RXZ Twin Boss V2 Wins Double in Japan

FNG Works’ RXZ Twin Boss V2 clinched two prestigious awards at Japan’s Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show 2024, celebrating the artistry of Malaysian craftsmanship on an international platform.

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Malaysia made its mark on the global stage as the RXZ Twin Boss V2, a custom motorcycle crafted by Ipoh-based builder Irwan Cheng, won two esteemed awards at the 2024 Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show. 

Dubbed “Balik Kampung”, the bike secured the “Cool by Mooneyes” and “Rough Craft Pick” awards, highlighting Malaysia’s rising prominence in the international custom motorcycle community.

The RXZ Twin Boss V2 is a one-of-a-kind machine featuring two Yamaha RXZ 135cc engines ingeniously fused into a 270cc twin-engine powerhouse. Unlike the original RXZ, the V2 was completely reimagined by Cheng, earning praise for its artistry and engineering brilliance. This is Cheng’s second creation based on dual RXZ engines, following the first RXZ Twin Boss built in 2017 as a lucky draw prize at the Art of Speed Malaysia event.

The V2 model was initially produced for the Invitational Bike Build-Off at Art of Speed 2024, where it emerged victorious. This win earned Cheng and his masterpiece the opportunity to represent Malaysia at the esteemed Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show.

“When I first saw this bike, I knew it was truly one of a kind and incredibly unique,” said Winston Yeh, founder of Rough Craft. “The engineering feat of combining two engines into such a beautiful design is extraordinary. It’s even more impressive considering Malaysia is a small country with a relatively niche community in the custom motorcycle scene.”

A Bold New Vision

For the RXZ Twin Boss V2, Cheng adopted an innovative approach by designing an entirely new motorcycle around the twin-engine setup. The bike’s aesthetic reflects a vintage board tracker or land speed racer style, with meticulous attention to detail.

Key features include a custom-built frame finished in metallic bronze, a minimalist black peanut fuel tank, and a tiny seat that accentuates the bike’s chrome and metalwork. The rear rim, adapted from a car wheel, was custom-drilled to fit Yamaha 125Z hubs and chrome spokes, paired with a single RCB calliper and disc brake. Notably, the bike lacks front brakes, emphasizing its role as a showpiece.

The V2 also features hidden throttle and clutch cables, and dual 28mm Uma Racing carburetors. These elements highlight Cheng’s dedication to precision and ingenuity. “I wanted a bike that is not only functional but also a work of art,” Cheng explained.

Bringing Malaysian Creativity to the World

Art of Speed Malaysia (AOSM) played a vital role in bringing the RXZ Twin Boss V2 to Japan, allocating RM60,000 for logistics, transportation, and accommodations. The initiative underscores AOSM’s commitment to showcasing Malaysia’s creative talents on the global stage.

As part of this effort, AOSM is producing a documentary titled “RXZ Balik Kampung: Dari Ipoh ke Yokohama”, chronicling the motorcycle’s journey from Cheng’s workshop in Ipoh to its triumphant showing in Yokohama.

The RXZ Twin Boss V2 not only impressed at the competition but also made an emotional return to the homeland of its engines, cruising through Japan with Cheng and his team. This journey symbolizes the fusion of Malaysian craftsmanship and Yamaha’s legacy.

The RXZ Twin Boss V2’s success is a testament to the passion and creativity of Malaysia’s custom motorcycle builders, inspiring the nation to dream bigger on the global stage.