First Ride: ZXMoto 500RR
Looks the part. Rides the part, too
ZX… who? The Chinese sportsbikes causing a stir are from a company just two years old, but the top man behind ZXMoto is Zhang Xue, a star of China’s motorcycle industry and the founder of Kove (themselves cooking on gas in the rally world). Backed by private and state-backed investment, he set up ZXMoto in 2024 having left Kove. As a result, the 500RR feels a far more polished performer than you would expect from a brand-new Chinese-built model. Their 820 model is second in the World Supersport championship at the time of riding, too…
So often with Chinese bikes the spec sheet impresses but the integration of those parts is far from harmonious. Not the case with the 500RR. No known-brand components are used; instead it sticks with Chinese-built alternatives, but it isn’t an issue as they all work together as a package. A package that includes angle-responsive ABS, traction control, variable power modes, a quickshifter (up only), fully adjustable suspension, radial brakes and connectivity – for £6049. You aren’t left questioning the ZXMoto’s value for money.
ABS is angle-responsive, Taisko radial brakes
On the open road, the 500RR is a joy. Surprisingly spacious for a small-capacity race rep, its chassis has a lovely natural balance that makes it instantly assured while never diluting from its sporty side. If you fancy some knee-down action, it will merrily oblige. Firming up the suspension sharpens the ride if you are happy to sacrifice a bit of its compliance.
The engine isn’t too all-or-nothing, either. Thanks to its extra capacity over its inline-four rivals (the QJMotor SRK421RR is 421cc, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR is 399cc), the ZXMoto pulls stronger than you would expect low-down. Ideally you need to be above 6000rpm to unlock any noticeable drive with 10,000rpm the point it starts to get exciting, but it is far from frustrating. The throttle response is spot-on and the gearbox action precise. And you can’t really criticise a small-capacity inline four for being rev-happy – if you want lazy grunt, buy a (far less thrilling) parallel-twin. But that’s not what potential buyers are looking for. They want a mini race-rep to thrill – and the ZXMoto delivers it. Alongside a reasonable reassurance your money is safe.
Single-sided swingarm is nicely made
ZXMoto already build 10,000 bikes a month and have plans for a factory capable of producing 500,000 a year, so they are far from a flash in the pan. There are 13 UK dealers signed up to sell ZXMoto’s products (the 500F naked, MX250 off-roader and 820 race rep will all arrive by early 2027) and they offer a three-year warranty with a UK warehouse set aside for spare parts.
All factors considered, ZXMoto appear the real deal.
JON URRY
Three-year warranty, UK spares warehouse
RiDE VERDICT
The 500RR feels like a polished bike, almost Japanese-like in its refinement and development – and that’s impressive. If you are after a mini race-rep it won’t disappoint. But for us the real intrigue will be when the 820RR lands, which will have greater market appeal.
THE FACTS
Price From £6049
Engine 470cc DOHC 16v inline four, l/c
Transmission Six-speed chain
Power 83bhp @ 13,500rpm
Torque 34lb.ft @ 11,500rpm
Fuel capacity 15 litres
Seat height 800mm
Wheelbase 1395mm
Weight 180kg (kerb, measured)
Rider aids Cornering ABS, traction control, five rider modes, quickshifter, connectivity