The Malaysian MotoGP is one of the busiest periods in the Bikes Republic calendar. There usually is a bunch of PR events, launch events, meet & greet events and exclusive dinners to attend. A busy period but also a good period as this is the time we meet all our heroes, and are sometimes given a chance to meet heroes from the past.
One of those exclusive dinners was hosted by Alpinestars, the maker of ultra-sophisticated leathers, gloves, shoes and other motorcycle riding gear that are all clinically designed to keep the rider safe in all situations.
The dinner took place at Sama-Sama Hotel the night before race day, and was attended by selected media, Alpinestars distributors from Malaysia and the region and staff of Alpinestars. The dinner was also attended by MotoGP legend Randy Mamola, who was well-known for his on and off track antics.
The American still has his electrifying personality; when Randy speaks, you automatically shut up and listen. He was there as the ambassador of Alpinestars, so he took centrestage and began to share his experiences on track and such.
Randy was about 10-minutes into his talk when suddenly the door opens and Cal Crutchlow walks in. The Brit is also known for his “no-holes-barred” conversation style as he always speaks his mind and does not hold back.
Seeing the two talk about modern races, technology, and Marc Marquez was indeed an honour, an honour we captured on our phone.
We hope you enjoy this video as much as we did being in the same room with these two legends. We did not capture the moment when Cal drops in, but here is how the rest of the conversation goes:
The final MotoGP race of 2017 will start later tonight at 9.00pm (local time) between Andrea Dovizioso and Marc Marquez.
Repsol Honda’s Marquez is currently leading the 2017 championship with 21 points ahead of Ducati’s Dovizioso.
The only way Dovizioso can be crowned MotoGP World Champion is if he wins today’s race and Marquez finishes in P12 or below.
The moment has arrived, fellow MotoGP fans. The final round of the 2017 season is here and what a season it has been. With so many actions, dramas and amazing battles, the finale arrives in Valencia where the 2017championship has boiled down to only two riders; Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda and Andrea Dovizioso of Ducati Team. (more…)
It has become a tradition for GIVI to be present at the Malaysian MotoGP.
They gave away plenty of great goodies to those who visited their pavilion.
Participants of the MotoGP convoy also received plenty of great stuff.
“It had become a tradition for GIVI to participate in MotoGP and organize this MotoGP convoy,” said Joseph Perucca, Overseas Operational Director of GIVI.
His words couldn’t be truer as GIVI has a large presence in MotoGP every year, from supporting the LCR Honda MotoGP Team and the factory Ducati Team, to the massive pavilion, and the convoy.
This year, GIVI Malaysia went about designing their pavilion with slight differences. But they weren’t insignificant, by and large.
Firstly, they’ve included as the backdrop. GIVI Malaysia’s tour bus is always on location during Cub Prix races and also special events.
Secondly, there are many more different motorcycles on display, all fitted to the gills with GIVI cases and accessories. They included the Honda RS150R, Kawasaki Versys-X 250, besides others.
Thirdly, the usual display case of GIVI’s cases, helmets and apparel were also present, but the helmets were the newer models.
But the most significant difference this year is the inclusion of the injection moulding machine, which they use to produces the ABS cases you and I have long used and loved. However, instead of producing large cases during MotoGP, the machine was configured to produce coin boxes, made from the same material as the cases and complete with GIVI’s red and silver logo.
The boxes were given away as complimentary gifts to those who have liked GIVI Malaysia’s Facebook page. The long queue snaked its way into the middle of the mall area.
The pavilion was also where MotoGP riders visited for autograph sessions. LCR Honda MotoGP Team’s rider, Cal Crutchlow and team boss, Lucio Cecchinello made their appearance on Saturday afternoon to sign postcards, posters, t-shirts, helmets and whatever GIVI paraphernalia fans presented to them. The fans had started queuing two hours prior to the autograph session, braving the scorching Saturday sun.
Participants for the MotoGP Convoy congregated from as early as 7am, at the KL Tower, on Sunday morning. GIVI has always tied in their MotoGP convoys to special promotions for certain top cases, and it was for the recently-launched B32 “Mule” top case this year.
The special guest this year was Anita Yusof, Malaysia’s own world traveller, in addition to Lucio Cecchinello.
Participants who registered for the convoy received many wonderful goodies, including the new RWB02 waterproof waist pouch, a cap, balaclava, a special edition 2017 GIVI MotoGP Convoy jersey, and a grandstand ticket; besides a voucher each for a bottle of Castrol engine oil and a can of Monster Energy drink. But that’s not all. Participants also received a parking sticker for the coveted PA1 motorcycle parking lot, which was situated directly opposite the main SIC entrance, saving both money and time.
The weekend’s event culminated with the MotoGP race, of course.
Don’t despair if you missed this year’s festivities set up by GIVI, just make sure you participate in 2018 for the full MotoGP experience.
The thrilling 15-minute session saw championship leader Marc Marquez crashing.
1st to 10th spots covered by less than one second.
Dani Pedrosa captures pole position ahead of tomorrow’s Shell Malaysian MotoGP 2017 after an edge-of-the-seat qualifying session.
Run under the sweltering hot sun, the riders put the hammer down to post some blistering times, which saw the coveted position switch hands multiple times before it was settled at the very last moment.
There was plenty of drama too, when championship leader Marc Marquez crashed at the last turn on his very first flying lap, apparently after hitting the turn way too fast. He had just saved himself from crashing during FP4. Marquez frantically restarted his bike to ride back to his pits for his spare bike. He came back in again just minutes from the end of the Q2 session for his first bike, but the best he could do was seventh on the grid.
While everyone was hooked up on Marquez’s crash, Johann Zarco snuck in pole position. Zarco had won the Moto2 race in Malaysia for the past two years.
Behind the Frenchman, Maverick Vinalez, Valentino Rossi, Dani Pedrosa, Jorge Lorenzo, and Andrea Dovizioso (who’s chasing his first world championship and 33 points behind Marquez), vied for the top spot.
Rossi was the first man to displace Zarco from the top to an immense cheer from the capacity crowd, only to be immediately outgunned by Dovizioso. But while the cameras focused on “Desmo” Dovi, Pedrosa posted his fastest time of 1’59.212.
Then Zarco improved on his time and relegated Dovizioso to third.
Positions 1st to 10th were covered by less than 1 second. But more telling was the third fastest time posted by Dovizioso in third, just 0.024 seconds from pole.
If there’s one thing about the Malaysian MotoGP, one could never know how it’s going to end, and if today’s qualifying session was an indication, we’re in for an amazing race tomorrow.
KTM Malaysia got off to a great start at the 2017 Malaysian MotoGP.
Moto2 and Moto3 riders visited for a meet-and-greet, and autograph session for the fans.
MotoGP riders will visit today for meet-and-greet plus autograph session.
27th October 2017, Sepang Circuit – As promised, KTM Malaysia rocked the show at the 2017 Malaysian MotoGP.
Although Day One (Friday) got off to a slower start due to incessant rain throughout most parts of the day, KTM’s pavilion was packed with racing fans who had queued patiently to meet Moto2 riders Miguel Oliveira and Brad Binder, and Moto3 riders Bo Bendsneyder and Niccolo Antonelli.
Their patience was rewarded by first KTM Malaysia who carried out fun quiz sessions throughout the day. Participants walked away with some great KTM memorabilia.
Visitor also had the opportunity to view, touch and even smell the latest KTM motorcycles, including the GP16 MotoGP racebike replica, RC Cup racer, the just-launched 250 Duke and 390 Duke, 1290 Super Duke R, 1290 Super Adventure S, the still-rare and new 1290 Super Adventure R; and of course, off-road bikes for which KTM are synonymous with such as the new ISDE Six Day Enduro models, SX-F motocross models, EX/C-F four-stroke enduro models and more.
The new ISDE Six Day models are noteworthy as the bikes have different graphics now, as the International Six Day Enduro (ISDE) event has moved to France. These bikes are collector’s items.
Another motorcycle to look out for is the 1050 Adventure Travel Pack. The 1050 Adventure has always been a fun, comfortable and reliable bike for adventure- and sport-touring, but it’s now even better with the Travel Pack.
For a limited time only, customers who opt for the Travel Pack together with the purchase of a new 1050 Adventure will receive ten (yes, 10!) PowerPart accessories such as semi-floating panniers, crash-protection bars for the engine, and others for just an extra RM 3,000. Be sure to check back in with us for the updates soon.
Day Two of the 2017 Malaysian MotoGP (Saturday, 28th October) will see MotoGP riders, Pol Espargaro and Bradley Smith visiting the KTM pavilion for another meet-and-greet plus autograph session. So remember to bring your KTM gear and be there by 5pm.
1. Visit the Shell Advance Ride Thru Service booth
Are you riding to Sepang to watch the race? Then be sure to visit the Shell Advance booth at the PA1 parking lot ride opposite the main entrance (Welcome Centre). Buy any Shell Advance motorcycle lubricant and you will get a free engine service, free engine filter, free food and drinks, and you stand a chance to win other great goodies. Check out the video we created at last year’s Shell Ride Thru Service so you know what to expect!
2. Don’t have a ticket to watch the race? Then visit the Shell Advance Ride Thru booth – again!
Yes that’s right. Shell Advance Malaysia wants to give you free tickets to the Shell Hillstand to watch the race. All you have to do is buy a Shell Advance AX7 or Ultra and service your bike at the Ride Through Service! So if you do not have tickets, this is your chance.
3. Get ready to shop!
The Malaysian MotoGP is the best time to buy merchandise of your favourite team or racer. There will be plenty of Valentino Rossi merchandise on sale, and at great prices too. So bring your wallet, and make sure there is a load of cash in it.
4. Visit the HJC booth to check out a special helmet
Of course there are going to be other helmet brands there too, and you should visit them too, but HJC Helmets is known to make some amazing helmets and are among the most affordable in the market right now. The latest helmet models are a unique line that include a few Marvel superheroes. But the latest design is one that will grab the attention of cartoon lovers with a design from the Cars 3 cartoon series. Don’t miss out the intricate details of the new HJC helmet.
5. Get up close and personal with the amazing Kawasaki H2R
The Kawasaki H2R needs no introduction, it is alien in comparison to regular bikes. Made of carbon fibre, the supercharged motorcycle is capable of hitting 400km/h. But it looks like it going really fast even while standing still. Marvel at this engineering masterpiece at the Kawasaki booth. Read more about this amazing machine here!
6. Check out the vast array of KTM bikes
Don’t let this team photo fool you, KTM makes motorcycles for track riders, adventurers and daily commuters.
KTM Motorcycles are becoming more and more popular now, and they are among a few manufacturers that have a complete range of motorcycles from dirt bikes to everyday commuters. There is a KTM motorcycle for everybody. And if you are a fan of the marque, there is also plenty of official merchandise to buy.
7. Stay hydrated with Red Bull
Over the years, the Red Bull marquee has built a reputation as the most happening booth during MotoGP thanks to its party like atmosphere. It is also the only booth during MotoGP that allows alcohol. So visit the Red Bull marquee, watch the race live, cool down with the air-conditioned tent. And if alcohol is not your thing, then simply load up on the Red Bull energy drink.
8. Take lots of selfies with the models
Where ever there are fast bikes there are bound to be plenty of beautiful women, and that is the case during MotoGP as well. There will be a long line of guys waiting to get a selfie with the gorgeous models, and they oblige with a smile. Just make sure your wife or girlfriend is not with you though.
9. Check out the new BMW bikes
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has a prominent booth just at the entrance to the grand stand area. And just like KTM, they have a complete range of motorcycles the fits almost all budgets. From the extremely loveable G310R, to the outrageous BMW HP4 Race that costs an astonishing RM520,900. Read about both the bikes here!
10. Win various goodies
A number of booths will be giving away free merchandise in return for something. Givi for example was giving away a very cool coin box after you like their Facebook page. We also know other stands are also doing the same, so keep a look out for all the free stuff on offer.
11. Watch the race!
This is a no-brainer. We are at the second last race of the season, and Spaniard Marc Marquez is leading the championship again. In second place is Andrea Dovizioso who still has a good chance of winning the championship provided something happens to Marquez, which is unlikely. There is definitely going to be good action to watch at the race. Also, our local boys Adam Norrodin, Hafizh Syahrin, Khairul Idham Pawi as well as wildcard rider Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin will all have plenty to prove at their home race. So whatever you do, no matter how many hot models there are to take photos with, or how many free goodies there are – do not miss the race!
See you there!
By the way, have you heard that Petronas wants to give some lucky people a year’s worth of engine lubricants? You can be one of those lucky people too by taking part in a simple contest. For more information on the contest, you can visit www.mymesra.com.my/pengejarimpian
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has launched the S 1000 RR HP4 Race, G 310 GS and S 1000 XR at the 2017 Malaysian MotoGP.
Three bikes in three different segments to cater to the needs of ever biker.
The S 1000 RR HP4 Race is priced from RM520,000, the G 310 GS from RM29,900 and S 1000 XR from RM105,900.
Sepang, 27 October 2017 – BMW Motorrad Malaysia unveiled three new motorcycles at the Malaysian MotoGP 2017 this weekend. The all-new BMW HP4 Race, the all-new BMW G 310 GS and the new BMW S 1000 XR were all unveiled for the first time in Malaysia at the annual MotoGP in Sepang International Circuit.
Introducing the new premium motorcycles, Owen Riley, Head of BMW Motorrad Malaysia said, “If the MotoGP is the largest motorcycle racing event in Malaysia, then it is only natural that the event is also where BMW Motorrad Malaysia will have our biggest presence and showing of the year. This year, we are presenting three new motorcycles to which motorrad fans here have been waiting for since they were first teased at the EICMA in Milan last year!
The All-New BMW HP4 Race – our pure bred racing superbike created only for the race track! The much anticipated All-New BMW 310 GS and The Super Adventure Sports Tourer, BMW S 1000 XR.”
The All-New BMW HP 4 Race. Individually crafted for top performance on the race track.
The all-new BMW S 1000 RR HP4 Race represents a purebred racing bike with only 750 units ever produced. The motorcycles are individually crafted by a small, highly specialised team to ensure the very highest level of performance and reliability on the racetrack.
The HP4 RACE offers a purebred racing engine similar to specifications 6.2 and 7.2 as in the Endurance and World Superbike Championships (WSBK). The peak output is 158 kW (215 hp) at 13900 rpm. The maximum torque of 120 Nm is reached at 10000 rpm. The maximum RPM has been increased from 14200 to 14500 RPM, compared to the standard S 1000 RR. A 6-speed close-ratio racing gearbox is used with optimised ratios and various secondary ratios.
While engine and electronics are in the same category as the current superbike factory racebikes, The S 1000 RR HP4 Race does one better by featuring a carbon fibre frame. In fact, weighing 171 kilograms when fully fuelled and track ready, the new HP4 RACE is even lighter than the factory racing bikes.
The new BMW HP4 RACE likewise meets the highest demands of racing technology in the area of suspension and brakes. Both the Öhlins FGR 300 upside-down fork and TTX 36 GP rear shock are identical to those used in the WSBK and MotoGP. The light alloy underslung swingarm made of milled and sheet metal parts is also a component used in WSBK. Featuring two Brembo GP4 PR monobloc brake calipers, the brake system of new HP4 RACE also has parts otherwise only to be found in WSBK machines. Coated titanium pistons and single-piece aluminium calipers with chemically nickel-plated surface make for what is currently the very best combination of materials available. In conjunction with 6.75 mm thick 320 millimetre T-type racing steel brakes, the system ensures stunning brake performance.
The new BMW HP4 RACE comes with an extensive package of electronic control and assistance systems as well as a weight-optimised on-board electrical system which has been optimised to meet racing needs. A wealth of information is available on the 2D dashboard (data-logger) with transferable data memory.
The BMW HP4 Race is only available in the BMW HP Motorsport colour scheme which gives the ultimate superbike an aggressive demeanour.
The All-New BMW G 310 GS. Ready for everyday adventures.
The GS range of BMW Motorrad motorcycles represent a promise of perfect functioning, reliability and robustness. The BMW G 310 GS transfers these qualities to the below-500cc capacity segment, embracing in its own distance, mature interpretation. A highly contemporary product with a level of versatility that is currently unrivalled in the segment. It is nimble and agile in city traffic, while supremely robust over light terrain. This makes it the perfect companion for the adventures of everyday riding. Extremely compact yet mature and comfortable, the GS opens up a whole new world of riding experience within its segment. It is precisely this versatility that makes the BMW G 310 GS unique in the entry-level segment.
BMW G 310 GS
The centerpiece of the new BMW G 310 GS is the 313cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valves, single-cylinder engine. A salient feature of the single-cylinder engine in the BMW G 310 GS is the fact that its cylinder is tilted to the rear and its cylinder head is rotated by 180 degrees: intake at the front, outlet at the rear. This configuration follows the logic that a straight, power-enhancing supply of fresh air-fuel mixture and also has positive consequences in terms of the bike’s architecture. With an output of 25kW (34bhp) at 9,500 RPM and a maximum torque of 28Nm at 7,500 RPM, the engine of the new BMW G 310 GS is the ideal partner for dynamic riding pleasure, in conjunction with the low unladen weight of 169.5kg (373lbs.).
In terms of its suspension, the G 310 GS utilises a tubular steel spaceframe with bolt-on rear section that combines torsional rigidity with robust quality. Given its good stiff balance, this provides the basis for excellent ride stability and a precise steering response. The front suspension uses upside-down forks, while at the rear shock is mounted directly to the aluminium swingarm.
With a high front fender, striking flyline and short, high rear, the G 310 GS features classic elements of its big GS sibling models. Its compact proportions with a short wheelbase, a 19-inch front wheel and extended suspension travel makes a comfortable ride over bad road surfaces. The G 310 GS is also designed for the world market, it is compatible with diverse fuel qualities as well as meets all emissions standards and local requirements.
BMW G 310 GS
The BMW G 310 GS is available in three strikingly expressive colour variants: Cosmic Black non-metallic, Racing Red non-metallic and the elaborately designed Pearl White metallic. These variants offer a spectrum ranging from sporty and robust to contemporary.
BMW G 310 GS
The New BMW S 1000 XR. Adventure Sport Further Refined.
With the introduction of the BMW S 1000 XR in 2015, BMW Motorrad offered its own new interpretation of the sport-touring range, not least adding a powerful dose of emotion into the mix.
Even more potent now, the new S 1000 XR offers a new in-line 4-cylinder engine which meets the EU4 requirements. However, reduction in emissions does not necessarily mean a reduction in power. The output is now rated at 165 bhp (121 kW) at 11,000 RPM.
The new XR sees an increase of 10 kg in both the maximum permissible weight and the payload of the bike for more luggage hauling capability. Softer isolating elements on the handlebars effectively reduce vibrations from being passed onto the rider’s hands.
The new S 1000 XR is available in a new colour offering of refined Ocean Blue metallic matt which gives the Adventure Sport touring bike a more distinctively refined appearance.
The retail price (without insurance and inclusive of GST) for the new models are:
It is the MotoGP weekend and this is the time when riders from all teams hit the ground to meet their fans, friends, sponsors and everyone who means something to them.
Cal Crutchlow of LCR Honda was one of those riders who hit town for a meet and greet session this evening at Hard Rock Cafe, KL. Organised by Castrol, Crutchlow met dealers, members of the media, fans and about 200 lucky people who managed to get up close and personal with the race winner.
The 32-year old from England has had a storied career in motorcycle racing – beginning his professional career as a superbike rider and was crowned the British Supersport Champion in 2006. He then went on to clinch the Supersport World Championship title in his rookie season in 2009. After making his debut in MotoGP, he joined LCR Honda in 2015 after stints at Yamaha and Ducati.
Last year, Crutchlow became the first ever Briton to win the Australian Grand Prix and was also on the podium at Brno. He finished the 2016 season in seventh place, and this year he is currently in ninth place with two more races left in the season.
“Castrol’s relationship with LCR Honda started in 2015, the same year Crutchlow joined the team. This is the first time we have arranged a meet and greet session for MotoGP fans here in Malaysia. Some of the guests here are winners from the FB competition we organised earlier. The Castrol brand is about passion, excitement and performance; and LCR Honda together with Cal Crutchlow as its rider, perfectly encapsulates Castrol’s brand values. Our long term technical partnership with motorcycle manufacturers and the use of the highest level of motorcycle racing as a testing ground is a very important part of our never-ending development of high quality products, both for competition racers and enthusiast bikers around the world. With Castrol POWER1 as the chosen lubricant, the LCR Honda will be able to call upon the highest performance from their bike for the upcoming race,” said Keow Mei-Shan, Marketing Director Malaysia and Singapore (photo, below).
“We consider the Malaysian MotoGP race in Sepang to be our home race, and as such, the livery on the LCR Honda bike will position Castrol POWER1 as the team title sponsor for this race. This, obviously gives us an added significance in wanting to see Crutchlow and the team doing well in Sepang,” Mei-Shan concluded.
The LCR Honda Team uses Castrol POWER1 Racing 4T with ‘Race Derived Technology’ and is specifically designed for bikers who love the exhilaration of riding. Using ‘Race Derived Technology’ it flows fast and stays strong, reducing internal engine friction even under the most arduous riding conditions. It has been tested and proven to deliver exceptional acceleration and power at a touch of the throttle. The inclusion of Trizone Technology™ ensures uncompromised performance protection for the engine, clutch and gearbox.
It’s that time of the year again when thousands of people descend upon the Sepang International Circuit for the only MotoGP race in this part of the world, for now – the Shell Malaysia MotoGP round.
And as we have witnessed for the last 10 years, Kawasaki will have a mighty presence once again in the form of a motorcycle convoy consisting of hundreds of motorcycles, and a massive exhibition booth.
The exhibition booth will have on display the full Kawasaki range of models including the Ninja ZX-10R WSBK Replica which won the World Superbike Championship in 2013, 2015 and in 2016. There will also be the Ninja ZX-10RR, the base model which recently won the 2017 World Superbike Championship and the Supercharged ‘Built Beyond Belief’ Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R.
And then on Sunday the 29th of October, Kawasaki’s iconic MotoGP Convoy featuring more than 300 Kawasaki bikers will head to the circuit to watch the MotoGP race. The convoy will first congregate at the Padang Merbok in Jalan Parlimen, Kuala Lumpur where Dato Jeffrey Lim, General Manager & Director of KMSB will officially flag off the convoy.
Kawasaki always puts on a grand show at the convoy and at their booth, and this year they will have Nestle Son Bhd serving coffee at the Kawasaki Coffee Break stand, and Tokio Marine Insurance will also be on hand to advise bikers on their products and services.
For more information on the Kawasaki convoy and the booth, visit the official website by clicking here, or visit Kawasaki’s Facebook page here. See you there!
For the 2017 Malaysian MotoGP round, Boon Siew Honda has planned something very special at their MotoGP booth.
Themed “Feel the Vibe”, there will be music, activities and their latest racing plus lifestyle merchandise available for purchase.
There will also be a Honda RC213V specially set up for attendees to have a seat and take photos with to remember the grand event.
The 2017 Malaysian MotoGP round is so, so close that you can already smell it in the air. Considered one of the biggest motorcycle racing events in the world (and most definitely here in Malaysia), all the manufacturers are bringing out their big guns to the show. One of them is none other than Boon Siew Honda. (more…)
PETRONAS and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) have joined forces to form the PETRONAS Sprinta Racing team to further develop the future of two-wheel motorsports in the region.
The PETRONAS Talent Development Programme (TDP) and SIC Talent Development Programme (SICTD) have been brought together to assist with the ongoing efforts to nurture young talents.
SIC will take charge of managing the team and riders while PETRONAS will strive on expanding the brand’s image in the international motorcycle racing arena.
It was recently announced that PETRONAS and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has entered a very monumental strategic partnership with the formation of a brand new racing team called the PETRONAS Sprinta Racing outfit. (more…)
After the Australian MotoGP round yesterday, Joan Mir of Leopard Racing was crowned the 2017 Moto3 World Champion after winning his ninth race of the season.
The 20 year old Spaniard made his debut just two years ago at the very same track he won the 2017 Moto3 World Championship yesterday.
The intense fight over at Phillip Island had to be stopped due to heavy rain where Joan Mir was announced as the race winner and overall champion.
Joan Mir of Leopard Racing has been crowned the 2017 Moto3 World Champion after an amazing battle yesterday. Despite the ever changing weather conditions which resulted in a red flag due to rain, the race stopped the race where the 20 year old Spaniard won the race in Phillip Island where he sealed the deal as the 2017 Moto3 World Champion. (more…)
