Zongshen RA9 Concept Unveiled In China

The Zongshen RA9 concept v-twin cruiser seems almost production-ready, and employs an engine which seems to be derived from an Aprilia powerplant.

By Carandbike Team

1 mins read

Published on September 29, 2021

Highlights

The Zongshen RA9 concept is a v-twin power cruiser
The RA9 appears to borrow heavily from Aprilia bikes
The frame and chassis seem to be derived from Aprilia models

Chinese motorcycle brand Zongshen has unveiled a new v-twin concept cruiser, called the Zongshen RA9 at the recent CIMA Motor Show held in Chongqing, China. Zongshen is the Chinese partner of the Piaggio Group, and the Cyclone range is the high-end range of motorcycles from Zongshen. At the show, the Zongshen Cyclone RA9 was presented as a concept. From what we can see, the v-twin cruiser looks quite close to a production model, and going by how competitive the Chinese motorcycle industry is these days, a production model may be unveiled sooner than we expect. Also Read: Zongshen Cyclone RG3 Sports Tourer Unveiled In China The Zongshen RA9 concept shares engine and chassis components which appear to be shared with the Aprilia Shiver and Dorsoduro models. Zongshen has a collaboration with the Piaggio Group. Also Read: Zongshen Cyclone RE3 Launched In China The Cyclone RA9 incorporates several production components, including the engine and the frame, which are possibly developments from the Aprilia Shiver and Aprilia Dorsoduro. The tubular steel front section of the chassis and cast alloy rear is shared with the Aprilia bikes, although the single-sided swingarm and radical bodywork seem to be designed by Zongshen. The concept employs a single-seat design, so it doesn't have any capability for carrying a pillion or luggage, although those are bound to change on the production model, when it's unveiled eventually. Also Read: Zongshen Cyclone RX6 With Norton 650 cc Engine Officially Revealed The RA9's DOHC v-twin is also derived from the Aprilia powerplant, but displacement is different with the engine displacing 987 cc. According to the specs announced, the RA9's engine will put out 112 bhp at 9,500 rpm, with 98 Nm of peak torque kicking in at 7,500 rpm. The concept's kerb weight is listed at 215 kg, while suspension, without any branding visible on the concept is fully adjustable. Brakes are by Brembo-owned J. Juan, employing radial calipers. So far, there's no word on when Zongshen will introduce the new cruiser.