Zhang Xue’s ZXMOTO wins back-to-back WSBK championships, marking a milestone for Chinese racing bikes on the global stage.
Racing Against the Giants
Founded in 1988 by the International Motorcycling Federation, the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) is one of the top motorcycle racing events, alongside MotoGP. Unlike prototype-focused competitions, WSBK bikes are based on production models. This means track performance directly reflects a brand’s engineering strength.
For decades, Ducati, Yamaha, and Kawasaki dominated the circuit. Then came ZXMOTO. Competing in the highly competitive SSP class, the team won back-to-back championships, proving that Chinese racing bikes can rival global giants.
Born in 1987, Zhang Xue grew up repairing motorcycles. He worked as an apprentice, stunt rider, and mechanic before launching his own company. In 2013, he founded KAIYUE Motor in Chongqing. The first model was an instant hit. In 2024, Zhang launched ZXMOTO, focusing on core engine technology and producing bikes entirely in China. Their efforts paid off on the WSBK track.
China’s Motorcycle Industry on the Fast Track
Zhang Xue’s success reflects a larger trend. Chinese brands are now making their mark on the global stage. In October 2025, KAIYUE rider Bernat Fernandez won the SSP300 class at WSBK in Spain, marking the first Chinese brand victory in that category. The following year, CFMoto achieved a historic MotoGP “triple crown.”
Investment in research and development fuels this rise. By November 2025, Chinese motorcycle companies had spent over $6 billion USD on R&D, up 7% from the previous year. Chongqing alone hosts 51 major motorcycle manufacturers and over 410 parts suppliers, creating a complete supply chain that supports innovation and production.
Racing events accelerate technology development. Tracks expose weaknesses, pushing upgrades in materials, power, and engineering. Analysts note that WSBK serves as a “testing ground,” with innovations often reaching consumer products within 1–2 years.
Fan Craze and Global Impact
Zhang Xue’s WSBK victories have sparked a surge of interest among consumers. At the Chongqing showroom, daily inquiries jumped from 10 to 70–80. Test rides now attract over 100 people per day. The 820RR and 500RR models have amassed over 10,000 orders. Limited edition merchandise sells out in days, reflecting growing fan culture around Chinese racing bikes.
Beyond sales, the victories have shifted international perceptions. Competitors now recognise that Chinese motorcycles can compete at the highest level. Zhang Xue said, “Before the races, people looked at us sceptically. After winning, they engage with us on equal footing.”
Chongqing’s robust motorcycle ecosystem has been key. The city produces nearly 786,000 motorcycles annually, with over 610,000 exported worldwide. Zhang credits the local supply chain for allowing his team to focus on research and innovation rather than logistics.
Written by Ronnie Yu, additional reporting by CNS, The Beijing News.
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