Development Concept

During its conceptualization, the Skydrive development team focused on designing a scooter that would implement the most advanced technology features.  The result was a concept bike that was aerodynamic, very agile, and comfortable with adjustable honeycomb-style seats.  First exhibited at the 2008 Bangkok International Auto Show, the two SD concept models created a buzz with their revolutionary design.  Public perception judged the SD prototypes as the first-ever Japanese scooters that managed to dethrone the Italian style.

Superior Features, Advanced Technology

The new Suzuki Skydrive features a 125cc 4-stroke, air-cooled, E10 gasoline compatible, SOHC engine that can generate a total horsepower of 7.2 ps/8000rpm.  Its engine design marks a quantum leap for this scooter category with a state-of-the-art  ultra-modern ECM (Engine Control Module).  Optimal engine combustion is assured by the patented Suzuki Jet Cooling System (SJCS) and Pulsed Secondary Air Injection (PAIR) System.  All these engine features are designed to make the Suzuki Skydrive the leader in performance and fuel economy.

Smooth acceleration was built into the Suzuki Skydrive through its aerodynamic styling, as well as its Super CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) system.  The brake system consists of front hydraulic disc and rear drum brakes.  The oil-damped suspension system features a telescopic coil spring for the front and swing-arm type for the rear.  14-inch alloy wheels add to the Skydrive’s sporty look, while a stylish muffler guard contributes to rider safety.

The new Suzuki Skydrive is a fusion of traditional excellence and innovative technology.  Its head-turning looks bring together a sleek aerodynamic body marked by a revolutionary multi-reflector headlamp, sporty instrument panel, and convenient flat floor board.  A magnetic key shutter provides added security and  peace of mind for public parking, while an underseat compartment provides storage for personal items.  Back riders will appreciate the die-cast rear footrest for more stable and comfortable riding.

The Suzuki Skydrive is being introduced at a very affordable P68,900 and is available in Pearl Mirage White, Candy Summer Red and New Titan Black.

Suzuki Way of Life

With its commitment to bring mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company carrying both automobile and motorcycle products under one roof.  Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality.  It hopes to contribute to the country’s progress and industrialization by introducing more dynamic products and programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life.

Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has over 40 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 192 countries.  Suzuki R&D efforts cover a wide range of the latest advances in energy, environment, electronics, communication, information and control applications — all devoted to creating products what will meet the challenges of the next generation.

According to Suzuki President Satoshi Uchida, “Our company philosophy has always been to offer our customers value-packed, high-quality products that enhance their quality of life. By offering this service assistance to Suzuki vehicle-owners, we hope to help ease their recovery so that they can continue to enjoy the Suzuki way of life.”

The special service assistance is available for current Suzuki vehicles like the APV, Grand Vitara, Swift, SX4, Celerio, Alto and Jimny models. To facilitate servicing, only units sold by authorized Suzuki dealers are eligible for the special discounts. Similarly, only customers with Ondoy/flood-affected Suzuki vehicles are qualified for the service assistance.

The Suzuki flood assistance discount is available at the following Metro Manila and Luzon dealers: Alabang (02 6592954 –55 –57 & 58), Commonwealth (02 9512201 to 09), E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave. (02 7263747, 02 7262709, 02 7260569), Kalookan (02 3649093 & 02 3666547), Makati (02 8933820 & 02 8140803), Manila Bay (02 5561579, 02 5561485), Pasig (02 5716870 & 78), Shaw (02 7181834 & 02 724 8901), Cabanatuan (044 4635248 & 02 463 0089), Dagupan (075 5171717 & 075 5178888), Laguna (02 5206725 & 049 4111060), Naga (02 6642173 & 054 4723577), Pampanga (045 9613573 & 045 8605971).

The Suzuki APV Type II SGX , a 7-seater family van, was recently chosen as the “2009 Van of the Year” by local automotive publication, C! Magazine. The Suzuki Alto, meanwhile, has recorded worldwide sales of 10-million units, and is the best-selling car in India with an average of 20,000 units sold monthly.

In the Philippines, Suzuki is the only integrated automotive brand selling both automobiles and motorcycles through a nationwide dealer network.

This is the official statement given by the President’s son, Sen. Noynoy Aquino.

“Our mother peacefully passed away at 3:18 a.m., August 1, 2009, of cardio-respiratory arrest.

“She would have wanted to thank each and every one of you for all the prayers and your continued love and support. It was her wish for all of us to pray for one another and for our country.

“Hinihiling po ng aming pamilya ang kaunting panahon para makasama namin ang aming mahal na ina.

“Later today, we will be announcing further details of her wake para sa lahat ng ating mga minamahal na kababayan na nais magbigay ng respeto sa aming ina.

“Maraming salamat po.”

Rest in peace Madame President.

Unveiled were Suzuki’s latest road masters – the Suzuki Thunder, a 125cc backbone city street sports bike; the Suzuki Gladius, a 650cc street fashion bike; the Suzuki GSX-R 1000cc super sports bike, the 1300cc Suzuki Hayabusa super sports bike and a European-styled compact car, the Suzuki Celerio.

At the same event, Suzuki Philippines formally introduced Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. as Suzuki’s Big Bikes endorser and safety riding ambassador. Yoshimura Japan president Fujio Yoshimura with general manager Masanori Ueno were also present to signify the introduction of Yoshimura performance parts for the Suzuki Raider Pro, while Mr. Anil Saini, senior manager for international marketing from Suzuki Maruti India, imparted highlights on the new Suzuki Celerio.

City Street Sports Bike
Defined as an urban champion, the new Suzuki Thunder 125 is geared for unparalleled street action. Delivering well-balanced combination and power, its 125cc engine features a PAIR System (pulsed secondary air injection system) for enhanced and fuel-efficient performance. A comfortable riding position ensures optimum handling stability and maneuverability for congested urban streets.

The new Suzuki Thunder 125 is designed for solo street riding while maintaining the durability and comfort of a backbone motorcycle. Larger than a standard bike, the Suzuki Thunder 125 is positioned for experienced riders who are looking for something new and exciting, standing out from other motorcycle models in the market. Its competitive price and top-of-the-line features make the new Suzuki Thunder 125 a strategic, trend-setting model.

Big Bike Trio
The Suzuki Hayabusa has the distinction of holding the Guinness record as the “fastest production bike” in the world, achieving a top speed of 317kph. Classified as the Ultimate Sport bike, the Hayabusa is powered by a 1340cc inline 4-cylinder fuel-injected liquid-cooled DOHC engine built to deliver a broad wave of torque for effortless acceleration.

Positioned as Suzuki’s top performer, the GSX-R 1000 features the latest technologies to deliver a supersport bike that delivers superior performance on all levels — power, handling, braking, and clean running. Improvements in the engine and chassis, brakes, and styling give the Suzuki GSX-R class-leading performance to win production races. The Suzuki GSX-R is targetted at experienced riders looking for that “own the racetrack” feeling.

Making its mark on the European scene, the Suzuki Gladius is a street fashion bike — so-called because of its emphasis on functionality and ergonomics. Its tough, bare-bones styling exudes an attitude of precise elegance and sportiness. Powered by a sporty, fuel-injected, DOHC V-Twin engine, the Suzuki Gladius’ 645cc powerplant is famous for its long-term reliability, broad power, and quiet rumble.

Couture compact car
The Suzuki Celerio’s design is based on the “small is beautiful” philosophy, where people can enjoy comfort and convenience in a stylish small vehicle. Showcasing superior aerodynamics, a lightweight body, and a newly-developed 1000cc engine, the Suzuki Celerio has been tagged as a “couture compact car” designed to appeal to European taste.

Taking advantage of Suzuki’s vast experience in small engines, the Suzuki Celerio features a newly developed 3-cylinder, aluminum 12-valve, 1000cc gasoline engine with multi-point injection, producing maximum output of 68hp @ 6000rpm and maximum torque of 90Nm @ 4800rpm. Its low fuel consumption and low emissions make the Celerio earth-friendly, complying with Euro emission standards.

SAFE Advocacy
Speaking about Suzuki’s SAFE advocacy, Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. noted that, “As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, I believe that it is very important to promote riding safety, and this is why I have agreed to be Suzuki’s safety ambassador. Suzuki’s SAFE advocacy means Sporty, Active, Fashionable, and Easy-to-Use. Suzuki prioritizes safety by ensuring that its motorcycles meet high standards of quality. Suzuki also provides an active lifestyle through dynamic power and excitement in every ride. Suzuki motorcycles complement the fashion statement of Filipino riders. And, Suzuki designs motorcycles that are convenient, comfortable, and with the reach of every Filipino.”

Yoshimura Performance Parts
A major milestone for the global market was also announced by Yoshimura Japan Co. Ltd. with the introduction of Yoshimura performance parts for the Suzuki Raider R150, the company’s first venture in producing upgrade kits for small bikes. Initially, the Yoshimura performance kit will consist of exhaust pipe, camshaft and racing gasket which, aside from enhancing the Suzuki Raider R150’s sporty looks, is also expected to provide a performance boost by maintaining maximum power at higher rpm.

According to president Fujio Yoshimura, “This tie-up with Suzuki Philippines is very important to us as our success here will serve as a stepping stone for our future expansion into the ASEAN small bike market. We are very excited about the new market potential that Suzuki Philippines has opened up for us.”

Yoshimura is also working closely with the local Suzuki Racing Team in modifying its racing bikes, training the local service crew, and providing technical consultation and advice.

Suzuki Way of Life
With its commitment to bring mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated automotive company carrying both automobile and motorcycle products under one roof. It hopes to contribute to the country’s progress and industrialization by introducing more dynamic products and programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life.

Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has over 40 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 192 countries. Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality. Suzuki R&D efforts cover a wide range of the latest advances in energy, environment, electronics, communication, information and control applications — all devoted to creating products what will meet the challenges of the next generation.

Launch sponsors who provided support for the Relaxsession lounge set-up included Gamma Design Center, Orange & White Spa, Salompas, Shell Canvas, Golden Wines, A&F Lamps, and Konzept Design Studio.

New swine flu strain found in Brazil – INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos.

Piaggio scooters offer freedom and joy in motion. Italian technology boasts of reliability, safety, and design, crafted elegantly so that your daily travel becomes a beautiful adventure, rather than routinely.

Vespa, on the other hand, has become a lifestyle brand that has redefined mobility. Its elegance has become a classic fashion statement, a personal expression passionately followed by a scooter cult. Vespa scooters in the Philippines will definitely hit a fresh score!

Gilera is a multi-gear sports scooter that’s best for racing and off-road maneuvering. This brand is known for breath-taking World and Grand Prix victories as Gilera engines brag avant-garde power, perfect for limitless velocity. Your need-for-speed will surely be quenched with even just a round of Gilera fun ride.

Piaggio scooters in the Philippines , through MotoItalia, will open new doors to style, safety, and a world waiting to be discovered. Flagship showroom is located at Ortigas Avenue , Greenhills.

MotoItalia aims to actively promote scooter riding in the Philippines as a stylish, environment-friendly and fun way to move around the city.

The NCRPO said a large number of robberies – such as those targeting bank clients and workers ferrying payroll money – remain unsolved because either witnesses failed to clearly see the license plate of the motorcycle involved or the vehicle has no license plate at all.

“Looking at the present situation, we have found out that the current size of registration plates of motorcycles, which are barely readable from a distance, is grossly disadvantageous to our efforts in spotting and identifying stolen motorcycles and in addressing crime incidents involving male factors riding in tandem,” NCRPO director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales said in a letter to Land Transportation Office (LTO) chairman Arturo Lomibao dated May 19.

Rosales wants Lomibao, a former police chief, to play a key role in their effort to minimize crimes perpetrated by suspects riding in tandem on a motorcycle. He also thanked the LTO chief for his support, which “has helped us a lot in developing recommendations that will complement our holistic approach in addressing the notable increase in incidents of (car theft and carjacking) in Metro Manila, especially of motorcycles.”

Aside from enlarging the registration plates of motorcycles displayed at both ends of the vehicle, the NCRPO also wants stickers bearing the letters and numbers in the license attached to both sides of the motorcycle as well as the helmets of the motorcycle driver and passenger.

In his letter to Lomibao, Rosales enclosed the photos and suggested designs of the registration plates and stickers.

“We believe that if we adopt these measures, the PNP (Philippine National Police) could greatly enhance the efficiency of its intelligence operations against crime groups as well as the effectiveness of checkpoints, visibility patrols in crime prevention operations,” Rosales said.

According to Rosales, motorcycles not bearing with larger registration plates and the required stickers would be a ground for the NCRPO to flag down the vehicle for inspection.

Rosales admitted that the NCRPO’s suggestions mean additional work for the LTO, but appealed to his former superior for understanding, saying the scheme would benefit the public.

From Yahoo News.

Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. has signed on to be Suzuki’s brand and safety ambassador, through a partnership that will promote the dynamic motorcycle lifestyle and advocate safe motorcycle riding.

According to Suzuki Philippines President Satoshi Uchida, “As a young, dynamic legislator, Senator Bong is a hero to millions of Filipino youth. He is the perfect role model to lead Suzuki’s vision of an exciting way of life. Through his support, we can enhance riding safety among motorcycle riders.”

Revilla, an avid motorcycle enthusiast, will be riding the new 2009 Suzuki Intruder M1800R, a racing superbike powered by a four-stroke, twin-cam 1800cc engine. Revilla will also be promoting Suzuki’s S.A.F.E. advocacy through a nationwide publicity campaign. S.A.F.E. is an acronym for Safe, Active, Fashionable, and Easy to use — qualities that all Suzuki motorcycles embody. Senator Revilla will be the company’s endorser for the big bikes that Suzuki Philippines will be bringing in the country.

At the forefront of the S.A.F.E. campaign is Suzuki’s mobile riding safety workshops which brings safety training down to the grassroots level. Suzuki’s riding instructors are deployed to communities where they conduct actual riding demonstrations to make motorcycle riders aware of safety guidelines.

With its commitment to bring mobility to Filipino consumers, Suzuki Philippines is the only integrated motoring company carrying both automobile and motorcycle products under one roof. It hopes to contribute to the country’s progress and industrialization by introducing more dynamic products and programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life.

Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality. Suzuki R&D efforts cover a wide range of the latest advances in energy, environment, electronics, communication, information and control applications — all devoted to creating products what will meet the challenges of the next generation.

PHOTO CAPTION: Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. (second from right) signs up as Suzuki’s brand and safety ambassador. Others in photo are Suzuki executives (L-R): Benedict “Lakay” Arreola, senior marketing manager for motorcycles; Satoshi Uchida, president; and Catalina Calderon, general manager for finance and administration.

Open to all motorcycles and scooters (4-stroke under 250cc and 2-stroke under 150cc), a rider will be given multiple track time with marshals support and medical crew with ambulance
on stand-by.

P100 ONLY for Suzuki Riders
Riders/owners of Suzuki motorcycles who will join the IR-Suzuki Track Day will get a 66% discount on the registration fee. For only P100 per rider, they will be able to experience the safety of riding on a racetrack. This is a good opportunity for Suzuki owners and Suzuki Club members to experience the Carmona Race Track. Registration starts at 7:00 am and riders’ briefing will be at 8:15 am. Only 25 riders per group will be admitted.

New Shogun R and Shogun PRO
The recently launched new Suzuki Shogun PRO 125 and Shogun R 125 will be on exhibit as well as available for test ride. The new models are equipped with higher performing engines with increased power featuring a redesigned combustion chamber, engine balancer, bigger valves and throttle position
switch. Be one of the first to experience this new sporty motorcycle.

Watch and Meet Suzuki Factory Racers
Participants will be able to watch in action and meet in person all of Suzuki’s star racers, namely Jolet Jao, Johnlery Enriquez, Dashi Watanabe, Iraq Bauzon and Paul Mark Doblada. See them push their Suzuki race bikes to the limit and learn a few tricks on how to ride fast.

1. Carrying of Restriction Code 1 (RC 1) on the riders’ license.
2. Keeping the headlights on at all times of the day.
3. Wearing of protective devices including helmets, protective clothing and footwear.

These are the clear cut items on the amended regulations. Though they added something that might become a flash point in the community.

For his part Donato said the LTO-MVIS is also discouraging the motorcycle owner to modify their motorcycle or scooter. from Journal Online

While this carries a bit of sense, since engine modifications and some body modifications may void a new motorcycle’s warranty and decrease the reliability of the engine, if it does transform into a binding law then the descriptions of what is considered “modified” has to be crystal clear.

Still I must commend the LTO for this action albeit a bit late. Riders need every help they can get while on the road. The recent series of accidents on the road only help to drive home the point that we are vulnerable on the streets. Drive with these guidelines and a little bit of common sense, remember the most important safety gear on a motorcycle is still your head….use it.

Additional items from the LTO Guidelines:

Drivers and back riders who fail to wear prescribed helmet will be fined P1,500 plus attending seminar for traffic safety to be conducted by LTO.

• For carrying more passenger other than the back rider or cargo, a penalty of P1,000.
• For defective accessories such as headlight, tail light, signal light, brake light, side mirror and horn a fine of P1,000 for the violators.
• For modifying any part of the original design of a motorcycle or scooter without approval of LTO and the DTI a fine of P2,000.
• Wearing flip flop, sandals, or slippers fine of P500 for the first offense, P700 for the 2nd offense and P1,000 for the 3rd offense and revocation of driver’s license.