The anticipation for the soon the be launched BMW G310R is getting hotter. So hot that dealers are already accepting bookings for the new entry level BMW in anticipation of increasing demand.
A post on mudah.my by a dealer of BMW Motorcycles has welcomed a 20% downpayment on the 310R with deliveries expected to begin in June this year.
As for the price, there has been no clear indication of that but there is word from a recent dealer conference that prices are set to begin from RM25,000 up till RM30,000 with a long list of accessories set to take those prices up higher should you wish to do so.
We know that the G310 will eventually spawn a mini sports adventure touring model similar but much smaller from the BMW GS. There will also be a full sports model similar to the RR (read about it here) and the regular naked model we see in the pictures here.
The official launch event is said to be happening sometime in March.
Once introduced, the new G310R model will take on the likes of the KTM 250 and the 390, Kawasaki Z300, the Yamaha MT-03 and others.
The G310R will be the most affordable BMW motorcycle ever, and is powered by an all-new 313cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with four valves and two overhead camshafts together with electronic fuel injection.
It outputs 34hp at 9500rpm and 28Nm of torque at 7500rpm. We had an informal introduction with the G310R in Milan late last year, you can read all about it by clicking here.
You can also view the official video of the BMW G310R below:
As you might have heard a couple of months ago, Kawasaki has updated the ZX-14 for 2016 with an updated engine to keep up with the strict European emission regulations.
This is due to the fact that the ZX-14 was one of the bikes that did not match the emissions standards set by the US Environmental Protection Agency.
So, with a few tweaks to the powerplant, the bike is now ready for the European market. However, the bike’s maximum output, which stood at 210.7hp in the outgoing model, has been decreased to 199.9hp.
The latest EPA test data shows the model has a ‘new’ version of the 1441cc engine with a three-way catalyst rather than an ‘oxidising’ cat. Along with peak power, carbon monoxide emissions have also been lowered.
Set to be available in two variants (ZX-14R and the ZX-14R Performance Sports) for 2016, notable changes include the new instrument cluster with LCD displays with dot-pattern background, black and white interchangeable displays, Brembo M50 monobloc brake calipers with Brembo radial-pump master cylinder, stainless steel brake lines, Ohlins TTX39 rear shock absorber, as well as Akrapovic exhausts.
Uncertain about his future in the WSBK World Superbike Championship, rider Leon Haslam is all set to make a return to the MCE British Superbike championship in 2016.
Sources say that the 32-year-old will be teaming up with JG Speedfit Kawasaki, and will ride alongside James Ellison and Peter Hickman.
It is said that this will be the first Haslam will be riding a Kawasaki machinery in his career. And with a brand new bike closely developed with the factory team of Jonathan Rea and Tom Sykes, it could be the chance that Haslam needs to finally bury his demons in the domestic series.
Although no official announcements have been made, Haslam did mention that he was looking at BSB options, and that interesting offers have already been made by certain parties.
Less than a year after Kawasaki launched its first ever scooter (the J300), the brand has unveiled its second scooter – the J125 in Spain earlier this week.
Powered by an all-new water-cooled single cylinder 125cc four-stroke engine which produces a claimed 14bhp and 11.5Nm of torque, the J125 weighs 182kg and competes directly with models like the Suzuki Burgman and Yamaha X-Max 125.
Inspired by the J300, the J125 looks quite similar to its bigger sibling, and comes with under-seat storage big enough for a single full face helmet and A4 briefcase.
It is said that the scooter also comes with a small glove box at the front which has a 12v power outlet.
According to Kawasaki, ABS and an anti-temper anti-theft ignition switch is offered as standard.
All set to make its UK debut in January 2016, there has not been any official announcement on whether the J125 will be introduced here in Malaysia.
Kawasaki (Motors) Malaysia Sdn Bhd (KMSB) continues to develop motorcycles to meet customers’ demand around the world including Malaysian market, even with the weakened Ringgit and economic deterioration in China. (more…)
After our extensive launch report, you’d think you already know everything you need to about the new and massively upgraded 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. However, Kawasaki doesn’t think so, explaining its newly released video below that details the brand’s flagship superbike in all its glory.
To cut things short, what Kawasaki have done was essentially taking the vast input from its World Superbike Championship (WSBK) team’s riders and engineers in the superbike’s development, resulting in the creation of one of its most potent machines ever.
You could say that the new ZX-10R has leaped ahead of its predecessors significantly, and you could perhaps measure that in lightyears if needed. But, lets not forget the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R’s core mission, which is to grant the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) with a strong machine to defend its WSBK title in the coming years.
The full upgrade package starts with an uprated powerplant that’s caged within a revised chassis that boasts built-in resonance chambers and a longer swingarm. The follow up to that is the redesigned exterior with improved aerodynamic stability as well.
However, one of its most critical new gains lies in its generously upgraded electronics, the icing of said cake though being the Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that ties all the systems together.
Then comes some of the impressive new hardware starting with the production bike debut of the adjustable Showa Balance Free Front Fork system featuring gas-charged tubes. Complementing those further are the adoptions of new radially mounted Brembo monobloc calipers up front that grabs a pair of larger 330mm rotors that is tasked with the bulk of arresting this superbike to a halt.
Check out the video from Kawasaki we posted above and revel in this precision instrument of speed and aerodynamic in all its green glory. Alternatively, you could also read our extensive report here.
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’.
The supercharged monstrosity known as the Kawasaki Ninja H2 has gained a new paint scheme for its 2016 model year version. The new scheme, which Kawasaki calls “Mirror Coated Spark Black”, gives the Ninja H2 a much more darker stance as a result of the scheme’s blackened-out theme and nature.
Besides this dark new paint job, Kawasaki has not announce any further changes to its supercharged halo bike. Minus the new paint, it is highly likely that the model would remain mechanically unchanged from its current form.
Kawasaki has also yet to confirm if it would continue to offer the Ninja H2’s track-only sibling, the Ninja H2R, throughout 2016 as well.
You can check out the 2016 Kawasaki Ninja H2’s darkened new personality in the gallery we’ve prepared below.
Kawasaki has discreetly taken the wraps off two new variants of the Vulcan S, called the Vulcan S Café and Vulcan S SE at the ongoing American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) in Orlando, Florida.
The Kawasaki Vulcan S Cafe adds a new tinted wind deflector, an exclusive color scheme, as well as deflector mounts over the headlight. Besides the wind deflector, the Café variant adds a Matte Carbon Gray color scheme with a Candy Lime Green stripe running down the middle of the bike. ABS comes standard on the Cafe.
And then, there is the Vulcan S SE which features a two-tone Metallic Imperial Blue and Metallic Spark Black color with matching blue striping on the wheels. The SE model also comes standard with ABS.
While additions on these special variants go only as far as the cosmetics are concerned, they are expected to further boost the model’s sales.
Speaking of sales, there has not been any official announcement on whether the Kawasaki Vulcan S SE and Cafe will arrive on local shores, but looking at how successful it is here, the chances are quite high, we must say.
Kawasaki has taken the wraps off the 2016 version of the Kawasaki ZX-14 earlier this week, with a few key upgrades which includes a tweaked ECU, a new instrument cluster, as well as Brembo monobloc brake calipers. The upgrades were all in line with meeting the latest Euro4 emission regulations.
According to Kawasaki, the tweaked ECU has managed reduce emissions whilst maintaining the bike’s maximum output of 207hp, making it among the most powerful bikes to be unveiled this year.
Powering the beast is a 1,441cc liquid cooled, four-stroke, inline-four cylinder engine which produces 207hp, enabling the bike to accelerate from standstill to 100km/h in 2.6 seconds, with an electronically restricted top speed of 299km/h.
Set to be available in two variants (ZX-14R and the ZX-14R Performance Sports) for 2016, notable changes include the new instrument cluster with LCD displays with dot-pattern background, black and white interchangeable displays, Brembo M50 monobloc brake calipers with Brembo radial-pump master cylinder, stainless steel brake lines, Ohlins TTX39 rear shock absorber, as well as Akrapovic exhausts.
If you happen to be one of those who has just obtained your B-Full license; looking for a first big bike that has decent amount of power, offers practicality for daily usage, yet doesn’t blow a big hole in your bank account, you’ve come to the right place, as we have a list of middleweights compiled for your reference.
Although the definition of a middleweight motorcycle may vary from one person to another, we have decided to refer to what the Japanese Big Four (Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda) have agreed upon – that a middleweight bike should displace 500cc—800cc. However, not all bikes within this displacement range are suitable for beginners, as there are various models with different characteristics.
That said, here are 10 middleweight bikes in our market at the moment that are ideal for those looking for their first big bike.
1) Kawasaki ER-6N
You know that a bike is ideal for beginners when you see it being used by driving schools to teach B-Full license applicants the basics. Offered at a very competitive price, the Kawasaki ER-6N also deserves full credit for changing the big bike scene in Malaysia, becoming the first bike to make Malaysians believe that “now everyone can ride a big bike.”
Specifications
Engine: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin, DOHC 8-valve
Fuel system: Digital Fuel Injection
Displacement: 649cc
Max power: 71hp at 8,500rpm
Max torque: 64Nm at 7,000rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 17-litres
Price: RM32,000
2) Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F
Capable of handling anything from daily commuting, weekend blasts, as well as long distance touring, the XJ6 Diversion F is the latest variant of the XJ6. The bike runs on a reliable 600cc in-line 4 cylinder engine and the compact chassis is designed to deliver agile handling and confidence-inspiring road holding. This all-rounder XJ6 Diversion F is equipped with smooth action suspension systems to ensure top class riding comfort.
Specifications
Engine: Liquid cooled, 4 stroke, DOHC, 4 valve
Displacement : 600 cc
Maximum Horsepower: 77hp at 10,000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 59.7Nm at 8,500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 litres
Price: RM39,800
3) Honda CB500X
Ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders, the CB500X delivers plenty of performance, thanks to the thoroughly modern, torquey 471cc parallel-twin DOHC engine. Its upright handlebar, the shape and height of the seat, and the way the power is delivered accommodates a wide variety of riders, and gives riders a lot of freedom. The CB500X is an excellent choice for riders ready to move up a displacement class, or for anyone who appreciates a great middleweight motorcycle for practical in-town riding, or fun adventure-sport touring.
Specifications
Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves, parallel-twin
Displacement : 471cc
Maximum Horsepower: 46.9 hp at 8500 rpm
Maximum Torque: 43 Nm at 7000 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.3 litres
Price: RM28,688
4) Kawasaki Versys 650
Kawasaki’s third-generation Versys 650 has grown into a serious entry-level sports tourer that is worth every sen it asks for. Despite all the upgrades that has been added, it is still perfect for the less experienced, as well as the veterans. However, due to the height of the bike, it is not suitable for small-sized individuals. On the brighter side, it is among the more powerful candidates in its class.
Specifications
Engine: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel twin
Displacement: 649cc
Fuelling: Fuel Injection
Max power: 68hp at 8,500rpm
Max torque: 64Nm at 7,000rpm
Fuel capacity: 21-litres
Price: RM38,369
5) Suzuki Gladius 650
Launched during last year’s Malaysian MotoGP round, the Suzuki Gladius is a naked bike that is ideal for both daily riding and some occasional canyon carving. Featuring the same 645cc V-Twin engine that is fitted on its sibling – the V-Strom 650, the bike features fuel injection technology and SDTV system among other technology.
Specifications
Engine: 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90-degree V-Twin
Displacement: 645cc
Transmission 6-speed
Max power: 71 hp at 9000 rpm
Max torque: 63.1 Nm at 7600 rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 14.5-litres
Price: RM39,900
6) Kawasaki Vulcan S
Honestly, it doesn’t get any better than this. Never have we had a good looking 650cc cruiser with an asking price below RM30,000. No, it has no V-twin, and it doesn’t sound like a Harley-Davidson but it serves its purpose very well, both in town and on the highway.
Specifications
Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, parallel twin
Displacement: 649cc
Transmission: Six-speed
Max power: 61hp at 7,500rpm
Max torque: 63Nm at 6,600rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 14-litres
Price: RM29,989
7) Honda CB650F
Made for those who want more than the 500cc offered by the CB500 range, the CB650F, which is powered by Honda’s completely new inline four-cylinder engine produces generous amounts of low to mid-range torque, making it a formidable bike in the city and during quick runs. However, the comfortable upright sitting position, ergonomically placed levers and pegs make it an ideal bike for long distance riding as well. In all, the CB650F is catered towards those with a thirst for torque.
Specifications
Engine: Liquid-cooled 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC Inline-4
Displacement: 649cc
Transmission: Six-speed
Max power: 87hp at 11,000rpm
Max torque: 63Nm at 8,000rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 17.3-litres
Price: RM39,999
8) Ducati Monster 795
If Japanese bikes are not your thing, and you want something more exotic, Ducati Malaysia is here to make your day with the Monster 795. Priced below RM60,000, the Monster is so user-friendly that even female riders are loving it. But that doesn’t mean that the bike is not powerful. Powered by a 795cc engine, the Monster 795 is just as exciting as any other Ducatis in the stable.
Specifications
Engine: L-Twin, 2 Desmodromically actuated valves per cylinder, air cooled
Displacement: 803cc
Transmission: 6-speed
Max power: 87hp at 8,250rpm
Max torque: 78Nm at 6,250rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 15-litres
Price: RM59,900
9) Kawasaki Z800
Ever since it was launched in 2012, the Kawasaki Z800 has gained massive popularity, becoming arguably the most popular middleweight on our roads today. Among the factors that contributed towards the Z800’s success include its competitive price, fierce design, and of course, the generous dose of power.
Specifications
Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, inline-four
Displacement: 806cc
Transmission: 6-speed
Max power: 113hp at 10,200rpm
Max torque: 83 Nm at 8000rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 17-litres
Price: RM47,989
10) Triumph Bonneville
Different riders have different preferences. Some potential first bike owners might have a soft spot for modern classics. If you fall under this group, the Triumph Bonneville is here to make your day. As much as the Bonnie looks like a classic, it rides and feels just as modern as any other new bike out there. Ideal for both daily usage and long distance cruising, the Bonnie is among the best modern classics out there in the market, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Specifications
Engine: Air-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin, 360º firing interval
Displacement: 865cc
Transmission: 5-speed
Max power: 68hp at 7500rpm
Max torque: 68Nm at 5800rpm
Fuel tank capacity: 16-litres
Price: RM53,900
