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New Colours for 2025 Honda Vario 160

Boon Siew Honda Sdn. Bhd. has announced two new colours for the 2025 Honda Vario 160, namely Blue and Red.

The Honda Vario 160 is powered by a 157cc, 4-valve engine featuring enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) technology. This engine delivers a maximum power output of 15hp (11.3kW) at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 13.8 Nm at 7,000 rpm. That is plenty of grunt for a 160cc scooter.

Safety aspects include anti-lock braking system (ABS) for the front brake while the rear utilises a disc brake without ABS. The scooter rolls on 14-inch wheels, front and rear.

Honda claims a wet weight of 119kg with a full 5.5-liter tank, which is quite light.

Other features include the Honda Smart Key System for keyless ignition, full LED lighting all-around, and a built-in USB charger for the rider’s devices.

The new 2025 Honda Vario 160 with new colours will be available at all IMPIAN X and authorized Honda dealers nationwide starting from 23rd September 2024. The sales price for these new colours is RM10,198 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration), while the price for the present Green and Mat Blue options is RM10,498 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration).

Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000km manufacturing warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, please click www.boonsiewhonda.com.my or visit the nearest Honda Impian X. Customers may also reach them via their toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993.

2025 Honda Vario 160 Photo Gallery

“Obey the Law” JPJ Warns RXZ Members 6.0 Organiser and Participants

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) reminds the organizers and participants of the RXZ Members 6.0 event that will start in Terengganu today to comply with the rules and conditions set by the authorities, as agreed between the two parties previously.

JPJ Director General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said that his party also has no plans to implement roadblocks (SJR) to ensure the smooth running of the program, which is entering its sixth year.

“This time, Terengganu JPJ together with Terengganu Police and other relevant authorities took the initial step by holding discussions with the organizers and providing clear guidelines regarding the organization of the program.

“We have given the conditions that need to be complied with, and JPJ will work with the police to monitor the rally so that it takes place as directed,” he said.

Among the conditions that need to be complied with are ensuring that the motorcyclist has a driving license and road tax, that the motorcycle is not physically modified which is illegal and that the motorcycle plate complies with the specified specifications in addition to the motorcycle exhaust not being modified.

“JPJ does not intentionally want to find fault, in fact we also want the program to run smoothly but at the same time, we also need to ensure that all other road users are safe not only those who participate in the assembly,” he added.

Previously, Terengganu Police Chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin reportedly said that he had given clear guidelines to the organizers through four series of coordination meetings with other departments including Kuala Terengganu City Council (MBKT), JPJ Terengganu and East Coast Highway 2 (LPT2) and organizers need to comply if they want the program to continue next year.

The RXZ Members 6.0 program which will be held at the Terengganu Motor Circuit, Gong Badak, Kuala Nerus today until Saturday is expected to attract the participation of 80,000 participants from all over the country.

Berjaya Sompo Insurance Strengthens Commitment To Motorcyclists

Berjaya Sompo Insurance Strengthens Its Commitment to Motorcyclists With Participation in Yamaha GenBlu Carnival

As part of its continuous commitment to promoting rider safety, Berjaya Sompo Insurance recently took part in the “Yamaha GenBlu Carnival”, which was held at Bandar Medini, Puteri Iskandar, Johor, on August 25, 2024.

The fifth edition of the carnival attracted over 16,008 motorcyclists, officially securing a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records for being the largest Yamaha motorcycle gathering event. (more…)

New Ducati Johor Dealership Opens

Good news for Ducati owners in southern Peninsular Malaysia, as a new Ducati Johor dealership has opened.

Begin press release:

Ducati Malaysia proudly announces the opening of its newest dealership in Johor Bahru, strategically located at No.9 Jalan Permas 9/17, Masai Johor, next to Aeon Permas Jaya, providing prominent visibility from the EDL Highway. This state-of-the-art showroom represents a significant milestone in Ducati’s commitment to expanding its presence in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, bringing the passion and performance of Ducati motorcycles closer to enthusiasts and potential clients in Johor and beyond.

Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ducati Asia Pacific, along with homegrown motorsport superstar Hafizh Syahrin, who rides for the JDT Racing Team, were both present for the event.

The new dealership, which has seen an investment of RM3.5 million, is designed to offer a premium customer experience, fully embracing Ducati’s latest signature identity. Spanning a total built-up area of over 2,418 square feet, the dealership includes space for a state-of-the art Ducati service centre and experiential areas including an immersive showroom, which can display up to 16 Ducati motorcycles at a time. Additionally, the showroom also includes a dedicated space for Ducati Apparel and Accessories, as well as a separate section for Scrambler Ducati, complete with its own apparel, accessories, and social lounge.

Key Features of the Ducati Johor Dealership:

Service Excellence:

The service centre, covering 2,135 square feet, is equipped with 4 service bays capable of servicing up to 200 bikes per month.
The centre is fully equipped with advanced tools, including 2 bike lifters, latest Ducati diagnostic tools, and a comprehensive array of special tools for Ducati models.

Scrambler Camp:

A dedicated 194-square-foot area for Scrambler Ducati enthusiasts, featuring a social area, apparel, and accessories, ensuring a unique and immersive experience.

Convenient Operating Hours:

The dealership is open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM, while only the showroom remains open on Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM.

Ducati Malaysia has set an ambitious sales target for the new Johor dealership, aiming to achieve 30 units by the end of 2024 and a forecast of 100 units in 2025, driven by the improving market conditions and the high-traffic location of the showroom. Currently, there are over 200 Ducati motorcycles on the roads of Johor, and this new dealership is set to become the go-to destination for Ducati enthusiasts in the region.

Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ducati Asia Pacific, expressed his satisfaction with the expansion, stating, “We are proud of the team at Ducati Malaysia for their dedication and success in this endeavor. The opening of our new dealership in Johor Bahru is a significant milestone in our regional strategy. It highlights Ducati’s commitment to strengthening our presence in key markets and delivering exceptional experiences to our clients.”

Dennis Michael, Chief Operating Officer Ducati Malaysia, shared his excitement on the launching of Ducati Johor, “We are thrilled to open our new dealership in Johor Bahru, marking another exciting chapter in Ducati Malaysia’s journey. This new location not only represents our commitment to providing world-class sales and aftersales services but also reflects our dedication to bringing the Ducati experience closer to our clients in the southern region. The unveiling of the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono and Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE is a testament to our commitment to offering the latest and most exciting models to our clients. With its prime location and state-of-the-art facilities, we are confident that Ducati Johor will become a hub for both new and existing Ducati owners, offering them an unparalleled experience that truly embodies the essence of our brand. We look forward to serving the Ducati community in Johor and welcoming new members to our growing family.”

In conjunction with the dealership launch, Ducati Malaysia is thrilled to unveil the brand-new Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono and Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE. These latest additions to the Ducati lineup are designed to offer an exhilarating riding experience, embodying the spirit of the Hypermotard family with a fresh, innovative twist. Priced at RM70,900.00 and RM77,900.00 respectively, these models are expected to attract a wide range of riders, from enthusiasts to those seeking a unique and dynamic ride.

Dainese Penang Now Open For Business!

Dainese, the legendary Italian motorcycle protective clothing brand seems to be on a roll in Malaysia.

Now under the guardianship of Ten Thousand Holdings Sdn Bhd, the current importer and distributor of Dainese in Malaysia, the iconic brand is now more accessible to fans than it has ever been. (more…)

Hulala Bike Fiesta Returns For 2024 – Enjoy Big Discounts!

The Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024, hosted by GB Motorcycles Sdn Bhd and Sheng Fatt Motor, is back for 2024 and takes place this weekend (6,7 and 8th of September 2024) at the Penang Juru City Concept Hall. If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, this is the event you simply cannot afford to miss! (more…)

Michelin Malaysia and KTM Asia Team Up for Rimba Raid 2024

Michelin Malaysia and KTM Asia announced their official partnership in Southeast Asia to drive motorsports excellence by pushing the boundaries of performance, innovation, and resilience.

This groundbreaking partnership between these two industry leaders will debut at the highly anticipated 2024 edition of Rimba Raid, the world’s largest motorcycle adventure race set in the heart of the breathtaking Lenggong Valley, Malaysia, from September 25th to 29th .

This year, Rimba Raid will showcase the seamless integration of Michelin’s world-class tire technology with KTM’s high-powered performance bikes and their “READY TO RACE” ethos.

The collaboration will be highlighted by a formidable team of five elite racers from Singapore, Malaysia, and the Republic of Korea. The teams will mount KTM 890 ADVENTURE R motorcycles outfitted with Michelin’s renowned MICHELIN Enduro Medium tires, designed for excellent control with intricately designed tread blocks that ensure grip and stability over tough terrains.

True to KTM’s philosophy, the motorcycles will arrive at the starting line in near-stock form, featuring select KTM POWERPARTS enhancements straight from the official catalogue. This impressive setup will be backed by a dedicated technical team from both Michelin and KTM Asia, ensuring optimal performance throughout the event.

Prichapakorn Dangrojana, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, said “At Michelin, our tyres embody the high performance and endurance needed in the most challenging terrains. Through our partnership with KTM Asia, we are not just elevating the racing experience—we are driving motorsports excellence forward, in line with our #WeRaceForChange initiative, which focuses on driving sustainability, diversity, and innovation in motorsports. Through this partnership, we are not only pushing the limits of performance but also contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future for racing.”

Enrico Remigio, General Manager of KTM Asia, added, “KTM is thrilled to collaborate with a tire partner that fully understands the extreme demands of high-stakes racing. This partnership is a testament to our shared dedication to motorsport excellence, and we’re excited to put this collaboration to the ultimate test at Rimba Raid Lenggong 2024.”

Ready to Race at Rimba Raid Lenggong 2024

Renowned as the toughest race of its kind, Rimba Raid pushes both riders and their machines to the absolute limit. With less than half of the participants completing the previous two editions, the race has earned its reputation for grueling challenges that demand peak performance and unwavering endurance.

In 2023, Rimba Raid attracted 279 adrenaline-fueled competitors from 24 countries, including 21 trailblazing female racers, underscoring the event’s global appeal and inclusivity. The race also serves as a dynamic showcase for leading motorcycle brands, with 19 manufacturers seizing the opportunity to display their cutting-edge products and services.

Parking 4x4s in the River, Need Guidelines for Recreation Sites – Advisor

Recently, the case of several 4×4 vehicles being parked in a river went viral. The actions of those vehicle owners have been widely criticised by netizens. Regardless, there is still no statement from any authority whether the owners will be subject to legal action.

In this regard, Perak Eco Tourism Development Association Advisor, Cik Siti Norlizawati Narawi said there should be a guideline for camping and public recreation sites to curb the irresponsible behaviour of visitors.

She also said that irresponsible acts are usually committed in locations without owner, because the paid sites have certain guidelines and rules that visitors need to follow.

“It is indeed difficult to control people who visit public recreation and camping sites, (but) maybe the government can issue specific rules such as don’t make a ruckus, respect others, and don’t pollute the environment and so on.

“Guidelines like these can be a reference for any individual or local residents to rebuke the actions and misbehaviour of visitors.

“There may be certain actions to teach a lesson, should they violate these guidelines,” she said when contacted by the Harian Metro newspaper.

“Recently, a case of parking 4x4s in the river went viral. We are worried that this may cause the vehicle’s oil to leak and pollute the river, making other people who bathe in the same area uncomfortable.

“There was also meals served on table and chairs set in the water. The safety aspect is one thing, then washing the dishes in the river afterwards causes the quality of the water to be dirty with leftover food such as fish and chicken bones.

“We may not see the impact now, instead, we only take action when something happens. Prevention is better than cure.

“This kind of act should not happen, in fact all parties need to be aware by taking care of their behaviour, speech and not polluting the area because any act that is not good for the environment will definitely have a negative and bad impact,” she said.

However, she did not mention off-sport activities such as enduro motorcycles, ATVs rides, and 4×4 adventures.

ABS Compulsory for Motorcycles 150cc and Above from 2025

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) is mandatory for motorcycles 150cc and above starting January 1, 2025.

That’s what the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi when speaking at the Launching Ceremony of the Asian Road Safety Conference (CARS) 2024 yesterday.

According to him, the government took this initiative considering that the majority of road accidents involve motorcycle riders and pillion riders.

“Let’s start by making motorcyclists safer because 65 percent of the total road deaths last year involved motorcyclists.

“So starting January 1, 2025, all new motorcycles with an engine capacity of 150cc and above must be equipped with ABS,” he said.

Also present at the ceremony were the Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke and the Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim.

Ahmad Zahid said the government decided on the matter because based on a World Health Organization (WHO) report, ABS was able to reduce the rate of fatal accidents by 31 percent.

“Malaysia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia facing this issue. Although the death rate per 100,000 people decreased from 27 percent in 2000 to 22.5 percent in 2019, it remains one of the highest in the world.

“So I am confident that this initiative will reduce the death rate due to road accidents in Malaysia,” he said.

He also hopes that the initiative involved can be an inspiration to other ASEAN countries to implement similar measures to make motorcycles a safe vehicle to use.

In addition, Ahmad Zahid suggested that the Motorcycle Assessment Program in Malaysia (MyMAP) be implemented in all ASEAN or Asian countries.

He said, MyMAP, which gives a rating to motorcycles based on the vehicle’s standards, is able to give users an advantage to make an evaluation before buying the vehicle.

“So far, MyMAP has evaluated 28 types of motorcycle models produced by seven manufacturing companies and these vehicles have been given a ‘star’ rating,” he said.

Jalan Masjid India not Considered Unsafe Zon

Authorities said that it is not yet time to gazette the location of the sinkhole on Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur as an unsafe zone.

Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, said in order to do so, he would need to submit an application to the National Security Council (MKN) to declare the area a disaster zone.

“Although this incident is not considered a disaster, the actions of the police including the fire department and related agencies as well as Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) seem like a disaster.

“Following the detection of the second location of the sinkhole, I have ordered the 1.4 kilometer long route on Jalan Masjid India to Jalan Raja Laut to be closed.

“The closure involves a route that has five culverts and instructions related to the matter have been issued to the Chief of Police Dearah Dang Wangi and the Chief of State Police,” he said.

Commenting further, the closure only involves the route in question and does not involve other areas.

“Businesses are not closed either. Transactions are still going on as usual. The path to the sewer is only about 50 to 70 meters,” he said.

Earlier the media reported that the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) detected an object that was stuck about 80 meters between the location of the clear ground and the second sewer.

JBPM Deputy Director General (Operations), Datuk Ahmad Izram Osman, said the findings were obtained through detection by two Detection Unit (K9) dogs, Denti and Frankie, who were brought down to the scene yesterday afternoon, in addition to camera detection.

Yamaha PG-1 Revealed during 2024 Yamaha GenBlu Carnival

The Yamaha PG-1 adventure moped was revealed during the 2024 Yamaha GenBlu Carnival. Attendees and the media also had the opportunity to test ride the bike.

The bike, which Yamaha says the name stands for “Playful Gear 1” is built on an underbone chassis, but with long travel suspension. It is not unlike the mopeds modified for off-road racing, colloquially called “cub cross” in Malaysia. Doing so puts the Yamaha PG-1 in the same category as the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub/Trail and Aveta Ranger Max Explorer.

Powering the PG-1 is a 114cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine which produces 6.6kW (8.9hp) at 7,000 RPM and 9.5Nm at 5,500 RPM, and mated to a four-speed transmission. This very engine (and possibly transmission) is shared with the Yamaha EZ115, which was previously known as the Lagenda 115.

The features that turns it into a go-anywhere motorcycle are 190mm ground clearance, 90/100-16 inch knobby tubed tyres on both ends, and a straight up handlebar. The fuel tank has a 5.1-liter capacity, and wet weight is claimed to be 107kg (pretty light).

The fork tubes have accordion-type covers, while a round headlight and taillight complete the off-road look.

A nice feature is the split seat, which allows for easy refuelling underneath the rider’s seat, while there is some storage space underneath the pillion’s seat. The rider’s seat height is 795mm.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor is set to launch the Yamaha PG-1 officially on another date, but they have announced the recommended selling price of RM6,998.00. It comes in two colours, namely Casual Beige and Forest Green.

Yamaha PG-1 Photo Gallery

Cardo Packtalk Pro Arrives in Malaysia – RRP RM2099

Cardo occupies the top rung when it comes to motorcycle communicators and they are continuously moving the goal posts in terms of features and innovations. Well, good news is, the much-awaited Cardo Packtalk Pro has arrived in Malaysia. It sells at a recommended retail price of RM2,099.00.

Its arrival was announced by the official distributor in Malaysia, Sinar Puncak Sdn. Bhd. during the launch event at Backroom Coffee.

Key features:

The Cardo Packtalk Pro features a crash detection chip. The chip continuously measures and records acceleration, angular velocity, and abnormal motion. As such, the unit will call for help should the rider become incapacitated.

New 45mm JBL speakers for what Cardo says offers the best experience in sound quality.
Auto ON/OFF feature which automatically powers the device on and off based on certain conditions to prolong battery life.

Talk time is up to 13 hours, while charging to full takes up to 2 hours. Additionally, a 20-minute fast charge provides up to 2 hours of talk time for those “Oh no! I forgot to charge it moments!”
Cardo’s much-vaunted Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) group communication feature supports up to 15 users.

There is a 2-channel connectivity, one for the mobile phone and GPS, while the other supports Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and pairing to the bike’s TFT.
All these features and more (including built-in voice commands) are housed in a slick matte black IP67-rated casing.