English rider Peter Hickman’s winning motorcycle at the 2022 Isle of Man TT races has fetched a staggering GBP112,700 (RM627k) at The International Classic Motorcycle Show’s Spring Stafford Sale on April 22, 2023.
The bike was prepared by Gas Monkey Garage by FHO Racing and is a BMW M 1000 RR that Hickman rode to victories in the Superbike and Senior TT classes.
The motorcycle is a Superbike World Championship-spec machine that boasts a reinforced chassis, a Suter swingarm, and Öhlins suspension.
In addition, BMW specially prepared the engine and airbox, and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system along with a larger fuel tank and an STM clutch to meet the demands of the Snaefell Mountain course.
The motorcycle’s authenticity was confirmed by the bug guts splattered across the front fairing and the chain grease/road debris speckling the under-tail.
Interestingly, the new owner has chosen to remain anonymous. Nevertheless, Hickman’s winning bike is definitely an every collectors dream.
Hickman has been on a winning streak since the 2018 Isle of Man TT, accumulating nine TT wins in just five years.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic sidelining IOMTT races for two consecutive years, Hickman continued to dominate the field in 2022, winning the Supertwin, Superstock, Superbike, and Senior TT classes.
With the 2023 Isle of Man TT just around the corner, there is a chance that another Hickman-ridden motorcycle could make it back to the auction block soon.
Harley-Davidson has officially announced the upcoming launch of its 2023 CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models.
The reveal is set to happen on June 7, but some details have already been unveiled.
The two new motorcycles, to be equipped with an all-new Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine.
Firstly, both models will feature a new Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, a variable valve timing system, and new suspension. The variable valve timing system will allow Harley-Davidson to tune the engine for better performance at both high and low speeds. The CVOs’ new suspension is said to be “all-new,” with inverted forks at the front and a new monoshock system at the rear.
The new CVO models also boast dramatically redesigned fairings, which have already received mixed reactions from fans of the brand.
*Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide.
The CVO Street Glide’s fairing has been updated to better integrate with the fuel tank, side covers, and saddlebags. It features an “Omega-shaped” light and LED strips on either side of the fairing that serve as forward turn signals.
On the other hand, the CVO Road Glide’s fairing offers a more dramatic change, with a broader headlight that includes integrated turn signals.
*Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide.
Nevertheless, both models receive a new infotainment system, with a large digital display that replaces the previous analog dials. The display will show vital data and control over the audio system, and it’s expected to provide information on electronics, although Harley-Davidson hasn’t confirmed this yet.
Harley-Davidson’s 2023 CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models are set to be powerful and stylish cruisers that come with significant updates over their predecessors. While the new fairing designs have received mixed reactions, fans of the brand are eagerly awaiting the full reveal on June 7 to get a better look at these two new models.
Kawasaki has recently been making waves in the motorcycle world with its revived Eliminator nameplate. In March 2023, the Japanese company announced the Eliminator 400 for the Japanese market, and it was presented at the 2023 Bangkok Motor Show.
latest type-approval documents confirms the arrival of an all-new Eliminator 450.
It is likely that there will be several variants for the Eliminator 450.
Now, new information has surfaced suggesting that Kawasaki may release a larger-capacity Eliminator 450 in North America in 2024.
According to reports by Motorcycle.com, latest California Air Resources Board (CARB) filings show that Kawasaki has filed model codes EL450A, EL450B, EL450C, and EL450D.
Considering that the Eliminator 400 and Eliminator 400 SE are designated as EL400A and EL400B respectively, it is likely that the EL450A and EL450B will be the base model Eliminator 450 and Eliminator 450 SE. Meanwhile, the EL450C and EL450D may denote ABS-equipped trims.
The CARB filings also confirm that the Eliminator 450 will benefit from a 451cc engine. While it is unclear how Kawasaki’s engineers achieved the extra volume, it is possible that they used the firm’s tried-and-true 398cc parallel twin as a basis for the new mill.
Compared to Honda’s Rebel 500, which is the main competitor to a potential Eliminator 450, Kawasaki’s parallel twin already has a power advantage.
However, the Rebel 500’s 471cc engine outperforms the Eliminator’s 398cc lump with 43Nm of torque @ 6,000 rpm. Kawasaki may address this shortfall with the new 451cc powerplant, but the existence of the 2024 Eliminator 450 cannot be confirmed without an official announcement from the company.
Caofen, a new emerging electric brand, has announced its entry into the UK market with the launch of two electric motorbikes – the F80 Adventure and F80 Off-Road.
The road-ready F80 Adventure will retail at GBP5,995 (RM33k), while the F80 Off-Road will cost GBP5,495 (RM30.3k).
Caofen is a newly developed electric motorcycle company from China owned by Chongqing Huanghe Motorcycle Company.
The Caofen F80 bikes are equipped with patented battery technology, a single-piece frame, and an enhanced motor. They are designed to improve performance and longevity, enabling riders to enjoy their ride, go faster, and cover more distance on a single charge.
The Caofen F80 bikes have been developed to compete with other electric motorbikes already available in the UK market. The launch of these bikes is expected to bring more competition to the market and increase the availability of affordable electric motorbikes.
The company has launched its newly designed website where interested buyers can find more information about the specifications of the F80 Adventure and F80 Off-Road. The website also provides information about other upcoming models from Caofen.
The launch of the Caofen F80 bikes is a significant development in the electric motorbike market in the UK. With more consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, the demand for electric bikes is expected to rise in the coming years. The Caofen F80 bikes offer an affordable option for those looking to transition to electric motorbikes.
Marc Marquez, a six-time MotoGP champion, has earned the title of “King of COTA” due to his unbeatable form on U.S. soil.
Marc Marquez wins six time in a row at the Circuit of the Americas between 2013 and 2018 earning him the “King of COTA” status.
The limited-edition helmet is to honour Marquez’s amazing feat at COTA.
Despite suffering a broken humerus and undergoing several surgeries in 2020, Marquez won at the Circuit of the Americas again in 2021.
In honor of his winning record, Shoei has created a limited-edition Z8 helmet with an American Spirit graphic.
The special livery, worn by Marquez during the 2022 Grand Prix of the Americas, features a red, white, and blue color combination, stars and stripes integrated into the design, and Marquez’s signature number 93 emblazoned on both sides of the helmet.
The helmet is made with Shoei’s eminent all-arounder, the Z-8 (RF-1400), which boasts extra comfort and an affordable mid-range price tag, making it a great option for road riding.
The Z-8 was updated recently with a newly improved ventilation system, a new visor-locking mechanism, and noise-diffusing, aerodynamics-enhancing Vortex Generators, making it the perfect all-rounder helmet. That said, the GP-accurate American Spirit graphic lends itself perfectly to the Z-8 model.
Shoei will release the limited-edition helmet in July 2023 with limited orders open through August 2023.The race replica will be available in sizes S (55cm), M (57cm), L (59cm), XL (61cm), and XXL (63cm) at a price of JPY71,500 (RM2.3k).
Kawasaki has recently patented a new type of electronic brake that could help to reduce the risk of low-side crashes on bikes.
Kawasaki has patented a new type of electronic brake that applies a load to the bike’s chain wheel during deceleration to reduce the risk of low-side crashes.
The system aims to stabilize the bike during critical moments, particularly when the front brake is released.
According to reports by Visordown, the technology is designed to work on the chain wheel of the bike and uses a type of magnetic clutch that can be electronically actuated to apply a load to the chain during deceleration.
When a bike is braking into a corner, it slows down and compresses the suspension, pushing the front tire into the Tarmac, and increasing the amount of grip there is at the front end of the machine.
However, when the front brake is released, the springs in the forks try to return to a normal position, reducing the pressure on the front tire and reducing the amount of grip it has. This can lead to a low-side crash if the front end loses grip.
The Kawasaki system aims to solve this problem by applying a load to the bike’s chain while decelerating, even after the front brake has been released. This means that the bike will still be applying some force on the suspension, reducing the rebound action of the forks that can cause a low-side.
While the system may seem like a natural fit for a sports bike ridden on a track, Kawasaki is reportedly considering using the technology on its road-going sports touring machines too. With radar-assisted cruise control becoming increasingly popular on top-spec models, manufacturers are always looking for new ways to control a bike’s speed without relying solely on the braking system, which can be unsettling for both the rider and the bike.
While this new technology is still in its early stages, it could represent a significant step forward in motorcycle safety. As always, riders should continue to prioritize safe riding practices and seek out training and education to improve their skills on the road.
Japanese parts and accessories supplier Kijima has expanded its product range with a new line of components for the popular Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.
Kijima has customized three distinct Hunter Cubs, showcasing the versatility of its new line of utility-oriented parts.
Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.
The first custom model is aimed at maximalists and weekend glampers. With a large top box and tactical side bag, riders can pack provisions for all their outdoor adventures. The modified Hunter Cub also comes with extra protection in the form of crash guards, a headlight grille, and handguards. A front rack enhances the carrying capacity, allowing riders to strap everything from sleeping pads to six packs to the front end. Auxiliary lighting and larger heel-toe shifter add to the adventure-ready features.
The second custom model is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. It carries over many of the same features as the first model, but with a high-mounted fender and a large rear carrier rack for increased storage. The rugged design is perfect for diehard off-roaders, and a bar-mounted bag adds to the carrying capacity.
The third model takes a more restrained approach, with a classic Honda red color scheme and fewer accessories. The crash protection, headlight grate, and taillight grille all come from Kijima, as does the custom front, rear, and side racks. The bags and top box have been removed to minimize the footprint of the Hunter Cub, making it ideal for urban environments. Kijima also offers the components in chrome for a more polished look.
Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub. With options for maximalists, off-road enthusiasts, and urban riders, Kijima’s accessories are a must-have for anyone looking to customize their Hunter Cub.
Taiwanese scooter manufacturer Kymco has released a new scooter model, the AK Premium, designed to compete in the luxury maxi-scooter market.
the AK Premium the is the flagship version of the standard AK550 scooter.
the AK Premium features customisable user settings and cruise control.
Powering the Kymco AK Premium is a 550cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 51hp @ 7,500rpm and 52Nm @ 6,000rpm, and it features a continuously variable gearbox and throttle-by-wire technology for improved engine control and acceleration.
The scooter also has customisable riding modes and additional features like traction control and cruise control for a smooth and safe ride over long distances. The AK Premium also equipped with AIBS Cornering Technology which includes cornering ABS.
The AK Premium has a striking futuristic design with aggressive LEDs, and it weighs 238 kilograms, making it a heavyweight challenger in its class.
Other notable features includes; Brembo callipers, 14.5L fuel tank, 15-inch wheels front and rear shod with 120/70 and 160/60 tyres, upside-down fork and a 270mm front and 260mm rear disc.
The AK Premium will retail for EUR10,999 (RM53k) making it a more affordable option than the Yamaha TMAX. Kymco expects the AK Premium to attract riders looking for a powerful, comfortable, and stylish scooter that can handle both city and long-distance travel.
KTM is back with its iconic Supermoto-tourer, the KTM 890 SMT, and it’s better than ever before.
This purposeful model sits between the KTM Adventure and KTM Street product ranges and features several components that elevate its performance.
With a re-tuned KTM 890 LC8c platform, the KTM 890 SMT is developed to hit the top of the Supermoto touring segment for power/torque-to-weight ratio.
Former AMA Superbike and Supermoto racer, Chris Fillmore, took the KTM 890 SMT along a Sardinian mountain climb to display its potential and limits. With a super-torquey 889cc LC8c parallel twin engine, the KTM 890 SMT has 105 hp at 8,000 rpm, providing stability and reassurance through corners.
The KTM 890 SMT is just as happy pushed through low revs as it is pinned in higher gears, making it versatile for any rider.
As we mentioned in a previous article, the KTM 890 SMT has a redesigned slim tank which slides the rider even further into the bike with a wide and comfy contact patch.
The bike’s aerodynamic optimized smoked windshield is placed just above the double fender concept with a low splash guard on the fork legs. The CroMo steel frame with tighter geometry provides fierce stability, while the WP APEX suspension, fully adjustable and complemented by 17″ wheels, provides an agile, flighty, and responsive ride.
The motorcycle has several standard ride modes and can be molded further with optional track settings that permit the rider to toggle different amounts of throttle modes and traction control through ten levels.
The Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) is an important safety feature sensitive to the bike’s pitch and behavior at lean. The bike has a state of the art 5″ TFT dashboard that is scratch and glare resistant, fully customizable, and an easy-to-use infographic menu system for setup preferences.
With potent brakes that employ Cornering ABS and Supermoto ABS, the KTM 890 SMT has an excellent safety profile. The bike can also be customized with heated grips and the chance to add Motor Slip Regulation (MSR) to the software package, ideal for better control in low grip situations and for fast downshifts.
Also, the QUICKSHIFTER+ and Cruise Control are optional and ready to go with a simple activation process, and good connectivity with the bike means full access to navigation possibilities.
LiveWire, Harley’s spinoff electric brand, has announced new pricing and availability for its upcoming S2 Del Mar electric motorcycle.
Only 100 units of the S2 Del Mar is available for Europe.
the S2 Del Mar powertrain is capable of producing 250Nm.
The company has revealed that the S2 Del Mar’s recommended selling price will be USD15,499 (RM68.7k), which is USD1,500 (RM6.6k) less than the previous target. Deliveries for the US market are expected to start in July, and reservations can be made now for just USD100 (RM443).
The S2 Del Mar is LiveWire’s second model, with a promised city range of 170 kilometres and a 0-100 kmh time of 3.1 seconds. The electric powertrain produces 250Nm of torque.
Charging the battery from 20 to 80 percent on a Level 2 charger is said to take 75 minutes. LiveWire has also announced that reservations for the ultra-limited S2 Del Mar Launch Edition will open on April 27, with only 100 units available for the European market.
The Launch Edition models will feature unique hand-applied graphics and paint in Himalaya White that takes five days to complete.
LiveWire has not yet released the complete specifications for the S2 Del Mar, but promises to publish them in June along with a full calendar of demo opportunities and events. The company has also announced that it will be hosting a series of viewing events for the S2 Del Mar European Launch Edition at locations in London, Paris, and Amsterdam.
The S2 Del Mar is LiveWire’s most affordable model, with the LiveWire One still priced at USD22,799 (RM101k). The LiveWire One has a greater range estimated at 235km, while the S2 Del Mar is intended for city riding with a range of 170km. The production version of the S2 Del Mar will be available in blue, black, or gray and will be assembled at Harley’s Vehicle Operations plant in York, Pennsylvania.
Overall, the S2 Del Mar is expected to be a significant addition to LiveWire’s lineup, offering a more affordable and accessible option for those interested in electric motorcycles. With its promising specs and sleek design, the S2 Del Mar is sure to attract attention from riders and enthusiasts alike.
BMW Motorrad Malaysia has launched two new touring motorcycles, the New BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL priced at RM174,500 and RM183,500 respectively.
These two motorcycles have stylish designs and cutting-edge agility that offer an exceptional touring experience.
The narrowest six-cylinder in-line engine in its series production, the new variants offer absolutely superior touring characteristics and riding capabilities combined with segment-leading performance.
*BMW K 1600 GT
The BMW K 1600 GT is an agile and dynamic variant of the six-cylinder design, equipped with an upgraded fully-LED headlight that illuminates corners, while the BMW K 1600 GTL is specifically engineered for exceptional shared riding experiences, designed to comfortably transport two people across roads and valleys with style.
*BMW K 1600 GTL
The new variants come with Engine Protection Guard, low electrically adjustable windscreens, and fully LED headlights that feature the Light Icon and Adaptive Cornering Lights, along with Daytime Riding Lights, LED Auxiliary Lights, Ground-Level Lighting as well as additional fog lights.
The four configurable Favourites buttons also allow for easy access to vehicle functions, while the onboard computer and 10.25-inch coloured TFT display provide excellent connectivity as well as an integrated navigation system with the BMW Motorrad Connected application. Bluetooth function is also available for telephony and music playback, along with WiFi for navigation.
The oil/water cooled four-stroke in-line six-cylinder engine sits at the heart of the two new variants with two overhead camshafts placed above the drive shaft, bearing a capacity of 1,649 cc that is capable of 118 kW (160 hp) at 6,750 rpm. The maximum torque of 180 Nm at 5,250 rpm develops an incomparable and effortless push force, allowing the new variants to reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
Fuel consumption for both variants is exemplary, measuring at 5.9 litres per 100 km of travel. Revised according to EU-5 regulations, emission control is offered via a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter to output approximately 137g per kilometre of travel. The alternator is a 700W three phase-alternator (nominal power) paired with a maintenance-free 12 V/26 Ah battery.
The centrepiece of the suspension is the cast aluminium bridge-type frame. Front suspension is offered to the New BMW K 1600 GT via the BMW Motorrad Duolever on a central spring strut suspension, while rear suspension is offered via a cast aluminium single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever.
The BMW K 1600 GTL is equipped with the BMW Motorrad Duolever at the front, paired with a central shock absorber with helical spring. At the rear, a central spring strut with coil spring equips the New BMW K 1600 GTL, featuring adjustable rebound stage damping and spring preload – making for optimum damping comfort and stable handling.
The New BMW K 1600 GT arrives in two distinct colourways, namely the classic Black Storm Metallic and the Style Sport that features a striking combination of light white, racing blue metallic and racing red body colours and highlights.
*RM183,500
*RM174,500
The New K 1600 GTL, on the other hand, is available in Black Storm Metallic and Gravity Blue Metallic (Style Exclusive). Additionally, the new special edition Option 719 Meteoric Dust will also be made available for both the New BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL.
Ducati, is preparing for the second edition of “We Ride As One” on May 6th. This global event is designed to bring together Ducati owners and enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate their passion for the iconic red bikes.
Ducati dealerships and Ducati Official Clubs (DOCs) are organizing unique programs for each location, making the event a personalized experience for all participants. In Rome, riders will participate in a parade through the city center led by Gresini Racing Team MotoGP rider Fabio Di Giannantonio.
In Kawasaki, Japan, riders will ride together to the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum for lunch with a view of Mount Fuji. Meanwhile, in Rennes, France, participants will ride to the beautiful bay of Mont Saint Michel.
On the other hand, Ducatisti from Bogota and Medellin in Colombia will journey from their respective cities to have a dinner party together.
Ducati’s official Instagram channel will report the unfolding of events around the world in real-time, sharing the exciting images and videos of parades and get-togethers with the official hashtags #WeAreDucati #WeRideAsOne.
The first edition of “We Ride As One” was held in preparation for World Ducati Week 2022 and was a resounding success. This year promises to be even better as Ducatisti from all over the world come together to celebrate their shared passion for Ducati motorcycles.
All Ducatisti are invited to contact or visit their trusted dealer to find out about the local initiatives. To find the nearest dealer, the dealer locator is available in the dedicated section of the Ducati website. On May 6th, Ducatisti will unite to color the streets of their cities with a Ducati Red parade, creating a memorable day surrounded by a community with the same love for two wheels and for the red bikes of Borgo Panigale.
