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Bangkok Post
Bangkok Post
Technology

Power and prestige

There are a large number of motorcycle brands at this year's Motor Expo, with several new models being introduced for the Thai market.

There are also numerous models with minor changes such as new colours and graphics. The following are some of the most interesting models launched at the Motor Expo.

BMW CE 04

 It took 10 years for BMW Motorrad to finally deliver the CE 04 to the Thai market. With a powerful 31kW (42hp) output from the liquid-cooled electric motor, the CE 04 can accelerate to 48.2kphh in just over 2.5 seconds. With a maximum speed of 120kph and an arresting acceleration, the CE 04's territory extends to open highways. Indeed, this electric motorcycle appears to have far more promise than its urban advertising implies. The CE 04's key charging times are empty to full in four hours and 20 minutes, with the optional quick charger reducing that to one hour and 40 minutes, or from 20 to 80% in 45 minutes, making a "long coffee break" charge absolutely possible. Even though this CE 04 looks really cool and has a high price tag, it is clear that it is one of the most desirable machines at this year's Motor Expo.

Price: 859,000 baht

KTM RC 390 2023

 KTM is now well-established on the racing circuit, and this year's Moto2 World Champion and countless podium finishes in Moto3 races have put KTM back on track. The 2023 KTM RC 390 is a racetrack-bred, high-performance supersports motorcycle. It is a real-world racer with undeniable pedigree, with an excellent technology package in addition to race-derived appearance, handling qualities, and a 373cc high-performance liquid-cooled four-stroke single-cylinder power delivery. Ultra-lightweight trellis frame design with world-famous 43mm adjustable WP front and rear suspension systems give the RC390 the best performance in the 400cc sports segment. KTM is also preparing to organise a large number of sports activities in Thailand soon.

Price: 239,800 baht

Suzuki V-Strom SX 250

 The Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 is the "S" size adventure bike that many people were waiting for. The V-Strom SX is considered a sports adventure tourer because it is capable of sporty handling on roads and solid handling on off-roads. What makes the V-Strom SX sport adventure tourer so popular is its adventure-inspired looks, excellent ergonomics and fully realised functionality that is tailored to the needs of customers in each displacement class. The 249cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, four-valve, oil-cooled, SOHC engine used on the V-Strom SX offers great torque at low rpm and a smooth start-up. Analytic technology gained from MotoGP was used to develop the valves, shim-type roller rocker arms, retainers, and piston to minimise their weight. This results in a lighter engine with reduced frictional loss. Suzuki Ride Connect is installed and compatible with Android OS versions 6 and later. With a price set to kill, this 250 SX will be a popular one.

Price: about 160,000 baht

Royal Enfield Scram 411

 The new Scram 411 is an engaging, approachable, and capable street scrambler with an adventure motorcycle's heart. Built on Royal Enfield's proven 411cc single-cylinder engine architecture and the Harris Performance chassis, the Scram 411 combines urban agility with capable off-road performance. With a 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, a long-travel suspension, and the perfect ground clearance in its class, the Scram 411 is nimble and fun to ride on city streets, but it can also handle rougher terrain well. When Royal Enfield Thailand launches its new "flat track" playground next year at Thailand Circuit Motorsport Park, the Scram 411 will be a perfect choice.

Price: 175,900 baht

Ducati Desert X

 The DesertX's aesthetics successfully combine the "Dakarians" motif with a touch interface-like look, combining post-heritage and digital concepts together seamlessly. The new DesertX is designed to handle the most difficult off-road terrain, running on a 21-inch front wheel set up with an 18-inch rear wheel. The new DesertX has a water-cooled 937cc Desmodromic 11° Testastretta engine with 110hp and 92Nm of torque. Manageable and smooth at low rpm, but with a torque that can release character when needed. It is easy to control on all types of trails and tarmac surfaces. Besides the technical features, this is the coolest looking bike of the Motor Expo, and not only the look, but the price and the quality match perfectly too.

Price: 639,000 baht

New Yamaha Xmax Connected

 The new Yamaha Xmax Connected is the most popular 300cc scooter in Thailand and applause should be given to the Yamaha design team. The new model appears to be more aggressive and compact, with new X-shaped front and rear LED lights. The slimmer front design comes with a new seating configuration that is more comfortable for shorter riders and tall riders as well. Innovative technological features include a dual-screen layout and instantaneous traction control that can be activated or deactivated. Yamaha also improved the braking system and electronic throttle control. There's an adjustable windscreen and U-box with a large capacity. Although the total weight has increased by 2kg, the improved overall handling is a good trade.

Price: 189,900 baht

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