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China’s motorcycle manufacturing landscape continues to evolve with the emergence of new brands aiming to make their mark.

  • AW is a relatively unknown name that has recently stepped into the spotlight by unveiling its inaugural offerings – the 500 N and 500 R motorcycles in China. 
  • the 500 N and 500 R makes a commendable 45hp and tips the scale at 186kg. 

Although a newcomer, AW has quickly captured attention since its debut at a trade fair in China back in 2021. The brand’s debut models, the 500 N and 500 R, share a common platform but boast distinct styling elements.

Both motorcycles are powered by engines sourced from Chinese manufacturer Loncin, presenting a parallel-twin configuration reminiscent of Honda’s renowned engine architecture.

Performance-wise, the AW 500 series packs a punch with a commendable 45 horsepower output, placing it on par with other contenders in the entry-level segment. Weighing in at a manageable 186 kilograms, these bikes offer an accessible riding experience suitable for a diverse range of riders.

Setting itself apart, AW has equipped the 500 N and 500 R models with premium underpinnings. The front suspension features adjustable inverted forks, while the rear employs an adjustable link-type shock. Braking capabilities are enhanced with dual disc brakes boasting radially mounted four-piston calipers.

In sync with modern trends, AW’s new offerings embrace technology with a sizable full-color display, hinting at possible Bluetooth connectivity. The two models diverge in their aesthetics – the 500 R embracing a traditional fully-faired sportbike design, while the 500 N takes cues from premium modern classics, infusing sporty angles with a touch of retro flair.

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer Zongshen has rolled out a distinctive offering for young enthusiasts seeking a taste of the biker lifestyle.

  • the Yomi 125 is a scooter in disguised as a classic American chopper. 
  • powering the Zongshen Yomi 125 is a modest 124cc single-cylinder engine.

The recently launched Zongshen Yomi 125 breaks away from traditional norms, adopting the aesthetics of a classic American chopper in a compact, beginner-friendly form.

In a departure from standard motorcycle design, the Yomi 125 boasts an elongated front end with a relaxed head angle, reminiscent of iconic choppers. However, beneath its unconventional appearance lies a modest 124cc single-cylinder engine generating a humble 8hp and 7.2Nm of torque. This engine, paired with a scooter-inspired CVT transmission, ensures an easy and convenient riding experience, ideal for those new to motorcycling.

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With a low seat height of just 65 centimeters and a featherweight 113-kilogram build, the Yomi 125 offers approachability for riders of all statures. The model’s affordability adds to its appeal, with a price tag of just CNY9,800 (RM6.2k).

While the Zongshen Yomi 125’s quirky design and affordability could attract a following among young riders in China, it seems that the manufacturer has no plans to introduce this unique mini chopper-inspired scooter to international markets.

Though the Yomi 125 may not revolutionize the motorcycling world, its blend of unconventional styling, ease of use, and affordability could serve as a stepping stone for novices, inviting them to explore the world of two-wheeled transportation.

BMW enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting the official unveiling of the upcoming R 1300 GS model, set to take place on September 28.

  • the next-generation BMW R 1300 GS is scheduled for global unveiling in September. 
  • the R 1300 GS is equipped with a bigger boxer engine than its predecessor. 

While the launch date is still over a month away, an inadvertent reveal on BMW’s official website has given us an early insight into the expected cost of this highly anticipated motorcycle.

This leak was initially spotted by Germany’s MotorradOnline and subsequently shared by the motorcycling community, particularly highlighted by ADVRider. The focal point of this leak was an online financing calculator on BMW Motorrad USA’s website. The calculator briefly displayed the 2024 R 1300 GS with an eye-catching price tag of USD19,590 – that’s around RM90.1k for our Malaysian readers. 

What sets the new R 1300 GS apart from its predecessor? In a remarkable twist, Swiss certification documents that surfaced earlier unveiled that the R 1300 GS will be powered by an impressive 1300cc engine. 

This powerhouse is projected to generate an astonishing 143.5hp @ 7,750 rpm and a peak torque 147Nm @ 6,500 rpm. This represents a notable improvement over the R 1250 GS, which has a certified output of 134.1 hp at 7,750 rpm. 

The substantial performance gains can be attributed to the enlarged engine displacement and the incorporation of a comprehensive liquid-cooling system.

Intriguingly, the R 1300 GS is not the sole novelty from BMW on the horizon for 2024. The company has also officially confirmed the imminent arrival of the R12 NineT and the M 1000 XR. While information about the 2024 iteration of the S 1000 XR is yet to be revealed, it’s expected that an updated version will accompany the enhanced M variant, amplifying the excitement for BMW aficionados worldwide.

CFMoto officially introduced the highly-anticipated CFMoto 450NK in the Philippines. Following its initial launch in China just a couple of months ago, this naked sport bike has now landed in the archipelago, marking a significant step for CFMoto’s expansion into South-East Asian markets.

  • the 450NK replaces the 400NK and is powered by the same parallel-twin engine with 270-degree crank found in the 450SR. 
  • the 450NK follows the same design language as the bigger 800NK. 
*the new 450NK replaces the 400NK.

Replacing its predecessor, the popular 400NK, the CFMoto 450NK presents an impressive blend of style, performance, and innovation, aiming to raise the bar in the competitive SEA motorcycle scene. 

This move comes on the heels of the successful progression of CFMoto’s NK lineup, evolving from the 400NK and its larger sibling, the 650NK, to the latest 800NK. Now, the 450NK takes center stage, inheriting several features from the 450SR, showcasing the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Design-wise, the 450NK draws inspiration from its predecessor, the 800NK, boasting a revamped headlight, bold fairings that exude aggression, and a striking color palette. Its tail design shares similarities with the 250 and 450SR models, tailored to complement the bike’s overall proportions and distinctive aesthetics.

Under the hood, the 450NK mirrors the performance DNA of the 800NK, sporting a parallel-twin engine with a similar firing order. With a 270-degree crankshaft, the engine delivers a robust power output of 46.9hp and 39Nm. Its 449cc displacement pairs with a six-speed transmission featuring a slipper clutch, ensuring a seamless and exhilarating riding experience.

The 450NK finds balance on a compact wheelbase of just 1,370mm. The accessible seat height of 795mm accommodates a diverse range of riders. Despite its muscular performance, the bike maintains a manageable curb weight of 165kg. 

Suspension duties are entrusted to KYB, featuring an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a central mono-shock at the rear. Braking confidence is ensured through a 320-millimeter single disc equipped with a J.Juan four-piston calliper, complemented by a 220mm single disc rear brake with a single-piston calliper. Notably, CFMoto prioritizes safety by incorporating anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard, alongside a traction control system for added stability.

As the CFMoto 450NK accelerates into the Philippine market, we are sure that the new sport naked will make it’s way to Malaysia soon probably by the end of the year. 

Yamaha has set hearts racing with its latest announcement of significant enhancements to the YZ250F model for the year 2024.

  • Yamaha has unveiled significant upgrades to the YZ250F motocross bike for 2024, including a new frame design, enhanced performance features, and improved user experience.
  • The new aluminum bilateral beam frame has been optimized for strength and flex, leading to improved agility, better traction, and increased rider confidence. This design also allows for slimmer bodywork and ergonomic improvements.

This powerhouse motocross bike, a favourite among riders and enthusiasts, has undergone a comprehensive overhaul that promises to elevate performance, agility, and user experience to new heights.

One of the most striking updates is the introduction of a fresh frame design that not only sheds weight but also boasts more compact dimensions. The meticulously crafted aluminum bilateral beam frame has been optimised for both strength and flex, ensuring enhanced agility, superior traction, and an overall boost in rider confidence.

This structural improvement also paved the way for a more streamlined bodywork, with a narrower fuel tank, lower airbox, and sleeker radiator shrouds. Riders will delight in the added legroom, a result of extending the distance between the seat and footpegs.

Under the hood, the YZ250F’s 250 cc four-stroke engine has received a performance boost through a refined intake path and matched ECU settings. Yamaha engineers have fine-tuned the power delivery, resulting in increased mid-range torque that extends seamlessly to the top end. Durability has been taken into account with a camchain adjustment, ensuring longevity without compromising performance.

Yamaha introduces the latest iteration of the Yamaha Power Tuner app, a user-friendly interface that empowers riders to customise their experience. The app offers intuitive control over engine mapping, traction control, and launch control tuning. The addition of a lap timer adds an extra dimension for those craving precision and progress.

A standout feature is the advanced traction control system, which offers three settings – Off, High, and Low – catering to varying terrains and riding styles. The launch control system is equally versatile, adjustable between 6,000rpm and 14,000rpm in 500rpm increments via the Yamaha Power Tuner app. Riders can switch between two pre-loaded maps on the go using the new handlebar-mounted switch.

The KYB suspension has also undergone meticulous refinement, resulting in reduced cornering pitch and improved overall stability. The hand-adjustable knobs on the forks make compression adjustments effortless, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup with ease.

Nissin brakes, featuring a 270 mm front rotor and 240 mm rear rotor, ensure impressive stopping power. Furthermore, the wheels have been optimised for weight reduction, contributing to the YZ250F’s leaner profile. The bike’s wet weight now stands at a remarkable 105kg.

The YZ250F proudly embraces Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires, with an 80/100-21 front tire and a 120/80-19 rear tire, further solidifying its grip and control on challenging tracks.

 

In a recent move that’s piqued the interest of motorcycle enthusiasts, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has issued an executive order to Suzuki Motor Corporation concerning four upcoming 2024 model year bikes. 

  • CARB filing in America suggest the arrival of a road focus V-Strom 800. 
  • The new variant possibly feature 19-inch front wheel with alloy rims tailored for the open road. 

 

 

According to reports by RideApart, these certification documents shed light on the bikes’ engines and emissions compliance, offering a sneak peek into what Suzuki has in store for riders.

At the heart of this revelation lies Suzuki’s 776cc parallel twin engine, initially introduced for the 2023 model year in both the GSX-8S and the V-Strom 800DE. CARB’s focus on emissions ensures that bikes using the same engine are grouped together, hinting at potential similarities among these upcoming models.

 

Diving into the specifics, the CARB document lists four distinct machines for 2024, all utilizing the aforementioned 776cc engine. The four models mentioned are the V-Strom 800DE Adventure, V-Strom 800DE, V-Strom 800, and GSX-8S.

The V-Strom 800DE Adventure and V-Strom 800DE made their debut at EICMA 2022 as adventure-oriented offerings sharing the 776cc engine platform with the GSX-8S. The Adventure version further enhances the base V-Strom 800DE with quick-release panniers, a skid plate, and an accessory bar.

However, the intriguing discovery lies with the V-Strom 800, a model not previously mentioned during Suzuki’s 2022 EICMA showcase. While specifics remain a mystery, industry speculation suggests a focus on road prowess, potentially featuring alloy wheels and a 19-inch front wheel—distinctive elements tailored for on-road performance.

Despite these exciting prospects, Suzuki has yet to release official information or updates on the 2024 V-Strom 800DE and V-Strom 800DE Adventure models as of August 9, 2023. This has fueled anticipation regarding whether the unveiling of these models will also introduce the enigmatic V-Strom 800.

Pricing details for the upcoming 2024 models remain elusive, but drawing from the 2023 lineup, expectations lean towards a range akin to or slightly below the V-Strom 800DE. 

(source: RideApart)

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