Global News Archives

KTM Bikes To Be Made in China and India

Pierer Mobility Group, now the leading European two-wheel manufacturer after acquiring KTM, achieved notable success in the first half of 2023 with 190,293 bikes sold — a 16.5 percent increase from 2022.

Looking ahead to 2024 and according to reports circulating the web, the group aims to strengthen its position by selling the R Raymon and Felt bicycle brands and focusing on Husqvarna and GasGas e-bicycle production.

This strategic decision concentrates efforts on the core motorcycle brands: KTM, GasGas, Husqvarna, and MV Agusta. Simultaneously, the group plans to cut 300 jobs in Austrian plants and shift production to partnerships in India (with Bajaj) and China (with CFMoto), along with relocating some R&D activities.

This move is prompted by an analysis of Europe’s economic situation, anticipating a 2024 contraction, particularly with the European Central Bank maintaining current interest rates. Despite economic challenges, the group’s solid liquidity enables support for dealers and suppliers, making 2024 a consolidation year.

The decision to relocate production to China is justified by a positive collaboration with CFMoto. The 790 Duke and 790 Adventure mid-displacement models have already been moved to China, capitalizing on lower production costs and enhancing KTM’s presence in Far East markets.

Pierer Mobility Group and CFMoto plan to double joint production from 50,000 to 100,000 units. The board remains optimistic about maintaining 2023 sales levels in 2024, targeting an EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Taxes) margin of 5 to 7 percent. To ensure profitability, the management plans double-digit million cost-cutting measures in 2024.

Expressing confidence in MV Agusta’s legacy, Pierer Mobility Group highlights the success of the new MV Agusta LXP Orioli adventure model with a 900cc three-cylinder engine. To boost MV Agusta’s global presence, models will be distributed through the Pierer Mobility Group dealer network.

Finally, the call option for KTM AG to acquire a majority stake in MV Agusta, based on the annual financial statements as of December 31, 2025, will be exercised in spring 2026—a significant turning point for the Italian legend, ending years of financial uncertainty.

Kawasaki Versys Hybrid Under Development

An upcoming Kawasaki hybrid motorcycle has been uncovered through new patent illustrations. The images, disclosed by the Italian publication Motociclismo, depict a bike based on the Kawasaki Versys touring model, yet distinguished by the integration of a hybrid power unit, departing from the conventional internal combustion engine.

This development aligns with Kawasaki’s existing hybrid offerings, namely the faired Ninja 7 Hybrid and the naked Z 7 Hybrid. The hybrid system comprises a 9kW electric motor working in tandem with a 451cc parallel twin-cylinder combustion engine.

The prospective ‘Versys Hybrid’ signifies a departure from Kawasaki’s current partially electric models, the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid, which cater to the sports and naked categories, respectively. These categories prioritize performance over extended journeys, unlike the touring segment.

The significance of a hybrid in the touring context goes beyond mere range considerations. While a hybrid ensures continued operation once the battery is depleted, its advantage lies in maintaining robust performance during lengthy rides—an assurance that traditional power units, relying on a single power source for the rear wheel, offer.

Despite the seemingly modest 1.4kWh battery employed in the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z 7 Hybrid, Kawasaki couples it with the 451cc parallel twin, delivering 69bhp to the rear wheel in both models. This output, slightly surpassing the Versys 650’s 66bhp, emphasizes the potential for sustained performance over extended distances.

While Kawasaki has yet to commit to a complete transition from combustion models to hybrids with comparable performance, the efficacy of a hybrid Versys over extended distances, coupled with Kawasaki’s assertion of 250cc-like fuel consumption from its existing hybrid bikes, suggests the possibility of the Versys 650 being considered for such an innovative transformation.

Ducati Sets Up Corse Off-Road Division To Manage Upcoming MotoCross Ventures

In the wake of a recent announcement detailing an upcoming project featuring a lineup of off-road models set to debut in the near future, Ducati has positioned itself to harness the competitive spirit of national motocross competitions as a pivotal component of its product development strategy.

With plans to enter the fray as early as 2024, the initiative includes fielding a 450 prototype entrusted to Alessandro Lupino, with the expertise of Antonio Cairoli contributing as the high-performance test rider.

Responding to this dynamic venture, Ducati has officially established the Off-Road Division within Ducati Corse. This newly formed division will be responsible for the orchestration and oversight of the comprehensive sporting program, encompassing participation in the MXGP World Championship and the AMA Supercross Championship in the forthcoming years.

Paolo Ciabatti, who served as the Sporting Director of Ducati Corse from 2013 to 2023, has been appointed as the General Manager of the newly minted Ducati Corse Off-Road. Tasked with propelling the Borgo Panigale company to triumph in the realm of off-road racing, Ciabatti will report directly to the CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, Claudio Domenicali.

In addition to his new role, Ciabatti will retain responsibilities for coordinating Ducati’s sporting endeavors in prominent national SBK and SSP championships, including MotoAmerica, British Superbike, All Japan Superbike, Australian Superbike, and CIV throughout 2024.

Meanwhile, Mauro Grassilli, currently the Head of Marketing and Sponsorships at Ducati Corse, is set to assume the multifaceted role of Sporting, Marketing, and Communications Director within Ducati Corse. Reporting directly to Ducati Corse General Manager Luigi Dall’Igna, Grassilli will play a pivotal role in steering the strategic direction of Ducati’s involvement in off-road racing.

Ducati Corse says that it remains unwavering in its commitment to managing the MotoGP and WorldSBK championships concurrently. The overarching objective is to build upon the remarkable string of successes that has become synonymous with the Borgo Panigale company.

KTM’s Academy Of Speed Is Your Chance To Learn From Dani Pedrosa

Have you wanted to learn how to ride on track or simply polish your track riding skills? While there are many riding schools around the world that say they can make you a better rider (and some that truly can), you rarely get to learn from a former MotoGP rider.

But that is what you can do with KTM’s upcoming ‘Academy of Speed’ set to debut in the summer of 2024.

Taking place at the Salzburgring, Red Bull Ring, and the Slovakiaring, the Academy of Speed is open to riders of all levels, from novices to seasoned racers, and provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of high-performance riding.

The ‘Pro’ level package, priced at €3490, spans two days on the track and includes exclusive access to MotoGP-inspired pit boxes. Participants at this level can also benefit from valuable insights provided by KTM’s factory MotoGP test riders, Mika Kallio and Dani Pedrosa.

The Academy of Speed offers three distinct levels tailored to riders’ experience levels, each package ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience. The ‘Rookies’ level, priced at €450, is designed for individuals with minimal or no track experience, providing a one-day event featuring off-track technical skills and safety training, culminating in a thrilling 20-minute on-track session.

For ‘Ambitious Amateurs’ seeking to elevate their riding prowess, the €890 one-day event is the perfect fit. Geared towards riders beyond the beginner stage, this package includes technical skill training and three on-track sessions in the afternoon to refine and enhance techniques and racing skills.

At the core of the Academy of Speed is the commitment to cater to riders at every level. Instructors and KTM ambassadors will be on hand to provide guidance, while MotoGP stars and former GP racer and team manager, Mike Leitner, will offer coaching both on and off the track.

The event is scheduled to take place at the three iconic locations: Salzburgring, Austria, on June 20-21; Red Bull Ring, Austria, on July 17-18; and Slovakia Ring, Slovakia, on September 4-5.

Additionally, each package includes an evening dinner and entertainment to complement the thrilling on-track action, ensuring an unforgettable and holistic motorcycling experience. Find out more about KTM’s Academy of Speed here.

New Triumph Daytona 660 Will Launch on January 9th, 2024?

Following the emergence of spyshots in August 2023, Triumph is said to be prepared to unveil the Daytona 660 sportsbike on Tuesday, January 9th.

The revelation came through a teaser image on social media, featuring a sleek sportsbike silhouette with dual LED headlights.

Although there’s no official confirmation regarding the new model, previous photographs circulating online seemed to depict a faired Daytona model based on the existing Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660 platform, utilizing the same three-cylinder 660cc engine. This assumption is further supported by a Triumph website landing page prominently displaying ‘660’ in large font in the background.

Unlike its predecessors, this Daytona is expected to offer a more comfortable approach to the sportsbike scene, designed for everyday riding and likely to compete with machines such as Honda’s CBR650R, Yamaha’s R7, and Suzuki’s latest GSX-8R parallel twin.

The spyshots from August are said to have revealed the prototype with identical left-hand engine cover, along with a matching exhaust collector box, swingarm, and front end. It is also anticipated to house a 660cc triple engine, generating approximately 80bhp.

The design is likely to feature new bodywork, including full sports fairing reminiscent of the now-defunct Daytona 675. Additionally, expect new side panels and a seat unit, as well as a redesigned tank to accommodate the sportsbike’s steering lock, avoiding interference with the Trident’s more bulbous design.

Given its Trident 660 underpinnings, the new Daytona is expected to share some of its basic electronics, such as two rider modes and switchable traction control. The suspension setup is likely to include non-adjustable Showa 41mm inverted forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock, coupled with dual Nissin twin-piston brakes.

Triumph has remained tight-lipped about the details during the time the spy images were captured, heightening anticipation for the January reveal.

Fantic Caballero Range Updated For 2024 – Still No News Of Malaysian Debut

Fantic’s Caballero bikes are getting a makeover for 2024, bringing in some cool new features while keeping their classic look. These bikes, the Caballero 125 and 500, are known for their rugged, retro style and powerful single-cylinder engines.

Even though the outside looks the same with that cool, vintage design – there are some awesome changes inside. One big update is the super-bright LED headlight with 24 LEDs, making it easy to see on even the darkest roads. The turn signals and tail light also use LED technology, making it more visible when it’s not so bright out.

Inside the cockpit, where you control everything, there’s a new 4-inch LCD display. This display shows you important things like what gear you’re in, how fast you’re going, and the temperature. Plus, you can connect your smartphone to it through Bluetooth, so you won’t miss any calls or notifications while you’re cruising.

In terms of power, the engine got a bit of a tune-up to make it run even smoother. The Caballero 500 got a new map to make the throttle response better. The 125 still has the Minarelli engine with variable valve timing.

But it’s not just about looking good and going fast. They’ve made the Caballero lighter and more agile. The 2024 models have a new aluminum swingarm, which is both stronger and lighter than the old steel one. The Caballero 500 now weighs just 149 kilograms without fuel, making it one of the lighter bikes in its class.

The bikes come with dual-channel ABS, which you can turn off if you want to go off-road. There’s also a new app called Fantic Garage, where you can control and monitor your bike’s features and maintenance using your smartphone.

Both bikes will be launched in 2024. As for when they will be introduced in Malaysia, there really is no telling. We first reported about the setting up of the company back in 2022, and a quick check online has shown that the company has been registered. But there has been no news since then, so it is unclear if the bikes will be made available in Malaysia.

New Zontes 500T Adventure Tourer Coming Soon!

If there is still any doubt in your mind about the capability of Chinese motorcycle manufacturers, it would probably be best to remove it entirely. Take Zontes for example, it is fast emerging as a formidable contender aiming for prominence in the international arena.

Zontes’ latest release is strategically targeting the lucrative entry-level middleweight segment, which typically falls within the 300cc to 500cc displacement range.

The new Zontes 500 T adopts the form of an adventure-tourer and is anticipated to hit the global market in 2024. The Zontes 500 T will come in two versions – one featuring alloy wheels for a road-focused experience and another with wire-spoke wheels for enhanced off-road performance.

Powering the Zontes 500 T is a 498cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine. Generating an impressive 51 horsepower and 50 Nm of torque, this places the bike ahead in power compared to its parallel-twin-equipped counterparts within a similar displacement range.

However, owing to its single-cylinder configuration, some vibrations can be expected. Zontes claims a top speed of 180km/h for the 500 T.

In terms of aesthetics, Zontes uses the standard adventure bike design. The 500 T features angular bodywork, a tall windscreen, and crash bars on the sides for added protection in case of a tip-over. The off-road-inspired design is accentuated by a front beak.

The bike rides on a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel with dual-purpose rubber, while the road-focused variant opts for 17-inch wheels both front and back. Suspension is handled by an inverted front fork and a mid-mounted monoshock, with braking managed by twin front discs and a single rear disc.

As of now, Zontes has not disclosed the pricing and availability details for the 500 T. It is likely to enter the European market in 2024, leveraging the brand’s established distribution network in countries such as France, Germany, and Italy. Given the trend among Chinese-made motorcycles, the 500 T is expected to offer an attractive price point, undercutting its Japanese and European counterparts significantly.

SYM ADXTG 400 Adventure Scooter Set For 2024 Global Debut

Scheduled for a 2024 debut, the SYM ADXTG 400 is poised to make an exciting entrance into the adventure scooter realm, boasting a fierce design and impressive specifications.

Supposedly inspired by the ancient predator smilodon, also known as the ‘sabre-toothed tiger,’ SYM has infused the ADXTG 400 with aggressive lines that set it apart in a market saturated with either ‘neo-retro’ or ‘aggressive’ designs. Rarely do we see comparisons to prehistoric flesh-tearing predators in the motorcycle landscape.

Powering the ADXTG 400 is a robust 399cc engine delivering an equivalent of 35 horsepower, with a claimed maximum torque of 36Nm.

Positioned as an adventure scooter, SYM confidently asserts the ADXTG 400’s capability “across a variety of terrain,” and the specifications indeed support this claim. The scooter features a rigid aluminum swingarm with centralized Sanyang Multilink Suspension. The handlebar’s rigidity is adjustable to cater to rider preferences, as is the screen. Additionally, the scooter comes equipped with hand guards, long-travel suspension (exact measurements undisclosed), dual sport Maxxis M6017S tires, and a standard sump guard.

SYM emphasizes an “intensively considered” no-compromise, off-road standing position for the rider, and the inclusion of a USB socket provides convenience for charging devices during extended rides.

Breaking new ground for SYM in terms of electronics, the ADXTG 400 introduces several firsts. Notably, it features an off-road mode within the Bosch ABS system. This innovative system, commonly found on off-road bikes, disengages the ABS at the rear wheel while maintaining functionality at the front.

Furthermore, engaging in hard deceleration from speeds above 70 kph activates the emergency brake light (EBL). SYM says that its commitment to advancing electronic features underscores their dedication to enhancing the overall riding experience.

Gallery: Ducati Celebrates Victorious 2023 With Road Legal Race Replicas

Ducati is celebrating its exceptional performance in 2023 by launching a series of five collector’s limited edition Panigales. These motorcycles pay homage to the triumphs of riders Bagnaia, Bautista, Bulega, Martin, and Bezecchi in MotoGP, WorldSBK, and WorldSSP.

The lineup comprises four Panigale V4 models and one Panigale V2, all produced in a limited and numbered series, with each rider’s authentic signature adorning the tank, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. In addition to the customary features of collector-worthy limited editions, Ducati is including the technical equipment for each model, along with a wooden shipping crate.

These exclusive bikes were unveiled at the “Campioni in Festa” event, where Ducati celebrated its remarkable season and introduced the limited-edition motorcycles. Each model boasts the rider’s original autograph on the tank, protected by a layer of transparent varnish.

Among the Panigale V4s, three have been transformed into tributes honoring the Desmosedici GP bikes of Francesco Bagnaia (63), Jorge Martin (89), and Marco Bezzecchi (72) in MotoGP. These models commemorate Ducati’s consecutive victories at MotoGP in 2022 and 2023. Another Panigale V4R is dedicated to Alvaro Bautista’s (19) WSBK triumphs, marking Ducati’s two consecutive years at the top of WSBK. Lastly, a Panigale V2 pays homage to Nicolò Bulega’s (11) WorldSSP race bike, celebrating the team’s world title win in 2023.

The Panigale V4s receive notable upgrades, featuring a nine-disc STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, an Akrapovič homologated silencer (2kg lighter than the standard), new Brembo braking system, Rizoma billet aluminum adjustable footpegs, and race-grade plexiglass.

The special edition Bulega Panigale V2 is equipped with Öhlins suspension, Akrapovič racing silencers (reducing the bike’s weight by 5kg), adjustable Rizoma billet aluminum footpegs, and various carbon fiber components, including front and rear mudguards, chain guard, clutch cover guard, swingarm guard, and shock absorber guard. Additionally, the Panigale V2 dedicated to Bulega offers further customization with a number plate and mirror removal kit, along with a billet aluminum racing tank cap.

For those interested in acquiring these limited editions, the pricing is as follows:

– Panigale V2 Bulega 2023 World Championship Replica: $43,000 USD or RM210,000 (Limited to 111 units)
– Panigale V4 Bezzecchi 2023 Racing Replica: $63,000 USD – RM295,000 (Limited to 72 units)
– Panigale V4 Martin 2023 Racing Replica: $68,000 USD – RM318,000 (Limited to 189 units)
– Panigale Bautista 2023 World Champion Replica: $68,000 USD – RM318,000 (Limited to 219 units)
– Panigale V4 Bagnaia 2023 World Champion Replica: $73,000 USD – RM342,000 (Limited to 263 units)

Delivery of these 2023 Panigale Race Replicas is scheduled to commence in July 2024.

Yamaha Uses Intake Amplifiers To Make The 2024 MT-09 Sound Amazing!

Yamaha has implemented measures to optimize the auditory experience for riders on their new MT-09 naked models.

In adherence to Euro 5 regulations, which closely monitor and restrict noise emissions, the design of exhausts, intakes, and engine covers has been influenced to dampen undesirable (and desirable) sounds.

While the commitment to environmental responsibility is evident, the importance of the engine’s sound as a source of riding pleasure has always been part of the joy of riding, especially when dealing with a distinctive motor like the 890cc CP3 engine featured in Yamaha’s 2024 MT-09 naked range.

Recognizing that intake noise often holds equal allure to exhaust sound, Yamaha has introduced a patent-applied intake amplifier.

This innovative device directs the intake sound specifically towards the rider without escalating overall noise levels on the MT-09.

In reference to the 2024 model, Yamaha recently stated, “Following the Jin-Ki Kanno philosophy to stimulate the rider’s senses and make them feel at one with the bike, sound was an important consideration in the latest EU5+ CP3 engine”.

The new MT-09’s sound experience is enhanced by a modified airbox with two redesigned air-intake ducts, accentuating high-frequency sounds while maintaining a smooth throttle response.

To further emphasize this sound, especially at higher speeds and revs, Yamaha has introduced a novel acoustic amplifier grille atop the bike. This component, subject to a patent application, serves as the key element in the system. Visually, it’s discreetly integrated into the bike’s design, with a plastic cover surrounding the fuel filler and extending to the ignition key, featuring two metal grilles resembling speaker covers.

Contrary to expectations, these grilles are not housing speakers. Instead, they represent visible exits for a complex passage that leads directly to an opening in the airbox’s top side. This design enables the noise from the intake to be channeled upward through the grilles toward the rider without increasing the overall volume.

A critical aspect of this design involves preventing water from reaching the airbox through the grilles. Yamaha achieves this by extending a thin section of the fuel tank forward, in front of the fuel filler, creating a barrier between the grilles and the airbox intake.

This allows sound to travel forward and around this shielding section, reaching the grilles, while water entering through the grilles is directed forward over the tank and then downward through an opening at the front, avoiding contact with the airbox.

The thickness of the shielding is finely tuned to absorb certain frequencies, enhancing the overall quality of the noise emitted through the grilles. Yamaha’s attention to detail in the MT-09’s air intake amplifier underscores their commitment to providing riders with an enriched auditory experience while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

CFMoto Will Build Yamahas But Only For The Chinese Market

Yamaha’s European President has sought to clarify the recent collaborative venture between Yamaha and CFMoto, emphasizing that any motorcycles resulting from this partnership will be exclusively intended for the domestic Chinese market.

In September 2023, Yamaha had announced a strategic manufacturing joint venture with CFMoto in China. This announcement sparked speculation that some Yamaha models intended for the European market might be produced by CFMoto, given the latter’s existing collaboration with Austrian brand KTM. Notably, CFMoto is responsible for manufacturing KTM’s 790 Adventure and Duke parallel twins in China.

To dispel any misconceptions, Yamaha Japan issued a statement explicitly outlining that the collaboration was focused solely on industrial cooperation for manufacturing vehicles in China, catering specifically to the Chinese market.

Seeking additional clarification, Motorcycle News (MCN) engaged in a conversation with Yamaha Europe’s President, Eric de Seynes (above). According to Seynes, the joint venture with CFMoto is designed to support the immense Chinese market by producing specific Yamaha models.

Seynes addressed comparisons with CFMoto’s collaboration with KTM, highlighting the distinct nature of Yamaha’s partnership. He emphasized that the arrangement with CFMoto is not comparable to the level of integration observed in the CFMoto-KTM collaboration.

Seynes characterized the deal as opportunistic, driven by the desire to effectively serve the growing Chinese market. Furthermore, he underscored the differences in scale, organizational structure, and communication practices between CFMoto and Yamaha, asserting that the collaboration is not intended as a challenge to KTM’s position in the market.

In essence, Yamaha’s collaboration with CFMoto is portrayed as a strategic move tailored to address the unique demands of the Chinese market, with a clear distinction drawn between this partnership and CFMoto’s collaboration with KTM.

2024 Kawasaki ZX10-RR Winter Test Edition Is A Street-Legal Race Bike

The Kawasaki Ninja stands as an epitome of success within the supersport bike realm, with its name becoming synonymous with sportbikes for enthusiasts worldwide. Even today, the Ninja ZX-10RR continues to assert its dominance in the Superbike World Championship, maintaining its competitive edge.

In a nod to this triumph, Kawasaki has introduced an exclusive version of the Ninja ZX-10RR known as the Winter Test Edition. While previous superbikes have seen Winter Test Edition releases, the 2024 Ninja ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition takes exclusivity to a new level, with a mere 25 units slated for production. Crafted under the meticulous standards of the WSBK Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) technical department, each bike promises a unique blend of design and performance.

Owners of the 2024 Winter Test Edition are in for a treat, receiving a bike adorned in a livery reminiscent of the WSBK KRT Ninja Winter Test bike. The limited edition also boasts a numbered plate on the tank protector and features an Akrapovic exhaust system. As a cherry on top, purchasers will be granted a two-person VIP pass, allowing access to any 2024 WSBK round of their choice. This special pass grants entry to the paddock, VIP access to Kawasaki Racing Team hospitality and boxes, a guided tour of the KRT Box, and an opportunity to meet Team Green’s racers, Alex Lowes and Axel Bassani.

Beyond these exclusive perks, the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition stands as a formidable machine on its own. Powering this beast is a 998cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 214 horsepower and 119Nm of torque.

Equipped with advanced electronics, including a quick shifter, traction control, and cornering management, the bike ensures a thrilling and controlled ride. Additional features include an Ohlins steering damper for maximum control, built-in cruise control for road comfort, and a large, full-color TFT display providing essential ride statistics.

Undoubtedly, such a high-performance machine commands a premium, and the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition is no exception, priced at 33,000 euros (approximately MYR167,000). With only 25 units available, including 10 reserved for the French market, the exclusivity of this model adds to its allure. The chances of Malaysians getting their hands on one is extremely low, especially with Kawasaki Malaysia focusing on fast moving models rather than ultra-exclusive models such as the ZX-10RR Winter Test Edition.