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Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS), the subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS), has announced the price of its latest sports cruiser, the Modenas Vulcan S (ABS). 

  • The Vulcan S is the first 650cc model to be rebadged by Modenas. 
  • The Vulcan S is the perfect cruiser for daily commuting and touring. 

The new model features Kawasaki’s renowned 649cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin engine, which is also found in the Ninja 650. The Vulcan S is tuned to achieve maximum linear power of 61hp and maximum torque of 62.4 Nm.

What sets the Vulcan S cruiser apart from other models is the “Ergo Fit” system that allows riders of all sizes to use the reduced reach setting, which makes the bike feel like it was built-to-fit each rider. 

The model also features an 18-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, which is close to a sports model, for natural and nimble handling. The low center of gravity allows riders to take deep leaning turns with confidence and ease.

The Vulcan S has a modern and sporty look with its inverted triangle headlamp and compact gauge cluster that sports an analogue tachometer. 

All other information is shown on the multi-function LCD display that uses a blue LED backlight for projecting excellent visibility at night. The standard seat height of 705mm is extremely comfortable for the rider, and the motorcycle is easily maneuverable and super comfortable during high and low speed riding.

According to Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer, MODENAS, the Vulcan S is one of the Kawasaki models that has long been awaited by customers. 

 

The motorcycle is built to fit all sizes and ages and will help welcome edgy riders, old and new, into the sport without hurting their wallets too much. The Vulcan S comes in two different colors and prices: Metallic Flat Spark Black retailing at RM36,500 and Pearl Matte Sage Green at RM37,200, both of which will be available in all Kawasaki Dealer showrooms by the end of March 2023.

After months of speculation, Kawasaki has officially announced its latest sports bike line-up with the all-new Kawasaki ZX-4R. 

  • The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is the latest inline-four screamer to join Team Green. 
  • The Ninja ZX-4R features the same high-tensile steel trellis frame as the ZX-25R. 

Available in three variants, ZX-4R, ZX-4R SE and ZX-4RR is powered by the firm all-new 399cc inline-four, water-cooled 4-stroke with DOHC unit that’s capable of pumping 79.1hp with Ram-Air. 

Similar to the ZX-25R, the 400cc screamer also offers a generous rev limit of over 15,000rpm and is fitted with the same trellis (high tensile steel) frame. 

Power is fed from the bike’s 15-litre fuel tank and is regulated by a 6-speed manual transmission with a final chain drive.

The suspension comes from Showa with SFF-BP forks at the front and a horizontal back-link at the rear. However, the suspension package is what sets the three variants apart, with the base model getting the SFF-BP forks as mentioned above, while the SE and RR feature front forks with preload adjustment. The RR is also equipped with Showa BFRC-lite rear shock similar to the one found on the ZX-10R. 

Braking is done via radial-mounted callipers mated to a dual 290mm front brake disc and a single 220mm disc at the rear. 

Electronic-wise, the Ninja ZX-4R features all-around LED lighting, Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), 4-power modes (Sport, Rain, Road and Rider), a two-way quickshifter (SE and RR) and a 4.3-inch LCD colour display with integrated ‘Track Mode’. 

According to Kawasaki USA, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is confirmed for release in mid-2023 with an official selling price of USD 9,699 (RM41.3k). 

The all-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R will make its way to the US as confirmed by latest type approval documents filed in the USA. 

  • The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R is due for launch in February. 
  • The 400cc inline-four is expected to makes 70hp. 

More importantly, the NInja ZX-4R is likely to be launched on February 1st, 2023 based on the latest teaser shared by Kawasaki USA, recently. 

While the documents don’t disclosed the bike’s styling in general, it is widely reported that the bike will look similar to the Ninja ZX-25R currently on sale in Asia. 

The documents also denotes ZX400PP and ZX400SP which possibly refers to the model type, in this case with and without ABS as claimed by Motorcycle.com.

One thing for sure, we don’t have to wait for too long as the official launch is happening soon. 

The talk of a 400cc inline-four screamer has been around for some time, particularly after the introduction of the high-revving ZX-25R in 2020. 

There is no talk regarding how much power the ZX-4R might produce but reports suggest that it could hit around the 70hp mark, putting it on par with the Yamaha R7.

MODENAS has been awarded Malaysia Motorcycle Assesment Program (MyMAP) five-star rating for the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS.

  • MODENAS awarded MyMap 5-star rating from Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).
  • The MODENAS Ninja 250 ABS dan Z250 ABS offers top of the class safety features. 

The 5-star rating is awarded after both motorcycle features the necessary safety elements including ABS, assist and slipper clutch and lighter chassis. 

Interestingly, both the Ninja 250 ABS and Z250 ABS registered the same score for meeting the necessary standard.

Meanwhile, Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of MODENAS, is elated over the MyMAP 5-star rating.

“This will be the first time for MODENAS to receive such recognition for its products. 

“In addition, both models are the first motorcycles to receive the MyMAP 5-star rating in its class (250cc sports bike for Ninja and 250cc naked bike for Z250). 

“By having so, we believe that it will help our customers to make a more informed purchase decision, especially on the importance of having advanced safety technology available on their motorcycles. 

“In addition, MODENAS will continue to provide more safety features to its existing range of motorcycles,” he said. 

Coming in new for the Malaysian market is the new MODENAS Ninja 250 Ohlins edition.

  • The Ninja 250 (non-ABS) Ohlins Edition is limited to just 180 units. 
  • Features the same 249cc parallel-twin DOHC, 4-valve engine. 

Priced at RM20,500, the Ninja 250 Ohlins Edition features fully-adjustable Ohlins KA 744 STX 36 Supersport monoshock.

That said, the STX 36 monoshock is adjustable for compression and rebound. In addition, the Ohlins monoshock is fully covered by MODENAS.

Limited to just 180 units, the Ohlins monoshock is fitted to the non-ABS Ninja 250 only. 

According to MODENAS, the Ohlins KA 744, STX 36 Supersport monoshock offers better stability and handling especially during cornering. 

Nevertheless, other specification remains unchanged with the Ninja 250 Ohlins Edition continue to be powered by a 249cc, twin-cylinder, eight-valve, DOHC engine that makes 36hp at 12,500rpm and 23Nm of maximum torque upon hitting 10,000rpm.

 

Power is transferred down to its rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox enhanced with Kawasaki’s assist and slipper clutch for ease of riding.

Other highlighted aspects include:

  • 164kg (wet weight)
  • 14-litre fuel tank
  • Front 310mm single semi-floating disc brake with 2-piston caliper
  • Rear 220mm single disc brake with 2-piston caliper
  • 41mm telescopic front forks

Kawasaki Malaysia has announced the availability of four new CBU models for the Malaysian market including the Z900RS, Ninja 1000SX, Versys 1000SE and Ninja ZX-10R. 

  • Kawasaki Malaysia officially rolls out four new CBU models for 2022. 
  • The new generation Kawasaki ZX-10R finally in Malaysia for a recommended selling price of RM112,600. 

All four models were shown to the public during the recent Malaysian MotoGP held in Sepang International Circuit (SIC). 

Weeks after, all the models are now available at the local dealership except for the Versys 1000SE which will only be made available beginning mid-December.

Kawasaki Z900RS – RM63,800

The Z900RS embodies Kawasaki’s retro DNA that pays homage to the legendary Z1. 

Powering the Z900RS is a best-in-class 948cc inline-four, liquid-cooled engine that produces 111hp @ 8,500rpm and 98Nm. 

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX – RM71,400

 

The fourth generation sport tourer from Kawasaki allows riders to experienced the ride of both sport and a tourer all in one packages.

The Ninja 1000SX features a 1043cc inline-four cylinder engine that makes 124.3hp @ 9,500rpm and 111Nm @ 8,000rpm. 

Adopting the Ninja styling cue, the 1000SX also features a host of modern electronic package including a full TFT display, electronic cruise control, Kawasaki traction control, power modes and Kawasaki Cornering Management Function. 

Kawasaki Versys 1000SE – RM81,900

The popular tourer returns and features an even greater comfort and versatility for 2022. 

Like previous generation model, the 2022 Versys 1000SE features the same 1043cc 4-stroke, inline four-cylinder DOHC engine that pushes 120hp @ 9,000rpm and 102Nm. 

The Versys 1000SE is also fitted with a quickshifter as standard while also equipped with assist/slipper clutch, dual throttle vales and an electronic cruise control.

Kawasaki ZX-10R – RM112,600

The 2022 ZX-10R is the most potent superbike built by Team Green with six WorldSBK titles embedded in its DNA. 

Moving towards the engine, its 998cc inline-four unit now comes with new WorldSBK-spec independent air-cooled oil cooler, electronic throttle valves, exhaust unit, and revised transmission ratios. This resulted in a Euro5-compliant engine that produces 200hp and 115Nm of maximum torque, which is not that far off from the previous-gen model.

Mounted to the same chassis as the previous-gen, the 2021 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R does come with a new and slightly longer swingarm for improved high-speed stability. This is further enhanced with Showa BPF front forks and Showa BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) monoshock, all fully-adjustable.

Bimota’s new motorcycle introduction at EICMA 2022 comes in the form of the 2023 BX450, with the dirt bike borrows much of its design and specification from Kawasaki’s KX450.

  • Bimota’s upcoming tourer is powered by a supercharged four-cylinder motor from the Kawasaki H2 SX.
  • The Tera will feature a unique semi-active suspension developed with Marzocchi. 

Alongside the BX450, the Italian maker also provides enlightenment on the upcoming supercharged tourer currently under development in Rimini. 

While the bike is yet to be ready, Bimota already has an official name for the model, which will be called the Tera. 

The Tera made its first appearance in the form of a design sketch at last year’s EICMA before later it was confirmed that the new supercharged tourer would be based on Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 SX. 

According to Bimota COO, Pierluigi Marconi, motorcycle fans around the world should expect something exciting from the Tera. 

“Never before have Bimota been present in this market segment. No one has this much fun and function in one package.

“The Tera is an attention grabber that will act like a halo for Bimota by attracting further consumer attention to our impressive vehicle lineup,” said Marconi. 

We have yet to get the details but based on reports from reputable media, the Tera will feature an all-new steering system, including a new semi-active suspension developed in partnership with Italian specialist Marzocchi. 

The Kawasaki H2 SX is perhaps the most powerful sports tourer available in the market and for 2023, the supercharged machine will feature auto-high-beam. 

  • The Kawasaki H2 SX received significant update in 2022 including a new radar sensor technology.
  • For 2023, Kawasaki adds Auto-High Beam to the H2 SX electronic package. 

Not much has changed on the 2023 H2 SX as the potent sports tourer already fitted with a host of upgrade last year including a twin radar system that features adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and blind spot detection. 

Kawasaki also equipped the H2 SX with a new 6.5-inch TFT in 2022 that allows the bike to get connected with Kawasaki Rideology app. 

Nonetheless, the most significant upgrade for 2023 is the introduction of the Auto High Beam (AHB) function. 

Although the name itself is self-explanatory, the AHB works together with the light-detecting sensor which then send information to the computer to notify when it is necessary to activate the high-beam. 

The on-board cameras detect the light level from the bike’s surrounding including street lights and vehicles and calculate the whether the high-beam should be engaged. 

“For the system to function, the dimmer/passing switch must be set to high beam and the bike must be travelling above 20 km/h in darkness. With the system engaged a green icon is displayed on the 6.5” TFT multifunction, colour instrument screen,” said Kawasaki. 

Additionally, Kawasaki also welcome the return of the SE variant in 2023, which features Kawasaki Semi-Active Electronically Damped Suspension with Skyhook. 

Bimota has finally stepped out of its comfort zone of fine street bikes by introducing the BX450 enduro motorcycle. 

  • Bimota continue its closed partnership with Kawasaki with the introduction of BX450. 
  • Based on the Kawasaki KX450 dirt bike. 

The BX450 is the firm’s genuine competition motorcycle, ready to take on major enduro events across the globe. 

For the record, the BX450 is built based on Kawasaki’s iconic KX450. It features the same aluminium twin-spar frame with a classic lower double cradle that houses a powerful 449cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valve single with 12.5:1 compression. 

However, Bimota’s technical team also adds an electric start, an advanced ECU with specific mapping and a traction control system. 

In addition, the Bimota BX450 also features an Arrow exhaust system as standard. 

Nonetheless, some parts from the Kawasaki KX450 are retained on the BX450, including a fully-adjustable 49mm Showa male-slider fork and Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak monoshock linked to the swingarm. 

Braking is done via a Nissin 4-piston brake callipers mated to a single-disc at the front and rear. 

Meanwhile, the spoked wheels are fitted with Metzeler 6 Days M+S tires with 90/100-21 front and 140/80-18 rear. 

More importantly, Bimota shed its weight to just 110kg, making it a lightweight bike ready to take on the dirt road. 

Unfortunately, like all Bimotas, the BX450 will be limited to just a few hundred units. 

Kawasaki has updated its neo-retro Z650RS with a new colour scheme for 2023. 

  • Kawasaki Z650RS was launched back in September 2021. 
  • Features the same 649cc parallel-twin engine found in the Z650 and Ninja 650. 

Joining the already available Candy Emerald Green is the new Metallic Moondust Gray X Ebony for the 2023 model year.

The Kawasaki Z650RS is the Japanese latest take on neo-retro naked bike jumping on the success of the bigger and bolder, Z900RS.

Continuing the firm’s trusted 649cc parallel-twin platform, the Z900RS 650RS makes a decent 67hp @ 8,000rpm and 64Nm @ 6,500rpm. 

The new colourway is already available in Japan since 1st November. 

Like its Z650 and Ninja 650 cousin, the Z650RS is equipped with the same 41mm front fork and horizontal link rear shock with preload-adjustable.

Braking is done by a dua twin-piston front callipers clamping on a 300mm disc while governed by a dual-channel Bosch ABS.

Other features include:

  • assist/slipper clutch
  • 820mm seat height
  • full LED light setup
  • classic analogue dial with digital display

Kawasaki owners can now breathe easily in case of a breakdown as Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially introduced its roadside assistance services. 

  • New Kawasaki owners can enjoy up to four free towing services in a year.
  • Customers can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance via toll-free line. 

EMOS, in its press statement, said that the service covers all-new Kawasaki and Modenas rebranded models manufactured in 2022 and registered from August 1, 2022.

According to MODENAS CEO Roslan Roskan, the service is part of the company’s initiatives to provide the best services for its customers.

“We are always looking at providing convenience for our customers. Accidents happen and motorists do not want to walk on the side of the highway pushing their heavy motorcycles to an auto mechanic shop. 

“Therefore, we have decided to focus more of our resources on helping our customers get fast, efficient and safe towing for their motorcycles rather than being forced to leave them stranded by the roadside,” he said. 

The 24 hours roadside assistance includes a free 100KM round-trip towing throughout West Malaysia and to all major towns in East Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak. 

However, for towing that exceeds 100km, an additional RM2.00 per kilometre will be imposed. In addition, towing services shall cover both major and minor engine/motor breakdowns and accidents. 

Each member is entitled to four free towing services a year, but the service is valid for only one year from the registration date.

Owners can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance at any time via a toll-free number at 1-800-880-008. 

 

Kawasaki Malaysia has officially showcased the 2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R during a special preview at the Sepang International Circuit.

  • Currently, the ZX-25R is only available in Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.
  • The Ninja ZX-25R makes 51hp and 22.9Nm of torque. 

To our surprise, the unit on display is the newly updated Ninja ZX-25R previously launched in Indonesia, earlier last month. 

That said, the Ninja ZX-25R features TFT instrument display replacing the semi-digital meter on the previous model. Thanks to the new dash, riders can now connect the bike to their smartphone via the Kawasaki Rideology app.

The ZX-25R also features new adjustable front suspension and electronic package.

Other notable features include:

  • assist & slipper clutch
  • economical riding indicator
  • electronic throttle valve
  • KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)
  • KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control)
  • power modes

Powering the 2023 Ninja ZX-25RR is an inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC mill displacing 249.8cc that produces 51hp @ 15,500rpm (with Ram Air) and 22.9Nm @ 14,500rpm.

Power goes through a 6-speed transmission with a claimed max speed of 197km/h.

However, no official price is announced just yet with the ZX-25R is expected to be launch mid of 2023. 

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