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2024 Ducati SuperSport 950 S Gets New Paint Job, Fully Adjustable Öhlins Suspension

Ducati introduces the 2024 SuperSport 950 S, showcasing an alluring new Stripe livery.

Revealed on May 16, 2023, the latest model retains its core features while incorporating design updates.
Ducati equips the 2024 SuperSport 950 S with a fully adjustable Öhlins suspension.

The SuperSport 950 S stands out with its remarkable Stripe livery, blending classic hues with contemporary aesthetics. The predominant Iceberg White fairing serves as a canvas for the addition of a distinctive red stripe, complemented by a thicker gray stripe beneath it. These vibrant stripes are separated by a sleek white line that harmoniously integrates with the rest of the fairing.

Notably, the red stripe seamlessly flows into the peekaboo glimpse of the red frame, creating an enticing visual appeal. Similarly, the broader gray stripe leads the eye towards the saddle, forming a compelling diagonal line.

To enhance performance and handling, Ducati equips the 2024 SuperSport 950 S with a fully adjustable Öhlins suspension system both in the front and rear. The bike also features a pillion seat cover and a pair of 17-inch wheels finished in Glossy Black, accentuated by a Ducati Red tag.

It’s worth mentioning that the base model will be the only option available in the iconic Ducati Red color for the 2024 lineup.

Underneath its sleek exterior, the SuperSport 950 S houses Ducati’s renowned 937cc Testastretta 11-degree twin engine. With an impressive power output of 110 horsepower @ 9,000 rpm and 93Nm @ 6,500 rpm, this bike delivers exhilarating performance.

Riders can enjoy seamless gear shifts with the six-speed gearbox, complete with an up and down quickshifter and a slipper clutch.

Safety features are not compromised, as the SuperSport 950 S boasts reliable braking capabilities. The front end employs radially mounted Brembo M4-32 monobloc four-piston calipers, gripping two 320mm semi-floating brake discs.

At the rear, a single two-piston caliper operates on a 245mm brake disc. The bike also incorporates Bosch Cornering ABS to ensure optimal control in all riding conditions.

The 2024 SuperSport 950 S is equipped with a range of practical features, including a height-adjustable windscreen and a 4.3-inch full TFT display. Riders can choose from three riding modes—Sport, Touring, and Urban—to tailor the bike’s performance to their preferences. Additionally, traction control and wheelie control enhance stability and confidence on the road.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR Now In Malaysia – RM149,500 For The M Package

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has officially launched the highly-anticipated 2023 BMW S 1000 RR, with the Style Passion variant priced at RM129,500 and the up-spec M Package available for RM149,500.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR gains major styling updates including M 1000 RR-inspired winglets.
New for 2023 includes revised electronic package and higher horsepower.

The Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, Hans De Visser, highlighted the bike’s engineering excellence, stating, “Every aspect of this superbike has been precisely designed with the clear goal of getting the most out of each lap, making it a natural favorite for riders with a penchant for pursuing pure, exhilarating performance.”

The most notable change in the 2023 model year is the appearance of the M 1000 RR-inspired winglets at the front. According to BMW, the winglet adds up to 10kg of downforce at high speed.

Although the winglets are not as big as the M 1000 RR, which contribute to 16kg of front-end downforce, the new piece puts the 2023 S 1000 RR on par with the rest of the litre bike in its segment.

However, the 2023 S 1000 RR not only features styling updates and a lot of changes underneath the skin, including a revised chassis and a tweaked engine.

Despite retaining the same frame from the previous generation, BMW claimed that 2023MY allows for more flex due to adding more holes in the die-cast alloy frame. Also new for 2023 is the steering-head angle, now sitting at 23.6 degrees rather than 23.1 degrees. The wheelbase is now longer, from 56.7-inches to 57.4-inch.

Interestingly, BMW’s adjustable swingarm pivot, previously available on the M Chassis Kit, is now standard on the new S 1000 RR. BMW also added a new height-adjustable linkage for the rear shock and revised the wheel bushings and brake to allow for a faster tire change.

Other changes include a bigger rear sprocket (up from 45 to 46) that helps to improve acceleration, a new airbox and shortened variable-height intake funnels, all taken from the M 1000 RR.

Meanwhile, thanks to a revised 999cc ShiftCam four-cylinder engine, the 2023 S 1000 RR now makes 207hp @ 13,750rpm and 112Nm @ 11,000rpm. Electronically, BMW adds a Slide Control function to the existing traction-control system that estimates the bike’s drift angle after reading the information from the new steering-angle sensor.

In addition, the 2023 S 1000 RR also features a Brake Slide Control function that allows the rear wheel to push out a step further under braking.

For track junkies, BMW adds a new Slick setting for the ABS that works specifically when the bike is fitted with race tires.

Other key features include:

lightweight battery
UBS port
redesigned wiring harness
updated Shift Assistant Pro quickshifter

KTM Wants To Take Control Of MV Agusta

Pierer Mobility Group (PMG) has expressed its intention to become the majority shareholder of renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta, according to a recent interview with Hubert Trunkenpolz, a member of PMG’s Executive Board.

PMG currently holds 25.1 percent stake in MV Agusta.
PMG plans to expand the current production line.

Last year, PMG acquired a 25.1% stake in MV Agusta, raising concerns in Italy that the company would suffer the same fate as Husqvarna, which became a subsidiary of KTM. However, Trunkenpolz has reassured enthusiasts that MV Agusta will not follow the same path.

Contrary to downsizing and relocating production, PMG plans to enhance MV Agusta’s existing production line. Last year, the company manufactured a mere 1,000 motorcycles, a figure Trunkenpolz considers insufficient. He envisions increasing the production capacity to 12,000 bikes annually, highlighting the importance of achieving this goal for KTM.

In addition to preserving MV Agusta’s production base in Schiranna, Trunkenpolz explained that the brand’s role within the PMG portfolio will be focused on producing luxury motorcycles priced at EUR30,000 (RM140k) or higher.

This strategic positioning aims to prevent overlap with other PMG brands such as KTM, Husqvarna, and GasGas. Trunkenpolz also criticized MV Agusta’s Lucky Explorer model, which is manufactured abroad and, in his opinion, detrimental to the brand’s image.

*The Lucky Explorer 5.5 initial plans is to be manufactured in China via QJ Motor.

Acquiring a controlling stake in MV Agusta is crucial for PMG to implement the desired changes. PMG aims to hold at least 50.1% ownership in the company.

Trunkenpolz confirmed that PMG’s stake will gradually increase but did not disclose the exact timeframe, as agreed upon by the shareholders. However, he did mention that PMG intends to invest in the Varese region, where MV Agusta is headquartered, over the next two years.

With these plans, PMG aims to revitalize MV Agusta, ensuring its future as a luxury motorcycle brand known for its Italian heritage. By expanding production capabilities and maintaining the brand’s distinct identity, PMG seeks to unlock the company’s untapped potential. Motorcycle enthusiasts will eagerly await the developments resulting from PMG’s increased investment and growing influence within MV Agusta.

Japan’s Big Four Team Up To Develop Hydrogen Engines

Japan’s Big Four motorcycle manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, made an exciting announcement on May 17, 2023.

They unveiled their joint venture called HySE (Hydrogen Small Mobility and Engine Technology) during a press conference held in Tokyo.
This collaboration aims to develop hydrogen-powered motorcycle engines and other hydrogen-powered engines for small mobility.

HySE will also welcome Kawasaki Heavy Industries Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation as special members, considering their individual advancements in hydrogen-powered research. This diverse group will bring together expertise from various fields to drive innovation in hydrogen-powered engines.

The newly formed organisation has outlined three primary areas of focus for research and development, with each company assigned specific responsibilities. Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Kawasaki Motors will collectively research hydrogen-powered engines. Yamaha will concentrate on studying hydrogen refueling systems, while Kawasaki Motors will explore the fuel supply system.

The research efforts will be distributed among the companies. Honda will take the lead in model-based development, Suzuki will conduct an element study on functionality and performance, and Yamaha and Kawasaki Motors will carry out hands-on research to assess real-world functionality and reliability of hydrogen-powered engines.

In addition to engine research, Yamaha will investigate the requirements for developing a hydrogen refueling system and tanks for small mobility vehicles. Kawasaki Motors will focus on studying the auxiliary equipment necessary for fuel supply systems and distribution tanks, as well as the equipment between the fuel tanks and injectors on hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Collaboration among these major players is crucial as they tackle the challenges of decarbonisation. While electric vehicles have made progress in reducing carbon emissions, certain sectors face difficulties in this transition. To achieve a sustainable future, it requires multiple ideas, research, and development working together.

Clean hydrogen, also known as green hydrogen, holds promise but has been expensive to produce in the past. The implementation of hydrogen tax credits, as included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, could incentivise companies to invest in clean hydrogen development. However, the effectiveness of these incentives will depend on the guidelines established by the US Department of Energy and the US Internal Revenue Service, ensuring accountability for emissions throughout the production process.

The prospects of HySE’s research and development are eagerly anticipated, and we will keep you updated on the latest advancements in this exciting endeavour.

PDRM To Crack Down On High-Powered Motorcycles During Special Ops

In a timely move to address the rising concern of high-speed riding, PDRM has introduced a special operations focusing on individuals riding high-powered motorcycles.

The ‘Op Khas Motosikal Berkuasa Tinggi’ is an initiative aims to crack down on reckless and dangerous behaviour on the roads, according to Deputy Director Mohd Nasri Omar of PDRM’s JSPT Bukit Aman.

Acknowledging the prevalence of motorcyclists exceeding speed limits, Deputy Director Mohd Nasri emphasized that JSPT will prioritise monitoring those who operate high-powered bikes during the special ops.

To ensure effective enforcement, JSPT will collaborate with other prominent agencies such as the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK). This strategic partnership will enable a comprehensive approach in combating reckless riding, emphasizing not only the safety aspect but also the prevention of potential drug-related offenses linked to the motorcycle community.

Offenders found guilty of reckless riding may face charges under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. If convicted, they could be sentenced to a maximum of five years in prison and fined between RM5,000 and RM15,000.

(source: Sinar Harian)

KTM 390 Adventure With Spoked Wheels, Adjustable Suspension, Rolls Out In India

KTM globally introduced the 2023 KTM 390 Adventure earlier this year which saw everyone’s favourite entry-level adventure bike getting the spoked wheels as standard.

2023 KTM 390 Adventure now equipped with wire-spoked wheels as standard.
the entry-level ADV continue to make 44hp and 37Nm.

Fast forward a few months later, India became the first country in Asia to received the updated motorcycle.

The upgrade enhanced the bike’s aesthetic and beefed up the bike’s durability off-road. Also, the spoke sits within black-anodized aluminium rims with 19-inch at the front and 17-inch at the rear.

Aside from the new rims, the 2023 390 Adventure continues to make 44hp and 37Nm of peak torque from its Bajaj-built 373cc single-cylinder DOHC engine. Additionally, the bike features two catalytic converters.

Other notable features remain available, including ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, cornering ABS and an ‘Off-Road’ riding mode. The mode allows for more rear wheel slip and reduces ABS intervention.

KTM also retained the steel trellis frame for the 2023 model year, including the WP Apex suspension that offers adjustable rebound, compression and preload.

Braking is done via Brembo’s ByBre radial callipers with 320mm disc at the front and 230mm disc at the rear. Also complementing the 2023 edition is a new colour scheme inspired by the KTM racing background.

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Latest News

2024 Ducati SuperSport 950 S Gets New Paint Job, Fully Adjustable Öhlins Suspension

Ducati introduces the 2024 SuperSport 950 S, showcasing an alluring new Stripe livery.

2023 BMW S 1000 RR Now In Malaysia – RM149,500 For The M Package

BMW Motorrad Malaysia has officially launched the highly-anticipated 2023 BMW S 1000 RR, with the Style Passion variant priced at RM129,500 and the up-spec M Package available for RM149,500.

KTM Wants To Take Control Of MV Agusta

Pierer Mobility Group (PMG) has expressed its intention to become the majority shareholder of renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta, according to a recent interview with Hubert Trunkenpolz, a member of PMG’s Executive Board.

Japan’s Big Four Team Up To Develop Hydrogen Engines

Japan’s Big Four motorcycle manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, made an exciting announcement on May 17, 2023.

PDRM To Crack Down On High-Powered Motorcycles During Special Ops

In a timely move to address the rising concern of high-speed riding, PDRM has introduced a special operations focusing on individuals riding high-powered motorcycles.

KTM 390 Adventure With Spoked Wheels, Adjustable Suspension, Rolls Out In India

KTM globally introduced the 2023 KTM 390 Adventure earlier this year which saw everyone’s favourite entry-level adventure bike getting the spoked wheels as standard.

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