Amirul Azreen, Author at BikesRepublic.com

Ducati DesertX Now Available In Malaysia – RM112,900

The all-new Ducati DesertX has finally landed in Malaysia exactly a year after its global introduction back in December 2021.

The DesertX is Ducati first fully-capable off-road middleweight adventure bike.
Features the tried and tested, Testastretta 937cc 11-degree Desmodromic engine.

Coming in at RM112,900, the Ducati DesertX is the latest contender in a competitive ADV category which includes the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally, Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and the upcoming MV Agusta Lucky Explorer 9.5.

Catch our review of the 2022 Ducati DesertX in Italy:

According to Ducati, the DesertX is heavily inspired by the rally raiders that competed in the Paris-Dakar Rally during the 80s and 90s.

Dressed in an all-white with red accents, the DesertX appears in a heavy off-road elements combines with a distinctive twin circular LED headlights with DRL (Daytime Running Light).

The Ducati DesertX is built around an all-new steel trellis frame, aimed to improve rigidity especially in rough terrain. It also come equipped with a dedicated long travel suspension settings paired to a 21″ front and 18″ rear wheel.

The suspension system is handled by a full-adjustable Kayaba 46mm upside-down front forks and full-adjustable Kayaba monoshock with preload adjustment.

Other standard features available on the DesertX includes:

Wheelie Control
Engine Brake Control
Ducati Quick Shift
Cruise Control
Ducati Brake Light
USB power Socket
Steering damper
21L tank (with additional 8L tank as optional)

Meanwhile, braking is done by 320mm aluminium flange semi-floating disc paired to a Brembo M50 callipers and assisted by Bosch Cornering ABS.

At the heart sits the 937cc Testastretta 11-degree Desmodromic engine capable of producing 110hp @ 9,250rpm and 92Nm @ 6,500rpm.

However, in respect to the same engine used on the Monster and Hypermotard, Ducati has updated the powerplant with lighter components.

In turn, the new Testastretta on the DesertX is now 1.7kg lighter, contributed by a new sound absorbing covers, new clutch, new clutch cover, revised gearbox and ignition stick coils.

According to Ducati, the engine has also been tweaked to allow for more seamless low-speed changes.

Ducati also optimised the riders seat, to ensure comfort on-road and off-road with an adjustable saddle. The pillion seat can also be remove.

Taller dashboard also allow riders to to see the 5″ TFT dash while standing up.

The DesertX offers six riding modes comprising of Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally. Riders can also adjust the power modes accordingly.

In addition, Ducati Malaysia also brings a wide range of accessories and DesertX-themed apparel for every Ducatisti.

Moto Morini To Enter The U.S Market

Americans will soon find a new range of affordable motorcycles from the Italian-Chinese company Moto Morini.

Moto Morini set to bring the X-Cape 650 and Seiemmezzo to the US.
The Moto Morini brand is currently available throughout Europe and Asia.

In the last couple of years, Moto Morini has been making great strides in Europe and Asia with the introduction of the X-Cape 650 adventure bike and the retro-style Seiemmezzo.

Just a few months ago, Moto Morini made its way to India.

However, Moto Morini is ready to set foot in the U.S., as confirmed by new U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents.

Based on the document, listed the official manufacturer as Zhejiang Morini Vehicle Co. Ltd, operating under the Moto Morini brand.

While it remains to be seen which model will make its way to the Big Apple, it is likely to include X-Cape 650 and the Seiemmezzo range.

Chinese-Made Mitt 530TT Adventure Motorcycle To Debut In Europe

Mitt is a Spanish motorcycle company that offers affordable, entry-level machines for young and new riders, mainly in Spain and Portugal.

Mitt to offer the 530TT Adventure motorcycle in Europe by 2023.
The 530TT is the biggest and most powerful motorcycle from the company’s portfolio.

The company can retain its affordable price tag by manufacturing its product in China via Zongshen.

Thanks to its Chinese partnership, Mitt is ready to take it up a notch by introducing the 530TT Adventure motorcycle for the European market.

The 530TT Adventure is the biggest and most powerful model in the brand’s lineup so far, featuring a 476cc parallel-twin engine that makes 47.5hp and 43Nm.

That said, the 530TT Adventure will go head-to-head with the Honda CB500X and Benelli TRK502X. However, it remains to be seen if the 530TT Adventure will feature the typical 180-crank or the modern 270-crank.

Similar to its competitor, the Mitt 530TT Adventure also features a straightforward setup, including a simple ABS, adjustable inverted front forks and adjustable monoshock at the rear.

Completing the adventure looks is a pair of wire-spoked wheels shod with dual-purpose tires.

Other notable features include:

LED lighting
adjustable windshield
full-colour TFT instrument display
crash guard
radiator guard

The Mitt 530TT Adventure will be available in Europe by 2023 and is priced at EUR 7,905 (RM37.1k).

Ducati Corse 2022 Official Yearbook Now Available For Purchase

To celebrate Ducati’s most successful year in 2022, the Italian motorcycle company has teamed up with Artioli Editore 1899 of Modenas to introduce the Ducati Corse 2022 Official Yearbook.

Ducati marks its 2022 success with an official Ducati Corse Yearbook.
The official yearbook features more than 250 images printed in full colour.

The 2022 season marked the highest achievement for Ducati at the pinnacle of two-wheel racing, taking home the Riders, Constructors and Team titles at the MotoGP World Championship and SBK World Championship.

The book takes readers through some of the most spectacular events, including an inside look at the Ducati Corse.

The book also features the Ducati Lenovo Team, Aruba.it Racing – Ducati, Francesco Bagnaia, Jack Miller, Alvaro Bautista, Michael Ruben Rinaldi, together with the other satellite teams and riders in MotoGP, World Superbike and the most important national championships including BSB, MotoAmerica, CIV and Endurance.

Beautifully illustrated in 208 pages with a hardcover and dust jacket, the Yearbook is an excellent addition for any two-wheel enthusiast.

With Christmas just around the corner, The Ducati Corse 2022 Official Yearbook will be a great gift for every Ducatisti.

Get your hands on the official Yearbook via www.artioli.it.

QJMotor Launch New SRK400 Entry-Level Naked Bike In Europe

Chinese motorcycle giant QJMotor has launched its latest entry-level motorcycle, the SRK400, in Europe.

QJMotor ready to compete the entry-level naked bike segment with the all-new SRK400.
The SRK400 features 400cc parallel-twin engine and is equipped with modern equipment including ABS.

The naked-style motorcycle is set to please new and young European riders thanks to its sporty and aggressive design and nifty equipment.

Mechanically, the SRK400 is equipped with a 400cc parallel twin-cylinder with a liquid-cooled and fuel-injected engine that makes 41.5hp @ 9,000rpm and 37Nm @ 7,000rpm.

The power figure puts the SRK400, on average, in the entry-level segment, making it a good option for new riders seeking that extra kick.

In addition, the SRK400 also features dual-channel ABS for added safety.

However, similar to other QJMotor ranges of bikes, the SRK400 tips the scale at 176kg, making it the heaviest among its rival.

That said, the bike might not offer the best handling and acceleration due to its longer and taller dimension.

Nonetheless, the standout part of the SRK400 is the price tag, coming in at just EUR5,790 (RM27.1k).

Honda Presents Japan’s Exclusive CB1300 30th Anniversary Edition

The Honda CB range has existed for over 50 years and has undergone various changes, including configurations and displacements.

Limited to just 720 units.
The CB1300 Super Bol d’Or and CB1300 Super Four celebrates the uniqueness of Honda’s CB range.

While the CBR is Honda’s crème de la crème, the CB on the other hand represents Honda’s legacy.

That said, Honda has released a special edition of the CB1300 Super Bol d’Or SP and CB1300 Super Four motorcycles for the Japanese market commemorating the CB1300’s 30th anniversary.

Limited to just 720 units, the two models come in a unique trim to pay homage to the original 1992 Project Big-1.

The 30th Anniversary Editions is distinguishable (from the base model) with a gold accent on the bodywork and a special anniversary badge planted on the fuel tank.

Also, the bike is fitted with a special gold-painted rim, Ohlins suspension, and dual radially mounted Brembo 4-piston callipers at the front.

Other notable features include full LED lights, heated grips, a UBS charger, a liquid-cooling system and electronic fuel injection.

As mentioned, the Honda CB1300 Super Four and CB1300 Super Bold d’Or 30th Anniversary Edition are only available in Japan with a limited run of 720 units.

Chinese-Made Harley-Davidson X350 And X500 Shown In New Type-Approval Documents

Harley-Davidson first announced its partnership with China-based Qianjiang Group back in 2019 as part of a plan to expand its range to smaller-capacity motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson to roll out the Chinese-made X350 and X500 in Asia soon.
The smaller capacity Harley-Davidson will be built by Zhejiang Jisheng Motor Vehicle Co. Ltd.

Back then, the small Harley was referred to as the 338R, further confirmed by a leaked photo that revealed the side profile of the motorcycle.

However, the latest type-approval filed in China has revealed that not just one but two bikes have been approved for sale in the country with the name X350 and X500.

Accompanying the type-approval document is two photos that showcase the X350 and X500.

Firstly the X350 looks identical to the early sketches Harley showed back in 2019, mainly the flat-track-inspired bodywork.

According to reports, the upcoming X350 shared most of its components from QJMotor’s SRK350 and Benelli’s 302S, including the same 353cc parallel-twin engine.

That said, the document revealed that the X350 makes a good 36hp but tips the scale at 195kg, making it a pretty heavy bike.

In addition, the X350 is also fitted with the same rubber as the 302S, 120/70-17 at the front and 160/60-17 at the rear.

Meanwhile, the X500 features the same frame and engine as Benelli’s Leoncino 500. The X500 makes 47hp and weighs in at 206kg.

Despite being fitted with the same front and rear wheels as the X350, the larger bike features radial-mount callipers and a bigger brake disc similar to the Leoncino 500.

For your information, both of these bikes will be made by Zhejiang Jisheng Motor Vehicle Co. Ltd, a joint venture company set up by Harley-Davidson and Qianjiang in China.

Futuristic Looking Yamaha Augur 155 Rolls Out In Taiwan – 14.7hp, 13.8Nm

Yamaha released an all-new scooter specific to the Taiwanese market called the Augur.

Yamaha Augur is the latest compact scooter to be made available in Taiwan.
Features the tried-and-test Yamaha’s 155cc single-cylinder engine with VVA.

At a glance, the 155cc scooter is the most futuristic-looking model manufactured by the Japanese manufacturer in recent years.

Interestingly, the Augur 155 also packs some tasty features, including a 4.3-inch TFT instrument display with smartphone connectivity, traction control and ABS.

However, the centrepiece has to be its radical design, highlighted by its angular section, creating a never-before-seen aesthetic.

At the front, the Augur gets an arrow shape headlamp that also features the nifty Y-LLA (Yamaha Lean Light Assist) or cornering lights.

What’s more extraordinary is that the user can change the LED headlight colour from bright white to warm white depending on weather conditions.

Despite the modern touch, Yamaha still retains the typical scooter functionality, including a wide saddle for comfortable riding, a flat floorboard and ample under-seat storage.

Powering the Augur is the same 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, and fuel-injected engine found in the NMax 155 and NVX 155.

Ducati Celebrates Double World Titles With Special Edition Panigale V4

Ducati ended the 2022 season of two-wheel racing on a high, taking home the MotoGP world title with Francesco Bagnaia and WorldSBK championship with Alvaro Bautista.

Ducati introduced two special series of the Ducati Panigale V4 to celebrate Bagnaia and Bautista world championship title at MotoGP and WorldSBK.
Only 260 unit (each bikes) will be available.

To celebrate the double victory, the Borgo Panigale outfit has created two special series of Panigale V4 bikes that was inspired by the Desmosedici GP and Panigale V4 R.

The special built motorcycle was showcased at the ‘Campioni in Piazaa’, an event that celebrates Ducati historic double win.

*Panigale V4 2022 Bagnaia World Champion Replica

According to Ducati, the two special series is made based on the Panigale V4 S and features the liveries of Bagnaia’s MotoGP bike and Bautista’s WorldSBK machine. The two bikes will also features Bagnaia and Bautista signatures.

Also, each of the motorcycle is only available for a limited run of 260 units, in honour of 1926, the year Ducati was founded.

*Panigale V4 2022 Bautista World Champion Replica

Similar to the race bike, the Panigale V4 2022 World Champion Replica comes in an only single-seat configuration and is equipped with a billet aluminium upper clamp with laser engraving that showcased the model name and progressive number.

In addition, both motorcycle is fitted with a range of goodies including nine-disc STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, Akrapovic silencer, Brembo Stylema brake callipers with Brembo MCS, Rizome billet aluminium adjustable footpegs and racing plexiglass.

Other notable features available on both of these bikes include:

carbon fiber exhaust manifold heat sheild
carbon fiber alternator cover
carbon fiber front and rear fenders
carbon fiber front brake ducts

According to Ducati, each bike will be handed to its respective customers in a packing case with dedicated graphics and a certificate of authenticity.

Voge Valico 525 DSX Adventure Motorcycle Lands In Europe

After successfully penetrating the European market with a beginner-friendly naked and neo retro motorcycle, Voge, a premium sub-brand of Chinese motorcycle manufactuer, Loncin, now breached out to middleweight capacity adventure bike, with the all-new Valico 525 DSX.

Voge Valico 525 DSX is an A2-compliant adventure motorcycle.
The Valico 525 DSX will go up against Honda’ CB500X and Benelli’s TRK 502 X.

The Valico 525 DSX features a 494cc parallel-twin with liquid-coole and fuel-injected engine that makes 47hp on tap, similar to the Honda CB500X.

That said, the Valico 525 DSX is designed as a A2-compliant motorcycle making it a suitable option for younger riders.

Similar to modern day ADV machine, the Voge Valico 525 DSX is fitted with inverted front forks with long-travel suspension at the front and adjustable monoshock at the rear.

However, while the rest of its competitors features alloy wheels, the Valico 525 DSX gets tubeless wire-spoke wheels measuring 19-inch front and 17-inch at the back.

In addition, the motorcycle also equipped with traction control and ABS – which can be switched off for off-road riding – selectable Eco and Sport mode and a full colour 7-inch TFT display with built-in navigation system.

This inadvertently puts the Voge Valico 525 DSX as a strong contender in the 500cc category, going up against the CB500X and Benelli TKR 502 X.

Triumph Motorcycles Announced Plans For The SuperMotocross World Championship

Triumph Motorcycles officially get things rolling with its motocross and supercross programme after announcing the team personnel involved in the factory team.

Triumph announced lineup for US factory racing programme.
Booby Hewitt and Steve Westfall to lead the Triumph motocross and supercross programme.

The British manufacturer announced their MXGP World Championship plans back in October, where they will compete in the 2024 season.

In a latest development, Triumph has lineup established names from MXGP history, including Bobby Hewitt as team principal.

Hewitt previously managed the Rockstar Husqvarna team that won the regional and national championship indoor and out including 250MX, 450MX and 450SX.

Also in the lineup is Steve Westfall, who is named as the factory team manager alongside Dave Arnold – former HRC team manager back in the 80s – who will take charge the chassis development.

Triumph also recruited Dudley Cramond who has worked on GP projects including with Honda and Aprilia to lead the powertrain development.

“I have no doubt, knowing the experience and capability shared between our dedicated in-house design and engineering teams, and Bobby’s hand selected team of racing experts, that this partnership will make an indelible mark on the history of this incredible sport and Triumph’s illustrious brand,” said Nick Bloor, CEO of Triumph Motorcycles.

That being said, Triumph is yet to reveal the race bike to take on the 250SX, 250MX and MX2 World Championship classes, but since the competition is one year away there’s still time for development.

One way or another, a competition ready machine will make its debut soon thanks to a fully committed and experienced recruitment.

Motori Minarelli Successfully Builds A Euro5 Compliant Two-Stroke Engine

Motori Minarelli made headlines at EICMA in Milan last month as the Italian motorcycle company unveiled an all-new two-stroke engine that meets the Euro5 homologation.

Motori Minarelli developed an all-new 300cc two-stroke engine that meets the latest emission standard.
The engine is build based on Yamaha’s 250cc two-stroke engine.

The engine is a single-cylinder 300cc unit designed and developed in-house based on the Yamaha YZ250 enduro engine and will soon make its way to the upcoming Fantic XE300 enduro machine.

The XE300 is expected to hit the European market sometime in the summer of 2023.

However, while the XE300 is still an off-road focused motorcycle, the engine could find its way to the street bike thanks to meeting the strict Euro5 emission standard.

That begs the question, how did Minarelli achieve this?

First and foremost, the engine features electronic fuel injection, an electric start, and an exhaust valve to optimise low and mid-range performance.

The engine also features a decompression system that helps to reduce mechanical momentum at start-up, allowing the bike to restart easily after a stall.

However, the fact that Minarelli managed to acquire Euro5 homologation means that there is a complex technology underneath the engine case.

As such, the engine might pump out less than 50hp than the rest of its two-stroke buddies in the same segment, but we can expect a smoother power delivery up the rev range.

One thing for sure, this could mark the return of street-legal two-stroke motorcycle in the future.

Bikesrepublic

Amirul Azreen