The CIMA Motor show in China concluded this past week, and it gave us a glimpse of the many motorcycles and concepts that the country’s manufacturers are working on. A few days back, we covered the two new V4 engines from Benda – one of which is possibly the most potent Chinese-made engine we’ve seen. Now, CycleWorld has reported on another unique concept that made its debut at the show – the Zongshen Cyclone RA9.
For the uninitiated, Zongshen is the Piaggio Group’s partner in China and is responsible for producing their small-capacity motorcycles, like the Aprilia GPR 250. It’s this connection that forms the roots of the Cyclone RA9 concept, as well. The engine on the bike is derived from the V-twin that powers the Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro, albeit in a slightly different spec. CycleWorld reports that the Shiver and Dorsoduro 900 are powered by an 896cc twin, while the Dorsoduro 1200 employs a larger 1,197cc V-twin. Meanwhile, the engine on the RA9 displaces 987cc, and Zongshen claims a peak power of 112hp at 9,500rpm with maximum torque of 72ft-lb coming in at 7,500 rpm.
The model showcased looks mainly like a concept bike, but you’ll find that the Cyclone RA9 included many production components. With its tubular steel front and cast alloy rear, the frame is identical to the one on the Shiver and Dorsoduro. However, unlike on those motorcycles, this one uses a single-sided swingarm. The RA9 is a much more radical-looking motorcycle than its Italian counterparts, and it’s evident that it’s meant for just a rider – no pillion, no luggage. Zongshen also mentioned the presence of J.Juan radial brakes, Bosch ABS, and fully adjustable suspension. All of this, putting the bike’s weight at 215kg.
Earlier this year, Zongshen launched the Cyclone RX6, which is powered by the Norton 650cc parallel-twin. Their CIMA stand also showcased a new RX850 adventure bike, powered by an enlarged 850cc iteration of the Norton twin.
Source: CycleWorld
Source: MotorbikeWriter.com
