Syarikat Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn. Bhd (National Motorcycle and Engine Company), or known as Modenas for short is a Malaysian national motorcycle company producing various small motorcycle models below 400cc targeted for local market and export. The company's headquarters and factory are located at the small town of Gurun, Kedah, Malaysia.
The history of the company began at the early 1990s. After the success of Malaysian automotive manufacturer Proton, the government looked forward to launch a national motorcycle project. Modenas was formed in 1995 and majority of its shares were held by Kawasaki, Sojitz, Khazanah Nasional and DRB-HICOM.
Modenas achieved its 1,000,000th unit production in June 2007. Currently Modenas is exporting its products to 17 countries worldwide with Greece, Russia, Middle East and South America being the largest importer.
Models
Generally, Modenas produces motorcycle models ranging below 250cc. Most models are scooter models and Honda Super Cub compatible mopeds, or known by Malaysians as underbone (kapcai).
Modenas Kriss is the first model launched by Modenas in 1996. The model is actually named after a Malaysian traditional weapon, Keris, though some motorcycle shops in the United Kingdom had mistakenly advertised the model to be named from the acronym of a famous American motorcycle racer, Kenny Roberts because Modenas had once built some racing motorcycles for Modenas KRMotorcycle Grand Prix team.
It was previewed to the public during Malaysian National Day parade in 1996 and began production at the end of 1996. The original model only uses drum brakes, but in 1999 the front disc brake model was launched, known as Kriss 2 (or Kriss 115 Sports in some countries). Powered by 111cc Kawasaki-developed engines, Modenas Kriss becomes the best-selling motorcycle model in Malaysia.
Another Kriss variant known as Kriss SG was launched in 2002. However, unlike other Kriss variants, this model did not sell very well due to its outdated design.
All Kriss series variants outcame major cosmetic changes in 2003 especially at the lights for newer, better looks.
In 2005, all Kriss 110 variants have been phased out to make way for production of Kristar, leaving only Kriss 100 as the sole variant of Kriss. However, Modenas decided to bring back the Kriss 110 into production in August 2006 due to extremely high demand from the customers, which is known as Kriss 110SE.
Kriss 110 SE
This is the Modenas Newest Kriss Motorcycle. Since Kriss is the most good selling motorcycle in Malaysia (rather than Kristar), Modenas decided to bring Kriss back and called them Kriss 110 SE (Second Edition).
Kriss 100
After the success of Kriss variants to dominate 110cc small motorcycle segment in Malaysian market, Modenas launched another Kriss variant, this time with a 97cc engine developed by Modenas. This model uses the same chassis and components as its other Kriss 'brothers' except the engine. However, there is no disc brake option available for Kriss 100.
KR3 500cc
1997 Modenas KR3 racing motorcycle
The Modenas KR3 was the first racing motorcycle ever produced by Modenas. It featured a 500cc V3 engine which was different from most 500cc Motorcycle GP which used 4-cylinder engines. The KR3 was built by Modenas for Team Roberts (managed by Kenny Roberts) Motorcycle Grand Prix team from 1997 to 2001 before taken over by Proton from 2002 to 2004 with the same machine before the team moved to Proton KR5 machines.
Jaguh 175
In 1999, Modenas launched a small cruiser model based on popular Kawasaki Eliminator 125 cruiser series. This model is aimed for bikers who wish to own larger motorcycles that are based upon the style of American cruiser motorcycles but cannot afford to own them, due to very high duties on imported motorcycles placed by the government and also refusal of the banks to finance loans on large motorcycles.
Karisma 125
During these recent years, more and more scooter models were introduced in Malaysia. However, Kawasaki never produced any scooters, therefore Modenas had to source from a Taiwanese scooter company for the technology transfer.
The earliest production batches suffered poor handling, and after some improvements the handling of this model became better and Modenas Karisma dominates the Malaysian scooter market since 2004.
Elit Sport 150
In August 2003, Modenas introduced three scooters, based on models produced by PGO Scooters of Taiwan. Mostly as the great competitor of scooter producer such as Suzuki VS, Yamaha and Honda.
Modenas Elit scooter, basically a rebadged PGO Scooters T-Rex was launched as an alternative to the Karisma model, in two displacement choices – 125cc and the larger, more powerful 150cc variant. Another PGO-based 150cc model, the PGO G-Max 150(called as BLUR 150 in USA & BOBCAT 150 in Europe) was introduced as the "Modenas Elit Sports" in Malaysia, with a more aggressive engine tuning, alloy swing-arm and different more solid chassis/new era body design. The standard engine of Elit Sport 150cc pick up and top speed can easily beat Standard Cup Motors such as Honda EX5 100, Honda Wave 125, Modenas Kriss 110, Modenas Kriss 120, Yamaha Lagenda 100 and 115, and Nouvo LC 135.
Ceria
A Modenas Ceria scooter
Modenas Ceria scooter was launched together with the Elit model. Also based on a PGO (the BuBu 100), this more retro-styled scooter uses a smaller 101cc engine, making Ceria the scooter with the smallest displacement ever produced by Modenas.
Dinamik
After years producing only 4-stroke powered motorcycles, Modenas launched its first 2-stroke motorcycle, based from the Kawasaki Leo Star and rebadged and named as the Dinamik. Dinamik together with Elit and Ceria scooters. It is also claimed by Modenas that this model exceeded Euro 2emission standards without the addition of a catalytic converter.
This model was built by Modenas as a preparation to take part in Malaysian Cub Prix tournament which are currently dominated by Yamaha and Honda machines. During the tournament, Modenas increases the displacement up to 125, the original Kawasaki Leo Star which the Dinamik is based upon is originally only having a displacement of 118cc (hence named Leo Star 120) to provide more power and torque.
Elegan
At the end of February 2004, Modenas launched their first water-cooled scooter, Modenas Elegan. This model is targeted for those who wants to travel long distances. In addition to more powerful water-cooled engine, Elegan scooter features a large gasoline tank accessible under the handlebars, large underseat storage compartment, and digital meter panel for odometer, fuel gauge and thermometer. The engine cylinder is coated with Ni-Si ceramic for better reliability during long distance travels.
Kristar
Kristar was launched by Modenas at the end of 2004. Modenas decided to produce Kristar as their all-new model after nearly a decade of Modenas Kriss production.
Even though Kristar uses the same engine as Kriss, Modenas claimed that Kristar achieved better fuel economy of 46.95km/L @ 90km/h, compared with Kriss with the fuel economy of 44km/L @ 90km/h. The increase of fuel economy is due to the installation of the fuel tank breather tube connected to the inlet manifold for better fuel emission and better fuel economy.
Besides of the new design and better fuel economy, Kristar also features an underseat compartment that can be opened from the same ignition key slot, dual headlights, stylish superbike-like muffler and rear light failure detection system which claimed by Modenas as the only model equipped with this system.
Passion
Modenas Passion is the latest scooter model launched by Modenas in January 2006. Using a pair of 14-inch cast iron wheels, Modenas Passion has a direct competition with Yamaha Ego.
X-cite
Modenas X-cite 130
Modenas X-cite is the latest motorcycle model launched by Modenas on 12 September 2006 as the largest Cub仔 (kapcai) model ever manufactured by Modenas to compete with the water-cooled Yamaha Y135LC.
The main features of the Modenas X-cite are as follows:-
Fuel tank which is accessible at the front, just below the handlebars which can be opened via ignition key slot
The newer Modenas that was launched in March 2009. It is reintroduced as a redesigned chassis based on X-cite 130.
This model has become one of the Malaysian best seller Moped in 2009. GT 128 also has the highest spec in its class, nearing the 135 LC. Currently GT128 is the flagship model of Modenas market. Besides, GT 128 is known for low fuel consumption at economical speed compared to its competitors.
The redowngraded of Modenas GT128 with the 110cc engine. It uses the revolusioner GT128 chassis while the main power is came from 110cc kriss 1 redesign engine. The Modenas CT is the replacement of Modenas Kriss 1 and 2.
Currently, Modenas has develop an E-Bike, known as CTric that use 100% of electricity to move it. With its zero emission when used, it was predicted to launch before the end of 2010.
A fully electric bike using the same chassis as CT110/100. It was launched on 17 June 2011 and also the first time MODENAS entering the electric vehicle segment.
This model is believed to be the first electric bike model using the underbone chassis which is most of the small electric bike is based on the scooter models.
ACE 115
Modenas ACE 115 has launched their new model after the Modenas CT. The concept of this bike is scooter with moped which mean the bike have 2 characteristics. This bike also has new feature on it, there is a vertical monoshock like that on the Ducati Panigale.
CT 115s
The newest moped from Modenas since Ace 115. There are 2 colours available upon launching. Cherry Red & Cherry Blue.
Kriss MR2
Launch at April 2017, upgrade version of Kriss MR1 with 110cc. Kriss MR2 has 4.5L tank capacity, front disk brake and more stylish design than its predecessors. Speculation said that Kriss MR2 are the rebadge of Zongshen ZS 110-26 motorcycle.[1]
Modenas formed a factory team and supported some other teams using their machines to take part in Malaysian Cub Prix, a tournament of moped held in Malaysia to compete with Yamaha and Suzuki machines. The teams use Modenas Kriss machines for Wira category and Modenas Dinamik for Expert category.
Modenas also used to take part in MotoGP via Team Modenas KR before taken over by Proton in 2001. Kenny Roberts and Bud Aksland built the 500cc V3-cylinder 2-stroke machine for the team.
Related Research Articles
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is a Japanese mobility manufacturer that produces motorcycles, motorboats, outboard motors, and other motorized products. The company was established in 1955 upon separation from Yamaha Corporation, and is headquartered in Iwata, Shizuoka, Japan. The company conducts development, production and marketing operations through 109 consolidated subsidiaries as of 2012.
The Honda Super Cub or Honda Cub is a Honda underbone motorcycle with a four-stroke single-cylinder engine ranging in displacement from 49 to 124 cc.
A motorcycle engine is an engine that powers a motorcycle. Motorcycle engines are typically two-stroke or four-stroke internal combustion engines, but other engine types, such as Wankels and electric motors, have been used.
The Malaysian Cub Prix Championship is a national-level underbone or moped racing series for motorcycles with displacements from 100 to 150cc. The tournament is a grassroots developer with the main objective of discovering and developing Malaysian motorcycle racing talents.
The Bajaj CT 100 is a 100 cc commuter motorcycle built by Bajaj Auto. It is the entry level commuter motorcycle offered by Bajaj Auto.
An underbone is a type of motorcycle that uses structural tube framing with an overlay of plastic or non-structural body panels and contrasts with monocoque or unibody designs where pressed steel serves both as the vehicle's structure and bodywork. Outside Asia, the term underbone is commonly misunderstood to refer to any lightweight motorcycle that uses the construction type, known colloquially as step-throughs, mopeds or scooters.
The Yamaha T135 is an underbone manufactured by Yamaha Motor Company since 2005. It is known as the Spark 135/135i in Thailand, Sniper/MX 135 in the Philippines, Jupiter MX 135 LC in Indonesia, 135LC in Malaysia, Exciter 135 in Vietnam, and Crypton X 135 in Greece. It is powered by a 134.4 cc (8.20 cu in) single-cylinder engine.
Genuine, or The Genuine Scooter Company is a Chicago-based manufacturer of motorscooters, notably the Stella and Buddy models. The company markets scooters and accessories through a network of over 240 dealers in the United States. In 2018 it began selling a 400cc air-cooled, single-cylinder motorcycle, under a sister brand 'Genuine Motorcycles'.
The Yamaha Nouvo is a CVT underbone manufactured by Yamaha Motor. It was introduced in April 2002 for Southeast Asia markets and In 2004, Brazil, where it was renamed the Yamaha Neo. Nouvo is from the French word Nouveau, which means new or fashionable.
Yamaha Lagenda is a series of underbone motorcycle produced by Yamaha for the Southeast Asian market. It was introduced for the 2000 model year replacing the SRX 100. A more performance-oriented version of the Lagenda is marketed as ZR.
The KB100 was Bajaj Auto's response to the opening up of the Indian markets to Japanese automobile giant Kawasaki Heavy Industries. This is the very first production product as a result of Bajaj Auto https://www.bajajauto.com/ and Kawasaki Heavy Industries in 1980s. A legendary bike of its class of two stroke at that time.
The Honda Dio is a scooter manufactured by Honda and was introduced in 1988. It was originally built in Japan, as a 2-stroke model until 2001. It is now assembled by Sundiro Honda Motorcycle Co., Ltd. in China.
The Yamaha TMAX series of maxi-scooters has been manufactured by Yamaha Motor Company for the European market since its debut at July 2000 press events in Naples, Italy and Iwata, Japan, combining motorcycle performance with the convenience and flexibility for commuting of a scooter.
The Honda CBR250R, CBR300R and CB300F are lightweight 249.5–286 cc (15.23–17.45 cu in) displacement single-cylinder motorcycles made by Honda since 2011.
Modenas CT series is a series of underbone motorcycles produced by Malaysian motorcycle manufacturer, Modenas. The CT were first launched in 2009 as a legitimate successor of the popular Modenas Kriss series. Before the CT was developed, another underbone model known as Modenas Kristar was produced in 2004 but the production ended two years later due to lack of appeal. The 100 cc and 110 cc engines derived from the Kriss series remain unchanged, but with the addition of a decompression mechanism for the 110 cc model to ease starting.
The Modenas Kriss series is the debut 4-stroke underbone motorcycle series by Malaysian motorcycle manufacturer, Modenas. The original Kriss 110 was developed through a partnership with Kawasaki, which partly owned Modenas, based on Kawasaki Kazer 110 underbone model. The Kriss is actually named after a Malay traditional weapon, kris, though some motorcycle shops in the United Kingdom had mistakenly advertised the model to be named from the acronym of a famous American motorcycle racer, Kenny Roberts because Modenas had once built some racing motorcycles for Modenas KR Motorcycle Grand Prix team.
The Dream Yuga is a 109 cc (6.7 cu in) single-cylinder motorcycle manufactured by Honda's Indian subsidiary HMSI, starting production in 2012. It was announced by Honda in January 2012 at the Delhi Auto Expo, and was available to consumers in India in May 2012. At 44,642 Indian Rupees, the motorcycle is billed as one of the least expensive Honda motorcycle currently produced, and the least expensive Honda motorcycle ever made, adjusting for inflation.
A sport moped is a moped that resembles a sport bike and often performs better than standard mopeds. They were created to circumvent UK legislation, called the "Sixteeners Laws", aimed at taking young motorcycle riders off the road. The new laws, introduced in 1971 by Conservative Party Minister for Transport John Peyton, forbade 16-year-olds from riding motorcycles of 250 cc (15 cu in) capacity, thus limiting them to 50 cc machines until they turned 17.
The Yamaha R5 is a motorcycle made by Yamaha for production years 1970 (R5), 1971 (R5B) and 1972 (R5C). It was the first iteration of a new generation of horizontally split crankcase two strokes that also included the RD350 and culminated in the RD400. The engine platform also included the 250cc variants (DS7/RD250). Two earlier generations of sporting 250cc and larger displacement air-cooled two strokes preceded the R5 dating back to 1959.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
