Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

2024 Honda CBR600RR Breaks Cover At The Suzuka 8 Hours

Honda wowed motorcycle enthusiasts and racing fans alike as it unveiled its latest iteration of the CBR600RR at the prestigious 2023 Suzuka 8 Hours weekend.

The iconic Suzuka Circuitwitnessed the grand reveal during the 44th edition of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) Endurance World Championship last wekend.
The event serves as a homecoming for Honda, allowing the brand to showcase its cutting-edge engineering on familiar turf.

Enthusiasts attending the Suzuka 8 Hours race had the exclusive opportunity to experience the new Honda CBR600RR up close and personal at the dedicated Honda booth.

While comprehensive details about the updates are still under wraps, insiders suggest that this unveiling primarily addresses evolving emissions regulations in Japan. As the CBR600RR’s previous iteration predates the implementation of these stringent environmental norms, this refresh aims to align the beloved sportbike with the latest emission compliance requirements.

Amid concerns over potential impacts on power output due to emissions adjustments, historical precedents indicate that the alterations are unlikely to significantly impede the bike’s formidable performance. Honda’s track record of seamlessly integrating similar tweaks in previous models suggests that any changes in power dynamics will likely be subtle and expertly balanced.

Apart from the mechanical enhancements, the visual appeal of the new CBR600RR is set to captivate riders and onlookers alike. Honda has provided a tantalizing glimpse of the new aesthetic direction through shared images and videos.

The motorcycle dons a fresh Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) tricolor livery, exuding an air of racing prowess. Adding an air of mystique is the striking matte black variant that conjures images of a stealthy test mule wrap, underscoring the bike’s performance-oriented nature.

The Japanese market can expect both the dynamic tricolor livery and the enigmatic matte black version to be offered upon the formal announcement of the model’s release. However, the global palette remains a subject of speculation.

HJC Unveils RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special

The iconic Le Mans racing circuit celebrated its 1,000th MotoGP race in style back in May as racers and fans gathered to mark the historic milestone.

Since its inception over a century ago, the legendary track has been a cornerstone of the racing world, hosting some of the most exhilarating competitions in history.
The HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special helmet is to commemorate the iconic race track.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, HJC, the renowned helmet manufacturer, unveiled a special edition helmet: the HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special, paying homage to Fabio Quartararo’s incredible talent and achievements during the 2023 French GP.

The HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special is a custom-designed version of HJC’s highly acclaimed RPHA 1 helmet, which was the brand’s first FIM homologated race helmet. The special edition helmet embraces Quartararo’s signature style with colors inspired by his home country – blue, white, and red. A prominent feature on the top of the helmet is Quartararo’s iconic devil logo, along with his race number 20, stylized with devil horns, leaving no doubt about the helmet’s association with the former world champion.

Aside from its eye-catching appearance, the HJC RPHA 1 boasts impressive technical features. Constructed with HJC’s latest PIM Plus fiber technology, the outer shell combines carbon fiber infused with hybrid fiberglass.

This innovation ensures the helmet is remarkably lightweight, rigid, and proficient in absorbing and dissipating impact forces. The interior includes a multi-density EPS liner, complemented by interchangeable cheek pads of various sizes, guaranteeing a secure and customized fit for riders of all shapes and sizes. Safety is paramount, and the RPHA 1 adheres to the latest ECE 22.06 safety standards, standing as the first and only FIM-homologated helmet in HJC’s lineup to date.

Fabio Quartararo, one of the brightest stars in the MotoGP universe, expressed his pride and gratitude for the special edition helmet honoring his achievements. “It’s an incredible honor to have a helmet designed in celebration of my performance at Le Mans,” Quartararo said. “The design is fantastic, and knowing that riders can wear this helmet to feel connected to my journey means a lot to me.”

The release of the HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special helmet aligns perfectly with Le Mans’ rich racing history and the passion of MotoGP enthusiasts worldwide. Racing fans and collectors alike can now own a piece of MotoGP history while experiencing the exceptional performance and safety features of HJC’s top-tier helmet.

QJMotor Developing Electronic Clutch

China’s motorcycle industry has been steadily improving in recent years, but there’s still room for innovation compared to their European, Japanese, and American counterparts. However, a promising development is on the horizon, as Qianjiang, the parent company of QJMotor and Benelli, has filed a new patent for an electronically controlled clutch system.

This exciting breakthrough is showcased on the QJMotor SRK700, a powerful 700cc twin-cylinder engine also used in the Benelli TRK702. Unlike the usual hydraulic or cable-operated clutches we see in most motorcycles, this electronic clutch is different. It allows for precise control using electronics, giving riders more options and flexibility.

What sets this innovation apart is that it can be used in different ways. On one hand, it maintains a conventional clutch lever look, but it is operated electronically, not manually. This could lead to smoother and more precise gear changes. On the other hand, it could also be part of a semi-automatic or fully automatic transmission system, making riding even easier and more enjoyable.

Some other companies have introduced automatic clutch systems in the past, but Qianjiang’s approach seems unique. It could allow riders to switch between a manual mode, where they have full control over the clutch and gears, and an automatic mode, where the bike takes care of shifting gears on its own, making riding effortless.

This innovative electronic clutch system represents a significant step forward for the Chinese motorcycle industry. It brings fresh possibilities for improving the riding experience and attracting more riders to embrace motorcycling. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect other manufacturers to take notice and work towards their own advancements.

OFFICIAL: Triumph’s 765cc Triple Engine To Power Moto2 Machines Until 2029

Triumph’s 765cc triple engine, initially introduced with the 2017 Street Triple, has proven to be a game-changer in both the street and racing world.

Since the 2019 race season, Triumph’s 765cc triple has been the driving force behind all Moto2 racing machines, impressing with its reliability and power on the track.
Triumph will continue as Moto2 engine supplier until 2029.

The success of this partnership led Dorna to extend Triumph’s contract as the sole engine supplier for the Moto2 series until 2029. Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer of Dorna, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, citing “great racing, record-breaking performances, and impressive reliability” as key factors in the decision.

Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer, highlighted the introduction of a new racing gearbox, set to improve track performance. The engineering team is already working on enhancements for gear selection, with testing planned after this year’s Moto2 races.

Currently tuned to produce 145 horsepower, with a recent increase in RPM to 14,400, the Triumph Moto2 engines continue to set new standards for performance.

For enthusiasts seeking a taste of the Moto2 experience, the Triumph Street Triple RS Moto2 Edition offers a glimpse, boasting the same powerful engine, along with Öhlins suspension and Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers for precision handling.

Triumph’s 765cc triple engine has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on the racing world, and its continued presence in Moto2 promises more exciting races and record-breaking moments in the years to come.

2023 Modenas Ninja 250 ABS Now Available In Iconic Green – RM21,800

Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially introduced the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS, which is now available in the iconic Lime Green/Ebony color scheme.

The special unveiling was done during the Modenas X Kawasaki Green Mania event held at Gamuda Cove on Sunday.

However, apart from the new visuals, the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS continues to feature the same specs and features.

That said, the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS continues to be powered by a 249cc, twin-cylinder, eight-valve, DOHC engine that pumps out 36hp at 12,500rpm and 23Nm of maximum torque upon hitting 10,000rpm. All this power is transferred down to its rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox, enhanced with Kawasaki’s assist and slipper clutch for ease of riding.

Other features include:

164kg (wet weight)
14-liter fuel tank
Front 310mm single semi-floating disc brake with a 2-piston calliper
Rear 220mm single disc brake with a 2-piston calliper
41mm telescopic front forks

According to EMOS, the 2023 Modenas Ninja 250 ABS is priced at RM21,800 (excluding registration and insurance).

2023 Ducati Scrambler Now In Malaysia – From RM62,900

Ducati Malaysia officially introduced the next-generation Ducati Scrambler 800 for the local market.

Available in three variants, Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift the new Scrambler is set to take the Land of Joy to new heights.
While we may call it the next-gen, the latest Scrambler range received a small technical updates and stylistic changes across all three models; Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift.

As matter of fact, the 2023 Scrambler range continue to feature the same two-cylinder Desmodue engine albeit with a smaller clutch and alternator cover featuring an “X” logo.

The clutch now features eight disc, ensuring a smoother and lighter gear change during the pull of the lever.

That said, the engine is now 2.5kg lighter than the previous generation which contributed to a total weight loss of 4kg.

Here’s our review of the 2023 Ducati Scrambler:

New Scrambler Ducati Redefines The Art of a Fast Friendly Machine!

Ducati also claimed that the new Scrambler is sportier thanks to new rear subframe that is now separated from the main frame, while bearing-mounted shift drum contributes to a smoother shifts.

Meanwhile, all three range now features ride-by-wire, Ducati Traction Control and two selectable riding modes; Road and Wet and a redesigned fuel tank. Additionally, the motorcycle also equipped with Cornering ABS and a quickshifter (only available on the Full Throttle trim).

Scrambler Full Throttle – RM69,900

The Scrambler Full Throttle is the creme de la creme across all three variants of the Scrambler family.

Firstly, it is the only model in the range to feature a quickshifter as standard.

In addition, the model also features the number #62 as a nod to the original scrambler introduced in 1962, a flat-track skid plate. sportier style seat, with a race-inspired GP19 Red/Dark Steath livery, shorterfront mudguard,red wheel tags and Termignoni exhaust.

Scrambler Nightshift – RM69,900

The Nightshift continue its elegant design and ergonomics from the previous generation. The cafe racer-style Scrambler gets side number plates, minimal front mudguard and a small LED indicators.

New for 2023 is an all-blacked out spoke wheels, flat-set handlebars and bar-end mirrors.

Scrambler Icon – RM62,900

The Icon is the most customizable among the three with the headlight covers, wheel tags and mudguards are all replaceable.

There are now six new exciting colours and nine liveries to choose from. Ergonomically, the Icon features lower handlebar and tapered seat.

According to Ducati Malaysia, the fist delivery will commence in October.

2023 Harley-Davidson CVO Models Now In Malaysia – From RM367,900

Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest offerings for the Malaysian market – the CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models from the Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) series.

These new motorcycles promise to redefine the riding experience with advanced technology, superior comfort, and exceptional performance.
Powering the 2023 CVO is the powerful 121 V-Twin engine.

The highlight of these new models is the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, a powerful 121-cubic inch V-Twin that sets a new standard for torque and displacement in a Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycle.

Confidential and Embargoed Until 6/7/2023; 10:00AM CST – 2023 Key Features. CVO Road Glide.

The engine comes with liquid-cooled cylinder heads, a new cooling system, variable valve timing, and an upgraded intake tract and exhaust system.

The CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide also introduce selectable Ride Modes – Road, Sport, and Rain – which provide electronic control over power delivery and engine braking, ensuring a customized and confident riding experience for every situation.

Design wise, these models exhibit a striking transformation of the Grand American Touring platform with new fairings featuring integrated venting and LED signature lighting with turn signals. The bikes come with a trimmed front fender, Combo Cast Laced wheels, and offer two highly detailed finish options.

Not just performance-oriented, the CVO models boast an all-new suite of infotainment technology powered by the Skyline OS. Riders can now enjoy a 12.3-inch TFT color touch screen, replacing analog instrumentation and most switches.

Additionally, wireless connectivity and compatibility with Apple and Android devices provide a seamless and modern riding experience.

During the recent Art of Speed event at Maeps, Serdang, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts had the exclusive opportunity to witness these two new models up close.

The event attracted a footfall of 65,000 and showcased a wide array of Model Year 2023 motorcycles, including the Pan America Special, Nightster, Nightster Special, Sportster S, and the Fast Johnnie collection.

The CVO Street Glide is priced at RM367,900 while the CVO Road Glide comes at RM376,900.

Enthusiasts can now book these premium motorcycles at any Harley-Davidson dealership in Malaysia. Sajeev Rajasekharan, Managing Director, Asia Emerging Markets & India at Harley-Davidson, expressed confidence that these new models will allow Malaysian riders to experience the road with style and confidence.

Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Reintroduced In Malaysia – From RM50,900

Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has reintroduced the Tiger Sport 660 for the local market.

Now under a new distributorship in Malaysia, the Tiger Sport 660 is now priced at RM50,900 excluding registration and insurance.
The Tiger Sport 660 is the latest entry level sports tourer introduced by the Hinckley factory.

Built on the same platform as the Trident 660, the Tiger Sport 660 features the same triple-cylinder engine as its naked sibling and is set to go up against the Kawasaki Versys 650, Suzuki V-Strom 650.

Like the Trident, the Tiger Sport 660 features two riding modes, Road and Rain, ride-by-wire with 6-speed transmission, and a slipper/clutch.

Braking is done by twin 2-piston Nissin radial callipers paired to a 310mm disc at the front and a 255mm disc at the rear. It also features dual-channel ABS that’s, unfortunately, can’t be turn off.

Other exciting features include:

41mm Showa USD front forks with 150mm travel
Showa rear monoshock with hydraulic preload adjustable
835mm seat height
17.2L fuel tank
LED lights with self-cancelling indicators
TFT display with My Triumph connectivity
Triumph Shift Assist up/down quickshifter (optional)
heated grips (optional)
under-seat USB charger (optional)
TPMS (optional)

In conjunction with the upcoming Merdeka celebration, Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia is running a special package for the Tiger Sport 660 whereby owners can enjoy a full accessories for an additional RM5,900 (previously worth RM9,542).

Gogoro And Muji Unveil Stylish Eco-Friendly Smart Scooters

Electric mobility leader Gogoro and renowned Japanese lifestyle brand Muji have joined forces in an exciting collaboration to address plastic waste and promote sustainability.

The partnership, spearheaded by esteemed Muji designer Naoto Fukasawa, has resulted in a series of special edition smart scooters and a line of co-branded merchandise.
Dubbed the “Recycling for Good” initiative, the collaboration aims to tackle the issue of polypropylene plastic waste by incorporating recycled plastic body panels into their new electric scooters.

The two innovative models unveiled under this partnership are the Viva ME and the Viva Mix ME, both personally curated by Naoto Fukasawa himself.

Drawing inspiration from Muji’s signature design philosophy, the scooters showcase rustic colors, sleek bodywork, and a user-friendly interface.

In a statement, Fukasawa emphasized the importance of design integrity, stating, “The most important thing in design is that it must always uphold the spirit of integrity towards people, the environment, and life.”

Beyond using recycled materials, the “Recycling for Good” initiative aims to foster a lifestyle change, encouraging individuals to be more conscious about plastic waste. By incorporating eco-friendly designs and fostering collaboration between two popular brands, Gogoro and Muji envision a greater impact than the sum of their parts.

FIRST LOOK: 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR – 138hp, 100Nm

Krämer Motorcycles proudly announces the introduction of their latest masterpiece, the 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR supersport.

Boasting class-leading specifications, the GP2-890RR promises to deliver an unparalleled track experience for racing enthusiasts.
Powering the GP2-890RR makes 138hp and 100Nm.

The GP2-890RR’s heart lies in its powerful 889cc parallel-twin motor from KTM, generating a remarkable 138hp @ 10,100 rpm and 100Nm @ 8,200 rpm. The motorcycle’s lightweight engine internals and advanced engine management software allow for an increased redline of 11,500 rpm.

Built with German engineering precision, the GP2-890RR features a chromoly steel-trellis frame that ensures exceptional stiffness and rigidity while maintaining an astonishingly light racing weight of 142kg. Furthermore, the unique fuel cell design utilises a rotationally molded plastic fuel tank, doubling as the bike’s tail section and providing optimised weight distribution during races.

Markus Krämer, the CEO and Founder of Krämer Motorcycles, expressed his pride in the GP2-890RR, calling it the pinnacle of their GP2 racing platform. This limited-edition masterpiece will see only 125 units produced for the global market, with each bike individually numbered and engraved on the triple clamp.

Equipped with premium components like dual Brembo Stylema callipers, forged aluminum Dymag wheels, and top-shelf WP Apex Pro suspension, the 2024 Krämer GP2-890RR leaves no room for compromises when it comes to pure track performance.

The motorcycle will be available in Europe beginning September 2023 with a recommended selling price of EUR41,990 (RM208k), making it the inaugural model to be manufactured at Krämer’s new factory in Burghausen, Germany, which will also debut the company’s fresh corporate branding.

Hero MotoCorp Raises Prices Of Harley-Davidson X440 Motorcycle Following Overwhelming Pre-Orders

Hero MotoCorp, the renowned two-wheeler manufacturer, announced a price hike of INR10,500 (RM500) for the new India-made Harley-Davidson X440.

the made in India Harley-Davidson has garnered a lot of attention since it’s launch.
the X440 runs on a single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine that’s capable of making 27hp & 38Nm.

This decision comes just days after the Chief Executive of Harley-Davidson expressed delight over the remarkable number of pre-orders for the X440, surpassing the company’s initial expectations.

The Harley-Davidson X440, which is set to be priced at INR239,500 (RM13.1k) and above, will now include the price increase across all its variants, as per the statement issued by Hero. Customers can anticipate deliveries to commence in October.

Harley-Davidson, after discontinuing most of its dealer network in India in 2020, joined forces with Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest motorcycle maker, to develop and market a series of its branded bikes in the country. Their initial offering, the X440, marks the beginning of their strategic partnership.

Harley-Davidson CEO, Jochen Zeitz, expressed his contentment during an earnings call last week, stating, “We’ve been extremely pleased with the reception that the X440 has received since launch, with pre-orders exceeding initial expectations from launch.”

A First Look At Kawasaki’s Upcoming Electric Streetbikes

Kawasaki is on the verge of unveiling its highly anticipated electric streetbikes, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 as confirmed by latest homologation filed in Australia.

Last November, at EICMA, the world got a glimpse of what was to come, and now, with the submission of new homologation data in Australia, the official launch is imminent.
Pictures of the final production models have emerged from the homologation filings, showcasing the electric duo with the new e-1 branding and regulatory labels, staying true to the essence of the prototypes showcased in Milan.

The Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1 have retained the bodywork of their gas-powered counterparts, the 400 series.

Interestingly, the Australian homologation data reveals a net engine power of 9.0 kW (12.1 hp) lower than what was previously mentioned. Dimensionally, both the Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 will feature a wheelbase of 1369mm, mirroring the Z400 and Ninja 400.

However, The most intriguing aspect, though, is the listed tare weights. According to the documentation, the Z e-1 boasts a certified tare weight of 135kg, while the Ninja e-1 tips the scales slightly heavier at 140kg.

Whether these weights include the batteries remains unclear. Kawasaki’s initial statement outlined plans for each electric model to incorporate two removable battery packs, weighing around 12 kg each, with a combined capacity of 3.0 kWh.

While the excitement surrounding the impending release of the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 continues to grow, Kawasaki has even more electrifying surprises up its sleeve. These electric models are only the first step in Kawasaki’s journey towards alternative fuel products. A hybrid model is slated for release as part of the 2024 model range, offering a glimpse of the brand’s forward-thinking approach.

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Amirul Azreen