Rieju Aventura 500 Legend! New adventure bike or rebadged Chinese clone?︱Cross Training Adventure

crosstrainingen... The brand new Rieju Aventura 500 Legend! Is it actually a new adventure bike model? Or just a rebadged Chinese clone that may have illegally copied Honda's motorbikes in some respects? The The Rieju Aventura 500 looks mostly identical to the same Chinese bike which seems to have quite a few names. It's not actually out yet so this isn't really a Rieju Adventura 500 review, just a first look and discussion. The Takasaki TKR 500, which sounds Japanese but is anything but. The Dahaidao 500 GS which sounds strangely similar to a BMW designation. And the HJmoto ADV 500. Is this a brand new adventure model made in Spain by the company formerly called Gas Gas? Or is the Rieju Aventura 500 just a rebadged Chinese model copying Japanese design? Yes. It appears to be simply a rebadged Chinese model... specifically the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500-8. Rieju's promotional material states it is a Honda design produced by Loncin under licence. This Chinese company has been making engines for BMW since 2007. So Loncin probably do have a licence to make this copy of the Honda CB500R engine. But the rest of the Rieju Aventura 500? It seems to be based on the Honda CB500X with some changes. If so, is it an illegal copy? We dug a bit deeper into the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500-8, Takasaki TKR 500, Dahaidao 500 GS and the HJmoto ADV 500. The Chinese model is made by the Chongqing Hengjian Motorcycle Manufacturing Co. Ltd. It has no apparent website, only a Facebook page. The contact email looked unusual. [e-mail] I googled 163.com and there was no mention of motorbikes, only Chinese news. Then I googled [e-mail] and find this website... chongqingbull.org which featured a KTM clone. So... Rieju appear to be rebadging a Chinese bike with an engine legally copied from Honda. But the rest of the bike? We'll wait to see what Reiju says. I suspect the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500-8, Takasaki TKR 500, Dahaidao 500 GS and the HJmoto ADV 500 are similar to the Honda CB500X. And also the Colove 500X in Pakistan, Bristol Venturi 500 in Philippines, Hunter Maverick in Indonesia; Tekk 500 in Argentina, Macbor 500 in Spain, TKR 500 in Chile... the list goes on. Why? In 2017 Hengjian announced plans to make this almost identical copy of the CB500X. So it stands to reason this latest copy is very similar too. However, there are some changes. Spoked wheels. A 21 inch front wheel. Twin fuel tanks. Skid plate, crash bars, handguards, centre stand, and a rear rack. We are keen to contact Rieju and see if they can confirm their version is completely made under licence where Honda has been copied, and if they'll be applying further quality control checks in Spain once the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500-8, Takasaki TKR 500, Dahaidao 500 GS and the HJmoto ADV 500 leave the factories. What do you guys think of the Rieju Adentura 500? Would you buy one? The Honda CB500X is already quite a cheap bike. How much cheaper would this Chinese model have to be for you to buy one? We'll be keen to see Rieju Aventura 500 reviews. Remember it's renamed as the TKR 500 in Chile, Colove 500X in Pakistan, Bristol Venturi 500 in the Philippines, Tekk 500 in Argentina, Macbor 500 in Spain, Hunter Maverick in Indonesia, and so on.
Keen on adventure riding in Australia? Check out our vids. If you like dual sport riding in Australia then you might like our adventure riding vids. Check out our reviews of various adventure bikes and dual sport bikes. Welcome to Cross Training Adventure, we are into all things dual sport and adventure on the east coast of Australia. We have occasional detours to places like Vietnam, Cambodia, Romania and Canada. This is one of our three channels, there's also a Cross Training Trials channel, and a Cross Training Enduro channel. All three are equally dodgy. We are the 27th most watched dirt channel in Uzbekistan. We have won the polished turd award five years in a row. So called dual sport riding reviews are just glossy ads nowdays. All we are saying is there's also the budget option for adventure riding. And it won't hold you back. Why? We reckon it's 80% the rider and 20% the bike. So the Cross Training Adventure focus is just get out there and have fun on two wheels. Instead of obsessing over the latest blinged out Beemer, which tyres to fit or spending a fortune on your suspension or billet alloy gas cap. So most of our adventure riding vids will feature the much loved bush pig, the Suzuki DR650. And we've done a 10 part series on how to unleash the mighty beast that lurks within. What else? Cross Training Adventure actively avoids sponsorship. We like doing seriously critical reviews. Manufacturers make some really bad mistakes.
Our enduro channel: / crosstrainingenduroskills
Our trials channel: / mototrialstrainingtech...
#crosstrainingadventure #adventureriding #adventurebikes #dualsportriding
#dualsportbikes

[@crosstrainingadventure]

NEWS ALERT! Honda says Chinese company Loncin does NOT have a licence to reproduce the CB500R engine. Press releases from Rieju claim the Chiense copy of this engine is made under license by Loncin but Honda Australia has told us this is not true. We are keen to look into this further... One of these bikes (branded Kove 500X) with a snapped frame. 🤔 kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6icf5KYettladU This Chinese copy has been around since 2019. It's rebranded as the Colove 500X in Pakistan, Bristol Venturi 500 in Philippines, Hunter Maverick in Indonesia; Tekk 500 in Argentina, Macbor 500 in Spain, TKR 500 in Chile.... The list goes on. ------------------ QUESTIONS SENT TO RIEJU - WILL THEY ANSWER? Our questions we have sent to Rieju's head office. We'll post any responses below.... Your website says this is "the largest displacement motorcycle ever manufactured by the brand from Figueres". However, our research suggest this is a Chinese motorbike... the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500. It looks as though this Chinese made motorbike has simply been rebadged as a Rieju? Can you confirm what changes Rieju has made to the Chinese model? It looks as though Loncin does have a licence to reproduce the Honda CB500R engine. However, if other Honda designs have been copied, can you confirm that these are all reproduced under licence as well? Your press releases show quite a few different models coming soon. Can you state which models will actually be made in your European factory, and which ones will be rebadged Chinese motorbikes? [no reply was ever received] ------------------ THE OLD ANTI-CHINESE DEBATE! Some viewers are saying why be against indirectly supporting the CCP by buying Chinese bikes when countries like the USA are just as bad, or even worse. That's a really good question for anyone interested in geopolitics, ethics and consumer choices. I'm no fan of US politics and there have been plenty of horrendous situations with their foreign affairs. And of course positive interventions too. I know anyone who leans to the left will tend to downplay China's bad behaviour and say the USA is just as bad, or even worse... a gross over-simplification in my opinion. And of course anyone leaning toward the right will see any socialist/communist country as inherently evil and the USA as the world's righteous policeman. This is also downplaying the fact that the CCP has done a lot of good such as dramatically decreasing poverty for the Chinese people. Everyone will have different opinions. Me? I think it depends on why the sanctions are applied. A lot of sanctions are applied due to human rights abuses and state-sponsored terrorism (I know all the old arguments about one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter). Generally I have no issues with those. But other sanctions are applied due to what the USA sees as unfair trade practices and this is where it can be a can of worms. At times it might be justified. At other times it can be used to simply punish a country for not acting in the USA's interest. ------------------

[@BlueThunder69NZ]

Yeah but is it better off road?

[@MMarkur]

It was too good to be true.

[@FernitoAM]

Honda could stop complaining and start making themselves a bike like this

[@northerncousin7862]

I would definitely wait 2 years or more to see how dependable this bike turns out to be. I worked in China on development projects where we specified made-in EU or USA outdoor furnishings. All were substituted by made-in China copies (client's choice). Design and initial appearance appeared to be of equal quality but consistently there were multiple structural or finish failures within 2 years. Ultimately, almost every piece failed to the point of needing early replacement. Was a big lesson to me that build quality is worth the extra initial cost.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I've met quite a few people who went down the Chinese manufacturing path and they always said quality was pretty good to start with but the shortcuts kicked in quickly... no matter how much they stressed they would stop ordering if there was any change in quality. It's not always the case o course. Most of the electronic internals of products are Chinese now and usually the big companies take whatever steps are needed to enforce western standards of quality control.

[@billyb6043]

this is the most frustrating aspect of Chinese manufacturing. They have the capacity, financial and engineering acumen to turn out incredible machinery but they keep churning out stuff that looks the part but lacks the integrity in terms of materials...simply to shave a few quid off the retail price, compared to better made rivals. When it breaks after a relatively short service life, it ends up in a landfill.

[@DerekWylie]

I imported 2 of these (HJMOTO HJ500-8) bikes into the UK from China. Loving mine so far. It's definitely not a copy of the CB500X. Totally different frame, suspension, etc. Key details worth noting are: - 29L fuel capacity split between a front and rear fuel tank (switchable by a switch on the dash) - Front and rear 1080p cameras (Interface in chinese. You add your own microSD card. You can export clips via USB) - Decent large touchscreen display (not expandable for apps but bizarrely using an app you can project your phone display onto it via USB....not that there's any point doing that - Tyre pressure sensors front and rear integrated into the display - SS exhaust. - Steering damper as standard - Large diameter fully adjustable forks (seem to work well offroad) - Remote adjuster for rear preload as standard - Fully adjustable rear shock - Centre Stand as standard - All LED lights. Indicators are animated and also display red to the rear and white to the front. Headlight is an usual (for me) downward reflected projector setup I've not seen before - Decent quality hand guards as standard (touring orientated) - Nice big screen (non adjustable) on the adventure version. Smaller I think on the touring version - Solid Engine and side crash bars as standard on the adventure version - Switchable front and rear ABS via ABS button on the switchgear - Large pivoting front pegs with removable rubber inserts - Quiet bike as standard - Low seat height for the size of bike - Very comfortable standing position with raised bars and narrow between the legs - Adventure version comes with Pirelli Scorpion rubber - Engine power is fine for what it is. Smooth engine when revved, it's only a 500 mind and it's a heavy bike but pleasure to ride. Can feel a little rough ligging down low rather than revving. - Overall a really nice bike for touring which is pretty capable in the dirt in a pretty well thought out and put together package. Obviously parts if i need them will be a pain but hopefully Rieju start selling them and I can use them :). Also GPX are talking about supplying them both in the US and for me locally here in the UK which will be good.

[@charlierauseo6657]

Derek, I'd like to look into importing to the US. Could you let us know how you imported into the UK? For example, did you contact the manufacturer directly? I've grey market imported bikes before, but I'd love to learn from your experience from HJMoto. Thanks, Charlie

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I emailed Honda and they replied saying they never gave Loncin a license to copy the CB500X engine (as Rieju has claimed in their promotions). I knew a Canadian who hoped to import the Chinese clone of the CRF450X into Canada. The Chinese factory lied and claimed they had a license and permission from Honda. Eventually they admitted this wasn't true as he refused to begin imports until evidence was provided. He was being cautious as a US importer was sued by Honda in a similar situation.

[@davidmallia628]

Rieju is an established Spanish motorbike manufacturing company, so just direct your queries to them. I am excited about this bike because we have been asking the Japanese companies to make a similar bike, but to no avail.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I sent them the questions below three weeks ago, David. No answer as yet... Your website says this is "the largest displacement motorcycle ever manufactured by the brand from Figueres". However, our research suggests this is a Chinese motorbike... the Chongqing Hengjian HJ500. It looks as though this Chinese made motorbike has simply been rebadged as a Rieju? Can you confirm what changes Rieju has made to the Chinese model? It looks as though Loncin does have a licence to reproduce the Honda CB500R engine. However, if other Honda designs have been copied, can you confirm that these are all reproduced under licence as well? Your press releases show quite a few different models coming soon. Can you state which models will actually be made in your European factory, and which ones will be rebadged Chinese motorbikes?

[@davidmallia628]

@@crosstrainingadventure Good that you make these queries, and as a European company selling products in Europe they are obliged to state the facts as they are.

[@johnculbreth4543]

Thanks for investigating this. I wouldn’t touch it.

[@gasdive]

The spoke wheels and 21 inch (is it an 18 rear?) are nice upgrades over the Honda. It wouldn't have to be much cheaper for me to go that way if I was in the market for that sort of thing.

[@gasdive]

Ah, zoomed in on the spec sheet. 39 litre tank! 21/18 tubeless spoke wheels with tyre pressure monitoring. I'd pay more for this than the Honda. (though obviously I'd rather pay less) Add cruise control and I'd seriously consider buying one.

[@west_adv]

Exactly, the 21 inch wheel is a huge upgrade

[@joseaguirre7517]

There are several countries in South América that .. they sale it with another brand name .. it's a good bike .. but the price isn't low at all ! I'd say.. it is expensive !! Around $ 10.000 dollars.!!

[@gasdive]

@@joseaguirre7517 that's crazy money!

[@davidnobular9220]

@@gasdive 39 litre tank ??!!! That doesn't seem right....imagine leaning into a corner after filling up at your local servo....

[@sootymoobile]

They did all the things people have asked for but Honda has neglected. If its cheap why not, at least the engine is a known quantity.

[@SimonBrisbane]

Because you’re supporting a human rights abusing communist regime with the fastest growing military on the planet. Why do you think that is?

[@tiagofigueiredo2529]

The engine is a copy so, not as "known" as the original Honda engine. ✌️

[@TheAshfishman]

@@tiagofigueiredo2529 yes the DESIGN of the engine is a known quantity,, but the engine build????

[@sasapajic6814]

Being a Honda fan, I have to say I would pay more than 500x. This is something everyone was asking for and Honda, for some reason, refuse to produce. How can it be that a small Chinese company can hear what market asks for and big Honda is deaf?!

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I'm not sure about other countries but the CB500X is very well priced here in Australia. But yes, it's crazy that Honda doesn't also provide a more dirt-worthy variant. Owners are spending big money on the Rallyraid conversion.

[@Eden-NoEye]

The features and design are very compelling, Honda could copy the tank idea and a bit of the looks and they'd sell millions.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The spoked wheels and 21 inch front are great ideas and guys are forking out heaps of cash to get the Rallyraid kits for the Honda CB500X to get these. Honda is crazy to not release a separate version with these features.

[@billyb6043]

@@crosstrainingadventure they're supposed to be developing an NX 500 based on the CB platform (according to the patent rumour-mill) The new Transalp was obviously a priority having a completely new 750 engine to present. While the latest CB 500X is a distinct improvement over the last iteration (which was already a great bike for the outlay), a more dirt-worthy variant using the tried and trusted 500 parallel twin would be an obvious move... no reason a (CB) 500 NX couldn't sit alongside the road focused model in a showroom. Fingers crossed they still plan to do something with it.

[@billyb6043]

I got quite excited when I first saw this bike from Reiju, as they make some nice off road specific bikes. The fact that it weighs a touch less than the CB500X, has similar output but has a 21 inch front wheel starts to make this a better proposition than the venerable honda...but then you start looking a bit more closely at the componentry and start to wonder...In terms of build quality, my '16 CB 500 X isn't as solid as my '96 japanese-built Transalp 600 but it's head and shoulders above some of the chinese clones I've had a look at. If Reiju has actually thrown some decent quality parts at this 500 adv then it could be a contender....but if Honda are still planning to bring out a new NX 500, and shod it with bigger rims and more clearance than the CB, I know which bike I'd put my trust in out in the sticks.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The overall design is barking up the right tree, Billy. But like you I wouldn't trust the quality. This is actually heavier than the CB500X. It's dry weight is 190kg while the wet weight for the Honda is 196kg from memory.

[@billyb6043]

@@crosstrainingadventure The most depressing aspect concerning the development of the Chinese motorcycle industry, is that build quality and longevity will no doubt be sacrificed on the altar of volume sales. The european and japanese manufaturers are already lowering their standards in order to stay competitive, in my opinion. In an era when the finite nature of resources has never been more apparent, the last thing we need are disposable toys, churned out in factories with scant regard for environmental legislation or worker's rights. It's not as if the big corporations couldn't design and manufacture top quality products with a long service life, that are wholly recyclable. Bicycle manufacturers seem to manage it...

[@joshuasarfati5520]

I like the concept. Be good to see it in the flesh and see how it holds up over time.

[@empiresrikesfat]

Looks good, hopefully it being cheaper it has just the basic features/or all features unlocked from factory, it's 190kg and has 2 good size fuel tanks, the twin 500 motor will be the test for it 👍

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Actually the CB500X was 196kg wet from memory, and this Rieju is claimed to be 190kg dry. So the wet weight will be quite a bit more.

[@SimonBrisbane]

Of course it looks good. It’s a stolen design. If it’s any cheaper it’s because China subsidises their manufacturing base to give them an artificial price advantage to all competitors. They want to usurp all global manufacturing competitors. If they ever manage to do that we’re all screwed.

[@bens_gone_nomad5299]

ok so a couple of things to unpack here What’s the comparison to a genuine Honda? Assuming it is cheaper on the showroom will that offset the depreciation over an equivalent Honda? Will the parts from the cheaper bike work on the Honda? Spare parts availability? Wait times on a new bike? How does the customer service & warranty stack up compared to Honda? What are the actual differences in the motor? Are the piston rings made from spaghetti The way I see it if they don’t match or exceed a Honda for build standards, reliability, customer service ect then they really aren’t cheaper in the long run cheers.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

All good points. Even though the CB500X is made in Thailand, it seems Honda has maintained the usual Japanese standard. It definitely makes the bike very good value in the long term. I can't help feeling these Chinese clones will be a bad investment in many respects... even if it's cheaper and/or you get bling like the rear rack and engine guards.

[@billyb6043]

mate of mine was using a Suzuki GS 125 clone as a commuter bike recently. He had to reweld the top engine mounts three times in just under 10,000 miles....and then it seized....he had a CD Benly 125 twin back in the day. Did over 65,000 miles on it and replaced the chain, tyres, oil, plugs and filters....says it all really.

[@xpllmmff]

Actually, in Australia CF moto 's MT series (especially MT-800 which is equipped with KTM790 engine) has a strong presence and it seems there is not many qualities control issue within such model

[@davidmallia628]

They have done, to the cb500x, what Honda should have done. Maybe, my only gripe, is maybe the wet weight. This bike has been priced at 8500 euro.

[@mickleblade]

Bmw have had quality control problems with Loncin engines, but they may be OK now. I'd be very suspicious of those spokes rusting. If China does invade Taiwan they'll get sanctioned, how good will parts availability be then?

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I heard about few issues where inferior steel was suspected? Parts wearing out faster than they should have....

[@Dowent]

If it was any other country, I might take a plunge, but riding is all about freedom, not supporting one of the least free regimes that commits atrocities on the scale never seen before. Thank you for such a thorough investigation, all the other reviews were just about spec sheets and positives.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Glad it was useful, Freeman. Occasionally some viewers say I'm way too critical but I think we need some critical reviews to counter the regurgitated PR drivel that social media influencers are getting from the manufacturers.

[@Dowent]

@@crosstrainingadventure I think you are quite fair. If the negatives are never said, nothing will get better.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

100% agree...

[@erikflickinger1828]

Admittedly, not sure how much of the designs are stolen IP or whatnot, but I have been riding a Colove 500X (see the broken frame video, pretty sure same type of bike), marketed here in the Philippines as the Bristol Venturi 500 (Indonesia - Hunter Maverick; Argentina - Tekken 500; Spain - Macbor 500..... And the list goes on) for almost 3 years. Although not the bike you cover in this video, it basically is a Chinese rebadge of the CB500X, with a lot of exceptions. With the Venturi 500, I gained switchable ABS, dual front disc's, adjustable front and rear suspension, tubeless spoked rims, bash plate, handguards (did upgrade to acerbis as the stock ones were nearly useless), all LED lighting, a centerstand, and a full set of top and side boxes for significantly less than the CB500X. I also upgraded from the stock Metzler Tourance to the Mitas E07+ as well (after I ran through the stock tires). Quality wise, I've been impressed, and I fully meet or exceed its capabilities as an ADV regularly - with several rides per year that have been borderline Enduro vs ADV. That's also mixed in with some great touring style rides here as well (easy 800+ km days). In those 3 years, besides normal consumables (brake levers, brake pads, and a chain upgrade to a DID520HV) my repair list has been a set of fork seals (remember the nearly Enduro rides mentioned above?) , a headlight cluster (this one was a quality issue, LED control panel inside headlight assembly had a componenet burn out at 4000km), and an ABS sensor failure (actually, was the wire to the sensor that failed due to a rub through, which was probably my fault). Performance wise - it's responsive, well balanced, and comfortable to ride all day. Service and parts so far have been better than expected - Bristol now has 9 branches fairly well scattered throughout the country (definitely a focus on Metro Manila). I am not in Metro Manila and usually have anything I order within a week. Would I get one again? Depends on the bike, but when it's nearly $2000 (once you add in comparable accessories - the luggage, a bash plate, hand guards, and a centerstand) less than the Japanese counterpart, it's hard not to take a close look at. I definitely have issues with China's blatant IP infringements, but also legitimately see some huge improvements and changes over the originals (specifically with motorcycles) , so is it still IP infringement, or is it a different product?

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Thanks for the info, Erik. I've included some of this in the pinned first comment. It is a real shame Honda doesn't provide some of these changes to their CB500X model to create a second more adventure-oriented bike... especially the 18/21 spoked wheels and better suspension. Some riders are spending thousands on the RallyRaid upgrade to achieve this. I suspect the engine is made under licence by Loncin as Rieju stated, and so the quality should hopefully be reasonable. The BMW engines made by Loncin have been okay. Here and there BMW had issues with premature wear which many suspect was due to inferior steel being used by the problems appear to have been solved. I would definitely have concerns about the rest of the bike in terms of legality and safety but I'm glad yours has been working out so far. I'm sure that like any known issues, problems will only occur in a certain percentage of bikes. I was reading up about patent infringements in China yesterday - very hard to pursue as the Chinese government has only really paid lip service to changing their legal system in this respect, and only due to pressure from the USA to create a fair system for patent protection internationally.

[@caveyful]

If I only wanted a brand new bike and was using it only once a month and planned on selling it in 2 years then it might be worth a shot if it was 30% cheaper than a CB500X

[@4himsanctified]

looks like it will cost more than the Honda, but has a lot of add ons

[@cgRui34]

The Takasaki TKR 500 also looks identical to the Bristol Venturi 500 in the Philippines, popular for being a cheaper CB500X clone/alternative.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

That has some bizarre specs according to www.bristol-motorcycles.com/venturi500 An 18 inch front and 16 inch rear wheel??? The curb weight of 178kg is clearly wishful thinking.

[@cgRui34]

@@crosstrainingadventure yup. It's quite a popular budget-oriented, entry-level ADV bike over here. Not sure about the curb weight, but everything on the spec sheet seems spot on when I saw one in person. The wheel size choices help to accommodate for the average Asian rider height.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Ang halaga... murang mura sa Pilipinas?

[@cgRui34]

@@crosstrainingadventure For a local price comparison, the CB500X is priced at Php 399,000 SRP. The Bristol is priced at 358,000 SRP for the base variant (no panniers).

[@2wheels1guy25]

That just 10% off… Do people preference this bike at that price or is the Honda sold better in your area?

[@suzyamerica4679]

On paper this sounds like the Africa Twin 500 which we might all want but which Honda will never make.

[@BlackdogADV]

Interesting. I’ve avoided Chinese bikes myself but it think it’s just a matter of time before they’re as good as other brands. Then there’s the country of China to consider. Check out “China in focus” on YT then decide. Also, I’ve ridden to the Arctic Ocean 4 times both on a Husqvarna and BMW with complete reliability. I’ve often thought of trying it on a POS Chinese bike to make it interesting. This would definitely be a boost to my YT channel.

[@4himsanctified]

Love China in Focus

[@mattrobinson898]

IV always stuck to Japanese but I bought a CF MOTO 800mt and it turns out to be a weapon on and off-road, my biggest concern was the KTM engine it runs

[@nickg2431]

Over here in Greece they sell a crf 300 rally copy by Rieju.,costs about 4000e.Real honda is about 6900e.I think lots of people would be tempted at that price(not me though i have the "real" 300L)These happy days of finance mean 1000e deposit and 3000e on finance which goes about 50e a month plus interest -bugger all really,and good buy even if you get rid after 3 years

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Is it actually sold by Rieju, Nick? Or Voge? Voge is a Chinese company doing very close copies of various Japanese bikes. This is their CRF300L copy. voge.gr/bike/300rally/

[@nickg2431]

@@crosstrainingadventure sorry its vogue about 4300e skipper good bargin but not for me.

[@metalsadman]

would be incline to see more of the chinese kove/kolove 450 rally.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Quality would always be the issue for me. This vid shows a Kove 500X with a broken frame. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6icf5KYettladU I don't know if this happened with normal riding or someone trying to jump the bike, but either way it's not a good sign. For anyone who hasn't heard of Kove, it's just one of the bikes in this vid rebranded.

[@jimh2061]

That's a great looking bike! Looks better than all the other bikes sold in the US. Only problem is reliability concerns and safety concerns wich wouldn't be worth risking.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I must admit it would be great if Honda created a new cB500X model with those wheels and that suspension. But I certainly wouldn't be taking a Chinese made bike into remote areas. I didn't like the look of the broken frame on one of these. There's a video floating around KZbin about it.

[@davidnobular9220]

Nothing like doing a wheelie and having the front wheel come off as you're clicking into 6th gear on the back wheel......

[@il6113]

Smells like a chunk of crap

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

Thanks for the info was trying to find out if it was made in Spain 🇪🇸 ( not now ) 👍

[@crosstrainingadventure]

See the pinned first comment. We are pretty sure this is an illegal copy and I wouldn't be surprised if Honda solicitors send Rieju a letter warning of legal action.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

@@crosstrainingadventure , your answers from Rieju will hopefully shed some light 💡 ( Or they will just go quite about it and not reply)

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Yep, still no reply.

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

@@crosstrainingadventure Maybe 🤔 they have done a dodgy and don’t want people to know the truth.

[@steveh545]

ah, it probably won't be cheaper, as it's been upgraded. And, as i've mentioned on other channels, what's the deal with the front&rear cameras!?! Nobody talks about those. (i think there's just like dashcams, not epic motovlogs. Maybe they're FauxPro cameras?)

[@ThrottleAddiction]

I think Chinese 'copies' are usually at a price point equal to the second-hand market price of the one being copied.

[@bobbys.sfmoto9154]

I'm curious how the dealer support would rate against the honda. Is it comparable? Btw, the honda cb500x is not made in Japan, nor is the whole line up with that motor, but Honda factory and aftermarket support is stellar

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Rieju? I have no idea Bobby. And it would vary from country to country in any case. The CB500X is made in Thailand, as discussed in our CB500X review. I was careful in this vid to ensure I talked about Japanese designs possibly being stolen, but not saying the CB500X or CB500R were made in Japan. 😊

[@SimonBrisbane]

Given the distinct lack of information on the company and bike, as Barry demonstrated, I dare say support will be a gamble.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The lack of transparency is a worry. I remember a Canadian guy wanting to import the Chinese CRF450 clones into Canada. The factory swore they had the necessary licenses from Honda. He kept insisting they produce these and eventually they admitted they had no permissions.

[@scannorse]

The reliability of the Macbor is on line with the best brands out there, so this should be no different.

[@scannorse]

@@crosstrainingadventurevary…just like Honda from country to country. Btw….where can you get you Honda serviced at crhistmas eve like you can with Rieju in certain country?

[@redminute6605]

Bikes are incredibly overpriced (yes: even the most convenient ones), so why is anyone surprised that people tend to buy bikes from China?! There’s no motorcycle brand that cares about anything but making money, which is sad, because it’s always YOU who ends up paying more in the end (or premium prices for overpriced features, or facing constant failures). It’s so sad that we learned to not only accept it, but even justify it! “Pay more for a better product” you’re not paying more for a better product: you’re just filling someone’s pockets, who decides anyway to exploit cheap labour in countries like China or India (I’m talking mainly about BMW and KTM) just to turn even more profit, on the (already inflated) price he charges you. Sad, sad, sad…

[@dznnf7]

Hard to have much respect for these Chinese companies with stolen designs. Perhaps a licensed engine, but not an actual Honda engine. Price of these won't be super cheap, resale will be lower than whale shit, and this makes Reiju look like they're on borrowed time. I could predict they'll be broke in a couple years, but they're Spanish so that's a given. Buy a Honda and some aftermarket wheels. If you really need the tanks, buy some from a Reiju dealer and retrofit them. But you know what? They won't be available. Like a lot of other parts. And a Reiju dealer, come to think of it. Way too many grifters in the motorcycle marketplace.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

It's a shame to see this happen. It's great they are still making the old Gas Gas models in their Spanish factory, but the latest press release shows they'll be bringing in a pile of cheap Chinese clones over the next year. 😢

[@msmax1138]

Its interesting, if i had the spare cash would buy it as an experiment, just to see if its worthwhile but probably wouldnt trust it for a while untill/if it proves itself reliable. the idea of a 45-50hp bike with a 400plus mile range is intriguing. ive shoved a KLR 650 with a 10 gallon IMS tank thru 55,000 miles on 10 less horsepower.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The crazy bit, Mark? From the pricing I've seen so far, it's not much cheaper than the incredibly reliable Honda CB500X in most countries. But Honda refuses to release a model with similar mods which many are asking for. I simply wouldn't trust a Chinese bike in remote areas... too many potential issues.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@crosstrainingadventure You could always go KTM....

[@kingkire1556]

Nooooo! I seen Tractionerag post a pic if this bike and was so excited, now I'm so disappointed

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Same here... would have been very interested if this had been designed by Rieju and made in Spain.

[@drzrider3440]

As far as looks, it looks great, if the power plant is truly a honda engine, it could be a winner if priced right. Since KTM pulled a no show at EICMA again, im guessing no KTM490 in the near future. So this could be an alternate choice, looks way better than the CB500X. Just not sure on quality of the rest of the bike. Only time will tell. On paper it looks good. Love the 2nd tank idea. Stolen from the GS. Which i wish BMW would bring back the 650, as it would sell like crazy now.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

It's definitely Honda's design, but of course it depends how many short cuts Loncin take with the quality of metals, tolerances etc. It's interesting to note that many long term BMW owners believe quality has been steadily dropping since 2000 and that Loncin making some of the engines from 2007 on may be part of this overall drop in quality.

[@billyb6043]

thing to do is buy the Reiju and swap the engine for a genuine Honda unit....:)

[@johnherbert5919]

21 front and what looks like slightly longer suspension travel, ok so far but what about weight? If it sits anywhere near 160 kg it could be worth a look.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

As per the vid they are claiming 190kg dry so it will probably be something like 215kg or more wet.

[@nickabrahall1412]

Just found out it has 40 LITRES of fuel storage! At least they get the adventure bike

[@FernitoAM]

Great video, love your work. Something that is often missed when it comes to Chinese bikes and this whole debate is why it seems chinese companies to produce what everyone is asking for while the trusty traditional manufacturers don't Cfmoto 650 gt mid sized faired sport tourer. Nobody else does this Rieju 500. How many people wants a 500cc twin with decent range, clerance and suspenion? Imagine a Honda or suzuki producing something like this rieju for 12/14k AUD. The chinese companies might lack quality or whatever but seems they have the market focus that the big nams are lacking. Also, for example, the basic tenere 700 costs 19,499 AUD! It is a great bike of course but is very basic, no tech with an already developed engine, why so expensive? (Because they can, there is no competion) I believe prices are going crazy (Aus) and this is creating the room for new options/manufacturers

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Good points, Fernito. Yes the Japanese have certainly lost most of that innovation they had in the 1980s and 1990s. I think they could easily become leaders in the adventure market if the accountants did not control everything!

[@davidnobular9220]

@@crosstrainingadventure I dunno.....I'm liking the look of the new Vstrom 800 - except for the weight. New Translap does not have enough suspension for my area with all our 30cm deep potholes in the roads.

[@robdefire4747]

I read somewhere it doesnt have ABS.

[@davidnobular9220]

Excellent. I'm all for it. Personally, I am not a fan of the NSB (Nanny State B*hit)

[@WhatTimeIsIt369]

I'd bid up to $500 Canadian if it could be delivered to my door full of gas and oil.

[@whatsgoingon71]

That would be 39 liters of gas, because it has two separate tanks.

[@WhatTimeIsIt369]

@@whatsgoingon71 39 litres in Canada is about $400. Sure would be nice is Canada had some natural resources like fuel. Wait??

[@whatsgoingon71]

@@WhatTimeIsIt369 WTF? Are you paying in turkisch Lira over there?

[@actstuntcam]

I'd buy one. If Honda are too stupid to build something like this, we should support companies that will. To be a little critical, It is 10hp too low and 10kg too heavy, but otherwise it is on the right track. It also looks a million times cooler than that shite Transalp. It looks exactly like a Baby Africa Twin - just needs a better sticker kit. It is the bike Honda should have built.

[@CraigOverend]

Watch "Kove 500X broken frame" on B4R :)

[@crosstrainingadventure]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6icf5KYettladU Not good. I wonder if that was from normal riding or someone trying to jump the bike?

[@KN-lq4zv]

Ridiculous that name brand manufacturers let the Chinese get away with this, the quality is a proven mess, yet we continue to support it. No doubt in the comments we will get loads of examples. But good luck to those who buy an adventure bike with the intention of taking it out to the middle of nowhere, I guarantee when it fails and wrecks your planned trip, a couple of thousand won’t feel like much of a saving.

[@davidnobular9220]

When you get rescued by guys on KTMs you KNOW your bike's got a reliability problem.....

[@KN-lq4zv]

@@davidnobular9220 I ran a Ktm dealership in the late 90’s and I agree with that comment 😂

[@lozt6032]

Tubeless 21/18 wheels, 47 BHP, 190 kgs dry, 40L fuel capacity, 190mm travel front and rear, dash can connect to a phone.

[@rrphotography3600]

Didn't realise it was used honda designs. Tbh it looks more like a baby Africa twin then the cb500x or the xl750. The lower weight and bigger fuel tanks would be a big draw to pick over the cb500x.

[@yodapig]

It's only lower weight when empty... the extra tank is a nice option, but you can comfortably get 250+miles (and 300 if you're riding conservatively) from the CB500X already.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The Chinese bike is 190kg dry weight so it will be a fair bit heavier than the CB500X with its 178kg dry weight.

[@yorkchris10]

If it's a new build engine, I'd wait no matter who makes it. Sometimes reproduction engines aren't faithfull to original design and that may be to correct a fault. Otherwise, the specs look good.☘

[@tiagofigueiredo2529]

The engine is made by Loncin and is a copy of the Honda PC44E CB500X/F/R engine.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Yes. The question is do they have a license from Honda? I actually emailed Honda Australia about this and eventually got a short reply saying there is no agreement with Loncin. I asked more questions but never got a reply. I did find an article that said Loncin 'reverse engineered' the CB500R motor so there's a good chance they have just made some minor changes and hope that Honda won't pursue it legally... very difficult to do in the Chinese legal system nowadays.

[@snupermoto723]

buy one? not even with your money.

[@MartinLV.]

i would get one if it cost grand under honda cb500x or so.

[@SimonBrisbane]

So price is your number 1 factor. The Chinese people know there are many people like you that’s why they will always undercut competitor pricing, even if they cut corners to do it.

[@MartinLV.]

@@SimonBrisbane I understand that

[@laynetravis]

No!that one no...but Chineses companies become much better

[@ButterySAM777]

The front reminds me of the new Moto Guzzi V100, just a resemblance.

[@RobSoap-i7t]

6600 £ Uk at the moment. They look a pretty good bike tbh As you say time will tell

[@crosstrainingadventure]

A very interesting article about illegal Chinese copies of bikes from BMW, Honda, Ducati and Harley Davidson. The gist? In most cases it's illegal but it is very difficult and expensive to take any action (and I suspect that the Chinese factories would simply shut down then re-open under another name). www.advrider.com/so-sue-me-say-the-chinese-factories/

[@marymallia9988]

People have been asking for a bike like this for ages, and if Honda ignored their clients, people will look elsewhere.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I understand everyone's frustration with Honda, I know I have been with some of the models they've axed and others they refuse to improve! But nonetheless it seems that a Chinese company is illegally copying Honda's designs and Rieju is becoming part of that (possibly knowingly)....

[@onthepegs]

Was hoping to get an EU bike from Rieju

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I suspect that's what we all thought when we first saw this and our eyes lit up.

[@wyattblessing7078]

I'd buy one if I hated my life and wanted to die from a mechanical failure at 70mph (112kph).

[@nickhellen6303]

I think 70mph is 112kph. You’re doing yourself a dis-service here. But your attitude is right.

[@wyattblessing7078]

@@nickhellen6303 ty, corrected. Wasn't quite sober math at the time

[@crosstrainingadventure]

This snapped frame isn't encouraging... kzbin.info/www/bejne/p6icf5KYettladU

[@il6113]

Thanks for posting it. It seems like you are pretty much the only voice for this most important topic in the world of motorcycling, which is frustrating. Personally, would never buy any of this ever growing China’s pile of crap. Not making business with thieves.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I'm surprised that none of the magazines or social media reviewers have discussed what appears to be intellectual property theft. Honda has confirmed they never gave a license for their engine to be copied. Rieju have still not responded to my questions. I've just sent them a reminder.

[@petewebb5149]

How do we get Honda to copy this bike to make the model that more people would buy as a better adv bike off the showroom floor?

[@nickhellen6303]

How’s about “ Super Happy Fun Bike”? That’d be a great Chinese bike name. Or “ Super Dragon Dirt Monster”? Maybe “All China Top Class bike”? Haven’t we had this -for want of a better word- discourse previously? With the general consensus being that if one had to buy one, then it was a far more preferable option for some other ‘one’ to do so, and not the “one” meaning you. i.e.-some other poor unlucky sod. Or that guy you really loathe.

[@alfnoakes392]

Without an established dealership network (ie established name or actual investment in building up a network) then any guarantee is not worth the paper it is printed on. There are cheapish bikes around (maybe not Chinese knock-off cheap ...) that will do the job and are proven designs with proper brand backup. You get what you pay for ...

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I agree, Alf. Much of this copy is based on the Honda CB500X which is often around the same price or not much more in some countries. These Chinese clones are made very cheaply but whoever imports them often puts on a hefty markup to cash in.

[@Attz0r]

Yeah if I want something cheap I’ll buy a used Japanese bike still. At least when I buy a Honda or Yamaha I know I can fix it and I can feel good about supporting a company that supports tens of thousands of Americans and American communities with employment.

[@sredju]

Rieju charges 1700 euros more for Aventura than Honda for CB 500x.

[@porkoholic]

I guess its fine for them to make cheaper copies of comparitively expensive international bikes for their domestic market. But please dont sell them internationally

[@baisleyde]

I wonder how many lashings the little chinese girl who puts the seat cover on gets when she doesnt do it fast enough.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Who knows? Australian research identified 83 companies benefiting from forced labour of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. BMW was one of them. I have thought about contacting major motorbike manufacturers and asking if they can guarantee they aren't part of this. www.aspi.org.au/report/uyghurs-sale

[@herissonsudo3571]

Why so heavy ?

[@bens_gone_nomad5299]

Probably made of pig iron not alloy

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I reckon there'd be a fair bit of weight too with the bashplate, engine guards, handguards and rear rack.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@bens_gone_nomad5299 Like a DR650 ? 😁

[@tazyt3388]

Nope neve guna own that mate

[@massdrivemoto]

The question is..... How much more expensive do the usual suspects have to be before these "off brands" become to appealing for the average consumer to ignore?

[@rod1449]

I have a can opener made in China. Now I can't open cans anymore.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

The metal is probably softer than that used for the cans, Rod?

[@luispnrf]

About the snapped frame. It appears that the engine is part of the structure and the connection from the engine to the frame was removed. But I don't understand a word he's saying so... kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpqonpyPfrl1ebs

[@sorin.n]

You are pronouncung the chineze manufacturer's name way too correct and I am now suspicious. 😅👍 Don't blow your cover. 😁

[@crosstrainingadventure]

😎

[@mrsilbo6499]

Rieju & Gas Gas are nothing to do with each other. Gas Gas are part of the Pierer Mobility Group.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

In 2019 they acquired a 60% stake in GasGas. And then a year later Rieju bought the rights to the dirt bike designs. So there's a tenuous link perhaps but Pierer is not using the old designs.

[@sergioagostinho1]

top top 500 cc 21 Frontwehl

[@todddavis240]

4K

[@queenslander954]

Why take a chance , better off spending that money on a Second Hand T700 .. valve for $ ,

[@Enemiesexposed]

This helmet hurts my ears mate?

[@richardvalitalo3670]

Made in Japan only for me.

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Which is an interesting point, Richard. Quite a few Hondas are now made in Thailand (e.g. Honda CB500X) but admittedly this doesn't seem to have affected the standard. Honda appear to have kept the quality control up.

[@scannorse]

So, you wouldnt touch BMW, KTM, Yamaha, Honda, others ?

[@WillieJohnRidesAgain]

It’s hard. But I try not to buy anything made in China.

[@陈卓异-t7c]

竟然看到了国产品牌，不可思议

[@davidnobular9220]

我想知道它们是广州制造的吗？

[@陈卓异-t7c]

@@davidnobular9220 重庆

[@davidnobular9220]

@@陈卓异-t7c I see, thanks !

[@陈卓异-t7c]

@@davidnobular9220 🤝

[@waynemac9869]

No, will only spend my money on proven Japanese motorcycles.

[@Mark-rv5dd]

Nope

[@mosa4688]

If only Honda would make one. Are they deaf?

[@crosstrainingadventure]

Good point. Rallyraid are cashing in by providing spoked wheels and better suspension for the Honda CB500X... but they don't seem to provide a 21 inch front wheel.

[@mosa4688]

@@crosstrainingadventure Yeah I rode my wife's CB500X on a trip up to the Gulf, and they are a great little bike with an absolute mega ton of potential. I don't think the 21 inch is a deal breaker for most people - I did notice the difference in some more challenging detours we took on the way, but if you are not trying snotty single track it is manageable.

[@jasons44]

NO

[@SimonBrisbane]

If you’re unAustralian you will buy this.

[@gormalfun99]

Lol

[@lycian123]

Anyone here remember when Japan were doing this in 1971? Legally copied?? This is a good bike. Z and Millenials look away.

[@xt225]

You seem to have a personal issue with the Chinese and let it smother your videos about their motorcycles.

[@bens_gone_nomad5299]

It seems like he’s the one speaking for the masses by asking legitimate questions that should be answered. If these Chinese brands are legitimate and are as good as any other then what’s the problem unless they have something to hide because I’m sure if other brands lowered there quality to that of the Chinese brands to lower the price the customers & KZbinrs of the world would let it be known look at some of the safety gear that was good but is now questionable.

[@wyattblessing7078]

I have a personal issue with the Chinese who produce bad quality items. I mean the cheap and broken crap I get scammed with is bad enough, but a motorcycle will get you killed.\ P.S. I have no issue with Chinese people, or Chinese companies who produce quality products at a good price.

[@SimonBrisbane]

He’s far from alone. Why purchase from a country that abuses human rights and slaps arbitrary tariffs and bans on Australian exporters? They harm our economy and we should buy their inferior products? Cool story bro..

[@xt225]

@@wyattblessing7078 it's unfortunate that you keep getting scammed with cheap and broken crap.

[@wyattblessing7078]

@@xt225 it seems you got scammed by a cheap and broken book on introductory psychology.

[@euricosousateixeira6821]

Made in China ....Nou tank you

[@arnauddechamps855]

This bike is bullet proof proven in China for the past 2 years, simply because it is a Honda engine copy. in terms of chassis and performance, clearly the HJ bike is much better than the 500X, as they have plenty of videos on it already performing on Races and offroad track and MX tracks. HJ and Cove are different companies (I know very well because I work with HJ for a couple of years now). First also the fuel tank is at the back on the HJ, so it is not a copy of the 500X. It is a nice bike because cheap, but as usual, they sell to importer the retail price in China, so depending on the country it is not really a good bargain if you want to import it. We will see more and more of maybe look a like copy, as the west as declare war on China, now they do not care so much about IP anymore. Yet on the EV segment they are the ones innovative.

[@rethinking-h8k]

It's a good cb500x Chinese knock of. It's sold under the name of kove 500x and Daytona. This guy goes over all the cb knock of, and came to the conclusion that its the best from the bunch. In around 1:02:00 kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHykZoVum7l6sJIsi=9uaSoUT9hwv_HsVo Actually its sounds much more reasonable than building the rr kit. Here you get kyb suspension, 21'/18' wheels. Big fuel tank. Everything that is missing in the cb500x. All that came for cheap... And the official weight are with all the farkels, like guards, protections, etc..

[@crosstrainingadventure]

I'm keen to eventually see the long term reports from owners. A real concern for me is the quality of all the components we can't see. E.g. if they save money with low or medium quality bearings, it would be a real shame if you were looking at major engine rebuilds in, say, half the time you'd expect on a Japanese model. Only time will tell.

[@rethinking-h8k]

@crosstrainingadventure correct... Well done mate, you are a major inspiration for me 👌👌

[@phuketbungalowinfo2757]

do the wheels fit a CB500X 2019 model? I bet a lot of riders would change to the spoked ones immidiately. I think its a beautiful bike and i would definately like to testriding her Any infos on the price yet? And btw, belive it or not but the CHINESE will take over the Car and Motorcycle market sooner or later anyways and i gaf if it says MERCEDES, FORD (Mazda) BMW or VolksWagen on my car if it is half the price and reliable. To be honest, most of the costs in the West are nowadays burned in Administration, even HONDA paintings are so unbelivable thin and cheap you will lose it on your bike after a year or two, dont say no, check your HONDA engines out after two years, lots of colour gone because they are trying to safe 10 Bucks on colour for every bike made

[@dropbear9526]

I wouldn't want one if it was free.