Bikesrepublic

Archive

Attention all adventure-seeking Ducati enthusiasts! Get ready to rev your engines and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the stunning landscapes of Thailand with Ducati Adventure Tour. 

  • Enjoy a 6-day expedition in Thailand riding on board the Ducati DesertX. 
  • The Ducati Adventure Tour takes you across the rich culture and heritage of Thailand. 

Ducati Asia Pacific has officially launched this exciting 6-day expedition, designed to immerse riders in the rich culture and heritage of Thailand, while tackling some of the finest stretches of tarmac the country has to offer on the powerful Ducati DesertX motorcycles.

Led by expert Ducati professionals and supported by the highly trained DART ASIA event team, participants will experience the ultimate riding adventure with access to lead and sweep marshals, backup vehicles, luxurious accommodations, delicious meals, and their very own Ducati DesertX motorcycle.

The DesertX is the ultimate machine for off-road enthusiasts, boasting a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel, specifically designed to handle even the most challenging terrains.

The bike has been developed with the perfect combination of off-road and road expertise, resulting in a bike that is highly responsive, maneuverable, and at ease on all types of trails and asphalt. The Ducati Adventure Tour is setting new benchmarks in the off-road and touring world, and you won’t want to miss out on this thrilling experience!

According to Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Ducati Asia Pacific, “With hugely successful Ducati Riding Experiences like Track Days last year, we are glad to kick start another chapter in the Ducati Experience by organizing Ducati Adventure Tours for Ducatisti to experience the true essence of Thailand on board the exceptional Ducati DesertX.”

Partnering with Ducati Asia Pacific is Pirelli, who will provide high-performance tires capable of handling any terrain. Marco Soana, Marketing Manager at Pirelli, said, “We are extremely happy to be part of this fantastic tour by Ducati Asia Pacific and provided full support. The Pirelli and Ducati partnership is formidable, and the tour is another testament to our long-standing commitment to high-performance tires for the Ducati DesertX capable of any terrain.”

DART ASIA’s Director, Sayomphu Thammarach, said, “We have specially designed this tour for the Ducati enthusiast to enjoy both the fantastic motorcycle as well as the spectacular riding routes, culture and heritage that the north of Thailand has to offer. Over the years, DART has established itself as the frontrunner in curating adventure travel here in Thailand, and with this partnership with Ducati Asia Pacific, we want to further solidify our position and give every Ducati owner a true-to-Ducati experience.”

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey, sign up now for the Ducati Adventure Tour in Thailand and experience the ultimate thrill of a lifetime!

Royal Enfield recently opens its second exclusive showroom located in Perai, Penang. 

  • The Super Meteor features an all-new frame and revised suspension setup. 
  • The Super Meteor 650 features the same 650cc parallel-twin engine found in the 650 Twins. 

During the launch, Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo Chairman of Didi Group also confirmed that the highly-aniticpated Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 will hit Malaysian shores tentatively in July 2023. 

The Super Meteor 650 is the third motorcycle to feature Royal Enfield’s 650cc parallel-twin engine after the Continental GT and Interceptor.

However, this is not simply an engine swap from the smaller Meteor 350 or a different aesthetic from the existing 650 Twin. Instead, the Super Meteor 650 gets a newly built frame, revised suspension geometry, redesigned fuel tank, new side panels and a new swingarm.

Also, the Super Meteor 650 is the first 650cc model from Royal Enfield to be equipped with full-LED lighting. In addition, the Super Meteor is also the first Royal Enfield to be fitted with upside-down forks.

Nonetheless, the motorcycle continues to offer conventional cruiser-style riding ergonomics similar to the 350.

Meanwhile, instrumentation comes from a digital-analogue display with tripper navigation.

Boon Siew Honda, a leading motorcycle manufacturer in Malaysia, has introduced a new colour for its popular adventure-style scooter, the X-ADV 750 now priced at RM68,899. 

  • The X-ADV has been well-received by adventurous rider since its launch in 2018.
  • The DCT is the most outstanding feature of the X-ADV. 

The latest addition to the X-ADV lineup is the Shasta White colour, which enhances the bike’s elegant design and aggressive front look when paired with its dual LED headlights and spectacular Daytime Running Lights. The X-ADV still comes with a digital instrument console, LED taillamp, and five-step adjustable windscreen that can be adjusted on the go, making it convenient for long-distance rides.

Powering the X-ADV is a Euro 5-compliant 745cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that is linked to a 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox. The bike generates a maximum power of 43kW @ 6,750rpm and 69Nm @ 4,750rpm of peak torque. 

The X-ADV’s DCT feature is a standout characteristic that sets it apart from other scooters in the market. Safety features include disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and ABS, which offer an immersive braking experience.

The X-ADV’s 5-inch TFT display panel features the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS), which allows riders to connect their smartphones while on the move and manage phone calls, email, music, and navigation using voice commands.

The 2023 Honda X-ADV is available in three colour options, including Mat Ballistic Black Metallic, Pearl Deep Mud Gray, and the new Shasta White.

Royal Enfield, the world’s leading mid-size motorcycle manufacturer, has opened a new store in Penang, Malaysia, to expand its presence in the Asia Pacific region. 

The store, located at 1681 G1, Jalan Perusahaan, 13600 Perai, Pulau Pinang, will provide customers in Malaysia with greater accessibility to the brand’s motorcycles, apparel, and accessories.

The Royal Enfield-Penang store is located in the heart of the commercial center and provide easier access for customers in Penang Island, Kedah & Perak. The exclusive store will showcase the brand’s philosophy of “Pure Motorcycling” in every aspect of the ownership experience.

Didi Group, the Malaysian distributor of Royal Enfield, has achieved a 500% growth in bike registrations in 2022 and plans to expand further by opening five pop-up stores and a new official store in Johor Bahru in 2023. The company is also set to launch two new bike models, the Hunter 350 on March 9, 2023, and the Super Meteor 650 tentatively in July 2023.

According to Anuj Dua, Head of Business for Asia Pacific, Royal Enfield is committed to becoming the global leader in the mid-size segment, and the Asia Pacific region is of strategic importance. 

The Malaysian market has seen a surge in Royal Enfield riders subscribing to leisure motorcycling and the “Pure Motorcycling” fold. The exclusive brand store and the accessible price points will appeal to motorcycling enthusiasts, he said.

The new Royal Enfield store in Penang, Malaysia, is expected to provide customers with a complete range of motorcycles, services, and Genuine motorcycle accessories under one roof.

Moto enthusiasts and Italian biking aficionados, get ready to rev up your engines because Didi Group has just announced the grand opening of MotoPlex Butterworth – the ultimate destination for all your two-wheel vehicle needs!

This exciting new showroom offers not one, not two, not three, but FOUR premium brands under the Didi Group umbrella: Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi. And it’s all located in Penang, making it the go-to destination for Malaysian riders seeking the ultimate Italian biking experience.

But it’s not just the impressive lineup of brands that make MotoPlex Butterworth stand out. This dynamic concept store is also designed with Italian aesthetics in mind, reflecting the innovative vision of the Piaggio Group. With a total space of 3,200 sqf, the showroom area covers 2,600 sqf, while the service centre takes up 600 sqf. And with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of well-trained motorcycle technicians and mechanics, superior customer service and access to high-quality spare parts are guaranteed.

 

 

For Didi Group, the launch of MotoPlex Butterworth is a remarkable milestone as it becomes the second MotoPlex in Malaysia, and the first in Penang. Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Group, expressed his excitement saying, “Penang is one of the most vibrant states in Malaysia. I would like to thank GB Motorcycles for introducing this global concept of MotoPlex to the dynamic landscape of Penang, which will help us to further strengthen our positioning and boost our presence in Malaysia.”

The MotoPlex concept offers an exciting overview of the entire Piaggio Group, making it the house of Piaggio’s iconic brands. And with all of these premium brands under one roof, potential customers seeking an enriching Italian two-wheel experience backed by style, technology, superior performance, and rich heritage, will not be disappointed.

Mr. Kheoh Hock Seng, Director of GB Motorcycles, summed it up perfectly saying, “We are committed to serving riders with passion and dedication in our 3200 sqf concept store complete with a service area that is staffed by highly skilled two-wheel technicians. We don’t just make vehicles. We change the way people move.”

Hold onto your helmets, folks, because BMW might be gearing up to release a serious game-changer in the world of motorcycling.

  • Next-generation G 310 series to be equipped with BMW’s ShiftCam technology. 
  • The ShiftCam system will boost the bike’s performance and fuel efficiency. 

The German automaker has just filed a patent application that hints at a potentially groundbreaking development: a ShiftCam-type variable valve timing system for a single-cylinder engine. And if the rumors are true, this could be a major step forward in terms of efficiency, power, and emissions reduction.

The patent, which was filed in August 2021 and published by the German patent office on February 16, 2023, reveals that BMW has been working on a valve actuating system that can control the timing and lift of one or more valves simultaneously. By connecting multiple cam pieces, or using a single cam piece with multiple contours, the system can deliver enhanced performance across the board, from improved power and torque to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

The implications of this technology are huge, especially for BMW’s G 310-series of motorcycles. With a more compact design and a weight-saving valve train, these bikes could potentially offer even more agility and responsiveness on the road. And by incorporating two or more actuation profiles, riders might even be able to customize their riding experience based on their individual preferences or the specific demands of their chosen terrain.

Of course, BMW has yet to make any official announcements about the new technology or its plans for integrating it into future models. But given the company’s history of innovation and its commitment to sustainability and efficiency, it seems likely that we’ll be seeing some major updates to the G-Series and other models in the near future.

Indian electric two-wheeler startup River has just launched its newest model, and it’s a game-changer. The Indie electric scooter has hit the Indian market with a bang, and it’s already causing a stir among two-wheel enthusiasts.

  • The River Indie electric scooter stands out from the crowd thanks to its 55 liters of storage space.
  • The Indie boasts an electric motor output of 6.7 kilowatts and a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity. 

This premium electric scooter is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and it’s set to take the Indian electric vehicle market by storm.

The Indie is an SUV in the world of electric scooters, according to River, and it’s easy to see why. It’s been designed with practicality in mind, and it comes with a host of features that make it stand out from the crowd. One of the most impressive features is the 55 liters of storage space, with 12 liters in the front glove compartment and 43 liters under the saddle. The flat floorboard allows for even more storage space, and the footrests up front are a thoughtful addition.

But it’s not just about practicality. The River Indie electric scooter also boasts impressive performance specs. It’s powered by an electric motor with an output of 6.7 kilowatts, or around nine horsepower, and it’s powered by a large battery pack with a 4-kilowatt-hour capacity. River claims a range of about 120 kilometers, or 75 miles, on a single charge, with a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour, or 56 miles per hour. While the scooter takes a while to charge, it’s well worth the wait.

But what really sets the River Indie apart from other electric scooters is its styling. The rugged, boxy design gives it a unique look, and the square-shaped LED headlights and built-in crash guards add to its distinctive appearance. The full-color TFT display and two USB charging ports are a nice touch, and the reverse parking assist feature is a welcome addition.

Of course, all these features come with a premium price tag. The River Indie retails for Rs 1,25,000, or around RM6.7k, but it’s worth it for the quality and versatility of this electric scooter.

For now, the Indie is only available for pre-order in Bengaluru, but it’s expected to hit other parts of India soon.

CFMoto latest model, the 250CL-X are now available at local dealerships for Rm16,888. 

  • The 250CL-X features the similar design language as the bigger 700CL-X. 
  • Powering the 250CL-X is a single-cylinder 249.2cc engine. 

Despite no official announcement from authorized distributors, the quarter litre ‘neo-retro’ motorcycle were seen at several local dealership across the country. 

The CFMoto 250CL-X features a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 249.2cc. It produces 26 horsepower and 17.4 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to provide an exciting ride. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that offers smooth and precise shifting.

The motorcycle’s design is inspired by the classic café racer style, which is characterized by a slim and streamlined profile, clip-on handlebars, and a single-seat configuration. The 250CL-X also features LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster, and a digital display that provides real-time information on the motorcycle’s performance.

The motorcycle comes equipped with a high-performance suspension system, which consists of an upside-down front fork and a rear mono-shock absorber. The brakes are also impressive, with a 292mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc that provide excellent stopping power.

Riders who are looking for an entry-level motorcycle that offers a balance of style, performance, and affordability may want to consider the CFMoto 250CL-X as an option.

Last week, during the London Motorcycle Show, Ducati introduced the Diavel V4 power cruiser to the UK market. Now, the Italian manufacturer has announced a range of accessories for the Diavel V4 to help owners customise their new ride.

  • Ducati created three accessory packages for the Diavel V4. 
  • The accessory packages are designed to help prospective owners customise their Diavel V4 based on their personal preferences. 

Ducati’s Diavel model has undergone a transformation since its original V2 form launch at the start of the previous decade, thanks to the introduction of the Granturismo V4. To complement the new model, Ducati has created three accessory packages for the Diavel V4: Style, Sport, and Touring.

The Style package offers a carbon fibre rear mudguard, brake and clutch reservoir covers, levers, mirrors, and a billet aluminium oil filler cap, which are all part of the Ducati by Rizoma partnership. Additionally, Brembo brake callipers can be coloured red or black.

The Sport package features carbon fibre exhaust and tank covers, a carbon front mudguard, an anti-tampering system, and an anodised finish on the tank cap.

Finally, the Touring package offers heated grips, a backrest for the passenger seat, and two semi-rigid side bags. Additionally, the package comes with forged aluminium wheels.

According to Ducati, these accessory packages are designed to help prospective owners customise their Diavel V4 to their personal preferences, ensuring that they get the most out of their new motorcycle. With the introduction of these packages, Ducati is demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-performance, customisable motorcycles that cater to the needs of their riders.

The Diavel V4 is already a highly anticipated motorcycle, and these new accessory packages only add to its allure. The Style, Sport, and Touring packages will undoubtedly appeal to a wide range of riders, and we can’t wait to see how they customise their new Diavel V4s.

Honda is reportedly working on a new motorcycle crash detection system that goes beyond just alerting riders when a crash has occurred.

  • Honda is developing a new motorcycle crash detection system that can determine if the rider is unconscious and decide whether or not to call for emergency services.
  • The system uses the motorcycle’s IMU and sensors to detect a crash.
  • The system can differentiate between minor incidents and serious accidents and has the potential to save lives by quickly alerting emergency services.

The new technology is said to be able to determine if the rider is unconscious or not and decide whether or not to call for emergency services.

The system uses the motorcycle’s IMU and an array of sensors to detect when a crash has occurred. It then links to the rider’s smartphone and helmet-mounted Bluetooth headset to determine if the rider is still conscious or not. Based on this diagnosis, the system will decide whether or not to make an emergency call.

Interestingly, the system is also said to be able to differentiate between a minor incident, such as dropping the bike on its side at a driveway, and a serious accident that requires immediate attention. If the incident is deemed minor, the system will not make an emergency call.

While this new technology sounds promising, questions remain about its accuracy and reliability. For example, if the rider is not wearing a Bluetooth headset, will the system still be able to accurately determine their state of consciousness? Additionally, it will be interesting to see how the system performs in real-world scenarios.

Despite these questions, Honda’s new motorcycle crash detection system is a promising development in motorcycle safety technology. It has the potential to save lives by quickly alerting emergency services when a serious accident has occurred. Honda has not yet announced when the technology will be available to the public.

Dunlop, one of the world’s leading tyre manufacturers, has launched its latest 50/50 trail motorcycle tyre, the Trailmax Raid, derived from the company’s rally raid programme.

  • The new Trailmax Raid is the most off-road capable tyre in the Dunlop lineup. 
  • The new tyre combines Dunlop’s touring, adventure, and off-road experience and knowledge to offer superior on-road and off-road performance.

Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid tyre features tread blocks similar to those found in Dunlop’s D908 RR rally raid tyre, providing excellent traction on loose terrain.

Compared to the Trailmax Meridian, launched three years ago, the Trailmax Raid is specifically designed for riders who demand regular off-road performance.

The Dunlop Trailmax Raid will be available in three front sizes, covering 19- and 21-inch wheel sizes, and in six rear sizes, covering 17- and 18-inch wheel sizes.

The company plans to launch the initial sizes on 1 March 2023, with the remaining sizes arriving by the second quarter of the year.

According to Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, the Trailmax Raid offers an ideal 50/50 tyre that excels in various conditions.

Furthermore, the tyre delivers superior performance on wet roads, providing exceptional braking and traction on a range of surfaces, unlocking more versatility than riders might expect from a trail tyre.

The launch of the new tyre strengthens Dunlop’s trail offerings, providing riders with an opportunity to experience superior on-road and off-road performance. Dunlop’s Trailmax Raid is an excellent tyre for riders seeking a true 50/50 tyre that performs on and off the road.

Zero, the US electric motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest concept motorcycle, the SR/X, in partnership with designer Huge Machine. 

  • The SR/X is the latest concept machine introduced by Zero in partnership with Huge Machine. 
  • The SR/X features a distinctive design with half-fairing in light grey with red strip. 

The SR/X was created as part of Zero’s “Design the Future Development Program” and is a reimagined version of the Zero SR/S sports bike. The bike features a distinctive design with a half-fairing in light grey with a red strip around the front, and a single wide headlight at the front. At the rear, the tail section appears to ‘float’ above the shock.

While there are not many specifications available yet for the concept bike, Zero says it is powered by their ZF75-10 electric motor and the ZF17.3 lithium-ion battery. 

Bill Webb of Huge Machine said that the SR/X is an attempt to define a new sub-category for high-performance electric motorcycles, which combines clean lines and disciplined design with the aggressive proportions and raw functionality found in more traditional race bikes.

Webb explained, “The team wanted to create a dramatic and low ‘front-heavy’ silhouette with the bodywork that could juxtapose the fully exposed mechanicals towards the back of the bike in an unconventional way. 

“The SR/S chassis/mechanicals that zero designed are impressive to look at and we wanted the raw bike underneath to be part of the final composition.”

Zero and Huge Machine have previously collaborated on the design of the Zero FXE and its concept motorcycle. 

The SR/X is the latest example of their visionary concepts and Zero’s commitment to innovation. The new motorcycle strives to hit a design sweet spot for the near future of electric motorcycles, combining clean lines and disciplined design detailing with the aggressive stance and raw performance feel of modern litre bikes. 

The concept bike aims to bridge the gap between a streetfighter and a track bike, with partial fairings and aero performance, as well as the raw attitude of the street.

Archive

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube