Is this the cheap two stroke dirt motorbike we have been waiting for?
The GPX TSE300R with linkage has been released in the UK for 5950 pounds.
In the USA the cost is $6900.
The main potential problem?
It appears to be a Chinese clone of KTM's 300 with just a few minor changes.
And there is no evidence that KTM gave permission for Chinese manufacturers to copy their models.
We emailed GPX and asked if the Chinese factory actually has a
license to copy so many aspects of the KTM model.
GPX said they were unsure and would need to check with the factory.
Several weeks later, I asked if GPX had received
any further information as they commenced selling this new model.
The reply indicated GPX was not privy to any information about
permission from KTM for the Chinese manufacturer.
GPX also indicated they will be differentiating this model from other bikes in the market.
One of our guys has contacts with KTM Australia who confirmed with head office
that no such licenses were issued to copy the KTM 300 two stroke model.
So it will be interesting to see what the Chinese manufacturer says... if anything.
Where does the story start?
Some Chinese manufacturers have been making cheap illegal copies
of European and Japanese models for years.
Copies of the KTM 300 emerged recently. This one even claims to be 'authentic'.
The Chinese clones are priced between USD 1000 to $1200.
We had our mechanic inspect one of the GPX prototypes.
He thinks most of the clone is based on the the
carburetor models of the KTM 300 which finished in 2019.
However, a closer look at engine panels
and exhaust pipe shows that these appear to copy the later models.
Some of the plastics have a slightly different shape and the seat cover is different.
There may be other minor variations with the final GPX being sold as the
Chinese manufacturers present a range of options
to slightly differentiate the bike or upgrade certain parts like footpegs.
But of course if the basic overall design is still based on KTM's then there are all
sorts of legal problems if KTM never gave permission for copies to be made.
What about overall quality?
That remains to be seen. GPX in the UK say there is only a one month warranty for parts and labour.
The USA website doesn't mention any warranty but it may be similar.
Meagan Griffiths, also known as Megs Braap, recently began riding a GPX prototype.
She reported some parts are made of material that is too soft or brittle.
The kick starter cracked and the gear shift is soft and bends easily.
Our mechanic said the linkage had about 6mm of side to side
movement which appeared to be due to poor design.
The spokes were made of aluminum instead of zinc plated steel or stainless.
The wiring connectors did not appear to be as rugged as genuine KTM items.
Poor quality metals have been a consistent theme
with cheap Chinese clones so it will be interesting to see long-term reports.
If this is an illegal copy, what might happen?
Honda has successfully blocked import of Chinese clones in the past.
Will KTM take similar action?
Or will evidence emerge that these are indeed legal copies and might
be a reasonable quality budget dirt motorbike?
What do you guys think?
Does it matter whether this is a legal copy or otherwise?
Would you buy one?
Keen to hear your thoughts.