Asian copycat rips off motorcycle brand

It seems Asian countries believe they are above international trade laws that bind other countries with the latest copycat ripoff being these Vietnamese “Ducati” Monsters.

The “Monsters” are made by Vietnamese company Quang Phuong Motor with a Thai-made 107cc engine and a four-speed transmission.

They even include “Ducati” on the fuel tank.

We all know Asian countries make cheap copies of well-known brands and many of us probably have a Gucci belt made of plastic in an Asian sweatshop.

That might seem harmless, but they also make blatant ripoffs of larger products including motorcycles and even cars.

Check out this electric Honda Goldwing from a Chinese manufacturer.

And how about this Chinese copy of a Range Rover Evoque?

Why is it a problem?

So why should we care? How does it affect us? Doesn’t it just mean cheaper products?

It’s simply wrong on so many levels.

First of all there is a humanitarian concern as many of these copycat companies use child labour and/or pay slave rates.

We don’t expect these “Vietcatis” will ever be imported to any country that supports international trade laws. However, it hasn’t stopped some manufacturers from exporting models that are design ripoffs.

Copycat vehicles are also a major safety concern for the occupants and other road users as they rarely meet safety standards. This could be a risk to you if you are visiting that country or they are imported to your country.

There are also ramifications for automotive companies which are losing revenue from these ripoffs. And as customers of these companies it is in our best interests that they are profitable and don’t end up on the scrapheap like Buell and Victory Motorcycles.

Harley-Davidson is one of the most copied brands around the world, mainly their merchandise. They have a team of lawyers who actively pursue copycat manufacturers.

However, the Chinese in particular are thumbing their noses at lawyers and international trade laws.

Several car manufacturers have tried to stop them copying their cars, but failed in the obstructive and partisan domestic legal system.

Some have thrown up their hands and formed alliances with Chinese companies to make their products for the local market.

Trade war

But with US President Donald J. Trump now threatening a trade war with China, the issue could move up a notch.

It seems the Don is intent in inflaming long-held international diplomacy.

However, it’s not as simple as increasing import duties on products from countries such as China. Many European and American manufacturers use parts and components made in these countries.

So long as the rest of the world refuses to do anything about these cheap copies, they will become bolder and bolder.