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• 2017 Yamaha motorcycles get new colour schemes

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 29 September 2016 7:22 pm / 2 comments

  

  Updated for 2017 is a series of models from Yamaha’s catalogue, covering the gamut from its superbikes down its 125 cc commuter machines. Starting with the sports bike range, the YZF-R1 superbike now comes with a new shade – Tech Black – with Race Blu continuing on with new graphics.

  The baby YZF-R125 comes with two new colour schemes – Tech Black like its big sibling and Radical Red, with Race Blu carried over from 2016. In the Sport Touring range, the MT-09 Tracer, which was recently released in Malaysia at a price of RM59,900, comes in Midnight Black and Mountain Green for 2017, with the 2016 Yamaha Blue paint scheme completing the set.

  For Yamaha’s naked sports bikes, the MT-series, the MT-07 – which was recently reviewed – gets a trio of new colours. These are Tech Black, Yamaha Blue and Competition White, while the Night Fluo scheme released earlier this year follows through into the new year.

  

  

  

  One MT-series bike we don’t get in Malaysia is the MT-125, which comes in Tech Black and Yamaha Blue. The baby MT also has a Night Fluo colour which is carried over from this year’s catalogue.

  On the dual-purpose adventure side of things, the Yamaha XT1200Z, or Super Tenere, will sport two new colours. Affectionately known as the “Super Ten”, the 2017 version comes in Yamaha Blue and Tech Black.

  

  

  

  Yamaha’s Sport Heritage range has three machines seeing updated paint schemes. The XV950R Bolt – which retails for RM52,500 – will come in Tech Graphite for 2017, while the sportier XSR900 gets Tech Black alongside the previous years colours of Garage Metal and Rock Slate.

  Down the sport heritage range the XSR700 also comes in Tech Black for 2017. Crossing over from 2016 are the Forest Green and Garage Metal paint schemes, both of which are updated with a black radiator.

  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha YZF-R1

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha YZF-R125

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha MT-09 Tracer

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha MT-07

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha MT-125

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha XT1200Z Super Tenere

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha XV950R Bolt

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha XSR900

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2017 Yamaha XSR700

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 KTM motocross bike range launched in Malaysia – six models, 250/350/450 cc, from RM38k to RM46k

  In Bikes, KTM, Local Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 29 September 2016 4:31 pm / 0 comment

  

  The 2017 range of off-road motorcycles from Austrian manufacturer KTM was launched at a media ride at Sungai Buaya, Rawang, Selangor by Malaysian distributor Eurotech Wheel Distributor. Comprising of six models, the 2017 range of KTM motocrossers – which are CBU – span an engine capacity of between 250 cc and 450 cc, and prices begin at RM38,160.

  A quest to save weight and improve rider ergonomics has resulted in an all-new engine that is smaller and lighter than the 2016 version. In the case of the EXC-F enduro models, a new frame and sub-frame gives a weight saving of 550 grammes, and a new WP Suspension Progressive Damping Geometry (PDS) rear shock absorber weighs 602 grammes less.

  Also going on a diet is the engine for the 250 cc and 350cc versions of the EXC-F, which have lost 1.5 kg and 1.9 kg respectively, while the 450 cc version loses a massive 2.4 kg. A lithium-ion battery is now standard fitment, cutting weight by another kilogram.

  

  New for 2017 is the WP Suspension XPLOR 48 upside-down split fork – with 30 clicks of adjustment – that separates rebound and compression damping to the right and left side fork cartridges. Electric starting is now standard across the range, with a kickstarter kit available for those riders who prefer starting their machines manually using the right foot.

  Braking is by Brembo, clamping a single Galfer brake disc front and rear. A new airbox – designed with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) – gives better intake performance and easier air filter changes. The ECU and throttle body is by Keihin.

  Aside from the standard version EXC-F, an upgraded Six Days version is also available. The Six Days enduro bikes – the name ‘Six Days’ taken from the famous International Six Days Enduro race – come with preload adjustment on the front fork, as well as traction control and two throttle maps controlled by the rider using a handlebar switch.

  

  

  

  The 2017 KTM motocross range begins with the two-stroke 250 EXC Six Days, which retails for RM38,160. Next up are the 250 EXC-F and 250 EXC-F Six Days, which go for RM41,870 and RM45,050 respectively.

  A step up the range are the 350 EXC-F at RM42,400 and 350 EXC-F Six Days which goes for RM45,580. Topping out KTM’s 2017 enduro models are the 450 EXC-F at RM42,930 and the 450 EXC-F Six Days version at RM46,110.

  Also offered is the competition-only 450 SX-F – which omits lighting and other road legal equipment – at RM39,750. All prices include GST.

  GALLERY: 2017 KTM 350 EXC-F

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 Yamaha YZF-R1M opens for online order in Oct

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 September 2016 9:42 am / 4 comments

  

  As Yamaha’s top-of-the-line superbike, the YZF-R1M seems to have flown under the radar of late, shown up by offerings from other manufacturers such as the 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R. This is set to change in October, when online applications for the purchase of a 2017 Yamaha YZF-R1M will be opened.

  Applications for the purchase of the limited edition YZF-R1M – said to be the most exclusive production motorcycle ever made by Yamaha – will begin on October 11. The 2017 YZF-R1M is inspired by the current MotoGP race bikes ridden by Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, and features trickle-down racing technology as used by the Yamaha MotoGP race team.

  Targetted towards individual race teams, privateer racers and experienced track day riders, the online application process is designed to ensure that only the best candidates obtain one of the very limited supply of R1Ms. As part of the process, applicants will be required to fill in a comprehensive survey, in order to determine a purchaser’s suitability.

  

  

  

  Carrying a four-cylinder 998 cc Crossplane engine that is claimed to put out 200 PS, the carbon-fibre bodied 2017 Yamaha YZF-R1M comes with a whole suite of electronic rider aids. Weighing in at 200 kg wet, the R1M comes with Ohlins electronic racing suspension (ERS), six-axis inertial motion sensor, traction and slide control, as well as lift and launch control.

  As part of the ownership of the 2017 Yamaha YZF-R1M, the Yamaha Riding Experience will be provided during the summer of 2017 at certain European race circuits. Planned to allow riders and teams to get the best out of their R1M, these two-day events will include machine set-up workshops and track sessions with current and former racing stars.

  Coming only in silver-blue livery, with updated graphics, Yamaha has not released any details on pricing for the 2017 YZF-R1M, but we assume such exclusivity does not come cheap. As a rough comparison, the 197 hp 2016 Kawasaki ZX-10R – which is road legal – retails in Malaysia for RM104,859 with GST.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Ducati reopens renovated museum in Borgo Panigale

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 27 September 2016 12:10 pm / 0 comment

  

  In conjunction with its 90th anniversary celebrations this year, Ducati opened its new museum in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Italy over the weekend. In the presence of Claudio Domenicali, chief executive officer of Ducati, the event was graced by Italian premier Matteo Renzi.

  Also at the opening ceremony were president of the Emilia-Romagna region, Stefano Bonaccini, and the mayor of Bologna, Virginio Merola. The new Ducati museum has 44 motorcycles from the company’s history on display – 26 race bikes and 18 road bikes – each machine signifying a milestone in Ducati’s design, engineering or racing sucess.

  Pride of place is given to the Ducati 916, the one machine that symbolises Ducati’s renaissance in the modern sportbiking era. Alongside the 916 is displayed design work and styling exercises by Massimo Tamburini, who was responsible for some of today’s most iconic motorcycle designs.

  “The restructuring of our museum is a very important and significant event for our company and for all the Ducatisti fans who follow and appreciate our brand and our bikes across the globe. We wanted to renovate this museum as a tangible sign of the vitality and strength of a company that is celebrating its 90th anniversary and looking to the future,” said Domenicali.

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 Triumph Street Triple 675R 10th Anniversary limited edition – only 150 units to be made

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Triumph / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 27 September 2016 11:22 am / 0 comment

  

  It’s been 10 good years for Triumph’s Street Triple 675R middle-weight naked sports bike, and what better way to celebrate than with a limited edition? First introduced in 2007, the Triumph Street Triple has proven to be a sales success, with riders world-wide taking to its great handling.

  To celebrate 10 years of the Street Triple R, Triumph has issued a limited edition anniversary edition, which comes in one of three colour schemes – Grey, Gold and the rather ominous R Dark. Each bike comes in a limited production run of 50 units.

  Wheels colour-coded to the limited edition paint scheme come with a “10 year anniversary” sash emblazoned width-wise. In addition, the paint scheme features a Union Jack on either side of the fuel tank, with a belly-pan, flyscreen and seat cowl fitted as standard from the factory.

  

  

  

  The Street Triple R Dark anniversary edition will be available from October 1, and will retail at 8,599 pounds sterling (RM46,122) in the UK. Scheduled for release in mid-October, the gold and grey versions will retail for 7,999 pounds sterling (RM42,904).

  We previously reviewed the Street Triple 675R, and were consequently given a unit for long-term review. Carrying a inline three-cylinder engine that puts out 106 hp and 68 Nm of torque, the Street Triple 675R weighs in at 168 kg.

  Retailing here for RM53,900 including GST, the 2016 Triumph Street Triple 675R currently comes with a cash rebate or in-store credit of RM2,000 with free insurance, road tax and a Triumph tank bag, or a cash rebate or in-store credit as previously mentioned, plus free Triumph flyscreen, quickshifter and tank bag.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• EBR Motorcycles back for 2017, new urban street bike, sub-10,000 USD sports bike rumoured for 2018

  In Bikes, Erik Buell Racing, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 27 September 2016 9:52 am / 2 comments

  

  As manufacturer of America’s only modern sports bike today, Erik Buell Racing (EBR) has had a long and troubled history. After being closed down as a brand by Harley-Davidson in 2009, and a disputed relationship with Hero Motorcycles of India, EBR found itself in liquidation this year.

  Now known as EBR Motorcycles, and with founder Erik Buell taking the role of chief technology officer, EBR has announced it will be launching its 2017 model range this week. EBR is looking toward the future, having embarked on a continuous quality improvement programme, and firming up relationships with suppliers.

  “Our dealers have had nice success selling bikes this summer and we have many new ones coming on. Our quality is continuously improving, our supplier relationships established, and now we are looking towards the future. This fall we have something ‘Quick, Dark, and Low’ in the works that should be exciting for urban street riders,” said EBR owner Bill Melvin.

  

  

  Also in the works is a sub-10,000 USD motorcycle for 2018. While no details were forthcoming, it can be surmised that the new EBR machine will follow its sports bike design philosophy with a V-twin engine and race-oriented design.

  EBR plans to show its 2017 bikes at bike shows in California, New York, Texas and Illinois. Aside from next year’s models, visitors will also get to see its 2017 and 2018 model prototypes at certain shows. EBR currently has two models in its range – the fully-faired 1190 RX and 1190 SX naked sports bike.

  GALLERY: 2016 EBR Motorcycles 1190 RX

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2016 EBR Motorcycles 1190 SX

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2016 Yamaha Y15ZR MotoGP Edition – RM8,634.76

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 23 September 2016 10:13 pm / 9 comments

  

  To commemorate its involvement in the MotoGP world championship with the Movistar Yamaha team and riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia has released the 2016 Yamaha Y15ZR MotoGP Edition at RM8,634.76. Dubbed “the king of the streets”, the Y15ZR is a supercub that carries a single-cylinder fuel-injected engine.

  Displacing 150 cc, the engine’s power output is claimed to be 15.1 hp at 8,500 rpm, while torque is rated at 13.8 Nm at 7,000 rpm. Power gets to the ground via a five-speed gearbox and chain final drive.

  Hydraulic discs handle braking duties front and rear, grabbed by single-piston calipers. A telescopic fork holds up the front end and a pre-load adjustable monoshock keeps the rear end upright.

  

  

  Aside from the MotoGP Edition, the 2016 Yamaha Y15ZR also comes in three other colour options – grey, which was released recently, as well as red and blue.

  With the 2016 Yamaha Y15ZR MotoGP edition retailing for RM8,634.76, the base Y15ZR goes for RM8,210, with all prices including GST. The Y15ZR’s closest rival is the Honda RS150R, which retails from a base price of RM8,213.94, including GST.

  GALLERY: 2016 Yamaha YZ15R – Grey
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R supercharged replacement?

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Kawasaki / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 22 September 2016 6:18 pm / 14 comments

  

  Patent photos have surfaced supposedly showing Kawasaki’s upcoming supercharged 600 cc four-cylinder, dubbed within the Akashi City, Japan, company as the “R2”. With the current model Ninja ZX-6R due for an update, could this force-fed four be its replacement?

  What can be seen from the patent drawings from website morebikes is that the R2 draws a lot from the current Kawasaki hyperbikes, the H2 and H2R. A trellis frame can be seen in the top-down drawing, with the inlet for the fuel tank perched above the airbox, and extending downwards under the rider seat.

  A flow chart shows the process flow of the intake and exhaust, with the fuel pump feeding what looks to be a multi-point injection system, with an exhaust valve indicated which might function in a similar manner to Yamaha’s EXUP exhaust system.

  

  

  Exhaust position has changed, going from the side-mounted can on the current model ZX-6R to an underseat unit. The swing-arm, assuming this makes it into production, seems to be a welded aluminium alloy affair, unlike the massive forged unit on Kawasaki’s current model 600.

  The fairing on the R2 also looks to be a development of the current unit found on the Kawasaki ZX-10R, with a large nostril inlet cutout and rounded headlights, as opposed to the angular half-fairing found on the H2. Brembo brake calipers also look to be present at the front end, based on the side-view illustration

  Certainly the patent drawings look interesting, and might lead to the R2 being the “baby” H2, albeit with significantly more power output than the current model ZX-6R. With Euro 4 looming in January, it comes as no surprise that more manufacturers will be looking to forced induction to conform to emissions testing.

  

  

  What do you think? Is the supercharged R2 the way foward for Kawasaki’s inline-four 600 cc supersports bike? Or might this be a “baby” hyperbike, designed to enter the line-up alongside the 400 km/h H2R?

  Leave a comment with your thoughts and opinions below.

  GALLERY: 2016 Kawasaki H2/H2R

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• BMW Motorrad issues recall for R nineT in the US

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 22 September 2016 2:31 pm / 3 comments

  

  BMW Motorrad has issued a recall in the United States for all BMW R nineT retro-styled motorcycles over a rear turn-signal issue. According to the recall notice, the rear turn-signals may be obscured to drivers of vehicles following behind the R nineT on the road.

  The recall was issued due to non-compliance with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, which pertains to “lamps, reflective devices and associated equipment.” According to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website, under certain road and traffic conditions the obscured signals may increase the risk of collision.

  The recall – which will begin in the US in October – affects 1,792 R nineT bikes manufactured between November 2013 to January 2015. BMW Motorrad will inform owners of affected units and will replace the turn signals with ones that have longer arms, at no charge. Meanwhile, BMW Motorrad Malaysia has confirmed that no R nineT bikes in Malaysia are affected.

  As part of BMW Motorrad’s ‘Heritage’ series, the R nineT currently retails for RM99,888, inclusive of GST. Recently launched was the R nineT Scrambler, which retails for 13,000 euro (RM60,050) including 19% VAT.

  GALLERY: 2015 BMW Motorrad R nineT

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  
  GALLERY: 2016 BMW Motorrad R nineT Scrambler

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 Ducati Multistrada 939 seen running road trials?

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 22 September 2016 12:36 pm / 2 comments

  

  The 2016 Ducati Multistrada 1200 – which we reviewed back in April – is a very competent dual-purpose motorcycle, but the buy-in price of RM120,000 might be a little steep for some. There could be an option though, for those who want the handling and performance capability of a Multistrada 1200, in a smaller package.

  A very Multistrada looking test mule has been spotted cruising around draped in camouflage, and sporting what looks like the 937 cc 90-degree V-twin as currently used in the 939 Ducati Hypermotard and Hyperstrada. From the pictures published on website moto.it, it appears as if the test mule is shorter in wheelbase than the Multistrada 1200, as well as being a little shorter in stature.

  Of note is the double-sided swingarm on the mule, compared to the single-sided unit fitted to the 1200. This makes sense from a financial viewpoint, as a lower range Multistrada model would need to save costs somewhere, leaving the more expensive single-sided unit to grace the top-of-the-range machines.

  

  

  Should the new smaller-engined Multistrada use the Testastretta engine, it will likely be putting out 113 hp at 9,000 rpm and 97.9 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. This compares realistically against the 1,198 cc, twin-spark Testretta DVT engine used in the Multistrada 1200, which offers 160 hp at 9,500 rpm and 136 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm.

  An unveiling of a smaller Multistrada could be in the offing at the EICMA show in November, or this might just be a model destined for a 2017 release. The 2016 Ducati Multistrada 1200 retails for RM119,999, while the Multistrada 1200 S, which comes with the Skyhook semi-active suspension, retails for RM139,999. Prices include GST, but exclude registration and insurance.

  GALLERY: 2016 Ducati Multistrada 1200

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 Yamaha YZF-R6 teased in video ahead of Intermot

  In Bikes, International Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 21 September 2016 3:10 pm / 0 comment

  Looks like it’s the season to be teasing ahead of October’s Intermot show in Germany, with Yamaha jumping on the video bandwagon showing what might be the 2017 Yamaha R6. As Yamaha’s middle-weight supersports bike, the R6 has been a firm fan favourite, going back nearly two decades now.

  Descended from the legendary YZF-R1, the R6 was basically an R1, shrunk down a little. Carrying a 599.4 cc inline-four with 16 titanium valves, the 2016 YZF-R6 puts out a claimed 122 hp at 14,500 rpm.

  Torque is rated at 57.5 Nm at 11,500 rpm, with fuelling via fuel injection. YCC-I, Yamaha’s version of a variable intake tract, lifts the intake horns in the airbox at 6,500 rpm.

  

  

  Driving a six-speed gearbox, the YZF-R6 also comes with a slipper clutch to prevent rear-wheel lockup during hard downshifts, along with ride-by-wire. Wet weight is claimed to be 189 kg, and top speed is claimed to be somewhere upwards of 260 km/h.

  Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia does not officially import the 2016 YZF-R6. The 2016 Yamaha YZF-R6 retails in the UK from 9,699 pounds sterling (RM52,724).

  GALLERY: 2016 Yamaha YZF-R6

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• Honda Monkey – MSX125SF based mini-bike to return?

  In Bikes, Honda Motorcycles, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 21 September 2016 12:40 pm / 4 comments

  

  Remember the Honda Monkey? Sure you do. It’s still being offered in Honda’s current catalogue as a 49 cc mini-bike. But with the success of the Kawasaki Z125 Pro, along with Honda’s own MSX125SF Grom, reports of a Honda Monkey on steroids have emerged.

  A series of design renderings – purportedly for a patent application – have been posted on website TMCblog.com showing a mini-bike that is strikingly similar to the Honda Monkey, but with several significant changes. The engine looks to be a much bigger unit, possibly the 125 cc, PGM-Fi, single-cylinder mill from the MSX125SF.

  Of note are the 10-spoke alloy wheels, that appear to have come straight off the MSX125SF. The exhaust follows the scrambler styling of the original Monkey, with the addition of a bash plate.

  

  

  The original Honda Monkey debuted in the sixties, capitalising on a then current trend for mini-bikes. Mini-bikes have made a recent resurgence, with the popularity of the Z125 Pro and MSX125SF.

  An industry insider informed us that the Honda MSX125 is not currently available in Malaysia, but this might change pending a management decision. Thus, we have no official availability or pricing for the Honda MSX125SF, but the Kawasaki Z125 Pro retails for RM10,435.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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• 2017 Honda motorcycles teased on Honda global site – new CBR1000RR superbike replacement teased?

  In Bikes, Honda Motorcycles, International Bike News / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 21 September 2016 10:25 am / 3 comments

  

  With rumours circulating about several new models and updates, coming from Honda for its 2017 motorcycle range, a website – hondamotoglobal.com – has been set up to show some of the changes expected in the coming year. We’ve already seen a series of teaser videos on the upcoming X-ADV adventure scooter, and there is another video showing a sports bike.

  Could this be the much spoken of CBR1000RR superbike replacement that is long overdue? With the tagline “Total Control”, which we last saw in Indonesia during the showing of the 2016 Honda CBR250RR, it might be so, or perhaps just the official global launch of the 250 cc sports bike itself.

  What we can see are the 2017 Honda CRF450 dirt bike, and the Honda Africa Twin, slots for which have been provided on the website, although no videos have been uploaded yet. The full pages will be launched with new model-related content on press day at Intermot in Germany on October 4, EICMA 2016 in Italy in November, and IMS Long Beach in the US.

  
  

   

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• REVIEW: 2016 Yamaha MT-07 – a hooligan bike in commuter clothing, with some touring on the side

  In Bike Reviews, Bikes, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 20 September 2016 11:40 pm / 21 comments

  

  Remember that kitten you had as a child? How soft and cuddly it was, and then it would suddenly turn around and sink its fangs and claws into you?

  This is pretty much what the 2016 Yamaha MT-07 is like. Presented as Yamaha’s answer locally to the Kawasaki ER-6 series and Honda’s CB range of bikes, the MT-07 is a naked sports bike that tries to be many things, and succeeds at one or two of them.

  The middle-weight market is a hotly contested one in Malaysia, representing the first step into the “big bike” world for many riders. At this price point, a mid-level two-cylinder makes a lot of sense as a car substitute.

  

  A motorcycle is a versatile platform, able to perform many roles. As a balance between weight, power and size, a middleweight twin, in the 500 cc to 700 cc range, is just able ideal for any rider at any level.

  Opinions on paultan.org reflect this, with many readers asking the Yamaha MT-07 to be reviewed, despite it not being a new model machine. We thus took the Yamaha MT-07 through the paces, to see what made it so popular with local riders.

  Find out what we thought of the 2016 Yamaha MT-07 after the jump.

   

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• Malaysian Anita Yusof returns from year-long solo round-the-world trip on 2015 Yamaha FZ150i

  In Bikes, Local Bike News, Yamaha / By Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 September 2016 6:32 pm / 41 comments

  

  When most riders think of a round-the-world trip on a motorcycle, the most obvious choice of machine would be a big dual-purpose adventure machine, preferably German, with two-cylinders and 1,200 cc. But would you consider doing it on a 150 cc, single-cylinder machine weighing 117 kg?

  That is what Anita Yusof did, chasing her dream of riding around the world, solo. Calling it her “Global dream ride”, Anita – who only learned to ride a motorcycle three years ago – toured the world on a Yamaha FZ150i, beginning in Seattle, US.

  Using her own funds and taking unpaid leave from her teaching job, Anita spent nearly RM100,000 for her year-long journey that began on September 11, 2015. Her route took her through the continental US, before heading into South America.

  

  Shipping her FZ150i to England, Anita then crossed Europe, before entering Asia at the Bosporus, Turkey and into Iran. Travelling across eastern Europe, covering Russia and Mongolia, Anita shipped her bike to Thailand to enter the final phase of her journey, crossing the border at Bukit Kayu Hitam on September 16.

  Her 2015 Yamaha FZ150i 150 cc, single-cylinder sports bike was provided by Hong Leong Yamaha Malaysia. Her helmet, riding gear, panniers and top-box were provided by Givi Malaysia.

  “The best part of my journey was all the wonderful people I met around the world. The people who helped me, and shared their homes and food with me, this was the best part,” says Anita. Anita also faced a challenge riding in South America, where wind speeds reached up to 100 km/h.

  

  

  

  This did not deter Anita, who had dreamed of travelling the world when she was young. Now 49, and after raising two children as a single parent, fulfiling her life’s goal has given her a sense of achievement.

  “I intend to have a good rest after this,” says Anita with a laugh. In the works are a series of books based on her travels, with one book to cover each of the four continents she traversed.

  “I am also planning a series of lectures and shows based on my dream ride,” says Anita, “and I will be speaking to schools and college students.” She would like to motivate young adults, especially women, and show them that nothing is impossible if you have the determination.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

   

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