domestic consumption, taking the brand to fourth place in India behind Honda, Hero, and Yamaha.

By contrast, Bajaj’s share in the global market saw some drops, apart the African continent, where the demand is for cheap vehicles and consumers are considering Bajaj Auto as an alternative to Chinese motorcycles. 96% of the total sales and exports were mainly to Africa, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka.

The manufacturer also holds a strong position in South America, exporting from the local plant based in Colombia.

Biggest gainers were India (+13.4%), Brazil (+136%), and Nicaragua (+53%). Markets that saw the sharpest drops were Bangladesh (-27%), Philippines (-10.2%), and Argentina (-15.6%).

Overall, Bajaj Auto lost one place in the world ranking, dropping to 6th, behind TVS Motor.

MACC Arrests 6 Puspakom Officers, 2 Individuals

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has arrested eight individuals, including six vehicle inspection officers, who were suspected of being involved in a syndicate that approved heavy vehicle inspections at a Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) in the capital.

Sources said that all the male suspects, aged between 30 and 50, were arrested when they appeared to give statements at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya from 12 noon to 11 pm.

“The arrest of all the suspects is the result of an interrogation conducted by the MACC on an agent who was handed over by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) earlier.

“However, the six vehicle inspection officers involved have been released on MACC bail after their statements were taken,” he said.

The six inspection officers have been suspended by Puspakom.

PUSPAKOM Chief Executive Officer Mahmood Razak Bahman said his party views the case seriously and will not tolerate any misconduct, especially involving the integrity of vehicle inspection operations.

“PUSPAKOM will not protect anyone involved in corruption,” he said.

Meanwhile, two other individuals have been remanded for five days starting today until January 11.

The remand order was issued by Magistrate Irza Zulaikha after an application was made by the MACC at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court, this morning.

Meanwhile, MACC Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations), Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya, when contacted, confirmed the arrests and informed that the case is being investigated under Section 16 (b) (A) of the MACC Act 2009.

According to him, so far the MACC has arrested nine individuals and does not rule out the possibility of several follow-up arrests being made to assist in the investigation.

New Colours for 2025 Honda Wave Alpha

Boon Siew Honda announces new colours for the 2025 Honda Wave Alpha. The long-running model is popular among those who seek a simple, round-around motorcycle.

The rest of the bike stays unchanged. Hence it is powered by the same EEV (energy efficient vehicle)-certified 109.2cc engine with Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), which delivers optimised performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. The 7.3-litre under-seat storage space is still there, allowing for the rider to carry small items such as a rainsuit, jacket, or other personal belongings. The fuel tank capacity remains at 4.1 litres.

Braking is handled by a single disc up front and a drum brake at the back.

The new colours are called Silver, Blue, Red and the classic Black. Net selling price excluding road tax, insurance, and registration is RM5,309 for Silver, Blue, and Red, while the Black option sells for RM5,259.

For your peace of mind, Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000 manufacturing warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, please click www.boonsiewhonda.com.my or visit the nearest Honda Impian X. Customers may also reach Boon Siew Honda via our toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993.

Plane Crashes Killed 334 in 2024

Plane crashes killed 334 people in 2024 worldwide, according to preliminary data from the German Air Traffic Industry Association (BDL), German news agency (dpa) reported.

The fatalities included passengers, crew and seven people on the ground.

In comparison, only 80 deaths were reported in 2023, the second lowest number since 1970.

The BDL statistics cover accidents involving aircraft with at least 14 seats. Incidents involving smaller aircraft and military flights are excluded from the report.

Although the number of aviation fatalities hit a record low in 2017, there has been an increase in the following years, the association said.

However, long-term data shows significant safety improvements.

“The aviation industry was about 53 times safer last year (2024) than in the 1970s,” said BDL Managing Director Joachim Lang.

In 2024, 17 accidents involving passenger and cargo aircraft were investigated, the association said.

The deadliest accident occurred on December 29 when a Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air crashed while landing at Muan Airport in South Korea. The crash killed 179 passengers and two crew members survived. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the accident.

According to projections by the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), about 4.7 billion passengers will fly worldwide in 2024, more than 10 times the average since the 1970s, when only 440 million people flew annually.

In other words, civil aviation is still the safest mode of transportation.

Cameron Highlands Road is Blocked Again

The Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands Road was blocked was blocked by a landslide on October 25, 2024, and was reopened on December 19. However, it is now blocked again by another landslide.

The landslide occurred on the main road in Kampung Raja near the Blue Valley junction, here, at about 3.15 am this morning due to continuous heavy rain.

The landslide caused the main route from Simpang Pulai/Lojing to Cameron Highlands to be blocked in both directions.

According to a statement from the Cameron Highlands District Disaster Management Secretariat, road users are advised to use an alternative route via Jalan Sungai Koyan in Lipis or Jalan Tapah to Cameron Highlands.

The Pahang Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) has been dispatched to the location to monitor the situation, provide assistance and ensure the safety of the area.

Work to remove the rubble is currently underway to reopen the route to users.

Puspakom Admits Unable to Detect Rented Part

The Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) admitted that it does not have a specific mechanism to detect commercial vehicles that use rented spare parts to obtain approval during inspections.

Puspakom is clear that this situation makes it impossible for it to detect vehicles that try to cheat during inspections.

In this regard, it is currently holding discussions with authorities including relevant ministries to help Puspakom conduct inspections more accurately and in detail.

“We cannot detect the use of rented vehicle components such as tires, brakes, brake pads and so on, because they are quite common.

“However, we are in discussions with regulators and ministries to improve our processes. This step could lead to more accurate and thorough inspections involving the use of technology.

“For example, when we asked about the tire issue, even though we checked it, because the damage was caused by the brakes (axles), we did not have the ability to check that part.

“When we check the brake performance, we will check the effectiveness of the brakes and the tire performance,” he said.

The tire or other component replacement service to pass the Puspakom inspection, which was openly advertised on social media, became the focus after the tragedy that claimed seven lives in Melaka on December 23.

The crash that killed five members of a family, a tour bus driver and a passenger at Kilometer 204 of the North-South Highway heading north near the Ayer Keroh rest and service area, was believed to have been caused by a lorry’s front tire coming off and being in the middle lane of the highway.

Following that, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) launched a simultaneous Puspakom Shock Operation nationwide and detected heavy vehicles using old and unsafe dipped tires that were at risk of exploding at any time, and came to inspect the center in question.

Lorry Hits MPV, One Killed, 7 Month Old Bay in Serious Condition

The journey home of two families from an engagement ceremony in Muar ended in tragedy when one of them died after a lorry entered the opposite lane and hit their multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) at Kilometer (KM) 86, Jalan Johor Bahru-Air Hitam, yesterday.

Kluang District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Bahrin Mohd Noh said Widiani Afendi, 39, the rear passenger of the Toyota Estima, died instantly at the scene in the 7.15pm incident due to severe head injuries.

He said that the seven-month-old baby, Lee Sun Mei, who is also the family’s adopted child, suffered internal head injuries and is receiving treatment at the Red Zone of the Enche’ Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital (HEBHK), here.

“The accident also caused minor injuries to the 53-year-old lorry driver and six others in the MPV, including drivers aged six to 58.

“The accident is believed to have occurred after the lorry from the direction of Machap heading towards Air Hitam lost control and entered the opposite lane and hit the right side of the MPV.

“The injured victim is receiving treatment at HEBHK Kluang. The lorry driver, who was injured in the head and chest, is receiving treatment at Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat,” he said.

According to him, the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.