MALAYSIA rarely sees a new local brand emerge in the kapchai market.
So when Afaz introduced its first motorcycle, the Kencana Sport 115, I knew I had to get my hands on it.
More than just another kapchai, the bike is tied to the national Malaysia National Motorcycle Project (AM-2) initiative and developed with technical collaboration from Suzuki.
The Suzuki connection raises expectations, especially among Malaysian riders familiar with its reputation for simple and durable engines.
But beyond the novelty, I wanted to know one thing – Is the Kencana Sport 115 genuinely good to ride on our roads?
After spending several days with the bike, riding it through Kuala Lumpur’s city traffic and even taking it on a longer ride from KL city centre to Kuala Kubu Bharu via the Rawang bypass, I began to understand what this motorcycle is really about.
With a seat height of 760mm and wet weight of 100kg, I found the Kencana Sport 115 very easy to handle, even at low speeds.
The riding position is relaxed, the handlebar sits naturally in my hands and the seat is comfortable enough for extended riding.
I also noticed that the bike doesn’t feel intimidating at all, which makes it ideal for new riders or anyone looking for a straightforward daily commuter.
The Kencana Sport 115 is fitted with a 113cc single-cylinder SOHC engine, derived from the Suzuki Smash Fi platform.
It produces 9.1hp at 7,500rpm and 9Nm of torque at 6,500rpm, and uses Suzuki Oil Cooling System (SOCS) together with electronic fuel injection.
When I first twisted the throttle, what stood out was how smooth and light the engine felt.
It isn’t aggressive and acceleration from a standstill is gentle yet sufficient.
Most kapchai motorcycles live their lives in the city, and this is where I felt the Kencana Sport 115 performs best.
In Kuala Lumpur traffic, the bike’s lightweight nature immediately becomes an advantage.
Filtering between cars felt effortless, and the steering is light enough that I could easily manoeuvre through tight spaces.
The four-speed transmission shifts smoothly, and I never found myself struggling with gear changes even during heavy stop-and-go traffic.
Because the bike is light, U-turns and tight junctions were easy to manage.
For riders who commute daily through congested roads, this kind of agility is extremely useful.
Over several days of commuting, I began to appreciate how practical the Kencana Sport is.
The engine feels happiest cruising between 60-80kph, which is exactly the speed range most riders maintain on urban roads.
At these speeds, the engine runs smoothly and quietly without excessive vibration.
This kapchai delivers a claimed consumption of 45.4km per litre, with strong fuel efficiency driven by its small displacement and fuel injection.
The underseat 4.2-litre fuel tank helps centralise the weight of the bike, and I found that it contributes to the light steering feel.
Storage under the seat is small but practical enough for essentials like a raincoat.
One thing I did not expect was how comfortable the suspension feels.
The KYB twin rear shock absorbers make a noticeable difference.
While riding through uneven roads, potholes and speed bumps around the city, I could feel the shocks absorbing impacts well without becoming too soft or bouncy.
At the front, the conventional telescopic fork performs adequately and works well with the rear suspension.
Braking is handled by a 220mm Nissin hydraulic disc at the front and a drum brake at the rear.
The front brake gives reassuring bite without being overly sharp, which I found particularly useful in urban riding where smooth braking is important.
I also decided to take the Kencana Sport 115 on a longer ride from KL city centre to Kuala Kubu Bharu, passing through the Rawang Bypass; a scenic elevated highway known for its sweeping curves and smooth surface.
While the bike is clearly not designed for high-speed touring, I was pleasantly surprised by how composed it felt on this route.
Cruising at around 100kph, the bike remained stable and comfortable without sounding strained.
On gentle highway curves along the Rawang Bypass, I found the chassis predictable and easy to control.
Of course, overtaking at higher speeds requires some planning. After all, this is still a 115cc commuter.
But for occasional highway use, the bike surprised me not to underestimate this small machine.
Once I reached the smaller roads heading into Kuala Kubu Bharu, the Kencana Sport felt even more at home.
Its light weight and compliant suspension made riding through the winding rural roads enjoyable.
The LED headlight with DRL improves visibility and gives the bike a contemporary look, while the A-shaped LED taillight adds a distinctive visual signature.
The analogue meter cluster, borrowed from the Suzuki Smash, keeps things straightforward.
It includes a gear indicator and warning lights, and I found it easy to read even under bright sunlight.
After spending time riding the RM5,799 Kencana Sport 115, I see it as a motorcycle designed with practicality in mind.
With a proven Suzuki-based engine, KYB suspension, Nissin front brake, and a price at RM5,799, I believe the Kencana Sport 115 represents a promising start for Afaz.
If the brand can maintain consistent build quality and develop a strong aftersales network, this bike has the potential to become more than just another “national kapchai”.
It could very well grow into a true everyday motorcycle for Malaysians.
SPECIFICATIONS
Afaz Kencana Sport 115
Engine: 113 cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, oil-cooled
Maximum power: 9.1hp at 7,500rpm
Maximum torque: 9Nm at 6,500rpm
Transmission: Four-speed
Suspension: Front conventional telescopic fork; rear KYB twin shock absorbers
Brakes: Front disc with Nissin calliper; rear drum
Fuel capacity: 4.2 litres
Weight: 100kg
Price: RM 5,799 (without registration, road tax and insurance)
