Chinese motorcycle manufacturers have already entered the market of the CIS countries so tightly that it has become impossible to ignore them. Of course, they do not compete with “adult” models, but in the budget motorcycle market they have successfully won their place in the sun, displacing Japanese bikes due to their significantly lower prices. Therefore, we decided to compile a small top of Chinese motorcycles of different classes, talking about the most interesting models. It is worth noting that all this information is only the subjective opinion of our editors, based, however, on rich personal experience, so this opinion has a practical basis. We will tell you about the best Chinese motorcycles suitable for a variety of purposes.
Cruisers/choppers
In this class, engine size is at the forefront. A distinctive feature of any cruiser is its solid dimensions, significant weight, archaic design and a not very powerful engine, which, however, has impressive torque. With one caveat, however, this motor characteristic applies to “adult” models, and budget Chinese motorcycles often have the same average motor installed as many other bikes.
In this class, you should pay attention to the BM 200 Classic . In conditions of a limited budget, this option is well suited for a beginner, becoming his “entrance ticket” to the world of chrome and leather. Simple and lightweight, the bike is reliable. It can be conditionally classified as “Chinese” - it is assembled in Russia from Chinese hubs under the auspices. And in 2021 it will be replaced by a new model - RoadViking . If 200 cubic meters is not enough for you, you can look for Lifan LF 400 , which were sold in Russia for a time, which are almost exact copies of the popular Yamaha XV 400 Virago motorcycle. Even many of the spare parts on these bikes are interchangeable. And yet, 400 cubic meters is already a more substantial volume. Considering that “volume” cruisers are not produced in China, the Lifan LF400 can be safely included in the top 10 Chinese motorcycles of this class. Its “younger brother” – Lifan LF 250B – is also quite good.
"The Wonderful World of China"
To enter the world of chrome and leather, it's worth buying a bike. Models of such equipment differ in design, technical qualities and class. Motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular.
“Chinese” are popular due to their technical qualities and price. Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at the ten best Chinese motorbikes, which come in different types.
Chinese Choppers and Cruisers
A road bike with a slightly modified fork angle is called a chopper. But this is a conditional definition. Initially, they were produced independently, removing excess from heavyweights. The chopper features an elongated fork. This design makes it possible to quickly ride on straight roads without even using your hands. The equipment is more difficult to control when turning or performing various maneuvers. Choppers are considered conversions of cruisers. Slowness, low landing and slow acceleration do not allow racing. Low risk of accidents.
The advantages include:
— wide wings that protect from pollution;
— there are models that provide space for luggage;
— spacious fuel tank;
- auxiliary light.
Budget motorcycle models are equipped with smaller fuel tanks.
Chinese enduro
It is not just a moped or a light scooter. The enduro class represents durable and hardy units that are intended for traveling through rural areas. They are light and heavy. Heavy ones are suitable for long drives on moderate off-road conditions, alternating with asphalt roads. Lightweight equipment is suitable for short trips on bad roads.
For such trips, cubic capacity is not important. The balance of technology, lightness of design and possibility of restoration are significant.
250 cubes
Such a unit cannot be called easy to operate. Let's look at the best 250cc motorcycles:
Minsk
The assembly is carried out in Belarus from Chinese components. The advantages include the frame and pendulum made of aluminum. The liquid-cooled engine produces 26 hp. The vehicle has petal-type brake discs.
Patron Sport 250
A technique that has become confirmation of the industry’s strong position in the market. The advantages include: 4-stroke engine with 1 cylinder, brake discs on 2 wheels, sporty style. The equipment has a power of 157 hp.
Lifan LF250
A cruiser characterized by reliability and level of comfort. The 5-speed transmission distributes torque evenly. Good assembly, classic design, durability. It is also worth noting that in case of breakdowns, another advantage is the ease of finding spare parts.
Zongshen Winner ZS250GS
The bike has excellent sporting qualities with a low engine power of 17.8 hp. The large 20-liter tank is designed for long distances without the need to refuel. This is excellent dynamics, efficiency and great style.
300 cubes
Dual-purpose 2-cylinder units are very rare. Their resource is more than 70,000 km. A huge plus is the availability of spare parts for sale, as well as their low cost compared to Japanese and European counterparts. They are considered reliable and economical.
400 cubes
Similar equipment is easier to find in the CIS countries. In China, large capacity units are intended for export only. The main advantage is power. They also have a brutal appearance, a fast run-up and provide the opportunity to drive quickly. The equipment is mainly equipped with 2-cylinder engines.
450 cubes
Such equipment includes touring motorcycles, crossovers and sportbikes.
Road equipment
A budget option, characterized by low fuel consumption and good maneuverability. In China, more than 130 companies produce a wide range of road motorcycles. Such units include:
- Choppers are standard models after tuning;
- Baggers, featuring built-in luggage cases and wind protection;
- Cruisers with low seating and chrome parts;
- Bobbers, characterized by large blown wheels;
- Cafe racers. They are a lightweight type of cruiser, equipped with a narrow gas tank, a flat seat and clip-ons that replace the steering wheel.
Touring enduro
There are almost no motorcycles with small cubes in this class. Longer distances require more powerful equipment. They are not afraid of either asphalt roads or off-road conditions.
Initially, they were distinguished by a raised muffler and a wide steering wheel, but now there are more of these differences. They show cruiser elements and cross-country features. This is a bike with pleasant handling and a reinforced design.
Sportbikes
Basically, these are 2- or 4-cylinder units. Advanced injection engines function flawlessly. Depending on the purpose, you can choose equipment with a different number of cubes. This class is made from light alloys. The units are manufactured in factories with a steering damper, which controls steering and prevents falling during maneuvers.
Due to the possibility of developing high speed and dynamics, they are equipped with high-performance brakes. The exhaust system can be semi-direct or straight, which is why they have a loud exhaust.
Cross motorcycles and pit bikes
Cross motos are distinguished by their style. They have 2-dimensional wheels and a standard steering wheel with the ability to upgrade. The tires are selected taking into account the size of the wheels. In the production of such equipment, the main emphasis is on quality, simplicity and compactness of assembly.
Highly popular models
In terms of reliability, it is recommended to choose new equipment with good characteristics. This review will consider units of 250, 300 and 400 cubic meters of different classes and designs.
The rating of people's favorites opens with the Lifan LF200GY, which has been successfully sold in many countries for many years. Even the meager equipment doesn't stop him from tackling bad trails. However, the equipment problem can be easily solved through tuning.
Kayo T4 Enduro 250
With carburetor fuel supply, air cooling, electronic ignition, disc brakes, front telescopic suspension. The bike has a mass of 107 kg.
Stels Flame 200
Represents a rich line of this brand. 17 liter tank. It is distinguished by its lightness, excellent maneuverability, and electronic ignition. The equipment is easy to operate, equipped with an electronic instrument panel, and is characterized by economical fuel consumption. It also has disadvantages:
— stretchable chain;
- low top speed;
— poor lighting from the front headlight.
Forsage 450 Enduro
It is a compact and lightweight equipment with increased power, which at the output is 44 hp. It has a number of good technical qualities for Chinese industry and low cost.
Stels 600 Bennelli
Chinese technology with Italian quality. The unit is not limited to 200 km per hour. Low cost and decent design turned it into a popular road unit.
Regal Raptor
Reliable water-cooled technology that pleases fans of injectors. The highest speed value is 120 km per hour.
Sukida SK-150
The creation of a one-name brand with its head office located in Gaungzhou. Decent design and good characteristics allowed it to become worthy in the ranking.
CFMoto 650 MT
It is an analogue of Yamaha TDM. Moreover, the quality of the unit can become a worthy competitor for Kawasaki.
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Enduro
Here again we have to mention Baltmotors with their very successful model BM 250 Dakar . It costs more than most of its competitors, but its characteristics are very impressive, and reviews from owners of a Chinese motorcycle assembled in Russia are generally positive.
Also enjoying popular love is the Lifan LF200 GY , which has been selling well in a number of countries for several years now. It’s difficult to call it a full-fledged enduro - the level of equipment is not the same, but this bike is well suited for bad roads. Its main advantages are its low price, versatility, cheap spare parts and overall simplicity of design, which makes repairs possible in a garage environment.
Fans of more powerful equipment should look at another “Chinese” - Forsage 450 Enduro .
Quite light and compact, it is highly powerful. In addition, the manufacturer offers tuning to improve performance - a Japanese carburetor, direct-flow exhaust and other little things that ultimately allow you to get a power output of 44 hp. on the rear wheel (not on the crankshaft!). This is an excellent indicator for Chinese motorcycles. At the same time, the bike is quite inexpensive - at least much cheaper than the 450 cc Japanese ones.
Top 2. IRBIS TTR 250R
Rating (2021): 4.76
The best combination of price and quality A full-fledged motocross motorcycle for beginners and professionals. An inexpensive solution capable of conquering serious off-road conditions thanks to 15.6 horsepower with 223 cubic meters of volume.
- Characteristics
Average price: 90,000 rub.
- Engine capacity: 223 cc
- Power: 15.6 hp
- Seat height: 880 mm
- Weight: 125 kg
A full-fledged motocross motorcycle can also be budget-friendly. The IRBIS TTR 250R is a prime example of this. With an engine capacity of less than 250cc, it is capable of overcoming potholes and bumps like its more powerful brothers. 15.6 horsepower and 17 Nm of torque allow you to take part in competitions or simply conquer open spaces. The tubular frame is very durable as it is manufactured using a closed system. This also contributed to weight loss and speed gain. Only the maximum overclocking is not impressive. To some, 110 kilometers per hour may seem insufficient, but if we are talking specifically about trips outside of developed roads, then you are unlikely to ever achieve this parameter.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Robust frame design
- Low weight
- High maintainability
- 12 liter fuel tank
- Not the highest peak speed
- Slow acceleration
See also:
- 16 best ATVs
Road motorcycles
This class can perhaps be called the most numerous. It includes both the cheapest and weakest models that copy the popularly beloved Yamaha YBR 125, as well as quite serious equipment. But here we are ranking the best Chinese motorcycles, right? Therefore, we will give the palm to those who objectively outperformed their competitors. And it will be divided between two very serious Chinese motorcycles, which are perfect not only for beginners, but also for experienced bikers.
The first is Stels 600 Benelli. Having bought out an Italian motorcycle manufacturer with a century-old history, the Chinese quickly presented a joint development of Chinese designers and Italian designers, assembled in Russia. The motorcycle turned out to be quite modern - 600 cc 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine (80 hp!), injector, gearbox 6, stylish appearance. A speed of 200 km/h is not the limit for him. At the same time, it costs less than the Japanese “six hundred”
The Chinese company CFMoto took a slightly different path, presenting to the public its copy of the popular Kawasaki ER-6N bike. The Chinese motorcycle was named CFMoto 650 NK , and in terms of characteristics it is comparable to the aforementioned “Stealth”, representing a full-fledged, powerful and “adult” bike.
This gives us the right to include it in our top Chinese motorcycles.
Top 5. RACER PANTHER RC200GY-C2
Rating (2021): 3.97
Best price Enduro, copying the Japanese bike Honda XR 125. Complete repetition of the technical characteristics of the original, but costing 40% less.
- Characteristics
Average price: 70,000 rub.
- Engine capacity: 200 cc
- Power: 14.3 hp
- Seat height: 1020 mm
- Weight: 118 kg
RC200GY-C2 is an almost complete Chinese copy of the famous enduro Honda XR 125. Engineers from the Middle Kingdom did not bother too much and transferred most of the system, but the technical characteristics still changed. The engine volume has increased. Here it is 200 cubic meters and 14 with a little power. Weighing 118 kilograms, the engine is enough to accelerate the bike to 120 kilometers per hour, although not very fast. It's not worth running this motorcycle into the worst mud. The equipment is clearly not cross-country, but rather intended for country walks and rides. By the way, a PTS is provided here, which already tells us that the manufacturers are focused on the road class. Well, the main advantage is the lowest price.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Availability of PTS
- A light weight
- Best price
- Small torque
- Slow acceleration
- Relatively weak engine with optimal volume
See also:
- 5 most powerful and fastest ATVs
Touring enduro
Small-capacity motorcycles of this class are almost never found in nature for obvious reasons - for long journeys you need something powerful. A striking example is the Honda XL125 Varadero, developed for the European market and failed miserably in sales, and therefore was quickly discontinued. Therefore, the Chinese took into account the experience of their Japanese colleagues and presented the public with more serious equipment.
was noted for two similar models at once - Stels 400 GT and Stels 400 GS . Both of them externally copy the style of the BMW GS series. The first one is more “tailored” for asphalt, and the second one – for off-road use. These Chinese motorcycles are distinguished by good reliability, and this is the main advantage of bikes in this class.
Don't ignore the CFMoto 650 MT . This model is more likely to be an “all-terrain vehicle” rather than a full-fledged tourenduro. The closest analogue is the Yamaha TDM, which in its turn became one of the first two-wheeled crossovers. However, modern design, excellent performance and an affordable price allow the CFMoto 650MT to compete with the Kawasaki Versys 650, of which it is, in fact, a clone. This is one of the best Chinese motorcycles in its class.
Top 4. BRZ X6M 300cc
Rating (2021): 4.32
Replica of the famous Japanese enduro. Chinese copy of the popular Japanese model SUZUKI RMZ 250. A worthy competitor, costing almost twice as much.
- Characteristics
Average price: 280,000 rub.
- Engine capacity: 298 cc
- Gearbox: manual, 6 gears
- Power: 21 hp
- Seat height: 910 mm
- Weight: 130 kg
The SUZUKI RMZ 250 motocross motorcycle has long become a legend. It often takes podiums at various competitions, but only wealthy athletes can afford it. As always, China comes to the rescue by releasing its version of this legendary bike. Unlike the original, the Zongshen engine is installed here, and this is an honest three hundred with 21 horses. The motorcycle also has the necessary attachments that allow it to move on public roads. There is a title, as well as a one-year manufacturer's warranty. An excellent solution for motocross training. Not the cheapest, but very attractive compared to the original.
Advantages and disadvantages
- 6 gears
- Manufacturer's warranty
- Reinforced frame
- Low maintainability
- Steel wheels
- Weak plastic fairings
See also:
- 10 Best Motorcycles for Traveling
Sportbikes
Chinese sportbikes are a very vague category. The fact is that a sports motorcycle a priori must be high-tech and powerful, but the Chinese produce ordinary road bikes that simply imitate sports motorcycles due to their appearance and modified fit. The PRC does not produce full-fledged sportbikes as such, but it should be noted that Chinese motorcycles of this class will still be a good choice for those who have a limited budget and who want to switch to a full-fledged sportbike in the future. A similar fit and other nuances help develop the necessary skills and gain experience.
The Minsk R250 looks interesting . It has nothing in common with the old Minsks except the name, and it is assembled in Belarus from Chinese units. For the money, this is a very good bike, worthy of inclusion in the top of the best Chinese motorcycles. Also worth a look are the Patron Sport 250 and the Zongshen ZS250GS , an old-fashioned but time-tested Chinese sportbike. But it is better to avoid less common models like the Genata YZF-R 250 - spare parts for them are very difficult to find, and the quality, according to reviews, leaves much to be desired.
The best Chinese enduro motorcycles up to 250cc
Motorcycles with an engine capacity of less than 250cc are considered equipment for beginner athletes. It is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to perform intricate tricks on them. The acceleration speed also leaves much to be desired. But if you are just starting to get into motorsports and need a motocross bike for training, these are the models you should consider. It's never too late to switch to more powerful technology. In addition, enduro is suitable for city driving in most cases, and in tight roads you don’t need more power.
Pitbikes and motocross motorcycles
Fans of off-road racing have long appreciated the Chinese brand Kayo, which produces good and at the same time quite high-quality motocross bikes, as well as pit bikes. The Kayo K6 250 is popular - a full-fledged sports equipment that can give a lot of adrenaline. Among the budget pit bikes from this manufacturer, the Kayo KRZ 125 deserves attention. Light and compact, it is inexpensive, and its maintenance is not too expensive.
Forsage 125 Cross is another good option. The Forsage brand, specializing in off-road motorcycles, has long established itself on the positive side, and the 125 Cross model has become very successful. And for lovers of “more powerful” models, the Forsage Cross 450 was released. But it is unlikely to be suitable for beginners due to the really high power and higher weight.
The best Chinese enduro motorcycles over 250cc
For enduro motorcycles, 250cc is a turning point. Everything below can do without a vehicle passport, essentially being sports equipment. But beyond this norm, it is already a full-fledged motorcycle, which requires appropriate registration. Many manufacturers often deliberately underestimate this parameter, setting it at 249 cubic meters, thereby circumventing the law. If the device is 300 or higher, it will no longer be possible to hide such data. But you will be able to overcome the most severe off-road conditions. Or perform a difficult cross trick.
Total
The Chinese will not soon be able to seriously compete with Japanese and European motorcycles. But in the budget segment they already feel quite confident, pushing out well-known competitors on all fronts. Therefore, the ratings of Chinese motorcycles are growing, and more and more new models are released every year. The day is not far off when we will see real Chinese cruisers and sportbikes. In the meantime, beginners, and not only others, have plenty to choose from, especially if there is no money for a new “Japanese”, and you don’t want to buy a very shabby unit.
Top 3. Racer RC300-GY8A Enduro 300
Rating (2021): 4.58
The most reliable bike model with a number of original technical solutions: a balancing shaft and an oil cooling system. Options that make the model as reliable as possible under high loads.
- Characteristics
Average price: 118,000 rub.
- Engine capacity: 270 cc
- Gearbox: manual, 5 gears
- Power: 19.7 hp
- Seat height: 815 mm
- Weight: 118 kg
The Enduro comes with a vehicle title and has all the necessary lighting systems for driving on public roads. At the same time, it is only slightly larger in volume than 250 cubic meters, which is a rather strange decision by the manufacturer. Among the advantages, users highlight the repairable, reliable 170FMN engine, which produces almost 20 horsepower. It is also equipped with a balancing shaft, which seriously reduces vibrations. An oil-air cooling system is installed here - another strange solution. Large radiators protrude beyond the frame, making the motorcycle poorly suited for sports racing.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Cooling for serious workloads
- High quality carburetor
- Availability of balancing shaft
- Low landing
- Weak plastic
- Radiators protruding from the sides
- Steel rims on wheels
See also:
- 10 Best Motorcycles for Beginners
Reviews
Every brand of Chinese motorcycle is worthy of attention. Real customer reviews are such that for beginners, as well as for those who do not have much finance, a Chinese motorcycle is ideal. Whether it has injection engines or water-cooled systems. The main thing here is comfort and the ability to drive a vehicle.
If the motorcycle is made in China, then you should buy new bikes. The availability of spare parts allows you to quickly upgrade the equipment to suit your needs and, in case of breakdown, restore it.
Who is there?
Chinese vehicle manufacturers rarely come up with something of their own. They follow the path of least resistance - they copy what was invented. There is no need to copy the design of motorcycles, which cannot be said about frames and engines.
Most of the engines that are used in the production of motorcycles are copies of the Honda Super Cub engine, produced back in 1958. The Chinese engines produced now are copied from this motor.
How to increase the power of a Chinese motorcycle
Even if the motorcycle is fast and powerful, over time its owner will want to increase and change something. You can increase the power of the bike using several options. Sometimes just a few manipulations are enough, and sometimes all of them make sense. It all depends on the motorcyclist’s finances and his imagination.
You can bore the cylinder, change the piston ring, remove unused headlights. The easiest way is to change the engine. It is known that 4-stroke engines “eat up” more power. You can make a direct exhaust by increasing the air supply. In a single-cylinder engine the power will increase by two horsepower, in a two-cylinder engine by 4 horses. This option, according to experts, is quite controversial, but economical. It has also been verified by some users that the nulevik and direct exhaust increase power significantly.
Advice: If you decide to increase the power of a Chinese bike (and not only), you should at least know the characteristics of its engine.
What should I do?
It is quite logical that if they want to buy a motorcycle, but do not have a lot of money, buyers are ready to turn a blind eye to all the shortcomings. But, as they say, forewarned is forearmed.
Riding enduro-class equipment, pit bikes, and sport bikes is considered very dangerous. These motorcycles are light in weight, yet have powerful motors that must be built into a durable chassis, not into whatever they are installed into. This vehicle can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h or more, but it is not ready to provide the necessary strength, reliability and rigidity.
The conclusion suggests itself: such vehicles can be used by motorcyclists with extensive experience who know how to behave correctly in a life-threatening situation.
