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 August 18th to 24th, 2025.
Dark and heavy, the Bonneville Custom, showcasing craftsmanship, captivates judges and votes from around the world
Gaijin, created by Deguchi Teidi, the owner of Shibuya Garage in Sao Paulo, Brazil, has been crowned the winner of the Triumph Originals 2025 customization competition. Competing fiercely with finalists selected from around the world, the car won by receiving high support from both the public and expert judges.
“Gaijin” is a cafe racer based on the Speed Twin 1200, exuding a dark and profound atmosphere, and is characterized by a design that exudes a sense of dynamism and speed even when stationary. The clearly visible scalloped paint pattern, the shape of the tank, and the redesigned tail create a finish that exudes a sense of movement even when stationary. The judges gave it high praise, saying, “It’s a design that makes you want it at a glance, and makes you want to see it being ridden,” and “It combines a strong presence with high-quality craftsmanship.”
Furthermore, in the Craftsmanship category, “Gaijin” won the Excellence Award after being judged by Kengo Kimura, founder of Heiwa Motorcycles in Japan. Kimura’s words summed up the bike as “beautifully crafted down to the smallest detail, and the overall design is well organized. It’s a bike packed with design and ideas,” a statement that truly embodies the spirit of a craftsman.
The British team was awarded the Excellence Award in the “British Originality” category. The winning entry was the “Bonneville Sunraiser,” created by Stockwell Design for Triumph London, which was praised for its ability to bring the spirit of British cafe racers from the 1960s into the modern era. The polished aluminum and stainless steel textures, the elegant cursive logo, and the vibrant coloring evoke the rock ‘n’ roll movement of the time. Judge Ricardo Pessoa, founder of Coolnvintage, commented that this entry “is closest in form, feel, and intent to the British cafe racer spirit of the 1960s.”
The Italian team also received praise in the style category. The creation of Giuseppe Carlucci, Milan-based founder of South Garage Motor Co, sublimates the timeless elegance and understated luxury of the Speed Twins of the 1930s and 1940s into a modern custom. Based on the Bonneville Bobber, the chassis was redesigned and precision-engineered custom parts were incorporated to create a stunning blend of essence, design and character. Quique Berna of Tamarit Motorcycles in Spain said, “This bike embodies the perfect harmony of essence, design and character.”
Eight teams from around the world participated in the competition, and in collaboration with local custom builders, they competed with sophisticated handcrafted creations based on the current Triumph Bonneville series. Five finalists were selected from Brazil, France, Italy, Thailand and the UK, and the final winner was decided by public vote and a panel of judges.
The judging panel was made up of renowned international figures. Quique Berna, co-founder and creative director of Spain’s Tamarit Motorcycles, was in charge of the Iconic Style category, judging the awards with respect for the craft and creativity of the Tamarit brand. Ricardo Pessoa, founder of Portugal’s Coolnvintage, was in charge of the British Originality category, evaluating how classic British aesthetics are passed down to the modern era. Kengo Kimura of Heiwa Motorcycle was in charge of the Craftsmanship category, evaluating the artistry and craftsmanship of the details. And Steve Sargent, Chief Product Officer at Triumph, judged the fusion of technology and design from the perspective of creativity and innovation.
This customization competition has once again demonstrated that it is a world-class stage where entries are judged not just on beauty and individuality, but on a combination of criteria such as technical ability, respect for design, craftsmanship, and innovation. “Gaijin” by Shibuya Garage from Brazil has left a mark as a work that truly embodies these ideals.
Royal Enfield unveils the new “New CLASSIC 650” | A neo-classic model that combines traditional beauty with modern performance
Royal Enfield has unveiled the New CLASSIC 650, a new model that refines the traditions of the CLASSIC series. Equipped with a 648cc in-line twin-cylinder engine, it inherits the iconic design of previous models, such as the elegant loop frame and teardrop-shaped tank, while offering enhanced performance and style. Its ephemeral yet dignified presence stands out on Japanese roads. Orders began at authorized dealers nationwide on September 1st. Each model has its own distinct character: the base grade (Vallam Red and Bruntingthorpe Blue) is priced at ¥949,300 (tax included), the mid-grade (Teal) at ¥969,100, and the top-of-the-line (Black Chrome) at ¥998,800. Accurate craftsmanship and advanced technology have rebuilt the CLASSIC DNA in a richer and more intricate way. Ergonomic adjustments, from footpegs and seat position to fork and suspension settings, have been made to cater to a wide range of riders. Equipped with large disc brakes with ABS and a needle-type speedometer/tripper with an LCD display, it combines practicality and comfort at a high level. The New CLASSIC 650 is not just beautiful, but also opens the door to a new chapter in the world of “pure motorcycling,” which is full of riding pleasure.
Vespa OFFICINA 8 Series, special edition model released to celebrate the legendary development department
Piaggio Group Japan will introduce the Vespa GTV 300 OFFICINA 8 and Vespa Sprint 150 OFFICINA 8, which will be available nationwide at authorized dealers from September 6, 2025. This special edition series pays homage to the legendary Officina 8 experimental team, which once produced prototypes and special models within Piaggio, and features colors and finishes that evoke its spirit. Both models feature an exclusive matte industrial blue finish called “Officina 8 Blue.” The attention to detail in materials shines through in every detail, with aluminum-like accents on the leg shields and light trim, brass-look painted wheel spokes, diamond-cut wheel rims, double-stitched seats, and brass rivet accents. Included items include a welcome kit with an owner’s booklet housed in a metal box, as well as an accessory line exclusive to the series, including a top box, gloves, apparel, a sports bag, and key chains. Prices are 605,000 yen (tax included) for the Sprint 150 and 968,000 yen (tax included) for the GTV 300. As a series that combines tradition and innovation, it is sure to attract the attention of Vespa fans.
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Deus Ex Machina unveils the boldly customized BMW R12 “Trail Breaker” – an adventure machine that will inspire your sense of adventure
Deus Ex Machina, a customization brand based in Sydney, Australia, has announced the Trail Breaker, a new custom model based on the BMW Motorrad R12. The theme is “An adventure machine that dominates the wilderness.” By avoiding major design changes and using minimal customization, the team preserves the BMW R12’s beautiful form while highlighting its powerful personality. Distinctive features include a custom seat made from recycled riding jacket material, a DNA filter with a revealing feel, and a sandblasted exterior for a rugged feel. Accented with a vibrant blue Deus badge, the classic look is enhanced with an adventurous nuance. The approach of enhancing the presence of the details without compromising the original aesthetic is a testament to Deus’s signature craftsmanship. The Trail Breaker is a bike that will inspire riders’ adventurous spirit, from city to off-road and even uncharted territory, showcasing the potential of the BMW R12 from a new perspective. More details are available on the official Deus web magazine.
Onomichi/Innoshima “3rd Moped Cub Festival” to be held at Oyama Shrine
Oyama Shrine in Innoshima, Onomichi City, known as Japan’s only “bicycle shrine,” will host the “3rd Annual Moped Cub Festival” on Saturday, September 13, 2025. The Cub Meeting, which also serves as a prayer for road safety, will be held in two sessions: morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) and afternoon (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM). Participation is ¥500. The first 100 participants will receive a sticker. Additionally, for ¥1,000 per vehicle, participants can receive a road safety prayer. Participants can pass through a straw circle with their beloved bikes to pray for safety, creating a chance for Cub fans from across the country to mingle. A variety of stalls, including a rock-paper-scissors tournament and a Shimanami Kabunushi meeting, are also planned, making this an event not to be missed for Cub enthusiasts. Conveniently located, the event is approximately 10 minutes from Innoshima Minami IC from Ehime and Innoshima Kita IC from Onomichi. Parking is also available, making this an event that can be enjoyed casually as a stop-off spot for touring.
New dashcam that requires no wiring and can be installed in 1 second, “MF-BDVR003-PRO” now available for pre-sale on Makuake
MAXWIN (Changteng Limited) has launched pre-sales of the MF-BDVR003-PRO, a new model in the “MUFU” series of wire-free dashcams for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, on the support purchase site Makuake. Installation takes just one second; simply attach the device to the mount, with no labor costs. The battery capacity is 4000mAh, more than double the previous model. This allows for up to 16 hours of continuous recording, covering extended driving times. Furthermore, the MUFU series’ unique “smart detection sensor” automatically turns the device on when the mount is installed and automatically turns it off when removed, eliminating the need for button operation. Recording quality has also been improved, with a 2-megapixel CMOS sensor and wide-angle waterproof lens capturing clear 1080P video day or night. Recorded data and real-time video can be viewed using the smartphone app. Pre-sales will begin on August 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM and run until September 29, 2025. Don’t miss out on the “Super Super Early Bird” 40% off and “Super Early Bird” 37% off return plans available for both the car and motorcycle mounts.
“MOTHER LAKE RALLY 2025,” a women-only touring event, draws attention with deadline extension
Due to popular demand, the entry deadline for the “MOTHER LAKE RALLY 2025,” a touring rally for female riders organized by the Japan Riders Forum, has been extended from the original August 31st to September 30th. The event will be held from Saturday, October 18th to Sunday, October 19th, 2025, at the Kohoku THG Twin Arena. This event, set around Lake Biwa, is now in its third year, and instead of focusing on speed or distance, participants can enjoy a “journey” experience by touring the surrounding sights using a dedicated app. Entry is ¥6,000 for the solo class and ¥11,000 for the tandem class (both including tax). A portion of the entry fee will be donated to environmental conservation efforts around Lake Biwa. The event is limited to 1,000 vehicles, so early registration is recommended.
Bikers Paradise “Autumn FES 2025 @ Higashi Mikawa” to be held for the first time at AEON Mall Toyokawa
The major motorcycle enthusiast event, “Autumn FES 2025 @ Higashi Mikawa,” will be held for the first time at AEON Mall Toyokawa in Aichi Prefecture, sponsored by Bikers Paradise Co., Ltd., over two days, September 13th (Sat) and 14th (Sun). The Motoblogger Interaction Zone (500 yen admission) will feature performances by Hirajima Natsumi, Oriki, and Apologic, with a live performance by Apologic also planned. Meanwhile, the outdoor test ride area will be open to the public free of charge, and visitors can test ride Harleys, BMW Motorrads, trikes, and electric motorcycles. The first 1,000 visitors will receive a commemorative gift, and event-exclusive T-shirts will also be available for purchase. This is sure to attract attention as a place where everyone, from beginners to veterans, can experience motorcycle culture and enjoy local interaction.
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“MOTHER LAKE RALLY 2025,” a rally for female riders, will be exhibited at the Nirinkan Festival
“MOTHER LAKE RALLY 2025,” a touring event for female riders, has decided to exhibit at “2rinkan Festival East 2025 Good Smile Meeting” (Fujiten Resort, Yamanashi), one of Japan’s largest motorcycle events, to be held on August 30, 2025. At the booth, staff will directly respond to concerns and questions such as “Rally seems difficult” and “Is it okay to participate alone?”, and introduce the appeal and fun of the event. In addition, a support system will be provided for on-the-spot entry, and special benefits will be offered to those who enter on the day. “MOTHER LAKE RALLY” is a rally event set around Lake Biwa, where participants can “enjoy the journey” using a dedicated smartphone app. It is not a style of competition based on speed or distance, but rather is designed to allow all female riders to participate freely and fairly, regardless of age, skill level, or type of bike. It began in 2023.
Triumph is now accepting entries for the customization contest at the 2025 Triumph National Rally
Triumph Motorcycles Japan has announced that it is now accepting entries for the customization contest to be held at the Triumph National Rally 2025, scheduled for October 4th, 2025, from August 22nd to September 15th, 2025. A maximum of 10 custom bikes will be displayed at the event venue, with visitors voting to select the bike that best represents Triumph. Participants must apply in advance, and as a general rule, they must arrive at the venue with the vehicle they have entered and stay until the awards ceremony. Vehicles must also comply with regulations, and any vehicles deemed illegal by the organizers will not be eligible for judging. Details such as the application format and exhibition schedule can be found on the dedicated form.
“Deus Ex Machina Harajuku” completely renews its coffee, delivering “a cup made with human thought” with newly roasted beans
Deus Ex Machina Harajuku, a cultural spot in Tokyo’s Harajuku district, will be completely revamping its cafe menu starting in August 2025. The new blend features beans roasted by Tadashi Yuzawa, owner of Southland Minamichi, a cafe in Ichinomiya, Aichi Prefecture. Aiming for a flavor that combines a rich roasted aroma with a soft acidity, deep bitterness, and a pleasant aftertaste, the new blend reflects Yuzawa’s belief that “it is not a machine that determines the final flavor, but the human tongue and feelings.” At the Jingumae store in Shibuya Ward, the new blend aims to create a light and profound experience that resonates with the space.
Father and son Kazama Fukashi and Shinnosuke participate in “Nippon Support Touring 2025” mid-term meeting held at Lake Yamanaka
The interim meeting for the “Nippon Support Touring 2025,” a social contribution touring event sponsored by the Japan Riders Forum, took place on August 9, 2025, at the Yamanakako Village Campground and Kirara Community Plaza Parking Lot in Lake Yamanaka, Yamanashi Prefecture. Adventurer Shinnosuke Kazama and Dakar Rally finisher Shinnosuke participated, providing a free riding lesson on safe driving, a debriefing session looking back on their activities to date, socializing around a bonfire, and even a photo report of Shinnosuke’s tree-planting trip to Mongolia. The event provided an opportunity for participants to deepen their friendships. A total of 26 people participated, with 24 taking part in the networking event. Currently, the touring event has surpassed 1,000 participants, with plans to continue expanding nationwide.
JAF Mie to hold “Motorcycle Meeting” at Iitaka Roadside Station – 15 booths and a talk by Madoka Umemoto
The JAF Mie branch will hold the “JAF Bike Meeting at Iitaka Station Roadside Station” on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Iitaka Station Roadside Station in Matsusaka City. The event aims to promote tourism in Mie Prefecture and revitalize the region, and will feature a talk show featuring former SKE48 member Madoka Umemoto, known for her love of motorcycles, and Mie-born influencer MIISA. The venue will feature 15 motorcycle-related booths, including Honda Dream Matsusaka, Harley-Davidson Mie, Kawasaki Plaza Kuwana-Matsusaka, and YSP Suzuka, with vehicle displays and merchandise for sale. JAF members will also receive gifts such as Iitaka’s specialty “mugwort yaki” and original stickers.
Lalamove launches new service “Bike Delivery” in the Kanto region – instant delivery at the lowest prices in the industry
Lalamove Japan will launch a new service for individuals and businesses, “Bike Delivery Service,” in the Kanto area on August 21, 2025. The service employs distance-based pricing, one of the lowest in the industry, at 1,200 yen (tax included) per kilometer, or 2,550 yen for 10 kilometers. Customers can check the fee in advance on the app, making it both convenient and safe. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, nearby delivery partners will respond promptly, even in the early morning, late night, and on weekends. The app allows users to complete everything from requesting delivery to tracking, enhancing user convenience. The service is designed to meet a variety of needs, from lost items and gift deliveries for individuals to urgent documents, prototypes, and event materials for businesses. The service is scheduled to expand to the Kansai area in September, and attention is focused on future expansion of the service area.
New motorcycle rental base located next to Kagoshima Airport, serving as a starting point for touring
Rental819, a nationwide motorcycle rental company, will open its new “Rental819 Kagoshima Airport” on September 5, 2025, conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Kagoshima Airport. The convenience of being able to immediately head to tourist destinations in southern Kyushu, such as Sakurajima, Ibusuki, and Kirishima, after arrival will be its greatest attraction. The store handles a wide range of motorcycles, from compact to large models, including domestic and international manufacturers, as well as rare electric motorcycles. To commemorate the opening, a campaign will be held from September 5 to 19, offering a 20% discount on the basic fee. Entering a special coupon code when making an online reservation will apply the discount and ensure smooth vehicle collection.
“Kakaku.com Insurance” completely redesigns its motorcycle insurance page – unveiling a new design that combines ease of use and information comprehension
Kakaku.com Insurance Inc. has completely redesigned the homepage and product comparison pages of its motorcycle insurance comparison site, “Kakaku.com Insurance.” The new structure allows users to see at a glance important coverages for each product, such as bodily injury compensation, property damage compensation, passenger injury, and road service, making it easier to understand the coverage overview and select a product. The comparison page features clear displays and organized headings that focus on high-priority coverage, and multiple products are lined up to make it easier to compare their features and differences. Furthermore, under the supervision of Atsuyuki Hirano, a CFP® certified and first-class financial planning technician, the basic explanations of motorcycle insurance mechanisms and coverage details have been organized in a more understandable way, providing information that is considerate even for beginners.
Kawasaki Plaza Funabashi redefines “comfort” with station-close renovation
Kawasaki Plaza Funabashi, located in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, a six-minute walk from Yakuendai Station on the Shin-Keisei Line, reopened on August 22, 2025. The bright, clean space, with its wood-grain floors and white ceiling, features a spacious display of motorcycles and Plaza apparel, creating a cozy atmosphere. The newly installed “CAGE” showcases bikes displayed in illuminated frames, evoking a unique presence and creating an iconic Plaza atmosphere. An island-shaped display platform offers apparel and merchandise that can be touched and inspected, while the “ISLAND DISPLAY” enhances the pre-purchase experience. The community space provides a casual gathering place for riders and aspiring riders. The “HERITAGE WALL” displays Kawasaki graphics linking the past and future, captivating visitors. As part of the Kawasaki Plaza network of 94 stores nationwide, the store has been reborn as a space that embodies “omotenashi” (hospitality) and “kototsukuri” (creation).
Kawasaki Plaza to sell “Safety Package” with chest protector for a limited time
Kawasaki Motors Japan Co., Ltd. will be selling a “Safety Package” consisting of a chest protector, designated jacket, and apparel items at Kawasaki Plaza stores nationwide for a limited time from Monday, September 1st to Monday, November 3rd, 2025. The aim is to further enhance riders’ motorcycle experiences by combining items that combine safety and comfort. For details and eligible products, please visit your nearest Kawasaki Plaza. Kawasaki Plaza, which has 94 stores nationwide, offers the comprehensive service that only an authorized dealer can provide and a safe support system from a certified factory, and this package is also part of their efforts to prioritize rider safety.
