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Styling update is a common practice for production motorcycle as it ensures the bike remain relevant for the forthcoming year.

  • The RevoNEX and SuperNEX concept gets new styling at EICMA.
  • No official launch date is announced for the two electric concepts. 

However, KYMCO took a different approach; instead of updating its current production motorcycle, the Taiwanese manufacturer used the EICMA show to update the SuperNEX and RevoNEX electric motorcycle concepts.

The SuperNEX made its first appearance in 2019, and not long after that, KYMCO unveiled the RevoNEX naked motorcycle. At the time, no official launch date was released to the public.

Fast forward to November 2022, KYMCO decided the two electric concepts needed a significant freshen-up. Unfortunately, the firm is yet to give us a launch date!

Nevertheless, the RevoNEX and SuperNEX gained extensive styling upgrades from the previous model, including a more aggressive front end and a cleaner overall design.

Strangely, both motorcycles now feature a unique hexagonal ‘skin’ made of matte finish plastic. Frankly, it looks weirdly fascinating, but as mentioned earlier, KYMCO remains tight-lipped about the release date. 

So the question on everyone’s mind is, will the RevoNEX and SuperNEX ever going to make their way to production anytime soon?

We’ll be sure to keep you posted. 

EICMA motorcycle show brings you all the latest and upcoming production models to get you excited for the forthcoming year. 

  • Ducati Diavel has been crowned the most beautiful bike at EICMA. 
  • The Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S and Fantic Caballero 700 took second and third place, respectively. 

The best part is, at the end of the event, visitors are required to pick one bike to be crowned the most beautiful motorcycle of the event. 

A reputable Italian publication, Motociclismo is the responsible party behind the voting and has been doing so since 2005. 

*Ducati Diavel V4

That said, for 2022, visitors of EICMA have voted the all-new Ducati Diavel V4 as the most breathtaking bike above all else. 

The Diavel V4 took the win with an impressive 36.3 per cent out of 22,880 total votes collected. Meanwhile, another Italian Moto Guzzi comes second with 13.2 per cent with the all-new V100 Mandello S. 

*Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello S

Surprisingly, the Fantic Caballero 700 took the third spot with 11.1 per cent of the vote. 

The remaining seven are as follows:

  • Triumph Street Triple 765 R
  • Honda XL750 Transalp
  • Benelli TRK800
  • Suzuki GSX-8S
  • Vespa GTS 300
  • Moto Morini X-Cape
  • Brixton Cromwell 1200
*Honda XL750 Transalp

On that note, the award has always gone to an Italian-made motorcycle, with Ducati winning it ten times, followed by MV Agusta (five times). 

Do you agree with the result? Do drop us a comment and share your thoughts. 

You might not be familiar with the Loncin brand, but it is the firm responsible for manufacturing the engine for BMW’s C 400 X, C 400 GT, F 850 GS, F 900 R and F 900 XR. 

  • Loncin rolls out Voge  the new 900DS adventure at EICMA. 
  • The Voge 900DS features a similar powertrain to BMW’s F 900 XR, producing close to 100hp and 92Nm. 

Loncin and BMW have been working together for years now, similar to CFMOTO’s partnership with KTM.

While it may took a while for Loncin, through its premium Voge brand, to work on its own motorcycle range but the 900 DS adventure motorcycle is officially here.

 

Using the BMW commissioned engine, the Voge 900 DS is fitted with the same engine as the BMW F900 R/XR, an 895cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin that pumps out 96.5hp and 87Nm. 

Power is sent to the rear wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission regulated by an up/down quickshifter as standard. 

Similar to its BMW counterpart, the Voge 900DS features a host of electronics including throttle-by-wire system.  Information related to the motorcycle can be accessed via a full-colour TFT display. 

Other handy features include:

  • USB port.
  • cruise control.
  • heated grips and heated seats.
  • complete aluminium side and top case.

In addition, the 900DS also features some premium components including fully adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes and dual-channel ABS. 

As a standard adventure capable motorcycle, the 900DS is fitted with 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoked wheels as standard. While the 825mm seat height is impressive, the Voge 900DS is noticeably heavy at 220kg. 

Kawasaki Malaysia has announced the availability of four new CBU models for the Malaysian market including the Z900RS, Ninja 1000SX, Versys 1000SE and Ninja ZX-10R. 

  • Kawasaki Malaysia officially rolls out four new CBU models for 2022. 
  • The new generation Kawasaki ZX-10R finally in Malaysia for a recommended selling price of RM112,600. 

All four models were shown to the public during the recent Malaysian MotoGP held in Sepang International Circuit (SIC). 

Weeks after, all the models are now available at the local dealership except for the Versys 1000SE which will only be made available beginning mid-December.

Kawasaki Z900RS – RM63,800

The Z900RS embodies Kawasaki’s retro DNA that pays homage to the legendary Z1. 

Powering the Z900RS is a best-in-class 948cc inline-four, liquid-cooled engine that produces 111hp @ 8,500rpm and 98Nm. 

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX – RM71,400

 

The fourth generation sport tourer from Kawasaki allows riders to experienced the ride of both sport and a tourer all in one packages.

The Ninja 1000SX features a 1043cc inline-four cylinder engine that makes 124.3hp @ 9,500rpm and 111Nm @ 8,000rpm. 

Adopting the Ninja styling cue, the 1000SX also features a host of modern electronic package including a full TFT display, electronic cruise control, Kawasaki traction control, power modes and Kawasaki Cornering Management Function. 

Kawasaki Versys 1000SE – RM81,900

The popular tourer returns and features an even greater comfort and versatility for 2022. 

Like previous generation model, the 2022 Versys 1000SE features the same 1043cc 4-stroke, inline four-cylinder DOHC engine that pushes 120hp @ 9,000rpm and 102Nm. 

The Versys 1000SE is also fitted with a quickshifter as standard while also equipped with assist/slipper clutch, dual throttle vales and an electronic cruise control.

Kawasaki ZX-10R – RM112,600

The 2022 ZX-10R is the most potent superbike built by Team Green with six WorldSBK titles embedded in its DNA. 

Moving towards the engine, its 998cc inline-four unit now comes with new WorldSBK-spec independent air-cooled oil cooler, electronic throttle valves, exhaust unit, and revised transmission ratios. This resulted in a Euro5-compliant engine that produces 200hp and 115Nm of maximum torque, which is not that far off from the previous-gen model.

Mounted to the same chassis as the previous-gen, the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R does come with a new and slightly longer swingarm for improved high-speed stability. This is further enhanced with Showa BPF front forks and Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) monoshock, all fully-adjustable.

Aprilia is already working towards a new future after unveiling its first electric project, called Electrica. 

  • Aprilia revealed the company’s first electric motorcycle at EICMA.
  • The Electrica is pioneered by the Piaggio Group, experienced in electric power. 

While it took a while for Aprilia to materialise its first electric motorcycle, the Italian firm already has the upper hand in the game.

This is because Aprilia’s parent company, the Piaggio Group, began working with electric power almost 50 years ago and produced the world’s first hybrid scooter, the MP3 Hybrid, back in 2009. 

“The Electrica project uses all the know-how made available from the Piaggio Group, which has been working on electric propulsion since 1975, having introduced a long line of vehicles [over the years] such as the MP3 Hybrid, the first hybrid scooter in the world,” said Aprilia in a statement.

Aprilia also has a clear objective for the Electric project, an electric motorcycle for the younger riders of the future. 

That said, Electric will not only be a personal transport to get around while adhering to the global zero emission initiative but also fun to pilot. 

“The Electrica project is a new concept – a lightweight, zero emissions bike with a fun and satisfying ride to provide maximum freedom and riding pleasure even for use in the cities of the future.

Therefore, the fun and freedom of riding will not be lacking, and they will always be the cardinal principle at the base of all vehicles built by Aprilia,” added Aprilia. 

Although the Electrica offers something that we have never seen before out of the Noale factory, some aspect is associated with Aprilia, mainly the front bodywork around the triple clamp that is reminiscent of the Tuono and the RSV4-inspired tail. 

Nevertheless, the Electrica is noticeably smaller to allow better accessibility. According to Aprilia, the Electrica will promote an easier transition from scooters to full-size motorcycles. 

Meanwhile, other notable features of the Electric include an electronic riding assist and a digital LCD display.

Despite finishing second in Race 2 of round 6 Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup at Mandalika Circuit, it was enough to deliver Hakim Danish his first ATC championship winning medal. 

  • Hakim Danish is the 2022 Asia Talent Cup champion. 
  • His tally of 187 points was enough to put him ahead of Japan’s Shinya Ezawa to claimed the 2022 title. 

The 15-year-old Malaysian started the race as the championship leader, with six points ahead of Japan’s Shinya Ezawa.

Despite falling behind Ezawa during the early stage of Race 2, Danish aggressiveness saw him overtook the front row to lead the race ahead of home favourite, Veda Ega Pratama. 

Both Danish and Pratama were neck and neck towards the final 10 laps which resulted  the two riders opening a five second gap during the remaining 6 laps. 

However, with 3 laps to go Danish seems content with his position and started to only continue his race pace without bringing the fight to Pratama. 

As a result, Pratama claimed his back-to-back race in front of the home crowd with Danish improving his Race 1 result with 2nd place in Race 2, while Ezawa completed the podium at 3rd place.

Second place was enough for Danish to claimed his maiden ATC championship with 187 points, 10 points ahead of Ezawa while Pratama took third spot in the championship standing. 

Just a couple of weeks ago, BMW Motorrad announced the update to its R 1250 R roadster, and similar upgrades are coming to the R 1250 RS, as expected.

  • The BMW R 1250 RS gets a similar upgrade to the R 1250 R roadster, including new LED turn indicators.
  • The R 1250 RS is now equipped with Dynamic Brake Control as standard.

Also similar to the roadster, the RS retains a similar design from last year’s model apart from the new colour scheme and LED turn indicators.

Nonetheless, the bodywork and chassis on the 2023 model remain the same.

There are no changes to its engine, with the R 1250 RS featuring the same air/liquid-cooled 1254cc boxer with ShiftCam technology that makes 136hp @ 7,750rpm and 142Nm @ 6,250rpm. 

Electronically, the 2023 R 1250 RS is equipped with Dynamic Traction Control, ABS Pro and Dynamic Brake Control, that now comes as standard. 

Other notable improvements for 2023 include a new ECO mode joining the already available Ride and Rain mode.

Meanwhile, the TFT instrument display offers a ‘Sport’ mode that features real-time data of the R 1250 RS that includes electronic interventions and lean angles.

As usual, a host of accessories are available for the R 1250 RS, including heated seats for riders, pillions, and heated grips.

Moto Guzzi is well known for delivering a unique Italian classic for the popular custom motorcycle segment especially with the V9 Bobber. 

  • Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition breaks cover at EICMA.
  • The V9 Bobber features the unique 90-degree transverse V-Twin engine. 

Chunky tires, retro-style design really accentuate the V9 Bobber appearance. 

For 2023, Moto Guzzi has added a Special Edition model to the V9 Bobber lineup that is distinguished by the motorcycle sporting history on dirt tracks. 

The Moto Guzzi V9 Bobber Special Edition stands out with its stealthy and blacked-out design including a twin-tone black and grey color scheme that complements the teardrop fuel tank with billet aluminium cap. 

Also adds to the Special Edition overall look is the fork gaiters, short front mudguard and finally bar-end mirrors.

According to the Italian marquee, the V9 Bobber Special Edition is a combination of elegance and sportiness yet it distinguished itself with a dynamic riding position that offers comfort thanks to its wide and spacious single-piece saddle. 

Mechanically, the V9 Bobber runs on the same 90-degree transverse V-Twin with two-valves per-cylinder that makes a high-grunt 64hp and 62Nm @ 3,000rpm. 

Thanks to its accessible seat height of just 785mm, the V9 Bobber can be ridden by most riders. 

Bimota’s new motorcycle introduction at EICMA 2022 comes in the form of the 2023 BX450, with the dirt bike borrows much of its design and specification from Kawasaki’s KX450.

  • Bimota’s upcoming tourer is powered by a supercharged four-cylinder motor from the Kawasaki H2 SX.
  • The Tera will feature a unique semi-active suspension developed with Marzocchi. 

Alongside the BX450, the Italian maker also provides enlightenment on the upcoming supercharged tourer currently under development in Rimini. 

While the bike is yet to be ready, Bimota already has an official name for the model, which will be called the Tera. 

The Tera made its first appearance in the form of a design sketch at last year’s EICMA before later it was confirmed that the new supercharged tourer would be based on Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 SX. 

According to Bimota COO, Pierluigi Marconi, motorcycle fans around the world should expect something exciting from the Tera. 

“Never before have Bimota been present in this market segment. No one has this much fun and function in one package.

“The Tera is an attention grabber that will act like a halo for Bimota by attracting further consumer attention to our impressive vehicle lineup,” said Marconi. 

We have yet to get the details but based on reports from reputable media, the Tera will feature an all-new steering system, including a new semi-active suspension developed in partnership with Italian specialist Marzocchi. 

While the rest of the motorcycle industry prepares a strong new lineup at EICMA, it wasn’t the case with Aprilia who brought just one new model to Milan. 

  • The 2023 Aprilia RS660 Extrema pays homage to the Noale factory 125 Extrema. 
  • Features carbon fiber components and new SC Project exhaust. 

For 2023, Aprilia introduces the RS660 Extrema a lighter and better power-to-weight ratio than the base model. The name is taken from the firm’s 125 Extrema that was manufactured from 1992 to 1994. 

The RS660 Extrema tips the scale at just 166 kilograms thanks to the number of carbon fiber component added including the belly pan and front fender. Given the 100hp it produces, the RS660 Extrema has an attractive power-to-weight ratio. 

In addition, the RS660 Extrema is also fitted with a street-legal SC-Project exhaust system that helps to bring the bike’s weight further down. 

In addition to the electronic package available on the RS660 including traction control, cornering ABS, engine brake, engine map and wheelie control the Extrema gets a new quickshifter software allowing riders to switch to GP-style upside-down shifting easily. 

GALLERY: APRILIA RS660 EXTREMA

Vespa has given its iconic scooter, the GTV, a significant makeover for 2023.

  • Features the Faro Basso headlight design similar to the Sei Giorni.
  • Equipped with the 300 HPE engine, Vespa’s most powerful powertrain to date. 

The GTV has been making waves since 2006 and will continue to do so in the coming years with the new 2023 model year.

Although much of the profile is retained, the GTV clearly received an upgrade to meet modern standards.

The most significant upgrade is the engine which now features the single-cylinder 278cc 300 HPE fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine that makes 23.8hp on tap. 

The GTV is also equipped with ASR electronic traction and ABS as standard. 

Similar to other 300 HPE ranges, the GTV also features a fully-digital LCD instrument cluster that displays max speed, average speed, fuel consumption, range and battery charge status. 

The instrumentation also incorporates the Vespa MIA connectivity system that allows riders to connect their smartphone to the motorcycle dash. 

 

In terms of styling, the GTV have a lot in common with the Sei Giorni 300 but with an added splash of funky colours. That said, the GTV Faro Basso – low headlight design – accentuates the sportiness of the scooter.

Meanwhile, the GTV features a removable seat cowl cover that matches the colour of the body. When removed, the GTV can comfortably seat two people. 

Other notable features include:

  • full LED headlight
  • keyless ignition
  • five-spoke alloy wheels

For those who attended the EICMA show in Milan, you’ll noticed that MV Agusta did not participate in this year edition. 

  • MV Agusta 921 S is an all-new motorcycle set to roll out in a few years time. 
  • Inspired by the glorious MV Agusta 750 Sport of the 70s. 

However, the Varese company did hold a press conference to encapsulate their production plans for 2023 which include the 921 S concept bike. 

According to MV Agusta, the 921 S is an all-new motorcycle that departs from the rest of the Italian product range. That said, the motorcycle combines the Italian firm’s past footprint with modern technology. 

Interestingly, the 1970 MV Agusta 750 Sport was the inspiration behind the 921 S Project therefore you can easily notice a glimpse of the past including the red, silver, white and blue colour combination and the exposed frame.

While the overall look is nothing short of moden and futuristic the minimalistic design bring forth a classic Italian steed. 

The 921 S features a completely new open-cradle type frame with steel-tube-trellis design that incorporates billet-aluminium rear plate and a supporting subframe. 

The frame houses an engine that is based on an earlier generation Brutale 1000 RR that has been significantly reworked to give it a traditional streetbike appeal.  The 921cc engine makes a solid 115hp @ 10,000rpm and 118Nm of peak torque @ 7,000rpm. 

In addition, the 921 S also has a longer wheelbase that spans 1465mm, that’s 50mm more than the Brutale 1000 RR. 

 Suspending the MV Agusta 921 S is a top-of-the-line Ohlins front and rear suspension with a 41mm NIX-cartridge design that offers a fully adjustable compression and rebound damping. 

Meanwhile, the rear gets a fully adjustable TTX36 shock. 

As usual, the MV Agusta 921 S gets premium components including twin Brembo Stylema four-pot callipers at the front and a two-piston Brembo at the rear with 320mm and 220mm rotors, respectively. The bike is also shod with 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear wheels. 

Take a closer look at the front wheel you’ll noticed that the 921 S is equipped with a massive aluminium flange that helps to direct air intake to cool the rotor. 

Unfortunately, there’s no telling when MV Agusta 921 S will actually makes it to the production stage and how much will it go for.

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