Beijing International Motorcycle Exhibition (hereafter referred to as MOTOR CHINA) is one of the most influential and promising motorcycle exhibitions in China. Compared with previous years, this year’s MOTOR CHINA has added an extra day, featuring a broader range of exhibits and continuing to enhance its international dimension.
Reportedly, this exhibition exceeds 70,000 square meters, with more than 500 participating brands. It combines the dynamic and static displays of traditional motorcycles, new energy motorcycles, riding equipment, parts, modifications, and more, along with interactive exchanges centered around motorcycle sports and riding lifestyle. It provides a comprehensive showcase of products from the entire motorcycle industry chain.
MOTOR 2023
As in previous years, during the exhibition, whether domestic or international brands, all will unveil their most influential models one by one. It is undeniable that with the rise of China’s independent brands and large-displacement motorcycle products, China’s products are becoming increasingly competitive. Furthermore, under the pressure of cost-effectiveness of domestic models, the pricing of new international brands is becoming more affordable. Our magazine will detail the new models released at this exhibition from the perspectives of both domestic and imported brands. This article focuses on the domestic section.
I. CFMOTO – The Brand with the Newest Models
CFMOTO showcased seven new models at once. These models include the domestic adventure tourer 1250TR-G with blind-spot detection, the brand-new 800MT with a genuine TCS, the 450SR single-arm version, the XO Baboon climbing version, the 450NK, the all-new cruising series 450CL-C, and a three-wheeler derived from the XO Baboon family.
CFMOTO, 1250TR-G, RMB109,980
The domestic adventure tourer 1250TR-G, priced officially at 109,980 yuan, is CFMOTO’s first motorcycle priced over 100,000 yuan. With the progress and deepening of CFMOTO’s technology, the 1250TR-G will someday genuinely compete with imported motorcycles of the same displacement.
CFMOTO, 800MT, RMB 58,680
The all-new 800MT, priced officially at 58,680 yuan, surprises us by offering more for less. However, that’s not the focus. The key is that CFMOTO has matched the 800MT with an adjustable TCS system based on an electronic throttle. This system can predict slippage to a certain extent. Moreover, it is the first domestically made TCS system that can genuinely compete with imported models.
CFMOTO, 450SR S, RMB33,580
The 450SR S single-arm version, priced officially at 33,580 yuan, comes standard with TCS, upgraded rear brake specifications, and a front suspension with adjustable damping.
CFMOTO, XO Baboon adventurer, RMB 9,680-RMB10,680
XO Baboon adventurer, priced officially at 9,680-10,680 yuan, is the climbing version of the previous XO Baboon. This model is CFMOTO’s further exploration in the niche small-displacement products. Compared with the XO Baboon boxer, the adventurer is more comfortable for riders with regular height. As long as CFMOTO continues to refine and iterate, we believe that Baboon will eventually become synonymous with niche small-displacement models.
CFMOTO
Besides, the latest street motorcycle 450NK and cruising series 450CL-C and other new models only made an appearance at the exhibition, and the official prices have not yet been announced.
CFMOTO, 450NK
II. VOGE – More Than Just New Models, Unveiling Cutting-Edge Tech
The New Upgraded Step-Through Model SR4MAX, Officially Priced at ¥40,766 and ¥41,766
At the exhibition, VOGE unveiled the newly upgraded step-through model SR4MAX. This model is available in two versions: Sport and Smart, officially priced at ¥40,766 and ¥41,766 respectively. The difference in price mainly reflects additional features such as hardware-based electric windscreen, heated handlebars plus seat, and a radar warning assistance system.
The Retro Cruiser CU525 and Near-Liter ADV Model DS900 Made Their Debut
At the exhibition, VOGE also introduced a retro cruiser, the CU525, and a near-liter ADV model, the DS900. This move signifies that VOGE has successfully completed a full range of offerings in the primary race arena.
The Debut of the Black Tech Rescue System, Ji Yu OS
Apart from the new models, VOGE unveiled their “black tech” system for the first time, the Ji Yu OS. Comparable to OnStar systems found in automobiles, the Ji Yu OS offers a rescue feature that can be activated when the owner faces danger. VOGE intends to make every possible effort, so that in the unlikely event of a one-in-ten-thousand incident, it can provide true life-saving assistance.
III. KOVE – The Dark Horse among Domestic Brands
At the exhibition, KOVE officially released the four-cylinder RR: 450RR and the ADV model 800X.
450RR, Officially Priced at ¥35,800 – ¥39,800
The KOVE 450RR, at this price, is arguably the world’s most affordable four-cylinder RR. Moreover, it is a manageable four-cylinder superbike. With a total weight of only 165kg and a seat height that can be lowered to 780mm, the 450RR lowers the bar for young people looking to experience a four-cylinder superbike, both in terms of price and driving requirements.
KOVE 800X, Officially Priced at ¥45,800 – ¥49,800
The overall concept of the KOVE 800X leans more towards off-road, rather than being broadly an ADV. Additionally, KOVE has equipped the 800X with factory-original “three radish boxes”, compelling people to view this model as the successor of the 525X.
IV. CYCLONE – Taking a Steady Approach
CYCLONE unveiled two new models, one of which was the previously seen RA401, while the other was a culmination of CYCLONE’s and even the domestic motorcycle technology, the ADV model RX650.
CYCLONE Retro Sport Cruiser RA401, Officially Priced at ¥26,980 – ¥27,980
The RA401 is a sport cruiser with a retro design and modern design philosophy. The official price gives it competitive strength in the mid-range cruiser market. The difference between the two versions of the RA401 lies in the high-end version having a screen projection instrument cluster and TCS traction control, while the lower-end version has a standard instrument cluster.
CYCLONE Flagship Adventure ADV RX650, Officially Priced at ¥47,800
The RX650 is an adventure ADV model that encapsulates CYCLONE’s three years of technological prowess. Its design concept is advanced, and it is crafted with premium materials. The engine is sourced from Norton, and the fuel injection uses the latest BOSCH technology, which can automatically learn and match the fuel spray amount based on different driving habits, achieving full control over the ECU. Its minimum fuel consumption can reach 3.5L/100km. It comes standard with BOSCH’s latest generation electronic throttle and blind spot monitoring + lane change assistance technology, along with standard curve ABS.
V. JEDI – Unconventional Path
At the exhibition, JEDI Motorcycles released their big-size luxury touring model, the Kirin 750. The model is not only unique in its appearance with a strong Chinese character, but it is also equipped with a complete electronic control system, making the riding experience more comfortable for the driver.
In addition, JEDI also presented the upgraded 2023 version of the K750 as well as the track enjoyment version. The two newly added color options, “flaming speed” and “electric light tender bud green,” add a high-grade sense to the K750’s color scheme.
VI. QJMOTOR- Slightly Low Profile
QJMOTOR, arguably the king of domestic brands and big-displacement maniacs, released only one step-through model named Hong 150 at this exhibition, officially priced at ¥16,999. Perhaps QJMOTOR has realized that the end of intense competition lies in small-displacement models, ensuring sales volume.
VII. BENDA -Triumphing through Striking Aesthetics
Merely a short while ago, BENDA lifted the veil off the Black Flag 500, right on Alashan. Now, under the gleaming lights of the ongoing MOTOR CHINA, BENDA has staged the debut of the Chinchilla 450. This machine comes bearing an official price tag that reads 26,980 yuan. Concurrently, they’ve unveiled the single-seater Bobber variant, known as the Napoleon 450, yet have kept the curtain drawn over its price, intriguingly keeping this detail shrouded in mystery.
VIII. TARO – Walking Its Own Path Steadily
At this exhibition, TARO officially launched the previously seen exquisite small step-through model, the DSR150, officially priced at ¥12,980. Perhaps TARO plans to steadily produce small-displacement models with its excellent supporting system.
In addition, we also found a very cute small displacement mini motorcycle at a booth called MBY.
This concludes the round-up of domestic new models at MOTOR CHINA. It’s clear to see that the level of competition among domestic motorcycle brands is intensifying, with each brand holding its competitive edge. But to thrive in this fierce competition, continuous innovation in technology and exceptional quality are key.
*All official prices listed above are for the Chinese market.