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2025 BMW S 1000 R Revealed, More Aggressive Looking

The 2025 BMW S 1000 R naked sportbike is currently in the works and it looks extensively restyled.

The last update for the bike was in 2021, following BMW’s four-year model refresh schedule. The last redesign saw the headlight evolve into a rounder and smaller profile while the rest of the bike looked similar. The higher spec M 1000 R variant gained winglets similar to the M 1000 RR WSBK homologation model, as with the inline-four engine’s tuning.

Coming back to the 2025 model, it features a dual-headlight arrangement with what looks like a central air intake. If the air intake is a functioning part, it means that air will be fed through an opening in the upper part of the frame the same way as the S 1000 RR. In any case, we feel that this revamp makes the bike look more aggressive among its competitors namely the Aprilia Tuono V4, Ducati Streetfighter V4, Kawasaki Z H2, Yamaha MT-10, Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS.

However, there is yet news regarding its engine and performance.

2025 Ducati Scrambler 10° Anniversario Rizoma Edition Revealed

The 2025 Ducati Scrambler 10° Anniversario Rizoma Edition has been revealed to celebrate the Scrambler’s 10th anniversary. Only 500 will be made.

Based on the recently launched second generation Scrambler launched in 2023, the Scrambler Anniversario Rizoma Edition shares some of the recently launched Full Throttle’s components, but with several differences.

Rizoma creative designer Fabrizio Rigolio said: “This Scrambler is different from the others. It is dedicated to the 500 who dare, who see beyond, who wants to leave an indelible mark.”

The colourway for this bike, defined by Rizoma in collaboration with the Centre Stile Ducati, is based on the chromatic balance of Stone White, black and Metal Rose.

Andrea Ferraresi, Director of Strategy and Centro Stile Ducati, added: “Rizoma has succeeded in the difficult task of reinterpreting Scrambler while maintaining its essence unchanged.

“I was struck by the formal rigour, the attention to detail and the cleanliness of the treatment, including the colour, that Rizoma has incorporated in the concept that then became this celebratory version of the tenth anniversary of Scrambler.”

The 2025 Ducati Scrambler 10° Anniversario Rizoma Edition is priced at £13,095 (RM73,425.89) in the UK.

2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet Launched in Europe

The 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet has been launched after the prototype was first revealed at EICMA 2023.

There are two versions, namely a standard and an up-spec’ed SP.

Engine

Both versions are powered by a 1000cc, inline-four, DOHC, 16-valve engine. The standard’s engine does 150hp at 11,000 RPM and 104Nm at 9,000 RPM. On the other hand, the SP versions engine produces 155hp at 11,000 RPM and 107Nm at 9,000 RPM courtesy of an exhaust system which features a servo-operated valve which opens at 5,700 RPM.

The CB1000R’s engine was derived from an old CBR1000RR Fireblade which produced 189hp at 13,000 RPM and 116Nm at 11,000 RPM. So, the CB’s engine has a lower RPM ceiling and produces its peak power and torque at lower RPMs.

The engine’s power is channelled through an assist and slipper clutch, and six-speed transmission which were also derived from the previous generation CBR1000RR. The CB1000 SP has a quickshifter as standard equipment which is an option for the standard version.

Chassis

The 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet uses a twin-spar steel frame which is claimed to be 70% more torsionally rigid than the previous CB1000R. While the 1455mm wheelbase and 25° rake are identical to the CB1000R’s, weight is now biased towards the front, 51.2%/48.8% (50.9%/49.1% on the SP), by shifting the engine forward along with components like the rear shock and battery. The airbox is located above the engine’s cylinder head.

Both versions share the same 41mm Showa SFF-BP upside-down forks that are adjustable for compression, rebound and preload. At the back, the standard version gets a Showa monoshock with preload and rebound adjustments. The SP version gets an Öhlins TTX36 shock adjustable for preload, rebound and compression. Both modes use the same conventional aluminium swingarm compared to the single-sided and more expensive CB1000R.

While both variants use radial-mounted, four-pot front calipers on 310mm discs, the standard Hornet’s calipers are from Nissin while the SP uses Brembo Stylema. The rear Nissin single-pot caliper and 240mm disc are shared by both versions, and while there’s 2-channel ABS.

Electronics

There is a 5-inch colour TFT display with phone connectivity. Accompanied by Honda’s RoadSync app and a smartphone gives all the usual connectivity, including turn-by-turn navigation. A bar-mounted, backlit, four-way toggle switch controls the screen, and when paired to a Bluetooth headset you also get control over calls and music.

Both variants have five riding modes namely Rain, Standard, Sport, and two user presets. There are also four levels of traction control, engine braking control, and wheelie control. There is no IMU for cornering ABS and traction control, however.

Other specs include all-LED lighting with dual projector-style headlamps and an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function that flashes the hazard lights automatically during hard braking.

Price

The standard 2025 Honda CB1000 Hornet is priced at £8,995 (RM50,487.64), while the SP version is £9,995 (RM56,109.24). These prices are the same as the Yamaha MT-09’s in the UK.

Will it make it here? Who knows.

2025 BMW C 400 GT and 2025 BMW C 400 X Revealed

BMW Motorrad revealed the 2025 BMW C 400 GT and C 400 X.

The BMW C 400 GT is the Gran Turismo version, while the C 400 X stands out as one which is more sporty and urban.

Engine

The engine remains the proven single-cylinder, liquid-cooled unit with an output of 25 kW (34 hp) at 7,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 35 Nm at 5,750 rpm. Power is transmitted via a continuously variable CVT transmission.

Electronics

Both models are equipped with BMW Motorrad ABS Pro as standard. ABS Pro consists of lean angle and corner braking features.

Additionally, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) function linked to the ABS Pro offers a high braking and driving stability with the best possible deceleration even when cornering.

Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR) are also already on board as standard. DTC offers even more safety when accelerating — even at a lean angle and especially in slippery road conditions. With MSR, unstable riding conditions that can occur during coasting or abrupt throttle reduction causing excessive brake slip on the rear wheel (slipping or stamping) can be safely avoided. In these cases, MSR opens the throttle valves so far as to equalize the drag torque and stabilize the vehicle.

The BMW C 400 X and BMW C 400 GT now come with a large 6.5-inch TFT display as standard. In conjunction with the BMW Motorrad Connected app, the display is linked to the multi-controller on the left handlebar assembly and can be operated quickly, safely and conveniently. As part of the Connectivity Pro option, the BMW C 400 GT can also be equipped with a large 10.25” display.

Apart from music streaming, making and receiving calls, the free BMW Motorrad Connected app offers practical arrow navigation directly via the TFT display.

More storage space

The BMW C 400 X and BMW C 400 GT now have more storage space under the seat. With the BMW C 400 X the storage volume increased by 3 liters, with the BMW C 400 GT, including the front pockets, by as much as 12 liters.

The BMW C 400 GT now comes with a manually adjustable windshield as standard and can be factory-fitted with a luggage rack as part of the optional equipment. With 43.5 l of storage space, the new top case not only offers 13.5 l more volume than before, but also 10 kg instead of the previous 5 kg payload. It also has electrification in the form of interior lighting and a USB charging port. A back cushion and painted side panels are also available as options for the new top case. It is attached to the vehicle via a vibration-decoupled luggage rack. New original BMW Motorrad accessories, such as body protectors and hand guards, round off the range of offers.

2025 BMW C 400 X with a new front and “Rugged” variant

In addition to the basic Blackstorm metallic version with a black/grey seat, black rims and brake calipers at the front, the BMW C 400 X, equipped with a new and more dynamically designed front area, is also available in the new “Rugged” model variant.

In this version, the BMW C 400 X features the Kalamata metallic matt body color and appears exciting and dynamic at the same time. Red rims, tapes and tires with off-road design meet golden brake calipers at the front. A heavily tinted windshield, a red-black seat bench, stainless steel footboard inserts, and hand guards available as an optional accessory complete the robust look. The footboard inserts, as well as anodized handlebar end weights, are available as original BMW Motorrad accessories for both the BMW C 400 X and BMW C 400 GT.

2025 BMW C 400 GT with “Exclusive” model variant

The BMW C 400 GT’s ground accessibility has been optimised to provide even greater comfort and improved ergonomics.

In addition to the basic Blackstorm metallic version with black seat, black rims and black brake calipers at the front, the BMW C 400 GT is also available in the new “Exclusive” model variant.

In this variant, the BMW C 400 GT in the body color Diamondwhite metallic looks decidedly elegant and exclusive. Golden rims, tapes and a black seat bench with embroidered emblem in the rim color complement the golden brake calipers at the front and a slightly tinted windshield. A floor lighting with a BMW logo projection and stainless steel footboard inserts round off the scope of this optional equipment variant.

Brembo Purchases Öhlins Racing

Italian braking giant Brembo purchases Öhlins Racing.

Brembo signed an agreement with Tenneco, a portfolio company of funds managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc., for the acquisition of a 100 per cent stake in Öhlins Racing.

This deal is the largest acquisition in Brembo’s history, at USD 405 million, (RM 1,735.22 million). The acquisition is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in early 2025.

This acquisition continues Brembo’s investment in the motorcycle and motor racing area. In 2021 the Group acquired SBS Friction in Denmark and J.Juan in Spain, completing the offer of braking system solutions dedicated to two-wheelers. In February of this year, Brembo announced its entry into Thailand with a new production site dedicated to braking systems for motorcycle manufacturers. Brembo also controls Marchesini, the leading brand in the design and production of light alloy wheels for racing and road motorcycles.

The two-wheeler business is today worth approximately 13% of Brembo’s total revenues.

Founded in 1976, Öhlins Racing is based in Upplands Väsby (Stockholm), Sweden, and has a strong international footprint. Öhlins employs approximately 500 people across two production facilities located in Sweden and Thailand, two R&D centers in Sweden and Thailand, and four distribution and testing branches in the U.S., Germany, Thailand and Sweden.

2025 Yamaha R9 Launched, Not the R1’s Replacement

Ah yes, it was 9th October yesterday and as promised, the 2025 Yamaha R9 has been launched. But before going further, let us state that it is NOT the replacement for the Yamaha YZF-R1! We have read through the threads in several pages and there were folks who were confused.

In any case, the long-rumoured YZF-R9 is here at last and it does look good, in our humble opinion.

Highlights:

890cc, three-cylinder, CP3 engine which also powers the Yamaha MT-09 and Yamaha Tracer 9 GT.
However, the R9’s ECU is different, which Yamaha says is intended to “provide thrilling supersport power with a more broad, torquey engine character.” Whatever. We just hope that they have ironed out the snatchy throttle response of the MT-09.

The manufacturer did not disclose the power figures, but the current MT-09’s engine puts out 117hp and 92Nm.
There is a larger radiator (yay!) and a smaller rear sprocket (16/43 vs. 16/45).

All-new advanced gravity-cast Deltabox frame, which is Yamaha’s lightest aluminium frame weighing only 9.7kg.
High-spec, fully-adjustable, 43mm KYB SDF upside-down forks with Kashima-coated tubes, and KYB fully-adjustable monoshock at the back.

Brembo radial master cylinder, 320mm discs, and Brembo Stylema calipers up front (yay!).
The ergonomics are much sportier than the YZF-R7’s, with the clip-ons placed low and footpegs higher.

There is a six-axis IMU, along with Rain, Sport, Street, Custom riding modes, in addition to four Track modes.
Launch control is also included, allowing you to pin the throttle and dump the clutch.

A quickshifter as standard equipment.
Another unique feature is the Telemetry Recording and Analysis Controller (Y-TRAC) to log and analyse riding data which they can later review.

It links to the rider’s phone using Bluetooth, meaning the bike also boasts integrated full navigation, calls and music.
New 5-inch TFT screen that appears to be much easier to read.

In a nutshell

So, the 2025 Yamaha R9 is an “everyday” sportbike that you can take to the occasional track day. It is much more accessible compared to its YZF-R1, but with some of the technologies from the R1.

However, we in Malaysia may see this bike as just a pipe dream since we have not even received the YZF-R7 yet. What say you, Hong Leong Yamaha?

2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 Launched

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.

US Wants to Ban CFMoto Next, Possibly Kove Also

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.

Yamaha Releases Teaser Video of 2025 Yamaha YZF-R9, Launching on 9th October

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.

2025 Honda X-ADV Launched with Nine Updates

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 Electric Scooter being Planned?

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.

Honda RC164 Stella Watch, Yours for “Only” RM154,000

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).