Chinese Motorcycles at EICMA 2024: New Models Rivaling Major Brands
Chinese manufacturers have hit the throttle to make their mark at European shows, and Milan’s EICMA is no exception. With increasingly dynamic engines, cutting-edge technology, and eye-catching designs, brands like CF Moto, QJ Motor, Voge, and Zontes are seriously starting to catch up to the big names in biking. Let’s take a look at their new offerings to see how they’re revving up and aiming to win over European riders with attractive prices and solid performance!
Chinese Bikes Find Their Place in the European Market
This year at EICMA, Chinese manufacturers are playing in the big leagues with bikes that deliver serious power and technology. Gone are the days when these motorcycles were just about “small engines.” Nowadays, Chinese brands are diving into large displacements, matching the technological prowess that meets the expectations of European riders. By 2025, they plan to be strong contenders in the heavyweight category. It’s clear the Chinese are cementing their spot in the market, backed by a solid network of importers and distributors.
CF Moto: A New Challenger for Triumph and Yamaha?
CF Moto made a bold move this year with a three-cylinder 675 cc engine. This gem powers two models: the sporty 675SR-R and the roadster 675NK. With 95 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 70 Nm of torque at 8,250 rpm, CF Moto directly targets the range of Triumph and Yamaha, known for their rugged triples. Featuring KYB suspension, J. Juan brakes, traction control, a 5-inch TFT screen with remote updates, CF Moto is speaking the language of discerning bikers.
But CF Moto isn’t stopping there! The brand also unveiled a V4 engine concept surpassing 210 horsepower. While this version isn’t road-ready just yet, it certainly highlights CF Moto’s ambition to play with the big boys. Admit it, doesn’t it make you curious about what this beast could do on the road?
QJ Motor: From Little to Large, Stays on the Rise!
QJ Motor also brought out the heavy artillery this year with a four-cylinder 921 cc engine. This engine powers the SRK1000 roadster, a beast delivering 163 horsepower at 13,600 rpm with 90 Nm of torque at 11,000 rpm. Equipped with adjustable Marzocchi inverted forks, a multi-link suspension, Brembo brakes, TPMS, cruise control, ABS, and TCS, this roadster has everything to please bikers looking for performance and top-quality gear. We’re looking ahead to spring 2025 to see this machine roll out on American roads!
But QJ Motor isn’t satisfied with just one model. With their three-cylinder 699 cc engine, they’re also offering two new bikes: the “Adventure” trail 703 F and the sporty 703 RR. By tapping into the mid-range sport and trail segments, which are popular in Europe, QJ Motor aims to reach as many riders as possible. Plus, other models are already in the works: a road trail and a sporty roadster. QJ Motor is the real deal, and it’s promising!
Zontes: From Small Bikes to Big Three-Cylinders
Until now mainly known for small displacements, Zontes has made a significant leap. The Chinese brand unveiled a three-cylinder 699 cc engine appearing in several of their models. This engine will power multiple models, including the 703 F (“Adventure” trail) and the 703 RR (a sports bike). The 703 F should arrive early next year, while the sports version, 703 RR, is expected in the second half of 2025.
But that’s not all for Zontes. The brand plans two more models that will also use this three-cylinder engine: a sporty roadster and a road trail. With this new engine, Zontes clearly intends to carve out a niche among the market’s big players. Judging by initial reactions, the brand might just succeed. The progress is substantial, and year after year, Zontes gains credibility. By 2025, the Chinese brand could very well become a key player in the motorcycle scene in America.
Are Chinese Brands the Future of Motorcycling?
Honestly, the premium shift of Chinese brands is remarkable. Gone are the clichés from a few years ago when their bikes were just “low-cost” options. Now, they combine performance, technology, and design that hold up well. Bikes like the 675SR-R or SRK1000 have nothing to envy from big names. With their high-end features and powerful engines, they cater to bikers who want quality without breaking the bank.
In my opinion, it’s good news. These bikes push established brands to innovate and offer new options, often more affordable. As more and more distributors enter the US market, I bet Chinese motorcycles are soon going to find their way into our garages. If you’re in search of a bike that’s a little different, take a look at the new Chinese releases from the EICMA show. Who knows, your next ride might come straight from the Middle Kingdom!
