If there is one word that I would use to describe the biker culture in Malaysia, it would be diverse. With a climate that is suitable for riding all year round, I’m not surprised that the Malaysian bike culture has evolved to what it is today.
Recently, I went on a solo ride to visit the Art of Speed Malaysia 2023 at Maeps, Serdang. Left Singapore around 11.30am after finishing work, and reached Serdang around 3.30pm. The weather was really hot, save from some short showers along the way. For 336km, I managed to only stop for petrol at Pagoh and Seremban R&R (Northbound).
When I reached Maeps, volunteers and staff were truly on the ball to direct traffic. It was really orderly, considering how much motorcycles and other vehicles were on site! There were lots of Harley Davidson, Triumph, Royal Enfield, Mutts… I daresay there wasn’t any NC750X riders ahaha. Understandably so – as this festival was to celebrate the Custom Culture/Kustom Kulture from local and international creators!
Held across 2 days and in 4 halls (A, B, C and D), the custom culture portrayed during this event not only covers the motorcycle culture but also handicrafts like leatherwork, paintwork, outdoor adventures (like camping). There was not much conventional motorcycle gear, however.
I got myself the limited edition Touch n Go card (the black one!) for MYR25. I don’t really use Touch n Go since tolls are free for motorcycles across Malaysia, and the card doesn’t work in Singapore. It’s a lovely souvenir to keep, the artwork is great!
I also got myself a pair of leather riding gloves from Riders Garage & Co., a leather wallet from Stellamella Leather Crafts and handmade soap (which are currently in my toilet, used as air freshener) from Soap Dad! Honestly, the goods are really high quality. I might… get customised soap as wedding favours if I were to get married (heh).
There was also the Soundcircus, which I unfortunately did not stay for on both days. Riding up north proved to be much more tiring than expected. I should have taken a day extra to recuperate and stay for the music, since I paid for the Soundcircus entry. Hopefully, I can make the trip down to Art of Speed 2024!
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