#VanceHines

When last we visited this class three years ago, it wasn’t exactly this class but it was close. Triumph’s new Bonnevilles hadn’t been born yet, so a Moto Guzzi Griso 8V completed the threesome, along with the then-new Honda CB1100 and the original BMW R nineT.

CSC Motorcycles has been very busy introducing new models to its U.S. lineup. Last year it was the adventure-touring-styled Cyclone RX3 (which won an Honorable Mention award in 2015 for Best Value). In 2016 CSC has already introduced the RC3 and TT250, and now comes the RZ3, a naked bike version of the RC3, and upping CSC’s selection of model from 0 to four in just two years.

What do you think of when you hear “Chinese motorcycle?” Cheap, ugly, and under-performing? Those observations would be largely correct, as the majority of Chinese motorcycles to come to these shores (that’s the United States, for our international readers) were exactly that. Let’s face it: the words “Made In China” aren’t held in high regard.

CSC is quickly expanding its model range. In late 2014 we tested the 250cc adventure-touring RX3 Cyclone, and gave it a favorable review. A year later CSC announced the dual-sport TT250. We’re still waiting to see the TT250 in the flesh, but have been told it shouldn’t be much longer. Today, CSC announced a third 250cc motorcycle, the very sporty looking RC3.