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Commentary: China’s Motorcycle Underdog Rides an Industrial Juggernaut

Published: Apr. 2, 2026  3:23 p.m.  GMT+8
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Zhang Xue is interviewed at the Zhang Xue factory located in Liangjiang New Area, Chongqing on March 30, 2026. Photo: VCG
Zhang Xue is interviewed at the Zhang Xue factory located in Liangjiang New Area, Chongqing on March 30, 2026. Photo: VCG

In a society increasingly defined by excessive competition, the sudden rise of Zhang Xue has provided a much-needed spark. His story, like the motorcycles he builds, has accelerated rapidly across the public consciousness, reigniting long-dormant discussions about passion and the pursuit of dreams.

The catalyst for this viral sensation was the recent performance of his company’s 820RR motorcycle, which secured back-to-back stage victories against international titans like Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha. While this is a historic achievement for Chinese manufacturing, it is Zhang’s singular, underdog journey that truly captivated the public.

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Explore the story in 30 seconds
  • Zhang Xue's 820RR motorcycle won back-to-back stages against Ducati, Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, sparking viral interest in his underdog story from poverty and repair shop.
  • His journey, including riding three hours in rain for TV exposure, inspires amid China's motorcycle restrictions and societal pressures.
  • Success rests on China's maturing industry; CFMoto won Moto3 titles in 2024, Moto2/Moto3 in Hungary 2025; urges support for innovators and manufacturing.
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Who’s Who
Ducati
Zhang Xue's 820RR motorcycle secured back-to-back stage victories against international titans, including Ducati.
Honda
Honda is listed among international titans like Ducati, Kawasaki, and Yamaha, against which Zhang Xue's company's 820RR motorcycle secured back-to-back stage victories.
Kawasaki
Kawasaki is one of the international titans, like Ducati, Honda, and Yamaha, against which Zhang Xue's 820RR motorcycle secured back-to-back stage victories.
Yamaha
Zhang Xue's 820RR motorcycle achieved back-to-back stage victories against international rivals, including Yamaha.
CFMoto
CFMoto, a leading Chinese motorcycle brand, is gaining global traction in mid-to-large displacement markets. In 2022, it debuted in Moto3 as the first Chinese manufacturer, earning a podium. By 2024, it swept Moto3 rider, team, and constructor championships. In late 2025, it secured Moto2 and Moto3 victories in Hungary.
Voge
Voge is a Chinese motorcycle brand competing globally, winning over consumers in mid-to-large displacement markets alongside CFMoto, leveraging advanced performance and engineering.
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