Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen

In conjunction with BMW Motorrad celebrating its centenary year, BMW Motorrad Malaysia introduces the limited edition version of its retro-inspired roadster, the BMW R nineT. 

Coming in at RM129,500, the New BMW R nineT 100 Years is a tribute to the company’s passion-driven and soul-fueled heritage that spans a century of motorcycle construction. The model has been limited to only 1,923 units worldwide, with just ten units available for the Malaysian market.

Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, said, “The BMW R nineT encapsulates the great roadster tradition of BMW Motorrad in a particularly refined and sophisticated manner, culminating 100 years of motorcycle construction and a persevering passion for the Boxer engine.” He added that the ten exclusive units of the New BMW R nineT 100 Years will be available for passionate riders in Malaysia, representing SoulFuel in its most exclusive form.

The New BMW R nineT 100 Years has a reduced design language that skilfully sets the scene with a compact tank and upright seating position, along with high-quality materials and stylish design elements.

The exclusive centennial edition of the classic roadster is characterized by numerous special features, alongside an elaborate surface concept. The Black Storm metallic paintwork on the chrome-plated tank is a vital, special feature of the 100 Years edition, paying homage to the 1969 R 75/5.

The New BMW R nineT 100 Years revives the almost 100-year tradition of combining paint finishes and chrome surfaces with the Classic Chrome surface concept. The sophisticated interplay of paint and chrome is represented by a combination of black with chrome and white double-lining on the tank, complemented by tank grips and a 100 Years badge.

Standard equipment for the New BMW R nineT 100 Years are LED headlights with daytime riding light, dual speed indicator and rational-speed sensor instruments, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Riding Modes Rain & Road, drive train and final drive in black finish, rear suspension with fully adjustable spring preload by handwheel, and fully adjustable upside-down telescopic front forks.

The New BMW R nineT 100 Years is powered by the legendary 1,170cc air/oil-cooled flat twin four-stroke Boxer engine, capable of generating 80 kW (109 hp) and 116 Nm of torque. The model is equipped with twin-disc brakes with four-piston callipers for the front and a single-disc brake with double-piston floating callipers for the rear, ensuring reliable braking. The latest generation of BMW Motorrad ABS Pro is featured as standard for greater riding safety.

The exclusive centennial edition of the classic roadster is characterized by numerous special features, paying homage to the company’s 100-year history and tradition. The model has been limited to only ten units for the Malaysian market, making it a must-have for passionate riders who want to own a piece of BMW Motorrad’s history.

The limited edition R nineT 100 Years is priced at RM129,500. 

Husqvarna Motorcycles has officially unveiled its latest model, the 2023 Norden 901 Expedition, which is an upgraded version of the standard Norden 901 adventure bike.

  • The news of the imminent arrival of the Expedition first broke out in January 2023. 
  • The Expedition is the more off-road capable version of the base Norden 901.

The Norden 901 Expedition has been equipped with new hardware to make it a more travel-ready adventure motorcycle. The most significant upgrade is the new suspension system, featuring WP XPLOR forks and XPLOR PDS rear shock absorber with 240mm of travel, which is 20mm more than the stock bike.

Husqvarna hit the sweet spot by introducing a fully adjustable suspension, allowing riders to control preload, compression, and rebound damping.

The bike’s cockpit has also been upgraded for long-distance comfort, with a larger front screen fitted as standard and adjustable heated grips and rider seat. 

Additionally, the Norden 901 Expedition comes with pre-fitted soft luggage that offers 36-litres of carrying capacity in two sub-frame-mounted panniers.

Other notable additions include a center stand as standard, a heavy-duty engine guard, and a Bluetooth connectivity module, which enables on-bike calls and communication, as well as turn-by-turn navigation.

Interested buyers can order the 2023 Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition now through the official website. The motorcycle is set to arrive in Europe’s in mid-March. 

The upgraded features make this bike an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts looking for a reliable and comfortable ride, whether it’s for a long-distance tour or a weekend getaway.

GALLERY: 2023 HUSQVARNA NORDEN 901 EXPEDITION

The Malaysia Speed Festival (MSF) is launching its supermoto and Saga Cup racing series as national-level championships in a bid to gain recognition from the local motorsport community. 

The MSF will run five rounds of the SuperMoto Series and open the championship on March 11 and 12 at the Litar Lumba Rakyat Kuala Selangor. 

The MSF Saga Cup Championship will also be upgraded to national-level status, and the Touge Hill Climb Series will run for two rounds this year. 

Meanwhile, MSF will continue to prioritise its MSF SuperTurismo and MSF Superbikes, and the new Merdeka 88 Endurance at Sepang International Circuit. 

The MSF event director, Adian Yein Khalid, said the new series would generate interest and participation among motorsport fans and hoped to receive support from the Youth and Sports Ministry, local authorities and media.

“These are our bread-and-butter events; and they will continue to be our main priority.” he said, adding that the first edition of the Merdeka 88 Enduro, which is an 88-lap challenge to man, machine, and ultimate strategy around the challenging 5.5-km world class racing track.

“Unlike the previous Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race organised by SIC not too long ago, the MSF Merdeka 88 Enduro will feature non-regulated driving stints, which completely opens up the possibilities of multiple alternative refuelling and driver change strategies. We may never really know who is really in the lead until the final 10 laps of the race!” Adian said.

Austrian customizing specialist Vagabund Moto GmbH has teamed up with BMW Motorrad Austria to create a new e-scooter based on the BMW CE 04.

  • The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept combines style and practicality. 
  • The urban e-scooter delivers mobility that fits every individual personality. 

The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept is a stylish and multifunctional urban e-scooter that aims to provide mobility that is as individual as each personality. With a fresh and modern design, the vehicle features a range of functional elements and attractive color scheme that targets young and sporty urban users.

The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept retains the impressive technical concept of the BMW CE 04, with key data such as 31 kW (42 hp) maximum output, dynamic acceleration of 2.6 seconds from 0 to 50 km/h, a range of 130 km (according to WMTC), and a charging time of just 65 minutes from 0% to 80% with an optional fast charger at maximum charging current.

The custom e-scooter also features a friendly smiley face on the front wheel hub, and the glass of the indicator lights. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept is a vehicle that appeals in particular to young, sporty people in an urban environment while being suitable for every type of customer.

 

In keeping with the motto “Action meets Fashion,” the BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept was given a functional top case to supplement the standard storage space, along with a surfboard with a transport system integrated into the vehicle. The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept combines work, leisure, and individual flair, demonstrating that there needs to be no contradiction between any of these areas.

Oliver Balzer, head of BMW Motorrad Austria, said that the customizing project aimed to emphasize the enormous variability of the BMW CE 04 while appealing to young, sporty people in an urban environment. The fresh, modern design of the CE 04 is particularly in keeping with its aspiration to a sporty lifestyle.

The BMW CE 04 Vagabund Moto Concept represents a unique project that highlights the creativity and excellent craftsmanship of the international customizing scene around BMW Motorrad.

Indian motorcycle manufacturer Royal Enfield has recently announced a refresh of its established 650cc twin-cylinder range. The Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650, which have become successful platforms for the brand, are set to receive new paint jobs for 2023.

  • The Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 gets ‘blacked out’ for 2023. 
  • the twin also features new switchgear, LED headlamps and comfier seat. 

Royal Enfield first announced the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 at EICMA last year and has since reaffirmed its commitment to the 650cc twin-cylinder range. Before the Super Meteor 650, the brand had launched the Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650, which will both receive new paint options for the upcoming year.

The Interceptor 650, which currently offers Mark 2, Sunset Strip, and Canyon Red colour options, will now have two new “blacked-out” colours – Black Ray and Barcelona Blue. Meanwhile, the Continental GT 650’s existing colours of Mr Clean, Dux Dulux, British Racing Green, and Rocker Red will be joined by two new colours, Slipstream Blue and Apex Grey.

Apart from the new colours, the 2023 paint options for both the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 will feature new switchgear, LED headlamps, enhanced seat comfort, and a USB charging point. The “blacked-out” variants of the motorcycles with new colours will also come with “blacked-out” engine and exhaust components, as well as cast alloy wheels and tubeless tyres as standard.

Royal Enfield’s 650cc twin-cylinder range has proved to be successful for the brand, with the new refresh likely to attract even more attention from motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

MetMalaysia issues warning of continuous heavy rain with dangerous levels expected in Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Johor until Thursday.

In a statement released by MetMalaysia, continuous heavy rain warning was issued for three areas in Pahang – Bera, Pekan, and Rompin. Meanwhile, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and Johor are also affected by the warning.

MetMalaysia also mentioned that continuous heavy rain warning at a dangerous level was issued for Jerantut, Bentong, Temerloh, Maran, and Kuantan in Pahang. On the other hand, the continuous heavy rain warning at a cautionary level is still in effect until today for Manjung, Kinta, Perak Tengah, Kampar, Bagan Datuk, Hilir Perak, Batang Padang, and Muallim in Perak.

Other areas affected include Tanah Tinggi Cameron, Lipis, and Raub in Pahang, Terengganu, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya.

In Sarawak, a cautionary warning has been issued for the areas of Kuching, Serian, Samarahan, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu, Mukah, Tatau, and Bintulu.

MetMalaysia advises the public to stay updated with the latest weather information through the official website, myCuaca application, and official social media platforms. For further inquiries, the MET Malaysia hotline at 1-300-22-1638 can be contacted.

Yamaha Europe has just announced the release of a new version of their popular adventure tourer motorcycle – the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition.

  • The Tenere 700 Extreme Edition is heavily inspired by the Tenere 700 World Raid. 
  • Powering the Tenere 700 Exterem Edition is the same 689cc liquid-cooled, inline twin-cylinder engine.

The new variant of the motorcycle is more off-road-ready than its predecessor, with changes to the chassis and suspension, among other features.

While the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition shares many mechanical components with the previous model, updates to the chassis and suspension have been made to improve off-road capabilities.

The motorcycle now has fully adjustable KYB 43mm forks that provide an additional 20mm of travel, bringing the total to 230mm at the front. The rear shock has also been upgraded, with a 20mm increase in travel bringing it to 220mm.

Additionally, the overall height of the bike has been raised by 20mm to provide a total ground clearance of 260mm.

Other new features of the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition include adjustable off-road titanium footpegs with bear trap grips, a high enduro-style mudguard, a radiator protector, and a single, enduro-style seat with 20mm more padding than the standard version.

However, the changes to the suspension and seat height bring the seat height to a towering 910mm.

That said, the Yamaha Tenere 700 Extreme Edition takes inspiration from the Yamaha World Raid model while adding its own accessories. 

GALLERY: YAMAHA TENERE 700 EXTREME EDITION

Chinese motorcycle maker, Zongshen has introduced the new RC 401 R in China. 

  • The RC 401 R is based on the standard RC 401 launched in 2022. 
  • The Zonghsen RC 401 R makes 45hp and 35.25Nm. 

Build based on the RC 401 presented in 2022, the RC 401 R is an up-spec version of the former and is differentiated by the addition of single-sided swingarm and an adjustable suspension from KYB, J.Juan dual front disc brakes and ABS. 

Also, the RC 401 R is a lot sportier thanks to its lower clip ons and higher rear tail. 

Nevertheless, the RC 401 R continue to make the same 45hp @ 9,500rpm and 35.25Nm @ 8,000rpm similar to the standard RC 401 as both model shares the same parallel-twin with liquid-cooled SOHC mill. 

In terms of pricing, the Zongshen RC 401 R is priced at at CNY31,980 (RM20.6k) making it quite an affordable option in the 400cc segment. 

Attention all adventure-seeking Ducati enthusiasts! Get ready to rev your engines and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the stunning landscapes of Thailand with Ducati Adventure Tour. 

  • Enjoy a 6-day expedition in Thailand riding on board the Ducati DesertX. 
  • The Ducati Adventure Tour takes you across the rich culture and heritage of Thailand. 

Ducati Asia Pacific has officially launched this exciting 6-day expedition, designed to immerse riders in the rich culture and heritage of Thailand, while tackling some of the finest stretches of tarmac the country has to offer on the powerful Ducati DesertX motorcycles.

Led by expert Ducati professionals and supported by the highly trained DART ASIA event team, participants will experience the ultimate riding adventure with access to lead and sweep marshals, backup vehicles, luxurious accommodations, delicious meals, and their very own Ducati DesertX motorcycle.

The DesertX is the ultimate machine for off-road enthusiasts, boasting a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel, specifically designed to handle even the most challenging terrains.

The bike has been developed with the perfect combination of off-road and road expertise, resulting in a bike that is highly responsive, maneuverable, and at ease on all types of trails and asphalt. The Ducati Adventure Tour is setting new benchmarks in the off-road and touring world, and you won’t want to miss out on this thrilling experience!

According to Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Ducati Asia Pacific, “With hugely successful Ducati Riding Experiences like Track Days last year, we are glad to kick start another chapter in the Ducati Experience by organizing Ducati Adventure Tours for Ducatisti to experience the true essence of Thailand on board the exceptional Ducati DesertX.”

Partnering with Ducati Asia Pacific is Pirelli, who will provide high-performance tires capable of handling any terrain. Marco Soana, Marketing Manager at Pirelli, said, “We are extremely happy to be part of this fantastic tour by Ducati Asia Pacific and provided full support. The Pirelli and Ducati partnership is formidable, and the tour is another testament to our long-standing commitment to high-performance tires for the Ducati DesertX capable of any terrain.”

DART ASIA’s Director, Sayomphu Thammarach, said, “We have specially designed this tour for the Ducati enthusiast to enjoy both the fantastic motorcycle as well as the spectacular riding routes, culture and heritage that the north of Thailand has to offer. Over the years, DART has established itself as the frontrunner in curating adventure travel here in Thailand, and with this partnership with Ducati Asia Pacific, we want to further solidify our position and give every Ducati owner a true-to-Ducati experience.”

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey, sign up now for the Ducati Adventure Tour in Thailand and experience the ultimate thrill of a lifetime!

Royal Enfield recently opens its second exclusive showroom located in Perai, Penang. 

  • The Super Meteor features an all-new frame and revised suspension setup. 
  • The Super Meteor 650 features the same 650cc parallel-twin engine found in the 650 Twins. 

During the launch, Mr. Rewi Hamid Bugo Chairman of Didi Group also confirmed that the highly-aniticpated Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 will hit Malaysian shores tentatively in July 2023. 

The Super Meteor 650 is the third motorcycle to feature Royal Enfield’s 650cc parallel-twin engine after the Continental GT and Interceptor.

However, this is not simply an engine swap from the smaller Meteor 350 or a different aesthetic from the existing 650 Twin. Instead, the Super Meteor 650 gets a newly built frame, revised suspension geometry, redesigned fuel tank, new side panels and a new swingarm.

Also, the Super Meteor 650 is the first 650cc model from Royal Enfield to be equipped with full-LED lighting. In addition, the Super Meteor is also the first Royal Enfield to be fitted with upside-down forks.

Nonetheless, the motorcycle continues to offer conventional cruiser-style riding ergonomics similar to the 350.

Meanwhile, instrumentation comes from a digital-analogue display with tripper navigation.

Boon Siew Honda, a leading motorcycle manufacturer in Malaysia, has introduced a new colour for its popular adventure-style scooter, the X-ADV 750 now priced at RM68,899. 

  • The X-ADV has been well-received by adventurous rider since its launch in 2018.
  • The DCT is the most outstanding feature of the X-ADV. 

The latest addition to the X-ADV lineup is the Shasta White colour, which enhances the bike’s elegant design and aggressive front look when paired with its dual LED headlights and spectacular Daytime Running Lights. The X-ADV still comes with a digital instrument console, LED taillamp, and five-step adjustable windscreen that can be adjusted on the go, making it convenient for long-distance rides.

Powering the X-ADV is a Euro 5-compliant 745cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that is linked to a 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) gearbox. The bike generates a maximum power of 43kW @ 6,750rpm and 69Nm @ 4,750rpm of peak torque. 

The X-ADV’s DCT feature is a standout characteristic that sets it apart from other scooters in the market. Safety features include disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and ABS, which offer an immersive braking experience.

The X-ADV’s 5-inch TFT display panel features the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS), which allows riders to connect their smartphones while on the move and manage phone calls, email, music, and navigation using voice commands.

The 2023 Honda X-ADV is available in three colour options, including Mat Ballistic Black Metallic, Pearl Deep Mud Gray, and the new Shasta White.

Royal Enfield, the world’s leading mid-size motorcycle manufacturer, has opened a new store in Penang, Malaysia, to expand its presence in the Asia Pacific region. 

The store, located at 1681 G1, Jalan Perusahaan, 13600 Perai, Pulau Pinang, will provide customers in Malaysia with greater accessibility to the brand’s motorcycles, apparel, and accessories.

The Royal Enfield-Penang store is located in the heart of the commercial center and provide easier access for customers in Penang Island, Kedah & Perak. The exclusive store will showcase the brand’s philosophy of “Pure Motorcycling” in every aspect of the ownership experience.

Didi Group, the Malaysian distributor of Royal Enfield, has achieved a 500% growth in bike registrations in 2022 and plans to expand further by opening five pop-up stores and a new official store in Johor Bahru in 2023. The company is also set to launch two new bike models, the Hunter 350 on March 9, 2023, and the Super Meteor 650 tentatively in July 2023.

According to Anuj Dua, Head of Business for Asia Pacific, Royal Enfield is committed to becoming the global leader in the mid-size segment, and the Asia Pacific region is of strategic importance. 

The Malaysian market has seen a surge in Royal Enfield riders subscribing to leisure motorcycling and the “Pure Motorcycling” fold. The exclusive brand store and the accessible price points will appeal to motorcycling enthusiasts, he said.

The new Royal Enfield store in Penang, Malaysia, is expected to provide customers with a complete range of motorcycles, services, and Genuine motorcycle accessories under one roof.

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