Japanese/Chinese imitation bikes

James · Spanner Monkey Joined: 25 Feb 2002 Karma :

Just wondering if anyone has had any experience with one of these. As far as Im aware they take a tried and tested bike (XLR125) for example and copy it then sell it as cheap as chips.

Theres one on ebay
https://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2487590354

What you reckon?
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Keith · World Chat Champion Joined: 24 Mar 2004 Karma :

I've seen those bikes all over the internet. Loads of the same model, only have a different name tag on them. Quite a lot under the Hongdou and Hyosung name. The engines are supposed to use Honda parts so i suppose spares would never be a problem and being a low power 4 stroke, they should be reliable enough. Build and finish quality might not be the best though, seing as they are cheaply made. E-mail the sellers and ask to view the bike. Probably the easiest way.
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NickD · World Chat Champion Joined: 20 Aug 2004 Karma :

I don't know about this particular bike, but I have read a number of articles about other Chinese copies (the licenced honda's etc) and while the parts are identical to the originals, there appears to be quality control issues.
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mchaggis · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2004 Karma :

I've got a Hongdou, with which I've no problems. If anything, it's built better than the Honda CG125 (certainly no worse), and is generally nicer (subjective). There's no quality trouble I've found yet on mine anyway. The only gripe I have with it is the underpowered engine, the CG gets 11 hp, mine gets a little less than 10. That and always having to explain to people what it is. Rolling Eyes

I'd go for one, but if it's brand new, and only to learn on, I'd get an ancient CG125 for =<£500. Breaking in a weak engine (any low tuned 4T), (even whilst learning how to ride post CBT) isn't huge fun, being at 30ish mph for 200 miles.

Though since I crashed and been away from it being broken, I've not been able to finish breaking it in yet.