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

2024 Modenas Versys 650 SE Launched in Malaysia

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).

Track-Only 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 Race and 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR Launched

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.

New Colours for 2025 Honda Vario 160

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

Who’s Got Your Back? Back Protectors

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.

2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 and 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1M Launched

The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 and the higher spec’ed YZF-R1M were launched for the U.S. and other international markets. Unfortunately for those in the EU, they will only receive the race-only model.

It features revised bodywork and huge front winglets, plus many other upgrades. Here are the list of features from the press release.

2025 Yamaha YZF-R1

Created to represent the pinnacle of sportbike performance, Yamaha’s iconic R1 returns for 2025 with the same explosive 998cc CP4 crossplane engine, comprehensive electronics suite and renowned handling character which has led to an incredible run of AMA/MotoAmerica Superbike titles in 13 of the past 14 seasons. Yamaha continues to use knowledge gained from high-level competition to offer some of the most advanced and capable Supersport models in the industry.

New features for 2025 begin with lightweight Brembo® Stylema monobloc front brake calipers. They come paired with a new Brembo® master cylinder to offer outstanding braking power and exceptional feel. There is also a fully redesigned KYB® front fork offering excellent response, road feel and chassis performance. The new carbon fiber winglets not only add to the R1’s sleek, aerodynamic look, they create additional downforce for enhanced front-end feel when braking or cornering. Finally, a new rider and passenger seat cover texture balances both grip and ease of movement for a better sense of control and connection to the machine.

Highlights:

New carbon fiber aerodynamic winglets.
New fully adjustable 43mm KYB® front fork.
New radial-mounted Brembo® Stylema monobloc front calipers.
New Brembo® master cylinder.
New seat cover texture.
Advanced 998cc CP4 engine with crossplane crankshaft technology.
Lightweight titanium connecting rods, titanium intake valves and forged pistons.
Variable Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I®) System.
Lightweight titanium muffler and heat shield.
Compact, stacked 6-speed transmission with close-ratio gearing.
Advanced assist and slipper clutch.
Ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T®) System.
Advanced, 4.2-inch full-color TFT display.
Six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU).
Lean-sensitive Brake Control (BC) System.
Three-level Engine Brake Management (EBM) System.
Four-level Power Delivery Mode (PWR).
Lean-sensitive Traction Control (TCS).
Four-level Slide Control System (SCS).
Four-level Lift Control System (LIF).
Three-level Launch Control System (LCS).
Quick Shift System (QSS) with three settings.
Slim, compact aluminum Deltabox frame.
Fully adjustable KYB® rear shock.
Lightweight aluminum alloy fuel tank.
Premium 10-spoke cast magnesium wheels.
High performance Bridgestone® RS11 tires.
Full LED lighting.

The new 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue or Matte Raven Black, and will sell for US$18,999 (RM79,406.05).

2025 Yamaha YZF-R1M

Yamaha’s highest specification and most exclusive Supersport model, the 2025 YZF-R1M immediately sets itself apart with a distinctive color scheme, polished aluminum swingarm and striking full carbon fiber bodywork, which seamlessly integrates with the new carbon fiber winglets for an aggressive, track-focused look. An engraved, serial numbered badge further highlights its exclusivity.

Along with the same advanced performance provided by the powerful 998cc CP4 crossplane engine, comprehensive electronics suite and lightweight aluminum Deltabox frame found on the standard R1, capability is pushed to an even higher level on the R1M with the addition of its sophisticated Öhlins® Electronic Racing Suspension, where data from the motorcycle’s IMU—such as vehicle speed, lean angle, acceleration and brake pressure—is supplied to a dedicated Suspension Control Unit to rapidly adjust front and rear damping in real time for optimum suspension performance whether braking, cornering or accelerating. The ERS simplifies suspension tuning by providing streamlined dynamic tuning modes for both street and track, as well as manual modes for more conventional suspension tuning.

Additionally, GPS data logging comes as a standard feature on the YZF-R1M. Yamaha’s unique Communication Control Unit is an integrated data-logging and GPS system that puts factory superbike technology in the palm of your hand. Vehicle data can be recorded with course mapping and automatic lap timing managed by GPS, then wirelessly downloaded to an Android® or Apple® iOS® app where it can be analyzed. The rider is then able to adjust system settings and upload these changes back to the R1M for the next track session.

Highlights:

Full carbon fiber bodywork including new aerodynamic winglets.
New seat cover texture.
Advanced 998cc CP4 engine with crossplane crankshaft technology.
Lightweight titanium connecting rods, titanium intake valves and forged pistons.
Variable Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I®) System.
Lightweight titanium muffler and heat shield.
Compact, stacked 6-speed transmission with close-ratio gearing.
Advanced assist and slipper clutch.
Ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T®) System.
Six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU).
Lean-sensitive Brake Control (BC) System.
Three-level Engine Brake Management (EBM) System.
Four-level Power Delivery Mode (PWR).
Lean-sensitive Traction Control (TCS).
Four-level Slide Control System (SCS).
Four-level Lift Control System (LIF).
Three-level Launch Control System (LCS).
Integrated GPS data-logging enabled through Yamaha Communication Control Unit.
Quick Shift System (QSS) with three settings.
Slim, compact aluminum Deltabox frame.
Dynamic Öhlins® Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS).
Öhlins® gas-charged NPX fork.
Radial-mounted 4-piston front brake calipers with braided stainless steel lines.
Premium 10-spoke cast magnesium wheels.
High performance Bridgestone® RS11 tires.
Advanced, 4.2-inch full-color TFT display.
Full LED lighting.
Polished aluminum swingarm.
Exclusive R1M color scheme.

The new 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1M will be available in Carbon Fiber and retails for for US$27,699 (RM115,778.07).

Yamaha V4 MotoGP Engine Confirmed

It has been a long time coming, but finally, a Yamaha V4 MotoGP is in the works. The news was confirmed by Yamaha Racing Managing Director Lin Jarvis in an interview with MotoGP.com.

“I can confirm that we are busy developing a V4 powerplant,” Jarvis said.

“It’s something that goes back a while, because when Suzuki was still here, there were two manufacturers running with the inline-4. And obviously the other competitors running with the V4. In the last years, however, we’ve seen many, many technical developments in this sport and of course Suzuki stepped out. So we’ve been the only manufacturer remaining with the inline-4.

“The inline-4, in our opinion, still has plenty of capacity to be developed and to be improved. But when you have all of your competitors using V4s and now as we look towards the 2027 regulations, it’s important for us to fully understand the potential of a V4 versus the inline-4.

“So based on that, some time ago we took the decision to start the project. The project is on schedule… The engine is already being bench-tested. We’ve not run it in a bike yet but when it is ready with its durability testing, then we’ll finally start to track test it.”

Jarvis also indicated that Yamaha still has an open mind on whether to use an inline or V4 engine for the new 850cc era.

“When [the V4 is] quicker than the inline-4, we’ll bring it in. So let’s see!”

Yamaha and Honda are under concessions in MotoGP, meaning they can run a revised or new engine anytime they wanted. Conversely, yhe other three manufacturers, namely Ducati, KTM, and Aprilia need to homologate at the beginning of the season and use the same engine throughout the season.

Yamaha factory rider, Fabio Quartararo was asked recently on the V4 rumours: “I think we have to consider all the options… I never rode a V4 but if we look at the bikes that are working, they are V4s. Okay, Honda is struggling, but we are the only ones with the Inline. Maybe it is something to consider.”

Yamaha can also count on its partnership with Marmotors, headed by ex-F1 designer Luca Marmorini, to aid in its V4 design. Marmorini previously contributed to Aprilia’s RS-GP V4 engine.

However, Honda’s ongoing struggles show that a V4 is unlikely to be a magic fix for Yamaha, whose M1 is also lacking in areas such as aerodynamics and electronics compared to the European machines. On the other hand, having more engine power helps the bike to push through aerodynamic drag, allowing engineers more leeway in introducing aerodynamic features.

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Latest News

2024 Modenas Versys 650 SE Launched in Malaysia

Track-Only 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 Race and 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR Launched

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2025 Honda Vario 160 Photo Gallery

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