Wednesday 31 October 2012

Review : Xena XX6 Disc-Lock Alarm @ RM200

Of late, there has been some reports of superbikes having their front brake calipers stolen. Looking through Mudah, you can get secondhand Tokico brake calipers at between RM250 - RM500 per pair; but new ones from Kawasaki would set you back a cool grand and more. Plus the inconvenience of being stranded at wherever the calipers were stolen, and it makes sense to purchase an alarm system.

There are some aftermarket alarm system but I have read how they drain the bikes battery over time, so I thought that I would best go for disc-lock alarm.

There are quite a few of these in the market; and after some research, I found that the better one and suitable for our ER6/ Ninja 650R is the Xena XX6. The specifications are as per stated at the end of the page.

Now this baby is pretty heavy- you wouldn't want your other half to throw this at you during tiffs ;p 

It feels solid, looks premium (I got the stainless steel finish) and would set you back about RM200.

Clip this onto your disc and it auto-arms in 5 seconds. The slightest shake from a would-be thief would send this baby shrieking at 120 dB; and trust me, it attracts too much attention and is hurtful to one's ears. In fact, it sounds louder than the alarm on my Toyota Harrier.

A good buy for some added peace of mind, mates!      

Xena Motorcycle Security - XX6 Pro



High-grade mono-block alloy construction and piercing alarm make the XX6 a remarkably effective way to protect your motorbike or scooter. 


Lock: Fits virtually any scooter or motorbike, with a high-grade mono-block alloy construction and a 6mm steel pushdown locking pin. Ice-spray proof and pick proof key and barrel.

Alarm: Shock & motion sensors linked to a sophisticated microprocessor trigger a 120dB alarm powered by a single CR2 long-life Lithium battery. All electronics are housed in a replaceable alarm module -- no tools required. Self-arming, with no on-off switch, re-sets to armed mode within 15 seconds.

Mod Upcoming : BMC Air Filter (RM320)

Regular readers of this blog would know that I have a liking for Italian products. Already utilised on my pure-bred Italian bike are 2 made-in-Italy products ie Givi Italy panniers (RM5,000 including installations) and Nolan N104 N-Com (RM1,250 including courier).

Looks like I would be adding in a new Italian product on my bike soon ie BMC air filter. The specs are as per detailed below; but in a nutshell, what it does is that it permits more airflow to the engine for higher performance. Selling at app RM320 including installations (prices vary from shop to shop, so do check on the pricing before you ask the mechanic to drop in your aftermarket air filter), this is a relatively affordable upgrade that would give you the instant oomph!

If you purchased vide Internet or from Singapore, the prices could be even more competitive but you have to factor in between RM10 - RM30 for installations.

Other common aftermarket air filters in the market includes DNA (same price as BMC) and Simota (app RM200 - RM230).


Look out for my review after the installations this weekend!



BMC Air Filter Kawasaki ER-6N/F/Ninja 650R 06-08

BMC's high flow filters provide maximum protection, performance and quality. These washable air filters are manufactured to higher tolerance than competing brands for maximum filtration area and flow rate. BMC incorporates parallel pleated cotton fabric and special filter oil to offer flow rates of up to 900 CFM.

Features and Benefits:
  • The cotton filter element BMC uses, allows for greater air flow while still catching harmful particles. The Race Air Filter takes it a step further and allows 25% more air to reach your motorcycle's intake system then the standard BMC air filter.
  • Durability is always a key feature for BMC and the Race air filter is no exception. BMC uses alloy mesh that surrounds the cotton filter element with epoxy coating to protect it against deterioration.
  • BMC designed the Race Air Filter after their explosive success in the Formula 1 racing.
  • BMC was fitted to the Aprilia RSV4 of Max Biaggi that won the 2010 World Superbike Championship.
  • Race-tested for performance and reliability.
  • Race and standard models available for most bikes.
  • Some of the standard kits also include an Air Flow Restrictor.
  • Hassle-free installation.

Sunday 28 October 2012

For Sale : RST-x Jacket and Gloves

Looking through my riding wardrobe earlier to make space for my new RS Taichi GMX-Motion Vented leather jacket pending courier from overseas, my spouse made noise that the my collection of riding attire seems to be building up over the years. Well, to make way for the new jacket, I would like to sell off the attire below to anyone whom is interested :



Both items are approximately 6 months old and used for a few rides. Should fit riders between 165 - 175 cm in height, with lots of adjustable straps to ensure that you get the best for at your wrist and waist areas for comfort and safety. Protective pieces at shoulders, elbows, back, wrists and knuckles. The cordura mesh and leather material ensure that you stay safe whilst looking good. There's also a layer of waterproof inner jacket that you could zipped into the jacket if you are caught in a downpour.

[Reserved]

COD at Mont Kiara preferred, so that you could check on its great quality and try it for yourselves.

Wardrobe space needed for this new jacket that looks like this :





Consider this : Yamaha XJ6-S @ RM39,500




Price RM39,500

New Unregn
1 Yr Warranty / 10,000KM

Private Sector
D/P 0,       RM 7++ X 7YR

Government Sector
D/P 0,       RM 4++ X 10YR
D/P 0,       RM 3++ X 20YR

ENGINE
Ultra-compact, 600cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, slant block in-line four powerplant. This engine has been specially tuned for ease of riding with very linear power characteristics. It is loosely based on the XJ6 with revised cylinder head, crankcases, intake and exhaust systems plus a revised clutch and shifter assembly.

Compact, 4-valve cylinder head features the same size intake (25mm) and exhaust (22mm) valves as the XJ6 but the intake port shape has been narrowed for increased air velocity resulting in more linear throttle response.

Lightweight hollow camshafts feature revised lift and duration profiles providing excellent torque in the low and mid rpm range and also helping to achieve linear throttle control. Fuel economy is also optimized.

Automatic hydraulic-type cam chain tensioner reduces mechanical engine noise and maintenance.

One-piece cylinder and upper crankcase assembly provides superior engine and chassis rigidity as well as reducing weight.

Ceramic composite plated sleeveless cylinder bores provide greater heat dissipation for consistent power delivery and reduced frictional power losses. Sleeveless design also reduces weight.

Lightweight forged pistons connected to carburized connecting rods provide superior strength and reduced reciprocating mass for crisp throttle response and reduced vibration.

"Group-Type" Mikuni 32mm throttle body fuel injection provides outstanding throttle response and excellent fuel economy. Group fuel injection divides the four cylinders into two groups (1 & 4 and 2 & 3) with two injections of fuel for every 720 degrees of crank rotation.

Compact "high dynamic range" injectors use 4-hole / 2-direction spray type injectors for excellent throttle control, reduced emissions and great fuel economy.

A high powered, compact 32 bit ECU controls the ignition and fuel injection processes.

Compact slant-block engine uses a "Tri-Axis" stacked 6-speed transmission design to create a shorter engine (front to back) which allows for optimum engine placement in the frame for a balanced weight distribution and great handling.

"Inner push" type clutch release mechanism provides very light and smooth clutch lever action.

Shifter layout and design provides smooth, positive shifting.

Compact 4 into 2 into 1 "midship" style exhaust system features a 3-way catalytic converter which reduces harmful exhaust emissions (CO, HC, CO2 and NOx). The result is very clean running engine that easily surpasses strict EPA and EU European emission standards.

This "midship" style exhaust system concentrates mass in the centre of the bike and keeps the centre of gravity low for light agile handling at any speed.

High capacity radiator with ring-type cooling fan insures maximum cooling efficiency.

Liquid cooled oil cooler maintains consistent oil temperatures for extended engine and lubricant life.
Convenient spin-on type oil filter.

Maintenance-free transistor controlled ignition ensures fast starts and optimum engine performance.
Air Induction System (AIS) reduces harmful hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide (HC & CO) exhaust emissions. 

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
"Diamond-type", high tensile tube steel frame is used. The main frame tubes are 31.5mm in diameter and feature a minimum of welds and bends. Rigidity around the steering head and swingarm pivot has been optimized for excellent handling and stability.

This frame design helps to maintain one of the lowest seat heights (785mm / 30.1") in the 600 sports class.

The engine is mounted to the frame in 4 locations making it a stressed chassis member and enhancing handling qualities.

A box section steel swingarm compliments the frame and aids in providing a light handling feel.

Detachable steel rear sub frame reduces costs in the event of a "loop-out".

Conventional 41mm cartridge style fork provide great handling and excellent ride comfort. Plastic protectors help prevent tube damage due to stone chips. Wheel travel is 130mm (5.1").

"Link less" rear suspension means the rear shock mounts directly to the frame and swingarm without the use of linkages. The rear suspension system has been designed to provide a rising rate feeling without the additional weight of linkage arms and pivots. The shock features 7-way spring pre-load adjustability. Wheel travel is 130mm (5.1")

Dual 298mm floating front disc brakes are squeezed by a twin piston calipers. Braking performance is progressive and lever feel is excellent.

245mm rear disc brake with single piston caliper provides excellent stopping power.

Full fairing offers great wind and weather protection plus a stylish new design. An inner panel around the instrument area provides a clean, quality image for the "cockpit".

Stylish 17 litre (3.7 Imp. gal.) fuel tank provides an excellent riding range between fill ups.

Lightweight 5-spoke mag wheels are fitted with Z rated radial tires which reduce unsprung weight for light, agile handling.

Stylish two piece rider and passenger seat design offers excellent comfort. The rider portion of the seat is adjustable. The standard position is the lowest (785mm / 30.9") position with an ability to increase the rider seat height by 20mm or approximately ¾ of an inch.

Adjustable handlebar design. The traditional 7/8" steel handlebars not only offer a comfortable, more upright riding position but can also be adjusted 20mm (approximately ¾ of an inch) forward by rotating the handlebar mounting brackets 180 degrees. The traditional handlebar design also allows easy replacement to a different "bend" if so desired.


Engine and transmission
Displacement:
600.00 ccm (36.61 cubic inches)
Engine type:
In-line four, four-stroke
Compression:
12.2:1
Bore x stroke:
65.5 x 44.5 mm (2.6 x 1.8 inches)
Valves per cylinder:
4
Fuel system:
Injection
Fuel control:
DOHC
Ignition:
TCI
Lubrication system:
Wet sump
Cooling system:
Liquid
Gearbox:
6-speed
Transmission type,
final drive:
Chain
Driveline:
O-ring chain
Fuel consumption:
5.47 litres/100 km (18.3 km/l or 43.00 mpg)
Greenhouse gases:
126.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Frame type:
Steel diamond
Rake (fork angle):
26.0°
Trail:
104 mm (4.1 inches)
Front suspension:
Telescopic fork
Front suspensiontravel:
130 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear suspension:
Monocross
Rear suspension travel:
130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front tyre dimensions:
120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions:
160/60-ZR17
Front brakes:
Single disc
Front brakes diameter:
298 mm (11.7 inches)
Rear brakes:
Single disc
Rear brakes diameter:
245 mm (9.6 inches)
Physical measures and capacities
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc:
213.2 kg (470.0 pounds)
Seat height:
770 mm (30.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall height:
1,210 mm (47.6 inches)
Overall length:
2,121 mm (83.5 inches)
Overall width:
770 mm (30.3 inches)
Ground clearance:
140 mm (5.5 inches)
Wheelbase:
1,440 mm (56.7 inches)
Fuel capacity:
17.41 litres (4.60 gallons)
Oil capacity:
3.40 litres (0.22 quarts)

Consider this : Kawasaki Versys 650 @ RM36,689





Price RM36,689
New Unregn
1 Yr Warranty / 10,000KM

Private Sector
D/P 0,       RM 6++ X 7YR

Government Sector
D/P 0,       RM 4++ X 10YR
D/P 0,       RM 2++ X 20YR

Key Features
• Comfortable, versatile motorcycle fits into a variety of riding conditions, from commuting to backroads
• 649cc parallel twin with digital fuel injection (DFI®) provides smooth, responsive power
• Long-travel fork delivers excellent performance over a wide range of situations
• Adjustable single-shock rear suspension offers progressive damping as suspension load increases
• 3-way adjustable windscreen allows customizable wind protection
• Aluminum swingarm and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels reduce unsprung weight for better ride quality
• Under-engine exhaust promotes better weight centralization
• Aggressive styling gives the Versys a distinctive look

649cc DOHC Parallel Twin-cylinder Engine
• The most compact engine in its category helps reduce the dimensions of the entire motorcycle
• Triangular crank and transmission shaft layout keeps it short front to back
• A semi-dry sump oil system reduces overall engine height
• The narrow, chrome composite-plated aluminum cylinders help reduce engine width
• Tuned to deliver smooth, responsive power in the low
• to mid-rpm range for exceptional roll-on response – ideal for negotiating city traffic, tight backroads and anything in between
• A 180-degree crankshaft and a balancer shaft produce a remarkably smooth engine
• Oil jets on the connecting rod ends spray oil on the undersides of the pistons to aid cooling
• An under-engine muffler with 3-way catalyzer aids mass centralization for light handling and great looks

Liquid Cooling
• Engine temperatures stay consistent for long engine life and sustained power in tough conditions
• Closer engine tolerances mean more horsepower
• Coolant routed through the engine cases reduces the number of external hoses

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)
• A pair of 38mm Keihin throttle bodies with ECU-controlled sub-throttle valves mean optimum performance and rideability
• Sub-throttles, located behind the main throttle valves, give the Versys precise throttle response and great feel as well
• An automatic fast idle system makes starting and warm-up easy, even on cold days
• Precise fuel injection provides great fuel mileage, and the 3-way catalyzer significantly reduces emissions

Digital Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) System
• Microprocessor-controlled timing never requires adjustment and is ultra-responsive to the engine’s needs
• Powerful, spark plug-mounted “stick” ignition coils are compact, light and reliable

Six-speed Transmission
• Versys’ racing-style cassette transmission uses a compact layout that’s easily removable as a single unit from the engine cases for much easier gearbox maintenance

High-tensile Steel Trellis Frame
• The Versys’ exotic-looking trellis frame is small, light and narrow at the knees and pegs for excellent comfort and control
• 3D computer analysis in the design process achieved optimum stiffness balance for superior ride and handling

Single Shock Rear Suspension
• A distinctive aluminum gull-wing swingarm controlled by a lay-down single shock complements the distinctive frame design, with an integrated line flowing from steering head to rear hub
• The short, compact frame and engine design allow the swingarm to be longer, which improves overall handling
• The Showa shock has adjustable preload and rebound damping, and uses a free piston and two-stage damping valves for smooth action during initial compression that becomes firmer near the end of the stroke for a more planted feel

Long-travel Fork
• A 41mm long-travel inverted fork combines the best of dual-sport and sportbike-type suspensions, to deliver excellent performance over a wide range of conditions
• Tapered, relatively short outer tubes help provide the ideal stiffness balance to complement frame stiffness and chassis settings
• Fork height, spring preload and rebound damping can be adjusted to fine-tune the suspension to specific conditions, riding styles and loads

Petal-style Brake Discs
• Dual 300mm petal-style discs with two-piston calipers in front and a single 220mm petal disc with a single-piston caliper in back provide plenty of stopping power
• Same rotor design as found on the Ninja® supersport machines; petal design rotors offer improved cooling and warp resistance

Six-spoke Wheels 
• Like the ones you’ll find on the Ninja ZX™-6R and ZX-10R, these six-spoke wheels use less material between spokes so rim thickness is reduced along with overall wheel weight
• Lighter wheels increase overall performance – suspension, handling, acceleration/deceleration and initial turn-in

Comfortable Ergonomics
• Each section of the two-piece seat was designed with a different thickness and firmness of foam to optimize comfort for both rider and passenger
• The passenger seat and grab bars were designed to provide a natural seating position for added comfort
• An easy-to-read instrument panel has a large analog tachometer and digital readout for the speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters and clock. White LED backlighting provides increased visibility at night
• Passenger grab rails, seat cover material, and a comfortable seating position make the Versys fun for passengers
• Rubber bushings at the rear engine mounts and hollow rubber-covered footpegs result in reduced engine vibration and a more comfortable ride

Bodywork
• The fairing, stacked dual headlight, front fender and mirrors, and a Z1000-style LED tail light give the Versys a bold high-tech look
• The windscreen provides a large still-air pocket for comfort; three-position adjustability makes it adaptable to fit a variety of riders and climates

Engine and transmission
Displacement:
649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)
Engine type:
Twin, four-stroke
Compression:
10.6:1
Bore x stroke:
83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches)
Valves per cylinder:
4
Fuel system:
Injection. Digital fuel injection with two 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel control:
DOHC
Ignition:
TCBI with electronic advance
Cooling system:
Liquid
Gearbox:
6-speed
Transmission type,
final drive:
Chain
Driveline:
O-Ring Chain
Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Frame type:
Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake (fork angle):
25.0°
Trail:
109 mm (4.3 inches)
Front suspension:
41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload / 5.9 in.
Rear suspension:
Single offset laydown shock with 13-position adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 5.7 in.
Front tyre dimensions:
120/70-17
Rear tyre dimensions:
160/60-17
Front brakes:
Double disc
Front brakes diameter:
300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear brakes:
Single disc
Rear brakes diameter:
220 mm (8.7 inches)
Physical measures and capacities
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc:
206.0 kg (454.2 pounds)
Seat height:
846 mm (33.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall height:
1,331 mm (52.4 inches)
Overall length:
2,126 mm (83.7 inches)
Overall width:
841 mm (33.1 inches)
Wheelbase:
1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Fuel capacity:
18.93 litres (5.00 gallons)