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Ketika BMW Motorrad memanggil MotoMalaya untuk menghadiri sesi pelancaran dua skuter baharu, kami skeptikal kerana sukar untuk mengaitkan BMW dengan skuter meskipun pengeluar motosikal Jerman itu pernah memperkenalkan skuter versi 650 cc.

Saksikan reviu kami tentang BMW C400 GT dibawah:

Pasaran Malaysia memang penuh dengan lambakan motosikal jenis skuter dengan harga yang berpatutan jadi bila BMW juga turut sama mahu menyertai segmen popular ini, kami berasakan harga yang ditawarkan mesti mahal gila.

Hakikatnya, tanggapan awal yang kami letak mengenai harga tidak jauh menyimpang apabila harga bagi BMW C400 X adalah RM44 ribu sementara versi C400 GT adalah RM48,000.

Bagi kami, harga itu terlalu mahal tetapi setelah merasai sendiri kemampuan kedua-dua jentera, harga yang ditawarkan mula masuk akal.

Meskipun dilahirkan sebagai sebuah skuter, segala intipati masih lagi menonjolkan jenama BMW terutamanya daripada aspek rekaan dan teknologi yang ditawarkan.

Rekaan keseluruhan bagi C400 GT dan C400 X dah cukup untuk menjelaskan kegunaan bagi kedua-dua jentera ini.

GT merujuk kepada tunggangan jarak jauh sementara X merupakan versi mesra tunggangan dalam kawasan urban atau bandar.

Kedua-duanya menggunakan enjin 350cc – jangan tanya kenapa BMW namakan 400 – yang dihasilkan oleh Loncin yang berpangkalan di China dan menghasilkan 34hp.

Kalau hati ada yang berbisik – barang diperbuat di China tak berkualiti – kami nak ingatkan bahawa kilang sama turut menghasilkan enjin untuk BMW 750 dan 850 GS!

Saksikan reviu kami tentang BMW C400 X dibawah:

Dari aspek rekaan, GT tampil lebih besar berbanding X terutamanya bahagian cermin depan yang tinggi dan lebar.

Menariknya, C400 GT dan C400 X didatangkan dengan BMW Flexcase, ruang unik boleh ubah yang mampu menempatkan sebuah helmet full face namun hanya boleh digunakan ketika jentera berada dalam keadaan berhenti.

Kedua-duan model turut didatangkan dengan ABS an ASC Automatic Stability Control – traction control dalam bahasa mudah – secara standard.

  • There’s now real proof of a new 2020 BMW S 1000 XR.

  • It will have the inline-Four with Shift Cam engine adopted from the S 1000 RR.

  • The bike should be unveiled at EICMA 2019.

Finally, real proof a new 2020 BMW S 1000 XR.

We had published an article earlier about the S 1000 XR sport-missing from the list of bikes BMW Motorrad provided to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in August. While the bike isn’t seen much in Malaysia, it’s actually very popular in other countries around the world. Thus to axe it completely would be a disaster.

However, it would make sense that the new bike be fitted with the BMW Shift Cam-equipped inline-Four that’s already powering the S 1000 RR sportbike.

Well, thank goodness because CARB has published a new list which includes the S 1000 XR. However, they did not provide the pictures no other specs apart from the level of exhaust emissions. CARB’s new regulations mirrors Euro 5’s standards.

The list did reveal that the engine remains at 999cc and it will feature two new wide range heated oxygen sensors in the exhaust system. Oxygen sensors er… sense the oxygen level in the exhaust gas and relays it to the ECU. The ECU will then determine the best combination of ignition timing, valve timing (since it has Shift Cam), fuel injection timing, fuel amount, etc. the result is optimum power with the lowest emissions.

The 2020 BMW S 1000 XR should be one of the four to be revealed at EICMA 2019, alongside the R18 cruiser. The other two may well be the S 1000 R naked sportbike and R 1250 R naked/standard bike.

Source: CARB

  • Patent submissions of the 2020 BMW F 850 R were leaked in Brazil.

  • It may be one of the four bikes to be launched at EICMA 2019.

  • The rendering shows a bike evolved from the F 800 R, rather than a complete makeover.

A few days ago, we ran a story about BMW Motorrad being ready to launch four new bikes at EICMA 2019, which may include the 2020 BMW F 850 R.

Well, looks like it may be true after all, since the bike’s patent filings in Brazil was leaked.

While some may be waiting for the 9Cento concept inspired 850 roadster, these renderings show something else. The new bike looks more of an evolution of the outgoing F 800 R, instead of a revolution. But who knows that the 9Cento’s design may be adopted to an F 850 RS or XR?

Anyhow, the F 850 R will share the same engine as the F 850 GS/GS Adventure. Overall, the new bike has a similar profile to the F 800 R, but we spotted a number of differences.

The tail section looks much tidier as the exhaust was moved to the right side and is lower. Secondly, the passenger’s seat is much lower and there are new radiator shrouds. Besides that, the entire headlamp unit looks smaller and we can expect the new large-sized TFT screen which is fitted even to the C 400 series scooters.

Will the F 850 R finally be popular in Malaysia? We certainly hope so.

Source and photos: Moto1.com

  • BMW Motorrad is set to unveil four new models at EICMA 2019.

  • They could be the R18, F 850 R/RS, S 1000 R/XR.

  • EICMA 2019 begins on 4th November 2019.

BMW Motorrad is set to unveil four new models at EICMA 2019 (Esposizione Internazionale Ciclo Motociclo e Accessori – International Exposition of Motorcycles and Accessories).

BMW unveiled nine new models at EICMA 2018 and throughout this year, which included those using using the new 1254cc Shift Cam-equipped Boxer engine, namely the R 1250 GS, R 1250 GS Adventure, R 1250 RT and R 1250 RS. So, what can we expect this time?

How about the R 1250 R? The R 12XX R is the most underrated Boxer in BMW’s line-up. We’ve tested the R 1200 R and found it wonderfully entertaining and joyful to ride. Sure, it may not look as butch as the latest naked bikes and supernakeds, but that isn’t the point. It’s more like a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

The R18 cruiser, bagger and tourer will definitely debut at EICMA, as we wrote in a previous article. The bike will bring BMW back into the cruiser segment they’ve been missing from for the last 15 years.

What else?

The new F 850 R, perhaps? There’s already the new F 850 GS and F 850 GS Adventure, along with the F 750 GS (which if of the same capacity with lower power output). In this respect, there could either be the new F 850 R naked/standard or F 850 RS sport-tourer.

Okay, we’ve saved the best for last.

Two bikes that’ve been sorely missing are the S 1000 R and S 1000 XR. The new S 1000 RR have been receiving rave reviews everywhere (although they’ve yet to arrive in Malaysia) so it’s high time the R and XR are updated in terms of looks, performance along with Euro 5 requirements.

The S 1000 RR’s engine is fitted with a Shift Cam version for the inline-Four. We should see the same for the new bikes.

EICMA begins on 4th November. It’s going to be the most interesting as almost all manufacturers will debut new bikes ahead of the implementation of Euro 5.

  • The production ready BMW R18 was spotted.

  • It will bring BMW back into the cruiser market.

  • The engine is an 1800cc Boxer.

After teasing with custom builds and concepts, the production ready BMW R18 was spotted recently.

Eagle-eyed spotters saw the bike being loaded onto a truck under a blue tarp. When parts of the cover blew open, it revealed a BMW cruiser. And voila! It’s the new BMW R18.

This particular version is equipped with saddlebags and a wide front tyre, making it a bagger. It is rumoured that there will be three versions to the R18 i.e. a bagger, cruiser and tourer. All three will most probably be officially unveiled at EICMA beginning 4th November.

The bike in the picture looks pretty much like a production version rather than still at the concept stage. The exhaust pipes, brakes, wheels are the dead giveaway. But check out the shape of the double cradle frame’s downtubes. The fuel tank is also reminiscent of the classic/vintage BMWs.

But as classic as it looks, that engine is a huge 1800cc Boxer – the biggest Boxer BMW will make. The concept showed carburettors but the production model ought to use direct fuel injection.

BMW has been missing from the cruiser market for a couple of decades now since the last R 1200 C in 1997. Yes, the bike in the James Bond movie “Tomorrow Never Dies.”

Source: Ride Apart

  • BMW Motorrad Malaysia rolled out exclusive aftersales programmes.

  • They are called Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension.

  • They offer BMW owners a complete peace of mind.

BMW Motorrad Malaysia introduced three new aftersales care programmes called Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension. The programmes cover new and existing BMW motorcycle customers in Malaysia.

BMW Motorrad Engine Oil Inclusive

This first ever Engine Oil Inclusive programme has two options i.e. three years (or 30,000KM) or five years (or 50,000KM). The programme offers regular engine oil services which also includes BMW ADVANTEC genuine oil and filter replacement for all new and registered BMW motorcycles dated under 10 years from first registration. The maintenance history of the motorcycles should be in accordance to the recommended service intervals and performed at authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships in the country for the programme to be valid.

BMW Motorrad Service Inclusive

The BMW Motorrad Service Inclusive programme offers an additional PLUS over and above the BMW Motorrad Engine Oil Inclusive programme. With Service Inclusive, customers are covered in terms of Valve Clearance Check, Fork Oil Check, Transmission Oil Change, Spark Plug replacement, Brake Fluid Change, Air Filter Change, CVT Belt Replacement, Fuel Filter Change and Rear Axle Oil Change. 

Programme options are also over a period of three years (or 30,000KM) or five years (or 50,000KM), and is also available for BMW motorcycles under 10 years from its date of first registration. Prior maintenance history of the motorcycle should also be in accordance to the recommended service intervals and performed at authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships.

BMW Motorrad Warranty Extension 

The BMW Motorrad Warranty Extension programme offers an added extension of the manufacturer’s warranty after the expiration of the statutory warranty period, including corrective work repairs with BMW genuine parts. 

The add-on programme can be purchased as an additional one-year or two-year package above and beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, which was raised to a standard of three years for BMW motorcycles registered from January 1st, 2019.

The programme is available on offer for new and registered motorcycles dated 90 days from its first registration, but excludes the BMW Motorrad offering of the Roadside Assistance programme introduced earlier this year.

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “A complete peace of mind ownership experience is the key to premium expression of a vehicle from the BMW Group. It is also how we differentiate ourselves to create value for our customers in the premium automotive industry.”

Hoelzl added that the ownership experience beyond the purchase of the vehicle is as important as the moment of truth in the purchasing decision process. He said, “This is the very reason we have the best ownership experience in the industry, from the best service and warranty programme to the best customer experience programme which can be seen in our monthly Net Promoter Scores (NPS).”

Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia said, “The new programmes are firsts in the Premium Motorcycle industry here in Malaysia.  They are backed by the same standards we have for BMW Motorrad worldwide and are on offer at all our authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships. The aim here is to look after our customers in all the areas of maintenance so that they can simply Make Life a Ride!” 

Recommended Retail Pricing for the First-Ever Service and Warranty Extension programmes are as per the attached price list. All programmes are also eligible to be financed completely from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia.

For more information on the First-Ever Service and Warranty Programmes from BMW Motorrad Malaysia please visit https://www.bmwmotorrad.com.my/en/service/services/warranty.html.

  • BMW filed an application to trademark the M versions of the S 1000 RR, S 1000 XR and R 1250 GS.

  • The application stated the three models as “M 1000 RR,” “M 1000 XR,” and “M 1300 GS.”

  • An M bikes means performance parts or higher performance.

Hold on tight, BMW filed an application to trademark the M versions of the S 1000 RR, S 1000 XR and R 1250 GS.

However, according to Motorcycle.com, instead of retaining the first letter suffix of each model, the application replaced them with the letter “M” instead. Thus, the three models became known as the “M 1000 RR,” “M 1000 XR,” and “M 1300 GS.”

This will be unprecedented if the three are sold as such. That’s because BMW Motorrad has a great system of naming their bikes, since the first letter indicated the type of engine the bike uses, with the exception of their scooter line-up.

For example, “F” means parallel-Twin, “G” says single-cylinder, “K” inline-Six (used to cover inline-Fours but has since been taken over by “S”), “R” is for Boxer, “S” means inline-Four. Scooters are a departure from the norm, designated with a “C”.

“M” on the other hand is reserved for bikes that receive the “M package.” M division is BMW’s performance branch who tunes stock machines in fire-breathing beasts, at least for the cars. For example, the M3 compared to the normal 3-Series. In terms of bikes, the 2019 S 1000 RR received the M package which consists of performance parts such as carbon fibre wheels, lighter battery, sport seat, adjustable ride height, adjustable swingarm pivot, Pro ride mode and finished with a special M livery.

So, what would an M 1000 RR be like? No other detail was provided but we are definitely salivating at the thought of a higher performance S 1000 RR. The same goes for the S 1000 XR. Conversely, the M 1300 GS may be even more “adventure” than the normal R 1250 GS.

We’ll see what transpires. It may amount to nothing at all, but who knows.

Source: Motorcycle.com

  • Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad organized the BMW Rider Training sessions over the weekend.

  • The lessons sought to make better riders and learn more about the capabilities of their bikes.

  • It also included basic emergency first aid training.

Bikes may be getting “smarter” but the soft science of riding – as in the rider – cannot be ruled out of the equation. This was why Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad organized the BMW Rider Training clinic over the weekend.

Sure, modern motorcycles are loaded with safety features such as ABS, traction control, wheelie control, combined braking and everything in between, but that doesn’t mean riders just need to sit back and let the systems do the rest. We may as well hang up our helmets and take Grab Car, if it was so.

You see, riders still get into trouble despite the advancement of motorcycle technology. In fact, 90% of motorcycle crashes could be attributed to rider error from one degree to another. Technology complements the rider, instead of the other way around.

BMW R 1250 GS HP

This is why rider training is important. Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad knows this, hence the rider training.

The sessions were carried out through the day and the number of participants was limited to only a maximum of eight. That low number allowed the instructor more time to focus on each student.

It kicked off with the introduction of certified BMW Motorrad trainer Wong K.K. K.K. has been riding extensively for many years, besides carrying out training for BMW car owners before switching to motorcycle training.

Class began with some reflective questions. The objective was to get the participants to recognize the risks, try to avoid them and solve threatening scenarios through training and learning to ride.

Therefore, subjects covered the basic tenets of riding including turning, braking, vision, throttle control, body positioning, cornering. Additionally, K.K. also touched on urban survival such as being visible to others, reading traffic flow, avoiding the blindspot, ATGATT (all the gears all the time), 3-second rule, being paranoid about other road users and situational awareness.

He also talked about group riding i.e. convoys which covered communication, rules, pacing oneself, avoiding fatigue, besides being fully prepared with emergency kits.

However, the main difference to this training was the basic life support talk and demonstration. The hosts roped in Dr. Khairul Azri, an Emergency Physician at the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre for assistance.

He spoke about the need for riders to learn basic life support (BLS) in order to save lives, those which could very well be our very own riding buddies’. As such, his talk covered subjects such as recognizing the severity of injuries, when and how to perform CPR, how to remove the helmet of a fallen rider, and other facets of emergency care.

It was a shame that his session was very compressed but AB will bring the good doctor back for a full-blown BLS course.

The participants and trainers then convoyed to the parking lot outside the Shah Alam Stadium for the practical part of the training.

The first exercise was for tight turns. It sought to provide the students with the confidence to turn their bikes within confined quarters and u-turns. It also highlighted the bikes’ abilities that are usually under-utilised by their respective owners.

For example, the participants needed to ride in a circle within a 2.2 metre square “box.” Most expressed surprise that their bikes including the R 1200 RT and R 1200 GSA could perform the task.

They proceeded to the slow speed slalom afterwards. This was to teach low-speed maneuverability to simulate riding through heavy traffic.

But perhaps one of the best module of the day was braking. Braking is a skill that not many riders are aware of and instead use that facet of bike control as an on/off switch. In fact, while riders everywhere specifically demand the ABS feature, not many are actually aware of what it does and how it works.

A sudden heavy downpour wetted the “track” and it became even more conducive to learn about ABS.

The exercise also served to emphasize BMW’s braking technology such as ABS Pro and Integral ABS.

ABS Pro is actually lean-angle-sensitive ABS, named as “cornering ABS” by other manufacturers. The system provides different braking strategy and brake pressure compared to when the bike is straight up to allow safe hard braking hard while leaned over in a corner.

Integral ABS, on the other hand, is called “linked braking system” or “combined braking system” by other makers. Pressing the front brake lever only will apply some rear brake pressure to stabilise the rear end and chassis. Vice-versa, applying the rear brake only will also trigger some pressure in the front brakes. Consequently, braking is more efficient and safer, in addition to providing more confidence to the rider.

With the ground drenched, the riders were told to ride to certain speeds and apply maximum braking pressure.

The most impressive part was watching a couple of riders who deliberately rode faster to test the limits of their bikes. Watching 250-odd-kg (the R 1200 GS Adventure) and almost 280kg (R 1200 RT) bikes being hauled down from high speeds to a complete stop without drama was probably the best spectacle of the entire class.

Lessons continued throughout the day with the riders learned more and more complex skills.

This writer also heard participants complaining that nothing of use was actually thought at driving schools. All they had to do was remember the procedures to pass. Not one was taught about steering, throttle control, braking, vision, steering and just about everything else. And some people kept wondering why we have so accidents and fatalities among motorcyclists. In any case, they were thankful that AB BMW Motorrad took the initiative to organise the clinic.

In the end, what mattered was eight BMW owners and riders rode home with better skills than when they first stepped into class that day.

PHOTO GALLERY

 

  • The 2019 BMW R 1250 RT is fitted with the new 1254cc Boxer with BMW ShiftCam tech.

  • Outwardly, the new bike looks identical to the R 1200 RT.

  • But there are small updates here and there that made it even better.

Having tested the previous R 1200 RT, the prospect of testing the 2019 R 1250 RT was very much welcomed, with a dash of curiosity.

For starter, the bike features the new 1254cc Boxer. It’s not just a matter bigger bores only as it features the new BMW ShiftCam variable valve timing tech.

The capacity increase and ShiftCam work together to push maximum power to 136 hp at 7,750 RPM and torque to 143 Nm at 6,250 RPM, up from 125 hp/125 Nm in the previous 1204cc Boxer.

The new Boxer and its transmission in the RT is brought over entirely from the R 1250 GS and R 1250 GS Adventure, including the same gear ratios.

The version we tested here is the Sport version, distinguishable by its Mars Red paintjob and lower windscreen. But it’s fitted the Dynamic Package which includes:

  • Daytime Running Light (DRL);
  • Headlight Pro;
  • An extra Dynamic riding mode;
  • Auto Hill Start Control (HSC);
  • Dynamic Brake Control (DBC);
  • Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA);
  • Quickshifter which works for both up- and downshifts;
  • BMW Keyless Ride.

Standard equipment include:

  • ABS Pro;
  • Switchable Automatic Stability Control (ASC);
  • Anti-hop clutch;
  • Panniers.
  • Cruise control.

We’ll leave the equipment list as such as there are so many different ways one could a BMW motorcycle. If so inclined, one could go all out and opt for the Option 719 Package.

I remembered my experience on the previous R 1200 RT fondly. It was big, but it was easier to ride than some 600cc middleweight bikes, I kid you not. It handled like a large scooter and getting through traffic jam wasn’t as difficult as most thought.

So, as I approached the R 1250 RT, it looked exactly like its predecessor. The only things to tell them apart are the spoiler ahead of the transmission and the exhaust headers that are swept further backwards.

I guess there’s no need to change when the old bike’s aerodynamics and design worked so well already.

The ergonomics remain exactly the same: Comfortable to the stage of being coddled.

But I noticed small changes to the TFT screen in the instrument cluster. An added readout was the Hill Stop Control (HSC) icon. Besides that, the Dynamic ESA’s preload settings no longer showed the icons of “helmets and briefcases.” Instead there were the options among MIN, AUTO and MAX. There were two damping settings: ROAD, DYNA (for dynamic)

Personally, the Dynamic ESA settings, HSC and new engine are the real new stuff for the R 1250 RT.

But oh, what difference they make!

First up, the engine drives a whole lot smoother now especially below 4,500 RPM. The engine note becomes louder above that rev and the bike accelerates much faster. However, the way it picked up speed was deceptive. It didn’t have the arm-straightening and neck snapping effect, but you’d be running at 200 km/h in no time. The typically smooth BMW quickshifter contributed to this as well.

Throughout testing I found that it’s best to keep power mode at DYNA during normal riding as the throttle action was more direct. But I’d usually switch to ROAD when I had my wife as the pillion and riding through city traffic. There’s a slight delay in RAIN mode, of course, but the engine’s smooth torque made you forget it pretty soon.

But I’d like to add that the ESA’s preload settings confused me in the first few days. I’d usually keep it in “single helmet” mode in the 1200, so I left it in MIN on the 1250. That gave rise to a heavier feeling bike and steering. I was so confused that I thought there’s too much weight below the fuel tank, which shouldn’t be so for a BMW Boxer…

MAX setting was too tall for my stubby legs… so I chose AUTO for a test, and that sorted out the “problem” immediately. The setting gave the bike optimal chassis balance at all times depending on how much you and your passenger, and the luggage weigh.

As for the ESA’s damping, DYNA worked best as it had more compression and rebound damping to control the shock’s action. The ROAD setting was somehow to soft, resulting in the rear pumping up and down. On the other hand, you’d get ultimate comfort while riding on smooth highways in ROAD setting.

I rode the bike around in KL for a few days, using the bike in a commuter role. I was glad that BMW retained the RT’s signature agility. Yes, the bike was wide, but it was easy to judge the gaps. Also, that Boxer engine, Telelever forks and Paralever swingarm meant that the RT was actually a dressed-up GS. In fact, it was more agile than the GS as the swingarm is much shorter.

As such, I just stood on the footpegs when traffic slowed down to crawling speeds and the RT exhibited had that signature low-speed stability like a GS when I stood up!

Of course, there were instances when there was no gap at all. Drivers were especially kind when they saw the RT and strived to open up gaps. Thank you. But when I had to sit behind cars, I played around with the radio stations and settings. So, there’s nothing to it.

The ultimate riding pleasure was out on the open roads, without doubt. The bike gobbled up the distances so seamlessly that I found myself reaching my destinations almost unexpectedly. There’s this grin I couldn’t wipe off my face when I rode to Ipoh and back.

Talking about the journey back, I was caught in an immense rainstorm that I had only experienced in Cambodia thus far. It was so heavy that I could only see the taillamp of two cars in front! The rain sounded like BB pellets as they pounded my helmet.

But the R 1250 RT? It just kept going. I had set the screen to its highest position and it deflected rain past my helmet’s visor.

I switched to ROAD mode in this rain to see what the bike could do.

And I got what I wished for!

Riding in the right-most lane at 140 km/h (it’s still raining heavily), I switched lanes to visit an R&R ahead. The rear tyre ran over a white line and started sliding. It wasn’t one of those mini-slips, mind you, I glanced down at the handlebar quickly and saw that it had turned right, in opposite lock to the slide.

At this stage, what Sifu Oh Kah Beng and the California Superbike School would tell you is just to relax and ride it out. Yes, that’s right: Do nothing.

I held the throttle open. The slide changed direction to the left, then back to the right, once again to the left… followed by a wiggle at the handlebar… and finally, the bike ran straight at 100 km/h. Why the bike kept sliding was because I was running in a straight path over the white lines. It would’ve been only one slide had I travelled past them and into the next lane.

I’m sure the bike’s automatic stability control had cut in and saved the day, and my skin. I didn’t even feel like my heart had escaped out of my throat. No shaking knees. No WTF was that! No eyeballs as wide as dinner plates. The slide felt controlled, despite the R 1250 RT weighing some 279 kg when fully fueled.

Speaking of fuel, I only refilled the tank once during the KL – Ipoh – KL trip. Ridden carefully, the 25 litre tank has a range of 500 kilometres.

So, there you go, I’ve already mentioned in the R 1200 RT review that I loved the bike for its comfort, handling, features and balance. The R 1250 RT took those attributes and continued with them while adding newer and better functions.

I divide the bikes that I personally like by categories. The R 1250 RT is unbeatable in the luxury sport-tourer category.

  • Auto Bavaria BMW hosted the S1K Malaysia club for track day at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday.

  • The S1K Malaysia club consists of BMW S 1000 RR superbike owners.

  • Participants rode on beautifully prepared bikes.

Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad hosted the S1K Malaysia club for track day at the Sepang International Circuit yesterday.

As its name suggests, the S1K Malaysia club consists of BMW S 1000 RR superbike owners.

The track day was to allow S 1000 RR owners the opportunity to utilize their bikes the way they were designed for. The racetrack is the best venue to find the the riders’ and the bikes’ limits, in a safe and controlled manner.

While it was a mixed brand track day, the S 1000 RR owners were the most heavily represented. Owners had shown up with bikes that have been customized with beautiful paintjobs, exhaust systems and even lightweight wheels.

Although the entire session was for three hours, it was apparent that they enjoyed the day out regardless of their pace. There were fast riders who dragged elbows and knees, and there were riders who didn’t drag anything, yet they all went away with smiling faces.

It was also visible that the S 1000 RR were extremely suited to track work and didn’t required the riders to fight with their bikes.

On the other hand, the 2019 BMW S 1000 RR has yet to make an appearance. Auto Bavaria BMW Motorrad informed us that BMW Motorrad is having their hands full in order to satisfy demand.

PHOTO GALLERY

  • Millennium Welt BMW Motorrad hosted the BMW Motorrad Club Malaysia (BMWMCM) members for a Merdeka ride themed “Sayangi Malaysiaku” (Love My Malaysia).

  • The convoy rode to Muar, Johor.

  • About 150 riders and guests took part.

Millennium Welt BMW Motorrad hosted the BMW Motorrad Club Malaysia (BMWMCM) members for a Merdeka ride.

The ride, themed “Sayangi Malaysiaku” (Love My Malaysia) was held on the 62ndMerdeka Day, 31st August 2019.

It began from 7.30am with the arrival of approximately 150 riders and guests, in preparation for a convoy to Muar, Johor. Stops included the Bukit Kepong Muzium as a reminder to Malaysia’s stand against communist guerillas.

The staff from Millennium Welt handed over the ride t-shirts and also Malaysian flags to be placed on the participants’ bikes. The flags signified the riders’ patriotism and love for the nation.

Apart from patriotism, the ride demonstrated that Malaysians stand together as one in spite of race, religion or creed. Indeed, the representatives called for solidarity and to reject racism and fundamentalism.

The dealer also served a great Malaysian meal before the flag off. The national anthem “Negaraku” was sung by all and proceeded with the shouts of “Merdeka!” (independence) ringing throughout the Metal Bees Production House and surroundings in Sunway Damansara.

This was the first Merdeka ride organized by Millennium Welt BMW Motorrad and they promised more of such rides in the future. Attendees also had the opportunity to test ride the latest BMW Motorrad models.

PHOTO GALLERY

  • BMW Motorrad may be working on a new BMW S 1000 XR sport-tourer.

  • The new bike’s engine needs to be Euro 5-compliant.

  • It needs to contend with the Ducati Multistrada V4 and KTM 1290 Super Adventure.

We reported earlier that the BMW S 1000 XR was missing from BMW Motorrad USA’s submission to the air control board.

While we don’t see many S 1000 XR on our shores, the model is highly popular in Europe and elsewhere. In fact, it outsold the S 1000 RR sportbike in BMW’s four-cylinder line-up.

To kill the model outright would see the manufacturer lose out in a huge market, so that could only mean one thing: That BMW is working on a new model.

Again, almost all manufacturers must build Euro 5-compliant models by 2020 or 2021. Older models will have to comply by 2020 while completely new models can comply by 2021.

The new S 1000 XR will definitely feature an engine with the new Shift Cam technology, as already fitted to the new S 1000 RR. The technology allows the engine to generate the required horsepower and keeping emissions low.

Speaking of power, the current bike’s engine produces 165 hp. We wonder if we’ll see a power hike in the new bike since it has to contend with the new KTM 1290 Super Adventure and the rumoured Ducati Multistrada V4.

The new S 1000 XR may also feature radar-controlled auto cruise. KTM is reportedly testing it on the next generation 1290 Super Adventure.

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