Triumph Announces New TF 250-X…BIKES Weekly News Digest [July 14-20, 2025]

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 released from July 14th to 20th, 2025.

2026 model with enhanced racing specifications

Triumph has announced the new TF 250-X, a dedicated motocross machine, as a 2026 model. In addition to improved power delivery and throttle response, a newly designed airbox and silencer, a high-performance Exedy clutch, and revised tuning of the KYB suspension have further improved starting acceleration and cornering performance. New engine mapping and ECU adjustments have also improved controllability throughout the entire rev range.

The engine is a high-performance 4-stroke single-cylinder that produces 48 PS and features forged aluminum pistons, titanium valves, and DLC coating. A Dell’Orto 44mm throttle body and an Athena ECU also come standard with launch control and traction control. The chassis uses a lightweight aluminum twin cradle, achieving the optimal balance of rigidity and flex.

In addition, it comes standard with factory-level parts such as Brembo brakes, DirtStar wheels, ProTaper handlebars, and ODI grips. The new graphics feature in-mold decals in “Performance Yellow” to enhance its presence on the track.

This model was developed with the premise of being immediately competitive in races, and was perfected based on feedback from World Endurance Champion Ivan Cervantes and North American riders who are AMA Supercross champions. In Japan, it will be available from July 2025 at select authorized motocross dealers, including Triumph Tokyo Bay. Prices will be announced at a later date. More details can be found on the official website.

New BMW R 1300 RT Announced: Flagship Tourer with Ultimate Power and Comfort

BMW Motorrad began accepting orders for the new R 1300 RT in Japan on July 16th. The model is scheduled for release in late August, with prices starting at ¥3,661,000 (tax included) for the standard model and ¥3,785,000 for the model equipped with the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA). The new RT is equipped with a 1,300cc twin-cylinder boxer engine that boasts impressive power output of 145 PS at 7,750 rpm and maximum torque of 149 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR) and clutchless ASA provide a comfortable ride. The chassis combines a steel main frame with an aluminum lattice rear frame and employs the newly developed Dynamic Chassis Adaptation (DCA). Variable spring and damping, as well as adjustable ride height, allow riders to enjoy two different riding characteristics by switching between modes. Furthermore, riding comfort has been greatly improved thanks to the newly designed full LED headlight, lightweight wheels, and adjustable fairing with excellent wind protection. The ergonomics have also been revamped to achieve both sportiness and comfort. By revising the handlebar, seat, and step positions, the bike is now in a position that allows for both high-speed cruising and winding roads. The new “R 1300 RT” is a noteworthy model as the latest in BMW’s flagship tourer, combining power, comfort, and electronic control at a high level. Orders are now being accepted on the dedicated website.

Entries now open for the 2025 MOTHER LAKE RALLY, a festival for female riders

The Japan Riders Forum, a general incorporated association, opened entries for the “MOTHER LAKE RALLY 2025” event for female riders at 5:00 PM on July 18th. The event will be held from October 18th to 19th, 2025, at the Kohoku THG Twin Arena in Shiga Prefecture. The rally will be conducted around Lake Biwa using a smartphone app, and is not competitive, but rather a way to enjoy the “journey.” A portion of the entry fee will be donated to environmental conservation activities. The maximum number of participants is 1,000, and the deadline for applications is 11:59 PM on August 24th.

“Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains Rally 2025” to be held, entries open from July 25th

The “Japan’s Three Sacred Mountains Rally 2025,” a touring event that tours Mount Fuji, Mount Tateyama, and Mount Hakusan, will be held from October 11th to 12th. The start is in Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and the finish is at Ichirino Onsen Ski Resort in Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The spectacular route, spanning several hundred kilometers, will take in designated points and hidden waypoints. The event is limited to 2,000 vehicles, and entries will be accepted from 12 noon on July 25th until 11:59 PM on August 24th. Solo and tandem participation is possible, with participation fees starting from 6,776 yen (tax included).

A collection of all previous wing logos | Pre-orders open for the Honda-approved “folding stool”

A folding stool featuring Honda Motor Co.’s wing mark from past eras has been released by the norimono goods brand “CAMSHOP.JP.” The tire-shaped stool, with its top featuring the evolution of the Honda logo since 1953, is a special item limited to 1,000 pieces and officially licensed by Honda. In addition to its height-adjustable structure, it also features a high-resilience cushion for comfortable seating. It is versatile and useful for outdoor activities, garages, event venues, and more. Its lightweight and compact storage makes it easy to carry, making it a must-have for any Honda fan. Pre-orders are now being accepted on the official website.

Hokkaido’s first launch of the three-seater compact e-mobility vehicle “e-NEO”

Elcom Co., Ltd. began selling the small three-wheeled EV “e-NEO” in Hokkaido on July 15, 2025. It can be charged using a 100V household power outlet and is characterized by its practicality, with a maximum range of approximately 100km on a full charge. It can be driven with a regular driver’s license and there is no requirement to wear a helmet, meeting the needs of local “short rides.” It is also ideal for the last mile of sightseeing, transportation within corporate premises, and decarbonization efforts. Two models, the NEO-ONE and NEO-LIGHT, are available, and the e-NEO is scheduled to be exhibited at an exhibition in Sapporo on July 23.

“GS WELT 2025” to be held, offering more than just riding motorcycle experiences

BMW Motorrad’s experiential event, “GS WELT 2025,” was held on June 28th and 29th at Mt. Hyonose in Wakasa Town, Tottori Prefecture. Organized by Valcom Motors, participants rode GS series motorcycles and experienced a new motorcycle-centered lifestyle through off-road and forest road riding, a digital stamp rally around tourist spots, and a BBQ featuring local ingredients. Interactions with local residents and staff were also forged, proving that motorcycles are a medium that connects people and communities. An in-store screening is also planned for the future.

Completion of “Sustainable PGH Ninomiya IC,” a next-generation garage rental housing project using CLT construction methods

“Sustainable PGH Ninomiya IC,” a rental home with a garage constructed using CLT panels and jointly developed by Life Design Kabaya Co., Ltd. and Phil Company, has been completed in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Resident applications began on July 7, 2025. The property uses the “LC-core construction method,” developed exclusively by the Japan CLT Technology Institute, to combine the warmth of wood with a sense of openness. As an environmentally friendly home, it uses CLT made from domestic cedar, and is a two-story maisonette-style home constructed entirely of wood, combining earthquake resistance with flexible floor plans. The garage has the same functionality as a conventional steel-framed structure, making it ideal for a lifestyle that enjoys cars and motorcycles. A model room is also currently open to the public.

Motorcycle Shrine Annual Festival to be held on September 7th | Praying for the safety of riders from all over the country at an altitude of 1,600m

On September 7, 2025, the “Regular Festival and Traffic Safety Prayer Festival” will be held at Tanka Shrine, located on the Kurumayama Plateau in Nagano Prefecture. The main festival, which prays for the safety of the nation’s 10 million riders, will also feature a purification ceremony for beloved motorcycles, a shrine maiden dance, and a large drum offering by Shonosuke Okura. In the afternoon, there will be a special riding school (fee required) by Keiichi Kitagawa, and in the evening, a banquet with commentary on the Suzuka 8 Hours. This special day, where nature and culture intertwine, will be a spiritual hub for those visiting with their motorcycles. For more information, please visit the official website.

Ai Ogura and other MotoGP riders gather in Kita-Toda! Talk show to be held on July 25th

A special talk show featuring current MotoGP riders Ogura Ai, Kunii Yuki, and Yamanaka Ryusei will be held at AEON Mall Kita Toda from 3pm on July 25th. Nippon TV G+ commentators Sakata Kazuto and Aoki Haruchika, and journalist Endo Satoshi will also be in attendance. The event will be packed with behind-the-scenes stories about the Japanese GP, a raffle, autographed goods, and more, and admission is free. Flyers will also be distributed on the day, and the event will be broadcast on CS Nippon TV G+ in September. A must-see for MotoGP fans.

Mitsubishi Auto Lease hosts EV bike test ride event at Chunichi Shimbun

On July 1, 2025, Mitsubishi Auto Lease, in collaboration with Chunichi Shimbun, held an EV motorcycle test ride event for dealership personnel at its Nagoya headquarters. The vehicles on offer were the Honda CUV e:, BENLY e:Pro, and Tsubame E-Times M-crew, with a light EV vehicle also on display. With the end of production of 50cc mopeds looming, the introduction of EVs for newspaper delivery has become an urgent issue, and the event attracted a great deal of interest, including as a response to the realization of a carbon-free society. The two companies plan to continue collaborating to solve these issues.

Special credit campaign for Kawasaki and Bimota with effective annual interest rate of 2.69%

Kawasaki Motors Japan is currently running a “2.69% Special Credit Campaign” for a limited time until November 30, 2025. This campaign applies to all new Kawasaki models in Japan, off-road competition models, and new Bimota models (KB4, KB4RC, KB998 Rimini), and offers a low interest rate of 2.69% effective annual interest rate. Customers can choose between flexible repayment plans (up to 120 installments) or residual value plans (3 or 5 years), and purchases must be made at an authorized dealer. Approval is required, and details can be found at each store.

Royal Enfield Nagano to Grand Open on August 1st

Royal Enfield authorized dealer “ROYAL ENFIELD Nagano” will have its grand opening in Nagano City on Friday, August 1, 2025. This will be the second store in Nagano Prefecture and the 44th store in Japan. It will be operated by Tonegawa Auto, a long-established motorcycle shop founded in 1953. With over 100 vehicles on display at any given time and a wide selection of Royal Enfield test ride vehicles, it is a space where you can experience the brand’s worldview. Taking advantage of its excellent location, the store will play a key role in future development as a regional hub.

Kawasaki Plaza Ishikawa opens in Nonoichi City

Kawasaki Motors Japan held the grand opening of Kawasaki Plaza Ishikawa in Nonoichi City, Ishikawa Prefecture on July 18, 2025. This authorized dealership is the first in Ishikawa Prefecture and the 94th nationwide, and the bright and clean interior is filled with the latest motorcycles and limited edition apparel. It features a design that stimulates all five senses, including a cage display, community space, and heritage wall. Located about 5km by car from the Kanazawa-Nishi Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway, it is also conveniently located as a base for touring.

Triumph Yamaguchi Opening Preparation Office to Start on August 1st

Triumph Motorcycles Japan and Valcom Motors will open the “Triumph Yamaguchi Opening Preparation Office” on August 1, 2025, in preparation for the opening of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s first authorized Triumph dealership. The store is conveniently located within walking distance of JR Shin-Yamaguchi Station, along National Route 9, and will handle everything from purchases to after-sales service. Going forward, they will strengthen support for local riders in preparation for the full-scale opening of the store. For inquiries, please contact Triumph Call.