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Hong Leong Yamaha Road Safety Campaign 2025 – ‘Terang Dalam Gelap’

As Malaysians prepare to travel home for Hari Raya, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) with collaboration with Motorcycle & Scooter Dealer Association (MMSDA) is stepping up to ensure a safer journey for motorcyclists with the launch of its annual road safety campaign, ‘Terang Dalam Gelap.’ Designed to raise awareness about nighttime riding safety, the campaign offers practical safety initiatives, including a helmet exchange program, motorcycle safety checks, and interactive public activities. This year’s event took place at Stadium Bola Sepak Kuala Lumpur, Cheras, on 15th March 2025.

Understanding the risks that come with increased road travel during the festive season, HLYM is committed to promoting safe riding habits. The campaign encourages motorcyclists to use high- visibility gear and adopt cautious riding practices while traveling to celebrate with their families.

The official launch was officiated by Datuk Aedy Fadly Bin Ramli, Ketua Pengarah, Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan Malaysia, representing YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport Malaysia. The event ass also graced by key industry figures, including:

Dato’ Professor Dr. Jim Khor, Group Managing Director, Hong Leong Industries Berhad.
Datuk Wee Hong, Chairman of the Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealer Association (MMSDA).
Other esteemed VIPs and industry leaders.

Event Highlights

Helmet Exchange Program – Trade in your worn-out helmet for a brand-new, safety-approved one to enhance your protection on the road.
8-Point Motorcycle Safety Check – Get your motorcycle inspected for free to ensure it’s in top condition before your long-distance ride.
Sponsor Booths & Community Engagement – Explore booths by various sponsors offering safety products, promotions, and valuable road safety tips.

A Campaign That Connects with the Community

This year, ‘Terang Dalam Gelap’ took a fresh approach by holding the event in the evening from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, aligning with the bustling bazaar areas and local community activities. By doing so, HLYM hopes to reach riders where they are, creating a more engaging and impactful experience.

“At HLYM, our role goes beyond providing motorcycles—we care about our riders’ safety. Hari Raya is a time for reunions and celebrations, and we want to ensure that every rider reaches their loved ones safely. ‘Terang Dalam Gelap’ is more than a campaign; it’s our way of looking out for the community and equipping them with the right knowledge and tools to ride safely,” said Dato’ Professor Dr. Jim Khor.

A Fresh Take on Road Safety Awareness

To connect with young riders, the campaign embraced a creative, storytelling approach using illustrated characters and digital engagement. The initiative extends beyond the event through pre-event communication, interactive social media content, and post-event follow-ups to reinforce road safety messages.

The road safety campaign doesn’t stop at the launch event. HLYM is continuing the initiative with a Free Bike Checking Campaign at nationwide authorized Yamaha dealers from 20 March to 27 March 2025. Motorcyclists who participate will receive a free bike check-up and stand a chance to win exciting prizes sponsored by Genblu Reward. This extended effort ensures that riders across Malaysia can prepare their motorcycles for a safe and smooth ‘balik kampung’ journey.

The esteemed co-sponsors supporting our initiative, as delineated below:

AEON Credit Service (M) Berhad.
Berjaya Sompo Insurance.
GIVI Asia Sdn. Bhd.
Gracshaw.
Hong Leong Bank Berhad
Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ)
KYB-UMW Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
Maxxis
Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS)
NGK
PACIFIC & ORIENT Insurance Co. Bhd.
Pro Ice
RCB
RK South Asia Sdn. Bhd.

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Modenas Ninja 500 ABS and Modenas Ninja 500 SE Launched

The Modenas Ninja 500 ABS and Modenas Ninja 500 SE have been launched in Malaysia.

Both models utilise a 451cc, parallel-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine which produces 44.8 hp @ 9,000 RPM and 42.6 Nm of torque at 6,000 RPM. The 3,000 RPM spread between maximum torque and power means the engine is flexible while riding, allowing “power anywhere” in the rev range.

Modenas/Kawasaki claims that the frame was inspired by the Ninja 250’s for compactness and handling. Along with a 14-litre fuel tank, the Modenas Ninja 500 has a claimed curb weight of 171 kg. Other chassis components are 41mm hydraulic forks up front, with a monoshock at the rear. Braking is handled by a single 310mm disc gripped by a two-piston caliper in front and a single disc brake at the back.

The differences between the standard Modenas Ninja 500 ABS and Modenas Ninja 500 SE are confined to certain features and cosmetics. The former has an LCD screen with smartphone connectivity while the latter has a full-colour TFT screen, also with smartphone connectivity.

Colour options and selling prices are Black only for the standard version, at the selling price of RM 28,100; while the SE is available in Lime Green (main picture), and Black/Red at the selling price of RM 30,100. Both prices are without insurance and road tax.

Suzuki Recorded Best Global Sales in 15 Years in 2024

Suzuki’s sales is improving year by year since the downturn in 2020, resulting in their best in the last 15 years in 2024.

The numbers were posted on the MotorCycleData website, which tracks the registration of new motorcycles across 90 countries. The website only takes motorcycle registrations instead of those invoiced by manufacturers.

According to them, some 2.1 million Suzuki motorcycles were registered in 2024, representing a 6.1% increase.

Looking at regions, Western Europe recorded a 23.4% increase, Latin America also had a 23.4% increase, while East Europe contributed a whopping 140.2% up trend.

As for individual countries, sales were up by 157% in Turkey, 59% in Bangladesh, 47.1% in Germany, 36.8% in Argentina, 30.5% in France, 17.3% in India, and 5.4% in Colombia.

However, sales declined by 25.4% in China.

The website did not reveal which models were the best-sellers. Suzuki is currently the sevent largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world:

Honda;
Hero Motor;
Yamaha;
Bajaj Auto;
TVS Motor;
Yadea;
Suzuki;
Haojue;
KTM;
CFMoto.

Harley-Davidson Malaysia Offers Savings up to RM19,000 for 2024 Softail Models

Harley-Davidson Malaysia is kicking off 2025 with an exciting opportunity for motorcycle enthusiasts. From now until March 31, 2025, riders can enjoy exclusive offers of up to RM19,000 when purchasing selected 2024 Softail models, making this the perfect time to own a piece of the legendary Harley-Davidson experience.

Under this limited-time campaign, customers can take advantage of the following exclusive offers:

Breakout 117 – Savings of up to RM19,000
Low Rider ST 117 – Savings of up to RM15,000

Adding to the excitement, Harley-Davidson Malaysia is organising Harley Night 2025 on March 14, 2025 showcasing Harley-Davidson Motorcycles 2024 Collector’s Edition, including the Softail Standard, Fat Bob 114 & Sport Glide. Harley Night 2025 will also celebrate the iconic Fat Boy 114 with special announcements. Enthusiasts and riders are invited to join this unforgettable experience at their nearest authorized Harley-Davidson dealership.

Harley Night 2025 will take place at all authorised Harley-Davidson dealerships in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu. Whether you’re a long-time Harley rider or new to the brand, this event promises an evening of camaraderie and excitement.

For more details on the Model Year 2024 Softail Campaign and Harley Night 2025, visit your nearest authorized Harley-Davidson dealer today.

Petaling Jaya: https://harleypj.com/

Kuala Lumpur: https://route77harley.com/

Penang: https://harleypenang.com/

Johor Bahru: https://harleyjb.com/

Kota Kinabalu: https://www.harley-davidsonkotakinabalu.com/

Kamax Cub X Coming to Malaysia – RM8,888

Kamax is another brand that has seen some following in Malaysia, especially with their Cub series, which was inspired by the original Honda Cub. Now, it has been confirmed that the Kamax Cub X will be coming to Malaysia, too.

The Kamax Cub X is based on the Cub Pro, then stripped of superfluous parts such as the passenger seat, leg shields, and chain guard to turn it into an adventure cub. A bigger and longer front mudguard is fitted, instead. The wheels are wire spoked type, instead of the cast alloy type on the Super Pro.

Its engine also appears to have been inspired by the Honda Cub, being an air-cooled, horizontal, single-cylinder engine, albeit with 147.5cc. It produces 9.1 hp (6.8 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 10.5 Nm at 5,000 RPM. It is fuel-injected, not carbureted. Power is delivered through a centrifugal clutch, and four-speed transmission.

On the chassis front, the frame is an underbone steel tube. There are dual disc brakes, hydraulic forks up front and dual shocks at the rear. Other features include LED lighting, and a 3.8-litre fuel tank. Kamax claims a 110kg curb weight.

MForce Bikes Sdn. Bhd. confirmed that the Kamax Cub X will be headed to Malaysia, and priced at RM 8,888. For more information, please visit https://www.kamaxgroup.com.

Price for BMW R 12 Announced

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has announced the official price for the 2025 BMW R 12, starting from RM 119,500 (on the road without insurance).

To refresh, the all-new BMW R 12 utilises the 1170cc Boxer engine (flat-twin) that produces 95hp at 6,500 RPM and 110Nm at 6,000 RPM, instead of the air/oil-cooled 1800cc Boxer used by the R 18. This base R 12 takes the shape of a cruiser, rather than a standard, with a 19-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel.

From the official Press Release

BMW Motorrad Malaysia today announced the official pricing for the All-New BMW R 12, the latest addition to its Heritage line-up.

The All-New BMW R 12 blends classic heritage with modern innovation, delivering an authentic riding experience that embodies the spirit of #MakeLifeARide. A testament of BMW Motorrad’s passion for evolution, the Heritage roadster features its iconic R boxer engine, providing smooth and responsive handling whether on the highway or winding country roads. It merges retro-inspired aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, making it the perfect bike for riders who appreciate classic charm while craving the thrill of innovation.

Financial Services

With the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of the All-New BMW R 12 starts at RM1,668 (based on Straight Line Financing estimates with a 90% loan over a 7-year tenure). Owners can also enjoy additional benefits with the Industry-Leading Premium Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension Programmes by BMW Motorrad Malaysia. For more information on the programmes, please visit https://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/en/service/service-inclusive.html.

The retail price of RM 119,500 is on the road (without insurance), with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s All-New 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes.

Pirelli to be Sole Tyre Supplier for MotoGP in 2027

It has been confirmed that Pirelli will take over the reigns from Michelin as sole tyre supplier to the MotoGP championship beginning 2027.

The electric motorcycle racing series, MotoE, will also be using Pirelli tyres from that point henceforth.

The agreement with MotoGP’s governing body will span five years until 2031. Pirelli is already the sole tyre supplier to the Moto3 and Moto2 classes, after taking over from Dunlop since last year. The move saw lap times tumbled dramatically as well as closer racing.

Pirelli has been the tyre supplier to the World Superbike Championship for many years. Apart from motorcycle racing, Formula 1 is also racing on Pirelli rubber, which makes the company the supplier to the highest tiers of motor racing.

On the other hand, Dunlop is the sole tyre supplier for the Superstock category in the FIM Endurance World Championship.

However, we suspect it would not stop some people from crying about bringing back certain brands. Previously, when Bridgestone first came into MotoGP, many said Michelin was better. Then when Michelin came back, they said Bridgestone was better. It will be interesting to see what kind of comments will pop up next.

X-Wedge is Coming to Malaysia

X-Wedge, the super cruiser brand from China is heading to Malaysia.

Unlike other Chinese manufacturers who build their businesses from smaller capacity motorcycles upwards, X-Wedge concentrates on cruisers with massive engines that are inspired by big cubed American V-Twins, albeit closer in look to Indian rather than Harley-Davidson motorcycles. X-Wedge made their debut on 9th September 2023 and is a subsidiary of the Huansong Industrial Group based in Chongqing, China who have in business since 1988.

Their catalog is bolstered by a 5-model line up, with four utilising their sub-2000cc V-Twin engine. This monster engine is said to have been derived from S&S, the maker of performance V-Twin engines that grace custom motorcycle makers such as the now-defunct Titan and even Orange County Motorcycles.

X-Wedge’s ‘big block’ engine (our term to distinguish it from the smaller engine – Ed.) features rare, square dimensions of 108mm bore x 108mm stroke. You have 1979cc when multiplied by two cylinders. As per cruiser convention, the engine has OHV (overhead valves) that are activated by pushrods. It produces a claimed 103 HP at 5,000 RPM and 158 Nm of torque at 3,000 RPM. That is a cruiser powerband right there.

However, the compression ratio is rather low for a modern motorcycle at only 9.75:1. Could it be that the manufacturer is thinking of forced induction or increased stroke by themselves in the future, or an avenue for customers to do so? Maybe. Anyhow, that low compression ratio means you can run the bike on low octane petrol, so no problem if you ride to some remote location.

Also, no less impressive is that X-Wedge already has a large aftermarket and lifestyle collection. Their main concept store also includes an Ace Café.

X-Wedge model range

Let us take a look at their line up.

Ranger RX2000

Starting from the basic cruiser is the Ranger RX2000. It features an unmistakable low-slung and a long wheelbase, hardtail look, with several modern touches. The one in our picture show a sportier paint scheme but the company’s website shows a bike with plenty of chrome. It is powered by the ‘big block’ engine. Fuel is carried in an 18-litre tank and the bike weighs 350 kg.

Rover RL2000

This is the touring variant based on the Ranger. It is complete with a large upper fairing, leg shields, footboards, side cases, upper case with passenger backrest and arm rests. It has an 18-litre fuel tank and weighs 420 kg.

Vanguard VT2000

This is based off the Rover RL2000, but with two rear wheels, making it a trike. As with the other two, it uses the ‘big block’ engine, has an 18-litre tank and weighs a whopping 505 kg.

Voyager VS2000

It is basically a Ranger RX2000 with a sidecar. As such, it shares the Ranger’s specifications. Weight is claimed at 490 kg.

Walker WR1000

The Walker WR1000 features a complete break from the other cruiser conventions, featuring a futuristic look and two front wheels like the Cam-Am. It is powered by a 121 cubic inch (975cc) V-Twin which produces 81 HP and 80 Nm of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a belt, after going through a CVT. And yes, it has a reverse gear.

Models headed to Malaysia

We found out that the three models headed to Malaysia are the Ranger RX2000, Rover RL2000, and Vanguard VT2000. All three will be Completely Knocked Down and assembled here, hence the attractive starting price of around RM 90,000. The local distributor, MForce Bikes Sdn. Bhd. plans to open concept shops in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Sabah, and Sarawak.

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Cyclone RA600 Previewed – RM25,888

The Cyclone RA600 was also launched alongside the RE600 retro scrambler and RT3e scooter.

While the RE600 takes on the shape of a retro scrambler, the RA600 is a retro bobber/cruiser with several futuristic touches. Both share the same 550cc parallel-twin engine which produces 58 HP and 55 Nm torque. Likewise, the chassis and brakes are the same, although the RA600 has a single disc brake with the same J.Juan front brake caliper.

Apart from that, the RA660 has a different, girder-style, front end, seating position, and foot placement. Additionally, the bike uses a belted final drive instead of the chain on the RE600. Also, the wheels are 16-inches on both ends for that low-down riding attitude. There are adjustments for the “forks.”

The fuel tank hold 14.5 litres, the lighting is via LED, while electronics include dual-channel ABS, and traction control system.

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Cyclone RE600 Previewed – RM25,888

The Cyclone RE600 was previewed along with the Cyclone RT3e scooter. It should arrive in Malaysia by June 2025.

MForce actually launched two models based on the 600cc platform in the same event. One was this RE600 retro scrambler and the RA600 retro bobber. They also launched the RX650 adventure bike.

As such, the RE600 is fitted with the 550.5cc parallel-twin engine which produces 58 HP at 8,500 RPM and 55 NM of torque at 6,500 RPM. Top speed is claimed at 170 km/h. Traction control system (TCS) is standard.

The chassis consists of a steel tube frame, upside-down forks in front, and a monoshock at the rear. Stopping duty is handled by twin disc brakes up front and a single disc brake at the back. The brakes are backed up by ABS. Both wheels are 17-inches in size.

Other features include a round LED headlight, together with an LED rear light, and turn signals. As with modern motorcycles, the instrument panel is a full-colour TFT screen.

Fuel is contained in a large, 20-litre tank and seat height is a low 800 mm.

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Cyclone RT3e Previewed – RM12,888

The Cyclone RT3e scooter was recently previewed.

Cyclone brand is the premium brand of motorcycles under Zongshen Industrial Group. The group primarily builds locomotives in their home country.

The Cyclone RT3e is positioned as a “modern classic” scooter with vintage looks and contemporary features.

Power is provided by a single-cylinder 247cc, DOHC, four-valve, EFI, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine, which produces 24.8 HP (19.5 kW) at 7,500 RPM and 24.5 Nm at 6,500 RPM. By comparison, those figures are higher than that produced by the Yamaha XMax 250’s engine.

On the chassis front, wheels are 12-inches at both ends. The brakes are disc on the front and rear, assisted by ABS. The bike has a traction control system (TCS), too.

Do note that the spec sheets claimed a 10-litre fuel tank at the launch, which differs from the 13-litres in the RT2e. Still, a 750mm seat height and 162kg dry sound good.

Lighting is LED all around with backlit buttons, and a digital instrument panel.

The Cyclone RT3e was launched at RM 12,888. It is now available at Cyclone dealerships around the country.

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Triumph Broke Sales Record – Sold 134,635 Motorcycles in 2024

Triumph broke sales record again, with 134,635 motorcycles sold worldwide in 2024, marking a 64% jump from 2023. It was also the first time for the brand to sell more than 100,000 units in their 122-year history.

This is the fifth consecutive year that Triumph has achieved an all-time record, representing an increase of 123% since 2019. The continuous sales growth is reflected in the expansion of the company’s dealer network which now reaches over 950 global dealers, representing an increase of 46%.

Looking specifically at their 2024 milestone, Triumph says the sales record was greatly fuelled by their entrance into the sub 500cc market which has attracted new riders to the brand. (No surprise!) Credit goes to the successful launch of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X models, built in response to growing global demand for smaller capacity motorcycles.

Triumph reported the greatest growth was achieved in India, where sales of the 400cc machines largely contributed to a total of 29,736 units sold in the country. The manufacturer did not detail the numbers, but reported that other markets like Brazil, Canada and the US stood out with sales up by 44% compared to 2023. And although European markets saw a smaller growth of 18%, Triumph confirms they still remain the largest region for the brand.

“We have a strong new model pipeline which will see our range develop further to appeal to an even greater range of riders,” said Triumph Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Stroud. “That’s why we continue to make ambitious plans, forecasting continued progressive growth, which will see us welcome even more customers to the Triumph Brand over the coming years.”

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English

Event Highlights

A Campaign That Connects with the Community

A Fresh Take on Road Safety Awareness

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From the official Press Release

Financial Services

X-Wedge model range

Ranger RX2000

Rover RL2000

Vanguard VT2000

Voyager VS2000

Walker WR1000

Models headed to Malaysia

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