Motorcycle news, Motorcycle reviews from Malaysia, Asia and the world

Bikesrepublic

Latest News

Malaysian MotoGP 2024 Generated RM694 Million – Minister

The 2024 Malaysian MotoGP generated a significant economic impact by contributing a return of approximately RM694 million to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), said the Second Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.

He said the return on investment or ROI was estimated to reach 6.3 times for every RM1.00 spent by the government to host the premier motorcycle racing event.

“The hosting of MotoGP also provided over 4,000 job opportunities and supported the tourism sector through the attendance of more than 16,000 international visitors,” he said when wrapping up the committee-level debate for the Supply Bill 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Amir Hamzah said the government’s acquisition of the Sepang International Circuit (F1 Circuit) operations was a strategic move to strengthen the national motorsports ecosystem and promote Malaysia as an international motorsports destination.

“The current utilization level of the SIC circuit now exceeds 75 percent of its capacity through the hosting of regional races such as Asia Le Mans, GT World Challenge Asia, and Asia Road Racing. The government will continue to explore ways to optimize SIC facilities to generate additional economic returns,” he said.

Suggestion for Vehicle Loans to be Shortened to 7 Years

Once upon a time (about 20 years ago), the maximum vehicle loan repayment period was just 5 years. After that, the loan period was extended to 7 years, and later, it was extended further to 9 years.

Generally, the longest loan tenure for motorcycles up to 250cc is 5 years, while loans of up to 7 years are granted for high-powered motorcycles. There are also one or two credit companies that offer loan tenures of up to 9 years, but at higher interest rates.

Longer loan tenures were welcomed by vehicle sellers as a positive development because more buyers could purchase vehicles with lower monthly payment amounts. However, it might not necessarily be a good thing because buyers actually bear higher interest due to the longer repayment period. At the same time, a vehicle is considered quite outdated after 9 years, and the owner can only sell it at a very low price.

Therefore, there is an opinion that vehicle loan tenures should be shortened. This recommendation has been voiced for a long time, but there has been no development until now.

Recently, automotive industry observers suggested that the vehicle loan financing period in this country be shortened to a maximum of seven years compared to nine years.

This measure, if implemented, is seen as capable of helping to control household debt levels and encourage more prudent financial management among consumers in this country.

Currently, Malaysia’s household debt is reported to be among the highest in ASEAN, totaling RM1.65 trillion as of the end of March 2025, representing 84.3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Of that total household debt, the main contributor is housing loans at around 60.5 percent; while vehicle financing is 13.2 percent, and personal loans are about 12.4 percent.

The President of the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, said that shortening the vehicle loan tenure could not only curb long-term debt burdens but also educate consumers to be more disciplined in making financing commitments.

He acknowledged that the measure might temporarily affect demand in the affordable segment, but the market would naturally adjust according to consumers’ affordability.

“Financing companies can also play a role by introducing more flexible packages to help customers better manage their purchase commitments,” he told BH.

Commenting further, Mohd Shamsor said that adjustments to financing terms would also encourage manufacturers and distributors to reassess their sales strategies and cooperation with financial institutions.

“In the long term, a change in consumer behavior is expected, with some shifting from long-term ownership to vehicle rental or subscription models, in line with modern mobility trends that are more dynamic and needs-based,” he said.

The Chief Operating Officer of GWM Malaysia, Roslan Abdullah, said sales might be affected in the initial implementation phase when potential buyers need to reassess their ability to make monthly payments due to the shorter financing period.

“At the initial stage, sales are expected to slow down because monthly installment payments will increase. The difference could reach between 15 to 20 percent depending on the vehicle price,” he said.

However, he expects manufacturers and distributors to launch more aggressive strategies, including massive promotions and a focus on after-sales services to maintain market momentum.

Industry observers previously opined that one of the issues arising when hire-purchase loans are extended is that borrowers have to bear lower monthly payments, but for a longer period.

This would cause borrowers to have to pay more interest, and this could affect cash flow if they have many loans with long tenures.

The Dewan Rakyat recently passed the Hire-Purchase (Amendment) Bill 2025, which abolishes the use of the flat rate and the Rule of 78 method for fixed-rate hire-purchase loans.

In its place, the effective interest rate and reducing balance methods will be introduced to ensure fairer and more transparent monthly installment calculations.

The reducing balance method ensures that interest rates are only charged on the outstanding loan balance, unlike the old method which focused more on interest payments in the early stages of the loan. – Berita Harian

Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition Launched at EICMA 2025

Brabus is already a name that is established as “a” (as not to offend anymore) performance brand in the luxury automotive market. What began as hotting up Mercedes-Benz vehicles to mental levels, this German establishment has progressed to a cooperation with KTM, who produce mental motorcycles in the neighbouring Austria. Since then, there have two iterations of the Brabus motorcycle, and they have just launched the Brabus 1400 R Signature Edition (1400 R SE) “hyper bike” at EICMA 2025.

The 1400 R SE is of course based on the KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo, then taken to 11. Production is limited to only 100 bikes.

From the Brabus Press Release

With the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION, BRABUS presents the latest generation of its exclusive luxury motorcycles. It is the successor to the BRABUS 1300 R and also the most powerful model of this extraordinary product series to date. Production is limited to 100 units.

Based on the current KTM 1390 SUPER DUKE R EVO, the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION embodies raw strength and modern elegance on two wheels. The new WIDESTAR bodywork featuring high-grade exposed-structure carbon components underscores the brand’s signature “Black and Bold” design language and complements the special “Midnight Veil” body color.

The bike’s dynamic front view is emphasized by the BRABUS carbon front fender and the mask with LED headlights and a distinctive daytime running light configuration, whose design is inspired by the BRABUS signature stripes. Additional BRABUS elements made from the same high-tech compound, such as the WIDESTAR side spoilers, fuel tank fairing and belly pan, ensure a unique “1-second wow” effect.

Powered by a 1,350 cc LC8 V-Twin engine, the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION delivers 140 kW / 190 hp and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. A special underseat dual-pipe exhaust underscores the Luxury Hyper Naked bike’s striking look as well as its thrilling soundscape. What is more, the raised tail also perfectly showcases the 17-inch BRABUS Monoblock II EVO “PLATINUM EDITION” wheel design.

Like many bespoke luxury vehicles with BRABUS badging, the 1400 R upholstery boasts a premium combination of BRABUS Masterpiece leather and Dinamica microfiber. Embossed BRABUS logos in the center of the seat emphasize the precise craftsmanship.

The suggested retail price for the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION featured here is EUR41,933 (RM202,008.03) in Germany excluding 19% VAT.

Building on the success of the BRABUS 1300 R and its exclusive limited editions, BRABUS once again combines decades of design expertise with the high-performance ethos of KTM. The BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION is the first Luxury Hyper Naked bike of a brand-new model series. Production is limited to only 100 units worldwide.

Every detail of its exclusive styling in the BRABUS special color “Midnight Veil,” is reminiscent of the world of BRABUS supercars. Tailor-made exposed-structure carbon components, produced using a complex prepreg process and refined with a high-gloss finish, underline the uncompromising demand for quality and performance.

The front view impresses with the BRABUS fender and the tailor-made carbon mask with a special LED headlight unit and a unique daytime running light signature inspired by the BRABUS signature stripes.

The BRABUS WIDESTAR side spoilers with sporty carbon accents not only emphasize the dynamic profile, but also give the motorcycle a powerful visual character. The design of the custom fuel tank fairing, likewise made of exposed-structure carbon fiber, with integrated Dinamica pads on the left and right, adds a unique touch of elegance. Further carbon highlights include the side fairing elements, the ignition lock cover and the belly pan.

The specialists of the BRABUS interior workshop meticulously handcrafted a bespoke driver’s seat from a brand-typical combination of BRABUS Masterpiece leather and Dinamica microfiber. Embossed BRABUS logos in the center of the seat complete the exclusive design. Form-optimized side winglets define the bike’s aerodynamics at the rear.

The BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION is driven by a 1,350 cm³ LC8 V-Twin engine. The two-cylinder powerhouse produces 140 kW / 190 hp and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Operating in perfect interplay with the dual-pipe exhaust integrated under the carbon fiber undertray, it generates a thrilling soundscape that perfectly matches the bike’s emphatically aggressive look. This styling not only emphasizes the bike’s dynamic lines, but also effectively highlights the specially developed rear wheel.

For the tailor-made wheels, the BRABUS engineers opted for the BRABUS Monoblock II EVO “PLATINUM EDITION” design in the dimensions 3.5Jx17 and 6Jx17. An homage to one of the most iconic wheel designs in the company’s longstanding history and manufactured through the use of cutting-edge forging and CNC machining technology. Additional exposed-structure carbon fiber features, such as the rear wheel cover, single swing arm cover and chain guard, complement the look.

Beyond its dominating power output and unmistakable styling, the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION impresses with its agile handling. The limited-edition Luxury Hyper Naked bike features the latest in Brembo’s HYPURE Four-Piston Monoblock brake system technology for optimized brake performance. The front calipers grip 320 mm (12.6 in.) Wave brake discs, while the rear calipers utilize a twin-piston floating caliper paired with a 240 mm (9.4 in.) Wave disk.

The intelligent handling is further perfected by the adaptive WP APEX Semi-Active Technology (SAT) suspension with electronically controlled magnetic valves for variable damping. At the touch of a button, the rider can choose from maximum comfort to racetrack-ready damping. In conjunction with the adjustable WP APEX SAT rear shock absorber, the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION delivers exceptional riding dynamics at all times.

Courtesy of five dedicated Ride Modes, the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION can be precisely adapted to a wide range of riding conditions and styles. In STREET mode, full power is readily available—with traction control and limited front wheel lift for optimal everyday usability. The SPORT setting sharpens throttle response and makes the bike noticeably more responsive. Ideal for spirited riding on dry roads. RAIN mode is optimized for wet conditions: for the best possible grip, this setting reduces power delivery and maximizes traction control. PERFORMANCE and TRACK modes are designed for maximum power delivery and offer advanced customization options for experienced riders. Including finely adjustable parameters for throttle response, traction control and damping.

A large, TFT color display provides clear access to all settings and Ride Modes and shows a special BRABUS animation when starting up.

Each unit of the BRABUS 1400 R SIGNATURE EDITION is delivered with an exclusive range of extended accessories. These include a premium, tailor-made indoor cover to keep the motorcycle protected in style as well as a high-grade BRABUS exhibition carpet. Also included is a cover in BRABUS leather as well as a carbon fiber box for the bike’s ignition key.

Honda WN7, Honda’s First Electric Motorcycle Launched at EICMA 2025

Wait, before you get confused, the Honda WN7, launched recently at EICMA 2025 is not the company’s first sojourn into the world of electrified two-wheelers. However, previous Honda’s electric two wheelers were scooters – the CUV ES made its debut as far back as 1994. There was also an electric PCX called the er… PCX Electric in 2018 but did not make its way to Malaysia.

Back to the WN7, Honda positioned it as fun and agile roadster under their “Be the Wind” development concept. Checking out the spec sheets, it delivers the equivalent of 67 hp (50 kW) of maximum power and a maximum torque of 100 Nm. Do not let those numbers fool you: Electric motors deliver their torque instantaneously and it is way more fun to ride a torquey motorcycle on the road, compared to one with a peaky powerband.

From Honda’s Press Release

Development concept

The Honda WN7 is the first electric naked model in the FUN category developed under Honda’s new electric motorcycle brand direction. Its development concept, “Be the Wind,” expresses the joy of freely gliding through the air with quietness unique to an electric vehicle.

Riders can directly sense the sounds and atmosphere of their surroundings—the conversations and laughter of people on the street, the rustling of leaves—experiences not possible with ICE (internal combustion engine) models. Reflecting its developers’ passion, the WN7’s smooth yet strong torque acceleration and agile handling allows riders to enjoy the liberating feeling of riding like the wind.

Design

Aiming to refine functionality and express essence, the design features a seamless, smooth surface on the areas the rider touches, while combining a distinctive and powerful silhouette.

Its signature horizontal light bar will serve as a common design identity for Honda’s future electric motorcycles.

The WN7 also debuts a dedicated colour theme for Honda’s electric motorcycles, featuring a black-based body accented with gold component parts. Like the signature lighting, this colour theme will be adopted across upcoming global electric models.

Frameless chassis

Unlike conventional motorcycles that use a frame connecting the front and rear of the body, the WN7 adopts a frameless structure in which the centrally positioned aluminium battery case forms part of the main frame. The head pipe supporting the steering and the pivot bracket supporting the rear are both directly connected to the centrally located power unit. By eliminating the traditional frame, the WN7 achieves not only weight reduction but also greater layout flexibility, contributing significantly to its slim and compact proportions.

In addition, positioning the heavy battery pack at the center of the chassis also enhances mass centralization and agile handling.

Integrated motor-inverter unit

A newly developed, compact and lightweight water-cooled motor with an integrated inverter powers the WN7. It delivers a maximum output of 50 kW, equivalent to a 600 cc ICE motorcycle, and maximum torque of 100 Nm, comparable to a 1000 cc class ICE motorcycle. This ensures powerful yet composed performance both in city riding and on open roads.

Power from the motor is transmitted via a newly designed gearbox to a belt-drive system, which drives the rear wheel while contributing to quiet operation.

Drive battery and charging standards

The WN7 is equipped with a newly developed 9.3 kWh fixed lithium-ion battery. It supports both CCS2 fast charging and Type 2 normal charging, compatible with standard household outlets in many regions. With a fast charger, the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes, allowing for quick recharging on the go and reducing the stress of waiting time.

In addition, normal charging fully charges the battery from 0% to 100% in under 2.4 hours, providing a cruising range of 140 km (WMTC mode) on a full charge.

Regenerative braking, Deceleration Selector, and Walking Speed Mode

During deceleration with the throttle off, the WN7’s motor performs energy regeneration while providing regenerative braking. Riders can adjust the level of deceleration using the Deceleration Selector on the left handlebar switch, enabling smooth low-speed control with minimal brake operation or a gliding sensation with reduced deceleration—offering a new riding feel distinct from ICE motorcycles.

The WN7 is also equipped with a Walking Speed Mode, allowing the rider to move the bike forward or backward slowly using the left-hand switch and throttle—useful for parking or maneuvering in tight urban spaces.

The Honda WN7 will be produced at Honda’s Kumamoto Factory – the company’s global hub for motorcycle production. Honda will introduce the model sequentially to global markets where electrification shift is advancing, as the company accelerates electrification of motorcycles on a global scale.

2026 Suzuki SV-7GX Launched at EICMA 2025

Suzuki fans rejoice! Here comes a midrange sport-tourer, the 2026 Suzuki SV-7GX, launched at EICMA 2025 recently.

The manufacturer places the model as a crossover in their 650cc line-up, sitting in between the previous SV-650 roadster and V-Strom 650 adventure tourer. Utilising the updated version of the proven and legendary 645cc V-Twin engine, the SV-7GX is set to take you places in comfort and peace of mind.

From Suzuki’s Press Release

Suzuki has revealed a new SV-7GX, which was unveiled at Eicma in Milan, Italy.

The SV-7GX uses an updated version of Suzuki’s proven – and somewhat legendary – 645cc V-twin engine, which is now fully-compliant with the latest Euro5+ emissions regulations. Peak power is 73PS and peak torque is 64Nm. Aiding efficiency and performance is a new magneto, transmission gears, airbox, a ride-by-wire throttle, and a new exhaust system.

As the GX suffix suggests, the SV-7GX will provide a middleweight sports crossover option in the Suzuki lineup, alongside the range-topping GSX-S1000GX.

A steel trellis frame is equipped with suspension from KYB, which provides a plush ride quality designed to make it easy to cover distance in comfort on the 7GX. The seat height remains accessible for a multitude of riders at 795mm. Wheels are new cast aluminium 17”, front and rear, and are shod with Pirelli Angel GT 2 tyres. They work with the chassis to provide the sport element to the new sports crossover. Tokico calipers and twin 290mm discs provide the stopping power.

Tall, wide, tapered aluminium ‘bars provide an upright and comfortable riding position, but place weight over the front tyre enough to generate feel and allow riders to enjoy the sporty side of the 7GX when away from the motorway or dual carriageways. Handguards come as standard.

On the electronics side, smartphone connectivity comes as standard and allows riders to access everything from maps to contacts and messages from intuitive switchgear on the left handlebar. All information is displayed via a colour TFT screen, which also indicates the selected throttle map, with three to choose from, as well as the chosen traction control setting, also with three to choose from, as well as off. There’s a USB-C charging port on the left hand side. The electronics package also includes a standard-fit bi-directional quickshifter for seamless up and down gear changes.

Wind-tunnel tested bodywork shields the rider from the worst of the elements and provides aerodynamic efficiency, with styling cues taken from the bigger GSX-S1000GX. There’s a 17.4-litre fuel tank. Lighting is full LED all round, with a new asaerial design at the front for improved illumination and visibility while cornering.

An accessories catalogue includes a 45-litre top box, soft panniers, tank bags, and heated grips.

Pricing for the SV-7GX will be announced in due course, with the arrival set for late summer, 2026.

Honda V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype with Electronic Compressor V3 Engine Launched at EICMA 2025

The Honda V3R E-Compressor prototype has been launched at EICMA 2025, following its concept debut at last year’s show.

As the name suggests, the V3 engine is fed by an electronically-controlled compressor to boost engine performance. Unlike the traditional belt-driven or exhaust driven compressor, the E-Compressor does not exact a penalty on engine performance, while providing boost even at low engine RPMs. Traditional compressors exhibit a pronounced ‘lag’ at low engine speeds, hence also low compressor blade speeds due to air’s inertia. When this happens, the rider will find the engine bogging at low speeds, only to find the bike suddenly taking off when boost pressure finally builds up. Riding such a bike requires the rider to keep the engine revving hard at all times. Not so with the E-Compressor as it controls the intake air pressure at all RPMs.

Honda says that such technology to allow this 900cc engine to perform at the level of a 1200cc powerplant.

From Honda’s Press Release

Honda has unveiled the V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype equipped with a V3 engine with an electronically-controlled compressor, at EICMA 2025 (the Milan Motorcycle Shows).

In order to realize the “joy and freedom of mobility” to fulfill the Honda 2030 Vision, Honda motorcycle development team members are engaged in ongoing discussions in the effort to build attractive products that go beyond expectations of customers. The V3R 900 E- Compressor Prototype is being developed as a motorcycle model that offers new value tocustomers with unprecedented, original Honda technologies.

Under the development concept of “Non-Rail Roller Coaster,” Honda is striving to create a model that is characterised by two contrasting qualities — “guaranteed thrill” and “reassuring peace of mind” — by combining its latest technologies with know-how amassed through its long history of motorcycle development.

A slim and compact engine design was pursued with the displacement of 900cc based on the exact layout of the water-cooled 75-degree V3 engine, which Honda unveiled last year as a concept model at the EICMA 2024. Equipped with the world’s first electronically-controlled compressor for motorcycles, the engine delivers highly responsive torque even from low rpm range, by controlling compression of the intake air irrespective of engine rpm. Taking advantage of this feature, Honda is striving to develop a 900cc engine that achieves the overwhelming performance comparable to that of a 1200cc engine, while also contributing to excellent environmental performance.

The V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype features asymmetrical side cowls, as well as a tank
emblem with the new “Honda Flagship WING” design, which is scheduled to be adopted by top-tier models sequentially starting next year.

Honda is developing the V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype as a model that will represent a new milestone in the ongoing challenges undertaken by Honda and will enable customers to experience the unprecedented fun and excitement of riding and the joy of ownership. Honda will continue development for the mass production.