Held last February 28, 2015 at the Rockwell Power Plant Mall, the event was well attended not just by the Ducati Monster owners but also their fellow Ducati Riders from other clubs such as the DDOCP, Ducati Unlimited Club, and Brotherhood of Ducati Diavel Philippines to name a few, along with friends and families to support the Monster Event.

Monster Day began early in the afternoon and as soon as the riders started coming in, DUC Rally Zamora spearheaded the motorcade around Makati.  Celebrities were present in the event; the two Richards, Richard Gutierrez and Richard Gomez, both  Ducatistis and the Italian MotoGP rider Andrea Iannone along with Ducati Corse Project Director Paolo Ciabatti were also present in the event and talked about their plans for the 2015 MotoGP Season.  Goodies from Motoworld and 4 Andrea Iannone-signed KYT Helmets were given away as raffle prizes.

Looking forward to the next Monster Day, who knows who Ducati might be bringing in next?

Suzuki Philippines President, Mr. Hiroshi Suzuki, with the children of Yolanda Village

Celebrating 30 years in the Philippines this year, Suzuki kicked off 2015 with a worthwhile activity extending inspiration to the Cebuanos shaken by Typhoon Yolanda. Held in partnership with the Suzuki Owners Club Cebu – the umbrella organization of all Suzuki Clubs in the province, the 2-day activity also served as a get together of the members.Over 60 riders from the Nex 115 Riders Club, Club Suzuki Raider Junior, Skydrive Society Cebu, Smash 115 Club and the SMDI Riders Club gathered at the city proper in preparation for their departure to Northern Cebu where the activities were held. Headed by the brand’s President, Mr. Hiroshi Suzuki himself, the team convoyed to Medellin where a lavish dinner was served. The group then were treated with fun games which they eagerly participated.

The party left early the following morning for Bogo City for the highlight of the ride where the Yolanda Village is situated. Named after the historic typhoon that hammered the Philippines particularly Visayas in 2013, Yolanda Village is the new residence of 128 families that became homeless due to the unprecedented catastrophe. With so much hope and excitement, the residents welcomed the company wearing their Suzuki jerseys. More than a year after the disaster, it was relieving to see the people smiling and moving their way up from that downfall. Suzuki Regional Sales Manager for Visayas commenced the short program and proceeded immediately with the distribution of goods led by Mr. Suzuki with the assistance of the riders. The day did not end though without games that even Mr. Suzuki himself joined in to the delight of everyone.

The Suzuki Charity Ride in Cebu is part of the Japanese giant’s advocacy efforts to reach out to the needy. This is in conjunction with the brand’s SHARE (Suzuki Helps, Aids and REbuilds) Program aiming to provide the motorists affected by calamities with free service.

To know more about Suzuki, please visit www.suzuki.com.ph or join the Suzuki community at facebook.com/suzukibikersfed.

The 2015 Motorally Elite Finishers

Spyder has been the leading brand in athletic performance gears and apparel with over a decade of experience in providing affordable, stylish & international quality products to athletes and enthusiasts in cycling, marathon, triathlon and motorcycling. They have grown over the years to have 122 locations nationwide in nearly all SM Malls and other malls in every key city including Cebu, Davao, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, etc. and with nearly 40,000 followers online.

With the same thrust at its core, Spyder took the next step and organized a motorcycle endurance challenge to provide an avenue for riders to test the limits of their resolve, their skills, their machines and to become part of motorcycle history. Partnered up with the two most well-known brands in the industry – the Spyder Wheeltek Motorally 2015 powered by Petron was envisioned and realized where participants travel 1,600km throughout Luzon within 24 hours.

Wheeltek, a most trusted distributor of quality motorcycles with an extensive national distribution network of stores became the official checkpoint partner & deployed capable teams to man all the checkpoints and provided participants with food, refreshments & assistance. Petron on the other hand, provided Petron gas stations as checkpoint venues and subsidized gasoline for all the participants. With the two powerhouse brands alongside Spyder, it was dubbed to be a historic event.

The riders were flagged off at the Starmall Prima Taguig at exactly midnight (12am of Feb 21) where they rode and endured the traffic of Metro Manila, the long stretches of Zambales & Isabela and the twisting roads of the Cordilleras and crossed the finish line at the Sierra Madre Resort in Tanay. The coveted title of “Elite Finisher” was given only to those completing the challenge under 24 hours while other awards were given for those with longer finish times. Only 16 out of the 133 participants attained this “Elite” title, the top of the list of which were Mr. Amarjit Sanghera on his Ducati Multistrada 1200 (1^st place), Mr. Toto Villanueva on his BMW GS R1200 and Mr. Ramon Castillo on his Suzuki V-Strom 1000 (2^nd place) and Mr. Juanito Sipin riding his Kawasaki Ninja 650 (3^rd place). There also rose an exceptional one percenter (1%) from the group who attained the same “Elite” status but using only sub400cc bikes – Mr. Svenson Galutera and Mr. Cloyde Pilapil with their Kawasaki Ninja 250 & Yamaha Sniper 135 respectively; a truly exceptional display of skills despite formidable odds.

Seen throughout the event are sponsor friends of Spyder – Suzuki Philippines, Inc., JM Mirasol Advertising, Davidson Hotel Tabuk, Cycleseal, Overdose Motoproducts, Ahavia Spa and Lounge, YKL Color, Touratech & WRU who provided much needed support by way of logistical materials, venue props & equipment, award items, raffle prizes and so much more. These are the names that made the Spyder Motorally 2015 a reverberating success.

And as with any successful event, it is captured through the feedback of its audience and participants. “I am not a finisher but still a proud participant” says Mark Benosa, one of the many who rode the distance but did not make it in time to the finish line. Others like Arthur Federico are already “rearing to sign up for the next epic ride”. In the final hours before everyone headed home, there was a mixture of joyous celebrations of achievements mixed with sad realizations that the adventure was over.

With a strong alliance formed by Spyder who provides quality safety gears, Wheeltek who provides quality motorcycles and Petron who provides quality oils and fuels, riders all over the country can expect nothing less than another epic adventure in 2016 and in the years to follow. Ride safe everyone & Godspeed!

A workhorse that just got better.

My first taste of riding a Honda was wayback in the late ‘80s.  I was fortunate to ride and feel a “ built to last motorbike” the Honda Cub 70.  It has been a long way, Honda still the leader in the motorcycle industry worldwide. No doubt that a durable and proven workhorse will emerge.

The Honda XRM 125DSX!  Dual Sport Extreme.  It only comes in Stealthy black.   As the flagship for the dual-sport range,  the XRM125 DSX Is the best all terrain entry level motorbike. CRF inspired looks with the features such as all disc brake system which gives you the confidence on descents with just a little dab on the front and rear brakes. Ride is plush and suspension travel is more compared to other models, thus handling the rough terrain less forgiving. Very light and nimble, handling is enhanced with a comfortable reach on the handle bar and the same time still easy to use in going to tight traffic on-road.  With all these built-in features with the DSX model and an engine proven for its reliability, descent power and economy, how could you get wrong in choosing the DSX.

Quite simply, a go bike for all purpose where mobility on any terrain is essential. The Honda XRM DSX 125, at 68k tag price, simply affordable!

Visit now a Honda Dealer near you!

See you all this March 21-22, 2015 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila as Inside Racing hosts the 9th edition of the much anticipated Inside Racing Bike Festival and Trade Show.

Suzuki is coming back to MotoGP in 2015 with its newly-developed MotoGP machine, the GSX-RR, team riders, and team structure.

Aleix Espargaro

The team will be led by current test team manager Davide Brivio with Spanish riders Espargaro and Viñales recruited to spearhead Suzuki’s efforts on track.

Maverick Vinales

Through MotoGP racing, Suzuki will develop more attractive products by giving technical feedback to the products, as well as improve the brand image.

The development of the GSX-RR was started in 2012 with the aim to achieve high performance in the MotoGP class, as well as to give technology feedback to production models such as the GSX-R range.

It equips a newly developed in-line four-cylinder engine that realizes a strong, flexible engine character, fuel efficiency, and durability at a high level. The frame has a layout that keeps its width slim for both maneuverability and aerodynamic performances, and optimizes body strength and weight balance.

The aim was to develop a highly competitive MotoGP machine that can bring out the straightforward maneuverability developed over the years with the GSX-R.

Our young champion, Koko Masaharu Tadachi is back on the track! At a young age of 15, Koko gears towards the world of racing as he battles the Asia’s fastest motorcycle riders.

In the coming months of this year, Koko will be representing Honda Philippines, Inc. in the much awaited Asia Dream Cup where he would be facing top of the notch drivers from different parts of Asia.

Watch Koko at Fox Sports Asia network in HD in the following schedule.

From his humble beginnings at the Honda MTRT riding clinic, Koko has brought the Philippines back in the map of racing. Honda and the rest of the Filipino is proud of you Koko Masaharu Tadachi! Honda – the Power of Dreams

Following the imminent return of the Japanese giant’s return in MotoGP, Suzuki also confirmed the introduction of its own Asian series that be staged in conjunction with the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). The new series aptly called as the Suzuki Asian Challenge – will run on a single-make Suzuki Raider R150 and is open to all Asian riders.

The Suzuki Asian Challenge will form the base of a structured programme that will eventually spearhead Suzuki’s efforts to discover and groom riders from the Asian region. “Suzuki’s return to the MotoGP in 2015 has been well received by fans. This collaboration with the Asia Road Racing Championship was the result of our intention to also train up more Asian talents who may one day race for Suzuki in the MotoGP. As such, the Suzuki Asian Challenge will be a step-by-step progression for young hopeful riders from around the Asian region.” said Mr. Motoo Murakami, Managing Director for Motorcycle Operations PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales.

Representatives from Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and the Philippines will compete with each other to find out who will reign as the winner of this exciting event.  In the Philippines, Suzuki will pick the top racers from its pool of strong riders from its Satellite Teams to be sent at the 5-leg Suzuki Asian Challenge in different parts of Asia.

The 2nd Nationwide Safe Riding Summit  was launched last March 7 ~ 8, 2015 at Batangas City Sports Coliseum.

This activity formalize a new partnership between the 2nd District of the City of Batangas, led by Congressman Raneo Abu and Mr. Pedro Aguirre II & with Honda Philippines, Inc.(HPI) representatives headed by Mr. Yasushi Okamoto, President and General Manager; Mr. Gene Paralisan, Assistant Vice-President for Safety Driving Promotions Division; Mr. Masakazu Kawai, Adviser for Business Administration Division; Mr. Joseph De La Cruz, Honda Safety Driving Center Operations Head; and Mr. Peter Gatchalian, Safety Riding Promotions Group Head.

HPI recognize the rapid increase in the number of road accidents involving motor vehicles, with which the leading cause of accidents are driver’s lack of safety mindset and vehicle’s mechanical failure – thus, the need to foster a culture of road safety. Mr. Okamoto believes that through this program, HPI can initially start the change and prevent chances of more accidents in the future.

This combined effort of Batangas City 2nd District and HPI is a start of information and safety riding education campaign among Batangueños.

Event highlight includes road safety lecture (both for 2W & 4W), learn-to-ride & test ride & safety riding challenge. Also, side activities such as booth games, videoke contest and mobile casa servicing added a flavor of fun. But the most important part of the program, however, is the riders’ riding skills assessment, wherein HSDC will give a meticulous assessment of riders in terms of their know-how, skills, and good practice. It is expected that through these activities, many riders will realize that safety riding is truly necessary to prevent accidents and become road worthy citizens.

By holding this kind of safety riding initiative, Honda give utmost emphasis that “preservation of life and happiness of riders is its top priority to be able to realize the joy and freedom of mobility and a sustainable society where people can enjoy life.”

“STRUT”- Students Today , Road Users Tomorrow”, a safety riding advocacy that is intended to raise road safety awareness especially designed for young generation particularly the students. Spearheaded by the public information officer of Pili town in Camarines Sur Mr. Carlos Arejola together with Land Transportation Office (LTO) Bicol regional director Atty. Noreen San Luis-Lutey & assistant director Vince Nato, the campaign aim to decrease, if not totally eliminate, the number of road accidents and be educated with the basic rules on road conduct and safety. “This road safety campaign is in partnership with DepED, BIGGS, Inc. (Biggs Dinner), a private Bicolano food chain whose part of corporate social responsibility focuses on the promotion of youth’s welfare & Honda Safety Driving Center (HSDC), in – charge of the safety riding training facilitated by its top brass Safety Riding Instructors.

Ms. Shalani Soledad – Romulo as the host

Welcoming of VIP Guests from the Government:Cong. Evelina Escudero, Cong. Roman Romulo & Ms. Shalani Soledad -Romulo

*Atty. Lutey believes that road safety trainingsshould begin at an early age. “We want to create future drivers that are safety conscious and we can realize that if we can inculcate and instill in the minds of our students road safety consciousness at their young age. We also want this campaign to reach the higher authorities so that together we can push this for greater result.”

Congresswoman Evelina Escudero participated in the Learn to Ride Activity

The campaign runs from October 2014 ~ March 2015 participated by more than 10,000 students in several high school and college campuses in Bicol Region.

Suzuki Philippines gets the show on the road as the brand stages the Suzuki Philippine Challenge: Road to ARRC at the Megatent Parking Lot in Libis, Quezon City. The event serves as the qualifying round that will determine the lucky riders who will represent the country at the Suzuki Asian Challenge in the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC).

With the Japanese giant’s imminent return in MotoGP, Suzuki also confirmed the introduction of its own Asian series to be staged in conjunction with the ARRC. The Suzuki Asian Challenge will run on a single-make Suzuki Raider R150 and is open to all Asian riders. Representatives from Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and the Philippines will compete with each other to find out who will reign in this exciting event.

The Philippines is given three slots on the race. One slot will be awarded at the Suzuki Philippine Challenge wherein the brand’s satellite team members from the YRS Racing Team, BMR Racing Team and Team VMAN Racing’s agility will be proven. The two slots were automatically awarded to the top two performing riders of the Suzuki Satellite Teams based on their 2014 achievements – Enzo Rellosa and Mario Borbon. These three riders will compete at the 5-leg Suzuki Asian Challenge in different parts of Asia.

The Suzuki Asian Challenge will form the base of a structured programme that will eventually spearhead Suzuki’s efforts to discover and groom riders from the Asian region. “Suzuki’s return to the MotoGP in 2015 has been well received by fans. This collaboration with the Asia Road Racing Championship was the result of our intention to also train up more Asian talents who may one day race for Suzuki in the MotoGP. As such, the Suzuki Asian Challenge will be a step-by-step progression for young hopeful riders from around the Asian region.” said Mr. Motoo Murakami, Managing Director for Motorcycle Operations PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales.

The management of this impressive programme will be entrusted to Yukio Kagayama, who has abundant experience in MotoGP, World Superbike, World Endurance, and the Japanese Championship both as a rider and as team manager/owner.

Apart from the running of the Suzuki Asian Challenge, Kagayama will also be fronting a team in the SuperSports 600cc category – Team Suzuki Asia Kagayama. The team will play a crucial role in Suzuki’s talent building programme as it will become the next logical step-up for graduates of the Suzuki Asian Challenge to gain their first taste of high cc racing.

SUZUKI SATELLITE TEAM MEMBERS PROFILE

Lorenzo “Enzo” Rellosa

• Racing # 24

2014 Results

• Philippine Representative in ASEAN Nation of Road Racing
• Repsol National Road Race Championship 115 Super Stock Category Overall Champion
• Repsol National Road Race Championship 115 Sports Production Category 1^st Runner Up
• 2^nd Place IRGP 115 Sport Production Category

Other Achievements

• Motocross Series Champion

Michael Altamira

• Racing # 56

2014 Results

• Repsol National Road Race Championship 115 Sport Production Category 2^nd Runner Up
• 2^nd Place IRGP 130 Underbone Category

Other Achievements

• 2013 Repsol Camera Grande Suzuki One Make Race Champion
• 2013 Golden Wheel Awards Rider of the Year for 130 Open Expert

Eljin Lobarbio

• Racing # 218

2014 Results

• Repsol National Road Race Championship 115 Sport Production Category 3^rd Runner Up
• Repsol National Road Race Championship 160 Automatic Expert Class 1^st Runner Up

Other Achievements

• 2013 Repsol National Road Race Championship 115 Sport Production 1^st Runner Up

Mario Borbon

• Racing # 29

2014 Results

• 2014 RUGP series- total of nine 1^st places; six 2^nd places and three 3^rd
• 2^nd place overall for Expert Rider of the Year – 2014 RUGP

• 1^st place Expert 130 UB, 1^st place Expert Open UB , 1^st place AT Open and 1^st place Suzuki Fi Cup – Shell Advance Talent Cup Cebu Leg
• Completed a “Triple Champion” feat in the final round of RUGP Cebu GP winning 1^st in Expert 130 UB, Expert Open UB and Expert AT Open
• 3^rd Expert Nex 115 cup – Maico Buncio Cup

Other Achievements

• 2012 RUGP Expert Rider of the Year
• 2012 Automatic Open Overall Champion
• 2012 Expert Open Overall Champion
• Won several awards and represented the Philippines in 2011 ASEAN Cup in Japan

Neil Perino

• Racing # 49

2014 results

• SUZUKI NEX 115 Cup series champion
• RUGP triple champion Bohol leg
• 1^st Novice 160 AT – 1^st round Davao GP
• 1^st Novice 160 AT and 3^rd Novice 130 UB – 2^nd round Tagum GP
• 1^st Novice 160 AT, 1^st Novice 130 UB and 1^st SUZUKI Nex 115 Cup – 4^th round Bohol GP
• 1^st SUZUKI Nex Cup, 2^nd Intermediate AT and 3^rd Novice 130 UB- 5^th round RUGP Dumaguete GP
• 1^st Novice 130 UB, 2^nd place Nex 115 Cup, 2^nd Expert AT Open

Other Achievements

• 2013 RUGP Rookie of the Year
• Golden Wheel Rookie of the Year Awardee
• 2013 RUGP Beginners 100-125 Super Stock Champion
• 2013 RUGP Beginners 130 Scooter Champion

John Louie Chan

• Racing # 13

2014 Results

• 2^nd Intermediate 130 UB Shell Advance Cebu leg
• 3^rd Intermediate 130 UB Shell Advance Dumaguete leg
• 2^nd place Intermediate 130 UB

Other Achievements

• 2012 RUGP Rookie of the Year for Visayas
• Overall Champion for Beginners 4T Automatic 130
• Highest Ranked Visayan Rider for 2012

Jacob Orbe

• Racing # 94

2014 Results

• 3^rd place Shell Advance Youth Cup Intermediate 160 AT Dumageute leg
• 3^rd place Novice 160 AT RUGP Cebu GP
• 3^rd place Nex Cup RUGP Cebu GP

Other Achievements

• Motocross Champion Rider

Patrick North Orbe

• Racing # 28

2014 results

• 2^nd place Novice 160 AT Bohol GP
• 3^rd place Inter 160 AT Bohol GP
• 3^rd Novice 160 AT Dumaguete GP

Other Achievements

• Golden Wheel Awardee for Motocross

Simon Spencer Solon

• Racing # 123

2014 results

• 1^st Beginners 100-125 SS UB – 1^st round Davao GP
• 1st Beginners 130 AT and 1st Beginners 100-125 SS UB – 2^nd round Tagum Gp
• 2^nd Beginners 100-125 SS UB – 3^rd round CDO
• 1^st Beginners 100-125 SS UB and 2^nd Beginners AT 130 – 4^th round Bohol GP
• 2^nd Beginners 100-125 SS UB and 3^rd Beginners 130 AT – 5^th round Dumaguete GP
• 1^st Beginners 130 AT and 1^st Beginners 100-125 SS UB- 6^th round Cebu GP
• 1^st Beginners 130 AT and 1^st Beginners 100-125 SS UB- Shell Advance Talent Youth Cup Cebu leg
• 2^nd Intermediate AT 160and 3^rd Novice AT 160- Shell Advance Talent Youth Cup

Joven Millana

• Race Number # 47

2014 Results

• 5^th over all expert RUGP
• MBF finisher

Other Achievements

• 2013- no. 2 intermediate rider of the year
• Class Champion- 2^nd place intermediate 130cc
• 2^nd place intermediate scooter 160cc
• 2012 No. 2 Novice Rider of the Year
• Class Champion – 2^nd place Novice 130cc
• 2^nd place 4AT Novice 160cc

Roland King  Antonee  Ganotise

• Race Number # 18

2014 Results

2014- overall 4^th place RUGP

• MBF finisher

Other Achievements

• 2013- 3^rd  place RUGP expert open
• 3^rd place RUGP expert 130cc
• 4^th place scooter expert open
• 2012 Golden Wheel Awards Rider of the Year for Mindanao
• RUGP 2012 Rider of the Year

April King Mascardo

• Race Number #43

2014 Results

• Overall 3^rd place expert – RUGP 2014
• IRGP finisher 2014
• MBF finisher 2014

Other Achievements

• 2013 Golden Wheel Awards Intermediate Expert Rider of the Year
• RUGP 2013 Intermediate Expert of the Year
• 2012 Golden Wheel Awards Mindanao Top Rider
• 2012 Golden Wheel Awards Novice Rider of the Year
• RUGP 2012 Novice Rider of the Year

WORLD TRADE CENTER, PASAY, March 21-22, 2015 — Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. had recently participated in the Inside Racing Bikefest, a first in the company’s history which was an opportunity to exhibit the brand’s excellence; making it the biggest edition yet.

The biggest news of the festival would be the announcement of the Big Bike Business being opened in the country within the year; this was the revelation made by YMPH President, Mr. Toru Osugi. After launching the Tricity in January, this news made Yamaha enthusiasts more thrilled about the arrival of a new category. To give everyone a taste of what’s to come and making things even bolder and bigger, motorcycles that showcase pure power and unrivaled ability were on display.  These were the MT-09, Super Tenere, T-Max 530, and Bolt.  Soon to be revealed would be which units will be made available in the country.  It’s something all riders should be excited about.

Another big announcement would be the brand new Yamaha Club System explained by Yamaha Club Head, Kristoffer Manayaga; as an all new online registration feature for a faster, more efficient, and more comfortable way of becoming part of the growing Yamaha family. They just have to go to www.yamahaclub.com.ph to register using Facebook or via email. Complete their profile, encode their motorcycle unit, update and verify their contact information. They will receive an SMS confirmation message afterwards. Afterwards, they can go to any Yamaha 3S Shop and present the SMS message and perform an initial purchase worth Php150 to verify their application. YMPH will then send their YClub Kit to the Yamaha 3S Shop they prefer when the process of application has been completed.

To further emphasize this point, a demonstration of the process would be initiated by the newest members of the club; Maja Salvador and Gerald Anderson. They would start off at the Yamaha Club registration area just outside the venue. After the registration they would enter the venue riding the Yamaha Tricity. Upon arrival in the gallery, they would be officially presented with the new Yamaha Club Card which they can now use to avail of special discounts and other exclusive benefits.

The announcement was made in Yamaha’s exhibit called the “Gallery of Dyanmism” area where guests became part of the unwavering theme of Refined Dynamism; a harmony of color, design, and a new product lineup.

The gallery area’s opening on would start with Ballet Manila performing an elegant routine that would include the unveiling of covered Yamaha units. To add more beauty to the already revealed products, Yamaha would be bannered by the ladies of Binibining Pilipinas. Namely, Ms. Abbygale Monderin, Ms. Zahara Somano, Ms. Patricia Lae Ejercitado, Ms. Carin Ramos, Ms. Karla Alas, Ms. Roxy Marasigan, Ms. Paulin Quintas, and Ms.Paulin Balagtas.

Hosted by Tom Alvarez and Jinri Park, they would talk about the different categories that were on display. First, the Automatic category featuring the Mio Sporty, Mio Soul i, Mio Mx i, & Mio Fino i. Then, the R-Series with the YZF-R6 and YZF-R1 and the now available YZF-R15. The Yamaha Tricity was also there with its state-of-the-art LMW or Leaning Multi Wheel technology that will make you Move Like No Other.

As guests entered the venue, an all digital registration featured two 55-inch touch screens that allowed guests to encode their names and other details while answering a few survey questions. After that, they would receive an SMS confirmation that they can now avail of their special Yamaha Bag along with stickers upon entry.

Day 2, was just as exciting with the pairing of Tom Alvarez with the always entertaining Joyce Pring during the afternoon program. They gave away prizes to guests and discussed the different products on display and the new Yamaha Club System. They ended the program with a video that showed how the gallery came into fruition and the events that took place during the weekend.

It was another milestone for Yamaha Motor Philippines, sharing with you not just an exhibit or a display of our products, but also an embodiment of dedication to all customers. Complemented by a huge announcement composed of elegance, originality, harmony, and uniqueness; Yamaha creates more than just machines; but also give exhilaration and innovation that will Rev your Heart.

LTO no registration/no travel policy ‘unconstitutional’ according to legal expert. | James Deakin | Philippine Car News, Reviews and Motorsports.

Only LTO officers or deputised officers with LTO ID can apprehend you. In other words, if your friendly MMDA/MAPSA or other LGU enforcers pull you over, demand for their mission order and LTO ID. If they do not have one or cannot issue you an LTO temporary operator’s permit (TOR) they can NOT, repeat, NOT enforce this memorandum. A TVR (Traffic violation receipt) is not acceptable. Then again, neither is all of this.

February 17 and March 13 – Mechanical Engineering students of Batangas State University set foot at Honda Philippines Inc. for a plant tour that started at 10:00 o’clock until 5:00 o’clock in the afternoon.

Excitement started to build up as the students were welcome by the most accommodating hosts from the HPI Family. First stop, a discussion about the amazing world of Honda Motorcycle, its background and evolution of what it is today. As the tour continues, HPI let the students in the manufacturing floor where their eyes and curiosity feasted on the actual motorcycle production. And from there, HPI treat this lively crowd on a sumptuous lunch.

To prepare them with a test ride, the students were educated with a learn to ride session with road safety tips straight from the Honda Experts. Imparted with such knowledge and armored by “Hondang-Honda” energy, they get a rare chance of testing and riding Honda’s Prime AT Models.

Honda is a life partner not only for professional but for this young generation as well. As Honda continues to aid the society in honing the minds of the young to be safe on and off the road to be prepared to the life outside the academe and that is – Honda the Power of Dreams.

The country’s biggest motorcycle and scooter only motor show has gotten bigger and grander!  Held last March 21 – 22, 2015 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, IR Bikefest is now a significant event in the calendar of the Asian motorcycle industry.  The much-awaited event is now in a bigger venue, meaning more space and more exhibitors showcasing their brands and products.

The venue was packed with exciting booths from 70 different companies including 11 motorcycle manufacturers: Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, Kawasaki, Motorstar, KTM, BMW, Ducati, Benelli, SYM, and Euro Keeway plus the MV Agusta, Victory, and Vespa in the Torque Art and Passion motorcycle exhibit.  Each has tons of freebies and giveaways ranging from stickers, free shirts and huge discounts when you visit their booth.

People lined up early to get the first glimpse of what’s inside and of course to take photos and selfies with the models, after all, a motorcycle trade show is not complete without the gorgeous models of the exhibitors.

See you in the next Inside Racing Bikefest and Trade Show!

Beats the traffic

It’s the single most common alibi of every Filipino employee coming in to work late. Traffic congestion.  The sad part is, it is true, and with all the constructions here and there, we are bound to be more late than usual.  The Honda Beat’s shrimpy size allows it to easily and safely lane-split in between adequately-spaced cars while in a jam.  Its excellent handling and ultra-lightweight of just 90 kilograms allows it to be driven around obstacles easily.  The overall dimension of  1069mm x 676mm x 1047mm lets it snake its way in an out a gridlock, not to mention the just the right amount of centimeters in the seat height, 747mm, lets it easily be manhandled in tight situations.

Beats the fuel crisis

As of this writing, motorists are enjoying an every-so-often fuel price rollback.  It is a great time to ride and drive indeed.  Then again, going on a 50 kilometer trip on a car will cost you P200 precious dineros, while on the Beat, you only get to spend P40 to P50 depending on how you drive.  The puny scooter can sip gas of up to 40 kilometers to a liter.  I even remember Honda’s Great Northern Tour when we did a fuel economy challenge where I was able to squeeze more than 50kml, while the winner Mr. Ricci Abrina got a whopping 59.3kml.  Amazing right?

Ok, as I said, it is a great time to ride because of the receding petrol prices.  But what about 2 to 3 months from now?  Remember the time when an unleaded gas reached up to P60 a liter?  And with today’s ever unpredictable prices of commodities, I’d rather be saving the sooner the better.  You can do that with the Honda Beat.

Beats the competition

It may not be as fast, or as torquey, heck it may not even be as ubiquitous as any other bikes, but it has the one thing every rider would want in his bike; Honda’s reliability.  Any Honda bike is dubbed as bulletproof, as intentionally trashing it would be frustrating (See how Charlie Boorman trashed the Honda Cub).

With regards to performance, the Beat’s handling is nimble, as if you’re toying with a toy.  Flicking is easily and calculatedly done with the scooter’s weight.  Speed is not wimpy either!  Although the Beat got only 108cc displacement, it can reach the 3-digit mark, though I could only make it up to 103kmh, and no more.  Try as I could, the needle wouldn’t budge a line more.  Ok I’m fat!

Braking is superbly done with the front’s powerful disc brake, enough to handle the bike’s speed and velocity.  The rear wheel is equipped with drum brake and also more than enough to to stop the bike.  I remember Honda’s teaching way back (HRA), when the front brake is just for emergency braking, which I still practice to this day.  The Beat would’ve been the perfect example of not needing the front brake.  Though many would not agree with me, or with Honda’s doctrine regarding braking, I still use the rear brake most of the time, and it hasn’t gotten me into any trouble yet.

Beats the odds

I will not try to beat (yey pun) the bush around convincing everyone why the Honda Beat is not just a village bike.  With the convenience of a twist-and-go bike and the length of road it can yield you with just a miniscule amount moolah, it is a great touring bike.  I used to have by the way a Honda Beat before, and sold it to my friend Maynard Marcelo.  As to why did I sell it?  (wait for it…)  Beats me!   And with a price tag of just P65,000.00, it’s an affordable machine that can beat odds.

Specifications:

ENGINE TYPE:  4-stroke OHC air-cooled

DISPLACEMENT: 108cc

MAX. POWER: 8.16hp @ 8000rpm

MAX. TORQUE:  6.09lb-ft @ 6000rpm

TRANSMISSION: CVT

SEAT HEIGHT:  747mm

FUEL CAPACITY: 3.5liters

DRY WEIGHT:   90kgs

TOP SPEED:  90kmh

PRICE:  PhP65,000.00

2015 is a year of surprises in the Philippine motorcycle industry. The major players in the field are coming up with models that we could not even begin to imagine. The big displacement models are now readily available and are reasonably priced backed with warranties — a biker’s dream come true.

There is one, however, that truly made a big impact in transforming what once was the norm in scooter design. The Yamaha Tricity!

With the support and approval of Yamaha Philippines and Motorcyclephilippines.com, I was blessed to ride and get a feel of the Tricity in my daily work commute.

This new model boasts of 2 front wheels that independently moves diagonally and vertically that gives riding stability that you don’t get on a typical scooter. Bumps and humps are cancelled out by not only 2 but 4 telescopic front suspension system giving you more feel for the ground. It is nimble due to stability but a bit heavy on steering compared to standard single front steering system.

The feel and width of the Tricity is still the same as that of a normal motorcycle but is not as difficult in maneuvering in tight and in between vehicles when going through traffic.

I clocked in a mileage of 160kms in a single fill of gas which is equivalent to a week of riding to and from work. Controls are within reach and the dashboard gives the rider the basic information on speed, outside temp, 2 trip meters so you can log in every trip you make. There are also the idiot lights that shows you all are working from indicators, engine check and others. Non glaring as I have observed even in the highest time of the day.

The windscreen is aerodynamic to lessen drag which hopefully can be changed to a larger one in future models. As with the headlights, it does its job well. The LED daylight running lights does make a real difference.

Saddle compartment is generous and can fit a decent helmet but wish there were more compartments available. A space or a compartment on the front dash would be a good idea.

On the whole, based on my experience, I bow to Yamaha for sharing and making the Tricity available to the Filipino rider. It offers comfort and safety and at the same time gives a new look to individual mobility. Keep up the good work, Yamaha! Hope to see more innovations like this in the future.

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Team KAGAYAMA SUZUKI Asia has completed a successful three-day test at Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia in preparation for the upcoming FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC).

Team KAGAYAMA SUZUKI Asia has been formed to race in the ARRC with Yukio Kagayama spearheading the team as General Manager and riders Noriyuki Haga and young 21-year-old Indonesian team newcomer Rafid Topan Sucipto aboard the #41 and #25 GSX-R600s.

The team collected a great amount of valuable data over the eight sessions and also was able to test two types of Dunlop tyres in preparation for opening round of the FIM Asia Road Race Championship at the same venue on April 17-19th.

Noriyuki Haga:

“Overall, it was a positive and worthwhile test. The trouble we had when shaking the machine down at Suzuka have now been mostly solved and we have definitely made a step forward. However, considering that the races will be held over 25 laps, we need to improve our average lap-times, but I hope we can solve the problems, while keeping the good parts, and be prepared for the race. There are only six races in the Championship, so we cannot drop any of them and I am going to be trying to race at the front from the first race.”

Rafid Topan Sucipto:

“It’s a like a dream come true that I am racing with Haga as my team-mate and I am happy that the team has chosen me as their rider. I was able to follow Haga on the track and I learned a lot from him, being able to run together with him so closely. I got to learn from his braking and acceleration points and I learned that there were many things that I was missing. Although the season opener in Malaysia is far away from home, my fans and friends are coming to Sepang to cheer for me, so I hope I can show them good results.”

Yukio Kagayama – General Manager:

“This was the team’s first test and it was a brand new package for the staff and the machine. Although we had one minor incident where Topan crashed, we managed to clear all of our planned testing agenda, and we were able to finish the preparation for the race. Riders, as well as the team have a lot of things left to do, but we were able to confirm the potential of the team. We were also able to confirm what is needed, so I hope that the team continues to work closely and smoothly together, and concentrate on improving and developing the GSX-R600s performance. We were able to form this team, in conjunction with the SUZUKI ASIAN CHALLENGE (SAC), with the help of the sponsors and the personnel involved. I hope that this 600 team will record good results, so that the SAC riders can aim for this team as their first target on their road to the world championships. I plan to do whatever I can to achieve that target.”

The SUZUKI ASIAN CHALLENGE, which is a new addition to the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) in 2015, held its first official event by participating in the Official Test of the Championship in Sepang International Circuit.

The series is a rider development program for Suzuki riders in Asia and is produced and operated by Yukio Kagayama. The participants in this series will be given the chance to step-up to the Supersport 600 class in ARRC, national championships in Europe and Japan, and eventually to MotoGP in the future. All riders will be provided with Suzuki FU150s on Dunlop tyres to race in this Suzuki one-make category and run at five venues this season.

The official test was held at the beginning of this month at the Sepang International Circuit North Track, where the opening round of the ARRC will be held on April 17-19th. Some 17 riders from nine countries – India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam – attended the test and all 17 riders qualified to participate in the series.

Yukio Kagayama – General Manager:

“I am happy that the SUZUKI ASIAN CHALLENGE has finally started. We have been planning this to provide a route for Asian riders to race in a small engine motorcycle class with the aim of eventually moving up to MotoGP. I would like to thank all the sponsors and parties involved in helping us make this happen. Although this was our first outing, all 17 riders showed that they are well qualified to race in the series, and I am also happy that we were able to finish the test with no major injuries. The quality of the riders are that of a high standard and we hope that the riders, through this series, will be able to progress and one day be able to compete at world championship level. We only have two more weeks to the opening round, but I will do my best to finish the final preparations. I sincerely hope everyone will support us and the series.”

Hideyuki Ogata - Rider Coach:

“Since this was the first outing, we started with little information about the riders, but I found in the two days of testing that each and every one of them has the potential to become a world-class rider. By the end of the second day, the level of the riders definitely improved and I am sure that we can expect more from them in the future. We can expect to see close racing with the SUZUKI FU150s and I look forward to teaching our young riders what they need to learn and give them my full support.”

Team Suzuki Pilipinas

Team Suzuki Pilipinas which is composed of Enzo Rellosa, Mario Borbon and April King Mascardo had a promising start at the testing event clocking 1:30 which are not far from their contenders. The team was accompanied by Suzuki Philippines’ Racing Specialist Mr. Noel Villapando supported by Mr. Yoyong Buncio, Mr. Bobby Mencias and Mr. Rico Cagnaan of Suzuki Philippines Satellite Teams.

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