Bashan, officially known as Chongqing Astronautic Bashan Motorcycle Manufacturing Co. Ltd., was founded in July 2002 and is recognized as one of the top 10 motorcycle exporters in China (2023). Bashan operates as a joint-stock company focusing on motorcycles, both petrol (gas) and electric, as well as ATV quads, tricycles, tillers, generators, water pumps, and engines. Their product line-up is impressive, featuring 12 ATVs, 36 ICE bikes, and two new electric motorcycles that I had the opportunity to see at EICMA 2024.
Basham runs its comprehensive manufacturing plant in China and reports export earnings exceeding $100 million. Annually, they manufacture 600,000 motorcycles and 1 million motorcycle engines, experiencing swift growth as they broaden their global presence. Their goal to establish a renowned brand both domestically and internationally aligns with their motto: "High Starting Point, high standard, high quality," which is evident in their products.
Haven't heard of them? That's understandable given their base in China. They frequently manufacture products under other retail brands. It's only recently that they've begun promoting their own retail brand alongside their manufacturing operations. In fact, we can obtain their motorcycles with different badge options.
The Bikes
In 2024, Bashan transitioned to e-moto. With distinctive frames, they offer two intriguing products.
BS4000D
This model, inspired by their remarkable ice bike, the Awak AK11, is stunning. In my opinion, it appears more attractive than the AK11 and boasts nearly identical specifications, with just a 5 mph difference in top speed. As an EV, the BS4000D compensates for this with its excellent acceleration.
BS7000D
The BS7000D has similar styling to Bashan's high-performance sports ice bikes.
The most striking feature of the BS7000D is the lattice frame and swingarm, which is specifically designed for the electric drivetrain. This frame not only looks impressive but also ensures the safety and integrity of both you and the bike.
Boarding the BS7000D gives a sense of familiarity, although it might seem slightly more compact than anticipated. It's not uncomfortable, but at 5'10", my knees were positioned higher than I'd like. The bike is a smidge smaller compared to most Western models. If you're below 5'10", you probably won't notice the difference.
The Conclusion
These two models have been specifically designed to propel Bashan into the e-moto market. They exemplify quality craftsmanship, competitive pricing, and a dedication to long-term success. Bashan is a formidable contender with outstanding marketing materials and a carefully crafted sales strategy. I anticipate that we will see many more of their bikes in the future, potentially under different retail brands.
Moving Forward
Bashan offers an outstanding selection of petrol (gas) powered ATVs, known for their impressive size and power. Featuring pillion seats, all-wheel drive, winches, and dual-range gearboxes, their ATVs are among the biggest available. In the next two years, Bashan is set to develop their first electric ATV. This is significant news, and after detailed discussions with them, they intend to create a genuine agricultural ATV designed for rigorous farm use. This approach is refreshing. While other manufacturers focus on road use and top speed, Bashan's experience in the ATV industry enables them to recognize the true value of a robust E-ATV for farming. And, it should also be fully road-legal.
Having a farming background, I plan to source this product as soon as it becomes available. I'm also in talks with them about conducting pre-launch testing at a family sheep shearing operation in the Falkland Islands, which presents a genuinely challenging environment for Bashan.
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