Xispa X250R looks familiar
Published: 06th September 2007
SPANISH mini-bike manufacturer, Xispa, launched its eagerly awaited full size trials bike at the Grand Prix of Andorra. The company’s 2008 range will feature three models - 280, 250 and 125 - but only the midsize capacity machine was unveiled to the public and press. While the initial impression of the sleek looking black, grey and red two-stroke model was favourable, the comments about it’s similarity to a more well established Spanish brand soon be-came the overriding topic of conversation amongst the industry, media and public alike. Especially when a retail price a full £1,000 cheaper than any of its similar rivals was revealed.
Although the bike on display looked relatively well finished, it would seem it was a non running pre-production version, as re-quests to hear the engine run were met with a negative response. According to the information provided, only 30% of the bike is made in China, with everything assembled in the Xispa factory just outside of Gerona.
On closer inspection, the X250R includes several main components with a Chinese origin. This list includes front forks, rear shock, front and rear brake callipers, plus master cylinders, not to mention the engine and the carburettor, although an alternative Dellorto carb is included on the spec sheet.
Other technical details include a five-speed gearbox, six plate clutch, a chromoly perimeter frame, Dunlop tyres and an overall dry weight of 69.5 kg.
Gas Gas importer, John Shirt is the current UK outlet for the Xispa mini-bike range, but at the time of going to press no official British distributor had been announced for the full size bikes, with there being a potential conflict of interest with Shirt’s main business.
Rumours are that Xispa - Spanish for explosion - is set to explode on to the world stage next season, and the company has already been in discussions with some top riders with regards to contesting the 2008 World championship aboard the new two-stroke.
Only once a running version has been ridden and evaluated, will the full extent of the true potential of this budget priced trials bike be apparent.
T+MX will bring you more Xispa news as and when it unfolds...
