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After more twists and turns than in a Bollywood movie later, the India MotoGP has been “delayed” to 2026. Dorna and the FIM have confirmed it officially with a press release.

The release did not mention the words “cancelled” or “postponed” and instead stated that the event will be “included on the 2026 FIM MotoGP calendar”. At the same time, they confirmed that the Indian venue will be a standby event for the 2025 championship season.

The full press release from the FIM and Dorna reads:

“The FIM, IRTA and Dorna Sports confirm that the Indian Grand Prix will be included on the 2026 FIM MotoGP calendar, moving to become a reserve event for 2025.

“Operational circumstances have obliged the event to be delayed from its initial slot near the start of the 2025 calendar. With no available dates towards the end of the season, MotoGP will therefore return to India in the early stages of 2026.

“Both MotoGP and InvestUP are working hard to bring MotoGP back to Buddh International Circuit with a world-class event, and are committed to confirming India as a destination for global sporting events.

“Our collaboration with InvestUP to bring MotoGP back to India continues to lay fantastic foundations for the future and MotoGP looks forward to racing in front of our incredible Indian fans as soon as possible.”

Autosport reports that the troubles are down to a lack of financial support from a local government investment agency linked to the region where the race is to be held. Invest UP (UP stands for Uttar Pradesh – the region in which the Buddh International Circuit resides) took over the promotion of the event from Fairstreet Sports, who promoted the inaugural event in 2023. It was believed that Fairstreet Sports had failed to pay Dorna and FIM for the rights to hold the event, in addition to the vendors.

Even that inaugural event in 2023 was fraught with difficulties on more than one occasion in the days leading up to it.

The 2024 was originally intended to take place last weekend, was first cancelled due to financial concerns although Dorna and the FIM did not specifically mention it. The round was subsequently moved to early 2025 due to “weather concerns” ahead of the season’s first round at Buriram, Thailand. It was hoped that the weather in the Uttar Pradesh region will be cooler during that time.

The postponement of the Indian MotoGP meant that MotoGP remained in Misano for two back-to-back rounds, instead.

Apart from the 2024 MODENAS Versys 650 SE, the 2024 Kawasaki Z900RS SE has also been launched in Malaysia.

The Kawasaki Z900RS SE is a captivating blend of timeless styling and modern engineering. Paying homage to the iconic Z1, this motorcycle captures the spirit of old-school bikes while seamlessly integrating contemporary features.

Notably, it features an Öhlins S46 rear shock—a hallmark of quality construction—that enhances grip and contributes to a suppler ride feel. The front suspension has been fine-tuned to complement the new rear shock, and a remote preload adjuster allows easy customisation for tandem riding or luggage. Eye- catching gold-coloured fork outer tubes match the Öhlins rear shock, adding to the bike’s allure.

And when it comes to stopping power, the Z900RS SE does n0t disappoint: it boasts 300mm Brembo front discs and M4.32 radial-mount monobloc calipers. Whether you appreciate heritage or crave performance, the Z900RS SE is a standout choice for riders who seek authenticity and excellence on the road.

The 2024 Z900RS SE is available in Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray. Recommended retail selling price is RM73,300.

Motosikal Dan Enjin Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (MODENAS), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad, is pleased to announce the release of two exciting models: the 2024 MODENAS Versys 650 SE.

With limited units available, the new MODENAS Versys 650 SE is the ultimate touring companion, equipped with a 56-litre quick-release pannier system that offers ample storage for long getaways while preserving the bike’s dual-purpose capabilities. A hassle-free feature, the panniers use the same key as the ignition, eliminating the need for a separate key. It is a true plug-and-play model, making it convenient for riders.

The panniers are designed to accommodate most full-face helmets and attach seamlessly to the handgrips and footrests. When removed, they provide a sleek, sporty appearance. With a mounting width of 93 cm, the bike remains ideal for high-speed cruising.

Available exclusively in Malaysia, this special edition retains the proven performance of the previous model, powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that delivers smooth power for both city commutes and long-distance touring.

This special edition model reflects our commitment to delivering motorcycles with enhanced functionality,” said Yusaku Kashiwagi, Chief Marketing Officer of MODENAS. “With added storage and touring capabilities, the MODENAS Versys 650 SE is the perfect companion for riders seeking both adventure and practicality.

The Versys 650 is one of Kawasaki’s long-running model since 2007, when it replaced the KLE500. It has gone through several updates since. The engine is shared among the Ninja 650R/ER-6f/Ninja 650 and ER-6n/Z650. The lineup for Malaysia is currently being assembled in Gurun, Kedah, and rebadged as MODENAS.

There are two colour variants, namely Metallic Spark Black (RM43,600.00) and Candy Lime Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black (RM44,200.00).

As we mentioned earlier, the road legal Yamaha YZF-R1 is now only available for all other markets except in the UK and Europe due to Euro 5 emissions restrictions. However, the bike can be sold in the UK and EU markets in competition form only. As such, here are the track-only 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 Race and 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR.

2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 Race

This is the base model in the competition range, and as usual, Yamaha claims that it is inspired by the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike. All road-legal equipment have been removed, leaving only the necessities, including the large carbon fibre front wings. The factory did not publish how much downforce they add on, though.

The forks are KYB 43mm upside-down units, adjustable for compression dan rebound damping. These are conventionally adjusted unlike the electronically-controlled type on the road-legal R1. This is because most racing series (apart from the FIM EWC) ban electronically-controlled suspension. Besides, professional riders prefer manually-controlled suspension as they provide better feel.

Front brakes consist of Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers.

Highlights:

  • New MotoGP-inspired downforce winglets.
  • New generation KYB front forks.
  • New Brembo front master cylinder and Stylema calipers.
  • New grippy seat cover.
  • Fully track-focused, all road components removed.
  • 998cc 200PS crossplane 4-cylinder engine with linear torque.
  • Sophisticated electronics package.
  • 6-axis IMU with Gyro/G sensors for 3D motion data.
  • Banking sensitive Traction Control (TCS) and Slide Control (SCS).
  • Power Delivery Modes (PWR).
  • Front Lift Control (LIF) and Launch Control (LCS).
  • Quick Shift System (QSS).
  • Engine Brake Management (EBM) and Brake Control (BC).
  • Short wheelbase aluminium Deltabox frame.
  • Upward truss type aluminium swingarm/magnesium rear frame.
  • Magnesium rear wheels and 17 litre aluminium fuel tank.
  • 4.2 inch TFT instrument panel with Track Mode.

2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR

The GYTR (Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing) unit is the Pro Shop for the brand. The R1 GYTR is said to “leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of racing performance”. It features all the upgrades to the R1 Race, along with a host of “race-developed” GTYR parts. Each GYTR model is also built in one of Yamaha’s specialist GYTR PRO Shops, and is homologated to meet the FIM Superstock 1000 regulations right out of the crate.

Above the spec of the R1 Race, the new 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR features a higher level of adjustability in the bike’s ECU, and rider ergonomics, thanks to fully adjustable rearsets and handlebars.

The front brake system uses the same Stylema calipers, although on the GYTR model they are fitted with Z04 racing pads and GYTR brake lines. There is also a thumb brake lever for the rear brake. A race-spec wiring loom hides underneath the fairing, and exhaust gases are shot out of an Akrapovic silencer.

Suspension is Öhlins, of course.

Highlights:

  • New black glass fibre race cowl with MotoGP-inspired winglets and sticker kit.
  • New generation KYB front forks.
  • New Brembo front master cylinder and Stylema calipers.
  • New GYTR race rear set.
  • New GYTR R1 handlebar set.
  • GYTR Racing ECU (SST spec).
  • GYTR Racing Wire Harness.
  • Akrapovic Race muffler with mid-damper system (<100 dB).
  • GYTR AIS plug set.
  • 15/42T 520 sprockets and 520 racing chain.
  • GYTR ABS emulator.
  • GYTR ON/OFF switch.
  • GYTR brake line set.
  • GYTR racing fuel cap.
  • GYTR engine cover set.
  • GYTR sharkfin rear sprocket guard.
  • GYTR brake lever guard.
  • Stand hook set and rear racing stand.
  • GYTR steering stoppers.
  • GYTR racing screen.
  • Brembo Z04 racing brake pads.

Yamaha has net set a price for both models.

Boon Siew Honda Sdn. Bhd. has announced two new colours for the 2025 Honda Vario 160, namely Blue and Red.

The Honda Vario 160 is powered by a 157cc, 4-valve engine featuring enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+) technology. This engine delivers a maximum power output of 15hp (11.3kW) at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 13.8 Nm at 7,000 rpm. That is plenty of grunt for a 160cc scooter.

Safety aspects include anti-lock braking system (ABS) for the front brake while the rear utilises a disc brake without ABS. The scooter rolls on 14-inch wheels, front and rear.

Honda claims a wet weight of 119kg with a full 5.5-liter tank, which is quite light.

Other features include the Honda Smart Key System for keyless ignition, full LED lighting all-around, and a built-in USB charger for the rider’s devices.

The new 2025 Honda Vario 160 with new colours will be available at all IMPIAN X and authorized Honda dealers nationwide starting from 23rd September 2024. The sales price for these new colours is RM10,198 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration), while the price for the present Green and Mat Blue options is RM10,498 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration).

Boon Siew Honda offers two years or 20,000km manufacturing warranty, whichever comes first. For more information, please click www.boonsiewhonda.com.my or visit the nearest Honda Impian X. Customers may also reach them via their toll-free number at 1-800-88-3993.

2025 Honda Vario 160 Photo Gallery

Whether you ride a 200hp sportbike or scooter, one essential area of the body that should protected is the spine. This is why we should invest in a good back protector.

While we buy the best helmet to protect our heads, and jackets that protect our elbows and shoulders, we often forget about our backbone. Like your motorcycle’s main frame, the spine is what holds the entire body together and an injury will have lasting consequences. Back injuries are common, thus wearing a decent back protector can massively reduce the chances of a damaged spine if you’re unlucky enough to be involved in an accident.

We can just see how many professional and riders have walked away from horrific crashes since the advent of back protectors in the 80s. Those who unfortunately did not had injuries to other parts of their bodies instead of the spine. (Wayne Rainey broke his spine just below the neck as his head was planted into the gravel, instead of a direct impact.)

Many modern leather or textile jackets and suits already house back protectors but some are inadequate, except if the protector is CE Level 1 or Level 2 certified. As such, we strongly recommend spending a little extra to give yourself maximum protection with a dedicated back protector. These absorb an impact far better than the flimsy piece of foam you find stuffed down the back of most jackets and some racesuits.

So, what should we look for when we buy a dedicated back protector? Here are a few simple tips to bear in mind when buying:

  • It has EN 1621:2013 CE-certification or approval to either Level 1 or Level 2.
  • Try on the protector with the kit you will be wearing, making sure it does not dig into your neck. Try a smaller one if it does.
  • Check the shoulder straps are adjustable for maximum comfort.
  • Some back protectors are articulated, while some are one piece. Test them out to see which is more comfortable or suits your needs.
  • Most have an adjustable Velcro waistband. Make sure it is a suitable size for you.
  • There are that extend to your coccyx (the tailbone at the bottom of your spine), so may try that out, too.

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