Photos by Carl Parker and Skip Smith

The motorcycle market is down and nearly every corner of the industry has been rocked by the recent financial slump. Magazines are giving away subscriptions, businesses are closing and many major manufacturers are bringing few, if any, new models to the US for 2010. Although generally scaled down from previous years, the North American Chinese motorcycle industry showed promise at this year's Dealer Expo with a few new models and a healthy mix of inspired riders literally producing their dreams through access to low-cost manufacturing

Although many aspects of the Chinese motorcycle industry can be criticized, it's plain to see that the availability of inexpensive manufacturing to a wide range of inspired designers has given many folks an opportunity to play a game that would have otherwise been limited to the big boys only. Sometimes what a passionate individual needs to succeed is a dream and a means to make it happen....and some elbow grease.

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Perhaps the most evident proof of this is was found in the Chinese Pavillion under the QingQi-Rhon tent. QingQi and Rhon manufacture an internationally successful Suzuki DR200 derived enduro model. The Rhon group OEM's multiple models and is the source manufacturer for Scott Colosimo of Cleveland Cycle Werks who, somewhat like Johnny Pag, has spec'd two models to be sold in the US. The first, called "The Misfit" a Cafe Racer inspired model reminiscent of an old Ducati. "The Heist" is a distinctive American chopper style with a long raked out fork and 250cc motor. With a hard tail and suspended seat, it certainly has the potential to be an interesting ride on many levels.

- The Heist, a custom built chopper by Cleveland Cycles -

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I can't help myself
The stock 'pegs on the Kinlon motard are a bit small for my big feet, and without the rubber ...