Chinese motorcycles industry is one of the biggest in the world. It is astonishing to find Chinese motorcycles industry’s rapid growth rate. It has been estimated that Chinese motorcycle industry witnessed almost 45 percent growth rate per year in the 1990s.Even more amazing is the fact that by the year 2002-03, total number of motorcycles manufactured in china were approximately 14 million and that counts for half the world’s entire motorcycles production.
Chinese motorcycles first arrived in India around 2002. Three top Chinese motorcycle manufacturers launched vehicles on Indian roads. India being a lucrative two wheeler market had fascinated Chinese automobile manufacturers. Improved Indo-Chinese trade relations also opened new avenues for Chinese manufacturers to tap Indian market. Most of these Chinese motorcycles possessed low price tag and focused on the lower end of the market. Though, it was not so successful in terms of sales volume yet Chinese motorcycles made their re-entry into Indian market last year.
The companies who came up with new offerings in motorcycle segment were Zongshen and the fourth largest Chinese motorcycle company, Guangzhou Motors Company. There companies are quite famous and have a huge export market in primarily, developing countries like Africa, Southeast Asia and Middle East.
Unlike the previous time, both of these Chinese manufacturers are focussing on quality as well as their basic plank of low cost. These bikes are relatively cheap compared to its competitors. Both of these manufacturers have tied up with local majors and suppliers for the after sales service and motor parts delivery. The assembly plant has its base in West Bengal. Initially, both companies would be assembling the imported semi knocked down kits at their plants. The companies have planned to turn into complete local manufacturers in the coming years. The first bike which was launched was called “eXpression” by Guangzou Motors Company in collaboration with Xenitis.
Both Zongshen and Guangzhou have also planned to come up multiple variants in both motorcycle and scooter segment. Motorcycles will be available in 100cc, 150cc and gearless scooters. With increased presence and focus on quality, the future for Chinese motorcycles companies looks bright in ever burgeoning Indian automobile market.