Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

CFMoto Working On An All-New Inline-Triple

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, CFMoto is working on a new inline-triple engine of around 675cc, according to recent patent documents as reported by Cycle World.

This move is particularly interesting as it suggests that the company is committed to developing a range of engines with different capacities and layouts, despite its partnership with KTM and the growing consensus in the industry that internal combustion engines are reaching the end of their lifespan. It also hints that there is still a future for internal combustion.

The triple engine is expected to be part of the same family as the 449cc parallel twin that’s currently available in the 450SR sportbike.

The engine, which features a 270-degree crankshaft, promises to be a huge step forward compared to the company’s previous ICE engines.

The new three-cylinder engine shares many design features with the 449cc twin, including the cylinder head and cam-cover design. If the 72mm bore and 55.1mm stroke of the 450 are carried over to the triple, the result will be a total of almost exactly 673cc.

The design of the new engine suggests that it is focused more on low-to-midrange torque and less on outright revs and peak power.

However, CFMoto could easily change the bore and stroke to give the triple more displacement and performance if required. The engine features a balancer shaft mounted at the front, as is typical for triples, and the water pump appears to be driven from the same shaft.

CFMoto has already shown extensive experience with battery-powered motorcycles and has vast battery-production facilities on its doorstep.

Despite this, the company is still investing in the development of traditional gasoline engines.

2023 Honda CBR250RR SP Launch In Indonesia – Higher Compression Ratio, 42hp

Honda has introduced the new CBR250RR SP in Indonesia, packed with advanced features and upgrades that promise to enhance the sportbike’s performance and style.

The 2023 Honda CBR250RR SP now features higher compression ratio and a power bump.
The quarter-litre sportsbike is fitted with Showa’s BPF front forks and a quickshifter as standard.

The new version of the popular model, boasts an improved compression ratio of 12.5:1, which translates to a power increase to 42 horsepower at 13,000 rpm a slight increase from 40hp previously.

The CBR250RR SP’s engine is now equipped with a quickshifter, a feature that has never been seen before in small-displacement sportbikes.

The bike also boasts updated suspension components, featuring a Showa BPF front fork, similar to what’s found on bigger bikes like the CBR500R and CBR650R. Despite the CBR250RR’s smaller size and weight of just 170 kilograms, it features a single rotor up front and at the rear with dual-channel ABS.

The CBR250RR SP is equipped with a fully digital display, LED lights at the front and back, and a throttle-by-wire system that offers multiple riding modes.

Small-displacement sportbikes may not be the most exciting motorcycles on the market, but the CBR250RR SP’s advanced features and performance upgrades make it a compelling option for those seeking a thrilling ride on the track or a tight twisty road.

The Asian market is no stranger to sportbikes, and Honda’s latest offering is sure to turn heads with its impressive features and sleek design.

Harley-Davidson X350 And X500 To Debut On March 10

Harley-Davidson is set to debut the X350 and X500 on March 10, 2023.

The X350 and X500 is a result of Harley-Davidson partnership with Chinese manufacturer, QJ Motor.
The X350 and X500 features the same mill from Benelli’s 302S and Leoncino 500 respectively.

The Harley-Davidson X350, the most affordable two-wheeler bearing the H-D badge, is based on the Benelli 302S, while the X500 is based on a slightly larger Benelli Leoncino 500.

While the bikes’ technical foundation already exists, the new Harleys feature altered designs, styling, and ergonomics, giving them a much smaller and more compact appearance than their American counterparts.

Poweringthe X350 is a 353cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine capable of producing 36 horsepower.

Meanwhile, the X500 boasts a 500cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a maximum output of 47 horsepower. Both bikes share inverted front forks, front and rear disc brakes equipped with ABS, and LED lights all around.

The Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 will compete with cruisers and neo-retro roadsters such as the Royal Enfield Meteor and Hunter 350, Honda Rebel 300 and 500, and the Benelli Leoncino and 502C.

CFMoto Ready To Take On BMW’S CE 04 Electric Scooter

CFMoto, the Chinese motorcycle company, is set to take on BMW’s CE 04 electric scooter with their latest offering. The company has been making waves recently with their developments in both internal combustion engines and electrification.

CFMoto’s latest patent application appears to show a real-world, production-style version of their Magnet concept bike.
CFMoto is investing in both internal combustion engines and electrification, and they already have multiple electric-bike projects underway.

While CFMoto is still working on a 1,000cc V-4 with over 200 horsepower, they also have a substantial focus on electric-bike projects.

Their first major electric-bike project is the 300GT-E, a sport-tourer developed with the Chinese police in mind. They also have the Papio Nova, a battery-powered minibike that rivals Honda’s Grom, and have created the Zeeho brand for their electric scooters.

Under the Zeeho brand, the company showcased the Magnet concept bike late last year, which promised a large, battery-powered scooter to rival BMW’s CE-04. Recently, CFMoto filed a patent application that appears to show a real-world, production-style version of that scooter.

The patent design features a scooter with a similar stance to the Magnet concept, but with a more viable construction. The battery’s center section, which doubles as the main-frame structure, is made of aluminum instead of plexiglass. The scooter also features tubular subframes bolted onto the front and rear, creating the flexibility to make multiple different variations of scooters from the same central chassis section.

The scooter’s single-sided swingarm, inverted fork, radial-mount brake calipers, electric motor mounted behind the main chassis, and wide rear wheel are all similar to the Magnet concept bike. However, the patent design features a more practical angle for the single shock, which is mounted on the left of the swingarm.

CFMoto’s patent focuses on the battery pack’s cooling and illustrates the modular nature of the design. The company can use the same basic components to create either air-cooled or liquid-cooled battery packs, with either a finned side panel for air-cooling or a smooth one for the liquid-cooled variant. While the liquid-cooled battery would allow for higher performance and faster recharging, it comes at a greater expense than an air-cooled version.

Nevertheless, CFMoto has not yet released any further details on the production version of their electric scooter, but the numbers they provided for the Magnet concept bike suggest that it is a serious contender. With a top speed of 93 mph, zero-to-30 mph acceleration in less than 2.5 seconds, and a range of 124 miles between charges, CFMoto’s new electric scooter is definitely one to watch out for.

2023 Suzuki Avenis 125 Lands In India

Suzuki has launched a new scooter model, the Avenis 125, in India for the 2023 model year.

India is a country where scooters and motorcycles are relied on heavily for daily mobility, and the Avenis is expected to be a popular addition to the market.

The Avenis comes in two variations – Standard and Race Edition – with five different colorways, including Metallic Sonic Silver with Metallic Triton Blue for the Race Edition, inspired by Suzuki’s now-defunct MotoGP race bike.

Both variations use the same 124cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine from the previous generation, producing 8.5 horsepower at 6,750 rpm and 7 pound-feet of peak torque at 5,500 rpm.

One notable update for the 2023 model year is the addition of an on-board diagnostics system to identify and signal systemic flaws in the vehicle, making maintenance and repair much easier.

The Avenis 125 is priced at Rs 92,000 (RM5k), while the Race Edition retails for Rs 92,300 (RM5.1k).

A Closer Look At KTM’s Next-Gen LC8c Twin

KTM’s upcoming parallel-twin engine, LC8c, is expected to have improved performance and reliability, according to a new patent application.

New patent application suggest a more powerful LC8c twin.
The power output likely to be around 130hp to 140hp.

The engine, which was first teased in January, features new designs for every casting from the oil pan to the cam cover. The only parts that have been carried over are the throttle bodies and water pump. The engine is expected to have a capacity of nearly 1,000cc, earning it the “990” designation.

The new patent application provides a glimpse into the engine’s design and reveals that the cylinder-to-head joint is higher than in the current engine. This could result in increased power output of between 130 hp to 140 hp, depending on the state of tune.

The new LC8c engine will initially be used in the redesigned “990” Duke and has been spotted in a fully faired, road-going sportbike, the RC 990. The RC 990 is expected to be KTM’s first sportbike since the RC8 R superbike was discontinued.

KTM’s MotoGP efforts are also expected to benefit from the new LC8c engine. The introduction of a second GasGas-branded MotoGP team this year could lead to the production model eventually appearing in GasGas guise.

The engine mounts of the new LC8c engine have been designed to match those of the current engine, allowing it to be easily bolted into existing frames if required.

While some suggest that the 990 is likely to replace the 890, the returning 790 seems to squash that rumour. Also considering KTM is set to introduce the 890 SMT soon, the all-new 990 mil could be a new addition to the brand’s lineup.

2023 Ducati Scrambler Range Rolls Into Production

Ducati has announced the start of production of its new Scrambler motorcycle at the Borgo Panigale plant.

Next-generation Ducati Scrambler officially rolls into the production line at the Borgo Panigale factory.
The new Scrambler comes in three modes; Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift.

The new bike, which was already showcased in the seventh episode of the Ducati World Premiere 2023, is a complete renovation of the iconic model that maintains the original energy and spirit of the Scrambler family that has made it a worldwide success.

The new Ducati Scrambler features a captivating and modern design that is accessible and safe for everyday use. It is dedicated to those who seek freedom and wish to express their lifestyle through their choices. The production of the first unit was celebrated at the new Finitura e Delibera Estetica building, where CEO Claudio Domenicali christened the bike.

The new Scrambler offers customization possibilities that go beyond the previous model, thanks to the new Icon tank. The cover of the coloured portion can be easily replaced, as can the mudguards, rim tags and headlamp covers. The new model comes in nine colours, including three basic colours and six other options available as an accessory kit.

With a weight reduction of 4 kg, the new Ride-by-Wire and Quick Shift accessory, the Ducati Scrambler offers a brilliant and safe ride. The bike is more modern, digital, and technological thanks to Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control, and the new colour TFT dashboard. All these features maintain the simplicity and authenticity that have always represented essential values for all Ducati Scrambler enthusiasts.

The new Scrambler comes in three models – Icon, Full Throttle, and Nightshift. All models offer a relaxed riding position and low weight, providing enthusiasts of all experience and abilities with great riding pleasure, both in urban journeys and on trips out of town. The Scrambler family has always been a fan favourite, and the new generation is set to continue that legacy.

Upcoming Yamaha Motorcycles To Feature Green Aluminium

Yamaha Motor Co Ltd has announced that it has reached an agreement with an aluminum ingot supplier to procure green aluminum, a new type of aluminum refined using renewable energy sources to emit less CO2 in its manufacture.

Yamaha to become the first Japanese motorcycle manufacturer to adopt green aluminium.
The new initiative is aligned with the company’s effort to promote sustainability.

The company has already begun using it as a raw material for parts in Yamaha motorcycles, marking the first time green aluminum has been used in Japanese motorcycles.

Yamaha Motor has been actively promoting the use of recycled aluminum, which now comprises some 80% of the company’s aluminum usage, through the development of its engineering and production technologies and expertise. Green aluminum will be employed for parts that still cannot be manufactured with recycled materials.

As a first step, Yamaha Motor will use green aluminum for certain parts in its large-displacement and off-road competition motorcycles, with plans to gradually expand its usage in other models as available supply volumes allow. The company is committed to switching to 100% sustainable materials by 2050, including adopting more plant-derived resin materials, developing recyclable polypropylene, and adopting green and other recycled materials for its motorcycles manufactured in Japan and overseas.

The introduction of green aluminum represents a significant milestone for Yamaha Motor and its efforts to achieve its environmental goals. The company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint is a positive step towards a more sustainable future for the motorcycle industry.

Flux Motorcycles Rolls Out Primo Electric Dirt Bike – 83hp, 750Nm

We are in awe with Flux Motorcycles latest creation, the Primo electric dirt bike that’s not only boast an insane 750Nm of torque but also a list of premium components.

The Primo delivers a whopping 750Nm and 85 peak horsepower.
The electric dirt bike also features a newly built frame by HM Moto.

The Flux Primo, is setting a new standard for speed and power. Boasting top-of-the-line features such as KYB and Öhlins suspension, the Primo is already making waves in the industry.

But the real standout feature of this incredible machine is its electric motor. Delivering a heart-stopping 85bhp, the Primo is already more powerful than most 450cc internal combustion engine motorcycles. And with 553lb-ft of torque available from zero revs, it has more grunt than a Tesla Model 3.

Not only is the motor water-cooled, but each battery cell also has its own cooling circuit to help reduce voltage drop-off while riding hard. And with an energy recovery system to recoup energy from slowing down, the Primo can go the distance on longer rides.

But that’s not all – the Primo also features a ‘virtual clutch’ system, which is sure to revolutionize the way we ride. Although details are scarce, we imagine it works similarly to the early Electric Motion trials bikes.

With top-spec features such as KYB 48mm fully adjustable forks, an Öhlins TTX full adjustable rear shock, and a frame created by HM Moto, we’re pretty adamant that the Primo will quickly capture people’s attention.

The All-Rounder SHOEI NXR 2 Now In Malaysia – ECE22.06 Certified, From RM2.4k

SHOEI has introduced its latest model of full-face helmet, the NXR 2, which is the lightest and most compact ECE 22.06 homologation approved helmet in their lineup.

The NXR 2 is the lightest helmet in Shoei’s range.
The new all-rounder helmet meets the latest ECE22.06 standard.

The NXR 2 has been developed and refined by a team of world-class designers and engineers who utilized their state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility and industry-leading quality assurance practices to push the limits of resources and technologies.

The NXR 2’s aerodynamics have been improved with a compact shell shape featuring an integrated spoiler, strategically-shaped air intake and exhaust vents that streamline the overall profile, and significant reductions in upward lift and forward drag forces.

The helmet has also been designed with advanced noise reduction technology, including vortex generators on the shield’s sides to reduce wind turbulence and an all-new, airtight window beading that provides a wind and waterproof seal. The NXR 2 provides an incredibly quiet riding experience without blocking the road’s informative sounds.

SHOEI has optimized the helmet’s ventilation system to provide the perfect balance between airflow and silence. The center/forehead vent is equipped with an additional air intake hole for greater airflow, and the upper air intake holes have been enlarged for optimal performance. The NXR 2 features six air intake vents and four exhaust outlets, including a large 3-position lower vent shutter for ease of use with riding gloves.

The NXR 2 also boasts a CWR-F2 shield system that protects from 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays and is 10% larger than previous models for improved lateral vision. The shield system includes an all-new conveniently located center locking mechanism that evenly distributes shield forces across both base plates, making shield changes quicker and smoother.

The shield adjuster mechanism provides easier, more precise tuning, and the redesigned base plate gear has an all-new “first position” shield opening feature for advanced venting and defogging. SHOEI’s patented spring-loaded technology ensures a wind and waterproof seal, and an all-new airtight window beading reduces wind and water intrusion. The helmet also features SHOEI’s Emergency Quick Release System (E.Q.R.S.) security system.

The NXR 2 is available in a range of plain and graphic colors, with pricing starting at RM2,400 for plain colors and going up to RM2,980 for the MM93 Collection Rush and MM93 Retro-Ring.

Honda CB350 Cafe Racer To Launch Soon

As confirmed by leaked photos, Honda is set to expand its CB350 range with a Cafe Racer version.

Honda is set to add a cafe racer edition of its current CB350 range.
The CB350 Cafe Racer features a different body parts including a new single-seat.

The photos, reportedly taken at a dealer event in India, clearly show a CB350 with slightly different components. In this case, the new parts create a classic cafe racer motorcycle.

Firstly, we can see an entirely different saddle, particularly a single-seat setup with a seat cowl.

At the front, the CB350 Cafe Racer gets a headlight shroud compared to a more exposed headlamp on the base model. Unfortunately, while a proper cafe racer is equipped with clip-ons, the bike in the picture is fitted with a standard handlebar.

Powering the Honda CB350 Cafe Racer is likely the same single-cylinder 348cc air-cooled engine that is capable to produce a solid 20.7hp @ 5,500rpm and 30Nm @ 3,000rpm while matted to a 5-speed gearbox.

While we have yet to get further details apart from the leaked photos by RushLane, the CB350 Cafe Racer could make its official debut soon.

Moto2: QJMotor Announced As Gresini Racing Main Sponsor

Chinese motorcycle maker, QJMotor has ramp up its motorsport intiatives in 2023 by becoming the main sponsor for the Gresini Racing Team in Moto2.

Gresini Racing Team announced QJMotor as the new main sponsor for the 2023 season.
Filip Salac and Jeremy Alcoba to spearhead QJMotor-Gresini Racing Team’s effort.

As a result, the racing team which was founded by the late Fausto Gresini is being renamed as QJMotor Gresini Racing Team for the 2023 season. QJMotor Gresini Racing Team Moto2 will take on the upcoming season with two 21-year-olds, Filip Salac and Jeremy Alcoba.

“I’m happy to start my second year in Moto2 with a crew I already know. We did a good job in the last races of 2022 and I hope we will start right from where we finished,” said Salac in an official statement.

The Czech rider is also adamant of delivering a better result in 2023, hoping to finish in Top 10.

“My target is to gain as much experience as possible and try to finish all the races in top10 and points. For me, as a rider, it will be a very important season as I’m not a rookie anymore and it’s time for me to show my real potential,” he added.

Aside from the premier class, the level of competitiveness in Moto2 should improve greatly particularly due to Triumph has tuned the inline-three 765cc to produce 140hp.

Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen