Old Japanese or new Chinese motorcycle? Chinese enduro bikes The best Chinese motocross bike 250.

31.07.2019

Once upon a time, the word "chekushka" was in use - this was the name of a 250-gram bottle of vodka, which cost only 1 ruble. 49 kop. - for one and inexpensively, and without busting. For motorcyclists, the "check" was associated with the Jawa 250 motorcycle - not as expensive as the top model Jawa 350, for which they fought in queues, but no longer an unfinished soviet industry. In general, "chekushka" meant a budget alternative. Today, perhaps, it is time to remember the old word: let's see what kind of "checks" we have from the Middle Kingdom. In our market, the “250” class is represented mainly by Chinese companies that have relatively recently grown to such engines - before they used to spud cubic capacity of 125-150-200 cm³, releasing clones of the Honda lower engine of the CG series. Several types of engines serve as prototypes for "checks", and they are much more diverse.

SPORTBIKE

Undoubtedly the most interesting motorcycle of this subclass - M1NSK R 250. This "Minsk" with the previous models, leading the pedigree from the German two-stroke DKW, has nothing in common, not even an emblem. Here it is really necessary, as the advertising slogan calls, “Look at M1NSK in a new way”! In general, the R 250 can only be conditionally attributed to the Celestial motorcycle industry: the concept belongs to the British company Megelli, the design was created by Italian craftsmen, and only components are from China. The beauty of the bike, which is not hidden by the fairing - space frame like a birdcage, like on a Ducati. The second feature is an openwork pendulum, peeped from another world giant - Benelli, and it is made of aluminum alloy. The muffler, as it has become fashionable - in the center, protrudes from under the passenger side of the seat. For the motor, which is hidden in the depths of the device, is also not ashamed: it liquid cooling, produces as many as 26 "horses" and is interlocked with a six-speed gearbox. The motorcycle stands on 17-inch cast wheels equipped with petal brake discs. True, there is only one disc in front, but a record for the class of 300 mm diameter.

M1NSK R 250. Dry weight: 123 kg; engine 1 cyl., liquid cooler, OHC/2; power: 26 hp at 8500 rpm; tires: 100/70-17 / 130/70-17; brakes: disc / disc; price: 160 000 rub.

The Patron Sport 250 (offered by the Ural Motorcycle Company LLC from Izhevsk) in a sportbike guise demonstrates the increased capabilities of the Chinese motorcycle industry. single cylinder four stroke engine air-oil cooling (233 cm³) equipped with balance shaft, electric starter and interlocked with five-speed gearbox gears. There are disc brakes on both 17-inch wheels, but the suspension settings are not the best.

Patron Sport 250. Dry weight: 138 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHV/2; power: 15.6 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 110/70-17 / 140/60-17; brakes: disc / disc; price: 93 750 rub.

The veteran of our market - Zongshen Winner ZS250GS - has not lost its appeal. On the device, equipped with a semi-fairing and clip-ons, the driver takes a characteristic semi-recumbent landing, the tachometer is located in the center of the tidy. The motor is a single barrel air vent with an endurable power curve characteristic. The brakes of both wheels are disc, with two discs in front. In the running gear - 17-inch wheels, an inverted fork and a rear suspension with a progression linkage system (alas - without any adjustments). Of the features worth noting is the fuel gauge on dashboard and the absence of any tool cavities. Starting the engine - only electric starter. The 17-horsepower engine accelerates the motorcycle to 120 km/h. This device has a good reputation of the Chinese "father" - China Zongshen Motorcycle Group Co., Ltd., one of the largest companies in the world.

Zongshen Winner ZS250GS. Dry weight: 165 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cooler, OHC/2; power: 17.7 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 2.75–17 / 3.50–17; brakes: 2-disc/disc; price: 91 000 rub.

NEAKED

This group is rather motley, since the very concept of “naked” has not fully settled down: someone uses the term “streetfighter” or “roadster”, and someone generally refers the device to the general pile of road motorcycles. Harmonious city motorcycle modern look The M1NSK C4 250 features a complexly shaped headlight, an inverted telescopic fork and a double disc brake with petal discs. Calm air vent has excellent traction, efficiency and unpretentiousness. A tank of sufficient capacity (16 l) is equipped with a fuel gauge, tidy includes a tachometer, back light made with LEDs.

M1NSK C4 250. Dry weight: 155 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHV/2; power: 19 hp at 8000 rpm; tires: 110/70-17 / 140/70-17; brakes: 2-disc/disc; price: 100 000 rub.

It is similar to Minsk in everything, except for the price, brand and some little things - Sagitta SNS250 Jedi. The Italian-sounding brand is ours, Russian (fifth year on the market). Another difference is the colors offered: if the Minsks come in red and black, the Sagittas are red and radically black.

Sagitta SNS250 Jedi. Dry weight: 149 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHV/2; power: 19 hp at 8000 rpm; tires: 110/70-17 / 140/70-17; brakes: 2-disc/disc; price: 92 900 rub.

New for 2011 - Patron Taker 250 - is made in the style of classic streetfighters, there is something from Suzuki Bandit. True, in terms of seat ergonomics, the Chinese turned out to be on the passenger side - there is no narrow slope. Single-cylinder four-stroke engine (25 hp) is charged with liquid cooling, balance shaft, four-valve cylinder head with two overhead camshafts, six-speed gearbox. The maximum speed of the device is 140 km / h, two front brake discs with a diameter of 300 mm provide good stopping power. The name of the real manufacturer is Yingang (Chongqing Yingang Sci & Tech Co., Ltd), it says little even to a specialist, but the bike came out really outstanding.

Patron Taker 250. Dry weight: 146 kg; engine: 1 cyl., liquid cool-e., DOHC/4; power: 25 hp at 8500 rpm; tires: 110/70-17 / 140/70-17; brakes: 2-disc/disc; price: 112 500 rubles.

With an eye on the class of streetfighters, the Kinlon JL250F was also made - a similar fit, clip-ons, tank cap. There is a tachometer on the dashboard, the brake reservoir is made in the form of a can. Motorcycle brakes - disc, with two discs in front, inverted front fork, suspension rear wheel with two backpack shock absorbers. Considering a large and richly chrome-plated engine, you do not immediately notice its feature - two-cylinder. This design feature (a cloned legacy of the Honda SV series) makes the machine more "fun" on the go than conventional single-barreled ones, although the power is moderate - 17 "horses" and the maximum speed is 105 km / h. The Chinese manufacturing company is part of the Geely Group and has seven years of experience in the production of motorcycles.

Kinlon JL250F. Dry weight: 155 kg; engine: 2 cyl, air. cooler, OHC/2; power: 16.6 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 110/80-17 / 130/90-17; brakes: 2-disc/disc; price: 70 000 rub.

ENDURO. The offer in this kind of cubic capacity "250" is constantly expanding. Apparently, in those places where they are really needed (and this is a poor province), when you need to go along real off-road, brand show-offs fade into the background. After all, the kings of the provinces of past years, the indestructible "Minsk" and "IZH" cannot always be on the move! New brand with a star name - Sky Team. Actually, this is Jiangsu Sacin Motorcycle Co., Ltd., relatively young (since 1999) celestial company, known in the world for its clones of Honda "Kab" kids like Monkey, Dax, Gorilla. In general, the Sky Team ST250TR, which is not outstanding from a number of average Chinese enduros, nevertheless attracts with its harmonious appearance. It's no frills, allowing it to fit in at 135kg dry weight, yet it's equipped with 21/18" wheels, a sturdy trunk and a full set of lighting fixtures. Motor air cooling- from the narrow past, it is simple and well developed by Chinese manufacturers. There are no special bells and whistles, except for an inverted fork and brakes with petal discs. There is almost no aluminum in the chassis, suspension without adjustments, but high ground clearance and “toothy” tires.

SkyTeam ST250TR. Dry weight: 135 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHC/2; power: 14.3 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 3.00–21 / 4.10–18; brakes: disc / disc; price: 94 990 rub.

But the Sky Team ST250–2 V-Raptor model is extremely curious - in it the “Heavenly Team” (as the name is translated) actually quailed the narrowed VanVan 125 (the sellers claim that a license was purchased). But if the original, which has been popular since 2002, has a rather advanced injection air vent, interlocked with a 6-speed gearbox, then “ours” (Chinese) have a conventional motor and a 5-speed gearbox. Yes, and this bike can be attributed to the enduro class only with a big stretch, it’s just closer here than to any other class. Off-road use involves primarily wide tires, especially the rear, as well as the upper muffler and clearance is above average. The spacious and low seat (in addition, in the back as wide as a sofa), combined with a significant wheelbase, promises comfort on trips. The motorcycle is also distinguished by a comfortable luggage rack behind the seat, rubber-coated footpegs and the meticulous attention to detail that the Japanese are famous for. The price factor is important: Chinese clone almost half the price of "Van Vanych", despite the fact that it has a more cubic capacity engine, which, although not high-tech injection, is still more powerful than the "Japanese" by two and a half "horses".

Sky Team ST250–2 V-Raptor. Dry weight: 175 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHC/2; power: 14.3 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 120/80-18 / 180/80-14; brakes: disc / disc; price: 94 990 rub.

The novelty of the season is a sporty enduro with a fast-paced design C.Moto 250 4V. The equipment is from the Celestial Empire, the brand is St. Petersburg, moreover, it has a rich history: once upon a time, mopeds were produced at the state aviation enterprise "Leningrad Northern Plant". The proposed device is one of the most advanced in the class: with modern motor liquid cooling with a four-valve twin-shaft cylinder head, which provides the maximum power among the Chinese "checkers" (32.6 hp). In the running gear - an inverted fork and an adjustable mono-shock absorber, providing wheel travel of 300 mm. It is noteworthy that the pendants have full set adjustments. The motorcycle is offered in Offroad modifications on off-road tires 21/18 inch and Motard - road version on 17 inch wheels.

C.Moto 250 4V Offroad. Dry weight: 124 kg; engine: 1 cyl., liquid cool-e., DOHC/4; power: 32.6 hp at 8000 rpm; tires: 3.15–21 / 4.35–18; brakes: disc / disc; price: 100 000 rub.

A year ago, the Patron Strike 250 replaced the 200cc model of the same name, one of the most attractive enduro Chinese made in our market. The novelty has a different air-cooled engine (with an overhead camshaft, not an OHV scheme) and a completely redesigned appearance: functional fenders and wheel arch liners, a front protective yoke, engine protection from below, strong handles on the sides of the 2-seat saddle. Full-fledged lighting technology allows you to move on public roads with a maximum speed of 100 km / h, even at night. The motorcycle is equipped with disc brakes on both wheels, tires with the classic dimensions of 21/18 inches with "evil" off-road rubber, in rear suspension there is also a lever system. True, there are no suspension adjustments. Additionally, a set of wheels is offered: replacing them with 17-inch road wheels and changing the suspension settings allow you to change the orientation of the device to Motard.

Patron Strike 250. Dry weight: 150 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHC/2; power: 16.3 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 3.15-21 / 120/90-18; brakes: disc / disc; price: 68 750 rub.

Domestic company Irbis, engaged in the sale of scooters for the seventh year Chinese companies expanded its niche. The new Irbis TTR 250 model is a fairly tough endurik (not in terms of suspension characteristics, but in terms of off-road sharpness). The device is extremely light, with “toothy” tires of 21/18 inches and a significant ground clearance. Long-travel suspensions are made without any special prowess in terms of adjustments. There is also lighting, although it is rather formal. The motorcycle has the most important plus - the budget. This is the cheapest motorcycle with a 250 class engine on our market.

Irbis TTR 250. Dry weight: 118 kg; engine: 1 cyl., air. cool-e., OHC/2; power: 17.7 hp at 7500 rpm; tires: 3.15-21 / 120/90-18; brakes: disc / disc; price: 50 000 rub.

CRUISERS

But this group is Last year in our market withered away, although it was with her in 2008 that the Chinese “chekushki” began. In the review in "Moto" No. 3–2008, 12 models of such brands as Regal Raptor (Iron Eagle), Vento, Reggy, BM, Stels, Lifan, Keeway were considered. Today in our market you will meet at most two or three models, and then you will have to look for them carefully. Still, in the matter of image, the breed of a bike is decisive, no matter how much it costs. One of the surviving veterans - Lifan LF250 - is a fairly accurate copy of the early Yamaha Virago. The engine is a classic V-twin, interlocked with a 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle is not built for racing and is unlikely to go faster than 100 km / h, but it is well on the road, because Japanese choppers, unlike American ones, gave priority to ride quality. Although the largest private motorcycle manufacturer in China, Lifan Group Co., Ltd. there is also a 400-cc copy of the "witch" in the bins (test in "Moto" No. 4–2010), according to the sellers, the "chekushka" wins the competition in the "price - quality" discipline.

Lifan LF250. Dry weight: 137 kg; engine: V2, air. cooler, OHC/2; power: 17.7 hp at 8000 rpm; tires: 3.00-18 / 5.00-15; brakes: disc / drum; price: 84 000 rub.

The Chinese auto industry has certainly progressed over the past couple of decades, and now some companies are already able to issue worthy of competition with, for example, Korean cars, product. And yet, until now, most of even the most popular Chinese cars "please" their owners with regular, more or less serious breakdowns. But maybe the Chinese are doing better with motorcycles? After all, two-wheeled vehicles are in great demand both in China itself and in other Asian countries, and are the main means of transportation for the majority of the population of India, China, Vietnam, Indonesia and other countries of the region.

Traditionally, Chinese manufacturers specialize in small-capacity motorcycles. These are motorcycles and scooters with an engine capacity of up to 400 cm 3, and the bulk fits in 50-150-250 "cubes". True, there are several companies that produce equipment that is more similar to motorcycles in our understanding with a 500+ “cube” engine, but these are usually the products of former European factories bought by Chinese investors, for example, Benelli or Saggita. We will not talk about them, but we will focus on small-capacity budget equipment.

Everything here is like big ones: there are scooters, scooters, maxi scooters, classic motorcycles, pit bikes, enduro bikes and even sportbikes. And the number of companies producing two-wheeled vehicles, and the brands of this technique are incalculable.

Who is there?

Chinese companies, both automotive and motorcycle, rarely come up with their own. And why reinvent the wheel if everything has already been invented before them? It's easier to copy and change a little. And sometimes you can do without this cunning.

In respect of appearance motorcycles can not be copied too much, it’s good to cast a new one plastic body kit easier than a car body. But the engines and frames are worth it. The vast majority of engines installed on Chinese motorcycles sold in Russia (and in other countries) are copies of the motor Honda Super Cub 1958 release (!) and its later modifications. Modern Chinese engines, based on the Honda "donor", have a volume of 50-120 cm 3 .

Engines with a volume of 140-180 "cubes" are the same Cub, but with part of the "stuffing" from engines of the SV family. Such units are found mainly on BSE, Kayo, Pitster-Pro, Mikilon pit bikes and equipment under Russian brands.

The motors of the SV series themselves are produced as single-cylinder (125-232 cm 3) and two-cylinder (125, 250-350 cm 3). However, they are quite expensive for budget equipment, so they received less distribution in our country. The most interesting models with such an engine are Johnny Pag (Jonway) and Regal Raptor choppers.

Another popular donor for Chinese motors is again the 1976 Honda CG125. The cubature of these engines is adjusted to 232 (250) cm 3 by boring the cylinder. We have them on Stels (QJiang), Lifan, Irbis, Patron vehicles.

One of the most modern clones is the Chinese version of the Honda CBF125 / 150 engine, but it is already much more expensive. In Russia, motorcycles with such a motor are presented under the Patron (Yingang) brand.

There are also copies Suzuki motors GS / GN with a volume of 125-150-200-250 "cubes". But they are even more expensive than Honda's CB/CGs. They are used mainly by Baltmotors.

If we talk about the interchangeability of parts Japanese engines with their Chinese "analogues", then there is nothing to be sure of. Some parts can really be made Japanese (cylinder heads, shafts, carburetors), and something is deliberately done a little differently so that “original” spare parts (inlet-outlet, for example) do not fit.

In addition, even "original" spare parts often come from the manufacturer are not the same: either the gap is not the same, or the holes for the fasteners are slightly in the wrong place.

What, what are these "Chinese" made of?

Today Chinese motors, copied from Japanese and released in millions of pieces, reached good level quality and are the least questionable part of a motorcycle from the Middle Kingdom. But here's everything else...

The main problem is the metal used in the frame, handlebars, shock absorbers, mounts, etc. It is very Low quality and does not withstand any serious loads. Anything can break, and in the process of quite a targeted use: steering columns, frames burst, wheel disks, footboards and coasters fall off ...

With such a quality of the metal, it is not necessary to talk about the rigidity of the chassis and, accordingly, the stability and predictability of the motorcycle in motion. It may turn in the wrong direction or not in the way the driver expects. He is “baptized” in the most harmless slopes: the front part goes to the right, the back part goes to the left, and vice versa. The brakes become red hot after a series of turns or a long descent. After bouncing on bumps or jumps, you can land on cracked footboards ...

Another common problem is the quality of the assembly itself, which is not subject to any standards: 50 to 50, that you will be lucky and you will buy equipment that will last a decent time. And the same 50 to 50, which is not lucky. So after buying any Chinese motorcycle, you just need to check and stretch all the fasteners. And it would be better to sort out the whole device - suddenly somewhere they forgot to put a gasket or anther-boot or put it wrong ...

How to live with it?

It is clear that when you really want a motorcycle, but there is no money for a quality one yet, then many are ready to “score” on any warnings, difficulties and their own safety. However, we must warn.

Riding on Chinese pit bike, enduro and sportbike class equipment becomes especially unsafe. These are light, small machines with "evil" motors, designed to be installed in a solid, geometrically verified chassis, and not in what often plays the role of such in motorcycles made in China or assembled in Russia from Chinese kits. These motorcycles can accelerate to 100 km/h or more without providing the necessary rigidity, strength, reliability and ride characteristics for the rider to control and manage the process.

Perhaps, only really experienced motorcyclists who know how to cope with a naughty kicking “horse” who in every possible way opposes their “rider” can afford to ride Chinese motorcycles.

In fact, cheap “Chinese” are bought as the first motorcycles, often for teenagers who have just received “rights” (or have not even received) and somehow learned to ride. But it's one thing to ride in the summer in the country, where the speed is lower and there is no traffic, and another thing is to go to the city or to the highway, where the equipment requires a clear and reliable operation of all systems.

What is the result?

Ideally, it is better not to buy cheap Chinese motorcycles. However, if for some reason you cannot avoid buying, here are some tips:

Choose only among brands that have been on the Russian market for more than 5 years, for example, Alpha, Keeway, Zongshen, Stels, Lifan, M1NSK, Patron. This way you will most likely be able to avoid problems with the lack of spare parts.

Choose classic models or "choppers" as the most durable.

Do not buy Chinese sportbikes! Enduro and pit bikes are also not worth it.

Do not buy Chinese motorcycles for teenagers. Better let them be content with fifty-fifty scooters!

Focus on the price of 80-100 thousand rubles. Of course, it is no longer as attractive as 30-40 thousand, but think for yourself, what is the cost of such a motorcycle and, accordingly, the quality of materials and work, if the final price in Russia also includes delivery, duty, manufacturer's and seller's profits and other expenses ?

Be prepared for the fact that everything will have to be finalized with a “hammer and file” and that the resource of the equipment will still remain a mystery to you.

Do not buy a “Chinese” with the “last” money: at least a helmet is still required for a motorcycle (again, it’s better not Chinese), plus insurance and maintenance. In addition, there is a high probability that soon you will have to spend money on spare parts and repairs. A motorcycle, whatever it is, is a rather costly pleasure.

Enduro motorcycles are a long-known classification of equipment that has received good cross-country ability and is often used for off-road transportation. Motorcycles of this class are often called motocross, the main requirements for them are high quality parts and unpretentious maintenance. Modern enduros are equipped with all the necessary features and have a reliable, durable design that provides proper movement on forest and mountain roads, an ideal option for the Russian user.

But not everyone can afford to buy a real enduro, motorcycles are usually made in Japan and have a price tag of more than 4 thousand dollars. Therefore, a great alternative would be to buy Chinese counterparts represented by dozens of models different characteristics. But among Chinese technology, 250 cubic meters is considered the most acceptable engine size for enduro. For the Russian market, two types of such motorcycles are offered;

Without a PTS - the owner will not register the motorcycle and will not receive a license plate;
With PTS - traffic on city roads is allowed, the motorcycle has improved comfort and soft suspension.

Chinese enduros are notable for their low cost, rich assortment, good build quality and parts. At a minimum cost, it is possible to buy a Stealth enduro motorcycle or another brand at a price of $ 1,100. The engine capacity of 250 cubic meters allows you to overcome the most difficult obstacles, the power is enough for mountain trails or other irregularities. Already today there are some of the most popular models Chinese enduro, which are successfully sold on the Russian market. Let's consider some of them.

Model Irbis TTR 250

One of the most popular models of the Irbis brand, the TTR 250 motorcycle is presented as an off-road enduro equipped with powerful engine And excellent suspension. The main task facing the engineers was to ensure maximum cross-country ability on fords, forests, and even for high-altitude jumps. It was on this that the main emphasis was made, therefore one should not place high hopes on top speed, the indicated figure was 120 km / h. When driving on the road, such a model shows itself in the best way, the control is good, the grip on the asphalt is at the proper level, and for long trips the fuel consumption will be only 3 liters per hundred.

The grip on the motorcycle is as good as possible, everything good motorcycles enduro 250cc cm have motocross tires with minimal wear during extreme driving. For better comfort The suspension of the Irbis TTR 250 consists of a front telescopic fork and a rear monoshock, an excellent combination at an affordable price. Such a Chinese is completely ready to move around the city, there are all the main components, such as turn signals, rear-view mirrors, headlights. Among the minuses of the TTR 250 model, the absence of a speedometer and too weak plastic should be noted.

The price of such an enduro is very attractive and starts at 80 thousand rubles.

Model Baltmotors Enduro 250 DD

Another Chinese for off-road, a model from a well-known brand in Russia, which is distinguished by the high quality of its models and excellent performance. Enduro motorcycle from Baltmotors is the best solution for many fans of comfortable extreme movement, at 7,500 rpm it is capable of delivering 21 horsepower. The specified characteristics also indicate a maximum acceleration of 110 km / h, a model has been produced since 2011. In Russia, thousands of such models have already been officially sold, the reviews are mostly positive.

Despite the fact that the motorcycle is considered Chinese and spare parts for it are supplied from the Middle Kingdom, due to the assembly in our country, Russia is considered the manufacturer. The suspension is used as in all Chinese models, front fork, rear monoshock. The frame is solid steel. dimensions also not very different from competitors, the length of 2,200 mm and the width of 830 mm turned out to be convenient.

Profitability is due not only to the availability of inexpensive spare parts and the total cost of the enduro, but also to fuel consumption - an average of 3 l / 100 km.

Usually the concept of the best Chinese enduro motorcycles is quite standard, just take a couple of basic models with the same characteristics, and you will get a good motocross bike for performing simple tricks, riding on countryside, relaxing in the forest or just "rides" with friends. There are not too many differences between these two models, they practically do not differ in suspension, have the same engine performance and acceleration dynamics. The only thing that can distinguish these two enduros is the build quality and the reliability of the parts. But often, with such a difficult use of a motorcycle, not everyone can save the Chinese enduro from minor breakdowns.

Overview of enduro motorcycles.And let the asphalt wait

Light enduros, and other motorcycles, in Russia are bought mainly used, but, as with road motorcycles, the share of new devices is gradually increasing. Let's talk about the newest and most interesting models offroad motorcycles officially sold in our country.

text: Natalia Umnova / photo: manufacturers / 04/20/2018

The Chinese company BSE sells mainly pit bikes (small cross-country motorcycles with a small engine and a horizontal CPG; read the review of pit bikes in one of the next issues of “5 Wheels”). But she also has models that can be attributed to enduro.

J1‑250E and J2‑250E are the same externally and internally: equipped with a carbureted 4‑stroke air-cooled engine with a capacity of 17 hp. With. and differ only in the dimensions of the wheels. J5‑250E is a more serious model. It has a water-cooled motor with a capacity of 27 liters. With.

This Japanese concern believes that one enduro model, the CRF250X, is enough for Russia. No cult XR or at least other cubic capacity for you ... Well, at least something.

CRF250X is a "civilian" version of the motocross CRF250R: a little softer, calmer, "understanding" - but only a little. With electric starter and lights. 4-stroke and cubic capacity seem to hint that the CRF250X can be taken as the first enduro motorcycle and ridden up to a serious level: the machine has enough power and power for any task.

HUSQVARNA

The new TE250i and 300i enduros are equipped with a two-stroke engine with - attention! - fuel injection. The conservative world of off-road motorcycles has given up under the onslaught of environmentalists. But only benefited from it. Because now, while retaining their 2-stroke nature, these enduros are closer to 4-stroke in terms of ease of use and ride: fuel consumption and quantity harmful emissions became lower, and the thrust is smoother.

The Swedish manufacturer's full range of enduro motorcycles on our market includes eight 2-stroke and 4-stroke models with engine sizes ranging from 125 to 700 cc.

These "Chinese", like BSE, have become popular with us due to their pit bikes. But recently, full-fledged enduros have appeared in the Kayo line: K1 250, K6 250, T2 250 with two wheel diameter options and T4 250 - all with the “last name” Enduro. These 16 hp 4-stroke carburetor models. with., with the exception of K6, differ from each other only in the dimension of the wheels, the length of the base (the difference is about 5–10 cm), suspension settings, gas tank volume and, accordingly, weight.

K6 250 is distinguished by a more powerful (26 hp) water-cooled engine with an injector, more long base and suspension travel. And also the price - almost twice as high as other models.

This year the Austrians released two interesting news. KTM 250 EXC TPI with two-stroke engine with fuel injection system. KTM engineers got rid of the disadvantages of a 2-stroke and equipped it with the advantages of a 4-stroke: smoother traction in a wide range of speeds, instant and at the same time smooth reactions to the turn of the throttle, reduced fuel and oil consumption, automatic correction fuel mixture, depending on the surrounding conditions, and good environmental performance.

KTM 250/300 EXC TPI.

The new 4-stroke KTM Freeride 250 F is the successor and replacement of the iconic 2-stroke 250 and 4-stroke 350 that founded new class motorcycles dual purpose- Freeride, combining versatility and riding pleasure.

The KTM Freeride 250 F, depending on the desires and capabilities of the one who sits on it, can perform the function of a classic enduro, a “tourist” enduro (trail) or both of them, as well as be the first motorcycle for a beginner or a training apparatus for a professional.

KTM Freeride 250F.

The novelty received a lightweight 4‑stroke engine with a volume of 250 “cubes” and a redesigned and lightweight chassis, which made it possible to achieve optimal balance weight (99 kg), power, dynamics and maneuverability.

In total, in the line of enduro motorcycles of the Austrian brand, available in Russia, there are 14 models with engines from 250 to 690 cm3.

KAWASAKI

In Russia, this company offers one model of an "adult" enduro - KLX450R. The device is equipped with a single-cylinder 4-stroke carburetor engine with a volume of 450 cm 3. There is also kids motorcycle KLX110 with a capacity of 7.3 liters. With. and smaller.

Kawasaki KLX110.

Kawasaki KLX450R.

The Spanish-French company quickly gained a good reputation among enduro and motocross enthusiasts for their light, reliable and easy-to-handle motorcycles.

Sherco 450 SEF-R.

This year, the 250/300/450 SEF-R 4-stroke models have been seriously updated: improved ergonomics and comfort, traction on low revs, access to the radiator, ignition settings; the shape of the fairings has been changed, the weight has been slightly reduced.

Sherco 125 SE-R.

In the line of 2-stroke appeared new model- 125 SE-R equipped with an electric starter. The 250 SE-R and 300 SE-R received pretty much the same upgrades as their 4-stroke counterparts.

The WR450F is now equipped with a reverse tilt cylinder head motor with a forward-facing air intake and curved exhaust system drawn back. This design improves intake and exhaust efficiency, which in turn optimizes the high linear torque of the engine and gives large stock power.

New double-sided aluminum frame, optimized suspension settings, reshaped fairings for easier access to the air filter, new engine management program and the ability to set many settings yourself using a smartphone app, electric start without a switch - these are just the most noticeable changes in the model. 2018.

If Harley-Davidson is already thinking about an electric motorcycle, then bypass the Zero brand, which has been on the market for a long time, producing light road and off-road vehicles. road bikes, no way.

Zero FX is equipped with an electric motor that delivers 106 Nm of torque from the very start - a serious help on off-road. The absence of exhaust and noiselessness make it possible to use this electric motorcycle for competitions and training indoors, as well as in protected natural areas, and simply ride around the holiday village without fear of angering the neighbors.

There are two variants of Zero FX. One is equipped with a modular battery design, consisting of two independent quick-detachable batteries: the motorcycle can be powered by either one of them or both at the same time. Electric motor power - 27 liters. s., motorcycle weight - 112 kg, cruising range 30-75 km.

The second version has a one-piece battery design integrated into the frame, while performance figures are almost double compared to the modular version: 46 hp. s., cruising range 63–146 km. Weight - 135 kg.

Every year there are more and more buyers of motorcycles from China. None of the newly minted owners of two-wheeled vehicles from China will undertake to claim that the whole thing is in high quality. Incredibly low prices compared to Honda, Ducati, Harley-Davidson and even budget Hyosung prices are the only advantage of Chinese bikes.

Potential buyers of a "made in China" motorcycle, at best, have experience operating "scoops", and at worst, they are only going to get driver's license with an open category "A". It is from them that you can often hear questions about “which Chinese motorcycle is better to buy?”.

Optimal

The optimal bike can be the type of which corresponds to the preferences of the owner, the engine size corresponds to the level of training and operating conditions, and the quality does not endanger the health and life of the rider.

If everything is more or less clear with the first points, then High Quality“Chinese bike” cannot be guaranteed by anyone.

A feature of the motorcycle market from China is that there are almost no direct representatives of the manufacturer in Russia. With a few exceptions, domestic companies try to sell Chinese bikes under their own brands, so the name of the real manufacturer can sometimes be difficult to find out. The buyer can find motorcycles in different salons different brands but identical in construction and design.

Some models (or even copies) sold in Russia can travel tens of thousands of kilometers without problems, while others begin to crumble already on the threshold of a motorcycle dealership.

Perhaps most reliably, the satisfactory quality of a Chinese motorcycle is indirectly indicated by an adequate (not "bargain") price and a well-known name of the manufacturer. It is the big companies (often official partners giants of the world moto / car industry) value their name more than others and try to sell digestible, and sometimes even quite worthy bikes.

TOP motorcycle manufacturers from China

Jialing

Jialing is a representative of the "old school". In 1875, the company was founded, in 1975 it began to produce motorcycles, and in 2012, by the end of the year, it assembled and sold almost one million bikes. Today, Jialing motorcycles can be purchased in over 90 countries. The manufacturer has been working with Honda since 1981. The companies jointly finance the construction of new production facilities.

loncin

Loncin is another giant of the “celestial motorcycle industry”. Founded in 1993, the company is known for its status as "original equipment manufacturer for BMW". The annual output of Loncin motorcycles exceeds one and a half million pieces, and overseas markets form a little less than half of the manufacturer's sales.

Lifan

TOP 3

Today it is in the TOP-3 of Chinese motorcycle manufacturers (1.4 million bikes in 2012) and in the TOP-500 of the best companies in China.

Lifan is perhaps the most famous Chinese motorcycle manufacturer in Russia. A small firm founded in 1992 (head + nine employees), by 2001 became the first of Chinese manufacturers exporting bikes to Japan. Later, the company mastered the production of buses and cars.

Unlike compatriot manufacturers, Lifan almost always sells motorcycles abroad under its own name. This fact is an advantage and proof of the manufacturer's confidence in the quality of its products.

Zongshen

Starting in 1992 with the repair of motorcycles, in twenty years the company has managed to become one of the most major manufacturers motorcycles in Asia with an annual output of more than one million motorcycles. The company sells its bikes in more than 70 countries around the world, and its owner is one of the richest people in the country. Zongshen builds factories in other countries and actively buys the achievements of the leaders of the global motorcycle industry.

Qingqi

Qingqi, a company founded in 1956, was the first in China to produce scooters in partnership with Suzuki, and assembles a third of a million units of motorcycles a year. In China, the name "Qingqi" (as in Europe "Vespa") is associated with scooters. Today Qingqi is a partner of world famous Suzuki, Peugeot, Mercury Marine.

Choice of engines

The most popular bikes from the Middle Kingdom are with power units with a working volume of 50, 110, 150, 200 and 250 cc. Higher prices make bikes with 400 cc engines less popular. A few devices with engines larger than half a liter in Russia can be considered a curiosity.

The “50cc” class of the “made in China” market is represented by mopeds and scooters, 110 cubic centimeters are the lot of mopeds and scooters of a classic design copied from the legendary Honda Cub and other Japanese models from 30-60 years ago. Classes "150" - "250" are widely represented by classic road bikes, choppers, enduros, ATVs, parodies of sportbikes and streetfighters.

In Russia, motorcycles of Chinese manufacturers are presented under the names MINSK (the production program of the Belarusian manufacturer also includes “Soviet” models), Patron, Zongshen, Sagitta, Kinlon, Skyteam, Irbis, Keeway, Lifan, Vento, Stels, Omaks, Wels, etc.

Examples of Chinese motorcycles of different classes from Lifan

Mokik LF50Q-2 (48 cc, 1-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, 4-speed mechanical gearbox).