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Aprilia Ready to Defend Africa Eco Race Title

Aprilia is ready to defend their Africa Eco Race (AER) title which they won on their first attempt on the Tuareg 660.

The Noale-based manufacturer took the victory of the 15th AER race in January this year, which saw Jacopo Cerutti beating the favourite pairing of Pol Tarres and Alesssandro Botturi on the Yamaha Tenere T7.

Aprilia’s commitment to theAER followed an encouraging result in the Tuareg 660’s debut race in the 2023 Transanatolia Rally (TAR). Although Yamaha took the win, Aprilia finished third with Francesco Montanari riding.

Aprilia had also won the Italian Motorally Championship with Cerutti in 2023, apart from the Africa Eco Race and Transanatolia Rally. The team will also defend this title.

Jacopo Cerutti said during the announcement of the project, “We won on our debut, so expectations are high. The goal is to win the Italian Championship again and strive for the best possible performance in Africa. I started training immediately after the Africa Eco Race, and I feel in good shape for the new season.”

Francesco Montanari added: “I am training and preparing as hard as possible. I hope to repeat last year’s performance and improve my results, especially in the Africa Eco Race. We are also determined for the Italian Championship, and I’ll try to do my best.”

The project is now called Aprilia Tuareg Racing and is even more ambitious than before, with them competing in:

Africa Eco Race is scheduled for 28 December 2024 – 12 January 2025.
Italian Motorally Championship begins on 20 April.
Hellas Rally Raid from 24 May – 2 June
Transanatolia Rally scehduled for 31 August – September 7.

Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing CEO, said: “After such an extraordinary debut last year, both in Italy and in Africa, expectations are very high. The goal is to confirm our leadership in this new sector. We have a historic and important name as Tuareg, and to see such a beautiful and powerful motorcycle in its natural habitat is a source of pride for Noale.”

Thai Motorcycle Sales sees 11% Decrease

The Thai motorcycle industry sees an 11% decrease in the 1st quarter of 2024.

The Kingdom’s motorcycle market had enjoyed three years of consecutive growth previously, making it the sixth largest motorcycle market in the world. However, there were only 454,795 motorcycles sold (-11%) in the first three months of the year

Honda, while retaining their top spot, saw a decrease of -9.9%. Their closest rival Yamaha has lost -10.6%. Following in third was Piaggio with a decrease of -29.6%, and local brand GPS who sees a massive -52.2% drop.

However, it is not all doom and gloom for some emerging brands such as Lambretta who saw a +29.8% increase, Lion +302%, and EM +1,534%.

However, the drop is not due to over saturation. Instead, it is due to Thailand’s current economical state which is already in recession due to high household debts, lack of stimulus (investments) and economic reform. The country’s economy is the slowest in the region.

Despite hopes that the economy rebounds this year, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has reduced its 2024 growth forecast for Thailand’s economy to 2.2%-3.2%, from the 2.7%-3.7% predicted in November. The forecast was based on a 1.7% GDP growth in Q4 2023, driven by exports and private investment, but a 3% drop in government spending.

Several Thai news outlets had already predicted a decrease in 2024 motorcycle sales in as early as January 2024.

Thailand is the 5th largest major motorcycle manufacturing base with a capacity for 2 million motorcycles, behind China (23 million), India (20 million), Indonesia (8 million) and Vietnam (3 million).

There are 7 motorcycle manufacturers in Thailand. They are Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, BMW, Triumph and Ducati.

Subsidies Removal will not Bring Negative Effects – Analyst

Analysts of a market research firm expect rationalization measures (including the withdrawal) of targeted subsidies will not have significant negative effects on consumers and businesses.

TA Securities also said the government should continue to reduce subsidies and increase income despite political pressure to achieve the annual deficit target of 4.3 percent for 2024 compared to 5.0 percent in 2023. Deficit reduction is expected to increase confidence in the government’s ability to reduce deficit and debt.

They added, the Fiscal Responsibility Act states to achieve a three percent fiscal deficit target between 2026 and 2028.

TA Securities also expects a gradual increase in fuel prices at the pump.

An increase in the price of RON 95 petrol by 40 cents per liter can reduce subsidies by RM10 billion. It is based on the indication of a subsidy reduction of RM11.4 billion to RM52.8 million in the 2024 Budget.

Regardless, the firm said the B40 and M40 groups to a certain extent should receive cash assistance from the government to offset the negative impact of rising prices of petrol and other goods.

They also explained that those income groups will realize their purchasing power is smaller.

“For example, translating an increase of 40 sen as 20 percent based on the current price of RON95 at RM2.05 per litre, the average consumer who spends RM300 a month on petrol will see an increase of RM60 a month in their monthly bill,” he said.

TA Securities said, following the price increase following the implementation of the targeted subsidy, it is important for the government to focus on effective monitoring and enforcement of regulations. The move is to prevent unethical businesses and individuals from exploiting the situation by dramatically increasing the prices of their goods and services.

Qabil Irfan Azlan is Ready for ESBK

Malaysia’s young racer, Qabil Irfan Azlan is ready to challenge the international riders in the first round of the Spanish Superbike Championship (ESBK) 2024 at the Jerez Circuit, this weekend.

Qabil is the country’s sole representative at the tournament in the Moto4 class. He feels he has adapted to the machine in a test session last month.

“This is my first experience in Europe, I usually come here for the race only. My preparation is to practice with the machine and do fitness training. I also train as usual in this month of Ramadan.

“Before this, I participated in the test session in Jerez. I am confident with the bike and also the management of the team. Regardless, I have to learn more and I hope to be able to compete in the front group and win,” said Qabil as a rider for VHC Frando Racing from Spain .

Previously, the move of ZK Racing and the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) to ESBK was to expand the wings of Qabil’s career after he showed excellent performance to emerge world champion in the 2023 MiniGP World Series Championship.

In the meantime, the Chief Executive Officer of SIC, Azhan Shafriman Hanif said, his side has high hopes for the young rider.

“It’s not easy for a young man like Qabil, who is only 12 years old but has the opportunity to race in Europe. Our hopes are quite high for Qabil to do his best. Under Zulfahmi, we are confident that Qabil will achieve the excellence he deserves.

“For KPI, in the first year, we estimate to be in the top 15. He will also race in the 190cc Malaysian MiniGP Series,” said Shafriman when met after the SIC 2024 Ramadan Iftar, yesterday.

CFMoto 450 CL-C Cruiser, or Bobber?

Chinese manufacturer CFMoto adds the CFMoto 450 CL-C cruiser (or bobber?) to their 450cc lineup.

As part of the 450 CL lineup, “CL” denotes classic while the last “C” designates it as a cruiser. The case of the 450 CL-X, the “X” means the bike has some off-roading capability.

Highlights:

It utilises the same twin-cylinder, 449cc engine as the CFMoto Ibex 450 adventure bike, with the same state of tune.
The powerplant produces 44 hp at 8,500 RPM and 44 Nm of torque at 6,250 RPM.
The engine also uses the now ubiquitous 270-degree crank configuration and dual counterbalancers.

Power is sent six-speed gearbox, with slipper clutch.
The engine is carried by a chromoly steel tube frame.
Front suspension consists of a pair 37mm upside-down forks.
The rear is supported by a monoshock and twin-spar swingarm.

A four-piston, radially-mounted J.Juan caliper grabs a single 320mm disc in the front.
Front and rear wheels are 16-inches.
Bosch ABS is standard for both ends.
A round 3.6-inch TFT display. It does not appear to feature connectivity, though.

Fuel capacity is 12-liters.
CFMoto claims a curb weight of 181kg.

Truth is, the bike does not only invoke memories of the Triumph Bobber, but many parts do look like the Bobber’s. Check out the engine fins and engine capacity plate on the side of the cylinder. That fuel tank, round headlight, etc.

Anyhow, the CFMoto 450 CL-C cruiser does look good and at a more affordable price.

Kawasaki Johor Bahru Opened

Edaran Modenas Sdn. Bhd. (EMOS), the wholly owned subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (MODENAS) celebrated the successful launch of its fourth All-Star showroom, Kawasaki Johor Bahru today.

The grand opening was officiated by Qbee Ng, Director of Kawasaki Johor Bahru, saw together with EMOS Chief Executive Officer Roslan Roskan, CEO, and Chief Marketing Officer George Kashiwagi.

During the ceremony, Kawasaki Johor Bahru and EMOS handed over three units of the recently launched Modenas ZX25-RR to its first owners in Johor.

Drawing a crowd of 700 people, the event also featured exciting activities including test rides, lucky draws, and various family-friendly entertainment.

Managed by Qbee Superbike Sdn. Bhd., KJB was officially appointed as a Kawasaki All-Star Dealer – the first in Johor – in March 2023. Founded by Qbee Ng, who started off as a motorcycle mechanic, in 1987, Qbee Superbike has grown into one of the nation’s largest motorcycle importers and exporters., now holding the title of an official Kawasaki All-Star Dealer.

“In celebration of our 1st first anniversary as an official Kawasaki All-Star dealer, the opening of Kawasaki Johor BahruKawasaki Johor BahruKJB signifies our commitment to building the Kawasaki brand in Malaysia. The showroom serves not only as a platform to showcase the latest Kawasaki technology and products, but also as a community hub for motorcycle enthusiasts to share their experiences and stories,” Qbee Ng said.

EMOS plans to open eight more by December 2024. The new ZX-25RR is now available at all authorised Kawasaki All-Star dealers.

For inquiries or additional information about the dealer showroom, please visit the official KAWASAKI website at https://www.kawasaki.com.my/kawasaki/shop. The new ZX25RR is now available at all authorised Kawasaki All-Star dealers. The latest news on MODENAS and Kawasaki bikes is also available at

Stay updated on the latest news by visiting the official MODENAS and/or KAWASAKI Malaysia website at https://modenas.my/v2/ and/or http://www.kawasaki.com.my/home, or by calling . You can also reach out via the Toll-Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or the WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135.

SYM Maxsym TL508 Launched in Malaysia

MForce Bikes Sdn. Bhd. also launched the SYM Maxsym TL508 maxi scooter alongside the SYM Husky 150.

SYM Husky 150 Launched in Malaysia

According to the press release, it has a perfect body configuration with 50/50 weight distribution to ensure excellent handling performance.

Highlights and features:

There is only one variant unlike the Husky 150, with three colour options available, namely Indigo Blue,
Storm Gray, and Jet Black.
Its introductory selling price is RM46,888.00, excluding road tax and insurance.

The engine is enlarged from 465cc in the Maxsym TL500 to 508cc in the current Maxsym TL508.
The parallel-twin produces 45.0 hp (33.5 kW) at 6,750rpm and 49.9Nm of torque at 5,250rpm.

A 12.5-liter fuel tank feeds the engine.
There are traction control (TCS) and dual-channel ABS, too.

As per the Husky, the TL508 also features a TFT screen, although its size was not stated in the press release.
There is also no mention if the rider can connect his smartphone to the TFT.

Keyless ignition is standard.
Full LED lighting and signals.

Adjustable windscreen.
Seat with anti-slip cover, with waist support for the rider and passenger.

Two-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Online genuine parts purchase service by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

Photo gallery

SYM Husky 150 Launched in Malaysia

The much-awaited SYM Husky 150 was launched in Malaysia yesterday, by the official country distributor MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

SYM Maxsym TL508 launched in Malaysia

MForce says the SYM Husky 150 was “Inspired by adventure features,” and that it “is a scooter full of personality.” In simpler terms, it is an addition to the adventure scooter bandwagon.

Highlights and features:

There are two variations: Standard, and Special Edition.
The RM9,998.00 Standard version is offered in Ebony Black, and Pure White.

While the RM10,298.00 Special Edition variant gets Matte Green, and Wolf Gray.
Its engine is a 150cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve unit which produces 14.5 hp (10.8 kW) at 8,000

RPM and 14.5 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM.
Enlarged 15-litre fuel tank.

5-inch TFT instrument panel with auto dimming, plus day and night display modes.
Keyless locking and ignition system with an emergency ignition mode if the key’s battery is weak.

Rider assistance features such as Traction Control System (TCS) and dual-channel ABS are standard.
Fully LED lighting and signals.

Two years or 20,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.
Online genuine parts purchase service by MForce Bike Holdings Sdn. Bhd.

Photo gallery

It’s Official! Liberty Media Acquires MotoGP by Year-End

It is official. Liberty Media is set to acquire MotoGP by year-end 2024 from Dorna.

As we reported earlier, Liberty Media who currently owns Formula 1 (F1) will pay €4.2 billion (RM21.34 billion) for the acquisition. However, the deal is not a complete takeover but rather only 86% of Dorna, while the balance 14% remains with Dorna.

Dorna Sport S.L. currently holds the television rights to the premier MotoGP championship as well as the World Superbike Championship (WSBK). They are also involved in the managment and marketing of several other motorcycle championships including the Spanish Road Racing Championship (CEV), British Superbike Championship (BSB), the Trials World Championships (Indoor and Outdoor).

This stunning development will unit the world’s premier two-wheel motorsport series with the world’s best four-wheel series.

There is no shake up in Dorna’s management at this moment as it was announced that Dorna will remain as an independently operated company. As such, Carmelo Ezpeleta will remain the Dorna CEO, and his his team will continue to run the business from Madrid, Spain. Apart from that, Dorna will be part of Liberty Media’s Formula One Group tracking stock.

“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of leading live sports and entertainment assets with the acquisition of MotoGP,” said Greg Maffei, Liberty Media President and CEO. “MotoGP is a global league with a loyal, enthusiastic fan base, captivating racing and a highly cash flow generative financial profile. Carmelo and his management team have built a great sporting spectacle that we can expand to a wider global audience.

The deal will be completed by the end of 2024 and is subject to the receipt of clearances and approvals by competition and foreign investment law authorities in various jurisdictions. This is why Liberty Media did not acquire 100% of Dorna’s interest in MotoGP, so as to not send up a red flag for anti-competition regulators.

Of course, the news has attracted no shortage of comments from netizens, albeit the majority being negative. The most obvious theme is the fear of MotoGP turning into another F1 circus. However, let us be reminded that F1 had grown by leaps and bounds since Liberty Media acquired it from CVC Capital Partners in 2017.

With all being said, let us see what Liberty Media has in store for MotoGP for next season.

BMW may Join MotoGP in 2027

BMW may join MotoGP in 2027, admitted the new head of BMW Motorrad, Markus Flasch.

They are the only major European manufacturer who are missing from the MotoGP field and there have been never-ending questions about their absence. However, the news coincides with Dorna’s proposed sweeping changes across the series, including returning the maximum engine capacity to 800cc. There have rumours to state as far as BMW and Dorna’s discussions have already resulted in a agreed deal.

Flasch, in an interview with Motorrad made it clear that he is an “absolute advocate of motorsport.” It bodes well for someone who was the head of the M Sport division before joining the motorcycle department in November last year. He says he also sees BMW’s future involvement in racing other than WSBK, FIM World Endurance, and German IDM series.

He added, “It has to make sense for us, that’s clear, and that’s why we are taking a detailed look at it.

“I would not rule it out.”

In fact, Dorna is keeping two grid spots open for an additional factory entry after Suzuki pulled out, to the consternation of KTM who had wanted that spot for 2024.

BMW has also already assembled a strong team in developing their two-wheeled racing programs. Former EWC and WSBK champion (and former Suzuki MotoGP test rider) Sylvain Guintoli heads the EWC team and WSBK development programme. While MotoGP podium finisher Bradley Smith is contracted as the other test rider.

2021 WSBK champion Toprak Razgatlioglu as BMW’s factory rider has yielded immediate top results too, scoring two wins and two podiums from six races (including Superpole) in two rounds thus far.

Could this finally be the news BMW fans have been waiting for? Watch this space!

Motorcyclist Killed after Ramming Car in Emergency Lane, Driver Stopped to Call

A motorcyclist died after ramming into a car which stopped in the emergency lane at Kilometer 116.9, North-South Highway, near Batu Pahat. The car driver is said to have stopped to make a phone call.

Batu Pahat District Acting Chief of Police, Superintendent Shahrulanuar Mushaddat Abdullah Sani said, before the incident, the victim Mohammad Fared Zakaria, 35, was riding a motorcycle from the direction of Ayer Hitam towards Pagoh.

He said, upon arriving at the location, there was a car that stopped in the emergency lane because the driver wanted to answer a phone call.

The victim could not avoid the car and crashed into it. The crash resulted in the victim suffering severe head injuries and broke both arms.

The victim was taken to the Sultanah Fatimah Specialist Hospital in Muar but was pronounced dead while receiving treatment at 7.50pm. However, the driver of the car survived and was not injured, said Superintendent Shahrulanuar.

Shahrulanuar said the police are still investigating and the case is being investigated in accordance with Section 41 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

The police are also asking for the public’s cooperation to channel any information about this incident at any nearby police station or through the Johor Contingent Police Hotline at 07-2212999 or through the Batu Pahat IPD Police Hotline at 07-4343999.

Photo: PDRM

New EV Charging Station Target after Hari Raya

The government will review and submit a new target for the number of EV (electric vehicle) charging stations after Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The existing target is 10,000 stations operating by 2025.

Minister of Investments, Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said the actual number will only be known through the meeting of the National EV Driving Committee (NEVSC) which is scheduled to take place after the festival.

However, he informed that he had already held preliminary discussions with industry activists and EV public charging station installation companies.

“God willing we will discuss (with NEVSC) after this Raya.

“Officially, the number so far is 2,020 units, but that the number is close to more than 2,100 units during the unofficial discussion,” he said.

He added that industry activists and public EV charging station installation companies expressed confidence that the target of 10,000 EV stations by 2025 could be realised.

“As announced before, the target is 10,000 (EV charging stations) by the end of 2025, so we have to plan carefully.

“If we can’t reach that 10,000, we have to make a more realistic target, but it seems that through my discussion with the charging station installers, they are still confident because they can see the high demand, so they are a little braver to build the charging station.

“I’m trying to make sure we can reach that target,” he said.

On March 20, Tengku Zafrul was reported to have said that the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) will re-examine the target of 10,000 EV charging stations by 2025 through the NEVSC meeting.

The target is guided by the Low Carbon Mobility Development Plan 2021-2030.

Bikesrepublic

English

Aprilia Ready to Defend Africa Eco Race Title

Thai Motorcycle Sales sees 11% Decrease

Subsidies Removal will not Bring Negative Effects – Analyst

Qabil Irfan Azlan is Ready for ESBK

CFMoto 450 CL-C Cruiser, or Bobber?

Kawasaki Johor Bahru Opened

SYM Maxsym TL508 Launched in Malaysia

Highlights and features:

SYM Husky 150 Launched in Malaysia

Highlights and features:

Photo gallery

It’s Official! Liberty Media Acquires MotoGP by Year-End

BMW may Join MotoGP in 2027

Motorcyclist Killed after Ramming Car in Emergency Lane, Driver Stopped to Call

New EV Charging Station Target after Hari Raya

Updated 2025 BMW F 900 XR and 2025 BMW F 900 R Debut

2025 Benelli Tornado 550 Debuts

2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX Test and Review, The Most User-Friendly Dual-Purpose Bike?

Yamaha did Make V4 Grand Prix Engines Previously

Tyre Review: Michelin Power 6 – Predictable In The Wet & Dry

Jorge Martin is MotoGP 2024 Champion

2025 Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello ‘Wind Tunnel’ Celebrates Brand’s Aero Research

2025 Moto Guzzi V7 – Sportier, More Power, More Features

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Buy a Kawasaki, Get Another One For Free!

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