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• 2021 SYM VF3i 185 Pro V3 in new colours – RM9,338

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, SYM / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 12 October 2020 9:51 am / 11 comments

  

  Largest capacity supercub in the Malaysian market, the 2021 SYM VF3i 185 Pro V3, has been updated for the coming year in three new colours and priced at RM9,338. The three new colour options are red, gold and blue and pricing excludes insurance, road tax and registration with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty.

  Mechanically unchanged from the previous generation VF3i, which was previously priced at RM8,338, the VF3i Pro V3 comes with a Euro 3, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC mill displacing 183 cc. However, engine power has taken a bump, now with 19.7 hp at 9,000 rpm and 17.4 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, compared to 17.7 hp at 8,500 rpm and 15.3 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm previously.

  The driveline is also unchanged for the new model, with power going through a six-speed transmission and wet clutch, with chain final drive. Suspension uses telescopic forks in front while the back end is propped up with a preload-adjustable monoshock.

  

  

  

  Currently unique to the VF3i Pro V3 is single-channel ABS on the front wheel, while braking is done with hydraulic discs front and rear – a 250 mm diameter disc in front and 200 mm disc at the back – mounted on 17-inch wheels. Weight for the VF3i Pro V3 is claimed to be 128 kg and the SYM supercub comes with a 7-litre fuel tank, largest in its class.

  Distributor for SYM in Malaysia, MForce Holdings, is also providing online purchase of spare parts for the VF3i Pro V3, as well as other brands carried under its banner, from its website. Competition for the VF3i Pro V3 in this category includes the Yamaha Y15ZR at RM8,168, the Honda RS150R at RM8,199 and the Benelli RFS150i at RM7,488.

  N.b. Engine specification has been corrected from DOHC to SOHC. The error is regretted.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro in Europe in Oct

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 9 October 2020 7:30 pm / 0 comment

  

  Newcomer at the entry level into the Ducati Scrambler family is the 2020 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro, dubbed the “Dark Suit”. Coming in a dark matte shade of grey called Dark Stealth, the Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro is designed to be a canvas for the Scrambler 1100 to stamp his or her personal taste and sense of creativity.

  Mechanically identical to the other models in the Scrambler 1100 range, the Scrambler 1100 Pro and Sport Pro, the Dark Pro comes with an air-cooled V-twin displacing 1,079 cc, producing 86 hp at 7,500 rpm and 88 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. The Dark Pro is differentiated from the other Scrambler Pro models by the use of matte black with anodised aluminium components as well as classic style rear view mirrors.

  Power goes through a six-speed gearbox and chain final drive and riding aids include Ducati Traction Control specific to this model and cornering ABS. Also standard are three riding modes – Active, Journey and City – which which most likely correspond to Sport, Road and Soft.

  

  Fuel is carried inside a 15-litre tank and seat height is 810 mm for the Scrambler 1100 Dark Pro with wet weight claimed to be 206 kg. As is customary for Ducati’s, braking is done with Brembo radial-mount Monobloc M4.32 four-piston callipers grabbing 320 mm diameter discs in front and a single-piston calliper and disc on the back wheel.

  For Malaysia, the Scrambler 1100 Pro and Sport Pro are due to be launched soon, perhaps later this month. While no indication has been given with regards to pricing, sources inside Ducati Malaysia say it might be “around RM85,000.”

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 BMW R18 First Edition official Malaysian launch – RM 149,500, 1,802 cc, the biggest BMW boxer ever

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 9 October 2020 3:47 pm / 8 comments

  

  Largest ever boxer, displacement wise, from BMW Motorrad, the 2020 BMW Motorrad R18, saw its official Malaysian launch today, priced at RM149,500, on-the-road without insurance. Taking design cues from the 1936 BMW Motorrad R5, the R18 is designed as a cruiser and fits into BMW’s Heritage series motorcycle range.

  The air-/oil-cooled boxer engine displaces 1,802 cc. rated at 91 hp at 4,750 rpm but the torque figure is 158 Nm a suitably hefty 158 Nm at 3,000 rpm. BMW says the R18 develops torque from tick over right up to 4,000 rpm and this is good enough to bring it up to 180 km/h, with the 120 to 140 km/h range being the cruiser’s sweet spot.

  

  Power goes through a six-speed gearbox and exposed shaft drive, this design touch a nod the the R5 of the old days. However, modern riding necessities are not neglected with the R18, coming with three standard riding modes – “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock” – along with switchable automatic stability control (ASC).

  Other modern riding conveniences include hill start control, reverse assist and engine drag torque control (MSR), along with a starter operated reverse gear and keyless start. Suspension uses conventional telescopic forks, hidden monoshock and the R18 rolls on spoked wheels for that authentic retro look.

  

  Braking is done with twin 300 mm diameter brake discs clamped by four-piston hydraulic callipers with a single disc brake in the rear. Seat height is a low 690 mm and 16-litres of fuel is carried in the tank with wet weight claimed to be 345 kg.

  For the R18 First Edition, of which 18 units will be sold in Malaysia, it features a classic black finish with white pinstriped paintwork along with chrome accents, a seat badge and “First Edition” chrome badge on the side covers. For those who might have noticed, the retail price for the 2020 BMW Motorrad R18 First Edition has been reduced from the initial published price of RM156,500.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 Vespa Primavera Sean Wotherspoon edition launched in Malaysia – priced at RM24,960

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Vespa / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 9 October 2020 3:31 pm / 3 comments

  

  Another special edition scooter, this time the 2020 Vespa Primavera Sean Wotherspoon edition, now in Malaysia and priced at RM24,960, excluding road tax, insurance and registration. A collaboration between scooter maker Vespa and American designer Sean Wotherspoon, who primarily designs street culture couture, the Primavera Sean Wotherspoon comes in a striking mix of colours, topped by a velvet brown seat.

  Taking the Primavera 150, Wotherspoon has decked out the Italian scooter in yellow, red, dark green and aquamarine, reflecting an 80s/90s vibe. The whole scooter is topped off by the Primavera name repeated on the body cover while Wotherspoon’s tag is placed alongside the Vespa logo on the front cowl.

  The Primavera 150 is powered by an air-cooled, single-cylinder 150 cc Vespa i-Get mill, fed by EFI and producing 12.9 hp at 7,750 rpm and 12.8 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Power goes through a CVT gearbox and belt drive, and the Primavera rolls on 12-inch wheels.

  

  

  

  Braking is done with a single hydraulic disc brake on the front wheel while the rear wheel is stopped with a drum brake. Coming with electric start, the Primavera Sean Wotherspoon carries fuel in a 7-litre tank.

  The 2020 Vespa Primavera Sean Wotherspoon edition can be viewed at the Crossover store in Sunway Pyramid, Selangor and Southkey Mall, Johor. Also available is the Sean Wotherspoon capsule collection of streetwear clothing, consisting of 2 Streetwear T-shirts, a hoodie and a pants that complements the Primavera Sean Wotherspoon edition.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• No renewal for Indian Motorcycles Malaysia by Naza?

  In Bikes, Indian Motorcycle, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 8 October 2020 5:25 pm / 11 comments

  

  Selling motorcycles in this time of pandemic has not been easy, worldwide, and it appears Indian Motorcycles Malaysia will not have its dealership contract renewed by Naza for 2021. It has been at least three years since Indian Motorcycles released a new model and since then, things have been quiet.

  During visits to the Naza showroom in Petaling Jaya, the Indian Motorcycles showroom looked quiet, with only models from previous years, as well as leftover Victory Motorcycles stock, on the floor. Sources in the market as well as inside Naza shared that it was looking to relinquish the dealership for Malaysia, but this could not be confirmed.

  If such is the case, it looks like the Indian Motorcycle name will disappear from the Malaysian market, unless an interested party steps up to the plate. Indian Motorcycles Malaysia sells a range of V-twin cruisers, with prices, in 2017, ranging from RM100,000 to RM200,000.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Honda CBR650R and CB650R middleweights get updates – Showa SF-BP forks, Euro 5 compliance

  In Bikes, Honda Motorcycles, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 8 October 2020 10:53 am / 7 comments

  

  2021 HONDA CBR650R

  Getting a major update for the coming year are the 2021 Honda CBR650R sports bike and CB650R naked sports, Honda’s offerings in the middleweight motorcycle market. Biggest changes come in the form of the front suspension and, in the engine room, Euro 5 emissions compliance.

  For the front end of the CBR650R and CB650R, Showa supplies its 41 mm diameter Separate Function Big Piston (SF-BP) forks. The SF-BP upside-down fork puts a pressure separation damper in one fork tube and spring mechanism in the other, which Honda says delivers high damping performance and lighter component weight.

  At the back, a mono shock with seven-stage preload adjustment is used, as in the previous generation model. Braking is done with a four-piston radial-mount calipers at the front, clamping twin 310 mm diameter discs while the rear uses a single-piston rear caliper and 240mm disc with two-channel ABS as standard.

  

  

  In the engine, changes have been made to the ECU, cam lobes, intake timing, exhaust pipe, catalyser and silencers to ensure the CBR650R and CB650R conform to Euro 5 requirements. Power output from the 649 cc, DOHC, 16-valve inline four is now 93.8 hp at 12,000 rpm with 63 Nm of torque at 8,500 rpm and weight is claimed to be 208 kg.

  Moving on to the styling department, the CBR650R comes in two colour options – Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic with silver accents (previously red) and Candy Chromosphere Red with black and white graphics for 2021. An LCD display with improved visibility and hew headlight reflectors, a USB-C charging port, plus minor revisions to the side panels and number plate mount round out the changes for the CBR650R.

  The CBR650R’s naked sports sibling, the CB650R, gets the same suspension and engine upgrades and updates. Changes to the handlebar position improve rider ergonomics. The change in handlebar angle from 32 to 35 degrees enables improved low speed handling, especially u-turns and tight corners, for the CB650R, says Honda.

  

  

  

  For 2021, the CB650R comes in four colour choices, one of them new. These are Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic, Candy Chromosphere Red and Matt Jeans Blue Metallic while the new addition to the catalogue is Pearl Smoky Grey.

  Power numbers for the CB650R are identical to the CB650R but wet weight is 202.5 kg. The side panels on the CB650R have been redesigned for a minimalist look and the rear mudguard is now made from steel, replacing the previous nylon plastic item.

  In Malaysia, the 2019 Honda CBR650R sports bike retails at RM45,499 excluding road tax, insurance and registration. Meanwhile the naked sports CB650R is priced at RM43,499.

  

  

  2021 HONDA CB650R

  

  2021 HONDA CB650R

  

  

  2021 HONDA CB650R

  
  

  

  

  

  2021 HONDA CB650R

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R and 890 Adventure R Rally – 105 hp, 100 Nm, for the extreme adventure rider

  In Bikes, International Bike News, KTM / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 7 October 2020 2:48 pm / 3 comments

  

  Arriving at authorised KTM dealers in the US and Europe this November is the 2021 KTM 890 Adventure R and 890 Adventure R Rally. Drawing on previous experience with the middleweight 790 Adventure, both the 890 Adventure R and Adventure R Rally come with a power bump of 10 hp and 12 Nm more torque.

  This means the 890 Adventure’s 899 cc, liquid-cooled parallel-twin now puts out 105 hp at 8,000 rpm and 100 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Final drive uses a chain and the six-speed gearbox has been reworked for faster gear changes, accompanied by a reinforced clutch.

  The 890 Adventure – the same power plant is used in the Adventure R Rally – mates the additional 90 cc in a now Euro 5 compliant engine that comes with an additional 20% of rotating mass. This gives the 890 Adventure R stable and consistent power delivery, especially at low engine speeds with the added benefit of cornering stability for long distance riding.

  

  

  

  Also reworked is the WP Xplor suspension, which is fully-adjustable as well as revised ABS software, braking system and new traction control algorithms that serve to improve the 890 Adventure R’s handling manners. An optional quick shifter is available and there is now a handlebar switch for cruise control.

  Rather more hardcore is the 890 Adventure R Rally, to be produced in a limited edition. Production is limited to 700 units worldwide, with 500 earmarked for the international market and 200 for sale in the US.

  Developed from experience gleaned from the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Rally team, the 890 Adventure R Rally comes with WP Xplor Pro fully-adjustable suspension and lightweight Akrapovic exhaust that save 35% in weight over the Adventure R’s stock unit.

  

  

  Not just a rebodied 890 Adventure R, the Adventure R Rally comes with a specific race chassis along with carbon-fibre tank protectors and rally footrests that are lighter, wider and remain mud-free. A straight racing seat bumps seat height on the Adventure R Rally to 890 mm and the wheels are anodised aluminium alloy rims with tubes, indicating true off-road intentions.

  Additionally, the Adventure R Rally comes with a ‘Rally’ riding mode and a quick shifter is supplied as standard. Complementing the looks of the Adventure R Rally are clear winglets for the wind shield and racing graphics in KTM’s corporate colours.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 Ducati Multistrada V4 to come with front and rear radar – public presentation on November fourth

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 7 October 2020 11:27 am / 1 comment

  

  Now in its fourth generation, the 2020 Ducati Multistrada V4 has entered the production line at Ducati’s works in Borgo Panigale, Italy and is scheduled for its public unveiling this November fourth. Aside from the use of the Desmosedici Stradale V-four engine, also seen in the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4, the Multistrada V4 will be the first production motorcycle to use front and rear radar.

  The radar system, developed in conjunction with the Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering of the Politecnico di Milano University, is part of Ducati’s Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS) that enhances rider safety. The system features front- and rear-facing radars and each has a weight of 190 grammes, measuring 70 x 60 x 20 mm, or about the size of a box of cigarettes.

  The front radar is linked to the Multistrada V4’s Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and controls braking and acceleration to automatically adjust distance to the vehicle in front. Available with four preset distances, the system is operable between 30 to 160 km/h.

  

  

  

  Based on systems currently used in four-wheeled vehicles, the ACC system has been modified to suit the requirements of motorcycles, notably in terms of acceleration and deceleration. These parameters are limited to ensure the rider can maintain constant control of the Multistrada V4 in any situation.

  For the rear of the Multistrada V4, the rear radar monitors the bike’s blind spot, notably to the rear and the outside viewing angles of the rear-view mirrors. The system already the rider to the presence of vehicles in the blind spot as well as vehicles approaching from behind at high speed.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  DU 2019-09-27 MTS 1260S GT

  

  
  

   

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• 40 years of the BMW GS: 2020 BMW Motorrad 1250 GS and 1250 GS Adventure, 136 hp, 143 Nm torque

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 5 October 2020 6:17 pm / 1 comment

  

  Four decades is a long time in motorcycling and celebrating its 40th anniversary is the BMW Motorrad 1250 GS. Presented as the “40 Years GS” edition, the 2020 BMW Motorrad 1250 GS and 1250 GS Adventure (GSA) come in commemorative colours as well as the Rally and Triple Black schemes available as ex-works options.

  Still carrying the iconic Munich boxer twin, the 1250 GS’ mill displaces 1,254 cc, is liquid-cooled and Euro 5 compliant. Power output with BMW’s ShiftCam variable valve timing gives 136 hp at 7,750 rpm and 143 Nm of torque is available at 6,250 rpm.

  For 2020, standard equipment on both the 1250 GS and the 1250 GSA receive several updates to the riding aids as well as a range of factory fitted optional equipment. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro is now standard, as is Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) with three riding modes and Electronic Dynamic ESA (electronic suspension) which allows for automatic load compensation.

  

  The list of ex-works options is extensive and includes Hill Start Control Pro (HSC Pro), heated seats, handlebar risers and a variety of seat height choices. Standard fitment to the 1250 GS and GSA is a 12 volt socket and a USB charging socket, to cater for a variety of electronic charging requirements.

  Inside the cockpit a 6.5-inch TFT=LCD full colour screen gives the rider a multi-functional display and menu control selections. Also new is the optional newly developed LED headlight with swivel function that allows the low headlight beam to turn and illuminate the corner.

  

  Also optional are the the welcome light (“Welcome” function), the “Good bye” function and the “Follow me home” function as well as the cruising light function. With the cruising light option installed, the two front turn indicator bulbs are operated so that they are permanently dimmed simultaneously.

  For the multifunctional rear indicator lamps, the standard rear LED flashing turn signals are replaced by LED flashing turn indicators that simultaneous display yellow flashing turn signals and red brake light or rear light. Also selectable as a factory-fitted option is the Pro riding modes module with additional riding modes and new riding mode preselection as well as dynamic engine brake control.

  
  
  GALLERY: 2020 BMW Motorrad 1250 GS “40 Years GS”

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2020 BMW Motorrad 125 GS Adventure “40 Years GS”

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 Novus electric motorcycle is not all there, pre-orders at RM214,852, excluding tax and delivery

  In Bikes, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 5 October 2020 1:49 pm / 6 comments

  

  While we are used to seeing electric motorcycles (e-bikes) with massive battery packs, the 2020 Novus e-bike strives for a minimalist, almost nothing-is-there design. The brainchild of founder and chief executive officer René Renger, previously a designer at Volkswagen, Novus hails from Germany and is priced at 44,047 Euros (RM214,852) and pre-orders are now being taken with a fully refundable deposit of 1,000 Euros (RM4,880).

  Made from carbon-fibre sculpted in a trapezoidal frame weighing 7 kg with an all-up weight of 75 kg including the battery, the Novus is designed as lightweight personal transport in an urban setting. A a single-seater with a maximum rider weight of 125 kg, the Novus – meaning ‘new’ in Latin – delivers a maximum power of 18 kW (24hp) from its hub-mounted electric motor with a maximum of 200 Nm of torque and a governed top speed of 120 km/h .

  

  

  

  Power delivery is controlled via an app on the rider’s smartphone, which also enables locking of the Novus via NFC for true keyless operation. Three power modes are available for purchase – ‘Base’, which limits power to a maximum of 40 percent of motor capacity, ‘Power’, delivering 70 percent and ‘God’, which unleashes maximum power.

  The frame houses all the major components on the Novus, including the battery pack and various controllers, with the hub motor located in the carbon-fibre rear wheel, held in place by a carbon-fibre swing arm. A carbon-fibre girder fork mounts the carbon-fibre front wheel, with 90 mm of suspension travel.

  

  A monoshock holds up the rear end of the Novus, tucked away in a frame recess, adjustable for preload, compression and rebound and providing 110 mm of travel. Braking is done with a single disc on the front wheel, stopped by a hydraulic calliper.

  No range numbers or charging times were provided by Novus, but a good guess would be 120 km of range and about 4 hours charging time, as is typical of most e-bikes in this segment. What do you think? Are e-bikes such as the Novus viable in the coming trend towards two-wheel electrification?

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 BMW Motorrad G310GS facelift – updated with LED lighting, adjustable levers, new paint schemes

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 5 October 2020 11:44 am / 4 comments

  

  First introduced in 2016, the 2020 BMW Motorrad G310GS (priced at RM29,500 for the 2019 model) is now updated with LED lighting and two new colour choices. Also new is adjustable brake and clutch levers in four positions as well anti-hopping clutch that prevents rear wheel lock up when downshifting quickly while reducing lever effort.

  In terms of mechanicals, the G310GS remains the same, with a 313 cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder mill with four-valves, DOHC and fed by EFI. Power output is claimed to be 34 hp at 9,500 rpm and torque is 28 Nm at 7,500 rpm, with Euro 5 emissions compliance with power going through a six-speed gearbox and chain final drive.

  

  

  Previously having LED lighting for the tail light, the 2020 G310GS now comes with LED lighting throughout, although LED turn signals was an option in the official BMW Motorrad catalogue. This now includes LED DRLs and BMW Motorrad says this provides a “particularly bright and homogeneous illumination of the road” while eliminating “distracting vibrations of the light cone.”

  In terms of ergonomics, the G310GS now comes with four-position reach adjustment for the brake and clutch levers, which suits riders with both small and large hand spans. Braking is still the same on the G310GS, done with a single 300 mm disc clamped by a four-piston Bybre hydraulic calliper on the 19-inch front wheel and 240 mm disc with single-piston calliper on the 17-inch rear, with switchable two-channel ABS for off-road use.

  

  

  Suspension is done with 41 mm diameter upside-down forks, non-adjustable, while the rear end is held up with a mono shock adjustable for pre-load. Seat height of the G310GS is 835 mm, with fuel carried in a 11-litre tank and wet weight, ready to ride, listed as 169.5 kg.

  Aside from the base colour scheme of plain polar white and tank side panels in grey, the G310GS has two new colour choices for 2020. These are the Rally style with red painted frame and tank centre cover in Kyanit blue metallic as well as the “40 Years GS” edition with cosmic black and yellow paint and graphics.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2021 Triumph Trident to be released early next year

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Triumph / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 30 September 2020 10:18 am / 1 comment

  

  Photographs of the upcoming 2021 Triumph Trident, expected to enter Triumph dealer showrooms in the first quarter of next year, have been released. Details are still scarce about the Trident but it is expected to compete in the middleweight naked sports bike market.

  Now entering final testing at Triumph’s Hinckley works, the Trident features an inline-triple although engine displacement was not disclosed. What the press release did say was the Trident will have “torque rich performance” and “agile handling.”

  Styling follows the standard seating position of naked motorcycle, which from photos places the rider rather more upright than the 765 RS, which leans the rider a little further forward. The seat is a combined rider/pillion unit like the one found on the previous generation 675.

  

  A simplification in the looks of the Trident can be seen in the single round headlight and round instrument gauge, possibly being a budget consideration to keep costs down in this segment of the market. As for the Trident’s frame, it appears to be a welded welded from round tube metal compared to the cast alloy unit on the 765 RS, as is the side stand.

  An added design feature not seen in the initial release photos of the Trident is the swing arm mounted mudguard, which carries the number plate and turn signal indicators. Suspension uses upside-down forks but it is not known if these are adjustable units while the rear will have a preload-adjustable monoshock at a minimum.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 MSBK: Zaqhwan Zaidi a class above the rest, new MSBK150 race class features cut throat racing action

  In Bikes, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 29 September 2020 11:28 am / 0 comment

  

  After a much delayed start to the calendar, the 2020 Malaysian Superbike Championship (MSBK) resumed at Sepang International Circuit (SIC) on the weekend of 27 to 29 September. Four classes were contested – MSBK1000 and 600, MSBK250 and new inclusion to the racing fixture, MSBK150 for underbone motorcycles.

  Racing this year has taken on a slightly different format, with the previous two-race weekend replaced by three races. Race 1 happens on Saturday after practice and qualifying in the morning while Race 2 and 3 are held on Sunday, with points awarded in each race.

  As expected, Zaqhwan Zaidi, riding for Boon Siew Honda Racing Team on a Honda CBR1000RR, stamped his mark over all three races. A much diminished field caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, including the absence of close rival Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman, meant Zaqwan saw little, if any, competition.

  

  However, it was not all sunshine and roses for the 25-year old Selangor boy as he set himself a personal challenge to match his Asia Road Racing Championship race pace on what was essentially a stock motorcycle. “The bike we are using here at the MSBK is drastically different from what we had in the ARRC last year. Yes, it’s the same model, but this version is very close to standard. In effect, it’s a training bike and I used the opportunity to challenge myself to stay as close to ARRC race pace as possible,” Zaqhwan said.

  At the end of the weekend, it was Zaqhwan on top, followed by Mohd Farid Badrul Hisam of Horizon Racing Team on a BMW S1000RR and Ahmad Daniel Haiqal, also on a BMW S1000RR, riding for MME Racing Team Malaysia. Moving on the MSBK600 class, the grid comprised of only four riders, again with numbers much diminished due the travel restrictions.

  Mohd Ibrahim Mohd Norrodin, riding a Yamaha YZF-R6 for SIC Racing Team, emerged top of class after the weekend’s racing, followed by Arroyo Hakeem Anuar of Boon Siew Honda Racing Team and Mohd Helming Azlan of Hi-Rev SCK Honda Racing in second and third, both of whom were on Honda CBR600s.

  

  It should be noted that the MSBK1000 and MSBK600 classes were combined to the reduced number of competitors. Ibrahim Norrodin’s race times, despite being on a 600 cc race bike, were enough to place him third overall in the MSBK1000 class.

  Competition in the hotly contested MSBK250 class came down to Boon Siew Honda Racing Team’s Mohd Idlan Hakimi Raduan, SIC Racing Team’s Mohd Danial Syahmi and Hi-Rev SCK Honda Racing Team’s Mohd Izam Ikmal, who each scored wins during the weekend. Race 1 on Saturday saw Idlan take the win, with Race 2 going to Daniel Syahmi and Izam coming in first in Race 3.

  

  New for the 2020 race calendar, the MSBK150 class, saw very close racing on the grid, with racers going elbows and knees and rubbing bodywork across the six lap race. Race 1 on Saturday saw a tight group of five riders in a tight group, with two riders trading elbows, resulting in both careening into the pit wall and crashing after they had crossed the finish line.

  Ahmad Fazrul Sham of Cardinals Racing Team on a Y15ZR took honours at the conclusion of race weekend while Mohd Haziq Mohd Fairues of UMA Racing Yamaha Maju Motor Asia Team and Ahmad Fazrul’s team mate Mohd Iqbal Amri Abdul Malek came in second and third in the standings.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2020 MotoGP: Quartararo back on form in Catalunya

  In Bikes, International Bike News, MotoGP, Motorsports / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 September 2020 5:19 pm / 0 comment

  

  Racing returned to Spain for the MotoGP circus and Frenchman Fabio Quartararo, riding for Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT) reclaimed his position at the top of the world championship table. However, the lead is tenuous as Joan Mir of Team Suzuki Ecstar is close behind with 100 points to Quartararo’s 108 and Maverick Vinales of Monster Energy Yamaha is in third with 90 points.

  Racing at the Monster Energy Grand Prix of Catalunya in Barcelona started with Quartararo’s team mate, Franco Morbidelli, in pole position, with Quartararo and Valentino Rossi, on his 350th premier class start, making up the front row in second and third, respectively. Morbidelli, in his first ever MotoGP pole position, started strongly, with Jack Miller of Pramac Racing and Rossi getting good starts and slotting in close behind.

  

  Drama ensued on the very first lap as Johann Zarco of Esponsorama Racing low sided as he tried to avoid Danilo Petrucci of Ducati team, who lost control of his control of his Ducati, and caused a chain reaction that unfortunately collected Andrea Dovizioso of Team Ducati as well.

  However, the Suzukis of Mir and Alex Rins, were nipping at the heels of the lead trio, along with Pol Espargaro of KTM Red Bull Factory Racing. Near the halfway mark, the hard/hard front and rear tyre recommendations by Michelin were beginning to shows signs of fade, especially front, with Morbidelli having a near high side.

  

  At this point, with Quartararo in the lead and Rossi in second, both Mir and Rins took the opportunity to make a move on Morbidelli, relegating him to fifth. On lap 16, Rossi, who joins Morbidelli next year in SRT, slid out into the gravel, ending his hopes of a 200th MotoGP win in his 350th grand prix start.

  With Quartararo having a commanding lead, took the win ahead of Mir, in second 0.928 seconds behind and Rins, coming in third 1.898 seconds behind. In fourth place was Morbidelli, followed by Miller and Francesco Bagnaia, both of Pramac Racing.

  

  

  

  The race at Catalunya sees two Suzukis on the podium and the last time that happened was 13 years ago in San Marino. At the end of the ninth round in MotoGP, the championship standings are Quartararo on top, followed by Mir and Vinales, with Morbidelli fourth in the championship with 77 points and Miller sixth with 75 points.

  Racing resumes on the 11th of October at the Shark Helmets French Grand Prix in Le Mans. The grid is also awaiting the possible return of 2019 world champion Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda Racing, sidelined by injury and his presence sorely missed by Honda Racing Corporation who have provided less that a challenge in this year’s MotoGP.

  

  

  

  

  

  FRANCO MORBIDELLI ITA PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT YAMAHA MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  
  

  

  FRANCO MORBIDELLI ITA PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT YAMAHA MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  

  

  JOAN MIR SPA TEAM SUZUKI ECSTAR SUZUKI MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  

  FRANCO MORBIDELLI ITA PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT YAMAHA MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  

  FABIO QUARTARARO FRA PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT YAMAHA MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  
  

  

  FRANCO MORBIDELLI ITA PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT YAMAHA MotoGP GP Catalunya 2020 (Circuit Barcelona) 25-27.9.2020 photo: MICHELIN

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Rossi confirmed for Petronas Yamaha SRT in 2021

  In Bikes, International Bike News, MotoGP, Motorsports / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 26 September 2020 8:40 pm / 7 comments

  

  It is confirmed multiple world champion and fan favourite Valentino Rossi will be joining Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team (SRT) in 2021. The announcement was made via SRT’s website and Rossi is designated to ride alongside Franco Morbidelli whilst current SRT rider Fabio Quartararo moves up to the Yamaha Factory team.

  Rossi has struggled to match the pace of the current crop of MotoGP riders but the 2020 race season saw him take a third place in Jerez at the Andalucian Grand Prix. Rossi is currently placed ninth in the world championship standing with 58 points.

  In a note on the SRT website, team principal Datuk Razlan Razali said, “it is an absolute honour to welcome Valentino Rossi – an iconic rider and legend into the team next year. His experience will be a great asset to the team as we move into our third season in MotoGP and we are sure we will be able to learn a lot from Valentino.”

  

  On the MotoGP race calendar this weekend is the Monster Energy Catalunya Grand Prix at the Barcelona Circuit. After today’s time’s in Free Practice 4, Maverick Finales, who won last weekend’s Gran Premio Tissot dell’Emilia Romagna e della Riviera di Rimini, is fastest with a time of 1’40.315.

  Second fastest is Pol Espargaro of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, clocking 1’40.335 while in third is Joan Mir of Team Suzuki Ecstar, who posted a time of 1’40.352. Rossi posted a lap time of 1’40.374 to stand in fourth place ahead of Qualifying and Race day tomorrow.

   

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