INDIAN MOTORCYCLE - A living American legend

Mr. Maxime Vandereyken, Asia Distribution Manager of Polaris Industries Inc.

Indian Motorcycle is a brand steeped in history and born of passion for the open road. Founded at the start of the 20th Century, Indian Motorcycle was America’s first motorcycle company. Indian Motorcycle hit the road in 1901, with the first bike sold the following year. It swiftly rose to become the best-selling brand worldwide with the introduction of the first V-twin motorcycle in 1907, soon earning distinction as one of America’s most iconic brands. Indian Motorcycles is today recognized as a premium product with a strong American heritage. ‘The first American motorcycle’ company puts quality above all else to ensure that their philosophy rings true – If you ride Indian, you ride Premium.


Playing a vital role in history, the brand supplied the U.S military and allied forces with 60% of the motorcycles used in World War I and produced innovative new models (many equipped with side cars) for troops in World War II.

Indian Motorcycle saw considerable success in its early years and in 1930 the brand was bought over by DuPont Motors. Naturally, the brand’s journey has seen a few bumps in the road – being owned and claimed by numerous companies over the years, but today it's a smooth ride ahead with the passion reignited under new brand stewardship of Polaris Industries Inc. which took on Indian Motorcycle in 2011.

Rolling Ahead With New Management

Polaris, founded in 1954, designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), parts, garments and accessories, Polaris RANGER® and RZR® side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, on-road electric/hybrid powered vehicles, Victory motorcycles and Indian Motorcycle.

A recognised force in the industry, Polaris generated $3.8 billion in 2013 sales. To-date, Polaris is the market leader in powersports unit sales in North America and holds more than 350 worldwide patents. Polaris celebrates its American roots and prides itself as being world-class with core competencies in design, engineering, testing, manufacturing, marketing and distribution/dealer development.

In 1998, Polaris created Victory, a motorcycle company that emerged as the first successful American motorcycle brand to be designed and manufactured in 50 years. Victory has now become the second-largest seller of heavyweight bikes in the world behind Harley-Davidson.

Polaris shares the same pioneering spirit that brought Indian Motorcycle to life. Combined with its engineering prowess and financial resources, Polaris intends to re-forge this iconic brand – America’s original motorcycle company – to return Indian Motorcycle to its rightful place as the industry leader.

When Polaris Industries acquired Indian Motorcycle, Polaris set out to capture the heart, soul and legendary heritage of this iconic American brand and then infuse it with unparalleled design, engineering and state-of-the-art technology. The broad design history of the Indian brand gives the team at Polaris huge latitude. The possibilities are copious for the manufacturing giant, well known for its sixty years of masterful engineering, heartland values and workforce that shares the same values, passions and enthusiasm.

An Exciting New Line-Up

The Indian Motorcycle design and engineering team at Polaris took a mere 27 months to develop the three 2014 Indian Chiefs from the ground.  Powering every 2014 Indian Motorcycle is the clean sheet design of the new Thunder Stroke™ 111 engine. Offering 111 cubic inches of pavement pounding power and 119 ft-lbs of torque, this class-leading power plant draws powerful design cues from heritage Indian Motorcycle engines merged with brilliant engineering and advanced technologies.

It's smooth, efficient, and powerful. The Thunder Stroke 111 is a 49-degree, air-cooled V-twin with 6-speed overdrive transmission, and features unmatched premium exterior finishes and touches. It offers owners the peace-of-mind that comes from over two million miles of on-road (including dyno and on-road evaluation) and test-lab verification plus Polaris Industries’ sixty years of engineering expertise.

The new engine will be American made, built at the Polaris Engine Assembly Plant located in Osceola, WI. Complete motorcycles will be assembled at the Polaris’ production facility in Spirit Lake, IA.

2014 Indian Chief Classic

The new Indian Chief Classic is a pure, powerful cruiser forged from key heritage design elements yet wrapped in advanced design, engineering and technology. It features iconic styling like valanced fenders, rich genuine leather saddle, classic tank-mounted instrumentation, tear-drop fuel tank design, and sculpted and lighted front fender war bonnet. The 2014 Indian Chief Classic comes standard with a host of premium features  including endless chrome, keyless ignition, ABS, cruise control, throttle-by-wire, true dual exhaust, high quality chrome laced spoke wheels, brake calliper covers, cast aluminium frame with integrated air intake, and much more.

(Starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: RM 168,000)

 2014 Indian Chief Vintage

The new Indian 2014 Indian Chief Vintage is a soft bagger that takes iconic Indian Motorcycle styling to a whole new level with handcrafted detail and a signature heritage aesthetic. The Indian 2014 Indian Chief Vintage offers top-quality quick release soft-sided leather bags, leather fringe, chrome fender tips, vintage chrome badging on the front fender and a quick-release windshield for easy installation or removal. It includes the same premium standard features as the Indian Chief Classic, and sports the same iconic design elements like valanced fenders, laced wheels, whitewall tires, tank-mounted instrument cluster and extensive chrome finishes throughout. It is also powered by the new Thunder Stroke 111 engine.

(Starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: RM 178,000)

2014 Indian Chieftain

The first Indian Motorcycle of its kind, the 2014 Indian Chieftain maintains the legendary Indian Chief styling, while taking this progressive machine to new heights with advanced features and premium comfort. Unlike any Indian Motorcycle ever made, the Chieftain features a fairing with integrated driving lights, and its power windshield is an industry-first for a fork-mounted fairing. Standard features include hard saddlebags featuring remote locks and quick-release anchors, a high-output audio system featuring integrated Bluetooth® smartphone connectivity, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

(Starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price: RM 188,000)

The primary differences concern trim levels for comfort, features, riding distance capability and storage capacity. The Chief Classic is intended for short trips with minimal cargo, while the Chieftain is best for long multi-day trips with maximum cargo, and the Chief Vintage works for a balance of both types of riding. The Chieftain sports a high-output Kicker audio system featuring integrated Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Passion Shared

Indian Motorcycle has seen great success, struggle and rebirth in more than 100 years of its history. In recognition of its journey and the passion shared by its customers, the brand celebrates with the creation of an exclusive community of bikers: the Indian Motorcycle Riders Group (IRG). A few forms of membership are available to allow new owners, dedicated owners and even Indian Motorcycle enthusiasts who do not own their own bike to become part of this extraordinary brotherhood.

The IRG will boast a host of privileges and services, and will form a common platform for Indian motorcycle riders to meet, socialize, share ‘war stories’, ride and adventure together.  The key objective of the IRG is to provide a service upon which riders may depend on for the easy organizing of their riding hobby, and contact with other Indian -Motorcycle owners.  The IRG will be part of a worldwide organization spanning the globe and allows communication and joint activities across borders.

Regular riders, excursions and events, within and outside the country will be organized by the IRG committee, supported by Indian Motorcycle Malaysia and by Indian Motorcycle in the USA.

A Wise Collaboration

In 2011, Harmony Fabulous Sdn Bhd (a company under the NAZA World Group of Companies), took on the role of sole and official importer and distributor of Indian Motorcycles in Malaysia. Over the last few years, NAZA has strengthened its relationship with Polaris and through their collaborative efforts, the Indian Motorcycle brand has gained increased awareness and traction in this part of the region.

In 35 years, NAZA has grown from a small family business to a national conglomerate. With the recognition and respect of numerous international players in the automotive industry, NAZA now distributes a wide range of renowned brands in Malaysia, including premium two-wheel brands such as Harley Davidson, Ducati and Vespa.

With a wealth of industry expertise and great understanding of the Malaysian market, NAZA is undoubtedly the best equipped to promote and distribute the Indian Motorcycle brand locally.

Indian Motorcycle in Malaysia

Indian Motorcycle facility in Glenmarie is a 3-S centre complete with workshop, parts and accessory options for the full range of Indian motorcycles.

Customers of this premium motorcycle will enjoy the highest level of services which include maintenance & repair, upgrades, accessorizing, and a special Roadside Assist Programme available throughout Peninsular Malaysia.

Each Indian motorcycle is also covered by a special 5-year warranty programme with unlimited mileage which is a first in the industry, and reflects the confidence Indian Motorcycle has in the quality of its products.

Furthermore, Harmony-Fabulous would be the first motorcycle brand in the industry to offer its customers with a special Trade-in Confidence Programme if the customers decided to upgrade within the first 24 months of ownership.  The programme guarantees that the customers are able to trade-in their pre-owned Indians at above market prices, making it easy to upgrade to a better or newer Indian.

Accessorising and Customising

A full range of accessories is available to support the customizing of the new Indian motorcycles.  Customizing and making the bike a reflection of the rider’s personality has never been easier.  Accessory options include Stage 1 mufflers, Performance air filters, upgrades to tuning, a range of floorboards and footpegs, hand controls, backrests and sissy-bars etc.

Supporting these products is Indian Motorcycle’s commitment to quick and efficient service.  Not all accessory options may be available in-store.  However, Indian Motorcycle is committed to a fast ordering and delivery system directly from the US which ensures that desperately needed accessories may be available within one week of ordering.

Riding in Style

Indian Motorcycles has created an entire range of garments, riding gear, accessories and other collectables, which reflect the Indian branding, style and heritage.

Emphasis is given to wearability and functionality in all riding gear without compromising on safety and protection.  These and stylishly designed garments allow Indian motorcycle owners to wear and display the oldest and most prestigious American motorcycle brand in the world.  A clear and obvious distinction that sets Indian motorcycle riders apart from all other “easy-riders” in the world.

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The Next Evolution of NC700X

Boon Siew Honda is leading the industry with a revolutionary way to ride through the introduction of the new NC750X.

Launched as a Fun Crossover Commuter concept, loaded with a great deal of fresh thinking and new technologies, its sheer all-round competence – with convenient details like helmet storage space where the fuel tank would normally be – made it a truly useful motorcycle both for day-to-day living and weekend touring.


A larger 745cc engine capacity gives the NC750X more power and torque throughout the entire rev-range. An extra 75cc capacity has been added to the liquid-cooled, SOHC 8-valve parallel twin-cylinder engine thanks to a bore increased 4mm to 77mm. Stroke remains at 80mm, as does compression ratio of 10.7:1. Peak power is boosted to 40.3kW @ 6,250rpm with maximum torque of 68Nm @ 4,750rpm. Both power and torque curves are considerably stronger throughout the entire rev-range

In addition, for 2014, Honda’s engineers have added an extra balancer shaft to inject the engine with just the right amount of ‘good’ vibration. The effect of the twin balancers is to counteract vibration from higher rpm inertia, making the engine feel more refined, yet still with the distinct “throb” delivered by its 270° firing order.

A new muffler design with revised internals to regulate backpressure due to the capacity increase, further adds to the riding experience, with a more characterful beat and exhaust note.

There are other benefits to the innovative engine configuration of the NC750X. It is both practical and efficient in terms of layout, freeing up space within the body of the motorcycle – thus making room for the large storage compartment, capable of taking a full-face helmet.

Thanks to extensive stoichiometric analysis during development the engine is always fed the exact fuel/air ratio required for a complete and clean burn at all rpm in any riding situation. Fuel consumption of 28.9km/l (WMTC mode) is particularly impressive and goes a long way toward making the NC750X inexpensive to run day-to-day. It also extracts close to a 250 mile range from the 14.1L underseat fuel tank.

The clean combustion also minimises harmful exhaust gas emissions; PGM-FI fuel injection system supplies the optimum amount of fuel/air mixture thanks to an oxygen sensor in the exhaust. A revised high-absorption catalyser is located close to the engine – as a result the catalyst reaches operating temperature quickly after a cold start, further reducing emissions.

The rugged steel diamond frame delivers the high levels of rigidity required for agile, responsive handling in a variety of conditions. It’s also ideal where space is at a premium, since it takes up very little volume but offers superb riding dynamics. Rake is set at 27° with trail of 110mm and wheelbase of 1,540mm. Curb weight is 217kg.

Seat height is 830mm and the seat itself features a new cover for improved grip. The riding position is upright and neutral, with a high viewpoint for enhanced hazard perception; the addition of a 6-position span-adjustable brake lever for 2014 adds adaptability. Another advantage of this adventure-style riding position is great low-speed control – combined with the low centre of gravity and 35 degree steering lock, the result is exceptional low-speed handling and balance.

And thanks to a carefully shaped fairing the NC750X is equally comfortable when cruising at speed; the windscreen and bodywork divert wind around the rider, minimising fatigue. 41mm telescopic forks feature 153.5mm stroke. The rear monoshock has 150mm travel and operates through Pro-Link which offers an optimised balance of a soft initial stroke, for dealing with low-speed bumps, together with excellent control.

The clear and easy-to-read instrument display features a digital speedometer, digital bar-type tachometer, clock, bar-type fuel meter and two trip meters. The NC750X features the Honda Ignition Security System (HISS), an effective anti-theft set-up. If the ID chip embedded in the motorcycle’s key and the ID in the Engine Control Unit (ECU) do not match, the engine will not start.
The NC750X is available in Sword Silver Metallic and Matt Pearl White. The showroom price (motorcycle only) is RM54, 988.00. This model comes with a two year or 20,000 km manufacturing warranty.

For further information, visit www.boonsiewhonda.com.my or call the Boon Siew Honda Toll-Free number at 1800-88-3993 (Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm, except for public holidays).

 

 

 

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Ducati Scrambler 2015 Sneak Preview

Today, Ducati Malaysia (Next Bike Sdn Bhd) delighted the media members and Ducati Club Malaysia with the exclusive preview of a renewed classic - Ducati Scrambler at the Beach Club in Kuala Lumpur.

In the event which is a week before of Asia Ducati Week 2014, Ducati Scrambler was shown to the guess as it just made debut in INTERMOT few weeks ago.

With a contemporary interpretation of the original 1970's icon, the 2015 Ducati Scrambler is an easy to handle, comfortable, accessible and hit the bit of fashionable lifestyle. 

The post-heritage design exhibits a retro flair, taken the best of the past and transformed it into something unique and current whilst retaining the original charm and honoring its history. The Scrambler powered by Desmodromic 803cc L-twin engine which produces 75 hp at 8,250 rpm and 68 Nm at 5,750 rpm. 

The highly customizable Scrambler will be officially launched next year in 4 variants; red or yellow Icon, the black-framed Classic, the wild green Urban Enduro and the black Full-Throttle racer with yellow accents.

Ducati Scrambler will be showcased throughout Peninsular Malaysia before it moves on to the next country in November. 

Showcase schedule are as follows:
20 Oct (Monday) - Ducati Glenmarie
21 Oct (Tuesday) - Ducati Hartamas
22 Oct (Wednesday) - Ducati Sg Buloh (Welly)
24-26 Oct (Fri-Sunday) - Ducati Booth MotoGP
28 Oct (Tuesday) - Ducati Penang
29 Oct (Wednesday) - Ducati Kelantan (Teraju Otto)
30 Oct (Thursday) - Ducati Kuantan (Soon Hin) 
31 Oct (Friday) - Ducati Johor)
1-2 Nov (Sat-Sun) - Ducati Centre PJ)

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Yamaha YZF-R3 2015

So sad when our Yamaha R25 still hiding-hoarding inside the HLYM factory. Apparently, the R25 is thought to be introduced in the first quarter next year. But, we do not too sure about it.
 
Whilst the unfinished story of R25 here in Malaysia, Europe has emerged the story of Yamaha YZF-R3 2015. The ultra-hot supersports smaller cc segment initially stated to use 2-cylinder inline 320cc engine liquid-cooled DOHC that produces 42hp at 10,750rpm and peak torque of 29.6 nm at 9,000 rpm. It will be using 6-speed transmission via multi-plate wet clutch. 

Yamaha YZF-R3 using 41mm telescopic fork in the front and a monoshock for rear suspension system. Meanwhile, 298mm brake rotor is mounted on the front wheel and 220mm at the rear. 

We are sure, the introduction of this bike is intended to compete Honda CBR300R and Kawasaki Ninja300. Unfortunately, this version may not be marketed in Malaysia. Almost of 2 years we waited for Yamaha R25 and sure Yamaha will not squander their fans. 

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Kawasaki H2R RM300k?

Oh God..! After seeing a series of introductory program of Kawasaki H2R and H2 in the international events, is the hyper-bike coming to Malaysian shore?
 
Of course this machine is the most attracted story this year. Yeah, with supercharged technology which is extraordinary in the motorcycle history.

The results of several surveillance by our team, the Japanese H2 (on the road version) and H2R (racing spec version) will be brought in about this November.
 
Powered by powerful 998cc petrol supercharged engine, it is capable of producing 250 hp (H2) and 300 hp (H2R). Rumors say, this machine will probably be priced around RM300,000 to RM250,000 for the H2R and H2 respectively.

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