In recent years manufacturers have brought out new products in the ADV field. Today we’re introducing an ADV that suits the aesthetic taste of emerging users, namely SHINERAY X-TRAIL 400 (“XTR400”).

Looks/details

XTR400 gives a strong “off-road” feeling as the first impression. With a thin body, exposed frame and angular fuel tank, XTR400 does not have complex lines, and the “hard core” texture of the bike is showed through a clear shape. The engine is firmly fixed in the frame, while the compact transmission of the dry-sump engine allows a large ground clearance. The oil is contained in the frame girder. This is the classic design of the early ADVs.

In terms of color scheme, the main body is in fashionable titanium gray and red. All parts except the frame adopt matte color. The overall appearance looks low-key but passionate. The red frame has smooth paint surface, and all welding parts are good. The matte titanium grey baking paint forms a perfect collision with the plexiglass decals on both sides of the fuel tank, further highlighting the layering of the whole bike.

Functions/configuration

XTR400 carries a 400cc four-valve single cylinder engine, and uses the frame oil cooling. Does it seem familiar to you? That’s right, the engine is based on Honda XR400 series’ classic powertrain. XTR400’s engine is further optimized, with an actual displacement of 397cc and a unique RFVC combustion chamber structure, which generates a maximum torque of 32N•m at around 5000rpm (a maximum output of 28hp). Moreover, the true advantage is at the lower rev range that delivers faster output. The tested bike is equipped with a 38mm PWK carburetor.

XTR400 has a long-travel upright front fork with a dust jacket. The design of an eccentric shaft on an off-road type bike is common. While providing a longer wheelbase, the most obvious benefit is that shock absorption has a smaller compression range and ensures better comfort on bumpy roads with trenches, gravel, etc.

XTR400 uses a 19/17 rim at the front, which ensures ADV’s passability without making the seat too high. The rim and the floral all-terrain tire complement each other, fully taking into account the road holding ability in a variety of road conditions. In addition, we can also see from the 40 tooth rear sprocket that the bike does not blindly pursue the off-road performance, but gives even consideration to the comfort of riding on highway, for which the engine power is reasonably distributed to each gear. The front and rear disc brakes are standard configuration. The front brake uses double piston calipers, and the rear brake pedal actually has a built-in bearing, which can effectively prevent clamping stagnation of the pedal during drastic riding.

XTR400 is equipped with large quick-detachable aluminum alloy side box that completely meets the needs of medium and long distance travel. It also has a wide rear rack. In addition, an all-in-one mobile phone stand with QC3.0 quick charging function is also provided.

Riding experience

To test XTR400’s performance to the utmost extent, the test ride was conducted on a steep, unpaved stretch of mountain road with ravines, gravel, and an average slope of more than 30%.

As a carburetor model, XTR400 starts unexpectedly well. The rider is 173cm tall and can touch the ground on both feet while sitting on the bike. The upper body bends a little bit, but the overall riding posture is comfortable. Besides, the large steering angle and the off-road style variable-diameter handlebar indicate that this bike focuses much on passability.

XTR400’s initial acceleration is not as violent as it seems, but as rev increases to 5,000rpm, the sudden pull was surprising. The grip of the tires on the sandy road gives a lot of confidence. When passing through a steep slope, the bike runs through it with a little bit of acceleration, and it stops stably. The double-beam structure ensures the rigidity of the body. During the long slope climbing process, XTR400 shows steady and lasting power. Maintaining a certain speed, the forceful torque enables it to quickly climb a slope even without shifting to the first or second gear.

The most satisfying thing of XTR400 is the flexible handling, which is attributed to the full consideration of overall coordination while designing the bike.

Conclusion

XTR400 is a light ADV with unique design concept and obvious advantages. It does not change its core positioning while meeting the public aesthetic and practicability needs. The off-road performance and excellent dynamic performance constitute the economical efficiency of the bike, which also bring excellent riding experience on a medium and long distance travel.