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The Ministry of Transport (MOT) will allocate RM3.5 million in initiatives to support the second phase of the MyLesen (B2) program, involving an additional 10,000 participants nationwide this year.

Its minister, Anthony Loke, said that in the first six months of this year, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) had processed applications for 15,000 participants in the MyLesen (B2) program.

For the second half of the year, we will add another 10,000 participants nationwide, involving an allocation of RM3.5 million. The cost per participant is RM350,” he said.

The MyLesen program is a government initiative through JPJ and strategic partners, focusing on helping low-income B40 groups, including students, obtain a legal, accessible, and affordable Class B2 motorcycle license.

Loke said this year, the ministry is introducing a new approach targeting youth and students as one of the main beneficiary groups.

He said this additional quota would not only provide more opportunities for youth and students to obtain a legal license but also help reduce cases of unlicensed riders, which is one of the main causes of road accidents.

The Seremban MP also expressed concern over reports of many students riding motorcycles to school without a license.

I hope that, in addition to the State Education Department, schools can also help ensure that every student who rides a motorcycle to school has a valid license,” he said.

Automatic scooters are undoubtedly the in-thing in the Malaysian motorcycle market these days, with more and more models entering the “war zone” almost on a monthly basis. However, let us not ignore the elephant in the room: It is now the legacy manufacturers versus the Chinese contenders. As such, how will the 2025 Honda NSS250 fare?

What is the Honda NSS250

The 2025 Honda NSS250 is a new(-ish) 250cc maxi-scooter. Newish because Honda had revised the the previous Forza 250 (called the NSS250 overseas), which was available in Malaysia. So now, it is the NSS250 in Malaysia, while it is the Forza 250 overseas.

2025 Honda NSS250

Still, we feel that Honda did a great job as they have taken the NSS250 to a contemporary styling, compared to the old school style previously. And Honda being Honda, the bike’s styling is modern but restrained without being fussy. Pictures do not do it justice, because you could just sit beside the NSS250 and point out the small details for hours.

One look at the bike and you will realise how much the maker paid attention to comfort, convenience, and elegance, besides sportiness.

Highlights

  • Powered by a 249.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve, with PGM-FI injection and eSP+ engine, which delivers 23 hp (17 kW) at 7,750 RPM and 24 Nm of torque at 6,250 RPM.
  • The PGM-FI and eSP+ features ensure a smooth torque delivery, along with optimum fuel efficiency.
  • Automatic transmission with dry centrifugal clutch.

  • Telescopic 33mm diameter front forks, dual shocks at the rear with double-sided swingarm.
  • Single 256mm brake disc up front, single 240mm brake disc at the back.
  • Dual-channel ABS.

  • Tyre sizes are 120/70-15 in front and 140/70-14 rear.
  • 11.7-litre fuel tank.
  • 780mm seat height.

  • 185kg curb weight.
  • 5-inch TFT display with weather, navigation, music streaming, volume control, phone calls, and message notification features via the Honda RoadSync app.
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) traction control system.

  • Emergency Stop Signal feature which flashes the double signal during hard, emergency stops.
  • LED lighting throughout, the front signals are integrated in the fairing-mounted rearview mirrors.
  • Electrically-adjustable windshield.

  • Smart Key ignition.
  • 48-litre underseat storage space, enough for two full-faced helmet.
  • Lockable glovebox with USB-C charger, that is large enough to fit a 1.5-litre bottle of water, besides a smartphone!

Riding the 2025 Honda NSS250

Pre-Ride

Our first impression of the new NSS250 was how different it was compared to its predecessor. The older model definitely looked er… older, being long, low, bulbous. The new bike is more compact, sharper, and enticing. The rims are beautifully powdercoated in magnesium-gold, the bodywork has some tastefully-done panels, the tyres are fat, and that taillight cluster was the nicest among all scooters in the market.

Switch it on and the TFT panel comes to life with the Honda wing, before switching to a vivid and sharp display. All the icons, numbers, and tachometer are easily discernible without this writer wearing his reading glasses. The “joystick” on the left handlebar allows to you to toggle through all the bike’s data and features, such as pairing Bluetooth devices, display settings, data display settings, turning HSTC on or off, plus your next maintenance schedule.

Speaking of Bluetooth connectivity, we would always get it done right after receiving the key, before the initial ride. Connectivity needed to be performed through the Honda RoadSync app, which guided us step-by-step, hence it was painless. Once connected, we could begin to use the navigation feature, which we either typed in or spoke of the location into the phone.

However, we would like to point out that since all of us used iPhones, music streaming on the bike is only available through the Apple Music app. But this is only a small niggle, as we hooked up our Midland BT Mini Bluetooth headset directly to our phone, and played music through Spotify. The only shortcoming was we could not control music playback via the NSS250’s joystick or see the song being played on the TFT screen.

The navigation feature was nice to have, of course, but beware, it is not yet as intuitive as Waze when you hope to ride around heavy traffic. Instead, it only points you to take the nearest route, much like when you set your Google Map to motorcycle mode. It also lagged when we rode at high speed, and sent us in the wrong direction altogether. Further, you could not activate shared locations directly to the app. We hope Honda can update the RoadSync app.

First ride

With that out of the way, the engine fired up with a quick but smooth vroom to let us know it was alive. Blipping the throttle while the bike was on its centrestand did not have it vibrate so much that it scraping along the ground. No, the NSS250’s engine was smooth.

Getting it off the stand was super easy and the bike seemed lighter than its published 185kg curb weight. It was also perhaps Honda mounted the centrestand in the correct centre of gravity.

Having ridden other scooters in the past, we began with a small throttle openings to avoid punching off the line with our feet akimbo and zig-zagging like a fool. Instead, the bike rewarded us with a silky smooth acceleration. The engine sounded like your average single-cylinder scooter, but that typical clunking noise was absent.

We tried it again from another traffic light and again, the bike will push off idle in a smooth fashion, as long as the throttle remain in the first one-third.

However, when we ripped the throttle above fifty percent, things happened mighty quickly. Acceleration was still smooth, mind you, but the speeds piled on almost in a blur. Once it reached 90 km/h, the NSS250 took off like it lit the afterburner. And at these speeds, rolling off the throttle will have the bike coasting as if it was freewheeling, which was evident of heavy rollers.

We hope you do not misinterpret what we meant. This was not a bad thing, not at all. Honda did a great job of giving the 2025 Honda NSS250 this “dual character” for better riding. The smooth, linear torque is great for riding in congested traffic and urban areas, while the quick torque and power hit are great for riding on the open highway. In doing so, you do not have to struggle with an abrupt on/off throttle response while lane splitting, while still having reserves of power when you need to overtake slower vehicles on the highway. And Honda did so without needing to equip the bike with a variable valve system which just adds extra complexity.

Handling

We shall come right out and say that the 2025 Honda NSS250 is the best-handling 250cc scooter.

It is given that any scooter is keen to change direction, but the NSS250 does it great stability, almost like a big bike. The front end did not felt like it wanted to plop into any corner and did not waggle like a happy puppy. There was also plenty of feedback from the tyres, unlike other scooters, which gave us plenty of confidence to hoon the bike through corners.

The bike was ultra stable at top speed in a straight-line, too. It seemed to just hunker down on its suspension at speed, despite us sitting upright.

As for the suspension, it is a given that scooters feel harsh over sharp bumps due to their short-travel suspension. But we were completely surprised by this bike as both ends absorbed road irregularities well without once transferring bump energy to our liver. Yet, the chassis did not damp out the feel from the tyres, like we mentioned earlier.

Next come the brakes. The calipers and master cylinders are from Nissin and provided a crazy amount of stopping power when you need it. There was also plenty of feel on the levers, therefore letting you know how much braking you could utilise, which was something which I wished that some bigger bikes has it. Heck, we even trail-braked the bike into corners, which was something very dangerous for scooters.

Convenience, fuel economy, everyday riding

Although Boon Siew Honda loaned the NSS250 to us for only four days, we racked up close to 600 kilometres in that time. We would not have ridden it so much if it was not enjoyable (and we had two other test bikes just sitting at home).

That electrically-activated windshield was a huge welcome. We lowered it for more airflow and visibility when negotiating gridlocked traffic, and moved it up to reduce wind noise on the highways.

The underseat storage space was a huge (pun intended) welcome. We could store our jet-type helmet, plus a 10kg bag of rice and groceries. The front glovebox took a whole 1.5-litre bottle of water (great thing since it is so hot now). So who needs a Givi case when you ride this bike???

Not once was the bike difficult to start or to get on or off. The seat was low enough despite its large side panels, enabling us to plant our feet on the ground securely. Yes, the seat cushion seemed a little hard at first, but our backside did not feel sore after riding all day.

Add to that is Honda’s signature quality. The bike was oozing quality every centimetre we peeked. The panels fitted tightly, there was no creaking when we rode the bike over bumps, everything clicked and locked as they should.

Last but not least, the engine was really fuel efficient. We picked up the bike with half a tank of petrol and we only filled it back up once, also with half a tankful during our review.

Conclusion

To answer our opening question, the 2025 Honda NSS250 clearly shows why the legacy manufacturers are still in the game. Its ride quality, engine performance, build quality are nothing to be sneezed at. Sure, the Chinese contenders pack their bikes with more tech and features, but it is still the Japanese manufactures who provide an complete overall riding experience, especially in the chassis, handling, and overall quality fronts. In fact, this new NSS250 has beaten its closest Japanese rival.

In fact, it occurred to us that it was almost like riding the class-leading Honda Gold Wing, albeit a smaller version. Seriously, it is not because we are pandering to Honda, but it is truly so.

The only shortcoming we encountered was the navigation and music streaming feature, but that has to do with the external app, rather than the motorcycle itself.

So, is the 2025 Honda NSS250 worth the RM25,888 (recommended retail price, not on-the-road)? Every sen of it!

Specifications of the 2025 Honda NSS250

Engine
Type Single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-stroke, 4-valve, eSP+, PGM-FI
Displacement 249.5 cm³
Bore x Stroke 67.0 mm x 70.7 mm
Compression Ratio 10.2 : 1
Max. Power 23 hp (17 kW) / 7,750 rpm
Max. Torque 24 Nm / 6,250 rpm
Engine Oil Capacity 1.3 ℓ (After draining), 1.8 ℓ (After disassembly)
Drivetrain
Clutch Type Automatic centrifugal clutch dry type
Transmission Type Automatic
Chassis
Frame Type Underbone
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,143 mm x 754 mm x 1,507 mm
Wheelbase 1,510 mm
Seat Height 780 mm
Ground Clearance 140 mm
Curb Weight 185 kg
Running gear
Suspension Type FR Telescopic
RR Swing Arm with Double Suspension
Tyre FR 120/70 – 15M/C (56P)
RR 140/70 – 14M/C (62P)
Brakes FR 256mm Hydraulic Single Disc with 2-piston Calliper, ABS
RR 240mm Hydraulic Single Disc with 1-piston Calliper, ABS

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Boon Siew Honda (BSH) also announced the arrival of the 2025 Honda Transalp 750.

The Transalp 750 is Honda’s midrange adventure model, fill the spots between the CRF250L/CRF250 Rally, NX500, and the CRF1100 Africa Twin. Although it is purpose-built for adventure and exploration, the Transalp does well on the road, as well.

Highlights
  • 755cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, with 270° crankshaft engine, tuned for smooth low-down and midrange torque. (It is shared with the CB750/Hornet 750.)
  • The engine produces 90.5 hp (67.5 kW) at 9,500 RPM and 75 Nm of torque at 7,250 RPM.

  • Showa 43mm USD forks and a Pro-Link rear shock, with settings adjusted for improved stability and off-road control, while maintaining comfort on the highway.
  • New, bolder front end inspired by the Africa Twin for its sleek, tough, and purpose-built with minimalist styling.

  • New dual LED projector headlight enhances adventure styling and improves brightness.
  • Redesigned intake duct offers better wind protection and reduced rider fatigue on long
    rides.

  • Optimised for comfort, a new reprofiled screen made from DurabioTM bio-based polycarbonate offers better wind protection and reduced fatigue on longer rides. The  revised upper fairing and middle cowl also improve airflow.
  • 5-inch full-colour TFT display which provides sharp and easily readable data.

  • The display also features Honda RoadSync which connects to the rider’s smartphone app for weather display and forecast, navigation, music streaming, calls, and message notifications.
  • Ride-by-wire throttle allows for riding modes: STANDARD, RAIN, GRAVEL, and USER.

  • USER mode allows the rider to personalise levels of Engine Power (EP), Engine Braking (EB), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) traction control, and ABS.

Mr. Kunitomo Asano, Managing Director and CEO of Boon Siew Honda said, “The Honda Transalp is built for riders who seek more from every journey. By combining proven engineering and smart technology, this model pushes the boundaries of adventure riding  across every terrain.

The 2025 Honda CB750 is available in three striking colours of Ross White, Pearl Deep Mud Gray, and Graphite Black, at Honda Big Wing Dealers.

Price starts from RM56,800. Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000km manufacturing warranty (whichever comes first).

For more information, please click https://hondabigbike.com.my/model/transalp/ or visit the nearest Honda Big Wing near you. Customers may also reach BSH via our toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993 to speak to their customer relations representative.

Boon Siew Honda (BSH) has just announced the arrival of the 2025 Honda CB750 in Malaysia.

The Honda CB750 (also known as the Hornet 750) is a middleweight naked bike, which could also be termed as a “standard” motorcycle these days. However, after reviewing the previous year’s model, we concurred that it is more of a streetfighter due to its rip-roaring engine performance and quick steering without sacrificing everyday comforts.

The 2025 update includes a redesign to bring its streetfighter character out overtly, plus several new components such as a quickshifter (optional), headlights, and suspension.

Highlights
  • 755cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, with 270° crankshaft engine, tuned for smooth low-down and midrange torque. (It is shared with the Transalp 750.)
  • The engine produces 90.5 hp (67.5 kW) at 9,500 RPM and 75 Nm of torque at 7,250 RPM.

  • Assist and slipper clutch, with an optional quicksifter.
  • New Showa SFF-BP forks and a Pro-Link rear monoshock.

  • Dual front disc brakes and radial-mounted four-piston brake calipers up front.
  • Ride-by-wire throttle allows for riding modes: SPORT, STANDARD, RAIN, and USER.

  • USER mode allows the rider to personalise levels of Engine Power (EP), Engine Braking (EB), and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) with integrated Wheelie Control.
  • 5-inch full-colour TFT display which provides sharp and easily readable data.

  • The display also features Honda RoadSync which connects to the rider’s smartphone app for weather display and forecast, navigation, music streaming, calls, and message notifications.
  • New dual LED projector headlight (like that on the bigger CB1000) which doubles the brightness.

  • New styling with wing-inspired fuel tank, aggressive front, and clean tail for a sharper streetfighter look.
  • The enhanced fuel tank’s sculpted lines are inspired by the wings of a hornet’s, while the compact tail section and sharply angled nose complete the aggressive silhouette.

Mr. Kunitomo Asano, CEO and Managing Director of Boon Siew Honda said, ” The CB750 has always stood out as a bold streetfighter design. For 2025, we’ve taken it a step further by enhanced design, sharper handling, and rider-focused technology to create a machine that feels as aggressive as it looks.

The 2025 Honda CB750 comes in two striking colour options: Matte Pearl Glare White and Glint Wave Blue Metallic. Available at all Honda Big Wing dealers in Malaysia, it is priced from RM49,999.

For more information, please click https://hondabigbike.com.my/model/cb750/ or visit the
nearest Honda Big Wing near you. Customers may also reach BSH via their toll-free number at 1-
800-88-3993 to speak to their customer relations representative.

AEON Credit has introduced Malaysia’s first credit card designed exclusively for bikers, the AEON Biker Visa Card.

Unlike conventional credit cards, this one offers tailored benefits that cater to the real needs of motorcycle riders, from savings on servicing and spare parts to insurance and lifestyle rewards.

For too long, bikers have had to rely on generic financial products that don’t match the unique cost of maintaining a motorcycle — where replacing just one tire can cost more than a full set for a car. With this card, AEON Credit is putting riders back in the spotlight, recognizing the role bikers play in keeping Malaysia moving.

There was a time when we walked into a café with our heads held high as bikers, enjoying special privileges and discounts simply because we ride.

The AEON Biker Visa Card isn’t just a payment tool. It’s a statement of identity, restoring the sense of pride and privilege that comes with life on two wheels.

Types of AEON Biker Visa Card
There are two variants of the AEON Biker Visa Card, each extensively researched and tailored to suit different motorcycling needs:

  • AEON Biker Infinite Visa Card: Perfect for those who frequently travel abroad, whether crossing borders on a motorcycle, or flying overseas. This premium card offers travel-focused benefits and exclusive privileges.
  • AEON Biker Visa Gold Card: Ideal for riders who commute daily, with everyday rewards tailored to the needs of local riders.

Before diving into the full list of features and benefits, let’s take a closer look at what the AEON Biker Visa Card has to offer.

Ride Rewards That Matter
The cost of motorcycling has surged over the past five years, from spare parts and servicing to safety gear and accessories. A snapped CVT belt on a scooter alone can cost around RM400. Add to that the rising prices of lubricants, tires, and quality riding gear like helmets, jackets, gloves, and footwear, and it’s clear that being a responsible rider isn’t cheap.

That’s why the AEON Biker Visa Card rewards you for spending on what matters most to bikers:

  • Up to 8% cashback on motorcycle spare parts, accessories, merchandise, and service. (8% for Biker Infinite, 5% for Biker Gold.)
  • 8% cashback overseas spend (for Biker Infinite only).
  • 2% cashback for petrol (capped at RM20 for Biker Infinite, RM15 for Biker Gold per month).
  • 2% cashback for insurance.
  • 0.5% cashback for selected retail transactions.
Screenshot

Travel Rewards
For riders who frequently travel abroad, the AEON Biker Visa Infinite offers exclusive perks to elevate your journeys. In addition to earning 8% cashback on overseas spending, cardholders enjoy premium travel privileges such as:

  • 8x complimentary access to Plaza Premium Lounge (includes 1 guest per visit).
  • Access to Visa Concierge Services and a curated selection of luxury hotel partners via the Visa platform.

Wherever the road or skies take you, the Biker Visa Infinite ensures your travel experience is seamless and rewarding.

Events & Communities
There’s nothing quite like the bond between bikers, built through shared passion, stories, and the open road. AEON Biker Visa Cardholders are invited to join exclusive events that celebrate this camaraderie:

  • Invitations to motorcycle rallies and group rides, with VIP access for Biker Infinite cardholders.
  • Complimentary or discounted entry to major bike shows and gatherings in Malaysia.
  • Special privileges at selected motorcycle dealerships and merchandise outlets.
Insurance Rewards

Accidents often happen when we least expect them and as bikers, we’ve either faced emergencies ourselves or witnessed fellow riders struggle without proper insurance coverage. Unfortunately, many still carry the “it-won’t-happen-to-me” mindset… until it does.

The AEON Biker Visa Card is designed to provide peace of mind , offering complimentary insurance coverage that helps protect you on every ride, whether on Malaysian roads or beyond.

This protection is especially critical for riders crossing borders. For example, if you ride into Thailand and are involved in an accident, you could be held financially liable on the spot, or even barred from leaving the country until the settlement is made. Having proper travel and medical protection isn’t just smart, it’s essential.

What’s more, many forget that travel insurance also covers local travel within Malaysia, not just international trips.

With the AEON Biker Visa Card, you’re automatically covered with:

  • Up to RM500,000 complimentary coverage (Biker Infinite).
  • Up to RM4,000 coverage (Biker Gold).
  • Coverage includes:
    • 24-hour personal accident insurance.
    • Travel accident protection (Biker Infinite only).
    • Travel delay coverage (Biker Infinite only).
    • Ambulance fees.

Wherever you ride, ride with confidence, backed by protection that travels with you.

Screenshot

Other Rewards & Financial Flexibility

Beyond cashback and lifestyle benefits, the AEON Biker Visa Card also gives you powerful financial tools that go far beyond typical “buy now, pay later” services.

While 0% instalment plans are commonly available on certain online shopping platforms, the AEON Biker Visa Card stands out by providing three additional features:

  • Balance Transfer
    • Transfer outstanding balances from other credit cards to consolidate your payments into one manageable monthly plan. This is something you can’t do with standard online shopping credit.
  • Ready Cash
    • Access cash when you need it most, whether you’re travelling to places that only accept physical currency or when QR payment options are unavailable. In contrast, online shopping credit is limited to platform-specific use and does not allow cash withdrawals.
  • Flexi Payment Plan
    • Enjoy the freedom to pay your bill at your own pace, whether it’s the minimum amount or more. Unlike fixed-repayment buy now, pay later services, you are not restricted to rigid terms.

With the AEON Biker Visa Card, you don’t just earn rewards, you gain real financial flexibility built for riders who value control, convenience, and peace of mind.

AEON Biker Visa Credit Card Launch Campaign
To celebrate the launch of the AEON Biker Visa Card, new cardholders will receive a complimentary set of Baseus W04 Wireless Earbuds, perfect for life on the move.

Here’s how to qualify:
1. Apply and get approved for the AEON Biker Visa Card.
2. Activate your card.
3. Spend a minimum of RM500 in cumulative retail transactions within the campaign period.

Campaign period: 17 June to 16 September 2025

Conclusion
So, is the AEON Biker Visa Card worth having? Absolutely.

From cashback on essentials and lifestyle rewards to insurance protection and exclusive events, the benefits are designed to support the real needs of bikers both on and off the road.

It is more than just a credit card. It’s your companion on every journey.

Click here to find out more. 

We knew that the Triumph TR 400 platform will beget more models, apart the first two, namely Street 400 and Scrambler 400 X that were launched simultaneously. There were rumours of a much “hotter” Speed and Thruxton-like café racer, but alas, not yet, because the third member of the family is this Triumph Scrambler 400 XC. For now, hopefully.

Still, the Scrambler 400 XC is not something to sneeze at; considering that we did not want to return both the Street 400 and Scrambler 400 X after Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia loaned them to us. Both bikes entertained us to no end – this despite us having tested hundreds of other bikes.

Anyhoo… The Scrambler 400 XC brings more off-road capabilities compared to the already very-capable Scrambler 400 X. It is like drawing a parallel to the Scrambler 1200 family: The 400 X is like the Scrambler 1200 XC, while 400 XC is like the Scrambler 1200 XE. Don’t ask us why the letters are different…

Mount a gun rack/holster to the 400 XC and you are ready for the apocalypse.

Highlights
  • The 400 XC model is fitted with new side-laced spoked wheels and lightweight aluminium rims, shod with tubeless Metzeler Karoo Street tyres.
  • 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels give the XC a proper Scrambler stance and elevates (no pun intended) the bike’s off-road capabilities.

  • High-level front mudguard.
  • Flyscreen as well as handguards, engine bars and a solid aluminium sump guard.

  • Two-piece pillion seat.
  • 16,000km service intervals., a two-year unlimited mileage warranty.

  • More than 20 official accessories, from luggage to security.
  • Colours are Racing Yellow, Storm Grey, and Vanilla White.

The Triumph Scrambler 400 XC sells for £6,545 (RM37,843.36), on the road in the UK. For comparison, the Scrambler 400 X sells for £5,945.00 (RM34,374.14) on the road in the UK, while the Malaysian price is only RM29,900.

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