Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

BMW Developing G R10 R-Sized Electric Motorcycle

BMW has been a pioneer in the electric two-wheeler industry for more than a decade, but it has yet to release a fully electric motorcycle.

powering the bike is the same batter and electric motor from the CE 04.
the new electric motorcycle is likely to have the same size as the G 310 roadster.

However, that may soon change as the company has been working on a small electric bike as reported by Cycle World. Patent applications reveal that BMW’s latest electric scooter, the CE-04, has provided the powertrain elements for the new bike, which is around the same size as the G 310 roadster.

The innovative design features a motor that is positioned at a 45-degree angle and the motor’s shaft running longitudinally, allowing it to be relatively large while remaining narrow enough to fit between the rider’s legs.

The battery is also at an angle, running parallel to the motor and just ahead of it. By moving the parts around and tilting them at an angle, the wheelbase can be shorter, and the center of gravity raised, providing sharper handling.

The battery and motor are from the CE-04, with a peak power of 42 hp and 63Nm of torque. The top speed is electronically limited to 120km/h, and the range is around 128km between charges.

The motor drives through a new reduction gearbox with a bevel gear to take drive to the front sprocket, and a belt final drive transfers the power to the rear wheel, reducing maintenance and noise compared to a chain drive.

The fuel tank area is left clear, providing space for storage, including a helmet, while several different models based on the same components could be made, including a GS-style adventure model and a full-faired bike.

That said, the plug-in roadster is still in an early stage and it could take a couple of years before we’re able to see the finish product. Nevertheless, we are excited to see how it could turn out.

Norton Opens First Flagship Store At The Bike Shed London

Norton Motorcycles has just opened its first retail store, the Norton Atelier, at The Bike Shed in London. This is a major milestone for the British brand, which has been steadily rebuilding after a period of tumultuous change.

The new flagship store to showcase the brand’s V4SV superbike and the iconic Commanod 961.
Norton also plans to establish showrooms at five other locations throughout the UK.

Norton’s new CEO and a £100 million investment have helped to revitalize the company, and the launch of the 2023 Commando 961 has shown that Norton is ready to compete once again.

The Norton Atelier showcases the V4SV superbike and the Commando 961, both of which are available for purchase or test rides. Additionally, the showroom features Norton apparel designed by Savile Row fashion designer Nick Tentis. Tentis has also played a significant role in designing the retail space, which he describes as reflecting the history and values of the Norton brand.

The launch of the Norton Atelier is just the beginning for the brand. The company plans to establish showrooms at five other locations throughout the UK, including Krazy Horse London, Crawley’s P&H Motorcycles, Sheffield’s Via Moto, Bodmin’s Thor Motorcycles, and Cheshire’s Oakmere Motor Group. All of these locations will offer test rides, maintenance, and parts and accessories.

Norton Chief Commercial Officer Christian Gladwell expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s expansion into the marketplace. “More dealers mean more riders enjoying the results of the hard work and dedication that the entire team at Norton has contributed towards,” he said.

Triumph Announces Limited Edition Bonneville T120 Black DGR

Triumph, the British motorcycle manufacturer, has announced a new limited edition of its Bonneville T120 model in celebration of the 10th anniversary of its partnership with the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR).

only 250 units of the special edition Bonneville T120 is produced.
the bike features DGR branding and a black-and-white color scheme.

The DGR is an annual event that sees riders in over 800 cities around the world come together to raise money for prostate cancer research. The event has raised $37 million USD since its inception, with 90,000 riders taking part.

The new model, called the Triumph Bonneville T120 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Limited Edition, will feature DGR branding and a black-and-white color scheme that matches that of DGR. The motorcycle will be produced in 250 units and will come with gold detailing and a brown seat. Each motorcycle will also come with a numbered certificate signed by DGR founder Mark Hawwa and Triumph CEO Nick Bloor.

Mark Hawwa, founder and director of DGR, said that he was “beyond proud” to release the Bonneville T120 Black Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Limited Edition motorcycle, adding that “Triumph has become like a family to me and to The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.”

Triumph Chief Commercial Officer Paul Stroud said that the partnership between the two organizations is an “incredibly important partnership for Triumph and the thousands of Triumph DGR fans across the world,” and that the launch of the new limited edition model was a way to “mark this wonderful occasion with something truly special.”

The Triumph Bonneville T120 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Limited Edition is set to be a sought-after collector’s item for fans of the DGR and Triumph alike.

Only 250 units of the Triumph Bonneville T120 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Limited Edition will be produced worldwide.

The stylish motorcycle features a two-tone paint scheme inspired by the classic “dress suit,” with gold detailing that nods to dapper clothing accessories like pocket watches and tie-pins. The bike also has a brown bench seat with pillion strap, giving it a vintage look. Each motorcycle comes with a numbered certificate of authenticity, and edition number 001 will be given to the highest fundraiser for the 2023 DGR.

End Of The Road For Ducati Desmo Valve System?

Ducati, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, may be moving away from their signature desmodromic valve system, according to a recent report.

the Desmodromic valves delivers the best high RPM power.
the all-new Granturismo V4 engine uses conventional valve springs.

The desmo valve system is a unique valve control system that controls the valvetrain via two cams and two actuators, resulting in high RPM power. However, the system has a downside – the dreaded “desmo” service.

This service is a big service that needs to be done between 24,000km and 30,000km depending on the bike and can be quite expensive.

Ducati is aware of the desmo service’s infamous reputation and has started to move away from this system. In 2020, they introduced the V4 Granturismo engine in the Multistrada V4, which replaced the desmo valve system with conventional valve springs and a more durable timing chain. This resulted in a massive 60,000km interval between valve checks, the longest in the industry.

Ducati is working towards updating their mid-level family of bikes such as the Monster to also move towards conventional valve springs. The Monster shares its 939cc L-twin engine with many other bikes like the SuperSport, Multistrada V2, DesertX and Hypermotard, so this change may be seen in these bikes as well.

However, the top-of-the-line performance bikes like the Panigale and Streetfighter families will still retain the desmo system since it is the best for high RPM power.

Although this change may benefit Ducati owners by reducing maintenance costs, it remains to be seen how it will impact the brand’s identity and reputation for high-performance bikes.

Ducati’s new-gen Scrambler still has a desmo-valved engine, so it may be a while before we see that change on Ducati’s most affordable offering. Ducati fans can look forward to the upcoming changes and the improved ease of maintenance they may bring.

Watch The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR Hit 253KM/H On Dyno

On March 27, 2023, Kawasaki Indonesia finally launched the ZX-4RR, revealing claimed power figures of 79.1hp at 14,500 rpm (with Ram-Air). The bike also boasts listed torque of 37.4Nm at 12,500 rpm.

the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR is the most powerful 400cc machine ever built.
powering the ZX-4RR is a high-performance, in-line four-cylinder 399cc engine with advanced racing-inspired technology.

While it’s not uncommon for OEMs to tune the same model differently for different markets, the Indonesian version of the ZX-4RR has a slightly higher peak torque figure than the US version.

In a latest video, Kawasaki Indonesia showcased how the new Ninja ZX-4RR is enough to get any adrenaline junkie’s heart racing. In the teaser video, titled “Top Speed Dyno Run,” features the ZX-4RR being tested on a dyno, reaching a top speed of 253 kilometers per hour in sixth gear.

Overall, the release of the ZX-4RR has been generating excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

The bike’s high-revving engine and affordable price point make it an attractive option for riders looking for a high-performance motorcycle that won’t break the bank.

Benelli Tornado 402 Breaks Cover In China

Italian motorcycle brand Benelli has unveiled its latest offering, the Tornado 402, which is set to be manufactured in China by its parent company, Qianjiang. While some development and design work is still done in Italy, the majority of the bikes are now produced in China.

The Tornado 402 features an all-new 400cc twin-cylinder engine.
The sports bike is equipped with front camera and single-sided swingarm.

The Tornado moniker has traditionally been linked with sporty models at Benelli, and the new Tornado 402 is no exception. This fully faired sportbike boasts a 400cc engine that is likely to appeal to riders in countries where 400cc motorbikes are considered premium options or where licensing restrictions limit larger engines.

Although it would have made sense for Benelli to adopt an existing 400cc twin engine from Qianjiang or QJ Motor, the Tornado 402 instead comes with a freshly built engine that produces 48 horsepower at 10,000 rpm, making it the most powerful 400 series QJ twin engine currently available.

The bike’s chassis features an aluminum single-sided swingarm and a tubular steel frame with a non-adjustable upside-down telescopic fork at the front and an adjustable shock absorber at the back, both supplied by Marzocchi. Nissin provides the braking system, which includes two 300-millimeter discs at the front and a 250-millimeter disc at the rear, along with ABS as standard.

One notable technological feature of the Tornado 402 is a built-in dash cam, which records traffic conditions and is built into the windshield assembly. The footage can be recorded to a smartphone using an app and is saved automatically. This function is not only useful for documenting enjoyable rides but also for safety and security while riding on the road.

Honda Wins Two Red Dot Design Awards for Its 2023 Hornet and Transalp Motorcycles

Honda has once again received recognition for its excellent designs, winning two Red Dot Design Awards for its 2023 motorcycles.

Honda has won two Red Dot Design Awards for its 2023 motorcycles – the Honda CB750 Hornet and Honda XL750 Transalp.
Honda’s success in the Red Dot Design Awards is a testament to its unique human-centered approach to design and usability, as well as its commitment to innovation and exceptional design.

The Honda CB750 Hornet and Honda XL750 Transalp were both awarded for their exceptional design, expanding Honda’s range in the naked and adventure categories with new middleweight offerings.

Honda looked to its past for inspiration for both of these new motorcycle models, reviving the iconic Hornet and Transalp names, which carry cultural weight from the brand’s history. Both models feature a new 755cc parallel-twin-cylinder engine that promises excellent performance.

These awards follow on from Honda’s previous Red Dot Design Award-winning motorcycles, including the Honda ADV350 scooter, Honda NT1100 tourer, Honda Forza 750, and Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade. Honda has won multiple Red Dot Design Awards in the Product Design category for four years in a row now, across its automobile and motorcycle product ranges.

Toshinobu Minami, Chief Operating Officer, Design Center, Honda R&D Co., expressed his happiness on this achievement, stating, “We believe in a unique human-centred approach to design and usability, and it is gratifying to see that focus reflected in the continued recognition for Honda at the Red Dot Design Awards.”

Meanwhile, Honda also won Red Dot Design Awards for the 2023 Honda Civic Type-R and 2023 Honda Civic e:HEV cars, showcasing the company’s continued commitment to innovation and exceptional design. With these wins, Honda has cemented its reputation as a company that values both performance and aesthetics.

SW-Motech Announces New Accessories For The Ducati DesertX

SW-Motech, a leading manufacturer of motorcycle accessories, has announced a new range of crash protection accessories for the Ducati DesertX adventure bike.

The new range follows the success of SW-Motech’s tank bag for the DesertX.
The new range puts SW-Motech in direct competition with Wunderlich, who launched a range of add-ons earlier this year.

The new range from SW-Motech includes the Upper Crash Bar, which is made from powder-coated steel tubing and protects the fairing panels, lower section of the fuel tank, and upper part of the engine. The Upper Crash Bar also features multiple mounting points, which spread impact forces.

The Engine Guard, which is a 4mm-thick aluminium plate, protects the sump, front cylinder casings, and exhaust header. The Engine Guard attaches via existing mounts, and also features a recess for the oil drain plug.

The Front Axle Sliders, which feature a reinforced core and replaceable polypropylene shells, protect the front axle of the bike.

The Water Pump Protector, which is CNC-milled from anodised aluminium alloy, fits to existing mounting points on the bike, and protects the water pump.

The Centre Stand from SW-Motech is made of powder-coated steel tubes and features an outrigger for easy operation. Finally, the Sidestand Foot Extender, which is CNC-milled from anodised aluminium alloy and stainless steel, provides additional support for the bike when parked on uneven surfaces.

All of the new range of accessories from SW-Motech for the Ducati DesertX adventure bike are available on the SW-Motech website. With the addition of these new accessories, SW-Motech has further established itself as a leading manufacturer of motorcycle accessories, providing riders with the peace of mind they need when taking on tough terrain.

BMW To Expand The R 18 Range With A Performance Cruiser Variant

BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane. The Swiss type approval data for the Roctane reveals that it has much in common with the existing R 18 models, but with some notable differences.

BMW is expanding its R 18 range with a new variant called the R 18 Roctane.
The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range.
The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560 kg.

Firstly, the Roctane has an internal model code of “0N61,” which suggests that it differs from the other models with a different form factor or a chassis update. Additionally, the Roctane’s name indicates that it may be a more performance-focused model.

The Roctane is powered by the same 1,802cc air-cooled Boxer as the rest of the R 18 range. The homologation filing confirms the same engine code and peak performance numbers as the other models, with a maximum power output of 67 kW (90 hp) at 4,750 rpm, and 116 lb-ft. (157 Nm) at 3,000 rpm.

The filing also confirms that the Roctane has the same silencer code as the Classic, B, and Transcontinental models, indicating that it will have the same straight pipes instead of the bulbous fishtail exhaust on the regular R 18.

The Roctane’s wheel sizes (including accessory options) are the same as the other R 18 models. The type approval data makes no mention of suspension, and the braking data only confirms dual front brakes and ABS. However, if the Roctane is indeed a more performance-oriented cruiser, we can expect the suspension and braking to be different from the rest of the R 18 family.

The Roctane has a listed gross vehicle weight rating of 560kg, which suggests that it will not have luggage. This weight is the same as the R 18 and R 18 Classic models, while the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental models have a higher GVWR of 630kg due to their non-removable cases.

The Roctane’s release date and pricing have not been announced yet. However, with BMW’s reputation for quality and performance, the R 18 Roctane is expected to be a popular addition to the R 18 range.

MIT Students Develop Fuel Cell-Powered Motorcycle Using An Old Ducati

A group of students at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are developing a fuel cell-powered motorcycle using an old Ducati as the mechanical basis for the project.

The project uses a Doosan DM15 model fuel cell, which offers an environmentally friendly alternative to combustion engines.
The module itself weighs only 2.9 kilograms.

What makes the project particularly interesting is the use of an old Ducati with a Desmo-Due engine, which was previously used in the first Monsters and medium SS models. The iconic tubular frame is also being used as part of the concept.

Only the engine casing and gearbox are being retained from the original V2 engine. Instead of a crankshaft, the electric motor is housed in the engine casing while the existing gearbox is being kept in its original form and function. However, the power output of the motor and the storage and refueling of the hopefully “green” hydrogen is not yet known.

The MIT EVT project is using the Doosan DM15 model fuel cell, which has a peak output of 9 kilowatts or 12 horsepower. The nominal output is just under 2 horsepower, which gives an indication of the power output of the motor.

The module itself weighs only 2.9 kilograms and can be supplied with hydrogen via a changeable tank. Two 10,000 mAh LiPo batteries are being used as a buffer storage for the drive system. The buffer is necessary to compensate for the delay in the fuel cell when no power is being drawn, as the fuel cell only produces electricity when “gas is being given”. Doosan uses this cell to power drones.

The team hopes that their project will inspire other developers to consider the use of fuel cells in transportation. Fuel cells offer an environmentally friendly alternative to combustion engines, producing only water as a byproduct. With the popularity of electric vehicles on the rise, fuel cell-powered transportation could be the next big thing. The team also hopes to raise awareness about the potential of renewable energy and sustainable transportation solutions.

Shark Skwal I3: World’s First Motorcycle Helmet With Integrated Brake Lights

Shark, the renowned helmet manufacturer, has recently unveiled its latest product, the Shark Skwal i3, which is set to become the first-ever production motorcycle helmet with integrated brake lights. The helmet boasts two new patented technologies and is homologated to ECE 22.06 standards.

world’s first helmet with integrated brake lights.
features Shark’s latest ‘Best Fit’ system.

The Skwal i3 utilizes a three-axis accelerometer to detect when braking is occurring, and the helmet-integrated brake light operates accordingly. The brake light flashes three times per second during steady braking and five times per second in hard braking, which enhances visibility for riders and motorists alike.

In addition to the integrated brake lights, the Shark Skwal i3 has white LED lights on the front that improve visibility in traffic. Three modes determine the front lights’ operation, but they do not alter the brake lights’ patterns. The helmet’s battery can be charged via a USB-C cable in just three hours, providing 12 hours of usage. If the helmet is left switched on for 24 hours, it will turn itself off to conserve battery life.

The Shark Skwal i3 is constructed with a Nexan-injected polycarbonate shell, which allows for deformation in extreme heat conditions. It also features a Shark-patented toolless visor removal system, an Optical Class 1 anti-scratch visor with Pinlock 70, an integrated sun visor with anti-scratch and anti-fog properties, and space for 40mm speakers in the helmet’s EPS multi-density padding.

Moreover, the Skwal i3 is the first helmet from Shark to use the brand’s new ‘Best Fit’ system, which follows a campaign of 3D head shape scans. The helmet is available in two shell sizes, XS-XXL, and 13 graphic options. Unfortunately, pricing for the Malaysian market is yet to be available.

The Shark Skwal i3 is a revolutionary helmet that combines advanced technologies, comfort, and safety. Its integrated brake lights provide an additional layer of safety to riders, while the front LED lights enhance visibility, making it an excellent choice for all types of riders. The Skwal i3 is set to hit the market soon and is expected to be a game-changer in the motorcycle helmet industry.

Zero Motorcycles To Spark Electric Revolution In The Philippines

Zero Motorcycles, the American electric motorcycle manufacturer, has announced its latest partnership with Integrated Micro-Electronics, Inc. (IMI), a subsidiary of the Ayala Corporation and a leader in the Philippine motorcycle manufacturing sector.

Zero Motorcycles partners large local conglomerate in the Philippines with Integrated Micro-Electronics Inc.
The American electric motorcycle company to begin expanding its operation in Southeast Asia.

The deal will see Zero Motorcycles expand its global operations and accelerate the adoption of electric motorcycles in the Southeast Asian market.

The partnership will mark a first for the Philippine motorcycle industry as no full-scale electric motorcycles have been or are currently being produced in the country.

Through this partnership, IMI will handle the assembly of certain Zero Motorcycles models, as well as other assemblies in the former’s manufacturing facility in Laguna, with the facility working closely with Zero’s own manufacturing plant in California.

“We look forward to such an amazing collaboration to help bring their innovative electric motorcycles to the world. This partnership aligns with our commitment to supporting companies in their growth and sustainability efforts while providing high-quality manufacturing services,” said IMI’s CEO, Arthur R. Tan, in a statement.

While the specific bikes to be launched in the Philippines have not yet been confirmed, IMI hopes to begin production of Zero Motorcycles models and components as early as the second quarter of 2023. This partnership is an exciting development for the Philippine motorcycle industry, and a significant step towards sustainable transportation.

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Amirul Azreen