Yamaha is expanding its electric mobility presence by introducing a new electric motor called the PWseries S2.
the PWseries S2 is an electric motor strictly for Yamaha e-bikes.
the electric motor is lighter and more powerful than its predecessor.
The new generation electric motor has a maximum torque output of 75Nm and weighs just 2.85kg.
That said, the new motor is not for electric motorcycle, instead it is for the firm’s e-bikes.
Also the e-bike engine is not applicable to motorcycles, considering that e-bikes operate with the power of the cyclist leg.
Nevertheless, the technology can still be a reference for future Yamaha electric motorcycles and scooters.
Yamaha already launched two electric scooters this year with the NEO’s and E01. We aslo got the chance to see the E01 up close during Hong Leong Yamaha’s recently concluded GenBlu Karnival.
However, we are still waiting for Yamaha’s first electric motorcycle and with Kawasaki set to introduce its first electric two-wheeler in November, we expect Yamaha to follow soon.
Yamaha has unveiled a new track-only R1 GYTR motorcycle.
The Japanese marquee recently filed a new trademark filing for the R1.
The latest generation R1 is ineligible for the road but we could see a road legal version soon, likely at the EICMA show in November.
That said, what’s new about the track-only R1?
Firstly, like the previous track-oriented R1, it is developed by Genuine Yamaha Technologies Racing (GYTR).GYTR also responsible for developing practice bikes for racers.
In addition, GYTR also sponsors GRT Yamaha WorldSBK team and the Yamaha Austria Racing Team (YART) competing in the Endurance World Championship (EWC).
According to Yamaha, the R1 GYTR features track-ready components including:
Akrapovic Race muffler and mid-pipe system
AIS plug set
Engine cover set
GYTR ECU
Wiring harness
PC interface cable
GYTR ABS Emulator
GYTR On/Off Switch
15/42T 520 sprockets
GYTR R-Series 520 racing chain
BS R11 tires
GYTR Racing Fuel Cap
GYTR Stainless Steel Brake Line Set
Callipers with GYTR steel piston kit
Brembo Z04 brake pads
Race handlebars
Steering stoppers
Shark Fin Rear Sprocket Guard
Billet Front Brake Lever Guard
Race Rear Set with reverse shifting option
Rear stand hooks
R-Series Racing Rear Stand
Complete Race Cowling Kit in primer white
Racing screen
GYTR Race seat
Unfortunately, the race-ready R1 GYTR can only be purchased from GYTR Pro Shops. Customers can also personalised the settings with the help of GYTR.
Also, GYTR will introduce more than 400 components developed specifically for the R1 including race parts currently used on Yamaha’s WorldSBK machine.
The GYTR Pro range includes:
GYTR PRO Swingarm
GYTR PRO large capacity and low gravity fuel tank
GTTR PRO Carbon rear subframe
GYTR PRO Triple clamp
GYTR PRO Carbon cowling set
GYTR Pro screen
GYTR PRO Dashboard
GYTR PRO Dash support
GYTR PRO Handlebars
GYTR PRO Handle bar switches
GYTR PRO Marelli electronics (customised)
GYTR PRO Airducts for brake calipers
GYTR PRO Brake lines
GYTR PRO Brembo wheel adaptors
GYTR PRO Clutch
GYTR PRO Side steering damper with bracket and clamp
GYTR PRO MB radiator
GYTR PRO Akrapovic system
GYTR PRO Brake lever protector
According to Yamaha, the entire GYTR Pro range will be announced by the end of the year.
There is no denying the fact that motorcycles are a big part of our lives. We are surrounded by bikes. We feel that it is safe to say that almost every Malaysian has been on a motorcycle at least once in their lives.
Although two-wheelers have been around Malaysia since independence, their popularity grew massively only after the Honda Cub took over the world. Since the first ever Honda Cub, hundreds of bikes landed on our shores, but only a handful went on to become icons, thanks to either good design or downright reliability.
That said, below is our list of the top 10 iconic bikes that basically ruled our roads. In fact, some of them are still going strong today.
1) Honda Cub (Also known as the Honda ‘Bulat’)
Unveiled in 1958, the Honda Cub did not only rule Malaysian roads, but the whole world. It is in fact, the bike that was responsible for changing the image of bikes on a global scale. Just like how Air Asia made flying accessible to the masses, the Honda Cub was the first motorcycle to reach homes. First introduced as the C70, the Cub has gone through many generations, and is still going strong. We won’t be surprised if this bike, which is also dubbed as the greatest bike ever built by many, outlives many of us.
2) Honda EX5
The EX5, which is the Honda Cub’s “grandchild”, is without a doubt, the most popular bike to be on our streets. Unveiled in 1986, the EX5 was the first motorcycle for many Malaysians. Initially powered by a 97cc made in Japan, the EX5 was updated with a 110cc engine. Known for its durability and reliability, the EX5’s legacy is still going strong, and doesn’t seem like it will be slowing down any time soon.
3) Yamaha Sport 100
Photo courtesy of malaysianbikers.com.my
Also unveiled during the same era as the EX-5, the Yamaha Sport 100, which is also more commonly known as the “100 sports” by Malaysians, was the next most popular thing after the EX-5. Still being used by many riders, both young and old, the Sport 100, which is infamously known for emitting white smoke(it is a two-stroker), is still being widely used nationwide, 30 years after its debut.
4) Suzuki RGV 120
In the 1990s, the Malaysian ‘Kapchai’ market saw a new buying trend – the demand for two-strokers was on the rise. Younger riders were more interested in “radical” models, that came with a clutch, and could easily go past the speed limit, and looked more modern than bikes like the EX-5 and the Yamaha Sport 100. This was when the Suzuki RGV 120 came into the picture and took over the streets. Sought mostly by the youth back in the days, the first thing that will come to our mind when we see the RGV 120 is definitely the infamous modified screaming exhaust pipes. How can we forget that?
5) Yamaha RX 115
Photo courtesy of Yamaha RX 115 Fan Club Facebook
The Yamaha RX 115 was a naked 115 cc bare-boned motorcycle which made its debut in 1981. Besides Malaysia, the RX 115 is also very popular in Thailand, Pakistan, Turkey, Uruguay, Singapore and Colombia. Today, the RX 115 will surely be present at any and every retro motorcycle show or gathering held in Malaysia.
6) Yamaha RXZ
If there was one bike that was guaranteed to get you attention from the ladies back in the 1990s, it was definitely the Yamaha RXZ. Powered by a potent two-stroke 135cc engine with insane amount of torque, the RXZ was not only good looking, but packed quite a punch in terms of performance as well. Truth be told, it was arguably the best looking bike of its time.
7) Kawasaki KR-150 Series (KIPS)
First unleashed in 1990 by Kawasaki, the Kawasaki KR-150, which is also known as the KIPS, was one of the favourites among speed-demons of the 90s. Looking like a mini GPZ 600, the KR150 was among the most powerful and reliable tw0-strokers to rule our streets. Even though the glory days of two-stroke engines are long gone, we can still see a few running around our roads till today.
8) Yamaha TZM 150
Photo courtesy of Motomalaya.net
A legendary bike based on the TZR 250 that could kick out an impressive 35hp at 10,500RPM. Thanks to the powerful liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine with 59.0mm x 54.0mm bore and stroke setup, the TZM could rev to insane rpm. Complemented by 30mm Mikuni carbs, the engine was capable of propelling this bike up to 208km/h. How is that for performance?
9) Suzuki TXR 150 Panther
If there was one bike that could match, or outdo Yamaha’s RXZ in terms of styling and performance, it was none other than the Suzuki TXR 150 Panther. Some say that it could even outperform the TZM. First launched in 1982, the Panther’s production ended in 1991. Although the official production of the Panther didn’t go on for as long as some of its rivals, the bike has a massive cult following and still remains popular among retro bike enthusiasts.
10) Yamaha 125Z
The Yamaha Y125Z or better known as Yamaha Z (in Europe) is a 125 cc two-stroke underbone bike which made its debut in 1998 as a successor of the Y 110 SS. It is said that the 125Z was the first 2-stroke underbone motorcycle to come with a catalytic converter. Beside being sold in most Southeast Asian countries especially in Malaysia and Singapore, it was also sold in Greece.
Yamaha could introduce its own retro-style fully faired motorcycle to its lineup to compete with Honda’s Hawk 11 and Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR.
Yamaha is developing a fully-faired retro-style motorcycle.
To feature the firm’s newest 890cc CP3 engine.
Japanese publication Young Machine claimed that Yamaha is working on a new motorcycle called the XSR GP.
If you’re an avid reader, you know that we are a fan of Young Machine because they have insider information about what’s happening behind the scenes at the Japanese Big Four factory.
In its latest issue, Young Machine reveals a rendered image of what the upcoming XSR GP could look like.
At a glance, the XSR GP resembles the Honda Hawk 11 and MV Agusta Superveloce 800, but Yamaha could also intend to take the fight to Triumph’s Speed Triple 1200 RR.
Like the XSR 900, the fully-faired GP will likely feature the same 890cc CP3 (inline-three) engine that produces around 117.3hp and 93Nm.
In addition, the XSR GP could also be a strong indicator that a fully-faired race-type YZF-R9 is in the works, as Yamaha previously patented the XSR GP and R9 nameplate earlier this year.
While we are excited about the upcoming motorcycle, sadly, it is unlikely the bike will ever make its way to Malaysia anytime soon; this is because none of the XSR range (including the XSR 155 and XSR 900) is available here.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has updated the XMax 250 with new visual for 2022.
The popular Yamaha XMax 250 gets two new colours for 2022.
The maxi-scooter retains the same engine and bodywork.
The quarter-litre Japanese maxi-scooter is now available in two new colours for the Malaysian market; Red and Matte Green.
The two new visuals is the same that was introduced in Japan just a few weeks ago.
In terms of design, the 2022 XMax 250 retains the same bodywork as the previous year’s model, including the iconic sharp split LED headlight.
Mechanically, the 2022 XMax continue to feature the same 250cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 22.5hp and 24.3Nm.
Also retained for 2022 is the semi-digital instrument cluster and traction control.
Meanwhile, the scooter is suspended by a conventional telescopic forks and dual shocks at the rear while braking hardware consist of front and rear disc with dual-channel ABS.
According to Hong Leong Yamaha Motor, the 2022 XMax 250 is available for RM22,298 with new owners will also received a complimentary Yamaha safety disc lock worth RM100, with every purchase.
Kami berpeluang menyaksikan motosikal elektrik pertama dari Yamaha, Yamaha E01 sewaktu acara Karnival Yamaha GenBlu di Teluk Batik, Perak, pada Sabtu.
Dipertonton secara global pada Januari lalu, skuter elektrik itu akhirnya membuat penampilan di Malaysia menerusi Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM).
Penampilan motosikal itu sudah pun dijangka apabila Yamaha Jepun mengumumkan Malaysia antara negara terpilih menguji kemampuan skuter itu disini.
Ujian tersebut memfokuskan jarak perjalanan, kaedah pengecasan dan masa yang akan diambil sewaktu mengecas yang sememangnya menjadi cabaran utama bagi mobiliti elektrik.
Menariknya, Yamaha E01 tampil dengan dimensi hampir sama dengan model sedia ada Yamaha Nmax namun akan digerakan bateri lithium-ion 4.9kWh yang mampu menjana 8.1kW (10.8hp) pada 5,000rpm dan 30.2Nm pada 1,950rpm.
Sebagai skuter urban, Yamaha E01 menawarkan boleh mencapai jarak perjalanan hingga 100km dan mampu mencapai kelajuan 100km/j.
Terdapat tiga pilihan pengecas bagi Yamaha E01:
pengecas konvensional (rumah) – 6 jam hingga penuh
pengecas pantas (pengedar) – 1 jam hingga 80 peratus
pengecas mudah alih – 13 jam hingga penuh
Harga dan ketersediaan Yamaha E01 untuk pasaran Malaysia masih belum dimaklumkan namun kami diberitahu bahawa harga motosikal elektrik ini adalah sekitar harga Yamaha XMax 250.
Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) has officially showcased the Japanese motorcycle company first electric motorcycle, the E01.
It features a 4.9kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor setup with 10.8HP and 30.2NM.
Yamaha claims a maximum range of at least 100KM and ability to hit speeds of 100KM/H.
The electric two-wheeler made its global appearance in January 2022 and was confirmed to make its way to Malaysia after the country was among the few selected to test out the motorcycle.
That said, Yamaha has already tested the E01 in Europe and Japan.
Nevertheless, we were given the opportunity to take a closer look at the E01 at the recently concluded Yamaha GenBlue Carnival, in Pantai Teluk Batik, Perak.
Notably, the Yamaha E01 sports proportions and dimensions similar to that of the Yamaha NMax scooter. But instead of a 155cc VVA-equipped single-cylinder and CVT box setup, the E01 features a that, according to Yamaha, is capable of generating 8.1kW (10.8HP) @ 5,000RPM and 30.2NM @ 1,950RPM.
Furthermore, the Yamaha E01 also offers a decent level of daily practicality thanks to the presence of a sizeable 23-litre under-seat storage bin.
Critically, as an urban scooter, the Yamaha E01 promises a maximum travel range of up to 100KM at least plus whilst also reaching speeds of 105km/h too.
As for charging, there are three options available:
Conventional charger (home) – 6 hours to full
Fast charger (distributor) – 1 hour to 80 percent
Portable charger – 13 hours to full
Pricing and availability of the Yamaha E01 is yet to be announce but it is understood that the new electric motorcycle will be priced similar to Yamaha’s XMax 250 scooter.
Yamaha has updated the XMax 250 with visual updates for 2022 in Japan.
The popular Yamaha XMax 250 gets four new colours for 2022.
The maxi-scooter retains the same engine and bodywork.
The quarter-litre Japanese maxi-scooter is now available in four new colours; Matte Dark Green, Glossy Red, Glossy White and Dark Grey.
In terms of design, the 2022 XMax 250 retains the same bodywork as the previous year’s model, including the iconic sharp split LED headlight.
Mechanically, the 2022 XMax continue to feature the same 250cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 22.5hp and 24.3Nm.
Also retained for 2022 is the semi-digital instrument cluster and traction control.
Meanwhile, the scooter is suspended by a conventional telescopic forks and dual shocks at the rear while braking hardware consist of front and rear disc with dual-channel ABS.
According to Yamaha, the 2022 XMax 250 is available in Japan at JPY654,500 which translates to RM21.9k.
Lebih 30,000 pengunjung telah membanjiri perkarangan Litar Permotoran Terengganu, Kompleks Sukan Gong Badak di Terengganu bagi menghangatkan program RXZ Members 4.0 yang berlangsung pada Sabtu.
Program tersebut turut memperlihatkan himpunan jentera Yamaha RXZ terbesar di Malaysia yang dianjurkan buat kali keempat selepas kali pertama diadakan pada 2017 dan kali terakhir pada 2019.
Perhimpunan terbesar itu turut dimeriahkan dengan kehadiran Perdana Menteri, Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob yang membuat pengumuman yang mengujakan peminat sukan permotoran tempatan.
Menurut beliau, kerajaan bercadang untuk membina litar khas bagi perlumbaan ‘drag’ di setiap negeri sebagai usaha membangunkan sukan permotoran tempatan disamping memberi platform lebih selamat untuk anak muda negara berlumba.
“Apabila litar itu siap, ia akan memberi peluang kepada belia untuk membabitkan diri dengan lebih serius dalam sukan permotoran mengikut saluran yang betul.
“Perlumbaan drag mungkin tidak terlalu bahaya jika dibandingkan dengan perlumbaan trek kerana ia hanya memerlukan jalan yang lebih pendek dan lurus,” jelasnya ketika perasmian RXZ Members 4.0 pada Sabtu.
Sementara itu, program RXZ Members 4.0 turut menyaksikan beberapa pengunjung bertuah membawa pulang hadiah berupa sebuah Yamaha R1 dan dua unit Yamaha RXZ. – BH
The Yamaha MT range has been doing well since its introduction back in 2005, and since then, the naked bike family has grown to become one of the most famous street bikes from Yamaha.
2022 Yamaha MT-03 features new Dark Blast edition.
Equipped with the same 321cc parallel-twin engine that pumps out 37.1hp and 28Nm.
While the nameplate “Master of Torque” (MT) is best represented by the MT-07 and MT-09 motorcycles, the smaller variants, including the MT-03 (MT-25 in Malaysia) are also popular, especially in Asian countries.
That said, Yamaha has unveiled the MT-03 with a new Dark Blast edition in Thailand that features new colour schemes.
The 2022 unit comes in two new colourway, the first features a grey bodywork with cyan-coloured wheels while the second gets an all-black treatment in place of the prior blue/grey scheme.
Nonetheless, no changes are made to the engine that still carries the same 321cc parallel-twin powertrain that makes 37.1hp @ 10,590rpm and 28Nm @ 9,010rpm.
Other notable features include:
dual-channel ABS.
digital LCD instrument cluster,
full LED lights.
According to Yamaha, the 2022 MT-03 Dark Blast Edition retails at THB195,510 (RM23.8k).
Yamaha India has confirmed that the iconic Yamaha RX100 will make a comeback in India.
The new generation Yamaha RX100 will get a new powertrain.
The RX100 will feature the same retro design and will be the first retro bike to make a comeback in India.
During a recent interview, Yamaha India chairman, Eishin Chihana, confirmed the news.
Chinana said that the company is considering launching a new RX100 in the country, but it will no longer feature the same two-stroke motor due to the strict emission standard.
However, considering Yamaha has a host of products up for launch until 2025, the RX100 could only make an appearance in 2026.
Moreover, with Yamaha’s India bike portfolio currently ranging from 125cc to 250cc, it might take a while before the RX100 could materialise.
In addition, Yamaha is also working on a new electric scooter that is set for launch in 2025. Also, the recently launched NEO and E01 will soon find their way to India.
Nevertheless, the RX100 will be the first retro bike set to make a comeback in India. While there is no specific timeframe for the official unveiling, the confirmation by Yamaha India’s chairman is enough to get us excited.
Yamaha is definitely pushing toward an autonomous driving technology after making its third investment into Tier IV Inc, the lead developer of the Autoware open-source self-driving operating system.
Yamaha has invested more than JPY12.1 billion into developing autonomous driving technology.
The ‘self-riding’ system could feature on Yamaha’s electric bike range soon.
The Japanese firm first invested in Tier IV in 2017 before adding its second investment two years later.
However, the third investment that brings the total funds injected into Tier IV currently stands at JPY12.1 billion (RM396mil), further showcasing Yamaha’s commitment to autonomous driving technology.
According to Yamaha, the new technology is aimed at “low-speed automated driving under specific conditions.”
While the technology sounds too complex to work on a motorcycle, it is hard to believe that they would be investing heavily into something that would not become applicable to their products.
Nonetheless, the new technology could be a safety feature to include in Yamaha’s upcoming electric range, something like the Neo’s or an E01.
That said, the development is considerably still at an early stage. While it may not materialize anytime soon, it seems inevitable that ‘self-riding’ technology will make its way to motorcycles.
