In another saga about KTM’s financial struggles, there have been reports to suggest that KTM dumps MV Agusta just after 9 months of ‘marriage.’
Neither KTM’s owner, Pierer Mobility Group (PMG) nor MV Agusta has confirmed the move at the moment but there multiple sources have reported that MV Agusta had been effectively cut loose by KTM. KTM has acquired a 50.1% stake in the Italian luxury motorcycle brand.
The sources including Motorrad and GP-One, said that KTM officials had met with the Italian trade union CISL. KTM officials were reported to have said that MV Agusta is no longer a “strategically important asset.” On the other hand, it was also reported that an Agostino Casati from CISL had said that “KTM is completely withdrawing from MV Agusta,” and that “MV Agusta must stand on its own two feet again in the future.”
If it becomes true, KTM’s decision is somewhat expected, given that they had made the acquisition just prior of their current state of affairs. The Austrian firm would need to invest heavy sums of funds to invigorate and produce more MV Agustas in the future.
Five years ago, just before the world went in survival mode, we had visited the Guangdong Tayo Motorcycle Technology in China, the maker of Zontes Motorcycles. Since then, we have seen the arrival of the Zontes 310 and 155 line-ups in Malaysia. Fast forward five years and here it is, the Zontes 368G.
What is it?
The Zontes 368G is a scooter built on Zontes’ all-new 368 platform and is the latest contender in the crossover scooter segment. That means semi-knobby tyres on wire spoked wheels, and crash bars. But we shall see what sets this one apart from the competition in a bit.
Zontes says that they took inspiration from the Gundam anime series for the bike’s design.
Launched in China in May 2024, it has taken the Chinese, European, and Thai markets by storm. The factory had to work overtime in order to keep up with the orders. Well, why not because the Thai distributor alone saw 9,000 orders on the very same day of the launching in September this year!
Features
Be warned, the list of features will put even some bigger and more expensive bikes to shame, much less its direct competitors!
368cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder engine that produces a whopping 38.8hp and 40Nm of torque. The only more powerful cylinder engine is the 399cc LC4c from 2024 KTM Duke 390. But then the Duke is a naked sportbike, so the 368G’s engine takes the prize as the most powerful powerplant in the 350cc-400cc scooter category.
Upside-down 41mm forks adjustable for compression damping and tension (rebound damping).
Dual shocks adjustable for preload and tension, with remote reservoirs.
300mm front disc grabbed by a four-piston J.Juan radially-mounted caliper. J.Juan is now owned by Brembo.
ABS is dual-channel but the rear ABS can be turned off for off-road riding.
790mm standard seat height. The owner can opt for the 770mm lowered seat height.
Ground clearance is 180mm.
Front wheels are 17-inches, the rear are 14-inches.
Massive 52-liter underseat storage space that can take two full-face helmets. You can fit an adventure helmet (sideways) at the rear portion!
Three. Yes, 3(!) USB charging ports.
8-inch (uh-huh) colour TFT screen. Much sharper and bright under harsh sunlight now.
Two power modes – Sport and Economy.
Backlit switchgear.
Keyless ignition and fuel filler cover.
Adjustable windscreen over 7 positions.
Adjustable front and rear brake levers.
Hand protectors are standard.
Extra pair of footpegs for the rider to stand on when riding off-road (or if he wants to ride aggressively).
Front and rear facing dashcam as a standard feature.
And a partridge in a pear tree.
Our first ride
The media were bused to a remote region for a nice stretch of country road over a water reservoir’s dam. A few minutes later, a truck arrived and dropped off the 368G, 368D, 368E, plus the Zontes 703F triple. The three 368Gs looked like they just rolled out of the factory with all the plastic sheeting intact over the decals.
We rode over a truly bumpy road through a quaint farming village in order to reach and served as the initial test of the bike’s suspension. We did not even bother to ride on the smoother concrete portion as the chassis soaked it all up.
We cut loose as soon as we hit the beautifully paved dam road and the Zontes 368G just pulled smartly and quickly without that familiar shake typical of single-cylinder bikes. And it steered smartly into the corners too, without hesitation.
Oh, I forgot that I had a passenger onboard at the time. On later runs, the fastest (and most daring rider) managed to clock 166km/h with more to spare! Remember, these bikes have not even been broken in yet.
But me, I took it easy it was so peachy to ride. The throttle response was with no perceptible flat spots – open it and it goes, close it and the bike slows down smoothly. Similarly, the brakes had a good bite while providing great feedback. You just know how much finger force is needed to slow the bike.
Although it looks like the X-ADV at first glance, the body is actually much more compact. The footboards are also narrower, allowing the rider to plant his feet confidently on the road.
Speaking of planting his feet, we were surprised to find an extra pair of footpegs in addition to those for the passenger’s. These are meant for the rider to step on when he rides off-road. Not only that, the rubber pads can be removed, for the footrests’ spikes to grip the rider’s soles. This is a much better alternative than attempting to stand on the footboards. Additionally. the handlebar has markings for more accurate positioning. The passenger’s footrests are also placed higher and further behind compared to those on other scooters for the pillion’s comfort.
As for the electronics, the TFT screen in now much, much more improved – larger, sharper, brighter and can be read even under direct sunlight. The switchgear’s backlight is also much brighter and in red (not blue anymore) so to not degrade the rider’s night vision.
The other bits that impressed us was the built quality and attention to detail. which the pictures do no justice. The panels fit superbly and the paint was top notch (Zontes uses robots to paint their bikes). The plastic bits did not feel cheap to the touch or that they may become brittle, either. The finish on the mirror stalks and brake levers are the best we have seen.
It is simply lightyears ahead of the 155 and 310 series, and it shows you what Zontes has achieved in just 5 years from our visit. Now just compare that with most manufacturers who only refreshed their bikes’ graphics every year.
Price and availability
Zontes Malaysia says it will sell under RM29,000 and are targeting an official launch in the first quarter of 2025. The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will take two months for testing in order to award the bike its Vehicle Type Approval prior to its sale, anyway.
Conclusion
We hope to be able to test the bike more extensively when it gets here, Everyone of us came away super impressed with the Zontes 368G. The engine, suspension, attention to detail, quality, features, and finally price may well see it as the most popular scooter in the country.
Royal Enfield has launched another model, this time a bobber styled cruiser called the Royal Enfield Goan 350.
Based on the company’s 350cc J-platform, the model features factory custom-build aesthetics. RE distinguished it from the rest of its 350 siblings by featuring several hallmarks of a bobber, including high ape hanger handlebar, a “cut-off” tail section, whitewall rear tyre, painted wheels, scalloped tank, and foot forward controls. The swingarm is longer than the Classic 350’s.
The existing and long-running 348cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine produces 20hp so it should be grunty enough for urban riding.
And of course, the bike comes in eye-catching colours, called Purple Haze, Trip Teal, Rave Red, and Shack Black.
The Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 should appeal to riders who want something different, but uncomplicated and affordable. Price was unavailable at the time this news was published.
The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore was launched in Miami, USA on Sunday. This £48,000 (RM270,277.84) special edition bike is limited to just 1,000 units worldwide.
Based on the Panigale V4 S, it is distinguished by a red, white, and green Tricolore paint job by Aldo Drudi. Drudi was the designer responsible for Valentino Rossi’s helmet. There is also a huge number “1” at the front of the bike. This edition joins other Ducati Tricolore special editions since the 851 in 1988.
Although costing a bomb, the engine is the 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale shared with the Panigale V4/S, which produces 213hp at 13,500 RPM.
“In Miami and at Art Basel in particular we feel at home,” Director of Ducati’s Strategy and Style Centre, Andrea Ferraresi said. “Ducati is the only motorcycle brand able not only to combine sophisticated technology and sensual beauty, but also to break out of the typical schemes of sport liveries to create works of art, using the motorcycle as a canvas.”
However, despite standard engine, there is a host of additional special components and accessories.
The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore is fitted with five-spoke carbon fibre rims that reduce 950 grams of unsprung mass, when compared with Ducati’s forged alternatives. According to Ducati, this further reduces the moment of inertia by 12% at the front, and 19% at the rear – helping the bike to change direction faster.
On top of this, there’s also a pair of finned front Brembo T-Drive discs measuring a hefty 338.5mm across and 6.2mm across. The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 Tricolore is the first road-going production bike that wears these ex-factory.
The discs are gripped by Brembo Hypure calipers, plus an MCS 19.21 master cylinder – as used in MotoGP and World Superbikes.
There is also a dry clutch kit for that signature Ducati rattle, plus adjustable aluminium footpegs, and a GPS module to record your riding date.
A carbon fibre blanking plate for the numberplate bracket also comes as standard – plus a dedicated animation on the 6.9-inch TFT dash, Alcantara seat, and machined aluminium number board.
Further neat touches include a specially designed ignition key, motorcycle cover, and a certificate of authenticity.
Output: 20hp at 7,750 RPM and 19.9Nm at 3,750 RPM.
Transmission: 5-speed with assist and slipper clutch.
Frame: Steel.
Suspension: 41mm upside-down forks in front, monoshock with 7-step preload adjustment at the rear.
Brakes: 300mm single disc (front), 240mm disc (rear), dual-channel ABS.
Wheels: 17-inches (front and rear).
Colours: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember.
Begin Press Release:
TVS MotoSoul 4.0, the premier celebration of motorcycling organised by the TVS Motor Company, concluded at Vagator, Goa with an impressive display of innovation, diverse racing formats, and pioneering collaborations. On the final day of the festival, the new and refreshed 2025 TVS RONIN was unveiled. The motorcycle, now available in two striking color options—Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember—perfectly balances timeless retro design with cutting-edge modern features. It has updated vibrant colours, graphics, state-of-the-art connected technology and performance tailored to suit any mood.
The final day at TVS MotoSoul 4.0 brought an adrenaline-fueled climax to the thrilling new motorcycle race formats that pushed riders to the limits. From high-speed flat track races and gritty dirt track challenges to intense obstacle courses and more, the competition was fierce and the excitement palpable. These high octane events not only showcased the riders’ skills but also elevated the energy of the festival, bringing together a community united by their shared love for the machine. With each race, the thrill of the ride reached new heights, solidifying TVS MotoSoul as the ultimate celebration of motorcycling passion.
Commenting on the last day of the festival, Mr. Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company said, “TVS MotoSoul 2024, with its theme ‘Feel the Adrenaline, Feel the Inspiration, Feel the Groove,’ has been a true celebration of passion, creativity, and community. With every edition, we aim to elevate the spirit of motorcycling, offering exciting experiences for riders and enthusiasts alike. It is inspiring to see the motorcycling community thrive, and we remain dedicated to creating unique experiences that strengthen the bond between man and machine.”
New Unveil (All New TVS RONIN):
The New TVS Ronin impressed with the unveil of two striking new color options: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember. These colors replace the previous Delta Blue and Stargaze Black. The new colours enhance the motorcycle’s lineup and upgrade the mid-variant, reinforcing TVS Motor’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
For the first time, the mid-variant will be equipped with Dual-Channel ABS, which enhances safety and stabiliy for riders. This upgrade creates a more consistent differentiation across all three variants of the TVS Ronin, providing clear distinctions not only in color and graphics but also in functionality.
TVS has launched a new engine platform dubbed the TVS RT-XD4. It promises higher power and torque output, together with enhanced reliability.
The company produces the Apache 310 platform which also serves as the BMW G 310 series. That engine is 313 cc, water-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke unit which produces 34hp at 9,250 RPM and 28Nm at 7,500 RPM.
Start TVS Press Release:
TVS Motor Company (TVSM) – a leading global automaker operating in the two and three-wheeler segment – unveiled its next-gen TVS RT-XD4 engine platform on Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0. The TVS RT-XD4 is a new, transformative innovation that takes inspiration from the company’s racing heritage over decades. The platform delivers thrilling performance, unmatched refinement and precision, for a very comfortable ride.
Announcing the new engine platform, Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS RT-XD4 is a major milestone, the result of our focus on creating unique, compelling, TVS-kind of riding experience. Conceptualised, designed and developed in-house, at our R&D Centre in Hosur, the TVS RT-XD4 is a demonstration of our engineering and research capability. Over the last several years, TVSM has been setting benchmarks in riding excellence, made possible by decades of exposure to the race track, extensive user insights, ahead-of-the-curve investments, and robust tech and digital capability. We will continue to bring about mobility solutions that can transform the quality of life of people across the world.”
The TVS RT-XD4 engine platform delivers racing thrill via 4 Dual Technologies :
Dual Overhead Cams with downdraft port that delivers high revs and superior peak performance.
Dual oil pump with split chamber crankcase that delivers optimum lubrication and all-range torque.
Dual cooling jacket cylinder head with water jacket on top and oil jacket below that further increases cooling, to increase performance output.
Dual breather system that effectively prevents oil contamination and reduces oil consumption, for consistent performance over long duration.
The engine comes with other features for refined performance and rider comfort:
Plasma spray-coating.
Superior thermal/heat management.
High inertia shell bearing crankshaft.
Helical gear driven balancer system.
This new-gen platform delivers high efficiency, while supporting ethanol-blended fuels, reduced emissions, and enhanced reliability.
Power Output: 34.5hp 9,000 rpm, with 28.5 Nm torque @ 7,000 rpm.
Cooling System: Liquid-cooled with dual cooling (water and oil jackets).
6 Speed gear box.
Ride-by-wire throttle system.
Assist and Slipper clutch.
Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0:
A day of unique experiences, adventure and Records.
Day 1 of TVS MotoSoul 4.0 was a thrilling showcase of creativity, community, camaraderie and a celebration of engineering excellence. Custom motorcycle builds took center stage, with three extraordinary creations based on the TVS Apache RTR 310 and TVS RONIN, crafted in collaboration with Smoked Garage (Indonesia) and TVS Motor Factory Team (India). Dirt Track Races, Stunt Competitions, Obstacle Races, Slow Bike Races and Flat Track Training sessions kept the riders engrossed.
The creatively inclined, gravitated more towards the center stage to see artist performances, moto-art booths, caricatures and tattoo art, push-up competitions, game rooms and musical performances.
Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company said, “TVS MotoSoul 4.0 is a celebration of everything we stand for, as a premium motorcycle brand — creativity, innovation, and the rider spirit. Aside of our revolutionary performance engine platform that we unveiled, this year’s event also marks the assimilation of different cultures, biker communities and varied art forms. The showcase of custom motorcycles from some of the best builders in the industry, is a personal favourite. With captivating activities, thrilling racing formats, and electrifying performances, MotoSoul 4.0 sets the standard for motorcycling events.”
Adding to the excitement, TVS Motosoul 4.0 celebrated a record-breaking 6,300-kilometer ride on the Golden Quadrilateral, atop the TVS NTORQ. Two accomplished riders – Syed Asif Ali and Shamin Khan – now have recognition from the Asia Book of Records for achieving the feat.
The day was packed with dynamic experiences, including panel discussions, freestyle acts, interactive zones, and electrifying performances by Kalamkaar and DJs Akthar & Clement, setting the tone for the festival.
