Local News Archives

New Ducati Johor Dealership Opens

Good news for Ducati owners in southern Peninsular Malaysia, as a new Ducati Johor dealership has opened.

Begin press release:

Ducati Malaysia proudly announces the opening of its newest dealership in Johor Bahru, strategically located at No.9 Jalan Permas 9/17, Masai Johor, next to Aeon Permas Jaya, providing prominent visibility from the EDL Highway. This state-of-the-art showroom represents a significant milestone in Ducati’s commitment to expanding its presence in the southern region of Peninsular Malaysia, bringing the passion and performance of Ducati motorcycles closer to enthusiasts and potential clients in Johor and beyond.

Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ducati Asia Pacific, along with homegrown motorsport superstar Hafizh Syahrin, who rides for the JDT Racing Team, were both present for the event.

The new dealership, which has seen an investment of RM3.5 million, is designed to offer a premium customer experience, fully embracing Ducati’s latest signature identity. Spanning a total built-up area of over 2,418 square feet, the dealership includes space for a state-of-the art Ducati service centre and experiential areas including an immersive showroom, which can display up to 16 Ducati motorcycles at a time. Additionally, the showroom also includes a dedicated space for Ducati Apparel and Accessories, as well as a separate section for Scrambler Ducati, complete with its own apparel, accessories, and social lounge.

Key Features of the Ducati Johor Dealership:

Service Excellence:

The service centre, covering 2,135 square feet, is equipped with 4 service bays capable of servicing up to 200 bikes per month.
The centre is fully equipped with advanced tools, including 2 bike lifters, latest Ducati diagnostic tools, and a comprehensive array of special tools for Ducati models.

Scrambler Camp:

A dedicated 194-square-foot area for Scrambler Ducati enthusiasts, featuring a social area, apparel, and accessories, ensuring a unique and immersive experience.

Convenient Operating Hours:

The dealership is open Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM, while only the showroom remains open on Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM.

Ducati Malaysia has set an ambitious sales target for the new Johor dealership, aiming to achieve 30 units by the end of 2024 and a forecast of 100 units in 2025, driven by the improving market conditions and the high-traffic location of the showroom. Currently, there are over 200 Ducati motorcycles on the roads of Johor, and this new dealership is set to become the go-to destination for Ducati enthusiasts in the region.

Marco Biondi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ducati Asia Pacific, expressed his satisfaction with the expansion, stating, “We are proud of the team at Ducati Malaysia for their dedication and success in this endeavor. The opening of our new dealership in Johor Bahru is a significant milestone in our regional strategy. It highlights Ducati’s commitment to strengthening our presence in key markets and delivering exceptional experiences to our clients.”

Dennis Michael, Chief Operating Officer Ducati Malaysia, shared his excitement on the launching of Ducati Johor, “We are thrilled to open our new dealership in Johor Bahru, marking another exciting chapter in Ducati Malaysia’s journey. This new location not only represents our commitment to providing world-class sales and aftersales services but also reflects our dedication to bringing the Ducati experience closer to our clients in the southern region. The unveiling of the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono and Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE is a testament to our commitment to offering the latest and most exciting models to our clients. With its prime location and state-of-the-art facilities, we are confident that Ducati Johor will become a hub for both new and existing Ducati owners, offering them an unparalleled experience that truly embodies the essence of our brand. We look forward to serving the Ducati community in Johor and welcoming new members to our growing family.”

In conjunction with the dealership launch, Ducati Malaysia is thrilled to unveil the brand-new Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono and Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono RVE. These latest additions to the Ducati lineup are designed to offer an exhilarating riding experience, embodying the spirit of the Hypermotard family with a fresh, innovative twist. Priced at RM70,900.00 and RM77,900.00 respectively, these models are expected to attract a wide range of riders, from enthusiasts to those seeking a unique and dynamic ride.

Dainese Penang Now Open For Business!

Dainese, the legendary Italian motorcycle protective clothing brand seems to be on a roll in Malaysia.

Now under the guardianship of Ten Thousand Holdings Sdn Bhd, the current importer and distributor of Dainese in Malaysia, the iconic brand is now more accessible to fans than it has ever been. (more…)

Hulala Bike Fiesta Returns For 2024 – Enjoy Big Discounts!

The Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024, hosted by GB Motorcycles Sdn Bhd and Sheng Fatt Motor, is back for 2024 and takes place this weekend (6,7 and 8th of September 2024) at the Penang Juru City Concept Hall. If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, this is the event you simply cannot afford to miss! (more…)

Michelin Malaysia and KTM Asia Team Up for Rimba Raid 2024

Michelin Malaysia and KTM Asia announced their official partnership in Southeast Asia to drive motorsports excellence by pushing the boundaries of performance, innovation, and resilience.

This groundbreaking partnership between these two industry leaders will debut at the highly anticipated 2024 edition of Rimba Raid, the world’s largest motorcycle adventure race set in the heart of the breathtaking Lenggong Valley, Malaysia, from September 25th to 29th .

This year, Rimba Raid will showcase the seamless integration of Michelin’s world-class tire technology with KTM’s high-powered performance bikes and their “READY TO RACE” ethos.

The collaboration will be highlighted by a formidable team of five elite racers from Singapore, Malaysia, and the Republic of Korea. The teams will mount KTM 890 ADVENTURE R motorcycles outfitted with Michelin’s renowned MICHELIN Enduro Medium tires, designed for excellent control with intricately designed tread blocks that ensure grip and stability over tough terrains.

True to KTM’s philosophy, the motorcycles will arrive at the starting line in near-stock form, featuring select KTM POWERPARTS enhancements straight from the official catalogue. This impressive setup will be backed by a dedicated technical team from both Michelin and KTM Asia, ensuring optimal performance throughout the event.

Prichapakorn Dangrojana, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, said “At Michelin, our tyres embody the high performance and endurance needed in the most challenging terrains. Through our partnership with KTM Asia, we are not just elevating the racing experience—we are driving motorsports excellence forward, in line with our #WeRaceForChange initiative, which focuses on driving sustainability, diversity, and innovation in motorsports. Through this partnership, we are not only pushing the limits of performance but also contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future for racing.”

Enrico Remigio, General Manager of KTM Asia, added, “KTM is thrilled to collaborate with a tire partner that fully understands the extreme demands of high-stakes racing. This partnership is a testament to our shared dedication to motorsport excellence, and we’re excited to put this collaboration to the ultimate test at Rimba Raid Lenggong 2024.”

Ready to Race at Rimba Raid Lenggong 2024

Renowned as the toughest race of its kind, Rimba Raid pushes both riders and their machines to the absolute limit. With less than half of the participants completing the previous two editions, the race has earned its reputation for grueling challenges that demand peak performance and unwavering endurance.

In 2023, Rimba Raid attracted 279 adrenaline-fueled competitors from 24 countries, including 21 trailblazing female racers, underscoring the event’s global appeal and inclusivity. The race also serves as a dynamic showcase for leading motorcycle brands, with 19 manufacturers seizing the opportunity to display their cutting-edge products and services.

Parking 4x4s in the River, Need Guidelines for Recreation Sites – Advisor

Recently, the case of several 4×4 vehicles being parked in a river went viral. The actions of those vehicle owners have been widely criticised by netizens. Regardless, there is still no statement from any authority whether the owners will be subject to legal action.

In this regard, Perak Eco Tourism Development Association Advisor, Cik Siti Norlizawati Narawi said there should be a guideline for camping and public recreation sites to curb the irresponsible behaviour of visitors.

She also said that irresponsible acts are usually committed in locations without owner, because the paid sites have certain guidelines and rules that visitors need to follow.

“It is indeed difficult to control people who visit public recreation and camping sites, (but) maybe the government can issue specific rules such as don’t make a ruckus, respect others, and don’t pollute the environment and so on.

“Guidelines like these can be a reference for any individual or local residents to rebuke the actions and misbehaviour of visitors.

“There may be certain actions to teach a lesson, should they violate these guidelines,” she said when contacted by the Harian Metro newspaper.

“Recently, a case of parking 4x4s in the river went viral. We are worried that this may cause the vehicle’s oil to leak and pollute the river, making other people who bathe in the same area uncomfortable.

“There was also meals served on table and chairs set in the water. The safety aspect is one thing, then washing the dishes in the river afterwards causes the quality of the water to be dirty with leftover food such as fish and chicken bones.

“We may not see the impact now, instead, we only take action when something happens. Prevention is better than cure.

“This kind of act should not happen, in fact all parties need to be aware by taking care of their behaviour, speech and not polluting the area because any act that is not good for the environment will definitely have a negative and bad impact,” she said.

However, she did not mention off-sport activities such as enduro motorcycles, ATVs rides, and 4×4 adventures.

ABS Compulsory for Motorcycles 150cc and Above from 2025

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) is mandatory for motorcycles 150cc and above starting January 1, 2025.

That’s what the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi when speaking at the Launching Ceremony of the Asian Road Safety Conference (CARS) 2024 yesterday.

According to him, the government took this initiative considering that the majority of road accidents involve motorcycle riders and pillion riders.

“Let’s start by making motorcyclists safer because 65 percent of the total road deaths last year involved motorcyclists.

“So starting January 1, 2025, all new motorcycles with an engine capacity of 150cc and above must be equipped with ABS,” he said.

Also present at the ceremony were the Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke and the Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim.

Ahmad Zahid said the government decided on the matter because based on a World Health Organization (WHO) report, ABS was able to reduce the rate of fatal accidents by 31 percent.

“Malaysia is one of the countries in Southeast Asia facing this issue. Although the death rate per 100,000 people decreased from 27 percent in 2000 to 22.5 percent in 2019, it remains one of the highest in the world.

“So I am confident that this initiative will reduce the death rate due to road accidents in Malaysia,” he said.

He also hopes that the initiative involved can be an inspiration to other ASEAN countries to implement similar measures to make motorcycles a safe vehicle to use.

In addition, Ahmad Zahid suggested that the Motorcycle Assessment Program in Malaysia (MyMAP) be implemented in all ASEAN or Asian countries.

He said, MyMAP, which gives a rating to motorcycles based on the vehicle’s standards, is able to give users an advantage to make an evaluation before buying the vehicle.

“So far, MyMAP has evaluated 28 types of motorcycle models produced by seven manufacturing companies and these vehicles have been given a ‘star’ rating,” he said.

Jalan Masjid India not Considered Unsafe Zon

Authorities said that it is not yet time to gazette the location of the sinkhole on Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur as an unsafe zone.

Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, said in order to do so, he would need to submit an application to the National Security Council (MKN) to declare the area a disaster zone.

“Although this incident is not considered a disaster, the actions of the police including the fire department and related agencies as well as Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) seem like a disaster.

“Following the detection of the second location of the sinkhole, I have ordered the 1.4 kilometer long route on Jalan Masjid India to Jalan Raja Laut to be closed.

“The closure involves a route that has five culverts and instructions related to the matter have been issued to the Chief of Police Dearah Dang Wangi and the Chief of State Police,” he said.

Commenting further, the closure only involves the route in question and does not involve other areas.

“Businesses are not closed either. Transactions are still going on as usual. The path to the sewer is only about 50 to 70 meters,” he said.

Earlier the media reported that the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) detected an object that was stuck about 80 meters between the location of the clear ground and the second sewer.

JBPM Deputy Director General (Operations), Datuk Ahmad Izram Osman, said the findings were obtained through detection by two Detection Unit (K9) dogs, Denti and Frankie, who were brought down to the scene yesterday afternoon, in addition to camera detection.

Yamaha PG-1 Revealed during 2024 Yamaha GenBlu Carnival

The Yamaha PG-1 adventure moped was revealed during the 2024 Yamaha GenBlu Carnival. Attendees and the media also had the opportunity to test ride the bike.

The bike, which Yamaha says the name stands for “Playful Gear 1” is built on an underbone chassis, but with long travel suspension. It is not unlike the mopeds modified for off-road racing, colloquially called “cub cross” in Malaysia. Doing so puts the Yamaha PG-1 in the same category as the Honda CT125 Hunter Cub/Trail and Aveta Ranger Max Explorer.

Powering the PG-1 is a 114cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine which produces 6.6kW (8.9hp) at 7,000 RPM and 9.5Nm at 5,500 RPM, and mated to a four-speed transmission. This very engine (and possibly transmission) is shared with the Yamaha EZ115, which was previously known as the Lagenda 115.

The features that turns it into a go-anywhere motorcycle are 190mm ground clearance, 90/100-16 inch knobby tubed tyres on both ends, and a straight up handlebar. The fuel tank has a 5.1-liter capacity, and wet weight is claimed to be 107kg (pretty light).

The fork tubes have accordion-type covers, while a round headlight and taillight complete the off-road look.

A nice feature is the split seat, which allows for easy refuelling underneath the rider’s seat, while there is some storage space underneath the pillion’s seat. The rider’s seat height is 795mm.

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor is set to launch the Yamaha PG-1 officially on another date, but they have announced the recommended selling price of RM6,998.00. It comes in two colours, namely Casual Beige and Forest Green.

Yamaha PG-1 Photo Gallery

Cardo Packtalk Pro Arrives in Malaysia – RRP RM2099

Cardo occupies the top rung when it comes to motorcycle communicators and they are continuously moving the goal posts in terms of features and innovations. Well, good news is, the much-awaited Cardo Packtalk Pro has arrived in Malaysia. It sells at a recommended retail price of RM2,099.00.

Its arrival was announced by the official distributor in Malaysia, Sinar Puncak Sdn. Bhd. during the launch event at Backroom Coffee.

Key features:

The Cardo Packtalk Pro features a crash detection chip. The chip continuously measures and records acceleration, angular velocity, and abnormal motion. As such, the unit will call for help should the rider become incapacitated.

New 45mm JBL speakers for what Cardo says offers the best experience in sound quality.
Auto ON/OFF feature which automatically powers the device on and off based on certain conditions to prolong battery life.

Talk time is up to 13 hours, while charging to full takes up to 2 hours. Additionally, a 20-minute fast charge provides up to 2 hours of talk time for those “Oh no! I forgot to charge it moments!”
Cardo’s much-vaunted Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) group communication feature supports up to 15 users.

There is a 2-channel connectivity, one for the mobile phone and GPS, while the other supports Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and pairing to the bike’s TFT.
All these features and more (including built-in voice commands) are housed in a slick matte black IP67-rated casing.

Again, the RRP is RM2,099.00 for a single pack, and will be available at authorised dealers from September 2024 onwards.

Please visit these social media accounts for more information:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cardosystemmy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cardo_malaysia/

Cardo Malaysia Authorized Dealers: https://bit.ly/cardoMYauthorisedsite

Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 Aims to be Bigger

Annother big motorcycle event up north returns as the Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 kicks off from 6-8 September at the Juru Auto City Concept Hall, Penang. Admission is free.

From the press release:

(Pictures from Hulala Bike Fiesta 2023.)

Get ready for the most exciting two-wheel extravaganza of the year!

The Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024, organized by GB Motorcycles Sdn Bhd and Sheng Fatt Motor, will take place at the Penang Juru City Concept Hall, offering motorcycle enthusiasts an event that cannot be missed.

The Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 is the must-attend event of the year for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering unparalleled wheel deals that are available only once a year. This exciting gathering, organized to cater to both seasoned riders and newcomers, promises to be the ultimate celebration of all things two-wheeled.

At the Fiesta, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant community of
motorcycle lovers, connect with fellow riders, and discover the latest trends and innovations in the motorcycle world. The event features an extensive lineup of activities, including thrilling test rides, interactive displays, and exclusive promotions.

One of the highlights of this year’s event is the incredible deals on motorcycle gear and accessories, with some items available for as little as RM1! Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ride, enhance your gear collection, or simply enjoy a day surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, the Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 is the perfect opportunity to indulge your passion and make lasting connections within the motorcycle community. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to be part of an unforgettable experience!

Mr.Kheoh Hock Seng, Managing Director of GB Motorcycles & Sheng Fatt Motor,
expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to present the Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 as the premier event for motorcycle enthusiasts. This year’s fiesta is more than just a showcase of incredible bikes and gear; it’s a celebration of our shared passion for riding and the vibrant motorcycle community we cherish. We have worked tirelessly to curate an exceptional lineup of brands, unbeatable offers, and exclusive deals, ensuring that every attendee finds something extraordinary. We invite riders of all levels to join us and experience the thrill and camaraderie that only the Hulala Bike Fiesta can offer. Together, let’s make this event unforgettable!”

Event Highlights

Unbeatable Offers:
The Hulala Bike Fiesta 2024 will feature a massive lineup of top-tier brands and products, all at unbeatable prices:

Motorcycles:

Explore the latest models from renowned brands such as Harley-Davidson, Royal Enfield, Triumph, Vespa, Aprilia, and Ducati. There will also be pre-owned motorcycles available, offering something for every rider.

Riding Gear:

Upgrade your gear with exclusive discounts on brands like S Spirit, Shoei, HGV, Givi, KYT, Nolan, Nexx, Alpinestars, Five5, and Shima. Whether you’re looking for helmets, jackets, gloves, or boots, this event has it all.

Riding Tools:

Enhance your riding experience with high-quality tools and accessories from
Quadlock, Cardo, and Insta360. Get ready to equip your ride with the best in navigation, communication, and action cameras.

Finance Institution:

Aeon Credit will be joining to provide the most convenient financial payment advice for riders. Their services will help make your shopping experience hassle-free and streamline the path to acquiring the best deals and financing options.

Test Rides: Attendees can experience the thrill of riding with various motorcycle models available for test rides, providing a unique and immersive opportunity to find your perfect match.

Massive Gear Discounts: Take advantage of exclusive discounts and unbelievable sales on top-tier riding gear, motorcycle accessories, and more, ensuring you upgrade your riding experience at the best value.

Entertainment and Activities: The Hulala Bike Fiesta is more than just shopping—enjoy live music parties, thrilling stunt shows, and exciting competitions that will keep the adrenaline pumping.

Lucky Draws & Giveaways: Don’t miss out on the chance to win amazing prizes with our lucky draws. Plus, the first attendees to register will receive exclusive gifts—so make sure you reserve your spot early!

About the Organizers:

GB Motorcycles Sdn Bhd: A trusted name in the motorcycle industry, GB Motorcycles has served the Northern Region of Malaysia with a commitment to excellence and a passion for two-wheelers. They have grown to become the largest motorcycle company in the Northern Region, boasting a diverse portfolio of renowned international motorcycle brands.

Sheng Fatt Motor: Known for being an Authorized Premium Brands Super Dealer, Sheng Fatt Motor specializes in superbikes and motorcycles, providing riders with the best options in the market.

Event Details:

Date: September 6-8, 2024
Venue: Juru Auto City Concept Hall, Penang
Admission: Free

For more information and to register for exclusive giveaways, visit https://bit.ly/Hulala2024.

Allianz General Partners with iMotorbike

Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (Allianz General) partners with iMotorbike to offer extended warranties to pre-owned motorcycles.

From the press release:

iMotorbike, Southeast Asia’s leading website for buying and selling pre-owned motorcycles, announced a partnership with Malaysia’s largest motor insurer, Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (“Allianz General”) today. The partnership between iMotorbike and Allianz General brings extended warranties to consumers purchasing pre-owned motorcycles from iMotorbike, offering enhanced protection and safety for a worry-free riding experience.

With this collaboration, in addition to the complimentary 6-month warranty included with their motorcycle purchase, customers can benefit from Allianz Partners Malaysia (“Allianz Partners”) extensive network of 83-panel repairers nationwide, that specializes in warranty-related fixes. This supplements iMotorbike’s already comprehensive 170-point inspection and 6-day return policy.

Sean Wang, CEO of Allianz General expressed, “At Allianz General, we strive to deliver comprehensive protection tailored to the needs of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over Malaysia. We are excited that this partnership with iMotorbike has mutual benefits for both parties, while we are also proud to expand our digital footprint in the country, especially with regards to the motor segment.“

The additional extended warranty covers motorcycle parts including the engine, Engine Control Unit (ECU) and gearbox. Customers can benefit from the dedicated helpline provided by Allianz Partner’s 83-panel repairers, enhancing support and convenience for greater peace of mind when purchasing pre-owned motorcycles.

“User safety and satisfaction have always been our top priorities here at iMotorbike. In line with this commitment, we have extended our standard free 6-month warranty to offer options of 12 to 24 months for those who wish to add more security to their purchase. This extended warranty reflects our dedication to offering motorcycles of the highest quality and ensuring that new owners are protected from any unexpected costs. With this new offering, we look forward to making a positive impact on the motorcycle community and further enhancing the overall ownership experience,” shared Gil Carmo, CEO and Founder of iMotorbike.

Founded in 2016, iMotorbike has established itself as a key player in Southeast Asia’s two-wheeler market, delivering a transparent and seamless platform for buying and selling pre-owned motorcycles. As of 2024, the platform boasts over 8 inspection centres and has a presence in Malaysia and Vietnam. Looking ahead, iMotorbike aims to continue setting industry benchmarks and enhancing the customer experience in the pre-owned motorcycle market.