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BMW Motorrad made headlines earlier this year when they teased the next-generation R nineT. However, at the time, the German marquee did so without revealing the technical details.

  • recent type-approval in Europe has shed light on their specifications, dimensions, and performance characteristics according to the latest report by CycleWorld.
  • the R12 nineT and the cruiser-style R12 is expected to debut later this year. 

The R12 nineT, continuing the legacy of BMW’s neo-retro roadster theme, seems to be a direct successor to the beloved R nineT, incorporating modern suspension and brakes with the timeless air-cooled boxer twin engine.

Notable design elements pay homage to the iconic R90S of the 1970s. Despite BMW’s century-long motorcycle-making history since the R32 of 1923, the “nineT” name remains a testament to its enduring popularity since its introduction a decade ago, marking 90 years of BMW motorcycle production.

In terms of performance, the sportier R12 nineT retains the same 107hp @ 7,000 rpm from its 1,170cc air-cooled boxer twin as its predecessor, albeit with a slight change in the rev range. Torque peaks at 115Nm @ 6,500 rpm.

On the other hand, the non-nineT “R12” model has been type-approved in 94hp and 47hp versions (presumably to comply with A2 license laws in the UK), with no full-powered, 107 hp variant.

The R12 model achieves a top speed of 200km/h, while the 94hp version reaches 210km/h, and the restricted 47hp versions cap out at around 160km/h.

In terms of dimensions, the R12 nineT is slightly longer than its predecessor, with a height difference of less than half an inch.

Both the R12 and R12 nineT share the same twin-exit exhaust system, and their weights are quite similar, with the R12 nineT coming in at 221kg while the R12 is 230kg.

The most significant difference between the two models lies in their wheel and tire sizes, indicating that the R12 takes a more cruiser-style approach.

BMW R 12 nineT

The standard R12 nineT retains the same wheel sizes as the current model, while the R12 features a narrower, wire-spoke 19-inch front wheel and a 16-inch rear wheel.

While additional details are expected to be unveiled in the coming month, it’s worth noting that BMW may also introduce other R12 nineT derivatives, potentially replacing the Scrambler and Urban G/S models.

Ducati Malaysia officially introduced the next-gen Ducati Diavel powered by the Granturismo V4 engine.

Since there is a lot to write about Ducati’s latest take on its latest mega cruiser, here are five things you need to know about the all-new Ducati Diavel V4.

  1. Engine

The Diavel has moved from its V-Twin setup to Ducati’s latest V4 engine. 

Ducati has been synonymous with the V-Twin for quite some time but due to performance limitations, the Italian firm decided to move to the new V4 configuration that began with the Panigale V4 before naturally trickle down to the Streetfighter and the Multistrada. 

However, the one fitted on the new Diavel is the Granturismo V4 engine found in the Multistrada V4. As a result, it features longer service interval and offers a mid range grunt. 

According to Ducati, the Diavel V4 makes 168hp and 126Nm, making it more powerful than the Diavel 1260S although the latter makes higher peak torque at 129Nm. 

  1. Weight

Thanks to the new engine, it allows Ducati to ditched the steel trellis frame on the previous generation Diavel for a new lightweight aluminium monocoque chassis for the Diavel V4. 

As a result, Ducati saved 5kg from the engine and 8kg from the bike’s overall weight. That said, Ducati shed 13kg from the previous model.

  1. Comfort

This is the part where things got interesting because while it may be a cruiser, the Diavel V4 seat height registered at  790mm which is tall for a cruiser yet is low for a sporty naked bike. 

Nonetheless, the handlebar is now 20mm closer to the rider which helps to improved riders ergonomics and comfort.

On top of that, Ducati adds more rear travel to the rear suspension which now sits at 145mm, 15mm more than the 1260. Ducati claimed that the longer rear travel allows for more comfort not just for the rider but also for pillions. 

  1. Tech

There’s 5-inch TFT instrument display which you can access four riding modes including Sport, Touring, Urban and (newly added) Wet mode.

Also added is an up and down quickshifter, wheelie control and launch control as well as cruise control.

  1. Styling

The Diavel range is known for its striking looks and the V4 continues the general vibe with a similar stance. 

That said, the new engine creates a slightly different bodywork and maybe not quite as aesthetic as the previous 1260. You could also argue about the missing trellis frame.

However, the biggest talking point are at the back, starting with the quad exit exhaust which is probably to signify the V4 configuration. 

Also, the Diavel V4 features a new honeycomb taillight which looks absolutely bonkers. However, we couldn’t help but imagine the struggle of cleaning the tail light once you are done riding. 

So what do you think about the 2023 Ducati Diavel V4? Will it be as amazing as the 1260 or better? Do tell us what you think at the comment section!

Ducati Malaysia officially introduced the Panigale V4 SP2 for the Malaysian market priced at RM299,900. 

The SP2 is the second generation of the Panigale V4 SP launched in 2020. The latest build focused on weight reduction and increased performance thanks to upgraded parts and accessories unique to the bike.

Despite nursing the same 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, the mill is now housed in an aluminium front frame to reduce weight.

Other premium components fitted on the Panigale V4 SP2 include:

  • Ohlins NPX 24/30 front end
  • TTX36 rear shock and steering damper
  • Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 system
  • four power modes (Full, High, Medium and Low)
  • Brembo MSC 19.21 master cylinder
  • Marchesini forged wheels.

Stopping power comes from twin Brembo Stylema callipers with STM EVO dry clutch, developed for the Ducati WorldSBK machine.

To ensure the best on-track experience, the Panigale V4 SP2 features Street and Sport ride modes (with Race A and Race B presets), Track Evo display option and Ducati Data Analyser with GPS module.

Meanwhile, if you think 228hp is too much power, worry not as the Panigale V4 SP2 comes with a host of safety features:

  • Cornering ABS EVO
  • Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO
  • Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO
  • Ducati Slide Control (DSC)
  • Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO
  • Auto tyre calibration
  • Ducati Power Launch
  • Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) EVO 2

The final touch comes in the form of a matt black Winter Test livery design purely to let everyone knows that a beast is lurking among the crowd.

Scheduled maintenance is at every 12,000km wwhile the valve clearance adjustment (Desmo Service) is set at every 24,000km.

In a surprising departure from its established nomenclature, MV Agusta, the renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer, has decided to rebrand its highly anticipated adventure bike previously known as the Lucky Explorer.

  • Recent reports from Motorcycle.com indicate that the forthcoming model will henceforth be christened the “Enduro Veloce.”
  • Leaked photos from the certification filings reveal that the new adventure bike will be adorned in MV Agusta’s signature colors of red and silver.

The Lucky Explorer, colloquially referred to as LXP, had initially caught the industry’s attention with its unique name. Enthusiasts were expecting the new adventure bike to maintain this distinct nomenclature, thereby establishing its uniqueness within MV Agusta’s product lineup. However, Australian certification filings have now confirmed the shift towards a more conventional naming convention.

The “Enduro Veloce” moniker aligns with MV Agusta’s existing nomenclature, exemplified by the Turismo Veloce, a 800cc sport-touring model, which clearly reflects its intended purpose. With this change, Lucky Explorer becomes a relic of the past, relegated to the annals of history as a concept name that once piqued the industry’s curiosity.

*Lucky Explorer 9.5

In addition to the rebranding, leaked photos from the certification filings reveal that the new adventure bike will be adorned in MV Agusta’s signature colors of red and silver, reminiscent of the Superveloce and other iconic models. These hues, coupled with bronze accents, reaffirm MV Agusta’s commitment to a distinctive visual identity for their motorcycles.

One of the primary reasons for the abandonment of the LXP name is that Lucky Explorer was established as a sub-brand, and the models were marketed under this sub-brand label. By adopting the “Enduro Veloce” nameplate, MV Agusta can now officially designate the LXP as part of its primary product line, particularly the 9.5 version, which boasts an MV Agusta triple-cylinder engine at its core. This shift in nomenclature clearly underscores the intended purpose of the model as an off-road offering in MV Agusta’s portfolio.

This development signifies a significant milestone for MV Agusta as they diversify their product range. Historically known for their roadsters and sportbikes, the “Enduro Veloce” represents the brand’s bold foray into the adventure bike segment. The new name alone communicates the model’s off-road capabilities and its place within the MV Agusta lineup.

According to an interview with Timur Saradarov, MV Agusta plans to produce the 9.5 version of the Enduro Veloce. The initial batch will consist of 500 units, with the first few likely to be designated as “first editions,” possibly featuring additional enhancements for early adopters—although this remains unconfirmed.

Furthermore, MV Agusta has teased an exciting announcement at EICMA 2024, hinting at a potential unveiling of the Enduro Veloce in their 2024 lineup. 

BMW Motorrad Malaysia returned with an electrifying spectacle as the BMW Motorrad GS Challenge 2023 unfolded over the course of a gripping weekend in Putrajaya.

  • Dedicated to pushing local GS motorcycle riders beyond their limits, saw over 180 enthusiastic participants vie for a coveted spot in the prestigious 2024 International GS Trophy Tour in Namibia.
  • Following the resounding success of last year’s edition, the BMW Motorrad GS Challenge continued its legacy of testing the off-roading prowess of riders in a challenging, unconventional terrain.
  • The event served as a unifying platform for BMW Motorrad owners and enthusiasts, fostering camaraderie under the enduring spirit of GS adventure.

Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, expressed his excitement about the event’s return, stating, “We are thrilled to be bringing back the BMW Motorrad GS Challenge this year to our passionate community of GS riders here in Malaysia. Following its successful reception last year, it is a joy to see our participants experience the same freedom, power, and spirit of adventure again as they traversed through the challenging terrain, embodying everything that our GS motorcycles were designed for.”

The weekend’s activities were designed to put participants’ riding and navigation skills to the test, featuring a series of distinctive off-road challenges and an exhilarating ‘Follow the Trails’ course specially tailored for BMW G 310 GS owners.

At the culmination of Day 1, the Top 10 riders were handpicked to engage in a heart-pounding round of skill assessments on Day 2, all vying for the exclusive opportunity to participate in the ‘Follow the Trails’ (FTT) Tour of the International BMW GS Trophy in Namibia, slated for 2024. As a mark of their achievements, the Top 10 finalists were presented with exclusive prizes, generously provided by the official tire sponsor, Metzeler.

Following two grueling days of intense competition, which included an evening of fine dining and musical performances at the ‘GS Fireplace’ dinner, the standout performers emerged as the victors, securing their spots on the coveted FTT Namibia 2024 tour.

 

The triumphant riders, announced in no particular order, are Asmawi Bin Ali, Diwaagar A/L Tambychandran, Affendy Syed Omar, Zulkifli Bin Zainal Abidin, and Azlan Shah Bin Ahmad Suhaimi.

The BMW Motorrad GS Challenge 2023 not only celebrated the adventurous spirit of GS motorcycles but also showcased the unwavering determination and skill of its riders. These five finalists now look forward to representing Malaysia on the global stage as they gear up for the ultimate GS adventure in Namibia next year.

BMW Motorrad has taken a significant step by ordering a temporary halt in the sale of all new and pre-owned gas-powered motorcycles across North American dealerships, just days before the much-anticipated unveiling of the next-generation R 1300 GS.

However, the embargo on sales does not extend to the CE 04, BMW’s electric scooter, which remains unaffected.

The company, in an official statement, clarified that this decision is unrelated to safety concerns but rather stems from an issue pertaining to the materials used in the Evaporative System (EVAP) of their motorcycles.

The EVAP system’s primary function is to capture fuel vapors and reintroduce them into the engine’s intake, thereby preventing their release into the environment.

Specific details regarding the nature and extent of the issue have not been disclosed, but the absence of safety implications suggests that BMW may have identified a matter related to emissions compliance that could potentially impact multiple generations of their motorcycles. The precise timeline and historical scope of this problem are yet to be elucidated.

It is important to note that this ‘stop sale’ directive is considered temporary in nature. However, BMW has not provided a definitive timeframe for the resumption of sales.

Furthermore, the company has clarified that this decision is voluntary and has not been mandated by any regulatory authority. Nevertheless, dealerships are obligated to adhere to the directive, ensuring compliance with BMW’s initiative.

 

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