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Q1 2024 Motorcycle Sales Dropped by 20 Percent in Malaysia

Q1 2024 motorcycle sales dropped by 20 percent in Malaysia.

The figure was reported in the MotorCycles Data website which tracks the sales to customers, rather than sales from manufacturers and distributors to dealers.

A total of 135,717 motorcycles were delivered in Q1 2024, representing a -20% decline compared to the same period in 2023. All major brands recorded double-digit decline. On the other hand, sales for the entire 2023 was also a -11.9% decline from the high in 2022.

Yamaha’s sales were down by -18.3%, Honda saw a -11.9% decrease, and the top domestic brands such as SM was down by -35.8% and Modenas hit -51.0%.

The downward trend was possibly a consequence of the many long holidays during the first quarter, as Chinese New Year was in February, continued by the month of Ramadan through March, and Hari Raya Puasa in April.

Although Bank Negara expects the economy to grow between 4 to 5%, hence an improvement in sales, several subsidy “rationalisation” (just a high word for “reduction”) plans will surely impact the spending power of many citizens in the months to come.

The high sales figure in 2022 was partly due to the government of the time allowing for withdrawals from contributors’ Employee Provident Fund accounts. This was what some experts called “spurring a false economy.” The present government has just allowed the same now, albeit through a different withdrawal structure. Will this improve motorcycle sales for several short months?

Malaysia is the 13th largest motorcycle market in the world. The Top 3 now are India, China, and Indonesia. Truth is, almost all markets reported a decrease in sales in Q1 2024.

French Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup 2024, Hakim Danish on the Podium Again

Malaysia’s young racer, Hakim Danish Ramli was once again on the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup podium, this time at the French Grand Prix. It was his second podium finish in the 2024 season, after scoring a second-place finish in Spain, previously.

The 16-year-old had led much of Race 2 after a good start. He had also changed his riding style, which allowed him to match the front runners.

“This time I changed my riding, I had my body further forward and pushed my elbow down, I was scraping it through the corners and tried to open the throttle earlier in the corners and it worked very well.”

However, he was overtaken by the eventual winner Brian Uriarte and second place finisher Màximo Quiles just moments to the end of the race. Quiles, the winner of the Race 1 a day earlier was leading when Uriarte lunged inside at the final turn, surprising Quiles and caused him to slide his front tyre. Quiles managed to save it and finished just ahead of Hakim.

“In the last lap I tried to lead but two people overtook me, That’s OK I tried to overtake again. Into the last corner, I almost wanted to try a pass on Maximo and Brian but I was just too far away. I already overtook another rider the turn before and that cost me a little bit, I couldn’t go for the win at the last corner,” continued Hakim who finished 3rd.

Hakim had finished in 6th in Race 1 on Saturday, and admitted that he could not match the front runners’ pace. Still, it was a positive result overall as he had targeted a podium finish in this round.

26 Motorcycles Destroyed, 10 Damaged in UniMAP Hostel Fire

26 motorcycles were destroyed while another 10 were damaged due to a fire at the UniMap hostel early this morning.

Almost all the motorcycles were owned by students of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) and were parked in the basement of a dormitory block in Pauh Putra.

The incident is believed to have happened at 4.41 am at Block B, Pauh Putra Housing Complex (Residential College).

A spokesman for the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Perlis said that a total of six members led by Senior Fire Chief II, Megat Zairilnizam Ahmad from the Arau Fire and Rescue Station were deployed to the scene of the incident.

“When we arrived at the scene, we found that the fire had spread and destroyed and damaged 36 motorcycles parked there.

“Criminal investigation officers have already visited the scene for a preliminary investigation,” he said.

A victim of the incident said he was woken by a friend while he was sleeping who said that their dormitory block was on fire. “I live on the fifth floor. When my friend said there was a fire, I thought this dormitory block was on fire.

“So I took whatever items I could salvage including a laptop downstairs but when I stepped down, I saw my motorcycle, a year-old Yamaha Y16, engulfed in flames.

“I was unable to do anything to save my motorcycle because the situation there was hot and the fire was raging and I estimated the loss to be RM14,500,” he said.

His friend, Muhammad Muaz Mohd Sofi, 25, also did not have time to do anything to save the Honda RS150 motorcycle that he had been using for more than five years when the fire spread quickly.

Malaysia Needs Motoring Schools – Jorge Lorenzo

Three-time MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo said Malaysia needs motoring schools for two wheels to develop talent to compete competitively on the global stage one day.

Lorenzo said the schools needs to be guided by some former champions and also to organise a series of championships to discover and further develop talented riders.

“I think Malaysia and Indonesia need this school with some champions who can share their experiences and organise some championships for children.

“Only with this, they can improve because the organisation of the championship is not very strong and there is no champion who can give advice to the children,” said Lorenzo who is also the ambassador of the electric motorcycle brand Vmoto Brand, on last Wednesday.

Malaysia at the time is seen to be on the right track to produce good riders with grassroots programs such as the Malaysian MiniGP Series Championship run by former rider in the World Motorcycle Championship, Zulfahmi Khairuddin.

2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Arrives in Malaysia

We have saved the best for last, and it is the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R which was also launched in Malaysia.

One can only use superlatives to describe the bike, being the most bonkers among the Orange Team. It still deserves “The Beast” moniker despite not holding the title of the most powerful supernaked. This is one serious motorcycle that will leave your brain struggling to catch up after you have whacked the throttle fully open.

In any sense, the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R represents the apex of 30 years of the Duke, hence getting a total revamp.

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R

The LC8 V-Twin engine’s capacity gets bumped up from 1301cc to 1350cc.
New camshafts, along with 4mm bigger throttle bodies kick maximum power to 190 hp at 10,000 RPM and 145 Nm of torque, from 177 hp and 140 Nm.
The frame was tweaked for better stiffness and flex characteristics by using thicker diameter tubes but with a thinner wall.

Up front are 48mm WP APEX Open Cartridge forks with full adjustability.
At the back is a WP APEX monoshock with separate oil and gas reservoirs, and also fully adjustable.
Front brakes consists of Brembo MCS master cylinder, with twin 320mm floating discs, and twin Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers.

New, 5-inch bonded glass TFT screen, which provides access to ride modes and the connectivity suite.
There are 3 standard ride modes, namely SPORT, STREET, and RAIN.
There are 2 optional ride modes: TRACK and PERFORMANCE.

The most apparent update is the bike’s styling, which the 990 Duke also shares.
Centred around a new headlamp cluster, the bike is made to look even more masculine, even beastlier than before.
The DRL and headlamp’s intensity varies automatically according to ambient light.

The new bodywork also allowed a 1.5-litre increase in fuel capacity, now totalling 17.5 litres.
KTM quoted the bike’s dry weight at 200.5 kg
The recommended selling price for the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R is from RM 151,300 (not on the road).

2024 Yamaha MT-15 Offered in Two New Colours

The 2024 Yamaha MT-15 is offered in two new colours.

Just like its bigger 2024 Yamaha MT-25 brethren, the two new colours are called Midnight Black, and Midnight Cyan. It goes to show how production is streamlined by sharing the same colours for two models.

The Yamaha MT-15 is another of Yamaha’s popular motorcycles hence its ubiquity on Malaysian roads. It serves as the replacement for the FZ150, by going one up in the performance and styling aspects.

Speaking of performance, the MT-15 is powered by the 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve engine shared with the NVX scooter and Y16ZR. Its main feature is the variable valve actuation (VVA) which ensures good low-end and midrange torque with high maximum horsepower.

Other aspects of the 2024 Yamaha MT-15 remains the same such as the 10-litre fuel tank, and 133kg weight.

The recommended retail price is RM 12,498, excluding registration fees and insurance. As usual, buyers will receive an exclusive Yamaha disc lock worth RM 100.

2024 Yamaha MT-25 Arrives with New Colours

Another Yamaha motorcycle to receive a cosmetic makeover is the 2024 Yamaha MT-25, now with two new colours.

The MT-25 is another popular Yamaha model in Malaysia and can be seen almost everywhere. Along with the Y15ZR, one MT-25 will flash by every few minutes or so. So much so that it almost seems as if the MT-25 is the sole 250cc naked motorcycle on our roads!

Owners cite the bike’s futuristic design, which draws inspiration from its bigger MT-09 cousin, such as the multi-faceted headlamp unit that looks not unlike a Transformer’s face. Besides that is the midrange-heavy engine for easy riding and brisk roll-on acceleration.

Apart from the new colourways, all other aspects of the 2024 Yamaha MT-25 remains completely unchanged. The engine, frame, rear bodywork, right down to the wheels and tyres are shared with the fully-faired YZF-R5. As such, the now-familiar 249cc, parallel-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine still produces 35.4 hp (26 kW) at 12,000 RPM and 22.6 Nm at 10,000 RPM. As we mentioned earlier, this engine has never been about peak power, but emphasises tractability and smooth throttle response.

The two new colours are Midnight Black, in addition to Midnight Cyan. The recommended selling price is RM 23,998, without registration fees and insurance.

As usual, buyers will receive an exclusive Yamaha disc lock worth RM 100.

2024 KTM 990 Duke Arrives in Malaysia

More Team Orange news: The much awaited 2024 KTM 990 Duke has arrived in Malaysia.

The “990 Duke” name is hallowed among long-time KTM fans, as it was the previous edition that unleashed KTM’s propensity for making bonkers naked bikes, paving the way for the beastly 1290 Super Duke.

So, although the 990 shares some of the underpinnings of the midrange Dukes, it is much closer to the big boss 1390 Duke.

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 990 Duke

The most eye-catching feature is the new styling, of course, which we admit splits opinion.
That light cluster is functional, nonetheless: The headlights adjust automatically to ambient lighting, flanked by DRLs.
The engine is the now-ubiquitous LC8c parallel-twin much like the ones on the 790 Duke and 890 Duke R.

However, the 990’s 947cc LC8c features new pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft, plus more aggressive cam profiles.
Coupled to a new exhaust system, the engine does 123 hp at 9,500 RPM and 103 Nm of torque at 6,750 RPM.
That power is sent through a six-speed transmission and the usual PASC clutch.

The powerplant is housed in a new steel trellis frame, while the subframe is aluminium and bolted-on.
Suspension is what else but WP, since the brand is owned by KTM. Up front are WP Apex 43 mm diameter upside-down forks with five levels of compression and rebound adjustments.
At the back is a WP Apex Monotube monoshock with a lighter spring, 10 levels of preload, and 5 levels of rebound damping adjustments.

The front brake system consists of dual 300mm lightweight discs, serviced by four-piston calipers.
The rear brake has a two-piston caliper and 240mm disc.
Cornering ABS is standard, of course, utilising the Bosch 9.3 MP system.

As usual, a ride-by-wire throttle enables riding aids, such as three traction control and three ride modes, while TRACK and PERFORMANCE modes are optional.
TRACK mode, as the name suggests allow for the rider to control levels of rider aid, besides activating launch control.
PERFORMANCE adds cruise control and Bluetooth connectivity.
There is a new 5-inch TFT-LCD screen.
KTM claims the bike weighs a lithe 179 kg wet, with 14.8 litres of fuel.

The 2024 KTM 990 Duke is priced from RM 99,800.

2024 KTM 250 Duke Launched in Malaysia, with Major Updates

The 2024 KTM 250 Duke was also launched in Malaysia, together with the 2024 KTM 390 Duke. And as with its bigger 390 sibling, the 250 Duke also sees many updates to make it virtually a new motorcycle altogether.

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 250 Duke

Starting with the engine, there is no capacity bump, since it is already at 249cc.
The engine dimensions remain the same, as with its maximum power output of 30.8 hp (23 kW) and torque of 25 Nm, despite being Euro 5.2 compliant.

Its clutch is now KTM’s PASC (Power Assist Slipper Clutch), upgraded from the previous slipper clutch without power assist.
The engine is nestled in the signature steel trellis frame, although the subframe is bolted on.

Front suspension duty is handled by 43mm upside-down WP APEX big piston forks, with no adjustability.
The rear monoshock is mounted to the ride side of the frame, and adjustable for preload only.

A new curved aluminium swingarm to mount the shock increases the wheelbase.
The front brake consists of a single 320mm disc checked by a four-piston caliper.

The rear brake has a 240mm disc, and 2-piston floating caliper.
Since there is a new subframe, its seats have been redesigned to be more supportive and plusher, especially for the pillion.

The riders seat height is also adjustable between 800mm and 820mm.
The headlamp has been redesigned to look similar to the 390 Duke’s although it does not have the same DRLs.

All lighting are LED.
The 2024 KTM 250 Duke has the same design language as the entire Duke range such the radiator panels, side panels, tank.
Electronics wise, the new bike has a new 5-inch LCD screen with connectivity functions.

The 2024 KTM 250 Duke is priced from RM 22,500 with Quickshifter+.

2024 KTM 390 Duke Launched in Malaysia, Features Major Updates

The 2024 KTM 390 Duke was launched in Malaysia. It features some of the biggest updates since its initial launch back in 2012. In fact, it might as well be called an all-new bike altogether.

Starting from its design, the 2024 bike has a much closer familial resemblance to its larger cousins, namely the 890 Duke R, 990 Duke, and 1390 Super Duke R. The new headlight cluster has also been redesigned to give the bike a new signature look. The radiator covers are moulded with spoilers, but thankfully, no winglet.

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 390 Duke

The Euro 5.2-compliant engine sees a capacity bump to 398.7cc from 373cc, hence a redesigned cylinder head.
There is not much in terms of power increase however, just up to 44.25 hp and 39 Nm, from 44 hp and 37 Nm from the previous iteration.

However, what KTM sought is not to lose engine power due to the more restrictive Euro 5.2 standard, hence the capacity increase.
The frame is now two-piece, with the aluminium subframe bolted onto the steel trellis main frame.

A new curved aluminium swingarm accommodates the rear monoshock.
The monoshock is mounted off-centre, enabling a larger airbox. A larger airbox should smooth out the engine’s power delivery.

The split piston monoshock is adjustable for preload and rebound (finally!).
Up front are 43 mm WP APEX Open Cartridge forks with 5-step adjustment for rebound and compression.

Braking duty is handled by a single four-piston caliper gripping a 320mm disc in front, and a 240mm disc at the back.
Cornering ABS is now standard, and as usual, the rider can switch to Supermoto ABS to deactivate the rear wheel’s ABS.

There have been market feedback than the Duke’s seat is a little tall for us Asian riders, so the 2024 KTM 390 Duke has an adjustable seat height feature to set it to 800 mm or 820 mm.
There is a new 5-inch TFT-LCD display, too. TRACK mode emphasises the tachometer display, while also bringing up the lap timer and gear indicator.

The said mode will activate the launch control feature (yummy!).
Unfortunately, all these changes have added 16 kg to the bike, now at 165 kg compared to 149 kg.
There are two colour choices: Electronic Orange, and Atlantic Blue.

The 2024 KTM 390 Duke is priced from RM 35,800, with the Quickshifter+ feature.

Jalan Sultan Ismail Two Way from 30 April

Jalan Sultan Ismail has been made a two-way road from 30 April 2024. The move is expected to reduce traffic congestion around the Bukit Bintang area.

Kuala Lumpur Deputy Chief of Police, Datuk Azry Akmar Ayob said the change started from Jalan Raja Chulan to Simpang Bukit Bintang. He said that a total of 20 members of the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) will be stationed along the route to help smooth the flow of traffic.

“This route change has been implemented since last Wednesday (April 30) to avoid traffic congestion in the center of the capital.

“The deployment of 20 traffic officers on this route is to smooth traffic because many users are still unaware of the change,” he said.

Commenting further, Azry said the route will be used as a one-way road during peak hours from 6 am to 9 am which will be controlled by his side. The one-way route will start from Jalan Kampung Pandan towards Jalan Sultan Ismail and the route will become a two-way road after 9am.

According to him, to avoid confusion, he will place JSTP members along the route involved.

“We still haven’t been able to (see the results) completely and monitoring is still being done by traffic officers stationed around Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail.

“Officers will monitor the smooth passage of vehicles passing here, besides trying to give road users more understanding.

“We hope this implementation can reduce the rate of traffic congestion in Bukit Bintang,” he said.

2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Arrive in Malaysia

The 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide have arrived in Malaysia, after being announced earlier among 21 other carryover models. These two, in addition to the new 2024 CVO Road Glide ST are the key models in the Grand Touring range.

Highlights of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide

H-D says they are more powerful, lighter, and more dynamic, plus more cohesive visual cues.
Updated Milwaukee-Eight 117 V-Twin engine with a new cooling system to optimise intake and exhaust gas flow.
Four Ride Modes – Road, Sport, Rain, Custom.

New infotainment system powered by Skyline OS, featuring a 12.3-inch colour TFT touchscreen which replaces the analog meters and some switches.
200-watt power amplifier which powers the front fairing mounted speakers.
The newly-designed fairing is said to reduce helmet buffeting by 60 percent at highway speeds.

Rear suspension travel is increased by 76.2mm (Yay, no more backaches!).
Redesigned one-piece seat with newer material.
The 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide is priced from RM 211,900.
The 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide is priced from RM 195,900.

2024 CVO Road Glide ST highlights

“CVO” stands for Custom Vehicle Operations.
The 2024 CVO Road Glide ST heads Harley’s 2024 CVO lineup.

The Motor Company says that it is the quickest, fastest, and most sophisticated bagger they have produced.
Solo seat i.e. single-rider seat.
Handlebar mounted on six-inch risers, for that West Coast Custom riding style.
Milwaukee-Eight 121 High Output V-Twin engine.

Massive inverted 47mm Showa 1X1 forks.
Showa rear shocks with remote reservoirs.
Brembo brakes.
Selectable Ride Modes.

Premium audio system with 500-watt amplifier and Rockford Fosgate Stage II 6.5-inch speakers in the fairing.
The 2024 CVO Road Glide ST is priced from RM 346,900.

Bikesrepublic

Local News

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 990 Duke

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 250 Duke

Highlights of the 2024 KTM 390 Duke

Highlights of the 2024 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and 2024 Harley-Davidson Street Glide

2024 CVO Road Glide ST highlights

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