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Honda wowed motorcycle enthusiasts and racing fans alike as it unveiled its latest iteration of the CBR600RR at the prestigious 2023 Suzuka 8 Hours weekend.

  • The iconic Suzuka Circuitwitnessed the grand reveal during the 44th edition of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) Endurance World Championship last wekend.
  • The event serves as a homecoming for Honda, allowing the brand to showcase its cutting-edge engineering on familiar turf.

Enthusiasts attending the Suzuka 8 Hours race had the exclusive opportunity to experience the new Honda CBR600RR up close and personal at the dedicated Honda booth.

While comprehensive details about the updates are still under wraps, insiders suggest that this unveiling primarily addresses evolving emissions regulations in Japan. As the CBR600RR’s previous iteration predates the implementation of these stringent environmental norms, this refresh aims to align the beloved sportbike with the latest emission compliance requirements.

Amid concerns over potential impacts on power output due to emissions adjustments, historical precedents indicate that the alterations are unlikely to significantly impede the bike’s formidable performance. Honda’s track record of seamlessly integrating similar tweaks in previous models suggests that any changes in power dynamics will likely be subtle and expertly balanced.

Apart from the mechanical enhancements, the visual appeal of the new CBR600RR is set to captivate riders and onlookers alike. Honda has provided a tantalizing glimpse of the new aesthetic direction through shared images and videos.

The motorcycle dons a fresh Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) tricolor livery, exuding an air of racing prowess. Adding an air of mystique is the striking matte black variant that conjures images of a stealthy test mule wrap, underscoring the bike’s performance-oriented nature.

The Japanese market can expect both the dynamic tricolor livery and the enigmatic matte black version to be offered upon the formal announcement of the model’s release. However, the global palette remains a subject of speculation. 

The iconic Le Mans racing circuit celebrated its 1,000th MotoGP race in style back in May as racers and fans gathered to mark the historic milestone.

  • Since its inception over a century ago, the legendary track has been a cornerstone of the racing world, hosting some of the most exhilarating competitions in history. 
  • The HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special helmet is to commemorate the iconic race track. 

To commemorate this momentous occasion, HJC, the renowned helmet manufacturer, unveiled a special edition helmet: the HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special, paying homage to Fabio Quartararo’s incredible talent and achievements during the 2023 French GP.

The HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special is a custom-designed version of HJC’s highly acclaimed RPHA 1 helmet, which was the brand’s first FIM homologated race helmet. The special edition helmet embraces Quartararo’s signature style with colors inspired by his home country – blue, white, and red. A prominent feature on the top of the helmet is Quartararo’s iconic devil logo, along with his race number 20, stylized with devil horns, leaving no doubt about the helmet’s association with the former world champion.

Aside from its eye-catching appearance, the HJC RPHA 1 boasts impressive technical features. Constructed with HJC’s latest PIM Plus fiber technology, the outer shell combines carbon fiber infused with hybrid fiberglass. 

This innovation ensures the helmet is remarkably lightweight, rigid, and proficient in absorbing and dissipating impact forces. The interior includes a multi-density EPS liner, complemented by interchangeable cheek pads of various sizes, guaranteeing a secure and customized fit for riders of all shapes and sizes. Safety is paramount, and the RPHA 1 adheres to the latest ECE 22.06 safety standards, standing as the first and only FIM-homologated helmet in HJC’s lineup to date.

Fabio Quartararo, one of the brightest stars in the MotoGP universe, expressed his pride and gratitude for the special edition helmet honoring his achievements. “It’s an incredible honor to have a helmet designed in celebration of my performance at Le Mans,” Quartararo said. “The design is fantastic, and knowing that riders can wear this helmet to feel connected to my journey means a lot to me.”

The release of the HJC RPHA 1 Quartararo Le Mans Special helmet aligns perfectly with Le Mans’ rich racing history and the passion of MotoGP enthusiasts worldwide. Racing fans and collectors alike can now own a piece of MotoGP history while experiencing the exceptional performance and safety features of HJC’s top-tier helmet.

China’s motorcycle industry has been steadily improving in recent years, but there’s still room for innovation compared to their European, Japanese, and American counterparts. However, a promising development is on the horizon, as Qianjiang, the parent company of QJMotor and Benelli, has filed a new patent for an electronically controlled clutch system.

This exciting breakthrough is showcased on the QJMotor SRK700, a powerful 700cc twin-cylinder engine also used in the Benelli TRK702. Unlike the usual hydraulic or cable-operated clutches we see in most motorcycles, this electronic clutch is different. It allows for precise control using electronics, giving riders more options and flexibility.

What sets this innovation apart is that it can be used in different ways. On one hand, it maintains a conventional clutch lever look, but it is operated electronically, not manually. This could lead to smoother and more precise gear changes. On the other hand, it could also be part of a semi-automatic or fully automatic transmission system, making riding even easier and more enjoyable.

Some other companies have introduced automatic clutch systems in the past, but Qianjiang’s approach seems unique. It could allow riders to switch between a manual mode, where they have full control over the clutch and gears, and an automatic mode, where the bike takes care of shifting gears on its own, making riding effortless.

This innovative electronic clutch system represents a significant step forward for the Chinese motorcycle industry. It brings fresh possibilities for improving the riding experience and attracting more riders to embrace motorcycling. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect other manufacturers to take notice and work towards their own advancements.

Triumph’s 765cc triple engine, initially introduced with the 2017 Street Triple, has proven to be a game-changer in both the street and racing world.

  • Since the 2019 race season, Triumph’s 765cc triple has been the driving force behind all Moto2 racing machines, impressing with its reliability and power on the track.
  • Triumph will continue as Moto2 engine supplier until 2029. 

 

The success of this partnership led Dorna to extend Triumph’s contract as the sole engine supplier for the Moto2 series until 2029. Carlos Ezpeleta, Chief Sporting Officer of Dorna, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, citing “great racing, record-breaking performances, and impressive reliability” as key factors in the decision.

Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer, highlighted the introduction of a new racing gearbox, set to improve track performance. The engineering team is already working on enhancements for gear selection, with testing planned after this year’s Moto2 races.

Currently tuned to produce 145 horsepower, with a recent increase in RPM to 14,400, the Triumph Moto2 engines continue to set new standards for performance. 

For enthusiasts seeking a taste of the Moto2 experience, the Triumph Street Triple RS Moto2 Edition offers a glimpse, boasting the same powerful engine, along with Öhlins suspension and Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers for precision handling.

Triumph’s 765cc triple engine has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on the racing world, and its continued presence in Moto2 promises more exciting races and record-breaking moments in the years to come.

Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially introduced the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS, which is now available in the iconic Lime Green/Ebony color scheme.

The special unveiling was done during the Modenas X Kawasaki Green Mania event held at Gamuda Cove on Sunday.

However, apart from the new visuals, the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS continues to feature the same specs and features.

That said, the 2023 Ninja 250 ABS continues to be powered by a 249cc, twin-cylinder, eight-valve, DOHC engine that pumps out 36hp at 12,500rpm and 23Nm of maximum torque upon hitting 10,000rpm. All this power is transferred down to its rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox, enhanced with Kawasaki’s assist and slipper clutch for ease of riding.

 

Other features include:

  • 164kg (wet weight)
  • 14-liter fuel tank
  • Front 310mm single semi-floating disc brake with a 2-piston calliper
  • Rear 220mm single disc brake with a 2-piston calliper
  • 41mm telescopic front forks

According to EMOS, the 2023 Modenas Ninja 250 ABS is priced at RM21,800 (excluding registration and insurance).

Ducati Malaysia officially introduced the next-generation Ducati Scrambler 800 for the local market. 

  • Available in three variants, Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift the new Scrambler is set to take the Land of Joy to new heights. 
  • While we may call it the next-gen, the latest Scrambler range received a small technical updates and stylistic changes across all three models; Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift. 

 

As matter of fact, the 2023 Scrambler range continue to feature the same two-cylinder Desmodue engine albeit with a smaller clutch and alternator cover featuring an “X” logo. 

The clutch now features eight disc, ensuring a smoother and lighter gear change during the pull of the lever.

That said, the engine is now 2.5kg lighter than the previous generation which contributed to a total weight loss of 4kg. 

Here’s our review of the 2023 Ducati Scrambler:

New Scrambler Ducati Redefines The Art of a Fast Friendly Machine!

Ducati also claimed that the new Scrambler is sportier thanks to new rear subframe that is now separated from the main frame, while bearing-mounted shift drum contributes to a smoother shifts. 

Meanwhile, all three range now features ride-by-wire, Ducati Traction Control and two selectable riding modes; Road and Wet and a redesigned fuel tank. Additionally, the motorcycle also equipped with Cornering ABS and a quickshifter (only available on the Full Throttle trim). 

Scrambler Full Throttle – RM69,900

The Scrambler Full Throttle is the creme de la creme across all three variants of the Scrambler family. 

Firstly, it is the only model in the range to feature a quickshifter as standard. 

In addition, the model also features the number #62 as a nod to the original scrambler introduced in 1962, a flat-track skid plate. sportier style seat, with a race-inspired GP19 Red/Dark Steath livery, shorterfront mudguard,red wheel tags and Termignoni exhaust. 

Scrambler Nightshift – RM69,900

The Nightshift continue its elegant design and ergonomics from the previous generation. The cafe racer-style Scrambler gets side number plates, minimal front mudguard and a small LED indicators.

New for 2023 is an all-blacked out spoke wheels, flat-set handlebars and bar-end mirrors. 

Scrambler Icon – RM62,900

The Icon is the most customizable among the three with the headlight covers, wheel tags and mudguards are all replaceable. 

There are now six new exciting colours and nine liveries to choose from. Ergonomically, the Icon features lower handlebar and tapered seat. 

According to Ducati Malaysia, the fist delivery will commence in October.

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