2025

THE SHOW’S ON

The Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship is heading towards its season opener at Chang International Circuit this weekend. The highly anticipated Underbone 150cc race category will return once again with its nip and tuck as riders pick from losses and failures, winnings and successes to embrace an all new-season thrill and challenges. With renewed strength and another mission to accomplish, Fahmi Basam of YAMAHA LFN HP969 INDONESIA RACING TEAM, defending champion is all prepped to raise the benchmark. His teammate, Murrobil Vittoni who was also his contender may be out of the picture, taking a leap in the AP250 race category but the likes of Akid Aziz from team PITSBIKE SUPERFAST JRT RACING TEAM, whom he formed rivalry with towards the end of the season will be back to ensure the hurdles are up all the way. Along with them, Adytya Fauzi of JPNW SND FACTORY RACING will pair up with Kiki Sudarman to ensure the excitement never ceases. Fahmi said, “I can’t wait to be back in the scene to dominate the CP150 race category once again. While I know the stakes are high, my mission is to give 100% of my ability to fight against the odds. I want to defend the championship title, that’s the ultimate goal. There is a lot of work to be done of course in terms of my physique ad well as my mental strength. The strategies may not change significantly but I will work on the required needs as and when it’s needed during the race. The entry list is quite intimidating because I know all of them are highly equipped with the necessary skills and calibre. But most importantly is fixing my limitations so that I can compete on par with the rest of the troop.” Akid said, “Reflecting on last season, I would say that some of the important lessons for me revolved around consistency, adaptability, and mental toughness. Small mistakes have a major impact, so to me, it is all about maintaining focus and minimizing errors throughout the season. Different circuits require different riding styles. It is all about identifying the strengths on different grounds and optimising where possible. To me, that is the challenge which I would seek to overcome this season. I missed out on my chances last season but I am certainly keeping my fingers crossed to rise above it all to claim the victorious title.” Nazirul Izzat of UMA RACING YAMAHA MAJU MOTOR ASIA TEAM on the other hand may have faced an unfortunate incident last season that kept him out of the equation but this season, dexterity coupled with luck, it may turn out to be exactly what is needed to turn things around. “This season will definitely come with a lot of work on my part. I have started planning early while also simultaneously working out on my physical capacities. I want to be strong this season, no doubt and maintain my momentum towards the championship title. UB150 race category is not easy and there is no time to waste. The last two laps are always tricky and strategizing including machine setup is very important. Chang holds a lot of memory for me. I took my first ever championship title in that circuit and also missed on a consecutive title there. So, for the season opener, I hope that the grace of the circuit will help me achieve my goals for this season.”

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READY TO STORM OUT!

TVS Asia One Make Championship gets bigger and bolder and it’s about to scorch the circuit ground of Chang International Circuit this weekend at the season opener of the IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. For the third consecutive year, the blue and red hues of TVS Asia will adorn the paddock to challenge and raise the benchmarks for Season 2025. Hiroki Ono of Japan took Season 2024 by a storm and wowed fans when he rose to the challenge and bagged the championship trophy for the TVS Asia race category with a total of 251 points. It was an expected outcome considering the 25-points he clocked-in race after race except for Race 2 in both Mandalika and Sepang. The rider flexed his prowess relentlessly and marked his territories on the circuit grounds with no fear of being defeated. The question is, would Hiroki be able to live up to his own benchmark this season, more so with the brewing rivalry with his closest contender? Hiroki said, “Frankly, I have no pressure although my rivals are getting faster and better. But that is what motivates me further. Looking at the season’s rider line-up, I find it quite exciting and I am really looking forward to it. I am pretty sure that Ramdan will still be my closest rival but I also think there are many other strong contenders this season. Having said that, I am also well prepared for the challenges. It is also an advantage that I enjoy riding in all circuits, but of course, my favourite would be the Mobility Resort Motegi. At the end of the day, my goal is only one regardless of the circuits. It is to become the champion for the second consecutive year and for that, I will give my all and do my best.” Ramdan Rosli of Malaysia settled for second best last season but clearly, that does not sum up his best efforts especially with his known capacities to knock down the best in town. While the struggles are inevitable with pressure continuously stinging along the way, Ramdan nevertheless showcased wit and grit to make the most of the circumstances while progressively raising his profile. Looking at the previous season though, Hiroki may not be the only one posing threat but up and coming Indian rider, Sartak Chavan could potentially induce risks for the Malaysian lad. Ramdan said, “The eyes are on the prize – champion trophy. It is my goal, to bring home the pride and joy of being a champion. I will push and motivate myself to give 110% for Season 2025. Speaking of contenders, I believe different rider has different approach and styles and as such, the race will always remain competitive. For me, I always see where my advantage is and strike while the iron is hot. Chang circuit, for me, is not a tough one. But that’s also a circuit where you can find riders flocking in one big group. For now, the team has worked on the machine to improve its performance compared to last year however we will know until we test the bike on the track. My goal is to win and to finish on the podium in all races. Of course, it won’t be easy but that’s the motivation.” TVS Asia will be back with a 15-rider line-up this season, nine of which are familiar names and another six, new entries entirely from Spain, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia who will compete in the TVS Asia series. The series will also see participation of wildcards riders periodically over the course of six rounds.

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ARRC LEGENDS RETURN WITH BRAND NEW A1 ENERGY BMW RACING TEAM

KUALA LUMPUR – The 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) ASB1000 class is building up to a mouthwatering season ahead after the announcement of its newest outfit, Malaysia’s A1 Energy BMW Racing Team, but with two very familiar faces on board. At the ripe old age of 40, 2019 ASB1000 champion Azlan Shah Kamaruzaman isn’t about to hang up his leathers and makes a return to the championship alongside 2024 Supersport 600 champion Apiwath Wongthananon of Thailand. Azlan Shah, who is also a two-time Supersport 600 champion, said he was coaxed out of his decision to retire after the team put forward an enticing offer, armed with the latest BMW M1000RR and a stable environment which would allow them to develop. “Last season we struggled and it affected me so much that mentally I wasn’t in the best condition at each race. For this year, it is a relief and I’m happy about the team and the up- to-date machinery, also the strong support from the BMW factory and Alpha Racing. This will definitely give me a boost for each race,” said Azlan.“I am only hoping to achieve better results and provide a strong challenge to the younger riders.” Apiwath, 31, moves back up to the ASB1000 class, having moved down to the second-tier Supersport 600 class to successfully clinch the title last year. He had finished fourth in the ASB1000 class a year prior. This time he is aiming for successive titles in two different classes.“I am very excited. This is a new challenge for me. I know this is a very good team, so my target is to become champion in ASB1000 this year. I will give my best at every round and try to attack to win each one,” said Apiwath, who goes by the nickname of ‘Stamp’, who will also be riding a BMW for the first time in his career, having won the Supersport 600 title with Yamaha last year. “Azlan is an experienced rider. I have to learn the M1000RR riding style from him and I believe he will be a strong teammate this year,” he added.The team is backed by Malaysian-owned A1 Energy Sdn Bhd, which is an enterprise specialising in high-performance fuels, lubricants and advanced energy solutions, and the company describes its expansion into motorsports as part of a strategic ambition to provide energy solutions that perform at the highest levels, even under extreme conditions. “A1 Energy’s primary objective is to establish itself as a trusted and authoritative brand within the regional motorsport ecosystem. Through our strategic partnership with alpha Racing GmbH and BMW Motorrad Motorsport in the prestigious ASB1000 category, we aim to showcase both the technical capabilities of our products and our steadfast commitment to the sport. We are dedicated to pushing the limits of performance, supporting our team in their pursuit of consistent podium finishes, and reinforcing our position as a competitive force throughout the 2025 season,” said team principal Noor Hirman Mohd Esa. “Our long-term vision is to establish A1 Energy Racing as a permanent, performance-driven force within the Asian motorsport arena. We aspire to evolve beyond sponsorship into a fully integrated team structure encompassing rider development, talent scouting, advanced technical R&D, and the potential expansion into international championships. Our ambition is for the A1 Energy BMW Racing Team not only to compete, but to lead — setting new benchmarks in professionalism, teamwork, and racing excellence. “I am deeply honored to assume this role on behalf of A1 Energy. It is a true privilege to lead this exciting journey into the ASB1000, alongside world-class riders, passionate engineers, and a dedicated,” said Noor Hirman. BMW Head of Customer Racing Uwe Geyer expressed his delight at teaming up with A1 Energy in the ARRC. “We are delighted to join forces with A1 Racing in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship. They are flying the flag for us in the most important international Superbike racing series in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Geyer. “A1 Racing is a very experienced team with strong riders, and they all know how to ride to glory with the BMW M 1000 RR. So it’s great to see them lining up with our latest model, the 2025 BMW M 1000 RR, in their hunt for success in ARRC.” “They benefit from all our experience gathered in the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK), where we won the title last year. All we learned in WorldSBK directly went into development of the new M 1000 RR customer racing bikes. A bike capable of winning, a highly professional team and fantastic riders – all is set for a successful campaign. We’re crossing our fingers and are looking forward to the 2025 ARRC season!”With all pieces of the puzzle in place, the team now prepares to get down to business with the 2025 Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship kicking off with Round 1 at the Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand on April 25-27, which will be the first of six rounds of the championship.

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GALANG’S BOLD BID FOR AP250 GLORY

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) is set to welcome back a familiar face with a fresh chapter. Indonesian star Galang Hendra Pratama is making his return to the AP250 class, this time with Akai Jaya Racing, a new team making its debut in the highly competitive category. While the team may be new to the paddock, Galang’s presence brings instant credibility, experience, and high expectations. Despite being just weeks away from the start of the season, Galang seemed calm, focused, and ready. “Everything’s going well so far. I’ve been preparing both physically and mentally. I’ve done a lot of off-the-bike training such as cardio, strength, and reflexes. Not only that, I’ve also been working on my mindset. It’s important to stay mentally sharp, because racing is not just about speed. It’s about consistency, decision-making, and staying composed under pressure.” Galang is no stranger to ARRC. His international racing career began in the AP250 class back in 2015 before he went on to compete at the world level in the World Supersport 300 (WorldSSP300) category. That experience, he believes, gives him a valuable edge in his return to the Asian scene. “Racing at the international level taught me so much, especially on small bikes like 250cc or Yamaha YZF-R3. I’ve learned how to manage the race better, how to analyze setups and understand tire behavior. I’m bringing all of that knowledge back with me. My goal is to help Akai Jaya Racing fight at the front. We’re not here to just be on the grid, we’re here to compete.” When asked what motivated his return to ARRC, Galang said, “ARRC is already like home for me. It all started here in 2015. After that, I moved up to the next level, but I kept following ARRC. I saw a lot of my friends become champions, and that gave me new motivation. I want to be like them. I want to win the Asia title too. That fire inside me is still very much alive.” Returning to a field stacked with young and aggressive riders doesn’t faze Galang. In fact, he sees it as a chance to race smarter, not just harder. “Yes, there are a lot of young riders in this class, and many are very aggressive on the bike. But with experience, I’ve learned that it’s not always about being the fastest. It’s about being clever. After reviewing many of my past races, I realized sometimes you just have to enjoy the ride and keep your mind free. That’s what I want to focus on now: racing with intelligence, staying calm, and making smart moves.” Joining a brand new team presents its own unique challenges, especially in a category where bike setup and data collection are critical to success. But Galang is optimistic about the progress so far. “We’re working really hard. Big thanks to TWMR for giving us the opportunity to join this category. Even though we’re a new team, I don’t think we’re far from the top teams in terms of performance. We just need to find the final setup and the right chemistry between rider and machine. Once we get that, we can be very competitive.” As for his goal this season, Galang is clear and determined: “I want to be the AP250 Champion. I know it won’t be easy, there are many strong riders and teams, but I’m ready to give it everything. I’ll work really hard, not just for myself, but for my team, my country, and everyone who believes in me.”

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TVS RACING GEARS UP FOR A THRILLING 2025 ARRC SEASON WITH A RACE-OPTIMIZED TVS APACHE RR 310

TVS Racing is set to elevate the 2025 Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) by bringing a diverse set of top racers from across the globe, making the competition more intense than ever. The championship will kick off at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit between April 25 & 27, marking the beginning of an action-packed five-round season. Building on its strong legacy, TVS Asia One Make Championship (OMC) will see participation from five new countries—Spain, Australia, Switzerland, England, and Argentina—further strengthening its international presence. The 2025 season will also feature a race-omtimized TVS Apache RR 310, engineered for superior performance, ensuring riders stay at the forefront of competitive racing. Backed by four decades of racing pedigree, TVS Racing continues to push the boundaries of performance and innovation. In 2023, the TVS Apache RR 310 set a new top speed record of 215.9 kmph in its class, showcasing the brand’s engineering excellence. Building on this momentum, the 2024 season saw it break its own lap records at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit and Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit. This year, the refined TVS Apache RR 310 features an enhanced aero package, increased power, and improved riding dynamics, ensuring riders have the most competitive machine on the grid. With a lineup of 15 elite racers from 12 countries—comprising both seasoned champions and promising new talent—TVS Racing is not just competing in the ARRC OMC; it is redefining benchmarks in global two-wheeler motorsport. Commenting on the 2025 ARRC season, Vimal Sumbly, Head – Premium Business, TVS Motor Company said, “As we enter our fourth season at the Idemitsu FIM ARRC with the TVS Asia OMC, we are raising the bar once again with a race-optimized TVS Apache RR 310 and participation from diverse set of racers from five new countries. With top racers from 12 nations and key performance enhancements to the TVS Apache RR 310—including an upgraded aero package, increased power, and refined riding dynamics—this season is set to push the boundaries of racing technology and competition. Our commitment to motorsport excellence continues to drive innovation, nurture global talent, and reinforce TVS Racing’s leadership in two-wheeler motorsport. The 2025 season promises to be the most competitive yet, and we look forward to seeing our racers showcase their skills and set new benchmarks on the track.” Ron Hogg, Promotions Director of Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) said, “TVS Asia has come a long way since its debut not only in accelerating the expansion of two-wheel industry within its target market but also in crafting and executing sportsmanship beyond excellence for the Asian motorsports. This is evident not only from the year-to-year performances between man versus machine but also in its effort to progressively alleviate its standards through a diversified entry list. For the riders, this practice is an excellent approach in helping them reevaluate their level of performances in the face of new rivalries while simultaneously pushing them beyond their existing benchmark for greater successes. As for ARRC, this ultimately aligns with our on-going mission of expanding beyond the existing demography of interest. This is what we hope to continue inculcating through this championship – a partnership that stimulates excitement while providing an enriching and valued adding experience for all. Season 2025 is about to kick-start and we are thrilled to watch as it unfolds.” Upgraded TVS Apache RR 310 for Peak PerformanceThe 2025 TVS Apache RR 310 is engineered for even greater speed, agility, and control. Key performance upgrades include:Enhanced engine power (+0.5 bhp) for improved acceleration and top speed.Friction reduction technology for optimized efficiency and durability.Aerodynamic refinements boosting water cooling for peak performance in demanding conditions. Further mid-season upgrades will take performance to the next level, featuring:A more compact and minimized bike for better handling.10% improved aerodynamic efficiency for superior race performance.Modified gear ratios for enhanced cornering speed and precision.A Global Talent Pool for a More Competitive SeasonThis season, 15 elite riders from 12 countries will battle for championship glory. The lineup includes seven returning racers from the 2024 squad, three of whom are from India. They are joined by eight new promising racers, bringing fresh energy and an exciting challenge to the competition. The 2025 ARRC TVS Asia OMC rider lineup, includes:Rider Name & Country The 2024 season saw Hiroki Ono from Japan dominate the ARRC OMC with his second title, while Sarthak Chavan from India made history as the first Indian to secure a top-three finish internationally. The 2025 ARRC TVS Asia OMC promises high-octane action, cutting-edge racing technology, and fierce competition across five rounds, kicking off at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit.

TVS RACING GEARS UP FOR A THRILLING 2025 ARRC SEASON WITH A RACE-OPTIMIZED TVS APACHE RR 310 Read More »

ANDI REUNITES WITH ASTRA HONDA RACING TEAM FOR 2025

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) season marks a new chapter for Indonesian rider Andi Farid Izdihar as he re-joins Astra Honda Racing Team to compete in the ASB1000 category. Andi, who previously raced with Honda Asia-Dream Racing with Astemo alongside Md Zaqhwan Zaidi and Nakarin Atiratphuvapat, will now take on his former teammates as they embark on their respective journeys with different teams. Excited to reunite with familiar faces within Astra Honda Racing Team, Andi is confident in the strong bond they share. “I am so happy to work together again with all the people I know from before. We have a strong connection, and I believe that this will help us work well together. It feels great to return to a team that understands me, and I am looking forward to making the most of this season.” Having gained valuable experience last year, Andi has set his sights on a clear objective, that is winning the ASB1000 championship. “Of course, I will continue to apply all the experience I gained from last season. We will work very hard, and our goal is to be the champion. The competition is always tough, but with dedication and effort, I believe we can achieve great results.” The ASB1000 class in ARRC continues to evolve, with fierce competition expected once again this year. Andi acknowledges the growing strength of the grid. “I think all the riders from different countries are very strong, which makes the competition even more exciting. The key is to work hard at home and prepare well to be ready for every race. The level is high, and that pushes me to improve even more.” One of the highlights of the season will be Andi facing his former teammates, Zaqhwan and Nakarin, as competitors on the track. However, their bond remains strong despite their professional rivalry. “We have a great connection since we worked together for a long time. Of course, on the track, we will fight and give our best, but off the track, we are still like family. We share experiences and support each other, and that is something really special.” With three weeks to go before the start of the new season, Andi has been fully focused on his preparations. “So far, everything is going well. I am enjoying my training, and I will continue working hard to ensure I am in the best condition for the 2025 season. Every session is important, and I am fully committed to this journey.” As for potential challenges, Andi believes that preparation and teamwork will be the keys to overcoming any obstacles. “There are no major challenges at the moment. The most important thing is to have good preparation at home, maintain a strong connection and understanding within the team, so as working well together. If we can do that, I am confident that everything will be smooth.”

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JAZIL RETURNS TO ARRC, BACKED BY SIX-TIME CHAMPION COACH

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) is set to welcome back Singaporean rider Jazil Juraimi, who will be competing in AP250 category with TEAM ACR. At 33 years old, Jazil returns to full-time competition after last racing a full season in the ARRC 2015 in the Suzuki Asian Challenge. He made a wildcard appearance in Round 5 of the 2024 season, and now, he is back for a full campaign, representing a historic milestone as both a Singaporean rider and part of a Singapore-owned team in the championship. Speaking about his return, Jazil expressed his excitement at rejoining the grid: “I’m really happy to be back racing in the ARRC because it has always been my dream to compete against Asia’s best riders. This year is particularly special because I’m racing in the AP250 class with TEAM ACR, a Singaporean-owned team, making history as the first Singaporean team and rider pairing in ARRC. It’s a great honor to represent my country on this platform.” Jazil’s inspiration to return to the ARRC stems from his deep admiration for the championship. For many Asian riders, competing in ARRC is considered the pinnacle of regional racing, and Jazil shares that sentiment. His wildcard entry in 2024 only reinforced his desire to race full-time again, fueling his determination to make a strong comeback. His wildcard experience in 2024 provided him with valuable insight into how the competition has evolved. The AP250 class is now populated by a new generation of younger, faster riders, raising the level of competition to new heights. At 33 years old, Jazil recognizes the increased pace but remains determined to rise to the challenge. “My perspective after the wildcard Round 5 last year is that the level of racing has changed a lot. The AP250 riders are now younger and faster. It’s tough, but I’ll do my best to keep up with the pack,” Jazil said. Preparation for the season has been challenging due to the lack of racing facilities in Singapore. Without a dedicated track for training, Jazil has focused on maintaining his fitness through cycling and jogging. His only opportunities for track time come during occasional track days at Sepang or during official race weekend practice sessions. Despite these limitations, he remains determined to make the most of every opportunity to improve. One of the key advantages Jazil brings into this season is the mentorship of six-time ARRC champion Toshiyuki Hamaguchi. “Having a six-time champion as my coach is something I never imagined. I’ve been racing for almost 20 years, but since working with Hamaguchi, I’ve learned new skills I never thought of before. His experience and guidance will be a huge asset for me as I take on this season.” As he gears up for the AP250 campaign, Jazil remains realistic yet ambitious about his targets for the season. “The AP250 class is extremely competitive, and the level of talent coming in is incredible. It’s going to be a tough season, but I’m aiming for a top-10 finish. If I can break into the top five, that would be a bonus.”

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WAHYU AJI’S DRIVE TO ELEVATE TEAM FOR 2025

2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) is fast approaching. Wahyu Aji Trilaksana is preparing for another thrilling season in the UB150 category. More than just a competitor on the track, Wahyu is also the driving force behind RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team as its owner. Following a ninth-place overall finish in 2024 season, the experienced Indonesian rider is determined to elevate his performance and push his team to new heights this season. The break between seasons has been a crucial period for Wahyu, who has dedicated his time to both personal development and team progress. “I’ve been spending a lot of time with my family and working on securing new sponsorships for the 2025 season. Since January, I have intensified my physical training and motocross practice to enhance my endurance and bike-handling skills. Maintaining peak fitness is essential for UB150, where races are highly competitive and unpredictable.” With less than two months until the ARRC 2025 season kicks off, Wahyu and his team have been diligently preparing under the new technical regulations. “We have been conducting research and development (R&D) to adapt to the 2025 regulation changes. While there aren’t major adjustments, fine-tuning every aspect of our bikes will be key to staying competitive. Overall, we are confident in our preparations and the progress we have made so far.” This season, RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team welcomes a new rider, Dimas Juli Atmoko, who previously raced with One For All in 2024. “Having Dimas in the team is a great addition. He brings three years of ARRC experience, and I believe his insights will be valuable for our overall performance. We also have new sponsors coming in, which means a fresh new look for the team this year. These changes bring excitement and motivation for the entire team.” There have been speculations about RACETECH SIXTY Racing Team running motorcycles from two different manufacturers this season. Wahyu clarified the situation, “The rumor isn’t entirely true. We will continue to race with two Yamaha bikes, just like last season. However, we have a new team partner who will be using Honda bikes under their own program. This collaboration expands our presence in the paddock, but it doesn’t change our core team structure.” For the upcoming season, Wahyu remains focused on improving both his personal and team results. “We cannot predict how things will unfold, but we will give our absolute best to achieve better results than in 2024. Of course, the ultimate goal is the championship—either the individual title or the team championship. We’ll take it race by race and push ourselves to the limit.” Despite the changes in the team, Wahyu believes they have a solid foundation to build upon. “There won’t be a significant difference from last season in terms of our operations, but having Dimas onboard could give us an advantage. His experience will add depth to the team, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we can grow together throughout the season.”

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AKID, ADD FUEL TO THE COMEBACK

As the 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) season draws near, Md Akid Aziz of the PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team is preparing for another shot at the championship. Coming off a strong 2024 season where he was a frontrunner in the UB150 category, Akid was on track to claim the title, only for an unfortunate crash to derail his chances. Despite finishing second overall, Akid’s drive to win is stronger than ever as he sets his sights on the upcoming season. With less than two months left before the season opener, Akid is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation, ensuring he is physically and mentally ready to fight for the top spot. We caught up with the talented rider to get his thoughts on his preparation, goals, and the challenges ahead. Akid shared that his approach to preparing for the 2025 season is focused on maintaining consistency in both his physical training and mental toughness. “We’re just less than two months away from the start of the season, so it’s all about staying consistent with my training,” Akid said. “I’ve been working on both my physical fitness and my mental focus, because I know it’s not just about speed—it’s about having the right mindset to handle every situation. I need to ensure that I’m fully prepared for the challenge ahead and stay competitive from the very first race. The goal is to be ready to fight for the championship right from the start.” The 2024 season didn’t end the way Akid had hoped, with a crash that prevented him from claiming the title. However, he views the experience as an important learning opportunity. “Heading into this new season, motivation is going to be one of the key factors in determining our success,” Akid explained. “The 2024 season didn’t end the way I had hoped, and that was a tough pill to swallow. But I’ve used that frustration as fuel. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, and as riders, we always grow from those experiences. I’ve been working closely with my team to analyze every detail from last season, refining our strategy and making sure we don’t repeat the same mistakes. The key now is to turn that frustration into something positive and come back stronger than ever.” The off-season has also been a time of upgrades for the PitsBike OneWay JRT Tech2 Racing Team. Akid’s team has been working hard to refine the bike’s setup based on data collected during the previous season. “Over the winter, we’ve collected a lot of valuable data, and we’ve been focusing on improving every area where we found weaknesses last season,” he said. “There are a few new changes in our bike setup, and we’ve added some new upgrade items to address any deficiencies. We’ve made sure that the bike is more tuned to my riding style, which will give me an edge in terms of consistency and performance on the track.” As Akid looks ahead to the 2025 season, he’s excited about the fierce competition that the UB150 class promises. “I’m really excited for the 2025 season,” Akid said. “There’s always something thrilling about the ARRC, but what excites me the most is the fierce competition. The level of racing in the UB150 category is incredibly high, and it’s always a spectacle to see how different teams and riders adapt to the challenges they face. The battles on track are something I always look forward to, and it’s those moments that really push me to do my best.” Setting clear goals for the upcoming season, Akid is focused on continuous improvement and consistency. “For this new season, my goal is to continuously improve and stay adaptable to any challenges that come my way,” he said. “I know that consistency will be key, so I want to focus on being consistent in all areas—whether that’s in my performance on the track, my approach to each race, or my mindset throughout the season. Staying motivated and pushing through difficult moments is going to be crucial for me. I also want to maintain a balance between competitiveness and sportsmanship—winning is important, but so is showing respect for my competitors and the sport itself.” Looking at the challenges ahead, Akid recognizes that the UB150 category is packed with strong competitors. However, his experience and ability to handle pressure give him confidence as he prepares for battle. “Every rider and every team in the UB150 class is going to be tough to beat,” Akid said. “The competition is incredibly strong, and we all know that it will be a battle every race. But I think one of my advantages is my experience with adapting to new environments and staying calm under pressure. I’ve been in those high-stakes moments before, and I know how to handle the stress and use it to my advantage. If I can stay focused, keep my composure, and leverage everything I’ve learned over the years, I can turn challenges into opportunities and hopefully give myself the best chance to win.”

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IRFAN ARDIANSYAH SET TO SHINE IN 2025 SEASON

The 2025 IDEMITSU FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) is about to get a whole lot more thrilling with the arrival of Irfan Ardiansyah in the AP250 category. Fresh off a dominant championship win in the 2024 Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK), where he took the MSBK250 title, Irfan Ardiansyah is now setting his sights on the regional stage. This season, he’ll be racing for SCK HONDA RACING TEAM, who are entering the AP250 class for the first time. With a proven champion at the helm, the team is ready to make a bold statement in the competition. As the new season approaches, Irfan Ardiansyah is putting in the hard work to ensure he’s fully prepared for what’s to come. With less than two months to go before the season opener, he’s focusing on refining his riding and physical fitness. “I’m really pushing myself to be in top shape both on and off the bike,” he said. “On the bike, I’m working on fine-tuning my technique for the AP250 class, making sure I’m comfortable with the bike and ready to race at full speed. Off the bike, I’m focusing heavily on cardio training. On a 250cc bike, every kilogram counts, so I need to stay light, fast, and strong. It’s all about getting the right balance to be as competitive as possible.” After his impressive MSBK250 title win, Irfan Ardiansyah is carrying that winning mentality into the ARRC. His confidence is at an all-time high, and he’s more motivated than ever to prove himself on the international stage. “Winning the MSBK250 title was a huge moment for me, and it definitely gives me a lot of confidence heading into ARRC,” Irfan Ardiansyah said. “I know what it takes to win, and I believe I can do the same in the AP250 class. I’m bringing that momentum into the new season, and I’m fully focused on giving it my all to achieve great results.” Adding to the excitement is the fact that Irfan Ardiansyah will be teaming up with fellow rider Irfan Haykhal Amidi at SCK HONDA RACING TEAM. The two riders are well-acquainted from their time in the paddock, and Irfan Ardiansyah is excited about the chance to work together as teammates. “I’ve known Irfan Haykhal for a while, and I think we’ll work really well together,” Irfan Ardiansyah said. “We have a lot of experience between us, and we can share that knowledge to help each other out. Teamwork will be key in the AP250 ccategory, and I’m confident we can push each other to reach our full potential.” With the season fast approaching, Irfan Ardiansyah can hardly contain his excitement to race in the ARRC once again. “I’ve missed racing in the ARRC, and I’m beyond excited to be back on the grid this season,” he said. “The competition in this championship is fierce, but that’s exactly what makes it so exciting. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead and the chance to go head-to-head with some of the best riders in Asia.” As for his goals in 2025, Irfan Ardiansyah has one thing in mind: to be at the front of the pack. “I’m aiming to be in the top positions in every race,” he said. “I want to push hard from the very first round and see where I stand. After that, we’ll reassess and go from there. But no matter what, I’ll be giving it everything I’ve got to make sure I’m in the fight for the podium and the championship.”

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