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Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology Explained

Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology line of fully synthetic lubricants was launched in 2014.
What is PurePlus Technology?
What is Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) processing?

Shell’s Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology signifies a new breed of lubricants. But although lubricants may be slippery as they need to be, but it’s always a sticky subject amongst discerning motorcyclists. Truth is, there exists misconceptions, myths, half-truths and truths surrounding the subject of lubricants. We hope to put things right with this series of articles on the subject of lubricants.

Shell launched their new line of fully synthetic lubricants called Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology in 2014. What makes the new range interesting is the groundbreaking PurePlus technology. (Click here for our coverage of the launch and preview.)

The term “PurePlus” is derived crystal-clear base oil that’s more than 99% free from impurities, resulting from the process which created it.

See the TVC below.

Traditionally, a base oil is the resulting product of refining or synthesising crude oil or other hydrocarbon sources. The lubricant producer then adds their additive package to yield the desired properties of the end-product. But while the additives play the biggest role in determining the level of protection and longevity of a lubricant, the base oil plays a big role too.

Shell’s PurePlus base oil is derived from natural gas (the cleanest burning fossil fuel), through a process called gas-to-liquids (GTL). The GTL process produces a base oil that is closer to the end-product, without requiring to be refined further.

The first step in a GTL process is to convert the natural gas into syngas (synthetic gas). The syngas is then processed to remove harmful impurities such as sulfur, mercaptans, mecury, nitrogen, aromatics, resulting in a base oil that’s crystal clear and feels like wax at room temperature.

See the video below for Shell’s GTL process.

Having impurities in the base oil is undesirable as it may contribute to the oil breaking down quickly and even to engine wear and tear if taken past its oil change period. See how oils decades ago turn into sludge that gunks up the engine? Also, in the case of the oil being burned in the combustion chamber due to leaky piston rings or/and valve seal, the emission doesn’t harm the environment as much.

Check out this video below. Although it’s for the Helix Ultra, it’s also the result of Shell’s PurePlus Technology.

In other words, the base oil and additive package play important roles in ensuring a lubricant that fully protects your engine. A weak link on either side is a compromise.

Anyway, Shell then combines their proprietary Active Cleansing additives to the base oil to produce a clean, 100% fully-synthetic lubricant. These additives protect the engine by cleaning the engine of dirt, corrosion, sludge and byproducts of the combustion process such as carbon, water, sulfur from the fuel (which becomes sulfuric acid), among many others.

These are all important, even critical, aspects of motorcycle engine protection. Motorcycle engines have smaller capacities compared to the cars, but produce much higher power output. Consequently, motorcycle engines produce higher heat and forces.

Shell’s aim for the Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology is to help maintain longer engine peak power through enhanced oil viscosity, maintaining oil performance not only in extreme temperatures but also in low temperatures. Oil needs to flow quickly during and immediately after start-up.

As for durability, Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology is claimed to last twice as long as other oils.

The GTL process has been in constant development for more than 40 years at the Shell Technology Center in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Shell built a pilot plant in Amsterdam in 1983 to study the feasibility of the GTL process further, before opening the first GTL plant in Bintulu, Sarawak in 1993. The Bintulu plant produces 14,700 barrels per day. 2011 saw the opening of the massive Pearl GTL plant in Qatar, which produces 140,000 barrels per day.

Stay tuned for our review of the Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology soon!

MotoGP: Valentino Rossi WILL TRY to ride in Aragon this weekend

Nine-time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) will try to ride this weekend at the 14^th round in Aragon, Spain.

The 38 year old Italian has had a very positive result following a fitness assessment on board the Yamaha YZF-R1M around the Misano World Circuit a couple of days ago.

After just three weeks since he sustained the broken leg, Rossi will need to convince MotoGP officials and medical staff if he plans to rejoin the 2017 MotoGP title chase this coming Sunday.

Our theories about motorcycle racers have been confirmed yet again, ladies and gentlemen. These folks are MENTAL. We found out that Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi will attempt to ride his competition Yamaha YZF-M1 at the 14^th MotoGP round in Aragon, Spain this coming weekend. (more…)

Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia 2017 Lucky Draw Prize Presentation

Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia traditionally holds lucky draws during their annual main event
The winner will walk away with a motorcycle, customized or stock
This year’s winner walked away with The Twinboss, a dual Yamaha RXZ-engined creation

Beautiful Machines, Sunway, Petaling Jaya, 20^th September 2017 – Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia presented lucky draw prize to the winner today.

Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia have been organizing lucky draws on the final day of their amazing annual show.

Two years ago, the lucky walked away with a customized Triumph Bonneville, and last year’s winner went home with a new Triumph Street Twin.

Art of Speed celebrated its 6^th annual show on the 29^th and 30^th July this year at MAEPS Serdang.

The bike on display during the Art of Speed Malaysia 2017

The process of determining the final starts with picking out three candidates via a lucky draw of ticket stubs during the weekend. A question is then directed at all three, and the candidate whose answer illicit the loudest cheer from the crowd is the winnder.

WIldman of MOONEYES applying pinstriping the tank

En. Mohd. Fadly bin Mohd. Zerain, 42, from Puncak Alam, Selangor won the prize this year.

Asep Ahmad (left) with the winner, Mohd. Fadly bin Mohd. Zerain

The prize is called “The Twinboss.” The bike is specially built around a pair of Yamaha RXZ 135cc, two-stroke engines, by FNG works. Fabrication of the frame, metal works and the rest of the tank and bodywork was performed by Beautiful Machines.

Twinboss’ builder, Irwann Cheng from FNG Works and Beautiful Machines’ owner, Rajay Singh were also present during the prize handover.

Twinboss’ builder, Irwann Cheng does a final shakedown run

The Twinboss specifications are:

Frame: Custom Special Construction (FEA tested)
Engine: Two Yamaha RXZ135
Exhaust: Made by Legend Racing Garage
Final Drivetrain: Chain
Front Wheel: 18″ alloy with Bridgestone safety tyre
Rear Wheel: 17″ alloy with Pirelli Slicks
Brakes: Dual piston disc brake (rear only)
Wiring: Custom
Primary Drive: Custom
Bodywork: Digger style. Tank and seat custom made by Beautiful Machines
Foot Control: Custom
Hand Control: Clip on handlebar with custom hidden throttle cable
Paintwork: By Slingshot
Pinstripe: Wildman, MOONEYES Japan

Also during the prize presentation, Asep Ahmad announced that Art of Speed will be touring under the name of “Gasolina Tour 2017”. Gasolina Tour 2017 will be held both as standalone and in support of local organizers to create quality content for their own community events.

Gasolina Tour 2017’s first stop was at the Port Dickson Bike Fest on 9 September and then Kelantan for the collaborative event called Speed Demon in conjunction with the Rugged Rachun Ride event organized by Rachun MC at Irama Beach, Bachok on 16 & 17 Sept 2017. Art of Speed Racing Division had also competed in the race. AOS also pick their AOS2018 VIP GUEST (AOS PICK) award at both events. AOS will then be heading to Johor to assist Leftee Works to co-host the annual global charity ride; the Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride on the 24^th September.

November will AOS invading Puteri Harbour in Johor as we participate in the yearly Iskarnival IP Kool Festival. The 5^th Annual Art of Speed Johor will be bigger, better show with amazing content for bikers and car enthusiast at the three-day festival on the 24^th, 25^th and 26^thNovember.

AOS will be heading to Japan to fulfill an invitation to attend the 26^th Annual Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show 2017 on 3^rd December. This year’s edition will see 20 participants from Malaysia & Indonesia taking part in the trip organized by AOS. More information about Gasolina Tour 2017 and our activities can be found on Art of Speed Malaysia’s social media pages on Facebook & Instagram.

PICTURE GALLERY

New 2017 CMC Ario 110 & Italjet Buccaneer 250i launched! From RM3,988

CMC Ario 110 & Italjet Buccaneer 250i launched!

Chear Global Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of CMC motorcycles here in Malaysia has just introduced their latest 2017 CMC Ario 110 moped and CMC Italjet Buccaneer 250i cafe racer. The launch was made at the ELITE Speedway Karting Circuit in Subang Jaya, Selangor earlier this morning.

Focusing on elevating their presence in the country’s motorcycle market especially the modern classic and lifestyle bikes, the two new additions have been designed to offer superb styling at affordable prices.

2017 CMC Ario 110 – RM3,988 (basic price without GST)

The new 2017 Ario 110 has been targeted to penetrate the ever growing demand for a good low capacity moped here in Malaysia.

According to Mr Leong King Choon, COO of CMC Motorcycles Malaysia, “We are excited to have a product of good design and superior performance in its class to offer the riding community and at an affordable price tag too.”

Their latest moped option is powered by a 107cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, Euro3-compliant engine that produces 6.4hp at 7,500rpm and 7Nm of torque at 5,500rpm. CMC claims that their new Ario 110 is able to reach a maximum speed of 110km/h which is perfect for Malaysian highways and law-abiding citizens.

With a weight of 107kg, the Ario 110 promises great fuel economy which has been paired with its small but sufficient 4-litre fuel tank. Other specs include front telescopic fork, rear hydraulic coil spring and a braking package which consists of a front disc abd rear drum setup.

The 2017 Ario 110 is priced at RM3,988 (basic price without GST). There are two colours available; Metallic Red and Black.

2017 CMC Italjet Buccaneer 250i – RM15,500 (basic price without GST)

Together with the new CMC moped, the 2017 Italjet Buccaneer 250i cafe racer joined in the launch as well. With a very distinctive and beautiful design, we think will catch on with the modern classic motorcycle enthusiasts here in Malaysia.

“The cafe racer motorcycle remains hugely popular till today and in fact over the past few years has made a comeback, as many distributors are joining the bandwagon by offering models of similar design.”

The most interesting feature of the 2017 Italjet Buccaneer 250i has to be its 250cc, 60-degree V-twin, fuel-injected engine which churns out a respectable 17.4hp at 8,000rpm and 19Nm of torque at 6,000rpm.

The fuel tank is not only beautifully designed but also able to carry 14 litres of fuel. This means that the 2017 Italjet Buccaneer 250i is able to cover quite a distance before having to stop for a refuel.

All that power is transferred down to its rear 15-inch spoke wheel via a 5-speed manual transmission with a final chain drive setup.

The suspension package consists of a front telescopic fork and a rear monoshock system together with all-round disc brakes (280mm front, 240mm rear) for a controlled and smooth riding experience.

Those interested in getting a 2017 CMC Italjet Buccaneer 250i of your very own, it is priced at an impressive RM15,500 (basic price without GST). Three colour options are available; Yellow Gold, Black and Matte Black.

To know more about the new CMC bikes, head on over to www.cmcmotorcycles.com.my.

PICTURE GALLERY

Here’s your chance to WIN a brand new 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber!

Hard Rock Cafe Penang is running a lucky draw contest called the ‘Rock N Ride’ where the ultimate giveaway is a 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber worth RM74,990!

Each person who spends a minimum of RM250 at the Hard Rock Cafe Penang is entitled for one entry in the lucky draw.

The ‘Rock N Ride’ contest ends 14 December 2017 and the lucky draw will commence on 15 December 2017. Other prizes include a few nights stay at Casa Del Mar Langkawi and Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

You read the title right, ladies and gentlemen. Hard Rock Cafe Penang is running a very special contest dubbed the ‘Rock N Ride’ where the grand prize winner will walk away with the beautiful 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber worth RM74,990. (more…)

Biker Stories (Part 1) – Stand Up!

Our Funny Biker Stories series kicks off with this writer’s personal experience.

As long as you’ve met up with your biker buddies and other bikers, there are sure to be exchanges of motorcycling experiences. They range from the most interesting to the scariest, the most mundane to the funniest. But it’s usually the funniest stories that stay with us.

I’ve just taken hold of the Ninja 250R. Been away from motorcycling for 15 years and OH BOY, was I excited to be riding again.

The salesperson did a quick once-over about the bike but my mind was already tracing a route up Ulu Yam: Press this to… yeah yeah, shift pattern is… whatever, break-in procedure… okay okay.

I just wanted him to shoo off so that I could ride!

He eventually left after 3 long, agonising minutes. I started the bike up even before the needles swung back fully and clacked into first gear. The engine promptly cut out.

I shifted back to N, saw the green light and started again. Clacked into first and the engine died again.

Repeated for the third time. Same. What the….

I stomped back into the dealership. My voice went from a stock exhaust on an inline-Four to a Harley with straight pipes without silencer, yelling baby-making allegories at 8,000 RPM.

Said sales guys hurried to the bike. He got on, started it up, clicked into first, gave the throttle a couple of blips and rode off.

He came back around and I got back on. I started the bike, clicked into first and again, the engine flamed out. I gave him the “I’ll kill you and everyone you know” look.

He coolly said, “Please start again but don’t shift into first.”

I started the engine. And he kicked up the sidestand. “Now shift into first,” he said.

Oh yeah, the engine was alive.

“Sidestand,” he said. With that, he turned around and strode into the shop.

Ohhh.

(Up to that point, my habit had always been start, first gear in, sidestand up. I wasn’t aware of the advent of the sidestand safety switch while I was away.)

Bikesrepublic

Latest News

Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology line of fully synthetic lubricants was launched in 2014.

What is PurePlus Technology?

What is Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) processing?

Nine-time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) will try to ride this weekend at the 14th round in Aragon, Spain.

The 38 year old Italian has had a very positive result following a fitness assessment on board the Yamaha YZF-R1M around the Misano World Circuit a couple of days ago.

After just three weeks since he sustained the broken leg, Rossi will need to convince MotoGP officials and medical staff if he plans to rejoin the 2017 MotoGP title chase this coming Sunday.

Art of Speed (AOS) Malaysia traditionally holds lucky draws during their annual main event

The winner will walk away with a motorcycle, customized or stock

This year’s winner walked away with The Twinboss, a dual Yamaha RXZ-engined creation

2017 CMC Ario 110 – RM3,988 (basic price without GST)

2017 CMC Italjet Buccaneer 250i – RM15,500 (basic price without GST)

Hard Rock Cafe Penang is running a lucky draw contest called the ‘Rock N Ride’ where the ultimate giveaway is a 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber worth RM74,990!

Each person who spends a minimum of RM250 at the Hard Rock Cafe Penang is entitled for one entry in the lucky draw.

The ‘Rock N Ride’ contest ends 14 December 2017 and the lucky draw will commence on 15 December 2017. Other prizes include a few nights stay at Casa Del Mar Langkawi and Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

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Nine-time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi (Movistar Yamaha) will try to ride this weekend at the 14^th round in Aragon, Spain.