Global News Archives

2025 TVS Ronin Launched at Motosoul 4.0

The 2025 TVS Ronin was launched on the Day 2 of Motosoul 4.0. Motosoul is the maker’s annual event.

The press release did not reveal the specifications about the bike apart from usual marketing talk, so here they are:

Type: Lightweight modern retro.
Engine: 225.9cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, oil-cooled.
Output: 20hp at 7,750 RPM and 19.9Nm at 3,750 RPM.
Transmission: 5-speed with assist and slipper clutch.
Frame: Steel.
Suspension: 41mm upside-down forks in front, monoshock with 7-step preload adjustment at the rear.
Brakes: 300mm single disc (front), 240mm disc (rear), dual-channel ABS.
Wheels: 17-inches (front and rear).
Colours: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember.

Begin Press Release:

TVS MotoSoul 4.0, the premier celebration of motorcycling organised by the TVS Motor Company, concluded at Vagator, Goa with an impressive display of innovation, diverse racing formats, and pioneering collaborations. On the final day of the festival, the new and refreshed 2025 TVS RONIN was unveiled. The motorcycle, now available in two striking color options—Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember—perfectly balances timeless retro design with cutting-edge modern features. It has updated vibrant colours, graphics, state-of-the-art connected technology and performance tailored to suit any mood.

The final day at TVS MotoSoul 4.0 brought an adrenaline-fueled climax to the thrilling new motorcycle race formats that pushed riders to the limits. From high-speed flat track races and gritty dirt track challenges to intense obstacle courses and more, the competition was fierce and the excitement palpable. These high octane events not only showcased the riders’ skills but also elevated the energy of the festival, bringing together a community united by their shared love for the machine. With each race, the thrill of the ride reached new heights, solidifying TVS MotoSoul as the ultimate celebration of motorcycling passion.

Commenting on the last day of the festival, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company said, “TVS MotoSoul 2024, with its theme ‘Feel the Adrenaline, Feel the Inspiration, Feel the Groove,’ has been a true celebration of passion, creativity, and community. With every edition, we aim to elevate the spirit of motorcycling, offering exciting experiences for riders and enthusiasts alike. It is inspiring to see the motorcycling community thrive, and we remain dedicated to creating unique experiences that strengthen the bond between man and machine.”

New Unveil (All New TVS RONIN):

The New TVS Ronin impressed with the unveil of two striking new color options: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember. These colors replace the previous Delta Blue and Stargaze Black. The new colours enhance the motorcycle’s lineup and upgrade the mid-variant, reinforcing TVS Motor’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

For the first time, the mid-variant will be equipped with Dual-Channel ABS, which enhances safety and stabiliy for riders. This upgrade creates a more consistent differentiation across all three variants of the TVS Ronin, providing clear distinctions not only in color and graphics but also in functionality.

TVS Launches New TVS RT-XD4 Engine Platform

TVS has launched a new engine platform dubbed the TVS RT-XD4. It promises higher power and torque output, together with enhanced reliability.

The company produces the Apache 310 platform which also serves as the BMW G 310 series. That engine is 313 cc, water-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke unit which produces 34hp at 9,250 RPM and 28Nm at 7,500 RPM.

Start TVS Press Release:

TVS Motor Company (TVSM) – a leading global automaker operating in the two and three-wheeler segment – unveiled its next-gen TVS RT-XD4 engine platform on Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0. The TVS RT-XD4 is a new, transformative innovation that takes inspiration from the company’s racing heritage over decades. The platform delivers thrilling performance, unmatched refinement and precision, for a very comfortable ride.

Announcing the new engine platform, Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS RT-XD4 is a major milestone, the result of our focus on creating unique, compelling, TVS-kind of riding experience. Conceptualised, designed and developed in-house, at our R&D Centre in Hosur, the TVS RT-XD4 is a demonstration of our engineering and research capability. Over the last several years, TVSM has been setting benchmarks in riding excellence, made possible by decades of exposure to the race track, extensive user insights, ahead-of-the-curve investments, and robust tech and digital capability. We will continue to bring about mobility solutions that can transform the quality of life of people across the world.”

The TVS RT-XD4 engine platform delivers racing thrill via 4 Dual Technologies :

Dual Overhead Cams with downdraft port that delivers high revs and superior peak performance.
Dual oil pump with split chamber crankcase that delivers optimum lubrication and all-range torque.
Dual cooling jacket cylinder head with water jacket on top and oil jacket below that further increases cooling, to increase performance output.
Dual breather system that effectively prevents oil contamination and reduces oil consumption, for consistent performance over long duration.

The engine comes with other features for refined performance and rider comfort:

Plasma spray-coating.
Superior thermal/heat management.
High inertia shell bearing crankshaft.
Helical gear driven balancer system.

This new-gen platform delivers high efficiency, while supporting ethanol-blended fuels, reduced emissions, and enhanced reliability.

Key Features of the TVS RT-XD4 Engine:

Displacement: 299.1 cc, single-cylinder, forward-inclined engine.
Power Output: 34.5hp 9,000 rpm, with 28.5 Nm torque @ 7,000 rpm.
Cooling System: Liquid-cooled with dual cooling (water and oil jackets).
6 Speed gear box.
Ride-by-wire throttle system.
Assist and Slipper clutch.

Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0:

A day of unique experiences, adventure and Records.

Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0 was a thrilling showcase of creativity, community, camaraderie and a celebration of engineering excellence. Custom motorcycle builds took center stage, with three extraordinary creations based on the TVS Apache RTR 310 and TVS RONIN, crafted in collaboration with Smoked Garage (Indonesia) and TVS Motor Factory Team (India). Dirt Track Races, Stunt Competitions, Obstacle Races, Slow Bike Races and Flat Track Training sessions kept the riders engrossed.

The creatively inclined, gravitated more towards the center stage to see artist performances, moto-art booths, caricatures and tattoo art, push-up competitions, game rooms and musical performances.

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company said, “TVS MotoSoul 4.0 is a celebration of everything we stand for, as a premium motorcycle brand — creativity, innovation, and the rider spirit. Aside of our revolutionary performance engine platform that we unveiled, this year’s event also marks the assimilation of different cultures, biker communities and varied art forms. The showcase of custom motorcycles from some of the best builders in the industry, is a personal favourite. With captivating activities, thrilling racing formats, and electrifying performances, MotoSoul 4.0 sets the standard for motorcycling events.”

Adding to the excitement, TVS Motosoul 4.0 celebrated a record-breaking 6,300-kilometer ride on the Golden Quadrilateral, atop the TVS NTORQ. Two accomplished riders – Syed Asif Ali and Shamin Khan – now have recognition from the Asia Book of Records for achieving the feat.

The day was packed with dynamic experiences, including panel discussions, freestyle acts, interactive zones, and electrifying performances by Kalamkaar and DJs Akthar & Clement, setting the tone for the festival.

Triumph Rocket 3 Evel Knievel Limited Edition Pays Homage to the Legend

The Triumph Rocket 3 Evel Knievel Limited Edition has been launched as an homage to the stunt legend. The special edition is available for both the Rocket 3 R and Rocket 3 GT variants.

Robert Craig ‘Evel’ Knievel may have been seen attempting his stunts on a Harley-Davidson XR750 in the latter years, but he had begun his career and had certainly performed some of his most famous stunts on a Triumph T120. It included the famous jump over the Caesar’s Palace Hotel’s fountain, although he crashed.

Knievel performed some 175 stunts, and was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1999.

Back to the Triumph Rocket 3 Evel Knievel Limited Edition, each bike includes an individually numbered black and gold cam cover plate, laser-etched with the Evel Knievel signature logo. Owners will also receive an exclusive collector’s edition hardback book telling the story of Evel Knievel and his Triumphs, individually numbered to match their bike.

The two bikes remains otherwise the same. The engine is a 2458cc inline-triple, boasting 180hp at 7,000 RPM and arm-ripping 225Nm of torque at just 4,000 RPM. The frame and likewise single-sided swingarm are aluminium.

The suspension consists of Showa 47mm upside-down forks up front, and a Showa monoshock at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a pair of Brembo M4.32 Stylema monobloc calipers in front, gripping on 320mm discs. Cornering ABS is a standard feature.

Other features include a full-colour TFT which is controlled through a backlit joystick. The screen also features a unique Evel Knievel display upon start up.

Prices for the Triumph Rocket 3 Evel Knievel Limited Edition was not published.

2025 Honda XL750 Transalp Sees Many Revisions

As with many Honda models for next year, the 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp will see many revisions and new features. The Transalp 750 is important for the manufacturer to fill the midrange gap in their dual-purpose model line-up.

Highlights:

Redesigned front end which brings it closer to the Africa Twin, ridding of CBX500-like headlight. The 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp also has more powerful LEDs.
Revised upper fairing with a central duct to improve airflow around the rider’s helmet.

The new Durabio screen has a new profile to aid airflow around the rider’s body.
The suspension has likewise been revised, with softer compression and rebound damping in the Showa 43mm upside-down forks. Suspension travel remains at 200mm.

On the other hand, the rear Showa monoshock is firmer for better control on uneven ground, and carrying a pillion and luggae. Suspension travel is the same 190mm.
Wheel sizes are 21-inch front and 18-inch rear.

New optically-bonded 5-inch colour TFT screen, which includes iOS/Android smartphone connectivity.
Honda left the 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp’s 755cc, 270º crank, parallel-twin engine unchanged. It produces 90.5hp at 9,500 RPM and 72Nm at 7,250 RPM.

The 2025 Honda XL750 Transalp has two new colours called Graphite Black, and Pearl Deep Mud Gray, joining the Ross White option.
Honda has not released the price of the bike.

Kove RR500 Sportbike Nearing Production

It looks like the 400cc to under 500cc sportbike segment is heating up. There is currently only main player in the category, namely Kawasaki with their Ninja ZX-4RR and it will soon have company in the form of Chinese sportbikes. The latest will be the Kove RR500.

But wait, who is Kove? Kove is the high-end brand of Loncin. Loncin has been making engines for the BMW C- and F-series of motorcycles since 2005.

Kove had been aggressive in pursuing the off-road segment with entries in the Dakar Rally. Their investment has been successful so far, as all the three Kove bikes entered in the rally last year finished the race. Hence Kove became the first Chinese manufacturer to have all their bikes complete the rally on their first attempt. Mind you, the 2023 Dakar Rally was considered the toughest ever. Kove has since built dealerships throughout Europe.

Back to the Kove RR500, Voge revealed their four-cylinder RR660S in September, but apparently, the have another smaller 475cc inline-four engine which has just been approved for production. The bike, codenamed LX500GS-2 according to the type-approval document, will be marketed as the RR500. Engine power was revealed to be 76hp, matching the Kawasaki ZX-4RR’s. Claimed top speed is 220km/h.

Other details include a wet weight of 192kg fully fueled. The frame is steel with an aluminium swingarm. The forks have Voge branding. As for the front brakes, the two pictures show two different brake calipers: The orange bike wears four-piston Nissin calipers, while the yellow/blue bike has those that look like the Sumitomo calipers on the Yamaha R1.

The Kove brand is not in Malaysia at the moment possibly due to their off-road heavy lineup, but who knows what the future brings.

FMX Rider Backflips a Yamaha Ténéré 700

Let us face it: We are so used to seeing Freestyle Motocross (FMX) riders doing the backflip that it has become something ‘meh.’ But it was revolutionary when it was first successfully attempted by Jose Yanez in 1991. Soon, it became the double backflip, then the triple backflip. However, those were all done on lightweight MX bikes. Now, THIS guy, backflips a Yamaha Ténéré 700.

The rider is 44-year-old Jérémy Rouanet, who was a former professional FMX rider. He perfected the backflip on the bike after just several weeks of training.

Yeah yeah, we hear you. Another FMX rider, Sebastian Westberg had backflipped on the bigger and heavier Honda Africa Twin two years ago, but he landed in the safety of a foam pit. Rouanet, on the other hand, landed on solid ground.

Anyway, this particular Ténéré 700 had been lightly modified, mostly using the parts from Yamaha’s official racing arm, GYTR. The bike began as a Yamaha Ténéré 700 Rally Edition and was prepped by the Ténéré Yamaha Rally Team. Other aftermarket parts include Takasago Excel rims and a TracTive monoshock. The seat was cut down by 1.5cm.

Several components were removed to save weight including the mirrors, signal indicators, license plate holder, hand guards, passenger footpegs, kickstand and its circuit breaker, and ABS control unit. A lithium-ion battery was also fitted in place of the stock item.

So? Will there be double and triple backflips after this? And what bike next? The BMW R 1300 GS, perhaps?

2025 Yamaha NMax 125 Receives Tech Max Features in UK

The Yamaha NMax scooter is still popular, if not in Malaysia then overseas, especially in the UK and EU markets. However, its tech seems a little left behind compared to its siblings, so now, the 2025 Yamaha NMax 125 will receive the Tech Max features.

The updated bike also receives new dual-eye LED projector headlamps, 25-litre underseat storage space, keyless ignition, USB-C charging port (replacing the cigarette lighter type), and improved ergonomics.

Its 125cc, single-cylinder engine remains unchanged and produces 12hp, except that it is Euro5+ compliant now, perhaps with a new catalytic converter and exhaust system. Along with the stop-start function, Yamaha claims a maximum 298km range range from the 7.1-litre fuel tank. The fuel tank capacity is the same as the current model’s, so it may mean that the new bike retains the current bike’s frame and chassis.

Speaking of the chassis, it is still the standard scooter fare, with the NMax rolling on 13-inch wheels, offering non-adjustable forks and twin shocks out back. Braking is handled by 230mm discs front and back, with ABS as standard (maybe unavailable here). Traction control is also standard.

As for the Tech Max features, there is new 4.2-inch full-colour TFT dash with phone connectivity and Garmin navigation. The seat has gold stitching.

Sources in the UK say that the 2025 Yamaha NMax 125 will be available from May next year. It is priced at £3,900 (RM21,991.12), which is £178 (RM1,003.82) cheaper.

The question is when will the updated NMax 160 be available in Malaysia.

2025 Ducati Multistrada V2 Launched

The 2025 Ducati Multistrada V2 has been launched, using the same 890cc V-Twin with the 2025 Ducati Panigale V2 and 2025 Streetfighter V2.

Ducati claims that the new model is 18kg lighter than the previous Multistrada V2 which used the 937cc Testastretta V-Twin engine. The 2025 “S” variant weighs 202kg wet, with an empty fuel tank, while the standard model weighs 199kg wet, also with an empty tank.

Highlights:

The new engine is more powerful, producing 113.4hp at 10,750 RPM and 92Nm of torque at 8,250 RPM.
This engine version also includes variable intake valve timing, providing 70% of the peak torque from 3,500 RPM, and does not drop below 75% from this point until 11,000 RPM.
However, this engine need a clearance check at every 30,000km.
There is a heavier crankshaft for smoother riding, and a more powerful generator to allow for more electrical equipment.

The engine gear ratios have been revised with shorter first and second gears. Quickshifter is standard.
A new aluminium monocoque frame holds the engine, with a cast aluminium double-sided swingarm.
Wheels are 19-inches front and 17-inches rear, as before.
The new bike’s styling is closer to the Multistrada V4’s rather than the old 1260 Multistrada’s.

Aerodynamics have been redesigned for rider comfort, including a new screen and sides of the bodywork to channel fresh air to the rider’s legs to reduce engine heat.
Seat height is adjustable between 830mm and 850mm. Taller 870mm or lower 810mm accessory seats are optional.
The 2025 Ducati Multistrada V2 S receives electronic semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS).
On the other hand, the standard Multistrada V2 gets 45mm upside-down fully-adjustable Marzocchi forks, and a fully-adjustable Sachs rear shock.

Both variants are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres and offer a road-focused 170mm of suspension travel.
There is a full suite of electronic aids, controlled via a new 5-inch colour TFT dash.
There are five riding modes, with configurable settings for power, traction control, anti-wheelie, and engine braking.
Cruise control is standard too, plus options for turn-by-turn navigation.
The ‘Coming Home’ function that keeps the low beams on momentarily after the ignition has been switched off, to make things easier in the dark.

Prices have not been announced but the 2025 Ducati Multistrada V2 will be available in certain markets from January 2025.

Is the Honda CB500RS in Development?

Is the Honda CB500RS in the works, following in the footsteps of the intriguing CB350RS?

The 350cc version is currently unavailable in the US, perhaps prompting Honda Motors Corporation to develop a 500c model. The rumours follow trademark applications filed in the country for a GB500. The CB350RS is sold under a different name as the GB350S in some markets, including Japan.

However, the 500 looks different in Japan, as scooped by the Japanese magazine, Young Machine. Pictures show a truly retro design, compared to the roadster/cafe racer design of the CB350RS.

The magazine also mentioned that the engine could possibly be a 525cc, two-valve, single-cylinder, air-cooled unit.

Should it go to plan, the Honda 500cc range will now have a new addition to the current Rebel 500, CBR500R, and NX500.

Puig Pista Kit Turns BMW R 1300 GS into a Racer

Any BMW motorcycle with “GS” name means it is an adventure motorcycle. GS, in its original form was G/S which stood for Gelände/Straße meaning Off-Road/Road. However, that does not mean the BMW R 1300 GS and its predecessors could not be ridden aggressively on the road! So, from the aftermarket specialists Puig, here is the radical Puig Pista Kit which turns your BMW R 1300 GS into a racer.

The kitted out GS was shown at EICMA. Pista means track and the resulting bike became a big capacity supermoto like the KTM 890 SMT. BMW does have a fully-faired Boxer model, called the R 1250 RS (the 1300 model should be in the works) but it is a sport-tourer.

The Puig prototype was fitted with 17-inch Rotobox carbon fibre wheels that were shod with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa tyres, Galfer 320mm brake discs, and Arrow exhaust system.

The most striking feature of the kit is the revised front end of the bike, looking more raptor-like, with hey! winglets on the sides. The windscreen is also Puig’s (of course), which the maker says reduces turbulence. There are also side mounted deflectors which can be opened or closed to increase or decrease airflow to the rider’s legs.

Additionally, the kit includes a revised mudguard (to accommodate the smaller front wheel and tyre), tank cover, rear cowl, pillion seat cover, belly pan and lower spoiler.

And then there are the brake cooling ducts to channel cool air to the front brake calipers, painted in striking yellow.

The kit remains a concept but who knows Puig may produce it if there is enough demand to produce it.

All photos by Puig.

2025 Yamaha XSR900 Updated, Available Overseas Only

The 2025 Yamaha XSR900 has been updated. This is one model which some quarters have been asking for in Malaysia but unfortunately, it is available overseas only.

Anyway, the 2025 model sports a new 5-inch TFT screen, replacing the previous minuscule 3.5-inch item. Apart from that, the engine is now Euro5+ compliant.

The rest stays the same, being powered by the 890cc, three-cylinder engine shared with the Yamaha MT-09. It makes the same maximum power of 117.3hp at 10,000 RPM and 93.0Nm of maximum torque at 7,000 RPM.

Its chassis is also unchanged, running on spin-forged wheels, suspended by 41mm forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. Brakes consist the same Brembo master cylinder and dual 298mm discs up front. Seat height is 810mm and wet weight remains at 193kg.

It seems that the manufacturer has not updated the model in big steps as it is still extremely popular where it is available. Except that it is not here.

Price for the 2025 Yamaha XSR900 in the UK is £11,000 (RM62,114.66) and available in Legend Red, and Midnight Black colours.

There is still no news about the Yamaha XSR900 GP model.

2025 Fantic Caballero 500 Gets Italian-Made Engine

The 2025 Fantic Caballero 500 retro scrambler will be receiving an Italian-made engine.

The Caballero family had used the 449cc single-cylinder engine built by Zongshen in China up to recently, but will switch to a new engine called the MM460. The MM460 was designed, developed, and will be produced by Motori Minarelli, based in Bologna, Italy.

It is a fuel-injected, DOHC, single-cylinder, 463cc engine, which produces 44.4hp at 8,000 RPM and 42.4Nm of torque at 7,000 RPM. That is a good torque figure, although a little peaky.

The engine will be installed in the same tubular steel frame across all three variants of the Caballero 500, namely the Scrambler, Rally, and Deluxe.

Complementing the new motor is a redesigned intake and exhaust system by Arrow (also from Italy), new engine maps, and a ride-by-wire throttle to allow for multiple riding modes.

Lean sensitive cornering ABS is also available alongside traction control, with LED lighting all around.

All three variants share the same 12-litre fuel tank and are claimed to weigh 150kg dry. Both the Scrambler and Deluxe also benefit from a low 820mm seat height as standard (840mm optional), with the more rugged Rally version sitting higher at 860mm.

The Rally also has a 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel for more off-roading, while the other variants are fitted with 19-inch fronts and 17-inch rears.

Sticking with the off-road variant, the upside-down forks are 2mm thicker at 43mm, with full adjustment at the front and rear, with 200mm of travel at both ends. The Scrambler and Deluxe get only rebound adjustment at the rear, instead, with 150mm of travel.

Prices and availability are not yet confirmed for the 2025 Fantic Caballero 500.

Bikesrepublic

Global News

Begin Press Release:

New Unveil (All New TVS RONIN):

Start TVS Press Release:

The TVS RT-XD4 engine platform delivers racing thrill via 4 Dual Technologies :

The engine comes with other features for refined performance and rider comfort:

Key Features of the TVS RT-XD4 Engine:

Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0:

Highlights:

Highlights:

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