CBTR2025, a bike rally around Lake Biwa, kicks off in September…BIKES Weekly News Digest [May 12th – 18th, 2025]

Bikes Weekly News Digest is a feature that brings you all the hot topics announced in the previous week. This time, we will be introducing the news announced from May 12th to 18th, 2025.

CBTR2025, a motorcycle rally around Lake Biwa, kicks off in September

The details of the CBTR2025 motorcycle touring event, which will be held around Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, have been announced. The event is organized by the CBTR2025 Executive Committee and managed by Gotochi Touring Co., Ltd. The rally will run from September 20th to November 24th, 2025. Entries will open at noon on May 28th.

CBTR is a tourist touring rally in which participants cycle around Lake Biwa by motorcycle, collecting digital stamps. Participants who collect the required number of stamps are issued a “Certificate of Completing a Complete Tour of Lake Biwa.” This year marks the fourth time the event has been held since its inception in 2022. Last year, the event was sponsored by Shiga Prefecture, Hikone City, Nagahama City, and Omihachiman City, and local tourist facilities and restaurants also participated. With the addition of riders who know the area well and new executive committee members, the event aims to boost tourism in Shiga Prefecture through experiences that can only be had on-site.

This year’s stamp rally spots will be 15 locations. They range from classic tourist spots chosen by local riders to more core spots known only to locals. Participants will choose 10 locations from these and aim to cover them all. Details of the spots can be found on the official website.

Last year’s popular optional project “Lake Biwa King” will also be back with a more powerful version. By solving the puzzles set up at the spots, you can earn the title of Lake Biwa King and special items.

The entry plan costs 5,000 yen (tax included) and is limited to the first 4,000 people. Participants will receive a sticker with a bib number, a digital stamp rally account, a travel guide, a local riders pass (valid from June 1st to December 31st, worth 3,850 yen), a certificate for completing the lap around Lake Biwa (only for those who have completed the lap), and the right to participate in local exchange events.

The latest information will be posted on the CBTR official LINE and various social media channels. Details and entries can be found on the official website.

Royal Enfield unveils 2025 model “HUNTER 350”

Royal Enfield has unveiled the new 2025 HUNTER 350. The new model features three new colors: “Rio White,” “London Red,” and “Tokyo Black,” inspired by the white sand beaches of Rio, Brazil; the red-brick alleys of London, England; and the black asphalt of Tokyo, Japan. The new model also features a new SHOWA rear suspension and an FCC assist and slipper clutch for improved riding performance and comfort. The riding position has also been ergonomically improved, with adjustable grips, seat, and footpegs. Other standard features include an LED headlight, the smartphone-linked navigation system “Tripper,” and a USB Type-C port. The 349cc air-cooled single-cylinder OHC engine is suitable for a wide range of riders, from city riding to touring. The announcement took place at the street culture event “Hunter Hood,” held simultaneously in Mumbai and New Delhi, India. The event, which combined dance, music, and art, perfectly matched the new HUNTER 350’s unique aesthetic. The release in Japan is scheduled for mid-July, and details will be announced at the time of announcement.

Triumph announces the “SPEED TRIPLE 1200 RX,” limited to 1,200 units worldwide

Triumph Motorcycles Japan has announced the 2025 model “SPEED TRIPLE 1200 RX.” This model is a special edition limited to 1,200 units worldwide, and is equipped with an aggressive riding position and the latest electronic control technology.

The SPEED TRIPLE 1200 RX features Öhlins SmartEC3 electronically controlled suspension and SD EC steering damper for excellent handling and stability, while a lightweight titanium Akrapovic silencer, carbon fiber bodywork, exclusive graphics and a Triumph Performance Yellow paint scheme enhance its sporty appearance.

The 1160cc triple-cylinder engine delivers a maximum power output of 183PS at 10,750rpm and a maximum torque of 128Nm at 8,750rpm, providing powerful acceleration from low to high rev ranges. It also comes equipped with a variety of technologies, including adjustable front wheel lift control, engine brake control, brake slide assist, and fully adjustable cruise control.

This model is designed for riders who love circuit and sports riding, and is a limited production model that combines rarity with high performance.

ENNE officially releases the “T600GR” compact moped, a high-performance model with a maximum instantaneous output of 1500W.

ENNE Co., Ltd. has announced that it will soon be releasing the ENNE T600GR, a special edition compact moped developed by the racing team ENNEXEL. The limited run of five units sold out in just a few seconds after pre-orders began, generating a huge response. In response to user demand for a resale, the company has now established a mass production system and decided to make the bike available for general sale.

The ENNE T600GR is based on the T350Pro model and is equipped with a specially designed motor and main controller, significantly improving acceleration and hill-climbing performance. When a staff member weighing 85 kg climbs a 20% gradient (a three-minute slope), the speed drops to 11 km/h with the previous model, but the T600GR maintains a speed of 19 km/h.

The bike also features a pedal-powered generator, improving power generation efficiency by more than eight times compared to conventional models. When the battery runs out, electricity can be generated by pedaling, extending battery life. This patented generator mechanism makes this a high-performance model that combines urban mobility with environmental friendliness.

Other improvements include a USB charging meter and a free front basket gift campaign, making it more convenient for everyday use. More details can be found on the official website.

JESIMAIK releases entry-level motorcycle intercom “R18 Lite”

JESIMAIK’s new “R18 Lite” is an entry-level model motorcycle intercom that boasts high performance. Equipped with a Qualcomm Bluetooth 5.1 chip, it boasts a maximum communication distance of 1,500m. Five-layer noise-canceling technology, including ENC2.0 and CVC8.0, ensures clear calls. It features an ultra-thin 7mm speaker and an 800mAh battery for up to 25 hours of talk time. It also features large buttons that are easy to operate even when wearing gloves, music effect switching, and an FM radio function. It’s priced at a special discount of 5,990 yen, making it the perfect model for those looking for their first intercom.

“NIGHT RIDER MEETING TOKYO 2025” to be held, bringing riders together at night in Odaiba

BMW Motorrad will hold “NIGHT RIDER MEETING TOKYO 2025” from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at BMW GROUP Tokyo Bay (2-2-15 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo). This event has become popular as a cafe meeting where riders from all brands gather and socialize over coffee. This year’s event will feature test rides and exhibitions of the latest and most popular models, an apparel outlet, and food trucks. Follow the official Instagram account to receive a free cup of coffee, and commemorative stickers will also be distributed free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Participation is free, and no prior registration is required. Parking is available exclusively for motorcycles at the Aomi Second Temporary Parking Lot across from the venue. Details will be updated regularly on the BMW Motorrad official website.

Acalie to exhibit all mobility brands at FIELD STYLE JAPAN 2025

Acalie Inc. will exhibit at FIELD STYLE JAPAN 2025, to be held at AICHI SKY EXPO in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, from May 17th to 18th, 2025. The company’s electric mobility brands, RICHBIT, COSWHEEL, and EVEREST XING, will be gathered together, showcasing the latest models and offering test rides. RICHBIT has gained popularity for its stylish design and cost-effectiveness, with cumulative domestic sales exceeding 19,000 units. COSWHEEL offers the MIRAI series of American-style fat-tire electric bikes, which have sold over 1,600 units since their release. EVEREST XING offers the EX15 series of electric kick scooters, equipped with a 600W high-power motor and IoT functionality, boasting cutting-edge performance. In addition to exhibiting at booth F726 in the indoor hall, test rides will also be available at the outdoor special venue. For more details, please visit the official website.

Triumph to launch various charity events at DGR 2025 TOKYO EAST RIDE

Triumph Motorcycles Japan has announced details for the “DGR 2025 TOKYO EAST RIDE,” to be held at the Kasai Canoe Slalom Center on May 18, 2025. This event is a charity ride aimed at supporting men’s mental health and prostate cancer research, and is characterized by participants riding classic bikes and dressing stylishly. Motorcycle YouTubers Ami Kimura, Megu Kanai, and Matt Rider Japan will be participating on the day, with a variety of events planned, including a charity auction, photo content, and a single-plank bridge challenge game. There will also be an exhibition of the latest Triumph vehicles and food trucks, making it a day where riders can have fun while also contributing to society.

A genuine leather key case engraved with your car’s license plate, perfect for Father’s Day

Desamin, a personal order service offered by Quattro Guts, a leather goods brand from Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture, has released a genuine leather key case with a motif of your beloved car’s license plate. Each case is carefully handmade using Tochigi leather by skilled leather artisans. To order, simply send a photo of your license plate via LINE, and a dedicated designer will create an original design for you. Despite its compact size of 9cm in height, 4cm in width, 2cm in thickness, and weighing just 13g, it can hold up to four keys and a smart key. It costs 7,700 yen (tax included), with a 1,000 yen discount during the “Father’s Day Early Bird” campaign, which runs until 9:00 AM on June 1st. For more details, please visit the official website.

Autobacs launches electric mobility subscription and rental service

Autobacs Seven has opened a store in the rental and subscription mall “Kauriru” and launched a monthly flat-rate rental service for electric kick scooters and electric motorcycles. This service provides vehicles that are license-registered and insured, and test drives, pickup, and maintenance are available at select stores. The minimum rental period is three months, and the service caters not only to personal use, but also to the needs of corporations and local governments, including sales activities and tourism. Models available include the Meister.F, KS6 PRO, and e-FREE01, all of which comply with the new standards for “specified small motorized bicycles” that will come into effect in July 2023. More details can be found at the Autobacs store inside “Kauriru.”

Blaze launches online sales of carefully selected used electric mobility vehicles

Blaze Co., Ltd. has launched a new “Carefully Selected Used Cars Corner” on its e-commerce website and begun selling used electric mobility vehicles online. By reusing high-quality used vehicles previously used as display or test drive vehicles and offering them at affordable prices, the company aims to promote the spread of electric mobility and contribute to a sustainable society. Vehicles on sale are in good working order, including those with minor damage during shipping, in-store display vehicles, and test drive vehicles. Grades A to C range from nearly new to lower-priced models with minor scratches and signs of use. Eligible products include smart EVs, EV scooters, kick scooter EVs, EV trikes, EV delivery vehicles, and Next Cruiser EVs. Additionally, the company has launched a new service for used two-wheeled electric motorcycles, called “Used Car Anshin Plus.” A special warranty is available for an additional fee of 11,000 yen (tax included). For more details, please visit the “Carefully Selected Used Cars Corner” on Blaze’s official e-commerce website. 

Karuizawa introduces EV delivery service, launching quiet, environmentally friendly alcohol delivery

Blaze Co., Ltd.’s covered three-wheeled electric scooter, “EV Delivery,” has been introduced at Liquor Mountain’s Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street store. This store is Liquor Mountain’s first resort-style store, and in addition to featuring a bar counter and hosting paid tasting events and seminars, deliveries to nearby areas are also made by EV Delivery. EV Delivery was introduced due to its quiet operation and low environmental impact. The EV Delivery features a swing mechanism that separates the driver’s seat from the cargo area, allowing for stable driving even on narrow roads and around curves. The adoption of electric scooters also contributes to reducing CO₂ emissions and is expected to contribute to the SDGs. Charging costs are low, at approximately 140 yen, and running costs are lower than those of gasoline-powered motorcycles. Blaze plans to continue promoting EV mobility and reducing its environmental impact.

Royal Enfield Shonan West opens in Ninomiya, Kanagawa

Royal Enfield’s authorized dealer, “ROYAL ENFIELD Shonan WEST,” will hold its grand opening in Ninomiya Town, Naka District, Kanagawa Prefecture, on May 30, 2025. Volt Co., Ltd., which will operate the store, has a proven track record in the sales and maintenance of imported motorcycles since its founding in 2011. The store’s convenient accessibility is one of its attractions, approximately five minutes from Ninomiya Interchange on the Odawara-Atsugi Road and approximately ten minutes from Hadano-Nakai Interchange on the Tomei Expressway. Business hours are from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with Monday and Tuesday holidays, though these may change during events. Founded in 1901, Royal Enfield is the world’s oldest motorcycle brand, offering models that combine classic design with modern technology. The opening of this new store will provide riders in the Shonan area with a new location where they can experience the brand’s unique worldview.