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• Yamaha Tenere 700 coming to Malaysia in Q2 2022?

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 3 November 2021 4:46 pm / 27 comments

  

  Many paultan.org readers have asked this question, “is Malaysia getting the Yamaha Tenere 700?” The answer to that is, right now, very possibly, yes, and perhaps by the second quarter of 2022.

  Purely speculation at this point, of course, as the Malaysian motorcycle market, whilst still robust in the small displacement arena, is somewhat feeling the doldrums when it comes to selling large capacity motorcycles especially those not from luxury brands like Ducati and Harley-Davidson (both of whom, the author hears, have done very well indeed in terms of sales numbers in 2021, pandemic and lockdowns notwithstanding.)

  Malaysian importer and distributor for Yamaha motorcycles, Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM), has been notably tight lipped about the appearance of the Tenere 700 in the local market. The best the author could elicit across two years of the question being asked was a, “that I don’t know but not likely, we still have the MT-07.”

  

  However, the Tenere 700 has been launched in Malaysia’s ASEAN neighbours Thailand and the Philippines with pricing set at RM58,394 and RM51,912, respectively. What this means is when the Tenere 700 is launched in Malaysia by the second half of the year, possibly, the domestic price will be at or around the RM50,000 mark.

  The increase in price over what is ostensibly a 689 cc, Crossplane 2 powered dual-purpose motorcycle is justified by the upgraded suspension and brakes, both essential components for a serious, offroad capable machine. This is complemented by the 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, essential for performance on truly rough surfaces.

  Does this mean an expansion of HLYM’s range of Yamaha middleweights in Malaysia? Might we even dare hope the Yamaha R7 sportsbike will eventually make an appearance locally? Meanwhile, the Yamaha MT-07 was priced at RM38,288 while the bigger Yamaha Tracer 900 GT was tagged at RM58,888 the same year.

  

  It should be noted the 2022 Yamaha Tracer 9 and Tracer 9 GT are scheduled to get an official Malaysian launch, and price, this month. Competition for the Tenere 700 would come from the likes of the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT and Kawasaki Versys 650, both those are biased more to the adventure-touring side of things.

  Right now, your guess is is nowhere as good as mine, I have a dirty badger on my side, but suffice it to say, the appearance of the Tenere 700 will be welcomed by a reasonably strong segment of Malaysian riders who want a proper dual-purpose motorcycle, not a mere adventure-tourer only suitable for trips to Lemang Tok Ki and runs to the border using the toll highway.

  What do you think? Will you buy the Yamaha Tenere 700 when it arrives in Malaysia? Are you willing to put your money where your mouth is? Leave a comment with your thoughts and opinions, below.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 official prototype photos

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Triumph / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 3 November 2021 11:28 am / 0 comment

  

  A slightly better look at the 2022 Triumph Tiger 1200 official prototype during official testing, after some teaser photos in early September. The Hinckley motorcycle maker’s big adventure-touring rig is intended to take the fight directly to competition such as the Ducati Multistrada V4, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and perhaps the gold standard in the class, the BMW Motorrad R1250GS.

  Triumph says electronics will feature strongly in the new Tiger 1200, calling it a “transformation” in adventure-touring motorcycles. Considering the equipment on offer in the market, expect to see semi-electronic suspension as well as riding suite software designed to keep things under control and safe.

  

  As has been the case for the Triumph Tiger 1200 going back to 2011, power for the big adventure bike comes from an inline-three cylinder, wrapped in a trellis frame. No power numbers were provided but around 150 hp and 125 Nm of torque would be the norm for motorcycles in this class.

  Power goes to the rear wheel via a shaft drive, making it pretty clear what the new Tiger 1200 prototype is targeting along with its very specific market segment. Brembo radial-mount four-piston callipers are in evidence plus a Brembo calliper on the rear wheel.

  

  Wheels are de rigeur spoked units in keeping with that adventure motorcycle look with proper offroad wheel sizing of a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear. No word on tyre types but from the press photos, both Michelin Anakee and Metzler Tourance rubber is seen.

  Inside the cockpit, there is an adjustable height windsheild and the instrument panel will be a TFT-LCD unit capable of Bluetooth connectivity to the rider’s smartphone and with onscreen navigation. The seat appears to be a two-piece affair with Triumph likely offering a variety of seat height options as well as heated seats and grips.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 Yamaha XSR900 – new frame, better handling

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 3 November 2021 8:58 am / 4 comments

  

  Improving what it calls its “Sports Heritage” motorcycle, Yamaha has released the 2022 Yamaha XSR900, a throwback to the Iwata firm’s racing machines of the 1980s. Decked out in a paint scheme reminiscent of Christian Sarron’s Yamaha YZR-500 in Gauloises Blondes racing livery, the 2022 XSR900 comes with an all-new Yamaha Deltabox frame.

  Formed from aluminium, the new frame on the XSR900 is compact and lighter compared to previous with a corresponding increase in longitudinal, lateral and torsional rigidity. The headstock is now 30 mm lower than the previous generation XSR900, increasing feel while cornering while providing a more aggressive riding stance.

  Wheelbase is now 1,495 mm longer, an increase of 55 mm, to enhance straight line stability. Done by lengthening the swingarm, Yamaha says the XSR900 now has a sporty and responsive character which is shown in the 14% decrease in rotational inertia around the steering axis.

  

  

  

  

  Bodywork has been updated, the 2022 XSR900 coming with a new tank that has styling cues coming straight out of the 1980s. Containing 15-liters, the fuel tank with look alike race filler cap features cutouts for the rider’s knees and extends a little further back, placing the rider more over the rear wheel.

  The braking system has also been upgraded, with a Brembo radial brake master cylinder with adjustable lever activating twin four-piston radial-mount callipers on 298 mm brake discs with ABS as standard. Meanwhile, suspension at the front end is now fully-adjustable KYB gold anodised forks while the adjustable rear monoshock, also from KYB, is tucked away to give the XSR900 a clean appearance at the back end.

  Wheels on the XSR900 are 700 grams lighter than before, giving a reduction in unsprung weight allowing for a more responsive suspension. This also has the benefit of decreasing the moment of inertia at the rear of the XSR900 by 11%, increasing response during cornering and braking.

  

  In the engine room, the XSR900 comes with the Euro 5 compliant Yamaha Crossplane 3, displacing 889 cc, equipped with ride-by-wire throttle similar to the unit used on the Yamaha R1. The six-speed gearbox is equipped with a quickshifter and assist and slipper clutch, while cruise control is standard equipment.

  Inside the cockpit, a 3.5-inch TFT-LCD display replaces the previous model’s round LCD display and there are four ride modes available from 1 being the most aggressive while the succeeding modes deliver progressively softer power delivery. A six-axis inertial measurement unit provides lean angle sensitive traction control with three levels of adjustment, along with slide control and wheelie control.

  LED lighting is used throughout, though the round single headlight is retained while the LED tail light is tucked away under the seat, cleaning up the rear end of the XSR900. For Europe, the 2022 Yamaha XSR900 will come in two colour options – Legend Blue in cyan and yellow, featuring gold-anodised forks and gold painted wheels, and Midnight Black with red highlights, black forks and black hand controls.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Ducati Malaysia wins Best After Sales and Marketing

  In Bikes, Ducati, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 2 November 2021 4:39 pm / 0 comment

  

  In recognition of its efforts, Ducati Malaysia has been awarded Best Commercial After Sales and Best Marketing for Ducati in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. During the annual Ducati APAC National meeting, Ducati Asia-Pacific issues the awards to their regional representatives from 13 countries based on performance over the past year.

  Presenting the awards during an online meeting, Marco Biondi Ducati Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Asia Pacific said, “I am extremely proud of the achievements from the colleagues in Malaysia and how well they have steered the brand in these testing times. Malaysian riders are one of the most evolved and it remains a very important market for us.”

  Also presented with awards were Best Growing Market of the Year, won by Ducati Philippines and Best Service/Training Team, awarded to Ducati Taiwan, while Ducati South Korea grabbed the Best Importer of the Year award. “Throughout all the years of operating, this is the first year ever Ducati Malaysia has received such awards,” said Dennis Michael, head of Ducati Malaysia, “I would like to express my gratitude to each and every one of our amazing customers for standing by and giving their relentless support to Ducati Malaysia. Thank you, and Forza Ducati!”

   

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• 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901 unveiled, 889 cc, 105 hp

  In Bikes, Husqvarna, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 2 November 2021 11:07 am / 0 comment

  

  Entering the sub-1000 cc adventure-touring bike market is the 2022 Husqvarna Norden 901, sibling to the KTM 890 Adventure. As Husqvarna and KTM are owned by Pierer Mobility, both adventure-touring motorcycles share some commonality in engineering but not in design with the Norden 901 looking distinctly retro with round LED headlight.

  In the engine room, a DOHC parallel-twin displacing 889 cc provides 105 hp at 8,000 rpm and 100 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, identical to the KTM 890 Adventure. This compares against its class rival the BMW Motorrad F850GS‘ (priced at RM79,500 in Malaysia) power numbers of 95 hp at 8,250 rpm and 92 NM of torque at 6,250 rpm.

  Suspension is done with a 43 mm diameter WP Apex upside-down fork in front, fully adjustable for compression, rebound and preload, while the rear end of the Norden 901 is held up with a AP Apex monoshock, adjustable for rebound and preload. This gives the Norden 901 220 mm of suspension travel in front and 215 mm at the back.

  

  

  

  Twin four-piston callipers with 320 mm diameter brake discs stop the 21-inch front wheel while the 18-inch rear wheel gets a two-piston calliper with 260 mm disc. Bosch 9.1 ME cornering ABS is standard, coming with an offroad mode and can be disengaged for true offroad riding.

  For riding aids, the Norden 901’s ABS comes with two modes – Street, which is cornering sensitive, and Offroad. For riding modes, the Norden 901 comes standard with three options – Street, Rain and Offroad, while a fourth Explorer mode is an optional extra.

  

  Cruise control is fitted as standard, as is a quickshifter along with optional Bluetooth connectivity to the rider’s smartphone. Other optional extras include heated handlebar grips and seats, along with a tyre pressure monitoring system.

  There are two seat options for the Norden 901, placing the rider either 854 mm or 874 mm off the ground. The Norden 901 tips the scales at 204 kg without fuel and the fuel tank holds 19-liters.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Honda RS-X now in Malaysia, RM8,688, with ABS

  In Bikes, Honda Motorcycles, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 1 November 2021 10:19 pm / 16 comments

  

  Much awaited by kapchai enthusiasts in Malaysia, the 2021 Honda RS-X, known in Vietnam as the Winner X, is now on sale locally, priced at RM8,688 recommended retail excluding road tax, insurance and registration. There are three colour choices available for the Malaysian market – Lemon Ice Yellow, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea and Trico, also known as Honda red, white and blue.

  Before delving into the specifications, it should be noted the Malaysia market RS-X differs from the Winner X sold in Vietnam. Differences include the head unit and exhaust while the RS-X comes with single-channel ABS as standard, compared to Vietnam where it is only available in the top-end Winner X Sport ABS.

  The RS-X is powered by a single-cylinder mill displacing 149.16 cc and fed by Honda’s PGM-Fi, mated to a six-speed transmission and chain final drive. Power is claimed to be 15.8 hp at 9,000 rpm and 13.6 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

  

  

  Braking is done on both the front and rear wheels with a single-piston calliper and brake disc while suspension uses conventional telescopic forks in front and preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. Rolling on 17-inch alloy wheels, the RS-X comes shod with a 90/80 front tyre and a 120/70 is fitted to the rear wheel.

  Fuel for the RS-X is carried in a 4.5-liter tank while a digital meter with gear position indictor is found in the cockpit. LED lighting is used for the twin head and single tail lights while the RS-X weighs 122 kg and seat height is set at 795 mm.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 MSBK: Honda’s Zaqhwan Zaidi crowned Shogun

  In Bikes, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 1 November 2021 3:47 pm / 0 comment

  

  Zaqhwan Zaidi crossing the finish line as 2021 Malaysian Superbike MSBK 1000 champion

  Despite riding a brand-new Honda CBR1000RR-R at Sepang for the first time, Boon Siew Honda Racing Team’s Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi successfully claimed the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Champion MSBK 1000 title. Doing so earned the Selangor boy the MSBK 1000 challenge trophy, a Shogun helmet sponsored by RK Japan.

  Across the weekend’s three races, Zaqhwan stamped his supremacy as the best of Malaysian superbike racers with a hatrick of wins. Initially slated for the CBR1000RR-R – priced at RM198,000 in Malaysia – to make its racing debut in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship, the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns put paid to Zaqhwan’s plans to race overseas.

  Needless to say, despite riding a brand-new race bike, Zaqhwan stamped his dominance all over the grid, finishing race 3 with a time of 21’27.869s, 4.2 seconds ahead of the rest of the grid. Meanwhile, Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman of OneXOX TKKR Racing battled bike setup issues all weekend but still managing to finish second in the championship while Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin, in his debut MSBK 1000 season, finished third.

  

  

  In the MSBK 600 class, Ibrahim Norrodin, brother to Adam Norrodin, made a clean sweep of the weekend with three wins from three starts riding the SIC Racing Yamaha YZF-R6. However, it was Syarifuddin Azman, better known as Damok, who played a consistent game and won the 2021 MSBK 600 championship with 105 points, despite not winning a race in 2021 but managing to stand on the podium five times in six races.

  Another laurel for Boon Siew Honda Racing Team in the MSBK 250 class, with Mohd Izam Ikmal taking the championship on his Honda CBR250RR. With 128 points, Izam grabbed the 250 championship crown ahead of Mohd Danial Syahmi and Mohd Hakim Danish, both riding Kawasakis for SIC Racing.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak joins line up

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 1 November 2021 11:37 am / 0 comment

  

  Named for the famed race in the clouds – sadly no longer allowing two-wheeled competition after the death of Carlin Dunne in 2019 – is the 2022 Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak. As the third of the Ducati Multistrada V4 range, the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak eschews the touring aspect of the Ducati Multistrada for a rather more sporting focus.

  This is done with the use of 17-inch Marchesisini forged aluminium wheels, some 2.6 kg lighter than the hoops used on the Multistrada V4S, shod in 120/70 front and 190/55 rear sportsbike sized rubber. Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 electronic suspension is installed, giving the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak suspension performance more closely related to the Panigale V4S and Streetfighter V4S.

  

  

  

  Changes have also been made to the steering geometry, going to 25.75-degrees instead of the 24.5-degrees of the standard model Multistrada V4. Similarly, the trail and wheelbase have been adjusted to more suit the sporting intent of the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak.

  Riding position on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is dedicated to ensure maximum rider control over the bike, as well as optimise lean angles. Footpegs are higher and further back while the handlebar is set lower, is now narrower and with more setback.

  

  Power comes from Ducati’s V4 Granturismo engine which uses a spring return system instead of Desmodromic mechanical actuation for the valve train. Power is claimed to be 170 hp with a maximum torque of 125 Nm at 8,750 rpm from 1,160 cc.

  Making its first appearance in the Multistrada range is Race Riding Mode which allows the rev limiter to cut in gradually rather then the hard limit in the standard Multistrada. This allows the rider advance warning he’s reaching the engine limit, allowing for more aggressive gear changes which is complemented by the standard equipment up-and-down quickshifter giving more aggressive downshifts.

  

  In High Power mode, the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak get more direct throttle response with Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) affording better response to throttle inputs for accurate control when the bike is hoisted on the rear wheel. Also standard fitment is Ducati’s front and rear radar system, giving both distance keeping cruise control and blind sport warning.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 BMW Motorrad K-series tourers – four models, K1600GT, K1600GTL, K1600B and Grand America

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 29 October 2021 3:28 pm / 0 comment

  

  Big news from BMW Motorrad, literally, as it releases four new K-series touring motorcycles – the 2022 BMW Motorrad K1600GT, K1600GTL and the K1600B. As the suffixes denote, the K1600GT is BMW Motorrad’s take on the large displacement touring motorcycle with an emphasis on the sports.

  Meanwhile, the K1600GTL is the luxury version, coming as it does with a full set of motorcycle touring luggage. Rounding out the new quartet of tourers is the K1600B, done in the bagger style with side panniers and omitting the top box and the K1600 Grand America.

  Now Euro5 compliant, the K1600 bikes get 160 hp, same as the previous generation K1600 engine, from the 1,649 cc inline-six cylinder. However, peak power for the K1600’s power plant comes in at 6,750 rpm, 1,000 rpm lower than before.

  

  

  

  Torque takes a bump, going from 175 Nm to 180 Nm at 5,250 rpm while torque control, what BMW Motorrad calls engine drag torque control MSR and we know as an anti-rear wheel hop device, prevents wheel skip while down changing hard through the gears.

  Now coming as standard equipment is Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” electronic suspension with suspension damping automatically set for riding conditions and manoeuvres. Additionally, the electronic suspension also compensates for riding position and fore-and-aft balance depending on rider, pillion and luggage weight.

  

  

  

  A new headlight assembly on the K1600 now comes with LED adaptive lighting. This allows the K1600’s headlight swivels to illuminate the corner while the bike is turning, while also sweeping through a two-degree arc to adjust for ride height depending on passenger and luggage load.

  Inside the cockpit, a new 10.25-inch LCD display features integrated map navigation and connectivity to the rider’s smartphone. BMW Motorrad’s Audio System 2.0, delivering what the Munich firm calls a new digital sound experience, is standard equipment on the K1600GTL and the K1600 Grand America, while being a factory-fitted option on the K1600GT and the K1600B.

  

  

  Other riding conveniences include a USB charging port, two 12 volt power sockets, heated seat and grips, hill hold control, traction control, ABS, cruise control and tyre pressure control. There are also four user configurable buttons which the rider can use to set preferred menu items for quick selection, for example, radio or navigation.

  Each of the new K1600 touring motorcycles comes in three colour scheme choices – a basic scheme in Black Storm Metallic, a style variant and Option 719. For the K1600B and the K1600 Grand America, Option 719 “Midnight” gives a model specific colour scheme in Meteoric Dust II metallic with the “Galaxy” theme depicted using the water transfer printing method.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2022 BMW Motorrad K1600GT

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2022 BMW Motorrad K1600GTL

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2022 BMW Motorrad K1600B

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  Gallery: 2022 BMW Motorrad K1600 Grand America

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Bajaj Pulsar F250 and NS250 launched in India

  In Bajaj, Bikes, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2021 7:42 pm / 0 comment

  

  Entering the Indian market is the 2021 Bajaj Pulsar F250 sportsbike and the Pulsar NS250 naked sports, priced at 1.4 million (RM7,758) and 1.38 million (RM7,647) Indian rupees, respectively. This pair of 250s supersede the Bajaj Pulsar 200, branded and sold in Malaysia as the Modenas Pulsar RS200 (RM9,990) and Modenas Pulsar NS200 (RM9,655).

  Power for the Pulsar 250 comes from a single-cylinder, SOHC, two-valve, oil-cooled mill, fed by EFI. Bajaj claims a power output of 24.5 PS at 8,750 rpm and 21.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, with power getting to the ground via a five-speed gearbox and chain final drive.

  Braking gets an upgrade from the Pulsar 200, with the Pulsar 250 using a single 300 mm diameter front disc and a 230 mm diameter rear brake disc while single-channel ABS is standard. Tyre sizing sees a similar jump with the 17-inch alloy front wheel getting a 100/80 tyre while the rear wheel is shod with 130/70 rubber.

  

  

  Suspension is done with a 37 mm diameter telescopic front fork while the back end is held up with a preload-adjustable monoshock with seat height set at 795 mm. LED lighting is used for the front projector headlight while LED DRLs in a boomerang shape increase visibility on the road.

  Inside the cockpit a combination LCD readout and analogue tachometer displays all the necessary information including a gear indicator and remaining range. Other riding conveniences include a USB charging port located near the fuel tank, which itself contains 14-litres of fuel.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2022 Yamaha XMax and NMax new colours for Europe

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2021 9:52 am / 0 comment

  

  For next year’s riding seasoning Europe, the 2022 Yamaha XMax 300 and the NMax 125 come in new colours, the XMax in Icon Blue while Sonic Grey is carried over and the NMax in new colour Milky White with Phantom Blue and Powder Grey continuing. For Malaysia, we get the Yamaha XMax 250, priced at RM21,500 and the Yamaha NMax 155, retailing at RM8,998.

  The XMax remains mechanically unchanged for 2022 in Europe, with power coming from a Euro 5 complaint, 300 cc Yamaha Blue Core engine producing 28 PS at 7,250 rpm and 29 Nm of torque at 5,750 rpm. For comparison, the XMax 250 gets 22.8 PS at 7,000 rpm and 24.3 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm.

  Fuel is carried inside a 13.2-litre tank and under the seat is a storage compartment large enough for two-full-face helmets. Keyless start is standard and other rider conveniences include a 12-volt outlet inside the front fairing, two-channel ABS and switchable traction control.

  

  For the NMax, specification also remain the same as previous for the European market, with the 125 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder mill producing 12.2 PS at 8,000 rpm and 11.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. For the curious, the NMax 155 in Malaysia gets 15.1 PS at 8,000 rpm and 14.4 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm.

  The NMax in Europe comes complete with rider conveniences commonly found in larger, more expensive scooters such as traction control and two-channel ABS. Standard equipment includes keyless ignition, smartphone connectivity to the Yamaha MyRide app, LED lighting including twin LED headlights and underseat storage for one full-face helmet.

  GALLERY: 2022 Yamaha XMax 300 Europe

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2022 Yamaha NMax 125 Europe

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT in Malaysia, RM81,900

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Suzuki Motorcycles / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 26 October 2021 9:02 pm / 2 comments

  

  2021 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Pearl Brilliant White/Glass Blaze Orange

  Accompanying the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa in the Malaysian market is the 2021 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT adventure-tourer, priced at RM81,900. Pricing is suggested retail and does not include road tax, insurance or registration.

  Powered by a liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90-degree V-twin with twin-spark heads displacing 1,037 cc, the V-Strom gets 107.4 PS at 8,500 rm and 100 Nm at 6,000 rpm to the rear wheel. Power goes through a six-speed gearbox equipped with assist and slipper clutch with chain final drive while inside the cockpit, an LCD screen displays all the necessary information and an 11-position height adjustable windshield allows the rider to find the optimum riding comfort level.

  A bunch of riding aids that Suzuki calls its Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) provides Motion Track Brake System, Hill Hold Control System, Slope Dependent Control System, Load Dependent Control System, Cruise Control System, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) and three-mode switchable traction control. A six-axis inertial measurement unit and ride-by-wire throttle provides cruise control and two-mode ABS.

  

  2021 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT Metallic Oort Grey No 3/Glass Sparkle Black

  Front suspension is done with fully-adjustable KYB upside-down forks while the rear end of the V-Strom 1050XT is held up with a monoshock with remote spring preload adjustment. Twin 310 mm diameter brake discs with Tokico mono bloc callipers stop the 19-inch front wheel while the rear 17-inch hoop gets a single-piston hydraulic calliper.

  For Malaysia, the 2021 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT comes with a set of genuine Suzuki aluminium side cases, along with a range of accessories available from the official Suzuki catalogue. There are two colours choices locally for the V-Strom 1050XT – Metallic Oort Grey No 3/Glass Sparkle Black and Pearl Brilliant White/Glass Blaze Orange.

   

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• 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa launched in Malaysia, RM111k

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Suzuki Motorcycles / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 26 October 2021 8:24 pm / 4 comments

  

  Now in Malaysia and priced at RM111,200 is the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa, with pricing as suggested retail without road tax, insurance or registration. The launch of Suzuki’s hyperbike in the Malaysian market follows the re-entry of the brand with product releases including the Suzuki GSX-R1000R, GSX-R1000, Suzuki Katana, GSX-S750, V-Strom 650 and SV650.

  Now in its third generation, the Hayabusa gets its power from a normally aspirated inline-four displacing 1,340 cc. Power output for the Hayabusa is claimed to be 190 PS at 9,700 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

  With 20-litres of fuel in the tank, the Hayabusa weighs in at 264 kg with a 50-50 weight distribution fore and aft, with a seat height of 800 mm. Braking is done by Brembo, with twin Stylema callipers on the front wheel while suspension is with KYB upside-down forks in front and semi-electronic monoshock at the back, something Suzuki dubs Suzuki Intelligent Ride Systems (SIRS).

  

  

  An up-and-down quickshifter is standard equipment on the six-speed gearbox with chain final drive. Naturally, keeping things under control on the Hayabusa calls for a full suite of riding aids, including ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, wheel lift control, engine braking and ride modes.

  Other riding conveniences in include hill hold control, making things easier when starting off on the Hayabusa on an incline, engine braking control and wheel slip limitation using the six-axis inertial measurement unit. There are three colours options for the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa in Malaysia – Glass Sparkle Black/Candy Burnt Gold, Metallic Matte Sword Silver/Candy Daring Red and Pearl Brilliant Whit/Metallic Matte Stellar Blue.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250 in Vietnam

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Suzuki Motorcycles / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 26 October 2021 4:17 pm / 7 comments

  

  2021 Suzuki Gixxer SF250

  While hinted at appearing in Malaysia in the near future, the 2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250 have been launched in Vietnam. This is a first for Malaysia’s ASEAN neighbour as this is the first time Suzuki is launching a 250 cc motorcycle in that market.

  Both the Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250 are mechanically similar with the Gixxer 250 being a naked sports while the Gixxer SF250 is a sportsbike with full fairing. As per standard styling dynamics, the Gixxer 250 comes with taller handlebars with the Gixxer SF250 has semi-raised clip-ons.

  Aside from the bodywork, or lack thereof, both quarter-litre Suzukis carry the same power plant, a SOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder displacing 249 cc. Power is claimed to be 26 hp at 9,000 rpm while 22.6 Nm of torque comes in at 7,500 rpm.

  

  2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250

  LED lighting is used on both the Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250 while an LCD instrument panel displays all the necessary information, including a gear indicator. The Gixxer is stopped with single hydraulic discs front and rear, and two-channel ABS is standard equipment.

  Suspension is done with conventional telescopic forks in front and a monshock at the back, adjustable for preload an the Gixxer 250 and SF250 rolls on 17-inch wheels shod with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tyre. Seat height is set at 800 mm, while the fuel tank holds 12-litres.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Valentino Rossi bids farewell to MotoGP – grazie Vale!

  In Bikes, International Bike News, MotoGP / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 26 October 2021 2:38 pm / 6 comments

  

  An end of an era in MotoGP as Valentino Rossi, arguably the single person most responsible for making MotoGP and motorcycle racing in general a mainstream sport, made a final appearance in front of Italian race fans. Perhaps this is not quite accurate, as Rossi will still be involved in racing motorcycles through his VR46 academy and his race teams in Moto3, Moto2 and MotoGP.

  In way of homage an gratitude, Sky VR46 Avintia and Sky Racing Team VR46 showed a farewell livery on its race bikes draped in the Doctor’s trademark fluorescent yellow. In the MotoGP race, Rossi crossed the finish line in tenth place with two races left in the 2021 MotoGP season – Portugal and Valencia.

  In a MotoGP career spanning 21 years from 2000 to 2021, Rossi started racing in the big leagues with his first appearance in the 125 cc Motorcycle Grand Prix class, riding an Aprilia RS125 for Scuderia AGV Aprilia and finishing ninth in the season. The following year, Rossi won the 125 cc championship with Nastro Azzuro Aprilia before moving up to the 250 cc class the following year.

  

  Now riding an Aprilia RS250, Rossi finished second in his debut 250 cc year, before winning the championship next year, in 1999. Moving up to the premier class, at the time still on 500 cc two-stroke race machines, Rossi rode a Honda NSR500 for Nastro Azzuro Honda, winning the last ever 500 cc Grand Prix championship in 2001.

  The following year, with the move to four-strokes, Rossi moved to Repsol Honda Team, a move that caused controversy amongst Italian race fans who were not particularly pleased to see their favourite riding for a Spanish team. Handing two world championships to Honda, back-to back, Rossi then began his riding partnership with Yamaha, winning the next two championships and extending his unbroken winning streak to five.

  

  A two-year lull followed, before Rossi returned with back-to-back championship wins, again, in 2008 and 2009 with Fiat Yamaha Team. A decline in Rossi’s racing fortunes followed, before he showed again strongly with three second place championship finishes in a row from 2014 to 2016 and a third place in 2018.

  While Rossi has remained fairly tight lipped about his plans after the 2021 MotoGP season, it is reasonably expected that he will be involved with top flight motorcycle racing in one form or another, as hinted at during his retirement announcement in July of this year. In the meantime, motorcycle race fans are wishing Rossi a big “thank you” for his two decades and a bit in MotoGP.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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