Summary of Key Points
The once-regarded as "obsolete" motorcycle industry has now become a new battleground for urban competition in China. Chongqing leads the way with its production volume (7.857 million units in 2025, the highest in the country) and its complete industrial chain advantages, followed closely by Jiangmen, which relies on exports (accounting for nearly one-quarter of the national total), and Zhejiang, which has established itself as a "third pole" with its high-end brands (covering 40% of the national market for mid-to-large displacement motorcycles). The industry is transitioning from being merely a means of transportation to becoming a lifestyle. Policy changes, consumer upgrades, and technological advancements are driving growth, with electrification and intelligence set to be the decisive factors in the future. The race to become "China's number one motorcycle city" is far from over.
How Did Motorcycles Go from Being a "Fossil" to Becoming a Hot commodity?
In the past, motorcycles were primarily used for commuting, with small-displacement (125cc) models being dominant, and the market was characterized by a variety of brands and low profits. The turning point came in 2018: Chunfeng Power introduced high-displacement sports motorcycles, and Qianjiang acquired the century-old Italian brand Benelli, marking China's entry into the mid-to-high-end market. At the same time, over 20 cities, including Xi'an and Dalian, lifted restrictions on motorcycle sales, freeing up the market.
The numbers tell the story: domestic motorcycle sales were less than 17 million units in 2018, but they surpassed 22 million units by 2025; sales of high-displacement motorcycles (250cc and above) increased by 25%, far exceeding the industry average. Research and development costs also rose—4.3 billion yuan were spent in the first 11 months of 2025, accounting for one-tenth of profits—indicating breakthroughs in technologies such as electronic control and chips. Today, motorcycles are no longer just a necessity; they have become a trendy item among young people, with modifications, off-road riding, and community gatherings becoming part of a lifestyle.
What Are the Key Advantages of the Three Major Players?
1. Chongqing: A Self-Sufficient Industrial Chain
Chongqing's leading position in production is due to its local supply chain, with over 90% of components being produced locally—everything from screws to engines. Two companies, Longxin and Zongsen, account for half of Chongqing's production, and their engine technology is among the strongest in the country. This means they can control costs and improve efficiency efficiently.
2. Jiangmen: The Export Leader
Jiangmen's strength lies in its leading company, Dachangjiang Group, which sold 2.68 million motorcycles in 2025 (15% of the national fuel motorcycle market), maintaining this position for 23 consecutive years. Its export revenue exceeded 21 billion yuan, accounting for nearly one-quarter of the national total, indicating that it sells motorcycles to markets around the world.
3. Zhejiang: High-End Brands Driving Growth
Although Zhejiang doesn't have a significant production advantage, its brands Qianjiang (with Benelli) and Chunfeng Power target the high-end market. Qianjiang acquired Benelli to gain access to high-displacement technology, while Chunfeng's 650cc and 800cc models can compete directly with Japanese and European brands. These companies also build strong communities around their motorcycles, turning them into a part of a cultural phenomenon, and their export prices are 2-3 times higher than those of ordinary models, generating substantial brand value.
How Are New Players Competing for Market Share?
In addition to the three major players, several emerging players are making a name for themselves:
- Taizhou: A One-Stop Supply Center for Parts
Although Taizhou doesn't have high production volumes, it has a comprehensive range of motorcycle parts, making it a cost-effective option. Qianjiang motorcycles are produced here, and Taotao Motorcycle Industry's all-terrain vehicles are exported to Europe and America.
- Changzhou: Leveraging the New Energy Revolution
Changzhou benefits from its advanced new energy industry, with access to lithium batteries, motors, and electronic control systems. Companies like Xiaoniu Electric and Moyou Xingchu have set up factories here, focusing on high-end electric motorcycles and riding on the wave of new energy trends.
- Old Cities Reviving with New Strategies
Cities like Jinan Qingqi are bringing back vintage high-displacement models, while Luoyang Bei Yi (in collaboration with Yamaha) is developing fuel-injected engines, and Guangzhou Wuyang Honda is producing high-end scooters and electric motorcycles. These established brands can revive by finding new market niches.
Who Will Become the "Number One City" in the Future?
Two factors will determine the winner:
1. Electrification: The Biggest Game Changer
The global penetration rate of electric motorcycles is currently less than 10%, but the annual growth rate exceeds 30%. Chongqing plans to build a "smart connected electric vehicle base" with a target of 15 million units, while Zhejiang's Chunfeng and Qianjiang are investing heavily in high-performance electric motorcycles. Jiangmen's Dachangjiang Group is also expanding into the electric scooter market. The key will be who can master battery, motor, and electronic control technologies first.
2. Consumer Upgrades: A Large Opportunity in the High-End Market
By 2025, high-displacement motorcycles will account for only 4.3% of the market, compared to 30% in Europe and America, indicating significant growth potential. The core of high-end motorcycles lies in technology (engines, electronic control), design, and brand management. This is advantageous for Zhejiang's brand-focused strategy but poses a challenge for Chongqing's volume-based model.
In Conclusion: The Future Battle Will Depend on Four Key Elements
The winner will be the one that combines a complete industrial chain (to control costs), leading companies (to drive growth), rapid innovation (for technological advancement), and effective brand management (to generate profits). Chongqing has an industrial chain, Jiangmen has export capabilities, and Zhejiang has strong brands. Whoever can balance all these aspects will have the best chance of success. This race is just beginning.
The battle for "China's number one motorcycle city" is like a marathon—this is just the first half; the real competition lies ahead with electrification and high-end development. Which city do you think will emerge as the winner? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section!