QJMotors Heading to US

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Could QJMotor’s SRK400RR be on its way to the US? (QJMotor/)

Over the last couple of years China’s QJMotor, which is a subsidiary of Qianjiang and sister company to Benelli, has been making waves with an astounding rate of development. It is already selling nearly 40 different models in its homeland and has recently struck out into the European market. Now, details of several QJMotor models have been filed with the NHTSA —the authority that oversees vehicle safety and recalls in the US. This suggests they are heading to these shores.

The latest NHTSA document from Qianjiang defines the meaning of the firm’s VINs, explaining the meaning of each number and letter in the sequence, and it lists a wide range of Benelli and QJMotor machines from 135cc singles to 754cc twins. While Benelli already offers a limited range of models here, the VIN document shows a much wider reach, including several of the company’s latest machines.

Benelli’s TRK702X is a close relative to the QJMotor’s twins. (Benelli/)

New additions include the Benelli 302R, a faired, twin-cylinder sportbike based on the 302S roadster, plus the Benelli TRK702 and TRK702X models that were launched at EICMA in November. These use a new 700cc parallel-twin engine making 73 hp, although the slightly larger, 754cc Benelli TRK800 isn’t on the list.

QJMotor’s SRT750 Adventure bike. (QJMotor/)

The QJMotor machines are largely based on the same engines and frames used by Benelli models, but feature their own distinct appearance. Models listed on the US VIN document include the SRT750X, an adventure bike using the same engine as the Benelli TRK800, as well as the SRV550 (a 50 hp parallel-twin cruiser), SRV300 V-twin cruiser, the 76 hp SRK750 roadster and the full-faired SRK400RR sportbike, which uses a 43 hp twin.

The SRV500 cruiser. (QJMotor/)

Other notable models included in document are the brand’s electric models, the QJMotor G2 and EZ scooters, plus the Q2, a hybrid between a mountain bike and an enduro, powered by a 3kW (4 hp) motor and a 60V, 32Ah battery to give a 75-mile range and 30 mph top speed.

Given the rocky relationship between China and the US and the fact that many Western consumers don’t like the idea of buying Chinese bikes, QJMotor might have a tougher time getting a foothold on this side of the Atlantic than in Europe and Asia. But if it can arrive with the right mix of products, the right prices and, vitally, the right level of dealer and parts support, there’s potential to be a player in the years to come.

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