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Norton Motorcycles, under the guidance of TVS Motors, has recently showcased their latest creation, the Norton V4CR. 

  • The V4CR joins the Norton lineup as a neo-retro sports naked motorcycle, captivating enthusiasts with its raw power and vintage-inspired aesthetics.
  • The V4CR as the brand’s first completely new motorcycle under the TVS Motors ownership.

Derived from the successful Norton V4SV supersports bike, which made waves upon its debut last year, the V4CR boasts striking similarities to its predecessor. The heart of this beast is the same 1,200cc engine found in the V4SV, delivering an impressive peak power of 185 horsepower and a torque of 125Nm. 

Furthermore, the V4CR adopts the TT-developed aluminum frame utilized in the V4SV, ensuring an exceptional riding experience.

The V4CR moniker stands for “cafe racer,” alluding to its neo-retro styling that combines classic design elements with contemporary touches. A full-carbon fairing adorns this captivating machine, further enhancing its allure. 

Norton Motorcycles proudly presents the V4CR as their first completely new motorcycle under the TVS Motors ownership, following the successful launch of the “re-engineered” V4SV and Norton Commando 961.

 “The Norton V4CR is a raw expression of impeccable design and intoxicating performance. We’ve stripped back the outer shell of the V4SV, ensuring an uninhibited motorcycling experience for riders,” said  Dr. Robert Hentschel, CEO of Norton Motorcycles.

Attention to detail has been paramount during the creation of the V4CR. Meticulous engineering and design teams meticulously refined every aspect of the motorcycle, from initial sketches to concept production and final finishing touches. 

This bike represents the culmination of Norton’s learnings and investments over the past three years, providing a tantalizing glimpse into Norton’s future.

Hand-built to perfection, the Norton V4CR comes equipped with top-of-the-line features, including Brembo brakes, a quickshifter, and auto-blipper for seamless gear shifts, as well as billet aluminum machined yokes, aluminum OZ racing wheels, and Ohlins suspension. 

Production will be limited to a mere 200 units, making each V4CR an exclusive gem for discerning riders. The price tag for this extraordinary machine stands at GBP41,999 (RM240k) per unit.

Ducati Malaysia officially brings the up-spec Ducati Monster SP for the Malaysian market priced at RM98,900.

  • 2023 Ducati Monster SP debuted in episode 2 of Ducati World Premiere 2023. 
  • Incorporates Ducati Lenovo Team Desmosedici GP colour scheme. 

Although the Monster remains as one of Borgo Panigale’s most affordable model, the factory thinks that the Monster deserved some attention. Lo and behold, the Monster gets the special SP treatment for 2023 that features all the exciting goodies.

First and foremost, the Monster SP is equipped with a fully-adjustable Ohlins NIX30 fornt fork which is now 600g lighter than the base Monster and Monster+.

Braking is done with a 320mm front disc and is paired to Brembo’s top-of-the-range Brembo Stylema brake callipers. In addition, the SP also features Termignoni homologated exhaust. 

The SP also incorporates Ducati MotoGP-inspired paint job that further accentuate the bike’s overall look. 

Other notable features include:

  • steering damper
  • Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
  • recalibrated riding modes with new Wet Mode
  • Launch Control

Ducati Malaysia has officially launched the 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 R with a recommended selling price of RM458,900.

  • The 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 R gets higher max rev at 16,500rpm.
  • DLC-coated piston and titanium conrod contributed to higher horsepower. 

On paper, the 2023 Panigale V4 R produces 218hp @ 15,500rpm but Ducati has increased the maximum revs to 16,500rpm at 6th-gear.

However, by adding a new racing exhaust combined with Shell-developed fuel, the new Panigale V4 R can hit a peak power of 240.5hp.

The additional power is boosted by the use of gun-drilled titanium connecting rods and DLC-coated pistons, which Ducati claimed is a first for a road bike even though the technology is common in MotoGP machines and Formula 1 race cars.

Thanks to a new piston geometry, Ducati also reduced the inertia significantly and the weight by 5g.

In addition, the 2023 V4 R gets new engine modes with ‘Full’ and ‘Low’ added to the existing package. As the name goes, the ‘Full’ mode unleashes the full power of the V4 R while ‘Low’ reduces the power to 160hp, allowing for a calmer riding experience on the road. But hey, who are we to tell you not to go full blast on public roads?

Ducati also revised the Ducati Quick Shift system to allow for a smoother shift during partial and full throttle.

The 2023 Panigale V4 R remains faithful with Ohlins suspension, but the travel in the NPX25/30 pressurised fork is increased by 5mm.

Ducati also increases agility thanks to a higher swingarm pivot position that raises the rear height by 20mm. Also new on the 2023MY is a bigger 17L fuel tank.

Finally, the 2023 Panigale V4 R will be a numbered model, with each bike verified by a plaque on the steering head.

HJC has once again captivated the motorcycle community with the release of its latest addition to the RPHA 11 Pro line. In a bid to enthrall Spider-Man fans worldwide, HJC has introduced the RPHA 11 Pro Miles Morales graphic, featuring a stunning design inspired by the beloved web-slinging hero.

  • The RPHA 11 Pro Miles Morales graphic showcases a vibrant red web pattern that adorns the entire helmet, paying homage to Spider-Man’s iconic suit.
  • A striking representation of Spidey’s eyes can be found near the top vents, accompanied by a Spider insignia at the rear and the Marvel logo on the spoiler. HJC’s recognizable RPHA logo is proudly displayed on the helmet’s sides.

Built on the foundation of the highly acclaimed RPHA 11 Pro, this sporty full-face helmet boasts a PIM Plus fiber shell for enhanced protection. The adjustable ventilation system allows riders to customize airflow through the chin, top, and rear sections. 

Inside, the helmet features a removable antibacterial MultiCool liner, which can be easily washed for prolonged freshness. Additionally, the RPHA 11 Pro Miles Morales graphic is equipped with the RapidFire II screen for effortless visor removal and incorporates a Pinlock Max Vision anti-fog film.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the helmet is available in a comprehensive range of sizes, catering to riders from XS to 2XL. As for the price, the HJC RPHA 11 Pro Miles Morales graphic is offered at an affordable range of USD629.99 (RM2,600).

With the highly anticipated film “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” slated for release on June 2, 2023, HJC’s latest offering promises to delight fans and riders alike. Whether swinging through the city or cruising down the open road, the RPHA 11 Pro Miles Morales graphic allows enthusiasts to embody their favorite web-slinging hero in style and safety.

China has emerged as the leading global auto exporter, surpassing Japan, mainly due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles. In the midst of this growing market, Chinese brand Yadea has captured attention with its latest offering – the Yadea VF F200 electric scooter. 

  • The official launch date, pricing, and availability remain undisclosed.
  • The Porsche-design VF F200 makes a whopping 236Nm. 

Yadea claims that the VF F200 will be the most potent electric scooter in the L3e category, which includes electric scooters that perform similarly to 125cc gas-powered equivalents. 

Although regulatory restrictions limit the performance capabilities, electric motors possess a hidden advantage. Despite having a peak output of 11 kilowatts (14.7 horsepower), the VF F200 delivers this power across the entire rev range, distinguishing it from its gas-powered counterparts that only produce maximum power at specific revs. 

As a result, riders experience a machine that feels significantly more powerful than its specifications suggest.

What sets the VF F200 further apart is its remarkable torque figure of 236Nm, available throughout the electric motor’s rev range. In practical terms, this means riders have access to a nimble scooter capable of accelerating from a standstill to 50km/h in just 2.5 seconds. 

yadea,

The scooter’s top speed reaches 100km/h, likely adhering to licensing regulations. With a dual-battery pack positioned beneath the fairing, the VF F200 provides an estimated range of approximately 130 miles on a single charge.

One intriguing aspect worth mentioning is Yadea’s collaboration with the Porsche design center in creating the VF F200’s aesthetic. The involvement of Porsche explains the scooter’s sleek and streamlined appearance. 

According to Yadea, the F200 draws inspiration from the “sculptural and elegant forms of sports cars.” While the concept of a sporty scooter may be challenging to comprehend, the VF F200 manages to embody elements of this vision.

Although the official launch details of the Yadea VF F200 electric scooter are yet to be revealed, its specifications promise an exciting addition to the market. With its impressive power output, seamless torque delivery, and collaboration with Porsche for design, the VF F200 stands out as a compelling option for electric scooter enthusiasts.

BMW is actively developing two-wheel steering technology for motorcycles, as evidenced by its recent patent applications. 

These applications outline numerous potential solutions to the challenges associated with supplying both drive and steering to a motorcycle’s rear wheel. The designs cover a range of bike types, including electric and internal-combustion-engine models, and incorporate various drive systems such as belts, chains, and shafts. 

The overarching goal of these designs is to enhance the motorcycle’s steering effect, resulting in improved handling responsiveness and a reduced turning radius.

BMW’s focus on rear-wheel steering is particularly aimed at addressing the handling limitations posed by conventional motorcycles with chopper-style designs, featuring stretched-out forks, a long wheelbase, and pulled-back handlebars. 

These design elements typically hinder maneuverability and make the bikes less agile. By introducing rear-wheel steering, BMW aims to achieve tighter turns and more immediate response without compromising the wheelbase. This innovation could greatly benefit cruiser motorcycles, a segment that BMW recently reentered with its R 18 models.

The patent applications also highlight additional advantages of rear-wheel steering, including the potential for improved aerodynamics. Since the rear wheel can now turn, the front wheel’s steering range can be reduced, opening up possibilities for innovative bodywork designs. The system’s ability to provide steerability when the front wheel is off the ground could be advantageous for racing scenarios.

Although rear-wheel steering has been explored in the automotive industry and even attempted in motorcycles in the past, BMW’s comprehensive patent applications demonstrate the company’s serious commitment to this technology. 

While it may take time before a two-wheel-steered motorcycle hits the market, BMW’s investment in research and development in this area suggests a strategic effort to gain a competitive edge in the future.

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