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Husqvarna 701 Enduro variant introduced

After much anticipation, Husqvarna has finally announced the addition of the 701 Enduro off-road variant to the 701 Supermoto model lineup.

All set to go on sale later this month, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro will be powered by the same 690cc single-cylinder engine in the supermoto version, which is capable of churning out a maximum output of 67hp.

Fitted with a 13-litre fuel tank, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro also comes with a chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame. As much as the damping department is concerned, there are the WP 4CS forks fitted in front, and WP shocks at the rear; both providing 275mm of travel.

A 21-inch front wheel and 18 inch rear wheel replace the 17 inch items on the 701 Supermoto, with Continental TKC80s providing the grip off road.

It is said that the bike will also feature a dual-spark ignition system, ride-by-wire with different riding modes, ABS system, the ATSC slipper clutch, and use a SOHC setup.

Expected to weigh between 140 to 150kg, the Husqvarna 701 Enduro, which is basically a rebadged KTM 690 Enduro R, is set to go on sale in Europe later this month.

Yamaha PES2 and PED2 concept EVs

As part of the brand’s technological tour-de-force in the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the Yamaha PES2 and PED2 concept bikes stand as the Japanese brand’s vision of zero-emissions two-wheeling, with Yamaha further promising its arrival into its line up sometime in the future.

Yamaha PES2 concept
As an evolutionary successor of the PES1 concept from 2013, the Yamaha PES2 concept looks more production ready than the bike it replaces. Underneath, the electric bike is powered using the Yamaha Smart Power Module unit, which is a removable battery pack that doubles as a structural element of the motorcycle frame, thus granting the PES2 with a monocoque frame design.

Interestingly, the PES2 concept also features a hub motor in its front wheel, effectively making it s 2WD electric bike. With that, Yamaha states that the PES2 concept was designed to new performance boundaries and experience levels too. Another innovative feature is the PES2’s unique single-sided front fork-leg suspension setup.

Yamaha PED2 concept
Evolving from the PED1 concept, the PED2 concept stands as the Yamaha brand’s take of an electric-powered fun dirt machine for the future. Like the PES2, the PED2 concept looks more production ready than the PED1 ever was, with Yamaha envisioning it to have as much power as a regular petrol-fuelled 125cc- or 500cc-sized dirtbike.

Tipping the scales below 100kg, the featherweight concept utilises the same Yamaha Smart Power Module unit as the PES2, resulting in its adoption of a monocoque frame design yet again.

When exactly will we see production versions of either concept? Well, Yamaha has already planned to introduce an electric-powered model as early as 2016, so we could perhaps see either by then.

Sources: MCN and Asphaltandrubber ( Link 1 / Link 2 )

Suzuki shows off turbocharged engine

Having shown us the Recursion concept during the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki’s intent at bringing forced induction into bikes is very clear indeed. Fuelling the flame further are rumours of said concept being finalised for production in the last few months, followed by the fact that the mighty S-brand’s move towards trademarking the ‘Recursion’ name and filing patents for designs surrounding the bike’s unique powerplant.

Well, at the on-going 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, it appears that Suzuki are indeed one step closer towards making the Recursion a production reality. At the heart of Suzuki’s stand was this, a compact and turbocharged two-cylinder engine called the EX7, presumably made for Recursion.

Other than the fact that it has twin camshafts (DOHC) and four valves, Suzuki did not say much about this turbocharged and intercooled parallel twin. It is presumed that the mill displaces about 588cc, which was the quoted engine size of the Recursion concept. The concept also envisioned the mill to generate just over 100hp and at least 101Nm of torque too – not bad for its size.

There is still no sight of the Recursion concept’s production version during the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, which likely suggest that we will only see it next year or early in 2017. However, we are led to believe that Suzuki could surprise all with a reveal in this year’s edition of EICMA that will take place in just several weeks time in Milan, Italy.

Sources: Asphaltandrubber and Visordown

Kawasaki Z125 breaks cover

Kawasaki has discreetly released a promo video, some details and also a few official images of its newest model – the Z125.

Expected to be offered in two variants (Kawasaki Z125 automatic and the Kawasaki Z125 Pro with clutch), both models are powered by Kawasaki’s 125cc four-stroke single cylinder engine.

Kawasaki has announced that the bike will also come with a 24mm throttle body along with upside down forks, petal brake discs (200mm front, 184mm rear) and 12-inch wheels, while the claimed kerb weight stands at only 101kg. while its overall length is 1,700mm and the seat height is 780mm.

As much as the design is concerned, Kawasaki has given the Z125 an aggressive sense of styling, inspired by the other Z models in the stable.

It is said that the Kawasaki Z125 will be available in three colours – ‘Candy Lime Green’, ‘Metallic Graphite Gray’ and ‘Candy Burnt Orange’.

Yamaha MWT-9 concept: The Yamaha MT-09 trike

Meet the Yamaha LMW – MWT – 9 concept, or just the Yamaha MWT-9 concept in short. Unveiled at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the concept shows off how the successful Yamaha MT-09 naked would look like if it were to become a leaning-multi-wheel (LMW) or trike.

A closer inspection reveals that this is not just merely an oversized rendition of the Yamaha Tricity three-wheeled scooter revealed not too long ago. Underneath, the concept carries over much of the MT-09 naked’s mechanicals from the tank forwards, including the 847cc triple-cylinder engine.

Besides a radical new face, Yamaha has indeed taken the Tricity’s intricate front suspension, but the layout has been altered in the MWT-9 whereby the forks now stand on the outside of the wheels instead, presumably for greater stability and rigidity through turns. Crucially though, this setup varies drastically against that found in the Piaggio MP3 three-wheeled maxi scooter.

It goes without saying that we are fully behind the idea of putting such a beastly-looking thing into production. Well, what are you waiting for Yamaha?

Sources: Asphaltandrubber, Visordown and MCN

Top 10: Bikes for the ladies

Gone are the days when women were perceived to be the weaker sex. Today, they are capable of doing whatever men can, and that includes suiting up and riding a high-powered motorcycle for hundreds of kilometers.

In fact, we have not one or two, but thousands of female riders already, including normal riders, racers, and even stunt riders!

That said, if you are one of the female riders who has just obtained your license, looking for the right bike to begin your journey, you have come to the right place as we have compiled a top 10 bikes which we feel, are best suited for you.

1) Kawasaki ER-6N

Like we mentioned before in one of our Top 10 compilations, this is without a doubt, among the best beginners’ bikes as it is what is being used in most of our driving schools. Despite being powerful, it is not too wild, and remains as one of the most comfortable middleweights out there in the market.

2) KTM Duke 390

Ideal for small-sized individuals, this lightweight naked would appeal to most female riders. Besides that, it is also very sporty, and proves to be an excellent platform for those who are upgrading from a smaller bike. Where the Duke 390 really stands out is in the city, as it is very agile and punchy.

3) Ducati Monster 795

If you’re a beginner and you want something more exotic, the Ducati Monster 795 is a dream come true for you. While other models from the brand might be more suitable for veterans, the Monster, which is smaller, stylish, yet still powerful, is ideal for Asian women. In fact, this model is among the most popular choice among female riders in Malaysia.

4) Yamaha XJ6

It looks good, it is not too small or too big, it is affordable, and most importantly, the XJ6 is a very smooth and comfortable bike that is ideal for you to get used to long distance riding.

5) Honda CBR250R

The CBR250R is among the best starter bikes in the market in our opinion. Ideal for both city-dwelling and long distance riding, the baby CBR is suitable for both beginners and slightly more experienced riders.

6)Yamaha YZF-R25

The R25’s biggest strength is that it is nimble and offers easy-to- use daily riding experience, while being sporty. Its asymmetric swing arm is strong and solid for a stable ride. Complementing the stable ride is the Monocross Twin-tube rear suspension that provides good handling during cornering.

7) Kawasaki Z250SL

Powered by a 4-stroke Single mounted in an original trellis frame, the newest Ninja offers sporty fun in a slim, lightweight and compact package. With competitive performance, quick, nimble handling, and aggressive ergonomics, it is a lighter, ideal platform to learn the basics of riding larger bikes.

8) Harley-Davidson Sportster 883

Among all of Harley-Davidson’s Sportster 883 motorcycles currently available, the Iron is the newest, debuting in 2009. It has the smaller “peanut” style fuel tank so it holds less fuel than the SuperLow. Its styling is edgier than the traditionally styled SuperLow with drag style handlebars, a chopped rear fender, and blacked out accents. The Iron gets beginners going with attitude! In 2015,upgrades were made to the Sportsers including new brakes, an ABS option and of course, new colors.

9) Kawasaki Vulcan S

If cruisers are what you have in mind, and Harley-Davidsons are too expensive, Kawasaki has a perfect candidate for you. Priced under RM30,000, the Vulcan S, which is Kawasaki’s most recent offerings, provides a super low riding position, a smooth 650cc engine, and most importantly, an option to custom fit the handlebars and the foot pegs based on your height.

10) Scrambler Ducati

Ducati’s smartly styled bike that correctly reinterprets the spirit of the 1960s, was built with no room for complicated technology, such as ride-by-wire throttle or a hydraulic clutch. The bike is aimed at people who are looking for a bike that’s not just easy handling, comfortable and accessible, but one’s that’s also as fashionable as the original.