Motorcycle news, Motorcycle reviews from Malaysia, Asia and the world

Harley-Davidson Potentially Working On A 200cc Roadster

In a surprising turn of events, Harley-Davidson, is rumored to be on the brink of introducing a 200cc single-cylinder motorcycle, igniting speculations of a potential face-off with Royal Enfield in the highly competitive sub-300cc motorcycle segment in India.

recent sightings fueled rumors of a smaller 200cc Harley-Davidson roadster, tentatively named the X 210.
The introduction of the X 210 could provide Harley-Davidson with a more affordable entry point into the market.

A few months ago, Harley-Davidson unveiled the X 440, its first single-cylinder offering in decades, with aspirations to capture market share from Royal Enfield’s globally renowned 350cc lineup.

However, recent sightings of a test mule resembling the X 440 in India have fueled rumors of a smaller 200cc Harley-Davidson roadster, tentatively named the X 210. This development has raised questions about the possibility of Harley-Davidson expanding its small-displacement portfolio.

One compelling reason for Harley-Davidson to consider a 200cc roadster is its strategic intent to challenge Royal Enfield’s dominance in the sub-300cc segment.

While the X 440 boasts competitive pricing, it still falls short of matching Royal Enfield’s extensive 350cc range. The introduction of the X 210 could provide Harley-Davidson with a more affordable entry point into the market.

The demographics of the Indian market play a significant role in this potential move. India has witnessed a strong demand for sub-300cc motorcycles, with consumers willing to compromise on certain features if the pricing is competitive.

Another crucial factor contributing to the feasibility of the X 210 is Harley-Davidson’s partnership with Hero MotoCorp in India.

Hero MotoCorp recently introduced a new 210cc, liquid-cooled engine producing 25 horsepower and approximately 15 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant could serve as the heart of the X 210, with some fine-tuning to align it with Harley-Davidson’s characteristic focus on low-end torque.

However, not all signs point definitively toward the X 210 becoming a reality. The test mule spotted in India closely resembles the X 440 in terms of design and exhaust layout.

Furthermore, neither Harley-Davidson nor Hero MotoCorp has officially filed any documentation or statements regarding a 200cc roadster.

What can be confirmed, however, is that Harley-Davidson India is actively working on the Nightster 440, a motorcycle expected to offer a premium Harley-Davidson cruiser experience, differentiating itself from the X 440 and showcasing the brand’s commitment to diversifying its lineup.

Triumph Unveils Highly Anticipated 250cc Motocross Bike At SuperMotocross World Championship Final

In a thrilling display of power, precision, and fanfare, Triumph Motorcycles unveiled their eagerly awaited 250cc motocross bike at the SuperMotocross World Championship Final held at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

Spectators at the event were treated to a spectacular show as two new Triumph motocross bikes made a grand entrance, accompanied by a dazzling array of pyrotechnics and fanfare that left the audience in awe.
The event marked the public debut of the production-specification motocross bike, generating immense excitement and anticipation among the motocross community.

The honor of piloting Triumph’s new motocross machine fell to none other than Jeff ‘Six Time’ Stanton, a legendary figure in the motocross world who clinched his last championship victory at the Coliseum.

Stanton, who currently serves as the manager of Triumph’s Adventure Experience in the United States, demonstrated the bike’s capabilities with finesse and enthusiasm. Joining him was motocross icon Ricky Carmichael, often hailed as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), who showcased a bike featuring his unique graphics and non-standard specification components.

A significant announcement came during the event, as the date for the full reveal of the new Triumph 250cc motocross bike was unveiled on giant screens within the stadium. Enthusiasts and fans can mark their calendars for November 28, 2023, when all the details about this exciting addition to the motocross world will be unveiled.

Speaking to his fellow commentators after his exhilarating ride, Ricky Carmichael expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m so happy to finally show the fans what we’ve been working on for the past 4 years. The bike feels great, it looks great, and it’s fast. I’m really pleased with what we’ve delivered, and I can’t wait until we can share the final details on November 28th.”

Jeff Stanton, reflecting on his triumphant return to the Coliseum aboard the Triumph, commented, “The Coliseum is a special place for me, and to be back here on the Triumph is an absolute honor for me. The new graphics look like nothing else in the paddock and give the bike a really sharp and distinctive new look that I think the fans are going to love.”

In conjunction with the bike’s unveiling, Triumph also launched its brand-new Triumph Racing website and social media channels. To stay updated on all the action and developments, enthusiasts are encouraged to follow Triumph Racing on Instagram and Facebook under the handle @OfficialTriumphRacing.

HJC Rolls Out All-New RPHA 12

HJC unveils its latest addition to the helmet lineup, the HJC RPHA 12.

The new HJC RPHA 12 was built upon the success of its predecessor, the RPHA 11.
The new offering promises significant improvements and features that cater to rider safety and comfort.

The HJC RPHA 12 boasts a Premium Integrated Matrix Evo (PIM-Evo) shell, combining carbon-aramid hybrid and natural fibers for enhanced shock resistance, comfort, and reduced weight. While the overall shell design remains similar to the RPHA 11, it introduces several key upgrades and adjustments.

One notable enhancement addresses the visor mechanism, a previous pain point for RPHA 11 owners. The RPHA 12 incorporates a new HJ-42 visor with a Pivot Ratchet, ensuring improved movement and sealing, as claimed by the manufacturer.

Ventilation has also seen an update, with the helmet featuring updated chin, forehead, and brow vents. The exhaust vents, however, have been reduced in number, totaling four intake and three exhaust vents. The familiar spoiler from the RPHA 11 makes a return with slight updates, emphasizing its “aerodynamic shell structure for extreme performance at maximum speeds.”

Additional features include a wide eye port, an emergency release cheek pad system, an interior with advanced anti-bacterial fabric and moisture-wicking properties, and a package that includes a Pinlock 120 anti-fog insert, a dark smoke visor, a chin curtain, and a breath deflector.

The HJC RPHA 12 is available in various options including the flagship carbon version, which is expected to be particularly appealing. The initial graphic choices include Ottin, Lawin, Spasso, and Enoth, with more options expected in the future, including licensed designs.

For motorcycle enthusiasts seeking an upgraded helmet experience, the HJC RPHA 12 is set to provide an enticing option, combining safety, comfort, and style. Stay tuned for further developments and additional graphic choices from HJC.

2023 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Aragon Edition Now In Malaysia – RM81,000

Coming in new for the Malaysian market is the 2023 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Aragon Edition commemorating Iván Cervantes’ outstanding victory in the grueling Baja Aragón race last year.

Available exclusively in 2023, the Tiger 900 GT Aragón, showcase unique liveries and specifications.
The Aragon Edition pays homage to Ivan Cervantes’ remarkable feat.

Cervantes, aboard a Tiger 900 Rally Pro, dominated the 450km race, finishing an impressive 1 hour and 6 minutes ahead of his competitors. This victory highlighted the Tiger’s exceptional endurance and performance capabilities, even in the most challenging terrains.

However, while Triumph globally introduced Tiger 900 Rally Aragón edition and Tiger 900 GT Aragon edition, only the latter made its way to the Malaysian market.

That said, the Tiger 900 GT Aragon edition offer the same cutting-edge features, technology, and capabilities found in the highly acclaimed Tiger 900 GT Pro. With their advanced performance and exclusive aesthetics, these special editions exude a fierce and race-ready demeanor.

The GT Aragón Edition features a bold and elegant triple color scheme comprising Diablo Red, Matt Phantom Black, and Crystal White. It shares the same twin-color seat design and includes Triumph Tiger and Aragón Edition detailing.

The motorcycle retain the powerful 87 Nm of peak torque at 7,250 rpm and are equipped with a slip and assist clutch, delivering an exhilarating triple performance. Their lightweight modular frames and high-specification suspension ensure exceptional handling both on and off the road, promising an agile and dynamic riding experience.

The GT Aragón Edition takes handling to the next level with fully adjustable 45mm USD Marzocchi cartridge forks, complemented by electronically adjustable RSU suspension. Meanwhile, the Rally Aragón Edition features Showa forks specially tuned to enhance off-road performance.

It also come standard with engine protection bars. To cater to individual preferences, a wide range of over 65 dedicated accessories is available for customization, allowing riders to personalize their Tiger 900 Aragón to suit their unique adventures.

Pricing and availability

According to Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia, the Tiger 900 GT Aragon Edition is priced at RM81,000.

Harley-Davidson X350 And X500 To Enter The Japanese Market

Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, is set to further expand its presence in the Asian market by introducing the X350 and X500 models to Japan in October 2023.

The introduction of the X350 and X500 comes as a result of a collaborative effort between Harley-Davidson and Chinese manufacturer QJ Motor.
The partnership aims to create small-displacement motorcycles designed to appeal to a wider range of riders.
These two models are based on existing QJ Motor and Benelli designs and have already made waves in the Chinese market.

The X350, drawing similarities to the Benelli 302S, features a 353cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine, generating 36hp @ 9,500 rpm and 31Nm @ 7,000 rpm. On the other hand, the X500, styled after the Benelli Leoncino 500, boasts a 500cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine, delivering 47hp @ 8,500 rpm and 46Nm @ 6,000 rpm. Both models are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

These new additions to the Harley-Davidson family represent a significant departure from the brand’s traditional cruiser styling, featuring a more standard and naked bike design. The move underscores Harley-Davidson’s commitment to adapting its product offerings to meet the preferences of diverse global markets.

With the Japanese launch just around the corner, enthusiasts and riders in Japan can look forward to experiencing these distinctive motorcycles, which reflect Harley-Davidson’s dedication to innovation and its evolving global strategy.

For motorcycle enthusiasts in Japan, the arrival of the X350 and X500 promises an exciting new chapter in the Harley-Davidson legacy, offering riders a fresh and dynamic riding experience.

FIRST LOOK: 2024 BMW R 1300 GS

In a bold leap into the future, BMW Motorrad has unveiled the highly anticipated 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, marking the dawn of a new era for the iconic GS series.

The R 1300 GS promises to redefine the adventure touring motorcycle segment with cutting-edge innovations and enhanced performance.
The new generation GS now features an all-new bodywork and advanced suspension and handling.

Revolutionary Boxer Engine

At the heart of the 2024 BMW R 1300 GS lies the legendary two-cylinder boxer engine, now more compact and powerful than ever before. Boasting a displacement of precisely 1,300 cc, this formidable powerplant churns out an astonishing 107 kW (145 hp) at 7,750 rpm, delivering a peak torque of 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm. This represents the most potent boxer engine ever to grace a BMW motorcycle.

The innovative design of the engine incorporates a gearbox positioned under the power unit and a novel camshaft drive arrangement, contributing to an impressive weight reduction of 12 kg compared to its predecessor.

Advanced Suspension and Handling

The chassis of the 2024 R 1300 GS has undergone a significant transformation. A sheet metal shell main frame constructed from steel offers superior stiffness, while the rear frame has transitioned to a lightweight die-cast aluminum structure. Complementing these changes, the new EVO Telelever front wheel guide with flex element and revised EVO Paralever rear wheel guide enhance steering precision and ride stability.

Optional electronic Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA) dynamically adapts damping and spring rates, providing exceptional ride comfort and safety across various terrains. The system even compensates for varying loads, delivering an exhilarating riding experience whether solo, with a passenger, or laden with luggage.

Versatility and Customization

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS offers riders greater flexibility with a range of options. The adaptive vehicle height control ensures optimal comfort without compromising on dynamic handling. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the 20 mm increase in spring travel and an available sports suspension designed specifically for the GS.

The motorcycle introduces a standard selection of four riding modes, including the new “Enduro” mode tailored for off-road adventures. Whether traversing wet roads or seeking maximum fuel efficiency, the R 1300 GS adapts to the rider’s preferences.

Cutting-Edge Lighting

In line with BMW Motorrad’s commitment to safety, the R 1300 GS comes equipped with Matrix LED headlamps as standard. These state-of-the-art headlamps, featuring a distinctive design, illuminate the road with unparalleled clarity. LED turn indicators integrated into the hand protectors and the optional “Headlight Pro” system that adjusts the beam during turns further enhance visibility.

Enhanced Safety Features

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS introduces the Riding Assistant option, a comprehensive safety suite comprising Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Change Warning (LCW). ACC allows riders to set desired speeds and following distances, while FCW with brake intervention and LCW enhance collision avoidance and lane-changing safety.

Diverse Model Variants

The R 1300 GS lineup offers a diverse range of options to suit various tastes. The basic variant embodies the essence of the GS legend, featuring a compact design and essential functionality.

The Triple Black variant exudes masculinity with exclusive surfaces, while the GS Trophy model, painted in Racingblue metallic with striking red and white accents, represents the pinnacle of performance and off-road prowess. The Option 719 Tramuntana variant combines cross-spoke wheels in gold with an elegant Aurelius Green metallic paint finish and meticulously crafted milled aluminum components.

The 2024 BMW R 1300 GS is poised to set new standards in the world of adventure touring motorcycles, combining heritage, innovation, and customization to offer riders an unparalleled experience. Stay tuned for more details and ride into the future with BMW’s “Next level GS.”

GALLERY: BMW R 1300 GS