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

KTM Refreshes RC Supersport Range With New Colours And Graphics

KTM has unveiled fresh colour schemes and graphic updates throughout its RC Supersport range, drawing inspiration from past prototypes and the current Factory Racing colour combinations.

The KTM RC range epitomises the quintessential Supersport model within the KTM family, boasting new sports bike aesthetics, agile handling, and formidable performance both on the road and the racetrack.

While the range remains unaltered for 2024, it introduces new premium colour options inspired by the ultra-focused KTM RC 8C, KTM 1390 Super Duke R, and the iconic Grand Prix racing team liveries.

At the pinnacle of the line-up, the 2024 KTM RC 390 debuts two captivating colour schemes: orange-on-blue and orange-on-black variants. Both feature distinctive orange frames, with the orange-on-black model showcasing orange rims for added visual impact.

The market-specific KTM RC 200 also introduces two fresh colourways, incorporating a similar blue/orange theme alongside a stealthy black and white design reminiscent of the KTM RC 8C liveries. These editions come complete with black frames and orange subframes.

At the entry-level, the 2024 KTM RC 125 showcases all-new black-and-orange and blue-and-orange colour palettes, offering a dynamic starting point for riders. Both options boast gloss black wheels and frames, complemented by dark-tinted screens to accentuate the vivid colour highlights.

The 2024 KTM RC range remains deeply rooted in its racing heritage, boasting undeniable pedigree and featuring sharp, attention-grabbing Ready To Race colours to match.

Since this update is more of an aesthetics exercise, as such no improvements have been made to the powertrain, suspension or the electronics.

Hong Leong Yamaha Updates TMax Tech Max With New Colours For 2024!

Hong Leong Yamaha, a leader in the realm of two-wheeled marvels, has introduced two new colours for the 2024 TMax Tech Max called Dark Magma and Tech Black.

At the heart of the Yamaha TMax lies a 562cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, engineered to deliver exhilarating performance on both urban streets and winding highways.

The twin-cylinder engine produces 47hp at 7,500rpm and 55.7Nm at 5250rpm. The TMax still boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design, characterised by its distinctive dual LED headlights and dynamic bodywork.

The TMax is still equipped with advanced electronic features that include Yamaha’s proprietary D-Mode system, allowing riders to customise throttle response according to their preferences, whether for spirited performance or fuel-efficient cruising.

Additionally, traction control and ABS come standard, providing added confidence and stability, particularly in challenging riding conditions.

Besides that, the TMax Tech Max retains the state-of-the-art TFT display that provides riders with vital information at a glance, including speed, engine RPM, fuel consumption, and navigation prompts, ensuring a seamless riding experience without distractions.

The updated Yamaha TMax Tech Max is priced at RM74,998, and if you book it now, Yamaha will give you a complimentary Yamaha Disc Lock valued at RM100.

MotoPlex Sungai Buloh Officially Opens For Business!

Didi Group has officially opened the doors to MotoPlex Sungai Buloh, the latest addition to its network of premium showrooms featuring Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, and Moto Guzzi brands.

Located in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh is designed as a dynamic concept store offering a wide range of products and customer services for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Managed by Welly Sungai Buloh Sdn Bhd, the official dealer appointed by Didi Group, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh embodies Italian aesthetics across its 3,400 sqf space, with a showroom area of 2,200 sqf and a service center spanning 1,200 sqf.

The service center boasts state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of skilled technicians committed to delivering superior customer service and access to high-quality spare parts.

For Didi Group, the launch of MotoPlex Sungai Buloh signifies a significant milestone as the fourth MotoPlex establishment in Malaysia. Mr. Goh Kian Sin, Managing Director of Didi Group, expressed pride in hosting an exclusive meet & greet event with the official Aprilia Racing Team riders coinciding with the MotoGP Malaysian Winter Test held at the Sepang International Circuit. The event offers Aprilia club members a chance to interact with the racers and team members up close.

MotoPlex stores serve as hubs for Italian biking enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive overview of the Piaggio Group’s portfolio and reflecting the company’s innovative vision. Mr. Goh Kian Sin reiterated the group’s commitment to enhancing its presence in Malaysia through MotoPlex, which consolidates Piaggio’s iconic brands under one roof, providing customers with a holistic Italian two-wheel experience.

Mr. Ngo Yoke Kwang, Director of Welly Sungai Buloh, emphasized MotoPlex Sungai Buloh’s role in delivering a captivating motorcycling experience infused with Italian authenticity. With a sprawling 34,000 sqf concept store equipped with a service area staffed by highly skilled technicians, MotoPlex Sungai Buloh aims to redefine individual mobility and freedom through its legendary brands known for style, technology, and heritage.

MotoPlex Sungai Buloh represents Didi Group’s commitment to offering a unique retail experience for motorcycle enthusiasts while strengthening its foothold in Malaysia’s automotive market.

Moto Morini X-Cape Black Ebony Builds On The Strenghts of the X-Cape 650

Moto Morini has done quite well for itself after its brand reintroduction and the X-Cape 650 is probably its most popular model. It goes up against the likes of the Yamaha Tenere 700, Aprilia Tuareg 660 and the KTM 890 Adventure, but it trumps them all with affordable pricing.

The X-Cape 650 is powered by a 650cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine making 60hp. It also has some impressive tech with Brembo brakes, Bosch ABS, and fully adjustable Marzocchi suspension. Besides that there is also a seven-inch display with Bluetooth based smartphone pairing and an adjustable windshield. And it gets better for 2024.

The 2024 Moto Morini X-Cape Black Ebony edition distinguishes itself with a sleek all-black design, adding an element of refined stealthiness. From the tank’s side to the tail’s bottom, a subtle grey accent complemented by a vibrant red stripe introduces a tasteful contrast. Additionally, the X-Cape offers customisation options through a range of optional accessories, including crash protection and luggage attachments which may or may not be available in local markets depending on the distributor.

Regarding pricing and availability, Moto Morini indicates that the Black Ebony edition of the X-Cape 650 is accessible through its dealership network across the globe. However, there is no info if it will be available in Malaysia. With regards to pricing, the X-Cape 650 is priced at RM39,999 while the 650X Is priced at RM43,999.

Harley-Davidson Appoints Didi Resources As Distribution Partner For Malaysian Market

Harley-Davidson has announced a distribution agreement with Didi Resources for Malaysia, effective January 1, 2024. This agreement encompasses the distribution of motorcycles, parts and accessories, apparel, and licensed products throughout the country.

Didi Resources will maintain its exclusive distributorship of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and provide comprehensive after-sales service through its existing network of Harley-Davidson outlets across Malaysia. Additionally, Didi Resources will serve as a non-exclusive distributor for Harley-Davidson parts and accessories, as well as apparel and licensed products.

The company says it is dedicated to delivering the exceptional Harley-Davidson customer experience, including programs like H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group), to the Malaysian market.

Sajeev Rajasekharan, Managing Director, Asia Emerging Markets and India at Harley-Davidson, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Harley-Davidson’s successful presence in Malaysia since 2008 and the shared commitment to delivering unparalleled brand experiences to customers.

Rewi Hamid Bugo, Chairman of Didi Resources, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the company’s readiness to collaborate with Harley-Davidson in fostering a vibrant riding community in Malaysia.

Didi Resources has bolstered its local team to ensure the seamless execution of initiatives aligned with Harley-Davidson’s vision, thereby enhancing value for customers.

Customers can continue to access the Harley-Davidson brand experience and acquire Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products at authorised dealerships throughout Malaysia.

Ducati Desmo450 MX Racer Ready For Competition

Amidst the scenic Madonna di Campiglio during the Campioni in Pista spectacle, Ducati unveiled its latest marvel: the Desmo450 MX, a groundbreaking venture into uncharted territory.

The result of twenty trailblazing engineers who embarked on a journey of pure creation, shunning imitation in favour of originality, a hallmark of Ducati’s ethos.

“Our odyssey began with a meticulous study of our rivals,” remarked Davide Perni, the visionary mind behind Ducati Corse Off-Road. “In the realm of off-road racing, where regulations have stagnated for two decades, our competitors have reached the zenith of innovation. Yet, we were driven to craft something unique, something quintessentially Ducati.”

Guided by Claudio Domenicali, Ducati’s visionary CEO, the directive was clear. “Ducati resonates with discerning patrons seeking excellence and passion,” he declared. “By venturing into the off-road domain, we aim to captivate a younger audience, beckoning them to embrace the thrill of off-road adventure and perhaps sow the seeds of future Ducati loyalists.”

The project’s genesis was resolute: to birth a lightweight, high-performance machine tailored for the fervent Ducati faithful.

“We are immensely gratified,” continued Perni, “for the Desmo450 MX is a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation. It’s not just a bike; it’s a testament to our ingenuity.” Though veiled in secrecy, Perni hinted at the monumental effort invested in its creation.

“The chassis, a departure from convention, posed a unique challenge,” he divulged. “It was a question of steel or aluminum, a delicate balance between agility and resilience.” In the end, aluminum emerged victorious, embodying Ducati’s unwavering pursuit of excellence.

At its core lies the Desmodromic valve actuation, a testament to Ducati’s technological prowess. “The Desmo system, often misunderstood, is our pièce de résistance,” explained Perni. “While intricate, it embodies our commitment to excellence.”

But this is no ordinary engine; it’s a racing masterpiece, meticulously engineered for durability and performance. “Our goal was to craft a racing engine with the reliability of a street-legal counterpart,” clarified Perni, “offering our patrons unrivaled performance with manageable maintenance costs.”

The symbiotic bond between Ducati Corse and its production arm is palpable. “Working in tandem with the Desmo system,” Perni elaborated, “allowed us to draw insights from MotoGP and production departments alike, propelling us towards innovation.” Collaboration extended to fuel development, with an eye toward eco-conscious solutions.

Internally dubbed “Project 21J,” this odyssey commenced in 2021, a testament to Ducati’s meticulous approach to innovation.

The arrival of nine-time world champion Tony Cairoli infused fresh energy into the project. “Though a newcomer, Tony’s expertise is invaluable,” remarked the technical director. “His insights will prove pivotal in steering our endeavor towards greatness.”

Antonio Cairoli’s illustrious career speaks volumes. Dubbed the Valentino Rossi of motocross, he’s a force to be reckoned with. “After years of triumphs,” Cairoli reflected, “this project beckoned me. It’s a testament to Italian ingenuity and innovation—a legacy I’m proud to uphold.”

Alessandro Lupino, a rising star in motocross, brings his own flair to the project. “Ducati’s dedication to excellence is evident,” Lupino affirmed. “The Desmo450 MX is a marvel—an ode to innovation.”

The Desmo450 MX’s debut in the Italian Motocross Pro Prestige MX1 Championship marks the beginning of a new chapter. Racing will refine its edges, with eyes set on the MXGP Championship in 2025.

Ducati’s journey into uncharted terrain is fraught with challenges, but one thing is clear: the Desmo450 MX is not just a bike; it’s a testament to Ducati’s unwavering pursuit of excellence.