Dear Japonly,

Thanks for taking the time to express your views in MCM.

I think if you spend much time in these threads you'd find that the vast majority of us who own, ride and wrench China bikes are pretty much in full agreement with you. Those of us who live in China have little choice in the matter because import duties and other restrictions make imported bikes almost impossibly expensive to own; we own China bikes because they are what are available. Those of us who live outside China and still buy these bikes do so for various reasons, but price is a big factor, along with perhaps a sense of pioneering or adventure. Those who bought Chinese thinking they were getting a "great deal" are actually few and far between, or have long since thrown in the towel.

Anyone who has done their homework by reading about any particular China bike here in MCM will have heard many honest and sometimes brutal assessments of the bikes' shortcomings, as well as, in some cases, their improvements over time.

Some of us dedicate a lot of effort to working with China's manufacturers to improve quality and service, but it's a long and thankless task that we do more out of necessity than choice. I'd rather ride my Jialing than not ride at all. It would not be my first choice of bike if I were living outside of China.

Bottom line: China bikes are a fact of life in most of the world now, including Australia. The same could be said for China's role in the Australian economy, for better or worse. You clearly are finding a way to deal with these facts, and your expert comments are appreciated.

Best thanks, and warmest regards!