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CONFIRMED: Next-Gen Yamaha Tracer 9 GT To Feature Radar Technology

Spy shots from the next generation Yamaha Tracer 9 GT was circulated online in July and showcased the sports tourer getting a major upgrade.

2023 Yamaha Tracer 9 GT to feature radar-assisted cruise control.
Patents confirmed the radar unit to sit between the front headlight.

Reports from reputable media at the time, including CycleWorld indicates that the Tracer 9 GT will feature radar sensor technology.

However, latest development has confirmed that the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT is getting the radar technology according to a new patent.

That said, this suggest that the Tracer would become the most affordable (or least expensive) motorcycle to feature the fancy radar-assisted adaptive cruise control and emergency braking systems.

More importantly, Yamaha did a great job to hide the ugly electronic unit as opposed to the Ducati’s Multistrada V4, KTM’s 1290 Super Adventure S and BMW’s R 1250 RT.

Based on the patent, the radar unit can be seen nestled between the Tracer 9 GT’s lower headlights.

Also, Yamaha fitted a thin cover in front of the hardware to ensure better protection from mud, gravel, water or insects from hitting the sensor directly.

In addition, if the thin cover is scratched or chipped, it can be cheaply replaced.

Yamaha is likely to introduced the new technology to the 2023 Tracer 9 GT.

Kawasaki Indonesia To Launch The All-New Ninja ZX-4R This October?

We knew that a bigger version of Kawasaki’s ZX-25R is on its way and it will be called the ZX-4R.

Kawasaki Indonesia to launch a new motorcycle on October 1, 2022.
The motorcycle is likely the new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R.

We also knew that Kawasaki has filed a trademark application of the ZX-4R in various countries including in North America and Asia, signalling the arrival of the new motorcycle.

What we don’t know is that Kawasaki plans to introduced the ZX-4R much sooner than we predicted.

According to a new teaser video posted on Kawasaki’s Indonesia social media account, there is a new Ninja ZX on its way this October.

To be fair, the 30 second video provides little hints aside from revealing the ZX nameplate.

So far, Kawasaki already updated its current ZX range, including the ZX-25R, ZX-6R and ZX-10R.

That said, the new product launch is likely to be the upcoming Ninja ZX-4R inline-four motorcycle.

If the reports are true, then we have something to be excited about for 2023.

HLYM Celebrates 5 Millionth Bikes Milestone With Special Edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition – RM9,198

In conjuction with Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) achievement of producing five million motorcycles since 1979, the company celebrates the new milestone by introducing a special edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysian Edition.

HLYM rolls out 5 million motorcycles since 1979.
Limited edition Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition is priced at RM9,198.

The limited run motorcycle features the Malaysian flag colourway while also fitted with special components including Yamaha Premium Basket similar to the one found on the 135LC Fi SE.

According to HLYM, only 5,000 units of the limited edition motorcycle will be on sale beginning mid-October 2022.

All units will come with a unique serial number from 5,000,001 to 5,005,000 and is priced at RM9,198 (excluding registration and insurance).

Meanwhile, Group Managing Director of Hong Leong Industries Berhad and Managing Director of HLYM, Dato Dr Jim Khor Mun Wei pointed out that this was HLYM’s fastest million-milestone ever achieved.

That said, it is a strong indicator that the Yamaha is still the most preferred brand in the country.

Meanwhile, every purchase of the new Yamaha 135LC Fi 5MRO Malaysia Edition is entitled to received Yamaha disc lock and a special commemorative 5MRO Bomber Jacket.

OFFICIAL: Triumph Motorcycles To Compete At MX2 And MXGP

Triumph Motorcycles has announced its plans to compete in the FIM Motocross World Championship starting in 2024.

Triumph Motorcycles to compete at the 2024 MX2 and 2025 MXGP.
Triumph set to unveil an all-new 250cc 4-stroke MX racebikes and 450cc bikes soon.

The British brand will feature in the prestigious race with a factory race programme under an all-new Triumph Racing banner.

Ensuring Triumph Racing Team is up an running smoothly, the brand has teamed up with experienced team owners, Thierry Chizat-Suzzoni.

Triumph will also field two all-new 250cc 4-stroke MX bikes in the MX2 class followed by an entry into the 450cc MXGP class in 2025.

“Our new partnership with Thierry demonstrates Triumph’s long-term commitment to competing at the highest levels of racing.

“We share a passion for delivering world-class performance, and the experience Thierry and his team bring will prove invaluable in our ambition to make our mark on a very competitive championship.

“Our entry into the FIM Motocross World Championship with a Factory supported Triumph Racing team signifies a landmark moment at the beginning of our new top-tier off-road racing campaign,” said Nick Bloor, CEO Triumph Motorcycles.

Meanwhile, Chizat-Suzzoni are also excited about the upcoming project in MX2 and MXGP.

“Triumph have made a major commitment to build an MX bike and go racing in the FIM World Motocross Championship.

I am happy that my team is going to be the official Triumph Racing Team in MX2 and MXGP. Nick Bloor and the Triumph Board of Directors have made their long-term ambitions for the project very clear and I see a huge amount of passion from everyone at the Factory.

“I am happy with progress on the bike, it looks great, has speed on the track and Vincent and my staff are working with the engineers at Hinckley on building it into a competitive package for entry into the MX2 Championship in 2024.

“MXGP continues to grow around the world, I am very happy to be back and looking forward to going racing with Triumph,” he said.

Brixton Cromwell 1200 Previewed In Malaysia – 83hp, 110Nm

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd recently launched the new MForce Smart Shop SH Bikers showroom in Sri Kembangan.

Brixton Cromwell 1200 is to be available in Malaysia soon.
Features 1200cc two-cylinder engine capable of producing 80hp and 110Nm.

During the launch, MForce also previewed the all-new Brixton Cromwell 1200 from Brixton Motorcycles.

For those not in the loop, Brixton Motorcycles is a brand owned by Austrian-based KSR Group. However, the manufacturing plant is located in China to ensure the brand remains affordable for the global market.

Nevertheless, the Brixton Cromwell 1200 (codename GK1200) first appeared at the 2021 EICMA show in Milan.

The Cromwell 1200 is equipped with a 1,222cc parallel-twin SOCH liquid-cooled engine capable of pushing around 83hp @ 6,500rpm and peak torque of 110Nm @ 3,000rpm.

The retro machine adopts the same basic design as the iconic Triumph Bonneville, with a circular headlight, flat seat, spoke wheels and two long chrome exhausts running parallel to the ground.

Mechanically, the Cromwell 1200 features KYB suspension, Nissin brakes, Bosch electronics including ABS, traction control and multiple riding modes.

It also packs with full LED light setup and a TFT display.

The bike is also fitted with cruise control, making it suitable for a long trip.

According to MForce, the bike is still in testing stages and is currently undergoing an endurance test to ensure it passes all the requirements before being put on sale in Malaysia.

The Brixton Cromwell 1200 is said to be available for around RM50k once it is officially launched in Malaysia.

GIVI RIMBA RAID 2022: Total Domination By Thailand At Kuala Tahan

GIVI Rimba Raid returns for 2022, which saw Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan, as the chosen battleground for the world’s largest adventure motorcycle race.

2022 GIVI Rimba Raid witnessed the largest participation with 241 competitors.
Only 99 riders managed to complete the 158km trail.
60 motorcycles were stuck in the jungle by 8pm.

Rimba Raid is the only platform that allows you to enjoy the big bore adventure bikes battling against one another in the most hardcore off-road condition.

The 2019 GIVI Rimba Raid edition witnessed Malaysian racer Gabit Salleh claim victory in the Class A race, riding on board his KTM 1050 Adventure.

However, the 2022 edition saw a total domination by Thailand in three of the four categories up for grabs, including clocking the overall fastest time on the 158 kilometer trail, among the 223 competitors.

Class C – Enduro Rally (single-cylinder 250cc to 800cc enduro motorcycles)

Malaysian rider Mohd Zulkarnain Tahir took home the winners medal after emerging as the first rider to arrive at the finished line in 3 hours, 4 minutes, and 37.312s on his KTM 300 EX/C.

Mohd Zulkarnain had a 10-minute lead ahead of Thailand’s Chiapuek Sangaroon (KTM 350 EX/C-F). Singapore’s Kelvin Chia completes the podium with 3h 19m10.901s.

Class C – DP Rally (single-cylinder 250cc to 800cc) adventure motorcycles)

Thailand’s Traiphop Boonthang shocked the crowd after he crossed the finish line in under 3 hours onboard his Honda CRF250 Rally ahead of fellow countrymen Manop Abdulkareee (3h 11m44.030s) and Canadian Dustin Richardson (3h 20m40.660s).

Class B (multi-cylinder 250cc to 999cc adventure motorcycles)

Class B category showcased a clean sweep by the Thais, with Saphon Somroop clocking the fastest time of just 2h 51m28.300s ahead of Suradet Taweelap and Charod Khumchat.

Interestingly, all three riders’ weapon of choice is the Yamaha Tenere 700. Sadly, it’s not available in Malaysia.

Class A – The Premier Class (1000cc and above adventure/dual-purpose motorcycles)

The Class A category is the cream of the crop as it puts riders and their chosen big-bore adventure bikes to the test.

Surprisingly, the Honda CRF1000L/CRF11000L Africa Twin has proven to be the most capable adventure as all the Top 3 finishers crossed the line with the said motorcycle.

Thailand’s Theera Putta claimed the winners medal with 3h 8m47.710s ahead of Pisanu Chimma and Malaysian Alan Ng.

Alan took home the third spot with his brand-new Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin.

INTERESTING FACT

Only 99 out of 223 competing riders managed to complete the race.
More than 60 motorcycles were stuck on the 158km trail by 8 pm.
2022 GIVI Rimba Raid witnessed the largest participation ever since its inception in 2015.
2022 Rimba Raid is the largest international participation in Malaysia, next to the Malaysian MotoGP.

Meanwhile, Malaysian riders vowed to return with better results to salvage national pride, and we are already hyped up with the prospect of Malaysia vs Thailand and the world in the next edition of GIVI Rimba Raid.

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Back On Pole After Three Years

Six-time MotoGP world champion Marc Marquez secured his first MotoGP pole since 2019 after clocking the fastest time in Q2 at The Japanese Grand Prix.

Marquez returns to pole position after three years at Motegi ahead of Johann Zarco and Brad Binder.
Quartararo will start at the third row of the grid in ninth place.

Marquez showcased spectacular form on Saturday despite a disastrous comeback last week at Aragon after he collided with Fabio Quartararo and Takaaki Nakagami.

The Repsol Honda rider managed to hold off late charges from Johann Zarco and Brad Binder to claim his first pole position this season.

Marquez set impressive opening laps in tricky conditions before Fabio Quartararo, and Johann Zarco bettered his time.

However, the Spaniard regained the top spot with another flying lap to get clear of Zarco and Brad Binder.

Both Zarco and Binder tried to respond in the final minute but lost time compared to Marquez.

Meanwhile, current title contender Aleix Espargaro finished sixth, while the current championship leader, Quartararo, could only secure the ninth spot.

Nonetheless, it was a shocking Q2 for the on-form rider, Francesco Bagnaia, as he will start at P12.

India To Host MotoGP In The Future

MotoGP is heading to India in the next couple of years after the country’s race promoter has just signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dorna Sports.

India begins their first step toward hosting the MotoGP after signing an MoU with Dorna Sports.
The Buddh International Circuit was identified as the ideal location to host MotoGP in the country.

Dorna visited India this week in an effort to promote MotoGP in the country.

Rumours regarding an Indian Grand Prix have been making their round for the past week that suggest the world’s biggest two-wheel event could be on its way to India.

Standing as the second biggest population in the world with 1.38 billion people, Dorna has agreed with Fairstreet Sport to host the MotoGP under the name Grand Prix of Bharat.

According to MotoGP, the race will be held at the Buddh International Circuit, located outside New Delhi, which hosted Formula 1 between 2011 and 2013.

While it may come as a surprise, but considering that India is one of the largest motorcycle markets in the world, it’s only relevant for the biggest sporting event to make its way there.

“India is a huge country and market and a significant one for the two-wheeled industry and MotoGP as a sport,” said Dorna CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta.

Apparently, India is hoping to be named among the host for 2023, which is why Dorna is yet to announce the provisional calendar for next season.

Nevertheless, it is only likely that India will only make it into the 2024 calendar. After all, Dorna and Fairstreet Sports only just signed an MoU.

2022 Yamaha MT-25 Gets New Visuals- RM22,998

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has updated its MT-25 range with new exciting visuals for 2022.

Yamaha MT-25 now available in two new colour scheme.
The 2022 Yamaha MT-25 is priced slightly higher than before, at RM22,998.

Coming in new for the Malaysian market is two new colourway, Cyan Storm and Icon Blue.

While its full-fairing cousin, the YZF-R25 gets minor hardware upgrades, no changes is done to the MT-25.

That said, the motorcycle features the same 249 cc, in-line two-cylinders, dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine capable of producing 35hp @ 12,000 rpm and 22.6 Nm of torque @ 10,000 rpm.

Despite the minor update, the MT-25 is now available at a recommended selling price of RM22,998, a slight increased from the current model that is on sale for RM21,500.

In addition, buyers is entitled to received a Yamaha safety disc lock worth RM100 with every purchased of the MT-25.

2022 Yamaha YZF-R25 Now In Malaysia – Features ABS, RM22,998

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has updated its quarter-litre sportsbike, the Yamaha YZF-R25 for 2022.

Yamaha R25 updated with two new colourway and features ABS, LED turn indicator as standard.
Features the same 249cc in-line two-cylinder engine that makes 35hp and 22.6Nm.

Coming in new for the Malaysian market is two new colourway, Orange Lynx and Racing Blue.

However, the braking system received the most significant upgrade with the introduction of ABS. Also new for 2022 is LED turn signal lights replacing the halogen lights on the previous model.

As a result, the 2022 Yamaha R25 is now priced at RM22,998 – a slight increased than the 2021 model – and will be available nationwide starting today (22 September 2022).

Mechanically, the R25 continue to make 35hp @ 12,000rpm and 22.6Nm @ 10,000rpm from its 249cc in-line two-cylinder DOHC engine.

In addition, buyers is entitled to received a Yamaha safety disc lock worth RM100 with every purchased of the R25.

HJC RPHA 11 Meets Sonic The Hedgehog

Helmet manufacturer HJC has introduced another pop-culture-inspired character for the brand’s flagship RPHA 11 helmet.

HJC celebrates another iconic character with the RPHA 11 Sonic The Hedgehog.
Features Sonic The Hedgehog graphics and colourway.

After the Call of Duty series, Sega’s Sonic The Hedgehog is the latest graphic to join the RPHA 11 helmet range.

Underneath the striking Sonic The Hedgehog colourway, the RPHA 11 continue to offer world-class protection with the Advanced PIM (Premium Integrated Matrix) Plus fibreglass shell.

The aerodynamic shape of the helmet blends well with the Sonic graphics, including the six-stage top vet and Advanced Channeling Ventilation System for maximum airflow.

One feature we like on the HJC RPHA 11 is the anti-bacterial MuliCool Interior that helps to get rid of moisture and ensure the helmet dries quickly.

The cheek pads are also removable and washable.

Most importantly, the emergency cheek pad system allows first responders to act quickly in case of emergency.

The HJC RPHA 11 is also fitted with built-in speaker pockets, which allows riders to install motorcycle comms easily.

According to HJC, the RPHA 11 Sonic The Hedgehog meets both DOT and ECE standards and retails for EUR629.90, which translates to RM2.8k.

Kawasaki And Toyota Team Up To Develop Hydrogen Engines

Kawasaki has signed an agreement with the biggest carmaker, Toyota, to work on the development of hydrogen engines for motorcycles.

Kawasaki and Toyota penned a deal to develop hydrogen engines.
Toyota recently launched the Toyota Mirai, the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell car.

While Kawasaki is known to be active in developing sustainable alternatives to the ICE, the new alliance with Toyota just took the effort a step further.

Despite already being in advanced stages in terms of hydrogen technology, Kawasaki wants the new deal with Toyota to help speed up the process.

Furthermore, Toyota recently launched the Toyota Mirai, the world’s first commercially available hydrogen fuel cell car, for which more than 2,600 examples have already been sold globally.

According to reports, the two parties agreed on the deal earlier this month, with Toyota President Akio Toyoda driving a hydrogen-powered Kawasaki ATV at the Twin Ring Motegi.

Team Green already showcased its first electric and hybrid motorcycle recently at Suzuka 8 Hours. That said, the official unveiling will happen soon.