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2025 Honda X-ADV Launched with Nine Updates

The 2025 Honda X-ADV has been launched overseas, and features many useful updates.

Launched in 2017, the model has proven to be ultra popular the world over. It was already popular in Malaysia even prior to being officially imported and sold. Then, buyers had to wait for months for their bikes when it is officially sold. It is not difficult to understand the bike’s charms: A parallel-twin engine with raw torque combined with the ease of a scooter and the rowdiness of a conventional motorcycle.

But, we do have our complaints such as the screen is impossible to adjust on the move, the bum feels sore after riding for 100km, there is no storage space at the front despite having the shape of a step-through scooter, the LCD screen was too busy, and most of all the DCT was difficult to modulate at low speeds and causing me to dumb the bike (as with the CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT).

So, Honda must have heard the complaints so the 2025 Honda X-ADV features nine(!) upgrades.

1. New TFT screen

There is a new five-inch, TFT dash which is more connected, using the Honda RoadSync smartphone app. Honda also says that there is a new anti-glare coating on the screen.

2. Cruise control

Cruise control is now standard – a great addition for Malaysian riders because we love to tour everywhere on any motorcycle. The company also introduced panniers, as well as 50-liter and 38-liter top boxes as options in the European market, although we are sceptical if these make their way here. The 2025 Honda X-ADV also gets new backlit left-handlebar switchgear.

3. Updated power modes

The four power modes have been updated.The power modes change the power output, engine braking, traction controls, and DCT operation. There is also a USER mode that can be personalized. Additionally the DCT has also been modified for improved low-speed operation. (See? It was not my fault!)

4. Seat with thicker foam

The seat’s urethane foam is 10 percent thicker, but the seat is reshaped to make it easier for the rider to put his/her feet down. The seat is easier to open and close when accessing the underseat compartment.

5. Windscreen adjustable for three positions

The windscreen is adjustable for three positions. Adjustments are easier and only require your left hand to accomplish. The adjustment range is 14cm, and the screen rake moves over an 11-degree range.

6. Tilt sensor on the centrestand

The centerstand has a tilt sensor to alert you if you have parked on an incline that is too steep, so that the bike does not topple over when you walk away.

7. DRL with integrated turn signals

The new LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) have integrated turn indicators. This is the first motorcycle with this feature, according to Honda. The main headlights have been redesigned, too, with dual LEDs in each side, much like the Honda Civic.

8. Revised bodywork

While its silhouette remains, there are several updates to the bike’s bodywork. One is the design of the aforementioned headlamp, and gone is that black “shout” between the headlamps. The pictures also show transparent wind deflectors along the edge of the front fairing, although we are not sure if these are options or standard equipment.

9. Recycled materials

Honda says that they are using recycled materials called Durabio, a biomass plastic on various bodywork parts on the 2025 Honda X-ADV. The luggage box and seat base are made from recycled Honda automobile bumpers, while recycled plastic is used for panels and covers.

Lastly, there are four colours to choose from: Matte Gold Finch Yellow for the Special Edition and three shades of grey for standard models. The price has not been revealed.

BYD Electric Scooter being Planned?

BYD, already a global electric car giant, looks to be planning on building their own BYD electric scooter.

There had been many rumours regarding this, previously, and each was denied by BYD themselves. But it looks like they may be tapping into a huge market. They are already the world’s second largest EV battery maker, owning 15.8 percent of the total market in 2023. The company is dedicated to EV battery technology and their in-house “Blade” battery allows high loads with fast recharging and long life compared to other lithium-ion batteries.

The company is not a stranger to motorcycles altogether since they supply the batteries to other electric motorcycle and bicycle manufacturers. However, this would be their first sojourn into producing their own branded motorcycle.

Leaked patent drawings shows a standard step-through scooter, not unlike the super popular Yamaha XMAX 250/300. It is evident to see upside-down forks, a radial mount for the front brake caliper, twin rear shocks. These renders did not include the size and power of the motor, and the battery capacity, however.

Meet the Riders – The Four Personas of Yamaha PG-1

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn Bhd (“HLYM”) launched its highly anticipated Yamaha PG-1 (Playful Gear 1) bike last month, redefining standards for adventure riding. The PG-1, which comes with a rugged yet classic look, is easily customizable with accessories to match the rider’s personalized style for an elevated riding experience. In an exciting twist, HLYM is pleased to introduce the four different personas of the PG-1 which reflect the diverse lifestyles and preferences of motorcyclists, emphasizing the bike’s versatility to cater to every kind of adventure.

Persona 1: Adventure Seeker

The Adventure Seeker craves the thrill of adventure beyond the urban landscape. When the weekend arrives, he swaps the city life for freedom on the open road, driven by a desire to explore nature. With the Yamaha PG-1, he explores off-beaten tracks, reconnects with the wild outdoors and immerses himself in the natural beauty of Malaysia’s tropical forests.

Persona 2: Urban Classic

The Urban Classic is dashing and elegant, effortlessly balancing a love for exploration with a commitment to style. The Yamaha PG-1 is more than just a mode of transportation to him; it’s an extension of his refined tastes. This modern gentleman looks forward to uncovering Malaysia’s hidden gems on the PG-1, confidently navigating through rural and urban landscapes with a sense of purpose and elegance.

Persona 3: Culture Vulture

A lover of art, fashion and culture, the Culture Vulture is always on the lookout for charming hideaways, cozy cafes and beautiful street art that tell a story. With the Yamaha PG-1 as her trusty travel companion, the Culture Vulture explores urban landscapes while sharing her adventures on social media to capture the beauty in everyday moments.

Persona 4: Street Adventurer

Embracing the excitement of the city after dark, the Street Adventurer embodies a unique blend of mystery and adventure. He effortlessly glides through the city on the Yamaha PG-1 as he seeks out cool destinations that are bustling with nightlife. Whether it’s a midnight ride through neon-lit streets or an exploration to uncover hidden spots, the Street Adventurer balances urban sophistication with a spirited sense of adventure.

In line with its tagline, “Be Free, Be You!”, the Yamaha PG-1 is designed for convenient customization to suit the rider’s personal style. Riders who are gearing up for an exploration adventure can now get their hands on the GIVI PG-1 Exploration Pack at RM700 (limited to the first 500 units) or the Yamaha PG-1 Expedition Pack at RM1,200.00 (limited to the first 300 units). For those who wish to personalize their PG-1 further, they may be interested to check out Prelova Studio or Taymen Airbrushing.

TYM Accessories:

Recommended Retail Price: RM1,200 (Value: RM1,800) – Limited to 300 units only.

• Hand Guard Kit;
• Hand Guard Cover Kit;
• Front Carrier;
• Sub Frame Kit;
• Leg Shield Kit.

GIVI Accessories:

Recommended Retail Price: RM700 (Value: RM1,200) – Limited to 500 units only.

• Side Bag;
• Handlebar Bag;
• Duffle Bag;
• Bracket for Side Bag;
• Rack for Duffle Bag.

Honda RC164 Stella Watch, Yours for “Only” RM154,000

The Honda RC164 racebike made its debut in 1964, breaking new grounds with its 250cc inline-six engine, and ridden by Jim Redman. So, to commemorate its 60th anniversary, Honda of Japan authorised the Swiss watchmaker Baresi & Caine to create just 60 pieces of this commemorative Honda RC164 Stella watch.

The watch has a stainless steel case, bezel and case back, along with a black Onyx dial and 18-carat yellow gold Honda ‘wing’ motif and rotor. The mechanism is an in-house BC102MR Automatic Micro Rotor, boasting 70 hours of power reserve, while the strap is completed with a stainless steel and 18ct gold clasp.

It has to be said that genuine Honda RC164s are valued at nearly £500,000 (RM2,751,086.53), therefore the watch from Baresi & Caine looks like a relative bargain coming in at just £28,000 (RM154,060.84). Those looking to invest in one will have to pay a £14,000 (RM77,030.42) deposit. Buyers will also get a copy of the beautiful Honda Six – Recreating a Masterpiece coffee table book worth £65 (RM357.64) when they place their order.

Interested parties can place an order at the official website. Hurry, there are only 60 pieces of the Honda RC164 Stella watch and while the Malaysian Ringgit is at its highest level at the moment.

Meanwhile, I will make do with my RM99.00 Casio watch (no, it is not a G-Shock).

Provisional 2025 MotoGP Calendar Released

The 2025 MotoGP calendar has just been released. It is going to be an extra busy year with 22 rounds, and 44 races.

Like the previous seasons, 2025 will kick off with a fly-away (non-European) round. However, Thailand will host the opening round at the Chang International Circuit, instead of the usual venue at Qatar. It also means that Thailand will not be held back-to-back to Malaysia, as in the case of this year.

Mid-season period takes place from April to September, with the championship returning to the European continent. The Brno circuit in the Czech Republic returns, no doubt will be much welcomed by riders and fans.

Argentina is provisionally scheduled after the Thai GP, although it was cancelled this year.

A new additional for 2025 is Balaton Park, Hungary. The 2.5-mile venue was only recently completed and will be an interesting test for the teams and riders who will have little to no data and experience of the track. The circus will be heading to the Hungarian venue between August 22 and 24.

There are two missing venues for 2025. First is the Sokol International Circuit in Kazakhstan. It had been cancelled due to bad floods in the country this year. The other is the now infamous Indian MotoGP which has been delayed until 2026 due to what Dorna and the FIM stated as “operational circumstances.”

Rounding out the 2025 season is the traditional showdown at Jerez, with the stunning circuit playing host to the championship between November 14 and 16.

Provisional 2025 MotoGP Calendar

Event	GP Date
Thai GP	March 2
Argentina GP	March 16
Americas GP	March 30
Qatar GP	April 13
Spanish GP (Jerez)	April 27
French GP	May 11
British GP	May 25
Aragon GP	June 8
Italian GP	June 22
Dutch GP	June 29
German GP	July 13
Czech GP	July 20
Austrian GP	August 17
Hungarian GP	August 24
Catalan GP (Barcelona)	September 7
San Marino GP	September 14
Japanese GP	September 28
Indonesian GP	October 5
Australian GP	October 19
Malaysian GP	October 26
Portuguese GP	November 9
Valencia GP	November 16

Aveta VTM250 Spied Undergoing Trials, Expected Launch in October

It is perhaps the worst kept secret that Aveta will launch two adventure models, namely the Aveta VTM250LX and Aveta VTM250M in October. On top of that, the bikes had been spied undergoing trials in the vicinity of Rawang.

Both variants were present in the tests.

The Aveta VTM250LX is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. Its higher ground clearance and dual-purpose tires suggest that this model is ready to tackle challenging terrains and light road riding. Ideal for adventurers who need a machine that can withstand the rigours of dirt paths and at the same time casual road riding. So, it is more of an enduro.

The Aveta VTM250M, on the other hand, appears to be more road-oriented, with a sleeker design and a lower seat height. While it still holds true to the adventure DNA, this model seems better suited for urban explorers and long-distance touring, offering a more comfortable ride on highways and smoother surfaces. It looks a lot like a supermoto.

Both bikes share the same 250cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve, oil-cooled engine. It produces 20hp (15kW) at 8,500 RPM and 18Nm at 6,500 RPM. It is clearly tuned for torque and tractability. The VTM250LX is said to weigh 125kg, dry.

With both bikes undergoing testing, it’s clear that Aveta is gearing up to deliver something exciting for both off-road adventurers and urban riders alike!

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