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Possible New Triumph Rocket III Leaked

Pictures of a possible new Triumph Rocket III were leaked on the internet.
The “new bike” is styled more aggressively than its current crop.
It will bring the Rocket III to compete directly with the current power cruisers.

Want to ride something audacious? Something which blows your neighbour’s mind when you tell him your bike’s engine is bigger than his Honda Accord’s? Ride a Triumph Rocket III, then.

At 2,294cc, the Triumph Rocket III’s engine holds the record as the world’s largest production motorcycle engine. It produces 145 bhp, but that’s not the entire story. Because at 221 Nm, forget about “mountainous torque,” instead the torque moves mountains.

Now pictures of the “new” Rocket III have started showing up on the internet. According to Visordown, they were snapped during the Triumph Global Dealer Conference last October.

Judging from the picture, the new bike or variant will look more aggressive than the current classic-looking model. Check out the Brembo Monobloc calipers, upside-down forks, dual exhaust pipes exiting on the right, and most of all, the single-sided swingarm.

Yes, we admit too. It does look like the Ducati Diavel power cruiser.

Revamping or adding such a model is good for the Hinckley-based manufacturer as they can have a more modern-looking cruiser. It can compete with the power cruisers from other manufacturers like Harley-Davidson, Indian and the aforementioned Ducati. The timing is good too, since BMW has just teased with a new 1800cc Boxer.

We hope the new Rocket III project is a go. Watch out, mountains.

Death of Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman a Wake-Up Call?

Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman passed away after crashing at the Cub Prix final race over the weekend.
The organizers promised a thorough investigation.
The tragedy was the second in the space of 18 months.

“What about runoff areas? See that food truck over there?”

The unfortunately incident and passing of Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman at a motorcycle race ought to serve as a wake-up call.

This was the second death of a Cub Prix rider in 18 months. Two-time National Champion Norizman Ismail passed away at Kemaman, Terengganu in May last year when he slid into an air fence followed by his bike.

What happened

Hafiz paid the ultimate price at the final round of the Petronas AAM Malaysian Cub Prix 2018 Championship, held at Dataran Bandar Penawar in Johor on Sunday. He had been competing in the CP150 race.

Heading into a chicane, a rider in front of Hafiz had contacted a board at the side of the track, sending him to the ground. Hafiz ran over the rider and crashed heavily himself. According to NST’s report, he was unconscious and passed away at Hospital Bukit Tinggi.

The aftermath

The disaster sent shockwaves throughout all walks of life in Malaysia. Condolences poured in for Hafiz’s family. His team’s main sponsor, Petronas issued a press statement, announcing their sadness for the rider’s team.

However, shock gave in to dismay and people started to speculate about what happened in the same breath. What had caused the young rider’s demise has yet been determined, but there are already many Horatio Canes in Facebook. Here’s when fingers start pointing in every direction.

However, the paramount issue here is about safety. Hafiz’s grieving father queried, “Was the track safe or not? I felt the track was a little lacking in safety.”

Past champion and national rider, Wazi Abdul Hamid shared his views at the funeral.

Opinion

We are not criticizing the organizers for they have done the best they could. The air fences have certainly reduced rider injuries by a wide margin since their introduction many years back. On the other hand, the best needs to evolve to stay the best.

150cc cubs are already super-fast these days in stock form. We tested the Yamaha Y15ZR when it debuted in 2015 and it hit almost a 150 km/h top speed. Just imagine how much faster they are in race trim.

Having a fast bike where there’s lots of space isn’t much of a problem, but Cub Prix races are usually held on open air car parks. Car parks have high concrete curbs, typical deplorable surfaces and tight confines when converted into a racetrack. What about runoff areas? See that food truck over there?

Solution?

Is widening the track a better solution? That would seem good idea at first glance, but it would only create higher corner speeds. Faster crashes are not pleasant.

The obvious choice is to hold the races at purpose-built facilities. Yes, there aren’t many in Malaysia apart from the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). On the other hand, there are many go-kart tracks scattered throughout the country. Problem is, these go-kart tracks are situated in hard-to-reach areas. Conversely, large numbers of spectators present another challenge as some go-kart tracks usually lack exciting views. Currently, Cub Prix spectators stand behind fencing that’s right up next to the track.

But whatever is decided, it better be decided on by next year’s first practice. We Malaysians have an annoying obsession with the status quo until tragedy strikes. But what’s worse is that we start pointing fingers again.

Like the bereaved father said, “I hope the relevant parties will look into the incident and prevent another tragedy.”

Twice is once too many times. A third fatality, if due to lack of improvements to track safety is criminal.

Bikes Republic and our sister site MotoMalaya would like to extend our condolences to Mohd. Hafiz’s family. Al-fatihah.

Learn to understand your bike and how to be a better biker!

So you think you know your bike and your riding gear?
But how much do you actually know?
Sheng Fatt Motor Sdn Bhd of Penang is organising a special ‘shop talk’ session for all bikers.
Talk includes a knowledge sharing session as well as a talk hosted by Aprilia Malaysia’s Aftersales Manager!
Open to all bikers!

As part of its customer outreach program for Aprilia as well as all bike owners, Sheng Fatt Motor Sdn Bhd is organising a special “shop talk session”.

The talk which will be hosted by Kheoh Hock Seng (bottom, first), Managing Director of Sheng Fatt Motor Sdn Bhd, as well as Idon Pang, the Aftersales Manager of Aprilia Malaysia (bottom, right), will include topics such as bike care and maintenance, a guide on buying and using the correct riding gear as well as a tour of the new official workshop for Aprilia motorcycles.

There will be a special certificate of attendance handed out to everyone who attends the talk, and it will take place at Sheng Fatt Motor Sdn Bhd, No 24, Jalan Dato Keramat, Pulau Pinang, 10150, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang.

“The shop talk session is not only for all Aprilia owners, but all bikers near and far. This is a chance to get to know their bikes better, to understand the proper usage of riding gear and why using the correct riding gear is so crucial. Our talented aftersales manager Idon Pang will also be sharing his riding experiences, and this is a great knowledge sharing session for all bikers. I believe it is a must attend event for all bikers,” said Kheoh Hock Seng.

The talk is ideal for all bikers, regardless of whether they are new or veteran riders. It is the perfect opportunity to get to know their bikes better, and to share riding experiences with all bikers.

For more information, call 0194009339.

Breaking Through: Female Automotive Students at TOC

The automotive industry is male-dominated but more and more ladies are getting involved.
We came across a few female students at the TOC Automotive College
They are set to break through the stereotype.

We ran into a couple of female students who are studying automotive subjects at the TOC Automotive College (TOC). We decided to interview them about their desires, inspiration, challenges and expectations from studying such courses.

It is beyond doubt that the automotive industry is male-dominated, probably to the point of being chauvinistic. More often than not, ladies are delegated to non-technical roles. However, there are ladies who love cars and bikes just as much, if not more, than guys.

Siti Kamilia Alisa Binti Kamarudzaman, Diploma in Automotive Technology

First up, Ms. Siti Kamilia Alisa Binti Kamarudzaman, who is currently studying for her Diploma in Automotive Technology course.

Bikes Republic (BR): What your reason in studying automotive subjects?
Siti Kamilia Alisa (SKA): When I was little, I used to help my Dad fix cars. It was his hobby, I guess. We didn’t own a workshop, (so) we only did simple (and) basic stuff like replacing the timing belt and all that.

My siblings are all girls but I’m the closest to my father and he’d always ask me to help out. The passion (for cars) developed from there.

BR: What made you choose TOC?
SKA: A friend of mine studied here and introduced it. He said the system here is different from other universities.

BR: What do you think of TOC, so far?
SKA: Everything’s great, everything’s good. Classes are good, the practical (sessions) are good; it’s a lot of fun.

BR: The automotive scene in Malaysia is dominated by men, so what’s your experience in surround by a majority of male students?

SKA: People here are okay with it, impressed even, in some cases. I haven’t gotten any backlash or negativity, so far.

BR: What are your expectations when you graduate?
SKA: Learning new things, for sure. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I think. I’m just living the moment now and see what comes about in the future.

Ms. Nurul Hazirah Binti Musa, Master Technician Course.

Bikes Republic (BR): What stoked your interest in automotive?
Nurul Hazirah (NH): My Dad and Brother love technical stuff, so I was influenced by them. They’d usually repair cars, bikes or the house.

BR: Why did you choose TOC over other technical colleges?
NH: It because there’s lots of practical lessons compared to just studying theories. It means there are fewer assignments. Additionally, the facilities here are more comprehensive compared to other places. Also, the quality of the lecturers is very good as they have experience.

BR: What’s your opinion about ladies studying technical subjects, given the male-dominated industry?
NH: Personally, there’s nothing to it because it’s already ingrained in me. Yes, there were who questioned me about studying to be a (certified) technician. But there’s no distinction between what industry is male or female dominated these days.

BR: You’ve done your internship. What did you experience?
NH: The only problem I came across was on the strength factor. We can do it but just need a little bit of help once a while.

BR: Looking forward, what do you want to do?
NH: I’d like to start my own workshop.

BR: Do you see an advantage since you’ve studied automotive before starting your business?
NH: It is advantageous. For example, I can spot the mistakes made by technicians easier. Training him and correcting his mistake will be good for all parties. In the short term, at least I won’t get cheated by workshops when I send in my car!

CONCLUSION

There you have it. Given the right lead, ladies can develop a love for cars and bikes, instead of the stereotypical Barbie dolls or a Shiseido make-up kit. However, passion can only go so far if one does not seek formal training to walk on the right path.

If you are parent reading this, it is okay if your daughter loves cars and bikes. There is always a need for certified technicians, and they can command higher salaries. These students should also find it easy to move up the corporate ladder, or, like Nurul Hazirah, become her own business owner.

So, send in your daughters. TOC will take good care of them.

Please click here to find out more about the TOC Automotive College. Please click here if you are interested in the Superbike Technician Course. TOC has a programme called Bina Bakat to assist potential students in need of an education loan.

TOC Automotive College can be reached at (+603) 7960 8833

2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 US Prices Revealed

Triumph has revealed the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 prices.
However, the prices are for the US market, at the moment.
They are considerably cheap, considering that they have more technology than their peers.

There was lots of excitement accompanying the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 launch in October. This was the Scrambler that will destroy the scrambler wars. However, Triumph withheld the prices during the time.

It finally has, courtesy of a motojournalist who was attending the media ride in Portugal.

The 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 features two “terrain-centric” variants. The Scrambler 1200 XC is more road-oriented but still off-road capable. On the other hand, the Scrambler 1200 XE (“E” for extreme) is more off-road oriented but still road-capable.

Both models share the same 1200cc Hi-Power engine, new LCD display, LED lighting, backlit switches, torque-assist clutch, cruise control and optional GoPro control.

The XE, however, features longer-travel suspension, IMU-optimised Cornering ABS and Cornering Traction Control, extra Off-Road Pro engine map, Brembo M50 Monobloc calipers and a couple more wonderful things.

Okay, okay, how much? Triumph in America recommends US$ 14,000 for the Scrambler 1200 XC, and US$ 15,400 for the Scrambler 1200 XE. But bear in mind that these are retail prices in the States. Still, the prices are super competitive among its peers. They are considerably cheap even, given the amount of technology it carries!

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Recalls Yamaha YZF-R25

A parts replacement programme has been initiated for the Yamaha YZF-R25.
The parts are a radiator hose and gearshift shaft torsion spring.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor will contact owners of the affected units from mid-January 2019.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) issued a statement regarding the Yamaha YZF-R25. The Malaysian Yamaha distributor calls it a “Parts Replacement Programme.”

When Yamaha initiated a recall campaign for the Yamaha YZF-R3 in America, we did not publish the news as the R3 is not available here. We were uncertain if the YZF-R25 used the same parts as the R3.

Well, it does look like it is so now. HLYM will send the notice to the affected customers from mid-January 2019 onwards.

There are two parts to be replaced. The first is the radiator hose. Yamaha found that the supplier has improperly vulcanized (process of hardening rubber) the hose and it may leak cooling fluid.

Units affected by this are YZF-R25 frame numbers beginning with PMYRG1510E, PMYRG1510F, PMYRG1510G. Also, units 0000000 to 0012240 for frame number beginning with PMYRG1510H.

The second part covered in the programme is the gearshift shaft torsion spring. Yamaha found that the supplier shot-peened it improperly. Shot-peening is a process to strengthen metal parts. The spring could potentially break causing the shifter to become loose, consequently affecting gear shifting.

Affected units are all units with frame numbers beginning PMYRG1510E, PMYRG1510F, and PMYRG1510G from 0000000 to 0006758.

Model

Frame Number

Component

YZF-R25

All units with Frame number beginning with

PMYRG1510E

PMYRG1510F

PMYRG1510G

And units within the following frame numbers

PMYRG1510H– 0000000 to 0012240

Radiator Hose

All units with Frame number beginning with

PMYRG1510E

PMYRG1510F

All units within the following frame numbers

PMYRG1510G- 0000000 to 0006758

Torsion Spring

Owners are advised to contact HLYM immediately upon receiving the notice. Contact numbers are: 03-61577011 and 03-61577002.

Source: Hong Leong Yamaha Motor

Bikesrepublic

Latest News

Pictures of a possible new Triumph Rocket III were leaked on the internet.

The “new bike” is styled more aggressively than its current crop.

It will bring the Rocket III to compete directly with the current power cruisers.

Mohd. Hafiz Nor Azman passed away after crashing at the Cub Prix final race over the weekend.

The organizers promised a thorough investigation.

The tragedy was the second in the space of 18 months.

“What about runoff areas? See that food truck over there?”

What happened

The aftermath

Opinion

Solution?

The automotive industry is male-dominated but more and more ladies are getting involved.

We came across a few female students at the TOC Automotive College

They are set to break through the stereotype.

Siti Kamilia Alisa Binti Kamarudzaman, Diploma in Automotive Technology

Ms. Nurul Hazirah Binti Musa, Master Technician Course.

CONCLUSION

Triumph has revealed the 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 prices.

However, the prices are for the US market, at the moment.

They are considerably cheap, considering that they have more technology than their peers.

A parts replacement programme has been initiated for the Yamaha YZF-R25.

The parts are a radiator hose and gearshift shaft torsion spring.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor will contact owners of the affected units from mid-January 2019.

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