Bikes Weekly News Digest is a feature that brings you all the notable news from the previous week. This time, we will be introducing the news announced from October 6th to 12th, 2025.
Participate in the Dakar Rally 2026, which will be held from January 3rd to 17th, 2026
Shinya Fujiwara, a renowned trial rider, has decided to aim to complete the Dakar Rally 2026, which will be held from January 3rd to 17th, 2026, riding a Honda competition-spec CRF450 RX Rally. He will be the only Japanese rider competing in the event. The project is called SMRP (Shinya Fujiwara Matsuo Manufacturing Racing Project). It was launched in April 2024, with the goal of completing the event in 2026.
The CRF450 RX Rally is a special model limited to 50 units, modified by HRC (Honda Racing Corporation). Not only the exterior, but also the frame and internal engine have been tuned for competition specifications, reflecting the know-how Honda has gained from competing in the Dakar Rally to date. HRC has achieved multiple overall victories with factory bikes in the past, and that technical foundation and experience has been utilized in the design of this bike. Supporting Fujiwara will be the long-established Italian rally team RS moto RACING, which will be responsible for comprehensive technical support, parts supply, maintenance, and assistance with entry procedures.
Fujiwara plans to gain practical experience and improve his bike adaptability by competing in the Morocco Rally 2025 (October 10th-17th). Prior to this, he has a private test scheduled for October 9th-10th, where he will check the performance of the CRF450 RX Rally and prepare for the race. As a means of raising funds to support his participation, a crowdfunding campaign is scheduled to begin in mid-October, with details to be announced at a later date.
The Dakar Rally has previously been held in Africa and South America, but is now firmly established in the Middle East and will be held in Saudi Arabia again in 2026. The start and finish points are scheduled to be in the Red Sea port city of Yanbu. The total distance traveled by the entire event is approximately 8,000km, of which around 5,000km is made up of special stages (timed sections), and along the way, the event also includes a marathon bivouac (unsupported section), stage divisions by category, and a newly added power stage. In past events, the completion rate has been around 50%, making it a grueling event that tests the physical, mental, and technical skills of competitors in extreme environments.
Fujiwara was born on January 6th, 1990 in Hyogo Prefecture. He has been familiar with motorcycles since he was a child and has won titles in trial competitions both in Japan and overseas. He is active in a wide range of events, including enduro and hard enduro, and demonstration activities, and is known as a rider who conveys the appeal of motorsports. His attitude of taking on the world’s highest level race on a domestically produced Honda competition bike is likely to attract much attention.
Yumi Wakatsuki is inspired by women who take on challenges | Kawasaki official video released
Kawasaki Motors Japan has released a video on its official YouTube channel featuring actress Yumi Wakatsuki cheering on the ladies’ class at the Ninja Team Green Cup. Wakatsuki, who holds a standard motorcycle license and rides the ELIMINATOR PLAZA EDITION, is moved by the sight of the female riders taking on the challenge at SPA Naoiri Circuit. The video realistically conveys the bonds between teammates and the joy of riding. It conveys the appeal of motorsports in a realistic way, from a perspective that even racing novices can relate to. The video can be viewed on Kawasaki’s official YouTube channel.
Three days to experience the future of mobility in Nagoya
The Japan Mobility Show Nagoya 2025 will be held at Port Messe Nagoya in Nagoya from November 22nd to 24th. As the successor to the Nagoya Motor Show, which enjoyed enduring popularity in the Chubu region, the event will not only feature concept cars and the latest production vehicles from domestic and international manufacturers, but will also bring video and vehicle exhibits from the Tokyo Future Tour 2035 to Nagoya. A wide variety of mobility exhibits will be on display, including electric vehicle test drives, autonomous bus rides, motorsport vehicles, camper vans, and custom cars. Other events include a gourmet food event with food trucks, play equipment for children, ITS technology experiences, and a spinning top battle between high school students. BOYS AND MEN will serve as cheering leaders and appear at stage events. Advance tickets will go on sale at 10:00 AM on October 7th for 1,800 yen for adults, 1,300 yen for students, and free for high school students and younger and those with disabilities. Anticipation for the event is building.
A fusion of Japanese leather and magnetic force | FREAKMOUNT’s innovative motorcycle gloves
FREAKMOUNT, popular for its smartphone holders, has announced its first Japanese-made motorcycle gloves, “FREAKMOUNT GLOVES.” Two models will be released in November 2025: the all-season “STANDARD” and the cold-weather “GAUNTLET.” Both models have a neodymium magnet built into the wrist, allowing them to be attached to motorcycle tanks and other surfaces. They also feature touchscreen-compatible conductive leather, allowing you to operate your smartphone while wearing them. Crafted from domestic cowhide leather handcrafted by skilled craftsmen in Kagawa Prefecture, they combine texture and durability. The STANDARD will be priced at 12,100 yen, while the GAUNTLET will be priced at 19,800 yen (tax included).
Experience the future of mobility starting in Shibuya – Test drives of the three-seater EV “e-NEO” begin
EV INNOVATOR, operated by Sky Innovator Co., Ltd., has launched a test drive experience service in Shibuya for the three-seater EV mobility vehicle “e-NEO.” Based at Shoto Garage, customers can drive with a sales staff member providing navigation, giving them a real-life experience of using EVs in urban life. The latest models available include “NEO-ONE” and “NEO-Light,” which can be driven with a regular driver’s license and do not require vehicle inspection or garage certification. The experience of driving through the streets of Shibuya is like an “attraction of the future.” The company aims to promote a new lifestyle of “enjoying mobility” and expand urban mobility culture.
Thank you 50cc: A commemorative T-shirt commemorating the great Honda mopeds is now available
CAMSHOP.JP, a norimono (snack) brand developed by Faith Co., Ltd., has launched the “HONDA 50cc BIKES LOGO T-shirt,” an officially licensed Honda Motor Co., Ltd. product. Featuring the logos of Honda’s 50cc models, including the Super Cub 50, Monkey, Gorilla, DAX, and CD50, the shirt expresses gratitude to the classic bikes that have supported Japan’s moped culture for many years. Crafted from high-quality 6.2-ounce cotton, it also looks great as casual wear for adults. Priced at 4,950 yen (tax included), it’s available on Amazon and the official website.
Clearance sale: a chance to get the Aprilia performance at a “super special price”
Piaggio Group Japan launched the “ULTRA CLEARANCE CAMPAIGN” clearance campaign on Aprilia sports models at authorized dealers nationwide on October 4, 2025, offering discounts of up to 440,000 yen. Eligible models include the Tuono V4 Factory, RS 660 Extrema, and Tuareg 660, with each model offering significant discounts. Additionally, one lucky buyer each month will be entered into a lottery to win an Alpinestars genuine Aprilia leather jacket (suggested retail price: 96,800 yen) from prospective buyers who request a quote by the end of December. The campaign will end once the eligible vehicles are sold, making it a great opportunity not to be missed for sports bike fans.
A traditional V-twin, now’s your chance to get it at a great price
Piaggio Group Japan will launch the “ULTRA CLEARANCE CAMPAIGN,” a clearance sale for Moto Guzzi motorcycles equipped with longitudinally mounted V-twin engines, at authorized dealers nationwide from October 4, 2025. The eligible models are the V100 Mandello S/Mandello and the V7 Stone CORSA. They will be sold at a special price of up to approximately 380,000 yen off the suggested retail price. In addition, one lucky winner each month will be chosen by lottery from those who request a quote by the end of December to receive a genuine Moto Guzzi green leather jacket (suggested retail price: 84,700 yen). The campaign will end once the eligible stock has sold out.
Triumph presents a campaign to support beginner riders
Triumph Motorcycles Japan will be running the “FIRST BIKE Campaign” from October 8th to December 26th, 2025. Riders who have held a standard motorcycle license (MT) within the last six months will receive a coupon worth 30,000 yen that can be used when purchasing a new bike at authorized dealers nationwide. Eligible models are the “Speed 400” and “Scrambler 400 X.” This is the perfect opportunity to start your first motorcycle journey with a Triumph. This campaign will encourage a new generation of riders by allowing them to easily experience the beauty and performance that is unique to a British brand.
Triumph ROCKET 3 STORM R Tester Wanted: Experience the Impact of the World’s Largest Engine Displacement
Triumph Motorcycles Japan is currently running a monitor campaign where people can try out the ROCKET 3 STORM R, boasting the world’s largest engine displacement at 2,458cc, for one month free of charge. One person will be selected by lottery from applications submitted by October 26th, and the bike will be delivered in November. The triple-cylinder engine boasts overwhelming power of 182PS and 225Nm, delivering unparalleled acceleration and a powerful presence. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy the luxurious finish and imposing style for one month. For more details, please visit the Triumph official website.
Let’s ride to Shibushi | Sunflower Rider Support Campaign
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Sunflower will be running the “Shibushi City Touring & Rider Flag Campaign” from October 14, 2025, for riders using the Osaka-Shibushi route (departing from Osaka). Coupons that can be used at affiliated stores in Shibushi City and original traffic safety charms will be distributed. The campaign is open to motorcycle and moped riders and Shibushi Port rental bicycle users, and will be distributed at Osaka Terminal 2 and Shibushi Port. Survey respondents will also have the chance to win Shibushi City specialties and ferry tickets. This is a great touring plan that allows you to enjoy the nature and gourmet food of the Osumi Peninsula.
A new business model for local mobility | Recruiting small three-wheeled EV mobility free trial dealers
Geofence Global Co., Ltd. is looking for free trial shops nationwide for three months to raise awareness of its new business model “EV-TRUST,” which utilizes small three-wheeled EV mobility. The company will provide revenue opportunities through vehicle rentals, test drives, and sales to hotels, cafes, tourist facilities, and automotive-related businesses. The vehicle will realize multiple benefits, including attracting customers as a billboard on the streets, reducing fuel costs, and supporting local transportation. Partnerships with repair shops nationwide will also ensure operational support.
Kawasaki Plaza Koshigaya reopens after renovation, bringing a new wind to Koshigaya
Kawasaki Plaza Koshigaya in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture, will reopen on October 4, 2025. The store will be reborn with a bright, wood-grain interior and a clean, white-themed space, featuring exhibits of the latest models, plaza apparel, and a community space where riders can gather. Motorcycles will be displayed in “cages” surrounded by frames of light, creating a special sense of exhilaration. Maintenance and events will also be extensive, and experienced staff will fully support riders’ lives. Opening hours will be from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, open every day except for the New Year holidays. As a new motorcycle hub for Koshigaya, it will promote a motorcycle culture rooted in the local community.
“Rent and enjoy” the driving experience of a BMW | New base opens in Koshigaya
Kizuki Rental Service Co., Ltd., operator of “Rental 819,” one of Japan’s largest motorcycle rental networks, will grand open “Rental 819 BMW Motorrad Koshigaya” in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture, on October 18, 2025. Featuring the latest BMW Motorrad models, the store offers a luxurious experience for a wide range of customers, from those considering a purchase to those who enjoy high-quality touring. The store offers a diverse lineup, including popular models such as the R1300GS and R18, as well as the G310R and F900XR. Located approximately 10 minutes from the Misato-Nishi Interchange on the Outer Ring Road, the store is open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, closed Wednesdays and the second and third Thursdays of each month. Experience the world of BMW in Koshigaya during the best autumn season.
