Husqvarna Motorcycles has updated the Norden 901 with what the company calls improved performance and safety thanks to multiple technical enhancements for 2024.
The updated Norden 901 retains the same 889 cc parallel twin engine for 2024. Together with its light steel trellis frame, WP APEX suspension, and multiple ride modes, the Norden 901 continues to offer outstanding comfort, particularly on longer rides when navigating rugged and challenging landscapes as we recently found out when we explored the Korean island of Jeju on the Norden 901.
Husqvarna Motorcycles’ lean-angle sensitive Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) now offers ten different levels of rear wheel slip, which can be selected when the optional Explorer Mode is engaged. With a setting to suit all riding abilities, those with more experience will enjoy drifting through turns while riders new to travel machines will benefit from confidence inspiring traction when negotiating technical corners and unpredictable terrain.
Rounding out the new features found on the Norden 901 2024 are new USB port, the Hazard Warning lights, which can be quickly switched on in the event of an emergency, and the new exhaust system that meets EURO 5+ regulations.
Underlining the premium build quality of the Norden 901, the components used on this versatile machine are all chosen for their performance and durability. The Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, Bosch Cornering ABS, a Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC), and multiple ride modes combine to create the ultimate riding experience.
Technical highlights:
New grey and yellow graphics create a distinctive appearance
Revised Cornering sensitive Traction Control allows for 10 levels of adjustable rear wheel slip with optional Explorer Mode engaged
New exhaust system for EURO 5+ compliance
New USB port on the side of the dashboard
New Hazard Warning system
Bosch Cornering ABS
Chromium-molybdenum steel frame with engine as stressed member
889 cc parallel-twin engine with 105 hp peak power and 100 Nm of torque
Adjustable WP APEX suspension provides exceptional comfort both on and offroad
Four selectable ride modes (Street, Rain, Offroad, optional Explorer)
Ride-by-wire throttle with adjustable response (in Explorer mode)
Standard Easy Shift function (up and down Quickshifter)
PASC Slipper clutch
Tubeless spoked wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres for balanced performance on and offroad
Large capacity, 19-litre fuel tank provides an extended range of up to 400 km
Optional Connectivity Unit provides TbT+ navigation, telephone calls in/out and music selection from the rider’s smartphone
KTM Malaysia is having a special campaign called aspiRC Trade Up that is designed to give you better value for your current bike when you trade it in for a RC 200.
You just have to bring in your current motorcycle and KTM will give you RM2,000 more than the current market value of your bike.
So for example, if the market value of your bike is at RM5,000, KTM Malaysia will give you RM7,000 for it.
With that, you do not have to worry about losing money on your old bike and having to fork out a higher down payment. KTM Malaysia is essentially sorting that out for you, so all you have to do now is visit your closest KTM dealership and talk to the sales team there.
So there has never been a better time to trade up to a KTM RC 200.
The RC 200 may have been around for a while already, but it has been continuously improved and enhanced and yet it remains as one of the most exciting bikes in its class.
Some have criticized its design but none in its class have such functional, race inspired aesthetics. The design of the RC 200 follows the RC16 MotoGP race bike where the front provides positive aerodynamics that makes the bike more efficient as it cuts through the air.
And just like the race bike, the bodywork has been specifically designed to be easily dismantled and reinstalled. This is very much in line with KTM’s tagline – “Ready to Race”.
The riding position of the RC 200 is also spot on. Aggressive enough for corner carving and yet comfortable enough for daily use. To ensure this, the handlebars are adjustable. As compared to previous models, the handlebars are now positioned 15mm higher than before for better posture which makes the bike more comfortable for long distance riding, especially for your shoulders and wrists. But you can also drop the handlebars by up to 10mm when you want to ride your favourite track.
The KTM RC 200 will particularly appeal to those who like a nimble handling bike. With adjustable WP Suspension, the rear monoshock can be adjusted for pre-load to your preference.
The RC 200 was redesigned in 2022, and part of the redesign efforts focused on the front of the bike. This redesign resulted in a lighter front end with most of the weight of the bike focused on the center. For example, the wheels too have been lightened by 3.4kg and this results in lesser rolling resistance, providing for better acceleration and easier corner entry. All this clever engineering resulted in better weight management that ultimately contributed to lighter and more agile handling.
Top speed is another aspect that comes under occasional criticism. Rated at 137km/h, top speed is good enough for highway cruising without compromising on comfort and safety, which is ultimately what is important for KTM. And besides, the bike has racing in its DNA, and we all know that a race is won in corners and not in a straight line.
But most importantly, the RC 200 is the most powerful in the 200cc range of bikes. It partially achieves this through the clever use of a larger airbox that is 40% bigger than its rivals. This is important for power production, as the more air that goes in, the better the engine breathes, and you get better power delivery.
However, the RC 200 is not all about performance alone. It is also a friendly commuter if you so wish. The volume of the fuel tank for example has been increased to 13.7-litres from 9.5-litres before. This gives it better range which means that you can also go touring with your riding buddies if you wanted to.
But buying a RC200 is one part of the journey, owning it over a couple of years is a completely different thing. And this is where the RC 200 excels again. With most bikes in its class having a short service interval, the RC 200 has a service interval of 5000km. This is perfect for those who are looking to trade up to a sports bike from a moped as it will provide for longer service intervals and thus making the RC 200 easier on the wallet over the long term.
All of the above does not matter though if the RC 200 did not prioritise safety. You can have a fast bike but what is the point of that if it did not stop as fast? Providing stopping duties are a pair of four piston ByBre calipers.
Provided by legendary brakes manufacturer Brembo (hence the name, By-Brembo), a four-piston caliper grip a single 320mm disc up front while a single-piston caliper manages a 230mm disc at the rear.
The big discs are great for heat management, which means that you can have some serious fun with the RC 200 without worrying about brake fade. And if you are the type that likes to brake late and hard, you will be happy to know the RC 200 comes with dual-channel ABS provided by Bosch.
Not only that, the RC 200 also has a Supermoto mode that lets you switch off ABS-interference and slide the rear wheel. A slipper clutch is also on duty to help you manage the rear wheel.
Now with the KTM aspiRC campaign, this is the best time for you to fulfil your aspirations of owning an RC 200.
Triumph is back with an updated 2024 Tiger 900 range that boasts more power, enhanced capabilities, and improved comfort. The lineup now includes the Tiger 900 GT, GT Pro, and Rally Pro, all offering significant performance and feature upgrades.
Under the hood, the iconic three-cylinder engine of the Tiger 900 has undergone a major overhaul. This update results in a 13% boost in power, delivering a robust 108PS of peak power and an increased peak torque of 90Nm. The revised engine components also improve low-end tractability. The unique T-plane crank and offset firing intervals maintain the characteristic performance and sound of the Tiger 900 while delivering enhanced performance across the entire rev range and up to 9% better fuel efficiency.
The 2024 Tiger 900 range introduces advanced safety features, including improved braking for better control and reduced stopping distances. It also includes an emergency deceleration warning system that activates hazard lights during rapid braking and automatically deactivates them when you resume normal riding.
The new models feature prominent marker lights for better visibility at night and in adverse weather conditions. They are equipped with new 7″ TFT instruments with updated graphics and menus, along with a USB-C cockpit charger. My Triumph Bluetooth connectivity is now standard across all models.
The redesigned rider seat offers improved comfort for long-distance rides, with heated seats available on the GT Pro and Rally Pro models. All models feature a 20mm seat height adjustability, and there’s an option for a heated low rider seat, reducing the seat height by an additional 20mm. This results in a lower seat height as low as 800mm for GT models, enhancing accessibility.
A new damped handlebar mounting system enhances the ride’s comfort, while the Rally Pro’s enhanced handlebar position, positioned 15mm closer, facilitates a more agile ride, whether sitting or standing.
The 2024 Tiger 900 range receives a stylish makeover with new bodywork, giving each motorcycle a more aggressive and adventure-oriented appearance. The addition of contemporary paint schemes and graphics completes the refreshed look.
Triumph offers a wide selection of accessories for the new Tiger 900, including the Performance, Protection, Trekker, and Expedition kits, with more than 50 accessories in total. These kits provide various options to customize your ride.
The new Tiger 900 maintains its class-leading specifications, featuring:
Optimized cornering ABS and traction control with an IMU
Up to six riding modes, including Road, Rain, Sport, and Off-Road (with Rider Configurable for GT Pro and Rally Pro and Off-Road Pro for Rally Pro)
All-LED lighting
Triumph Shift Assist (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
Heated grips and seats (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
Illuminated switches
Tire pressure monitoring system (GT Pro & Rally Pro)
Brembo Stylema Monobloc brakes
Model-specific premium suspension tuned for maximum road and off-road capability
The Tiger 900’s engine, known for its distinctive T-plane crank and triple exhaust note, has been further improved. It now boasts 13% more power, reaching an impressive 108PS. This power increase is felt throughout the rev range, resulting in a more robust mid-range and improved acceleration. The Tiger 900 delivers a versatile performance, making it suitable for both low-speed city rides and high-speed touring, as well as technical off-road adventures.
Each model in the Tiger 900 range features specific suspension setups to cater to different rider needs. The GT comes with Marzocchi suspension, while the GT Pro offers electronically adjustable rear suspension. The Rally Pro is equipped with Showa suspension, providing versatility on all types of roads.
The range offers a balance between road handling and off-road capability, with the GT and GT Pro featuring cast alloy wheels and the Rally Pro using tubeless spoked wheels for pure off-road performance.
All three Tiger 900 models are equipped with Brembo Stylema brake calipers, ensuring effective stopping power and a responsive lever feel for controlled and smooth braking.
The 2024 Tiger 900 incorporates new active safety features to enhance visibility on the road. Optimized cornering ABS and Traction Control are standard, with multiple riding modes to suit various conditions. The GT Pro and Rally Pro models provide additional customization for riders. Triumph’s Slip and Assist clutch system offers a light clutch lever action to reduce rider fatigue.
The Pro models also feature the Triumph Shift Assist system, enabling clutch-less gear changes. My Triumph Connectivity System is standard on all Tiger 900 models, providing access to music, phone, and turn-by-turn navigation through a user-friendly 7″ TFT display.
Comfort is a priority with the redesigned seat, featuring 20mm adjustability and heated options on the Pro models. A damped handlebar mounting system and improved handlebar position contribute to a more comfortable and agile ride.
The Tiger 900 range embraces a bold and adventure-focused look with redesigned bodywork and striking paint schemes. Over 50 accessories and four accessory kits are available, including a new Akrapovič silencer for weight reduction and improved sound.
Triumph’s 2024 Tiger 900 range offers more power, enhanced capabilities, advanced safety features, and improved comfort, making it a formidable choice for riders seeking a versatile and adventure-ready motorcycle.
A decade after introducing the original game-changing MT-09 naked motorcycle, Yamaha has unveiled the third-generation model. This iteration presents a fresh face, refined riding ergonomics, and updated electronics while retaining the core elements from the 2021 version, including its iconic 117bhp ‘CP3’ three-cylinder engine and a cast aluminum Deltabox frame.
The 2024 MT-09 boasts a number of updates. Most striking is the revamped bodywork and styling, featuring new LED lights, a sportier riding posture, more agile steering geometry, improved brakes, a modernized dashboard, enhanced switchgear, and the addition of advanced features like cruise control.
This ‘new-look’ MT-09 represents a significant transformation. At the front, the design draws inspiration from Yamaha’s YZ motocross machines. A redesigned fuel tank, a distinctive LED front light cluster comprising a projector headlamp and twin riding lights, and a unique rear LED unit with separate tail and brake lights redefine its appearance. The two-piece seat complements the minimalist bodywork.
Riders will appreciate the lower and two-way adjustable handlebar and a slightly increased steering angle. The new footrests are positioned 30.6mm farther back and 9.5mm higher and offer two adjustment settings. Passenger comfort is improved with redesigned pillion footrests, a revised rear brake pedal, and gear levers, the latter still equipped with a quickshifter.
Practicality is enhanced with a substantial addition—a five-inch TFT display and corresponding switchgear. This technology, derived from the 2023 Tracer 9 GT+ and Niken GT, features four display themes, an intuitive design, built-in connectivity through Yamaha’s MyRide app, and compatibility with Garmin’s StreetCross satnav app system. Besides the standard riding modes, two custom modes allow riders to personalize power, traction, and slide control settings, among others.
Notable new features include cruise control, the Back Slip Regulator, which assists with rear wheel lock during engine braking, a Brembo radial master cylinder for improved front braking, Bridgestone’s latest Battlax Hypersport S23 tires, and an acoustic amplifier grille designed to enhance the exhaust note.
The 2024 MT-09 will be offered in three distinctive colors: Midnight Cyan, Icon Blue, and Tech Black. While it will make its debut at the Motorcycle Live show at the NEC from November 18 to 26, pricing and availability details are yet to be disclosed.
KEY FEATURES 1. Sharper, more compact looks including re-designed bi-functional LED headlight 2. New 5” full-colour TFT screen with smartphone connectivity and navigation 3. Customisable riding experience via Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings 4. Modify YRC settings via smartphone with the MyRide app 5. Handlebar and footpeg position modified for a more engaged riding experience adjustable into two positions 6. Separated new seat unit 7. Precise formed new fuel tank 8. Acoustic amplifier grille 9. Latest 890cc, three-cylinder, four-valve DOHC liquid-cooled, EU5+ CP3 engine 10. Six-axis IMU with a full suite of lean-sensitive rider aids now including Back SlipRegulator (BSR) 11. Cruise control 12. New Brembo radial master cylinder 13. Third generation quickshifter 14. New Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S23 M tyres 15. Adjustable suspension for enhanced sports riding 16. Lightweight CF aluminium die-cast frame 17. Yamaha’s SpinForged wheels for agile handling
The world of motorcycle helmets is in a constant state of evolution, and leading the way in this pursuit of excellence is Shoei Helmets, a name synonymous with quality, innovation, and safety. Their latest offering, the NEOTEC3, takes motorcycle helmet design to new heights by seamlessly combining functionality, comfort, and advanced safety features. In this article, we’ll delve into the features that make Shoei Helmets’ NEOTEC3 a game-changer for the touring enthusiast.
A Seamless Blend of Form and Functionality
Shoei Helmets’ NEOTEC3 is not just a helmet; it’s a work of art designed to enhance your riding experience. Shoei Helmets has created a helmet that strikes the perfect balance between a sleek and sophisticated design and a wealth of functionalities suitable for a variety of riding environments.
The Art of Seamless Design
One of the key features of Shoei Helmets’ NEOTEC3 is its seamless design. The face cover and other components are seamlessly integrated into the shell, creating a sense of unity and purpose. This design isn’t just about aesthetics; it serves a vital purpose in enhancing the helmet’s airtight seal.
Wind Tunnel Perfected
The NEOTEC3 underwent extensive testing in Shoei Helmets’ own large-scale wind tunnel testing facility to optimize its shape for improved sealing. By minimizing the gap between the face cover and the helmet shell, the intrusion of wind and rain is significantly reduced, ensuring a more comfortable and weather-resistant riding experience.
Interior Excellence
Inside the helmet, Shoei Helmets has left no stone unturned in pursuit of rider comfort. The cheek pads are extended to the rear of the helmet, reducing the gap around the neck. Additionally, a noise isolator beneath the chin further prevents wind intrusion. The result is a secure and comfortable fit for long rides.
Customizable Comfort
Should you feel any tightness on the head, the NEOTEC3 allows for fine adjustments to the fit using optional adjustment pads in the center pad. The interior surface fabric is designed for both sweat absorption and quick drying, as well as softness against the skin, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your journey.
Advanced Ventilation
Shoei Helmets has created an efficient ventilation system with the NEOTEC3. The upper air intake has a simple design, while the top air outlet is designed for high exhaust efficiency. The lower air intake even has a defroster function, providing versatility to enjoy riding in various weather conditions.
Security and Functionality
The locking mechanism for the face cover offers two stages of security. The first stage is for easy helmet removal, while the second stage ensures a strong hold, preventing the face cover from accidentally closing during your ride. All of this is achieved without adding extra weight.
Airtight Face Cover
The NEOTEC3’s face cover features an eccentric rotation axis, preventing interference with the shell and parts when opened or closed. The locking mechanism utilizes a 360-degree pivot system for added security and to prevent unexpected openings in case of a fall.
Upgraded Shield System
The NEOTEC3 is equipped with the CNS-3C shield, which optimizes the shape for system helmets. It prevents wind and rain from entering, while the tab placement and rib design ensure smooth shield operation.
Seamless Communication
This helmet’s communication system attachment mechanism is compact and aerodynamically friendly, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt your ride’s experience. Battery space is provided to charge your devices, and the interior is designed for easy microphone and speaker installation.
Sun Visor Innovation
The NEOTEC3 features the QSV-2 sun visor, offering an extended coverage area and clear visibility with minimal distortion. Its operation mechanism ensures smooth opening and closing, even while wearing gloves.
Micro Ratchet Chinstrap
This helmet is equipped with a micro ratchet type chinstrap that can be easily adjusted, even with gloves on. It’s compact, lightweight, and highly durable, ensuring both safety and convenience.
Shoei Helmets’ NEOTEC3 is not just a helmet; it’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to rider safety, comfort, and innovation.
Shoei has not released details on the helmet’s pricing outside of Japan or if it will be available in global markets including Malaysia.
BMW’s R18 cruiser moved the Bavarian brand beyond its usual line-up of adventure and sports bikes, and it was arguably well received. And if new reports are to be believed, BMW is once again set to expand its model line-up with the inevitable introduction of new R12 models
In May, BMW provided a sneak peek of the R12 nine T, which will be the successor to the decade-old R nine T and its various iterations. Furthermore, a second variant, simply named R12, has been unveiled through Type-Approval documents, indicating compliance with UN-ECE standards, allowing its sale in Europe and the UK.
The R12 is set to embrace a more cruiser-style design, positioning itself just below the R18 in BMW’s lineup, and offering competition for motorcycles like Harley-Davidson’s Nightster. This expectation is reinforced by statements made by BMW’s former head of design, Edgar Heinrich, who, when asked by a European journalist about the potential for more R12 models, cryptically replied, “I’m not allowed to talk about future bikes, but maybe that’s a good idea.” This response is widely interpreted as a confirmation of future R12 variants.
The recently released documents also reveal the first official specifications for the R12 nine T. Notably, it will offer three different power outputs to accommodate European regulations and adhere to A2 bike requirements in the UK.
BMW R18 Malaysia
Both the R12 and R12 nine T will share key components, including the engine and frame. Under the hood, you’ll find BMW’s 1170cc air-cooled boxer twin engine, capable of delivering a maximum of 107.3bhp in the top-tier R12 nine T model. This power is achieved at 7000rpm, 250rpm lower than the current R nine T’s peak, and is coupled with a maximum torque of 115Nm at 6500rpm. A second variation of the R12 nine T will offer a 94bhp & 109Nm engine to meet license requirements, and a restricted 47bhp version has also received Type-Approval.
Conversely, the cruiser-style R12 is exclusively available with the 94bhp and 47bhp engine options. These documents hint at an impressive top speed for the full-power R12 nine T, estimated at 134mph.
Both the R12 and R12 nine T share a 1520mm wheelbase, indicating their shared chassis and engine. However, the R12 is longer at 2200mm compared to the R12 nine T’s 2130mm. This is partly due to a larger 19-inch front wheel on the R12, complemented by a smaller 16-inch rear wheel, which contributes to its cruiser-style stance. In contrast, the R12 nine T boasts a sportier appearance with 17-inch wheels at both ends.
The R12’s wheels are also narrower than the R12 nine T’s, featuring a 100/90×19 front and 150/80×16 rear tire, as opposed to the R12 nine T’s 120/70×17 front and 180/55×17 rear tires.
Additional differences in dimensions reveal that the R12 is 40mm narrower across the handlebars but has handlebars that are 40mm taller compared to the R12 nine T. Both models will offer the option of front cowls.
In terms of weight, the R12 nine T is the lighter of the two, tipping the scales at 222kg with a full tank of fuel, while the R12 cruiser is slightly heavier at 229kg in the same state. BMW enthusiasts can anticipate more R12 variants in the future, including replacements for the R nine T Scrambler and R nine T Urban G/S, as well as a touring cruiser model equipped with panniers.
