Having a single-sided swingarm is one thing that is normally related to efficiency. When in comparison with a regular swingarm with two sides, a single-sided swingarm can typically be lighter, and servicing the rear wheel can be a lot simpler. A characteristic as soon as discovered solely on high-end machines just like the Ducati Panigale, now, single-sided swingarms have grow to be a factor amongst beginner-focused Chinese language sportbikes.
We have seen it within the likes of the QJ Motor GS 550, the Kove 400 RR, and now, the Zongshen RC 401 R. Certainly, the latest sportbike from the Chinese language producer appears to be following the recipe of its fellow two-wheelers from the east, as clearly, having a single-sided swingarm appears to be the it-factor of todays made-in-China machines. Within the case of Zongsheng’s latest mannequin, the RC 401 R relies on an already present mannequin within the producer’s lineup, the RC 401, offered in 2022.
Marketed as an up-spec model of the RC 401, the RC 401 R is differentiated by the aforementioned single-sided swingarm, in addition to extra premium componentry corresponding to adjustable suspension from KYB, in addition to J.Juan twin entrance disc brakes and a single rear disc, all geared up with ABS from Bosch. Moreover, the addition of “R” within the mannequin’s identify means it is a lot sportier. That is evidenced by a extra aggressive ergonomics package deal consisting of decrease clip-ons, and better rear units.
From a efficiency standpoint, it would not actually differ a lot from the usual RC 401, because it’s geared up with a 401cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine. It will get a single overhead camshaft configuration, and an eight-valve cylinder head, and churns out 45 horsepower at 9,500 rpm, and 26 pound-feet of torque at 8,000 rpm. Prime velocity is alleged to be 150 kilometers per hour, or 94 miles per hour.
As for pricing and availability, the Zongshen Cyclone RC 401 R retails for 31,980 Yuan in China, which interprets to $4,603 USD—making for fairly a compelling various to extra mainstream machines. At current, it is nonetheless unknown whether or not or not Zongshen will launch this mannequin outdoors of China.
