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

Bikesrepublic

Latest News

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.

Finally – BMW F 450 GS Launched, at EICMA 2025

Finally, after many months of teasers and “previews”, the BMW F 450 GS has been launched, at EICMA 2025.

This new bike promises nimble handling, great engine torque and power, and versatility both on- and off-road.

Highlights

All-new 420cc, parallel-twin which produces 35 kW (48 hp) at 8,750 rpm and 43 Nm at 6,750 rpm.
Yes, BMW Motorrad decided to go the multi-cylinder path instead of sticking with the single-cylinder format prevalent in this class.
Also interestingly, this parallel-twin has a unique 135-degree crankshaft, instead of the 180-deg., 270-deg., or 360-deg. variety in other motorcycles.

BMW claims that the powerplant consumes only 3.8 litres of fuel for every 100 km, which gives the bike a potential maximum range of “over 350 km” from its 14-litre tank.
Apart from the engine, another nifty new feature is the Easy Ride Clutch (ERC).
It is a centrifugal type clutch which allows idling and gear changes without needing to pull the clutch lever (like on smaller cc mopeds).

The ERC is only fitted to GS Trophy variant and when combined with Shift Assistant Pro eliminates the need for manual clutch operation.
However, the clutch lever is still retained, in case the rider wants to intervene during manoeuvring.
BMW explains that the ERC, while based on the centrifugal clutch concept found on mopeds, is actually an “advanced” system as the clutch plates remain “closed during overrun.”

The BMW F 450 GS offers three riding modes as standard: “Rain”, “Road” and “Enduro”, allowing the motorcycle to be adapted to suit individual preferences.
Standard equipment also includes ABS Pro, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and engine drag torque control (MSR).
The additional “Enduro Pro” mode, which is used from the Exclusive equipment variant onwards, is designed for off-road use with coarse-tread off-road tires and allows the ABS on the rear wheel to be deactivated.

The specially developed lattice-tube frame consists of welded steel tubes and forged parts.
Suspension in front consists of 43mm KYB upside-down forks. The Sport and GS Trophy variants feature the so-called “sports suspension.” The fork is adjustable for rebound and compression damping.
Rear wheel control is provided by a closed, hollow-cast aluminium double-sided swing arm, coupled with a directly connected KYB central spring strut (adjustable spring preload and rebound damping).

Standard wheels on the BMW F 450 GS are cast aluminium but owners can opt for the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories cross-spoke wheels.
Braking duty is handled by a floating single-disc brake with a Brembo 4-piston fixed caliper and a 310 mm brake disc up front, coupled to a single disc brake with 1-piston floating caliper and 240 mm diameter behind.
BMW Motorrad ABS Pro is standard equipment, the feature provides lean-sensitive ABS braking.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) offers increased safety when braking, by preventing unintentional throttle application.
Footrests with adjustable gearshift and footbrake levers for optimal grip on and off-road.
Adjustable hand levers as standard.
Heated grips as standard.
Powerful LED headlights and lights as standard.
Connectivity with extensive options and exemplary functionality in the form of a large, perfectly legible 6.5-inch TFT display.
Practical USB-C socket in the cockpit area.

Honda CB1000GT Premieres at EICMA 2025

Honda has a wide variety of motorcycles but one glaring absence in their line-up is a big bore, four-cylinder sport-tourer. Realising this, they have premiered the 2026 Honda CB1000GT at EICMA 2025.

This bike’s development was perhaps under the radar as everyone had been paying attention to the CB1000F, but it is a nice surprise, nonetheless.

From Boon Siew Honda’s Press Release

MILAN, Italy, November 4, 2025 – Honda today presented the world premiere of the CB1000GT, a sport tourer model equipped with a 1000cm3 liquid-cooled DOHC inline 4-cylinder 4-stroke engine, at EICMA 2025 (the Milan Motorcycle Shows; Press days: November 4-5, Public days: November 6-9) in Milan, Italy.

Key features of CB1000GT

●Development concept

Under the concept of “High Performance Tourer – going faster, farther with comfort –,” the CB1000GT was developed as a new sport tourer model that perfectly balances the high power and handling of a naked sportbike with the comfort and carrying capacity of a touring-bike.

●Power unit

Based on the CB1000 Hornet’s 1000cm3 liquid-cooled DOHC inline 4-cylinder 4-stroke engine renowned for its power, a CB1000GT-specific fuel injection (FI) setting and throttle-by-wire (TBW) system were adopted. While maintaining powerful output characteristics, the engine provides a smooth output at the onset of throttle opening, reducing fatigue for both the rider and passenger, thereby contributing to enhanced comfort during long-distance touring.

●Body

Based on the CB1000 Hornet’s steel diamond frame, the seat rail section was newly designed to further increase body stability while riding, in consideration of accommodating a passenger and luggage.

The CB1000GT features EERA*1 (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) electronic suspension system as standard equipment. The system recognizes the riding conditions based on various data such as the body attitude measured by the six-axis IMU (inertial measurement unit), engine control data from the ECU (electronic control unit), and wheel rotational speeds, then optimizes the damping force of the front and rear suspensions accordingly, which enables precise automatic adjustment of damping force based on road conditions.

●Styling

The functionality of the “High Performance Tourer” is also expressed through the styling. The image of a comfortable ride befitting a grand touring model is evoked by the high-performance engine with a sophisticated appearance, as well as the sharp, sculpted design of the integrated piece of front cowl and shrouds.

The front cowl features an adjustable screen with five positions with a total vertical adjustment range of 81mm. While maintaining a sharp design, the front cowl achieves both high protection performance and neutral handling characteristics.

●Electronics and control features

The CB1000GT is equipped with a number of advanced features, enabling the rider to enjoy a fun and comfortable riding experience in a wide range of situations, from sporty riding to long-distance touring with a partner. Such features include a set of riding modes the rider can choose from in accordance with their preferred riding style in a wide range of riding situations and road surface conditions — from city streets to winding roads. In addition to the four preset modes — Standard, Sport, Rain, and Tour —, each of which combines optimal engine output characteristics and front and rear suspension damping force characteristics for each situation, the rider can set their own favorite settings as User mode.

Another standard equipment of the CB1000GT is the quick shifter, which eliminates the need for left-hand clutch operation except when starting or stopping. This function helps reduce rider fatigue during both urban and long-distance riding.

The CB1000GT also features the original Honda RoadSync*2 as standard equipment, which enables the rider to use Bluetooth®*3 to link their smartphone to the bike and use hands-free functions for things such as phone calls and road navigation.

●Genuine accessories

To make the CB1000GT even more enjoyable and comfortable to use, a wide range of genuine accessories are available, such as top cases and pannier cases that increase luggage capacity, as well as tall windscreens and comfort seats that further increase riding comfort.

The CB1000GT is scheduled to go on sale in Europe, Japan, as well as Asia & Oceania and other regions.

Fined RM10k for impersonating traffic police

Two friends who impersonated traffic police officers and extorted two teenagers were each fined RM5,000 each by the Ipoh Magistrate’s Court.

Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan imposed the sentence on Wong Jiun Wei, 24, and Lim Boon Ping, 40, with a 12-month jail term if they failed to pay the fine.

According to the charge, the two men impersonated and deceived the 17 and 15-year-old teenagers by demanding money from them in exchange for not issuing a summons or taking them to the police station.

The offense was committed in front of a restaurant at Jalan Lebuh Bercham Selatan 1, Taman Ipoh Timur Baru, in the Kinta district, at 12:38 a.m. on November 1 last year.

The charge was framed under Section 419 of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum punishment of seven years imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Meanwhile, in the same court, Jiun Wei was also fined RM2,000 and sentenced to five months in jail if he failed to pay the fine after pleading guilty to possessing police equipment, namely a cap with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) logo inscribed with “Jabatan Siasatan Polis Trafik (JSPT)” and JSPT boots inscribed with PDRM, at the same time and date.

The charge was framed under Section 89 of the Police (Amendment) Act 2004, which carries a maximum punishment of six months imprisonment, a fine not exceeding RM5,000, or both.

Deputy Public Prosecutor S Nishaalini requested a proportionate sentence, taking into account public interest and the fact that the offense committed by the two accused had damaged the integrity of PDRM, in addition to evidence of a money transfer amounting to RM400.

Lawyer K Nathan appealed for a lenient sentence on the grounds that it was his clients’ first offense and that both of them worked as a food stall assistant and an electrician, earning RM1,500 each.

According to the case facts, the accused detained the complainant and impersonated traffic police officers by wearing clothing resembling police uniforms, such as traffic boots, black pants with cream stripes, and a cap with the PDRM logo.

During the incident, the accused were found to have intimidated the victims with threats of issuing a summons and taking them to the police station for riding a modified motorcycle, and also demanded money from the complainant to settle the matter without further action.

T15 exemption from BUDI95 when system is more robust

One of the biggest questions following the implementation of the RON95 petrol targeted subsidy program – Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) – is why the T15 group is also eligible, despite the government initially said that group would be exempted. The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, explained that the group will be exempted once the BUDI95 system is more robust.

“If there is a need in the future, when the system is more robust, then we can impose (the exemption from receiving RON95 subsidies for T15) for those with truly high (incomes) or (who use) truly luxury vehicles,” he said during the minister’s question time in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He said this in response to a supplementary question from Syerleena Abdul Rashid (PH-Bukit Bendera) regarding why the government decided to implement BUDI95 which benefits all citizens including the T15 group.

Elaborating further, Anwar said that with the implementation of BUDI95, the government can save approximately RM2.5 billion.

Meanwhile, the government has also agreed to further increase the monthly RON95 quota to 800 liters from 600 liters for e-hailing drivers.

“For October, (for active BUDI95 e-hailing drivers) it was increased from 300 liters to 600 liters. How many (drivers) received it? 58,000 e-hailing drivers are eligible to receive up to 600 liters per month.”

“(But) there are still our friends, our children from the e-hailing (sector) who feel it is still not enough.”

“If they truly have records and needs, then the government, I want to announce here, agrees to increase the eligibility limit for BUDI95 for eligible e-hailing drivers to 800 liters per month,” he said during the minister’s question time in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday.

He said this in response to a question from Syerleena Abdul Rashid (PH-Bukit Bendera) regarding the progress of the first month of the RON95 Subsidy Targeting Program’s implementation and the actions taken by the government in resolving arising issues, particularly concerning airport taxi drivers, e-hailing drivers, and river boat users regarding their eligibility under BUDI95.