Chinese manufacturer secures historic double victory at World Superbike Championship

A Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, ZXMOTO, made history at the World Superbike Championship Portuguese round, which concluded on March 29. The relatively new team secured victories in both races of the World Supersport category, marking the first time a Chinese motorcycle manufacturer has won at this premier global competition. The achievement also broke the long-standing dominance of established brands such as Ducati and Yamaha in the class.

Behind the breakthrough is Zhang Xue, whose journey from a workshop to the global racing stage has drawn widespread attention.

Driven by his love and passion for motorcycles, Zhang, who was born in a small village in Huaihua, Central China's Hunan province, began working as a motorcycle repair apprentice at the age of 14. Spending long hours dismantling and studying engines, he developed technical expertise, bringing him a step closer to his racing dream. He worked hard and saved to buy a rickety second-hand motorbike to practice skills.

In 2006, at just 19, Zhang did what many considered "crazy" — riding more than 100 kilometers in the rain for a chance to appear on television and showcase his riding skills. Although his initial attempt fell short, his persistence paid off, eventually earning him an opportunity with a professional racing team. He later worked as both a stunt rider and mechanic, achieving podium finishes in domestic competitions.

However, years of high-intensity training led to injuries, while limitations in China's motorcycle industry exposed a significant technological gap with global leaders. Realizing this, Zhang shifted his focus from racing to manufacturing.

Between 2009 and 2012, he worked at a motorcycle factory in Zhejiang province, mastering the full vehicle development process. In 2013, he moved to Chongqing, a major hub of China's motorcycle industry, where he began his own journey of motorcycle manufacturing. In 2024, he founded ZXMOTO, aiming to develop fully independent engine technology.

His efforts culminated in the launch of the 820RR, a mass-produced civilian motorcycle powered by a domestically developed engine. Adapted for racing, the model delivered the team's historic double victory in Portugal.

He Chun contributed to the story.