Friday 31 October 2014

Book Ford Fiesta ST at RM 149,888!


Ford today announced that the new Fiesta ST will be priced at RM 149,888, with pre-launch bookings to kick-off at the 5th Asia Klasika event from 31 October - 2 November at the Pullman Putrajaya Lakeside Resort.

At the Ford booth, test drives are available for all to experience the new Fiesta ST, while visitors can also sign up for the upcoming ‘Fiesta ST Xperience’ event or place a pre-launch booking. Three classic Ford Mustangs will also be on display, showcasing Ford’s heritage of high performance sports cars.

Set to arrive next month at Ford showrooms nationwide, the feature-packed new Fiesta ST will be available in three sporty colours – Molten Orange, Spirit Blue, and Panther Black. 

“The introduction of the Fiesta ST will deliver a dynamic and high-performance boost to our expanding Ford line-up in Malaysia,” said Veemala Rethinasamy, sales and marketing director, Malaysia, Ford Motor Company.

The new Fiesta ST comes equipped with a 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine, with 182 PS and 240 Nm of torque that can achieve 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

With a top speed of 220km/h, the Fiesta ST also boasts a precision-tuned and driver-focused powertrain, suspension, steering and brakes, and a curb weight of well under 1,200kg to deliver the ultimate Fiesta driving experience.

Since early 2013, the Ford Fiesta ST has won 22 awards and received worldwide recognition. Among its accolades are being named BBC TopGear Magazine Car of the Year (UK), Echappement magazine Sports Car of the Year (France), and most recently a 2014 Automobile Magazine All-Star (US).

For more information about the new Ford Fiesta ST and the ‘Fiesta ST Xperience’ test drive event, please visit www.ford.com.my. 




Thursday 30 October 2014

BENELLI 2015 Show-off at EICMA


Benelli BN 251: Lasting impression
In the beginning Benelli manufactured affordable small cc motorcycles for everyone to own and enjoy. Their popularity grew with people from all backgrounds experiencing for the first time the freedom and fun that comes with riding a motorcycle. Fast, nimble, lightweight and economical, the early Benellis became adored by their owners worldwide.

The BN 251 plays tribute to the same motorcycles customers enjoyed in the past, by offering a lightweight sporty 250 cc naked motorcycle at great value. Styled like its big brother range, it is the perfect entry level motorcycle, delivering excellent fuel economy, agile performance and easy to ride character.

Powering the BN 251 is a liquid cooled single cylinder, 4-stroke DOHC Benelli engine developing 24.5 hp (18 kW) at 9000 rpm and 21 Nm (2,14 kgm) @ 7000 rpm.
The steel trestle frame incorporates the engine as a stress member further adding to the rigidity of the chassis. The suspension is also over engineered with an up-side down ø 41mm front fork and on the rear swing arm, a centrally located shock absorber takes care of irregular road surfaces.

Getting on the brakes is easy with Benellis own ø 280 mm front disc with a 4 piston caliper and at the rear a ø 240 mm single disc with a double piston caliper. The 17” aluminum alloy rims finish off the sporty look and add to the impressive handling.

Benelli will offer the BN 251 in the first half of 2015 in the colours white, red and blue. Price will be advised and is expected to be very competitive.



Benelli BN 302: Passion comes standard
The new BN 302 is built with passion for riders of all kinds, from beginners to the experienced, who want to embrace smaller two wheel motoring at its purest form.


Stylish and aggressive looking, the BN 302 rewards its rider with Benelli suspension, exceptional clutch control, growling four valve DOHC inline two cylinder engine and comfortable ergonomic layout. The easy to ride character and confident braking, makes this the perfect bike for a daily commute, zipping through the city and out of town touring.

Behind the great looks is a punchy in-line two cylinder 4-stroke 4-valve DOHC Benelli engine, producing 28kW (38 hp) at 12,000 rpm and 27 Nm (2.75 kgm) at 9000 rpm. The engine is mated to a smooth 6 speed gearbox that delivers a smooth change every time.

The BN 302s inspiring agility is due to improved technology in the design of its rigid steel trestle frame and suspension setup. Up front the bike has ø 41 mm USD forks and on the rear swing arm, a lateral shock absorber soaks up the bumps with adjustable preload.

For maximum braking performance the BN 302 uses twin ø 260 mm floating discs with a 4 piston caliper brake at the front and a single ø 240 mm disc with a double piston caliper brake for the rear.
BN 302 will arrive next year in colours white, green and Benelli gold. Price to be advised soon.


BN 600 GT : intelligent sport touring
The BN 600GT is a new visionary sports-tourer suitable for all types of riders, including those contemplating touring for the first time. It is intelligently designed and offers impressive performance on every ride – whether in town or on the open road.


The BN 600GT joins the BN 600 range sharing the inline four-cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled engine, as run in the popular BN 600R. The engine has a maximum power of 62 kW/84 hp at 11,000 rpm and maximum torque of 56,7 Nm at 8,100 rpm, matched to an optimal 6 speed transmission for touring.

Benelli’s renowned Italian styling and ingenuity has gone into the unique fairing design, upright seating position and ergonomics, with attention to detail that defines the GT amongst its peers.

The GT’s road handling is considered best in class with inspiring dynamics that are attributed to its rigid tubular steel trellis frame that incorporates the engine as a stress member. The suspension system consists of a 50mm upside-down front fork, and a rear aluminium alloy swingarm with a rear shock absorber that has adjustable rebound and spring preload.

Stopping the GT is Benelli’s cutting-edge braking system that gives maximum safety thanks to a twin floating 320mm diameter disc at the front with four-piston radial calipers and at the rear, a 260mm diameter disc with a two-piston caliper.

The fuel tank has a generous 27 L capacity, allowing the rider to enjoy longer trips before filling up. Excellent fuel efficiency also makes this motorcycle a viable alternative to the car for the everyday commute and weekend tour.


The BN 600GT is offered in white, Matt army green and black and will be available by mid-2015.



Benelli BN 600R: The latest evolution
The BN 600R recently hit the world market and gained instant acclaim as being a great value performing naked sports bike. Test rides across the world confirmed it is a true performer out on twisty roads, track rides and yet refined enough for a city commute.

Beautifully engineered and Italian designed, the BN 600R comes with premium componentry including Marzocchi ø 50 mm front forks, Sachs adjustable rear suspension, Brembo calipers, fully braided steel brake lines and Metzler Sportec M5 tyres, making it a very enviable package in its class.

The smooth power delivery of the BN 600R is contributed to optimum mapping of the 60kW Benelli designed and built 600cc inline 4 cylinder DOHC engine with a closely matched six-speed gearbox. The powertrain is mounted to a stylish and light weight trellis frame which together acts as a stressed member for the chassis, further improving its rigidity.

The BN 600R is available for 6.790 euro f.c., in black, red and Benelli gold.

More than 130,000 embrace Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2014


More than 130,000 local and international motorsports fans attended the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix and Mega MotoGP Carnival at the Sepang Circuit from 24 to 26 October 2014, with local attendance making up 75% of all race spectators, despite the event falling on the same week as Deepavali and Awal Muharram.

The 3-day event, cumulating with 81,000 fans catching the final MotoGP race on 26 October, was a celebration of everything related to two-wheel motorsports. Apart from the viewing the thrilling races and qualifying sessions live, visitors also thronged the Mega MotoGP Carnival – which offered everything under the sun relevant to the world of two-wheel racing.

 “With an increase in ticket sales for the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix this year and continuous success for the Mega MotoGP Carnival, plus other exciting announcements during race week such as our registration of entrants for the 2015 World Championship and the upcoming Kedah Circuit, we are confident that the two-wheel motorsports ecosystem in Malaysia is currently riding on a high. Beyond merely being spectators, there are many ways all of Malaysia can benefit, from job opportunities to inflow of investment to business opportunities – which we also highlighted with the Southeast Asia Motorcycle Business Forum. I call upon Malaysians from all walks of life to examine the opportunities and potential in motorsports,” said Dato’ Razlan Razali, Chief Executive Officer of Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

During the carnival, there were many opportunities for fans to meet their favourite MotoGP riders, such as Niklas Ajo, Karel Hanika, Danny Kent, Hafiq Azmi, Zulfahmi Khairuddin and many more. They were also able to see professional motorcycle stunt rider Aaron Twite in action, and later meet the multiple XDL World Championship Circle Challenge and Drift Champion.

With more than 80 booths run by 65 vendors at the carnival, the motorsports fans and their family and friends – some of whom were first time visitors, enjoyed special promotions, exclusive offers and great discounts up to 70%. One of the eye-catching stalls was Autographed Collectables, brought in by owner Miguel Ramos all the way from Australia. He offered authentic signed collectables of popular MotoGP heroes - from helmets and knee sliders to framed autographed pictures, for sale to visitors. Other activities at the carnival included live bands, fun games and quizzes, face painting and photo booths.

Early bird offers

Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has launched 2015 tickets for its three international racing events - the Formula 1 PETRONAS Malaysia Grand Prix 2015 (27 to 29 March 2015), the eni FIM Superbike World Championship 2015 (31 July to 2 August 2015) and the Shell Advance Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2015 (23 to 25 October 2015). Currently, tickets for all three events are being offered at Early Bird prices.

“We urge fans to get their tickets for our international racing events for next year now. This will not only guarantee their preferred seats for 2015, but they can enjoy two-prong savings – Early Bird discounts and avoid GST, as tickets will be subject to GST once the tax is implemented in April 2015,” added Dato’ Razlan.

 For the Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix 2015 taking place from 27 to 29 March 2015, Early Bird tickets will be sold at a 50% discount from 27 October to 31 December 2014, starting from RM41 for a Hillstand ticket to RM886 for a Main Grandstand North Sapphire Class ticket.

For the eni World Superbike Championship 2015 happening from 31 July to 2 August 2015, the Early Bird tickets will be on sale from 27 October 2014 to 29 March 2015, with discounts ranging from RM20 to RM30 and tickets ranging from RM60 to RM100.

For the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix 2015, to be held from 23 to 25 October 2015, the Early Bird tickets will go on sale from 27 October 2014 to 30 June 2015, with discounts varying from RM30 to RM50, while the tickets will range from RM50 for a Hillstand F ticket to RM250 for a Premier Roving ticket.


























Wednesday 29 October 2014

Ducati Malaysia celebrates Desmodonna Malaysia


Ducati Malaysia is in party mode this week as it gathers Ducati owners from across the region for the Asia Ducati Week 2014. As part of the occasion and showing the ‘fairer’ Ducatisti that they are always welcome, Ducati Malaysia officially announced the creation of the Desmodonna Malaysia– a salute to the local women of Ducati. The launch was held at the Beach Club in Kuala Lumpur and celebrated by participants of Asia Ducati Week 2014.

Desmodonna Malaysia was established in September 2014 to honour and embrace female Ducati owners in Malaysia who are just as passionate and involved in the Ducati happenings as all males of the Ducati Club. There are numerous Desmodonna clubs set up in numerous locations across the globe - the sight of a powerful and confident women aboard a stunning two wheeler is no longer a rarity!

“The Desmodonna Club (Ladies of Ducati) was established in Malaysia to honour the involvement of women in local Ducati activities, events and adventures. Over the years, we have seen more females buying and riding Ducatis and increased participation in Ducati activities, proving that the Ducati way of living does not only develop brotherhood, it fosters the nature of family,” said Datuk Wira HJ SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman.

“People are often under the impression that riding big bikes is a ‘male thing’ and they don’t realise there are thousands of women across the globe who are just as enthusiastic and passionate about these exquisite machines. With the formation of this club, we are joining hands with our fellow Ducati damsels of the world and breaking the mould. As we remain supporters of the parent Ducati Club, we are also proud to be able to express our love of this brand and the unique Ducati lifestyle with our own stylish feminine flair,” shared Ms. Nurul Alis, President of the Desmodonna Malaysia.

The Desmodonna Malaysia currently consists of 24 sportive women who are from a variety of professional backgrounds and aged between mid 20’s – early 40’s. Membership is on an annual-renewal basis and any female Ducati owner can join the Desmodonna Malaysia, whether they bought their bike directly from Ducati Malaysia or from an official dealer. Like the Ducati Club, the Desmodonnas shall organise rides, charitable events, track days and more thrilling events for its members throughout the year.

Ducatisti from near and far have come together this weekend (24 – 26 October) for the 3rd Asia Ducati Week (ADW), being held in conjunction with the Malaysian MotoGP. The sensational week of celebrations also included the special preview of the Ducati Scrambler and the launch of the Ducati Diavel.





Ducati Diavel 2015 Launched


Next Bike Sdn Bhd (Ducati Malaysia) dazzled Ducati owners at the official launch of Asia Ducati Week this evening as the Ducati Corse MotoGP riders revealed the 2015 Ducati Diavel. The launch was held at the KL Tower Megaview Banquet Hall and coincided with the start of the 3rd Asia Ducati Week (ADW2014).

Present at the event were Datuk Wira HJ SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, NAZA Group of Companies Joint Group Executive Chairman, Mr. Pierfrancesco Scalzo, Ducati Asia General Manager and Mr. Juan Chow Wee, Associate Vice President, Next Bike Sdn Bhd.

Ducati Corse MotoGP riders, Andrea Dovizioso, Cal Crutchlow and the Ducati Corse Team surprised the ADW2014 participants with a special appearance at the event, arriving in official cars arranged by Ducati.

Bold and muscular with a fat rear tyre and a somewhat relaxed riding stance with pulled-back handlebars, the second generation Diavel has the look of a sturdy sport cruiser. However, via various subtle enhancements to the original, including a modified Testastretta engine and exhaust, this latest Diavel offers the dynamic performance of a superbike, with electrifying acceleration complemented by surprisingly agile handling.

“The Diavel plays an important role in our line up in Malaysia and the 2015 model would further capture hearts of Malaysians as we continue to increase our market share in the premium bike segment and remaining our top position in this category. At Ducati Malaysia, we continue to incorporate lifestyle elements in our product offering to ensure our customers get the best,” said Datuk Wira HJ SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman.

“In 2015, we would officially be bringing in the internationally recognized Ducati Riding Experience (DRE) training and certification program that would improve the riding skills of our owners. The programs starts from beginner to advance courses,” added Datuk Wira HJ SM Faisal.

Ducati has managed to harness the immense power of a superbike with the 1198cc Testastretta 11° Dual Spark (DS) engine it placed at the heart of the Diavel. The engine generates 162 horsepower – peaking at 9,250rpm – for breathtaking performance, but at the same time is able to be tame and docile when requested. Its enormous power reserves are perfectly regulated by the full Ride-by-Wire system, to ensure that they are always at the rider's disposal.

The Diavel makes a bold statement and strengthens Ducati’s Performance Redefined mantra by using latest technologies to produce super-smooth performance with enhanced comfort and usability. A more enjoyable, smoother ride at part-throttle and low speeds, the Diavel is now more practical for everyday use yet has retained the thrilling high-performance qualities of the previous model. Revised engine intake and exhaust ports, together with a radical adjustment of the cam timing, has enabled the Bologna company to improve the torque curve at low rpm while remaining strong through a wider range.

The new Diavel has thoroughly revised split-level instrumentation. The upper LCD display is mounted on the handlebar riser and conveys key information. The lower, full colour Thin Film Transistor (TFT) unit is integrated into the fuel tank and provides an incredibly clear display of the currently selected Riding Mode, gear, and DTC level as well as trip mileage and side-stand warning light.

The 2015 Diavel has an LED headlamp to match its twin vertical LED strips in back, which, by serving as taillight, brake light, and directional signals, help keep the look of the bike clean and uncluttered.

Increased passenger comfort is provided by the longer twin-level seat with horizontal ribbing, the slender passenger footpegs that ingeniously fold down from the rear sub-frame, as well as the innovative, confidence inspiring grab-rail assembly, which slides out from the rear of the seat.

With its laid-back street ergonomics, blistering performance and commanding style, the Diavel rolls out dressed in stylish Dark Stealth livery, a black trellis frame and black wheels. The Diavel Carbon offers the choice of traditional Ducati Red over Matte Carbon with red frame or the stunning Star White over Matte Carbon with white frame, both with black, forged wheels by Marchesini, turned and milled to expose the natural aluminium.

The Diavel launch celebration was made possible by the sponsors of Asia Ducati Week; Tourism Malaysia, San Pellegrino and Volkswagen (the official car for the event).

The Ducati Diavel is competitively priced at RM 109,888 (net selling price) while the Ducati Carbon is priced at RM126,888 (net selling price).











SUZUKI Introduces The All-New Suzuki GSR750


Fresh from its introduction of 4 exciting Suzuki Big Bike models, being the HAYABUSA, the GSX1250FA, the GSX-R1000 ABS and the V-STROM 1000 ABS at Hard Rock Café, Kuala Lumpur in March this year, Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd is once again exciting local motorcycle enthusiasts with another much sought after model.

This time it is the mid-range Suzuki GSR750, described as a blend of the modern and the futuristic and is built for fun and excitement, which makes its debut.
When it comes to naked motorcycles, the Suzuki GSR750 is one of the most wanted models in its class. And there is no wonder why, because it has all it needs to satisfy your need for adrenaline.

Riders will particularly enjoy the punchy 749cc engine which is derived from the Suzuki GSX-R750. It delivers exhilarating oomph with its robust torque which pulls especially strong in the low to mid rpm range for superb acceleration. Its Edgy Styling is another aspect to behold, with its smart and sharp curves which are distinctively sporty and truly espouse the bodyline of a thoroughbred sports machine.

The Engine.

The motorcycle is propelled by a 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected DOHC engine with a displacement of 749 cc. It is tuned to deliver a dynamic wave of torque and strong acceleration and sensation. The unit generates a maximum power of 105 hp at 10000 rpm and 80 Nm of torque at 9000 rpm. All this power is kept under control by a six speed constant mesh transmission which offers better fuel economy.

Throttle bodies with the Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system contribute to cylinder charging efficiency and combustion efficiency for better throttle response and torque at the low to mid rpm range. The Automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) improves cold starting and stabilizes engine idle while also reducing cold-start emissions while iridium type spark plugs provide a more condensed and hotter spark yet last longer. Revised cam profiles, intake and exhaust tracts and a 12.3:1 compression ratio produces broad low-end torque and dynamic mid-range power for strong acceleration and unmatched throttle response. A state-of-the-art transistorized digital ignition system contributes to a more complete combustion by igniting the mixture at the precise instant.

The Brakes, Suspension & Wheels

Inverted KYB front forks, a design developed in racing and mandatory for any serious high performance machine, feature 41mm stanchion tubes and adjustable spring preload while the link-type rear suspension, which has a single rear shock absorber working through a progressive linkage is 7-way adjustable.

Awesome stopping power comes from dual front brakes with fully-floating 310mm discs and dual-piston callipers aided by 240mm rear disc brake with single-piston caliper. The Antilock Brake System (ABS) with a compact control unit monitors wheel speed and matches stopping power to available traction for supreme high-speed riding confidence.

As far as wheels are concerned, the bike is fitted with 17 inch aluminum rims which are wrapped in 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) front and 180/55ZR17M/C (73W) rear tubeless tires.

The Bodywork, Handling & Instrumentation

The Suzuki GSR750’s good looks are accentuated by a carefully sculpted bodywork with highlights that include a vented front fender, molded mirrors, chiselled 17.5-liter fuel tank fuel tank with textured tank side panels, and an angular tail section with integrated LED taillight.

Light and open radiator side panels mated with aggressive front bodywork side pieces a well-shaped seat, flanked by stylish frame side covers and a distinctive triangle-shaped muffler with a form-fitting brushed stainless steel heat shield further add to the Suzuki GSR750’s bold image.

Its sporty riding position is a careful relationship between the handlebars, footrests low seat and a compact frame, a combination that allows the Suzuki GSR750 to track with real confidence and deliver a dynamic ride.

With adjustable brightness, the instrument cluster features a prominent, easy to read analogue tachometer and a large digital LCD speedometer. The LCD display also includes average fuel consumption meter, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, odometer/trip meter and a clock.

The bright and distinctively shaped headlight comes with a 60/55W halogen bulb. Integrated dual position lights come with patterned blue lenses. A compartment underneath the removable passenger seat can be used to store small items.

Eco-Friendly Features

Effective engine management and emission control systems together allow the Suzuki GSR750 to meet the latest emission standards while the proprietary Suzuki Pulsed-secondary AIR-injection (PAIR) system injects fresh air into the exhaust ports to react with unburned hydrocarbons and reduce CO2 emissions.

A selection of Suzuki Genuine Accessories is available for riders who want to customize their Suzuki GSR750 and make it uniquely their own. Colours available are Pearl Glacier White and Metallic Matt Black. The standard Suzuki GSR750 is offered at a very tempting basic sales price of RM53,888.00

To find a dealer closest to you or to inquire further details, kindly contact Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd at 04-3977 453 (Sales & Marketing Division) or       04-3977 091 (Spare Parts Division) or visit our webpage at www.suzuki.com.my. 






Saturday 25 October 2014

YAMAHA MT-07 MAKES ITS DEBUT IN MALAYSIA



Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM) today introduced its latest big bike model, Yamaha MT-07 - a 4 stroke, 689 cc liquid cooled, inline 2-cylinder engine with fuel injection motorcycle. Present to unveil the Yamaha MT-07 at Sepang International Circuit were Yamaha Moto GP riders, Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo.

“The introduction of the Yamaha MT-07 marks our second model in the MT series and will complement the Yamaha MT-09 and Yamaha XJ6 in our big bike line-up. The model MT-07 is designed to bring fun, affordability and enjoyment back to the street. This versatile new naked bike is just about everything – from its deep torque through to the agile chassis and outstanding economy” said Mr C.H. Ng, Managing Director of Hong Leong Yamaha Motor.

”For the first 8 months of 2014, the big bike market (cc >250 cc) remained flat, in fact declined marginally by 1% to 9,255 units as compared to the same period of last year at 9,326 units. This, in our view, is a short term market correction in big bike demand after two consecutive years of high growth at 53% and 50% in year 2012 and 2013 respectively. The tightening on loan financing by banks and credit companies since beginning of this year has also contributed to this dampening demand.”

Mr Ng, however, said that on a longer term, Hong Leong Yamaha is positive that the big bike market demand will experience sustainable growth supported by a growing affluent lifestyle, a strong economy and excellent highways.

“Leisure riding activities have increased tremendously as this can be seen by the upsurge of riding convoys and riding tours organized by various motorcycle riding clubs as well as individual groups of bikers thus growing the need for big bikes” he said.

The new Yamaha MT-07 CBU is priced at RM 42,000 (excluding road tax, insurance and number plate) and is available at selected authorised Yamaha dealerships nationwide beginning end November onwards with a colour choice of Racing Red and Race Blu. The introduction of Yamaha MT-07 will offer customers one more model choice to match their discerning lifestyle and riding preferences.








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