The Rise of Chinese Motorcycles

Chinese motorcycle brands are making headlines in 2025. Once dismissed as low-cost options, companies like CFMOTO, QJMOTOR, VOGE, and Lifan are now reporting record export growth and rolling out higher-quality models. With stronger engineering and rising global demand, these brands are stepping out of their home market and earning serious attention worldwide.

🚨 What’s Going On

Chinese motorcycles are no longer just filling their domestic market, they are being exported worldwide in massive numbers. At the same time, electric two-wheelers and premium models are showing big growth outside China.

  • πŸš€ Export Boom: In July 2025, China exported 1.14 million motorcycles worth US$767 million β€” up +13% in units and +26% in value compared to last year.

  • ⚑ Electric Growth: From January to June 2025, Chinese companies exported 12.2 million electric two-wheelers valued at US$3.35 billion, a +28% increase in volume year-on-year.

  • 🌍 CFMOTO Leads the Way: CFMOTO’s overseas sales are booming β€” Europe +54%, Latin America +97%, North America +46%.

  • πŸ›£ VOGE and QJMOTOR: Expanding into Europe and Asia with stylish mid-displacement bikes and sport models.

Why It Matters

The rise of Chinese motorcycles is important because it changes the balance of the global market. With better parts, better finishes, and competitive pricing, these brands are no longer seen as second choice.

  • πŸ”§ Better Quality: Chinese bikes now feature Brembo brakes, KYB suspension, TFT dashboards, and even inline-four engines (like CFMOTO’s new 750SR-S).

  • πŸ’° More Value: Prices remain below Japanese and European rivals, but with similar technology.

  • 🏁 Global Expansion: Chinese brands are present in over 100 countries, with exports rising faster than the global average.

The Bigger Picture

The growth is not just about motorcycles, it reflects a global shift in industry. The worldwide motorcycle market is expanding, and Chinese brands are positioning themselves to take a much bigger slice of it.

  • The global motorcycle market was worth about US$105 billion in 2023 and is forecast to reach US$135 billion by 2028 (CAGR ~4%).

  • China is not just selling small commuters anymore, it’s competing in sport, adventure, and electric segments where the big brands used to dominate alone.

Final Thoughts

The story of Chinese motorcycles is no longer about β€œcheap alternatives.” It’s about real competition, rapid export growth, and the arrival of high-performance models that rival global players. Riders worldwide now have more choice than ever before.

  • With exports growing by double digits, Chinese bikes are making their mark on the world.

  • The success of CFMOTO, QJMOTOR, VOGE, and Lifan proves that Chinese engineering is moving up.

  • The motorcycle industry is entering a new era where Chinese brands stand beside Japan and Europe.