Runs on weekends and holidays for the first time in 40 years
Bikers Paradise Co., Ltd. and Nishiyama Driveway Co., Ltd. will allow motorcycles to travel on the Arashiyama-Takao Parkway in Kyoto City on weekends and holidays for the first time in 40 years, starting March 1, 2025. To commemorate this lifting of the ban, they will be holding an event called “Bikers Paradise in KYOTO” on March 8 and 9 to pray for the safe driving of riders.
The Arashiyama-Takao Parkway is a 10.7km long driveway that connects Kyoto’s tourist attraction, Arashiyama, with the nature-rich Takao. It features an observation deck offering views of the Nishiyama mountain range, Hozukyo Gorge, and Kyoto city, as well as a variety of leisure facilities, including attractions, an amusement park, and a BBQ area. While motorcycle riding on the parkway has been prohibited on weekends and holidays since 1985, the ban will be lifted from March 1, 2025.
The “Bikers Paradise in KYOTO” event will be held from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, March 8th and Sunday, March 9th at the Ogurayama Observatory parking lot on the Arashiyama-Takao Parkway. On the day, Bikers Paradise Minami Hakone will be offering the latest bike rental models, selling limited edition merchandise, and a riders’ cafe. There will also be a talk show by motorcycle journalists Miyazaki Keiichiro and TOMO, and a parade run to pray for safe riding. There will also be a goma ritual for safe riding held by Kiyotaki Fudoin Temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, Daigoji school.
Building on the success of Minami-Hakone, Bikers Paradise plans to continue collaborating with Nishiyama Driveway Co., Ltd. to turn the Arashiyama-Takao Parkway into a new motorcycle communication zone in the Kansai area, which is expected to further develop motorcycle culture in the Kansai region.
The end of the last big naked bike
Honda has announced the final models of the CB1300 series: the “CB1300 SUPER FOUR Final Edition,” “CB1300 SUPER BOL D’OR Final Edition,” “CB1300 SUPER FOUR SP Final Edition,” and “CB1300 SUPER BOL D’OR SP Final Edition,” which will go on sale on Friday, February 28th through Honda Dream. These models are the final models in the current CB1300 series, continuing the lineage of the first-generation “CB1000 SUPER FOUR” that appeared in 1992. Notable features include coloring inspired by the first-generation model, and a “Final Edition” sticker on the top of the fuel tank. Additionally, a gold-colored drive chain and silver-colored swingarm, top bridge, and steering stem are used, creating a special feel. The planned sales volume for the series is 3,400 units in total per year in Japan, with the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices being 1,727,000 yen for the CB1300 SUPER FOUR Final Edition, 1,837,000 yen for the CB1300 SUPER BOL D’OR Final Edition, 2,101,000 yen for the CB1300 SUPER FOUR SP Final Edition, and 2,211,000 yen for the CB1300 SUPER BOL D’OR SP Final Edition.
Electronically controlled CVT for enhanced driving performance
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. will release the 2025 model of its light scooter, the NMAX155 ABS, on March 21st. This model is equipped with a liquid-cooled 155cc “BLUE CORE” engine and a new electronically controlled CVT (YECVT). The gear ratio adjusts according to the rider’s input, providing a driving feel similar to that of a manual transmission vehicle. The suspension settings have also been optimized to improve ride comfort and bump absorption. The styling has also been revamped, with a design that expresses strength and stability. Furthermore, a new dual-screen display and smartphone connectivity functionality enhance convenience. The NMAX155 ABS is available in three colors: matte dark reddish gray, black, and light blue. The NMAX155 ABS inherits the DNA of the popular “MAX series” in Europe and Japan, and packs the sporty ride of a 155cc engine capable of highway driving into a compact body.
Kawasaki releases electric-assisted bicycle with two front wheels
Kawasaki Motors Japan will release the electric three-wheel-assisted bicycle “noslisu” on March 15, 2025. Developed under the concept of “providing a comfortable and easy mobility experience to everyone,” this model utilizes Kawasaki’s motorcycle design technology to adopt a truss frame and three-wheel structure, achieving both an exhilarating ride and high stability. The newly designed frame and semi-up handlebars allow for a natural riding posture and maneuverability, making it easy for even smaller riders to straddle the bicycle. The electric assist unit is equipped with a center motor manufactured by Panasonic Cycletech, providing powerful acceleration and precise control for an easy ride. The bicycle will be available in four colors: Greenish Khaki, Urara Blue, Pearl Bright Yellow, and Solid Pale Ivory, and will be sold at “noslisu retailers.”
Ultra-compact moped type specific moped
SWALLOW has announced the “MOPERO mini cargo,” a moped-style electric mobility vehicle that can be driven by anyone 16 years of age or older without a driver’s license. This model boasts large load capacity and excellent hill-climbing ability, making it a practical everyday means of transportation. Pre-sales will begin on Makuake in early March, with special discounts of up to 35%. A test ride will also be held at Toki Cafe in Kagurazaka, Tokyo, on February 28th. The MOPERO mini cargo runs solely on motor power without pedals and comes standard with front and rear baskets and a rear carrier. Its high-power 500W motor allows it to climb slopes of up to 32%. It also boasts a variety of features, including a 6km/h sidewalk mode, an NFC card unlock function, and a removable, high-capacity battery. It is available in four colors: yellow, greige, olive, and gunmetal.
Honda V3 Turbo to be unveiled at motorcycle show
Honda will exhibit a wide variety of motorcycles at the 41st Osaka Motorcycle Show 2025, the 52nd Tokyo Motorcycle Show, and the 4th Nagoya Motorcycle Show. The Honda booth in 2025 will feature the key message “Move to the Next,” providing a place to encounter Honda motorcycles that evoke new emotions. Key exhibits include the “Electrically Supercharged V3 Engine,” the world’s first concept model for a V3 engine equipped with an electric supercharger, and the “EV Fun Concept,” an electric sports concept with performance comparable to that of mid-class internal combustion motorcycles. Also making its Japan debut will be the “CUV e:,” a Class 2 moped-class electric motorcycle equipped with two “Honda Mobile Power Pack e:” replaceable batteries. Furthermore, a variety of models will be on display, including the “Gold Wing Tour 50th Anniversary” commemorating the 50th anniversary of the release of the original GL1000 model, the “CB1300 SUPER FOUR SP Final Edition” inspired by the original CB1000 SUPER FOUR released in 1992, and the “CBR250RR” in a new color. These motorcycle shows will be held in Osaka, Tokyo, and Nagoya from March to April.
Due to extreme popularity, reservations are suspended
ENNE has announced that it will temporarily suspend sales of its special model “ENNE T600 GR.” Initially, sales were limited to five units, but they immediately sold out. Sales continued for a limited time until the end of February, but due to orders far exceeding expectations, the impact on delivery times and the tight inventory of the base vehicle, the “ENNE T350 Pro (2025 Ver.),” the company has decided to temporarily suspend sales. Customers who have already placed orders will receive their products as scheduled. The timing of re-sale has not yet been decided, but please look forward to future developments.
Naps produces a house with a motorcycle garage
Yokohama Style, operated by NAPS and Nikkyo Holdings, has begun sales of NAPS HOME, a home designed around the concept of living with your motorcycle. The home features a “3rd Place” that can be used as a motorcycle garage, allowing riders to live comfortably with their beloved bikes. This 3rd Place can also be used for multiple purposes, such as a cafe space, a place to relax with pets, or a training room. Furthermore, because it is offered at the same price range as a standard prefabricated home, it is easily accessible to riders who have struggled with the high cost of a custom-built home or the need for family understanding. Sales of the first six homes have now begun, and details can be found on the NAPS HOME special page.
Docomo Bike Share introduces special moped-type vehicles
In response to the growing popularity of micromobility, Docomo Bike Share will introduce a new type of electric mobility vehicle, a specified small motorized bicycle. This vehicle has a bicycle-like shape and tire size, and can be ridden in the same way as a conventional electrically assisted bicycle, making it suitable for users of all ages. The maximum speed is 20km/h, and it does not have a special mode (6km/h) that allows riding on sidewalks. Safety measures and policies will be verified, with the aim of starting demonstration experiments in spring 2025.
Brusca is in May! Held at Yamashita Pier
Harley-Davidson Japan will hold “BLUE SKY HEAVEN 2025” at the Yamashita Pier Special Venue in Yokohama on Saturday, May 10th and Sunday, May 11th, 2025. Tickets went on sale on February 20th. This is one of Japan’s largest lifestyle festivals, combining music, fashion, food, and motorcycles. Following on from last year, this urban event will be enjoyed not only by riders but also by families and music fans. The venue will feature live performances by popular artists, a shopping area, and a gourmet festival. Plans include an exhibition and test ride of Harley-Davidson’s 2025 models, a stunt show, and apparel and parts sales by authorized dealers. Advance tickets are ¥4,500 (tax included), with a discount of ¥4,000 (tax included) for Yokohama residents and students. Even more discounted tickets will be available at authorized Harley-Davidson dealerships from February 25th. Details will be announced on the official website.
Ducati event at the Porsche Center
Ducati Japan will hold “DUCATI DAY 2025” on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Porsche Experience Center Tokyo in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture. The event is scheduled to feature a variety of content, including test rides of the latest models, stunt shows, and talk shows. Admission is free, but some programs will incur a fee. Details and registration can be found on the official Ducati Japan website.
Action camera and B+COM work together
Sign House has announced that its Bluetooth motorcycle intercom “B+COM” series (SB6XR, SX1, ONE, SB6X) can now be connected to the latest action cameras, the Insta360 X4 and GoPro HERO13, allowing audio from intercom calls to be added to action camera footage. This makes it possible to incorporate call audio from up to four people into recorded footage. However, because this is a universal connection, there may be a decrease in call quality. It is also recommended that you confirm that audio is being recorded correctly before starting your ride. Detailed connection instructions and information on software updates can be found on the Sign House official website.
Crowdfunding begins for a swivel bike stand
Senda Giken has developed the “Takumi-Hand-Finished Stand 360,” which allows for 360-degree movement of motorcycles even in a small garage. The project will begin on February 25, 2025, on the crowdfunding platform “Makuake.” This stand allows motorcycles to rotate 360 degrees, not just forward, backward, left, and right, making it easier to move and service motorcycles in a small garage. Wheels can also be rotated while the stand is still on the stand, making maintenance tasks like chain cleaning and wheel polishing more convenient. Furthermore, a level adjuster allows for semi-fixed positioning during long-term storage. This product combines the craftsmanship of Factory Iwasawa, a small factory in Koto Ward, Tokyo, with the expertise of Akio Senda, an engineer with 35 years of motorcycle development experience. The Makuake project will offer a special price of up to 40% off, and a ¥5,000 off coupon will be distributed on the first day only. For more details, please visit Senda Giken’s official website and LINE page.
Kids-only off-road park opens
Dirt Freak will open Excite Park Osaka, the first electric off-road motorcycle course exclusively for kids in the Kansai region, at the Maishima Urban Outdoor Base in Osaka on March 9, 2025. The course was planned by racing driver Yuki Shiraishi and motocross rider Masaki Tanaka to provide children with a safe and fun motorcycle experience. The bikes used will be Dirt Freak’s kids’ electric motorcycles, the Yotsubamoto Meow and Woof, and helmets and protectors will be available for rental, allowing participants to participate empty-handed. The Maishima Outdoor Festival, where participants can try out electric motorcycles and enjoy outdoor activities, will also be held on the opening day.
Triumph sponsors SSTR
Triumph Motorcycles Japan will be presenting original content for the first time in two years at SSTR 2025, which will be held from May 24th to June 1st, 2025. SSTR (Sunrise Sunset Touring Rally) is one of Japan’s largest touring events, starting with sunrise on the eastern coastline and finishing with a sunset at Chirihama Beach in Ishikawa Prefecture. Triumph plans to offer special plans and services to participants during the event. Details will be announced sequentially on Triumph’s official social media and email newsletter. Entries for SSTR 2025 will open at 6:37 AM on February 23rd and will close once capacity is reached. Riders who wish to participate are encouraged to check the official website for the latest information and apply early.
Try out the human-powered hybrid bike series
ENNE will be hosting a test ride event for its latest e-bike models, including the T350 Pro, T600 GR, and F750, for users seeking a new means of transportation this spring. To book a test ride, please contact info@ennegt.com. The 2025 model T350 Pro features a new USB port beneath the dashboard for charging smartphones and other devices. The limited-edition T600 GR is a special edition model featuring a 600W motor and dedicated tuning controller, the maximum power limit for a specified moped. Furthermore, the T250, which went on sale in June 2023, is the only specified moped with pedals and has sold 1,000 units on its first day of release and over 10,000 units in total. For more information about the test ride and how to reserve, please visit the official website or contact us via the email address listed above.
Test drive and get a free pair of working gloves
Triumph Motorcycles Japan will be holding the “TIGER SPORT 800/660 FAIR” at authorized Triumph dealers nationwide from March 1st to March 30th, 2025. During the fair, customers can make reservations to test ride selected models, and those who actually take a test ride will receive a free pair of “TRIUMPH original working gloves.” The TIGER SPORT 800 and 660 are adventure sports tourers equipped with powerful 3-cylinder engines and excellent handling performance, making them suitable for a wide range of activities from city riding to long-distance touring. Take this opportunity to experience their appeal at authorized dealers nationwide.
Who makes the best Daytona 660?
Triumph Motorcycles Japan will be holding a voting event for the “DAYTONA 660 Custom Contest” from February 19th to March 6th, 2025, for custom “DAYTONA 660” bikes created by authorized Triumph dealers nationwide. Voting can be done on a dedicated page, and 20 participants will be randomly selected to receive original Triumph goods. The winning vehicle will be exhibited at the Triumph booth at the “Osaka Motorcycle Show 2025,” to be held at Intex Osaka from March 21st to 23rd, and the “Tokyo Motorcycle Show 2025,” to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from March 28th to 30th.
Royal Enfield authorized dealer in Tsukuba city
PCI will hold the grand opening of “ROYAL ENFIELD Tsukuba,” an authorized Royal Enfield dealership, in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, on Monday, March 3, 2025. The store will be operated by Chronicle Co., Ltd. and will be the company’s second Royal Enfield specialty store. The new store is located along National Route 354, approximately 3 km from the Yatabe Interchange on the Joban Expressway, approximately a 10-minute drive. The store will feature a wide selection of the latest models on display, test rides, riding gear, apparel, and more, as well as parking for both two- and four-wheeled vehicles. Since its establishment in 2012, Chronicle Co., Ltd. has focused on imported motorcycles and provides support for customers’ motorcycle lifestyles as a maintenance professional.
Kawasaki Plaza Utsunomiya Kita renovated
Kawasaki Motors Japan reopened the newly renovated Kawasaki Plaza Utsunomiya Kita in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, on Saturday, February 15, 2025. The store is conveniently located approximately 15 minutes from the Utsunomiya Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway and approximately 5 minutes from the Hiraide Industrial Park intersection on National Route 4 Bypass. It features dedicated parking for motorcycles and automobiles. The store’s wood-grain floors and white ceiling create a bright atmosphere, with motorcycles and Plaza apparel on display in a spacious setting. It also features a community space where riders and aspiring riders can gather casually, proposing a new lifestyle with motorcycles. Business hours are from 10:00 to 19:00, and the store is closed every Wednesday and the first, third, and fifth Thursdays of each month, as well as special closing days. For more information, please visit the official website.
Kawasaki Plaza Omiya renovated
Kawasaki Motors Japan reopened the newly renovated Kawasaki Plaza Omiya on Saturday, February 15, 2025. The store is located near the Higashi-Onaricho 2-chome intersection of National Route 17 (Nakasendo) in Kita Ward, Saitama City, and is easily accessible, just a two-minute walk from the nearest New Shuttle Kamonomiya Station. The store’s wood-grain floors and white ceiling create a bright atmosphere, with motorcycles and Plaza apparel on display in a spacious space. There is also a community space where riders and aspiring riders can gather casually, proposing a new lifestyle with motorcycles. Business hours are from 10:00 to 19:00, and the store is closed every Wednesday.
Kawasaki Plaza Tsukuba renovated
Kawasaki Motors Japan reopened the newly renovated Kawasaki Plaza Tsukuba on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. The store is located within the AEON Mall Tsukuba premises near the Tsukuba-Ushiku Interchange on the Ken-O Expressway, and features a large parking lot and numerous specialty shops. The store displays the latest vehicle models and the “good times collection,” an original item exclusive to Kawasaki Plaza, creating a space where customers can experience the Kawasaki brand with all five senses. A wide range of rental and test drive vehicles are also available, and after-sales services such as inspections, repairs, and vehicle inspections are also available. The store also handles consultations on insurance and vehicle storage. Business hours are from 10:00 to 19:00, and the store is closed every Wednesday and Thursday (except the first Thursday of each month).
