Motorcycles

In Photos: 2017 China International Motorcycle Fair

In Photos: 2017 China International Motorcycle Fair
The Yingang stand heavily promoted the new Ninety Cafe Racer and Ninety Scrambler models which use 200cc single cylinder motors
The Yingang stand heavily promoted the new Ninety Cafe Racer and Ninety Scrambler models which use 200cc single cylinder motors
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Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
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Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
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F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
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F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
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F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
Aresx is one of dozens of brands of Lingzhi motorcycles, producing a range of Cafe Racers in the sub-200cc category
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Aresx is one of dozens of brands of Lingzhi motorcycles, producing a range of Cafe Racers in the sub-200cc category
The joint stand of Zhenghao and Hongya is a prime example of the vast Chinese motorcycle ecosystem. Zhenghao showed just a small sampling of the vast range of small capacity motorcycle engines it produces, while the periphery of the stand featured Hongya motorcycles which use some of those engines. The centerpiece of the stand was a Hongya Dake ...
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The joint stand of Zhenghao and Hongya is a prime example of the vast Chinese motorcycle ecosystem. Zhenghao showed just a small sampling of the  vast range of small capacity motorcycle engines it produces, while the periphery of the stand featured Hongya motorcycles which use some of those engines. The centerpiece of the stand was a Hongya Dake ...
Regal-Raptor is one of the more interesting Chinese marques styled along Harley-Davidson lines and aimed at a similar audience with a range of larger capacity motorcycles
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Regal-Raptor is one of the more interesting Chinese marques styled along Harley-Davidson lines and aimed at a similar audience with a range of larger capacity motorcycles
The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm
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The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm
The pick of the Regal-Raptor display was the new Pilder 650V Pro-Street, a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm
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The pick of the Regal-Raptor display was the new Pilder 650V Pro-Street, a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm
The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm. The bike weighs 220 kg.
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The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm. The bike weighs 220 kg.
The new Qingqui QM250-3U, single-cylinder, cafe racer was shown for the first time
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The new Qingqui QM250-3U, single-cylinder, cafe racer was shown for the first time
This type of three-wheeled combination motorcycle-truck is very common in China with prices in the $1,000 to $1,500 range and configurations that range from pick-ups to taxis, ambulances and refrigerated cargo trucks. This HM1 from Hanxuehanma uses a 250cc engine, but engine capacities range downward to 100cc.
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This type of three-wheeled combination motorcycle-truck is very common in China with prices in the $1,000 to $1,500 range and configurations that range from pick-ups to taxis, ambulances and refrigerated cargo trucks. This HM1 from Hanxuehanma uses a 250cc engine, but engine capacities range downward to 100cc.
The Chongqing Niu Electric Scooter club turned out at the show. The smartphone-connected Nui N1 scooter was launched in 2015 and became one of the largest crowd -funded campaigns in history, selling $11,000,000 in 15 days. Crowd funding has powered the growth of the company and it's easy to see that customer satisfaction is high.
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The Chongqing Niu Electric Scooter club turned out at the show. The smartphone-connected Nui N1 scooter was launched in 2015 and became one of the largest crowd -funded campaigns in history, selling $11,000,000 in 15 days. Crowd funding has powered the growth of the company and it's easy to see that customer satisfaction is high.
Zongshen showed off the company's new NC450 water-cooled, four-valve single cylinder engine designed for competition off-road motorcycles and ATVs. The engine features a balance shaft and produces 32 kW at 9,000 rpm . The motor made its debut in the 2017 Dakar Rally.
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Zongshen showed off the company's new NC450 water-cooled, four-valve single cylinder engine designed for competition off-road motorcycles and ATVs. The engine features a balance shaft and produces 32 kW at 9,000 rpm . The motor made its debut in the 2017 Dakar Rally.
The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm. The bike weighs 220 kg.
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The Regal-Raptor Pilder 650V Pro-Street employs a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm and 58 Nm at 5,750 rpm. The bike weighs 220 kg.
Massive display and riding areas surrounded the Qongqing International Expo Centre and Kawasaki was the most prominent of the brands demonstrating its machinery and allowing showgoers to try the bikes
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Massive display and riding areas surrounded the Qongqing International Expo Centre and Kawasaki was the most prominent of the brands demonstrating its machinery and allowing showgoers to try the bikes
Zhujiang Motorcycle's new liquid-cooled 500cc parallel twin
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Zhujiang Motorcycle's new liquid-cooled 500cc parallel twin
ESA debuted a new brand of energy absorbing materials designed to be incorporated into protective clothing. The technology was developed by Chinese defense industries.
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ESA debuted a new brand of energy absorbing materials designed to be incorporated into protective clothing. The technology was developed by Chinese defense industries.
VanHool is one of the largest manufacturers of aftermarket exhaust systems for cars and motorcycle in China
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VanHool is one of the largest manufacturers of aftermarket exhaust systems for cars and motorcycle in China
The Pirelli stand at CIMA
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The Pirelli stand at CIMA
Models of the female variety were used freely on many of the stands at the show and invariably drew more attention than anything else
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Models of the female variety were used freely on many of the stands at the show and invariably drew more attention than anything else
One of the big new model releases on the TARO display was the T10, a stylish 150cc scooter
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One of the big new model releases on the TARO display was the T10, a stylish 150cc scooter
The Yingang stand heavily promoted the new Ninety Cafe Racer and Ninety Scrambler models which use 200cc single cylinder motors
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The Yingang stand heavily promoted the new Ninety Cafe Racer and Ninety Scrambler models which use 200cc single cylinder motors
Aprilia's SRMax 300cc Maxiscooter featured prominently on the Zongshen stand. Many of Aprilia's models are now built by Zongshen
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Aprilia's SRMax 300cc Maxiscooter featured prominently on the Zongshen stand. Many of Aprilia's models are now built by Zongshen
Chopper culture is huge in China and some of the creations on show were stunning. S&S motors were just as plentiful in the show as they are in any western show
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Chopper culture is huge in China and some of the creations on show were stunning. S&S motors were just as plentiful in the show as they are in any western show
Ironhead was once a term that related specifically to a Harley-Davidson engine, but in China it is a major supplier of aftermarket customization hardware ... in this case applied to a Triumph
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Ironhead was once a term that related specifically to a Harley-Davidson engine, but in China it is a major supplier of aftermarket customization hardware ... in this case applied to a Triumph
Dainese is already big in China, but as the market grows in size and wealth, it is certain to get bigger. As with every other country in the world, two wheelers of all sizes in China are decorated with Valentino Rossi's #46 as MotoGP is a pseudo religion there too.
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Dainese is already big in China, but as the market grows in size and wealth, it is certain to get bigger. As with every other country in the world, two wheelers of all sizes in China are decorated with Valentino Rossi's #46 as MotoGP is a pseudo religion there too.
CFMoto's 125cc Papio is one of dozens of mini-street models that have surfaced in the last few years since Honda's Grom popularized the category. Kawasaki's KR125 Pro joined the market this year after Kawasaki started the category a decade ago with the KR110. The low seat height, low weight and sensational handling of such bikes makes them ideal for Asian countries and this is definitely a category on the rise.
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CFMoto's 125cc Papio is one of dozens of mini-street models that have surfaced in the last few years since Honda's Grom popularized the category. Kawasaki's KR125 Pro joined the market this year after Kawasaki started the category a decade ago with the KR110. The low seat height, low weight and sensational handling of such bikes makes them ideal for Asian countries and this is definitely a category on the rise.
Yes, it's a two-wheeled fire engine based around Zongshen's liquid-cooled 250 single. The Zongshen range also includes many variations on the same platform, including a touring bike, a police bike and a military bike.
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Yes, it's a two-wheeled fire engine based around Zongshen's liquid-cooled 250 single. The Zongshen range also includes many variations on the same platform, including a touring bike, a police bike and a military bike.
Yes, it's a two-wheeled fire engine based around Zongshen's liquid-cooled 250 single. The Zongshen range also includes many variations on the same platform, including a touring bike, a police bike and a military bike.
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Yes, it's a two-wheeled fire engine based around Zongshen's liquid-cooled 250 single. The Zongshen range also includes many variations on the same platform, including a touring bike, a police bike and a military bike.
The number of motorcycles on Chinese roads still dwarfs all other countries and they nearly all use oil, so oil companies were doing all they could to make an impression
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The number of motorcycles on Chinese roads still dwarfs all other countries and they nearly all use oil, so oil companies were doing all they could to make an impression
Massive display and riding areas surrounded the Qongqing International Expo Centre and Kawasaki was the most prominent of the brands demonstrating its machinery and allowing showgoers to try the bikes
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Massive display and riding areas surrounded the Qongqing International Expo Centre and Kawasaki was the most prominent of the brands demonstrating its machinery and allowing showgoers to try the bikes
The parking areas near to the show were restricted to bikes above a certain capacity, which essentially turned the near parking areas into a not-so-miniature exhibition space in their own right
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The parking areas near to the show were restricted to bikes above a certain capacity, which essentially turned the near parking areas into a not-so-miniature exhibition space in their own right
The "stunt" space was on the opposite side of the gargantuan exhibition center to the single-marque areas where showgoers could trial popular bikes and it was also huge. The show never ended.
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The "stunt" space was on the opposite side of the gargantuan exhibition center to the single-marque areas where showgoers could trial popular bikes and it was also huge. The show never ended.
The stunt display was ongoing throughout the show. China might not yet be known for this endeavor, but sheer weight of numbers suggests it will be one day
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The stunt display was ongoing throughout the show. China might not yet be known for this endeavor, but sheer weight of numbers suggests it will be one day
Adventure touring was one of several recurring themes across the show. Hero bikes such as BMW, KTM and Triumph adventure tourers were used as eye-candy on the stands, but most touring bikes in China are in the 250cc to 650cc capacity classes at this point
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Adventure touring was one of several recurring themes across the show. Hero bikes such as BMW, KTM and Triumph adventure tourers were used as eye-candy on the stands, but most touring bikes in China are in the 250cc to 650cc capacity classes at this point
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YCR Motor's Y2 Daofeng is a 400cc eight-valve, twin-cylinder sports bike with electronic fuel injection. In a country with 1.3 billion people, 150 cities of more than a million people and hundreds of motorcycle manufacturers, it must be very difficult for smaller manufacturers to offer something truly different. The engine of this bike is made by Zongshen, while the engine of a four-valve 300cc version is produced by Lifan.
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YCR Motor's Y2 Daofeng is a 400cc eight-valve, twin-cylinder sports bike with electronic fuel injection. In a country with 1.3 billion people, 150 cities of more than a million people and hundreds of motorcycle manufacturers, it must be very difficult for smaller manufacturers to offer something truly different. The engine of this bike is made by Zongshen, while the engine of a four-valve 300cc version is produced by Lifan.
Zongshen is moving forward towards the electrification of its offerings on many fronts, showing a wireless charging station for electric motorcycles
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Zongshen is moving forward towards the electrification of its offerings on many fronts, showing a wireless charging station for electric motorcycles
Think of Zongshen as China's equivalent to Honda. Started in 1992, the Zongshen Group began making motorcycles but now consists of more than 50 wholly or partly owned subsidiary companies and has diversified into technology development across many related areas of industry. The Zongshen stand in Chongqing (Zongshen's home town) featured a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell the company has under development.
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Think of Zongshen as China's equivalent to Honda. Started in 1992, the Zongshen Group began making motorcycles but now consists of more than 50 wholly or partly owned subsidiary companies and has diversified into technology development across many related areas of industry. The Zongshen stand in Chongqing (Zongshen's home town) featured a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell the company has under development.
One of the many areas of Zongshen's diversification is in the development of aviation engines and made news in 2015 as the first Chinese manufacturer of engines for a Chinese military drone - the Rainbow III. A model of the Rainbow III was proudly on display on the Zongshen stand.
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One of the many areas of Zongshen's diversification is in the development of aviation engines and made news in 2015 as the first Chinese manufacturer of engines for a Chinese military drone - the Rainbow III. A model of the Rainbow III was proudly on display on the Zongshen stand.
Zongshen's first aviation engine powered the Chinese Military drone, Rainbow III.
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Zongshen's first aviation engine powered the Chinese Military drone, Rainbow III.
Zongshen showed off the company's new NC450 water-cooled, four-valve single cylinder engine designed for competition off-road motorcycles and ATVs. The engine features a balance shaft and produces 32 kW at 9,000 rpm . The motor made its debut in the 2017 Dakar Rally.
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Zongshen showed off the company's new NC450 water-cooled, four-valve single cylinder engine designed for competition off-road motorcycles and ATVs. The engine features a balance shaft and produces 32 kW at 9,000 rpm . The motor made its debut in the 2017 Dakar Rally.
Aprilia's new "Cafe 150" uses the same DOHC four-valve EFI 150cc motor as the Mondial. Traditional marques are still seen as superior in quality, but the quality of Chinese motorcycles has improved so quickly that perception is lagging behind reality
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Aprilia's new "Cafe 150" uses the same DOHC four-valve EFI 150cc motor as the Mondial. Traditional marques are still seen as superior in quality, but the quality of Chinese motorcycles has improved so quickly that perception is lagging behind reality
Kayo is a Chinese company specializing in off-road motorcycles and in a short 15 year history that began with pit bikes and off-road bikes for children, it is now producing fuel-injected high quality enduro and motocross machinery that is exported to 20 countries. In China, it represents affordable quality and I watched this little fellow drag his mum straight to the KMB60. They were still there long after I had moved on.
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Kayo is a Chinese company specializing in off-road motorcycles and in a short 15 year history that began with pit bikes and off-road bikes for children, it is now producing fuel-injected high quality enduro and motocross machinery that is exported to 20 countries. In China, it represents affordable quality and I watched this little fellow drag his mum straight to the KMB60. They were still there long after I had moved on.
The clothing stores at CIMA were great with a wide variety of eccentric clothing at incredibly affordable prices by western standards
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The clothing stores at CIMA were great with a wide variety of eccentric clothing at incredibly affordable prices by western standards
Established Spanish brand IXIL was at CIMA in force and enjoys a solid reputation in China, no doubt largely due to the high visibility of the company's involvement in MotoGP. MotoGP is well received in China and the large and receptive Chinese audience will no doubt play a role in the future of the sport.
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Established Spanish brand IXIL was at CIMA in force and enjoys a solid reputation in China, no doubt largely due to the high visibility of the company's involvement in MotoGP. MotoGP is well received in China and the large and receptive Chinese audience will no doubt play a role in the future of the sport.
Every biker fashion you could think of, and a few more to boot
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Every biker fashion you could think of, and a few more to boot
Loncin pulled out all stops to make an impression
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Loncin pulled out all stops to make an impression
From Hongya, manufacturers of the Dake, was this 150cc pseudo racer
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From Hongya, manufacturers of the Dake, was this 150cc pseudo racer
Reminiscent of the Benelli Adiva and its fully-enclosed shell was this electric scooter from the Regal-Raptor Group. Apparently only a prototype to test the marketplace at CIMA, the bike did not share the Benelli's folding roof, but looks a very viable export model IMHO.
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Reminiscent of the Benelli Adiva and its fully-enclosed shell was this electric scooter from the Regal-Raptor Group. Apparently only a prototype to test the marketplace at CIMA, the bike did not share the Benelli's folding roof, but looks a very viable export model IMHO.
It's not an Adiva, but it looks like one and offers much of the functionality. I tested the Adiva 13 years ago and it still rates as one of my favorite commuter motorcycles. Adiva is now a brand in its own right and makes three-wheelers.
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It's not an Adiva, but it looks like one and offers much of the functionality.  I tested the Adiva 13 years ago and it still rates as one of my favorite commuter motorcycles. Adiva is now a brand in its own right and makes three-wheelers.
The entire swinging arm and motor of a mini-sports bike can be purchased in bulk, with swinging arm, batteries and controller – just add a frame and front wheel
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The entire swinging arm and motor of a mini-sports bike can be purchased in bulk, with swinging arm, batteries and controller – just add a frame and front wheel
Jonway Group is best known for its scooters and quad bikes and as one of the earliest Chinese two-wheel manufacturers, and more recently for its relationship with American EV company ZAP. The company showed a new range of liquid-cooled, fuel-injected road bikes at CIMA which may soon find their way to the scooter export markets
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Jonway Group is best known for its scooters and quad bikes and as one of the earliest Chinese two-wheel manufacturers, and more recently for its relationship with American EV company ZAP. The company showed a new range of liquid-cooled, fuel-injected road bikes at CIMA which may soon find their way to the scooter export markets
The diversity of offerings in the clothing and helmet areas at CIMA was astonishing. Don't expect to see these exported to your country any time soon.
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The diversity of offerings in the clothing and helmet areas at CIMA was astonishing. Don't expect to see these exported to your country any time soon.
The clothing and helmet areas at CIMA were well worth exploring. There was conventional fare, plenty of unconventional ... and some was just so far out there that it was circling Saturn.
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The clothing and helmet areas at CIMA were well worth exploring. There was conventional fare, plenty of unconventional ... and some was just so far out there that it was circling Saturn.
The quality of the paint on some of the helmets really amazed me. Incredible detail was available.
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The quality of the paint on some of the helmets really amazed me. Incredible detail was available.
Kawasaki was by far the most visible of the Japanese manufacturers, offering thousands the opportunity to try out new bikes ...
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Kawasaki was by far the most visible of the Japanese manufacturers, offering thousands the opportunity to try out new bikes ... 
... and using every promotional aid possible to form a relationship with the Chinese motorcycling public
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... and using every promotional aid possible to form a relationship with the Chinese motorcycling public
A tour of the Kawasaki stand even scored you a bottle of Kawasaki water ... and given that the temperature hovered in the high 20s (that's 80s in Fahrenheit) and near 100 percent humidity, those bottles were much sought after
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A tour of the Kawasaki stand even scored you a bottle of Kawasaki water ... and given that the temperature hovered in the high 20s (that's 80s in Fahrenheit) and near 100 percent humidity, those bottles were much sought after
The new Kawasaki Z900 was just one of the highlights on the labyrinth-like Kawasaki stand, coming just after the Kawasaki H2R turbo
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The new Kawasaki Z900 was just one of the highlights on the labyrinth-like Kawasaki stand, coming just after the Kawasaki H2R turbo
Kawasaki was by far the most prominent and accessible of the Japanese brands
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Kawasaki was by far the most prominent and accessible of the Japanese brands
Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
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Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialisation had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favour motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
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Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialisation had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favour motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
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Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
Shenzhen-based HFK used the 2017 China International Motorcycle Fair in Chongqing this week to launch a product that just might become a killer app for motorcycles: a purpose-built Digital Video Recorder with 60 fps, 1080P (1920 x 1080) video recording from front- and rear-facing cameras, plus three-axis collision sensor and GPS data logging. Our write up on the device can be found here.
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Shenzhen-based HFK used the 2017 China International Motorcycle Fair in Chongqing this week to launch a product that just might become a killer app for motorcycles: a purpose-built Digital Video Recorder with 60 fps, 1080P (1920 x 1080) video recording from front- and rear-facing cameras, plus three-axis collision sensor and GPS data logging. Our write up on the device can be found here.
When I first came across this motorcycle I wasn't sure if I was looking at a restoration or not. It's a Chang Jiang 750.
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When I first came across this motorcycle I wasn't sure if I was looking at a restoration or not. It's a Chang Jiang 750.
This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
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This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
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This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
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This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
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This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
The Ugly Brothers have an inspired and unforgettable name, and distribute motorcycle clothing and ...
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The Ugly Brothers have an inspired and unforgettable name, and distribute motorcycle clothing and ... 
... my understanding after a prolonged language-challenged discussion employing lots of smartphone translation is that they also sell complete motorcycles just like this one
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... my understanding after a prolonged language-challenged discussion employing lots of smartphone translation is that they also sell complete motorcycles just like this one
The Ugly Brothers bike uses an imported S&S engine of 2.1 liters and must be close to the largest capacity motorcycle ever produced commercially in China. They don't sell Ugly Brothers t-shirts, but they should.
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The Ugly Brothers bike uses an imported S&S engine of 2.1 liters and must be close to the largest capacity motorcycle ever produced commercially in China. They don't sell Ugly Brothers t-shirts, but they should.
From the Lifeng Group comes the Cajero range of lightweight three- and four-wheeled electric cars. The show marked the launch of the four-wheeled range and the pick of the litter is the K5 pictured. It weighs just 400 kg and can be purchased with a 1,200 W or 2,500 W motor which offer top speeds of 30+ km/h and 45+ km/h respectively.
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From the Lifeng Group comes the Cajero range of lightweight three- and four-wheeled electric cars. The show marked the launch of the four-wheeled range and the pick of the litter is the K5 pictured. It weighs just 400 kg and can be purchased with a 1,200 W or 2,500 W motor which offer top speeds of 30+ km/h and 45+ km/h respectively.
Cajero's lightweight electric car isn't on the company website at the time of going to press (just the three-wheelers) but the brochure shows a diverse range of four-wheelers that includes 420 kg delivery vehicles of various configuration and a 420 kg police car for urban patrol, both with 2,500 W motors and a top speed specified as 45+ km/h.
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Cajero's lightweight electric car isn't on the company website at the time of going to press (just the three-wheelers) but the brochure shows a diverse range of four-wheelers that includes 420 kg delivery vehicles of various configuration and a 420 kg police car for urban patrol, both with 2,500 W motors and a top speed specified as 45+ km/h.
No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.
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No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.
This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.
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This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.
This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.
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This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.
This is the Yingang stand where the company's top-selling Monster took pride of place. It isn't a full-sized motorcycle but more akin to the Honda Grom, though Yingang also offers a 200cc Monster.
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This is the Yingang stand where the company's top-selling Monster took pride of place. It isn't a full-sized motorcycle but more akin to the Honda Grom, though Yingang also offers a 200cc Monster.
No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.
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No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.
That's Loncin's latest offering above - a lightweight electric sports bike with a trellis frame and a 1.2 kW motor. When a bike is very light, it doesn't need a lot of horsepower.
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That's Loncin's latest offering above - a lightweight electric sports bike with a trellis frame and a 1.2 kW motor. When a bike is very light, it doesn't need a lot of horsepower.
This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.
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This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.
This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.
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This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.
Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag
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Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag
Charging on the Evoke Urban is done just above the rear tail-light
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Charging on the Evoke Urban is done just above the rear tail-light
Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag
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Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag
The electric prototype mopeds on the Zongshen stand were fully operative and looked production ready, though they were explained as being "for customer approval"
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The electric prototype mopeds on the Zongshen stand were fully operative and looked production ready, though they were explained as being "for customer approval"
Virtual Reality Motorcycle rides were available on the Loncin stand. As much as I love VR, hang the novelty ... riding a motorcycle is my escape from reality
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Virtual Reality Motorcycle rides were available on the Loncin stand. As much as I love VR, hang the novelty ... riding a motorcycle is my escape from reality
Virtual Reality Motorcycle rides were available on the Loncin stand
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Virtual Reality Motorcycle rides were available on the Loncin stand
It might look like an overgrown kickscooter, but the Seev comes in 500 W and 800 W form and attracted a lot of interest at the show
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It might look like an overgrown kickscooter, but the Seev comes in 500 W and 800 W form and attracted a lot of interest at the show
The Hongya Dake is based around a Zhenghao 200cc motor, though the frame and styling is clearly mirrored from the KTM Duke
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The Hongya Dake is based around a Zhenghao 200cc motor, though the frame and styling is clearly mirrored from the KTM Duke
Another bike from the Real-Raptor range - the company's stylist is awesomely talented
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Another bike from the Real-Raptor range - the company's stylist is awesomely talented
The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser was displayed at CIMA with a matching trailer
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The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser was displayed at CIMA with a matching trailer
The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser has a 600cc parallel twin producing 36 kW (49 hp) at 5,500 rpm
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The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser has a 600cc parallel twin producing 36 kW (49 hp) at 5,500 rpm
China got its first trials bike manufacturer at CIMA in 2016 when the Tenaci Wong marque was launched with the intention of making trials more accessible to the Chinese public. This year a much larger presence ensued.
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China got its first trials bike manufacturer at CIMA in 2016 when the Tenaci Wong marque was launched with the intention of making trials more accessible to the Chinese public. This year a much larger presence ensued.
I watched at length as the public walked past the Indian stand and strange as it may seem, the recognition seemed there that it was one of the oldest marques in the world and a brand of legend
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I watched at length as the public walked past the Indian stand and strange as it may seem, the recognition seemed there that it was one of the oldest marques in the world and a brand of legend
Honda's Goldwing behemoth stood in the courtyard between the two halls and almost everyone stopped to look. In a country where the most common capacity of motorcycle is still around 125cc, the Honda is unfeasibly large
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Honda's Goldwing behemoth stood in the courtyard between the two halls and almost everyone stopped to look. In a country where the most common capacity of motorcycle is still around 125cc, the Honda is unfeasibly large
The Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike uses a water-cooled, fuel-injected 200cc single-cylinder engine and sells for RMB18,800 - approximately US$2,800
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The Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike uses a water-cooled, fuel-injected 200cc single-cylinder engine and sells for RMB18,800 - approximately US$2,800
The US$2,800 Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike can be expected to give the sport some real impetus in China
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The US$2,800 Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike can be expected to give the sport some real impetus in China
This United Nations map of the world's urban centers by size in 2016 highlights the urbanization of India and China. Between them, they have more than half of the world's cities with more than a million inhabitants. With both nations producing the vast majority of the worlds motorcycles for their own populations, the form factor of the world's motorcycles can be expected to evolve accordingly.
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This United Nations map of the world's urban centers by size in 2016 highlights the urbanization of India and China. Between them, they have more than half of the world's cities with more than a million inhabitants. With both nations producing the vast majority of the worlds motorcycles for their own populations, the form factor of the world's motorcycles can be expected to evolve accordingly.
The success of the relationship between China's CF Moto and KTM appears to have everyone chasing the leader so hard that the trellis-framed lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China. Trellis frames are IN!
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The success of the relationship between China's CF Moto and KTM appears to have everyone chasing the leader so hard that the trellis-framed lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China. Trellis frames are IN!
This is the 250cc Police Bike version of the Fire Engine previously seen in this gallery. Kinda similar eh?
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This is the 250cc Police Bike version of the Fire Engine previously seen in this gallery. Kinda similar eh?
Zongshen distributes Harley-Davidson in China
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Zongshen distributes Harley-Davidson in China
Just as there are many companies in China that specialize in building OEM motors, there are companies such as QSMOTOR which offer complete electric drivetrains
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Just as there are many companies in China that specialize in building OEM motors, there are companies such as QSMOTOR which offer complete electric drivetrains
The electric Yingang Monster is available in 1.5 kW and 3 kW versions
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The electric Yingang Monster is available in 1.5 kW and 3 kW versions
Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
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Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
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Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
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Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
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Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
Asiawing's latest offerings include a full range of 250cc and 450cc endure, motocross and motard liquid-cooled bikes and now come with electronic fuel injection.
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Asiawing's latest offerings include a full range of 250cc and 450cc endure, motocross and motard liquid-cooled bikes and now come with electronic fuel injection.
Kayo's 2018 motocross bike
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Kayo's 2018 motocross bike
KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Honda" ... it was.
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KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Honda" ... it was.
KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Husqvarna" ... it was.
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KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Husqvarna" ... it was.
View gallery - 114 images

China's motorcycle market is evolving at a rapid rate, and it could have a profound effect on the form factor of motorcycles of the near future. Although China is no longer the world's largest motorcycle market or the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer (it has now fallen behind India on both counts), it still dwarfs all other national motorcycle markets.

Together, the world's two most populous countries now make up the vast majority of the world's motorcycle manufacture and consumption and with the governments of both countries now committed to the electrification of personal transportation in short order, some dramatic changes can be expected to occur over the next few years, and the motorcycle is going to be at the very forefront of that change.

In India, Hero, Honda, TVS, Mahindra, Yamaha and Bajaj will all launch electric two-wheelers at next February's Auto Expo in Mumbai, well ahead of the Indian Government's target date of 2030 to transition the country to electric vehicles.

With China's centralized Government and a deadline looming a decade sooner, China's motorcycle manufacturers have a much shorter runway and are scrambling to quickly adapt to what amounts to an existential threat. Motorcycles have already been banned from many major cities in China and the relentlessness of the country's quest to reduce air pollution will see little leeway on commercial grounds. It will be a matter of comply or perish.

This United Nations map of the world's urban centers by size in 2016 highlights the urbanization of India and China. Between them, they have more than half of the world's cities with more than a million inhabitants. With both nations producing the vast majority of the worlds motorcycles for their own populations, the form factor of the world's motorcycles can be expected to evolve accordingly.
This United Nations map of the world's urban centers by size in 2016 highlights the urbanization of India and China. Between them, they have more than half of the world's cities with more than a million inhabitants. With both nations producing the vast majority of the worlds motorcycles for their own populations, the form factor of the world's motorcycles can be expected to evolve accordingly.

Hence it was an interesting time to visit the 15th China International Motorcycle Fair in Chongqing last week, a show that may not be the most important motorcycle show in the world, but can be seen as a harbinger of the changing landscape for motorcycle development in the countries that produce them.

It's quite possible you've never heard of Chongqing, but despite the rise of India's motorcycle industry, it remains the de facto capital of the world's motorcycle industry.

Chongqing is an ancient river port and trading hub, located where the Jialing River joins the Yangtze River, 1,800 km west of Shanghai, and 1,300 km north of Hanoi (Vietnam), and dates back at least 3,500 years. Though China's motorcycle industry is young by western standards, Chongqing has produced far more motorcycles than any other city in the world every year for the last decade, and it's where Loncin, Yinxiang, Lifan and Zongshen all began manufacturing motorcycles on their journey into industrial conglomerates.

Most of China's major motorcycle manufacturers started in Chongqing and have used the concentration of related industries in the city of 14 million people to create a self-sustaining motorcycle empire ... an empire that is just about to undergo an electrification revolution.

It's extraordinary how humanity's opinions can change so quickly. I remember a time when "Made in Japan" was a derogatory term, and it wasn't that long ago that "Made in China" was similarly dismissive. Now we're all carrying smartphones made in China with technology so complex that it might as well be "magic," so it's an ideal time to reflect upon how quickly technology has progressed in China.

A long way in a short time

When I first came across this motorcycle I wasn't sure if I was looking at a restoration or not. It's a Chang Jiang 750.
When I first came across this motorcycle I wasn't sure if I was looking at a restoration or not. It's a Chang Jiang 750.

When I first came across this motorcycle on the floor of the Chongqing Exhibition Center, I wasn't sure if I was looking at a restoration or not. It's a Chang Jiang 750 and apparently produced from spare parts stocks so plentiful that bikes assembled from original parts still regularly hit the market as new in China, where they were manufactured from 1957 onward, initially as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use.

The tale goes much further though, because due to "technical collaboration" between the Peoples Republic of China and Cold War Soviet Russia, the CJ750 is a copy of the Russian made 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) Motosikl 72 ... aka M72.

This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.
This is a Chang Jiang 750 produced new from spare parts stocks. They were built in China from 1957 onward as the motorcycle of choice of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, and later for civilian use. The CJ750 is a copy of the Russian 1956 IMZ (Irbitski Mototsikletniy Zavod) M72 which was copied from a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, check out Chiangjiangunlimited.com.

In war time, each army has home-made tools of the trade, and in WW2, both sides recognized early that Germany had the best motorcycles by far in the form of the BMW horizontally-opposed shaft-drive twins. The WW2 United States Army even put out a tender for motorcycles of similar design as the chain-driven Harley-Davidson WLA V-twin 750s were clearly inferior to the BMWs. Both Harley and Indian produced their own version of the horizontally-opposed shaft-drive twin and the small number produced are quite sought after by collectors these days.

The 750cc IMZ M72 began its own technological evolution as an improved military version of a 1938 BMW R71. In order to fully understand the history of the model, I consulted Dan of Chiangjiangunlimited.com. According to Dan, "the M72 was built in Irbit (Ural), and later, in the Ukraine (Dnepr), and when the M72 was finally considered to be obsolete (ca. 1957), the tooling ended up in China where the bikes were produced until the mid-1980s.

"The original CJs were identical to the M72s. Most of the improvements made by the Chinese were anything but. They introduced a 12 V electrical system that uses an alternator and rectifier, and it's just awful. They also introduced a 32 HP OHV version of the engine which is great, but it uses the same electrical system. The original 6 V, 22 HP flatheads were fairly decent machines, especially the ones built for the PLA. I have a PLA bike that's very reliable and a civilian version that's not."

There's a healthy trade still in Chang Jiang 750s in China, and after beginning life as a German product, then being modified for reliability by Russia and then China, the former military machines are as sturdy and reliable as a motorcycle can be. Not fast, but they get the job done without fail, and spare parts can be found anywhere in this enormous country. They said I could have purchased this one for RMB42,000 (US$6,300) but Dan tells me I could get a good one for much less than that.

This was what motorcycling in China looked like until very recently.

Back to the future

Think of Zongshen as China's equivalent to Honda. One of China's most beloved motorcycle marques, it got its start making motorcycles in Chongqing in 1992. Zuo Zongshen is one of history's greatest rags-to-riches stories, rising from abject poverty to become one of the world's richest people. The Zongshen Group now has 50+ subsidiary companies and has diversified its technological development across many related industries and is well poised to ride the tides of change.

Think of Zongshen as China's equivalent to Honda. Started in 1992, the Zongshen Group began making motorcycles but now consists of more than 50 wholly or partly owned subsidiary companies and has diversified into technology development across many related areas of industry. The Zongshen stand in Chongqing (Zongshen's home town) featured a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell the company has under development.
Think of Zongshen as China's equivalent to Honda. Started in 1992, the Zongshen Group began making motorcycles but now consists of more than 50 wholly or partly owned subsidiary companies and has diversified into technology development across many related areas of industry. The Zongshen stand in Chongqing (Zongshen's home town) featured a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell the company has under development.

The Zongshen stand in the company's home town featured a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell the company has under development (above). Zongshen also makes the motors for China's military drones and that was another highlight of a truly monumental display.

There was little doubt in walking the floor at CIMA that intellectual property is paid scant regard in China, but that was also the case as Japan's motorcycle industry emerged, and quite soon the technological development torch was carried forth by the former plagiarizers. Wouldn't it be ironic if all those fuel cell prototype motorcycles we've seen at the Tokyo Motor Show for the last decade were beaten to market by the Chinese manufacturers?

Zongshen is moving forward towards the electrification of its offerings on many fronts, showing a wireless charging station for electric motorcycles
Zongshen is moving forward towards the electrification of its offerings on many fronts, showing a wireless charging station for electric motorcycles

Zongshen is moving forward towards the electrification of its offerings on many fronts, showing a wireless charging station for electric motorcycles and ...

Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.
Canadian company Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. When the car turned up on the Zongshen stand at CIMA, we suddenly understood why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities. Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million motorcycles a year.

... Zongshen's relationship with Canadian company Electra Meccanica was another of the highlights. Electra Meccanica emerged from nowhere last year with its promising urban Solo three-wheeler EV, and has made remarkable progress in a short time frame. Now we understand why progress towards commercialization had been so quick. On a star-studded stand, the almost-a-motorcycle Solo was in pride of place, and in China's rush to electrification and with a government roadmap that does not favor motorcycles, it is clearly one of Zongshen's priorities.

Zongshen distributes Harley-Davidson in China
Zongshen distributes Harley-Davidson in China

Zongshen currently manufactures more than a million gas-burning motorcycles a year though, and the company's best known foreign partnerships involve the distribution of Harley Davidson in China and a manufacturing and distribution relationship with the Piaggio Group, encompassing Aprilia and myriad other Italian brand names.

F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.
F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. Always a competitor in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets. In China, the bike comes with a 150cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.

F.B. Mondial was once the toast of Italy, with the tiny manufacturer winning five rider and five manufacturer 125 cc and 250 cc class World Racing Championships between 1949 and 1957. The company's first bike for many decades is the Hipster, appropriately available in 125 and 250 guise in most markets, though in China it sold with a 150 cc engine and was badged as both Aprilia and Mondial.

The electric prototype mopeds on the Zongshen stand were fully operative and looked production ready, though they were explained as being "for customer approval"
The electric prototype mopeds on the Zongshen stand were fully operative and looked production ready, though they were explained as being "for customer approval"

Zongshen like many other Chinese manufacturers is in the process of building electric only motorcycle brands and was the first manufacturer to become engaged in international electric motorcycle racing, having some success but not being in the same league as the all-conquering Mugen racing team. The electric prototype mopeds on the Zongshen stand pictured above were fully operative and looked production ready, though they were explained as being "for customer approval."

The KTM/Ducati effect

The success of the relationship between China's CF Moto and KTM appears to have everyone chasing the leader so hard that the trellis-framed lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China. Trellis frames are IN!
The success of the relationship between China's CF Moto and KTM appears to have everyone chasing the leader so hard that the trellis-framed lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China. Trellis frames are IN!

If I saw the future of urban motorcycling in Chongqing, it would be a lightweight minimalist naked bike with a trellis frame. The success of the relationship between China's CF Moto and KTM appears to have everyone chasing the leader so hard that the trellis-framed lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China. Trellis frames are IN!

This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.
This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame. The success of the KTM formula being manufactured by CFMoto in China has everyone chasing the leader so hard that the lightweight single cylinder naked has become the ideal urban sports bike in China.

This is the new Loncin 300CRX, 17-inch wheels, a 292 cc liquid-cooled four-valve motor and a trellis frame.

This is the Yingang stand where the company's top-selling Monster took pride of place. It isn't a full-sized motorcycle but more akin to the Honda Grom, though Yingang also offers a 200cc Monster.
This is the Yingang stand where the company's top-selling Monster took pride of place. It isn't a full-sized motorcycle but more akin to the Honda Grom, though Yingang also offers a 200cc Monster.

This is the Yingang stand where the company's top-selling Monster took pride of place. It isn't a full-sized motorcycle but more akin to the Honda Grom, though Yingang also offers a 200 cc Monster.

No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.
No, it isn't a Ducati, but it certainly looks like one. The bike underneath the Ducati stickers is a Yingang Monster, one of a range of mini-street bikes sold under the Monster name with a Ducati-esque trellis frame and motors ranging from 125cc to 200cc.

You didn't have to look too hard to find people who had swapped out the badges on the Yingang Monster to individualize it and stand out a bit in a country with 1.3 billion brethren. Customization of all motorcycles was rampant and many of the stands at the show sold gear that helped to make any motorcycle distinctive.

CFMoto's 125cc Papio is one of dozens of mini-street models that have surfaced in the last few years since Honda's Grom popularized the category. Kawasaki's KR125 Pro joined the market this year after Kawasaki started the category a decade ago with the KR110. The low seat height, low weight and sensational handling of such bikes makes them ideal for Asian countries and this is definitely a category on the rise.
CFMoto's 125cc Papio is one of dozens of mini-street models that have surfaced in the last few years since Honda's Grom popularized the category. Kawasaki's KR125 Pro joined the market this year after Kawasaki started the category a decade ago with the KR110. The low seat height, low weight and sensational handling of such bikes makes them ideal for Asian countries and this is definitely a category on the rise.

CFMoto's 125cc Papio is one of dozens of mini-street models that have surfaced in the last few years since Honda's Grom popularized the category. Kawasaki's KR125 Pro joined the market this year after Kawasaki started the category a decade ago with the KR110. The low seat height, low weight and sensational handling of such bikes makes them ideal for Asian bodies and urban conditions and this is definitely a category on the rise across Asia.

The Hongya Dake is based around a Zhenghao 200cc motor, though the frame and styling is clearly mirrored from the KTM Duke
The Hongya Dake is based around a Zhenghao 200cc motor, though the frame and styling is clearly mirrored from the KTM Duke

The joint stand of Zhenghao and Hongya (see image gallery) was a prime example of the vast Chinese motorcycle ecosystem. Zhenghao showed just a small sampling of a massive range of small capacity motorcycle engines it produces, while the periphery of the stand featured Hongya motorcycles which use some of those engines. The centerpiece of the stand was a Hongya Dake ... no prizes for guessing the inspiration for the design.

That's Loncin's latest offering above - a lightweight electric sports bike with a trellis frame and a 1.2 kW motor. When a bike is very light, it doesn't need a lot of horsepower.
That's Loncin's latest offering above - a lightweight electric sports bike with a trellis frame and a 1.2 kW motor. When a bike is very light, it doesn't need a lot of horsepower.

What comes next? When motorcycles with carburetors are already legislated to become an endangered species in China, and electrification is mandatory shortly thereafter in cities, quite clearly that single cylinder internal combustion engine is going to be replaced, and that is exactly what is happening. That's Loncin's latest offering above – a lightweight electric sports bike with a trellis frame and a 1.2 kW motor. When a bike is very light, it doesn't need a lot of horsepower.

The electric Yingang Monster is available in 1.5 kW and 3 kW versions
The electric Yingang Monster is available in 1.5 kW and 3 kW versions

There's a new electric version of the Yingang Monster too, available with 1,500 W and 3,000 W motors. I'm a big fan of Honda's Grom, and can't wait to try an electric version with that light weight, short wheelbase and electric low down grunt.

This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.
This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls when I found a company (QSMOTOR) selling the entire swinging arm, wheel, motor, controller and batteries.

This mini-sports bike too is electric, and the influence of the breadth of the Chinese motorcycle eco-system became obvious as I further walked the halls.

Just as there are many companies in China that specialize in building OEM motors, there are companies such as QSMOTOR which offer complete electric drivetrains
Just as there are many companies in China that specialize in building OEM motors, there are companies such as QSMOTOR which offer complete electric drivetrains

Just as there are many companies in China that specialize in building OEM motors, there are companies such as QSMOTOR which offer complete electric drivetrains.

The entire swinging arm and motor of a mini-sports bike can be purchased in bulk, with swinging arm, batteries and controller – just add a frame and front wheel
The entire swinging arm and motor of a mini-sports bike can be purchased in bulk, with swinging arm, batteries and controller – just add a frame and front wheel

Indeed, the entire swinging arm and motor of the mini-sports bike two images above was on display on the QSMOTOR stand. They can be purchased in bulk, with swinging arm, batteries and controller – just add a frame and front wheel.

Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag
Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag

Another bike we're certain to see outside China soon is the 19 kW Urban Evoke which boasts a 200 km range and a sub-$10,000 price tag.

It might look like an overgrown kickscooter, but the Seev comes in 500 W and 800 W form and attracted a lot of interest at the show
It might look like an overgrown kickscooter, but the Seev comes in 500 W and 800 W form and attracted a lot of interest at the show

New form factors were also evident as Chinese motorcycle manufacturers attempt to woo consumers onto personal transportation for the first time ... and on this point it is worth mentioning is that the audience at CIMA had a much higher percentage of females than you would see at a motorcycle show in any other country. It might look like an overgrown kickscooter, but the Seev comes in 500 W and 800 W form and attracted a lot of interest.

Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.
Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.

Yet another very promising and unconventional format is this tilting three-wheeler from Doohan, a Chinese company we wrote up in August 2016. The Doohan iTank uses a 1,490 W rear hub motor which is more than enough power for urban commuting in most countries.

The magnitude of this show and the diversity of the offerings can be seen in the image gallery, though it wasn't entirely comprised of small capacity or electric motorcycles and scooters, as can be seen from the bikes below.

The pick of the Regal-Raptor display was the new Pilder 650V Pro-Street, a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm
The pick of the Regal-Raptor display was the new Pilder 650V Pro-Street, a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm

The pick of the Regal-Raptor display was the new Pilder 650V Pro-Street, a liquid-cooled V-twin producing 39 kW (53 hp) at 6,750 rpm.

The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser has a 600cc parallel twin producing 36 kW (49 hp) at 5,500 rpm
The new Regal-Raptor DD600E Cruiser has a 600cc parallel twin producing 36 kW (49 hp) at 5,500 rpm

Regal-Raptor is one of the more interesting Chinese marques styled along Harley-Davidson lines, with a very similar logo (see in the background) and aimed at a similar audience with a range of larger capacity motorcycles. The bike above is the new DD600E Cruiser, a 600cc parallel twin producing 36 kW (49 hp) at 5,500 rpm, and yes, it can be purchased with a bike trailer (see the image gallery).

The US$2,800 Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike can be expected to give the sport some real impetus in China
The US$2,800 Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike can be expected to give the sport some real impetus in China

China's first trials bike manufacturer launched at this show in 2016 when the Tenaci Wong marque was shown for the first time. The intention is to make trials riding more accessible to the Chinese public and though the Tenaci Wong TW200S trials bike isn't competitive with Montesa, TRS, Beta and Gas Gas just yet, it has most of the features of those bikes wrapped around a water-cooled, fuel-injected 200cc single-cylinder engine and sells for RMB18,800 - approximately $2,800. At that price, it can be expected to give the sport some real impetus in China.

KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Husqvarna" ... it was.
KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Husqvarna" ... it was.

KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. There were two new models which were described as "like Husqvarna" ...

KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Honda" ... it was.
KEWS motorcycles make motocross bikes but don't have a website, and indeed, didn't even have a brochure for the 2017 range. This is one of the new models which was described as "like Honda" ... it was.

and "like Honda." They really were too!

Kayo's 2018 motocross bike
Kayo's 2018 motocross bike

There are no doubt aspects of Kayo's new range that will be familiar too.

Asiawing's latest offerings include a full range of 250cc and 450cc endure, motocross and motard liquid-cooled bikes and now come with electronic fuel injection.
Asiawing's latest offerings include a full range of 250cc and 450cc endure, motocross and motard liquid-cooled bikes and now come with electronic fuel injection.

Asiawing's latest offerings include a full range of 250cc and 450cc endure, motocross and motard liquid-cooled bikes and now come with electronic fuel injection.

There's much more in our China International Motorcycle Fair photo gallery.

View gallery - 114 images
4 comments
4 comments
Mayakovski
Nice machines, sure wish we could get some of these affordable, small, low insurance cost motorcycles here in Canada.
flyerfly
That aviation engine looks VERY similar to a Rotax 914 turbo...
Imran Sheikh
these people are so talented, wish they could supply these bikes world wide.
Expanded Viewpoint
Why is it that virtually no one who is going all ga-ga over e-bikes, cars and trucks ever stops to ask how the electricity is going to be generated to charge them up? Don't they realize that those machines are basically running on coal and other fossil fuels?? Is there some kind of tunnel vision going on there? And then on top of that, there is the not taking into account that the electrical systems being put to use (batteries) require absolutely HUGE amounts of fossil fuels to be burned to mine and then process those materials into a usable form. Or do they come almost for free from recycling all of the Unicorn poop?
Randy