NAKED AND BOLD

Zontes takes a modern approach towards a cafe racer with the GK 350

- Janak Sorap

Whenever a new motorcycle brand makes its foray into India, it is my general practice to study the brand before rushing to the motorcycles that are being offered. There is a lot that one can benefit from knowing — where the brand hails from, how old it is, and what other products the company manufactures, apart from motorcycles. Besides our domestic market, we are aware of the European, Japanese, and American markets, due to the machines that have been on sale through the years.

Now, whether you like it or not, the Chinese two-wheeler industry has expanded beyond its domestic market, and is making its place in the international market. Well, before you frown after reading that line, you should know that the Chinese two-wheeler industry is the largest in the world, and is also a major manufacturer and exporter of motorcycle parts and accessories.

Smart-looking instrumentation is packed with features

In fact, you will be surprised by the count of the recognised two-wheeler brands that get components, or, at times, important engines, manufactured in China. So, does the equation change significantly enough? In a sense, Chinese brands have been around for decades, no?