ZXMOTO Showcases MX250 and 450 Rally

The Chinese manufacturer displayed two off-road models in Malaysia as it prepares to expand beyond WorldSSP into motocross and rally competition.

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Following the recent launch of the ZXMOTO 820RR, 500RR and 500F in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, ZXMOTO Malaysia also showcased several upcoming models that could eventually make their way into the local market.

Among the motorcycles on display were the ZXMOTO 820R streetfighter, as well as two off-road models, the MX250 motocross bike and 450 Rally.

While neither model has been confirmed for the Malaysian market yet, their appearance provides an early look at ZXMOTO’s plans to expand its motorcycle portfolio beyond road-going models.

ZXMOTO MX250 Targets the 250cc Motocross Class

From the motorcycle displayed in Kuala Lumpur and the information provided, the ZXMOTO MX250 is positioned as a new contender in the competitive 250cc motocross segment. The motorcycle combines lightweight construction with a high-performance single-cylinder engine and modern fuel-injection technology.

Power comes from a 249.9cc single-cylinder, DOHC, four-valve, four-stroke engine producing a claimed 41hp. The engine is supported by a Bosch electronic dual-fuel-injector system. One of the MX250’s biggest highlights is its lightweight construction, with the motorcycle weighing approximately 102kg to 105kg.

The suspension package consists of KYB inverted fully adjustable front forks, while the chassis is built around an aluminium twin-spar frame, aluminium swingarm and aluminium subframe. Braking hardware comprises a 260mm front disc with a twin-piston caliper and a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper.

The MX250 rolls on traditional 21-inch front and 19-inch rear wire-spoke wheels, fitted with CST motocross tyres. The motorcycle also features a 6.5-litre fuel tank with a dual-fuel-tank system, together with a multi-function display and dashboard. Styling follows the familiar modern motocross formula, with slim bodywork, high-mounted mudguards and a tucked-away exhaust contributing to its race-focused appearance.

ZXMOTO has confirmed that the MX250 is expanding into international markets including the UK, Australia and New Zealand. For Malaysia, however, there is currently no official launch date confirmation from the local distributor, MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd.

Pricing has also yet to be announced. Based on its motocross-focused specification, the MX250 may be intended primarily for closed-circuit racing and training rather than road use, although local availability and homologation details remain unconfirmed.

450 Rally Brings Dakar-Inspired Design

Also attracting attention at the exhibition stand was the ZXMOTO 450 Rally, a lightweight endurance motorcycle designed with clear Dakar Rally influences.

The model enters a segment already associated with bikes such as the Kove 450 Rally, and its specification suggests that ZXMOTO is targeting riders looking for a serious long-distance off-road platform.

The 450 Rally is powered by a 449.9cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC four-stroke engine with four valves and titanium-alloy valves. Claimed output reaches 59hp.

The motorcycle uses a high-strength steel twin-spar frame, while a one-piece handlebar with guard is included as part of the equipment. One of its most distinctive features is the large 32-litre triple fuel-tank system, designed to provide the range needed for longer rally stages.

The motorcycle also features a tall 960mm seat height and a long-travel rally suspension setup, with a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel.

ZXMOTO Eyes MXGP and Dakar

The two off-road motorcycles are particularly interesting given ZXMOTO’s wider plans for international competition. ZXMOTO founder Zhang Xue has indicated that the company is targeting both the FIM Motocross World Championship (MXGP) and Dakar Rally as part of its future motorsport ambitions.

The manufacturer has confirmed its intention to enter the FIM Motocross World Championship from the 2027 season, adding another major international racing programme to its growing motorsport activities.

According to the programme’s plans, ZXMOTO intends to contest the full MXGP season from 2027, ideally with two riders, using a 450cc motorcycle developed between China and Europe. Racing director Jesús Rincón has confirmed that the motorcycle is already running while the team structure is being finalised.

ZXMOTO had originally considered making its debut in China during the current season but instead chose to focus its resources on preparing for the 2027 campaign.

The move would mark a significant expansion for ZXMOTO, which has already established itself in the FIM Supersport World Championship with the 820RR. The manufacturer has recorded WorldSSP victories this season with the EASTROC ZXMOTO Evan Bros Factory Team, giving it an established foundation in world championship racing.

With the MX250, 450 Rally and planned MXGP programme now part of the picture, ZXMOTO appears to be preparing for a much broader presence in global motorcycle racing beyond the tarmac.