Great Wall Motors (GWM), a major Chinese automaker, has launched its new motorcycle brand, Souo, and its first models, the S2000 GL and ST tourers. These bikes are designed to compete directly with Honda’s GoldWing, a dominant player in the luxury touring motorcycle market.
While full specifications haven’t been revealed yet, what we do know suggests the Souo models might have an edge over the GoldWing. The Souo boasts a larger 2,000cc flat-eight-clyinder engine compared to the Gold Wing’s 1,833cc engine. Additionally, the Souo utilises an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) compared to the Gold Wing’s seven-speed DCT.
Both bikes share a similar cast-aluminium frame design and Hossack-style girder front fork with a single shock absorber. This design is preferred for large touring motorcycles due to its comfort and stability benefits. Aesthetically, Souo takes a different direction than the GoldWing’s angular design. The Souo features a more retro-inspired look, drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese lion artwork. This is most evident in the headlight design, which resembles a lion’s eyes.
In terms of features, the Souo is loaded. The bikes come equipped with Brembo brakes, heated grips and seats, an electronic parking brake, automatic headlights, a stereo with Bluetooth and speaker options, and a large TFT screen. The controls are strikingly similar to the GoldWing’s layout, making it easy for GoldWing riders to transition to the Souo. This includes a directional pad for the TFT screen controls, buttons for electric screen height and stereo volume, a voice-control button, a switch for the electric reverse gear, and controls for the automatic and semi-automatic transmission modes.
The instrument cluster hints at an engine tuned for low-end torque rather than high revs, with a redline starting at 6,000 rpm. The speedometer goes up to 240kmph. Interestingly, the dash also has a 4G logo, suggesting the possibility of a built-in cellular network connection. While adaptive cruise control seems to be missing, the presence of blind-spot monitoring lights in the mirrors is visible.
The Souo S2000 is just the first step for the brand. GWM plans to introduce more models in the future, including a cruiser inspired by the Honda Rune and potentially expanding into other motorcycle segments. With its impressive flagship and ambitious plans, Souo has the potential to be a serious contender in the motorcycle market.