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

New Kawasaki Z500 and Ninja 500 Make Global Debut

Kawasaki unveiled its latest offerings, the Z500 and Ninja 500, at the annual EICMA show in Milan, Italy. Drawing heavily from the DNA of the existing Ninja 400 and Z400 models, both bikes feature a familiar steel trellis frame, suspension, and major components like the fuel tank. However, they showcase revamped styling elements, distinguishing them from their predecessors.

The Ninja 500, the fully-faired counterpart, boasts a distinctive new nose and headlight design compared to the older Ninja 400. Closer scrutiny reveals updates in the side panels, lower fairing section, and the seat unit. The Z500 shares a similar rear section with redesigned tank ducts and a more compact nose cowl featuring a smaller headlight unit than its predecessor, the Z400.

Unveiled alongside their significant rivals, Honda’s CB500 Hornet and CBR500R, both Kawasaki models incorporate color TFT instruments with smartphone connectivity and a USB-C power port.

While detailed specifications are yet to be released by Kawasaki, the fundamental dimensions are expected to align with the Ninja 400 and Z400. The increased engine capacity, achieved through a 58.6mm stroke (up from 51.8mm) while maintaining the previous 399cc engine’s 70mm bore, is likely to impact torque and low-end pull more than peak power.

In European markets, the “500” models are touted as A2-license compliant, adhering to a maximum power output of 48 hp and a restricted power-to-weight ratio (0.2kW per kilogram or 0.122 hp per pound). Given that the existing Ninja 400 and Z400 are already on the power-to-weight limit, producing 45 hp and weighing 167kg and 165kg, respectively, the larger engine may not result in a significant horsepower increase. However, it’s worth noting that the Eliminator’s 451cc mill produces 5Nm more torque.

Comprehensive specifications and pricing details are yet to be disclosed by Kawasaki.

Kymco Introduces Its First Adventure Scooter – The CV-L6!

Kymco, a renowned name in the realm of technologically advanced scooters and a manufacturer for brands like Kawasaki and BMW, made a significant impact at this year’s EICMA show in Milan. Among the array of models presented, the spotlight shone on the CV-L6.

In recent years, the adventure scooter segment has witnessed remarkable growth, with key players such as Honda, Yamaha, SYM, and Keeway introducing new models. Kymco has now joined the fray with the CV-L6, a maxi-scooter infused with rugged styling and off-road capabilities. Embodying the principles of freedom, toughness, and adventure, Kymco’s CV-L6 offers design cues from the adventure bike world — characterized by its pointed and aggressive bodywork, tall windscreen, and integrated luggage — while retaining the accessibility and user-friendly nature of a maxi-scooter.

Positioned as a versatile ride suitable for both urban commuting and long-distance adventures, the CV-L6 boasts a blend of technology emphasizing comfort, safety, convenience, and performance. Powering this adventure-ready scooter is the same robust 550cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected parallel-twin engine found in the impressive AK 550 maxi-scooter, delivering 51 horsepower.

Beyond sheer performance, the CV-L6 rides on alloy wheels fitted with dual-purpose tires. Its front suspension features sturdy inverted forks with substantial travel, complemented by an offset rear monoshock. Braking prowess is managed by dual Brembo radially mounted discs up front and a single disc brake at the rear.

Kymco has ingeniously crafted the CV-L6 around a new lightweight frame, providing a lower seat height to cater to a diverse range of riders. Enhancing the adventure-ready design are integrated luggage accessories from Givi, comprising side panniers and a top case. This thoughtful addition allows riders to customize their experience for varying distances, with the flexibility to remove the side panniers and top case for a more agile city ride.

2024 Honda CBR650R Updated With New Design & Tech

Honda’s CBR650R, which made its debut in 2014 as a fully faired sportbike, was designed to deliver a thrilling and practical riding experience. Over the years, it has evolved, transforming into a high-performance machine while maintaining its everyday usability. In 2024, the CBR650R is taking another significant step forward with cutting-edge technology, enhanced styling, and a commitment to delivering pure sports riding enjoyment.

The Evolution of CBR650R:
In 2019, the CBR650F became the CBR650R, signifying a significant upgrade in sporty performance. This transformation turned the CBR650R into a four-cylinder sportbike that offers the adrenaline rush of an RR machine while remaining practical for daily commuting and cost-effective for the long term.

The Best Seller in Europe:
The CBR650R proved its popularity by becoming the best-selling sports bike in Europe in 2021. This success can be attributed to its user-driven improvements and significant upgrades to the front suspension.

A Game-Changer for 2024:

In 2024, the CBR650R, along with its naked sibling, the CB650R, became the first Honda motorcycles to feature the innovative Honda E-Clutch technology. This technology promises to make motorcycling accessible to riders of all levels. It works by allowing the rider to change gears without using the clutch. And they can engage the clutch again with the press of a button if they so wished to. This provides for practicality especially in dense traffic conditions.

Enhanced Styling & Technology:
For the 2024, the CBR650R undergoes a transformation in terms of style and functionality. The redesign includes a new headlight, fairing, rider/pillion seat, tail unit, and taillight, giving the bike a sharper and more athletic appearance.

A new 5-inch full-color TFT screen, optically bonded for improved readability in bright sunlight, is a notable addition. It also features Honda RoadSync connectivity, allowing for on-screen, turn-by-turn navigation and access to smartphone features. This user-friendly interface, managed by a backlit 4-way lefthand toggle switch, adds a tech-savvy dimension to the riding experience.

Unchanged Powerhouse:
The CBR650R’s four-cylinder engine maintains its impressive performance, delivering 93hp and 63Nm of torque. The in-line 4-cylinder engine provides quick acceleration and high-revving power, showcasing Honda’s engineering excellence.

Exceptional Chassis:
The CBR650R’s chassis remains perfectly suited for city streets and winding back roads. A steel diamond frame offers core rigidity, while 41mm Showa SFF-BP USD front forks and Showa rear shock provide top-tier suspension control. The four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers work in harmony with 310mm floating discs, and the cast aluminum wheels support 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 front and rear tires.

Color Options:
The 24YM CBR650R is available in two color options

Grand Prix Red Tricolour
Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic

2024 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Offers MotoGP Tech For The Road!

In 1992, Honda introduced the Fireblade, a legendary 1,000cc super sports motorcycle. Over the years, it has been the foundation for competitive race machines on various circuits and the Isle of Man TT.

In 2020, Honda revamped the Fireblade, giving rise to two new models, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, developed with extensive input from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) to enhance its racing pedigree.

The new Fireblade draws heavily from the engine and chassis technology of the RC213V-S, a street-legal MotoGP machine, and incorporates aerodynamics inspired by the RC213V MotoGP bike. It is engineered from the ground up to prioritize pure track performance, addressing aspects like engine, handling, and aerodynamics.

In 2022, the Fireblade celebrated its 30th anniversary with several upgrades to boost acceleration. Engine components like intake ports, airbox, airbox funnels, exhaust mid-section, and quickshifter performance were revised. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) was fine-tuned for better rear tire traction management, and throttle response was improved.

And in 2024, the Fireblade SP underwent further development. It received engine and gearbox updates to enhance mid-range performance and throttle response. Riding position adjustments were made, and components from Brembo and Öhlins were incorporated to optimize track performance while maintaining an engaging road-riding experience.

The Fireblade SP’s inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine now produces 214hp of peak power and 113Nm of torque. The engine underwent significant changes to provide a different power delivery throughout the rev-range. Features like a 2-Motor Throttle By Wire system, increased compression ratio, adjusted intake ports, valve timing alterations, lightweight titanium conrods, and shorter gear ratios contribute to this transformation.

The exhaust system now features ovalized downpipes and a slightly larger titanium Akrapovič muffler, producing less noise. The electronic systems include Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), adjustable Start Mode, and a standard-fit quickshifter.

The chassis improvements include a revised aluminum frame with optimized rigidity balance, a third-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (SE-C3.0) suspension, Brembo Stylema R brakes with Cornering ABS, and a redesigned riding position.

A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides precise data for various electronic systems, including the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD). The Öhlins suspension system offers refined settings through the Object Based Tuning interface (OBTi).

The aerodynamics package was redesigned to enhance high-speed agility and stability. The new fairing features winglets for downforce, aero steps for rear traction, and improved airflow management. A 5-inch color TFT screen and four-way switch provide intuitive control, and a Smart Key system adds convenience.

There is no better way to describe the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP than to state the obvious, it is a high-performance motorcycle designed for the track but suitable for road use. It boasts a potent engine, advanced electronics, and top-notch chassis components, making it a formidable machine for both racing enthusiasts and sportbike riders.

As for when it will be available in global markets, Q1 of 2024 sounds about right, but Malaysian buyers may have to wait longer than that.

New CFMoto 450MT Is Adventure Ready Right Out of The Box!

This new entrant to CFMoto’s lineup aims to carve a unique niche in the middleweight adventure bike category, combining elements such as reduced weight, a refined twin-cylinder engine, compact dimensions, and an off-road-oriented chassis.

At the core of the CFMoto 450MT lies a potent 449cc water-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine, generating an impressive 43.6 horsepower and 44 Nm of torque. What distinguishes this engine is its 270-degree crankshaft, producing a distinctive growl, reminiscent of a V-twin powerplant.

The motorcycle’s chassis is adventure-ready, featuring a steel tube main frame with a trellis-style subframe. The suspension setup comprises an inverted KYB front fork and a multi-link KYB monoshock at the rear, both offering a generous 200 mm of travel and adjustable damping. The 450MT rides on cross-spoke tubeless wheels, with a dirt-friendly 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, making it well-suited for various terrains.

A notable aspect of the 450MT is that CFMoto has integrated its trusted 450cc platform into an off-road adventure chassis for the first time. This platform has previously proven its reliability in CFMoto’s sport, classic, and naked models, instilling confidence in its performance.

To enhance rider comfort and control, CFMoto has provided the 450MT with an accommodating seat height, which can be set at either 800 mm in the low position or 820 mm in the high position. Despite this, the bike maintains a respectable ground clearance of 220 mm.

With a substantial 17.5 liters fuel tank, the 450MT promises a decent range for its modest engine displacement. Braking is entrusted to a single 320 mm front disc with a 4-piston caliper, while the rear wheel features a 240 mm disc with a single-piston caliper, both crafted by J.Juan.

In terms of weight, the 450MT boasts a dry weight of 175 kg, positioning it as a nimble and manageable choice for riders. It’s wheelbase measures 59.3 inches, ensuring a compact footprint for enhanced maneuverability.

The motorcycle comes equipped with several standard features, including an adjustable windscreen, full wrap-around handguards, an aluminum skid plate, a rear rack, and a slipper clutch. It’s important to note that the throttle is mechanical, indicating that the 450MT lacks electronic rider aids, except for ABS and traction control.

One standout feature of the new model is its 5-inch curved TFT screen with Over-The-Air (OTA) functionality, enabling wireless updates for the motorcycle’s electronics. Additionally, the TFT screen supports MotoPlay, offering a full map on the bike’s dashboard for an enhanced navigation experience.

For riders looking to customize their bike further, the 450MT seems to provide high fender options and a range of accessories, such as upper and lower crash bars, rear pannier racks, hard cases, and more.

CFMoto has announced its plan to release the 450MT overseas in the first quarter of 2024, featuring two distinct color choices, Zephyr Blue and Tundra Grey.

New 2024 KTM 990 Duke Offers Mega Performance & Advanced Tech!

Celebrating 30 years of the iconic Duke lineup, the 2024 KTM 990 Duke arrives with a focus on performance and a striking new look. It has been engineered to be a top-tier naked machine again, combining powerful mechanics with cutting-edge styling. Let’s delve into what makes the 2024 KTM 990 Duke an exciting addition to the Duke family.

Performance Beyond Expectations

The KTM 990 Duke is not shy about its intentions. It boasts a potent engine, an entirely new chassis, a redesigned swingarm, updated ergonomics, and advanced technology. These improvements elevate the motorcycle into the league of larger-capacity bikes in terms of displacement and proportions.

The design of the 2024 KTM 990 Duke is all about capturing the essence of explosive energy in a freeze-frame. It exudes a sense of controlled chaos, ready to be unleashed. The new design is complemented by two colorway options: Black and Electric Orange, the latter specially crafted to celebrate 30 years of the Duke legacy.

A Futuristic Face

The 2024 KTM 990 Duke features a sleek, predatory design with a modern LED headlight as its standout feature. Carefully constructed from a mix of materials, this headlight is said to ensure stable illumination in all road conditions. Position and daytime running lights are neatly integrated into the headlight’s profile, and the light intensity automatically adjusts according to ambient light conditions, thanks to a light sensor in the dashboard.

Additionally, the KTM 990 Duke comes with a standard “Coming Home” light function, which keeps the headlight on briefly after the ignition is switched off, providing extra visibility for the rider.

Heart of a Beast

Jammed into the frame is a significantly updated version of the LC8c engine from the KTM 890 Duke R. With 947 cc, this powerhouse generates an impressive 123 HP and 103 Nm of torque, all while maintaining a total motorcycle weight of just 179 kg. The KTM 990 Duke continues the legacy of the Duke models that have come before it, delivering even more dynamism and aggression, combined with a lightweight and maneuverable chassis for maximum rider confidence.

Precision Handling

The 2024 KTM 990 Duke inherits the Duke tradition of a stiff trellis frame and introduces a new closed-lattice swingarm. Paired with high-quality adjustable WP APEX Suspension components and Bridgestone S22 tires, this motorcycle offers remarkable cornering stability, akin to the precision of a sniper’s shot.

The suspension is made up of 43mm forks up front which can be adjusted via five clicks on either side for both rebound and compression adjustment. The rear WP mono shock is also adjustable in five clicks with manual pre-load adjustment possible as well.

Rider-Focused Features

The KTM 990 Duke features a user-friendly 5-inch anti-scratch bonded glass dashboard that provides all the necessary information for riders. The graphics and menu structures have been revamped for quicker and more intuitive access to various features. It even includes a function that displays Lean Angle data and an optional Track Mode with a lap timer and telemetry stats. A USB-C connection has been added for convenient device charging.