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New 2024 BMW S 1000 XR Launched

BMW Group Malaysia launched the 2024 BMW CE 02, 2024 BMW F 900 GS, 2024 BMW S 1000 XR, and 2024 BMW R 1300 GS today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

Benjamin Nagel, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “We are thrilled to unveil our latest lineup of exceptional motorcycles here at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, featuring the highly anticipated All-New BMW CE 02 alongside our newest offerings in the Adventure segment. This showcase reflects our steadfast dedication to redefining the riding experience in the country. Each motorcycle epitomises innovation, seamlessly integrating electrification, premium performance, and cutting-edge design. As we embrace the future of mobility and continue to Make Life A Ride here in Malaysia, we invite all riding enthusiasts to join us on this exhilarating journey with BMW Group Malaysia.”

Its the inline-four S 1000 XR sport-tourer’s turn.

The 2024 BMW S 1000 XR.

The 2024 BMW S 1000 XR arrives with a midlife refresh, but its long-distance capability and high-performance dynamics remains potent.

Main features:

The front view of the motorcycle maintains its silhouette, complemented by a curved seat for optimal support.
At the heart of the bike is the 999cc in-line four-cylinder engine, which is shared with the BMW S 1000 RR superbike.

It is however tuned for more relaxed long-distance riding, besides carrying cargo and a passenger, hence it produces 125 kW (170 hp) at 11,000 rpm, and 114 Nm of torque at 9,250 RPM instead of 205 hp at 13,750 RPM and 112 Nm at 11,000 RPM.
Standard features include pannier holders, a toll card compartment, and storage space under the seat.

All-around LED lighting, with added LED Auxiliary Lights, and Headlight Pro DRL.
There are four riding modes: Rain, Road, Dynamic, and Dynamic Pro.

Rider aids include Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), and DTC Wheelie function.
Hill Start Control Pro is standard and it is a great feature when you stop at steep inclines.

The 2024 BMW S 1000 XR also has Dynamic ESA Pro suspension which takes care of preload and damping, which can be selected by the rider.
There is also Shift Assist Pro (quickshifter) for smooth and sporty gear shifts.

And not forgetting Keyless Ride and a USB charging port.
Standard colours for are include the Gravity Blue Metallic, and Blackstorm Metallic.

Financial Services

Ownership of the new 2024 BMW S 1000 XR starts from RM 1,928.00 with the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. This estimate is based on Balloon Financing with a 90% loan over a 4-year tenure.

Owners can also enjoy additional benefits with the Industry-Leading Premium Malaysia Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension Programmes by BMW Motorrad Malaysia. For more information on the programmes, please visit https://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/en/service/service-inclusive.html.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s All-New 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes, without insurance) for the 2024 BMW S 1000 XR is RM 129,500.00.

To learn more about the 2024 BMW S 1000 XR, visit http://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/ or contact your preferred authorised BMW dealership.

2024 BMW S 1000 XR Photo Gallery

2024 BMW F 900 GS Launched in Malaysia

BMW Group Malaysia launched the 2024 BMW CE 02, 2024 BMW F 900 GS, 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2024 BMW S 1000 XR, today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

2024 BMW F 900 GS

Now let us go to this second bike launched today.

BMW says that the 2024 BMW F 900 GS offers higher sophistication for off-road, touring, and adventure capabilities.

Main highlights:

Enhanced off-road qualities along with a 14 kg weight reduction. It nowweights 219 kg.
Advanced lighting technology with a larger low beam opening angle and improved illumination directly in front, utilising LED with daytime running light and LED indicators.

Completely redesign which showcases a redesigned fuel tank, contributing to a slimmer and ergonomically with a capacity of 14.5 litres.
Powering the 2024 BMW F 900 GS is a 895cc parallel-twin engine which now produces 77 kW (105 hp) at 8.500 rpm, and 93 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm.

It has a firing interval of 270/450 degrees, mimicking that of a 90-degree V-twin, and emits a throaty exhaust note through the Akrapovič exhaust silencer.
The has a top speed of “over 200 km/h,” according to the manufacturer.

The Enduro Pro Package includes a fully adjustable titanium nitride-coated upside-down telescopic forks, fully adjustable central spring strut, sport frame, black handlebar, handlebar riser, as well as an M-Endurance chain.
The 2024 BMW F 900 GS is equipped with a host rider-friendly amenities, including an engine guard, ensuring added protection during off-road excursions, heated grips provide.

Hand protectors further shield riders from debris and wind, enhancing overall comfort and safety.
The new bike also features adjustable foot brake and gear levers for personalised control and ergonomics.

A 6.5-inch TFT display as standard with connectivity functions, enabling the rider to engage in phone calls, indulge in music, and navigate while on the move.
There are two riding modes: “Road” and “Rain,” in addition to Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), cornering-optimised BMW Motorrad ABS Pro, and a dynamic brake light (it blinks under hard braking) for enhanced safety.

Other rider convenience features are Gear Shift Assistant Pro, Keyless Ride, RDC (tyre pressure control), 12-volt and USB power sockets.
Available in two attractive colours namely, Sao Paulo Yellow and Racing Blue Metallic.

Financial Services

Ownership of the new 2024 BMW F 900 GS starts from RM 1,318.00 with the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. This estimate is based on Balloon Financing with a 90% loan over a 4-year tenure.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s All-New 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes, without insurance) for the new 2024 BMW F 900 GS is RM 88,500.00.

To learn more about the new 2024 F 900 GS, visit http://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/ or contact your preferred authorised BMW dealership.

2024 BMW F 900 GS Photo Gallery

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Launched in Malaysia

BMW Group Malaysia launched the 2024 BMW CE 02, 2024 BMW F 900 GS, 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2024 BMW S 1000 XR, today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

We have save the best for last and it is the highly-anticipated 2024 BMW R 1300 GS.

2024 BMW R 1300 GS

The new GS is a completely new motorcycle from the contact patch up. The biggest news is of course the new engine, but BMW did not stop there.

Main features:

All new 1300cc two-cylinder Boxer (flat-twin) which features BMW Shift Cam variable valve actuation.
It makes this the most powerful BMW Boxer yet with 107 kW (145 hp) at 7,750 RPM and 149 Nm at 6,500 RPM.

The gearbox is attached below the engine along with a new camshaft drive.
The new GS is designed to be more compact and lighter, hence its reworked styling, which forgoes the signature asymmetric headlamps.

Several weight reduction measures cut away 12 kg, for a total weight of just 237 kg.
The shapes of the tank, seats, frame are all new.

Advanced lighting, including daytime running lights and Matrix LED headlights, ensuring optimal visibility in all conditions.
The LED auxiliary headlights that enhance off-road riding, while the Headlight Pro dynamically adjusts and illuminates the rider’s path as he navigates through corners.

Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) handles suspension duties by adjusting both front and rear damping, along with the preload, based on selected riding modes, road conditions, and manoeuvres.
There are four riding modes now, namely, Rain, Road, Eco, and Enduro.

As the names suggest, Eco mode maximises fuel efficiency, while Enduro mode if for off-road riding.
There is a 6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen, whose features can be operated via the multi-controller.

Other standard features are Fully Integral ABS Pro for smooth braking and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), KeylessRide, heated grips, and smartphone charging compartment with a USB charging socket.
Additional features include DCC for speed control with brake function, and hand protection with integrated turn indicators. The Riding Assistant option further enhances safety with components such as the Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Change Warning (LCW), providing riders with added peace of mind during their adventures.

The New BMW R 1300 GS arrives in Triple Black, Racing Blue Metallic, and Option 719 Tramuntana.

Financial Services

With the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of the new 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2024 BMW 1300 GS with Option 719 starts from RM 2,068.00 and RM 2,228.00 per month respectively. These estimates are based on Balloon Financing with a 90% loan over a 4-year tenure.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s All-New 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes, without insurance) for the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS is RM 138,500.00, and 2024 BMW R 1300 GS with Option 719 Tramuntana is RM 149,500.00.

To learn more about the 2024 BMW 1300 GS, visit http://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/ or contact your preferred authorised BMW dealership.

2024 BMW R 1300 GS Photo Gallery

2024 BMW CE 02 Launched in Malaysia

BMW Group Malaysia launched the 2024 BMW CE 02, 2024 BMW F 900 GS, 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2024 BMW S 1000 XR, today at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

Benjamin Nagel, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “We are thrilled to unveil our latest lineup of exceptional motorcycles here at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, featuring the highly anticipated All-New BMW CE 02 alongside our newest offerings in the Adventure segment. This showcase reflects our steadfast dedication to redefining the riding experience in the country. Each motorcycle epitomises innovation, seamlessly integrating electrification, premium performance, and cutting-edge design. As we embrace the future of mobility and continue to Make Life A Ride here in Malaysia, we invite all riding enthusiasts to join us on this exhilarating journey with BMW Group Malaysia.”

The all-new 2024 BMW CE 02

Let us start with this one.

BMW Group Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to electrification in the Urban Mobility segment with the unveiling of the all-new 2024 BMW CE 02. This eParkourer boasts an exceptional electric drive while embodying outstanding technology and style, encapsulated in a futuristic design destined to captivate the Malaysian youth.

Tailored for urban environments, this premium e-motorcycle features large wheels designed for durability and promises exhilarating rides across diverse terrains. Sporting a sleek aesthetic, the vehicle showcases a black frame, wheels, front fender, and triple clamp fairing at the top, complemented by a granite grey metallic matt engine cover. Arriving in Style HIGHLINE Cosmic Black, the BMW CE 02 possesses a dynamic contrast between matte and high-gloss that adds an alluring visual dimension to the exterior of the premium vehicle.

Main highlights:

Hydraulically damped telescopic forks at the front.
Single-sided swingarm and directly pivoted shock absorber at the rear.

The vehicle’s wide tyres are mounted on cast light alloy wheels in a striking disc wheel design
Disc brakes front and rear ensure secure deceleration.

This premium e-motorcycle weighs only 132 kg for great dynamic riding and agile handling.
It measures a compact 1970mm in length, stands 1140mm tall to its windshield, making it perfect for urban landscapes.

Let us talk performance, shall we? The motor has an output of 11 kW (15 hp) and 55 Nm (!) of torque.
Notice that the torque is much higher than maximum power, which is the hallmark of electric motors, which ensures an instant rush when you need to overtake other vehicles.

The 2024 BMW CE 02 goes from 0 to 50 km/h in approximately 3 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 95 km/h (it is an urban bike!).
It is equipped with a 6 kWh lithium-ion battery, giving the bike a range up to 100km.

A 900W external charger is included, enabling charging from standard household electrical sockets.
The bike has a quick charge capability up to 1500W, which charges the batter from 20% to 80% in 1 hour:40 minutes, and charging from 0% to 100% takes 3 hours:30 minutes.

The 2024 BMW CE 02 features a 3.5-inch TFT colour display with extensive connectivity through the BMW Motorrad Connect Application.
The app provides riders with arrow navigation, real-time vehicle status and insightful statistics.

There are also three driving modes, namely ‘Flow’, ‘Surf’ and ‘Flash’.
‘Flow’ mode optimises settings for relaxed riding in urban environments, ‘Surf’ mode delivers a dynamic riding experience, and ‘Flash’ mode gives a sportier riding experience.

Other convenience features include a USB socket, keyless ride, reversing aid, and a cradle mode within the BMW Motorrad Connect Application.
Cradle mode allows riders to access additional displays options via the handlebar keypad and includes a smartphone holder as a standard.

Financial Services

Ownership of the all-new 2024 BMW CE 02 starts from RM 578.00 with the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. This estimate is based on Balloon Financing with a 90% loan over a 4-year tenure.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s All-New 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes, without insurance) for the all-new BMW CE 02 is RM 38,500.00.

To learn more about the 2024 BMW CE 02, visit http://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/ or contact your preferred authorised BMW dealership.

All-new 2024 BMW CE 02 Photo Gallery

2024 Vespa Sprint and 2024 Vespa Primavera Previewed at Grazia Malaysia 1st Anniversary

The 2024 Vespa Sprint and 2024 Vespa Primavera were previewed at the Grazia Malaysia 1st Anniversary party.

These two models are dubbed the Vespa “small body,” and represent the youngest and most urban spirit of the brand. The 2024 models are completely revamped in terms of style and technical features, while retaining the same engine, dimensions, and concept.

Didi Group had collaborated with Grazia Malaysia 1st Anniversary event to showcase the Vespas. As such, the collaboration merges fashion and mobility, leveraging Grazia’s influence in the fashion industry. It also firmly places Vespa as a fashion icon.

However, a motorcycle is still a motorcycle and hence the 2024 Vespa Sprint and 2024 Vespa Primavera will be officially launched at the Malaysia Autoshow, happening at MAEPS, Serdang from 22nd to 26th May 2024. The Vespa pavilion will be Hall B.

PHOTO GALLERY

No Plan to Make Dashcams Compulsory Yet

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said there is yet a plan to make dashcams or dashboard cameras compulsory for all vehicles in the country.

He said his ministry needs to consider various aspects including the costs that the people will have to bear if it is made mandatory.

“However, we encourage the installation of dashcams especially on new vehicles directly from the manufacturer. If they can install (dashcams) together with new cars, we highly encourage that, but so far we have not made it mandatory.”

Loke also encouraged bus operators to install the device so that it can recorded and the footage used as evidence if the vehicle is involved in a road accident.

“The installation of a dashcam and its footage can be used as proof in the event of an accident to find out who is at fault or who should be held responsible,” he said.

Meanwhile, Loke said last year’s road accident statistics recorded 600,000 accidents resulting in the death of more than 6,500 people.

“If we look at the statistics, the average is 15 to 17 people die every day and this number is a big number.

“Every person who died, for us this is a tragedy that does not need to happen because this road accident can be avoided if every driver takes a cautious attitude and obeys the rules of the road,” he said.

Therefore, Loke hopes that the public can be prudent drivers, always aware and careful to reduce the risk of road accidents.

Police Investigates Group Cooking at Petrol Station

The police have opened investigation papers on a group of individuals cooking at a Petron petrol station in Genting Highlands. A video showing their actions has gone viral which drew criticism from many quarters.

Bentong District Police Chief, Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar said the police received a complaint regarding the matter at 12.35 yesterday at the Bentong Police Station.

He said that the police report was based on a viral video where the act of cooking at the gas station caused concern and anger in the community because it was dangerous.

“The result of the police investigation found that the video recording was uploaded in the X (formerly Twitter) social media site.”

In relation to that, he said the police opened investigation papers and the case will be investigated according to Section 268 of the Penal Code, for the offence of causing general annoyance to the public. The investigation is also conducted in accordance with Section 336 of the Penal Code, for acts endangering the life or safety of others and oneself.”

In the meantime, Zaiham said his party will carry out integrated operations around the location of the gas station, especially on weekends and public holidays.

“This is because the police received information and complaints about the location often being the focus of vehicle owners gatherings and activities that disturb public order and other road users who pass through the location,” he said.

The approximately 50-second video clip features a group of Honda Jazz owners consisting of men and women hanging out while cooking instant noodles using a portable gas stove and dining at the gas station.

Diesel Price Expected to Increase 71% after Subsidy Removal

The price of diesel fuel is expected to increase by 71% when the government removes its subsidy completely.

A simulation by SME Bank shows that diesel price could be between RM3.25 to RM 3.67 per litre as the global price of petroleum remains high, when the government reverts to a free-float mechanism based on global oil prices. The current price is RM2.15 per litre.

They also said that an increase of 1% in diesel price contributes to a 0.1% rise in Consumer Price Index (CPI), hence elevating inflation by another 7.1%. Producer Price Index (PPI) is also expected to rise sharply, although it was not mentioned in the report.

Both CPI and PPI constitute domestic retail prices affected by inflation.

All these fancy words mean that businesses and industries will find higher operating costs across all sectors and industries especially transportation, construction, retail, agriculture, and manufacturing.

While some companies are expected to absorb some of this rise, it is more realistic to expect them passing the costs down to consumers.

SME Bank, in their conclusion, expects the removal of diesel subsidies to be partial to allow the M40 and B40 groups to continue using subsidised fuel, that the total removal only affects diesel users for now as it accounts for 44% of fuel subsidies, and that Sabah and Sarawak are excluded from the removal.

Thousands of Litres of Cooking Oil Spilled on Karak Highway

Thousands of liters of cooking oil was spilled on the Karak Highway yesterday.

The spill was caused by a tanker truck carrying a load of used cooking oil when it was involved in an accident at Kilometer 36.8 of the highway near Genting Sempah.

Gombak District Police Chief, Assistant Commissioner Noor Ariffin Mohamad Nasir, said the police received a report regarding the incident at about 9pm.

“The result of the investigation found that the incident happened at 2pm with a 50-year-old man driving the tanker from Kuantan to Port Klang, Selangor.

“It was raining heavily when he arrived at the location. He lost control of his truck and it hit the metal road barrier.”

He said the driver was uninjured and the case was investigated according to Rule 10 LN 166/59.

We would like to advise users of the highway, especially those riding motorcycles to be careful when in the area as the road surface may still be slippery. Anyway, the corners on the Karak Highway are certainly inviting, but there have been many unwanted incidents.

Q1 2024 Motorcycle Sales Dropped by 20 Percent in Malaysia

Q1 2024 motorcycle sales dropped by 20 percent in Malaysia.

The figure was reported in the MotorCycles Data website which tracks the sales to customers, rather than sales from manufacturers and distributors to dealers.

A total of 135,717 motorcycles were delivered in Q1 2024, representing a -20% decline compared to the same period in 2023. All major brands recorded double-digit decline. On the other hand, sales for the entire 2023 was also a -11.9% decline from the high in 2022.

Yamaha’s sales were down by -18.3%, Honda saw a -11.9% decrease, and the top domestic brands such as SM was down by -35.8% and Modenas hit -51.0%.

The downward trend was possibly a consequence of the many long holidays during the first quarter, as Chinese New Year was in February, continued by the month of Ramadan through March, and Hari Raya Puasa in April.

Although Bank Negara expects the economy to grow between 4 to 5%, hence an improvement in sales, several subsidy “rationalisation” (just a high word for “reduction”) plans will surely impact the spending power of many citizens in the months to come.

The high sales figure in 2022 was partly due to the government of the time allowing for withdrawals from contributors’ Employee Provident Fund accounts. This was what some experts called “spurring a false economy.” The present government has just allowed the same now, albeit through a different withdrawal structure. Will this improve motorcycle sales for several short months?

Malaysia is the 13th largest motorcycle market in the world. The Top 3 now are India, China, and Indonesia. Truth is, almost all markets reported a decrease in sales in Q1 2024.

French Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup 2024, Hakim Danish on the Podium Again

Malaysia’s young racer, Hakim Danish Ramli was once again on the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup podium, this time at the French Grand Prix. It was his second podium finish in the 2024 season, after scoring a second-place finish in Spain, previously.

The 16-year-old had led much of Race 2 after a good start. He had also changed his riding style, which allowed him to match the front runners.

“This time I changed my riding, I had my body further forward and pushed my elbow down, I was scraping it through the corners and tried to open the throttle earlier in the corners and it worked very well.”

However, he was overtaken by the eventual winner Brian Uriarte and second place finisher Màximo Quiles just moments to the end of the race. Quiles, the winner of the Race 1 a day earlier was leading when Uriarte lunged inside at the final turn, surprising Quiles and caused him to slide his front tyre. Quiles managed to save it and finished just ahead of Hakim.

“In the last lap I tried to lead but two people overtook me, That’s OK I tried to overtake again. Into the last corner, I almost wanted to try a pass on Maximo and Brian but I was just too far away. I already overtook another rider the turn before and that cost me a little bit, I couldn’t go for the win at the last corner,” continued Hakim who finished 3rd.

Hakim had finished in 6th in Race 1 on Saturday, and admitted that he could not match the front runners’ pace. Still, it was a positive result overall as he had targeted a podium finish in this round.

26 Motorcycles Destroyed, 10 Damaged in UniMAP Hostel Fire

26 motorcycles were destroyed while another 10 were damaged due to a fire at the UniMap hostel early this morning.

Almost all the motorcycles were owned by students of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) and were parked in the basement of a dormitory block in Pauh Putra.

The incident is believed to have happened at 4.41 am at Block B, Pauh Putra Housing Complex (Residential College).

A spokesman for the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Perlis said that a total of six members led by Senior Fire Chief II, Megat Zairilnizam Ahmad from the Arau Fire and Rescue Station were deployed to the scene of the incident.

“When we arrived at the scene, we found that the fire had spread and destroyed and damaged 36 motorcycles parked there.

“Criminal investigation officers have already visited the scene for a preliminary investigation,” he said.

A victim of the incident said he was woken by a friend while he was sleeping who said that their dormitory block was on fire. “I live on the fifth floor. When my friend said there was a fire, I thought this dormitory block was on fire.

“So I took whatever items I could salvage including a laptop downstairs but when I stepped down, I saw my motorcycle, a year-old Yamaha Y16, engulfed in flames.

“I was unable to do anything to save my motorcycle because the situation there was hot and the fire was raging and I estimated the loss to be RM14,500,” he said.

His friend, Muhammad Muaz Mohd Sofi, 25, also did not have time to do anything to save the Honda RS150 motorcycle that he had been using for more than five years when the fire spread quickly.