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JDT Racing Team rider, Hafizh Syahrin Abdullah will make an appearance with Team Kagayama at the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race which will take place at Suzuka Circuit from 19 to 21 July.

He will continue to ride the Ducati V4 R which he also campaigns with in the Asian Road Racing Championship (ARRC) this year.

The confirmation was announced by the JDT Racing Team in a post on their X account.

“Thank you to our patron Tunku Ismail, Acting Sultan of Johor for enabling collaboration and closed testing with Team Kagayama, who also represent the Ducati manufacturer for the Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race this July.

“Riding the manufacturer’s Ducati V4 R machine. What an experience!,” said the team in its submission.

Hafizh who participated in the ARRC competition with JDT Racing Team this year has collected 45 points in the Asian Superbike 1000cc (ASB1000) class to be in third position overall ahead of the race in Motegi, this weekend.

As far as the last two rounds in Thailand and China, Hafizh has proven his performance with the Ducati Panigale V4R machine by winning two finishes on the podium.

The first time was at Race 2 Round 1 at the Chang International Circuit, Buriram, Thailand in the middle of last March which saw him finish in second place behind Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo, Andi Farid Izdihar.

That momentum was then taken by Hafizh to Race 1 Round 2 at the Zhuhai International Circuit, China last April when he crossed the finish line as the winner.

An 11-year-old boy was spotted by the police driving a car alone in Sibu. Following that, the boy’s father was fined by the police.

Sibu District Police Chief. Assistant Commissioner Zulkipli Suhaili, said the action of summons according to Section 26(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 was made after the child was successfully located at about 6.50 pm yesterday.

He said the child and his parents were taken to the Sibu Police Traffic Office for investigation.

“The results of the investigation found that the driver of the car, the boy in question, has autism and has a medical record at Sibu Hospital’s Psychiatry Specialist Clinic,” he said in a statement.

According to him, the police received information regarding a 30-second video that went viral on social media at about 3pm yesterday, showing the child driving a car alone on Jalan Kampung Nyabor here.

Red Bull Malaysia sponsors the three PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Racing teams in the PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship.

The three teams involved are PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha 31 Racing, PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha CKJ, and PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor. All three racing teams competed in Round 3 of the prestigious PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship 2024 from 1st to 2nd of June at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.

“At Red Bull, we are not just about energising the body, but also igniting the spirit of every individual who dares to push the boundaries of possibilities. This partnership with the PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Racing Teams represents more than just a fusion of logos; it represents a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and the fiery spirit of competition,” said Andy Lee, Co-Country Director of TCP Red Bull Malaysia.

Here is a look at each team’s background:

PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha 31 Racing Team

Driven by three pillars – RIDE. RACE. LEAD. – the team aims to be one of the best racing teams not only in Asia, but also globally. Since their inception, the racing team strives to conquer races as champions of bringing the trophy home, embracing all communities, wellbeing, and competing with pride. PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha 31 Racing Team has received numerous accolades over 28 years of motorcycle racing, including the Overall Wira KBS Category Championship titles in the PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship for four consecutive years.

PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha CKJ Racing Team

The team believes in always being ahead, never looking back. Comprising a squad of young talented riders, such as Afif Amran and Akid Aziz, who have clinched numerous Overall Champion titles at the PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championships, the racing team remains steadfast in their mission to fuel sportsmanship and ignite team camaraderie on the track.

PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor Racing Team

Established in 1997 by former rider Yong Ying Hoe, is driven with a purpose of attaining exceptional outcomes. The racing team guards the record for the most significant number of championships clinched in the PETRONAS MAM Malaysian Cub Prix Championship. With 5 competing riders this championship season, PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Racing Team aims to leave a lasting impact on each track they compete on.

Special contest commemorating the partnership

As part of the partnership, Red Bull will soon be running a contest, offering two lucky winners a chance to each own a limited-edition Yamaha Y15ZR motorcycle exclusively signed by selected riders from the three PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Racing Teams. Stay tuned for more details by following Red Bull’s Instagram and Facebook pages or visiting the official website.

Red Bull Energy Sparkling launched

To commemorate this exhilarating new chapter, Red Bull introduced a new beverage series – Red Bull Energy Sparkling, perfect for young, active individuals seeking a light, invigorating energy boost.

Available in 250ml cans, the new series offers a delightfully fruity aroma, refreshing taste, is sugar-free, and comes in two exciting flavours: Pomelo and Apple & Muscat Grape. The Red Bull Energy Sparkling series will be available from RM3.10/can at major supermarkets and convenience stores.

The 2024 Vespa 946 Dragon was previewed as part of the celebration for Italy’s 78th National Day.

It combines the iconic, legendary, avant-garde, and an ancient tradition in this one limited-edition motorcycle, featuring several exclusive accessories such as a windscreen, matching rear bag and saddle material.

“We are truly honoured to be able to pay a part for the annual Italian Day in Malaysia and this year, we managed to preview the limited edition 946 Dragon. The 946 is truly an Italian art piece from the iconic Vespa range,” mentioned Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman Didi Group.

The Vespa 946 Dragon made its debut as a dedication to the Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations in Hong Kong, on 24 January 2024.

As a collector’s edition, the Vespa 946 is reimagined in a golden hue, emblazoned with a vibrant emerald green dragon motif that swirlds around the livery, embodying the fierce spirit of the scooter. There are only 1888 units available worldwide.

Other components such as the rims, handlebars and saddle are crafted with luxurious finishes in alternating and gloss satin gold.

The 2024 Vespa 946 Dragon is not all style, but is also the most advanced Vespa. The 150cc single-cylinder engine has electronic fuel injection, besides ABS and traction control as standard features. The lighting is LED all around, while the LCD dashboard presents pertinent riding data. The steel monocoque frame is combined with aluminium components, ensuring a lightweight yet strong and durable combination.

It is available at Motoplex Petaling Jaya, Motoplex Sungai Buloh, Motoplex Butterworth, and Motorplex Johor Bahru from RM 103,888.

Photo gallery

There is much excitement surrounding the inevitable launch of the CFMoto 675 SR, including its inline-four engine. The Chinese manufacturer seems to be excited themselves, too, going as far as revealing this CFMoto 675 SR Aspar Special Edition Concept.

The bike has not been released, but this is a race edition which pays homage to Jorge Aspar Martinez. CFMoto’s Moto2 and Moto3 campaign in MotoGP are run by the Aspar team. They are enjoying their best season since arriving in 2022, with David Alonso winning four out of six Moto3 races and is currently leading the championship by 14 points.

Back to the CFMoto 675 SR Aspar Special Edition, it wears the number 5 made famous by Aspar when he raced in 80cc and 125cc world championships. The colour scheme of blue, white, and black colours also reflects the Aspar team’s.

Apart from the colour, the bike features several racing accoutrements such as large winglets, rear spoilers, brake cooling ducts, billet aluminium footpegs, billet clip-on handlebars.

The concept was revealed at the opening of CFMoto’s global racing and training academy at the Aspar Circuit in Valencia, Spain. The academy provides riders and mechanics training and links to the Spanish Championship to the MotoGP World Championship.

A total of 63 summons were issue to 53 motorcyclists, while 6 motorcycles were confiscated in an operation on the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) yesterday morning.

A total of 63 summonses were issued to the 53 riders, while the majority of seized vehicles involved those ridden by foreigners.

Ampang Jaya District Deputy Chief of Police, Superintendent Nazruel Ekram Abu Saare, said the operation started at 7.30 in the morning by a team from the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division (BSPT) of the Ampang Jaya District Police Headquarters (IPD) on the motorcycle route.

“The motorcycle operation is aimed at weeding out road users who do not comply with traffic rules.

“The summons thatwere issued involved common offences including no driving licence, expired road tax, registration number not in accordance with specifications, no side mirror, and modified exhaust,” he said.

Nazruel said, his party also seized six Yamaha Legenda, Yamaha Y15ZR, Yamaha 135LC, and a Honda Wave.

He said, action was taken in accordance with Section 64(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 and Section 6(4) of the same act.

“Of the total of confiscated motorcycles, five were ridden by foreigners and the other one was ridden by a local due to the offence of modifying the exhaust.

“Motorcyclists are the major contributors to accident statistics every day, therefore it is advised that all motorcycle users in particular comply with the rules set for example wearing a helmet properly and certified by the Malaysian Industrial Research and Standards Institute (SIRIM Berhad),” he said.

NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: The authorities often overlook helmets with the approval of the ECE/UN R22 standard, although the authorities were the ones who approved the importation and sale. We have posted an article on this issue before but we will post it again to avoid confusion.

The official crash investigation report regarding the two TLDM (Royal Malaysian Navy) helicopter was released today.

The main factor that caused the accident was identified as of one of the aircraft was not at the specified altitude and course. The Fennec helicopter had entered the path of the AW139 helicopter which caused both to collide and crash.

The crash claimed 10 lives last April 23, at the TLDM Base in Lumut, Perak.

TLDM’s statement also mentioned another factor called channelized attention which caused the crew to on their course which limited their ability to react quickly to avoid a collision. (Note from the author: This factor also often occurs among motorcyclists and drivers called ‘target fixation.’)

“The Board of Inquiry carried out an investigation to identify the cause or factor that contributed to the incident in various aspects.

The investigation had studied all aspects that could potentially result in the accident.

“This included recreating the flight profile on the day of the incident by simulating that profile using a flight simulator as well as a real aircraft.

“In addition, assistance and views from Airbus Helicopters are also taken into account if there is data on the Fennec aircraft equipment that can help the investigation.”

According to report, after a comprehensive investigation, the Board of Inquiry found that the post-mortem report confirmed that there was no issue of ‘hypoglycemia’ (lack of glucose concentration in the blood) or fatigue for all the aircrew and no use of prohibited substances.

“In addition, no element of mental illness was recorded or identified with all the aircrew involved and they were medically certified as ‘fit to fly’.

“The deaths of all 10 victims were caused by multiple injuries due to aviation crash.

“The AW139 aircraft was confirmed to be free of technical problems based on the Black Box Analysis Report. The Fennec aircraft also did not have any technical problems based on the visual and sound analysis and documentation. The maintenance work of both aircraft was confirmed to be carried out in accordance with the procedures and routines set by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).”

“Oil, lubricant and fuel samples have been checked and confirmed to be normal by the Defense Science and Technology Research Institute (STRIDE).”

In fact, the weather conditions on the day of the incident was good and suitable for the flight.

“The Black Box Analysis Report of the AW139 aircraft was also used to assist the investigation. As for the Fennec aircraft, the proof of the flight profile was through a flight simulation using a real aircraft.”

Cooperation, expertise and views from OEMs namely Leonardo Helicopter and Airbus Helicopter were also consulted to assist the investigation.

“Airbus Helicopter confirmed that there was no Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) equipment on the Fennec aircraft which could assist the investigation.” (Note from the author: Data recorders or better known as black boxes are not required to be installed in helicopters.)

A total of 4,169 summons related to rempits (road hooligans) were issued by the authorities throughout Penang as of April this year.

State Youth, Sports and Health EXCO, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said, 150 operations were carried out during that period involving 14 identified ‘hot’ locations.

“Among them are the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway, the Bayan Baru roundabout, Jalan Tun Dr Awang, Padang Kota Lama, the Butterworth Outer Ring, the North-South Expressway Project (PLUS) Sama Gagah Expressway and the Penang Second Bridge.

“Other locations are Jalan Bukit Gambir, Jalan Mayang Pasir, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE) and Taman Ilmu located in Seberang Perai Selatan.

“In this regard, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) has carried out an integrated operation together with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), the Department of Environment (JAS) and the Local Authorities,” he said.

In the same development, he insisted that all parties take it seriously and are committed to working hand in hand in curbing and eradicating the problems involving mat rempit or street thugs.

“This includes inspection of shop premises that modify motorcycles and other enforcement in accordance with the provisions of the law in addition to conducting integrated operations every weekend, traffic patrols and roadblocks,” he explained.

There are three new colours for the 2024 Yamaha EGO Avantiz.

The Yamaha EGO Avantiz automatic scooter soldiers on since its launch way back in 2016. There were several revisions, but all constrained to cosmetic updates.

Its engine is still the 125cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC unit which produces 7.0 kW (9.4 hp) at 8,000 RPM and 9.6 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM.

As aforementioned, the chassis, suspension, bodywork, brakes remain untouched.

The three new colours are called Sky Blue, Dark Blue, and Purple.

The 2024 Yamaha EGO Avantiz is already available at authorised Yamaha dealers from 28 May 2024. The recommended selling price is from RM 5,998, excluding registration fees and insurance cover.

2024 Yamaha EGO Avantiz Photo Gallery

The 2024 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 was launched at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 today.

While the bike’s retro-futuristic design is inspired by the SG650 Concept, it is still acts as a blank canvas for customisation and personalisation among enthusiasts the world over. In fact, RE calls it “the ultimate canvas for personalization, reflecting a blend of raw creative energy, anarchic custom culture, and the iconic Royal Enfield DNA.

 

Main features:
  • Utilises RE’s proven 650 engine platform.
  • The engine is a 648cc parallel-twin with air-oil cooling, and SOHC.

  • It produces 34.6 kW (46.4 hp) at 7,250 RPM and 52.3 Nm at 5,650 RPM.
  • The high torque at that low RPM means it is tuned for acceleration, which is perfect for the urban environment.

  • The front suspension consist of 43mm Showa upside-down separate function big piston forks.
  • Rear suspension duties are handled by a pair of RSU shocks with 5-step preload adjustment.

  • The front wheel is 18-inches, while the rear is 17-inches.
  • Its braking system is made up by a single 320mm disc up front, and a 300mm disc at the back.

  • The headlamp, in all its funky attributes has LEDs.
  • The digital-analogue instrument panel is equipped with the Tripper navigation system.

  • The new Royal Enfield Wingman app which provides data such as live updates of the bike’s location, fuel and engine oil levels, service reminders, and so forth.
  • There is also a USB charging port to keep your device from running out of juice while on the go.

  • Its ergonomics can be summed up as accessible, with mid-set foot position, a low 795mm seat height, and easy to reach handlebar position.
  • Royal Enfield has some 31 Genunine Motorcycle Accessories for the Shotgun 650 including bar end mirrors, sculpted solo seat, contrast-cut billet rims, etc.

  • There is also a range of Royal Enfield apparels to match the lifestyle.
  • There are four unique colourways: Stencil White, Plasma Blue, Green Drill, and Sheet Metal Grey.

  • Selling price for the 2024 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 begins from RM 34,900.

Pre-booking is open for all-new 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 

At the same time,  pre-bookings for the all-new 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan is now open.

The official premiere of the bike will take place on 8th June 2024, at JioSpace Petaling Jaya.

The long-awaited 2024 Honda ADV350 scooter has finally arrived in Malaysia. It was launched at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

As a member of the Honda ADV range, it is an adventure scooter embodying the concept of “Urban Adventure Scooter.” So it is suitable for daily riding in crowded city streets.

However, a scooter of this size also makes it suitable for long-distance travel, whatnot with almost the same features as the larger X-ADV (750) model.

Main highlights:
  • The design is similar to its big brother, the Honda X-ADV.
  • Powered by a 330cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, liquid-cooled engine equipped with PGM-FI fuel as well as enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) techonologies.
  • The engine produces 21.5 kW (28.8 hp) at 7,500 RPM and a torque of 31.8 Nm at 5,250 RPM.

(THIS COLOUR OPTION IS NOT AVAILABLE IN MALAYSIA)

  • The engine oil tank capacity is 1.8 liters.
  • The ADV350 uses a CVT transmission, and not a manual DCT like the X-ADV.
  • Front tyre size is 120/70 on a 15-inch rim.
  • Rear tyre size is 140/70 on a 14-inch rim.

  • The front brake disc size is 256mm, while the rear is 240mm.
  • The anti-lock braking (ABS) feature is standard and is a dual-channel system for the front and rear wheels.
  • What is interesting is the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS – Emergency Stop Signal) feature which is the first time on a scooter. The tail light flashes when the rider brakes suddenly.

  • The underseat storage space can accommodate two full-face helmets.
  • Digital instrument panel with Bluetooth link.
  • Fuel tank capacity 11.7 liters.
  • Weight is only 186 kg.

There are 3 colour options, namely Mat Candy Tulip Red, Pearl Smokey Gray, and Mat Gun Powder Black Metallic (no blue). The recommended selling price of the 2024 Honda ADV350 is RM 33,999 without registration, road tax, and insurance.

There are two new colours for the 2024 Yamaha XMAX.

The Yamaha XMAX (or also unofficially called the XMAX 250) remains popular since its launch in Malaysia back in 2018. There were doubters of the model’s survivability back then due to its price but the naysayers have been proven wrong. In fact, the XMAX range consisting of the 125cc, 250cc, and 300cc variants are the best selling scooters in the world.

There were several cosmetic updates since, leading up to the latest variant launched in 2023. This latest update gave the bike a 4.2-inch TFT screen which features the Yamaha Y-Connect and Garmin StreetCross Connectivity navigation function, adjustable windscreen, new DRL (daytime running lights), and mirror mounted front turn signals.

The 250cc version we have is powered by a 249cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine which produces 16.6 kW (22.5 hp) at 7,000 RPM and 24.3 Nm at 5,500 RPM.

Our review of the bike found that it is fast and handles very well for a scooter which had us scraping the centre stand numerous times through corners.

So, for 2024, the new colours are Icon Black and Ruby Red.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor set the 2024 Yamaha XMAX ‘s recommended selling price at RM 24,498.00 excluding registration fees and insurance coverage. It is covered by 2 years or 20,000km warranty (whichever comes first).

Buyers will receive a Yamaha disc lock worth RM 100.

Please visit Hong Leong Yamaha Motor’s official website for more details.

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