China brand "X"..or "Y"?

[fattybikejones]

Getting ready to drop a deposit on a Dual Sport (motard).. What should I be focusing on as far as quality goes. Is there a big difference between brand "X" and brand "Y"? I am new to this and want to make sure I can get the best bang for the smallest buck. Sorry in advance for the dumb bell question, but I just want make as informed a decision as I possibly can.

I am pretty mechanically savvy, so getting my hands dirty with minor repairs, assembly, PDI and maintenance is not an issue.
I know brand choice can be subjective in most cases, but we are talking China bikes.. Is it really that relevant?

I am looking at a Roketa 200cc dual sport $1200 shipped and a TMEC 200 Enduro (motard) around $1500-$1700 depending on if I have the PDI and assembly done.
What am I getting for the extra $$$ on the TMEC that is lacking on the Roketa?:hmm:

[footer]

you have a link to the roketa? here is another one i was looking at before deciding on the tmec for myself. its from mot buys that advertises on this forum, not sure about their reliability as a dealer, or the bike, its a 250cc.http://www.motobuys.com/db-d250rte-a-sun.html

lancer? haven't heard anyone mention that name.

[WilsonCat]

I also almost bought the same bike.

http://powersportsbest.com/dirt-bikes/250cc-dirt-bikes/db-08-250-lhj-with-on-road-tires-229cc-air-cooling-balance-shaft-engine-5-gear-shifting-manual-clutch-able-to-register-in-most-states-top-speed-70mph-new-model.html

They had it for $1399 but decided on the TMEC because of the great things that I read here and in other forums. What scared me was that I didn't feel parts would be available. At least I know I can call Xcalibur for a part if needed. They would at least be able to get it for me.

[FastDoc]

That price on the Roketa is excellent, reminescent of the good old days... Where did you find it?

Way back when when I got into CB's they were about $900 shipped.

[fattybikejones]

The Roketa was tempting but when the sales jockey at Superior MS couldn't tell me much anything about it cept "that vehicle is manuel" yep, it was spelled that way in the chat text.
At that point I called Wade Liu @ Excalibur Motorsports a distributor in SoCal for China Motorsports products. More on that somewhere in this forum. so Stoked:D

[fattybikejones]

That price on the Roketa is excellent, reminescent of the good old days... Where did you find it?

Way back when when I got into CB's they were about $900 shipped.Superior motorsports.. and they lost the sale due to lack of knowledge

you have a link to the roketa? here is another one i was looking at before deciding on the tmec for myself. its from mot buys that advertises on this forum, not sure about their reliability as a dealer, or the bike, its a 250cc.http://www.motobuys.com/db-d250rte-a-sun.html

lancer? haven't heard anyone mention that name. I think I have seen a lancer sticker on something in the more recent past.



I also almost bought the same bike.

http://powersportsbest.com/dirt-bikes/250cc-dirt-bikes/db-08-250-lhj-with-on-road-tires-229cc-air-cooling-balance-shaft-engine-5-gear-shifting-manual-clutch-able-to-register-in-most-states-top-speed-70mph-new-model.html

They had it for $1399 but decided on the TMEC because of the great things that I read here and in other forums. What scared me was that I didn't feel parts would be available. At least I know I can call Xcalibur for a part if needed. They would at least be able to get it for me.
My way of thinking exactly! Doing business with Xcalibur was pleasant experience. Wade knows his product inside out as well as the broad view of Chinese motos. Interesting and entertaining chap:tup:

[SpudRider]

Did you order a TMEC 200?

[fattybikejones]

Did you order a TMEC 200?

I did indeed. So exciting! My first moto at age 51!!:clap:
As I had made mention. I've ridden dirt bikes and ATCs as a kid and owned scooters in tbe recent past, but
This is my first ever owned motorcycle. I am happy that my first purchase was made with knowledge
I gleaned from these boards. Guys that know these bikes and love them. I am a frugal guy. I have to be to
slog it out in this world. I am a frequent rooter for the underdog and like when I get more than I expect.
We will see when I finally get this bike. Excalibur Motorsports gets high recommendations from this guy!
Happy to be on these boards!

[katoranger]

I think you made an excellent decision to order from Excalibur.

The ads on the site are supplied from google and not necessarily endorsed by Chinariders.

[SpudRider]

I did indeed. So exciting! My first moto at age 51!!:clap:
As I had made mention. I've ridden dirt bikes and ATCs as a kid and owned scooters in tbe recent past, but
This is my first ever owned motorcycle. I am happy that my first purchase was made with knowledge
I gleaned from these boards. Guys that know these bikes and love them. I am a frugal guy. I have to be to
slog it out in this world. I am a frequent rooter for the underdog and like when I get more than I expect.
We will see when I finally get this bike. Excalibur Motorsports gets high recommendations from this guy!
Happy to be on these boards!

Congratulations. :tup: Did you order the bike assembled, or will you assemble it yourself? If you plan to assemble the motorcycle, please consider starting a new thread which documents the arrival of the shipping crate, and the assembly of the bike, with photographs. We love those threads, and you will earn extra points at China Riders by posting such a thread. ;)

[footer]

mine was shipped today! :clap: going to be rough the next few days waiting! excalibur is the shit! got my money, and shipped within like 2 hours! if fatty ordered directly from excalibur (which i think he did), it will come assembled. they only ship assembled so they don't have customer problems with putting it together. from what i gather, still need to change oil and double check bolts - though wilsoncat says he hasn't had any come loose…

did you get the black fatty?

[fattybikejones]

Congratulations. :tup: Did you order the bike assembled, or will you assemble it yourself? If you plan to assemble the motorcycle, please consider starting a new thread which documents the arrival of the shipping crate, and the assembly of the bike, with photographs. We love those threads, and you will earn extra points at China Riders by posting such a thread. ;)

Thanks! I ordered it intending to set it up and PDI it myself, but Wade mentioned how he prefers that they do all the assembly and PDI so they know its running when it leaves the warehouse. I don't mind them making something off the sale. These guys are very good to deal with. I'm going to get some pictures of the assembly and finished bike when it gets that far. Very excited about now.

[fattybikejones]

I think you made an excellent decision to order from Excalibur.

The ads on the site are supplied from google and not necessarily endorsed by Chinariders. I get that same confident feeling about this purchase!

mine was shipped today! :clap: going to be rough the next few days waiting! excalibur is the shit! got my money, and shipped within like 2 hours! if fatty ordered directly from excalibur (which i think he did), it will come assembled. they only ship assembled so they don't have customer problems with putting it together. from what i gather, still need to change oil and double check bolts - though wilsoncat says he hasn't had any come loose…

did you get the black fatty?
Wow.. This is like 4 members that own this bike now! culcune started something here. And yes.. The black super motard! So stoked! Make sure you post pics!!!

[culcune]

Wow.. This is like 4 members that own this bike now! culcune started something here. And yes.. The black super motard! So stoked! Make sure you post pics!!!

I know that there was a guy who bought a Denali, but he only posted a few times, and that was it. As far as starting something, there were a few guys who inspired me who had bought the '09 model (it was sold up to about '11 or early '12), including one guy who moved from Indiana to Northern California and rode his TMEC through the Redwood Forest and posted a video about a year ago on youtube (he was an active member here a few years ago, Vacationtime247) but stopped posting, and I happened to see his video from last summer and he did say he still liked his bike when I asked him on youtube).

Anyway, what helped me was sitting down with Alan and Wade at Excalibur's headquarters a couple Christmas seasons ago when driving back from L.A. to my home in AZ. Ever since, they always had parts for me. They were interested in my ownership experience since I was the first customer they knew who used the bike daily. I guess I became their 'experiment.' If you aren't putting over 150 miles a week, 12 months a year, I can almost guarantee your ownership experience (like 'Vacationtime247' mentioned above) will probably need less parts than I have needed.

[pete]

I did indeed. So exciting! My first moto at age 51!!:clap:


Yer going to hate yerself..... All those waisted year...

Good on yer mate...

This is a cool litle vid for the riders in there prime..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRQyEBY5YjQ

[Weldangrind]

I did indeed. So exciting! My first moto at age 51!!:clap:
As I had made mention. I've ridden dirt bikes and ATCs as a kid and owned scooters in tbe recent past, but
This is my first ever owned motorcycle. I am happy that my first purchase was made with knowledge
I gleaned from these boards. Guys that know these bikes and love them. I am a frugal guy. I have to be to
slog it out in this world. I am a frequent rooter for the underdog and like when I get more than I expect.
We will see when I finally get this bike. Excalibur Motorsports gets high recommendations from this guy!
Happy to be on these boards!

Awesome! I'm looking forward to following your adventures. Please take many pics.

[recracer]

:tup:I did indeed. So exciting! My first moto at age 51!!:clap:
As I had made mention. I've ridden dirt bikes and ATCs as a kid and owned scooters in tbe recent past, but
This is my first ever owned motorcycle. I am happy that my first purchase was made with knowledge
I gleaned from these boards. Guys that know these bikes and love them. I am a frugal guy. I have to be to
slog it out in this world. I am a frequent rooter for the underdog and like when I get more than I expect.
We will see when I finally get this bike. Excalibur Motorsports gets high recommendations from this guy!
Happy to be on these boards!:tup: I picked up my first adult motorcycle after finding Chinariders . At the age of 50 . welcome to the club

[fattybikejones]

I know that there was a guy who bought a Denali, but he only posted a few times, and that was it. As far as starting something, there were a few guys who inspired me who had bought the '09 model (it was sold up to about '11 or early '12), including one guy who moved from Indiana to Northern California and rode his TMEC through the Redwood Forest and posted a video about a year ago on youtube (he was an active member here a few years ago, Vacationtime247) but stopped posting, and I happened to see his video from last summer and he did say he still liked his bike when I asked him on youtube).

Anyway, what helped me was sitting down with Alan and Wade at Excalibur's headquarters a couple Christmas seasons ago when driving back from L.A. to my home in AZ. Ever since, they always had parts for me. They were interested in my ownership experience since I was the first customer they knew who used the bike daily. I guess I became their 'experiment.' If you aren't putting over 150 miles a week, 12 months a year, I can almost guarantee your ownership experience (like 'Vacationtime247' mentioned above) will probably need less parts than I have needed.
Yessir! It was as simple as a query for TMEC dealer in my area from on their web page. Wade emailed me back on Sunday evening nonetheless, saying there weren't any dealers in my area that stocked that bike, rather he could sell one to me.
Pretty smooth experience. Wade is a pretty stand up guy. I did mention to him that I got the tip about TMEC from this community: culcune to be exact. Paying the extra to have it built/PDI... something I was looking forward to doing myself.
I don't mind letting Excalibur make a little something on the sale. $1800 shipped. A bit more, but that's fine. Peace of mind.

[fattybikejones]

Awesome! I'm looking forward to following your adventures. Please take many pics.
Oh yeah the pics! I have adventures planned already!

[fattybikejones]

:tup::tup: I picked up my first adult motorcycle after finding Chinariders . At the age of 50 . welcome to the club

Haha.. Yep. I had been looking at getting a China bike since having owned a few China mopeds and scooters. I think its great that these boards exist. I have so many questions regarding gearing, ignition mods, carb and intake mods and just general how to stuff.
I love that we have this sort of family of China bikers here to share a passion and tips etc.
I want my bike NOW! LOL

[SpudRider]

Here's your first tip. ;)

After you change the initial, break-in oil, change the engine oil every time the odometer reaches an increment of 1,000, whether it is kilometers, or miles. For example, do the first oil change at 400 kms, to get rid rid of the residue from engine break-in. Then change the engine oil when the odometer reaches 1,000 kms, 2,000 kms, et cetera, for the life of the motorcycle.

Choose any decent motor oil, but change it regularly. If you change the oil every time the odometer reaches another increment of 1,000 kms, you will never forget to change the oil. ;) Personally, I like Mobil, Delvac, 15W/40 motor oil. :)

Also, after the bike arrives, check the valve lash, and adjust it, if necessary. If you maintain the proper valve lash, and change the engine oil regularly, your bike will provide you with many miles of reliable service. :) My Zongshen 200GY-2 just turned 64,000 miles on the odometer. :tup:

[fattybikejones]

Here's your first tip. ;)

After you change the initial, break-in oil, change the engine oil every time the odometer reaches an increment of 1,000, whether it is kilometers, or miles. For example, do the first oil change at 400 kms, to get rid rid of the residue from engine break-in. Then change the engine oil when the odometer reaches 1,000 kms, 2,000 kms, et cetera, for the life of the motorcycle.

Choose any decent motor oil, but change it regularly. If you change the oil every time the odometer reaches another increment of 1,000 kms, you will never forget to change the oil. ;) Personally, I like Mobil, Delvac, 15W/40 motor oil. :)

Also, after the bike arrives, check the valve lash, and adjust it, if necessary. If you maintain the proper valve lash, and change the engine oil regularly, your bike will provide you with many miles of reliable service. :) My Zongshen 200GY-2 just turned 64,000 miles on the odometer. :tup:

Thanks for that. I have heard people say use full syn and folks say no to anything but fossil derivative stuff. What say you about Rotella diesel
stuff. Do these bikes come restricted CDI?

[fattybikejones]

Wade was telling me that the TMEC uses the Zong engine?

[WilsonCat]

Yes, it's a Zong 163FML I believe. As for the oil, I say change it immediately. I think the oil that is shipped with the bike is the one from the factory. I didn't like the looks of it so I changed it straight away. Can't hurt. Used 10w40 wet clutch motorcycle oil from the auto store.

[footer]

wade emailed me pics of mine, sent yesterday. said they changed the oil, but didn't say what quality they used. did say to change it again after 20 hours. but also said the technician forgot to change oil before they banded it to pallet, and that they over filled it so i should drain some before riding. but if it looks like crappy oil ill prob just change it anyway. i only live 4 blocks from work. hoping i can drive it home to drain/change the oil. what are your guy's thoughts? Could just throw the pallet in my truck, but I'll prob be too geeked with it staring at me at work all day to wait!

[fattybikejones]

My Zongshen 200GY-2 just turned 64,000 miles on the odometer. :tup:

Impressive! Hoping to log many miles on my bike as well:)

[culcune]

Yes, it's a Zong 163FML I believe. As for the oil, I say change it immediately. I think the oil that is shipped with the bike is the one from the factory. I didn't like the looks of it so I changed it straight away. Can't hurt. Used 10w40 wet clutch motorcycle oil from the auto store.

I used to use the rotella 15w-40 stuff because it came in bulk, but then figured I would change over to Castrol 10w-40 4 stroke motorcycle oil from one of the local O'Reilly's auto parts stores because it comes in 1 liter bottles as well as 1 quart bottles. The TMEC spec say 1 liter, so that makes it easy!

I don't think there is any problem with synthetic, other than too rich for my blood, LOL.

These engines are Zongshen manufactured, but these are the so-called Honda clone engines--they resemble older air-cooled Honda engines, which is where Zongshen bought its tooling from; Spud's whole bike was manufactured by Zongshen, but his was a very unique bike. Most of these bikes from China use the Honda 'cloned' engines, but Spuds was 'cloned' from Yamaha. Unlike the Honda clone engines which can't really share parts with actual Honda engines, some, if not many (or all?) of Spud's engine interchanges with the 200cc engine found in the TW200!

I find that the Zongshen engine should be hardy for miles. I never touched my engine on the '09 TMEC up to when it gave me possible clutch ring issues (still haven't opened it up) and would not shift. Also, keep in mind that I put about 9000+ miles in the year and a half I owned it, riding 33 miles a day, and had bought it used with unknown miles. If you guys use it as a 'toy' you should have to worry even less about it, other than winter storage.

[SpudRider]

wade emailed me pics of mine, sent yesterday. said they changed the oil, but didn't say what quality they used. did say to change it again after 20 hours. but also said the technician forgot to change oil before they banded it to pallet, and that they over filled it so i should drain some before riding. but if it looks like crappy oil ill prob just change it anyway. i only live 4 blocks from work. hoping i can drive it home to drain/change the oil. what are your guy's thoughts? Could just throw the pallet in my truck, but I'll prob be too geeked with it staring at me at work all day to wait!

I would listen to Wade. If you average 30 mph during engine break-in, you will travel about 600 miles, in 20 hours, before your first oil change. I'm sure the engine oil Wade used is just fine. ;) If you wish, you can do the first oil change a little earlier, around 400-500 miles.

Yes, you can ride the bike home without changing the oil. ;) If the oil is slightly over filled, the excess will blow out the crankcase hose into the air box. You should only worry if the engine oil is over filled to a very high degree. If so, you can merely loosen the oil drain bolt and let a little oil drip out until the level is correct. ;)

Shell, Rotella 15W/40 is excellent motor oil. Any of the quality, 15W/40 motor oils will do a superb job of protecting your engine. :) You might enjoy reading the following essays on engine oil for motorcycles. ;)

http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Oils1.html
http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Consumables.html

[fattybikejones]

I don't think there is any problem with synthetic, other than too rich for my blood, LOL.

These engines are Zongshen manufactured, but these are the so-called Honda clone engines--they resemble older air-cooled Honda engines, which is where Zongshen bought its tooling from...

...I find that the Zongshen engine should be hardy for miles. I never touched my engine on the '09 TMEC up to when it gave me possible clutch ring issues (still haven't opened it up) and would not shift. Also, keep in mind that I put about 9000+ miles in the year and a half I owned it, riding 33 miles a day, and had bought it used with unknown miles. If you guys use it as a 'toy' you should have to worry even less about it, other than winter storage.
I guess I used Zongshen name as being quality built. I know that there is some questionable stuff coming from the Chinese mainland. I have been lucky with the 2 scoots I owned (4s Bashan engines) and now I feel pretty good about this motorcycle. I suppose there is a YouTube video tutorial on valve adjustment. If it's anything like a 50cc 4stroke... should be cake.. This will be my first multigear/clutch bike ever. I have ridden them yeeeeaars ago and owned plenty 5 speed manual trans cars.. :shrug: Needless to say, I do plan on using this bike into the cooler months..maybe into light snow with a knobbie tire swap.. I will use my bike for transportation and semi loaded adventure on/offroad trips. From everything I have read and seen regarding the TMEC, I'm pretty excited.
Are these engines cdi ignition? Limited rev ? I guess I am expecting this bike to be running leeeeannn. If this bike is legal for Cali.. the carb. float bowl screws are probably ground smooth. How are the stock carbs on these bikes? Serviceable?

[fattybikejones]

I would listen to Wade. If you average 30 mph during engine break-in, you will travel about 600 miles, in 20 hours, before your first oil change. I'm sure the engine oil Wade used is just fine. ;) If you wish, you can do the first oil change a little earlier, .....

Shell, Rotella 15W/40 is excellent motor oil. Any of the quality, 15W/40 motor oils will do a superb job of protecting your engine. :) You might enjoy reading the following essays on engine oil for motorcycles. ;)

http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Oils1.html
http://www.calsci.com/motorcycleinfo/Consumables.html
I have heard some guys ramble on about doing a hard break in on these small displacement engines and some say, go easy.. I would say, ride the bike sensibly ie; no hammerhead starts, don't wind extended high RPMS, no extended parked idling and several oil changes. ..for the first 150-200 mi?
Then as Spud mentioned.. Oil changes about every 1k. Valve lash, I will have to look into. These engines appear to be mostly accessible for user servicing.

[Weldangrind]

I guess I used Zongshen name as being quality built. I know that there is some questionable stuff coming from the Chinese mainland. I have been lucky with the 2 scoots I owned (4s Bashan engines) and now I feel pretty good about this motorcycle. I suppose there is a YouTube video tutorial on valve adjustment. If it's anything like a 50cc 4stroke... should be cake.. This will be my first multigear/clutch bike ever. I have ridden them yeeeeaars ago and owned plenty 5 speed manual trans cars.. :shrug: Needless to say, I do plan on using this bike into the cooler months..maybe into light snow with a knobbie tire swap.. I will use my bike for transportation and semi loaded adventure on/offroad trips. From everything I have read and seen regarding the TMEC, I'm pretty excited.
Are these engines cdi ignition? Limited rev ? I guess I am expecting this bike to be running leeeeannn. If this bike is legal for Cali.. the carb. float bowl screws are probably ground smooth. How are the stock carbs on these bikes? Serviceable?

You're right; valve adjustments are cake. You can even fashion a valve adjustment tool with a square head wood screw (that every good Canadian calls a Robertson) twisted into a marrette connector. The only time there is an issue is if you're working on a pushrod motor and the bike frame doesn't allow removal of the valve cover. If that's the case, most guys just trim a few fins off the top.

Yes to CDI and rev limiter. No appreciable difference has been reported with no-rev CDI's, but nobody has performed any empirical testing that I'm aware of. I choose to not wring out my little four stroke that far anyway.

Stock carbs are certainly serviceable, but jet selection will depend upon carb style. They usually come in one of two flavours; Keihin or Mikuni. I've found the Keihin carbs to be varied in design, to the point where I was unable to source jets. The so-called 30mm Mikuni carbs have been dead consistent in design and casting quality, and I've installed and jetted several. They can be had for less than $40 delivered, and jets are cheap and easily found.

I'm also betting on a lean carb from the factory, replete with a smog device. It resembles an AIR device, and there is usually a cat in the header pipe. I make those things go away.

[SpudRider]

I guess I used Zongshen name as being quality built. I know that there is some questionable stuff coming from the Chinese mainland. I have been lucky with the 2 scoots I owned (4s Bashan engines) and now I feel pretty good about this motorcycle. I suppose there is a YouTube video tutorial on valve adjustment. If it's anything like a 50cc 4stroke... should be cake.. This will be my first multigear/clutch bike ever. I have ridden them yeeeeaars ago and owned plenty 5 speed manual trans cars.. :shrug: Needless to say, I do plan on using this bike into the cooler months..maybe into light snow with a knobbie tire swap.. I will use my bike for transportation and semi loaded adventure on/offroad trips. From everything I have read and seen regarding the TMEC, I'm pretty excited.
Are these engines cdi ignition? Limited rev ? I guess I am expecting this bike to be running leeeeannn. If this bike is legal for Cali.. the carb. float bowl screws are probably ground smooth. How are the stock carbs on these bikes? Serviceable?

Zongshen does make good engines. :)

Here's a link to the valve adjustment tutorial at China Riders. However, it appears some of the photographs are missing. :hmm:

http://www.chinariders.net/showthread.php?t=977

[culcune]

Needless to say, I do plan on using this bike into the cooler months..maybe into light snow with a knobbie tire swap.. I will use my bike for transportation and semi loaded adventure on/offroad trips. From everything I have read and seen regarding the TMEC, I'm pretty excited.


Just be careful...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vq_tu2lB9f4

This guy is from the UK, and has posted quite a few videos of his adventures with his TMEC 125 which used to be available there. In fact, on Excalibur's site, they have linked the parts manual for the TMEC 125 since all the parts (except the engine, duh!) are the same.

http://www.atv4usa.com/catalogs/TMEC200-1.pdf
and they also have the engine parts catalog:
http://www.atv4usa.com/catalogs/TMEC200-ENGINE.pdf

The parts catalog has come in handy for ordering parts or even installing them.

[footer]

is it just my computer that doesn't play youtube videos in the threads all of a sudden or is it everyones??

[SpudRider]

The videos are playing well for me. :) You might want to check your web browser. ;)

[pchitti]

Took my phone a few min to get the video going.

Yall are making me want to sell my qlink and buy a tmec. Lol whats the weight and lowest seat height?

[pchitti]

Found the weight, any one weighed one full of gas and oil?
Its dry 20lbs lighter than my 250 and carries an extra 1.2 gallons of fuel...

Depending on the seat I might really look into doing this next year.

[culcune]

Not sure if I would get rid of the Qlink--you have one of the few bikes of that model in the US, I believe. I would consider saving up and getting a TMEC as an additional bike, however, if I was you. The seat is much lower, if I remember from your description of your bike, but I am 5'7" and the TMEC is about as tall as I would comfortably go. But the seat itself is very comfortable.

[FastDoc]

I do ride on the snow occasionally, but only off road. Light powdery snow less than 3" I think is quite OK as the knobbies bite through it to the dirt below. I would not do it on pavement though.

Now spiked tires would be a different story.

I'd like to try my YZ with the sand paddle in deeper snow as I think it would work, but, thank God, we don't get much snow here.

[pchitti]

Not sure if I would get rid of the Qlink--you have one of the few bikes of that model in the US, I believe. I would consider saving up and getting a TMEC as an additional bike, however, if I was you. The seat is much lower, if I remember from your description of your bike, but I am 5'7" and the TMEC is about as tall as I would comfortably go. But the seat itself is very comfortable.

Hhhmmm you make a good point about my qlink. I need to try and find more info on the sales numbers. Maybe qlink will be usefull on that front. Lol

Culcune, any chance you would be willing to get an accurate seat height?
Im 5'6" with little legs. Lol 28" inseam.

[culcune]

Hhhmmm you make a good point about my qlink. I need to try and find more info on the sales numbers. Maybe qlink will be usefull on that front. Lol

Culcune, any chance you would be willing to get an accurate seat height?
Im 5'6" with little legs. Lol 28" inseam.

I wear cheap steel tip boots from Big 5, and change into my work shoes at work since we are not allowed to wear steel tips. The boots let me almost flat foot, and since I have liked enduros since my 1991 DR250s, and have gotten used to balancing with it, and more recently with my TMECs, and have continued to be short, it is something I can deal with. I will get a seat measurement for you, however. But my guess is if you have adapted to your Qlink, and your bike is taller than the TMEC, you will be fine. If you watch any of the TMEC videos on youtube from Wade Liu he is my height, and is on his arches in this test ride video, but is not wearing boots--it looks like tennis shoes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9rE33K59D4

[culcune]

I do ride on the snow occasionally, but only off road. Light powdery snow less than 3" I think is quite OK as the knobbies bite through it to the dirt below. I would not do it on pavement though.

Now spiked tires would be a different story.

I'd like to try my YZ with the sand paddle in deeper snow as I think it would work, but, thank God, we don't get much snow here.

Bring that bike down to the dunes near Yuma. Actually, there are some dunes north of us, too, which would make it closer for you, but you can see what I mean by all the beach-like sand we have down this way along the Colorado River.

The video I linked from the guy in the UK does show him on the 17"/17" street tires which I believe all that they had available in the UK for the time someone imported the TMEC 125's.

I would be interested if someone will keep their bikes on the road this year into the winter, including snow. I think that people seem to have issues in the spring when they store their bikes away, so I would suggest to keep them running--either ridden or started--yes, easy for me to say since I ride year round, LOL

[jjn]

I think, if I had a Qlink XF200, I'd just hang onto that bike. I've heard a lot of good stuff about them.

Spudrider has a Zong 200 dual sport that must be approaching about 50,000 miles by now. I do believe he may have dropped a new head on it.

One thing I love about the TMEC is the higher quality parts manual you can access from Wade's website as I recall. Very well done, complete, and easy to use.

[culcune]

I think, if I had a Qlink XF200, I'd just hang onto that bike. I've heard a lot of good stuff about them.


He actually has the Qlink 250 made by Shineray--water-cooled engine and the whole nine yards (for a Chinese bike, LOL). It is a very unique bike since when he joined, no one knew they were available in the US (some people on mychinamoto had reported ownership reports, but they were members living in China). I actually thought it might have been a manufacturer's sample that had been sold off since Qlink has gone by the wayside, but searching a bit, I found a retailer advertising two other unsold, new bikes...so we know that there are at least 3!

[culcune]

Checked seat height--33.5" at the lowest point on the (surprisingly comfortable) seat without me on the bike. I think that is a lot lower than your Qlink, pchitti

[pchitti]

Thats much better than mine. I think thats a couple inches lower than mine with seat shaved down to almost nothing. Lol

Thanks Culcune, i was gonna offer you a trade but the 1400 miles between us makes ot hard.

[culcune]

Thats much better than mine. I think thats a couple inches lower than mine with seat shaved down to almost nothing. Lol

Thanks Culcune, i was gonna offer you a trade but the 1400 miles between us makes ot hard.

There are plenty of frontage roads along I-10; we can meet at the 700 miles mark or so near the Texas/NM border--El Paso? :)

[pchitti]

Los cruces would be better. I wanna ride through the lincoln national forest anyways.

[fattybikejones]

I ended up having to cancel my order for the bike from Excalibur. $1800 wasn't this much money a few years ago. I am probably going to have to look local - used but, have noticed that the market for these types of bikes is all but non existent here. :hmm:

so, the original question remains. Which comparably tagged/cc/outfitted china bike is the better / wiser buy for someone that intends to use the bike pretty much daily on/off road with offroad stuff more infrequent.

It's like pulling fruit from a tree..

You have to get the fruit off the tree and have a bite before you know if its sour or not.:shrug:

[fattybikejones]

Finally. After all the rollercoaster emotions of "getting a bike" to "canceled the order", I am now back to getting a bike! Still wondering brand "X" or "Y"?

I was ready with a deposit down @ Xcalibur to go with the TMEC 200 enduro and now I have been reading posts on the Bashan GYs that have emerged favorably. I thought about the SSR with the XF clone engine, but there we are talking $3k:shrug: I'm not quite sure what the allure is for me to want for a China bike.. Probably the fun/challenge of making something work better than originally intended or designed to. Whatever the reason, I am back in this:yay:

[recracer]

(Probably the fun/challenge of making something work better than originally intended or designed ) This Is the part that I enjoy so much . The look on peoples face ,when you say It's not Honda or Yamaha It's Chinese . Worth the effort :)

[jjn]

I like the Bashon 200 and the TMEC also. The Bashon has to be the bargain in the 200 (and they make a 250cc also). One thing I like about the TMEC is a quite organized and pretty well thought out online parts catalog. As far as I know Bashon doesn't have one. And, I've heard good things about Wade Liu of Excaliber who sells the TMEC. Third, I had the chance to at least see a TMEC in Puyallup, Washington about 3 1/2 years ago in person, and they looked pretty nice.

[culcune]

I would still consider the TMEC just because of parts and such. The advantage of the Bashans is the price and the larger engine, however. I am biased toward TMEC because I want to ensure they stay in the US for a while, but being a cheap guy, the Bashans look good from the price point?! Maybe you can wheel and deal with Wade?

[fattybikejones]

I like the Bashon 200 and the TMEC also. The Bashon has to be the bargain in the 200 (and they make a 250cc also). One thing I like about the TMEC is a quite organized and pretty well thought out online parts catalog. As far as I know Bashon doesn't have one. And, I've heard good things about Wade Liu of Excaliber who sells the TMEC. Third, I had the chance to at least see a TMEC in Puyallup, Washington about 3 1/2 years ago in person, and they looked pretty nice.

My instinct tells me go cheap.. The Bash is $1130 shipped and has the counter balanced engine.. I can jazz it up and make it go.. However..

I would still consider the TMEC just because of parts and such. The advantage of the Bashans is the price and the larger engine, however. I am biased toward TMEC because I want to ensure they stay in the US for a while, but being a cheap guy, the Bashans look good from the price point?! Maybe you can wheel and deal with Wade?

I have a good feeling about the TMEC. The fact that they are an actual machinery company and sans the engines and maybe plastic bits, I am guessing they do alot of the other fab work in house. From what I can see, they (TMEC) are pretty well regarded in China and here on CR.
Wade is indeed a top notch guy. I am steering toward the TMEC knobby 200.

My only concern is roadability. I live in Wisconsin and there are a plethora of rustic dirt and tar/stone roads smattered with late 19th century Amish farms, rolling hills and loads of old logging roads to explore:).. I live in a somewhat urban area and would need to commute to these adventure areas on rural highways with 50-55mph speed limits for 30 plus miles. I want to be okay with winding this little 200cc up for more than a few miles. I would hate the thought of having to trailer my bike there. That would kill some of the adventure. :hmm:

[culcune]

My bike is (was) ridden daily 16 miles each way to work and back, with about half at 50+ (probably 60+ due to traffic riding my a$%) and no problems. Their engine is a proprietary engine manufactured by Zongshen, the 167FML. Proprietary in the fact that it passed EPA for a street bike/enduro specifically in the TMEC. I had over 10k miles in my old bike (and it is back running with a new owner) and 3k miles on the new one before the accident sidelined it (although the car which was loaned to me indefinitely was borrowed back for a road trip to San Diego over the long weekend and blew a head gasket so I might have to dust off the TMEC tomorrow and beyond...) with bolts and things being the only thing. I do believe my not catching missing bolts on the old bike is what led to it having engine mount issue/failure (since fixed by a knowledgeable owner hence why it is back on the road).

That is my TMEC from experience. Bashans will have to have more reports from owners. I think the only issue they had were the original 2 members having issues with their 250 (229cc) gas tanks leaking on them when full.

[fattybikejones]

My bike is (was) ridden daily 16 miles each way to work and back, with about half at 50+ (probably 60+ due to traffic riding my a$%) and no problems. Their engine is a proprietary engine manufactured by Zongshen, the 167FML. Proprietary in the fact that it passed EPA for a street bike/enduro specifically in the TMEC. I had over 10k miles in my old bike (and it is back running with a new owner) and 3k miles on the new one before the accident sidelined it (although the car which was loaned to me indefinitely was borrowed back for a road trip to San Diego over the long weekend and blew a head gasket so I might have to dust off the TMEC tomorrow and beyond...) with bolts and things being the only thing. I do believe my not catching missing bolts on the old bike is what led to it having engine mount issue/failure (since fixed by a knowledgeable owner hence why it is back on the road).

That is my TMEC from experience. Bashans will have to have more reports from owners. I think the only issue they had were the original 2 members having issues with their 250 (229cc) gas tanks leaking on them when full.
That is encouraging. I am again steering toward the TMEC.. I don't want or need a larger displacement bike.. I just need a bike to get me from the concrete, on the concrete to the fun. Reliably. Your's and others (vacationtime247?) experiences with these bikes seems to be a pretty strong testimony to this bikes worth. There was another CR member.. footer? who was from Wisconsin and bought a TMEC (from Wade Liu) that I haven't seen posting lately, so not sure how his bike is acting for him.
I am going to take a couple more weeks to make a final decision and it will depend on availability (obviously) - as I want the knobby tire variant and I would like to do all the assembly and PDI stuff myself. Wade was not too keen on selling me a crated bike citing the need to know it worked when it left the warehouse. I had also considered the SSR XF250 for its across the board good reviews.. but for 3k?? I could get a used Yamaha 250 for that money. I am set on getting a China bike. I love to root for the underdog, give the dog a flea bath enter it in a contest and have it come out smelling better than it did going in.:D

[Weldangrind]

For the most part, the bikes are on level ground. I would choose the counter-balanced engine, and even be willing to pay more for it.

[fattybikejones]

For the most part, the bikes are on level ground. I would choose the counter-balanced engine, and even be willing to pay more for it.

Good point. I just wish I had a good feel for parts availability for the Bashans. I am pretty much ready to order now.:hmm:

[dh]

Still shopping? $1130 for a new bike sounds hard to pass up!! Is the TMEC in the same price range? If you are still considering the SSR XF 250 I got mine for $2400($2700 OTD) with very little haggling. $2,700 could have gotten me another used Honda, but this is the most trouble free bike I've ever owned and I can use Suzuki parts.




Finally. After all the rollercoaster emotions of "getting a bike" to "canceled the order", I am now back to getting a bike! Still wondering brand "X" or "Y"?

I was ready with a deposit down @ Xcalibur to go with the TMEC 200 enduro and now I have been reading posts on the Bashan GYs that have emerged favorably. I thought about the SSR with the XF clone engine, but there we are talking $3k:shrug: I'm not quite sure what the allure is for me to want for a China bike.. Probably the fun/challenge of making something work better than originally intended or designed to. Whatever the reason, I am back in this:yay:

[Weldangrind]

$2400 for an XF is a fair price, but it's hard to argue with paying $1130 for a Honda clone. At that price, you could buy another one for parts.

[culcune]

I would contact Wade and see what kind of deal he would swing. Many people have gone with the Bashans, so he might want to clear out his inventory of TMECs and will get close to the offered prices? Couldn't hurt to try.

After my accident, I have gotten on my old TMEC and started commuting again, even with the bent handlebars, LOL. I have seen Blueberry's video of his bike in Florida and it, too, looks stout, plus it's lower cost to boot.

I personally would go with TMEC simply because I can get a deal on one, and own one already (I am thinking of buying one with the knobby wheels because I want to see if I can end my curse of buying new vehicles only to have them get involved in accidents?!) and am awaiting some kind of settlement so should have a little money to 'play' with. But that is me, and I know what I am getting into...

(I have been intrigued by the XF250 for a little more money as well simply because I owned a DR250s years ago in a past life, but can get pretty much two TMECs for the same price)

[fattybikejones]

I am still looking. I was seconds away from pulling the trigger on the Bashan Storm 200.. Same bike as blueberry.. just wanna be sure. I hate the thought of asking Wade Liu for a deal on the TMEC. it'll be something soon.:hmm:

[SpudRider]

I'm glad you are riding again, Culcune. :tup: I hope you are recovering well, and reach a fair settlement with the driver who hit you. ;)

[dh]

Culcune the TMECs come from Excalibur in so Cal? Curious to know if they are CARB approved? Im in NV now but my brother in CA has been thinking about getting an XF bike for a while... he may want to check these out. It looks like a really good value.

[culcune]

Unfortunately, they are DOT/EPA approved for 49 states, but not California. I can see where SSR charges a premium for their XF probably following in the Qlink business model, with CARB approval, as far as getting low-cost bikes go in Cali. I remember 7 or 8 years ago, people were still getting a few Chinese bikes registered sporadically in California via loopholes, not CARB approval. In fact, JP Motorsports used to get the 'old' Qlink enduros (the Zongshen/Spudrider based enduros ;) ) registered in California somehow!?

The other loophole is if a person owns a non-CARB enduro and moves to California taking their bike with them--that is what Wade from Excaliburo told me a year or so ago. You might be able to pull something like that off for your brother, but not too sure how it would work out short of you moving back to California with the TMEC?

[fattybikejones]

Emailed Wade Liu this afternoon.. He said there is no chance on matching or getting close to the $1150 tag on the Bashan Storm 200.. Stinks that no one seems to have the Bashans in stock. Looks like I will ordering the TMEC. Gonna see what kind of price Wade comes up with shipped to my door. County Imports has the TMEC for $1500 shipped.

[Adjuster]

Which one is this? Isn't Rocketa same as Bashan?

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-db-200cc.html


/

[Adjuster]

If I was purchasing right now it would be one of these two.

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-db-03-200cc.html

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-will-250cc.html


/

[jjn]

Which one is this? Isn't Rocketa same as Bashan?

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-db-200cc.html


/

Sure looks like the Bashon to me.

[fattybikejones]

Which one is this? Isn't Rocketa same as Bashan?

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-db-200cc.html


/
It's the same bike.

If I was purchasing right now it would be one of these two.

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-db-03-200cc.html

http://powersporthub.com/pit-bikes/roketa-will-250cc.html



/

Yep.. My thoughts as well. Problem is, they seem to be sold out everywhere I check.
Sure looks like the Bashon to me.

Yep, it is the same bike. Not sure why the Roketa branding tho..

[Adjuster]

They say they are 'in stock' at the links I posted???


/

[fattybikejones]

They say they are 'in stock' at the links I posted???


/
I know.. I called. they are out.

[Adjuster]

Dang sorry about that. I only posted the links because they said 'in stock'. That kinda pisses me off how they do that. I even placed all three bikes in my shopping cart and did everything but hit the 'buy' button because I wanted to verify the free shipping and still no mention of being out of stock.


/

[fattybikejones]

Dang sorry about that. I only posted the links because they said 'in stock'. That kinda pisses me off how they do that. I even placed all three bikes in my shopping cart and did everything but hit the 'buy' button because I wanted to verify the free shipping and still no mention of being out of stock.


/
No worries.. I always call to verify before I tap in my cc digits. It seems the price went up from $1129 to $1270 for the 200cc