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China is dominating the motorcycle MARKET and leaving traditional manufacturers in panic

Written by Bruno Teles
Published 13/01/2025 às 12:36
China is dominating the motorcycle MARKET and leaving traditional manufacturers in panic
Motorcycles from China are becoming popular because they offer a lot of technology and advanced equipment at a much lower price than European brands. They appeal to those looking for value for money and who don't mind shorter maintenance intervals.

With brands like Voge and Zontes growing more than 120% in Spain, China is already surpassing giants like KTM and threatening European dominance in the sector.

In recent years, the European motorcycle market has been facing drastic changes. While many expected electrification to be the biggest challenge, the reality is different: China is rewriting the rules of the game. With brands like Voge and Zontes gaining prominence, traditional manufacturers have more and more reason to worry.

But what’s behind this advancement? Are Chinese motorcycles really such a big threat? Let’s explore how these brands are gaining ground and what this means for the future of the industry.

The impact of Chinese brands on the European market

Chinese brands are bringing models that compete directly with the big manufacturers in terms of design and performance. This attracts both beginners and experienced riders who want to save money without sacrificing quality.
Chinese brands are bringing models that compete directly with the big manufacturers in terms of design and performance. This attracts both beginners and experienced riders who want to save money without sacrificing quality.

Chinese brands are no longer just testing the waters of the European market; they are dominating it. In Spain, for example, Voge and Zontes are already in the top 10 in sales, with Voge reporting an impressive 128,46% growth in 2024. They have even surpassed giants like KTM, which is facing an unprecedented crisis.

These brands have been attracting customers with models such as the Voge 900DSX, which combines a high-quality engine produced by Loncin with a highly competitive price. It is hard to ignore the difference: while a BMW F900GS can exceed €15.000 with similar equipment, the Voge arrives on the market for less than €10.000.

Competitive Strategy: Price and Equipment

The secret to this success is not complicated: offering more for less. Chinese motorcycles come equipped with features that rival those of Europeans, but at a much more affordable price. This strategy targets the average consumer, who is increasingly attentive to cost-benefit.

Even in the mid-range segment, brands like Benelli and Moto Morini are filling a significant gap left by traditional manufacturers. Models like the Benelli TRK 702 offer an affordable alternative to mid-range options like the Yamaha Tracer 7.

The reaction of traditional manufacturers

KTM, one of Europe's biggest manufacturers, is in trouble. Its market share is shrinking as Chinese brands take over. BMW, on the other hand, is trying to hold on but is struggling to justify such high prices compared to its Chinese competitors.

Despite the discussions on electrification, the industry has not yet found practical solutions to replace high-powered motorcycles. So far, electric scooters are the only ones that have gained significant ground, but they do not pose a real threat to traditional motorcycles.

Manufacturers such as Honda and Kawasaki have been exploring electric concepts, but sales are still marginal. For many consumers, the passion for the roar of combustion engines still outweighs the promises of electrification.

What the future holds for the motorcycle market

European consumers are changing, but the passion for motorcycles remains alive. Even with shorter maintenance intervals and possible delays in spare parts, many people opt for Chinese models due to their affordable price and satisfactory quality.

With steady growth, Chinese brands are far from being a passing fad. They continue to expand their operations, offering products that meet the needs of a diverse audience. At the current pace, It's only a matter of time until they dominate the market even more..

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Marcelo Munhoz
Marcelo Munhoz
16/01/2025 08:14

I would buy a Chinese motorcycle, but a quality one because of the price!
Traditional brands abuse prices and do not offer more than the Chinese! As for replacement parts, they are on par! Traditional brands take a long time and have horrible after-sales service!

Last edited 1 month ago by Marcelo Munhoz
Bruno Teles

I talk about technology, innovation, oil and gas. I update daily about opportunities in the Brazilian market. With more than 3.000 articles published in CPG. Agenda suggestion? Send it to brunotelesredator@gmail.com

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