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The wait is over for racing enthusiasts as SHOEI’s much-anticipated premium road racing helmet, the X-Fifteen, has finally made its debut in Malaysia. To celebrate the arrival of this cutting-edge helmet, SHOEI Malaysia hosted an exclusive preview event for the first 100 X-Fifteen owners. These lucky individuals were given the unique opportunity to choose their preferred helmet graphics and finalize the sizing through the X-Fifteen Personal Fitting System (PFS) session. As an extra special touch, every X-Fifteen owner received an exclusive limited-edition gift set.

One of the standout features of the X-Fifteen is its aerodynamic prowess, fine-tuned in SHOEI’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility. The helmet’s design prioritizes high-speed stability, resulting in a remarkable 6.1% drag reduction and a 1.6% decrease in lift compared to its predecessor. This engineering marvel is capable of delivering peak performance at speeds of up to 350 km/h.

The X-Fifteen boasts a Multi-Ply Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus (AIM+) Shell, constructed from a six-ply matrix of lightweight fiberglass and high-performance fibers. This shell is not only tough but also adept at shock absorption while maintaining its structural integrity. It’s a true racing helmet, promising exceptional performance, functionality, and, above all, safety.

Safety is paramount, and the X-Fifteen excels in this aspect with its Multi-Piece/Multi-Density EPS Liner, strategically using varying foam densities to optimize impact absorption around the head. This precise placement results in a more compact, lightweight design.

Ventilation and airflow in the X-Fifteen have been optimized with seven closable air inlets and six air outlets, allowing hot air to escape efficiently. Additionally, the EPS tunnels have been deepened from 6mm to 10mm, significantly increasing cold air volume and expediting hot air evacuation, ensuring a constant flow of refreshing air for the rider. The innovative cheek pad cooling system now incorporates more air holes to provide additional comfort.

In terms of comfort, the X-Fifteen introduces pocket-shaped pads with removable layers for a precision fit. Its patented angle adjustment mechanism can change the helmet’s position by up to 4 degrees, enhancing the rider’s upper field of vision, especially when tucked into extreme racing positions.

Functionality is taken to the next level with a double-layer lens lock design, ensuring stability during high-speed riding. The two-stage shield locking system, comprising a racing shield lock and a center locking mechanism, offers the best protection against unexpected shield releases during a fall. Furthermore, a newly developed trigger lock mechanism prevents the shield from detaching after an accident, instilling even greater rider confidence.

Most importantly, the X-Fifteen complies with the latest ECE22.06 and FIM homologation safety standards. It features a CWR-F2R shield/visor that combats fogging in various weather conditions, providing riders with a consistently clear vision. This shield, in combination with the latest window beading, effectively prevents wind and water from entering when secured. To suit individual tastes, the helmet is available in a wide range of colors and graphics, and it offers sizes ranging from XS to XXL, ensuring a perfect fit for every rider.

The SHOEI X-Fifteen is now available at retail prices of RM 2,850 for the Plain version, RM 3,350 for Graphic, and RM 3,500 for Riders Replica. For those seeking a personalized fitting session, customers are encouraged to visit the Gomoto Experience Lab to ensure the best helmet fit.

Stay updated with the latest news and developments on SHOEI’s Facebook page and Instagram. Shoei Malaysia says the new helmet will elevate your racing experience which bosts cutting-edge technology that meets uncompromising safety and performance.

On October 26, 2023, Harley-Davidson unveiled its financial performance for the third quarter of 2023. Although CEO Jochen Zeitz highlighted the positive news of a 25 percent surge in CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) retail sales, a deeper examination of the revenue and motorcycle sales figures presents a more nuanced picture.

If you did not know, Harley-Davidson employs a segmented reporting structure, which comprises three key parts: Harley-Davidson Motor Company (encompassing all motorcycles except LiveWire), Harley-Davidson Financial Services, and LiveWire. This structure has been in place since LiveWire was spun off into a separate entity in 2022. Collectively, these segments constitute Harley-Davidson Incorporated, the entity responsible for Consolidated Financial Results. When compared to the third quarter of 2022, the Motor Company reported a 24 percent decline in profits. Notably, this announcement led to an 11 percent drop in the company’s stock shares, as reported by Reuters.

Harley-Davidson revealed a decline in retail motorcycle sales for all its models, excluding LiveWire, across various global regions during the third quarter of 2023. Overall, worldwide sales fell by 16 percent year-on-year. A regional breakdown of sales reveals the following:

  1. North America: Sales for Q3 2023 experienced a 15 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2022.
  2. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA): Sales in this combined region dropped by 13 percent.
  3. Asia Pacific: Sales saw a significant decline of 24 percent.
  4. Latin America: Sales in Latin America also declined by 11 percent in Q3 of 2023.

Regarding LiveWire, it is important to note that Harley-Davidson employs a unique reporting approach for LiveWire numbers. While the statistics for the internal combustion engine (ICE) Harley-Davidson Motor Company pertain directly to motorcycle sales in each region and globally, LiveWire figures use a different terminology – “Electric Motorcycle Shipments” rather than “sales”.

In Q3 of 2023, the company reported the shipment of a total of 50 LiveWire electric motorcycles. This represents a substantial 76 percent decrease in comparison to the LiveWire shipments in Q3 2022, which amounted to 206 units a year prior. It’s important to clarify that there is no typo in these figures; only 50 LiveWire motorcycles were shipped during that quarter.

In fairness, it is worth acknowledging that LiveWire is still in its early stages, and innovative technologies and ventures often face initial challenges. Additionally, Harley-Davidson has only recently introduced its electric motorcycles to the European market. While riders in Europe and Asia have been quicker to embrace electric motorbikes in general, the same cannot be said for the U.S. market. As LiveWire establishes its presence in Europe and explores markets beyond the United States, particularly with offerings like the S2 Del Mar, it may find a more receptive audience and pave the way for future growth.

Bosch is set to revolutionise motorcycle safety with the introduction of a new generation of motorcycle rader, which some press are calling the most important update in a while.

In a press release, Bosch says its new-generation radar could prevent up to “one in seven motorcycle accidents,” by integrating the radar with emergency electronic assists. Essentially, the radar would be used to detect proximity to hazards and intervene on behalf of the human rider to try to avoid a collision. This is different to the radar-linked Unified Braking System on the Yamaha Tracer 9 GT+ because the Yamaha system only applies the rear brake in the event of high pressure applied to the front brake by the rider.

Bosch is set to present a new, longer-range radar at the upcoming EICMA show, with a range increase of 50 metres over its previous version to have a maximum distance of 210 metres. Additionally, it will have a 15-degree horizontal aperture, which “improves its accuracy in object detection,” the German firm says.

This kind of emergency radar system used in the context of autonomously operated braking is not a new thing, generally speaking, even if it is such in motorcycles. In the four-wheeled world, it’s an increasingly common feature on cars.

Bosch is also set to unveil a new version of its Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC). The existing iteration of Bosch’s MSC “could prevent or mitigate five per cent of all motorcycle accidents involving personal injury in Germany alone if every motorcycle were equipped with it,” according to the company’s research. The newer version would also be targeted at smaller bikes, after Bosch found that its existing system is used mostly on mid-to-large-sized motorcycles. To make it compatible with smaller bikes, the new MSC will be compatible not only with the 6D IMU, but also the smaller 3D ABS sensor.

In addition, a new-generation rear-wheel hub electric motor will be showcased that saves 2kg and loses no performance compared to the previous iteration, while new engine management systems will help manufacturers meet future regional emissions regulations.

It is difficult to believe that BMW Motorrad has managed to improve on the S 1000 XR when it was already so good to begin with already. But upgrade it they did, and it is now supposedly better than ever, here’s 17 things you need to know about the new S 1000 XR!

1. The engine of the new XR is 5kg lighter than before. The newly developed four-cylinder in-line engine is based on the unit that powers the S1000 RR but has been further optimised with mid-range power and new transmission gradation for the fourth and sixth gear.

2. Power and torque is now rated at 165hp @ 11,000rpm and 114Nm at 9250rpm.

3. It features a new Flex Frame where the engine is more closely integrated into the frame, making it a load-bearing unit. The rear frame is new and 9% lighter than before while the entire composite structure of the main frame, rear frame and swinging arms are newly calculated to achieve an optimum combination of stiffness and flexibility – hence the name Flex Frame.

4. Dynamic ESA is now offered as standard while Dynamic ESA Pro with two damping modes (Road, Dynamic) with automatic load compensation is offered as an option.

5. The swing arm is now 19% lighter and features a directly articulated suspension strut for a more sensitive response.

6. Dynamic Brake Assistance with Dynamic Brake Control is offered as standard.

7. Overall weight has been reduced by 10kg and is now at 226kg.

8. Entirely new exhaust system which is lighter and EU5-compliant.

9. Dynamic Traction Control is now standard.

10. Hill Start Pro that ensures the bike does not roll back on a hill is now standard.

11. HP Shift Assistant Pro for clutches shifting is offered as standard.

12. Electronic cruise control is available as an option.

13. There is a new 6.5-inch TFT screen with four customisable displays.

14. Bodywork has been completely redesigned for an even more dynamic design with improved aero for better wind and weather protection. The headlamps for example have been redesigned.

15. There are four riding modes: Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro is now offered as standard.

16. The 17-inch light-alloy wheels are the same as the ones used on the S 1000 RR, which means they weigh in at a mere 1.8kg, or 17% lesser than before.

17. There is a new Dynamic Brake Control feature that avoids unintentional accelerator movement during braking. For example, when the onboard sensor detects deceleration and then detects simultaneous throttle input, the system takes that as implausible and tells the throttle valves to remain shut.

The official press release from BMW Motorrad is over 40 pages long, but the above are the 17 things that have been simplified for you. There is a lot more to know though, if you are into the technical bits. We suggest visiting your local BMW Motorrad dealer for the full juice.

BMW Motorrad’s M model range strategy, initiated in 2018, has brought thrilling M models to the world of motorcycles, complete with M special equipment and M performance parts. Among these outstanding models, the BMW M 1000 XR stands as the third addition, following the M 1000 RR superbike and the dynamic M 1000 R roadster. The M 1000 XR is a long-distance sports bike that embodies the dynamic philosophy of the world’s most powerful letter, the “M.”

Engineered for Excellence:
The BMW M 1000 XR is powered by a water-cooled 4-cylinder in-line engine, a close sibling of the S 1000 RR’s power unit. This engine produces an impressive 201 horsepower (148 kW) at 12,750 rpm, making it 31 horsepower more powerful than the new S 1000 XR. Torque peaks at 113 Nm, reached at 11,000 rpm. With a maximum engine speed of 14,600 rpm and a shorter secondary gear ratio achieved by a sprocket with 47 teeth, this bike offers increased rear-wheel pulling power in all gears, resulting in improved traction, acceleration, and pulling power.

Aerodynamic Marvel:
Aerodynamics played a crucial role in designing the BMW M 1000 XR. The addition of winglets at the front side panels enhances its performance on the race track and stability at high speeds. These winglets begin to create front wheel load at around 100 km/h, reaching approximately 12 kg of front wheel load at 220 km/h.

Advanced Suspension and Chassis:
The M 1000 XR’s suspension and chassis are based on the S 1000 XR’s design, featuring an aluminum bridge frame. It comes with upside-down forks with a 45 mm slide tube diameter at the front. A new feature is the additional adjustability of the fork’s spring base in conjunction with the standard Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) suspension strut. The bike also sports an upper fork bridge with an elaborately milled-over handlebar clamp and a black aluminum tubular handlebar with “BMW M 1000 XR” lettering. Adjustable handlebar end mirrors and a new steering damper further enhance the bike’s capabilities.

Performance-Optimized Brakes:
The M XR boasts the M brake, directly influenced by BMW Motorrad’s racing brakes used in the Superbike World Championship. These M brake callipers feature a distinctive blue anodized coating and the iconic M logo. Together with two 320 mm brake discs, a new radial hand brake pump, and black anodized aluminum brake disc carriers, this brake system sets new standards for road-legal systems.

M Competition Package:
For riders seeking even more from their M 1000 XR, the M Competition Package offers a selection of refined components, making the bike 3 kg lighter. It includes M Carbon wheels, M Carbon parts like a rear wheel cover with an integrated chain guard, side panels, front wheel cover, inner cover, and ignition/steering lock cover. The package also features a fully adjustable M rider footrest system, passenger footrests, and the MGPS Laptrigger (unlock code).

Exceptional Engine Performance:
The M 1000 XR shares its water-cooled 4-cylinder in-line engine with the M 1000 R, delivering 201 horsepower at 12,750 rpm, a 31 horsepower increase compared to the new S 1000 XR. With a maximum engine speed of 14,600 rpm, the M XR excels in the rev range above 10,000 rpm, providing improved acceleration and pulling power.

Customizable Riding Modes:
The M 1000 XR offers two riding mode worlds: one for country roads and another for the race track. Standard riding modes include “Rain,” “Road,” “Dynamic,” and “Race,” with additional “Race Pro” modes. The Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with 6-axis sensors, wheelie function, and adjustable throttle characteristics allows for a tailored riding experience.

Enhanced Suspension:
Equipped with Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) suspension as standard, the M 1000 XR offers basic DDC settings tied to riding modes and individualized suspension tuning. The bike also allows the rider to adjust suspension settings based on load, whether riding solo or with a passenger.

M Carbon Wheels:
The M 1000 XR comes with lightweight forged aluminum wheels as standard, with M Carbon wheels available as an optional extra. These M Carbon wheels, approximately 1.5 kg lighter than the standard wheels, improve the bike’s agility and handling, thanks to their reduced rotational mass.

Advanced Instrument Cluster:
The M XR’s instrument cluster is equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT display that offers customizable screen displays for various purposes. It provides essential information, including speed, rpm, riding modes, ABS Pro, DTC settings, and more. For track enthusiasts, the cluster offers lap time, speed specifics, lean angles, and other performance-related data.

State-of-the-Art Electronics:
The M 1000 XR’s electronics include a lightweight battery, a USB charging socket, electronic cruise control, and heated grips as standard. The bike also features an LED headlamp, position lights, side indicators, and a rear light unit.

The BMW M 1000 XR is a force to be reckoned with, combining high performance, advanced technology, and stunning design. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or an enthusiast looking for the ultimate long-distance sports bike, the M 1000 XR delivers on every front. It’s a masterpiece from BMW Motorrad’s M model range that’s set to redefine the sport-touring experience.

  1. 77.5 hp, which becomes 84.5 with the racing exhaust, and maximum rotation speed of 10,250 rpm: performance never achieved before by a single-cylinder road engine
  2. The Superquadro Mono derives from the twin-cylinder unit of the 1299 Panigale, from which it inherits the 116 mm bore piston, the combustion chamber, the titanium intake and steel exhaust valves and Desmodromic distribution
  3. With an extremely short stroke of 62.4 mm, the Superquadro Mono has a bore/stroke ratio of 1.86. The most extreme value ever seen on a road single-cylinder engine
  4. Not just benchmark performance, the Superquadro Mono is also the single-cylinder with the highest maintenance intervals: 30,000 km for checking and eventual valve clearance adjustment

In a triumphant return to its single-cylinder roots, Ducati has introduced the Superquadro Mono, marking a significant milestone three decades after the legendary Supermono 550. This road-going single-cylinder marvel boasts a 659 cc displacement, features the renowned Desmodromic system, and sets a new standard for performance within its category.

Derived from the Panigale 1299 engine, the 1285 cc Superquadro twin-cylinder served as the foundation for the Superquadro Mono. It inherited critical elements, including the 116 mm diameter piston, combustion chamber design, 46.8 mm diameter titanium intake valves, 38.2 mm steel exhaust valves, and the Desmodromic system, which eliminates the limitations imposed by valve springs and facilitates exceptional valve lift.

The name “Superquadro” alludes to the extraordinary bore-to-stroke ratio, enabling the engine to attain high RPM levels typical of racing engines. In the case of the Superquadro Mono, this ratio stands at 1.86, thanks to an impressively short stroke of 62.4 mm. The record 116 mm bore allows for larger diameter valves, enhancing performance while maintaining precision through the Desmodromic system. As a result, the Superquadro Mono delivers a maximum power output of 77.5 hp at 9,750 RPM, achieving an unprecedented milestone for a road-going single-cylinder engine. Torque is equally impressive, with a peak of 6.4 kgm at 8,000 RPM, offering linear and usable power delivery while adhering to stringent Euro 5 homologation standards. In a racing configuration with a Termignoni exhaust, this single-cylinder powerhouse reaches an astonishing 84.5 hp at 9,500 RPM.

Furthermore, a detuned version of the Superquadro Mono will be available for a broader audience.

This exceptional engine relies on advanced materials and technical solutions to enhance performance and minimize weight. The 116 mm bore piston, reminiscent of those found in racing engines, adopts a “box in box” design, combining rigidity and reduced friction through a double-truss base. The piston pin features a Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) surface coating, ensuring durability. The engine’s compression ratio stands at 13.1:1.

The Desmodromic system’s rocker arms are equipped with DLC surface coating to reduce friction and improve resistance to fatigue. Distribution is managed through a mixed “silent” gear/chain system.

Fuel delivery is facilitated by a single oval-section throttle body with a 62 mm equivalent diameter. It incorporates an under-throttle injector controlled by a ride-by-wire system offering three distinct Power Modes (High, Medium, Low) to adapt engine performance to varying riding conditions.

The engine’s die-cast crankcases feature an aluminum water jacket around the cylinder barrel, enhancing both weight reduction and cooling efficiency. Magnesium alloy components, such as the clutch, alternator, and head covers, further minimize engine weight while maintaining mechanical strength.

The asymmetrical crankshaft is supported by differentiated main bearings to reduce weight, and engine balance is ensured through two balancing countershafts, eliminating unwanted forces or moments and allowing for high-speed operation with minimal vibration.

A dual lobe pump system is used for efficient lubrication, including a recovery pump in the connecting rod compartment. This pump, in conjunction with a valve in the blow-by circuit, creates a crankshaft compartment under depression, reducing friction and ensuring effective oil recovery under various engine operating conditions.

The six-speed gearbox features racing ratios inspired by the Panigale V4’s experience, with a unique first gear for optimal performance in slow corners. The oil bath clutch employs progressive interlocking hydraulic control, providing reduced lever effort and facilitating intuitive braking behavior and power-sliding during corner entry.

The transmission can be equipped with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up & Down, which utilizes a magnetic hall effect sensor for improved accuracy and reliability compared to traditional load cell-based systems.

Main technical data of the Superquadro Mono
1. 659 cc vertical single-cylinder engine

2. Bore x stroke 116 x 62.4 mm

3. Compression ratio 13.1:1

4. Maximum power 57 kW (77.5 hp) at 9,750 rpm – 84.5 hp at 9,500 rpm with Termignoni racing exhaust

5. Maximum torque 63 Nm (6.4 Kgm) at 8,050 rpm – 6.8 Kgm with Termignoni racing exhaust Aluminium cylinder barrel

6. Euro 5+ homologation

6.Mixed chain-gear Desmodromic distribution with double overhead camshaft, 4 valves per cylinder. 46.8 mm titanium intake valves, 38.2 mm exhaust valves.

7. Asymmetrical crankshaft mounted on differentiated diameter main bearings

8. Double balancing countershaft with control function of the water and oil pumps

9. Multi-disc oil-bath clutch, servo-driven and with anti-hopping function

10. Semi-dry sump lubrication with delivery pump and recovery pump

11. Fuel feed via oval section throttle body with an equivalent diameter of 62 mm

12. Six-speed gearbox with the possibility of fitting the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up & Down

13. Oil change set at 15,000 km

14. Check and eventual adjustment of valve clearance set at 30,000 km

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