Modenas lineup takes centre stage at carnival day

New Straits Times

15-07-2025

SEKOLAH Sultan Alam Shah in Putrajaya transformed into a festive wonderland last Sunday as students, staff and visitors gathered for its much-anticipated annual Carnival Day.
Bursting with vibrant energy, there was a wide range of activities, mouthwatering treats and thrilling entertainment, with a standout attraction stealing the event: a bike show.
As bright tents lined the school's main compound, featuring everything from traditional fair games (and a petting zoo and a haunted house in makeshift classrooms) to homemade cuisine prepared by students and parents, a highlight of the day was a showcase of Kawasaki, Modenas and Kymco motorcycles.
The showcase was brought by DRB-HICOM Bhd's motorcycle arm Motorsikal & Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas), which according to its representative was the first time the company had exhibited at a school.
Leading the bike show were several top-tier Kawasaki models namely the Ninja ZX-6R, Ninja 500SE, Ninja Z500 and Ninja Z250, each offering a distinct blend of power, agility and show-stopping design.
Others making their apprearance were Modenas Kriss 125, Modenas Dominar 250, Modenas Elegan 250 and Kymco DTX 250.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R: Speed Meets Spectacle
The Ninja ZX-6R, a supersport icon, led the pack with its razor-sharp handling and high-revving engine.
It wowed the crowd with its sleek aerodynamic build and striking color schemes.
Powered by a 636cc inline‑four engine, producing 124 PS at 13,000rpm and 69 Nm torque at 10,000-11,000 rpm, the ZX‑6R delivers a smooth yet exhilarating performance both on street and track.
Its sublime handling is owed to its race-derived chassis characteristics that allow the rider to become one with his machine.
Modenas said the ZX-6R provides supersport-style fun and excitement in situations ranging from the racetrack to canyon roads and mountain passes to the city.
The lightweight pressed‑aluminium perimeter frame and Showa SFF‑BP front fork provide razor‑sharp steering and confidence in corners.
Fully adjustable suspension and a well‑tuned geometry make it agile at low speeds and stable at highway or track pace.
Equipped with dual 310mm front discs, radial‑mount Nissin four‑piston calipers and Kawasaki's top-tier KIBS ABS, the ZX-6R delivers strong, reliable, and natural braking feel.
Advanced rider aids include three‑mode Kawasaki traction control, two power modes, quick shifter, slipper‑assist clutch and a modern TFT dash with smartphone integration.
Kawasaki Ninja 500SE: Power and Performance The Ninja 500SE boasts a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine delivering 51hp at 10,000rpm and 43Nm of torque at 7,500rpm, paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring a slipandassist clutch for smoother downshifts.
Riders said the powerband is smooth throughout, offering usability in tight urban traffic and on highways .
Built on a lightweight trellis steel frame similar to the NinjaH2, it weighs around 171kg-172kg wet, with a seat height of 785mm making it enticingly approachable for newer riders.
Suspension includes 41mm telescopic forks and a preload-adjustable UniTrak monoshock, offering agile yet stable handling.
Its relaxed, sporty riding position, padded seat, and full fairing provide solid wind protection.
Slim seat and low reach give shorter riders confidence. Riders describe it as easy to manoeuvre and great for beginners.
Kawsaki Ninja Z500: A Perfect Balance of Power and Poise
The Ninja Z500 brought a modern, muscular streetfighter style to the lineup. With its lightweight chassis and confident stance, it was the go-to bike for agile maneuvers and tight figure-eights.
The Z500's minimalist, aggressive look turned heads among student motorbike enthusiasts, several of whom gathered around it to ask about its engine specs, beginner-friendliness and real-world riding experience.
Powered by a 451cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin with twin 32mm throttle bodies, the engine produces 51hp at 10,000 rpm and 43Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, offering strong performance for a compact sportbike.
The six-speed gearbox features a slip-and-assist clutch, delivering smooth shifts and easy modulation.
Z250: Small Frame, Big Impact
Proving that size isn't everything, the Kawasaki Z250 held its own in the performance arena. This nimble machine is known for being beginner-friendly without compromising on style.
The Z250 packs a 249cc liquid‑cooled DOHC parallel‑twin, delivering around 37 PS (27.5 kW) at 12,500 rpm and 23 Nm of torque at 10,500 rpm.
This power output makes it a lively performer for a 250cc bike, offering spirited acceleration and encouraging high-rev riding.
Built on a high-tensile steel trellis frame with 41mm front forks and preload-adjustable rear Uni-Trak suspension, the Z250 balances agility and stability.
Its light 165kg curb weight and nimble geometry make it easy and fun around town.