Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

2021 Aprilia RS125 And Tuono 125 Officially Revealed

Despite the global pandemic, it’s been a busy year for Aprilia since releasing the RS660 last year.

The Noale-based company has officially launched the Tuono 660 and recently revealed the refreshed RSV4 1100 and Tuono 1100.

However, the Italian company did not ignore the smaller segment as they officially introduce the 2021 RS125 and Tuono 125.

For 2021, the two motorcycles have a sharper front-end and a sleeker finish on the fairing.

The 125cc bikes also borrowed design cues from the SXR160 scooter, such as the LED headlight and the digital display.

Nonetheless, the 125cc models missed out on the DRL (Daytime Running Light) found on its bigger siblings, the RSV4 1100 and Tuono 1100.

According to Aprilia, the significant changes comes from the single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that is now Euro 5 compliant and produces a healthy 14.75hp @ 10,000rpm.

Aprilia also claimed the RS125 and Tuono 125 received the ‘best in class’ ABS, including the new Marelli ECU, to help improve the riding experience.

The Aprilia RS125 and Tuono 125 is priced from GBP4,500 (RM25,700).

MotoGP: Fabio Quartararo Goes Under The Knife After Arm-Pump Misery

Fabio Quartararo opts for surgery after suffering arm-pump troubles during Sunday’s MotoGP in Jerez.

The Frenchman went from leading the race to finishing 13th place after severe arm-pump problems hit him at mid-race.

With his home race at French GP is coming up next, the factory Yamaha rider could not afford to waste time.

Despite no official details from the factory team, it is understood that Quartararo underwent the same surgery due to similar problems he suffered in 2019 while with Petronas SRT.

The rider also shared his excitement to return to the track ahead of the French GP scheduled next week.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fabio Quartararo (@fabioquartararo20)

According to reports, Quartararo undergoes a standard surgery by cutting the membrane around the muscle to allow more blood flow instead of completely removing the membrane, which is a more thorough procedure.

Sundays’ result saw Ducati’s Francesco Bagnaia now leading the championship with 66 points, just 2pts ahead of Fabio Quartararo while another Yamaha rider, Maverick Vinales 3rd place with 50pts.

Ducati Recorded 33% Sales Growth For Q1 2021 Despite Global Pandemic

Ducati ends the first quarter of 2021 with 33 per cent sales growth compared to the same period in 2020.

According to Ducati, the Scrambler 800 range led the sales in Q1, with the all-new Multistrada V4 is the most delivered model to customers, followed by the Streetfighter V4.

Italy confirmed its position as the primary market for Ducati with 2,354 motorcycles delivered, followed by the USA with 1,723 and Germany with 1,275 units.

“The performance in the first months of 2021 is certainly very positive. Motorcycles delivered to customers in the first quarter of the year grew not only compared to 2020, already impacted by Covid, but also compared to 2019. Even more remarkable is the size of the order portfolio (motorcycles to be delivered) at the end of the quarter, which is the best ever, with an extraordinary 93% growth compared to 2020 and +135% compared to 2019. Enthusiasts are appreciating the 2021 range, and the family of Ducatisti is expanding,” said the company CEO, Claudio Domenicali.

Despite the global pandemic, Domenicali remained positive to deliver the best to its customers worldwide.

“The global market situation is positive in the world of two wheels, while the supply and transport sectors are much more complex, with delivery delays and a shortage of various raw materials.

“This makes it difficult to satisfy all the demand from our passionate customers, but at Ducati we are strongly motivated to do everything we can to reduce the inconvenience caused by this situation.

“I want to thank all the women and men who, in Borgo Panigale and in our subsidiaries around the world, are working with great commitment in this period of high seasonality,” he added.

Benda To Reveal All-New LFC700 In July – Inline-4, 97HP!

In July, the Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, Benda, is expected to reveal the company’s latest model, the LFC700.

Firstly introduced as a concept cruiser last year with the codename LF-01, Benda will pull the wrap over the new model in an official event scheduled at Xi’an, China.

While China motorcycle brand is known to copy other established motorcycle in the market, Benda puts in an original design altogether.

Combining a futuristic element, the LFC700 is powered by a 680cc inline-four engine capable of producing around 97hp, making it the most powerful motorcycle ever produced by Benda.

Based on the concept bike, the LFC700 is expected to offer a full TFT display, assist and slipper clutch, ABS, and a hill start assist.

To make things even better, the LFC700 is expected to be priced at around CNY50,000 (RM31,800), making it very desirable for new and experienced riders.

(source: BikeDekho)

Introducing The Dong, All-New Electric Scooter From Benelli

Understanding the demand for a zero-emission two-wheeler, Benelli revealed the Dong, an all-new electric scooter made primarily for the Asian markets.

Despite using the Benelli badge, the overall look of the motorcycle is screaming Qianjiang Motorcycle, the Chinese company responsible for taking over the brand in 2005.

Based on the shared images, the Dong stands out primarily due to its unique design, especially the rear section.

The rear-end is connected to the floorboard via a central shaft while the real wheel and hub-mounted motor are connected to the main body via a slim swingarm hence contributes to somewhat a floating effect.

Nevertheless, the scooter comes with a complete LED light setup (front and rear), including a digital LCD.

According to Benelli, the Dong is powered by a 1.2kW motor capable of reaching 45kmph with a claimed range of 60km.

What makes the Dong even cooler is that it also packs an artificial exhaust sound feature that helps to mimic a combustion engine sound.

The Benelli Dong is currently available in Indonesia for IDR 36,900,000 (RM10,500). Will the Dong make its way to our shores anytime soon?

All-New 2021 Honda X-ADV Now Available In Malaysia – RM67,799

Four months after Honda revealed the new generation 2021 X-ADV in Europe, the adventure scooter is now available in Malaysia at the price of RM67,799.

If you thought that the previous Honda X-ADV is impressive, wait until you feast your eyes on the 2021 Honda X-ADV.

Out of all the newly-launched models, the 2021 X-ADV receives the most updates from redesigned looks, increased firepower, and upgraded riding technologies.

In terms of design, the new X-ADV presents a more rugged appearance with modern up-to-date features like its dual LED daytime-running lights leading the way. A new front windscreen was also added for better weather protection as well as better storage capacity thanks to a bigger 22-litre under seat storage and a 1.2-litre glovebox compartment (with USB charging port).

Its 745cc parallel-twin DOHC engine now produces around 58hp at 6,750rpm and 69Nm torque at 4,750rpm (4hp & 1Nm more compared to the previous-gen). This was done thanks to a new throttle-by-wire system and engine tuning.

This resulted in a smoother and more powerful power delivery, which is also optimized further with reworked gear ratios via its Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and retuned Honda Selectable Torque Control settings. A 3kg weight reduction also helps greatly in this department.

Like the 2021 CB1000R, the 2021 X-ADV also features a new 5-inch TFT screen that is enhanced with Honda Smartphone Voice Control system. This allows the rider to control calls, navigation, and music via the handlebar controls and voice command (if you’re able to connect a Bluetooth helmet headset).

MotoGP: I Suffered Six Laps With Pain – Fabio Quartararo

Fabio Quartararo shed some light on his decision to throw in the towel despite leading the first half of the race at the Spanish GP.

The factory Yamaha rider led the race ahead of Ducati’s Jack Miller before slowing down and losing his grip in the front row.

It was a bitter pill to swallow for the 21-year-old Frenchman, who was brilliant at the early stage of the race, cruising his way ahead before succumbing to 13th place due to physical problems.

“I had a big issue with the arm. I suffered for six laps with pain, then I couldn’t do any more.

“I’m so sad for what happened because I was feeling really easy in front, I was P4, and I could overtake them.

“I was comfortable with the pace. We had an amazing pace this weekend and just had no more power in the arm,” he explained.

The arm-pump problem was not new for the rider, as Quartararo had to undergo surgery in 2019 when he was still with Petronas Sepang Racing Team.

“It was dangerous for me to ride for half a race, but I didn’t want to stop because I knew that maybe one or two points can be really important for the championship.

“I gave it all, and unfortunately, I had this issue,” said Quartararo.

SpanishGP: Jack Miller Led Ducati One-Two Win At Jerez

Jack Miller grab his first MotoGP win since 2016 Dutch GP after leading a Ducati one-two finish at Jerez.

This is only the Australian second race win in MotoGP since graduated into the premier class in 2015.

Despite having Fabio Quartararo in front of him during the first half of the race, Miller managed to take the lead as the Frenchman facing some issues.

Ducati’s teammate, Francesco Bagnaia, now leads the championship with 66pts after clinching his third podium of the season at 2nd place.

Franco Morbidelli completes the podium in 3rd place on his 2019 YZR-M1 while teammate and 7th time MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi continues his poor form at 17th place.

Takaaki Nakagami was the fastest Honda rider in Jerez, equalling his career-best finished at 4th place despite still feeling the effects of his huge Portimao crash.

Meanwhile, what looks set to be Quartararo’s third successive win of the season took a wrong turn when the 21-year-old slid all the way down the pecking order before eventually finishing 13th.

Marc Marquez displayed a strong race in his second outing after finishing 9th, followed by Pol Espargaro in 10th.

Full result as follows:

MotoGP: Quartararo Takes Jerez Pole Position Ahead Of Morbidelli

Fabio Quartararo recorded his second pole position of the season after setting the fastest time in Jerez ahead of former teammate Franco Morbidelli.

The 21-year-old continued his quest for his third win of the season after dominating the last two race in Qatar and Portimao.

Now leading the championship with 61 points, Quartararo set the best lap of the weekend with 1 minute 36.755s improving his already impressive 1m 36.8s earlier in Q2.

It was an exciting battle for pole as Quartararo had to battle it out with Morbidelli, who advanced from Q1.

Ducati’s Jack Miller complete the front row after edging out teammate Francesco Bagnaia.

This is the Australian first front-row start of the season in an effort to grab his first podium after three rounds despite showing amazing speed during the pre-season test.

Takaaki Nakagami was the surprise package this weekend after clinching P5, making him the fastest Honda rider on the RC213V ahead of Marc Marquez and Alex Marquez, who will start at P13 and P14, respectively.

MotoGP: Rossi Plays Down VR46 Racer Seat, Priority Remains With Petronas

Valentino Rossi will have the chance to hang up his racing suit next season to take up the role of team principal for ARAMCO Racing Team VR46.

Rossi’s VR46 is confirmed to race in the 2022 MotoGP season after signing a 5-year agreement with Tanal Entertainment Sport & Media, the company of HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Abdullah Al-Saud.

Saudi Aramco was also announced as the team main sponsor starting from 2022 to 2026.

“It is a circle that closes. We started about ten years ago helping my brother, Migno, Morbidelli, who raced in CIV and arriving in MotoGP is a great satisfaction, a good thing for us and we have also done it for MotoGP and motorsport in general,” said Rossi.

Nevertheless, the 42-year-old rider plays down the possibility of him racing for his team.

“If I still want to race, I could keep a bike for myself, as I am the boss.

“In truth, this team doesn’t change much with my decision whether to continue or not because, as I’ve always said, it will depend on the results and my priority remains with Petronas.

“So at the moment, I would say that it is very difficult for me to race for my own team, but it is not 100 per cent certain, things can change from one day to the next.

“It’s difficult but not impossible,” he added.

Despite the confirmation to race in the premier class next season, one major aspect is still unclear, which bike will the VR46 jump on in 2022.

“We have talked to everyone, Aprilia, Ducati, Yamaha dan Suzuki but I don’t think the decision has been made,” he said.

Norton-Powered Zongshen Cyclone RX6 Breaks Cover

Zongshen officially unveiled its latest model, the Cyclone RX6, the company first motorcycle powered by the Norton 650cc parallel-twin engine.

The RX6 was first sighted in 2019 as a concept before the Chinese manufacturer pulled the wraps at Shanghai Motor Show this week.

The overall look of the RX6 clearly defined an adventure motorcycle, and at a glance, it does bear a resemblance to the previous Yamaha MT-07 Tracer.

According to reports, the RX6 is powered by the Norton 650cc parallel-twin that produces around 70hp and is the same power plant found in yet-to-be-released Norton Altas.

Zongshen also includes a host of the latest electronics, including a full-colour TFT display, adjustable windscreen and keyless ignition.

The bike also features exciting specifications, including:

21L tank
Nissin brake callipers
Kayaba suspension
ABS
Pirelli tires

However, the Cyclone RX6 sits on the heavier side as the bike is quoted at 245kg.

Despite no confirmation, we can assume the motorcycle will be made available in Malaysia soon!

Brembo Acquires Spanish Brake Company J.Juan For RM347mil

Brembo has expanded its brand family after announcing the acquisition of J.Juan.

The Italian company has signed an agreement to acquire a 100 per cent stake in J.Juan Group.

J.Juan Group specialises in developing a motorcycle braking system and currently runs two factories located in Spain and China.

For those who are not aware of J.Juan, the company is responsible is supplying the brake system for Benelli and Zero Motorcycle.

It is understood that the acquisition of J.Juan for EUR70 million (RM347mil) allows Brembo to access the Spanish company research and development and manufacturing capabilities in the two countries.

Brembo currently owns ByBre, Marchesini and SBS Friction.

“We are proud to welcome J.Juan in the Brembo Group.

“This transaction is in line with our global strategy and follows the recent acquisition of SBS Friction in Denmark.

“We continue to invest with the aim of strengthening our motorbike core business. The addition of J.Juan is a great opportunity for us, as it reinforces our positioning as a company increasingly oriented to offering comprehensive, integrated and high-quality solutions to our customers,” said Brembo Chairman Alberto Bombassei.

Despite dominating the performance market, Brembo still facing a big challenge from Nissin and Beringer.

Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen

2021 Aprilia RS125 And Tuono 125 Officially Revealed

MotoGP: Fabio Quartararo Goes Under The Knife After Arm-Pump Misery

Ducati Recorded 33% Sales Growth For Q1 2021 Despite Global Pandemic

Benda To Reveal All-New LFC700 In July – Inline-4, 97HP!

Introducing The Dong, All-New Electric Scooter From Benelli

All-New 2021 Honda X-ADV Now Available In Malaysia – RM67,799

MotoGP: I Suffered Six Laps With Pain – Fabio Quartararo

SpanishGP: Jack Miller Led Ducati One-Two Win At Jerez

MotoGP: Quartararo Takes Jerez Pole Position Ahead Of Morbidelli

MotoGP: Rossi Plays Down VR46 Racer Seat, Priority Remains With Petronas

Norton-Powered Zongshen Cyclone RX6 Breaks Cover

Brembo Acquires Spanish Brake Company J.Juan For RM347mil

Ducati Dirt Bike Project Announced

Touratech Offers An Array Of Accessories For The New BMW R 1300 GS

Royal Alloy Youth Edition Launched – From RM12,800

14-Year-Old’s Joyride Ends In Fatal Motorcycle Collision

Daewoo To Make A Comeback With Electric Motorcycles

Female Rider Becci Ellis Sets New Top Speed Record On A 350HP Suzuki Hayabusa

Bridgestone Rolls Out New Battlax Hypersport S23

YADEA E8S Pro Electric Scooter Now Available In Malaysia – RM5,999

Ducati Rolls Out Panigale-Powered Ducati Multistrada V4 RS

CFMOTO Goes Electric With Company’s First Dirt Bike

EU Court Of Justice Ruling Redefines E-Bikes

Honda’s Next-Gen Gold Wing Features Auto-Adjusting Windscreen

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