The Zongshen 200 GS, also known as Xplorer z200, zs200GS or simply 200GS, is the first of Zongshen, Chongqing Group's line-up of "Sport touring bikes". First introduced worldwide in 2004, and is continuously being sold by bona fide Zongshen distributors in different countries, even though the second in-line Zongshen 250 GS is now being marketed. The Zongshen Chongqing Group is one of the five largest motorcycle manufacturers in China. They are presently in partnerships with Harley Davidson and Piaggio. The bike is distributed under different brand names:
Bike Model
Brand
Company
Country
zs200GS
Zongshen
Zongshen Chongqing Group
China
Xplorer z200
Motorstar
Eastworld
Philippines
z200
Rego
Hausmotors
Philippines
zs200GS
Zealsun
Turkey
zs200GS
Zongshen
Zongshen America
U.S.
SR200
Yumbo
Deceleste Uruguay
Uruguay
Design
Zongshen designed the 200GS with economy in mind for "Sport touring" bike. Instead of remodelling an existing Super Sports engine for public road use or to be street legal, a dedicated single-cylinder four-stroke 200 cc engine was chosen for increased fuel mileage. This engine utilizes an old-school push rod valve system to ensure long-distance engine endurance, eliminating risks of timing chain failure due to the piling heat during a long-distance travel. Yet, the push rod design is a compromise to its top speed, allowing it to settle to a maximum of speed capability. Pushing the z200 to very high rpms exposes it to risks of "valve float". The overall design takes advantage of heavy sports aerodynamics to promote stability on highways, high capacityfuel tank, and emphasizes somewhat eye-catching muscularity. The engine is air-cooled, making the half-fairing design necessary for the proper air flow. The 200GS does not have ready ports for saddle-bags, and doesn't include touring accessories upon purchase. Owners intending to use this bike for tours or adventures must have the necessary implementations furnished. The absence of touring accessories makes the 200GS easily mistaken for an underpowered "MotoGP wannabe", Chinese sports bike.
The 200GS push-rod engine uses early Honda technology. Owners in the Philippines discovered that many engine parts are compatible or interchangeable with the parts of a Honda TMX-155 engine.
Care is required with the automatic start. The starter clutch will break down easily with longer pressing of the starter switch. Riders in the Philippines complains frequent replacements of their starter clutches.
