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The Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) commended the efforts by the government in initiating the Keluarga Malaysia Automotive Discount Voucher aimed at helping those affected by the recent flash flood.

The initiative allows motorcycle and car owners who are affected to be eligible for a discount voucher of RM1,000 to help ease the cost of repair and parts replacement of affected vehicles.

Affected owners can redeem the voucher at the authorized service centre and dealership selected for this program.

According to MMSDA, below are the list of motorcycle companies that are involved with the initiative:

Meanwhile, MMSDA reminds the public to redeem the RM1,000 voucher before March 31st and to make appointments at the authorized service centre as soon as possible to avoid any complications.

KTM got us excited when the company introduced the limited RC 8C sportbike last summer.

Despite the fact that it was only a limited production track bike and not street legal, it was also a hint that a production road-legal version is on its way.

We may not have to wait much longer, as photographers managed to get their hands on a new 890 Duke-based KTM sportbike caught testing in Spain.

Although the test mule was clad in a full fairing similar to the bodywork on the RC 8C, the RC990 is indeed street legal as it comes fitted with a headlight and license plate holder.

However, unlike the RC 8C that had the iconic LC8 engine in a Kramer frame, the test mule appears to be fitted with all things KTM, including a chassis derived from the 890 Duke.

According to reports, the test mule was accompanied by a Ducati Panigale V2 as a reference point, thus hinting at the level of performance KTM is looking at for the new sportbike.

Moreover, it appears that the bike also comes with an entirely new swingarm and exhaust system. Other standard components include a top-of-the-line Brembo Style brake calliper and WP Apex suspension.

Looking at the current state of the test mule, it appears it might not be ready for a 2022 or 2023 release.

(Source: Motorcycle.com)

If you are up North and looking for a new spot to ride, perhaps you might want to check out the new Bukit Kukus bypass in Penang.

At 61.5m above ground level, the new 3.3km-long stretch is the tallest road in Malaysia. The road winds around Bukit Kukus from Lebuh Bukit Jambul to Jalan Tun Sardon and Paya Terubong.

The new route also connects Paya Terubong and Ayer Itam, the most populated neighbourhoods on the island.

Not only motorist can enjoy the scenic ride, the elevated road also features a bicycle lane. At the same time, Penang City Council (MBPP) Mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang, also welcomes off-road cycling enthusiasts to enjoy the trails under the viaduct.

According to reports, the RM378.2 million project is the most expensive and largest infrastructure project by the MBPP.

Meanwhile, two private developers will complete the remainder 2.2km stretch soon.

(Source: The Star)

The Kawasaki ZX-25R is almost a walk down memory lane, taking us back to the glory years of the 4-cylinder screamer of the 80s and 90s.

Although we have yet to see the bike making its way to Malaysia, we are still hopeful that it just might, under the new management of MODENAS.

Nevertheless, Kawasaki is already working on another tempting machine in the form of a more powerful 400cc version, retaining the high-reving appeal of the original 1990 ZXR400.

The rumour first came out during the global introduction of the ZX-25R itself; however, reports in Japan have confirmed that the ZX-4R is sure to be launched soon.

Moreover, Kawasaki already filed a patent in 2019 showcasing a design that states “preferably applied to a vehicle having four-cylinder 400cc engine.”

Based on a rendered image shared, the upcoming ZX-4R is expected to be fitted with the same components from the existing ZX-25R, including the tubular steel frame and the banana swingarm.

According to reports, the ZX-4R will feature a revamped front and headlights, heavily inspired by the latest ZX-10R superbike together with the ZXR400 paint scheme.

Since the ZX-25R makes 50hp @ 15,500rpm with Ram-Air, the ZX-4R could churn out close to 80hp.

Did you know that an average person blinks about eight times a minute to restore the eyes’ natural tear film?

However, a recent study by DVS (Driving Vision Science) created by SIFI (a leading pharmaceutical company in the ophthalmic sector) finds a remarkable result after conducting a visual test with LCR Honda MotoGP Team.

The research, dedicated to studying the reactions of the visual apparatus of riders racing on circuits all over the world, finds that MotoGP riders only blink once every three minutes.

The unusual reaction is due to extreme conditions generated by visual stress and physical and mental concentration faced by the riders to perform well on the track.

This means that considering that a lap at Mugello takes around 1 minute and 50 seconds, riders only blink after doing one lap and a half.

Thanks to the collaboration between SIFI and LCR Honda Team with riders Takaaki Nakagami and Cal Crutchlow, researchers can collect important data that allows new studies to be carried out to find a solution for dry eyes.

According to SIFI, the research objective is to test products capable of improving visual performance for those subjected to high ocular strain.

Most premium bikes now come fitted with self-cancelling turn indicators, but how many of us can afford the price tag that comes with it?

So for us who can’t afford to own a technologically advanced bike, we tend to forget to turn off the blinkers considering we can’t hear the ticking sound.

However, the days of forgetting to turn off your indicators might come to an end as someone has just invented a Bluetooth intercom system called Indimate, that reminds you to turn off your blinkers after a turn.

The mechanism is simple; when the indicator is turned on, it transmits an acoustic signal to the Bluetooth unit in the helmet. (Yes, the Indimate can only function if you installed Bluetooth comms on your helmet.)

Meanwhile, you can mount the Intimate anywhere on the motorcycle; however, Nicolas Rogers, the man behind the device, suggest it’s best to hide it under the seat to prevent theft.

According to Rogers, the installation process is simple. There are four cables, and each needs to be connected to the right and left indicator, one ground and one on the battery positive terminal.

Interestingly, Indimate also allow riders to use it as a Wi-Fi hotspot and pair it to their smartphones. While connected, riders can hear the indicator ticks in the background while listening to music, during a phone call or while communicating with fellow riders.

The Indimate is expected to cost around USD70 (RM292) and will be available for pre-orders soon.

(Source: Motorrad Online)

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