Author: reize

The Mitas E-07 Plus (E-07+) is a 50/50 dual sport tire, designed for riders who demand genuine off-road capability without sacrificing on-road stability and mileage. Available in both standard and Dakar versions, the E-07+ sits among the most popular ADV tires for Singapore and regional riders looking to tackle city, highway, and trail with a single set of rubber. After a thousand kilometers on the Kawasaki Versys-X 300—and with real-world use in Singapore and off-road conditions—here’s the verdict.

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Tread, Construction & Design

• Profile: Rounded (more road-focused than original E-07); larger individual blocks and smaller gaps than E-07 for increased road grip, especially wet tarmac
• Compound: High silica content in the standard version for improved wet grip and flexibility
• Versions: Standard (better for road and wet) vs Dakar (harder, stiffer sidewall, more suited for extended touring and heavier bikes)
• Tubeless ready: Works well for tubeless conversions—easy roadside patching if needed

Compared to its predecessor, the E-07+ offers better handling on-road, especially at lean, while retaining solid bite on loose terrain. The rounded profile and larger contact patch ensure confidence on pavement, while bigger lugs still offer reliable off-road traction.

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On-Road Performance & Comfort

• Grip: Excellent for a 50/50 tire—offers smooth, confident cornering without the typical squirm of aggressive dual sports
• Noise & Vibration: Noticeably quieter and more comfortable than rivals like the TKC80; minimal vibration at speed
• Handling: Lean angle and sidewall stiffness allow road riding almost as easy as with street-biased tires; weight is higher than pure road tires but does not significantly impact fuel efficiency for mid-sized bikes

If pavement is your primary terrain but dirt calls occasionally, the E-07+ feels secure on wet and dry tarmac year-round, suiting Singapore’s monsoon seasons and urban riding.

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Off-Road Capability

• Surface Suitability: Hardpack, gravel, rocky trails, some moderate mud—all easily managed at moderate speeds
• Front Tire: Tracks well and inspires confidence even in loose or soft conditions
• Rear Tire: Stays sure-footed on most dirt, though deep, slick mud will challenge side-to-side grip
• Mud & Extreme Trail: Will “tractor through” light-to-moderate mud but may struggle in deep, slippery ruts

While not a replacement for pure enduro knobbies, the E-07+ enables weekend trail fun without needing a wheel swap or tire change when the adventure moves off tarmac.

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Longevity & Durability

• Lifespan: 8,000–10,000km on mid-weight or heavy ADVs—exceptional for a 50/50 with this amount of off-road traction
• Wear & Cooling: Large blocks dissipate heat efficiently; tread design resists squaring and provides extra mileage, especially in the Dakar version
• Wet Condition Engineering: Side lugs contain recessed sipes for moisture channeling, improving wet road and rain performance

The E-07+ lasts significantly longer than soft knobbies (e.g., TKC80). The standard version is recommended for all-round ADV use; go Dakar only if heavily loaded, regularly two-up, or riding extreme distances.

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Value & Comparison

• Competition: Strikes a balance between Heidenau K60 Scout (long life, poor mud) and TKC80 (off-road king, short life)
• Price/Performance: Delivers premium versatility at a fair price for ADV riders who need just one set of tires for everything

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Who Should Buy the Mitas E-07 Plus?

• Adventure bike riders who mostly ride pavement but want true dirt confidence
• Commuters/long-distance tourers wanting high mileage with trail capability
• Dual sport enthusiasts who can’t or don’t want to swap wheelsets for terrain changes
• Single-motorcycle owners who need the best all-round solution for local and regional use

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Final Thoughts
The Mitas E-07 Plus is the “Goldilocks” of 50/50 ADV tires—confidence on the street, real ability on rock and trail, and durability to spare. For riders in Singapore or Southeast Asia needing one set for everything from rain-soaked expressways to Malaysian fire trails, this tire fits the bill—and often outlasts the competition.

The Michelin Pilot Road 5 (PR5) is a premium sport touring tire designed to meet the needs of daily commuters, weekend tourers, and spirited riders facing a wide mix of road and weather conditions. After thousands of kilometers on Singapore’s rain-slick, urban streets and high-speed expressways, here’s a hands-on look at why this tire is considered the gold standard for all-round performance and wet weather confidence.

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Construction, Technology & Tread

• Compound: Dual-compound (2CT, 2CT+) rubber—harder center for longevity, softer shoulders for maximum lean grip
• Profile: Radial, tubeless—available in all standard sport/sport-touring sizes for front/rear wheels
• Special Feature: Patented XST Evo “water drop” sipes and reservoir tread design—channels water away efficiently and provides adaptive wet grip as the tire wears
• Wear Markers: Progressive depth grooves and visual indicators on both front and rear for easy maintenance checks

The advanced tread pattern ensures top-level grip in the dry and class-leading wet traction, thanks to evolving tread channels that maintain water displacement performance as the tire ages.

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On-Road Performance

• Dry Grip: Exceptional confidence during aggressive acceleration and cornering; feels stable and quick to turn
• Wet Grip: Best-in-class—a clear standout for Singapore’s frequent rains, wet roads, and tropical storms; superior stopping and traction even in standing water
• Noise & Comfort: Noticeably quieter than most sport-touring rivals; minimal vibration throughout the tire’s lifespan
• Puncture Resistance: Robust radial construction; can continue holding air after minor punctures/bites (as experienced in testing)

The Pilot Road 5 is designed for year-round use, from intense dry heat to heavy monsoon conditions. Little “warm-up” is needed, and grip is consistent even at highway speeds or in cold, wet early mornings.

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Longevity, Maintenance & Value

• Lifespan: Easily 8,000–10,000km rear mileage in mixed urban, touring, and sport use; front tires typically last twice as long
• Squaring/Flat-Spot Resistance: Cornering profile helps avoid early squaring off, even after heavy commuting miles
• Price: Premium segment (S$400–$500 per set in Singapore)—outlay is offset by extended lifespan and safety over cheaper alternatives
• Cost-Efficiency: Dual compounds ensure long life in the center (for daily highway/commuter use) without sacrificing edge grip for spirited cornering

Maintenance is easy, with visible wear markers and a tough carcass for patching if needed. The PR5’s real-world durability stretches budgets compared to shorter-lived soft compounds.

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Comparison & Who Should Buy

• Best For:
  • Commuters needing all-weather safety and maximum wet grip
  • Tourers valuing consistent performance through thousands of kilometers
  • Urban riders wanting quiet, plush rolling and longevity
• Less Ideal For:
  • Strict off-road use or pure race-track riding; best on tarmac

Its main rivals (Dunlop Roadsmart III, Continental ContiRoadAttack 3, Pirelli Angel GT) put up a good fight, but the Road 5 regularly leads the pack for wet grip and progressive performance as tire wear accumulates.

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Final Thoughts
The Michelin Pilot Road 5 remains the top sport touring tire for Singapore and SE Asia, excelling in the wet, lasting through high mileages, and delivering supreme confidence for city riding and expressway soaking alike. For those who ride daily—rain or shine—the Road 5 sets an all-new benchmark for durability, grip, and value.

The Metzeler Roadtec Z6 is a long-standing name in the sport touring segment, favored for its durability and affordable price point. But does this tire still hold up for today’s riders, or does its dated technology bring drawbacks? Here’s what to expect after 12,000km and several years on a Kawasaki ZX-6R in Singapore’s wet and dry urban conditions.

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Tire Specs, Fitment & Longevity

• Sizes Tested: 120/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear
• Bike Used: 2005 Kawasaki ZX-6R
• Lifespan: Outstanding wear resistance; rear tire logged a combined ~12,000km (including 4,000km from the previous owner), still not fully worn to the wear bars
• Cost: Very budget-friendly—rear tire cost just S$160, making it one of the cheapest options for sport tourers and heavier bikes

The Z6’s compound resists wear even under heavy bikes and long-mile touring use, meaning fewer tire changes and lower overall running costs compared to softer premium options.

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Dry Weather Grip & Handling

• Dry Traction: Decent for normal street riding and commuting; most name-brand sport-touring tires in this segment offer safe, predictable dry grip
• Profile: Noticeably flat, with a broad center strip optimized for mileage, not agility
• Handling: Heavy feeling, requires more effort to lean into corners, tends towards understeer—especially noticeable on sporty bikes like the ZX-6R

While dry weather grip is more than adequate for non-aggressive riders and touring, those seeking quick turn-in and agile handling will find the Z6 less inspiring, especially at the bike’s limits.

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Wet Weather & Hard Braking

• Rain Performance: Below average—prone to “micro-slips” or momentary slide-outs in the wet, though full skids are rare at reasonable speeds
• Braking: Hard stops, especially on damp surfaces, bring out the tire’s limitations quickly

In Singapore’s frequent wet weather, the Z6 lags behind modern sport touring tires (like Michelin Pilot Road 5) that are designed for advanced wet grip and short stopping distances. Cautious riding is a must in rain on older Z6 rubber.

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Practicality, Durability & Use Case

• Puncture Resistance: Solid—survived punctures and held up well after patching, making it a trusted companion for budget-conscious commuters or touring riders
• Fuel Economy: Slight negative impact due to heavier, denser construction compared to modern light-weight sport touring tires
• Ideal Owners: Suited to heavy bikes used for relaxed, straight-line highway or long-distance commuting, where mileage savings trump dynamic performance

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Downsides & Alternatives

• Lacks the confidence and safety of modern compounds in the wet, especially for aggressive street riders
• Flat profile and heavy weight decrease fuel efficiency and limit spirited riding fun
• Handling quirks make it less appealing for lightweight or high-performance bikes

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Final Thoughts

The Metzeler Roadtec Z6 delivers exceptional mileage and unbeatable value for touring riders and commuters who prioritize longevity above all else. However, its dated design means wet road performance, agility, and overall safety are clearly outclassed by newer sport-touring offerings. For those who just need a solid, wallet-friendly tire for heavy bikes or as a backup, the Z6 remains serviceable; spirited riders and all-weather commuters should invest in modern alternatives for extra grip and reassurance.

The BMW F800GS stands as a highly-respected benchmark in the middleweight adventure segment. Combining a torquey parallel-twin motor, true off-road capability, and signature BMW refinement, it’s favored by round-the-world travelers and local adventure bikers alike. Here’s what it’s like to experience a nearly new F800GS in Australian conditions—and why it still earns high praise in 2025.

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Engine & Performance

• Engine: 798cc liquid-cooled parallel twin
• Power: Ample, linear delivery—cruises comfortably at 120 km/h in third gear, easily stretching to 180+ km/h in sixth
• Throttle: Smooth, fly-by-wire response—no herky-jerky delivery, extremely controllable at city and trail pace
• Transmission: Six-speed; gear ratios make it equally adept at steep hills and fast highway stretches
• Fuel Tank: 16L, centrally and low-mounted under the seat for superb balance; real 350-400km tank range when touring

Rather than the traditional boxer, the parallel twin allows a slim frame, makes lane splitting and narrow trail riding easier, and offers a unique “GS” experience.

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Handling, Suspension & Braking

• Front Suspension: 43mm upside-down forks (non-adjustable); plush yet controlled—absorbs both potholes and gravel
• Rear Suspension: Rebound-adjustable shock; great for solo riding or loaded touring
• Wheels: 21-inch front, 17-inch rear, both spoked for toughness on rocks and curbs
• Brakes: Powerful Brembo setup (front and rear), ABS can be disabled for off-road sliding
• Handling: Upright, roomy, and confidence-inspiring—nimble in turns, stable on high-speed highways, and easy to transition from road to dirt

Convenient features like removable rubber peg inserts and a lockable side stand make it adventure-ready out of the box.

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Comfort, Ergonomics & Cockpit

• Seat: Plush, easy to remove for maintenance; stays supportive even after hundreds of kilometers
• Riding Position: Tall, upright, wide bars—suits both urban commutes and off-road standing
• Dashboard: Clear analog speedo/tach, digital fuel and temp, odometer, clock, and gear selector; not as “tech-forward” as later GS models, but robust and easy to use
• Heated Grips: Stock in markets like Australia; three settings for all-weather comfort
• Windshield: Small and fixed; acceptable for short hauls, but upgrade for long highway stretches

The cockpit is simple, functional, and a cinch to maintain. Some quirks, like Torx bolts (BMW special tools required), make DIY work more involved but not prohibitive for the prepared owner.

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Practical Details & Reliability

• Side Panels & Airbox: Easily removable seat and side panels for fast access to battery, airbox, and electronics
• Fueling & Weight Distribution: The under-seat tank improves balance and makes the bike less top-heavy as you ride
• ABS: Switchable on the fly for true off-road flexibility
• Stock Tires: Michelin Tourance Next—good on-road, upgrade to knobbies for serious dirt
• Durability: After years and thousands of kilometers, F800GSs are still prized for their ruggedness and reliability, making them top picks in both developed and developing markets

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Who Should Buy the BMW F800GS?

• Adventurers who want a proven, reliable do-it-all platform
• Commuters seeking a tall, secure, comfortable city and highway ride
• Tourers planning long-distance journeys with plenty of luggage and comfort
• Intermediate off-roaders who want true trail ability in a manageable package

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Final Thoughts
The BMW F800GS remains a top pick for riders seeking a versatile, robust, and truly adventure-ready motorcycle. With its blend of approachable power, stellar handling, reliable build, and thoughtful details, it’s the perfect companion for exploring Australia, Singapore, or anywhere the tarmac meets the wild.

The Kawasaki Versys X-300 stands out as one of the most accessible lightweight “adventure” bikes on the market, fusing Ninja DNA with upright ergonomics, practical city comfort, and credible gravel road ability. After a year of stock ownership, here’s a candid breakdown of what makes this 300cc twin unique—and where it shines or stumbles for riders in Singapore and Southeast Asia.

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Engine & Performance

• Engine: 296cc liquid-cooled parallel twin (sourced from Ninja 300, retuned for low end)
• Power delivery: Mellow, with most punch above 8,000 rpm; rev happy and smooth, but lacks the low-end torque of single-cylinder dual sports
• On-road: Great for daily rides, highways, and city traffic; highway cruising is stable, and the engine spins up happily to redline
• Off-road: Works for gravel paths and mild dirt, but requires momentum, high revs, and careful gear choice for climbs—limited torque makes slow, technical off-roading a challenge

The X-300 is best thought of as a road-biased “crossover.” Its limits only show up in true rough terrain where a proper dual-sport or ADV would be needed.

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Handling, Comfort, & Ergonomics

• Weight: Lightweight and approachable—easy to pick up and maneuver
• Suspension: Long travel for the class (5.1 in front / 5.8 in rear) but non-adjustable; tuned well for road comfort and mild trail damping
• Seat height: Reasonably low, making it friendly for shorter and average-height riders
• Riding position: Upright with high bars—neutral enough for all sizes, offering long-distance comfort and all-day city usability
• Seat: Wide, plush, and curved “banana” style—excellent for touring

Its ergonomics stand out for comfort and adaptability, catering to both new and experienced riders who want reliability with a bit of adventure flair.

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Street & Touring Features

• Luggage: Factory side boxes and hand guards fitted on some 2018 models—small panniers, practical for light touring but minimal in capacity (24L combined)
• Electronics: ABS standard on both wheels (not switchable); reliable on road but limiting for off-road due to inability to disable
• Lighting: LED fog lights and halogen main light on 2018 models; effective for on-road use, less so for pitch-black off-road
• Crash protection: Comes with basic crash bars, plastic covers—functional for urban drops but minimal for hard trail work

Stock features provide a real benefit for urban commuters and new adventure riders, but off-road modders will find room for upgrades.

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Chassis, Wheels & Brakes

• Wheels: 19” front, 17” rear—spoked alloys, good for durability but limited in off-road tire options
• Brakes: ABS-equipped, non-adjustable; offer strong road stopping power but less confidence when descending loose off-road terrain
• Ground Clearance: About 7 inches—adequate for gravel trails, but not technical off-roading

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Dashboard & Practicality

• Instruments: Classic analog tachometer, digital speedo, fuel gauge, trip info, gear indicator, clock; borrowed from Ninja 650—easy to read and informative
• Fuel economy: 22–26 km/l depending on riding (city/highway mixed)
• Tank: 17L—huge for sub-400cc, enabling genuine touring range

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Weak Points & Quirks

• Underwhelming off-road: Limited by lack of power at low rpm, ABS you can’t disable, rubber street foot pegs, no stock skid/belly plate, and basic tires (Dunlop Trail Winners)
• Small windshield: Not adjustable and minimal wind protection on long rides
• Luggage boxes: Small, awkwardly shaped for serious touring

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Who Should Buy the Versys X-300?

• New adventure and touring riders needing manageable size and weight
• Urban commuters who crave comfort, range, and a go-anywhere attitude for light exploration
• Experienced street riders seeking a reliable “second” bike for day trips, camping, or city hops

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Final Thoughts
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys X-300 is a solid entry in the adventure segment, excelling as a versatile commuter and lightweight touring machine for the Singaporean cityscape and Malaysia’s trunk roads. While not a hardcore dirt bike, its reliability, comfort, frugal running, and approachable manners make it one of the most practical choices in its class for urban and regional riders.

The Shoei JO 3/4 Jet Helmet stands out in the world of open-face helmets for blending classic design, comfort, and trusted Japanese quality. After three years of regular, real-world use on city errands and short rides, here’s what sets the Shoei JO apart for urban commuters, scooter riders, and retro-styled café racer fans.

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Design & Build Quality

• Shell: Polycarbonate outer shell that feels robust and well-crafted, offering decent impact protection for an open-face lid
• Sizing: Compact, close-fitting silhouette avoids the dreaded “bubble head” look common in many modern jet helmets—a major style advantage for Vespa, Lambretta, and classic bike riders
• Graphics: Available in a variety of stylish schemes; the reviewed model featured British racing stripes and Union Jack accents, lending a classic Italian/European scooter vibe

The shell exudes premium aesthetics without excessive bulk, making it a favorite for urban riders who prioritize both safety and street style.

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Comfort & Fit

• Interior: Plush, moisture-wicking liner that remains comfortable and breathable, even in humid Singaporean weather
• Liner: Fully removable and washable—easy to maintain and keep fresh for year-round riding
• Ear Pads & Channels: Built-in cutouts make it comfortable for riders with communication systems; soft cheek pads and ear accommodations enhance long-term comfort
• Retention: Secures with a sturdy double D-ring strap, ensuring a snug and adjustable fit

The Shoei JO is designed for comfort during short commutes and city speeds, keeping sweat build-up and discomfort at bay.

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Visor & Ventilation

• Drop-Down Visor: Integrated flip-down sun visor (can be swapped for clear or smoked options); easy to operate left- or right-handed for instant eye protection from sun, wind, and debris
• Coverage: The visor covers the eyes and upper face with a solid seal—helping prevent wind or bugs from becoming a nuisance at speed
• Ventilation: Subtle vent channels wick away heat and moisture, keeping the interior cool during slow rides or in stop-and-go traffic

For city use, the visor system is far more effective than retro clip-on shields, providing quick transitions between light conditions and solid wind protection for the eyes.

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Practicality & Everyday Use

• Weight: Light enough for daily use without creating neck fatigue; perfect for errands, groceries, and any ride under 60–70km/h
• Use Case: Ideal for city riding, urban commutes, or short joyrides—especially for scooter and café racer riders who want retro style with modern quality
• Goggle Strap: Leather strap on the back for securing classic aviator goggles, a nod to vintage customization or open-air classic riding experiences

While the Shoei JO is not intended for high-speed or long-distance touring (given its open-face nature), it excels as a stylish, comfy helmet for buzzing around town or join-the-dots commuter runs.

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Who Should Buy the Shoei JO Jet Helmet?

• Urban scooter and Vespa riders looking for a premium, stylish open-face solution
• Café racer, custom, and retro motorcycle fans wanting a helmet that matches vintage or classic aesthetics
• Commuters seeking a plush, compact helmet for short rides and daily errands
• Riders wanting Japanese quality and safety in an open-face format

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Final Thoughts
The Shoei JO Jet Helmet is the benchmark urban open-face for those who want style, comfort, and trustworthy build, but don’t need full-face touring protection. With a sleek design, plush fit, and practical drop-down visor, it’s the helmet Singapore’s scooter and mini-moto enthusiasts should have on their shortlist for 2024 and beyond.

The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS continues to be one of the most well-balanced entry-level/middleweight sportbikes, offering a perfect compromise between commuter-friendly comfort, fun weekend performance, and real-world running costs. After a full day and 200+ km around Sapporo and southern Hokkaido, here’s why the Ninja 650 deserves its reputation as an accessible, reliable all-rounder.

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Engine & On-Road Performance

• Engine: 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin delivers 67 hp and brisk torque, with usable pull from low to high revs
• Throttle Response: Smooth, predictable, and never intimidating—great for newer riders moving up
• Real-World Power: Pulls effortlessly to 100–150 km/h; overtakes and highway sprints are easy, but power is manageable at all speeds
• Fuel Efficiency: Outstanding for a sport tourer—200 km uses less than half a tank under spirited mixed riding

The Ninja 650’s engine is tractable, fun, and confidence-inspiring for every rider, from urban commuters to those exploring open roads.

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Handling, Suspension & Braking

• Chassis: Lightweight trellis frame and compact dimensions are easy to flick around town or in the twisties
• Turning & Flickability: Feels “toy-like” compared to supersports—quick to steer, easy to maneuver
• Suspension: Comfort-tuned, absorbs bumps well; may feel soft for heavier or aggressive riders (front non-adjustable, rear preload only)
• Brakes: Strong, predictable bite; dual front discs and single rear, with reliable ABS that’s unobtrusive on tarmac, stable even on occasional gravel

Urban traffic, rural highways, or country lanes—the Ninja 650 delivers consistently smooth and stable handling for daily use and weekend rides alike.

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Comfort, Ergonomics & Features

• Riding Position: Upright and neutral with comfy wide bars—no wrist pain, great for long rides or prior injuries
• Seat Height: 790mm, narrow up front, makes flat-footing easy for most riders; shorter inseam riders will appreciate the confidence
• Tall Rider Note: Over 177cm, the leg/knee space can feel cramped—lower body feels more “sportbike” than “tourer”
• Seat: Narrow and not plush, but functional for its class and price
• Wind Protection: Stock windscreen and fairing provide effective shelter up to 120–150 km/h

Modern practical touches include hazard lights, a clear digital dash (gear indicator, clock, trip meters), and effective, wide mirrors—though styling-minded owners may want to go aftermarket.

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Reliability, Build & Everyday Use

• Quality: Rental unit with 10,000+ km remained tight, smooth, and engine ran “like clockwork”
• Fuel Tank: 15 liters, giving real-world range above 300km per fill
• Luggage: Easy to mount for commuting or light touring; fairing and screen give meaningful weather protection

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Who Should Buy the Ninja 650 ABS?

• New/upgrading riders seeking power without intimidation
• Commuters wanting robustness, comfort, and easy daily running
• Weekend sport-tourers looking for reliability and affordable maintenance
• Returning motorcyclists who want friendly, forgiving power and practical ergonomics

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Final Thoughts
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 650 ABS remains a best-in-class sport-touring choice, delivering forgiving power, true comfort, great fuel economy, and fun handling in an affordable, reliable package. For Singapore and Southeast Asia, this is one middleweight that fits nearly every brief—without the drama of a full supersport, but with all the smiles.

The 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 is legendary in the sportbike world. As one of the last 636cc models before Kawasaki standardized its mid-size supersports to 600cc, this bike is renowned for its punchy torque, comfortable ergonomics, and durability. After over two years of daily riding, city commutes, and highway sprints, here’s why this “banana machine” still deserves a place in any serious rider’s garage.

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Engine & Power Delivery

• Engine: 636cc inline-four, fuel injected
• Performance: Delivers broad, even power across the rev range—more usable torque than most 600s, with smooth acceleration from the bottom to redline
• Aftermarket: Common upgrades include slip-on exhausts (like Akrapovič), but performance gains over stock are modest unless you opt for a full system

The 636’s unique displacement means more everyday usable power, making overtakes and urban riding far less frantic than 599cc competitors. While not a class leader in outright top speed today, its linear powerband and bulletproof engine ensure it’s still lively and engaging both on road and track.

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Ergonomics & Comfort

• Posture: Less aggressive than contemporary R6, GSXR600, or CBR600RR—more neutral, with hands roughly in line with the knees and a lower “butt-up” seating
• Seat: Wide, plush, and supportive—original padding lasts for years without degrading comfort (great for longer rides)
• Rider Fit: Suits larger/taller riders especially well thanks to its physical size and seat support, although smaller riders may find it “fattier” and more unwieldy

Despite being designed for performance, the 2005 ZX-6R is remarkably livable for everyday Singapore and city use, with less wrist and back strain compared to newer, racier supersports.

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Handling, Stability & Ride Quality

• Weight: On the heavier side for a 600 (especially compared to modern bikes), which brings superb high-speed stability on expressways and highways
• Cornering: Enjoys stable, planted handling in long sweepers; the extra front-end weight helps during fast riding and in windy conditions
• Low-Speed Behavior: Slightly cumbersome at parking lot speeds—slower and heavier than newer 600s or 1000s
• Brakes: Strong but easily locked; no ABS or modern electronics, so skilled manual control is essential

The “big bike” feel is a blessing for confidence on highways but a curse for tight urban spaces and tight maneuvering.

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Practicality, Reliability & Ownership

• Reliability: Legendary Kawasaki durability; engines routinely see high mileage (80,000+ km) with no rebuilds required. Oil/filter changes are infrequent and affordable.
• Fuel Consumption: Modest by modern standards—expect 13 km/l in the city, up to ~16 km/l in mixed riding. With a 17L tank, refueling is necessary every 190–220 km.
• Electronics: No ABS or traction control. Maintenance quirks include a tricky battery location and finicky ECU placement prone to heat (fixed in 2006+ models).
• Comfort Features: Fat seat, wide riding triangle, and low pegs means it’s great for long-distance sport touring—much better than expected from a supersport of its era.

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Downsides & Caveats

• Weight and size: Intimidating for shorter or new riders; hard work in dense city traffic or parking.
• Fuel economy: Relatively thirsty compared to modern 600s or naked bikes.
• Heat management: ECU placement and undertail exhaust can get hot, especially in city stop-and-go (improved in later models).

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Who Should Buy the 2005 Ninja ZX-6R 636?

• Retro superbike fans who want a reliable, bulletproof Japanese engine and classic looks
• Tall/larger riders seeking a sportbike that’s genuinely comfortable and supportive
• Commuters and sport-tourers who crave classic superport looks but demand all-day comfort
• Track day enthusiasts looking for an affordable entry ticket with proven credentials and tuning potential

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Final Thoughts
The 2005 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 636 balances performance, comfort, and everyday practicality better than most modern 600s. It’s a true “banana machine”—muscular, plush, and fast enough to keep up on twisty roads or expressways, without punishing its owner off the track. If you’re shopping for a used supersport in Southeast Asia or Singapore, this 636 deserves serious consideration for its unique blend of power, comfort, reliability, and iconic mid-2000s style.

The Icon Airframe Pro Barong Graphics stands out as one of the most visually striking and unique full-face helmets on the market, blending high-performance build with deep Southeast Asian cultural influences. After a year-plus of intermittent ownership and a direct warranty replacement courtesy of Icon’s customer service, here’s a comprehensive real-world review for style-conscious riders.

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Style, Aesthetics & Cultural Influence

• Graphics: The Barong design is inspired by the mythological Balinese creature—half-man, half-lion, protector in Indonesian culture—featuring intricate Balinese motifs, stylized gold, vivid reds, and blues.
• Finish: Gold portions are metal-flaked and highly reflective under sunlight, giving the helmet an unparalleled “wow” factor at bike meets or in traffic.
• Icon’s Artistic Commitment: The Barong rivals flagship graphic designs like the Pleasure Dome series, standing out for its detailed, hand-applied look and cultural storytelling.

This helmet is for those who want their gear to make a bold statement as much as they want premium protection.

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Build Quality & Real-World Durability

• Shell: Lightweight composite construction; aggressive, race-ready profile
• Comfort liner: Plush, snug fit with top-tier materials
• Visor system: Secure seal, drop-down functionality (visors available clear/yellow/tinted)
• Chin & base gaskets: Noted issues with the original model—gasket and liner adhesion can degrade over time, causing water ingress or liner sag; these concerns led to a replacement under warranty in your experience

While the helmet feels premium in the hand and on the head, users should monitor visor coatings and gaskets for premature wear, especially in humid climates like Singapore.

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Customer Service Experience

• ICON Support: Despite the official 1-year helmet warranty, Icon customer service went above and beyond by honoring a replacement on the faulty Pleasure Dome 2, requiring only proof of damage
• Aftermarket: Clear visor fog-resistant coating is delicate—prone to peeling/flaking with repeated cleaning. Potential improvements may be present in newer batches, but buyers should handle with care

The major upside is that Icon stands by its users, offering strong after-sales service that matches the premium price.

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Comfort, Fit, and Functionality

• Fit: Sport-tuned, intermediate oval with snug race fit—ideal for spirited riding, but may feel tight for rounder heads
• Ventilation: Well-designed, offering aggressive airflow that’s effective for tropical Southeast Asian conditions
• Weight: Lightweight enough for extended rides without fatigue

The plush liner, quick-release system, and quality venting make it enjoyable for both daily wear and spirited rides—so long as the fit matches your head shape and you take care with the visor.

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Who Should Buy the Icon Airframe Pro Barong?

• Sportbike and naked bike enthusiasts seeking premium, individually styled helmets
• Riders with cultural pride: It’s a perfect celebration of Balinese heritage and motorcycle artistry
• Track riders: Aggressive profile and fit suit high-speed use; ECE and DOT certified
• Urban riders: Head-turning visuals and solid visibility boost confidence and safety on city streets

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Final Thoughts
The Icon Airframe Pro Barong is a technical, high-spec motorcycle helmet that doubles as rolling art. Premium build quality, excellent ventilation, and top-level customer support make it a compelling (if pricey) choice for riders who value both protection and personality. Monitor visor/gasket wear, care for the unique finishes, and this helmet will keep turning heads for years to come.

The Shinko Trail Master E 705 is an 80/20 dual sport tire built for riders who want affordability, street comfort, and off-road versatility without breaking the bank. Tested on a Suzuki DRZ400SM in Singapore, this tire offers a practical option for city, light adventure, and occasional gravel excursions. Here’s how it stacks up in real-world use.

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Construction, Sizing & Fit

• Fitment: Review set used 120/70-17 front and 140/80-17 rear—raises ride height slightly, adds 1–2 inches to stance
• Profile: More neutral than aggressive ADV tires, reducing the “stand-up” effect mid-corner
• Price: Exceptionally affordable (roughly S$200+/pair, depending on size), making it one of the best bang-for-buck options for the dual sport and SM crowd in Singapore

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Street Performance

• Dry Grip: Surprisingly good on clean pavement at regular street speeds, though not as sticky as top pure road tires (e.g., Battlax BT-090)
• Noise and Vibration: Little to no vibration noticeable at highway speeds; occasional low-speed rumble under 40 km/h
• Handling: Heavier steering vs. premium street tires, but easy to acclimate with time; extra height and weight can slightly blunt acceleration and fuel economy

Wet grip is the obvious limitation—slippery or rainy days are best left to experienced riders or avoided altogether if possible. Street use excels primarily in dry, warm climates.

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Off-Road & Trail Capability

• Surface Suitability: Excellent for gravel roads, hardpack, shallow mud, and light trails
• Self-Cleaning: Wide tread spacing sheds debris easily, but low block depth limits performance in deep mud or soft soil
• Shallow Wet Traction: Struggles in heavy/wet mud and loses assurance due to the shallow, uniform blocks

Shinko 705s reward dual sport and SM owners who mostly commute or ride gently off-road, with enough competence for non-extreme trail fun or rural exploring.

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Longevity & Value

• Expected Life: Conservative estimate is 12,000–15,000 km due to their hard rubber compound (pending full long-term results)
• All-Weather Use: Hard compound will prolong mileage but further sacrifices wet grip—ideal for dry seasons, track, or geometry changes (supermoto, ADV)
• Budget-Friendly: Delivers excellent value for money compared to premium brands and specialized adventure tires

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Downsides & Limitations

• Wet Pavement: Slick feel; exercise caution or avoid riding in rain
• Heaviness: Affects acceleration and fuel use compared to lighter, sport-biased tires

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Who Should Buy the Shinko Trail Master E 705?

• Budget-focused commuters and dual sport riders in Singapore/SEA
• Supermoto owners wanting versatile, affordable new shoes
• ADV and trail riders who prioritize durability and dry-road safety over pure performance
• Urban riders seeking a single tire for spirited street and mild off-road use

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Final Thoughts
The Shinko E 705 is the top budget pick for value-conscious riders wanting an 80-20 tire that performs solidly in Singapore’s hot climate—on both street and mild offroad routes. Wet grip is its weak spot, but for the price and versatility, it’s the easiest recommendation for casual adventure and dual sport fans who want more miles for less.