FNG Works’ RXZ Twin Boss V2 Sets for Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show 2024
Art of Speed 2024 victory sparks international opportunity.
FNG Works has made a name for itself on the Malaysian custom bike scene, led by the talented Mohamad Irwann Bin Mohd Azlan, known as Cheng. This year, his unique build, the RXZ Twin Boss V2, wowed the crowd and judges alike at the Art of Speed Invitational Bike Build Off.
Taking home both the Jury Pick and Public Choice awards, the RXZ Twin Boss V2 is now ready to represent Malaysia at one of Japan’s most prestigious custom events—the 32nd Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show 2024.
This celebrated show brings together some of the best custom vehicles from Japan and around the world, and the RXZ Twin Boss V2 is primed to make a statement on this international stage.
Cheng’s Journey and Inspiration: A Passion for Craftsmanship
At 33, Cheng’s journey reflects a dedication to motorcycle customisation and innovation. A graduate in Mechanical Engineering from UiTM Shah Alam, Cheng has built a career blending engineering expertise with artistic vision. His influences come from local legends like Khalid “The Rusty Factory,” Omar Jumiran, Padin Musa, Hills Angels, Azizan Rahim, and Acid Welding, as well as international figures such as Maxwell Hazan, Allen Millyard, Ed Roth, Arlen Ness, and Sure Shot.
This fusion of inspiration can be seen in the precise detailing and craftsmanship of the RXZ Twin Boss V2, a motorcycle that reflects Cheng’s deep admiration for both engineering and aesthetic quality.
The Birth of the RXZ Twin Boss: From V1 to V2
The story of the RXZ Twin Boss V2 traces back to 2017, when Cheng debuted the original RXZ Twin Boss at the Art of Speed event. This earlier version, known as V1, was powered by two Yamaha RXZ 135cc engines placed one in front of the other, linked via chain-drive to form a single high-performance unit.
Built in the ‘Digger’ style, the original Twin Boss generated excitement within the community and was later given away as a prized lucky draw item during Art of Speed 2017.
For the 2024 model, Cheng reimagined the concept with a fresh, more sophisticated approach. In the Twin Boss V2, he merged two Yamaha RXZ engines into a single, cohesive 2-cylinder engine. This design evolution led to a motorcycle that combines power with a refined sense of style, offering a sleek silhouette and captivating proportions.
Cheng describes his creation as a blend of ‘Board Tracker’ and ‘Land Speed Racer’ aesthetics, focused on achieving a visually pleasing design while maximising technical precision.
Bringing Malaysia to Japan
Art of Speed Malaysia (AOSM), a well-known promoter of the local custom car and bike scene, is proudly backing Cheng’s entry to Yokohama.
Providing a sponsorship budget of RM60,000, AOSM is covering all logistics, flights, accommodation, and transport to ensure Cheng and his team can fully participate in this prestigious event. The sponsorship represents AOSM’s commitment to promote Malaysian talent on the global stage and also expand the reach of our country’s custom scene.
Capturing the Journey: A Short Film Celebrating Creativity
In honour of this significant milestone, AOSM will produce a six-part short film titled RXZ Balik Kampung: Dari Ipoh ke Yokohama. Directed by Hanif Sulhi, who won the Best Documentary Series Award in 2023 for Fail Mahkamah on TV3, the film will chronicle the RXZ Twin Boss V2’s journey from Cheng’s hometown of Ipoh, Malaysia, to Yokohama, Japan.
The series will feature Cheng and AOS Creative Director Farid Nabawi as they prepare for and experience this international event. Through compelling storytelling, the film aims to celebrate Malaysia’s creative spirit, and it will be released on AOS’s social media platforms on Christmas Day 2024.
The film is not only a tribute to Cheng’s talent but also a message to inspire young creatives. It will be submitted to international film festivals, including the Motorcycle Film Festival in Toronto, the VAHNA Motorcycle Film Festival in the USA, and the Dubai Motorcycle Film Festival. This international exposure aims to bring global recognition to Malaysia’s custom culture and encourage young Malaysians to pursue their creative passions.
Putting Malaysia’s Custom Scene on the Global Map
The excitement surrounding the RXZ Twin Boss V2’s journey is shared by Art of Speed Malaysia’s team. Festival Director Asep Ahmad expressed his pride in the project, stating, “We are very grateful to everyone who supports Art of Speed and makes it possible for us to showcase Malaysian talent on the world stage. We hope this journey inspires others to explore their creativity and strive to become world-class builders.”
With a 15-member AOS team accompanying Cheng in Japan, they aim to make this a memorable experience, showing the world the high standards of Malaysia’s custom industry.
Support from KEJOS AUTOPROJECT: Ensuring Smooth Ground Operations in Japan
To further support the journey, KEJOS AUTOPROJECT has partnered with AOSM to handle ground logistics in Japan, ensuring Cheng’s time at the Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show goes smoothly. This collaboration highlights the power of community support within the custom industry and reinforces the commitment to bring Malaysian creativity to an international audience.
As the RXZ Twin Boss V2 prepares for its showcase in Yokohama, Cheng’s journey stands as a testament to Malaysia’s growing custom scene. With backing from Art of Speed Malaysia, the support of local partners, and a spotlight on international platforms, this journey marks an exciting chapter for both Cheng and Malaysia’s custom culture.
Local Awards:
13th Annual Art of Speed Malaysia 2024:
PUBLIC CHOICE AWARD
Winner: FNG WORKS – IRWANN CHENG
Vehicle model: RXZ TWIN BOSS V2
JURY PICK WINNER
Winner: FNG WORKS – IRWANN CHENG
Vehicle model: RXZ TWIN BOSS V2
Event: Press Conference RXZ TWIN BOSS V2 : JOM BALIK KAMPUNG JEPUN
Venue: Clubhouse Art of Speed (CHAOS), Kuala Lumpur
Date: 11th Nov, 2024
Time: 11.30am – 3.00pm