Category: 2 Wheels

The co-partnership initiative between Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Two Wheels Motor Racing Sdn. Bhd. (TWMR) in promoting and alleviating the standards of Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will continue with Season 2023.

Season 2022 concluded with three rounds in total despite the uncertainty of post-pandemic. As the nation propels towards a more stable environment, the new season will foresee another 3-round cycle that will provide a value-added experience to aspiring riders. The season opener will commence on 18th August 2023. Through this effort, superbike aficionados can continue to have first-hand experience on the circuit alongside professional riders.

Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of TWMR said, “Season 2022 was made even more exciting with the introduction of an additional race class which summarised an all-inclusive championship. The participation of riders, both homegrown and foreign professionals and privateers were a promising one which gave us the confidence that MSBK is proceeding apace, locally and at the international front. Thank you to all involved in making the championship a success. This season, there is something new coming along the way. Stay tuned!”

“As we move forward, the goal is to widen the outreach which would potentially stimulate interest and consequently growth, the much-needed elements for continuous development of the motorsport industry as a whole. We aspire to attract more participants from the local and international front and already have a number of new countries with confirmed participants partaking in the coming season.

At TWMR, we strive to ensure that the standards of the MSBK are progressively up-graded to keep up with market trends and improved technology which are key drivers of sustainability. We will continue to explore avenues for advancement with the best interest in serving the demands of the industry and the motorsport community. Here’s to a new season as we move along in the direction that would enrich the experience of our MSBK family.”

Commenting on the championship, Azhan Shafriman Hanif, Chief Executive Officer of Sepang International Circuit (SIC) said, “We are proud to work closely with TWMR for this championship as a venue provider and all rounds are scheduled to take place in SIC. Each year, the championship
brings competitive racing experience with an increase in the number of participants from the local and international neighbouring countries. The previous season was a major success which complements the improvements and changes that have been made, which includes the introduction of Yamaha Y16ZR Race Masterclass.”

“As a responsible venue provider, SIC is committed to ensure top class facilities and services for the upcoming season. With the primary objective to bring national motorsports to a greater level, we would like to rally more riders and teams to compete in MSBK and welcome the fans to witness the
races in SIC this year.”

The grass roots race, FIM MiniGP Malaysia Series and SIC Ohvale Junior Championship season 3 is scheduled to take place with 5 Rounds this year.

The first round will be held at UniMAP Circuit, Perlis this weekend, 20 – 21 May 2023, while the second round at Morac Adventure Park Langkawi Circuit, Kedah on 17 – 18 June 2023. Tangkak Racing Circuit, Johor is the location for the third scheduled round on 5 – 6 August 2023, while the fourth and final round will be held at the Sepang Kart International Circuit (SIKC) on 2 – 3 September 2023 and 14 – 15 October 2023.

The FIM MiniGP Malaysia Series will featuring 18 riders aged 12 to 14 including 4 riders from Singapore, Vietnam and China who will ride Ohvale 160cc racing machines. Meanwhile, 15 riders including 5 riders from Australia, Hong Kong, Vietnam and China aged 8 to 12 will ride Ohvale 110cc racing machines in the SIC Ohvale Junior Championship.

FIM MiniGP Malaysia will also going on together with the Malaysian Supermoto Championship this year. This championship can also be watched live via Facebook FIM MiniGP Malaysia and SIC Ohvale Junior Championship.

The battle between Malaysia’s Super KIP and Thailand’s Chip Nakarin was evident in Round 1 of the Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. Taking their turns to flex their muscles and dominate the circuit with their well-rounded expertise, the season foresees exciting scenes as they go on full-throttle to conquer.

Circumstances may not have been favourable to KIP in last season but this year is all about making up for the loss, and he flew to a great start. His flawless lap time consequently his win in Race 1, may not have come as a surprise but for Chip, it was about learning his contender’s moves and using his home-ground circuit to his advantage to strike back in Race 2. With HONDA RACING THAILAND and BOON SIEW HONDA RACING TEAM gloating upon equal points, the next challenge would be the drive to dominate the chart.

Commenting on the Round 1, Chip said, “There are differences in our riding styles and tactics. Riding alongside my rivals help me understand that better and be more aware. That is important as it helps me adapt to the situation throughout the race. Round 1 was an incredible race. Of course, apart from the rivalry, it was also the heat however that’s the challenge we have to overcome.”

As for KIP, he said, “Last year was a struggle for me as I was out of the racing scene for about a year prior to that. So, while I took time to gain back the confidence and pick up on my riding abilities, it helped me project the possibilities clearer. Race 1 was an ultimate boost to get back into the momentum. Now, it is all about being ahead and fighting from here on.”

Sepang circuit will definitely be an added advantage for Khairul however Nakarin seemed to have upped his game this season and is in to take up the forthcoming hurdles ahead. The Honda riders may have the machines for speed but what fuels excitement into the game is the amalgamation of engine capacities with manoeuvring techniques.

Khairul said, “I love Sepang circuit. It is my home-ground and I have celebrated many success stories there. Nevertheless, key to the success is also the condition of the machine. As such, team work is crucial as they are the backbone to the development of a machine that is near perfect for the race.”

As for Nakarin, he said, “The motivation in Sepang would be to have Thailand flag on the podium, preferably on the top spot which is not going to be easy. Riding there would require the skill in braking at the corners and a proper riding plan. I lack skills when cornering hence need more work on that. Furthermore, with Malaysian riders on the circuit ground, it is bound to get fiery!”

The Underbone 150cc race category of FIM Asia Road Racing Championship has always been an intriguing ride especially with highly driven Asian riders in long lines, fighting to catch up in a bid to bag the limelight. Wawan Wello of PitsBike JRT Tech 2 OneWay Racing Team has showcased excellent showmanship in Round 1 and will return for greater challenges in Round 2 at Sepang International Circuit.

The 25-year-old Indonesian rider is not a stranger in his homeland and has a huge database of fans and followers. That is undeniably an attribution to his successes in the motorcycle racing scene. Wawan made his debut in ARRC in year 2018 in the last two rounds before coming back for more in
year 2019 where he made it second on the podium three times. It was not an easy year for him especially with technical issues surrounding his machine nevertheless, he put on quite a show and landed himself 7 th overall. Coming back this season after a long-hiatus on his end is a big move and despite that, Wawan has already made waves on the circuit.

“I am quite happy and satisfied with my achievements and the team work in Round 1, more so since I have not raced in the Asian racing scene for over 2 years. My experiences in the years before have definitely been a huge guide in helping me with my riding abilities. The machines in the UB150 race category are almost similar in power and capacities hence practicing on my skills are important to make the cut.”

Wawan was fiery in Round 1 where he took lead in most laps. His ability to withstand the pressure trailing him kept him grounded with a steady pace. Commenting on the ride, Wawan said, “This category paves a winning pathway for all riders. Key to this category would be finding the right
rhythm that would provide consistency throughout the ride. Consistency can only be achieved if mistakes are minimised.”

“The machines in the category are fine-tuned to achieve its maximum capacity. The mechanics are excellent in providing a setup that would work for the circuit. As a rider, my job is to up my performances, aligned with the performances of the machine. For the race at Sepang, I would have to get adapted to the setup of the machine as quick as possible so that I can make my way to the podium.”

Round 2 of PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship saw the highlight of today’s race at Dataran Seri Jempol. Kasma Daniel Kasmayudin presented a victorious moment to PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor with his win in the CP150 race category.
 
Earlier this morning, fans of Cub Prix were treated to the Super Pole session who witnessed the spectacular speed drawn by Kasma marking his fastest at 43’948s. Azroy Hakeem Anuar of Honda Yuzy Estremo Team came in second at 44’135s while Md Haziq Md Fairues of PETRONAS Sprinta
Yamaha Maju Motor made his fastest at 44’177s.
 
Luck was not on their side when Afif and Nazirul took a fall, seconds into the race. This provided the opportunity for Akid to race ahead of the troop and into P1. Akid went on, in control of the circuit for a few laps before Kasma initiated his move to strike. By the sixth lap, Kasma succeeded and
overtook Akid. Throughout the race, Kasma grounded himself firmly at P1.
 
At P2, Akid was threatened by Azroy. Nevertheless, Akid went on at P2 before finally succumbing to Azroy in the 16th lap. During that time, Kasma was boldly striding ahead with a consistent pace at P1. He gradually increased his speed and left a reasonably good lap to avoid pressure from the rider at P2. At the end of the 18th lap, Azroy, unable to maintain his momentum, was struck by Akid.
 
At the last lap, the gap between Kasma and Akid became wider and Akid lost his chances to move forward. Kasma celebrated his first victory for Season 2023 when he clocked in at 14’53:692s.
 
Commenting on the race, Kasma said, “During the race earlier, I was a little late and was left out. Adding on to the strain was the heat and I felt like the power being drained off. During that time, I tried to overtake while also retaining my racing line. Akid had the upperhand in terms of top speed therefore, I tried my best to maintain my momentum, focusing on cornering-to-cornering.”
 
“The weather was extremely hot and the tires of the other riders too were affected. We only tried to do our best, played safe to avoid any fall. I am truly grateful for the win.”
 
The second spot on the podium went to Md Akid Aziz of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha – CKJ Racing at 14’54:099s.
 
Azroy Hakeem Anuar of Honda Yuzy Estremo Team took third place at 14’54:892s.

In the CP125 category, Md Khairi Ashraf Mahmood of Jetron Yamaha YYPang Racing Team took control of Dataran Seri Jempol with a win to his name.
 
In the Shoot Out Session earlier this morning, Md Aiman Tahiruddin of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha – CKJ Racing team marked the fastest lap time at 46’430s followed by Md Khairi Ashraf Mahmood of Jetron Yamaha YYPang Racing Team at 46’435s and Md Irfan Haykal Amidi of Bad Lab Honda KC Racing at 46’539s.
 
As soon as the race flagged off, Aiman took speed ahead of the troop, preventing other riders from making a slide ahead of him at the first turn. Nevertheless, the heated battle between the riders of CP125 picked up into the first few laps and saw the exchange of position between them with the
more apparent exchange between Aiman and Firdaus. During that time, Irfan Haykal was finding the right moment to strike at P3.
 
With two more laps to go, a casualty occurred and the three leading riders took a fall. That gave Khairi Ashraf who was in P4 the opportunity to strike. Adie Putra who was at P5 immediately switched to P2. At the last lap, Khairi fled ahead to the finish line clocking in at 11’51:548s. Adie however who was at P2 was superseded by Shafiq Ezzariq who ended the race at P2.
 
Commenting on the race, Khairi said, “I am thankful to my team for the right setup of the machine. In the beginning, it was quite a tough fight especially with riders of such great calibre. Nevertheless, the opportunity opened up for me when the three riders ahead of me had a fall. I immediately raced ahead and completed the race at P1.”
 
The second spot on the podium went to his teammate, Md Syafiq Ezzariq Saiful Nizam who logged in his best at 11’53:687s.
 
Md Adie Putra Sukarno of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor took the third place, clocking in at 11’54:139s.
 
Meanwhile, in the Wira KBS category, Emil Idzhar Ezuan cheered his team Yamaha Estremo 27 Racing further with a win.
 
Emil began the race at the pole position. However, at the end of the first lap, Emil was overtaken by Adib Arsyad who was then superseded by Adib Hareez at the end of lap 2. Meanwhile, Amirun Haziq who was at P5 in the beginning of the race gave his best shot and moved up to P2 at the end of lap 6.

Mid race, Amirun put pressure upon Adib Hareez who was ahead of him and took over P1. Nevertheless, Amirun could not retain his position when Emil snatched P1 who then went on to continue the race. Towards the last few laps, Emil guarded his position well and although he was relentlessly pursued by Adib Hareez, Emil concluded the race first at 9’42:132s.
 
Commenting on the race, Emil said, “I am thankful to my parents and team for the hard work this weekend. In the beginning, I felt a little left out and could not find my pace. However, towards the end of the race, I managed to catch up with my speed and better momentum.”
 
The second spot on the podium went to Adib Hareez Hazwat of Bad Lab Honda KC Racing, logging in at 9’42:488s.
 
Ahmad Iqram Danish Ahmad Ghazali of Yamaha Estremo 27 Racing took the third spot, clocking in at 9’43:912s.

Azroy Hakeem Anuar of Honda Yuzy Idemitsu made the fastest during the qualifying session of Round 5, PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship which was held at Jempol Circuit.

The CP150 rider put on a good show at the circuit. PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship made its comeback at the circuit after a two-long-year hiatus and Azroy grabbed the chance at marking his territory with a new lap time, clocking in at 44.119s.

Despite the scorching hot weather at Jempol, Azroy was full-on, taking charge of the circuit while making the best of the laps. Azroy is now positioned fifth overall after he scored the fourth spot in Round four with a total of 42 points.

Azroy however crashed before the chequered flag was raised.

The second fastest spot belongs to Md Izzat Zaidi Md Salehan of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha – CKJ Racing team, clocking in at 44.130s.

Md Haziq Md Fairues of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha Maju Motor logged in third fastest with 44.336s.

For the CP125 category, Md Haziq Md Hamdan of Honda KC Racing took the fastest spot in the qualifying session.

Haziq who sits at the sixth position overall showcased his skills at the Jempol circuit when he hit the fastest, clocking in at 46.681s.

In the last round, he took the second spot which was also his first win on the podium.

Meanwhile, in the Wira KBS category, Md Danish Aiman Zamrul of PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha – 31 Racing once again made the fastest in the qualifying session.

Danish displayed confidence at the Jempol circuit although he did not possess any experience on the circuit. His confidence has certainly been boosted since his win in Round 4.

Throughout the qualifying session, Danish maneuvered his machine skillfully in the technical circuit and succeeded in maintaining his speed. He clocked in at 47.598s.

Coming in second and third were his teammates. Md Syamil Amsyar Md Iffende logged in second fastest at 47.714s while Md Adam Haikal Jahar made the third fastest at 47.726s. 

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,”

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. The race will also be broadcasted on Astro Arena.

Newlywed Azroy Hakeem Anuar is literally flying on the wings of love. The young 22-year-old made full use of the extended hiatus from racing by tying the knot with his sweetheart.

As the PETRONAS Malaysian Cub Prix Championship resumed with Round 3 and 4 held over the same weekend at the Sepang North Track, Azroy who races with the Honda Yuzy Idemitsu Team returned to the track buoyed by the wings of love.

Starting the CP150 Final from second on the grid, Azroy looked to be the least affected rider in the thunderstorm. While the rest of the grid slid and slipped behind him, Azroy kept a steady pace at the front to claim his first win of the season with 16’25.297s.

Azroy’s closest competitor, Mohd Izzat Zaidi was a hefty 6.8 seconds behind. 26 seconds behind Azroy, Kasma Daniel Kasmayuddin crossed the finish line in third and celebrated his first podium after his return to the Cub Prix scene.

“The rain definitely played to our advantage,” said Azroy after the race. “We were tracking the weather very closely to see which setup we needed to activate for the race. When the rain started falling during the CP125 Final, I was feeling confident that we would be able to pick up a win this round.”

Azroy’s victory sees him taking over the championship lead with 45 points. Mohd Izzat Zaidi is now up to second overall with 41 points while Mohd Muzakkir Mohamed, after a startling win in Round 1, has dropped to third overall with 33 points.

Meanwhile, Mohd Hafiza Rofa from the ONEXOXO TKKR Racing Team also celebrated his first CP125 win of the season following some deft slipstreaming moves at the last corner of the final lap. Hafiza checked in with 13’15.516s followed by Mohd Fareez Afeez and Mohd Harith Farhan Baharin in second and third respectively.

Team PETRONAS Sprinta Yamaha-31 Racing is proving to be indomitable in the age-capped Wira class. The team’s four-rider line-up virtually threw up an impenetrable green wall at the front of the Wira Final.

For the third time this season, the team founded by former Cub Prix champion K. Sivanesan, made a clean sweep of the Wira KBS podium with Mohd Aqil Danial Nasrul in first place with 8’43.194s, Mohd Danish Aiman Zamrul second and Mohd Syamil Amsyar Mohd Iffende third.