Bikesrepublic

Vespa

– Didi Group telah mengumumkan pembukaan rasmi MotoPlex Sungai Buloh, cawangan keempat yang menawarkan empat jenama premium di bawah Kumpulan Piaggio – Vespa, Aprilia dan Moto Guzzi yang terletak di Sungai Buloh, Selangor.

– Direka sebagai kedai konsep yang dinamik, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh menyediakan rangkaian produk yang komprehensif serta pusat perkhidmatan pelanggan, menjadikannya destinasi utama bagi peminat dan penggemar kenderaan roda dua.

– MotoPlex Sungai Buloh diuruskan oleh Welly Sungai Buloh Sdn Bhd, pengedar rasmi yang dilantik oleh Didi Group, pengedar rasmi Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia dan Moto Guzzi di Malaysia.

– Dibina dengan estetika Itali, ruang total 3,400 kpsf dibahagikan kepada kawasan pameran, 2,200 kpsf, dan pusat servis 1,200 kpsf. Pusat servis dilengkapi dengan peralatan diagnostik bertaraf tinggi dan dikendalikan oleh technician motosikal yang terlatih dan komited untuk menawarkan perkhidmatan pelanggan yang unggul dengan akses kepada pelbagai alat ganti berkualiti tinggi.

– Bagi Didi Group, pelancaran MotoPlex Sungai Buloh menandakan satu peristiwa penting dan mercu tanda yang luar biasa, kerana ia menjadi MotoPlex keempat di Malaysia.

Didi Group has officially opened the doors to MotoPlex Sungai Buloh, the latest addition to its network of premium showrooms featuring Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi brands.

Located in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh is designed as a dynamic concept store offering a wide range of products and customer services for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Managed by Welly Sungai Buloh Sdn Bhd, the official dealer appointed by Didi Group, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh embodies Italian aesthetics across its 3,400 sqf space, with a showroom area of 2,200 sqf and a service center spanning 1,200 sqf.

The service center boasts state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of skilled technicians committed to delivering superior customer service and access to high-quality spare parts.

For Didi Group, the launch of MotoPlex Sungai Buloh signifies a significant milestone as the fourth MotoPlex establishment in Malaysia. Mr. Goh Kian Sin, Managing Director of Didi Group, expressed pride in hosting an exclusive meet & greet event with the official Aprilia Racing Team riders coinciding with the MotoGP Malaysian Winter Test held at the Sepang International Circuit. The event offers Aprilia club members a chance to interact with the racers and team members up close.

MotoPlex stores serve as hubs for Italian biking enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive overview of the Piaggio Group’s portfolio and reflecting the company’s innovative vision. Mr. Goh Kian Sin reiterated the group’s commitment to enhancing its presence in Malaysia through MotoPlex, which consolidates Piaggio’s iconic brands under one roof, providing customers with a holistic Italian two-wheel experience.

Mr. Ngo Yoke Kwang, Director of Welly Sungai Buloh, emphasized MotoPlex Sungai Buloh’s role in delivering a captivating motorcycling experience infused with Italian authenticity. With a sprawling 34,000 sqf concept store equipped with a service area staffed by highly skilled technicians, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh aims to redefine individual mobility and freedom through its legendary brands known for style, technology, and heritage.

MotoPlex Sungai Buloh represents Didi Group’s commitment to offering a unique retail experience for motorcycle enthusiasts while strengthening its foothold in Malaysia’s automotive market.

Didi Group, pengedar rasmi skuter Vespa & Aprilia di Malaysia, mengumumkan pembukaan showroom Vespa & Aprilia yang baharu di Klebang, Melaka.

Showroom baharu ini direka sebagai kedai konsep dinamik dan menampilkan kesemua model ikonik skuter Vespa & Aprilia. Tambahan pula, ia mempunyai pusat khidmat pelanggan yang komprehensif, menjadikannya destinasi untuk peminat dua roda di Melaka.

Bagi Didi Group, pelancaran Zen Sports menjadi satu momen penting dan mercu tanda baru, kerana ia adalah Vespa & Aprilia scooter 3S Showroom pertama di Melaka.

Sebagai pengedar 3S rasmi Didi Group di Melaka, Zen Sports memeluk Identiti Korporat showroom Piaggio yang baharu. Showroom ini mempunyai pelbagai model yang direka khas untuk memenuhi citarasa dan kehendak peminat skuter Vespa dan Aprilia, terutamanya di Klebang dan kawasan sekitarnya.

Bagi pelanggan sedia ada, Zen Sports (Ban Zen Motors Sdn Bhd), yang terletak di Lot 332, Klebang Besar, 75200 Klebang Besar, Melaka, menawarkan perkhidmatan jualan dan selepas jualan yang komprehensif. Showroom ini dengan bangga mempamerkan semua model skuter Vespa dan Aprilia yang tersedia di seluruh negara.

Selain daripada Pusat Servis, fasiliti ini turut dilengkapi dengan ruang menunggu yang selesa dan pelbagai kemudahan gaya hidup, memberikan pengalaman memiliki yang lebih memuaskan kepada pelanggan yang sejajar dengan personaliti unik jenama-jenama tersebut.

Didi Group, the official distributor of Vespa & Aprilia scooters in Malaysia, has announced the opening of a new Vespa & Aprilia Showroom in Klebang, Melaka.

The new showroom, designed as a dynamic concept store, features the complete range of iconic Vespa & Aprilia scooters. Additionally, it houses a comprehensive customer service center, establishing itself as the ultimate destination for Melaka based two-wheel enthusiasts.

For Didi Group, the inauguration of Zen Sports marks a significant moment and a new milestone, as it stands as the first Vespa & Aprilia scooter 3S Showroom in Melaka.

As the official 3S dealer of Didi Group in Melaka, Zen Sports embraces the new Piaggio showroom Corporate Identity. The showroom meticulously curates a diverse range of models tailored to meet the preferences and desires of Vespa and Aprilia scooter enthusiasts, particularly in Klebang and the surrounding areas.

For existing customers, Zen Sports (Ban Zen Motors Sdn Bhd), located at Lot 332, Klebang Besar, 75200 Klebang Besar, Melaka, offers comprehensive sales and after-sales services.

The showroom proudly displays all Vespa and Aprilia scooter models available nationwide. In addition to the Service Centre, the facility features a comfortable waiting lounge and various lifestyle amenities, providing customers with a more enriching ownership experience that aligns with the distinctive personality of the brands.

Vespa ni adalah ikon dari semua aspek. Bukan hanya dari segi reka bentuk, tapi juga sebab syarikat tu sendiri dah wujud sejak tahun 1946, dan motosikal Vespa pun tak banyak berubah dalam reka bentuk sejak tahun tu.

Nilai jenama Vespa pun dah naik juga dalam dua tahun je, naik sebanyak 19%!

Mengikut Interbrand, firma penilai jenama global, Vespa dah melepasi nilai 1 billion Euro, dan pada tahun 2022, Vespa jadi penyumbang utama kepada kewangan Piaggio Group dengan pertumbuhan hasil jualan naik sebanyak 30%.

Di bawah pimpinan Piaggio dalam beberapa dekad terakhir, Vespa dikelola dengan pendekatan yang bijak, dengan menyelitkan peningkatan teknikal di dalam motosikal dengan sentuhan reka bentuk yang klasik, baik untuk model GTS yang premium mahupun model yang lebih kecil, seperti Primavera. Akibatnya, Vespa tak hanya mengekalkan daya tarikan klasik dan nostalgic, tetapi juga memastikan kebolehgunaan, kebolehpercayaan, dan keselamatan.

Baru-baru ini, status ikonik Vespa mendapat pengiktirafan rasmi daripada Mahkamah Keadilan Kesatuan Eropah (CJEU), dengan mengesahkan bahawa reka bentuk Vespa adalah unik dan tak boleh ditiru, menjadikannya mudah dikenali di seluruh Eropah.

Keputusan mahkamah ini mengakhiri pertikaian undang-undang selama 10 tahun antara Piaggio Group dan Zhejiang Zhongneng Industry Group dari China yang mengeluarkan skuter ZNEN, tiruan terang Vespa.

Pada tahun 2014, Pejabat Harta Intelek Kesatuan Eropah (EUIPO) mengiktiraf keunikan reka bentuk Vespa dan memberikan status cap dagang kepadanya. Namun, pada tahun 2018, Zhejiang Zhongneng Industry Group berjaya membatalkan cap dagang Vespa itu di mahkamah selepas memperkuatkan kedudukan mereka di Eropah dengan pembelian jenama Moto Morini.

Sebagai hasilnya, EUIPO membatalkan keputusan awalnya dan memberikan kebebasan kepada syarikat China ini untuk menghasilkan dan menjual skuter ZNEN mereka (dilihat di bawah).

Sebagai tindak balas, Piaggio Vespa melancarkan pertahanan yang gigih dan mengemukakan rayuan ke CJEU untuk mendaftarkan semula reka bentuk Vespa sebagai cap dagang. Mahkamah Kesatuan Eropah kini memihak kepada Piaggio Vespa, menjadikan ZNEN scooter tidak layak untuk diimport dan dijual di mana-mana di Eropah.

Kemenangan undang-undang menyamai kemenangan yang serupa untuk Vespa pada tahun 2020 dimana ia menentang imitator China lain, Chen Huang, yang juga menghasilkan salinan Vespa (diatas).

Kejayaan-kejayaan ini menunjukkan komitmen Vespa dalam melindungi identiti uniknya, sikap yang mungkin akan diteruskan untuk mempertahankan keunikan ikoniknya di pasaran global yang lain.

Vespa stands as an unequivocal icon in every conceivable aspect. Its significance is not only rooted in its timeless design but also in the enduring legacy of the company, which has been in existence since 1946. Remarkably, the design of Vespa scooters has remained largely unchanged since that pivotal year.

The brand’s value has experienced a remarkable surge, witnessing a staggering 19% growth in just the past two years.

According to Interbrand, a global brand consulting organisation, Vespa has surpassed the 1 billion Euro mark, asserting its dominance as the primary contributor to the Piaggio Group’s financial success, boasting a substantial 30% increase in turnover as of 2022.

Under the adept stewardship of Piaggio over the last few decades, Vespa has adhered to a strategic approach, blending significant under-the-surface technical enhancements with well-considered stylistic refinements.

This approach has been applied judiciously to both the high-end GTS and the more compact Primavera models.

Consequently, Vespa has not only retained its classic, nostalgic allure but has also fortified its reputation for functionality, reliability, and safety.

Recently, Vespa’s iconic status received formal recognition from the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), affirming that the design of Vespa is unmistakable and cannot be replicated, making it instantly recognizable across Europe.

This judicial pronouncement concluded a decade-long legal dispute between the Piaggio Group and the Chinese Zhejiang Zhongneng Industry Group. The latter had introduced the ZNEN scooter, an unabashed copy of the Vespa, leading to a protracted legal battle.

In 2014, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) acknowledged the unique design of Vespa and granted it trademark status. However, in 2018, Zhejiang Zhongneng Industry Group managed to overturn the Vespa trademark in court, leveraging their strengthened position in Europe after acquiring the Moto Morini brand.

Subsequently, the EUIPO reversed its earlier decision, allowing the Chinese company to freely manufacture and sell its ZNEN scooter (seen below).

In response, Piaggio Vespa mounted a vigorous defense, seeking recourse from the CJEU to reinstate Vespa’s design as a trademark. The EU court sided with Piaggio Vespa, rendering the ZNEN scooter ineligible for import and sale anywhere in Europe.

This legal victory echoed a similar triumph for Vespa against another Chinese imitator in 2020, Chen Huang (below), who had also produced replicas of the iconic Vespa.

These successes underscore Vespa’s commitment to safeguarding its distinctive identity, a stance that may extend to safeguarding its iconic uniqueness in other global markets.

In an era marked by the anticipation of the internal combustion engine’s demise, Italian manufacturer Piaggio is breaking new ground in engine development.

  • Despite the ongoing shift towards electric power, Piaggio is focusing on enhancing the efficiency of small, low-cost engines for scooters.
  • The company’s latest innovation is a Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system designed specifically for these engines.

Piaggio’s VVT system, outlined in a detailed patent application, aims to optimise the intake timing on single-cylinder, single-overhead-camshaft engines used in scooters. Given the tight profit margins in this segment of the market, the design emphasises simplicity and reduced component count.

At first glance, Piaggio’s SOHC VVT system appears similar to Yamaha’s “VVA” (Variable Valve Actuation) design used in various motorcycles. However, a subtle yet crucial difference sets Piaggio’s system apart.

Both systems employ two profiles for the intake cam lobes, which act on a forked rocker arm to control two intake valves. Like Yamaha’s VVA, Piaggio’s system uses a pin to connect or disconnect the rocker arm, with an actuator to engage it and a spring to disengage it when not needed.

The key distinction lies in the number of elements in the rocker arm. Yamaha’s VVA system features two parts: one conventional rocker and one element for high-lift, long-duration cam lobes. In contrast, Piaggio’s design incorporates three elements in its rocker arm, allowing for more comprehensive control over valve timing, lift, and duration.

This innovation enables the Piaggio system to adjust not only valve lift but also timing, offering a distinct advantage over Yamaha’s system, which can only switch between low-lift, short-duration and high-lift, long-duration lobes. With Piaggio’s design, the high-rpm cam lobe can have different timing, enhancing engine performance at high revs.

The patent showcases this system on an engine that resembles the Vespa GTS 300, utilised in various Piaggio models, including the Piaggio MP3. Piaggio’s commitment to improving small-engine efficiency reflects its dedication to innovation in an ever-evolving industry.

In a tribute to the timeless charm of Vespa and the cultural significance of the lunar calendar, the iconic Vespa 946 has unveiled a limited edition to commemorate its 10th anniversary.

  • This exclusive release, dedicated to the “Year of the Rabbit,” marks the inaugural installment in a remarkable series spanning 12 years, each inspired by the animal symbolising that year in the lunar horoscope.
  • The limited edition Vespa 946 is priced at RM99,900.

The Vespa 946 10th Anniversary edition is set to captivate both Vespa enthusiasts and collectors alike, as it emerges in a limited and numbered series of just 1,000 units. This represents the first phase of an ambitious project that will continue for the next 12 years, introducing a fresh annual edition annually, mirroring the lunar horoscope’s chosen animal for that particular year.

Since its debut in 2013, the Vespa 946 has emerged as the quintessential representation of the Vespa of the future. It skillfuly embodies the enduring values that have rendered Vespa a global icon while infusing it with a contemporary flair and a forward-looking approach. Crafted in Italy, this masterpiece has transformed into a coveted collector’s item, produced on a specialised assembly line reminiscent of a haute couture atelier.

The 10th Anniversary edition of the Vespa 946 features a revamped rendition of the classic Vespa green, symbolising the joy, carefree spirit, and affinity for nature commonly associated with individuals born under the sign of the rabbit. The elegantly stylised silhouette of a rabbit discreetly adorns the scooter’s body, adding a touch of whimsical charm.

As 2023 ushers in the Year of the Rabbit, traditionally regarded as a symbol of tranquility, well-being, and reverence for the past, the Vespa 946 10th Anniversario pays homage to these values with meticulous attention to detail. The scooter boasts a refined burnished finish with warm reflections throughout, while its double-upholstered saddle features black upholstery with burnished stitching, painstakingly sewn by hand with needle and thread, as are the handgrips.

For those who wish to embrace the essence of the Year of the Rabbit and Vespa’s enduring legacy, the Vespa 946 Bunny is offered at a whopping RM99,900.

CHJ Motors officially open a brand new Vespa and Aprilia 3S showroom in Alor Setar, Kedah.

  • This dynamic concept store offers a wide range of the iconic Vespa and Aprilia scooters, making it a must-visit destination for two-wheel motor vehicle enthusiasts.
  • The new showroom is located at Alor Setar, Kedah. 

The newly opened showroom, located in the heart of Alor Setar, carries a comprehensive product range, as well as a dedicated customer service center. This marks the first Vespa and Aprilia 3S showroom in Kedah, a remarkable milestone for CHJ Motors.

To celebrate their 50th year anniversary, CHJ Motors is also launching an exciting campaign called “Anda Beli, Kami Payung!” which offers Northern customers the opportunity to participate in a lucky draw. 

The winners of this campaign will enjoy the incredible benefit of 100% cashback, with CHJ Motors covering the full settlement and giving them the chance to own a motorcycle completely free of charge.

Existing customers can also benefit from the services provided by CHJ Motors. The center offers complete sales and after-sales service, ensuring a seamless ownership experience for Vespa and Aprilia scooter owners.

With the opening of this new showroom, Vespa and Aprilia enthusiasts in Kedah can now indulge in their passion for stylish and high-performance scooters, all backed by the expertise and support of CHJ Motors.

Vespa, the renowned Italian scooter manufacturer, has unveiled its latest limited edition creation, the Disney Mickey Mouse Edition scooter.

  • The collaboration between two iconic brands aims to celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary this year.
  • The Disney Mickey Mouse Edition by Vespa is based on Vespa’s Primavera scooter model.

The limited edition scooter features a unique four-way color scheme inspired by Mickey Mouse’s signature colors of red, black, yellow, and white.

 

The yellow wheels pay homage to Mickey’s famous shoes, while the black mirrors represent his round ears. The scooter is adorned with a graphic pattern showcasing Mickey’s outline in white on both sides of the rear and front. To add a touch of authenticity, Mickey Mouse’s autograph is prominently displayed on both the saddle and the front steel shell of the scooter.

While Vespa offers various Primavera variants, the Disney Mickey Mouse Edition is available in the 50cc, 125cc, and 150cc models. These retro-styled scooters retain their original mechanical specifications, featuring air-cooled single-cylinder engines and CVT gearboxes.

Michele Colaninno, the chief executive of global strategy, product, marketing, and innovation of the Piaggio Group (the parent company of Vespa), expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration.

He stated that Vespa, as a timeless icon, couldn’t miss the opportunity to pay tribute to Mickey Mouse—an everlasting icon. The partnership aims to celebrate creativity, imagination, lightheartedness, and fun, values that both Vespa and Mickey Mouse embody.

The Disney Mickey Mouse Edition by Vespa is set to capture the hearts of Disney and Vespa enthusiasts alike. With its enchanting design and the combined legacies of these two iconic brands, this limited edition scooter is bound to become a collector’s item for fans around the world.

Moto enthusiasts and Italian biking aficionados, get ready to rev up your engines because Didi Group has just announced the grand opening of MotoPlex Butterworth – the ultimate destination for all your two-wheel vehicle needs!

This exciting new showroom offers not one, not two, not three, but FOUR premium brands under the Didi Group umbrella: Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi. And it’s all located in Penang, making it the go-to destination for Malaysian riders seeking the ultimate Italian biking experience.

But it’s not just the impressive lineup of brands that make MotoPlex Butterworth stand out. This dynamic concept store is also designed with Italian aesthetics in mind, reflecting the innovative vision of the Piaggio Group. With a total space of 3,200 sqf, the showroom area covers 2,600 sqf, while the service centre takes up 600 sqf. And with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of well-trained motorcycle technicians and mechanics, superior customer service and access to high-quality spare parts are guaranteed.

 

 

For Didi Group, the launch of MotoPlex Butterworth is a remarkable milestone as it becomes the second MotoPlex in Malaysia, and the first in Penang. Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Group, expressed his excitement saying, “Penang is one of the most vibrant states in Malaysia. I would like to thank GB Motorcycles for introducing this global concept of MotoPlex to the dynamic landscape of Penang, which will help us to further strengthen our positioning and boost our presence in Malaysia.”

The MotoPlex concept offers an exciting overview of the entire Piaggio Group, making it the house of Piaggio’s iconic brands. And with all of these premium brands under one roof, potential customers seeking an enriching Italian two-wheel experience backed by style, technology, superior performance, and rich heritage, will not be disappointed.

Mr. Kheoh Hock Seng, Director of GB Motorcycles, summed it up perfectly saying, “We are committed to serving riders with passion and dedication in our 3200 sqf concept store complete with a service area that is staffed by highly skilled two-wheel technicians. We don’t just make vehicles. We change the way people move.”

Vespa has given its iconic scooter, the GTV, a significant makeover for 2023.

  • Features the Faro Basso headlight design similar to the Sei Giorni.
  • Equipped with the 300 HPE engine, Vespa’s most powerful powertrain to date. 

The GTV has been making waves since 2006 and will continue to do so in the coming years with the new 2023 model year.

Although much of the profile is retained, the GTV clearly received an upgrade to meet modern standards.

The most significant upgrade is the engine which now features the single-cylinder 278cc 300 HPE fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, 4-valve engine that makes 23.8hp on tap. 

The GTV is also equipped with ASR electronic traction and ABS as standard. 

Similar to other 300 HPE ranges, the GTV also features a fully-digital LCD instrument cluster that displays max speed, average speed, fuel consumption, range and battery charge status. 

The instrumentation also incorporates the Vespa MIA connectivity system that allows riders to connect their smartphone to the motorcycle dash. 

 

In terms of styling, the GTV have a lot in common with the Sei Giorni 300 but with an added splash of funky colours. That said, the GTV Faro Basso – low headlight design – accentuates the sportiness of the scooter.

Meanwhile, the GTV features a removable seat cowl cover that matches the colour of the body. When removed, the GTV can comfortably seat two people. 

Other notable features include:

  • full LED headlight
  • keyless ignition
  • five-spoke alloy wheels

Archive

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube