Following the World Superbike Championship (WSBK) Portuguese round's WorldSSP category on March 29, Zhang Xue's motorcycle brand gained widespread attention online. Dealers have reported that orders for Zhang Xue Motorcycles have surged. However, a video circulated online showing the company's founder, Zhang Xue, explaining that its pre-sale large-displacement 820RR model has drawn complaints to market regulators due to a policy prohibiting purchases by riders with less than one year of riding experience.
According to reports on April 1, the Chongqing Liangjiang New Area Market Supervision Administration clarified that it has not imposed any penalties on the company. A staff member stated, "This is a misunderstanding. We did not issue a rectification notice. After receiving a complaint, we contacted the company to understand the situation, and they mistakenly thought we were going to penalize them. We have since clarified the matter."
On March 21, Zhang Xue Motorcycles opened pre-orders for its sportbike model, the 820RR. The pre-order notice specified that due to the model's powerful performance, which may be difficult for novice riders to handle, individuals with less than one year of motorcycle riding experience are prohibited from purchasing the bike. If a rider with less than one year of experience manages to purchase the vehicle from a dealer, they can report it to the manufacturer. Upon verification, the manufacturer will reward the informant with 5,000 yuan.
Zhang Xue defended the rule by stating, "I hope to prevent fatalities." He acknowledged that this policy would impact sales, estimating a reduction of at least 10%. However, he added, "I am willing to forgo that 10%. The company will not collapse as a result."
Analyses suggest that behind Zhang Xue's ban on novice riders lies a broader issue: some riders are overly enthusiastic about high-speed stunts, while safety education remains inadequate. Additionally, some consumers chase high-displacement, high-horsepower motorcycles but neglect fundamental riding etiquette. Zhang Xue's "novice ban" reflects not only an entrepreneur's respect for life but also highlights the pressing need for improved safety and order in China's motorcycle market.
This seemingly unprofitable stance underscores a rare quality in business: refusing to pander to market trends or chase viral popularity, even at the cost of short-term gains. It emphasizes that passion should not equate to recklessness, and speed must be paired with responsibility. True industrial progress is not solely about achieving the highest speeds. As the world hears the roar of Chinese engines, it is crucial to demonstrate that behind this sound lies passion, rationality, boundaries, and a profound respect for life. Otherwise, even the most dazzling trophies may eventually be overshadowed by the consequences of uncontrolled speed.
On April 1, the Traffic Management Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security expressed support for Zhang Xue's policy, stating that he is willing to sacrifice 10% of sales to keep high-displacement motorcycles out of the hands of inexperienced riders. While helmets and protective gear are essential for professional riding, the "novice ban" represents a fundamental safety commitment to the motorcycle community. True passion is not about indulgence but understanding limits. Speed may ignite excitement, but only responsibility can ensure that passion endures.