It makes the Honda Gold Wing look small
It makes the Honda Gold Wing look small
Great Wall Motors has officially unveiled its new motorcycle brand, Souo, and straight away it believes in going big right from the start. Yep, the GWM Souo S2000 GL and ST are the two grand tourers that have been launched with some interestingly grand elements, star of it being the 2-litre 8-cylinder engine.
The Great Wall Motors Souo S2000 has a distinct presence. It takes inspiration from the Gold Wing's angular lines, embracing a more retro-futuristic aesthetic. Furthermore, it draws inspiration from traditional Chinese lion sculptures, which is evident in the imposing headlight cluster resembling a lion's gaze. This sits beneath a dramatically raked windscreen, giving the bike a powerful stance.
Beneath the majestic body panels lies a cast aluminium frame and Hossack-style front suspension with double wishbones. This mirrors the Gold Wing's setup, which has proven functionality for large touring motorcycles.
Great Wall Motors Souo S2000 throws down the gauntlet with its engine. This mammoth has a monstrous 2,000cc flat-eight engine. This powerhouse is expected to prioritise low-end torque for effortless cruising, a key feature for long-distance riders. This engine is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
The Great Wall Motors Souo S2000 comes loaded with features, all focused on comfortable touring. There is a premium sound system with Bluetooth connectivity, and heated grips and seats for year-round comfort. It also gets an electronic parking brake and automatic headlights for added safety.
The focus on rider comfort extends to the controls. The layout on the handlebars is strikingly similar to the other mega touring machines. This makes it intuitive for existing touring riders to switch. A large TFT display provides essential information, while buttons for cruise control, audio volume, and electric windshield adjustment are readily accessible. Rider assistance features like blind-spot monitoring further enhance safety.
The Great Wall Motors Souo S2000 presents a formidable rival to the Honda Gold Wing. With a potentially more powerful engine, a more advanced transmission, and a feature-rich package, it is aiming to redefine the touring motorcycle experience. While the design borrows elements from established players, it carves out a unique identity with its Chinese artistic influences.
