Racing astride a stock standard Honda CBR1000RR is no hassle for Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi. At Round 1 of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) underway this weekend, the 26-year-old even clocked a new MSBK 1000 lap record during the first day of free practice with 2’07.317s. “I am riding a stock standard bike, direct from the factory. The only major difference is, of course, the suspension system. Creating a new laptime came as a complete surprise to me too!” Zaqhwan joked. Nevertheless, Zaqhwan revealed that he will not be taking part in Race 1 on Saturday. “Honda had made prior arrangement to film a launch video with me. Since there was no way to change the studio time, I have no choice but to absent myself from the grid tomorrow. I’ll be back for Race 2 and Race 3 on Sunday. But having missed the all-important qualifying session, this means that I will start both races from the back of the grid… on a stock standard bike.” Elsewhere, MSBK 1000 rookie Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin gave good account for himself in his maiden ride astride the Yamaha YZF-R1M. Kasma ended the day half a second adrift of Zaqhwan’s pace, second quickest in class with 2’07.742s. Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman clocked third fastest with 2’08.134s. The 2019 FIM Asian Superbike champion was having trouble getting back into the grove and crashed out in the closing minutes of the second free practice. MSBK 1000 COMBINED FREE PRACTICE RESULTS Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi (Honda, Boon Siew Honda Racing Team), 2’07.317s Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin (Yamaha, Yamaha Racing Team ASEAN), 2’07.742s Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman (BMW, ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team), 2’08.134s Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
In the run up to the 2021 season of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), the spotlight in the MSBK 600 class was taken up by a series of exciting news. First came the announcement that former GP rider Khairul Idham Pawi is coming out of retirement via the MSBK. Then a surprise entry from upcoming GP rider Mohd Syarifuddin Azman. Finally, the Honda camp revealed that the 2020 model Honda CBR600RR will be making its official race debut this weekend. Away from the spotlight, Ibrahim Norrodin proved on the first day of free practice that he is still the man to beat at the Sepang International Circuit. The SIC Racing rider topped both free practice sessions and ended the day with 2’10.258s. After a year off the bike, Ibrahim is only about half a second off his own 600cc lap record. “It’s been a year since we’ve had a chance to ride. After the MCO, we did have some training, but only at the go-kart track. This is the first time we have had the chance to ride the full track in Sepang. The track condition was rather bumpy today. My team and I had to push very hard to get ourselves back in gear,” said Ibrahim. The vaunted Honda CBR600RR piloted by Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Mohd Helmi Azman placed second and third respectively, one second adrift of Ibrahim. Mohd Syarifuddin Azman clocked fourth fastest with 2’11.397s. Khairul Idham Pawi, returning to racing after a year-long hiatus, was fifth quickest with a competitive 2’11.674s. MSBK 600 COMBINED FREE PRACTICE RESULTS Ibrahim Norrodin (Yamaha, SIC Racing), 2’10.258s Azroy Hakeem Anuar (Honda, Boon Siew Honda Racing Team), 2’11.266s Mohd Helmi Azman (Honda, Boon Siew Honda Racing Team), 2’11.397s Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
A year away from the Honda CBR250RR has done nothing to dampen Izam’s natural feel for his 250cc race bike. The Boon Siew Honda Racing Team rider was quickest to get in form, completing the first day of free practice at the top of the combined timesheets. Izam clocked 2’28.590s to take provisional pole. “We already had our base setting from 2020. Working with that, today was all about getting back into rhythm. I am satisfied with my results today, but we are targeting to bring our laptimes down even further during the qualifying.” Mohd Danial Syahmi from SIC Racing clocked the second fastest time on the grid – 2’29.007s – on his Kawasaki Ninja 250. ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team’s Mohd Shafiq Rasol logged third fastest with 2’30.850s on board his Yamaha YZF-R25. MSBK 250 COMBINED FREE PRACTICE RESULTS Mohd Izam Ikmal (Honda, Boon Siew Honda Racing Team), 2’28.590s Mohd Danial Syahmi A Shahril (Kawasaki, SIC Racing), 2’29.007s Mohd Shafiq Rasol (Yamaha, ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team), 2’30.850s Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
The 2021 season of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will be heading to the small screen with the race being broadcasted on a delayed telecast basis in Malaysia and Italy. Motorsports fans in Malaysia can catch the telecast on Astro Arena with Bahasa Melayu commentary. Fans in Italy can watch the MSBK on MS Motor TV with Italian commentary (available on Sky Channel 229 on satellite, and Tivusat channel 55 on the digital terrestrial platform). “We are very excited about these new developments. It’s great that the broadcasters are beginning to show interest in the MSBK. We hope that this will encourage more riders and teams to be a part of this developing series,” said Ron Hogg, Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing, the race promoter of the MSBK. Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
Riders and teams who have opted to use the RK Takasago Chain products in the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), will receive additional prize monies sponsored by RK Takasago Chain. This offer is open to all classes in the MSBK from the MSBK1000 to MSBK150. “Supporting the local race scene has always been the core of RK Takasago Chain’s philosophy. For the upcoming MSBK races this year, RK Takasago Chain will top up the prize money by 20% for all teams or riders who has chosen to use the RK Takasago Chain products on the track,” said Andy Lee, RKSA Marketing Manager. On top of that, a one-of-a-kind trophy awaits the eventual MSBK1000 champion. This special trophy from RK Japan, called the “RK Shogun” Kobuto, was inspired by the helmets used by the ancient Japanese shoguns. “In the ancient days, a shogun warrior needs a good katana to help them win wars. In the modern era, a rider needs a good racing chain to help them power their race machines. The RK Shogun Kobuto reflects that spirit of competition and drive,” Lee explained further. “We hope this recognition from RK Japan will give our riders more confidence in the future to compete in the global races.” So now the question remains – who will be crowned the RK Shogun by the end of this month? Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
After a year-long hiatus, the Malaysian superbike riders finally have the chance to get back on the track. The announcement that the 2021 season of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will be held at the Sepang Circuit this weekend has brought out some of the biggest names in the Malaysian motorcycle racing fraternity. The MSBK1000 will most likely be the battleground between Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman and Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi. Both riders are acknowledged as among the best superbike riders in this region. Things are even more interesting in the MSBK600 class where Khairul Idham Pawi is making his racing comeback with the ONEXOX TKKR Racing Team. Mohd Syarifuddin Azman, who is slated to make his full season GP debut next year, will also arrive on the grid with the ZK Racing Team. From the Honda camp, Azroy Hakeem Anuar and Mohd Helmi Azman will finally get to put their brand new Honda CBR600RR through its paces. The bike that was launched in 2020 has yet to strut its stuff on the track. And for the first time in two years, spectators are finally welcome back to the grandstand. Entry to the grandstand is free, but limited only to adults above 18 years old, and must be fully vaccinated. Fans can expect to witness race battles in three classes – the MSBK1000, MSBK600 and MSBK250. In total, three races will be held over the weekend. “The last two years has been quite challenging for the motorcycle racing industry. We are grateful to be back and looking forward to the day when our foreign friends can also join in the race. Meanwhile, the entries for Round 1 is looking to be very promising with all our top riders competing,” said Ron Hogg, Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing, the race promoters of the MSBK. Round 1 of the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) is taking place at the Sepang International Circuit from October 15 to 17, 2021. Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) are excited to announce the dates for the 2021 season of the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) as follows: Round 1 Sepang International Circuit October 15 to 17, 2021 Round 2 Sepang International Circuit October 29 to 31, 2021 Further, with the announcement that Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya will be moving into Phase 3 effective October 1, the Malaysia Superbike Championship are excited to become the first motorsports event to welcome race fans back into the grandstand. After two years of watching racing through the livestream, fans can finally enjoy the thrill of the MSBK 1000, MSBK 600, MSBK 250 and MSBK 150 in person at the Sepang International Circuits. Each race weekend will feature two races for each race category. Quote from Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SIC: “We are looking forward to the MSBK season opener and excited to welcome back the fans during the race weekends. The atmosphere from the fans will definitely lift the spirit of the riders, racing wheel-to-wheel to the finishing line. As a responsible venue provider, the safety and well-being of all remain our utmost priority. We have a strict SOP being implemented at the circuit for all our events and I hope the everyone will adhere to it. Our enforcement team on site will actively monitor the implementation to ensure the SOP compliance. We would like to thank the National Security Council (MKN), Ministry of Health (KKM), Ministry of Youth & Sports (KBS), and Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) for their support in opening up motorsports events during this period. To the participating teams and riders, I wish you all the best.” Quote from Ron Hogg, Director, Two Wheels Motor Racing: The motorsports fraternity has a strong record of keeping to a strict SOP. Even though the first race is just a few weeks away, we are confident that we will be able to create an environment where fans can enjoy the race while ensuring everyone’s health and safety. We are really excited to see the fans back in the grandstands. It’s been two long years and we are eager to rebuild our connection with the Malaysian fans. Our thanks also to the MKN, KKM, KBS and MAM for their support. Expect more details soon. In the meantime, we continue to urge everyone to abide by the health guidelines, get vaccinated, and stay safe! For more information, kindly contact Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn Bhd at Tel: +603-8733 8787. Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) has jointly announced that the season opener for the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), originally scheduled to be held from August 6 to 8, has had to be postponed until further notice. A new calendar will be announced once the Championship receives confirmed directions from the relevant authorities. Quote from Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SIC: As the host, we have no choice but to postpone the MSBK Round 1 and subsequent rounds to a later date. This is due to the current Covid-19 cases in Malaysia. The safety and well-being of those involved with MSBK are our top priority. SIC and TWMR will be back in action, but we need to do our part to break the chain of this pandemic. Quote from Ron Hogg, Director, Two Wheels Motor Racing: While we are equally disappointed that the season opener has had to be postponed, we are firm that the health and safety of all our participants and race officials must be our top priority. As such, we will be working hand-in-hand with the Sepang International Circuit to release a new MSBK calendar as soon as possible. In the meantime, we continue to urge everyone to abide by the health guidelines, get vaccinated, and stay safe! For more information, kindly contact Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn Bhd at Tel: +603-8733 8787. Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) has jointly announced the start of the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK). Working on the assumption that the number of Covid-19 cases will stabilize within the next couple of months, the 4-round season are scheduled as follows: Round 1 – August 6 to 8, 2021 Round 2 – August 20 to 22, 2021 Round 3 & 4 – October 14 to 17, 2021 The final two rounds in October are slated to be double-headers. As always, the entire series will be hosted at the Sepang International Circuit. However, please note that this calendar is subject to further government approvals particularly with regards to the pandemic SoPs. Quote from Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SIC: The calendar announcement brings great news to our two-wheel local Motorsports scene. I believe the riders are looking forward to start racing in the upcoming MSBK Round 1 in August. At the moment, we are still under Movement Control Order (MCO) until 7 June 2021 due to the recent spikes of Covid-19. As much as we want to be back in action, the safety and well being of others remain our top priority. SIC and TMWR are committed in getting the necessary approvals and shall ensure that those involved with the race to strictly adhere to the SOPs. Quote from Ron Hogg, Director, Two Wheels Motor Racing: We are really looking forward to getting the 2021 season off to a great start by August. The MSBK only managed to race a single round in 2020 due to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. It will be great to have everyone back on their bikes and back on track within the next few months. Even though the championship may or may not be able to welcome foreign participants at this juncture, we feel that it is very important for the Malaysia Superbikes Championship to resume so that our rider development system continues to play its role in creating the next generation of world-class riders. It’s time to get the championship back on track. In the meantime, we urge the motorsports community to actively follow the existing MCO SoPs. Let’s work together to bring this pandemic under control for our mutual benefit. For more information, kindly contact Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn Bhd at Tel: +603-8733 8787. Catch up latest news at malaysiasbk.com. Chat with us.
Day 2 of the 2021 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) Open Track Day ended on a positive note as the teams and riders walked away satisfied having met their respective training objectives of the weekend. Obviously, none of the riders were going out with the intention of creating new lap records. Instead, with a balanced mix of professional and semi-professional riders on the grid, every one had a different training objective in mind. Here’s what some of the riders had to say: AZLAN SHAH KAMARUZAMAN – BMW S1000RR 2020, ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM This weekend for me and my team was to continue the set-up work that was interrupted when the 2020 season had to be called off. I had only raced with the BMW S1000RR 2020 model once last year. To be honest, it was so powerful that I fought my bike all the way throughout last season’s one and only round. This weekend, our objective was to tame that power, find more stability while keeping the speed. So far, we are happy with the progression of our work and the opportunity to test this weekend has really helped us better prepare for the start of superbikes racing this season. MOHD ZAQHWAN ZAIDI – HONDA CBR1000R SP2, BOON SIEW HONDA RACING For me, this weekend is a good way to get back my race conditioning. We were not able to use our ARRC race bike so I’m still testing with my 2019 Honda CBR1000R SP2. CY KHOO – SUZUKI GSX R1000R, TEAM HIAP AIK SUZUKI RACING It was really good to finally have a session on track after the long enforced break. We only had the chance to race on the new Dunlop tyres once last year. This was a good chance for us to try out different compounds and combinations without the pressure of race-preparations. JOEY TEO – SUZUKI GSX R1000R, SAVITAR Fitness was the biggest challenge because we had not been able to race for so long. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere this weekend. Just enjoying our riding in a safe environment. The next time the MSBK organizes another open track day, I highly recommend it to any superbike riders out there. You should come and experience it for yourself. IBRAHIM NORRODIN – YAMAHA YZF600, SIC RACING TEAM Everyone is basically using this session almost as a pre-season test to get ready for the races to come. For me personally, it is so vitally important for the MSBK and the Asia Road Racing Championship to commence this year. My racing career literally hinges on it as we’ve already lost a whole year. So I really hope that the relevant authorities will give the green light for the MSBK and Asia Road Racing Championship to proceed. AZROY HAKEEM ANUAR – HONDA CBR600RR, BOON SIEW HONDA RACING It’s been almost six months since I’ve had the opportunity to get back on the 600cc bike. Overall, my laptimes from the weekend was satisfactory. Not too bad, but certainly nothing to shout about yet. I was more focused on fine-tuning my riding style astride the full frame bike. IDLAN HAQIMI – HONDA CBR250RR, BOON SIEW HONDA RACING Like Azroy, my objective for this weekend was to get back into the rhythm. It was a good opportunity to train and improve and I really appreciate having these two days to focus on 250cc riding. AHMAD FAZLI SHAM – YAMAHA Y15ZR, ONEXOX TKKR RACING TEAM My role this weekend is to be the test rider and trainer for our junior riders. So I’m lending my expertise to help the team prepare for the season to come. AHMAD AFIF AMRAN AND AIMAN TAHIRUDDIN – YAMAHA Y15ZR, CARDINALS RACING This weekend was our first time out on track with the Cardinals Racing team’s bikes. It was a good chance to get acquainted with the team and the bike. Because team Hong Leong Yamaha has decided to focus solely on the 1000cc class this year, we will be participating in the 150cc class with Cardinals Racing. We are very much looking forward to the start of the season. The championship specifications are significantly different from that of the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship. For one thing, there will be no rpm limiters in the ARRC. USAMMAH NAZAM – YAMAHA Y15ZR, GRT RACING I’m here this weekend to prepare for the MSBK150 class. I’m really excited about this opportunity to work with GRT Racing. I race in the Pro-Am category in the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship, which is competitive in and of itself. However, the MSBK150 is my chance to pit my skills against the top riders of the class. It will be a great learning opportunity. Click here for full results. Be a part of the conversation.