Following our discussion about the motorcycle model strikingly similar to the Honda Africa Twin, another variant has emerged: the Gold Wing-inspired Starship 6. This model is manufactured by the Chinese company PFMoto and is considered the elder sibling of the Starship 3.
PFMoto is a significant player in China's motorcycle industry, with its history intertwined with engine manufacturer Lifan. Lifan is part of the Chinese Geely group, which owns renowned car brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus and holds a stake in Mercedes-Benz. In the two-wheeler sector, Geely owns Qianjiang, QJMotor, and Benelli.
According to Motorrad, both the Starship 6 and Starship 3 will feature a liquid-cooled V-twin engine. However, the Starship 6's displacement is nearly double that of the Starship 3, increasing from 304 cc to 573 cc. The Starship 6's power will thus rise to 60 hp, thanks to the incorporation of Lifan's LF600 engine, which delivers 58.5 hp and a maximum torque of 55 Nm.
The Starship 6, a 600 cruiser complete with side cases and a top case, is not exactly a lightweight model from PFMoto, weighing in at 280 kg. The seat is relatively low, positioned 740 mm from the ground, which allows almost any rider to safely operate the Starship 6.
The design of both Chinese cruisers is clearly inspired by the Honda Gold Wing, a motorcycle considered by many around the world to be unparalleled. The Starship 6 features an adjustable windshield, large color screens in the instrumentation, an audio system with speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and LED headlights front and rear.
Inverted forks, ABS, and four-piston radial-mount brake calipers round out the package. While PFMoto has not yet provided information about the tank capacity, the range is known to be 450 km. Based on an estimated fuel consumption of about 5 liters per 100 kilometers, the tank should have a minimum capacity of 22.5 liters.
In conclusion, the Starship 6, with its clear inspiration from the Honda Gold Wing and its Chinese manufacturing roots, represents a unique blend of Japanese design and Chinese production capabilities. As the motorcycle industry continues to evolve, such cross-cultural influences are likely to become increasingly common.
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