New Zongshen RX3 (ZS250GY-3) Dual Sport

[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by Weldangrind

You're right, but so far all of this is theory. I'm interested to learn how it applies in the real world.

I agree; I have a similar interest. I am very glad to be acquiring a fuel injected engine for the first time, and I look forward to learning more about how they actually operate.

[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by Weldangrind

You're right, but so far all of this is theory. I'm interested to learn how it applies in the real world.

In 2001, I bought a Hyundai Sonata. It's still running strong as it approaches 200,000 miles on the odometer. I was similarly warned to avoid that automobile.

I have also been warned for 6 years, and 67,000 miles, that my Zongshen ZS200GY-2 is a 'cheap piece of Chinese junk.' Some people still don't believe me regarding my Zong, and they don't believe the three motorcycle magazines which reviewed the Zongshen RX3.

[SpudRider]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us, Tony. It's important to get the right motorcycle for the right application. The Zongshen RX3 is ideally suited for the riding you prefer.

I own a Honda, CRF250X dirt bike for technical riding. I was considering adding a street bike to my stable of motorcycles, but I didn't want to be limited to riding on pavement. An adventure bike is more versatile than a street bike, but I wouldn't consider buying an 800-pound behemoth. However, the Zongshen RX3 ideally suits my plans for less technical, adventure riding.

[G19Tony]

Originally Posted by SpudRider

Thanks for sharing your experience with us, Tony. It's important to get the right motorcycle for the right application. The Zongshen RX3 is ideally suited for the riding you prefer.

I own a Honda, CRF250X dirt bike for technical riding. I was considering adding a street bike to my stable of motorcycles, but I didn't want to be limited to riding on pavement. An adventure bike is more versatile than a street bike, but I wouldn't consider buying an 800-pound behemoth. However, the Zongshen RX3 ideally suits my plans for less technical, adventure riding.

I have a BMW F800GT as my street bike, a Honda Grom and a restored 72 Honda CT70 for fun. Although, the Grom is a great around town bike too.

The Hodaka Dirt Squirt is a nostalgia bike. It's what I learned to ride a motorcycle on in 74.

[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by G19Tony

I have a BMW F800GT as my street bike, a Honda Grom and a restored 72 Honda CT70 for fun. Although, the Grom is a great around town bike too.

The Hodaka Dirt Squirt is a nostalgia bike. It's what I learned to ride a motorcycle on in 74.

That's a nice collection of bikes. We are glad you joined our community of Chinese motorcycle enthusiasts.

[SpudRider]

Motorcycle.com posted a nice, honest review of the Zongshen RX3. You can read the review at the following link.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...-3-review.html

[SpudRider]

Here is a selection of nice photographs taken from the Motorcycle.com review of the RX3.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...ne-detail-4344

[SpudRider]

Here is the undoubtedly fair scorecard posted in the Motorcycle.com review of the 2015 Zongshen RX3.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...-3-review.html

[Wolftrax]

Originally Posted by SpudRider

Here is the undoubtedly fair scorecard posted in the Motorcycle.com review of the 2015 Zongshen RX3.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...-3-review.html

Our humble little China bike is getting a lot of praise in the press. It out scored the 2014 Yamaha XT1200Z in the same publication. Being one of the first on the "Don't miss the boat" pricing, I may be getting the deal of the century!!!!

[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by Wolftrax

Our humble little China bike is getting a lot of praise in the press. It out scored the 2014 Yamaha XT1200Z in the same publication. Being one of the first on the "Don't miss the boat" pricing, I may be getting the deal of the century!!!!

Egads! I just checked out the scorecard on the 2014 Yamaha XT1200Z.



For comparison, here is the Zongshen RX3 scorecard.



I think it's only fair to say that Zongshen has elevated the Chinese motorcycle industry to a higher level. If Zongshen fixes the inaccuracies in the Siemens digital display, the new Zong will improve further. Add a 17-inch rear wheel, knobby tires, better brake pads, et cetera, and the RX3 gets even better.

I am particularly impressed with the high ratings for the Zong's engine, ergonomics/comfort, and especially the suspension/handling. It's indisputable, the 9.0/10 rating for overall value is justly deserved.

[Weldangrind]

Originally Posted by Wolftrax

Our humble little China bike is getting a lot of praise in the press. It out scored the 2014 Yamaha XT1200Z in the same publication. Being one of the first on the "Don't miss the boat" pricing, I may be getting the deal of the century!!!!

Indeed! This is a big day for China bikes.

[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by Weldangrind

Indeed! This is a big day for China bikes.

The first paragraph of the review basically compares Zongshen to Honda and Hyundai; that is high praise, indeed.

[Wolftrax]

Originally Posted by SpudRider

The first paragraph of the review basically compares Zongshen to Honda and Hyundai; that is high praise, indeed.

In 2000 I bought a Kia Sportage(Hyundai). I still have it and it runs great. I've lifted it 6" and running 32" tires on it. It's been abused,beaten and just like a proverbial Timex, "it takes a lickin and it keeps on tickin". Everyone teased me about buying a piece of Korean crap.

[SpudRider]

There is a nice 'inside story' regarding the Motorcycle.com test ride posted at the CSC blog.

http://californiascooterco.com/blog/

[SpudRider]

As I've said before, I really didn't need another motorcycle in my stable. However, I am well familiar with Zongshen quality and affordability, so I just couldn't pass up the 'early adopter' price.