Is This Honda SH Clone Scooter a Bargain or a Bust?

The scooter market was recently abuzz with the arrival of the QJMotor SQ16, a Chinese-made scooter that bears an astonishing resemblance to the iconic Honda SH. This attention-grabbing scooter is not just a copycat, but a near-perfect replica of the Honda SH, right down to its design and specifications.

At first glance, the SQ16 checks all the right boxes. It has the same sleek and elegant design as the Honda SH, complete with the distinctive headlamp, comfortable seat, and 16-inch wheels. But look beyond the surface, and you’ll find that this scooter is more than just a pretty face.

Under the skin, the SQ16 packs a punch. It boasts a powerful 14.7 horsepower engine, slightly more potent than the Honda SH125’s 13 horsepower. On paper, it ticks all the right boxes with features like dual-channel ABS brakes, a spacious 28-liter under-seat compartment, and a 7.8-liter fuel tank.

But the real drawcard is its price tag. In the European market, the SQ16 is priced at an incredibly affordable €2,600, which translates to approximately VND 78 million. This is almost half the price of the Honda SH125, which retails for €4,000 (over VND 120 million) in the same market.

On the surface, the QJMotor SQ16 seems like a fantastic bargain—a chance to own a scooter that looks like the prestigious Honda SH at half the price. However, this is where cautious consumers should pause and consider three critical questions before making a decision.

While the QJMotor SQ16 may initially attract cost-conscious buyers, it faces an uphill battle in markets that prioritize quality, durability, and brand reputation. For consumers, the initial cost savings could be outweighed by long-term reliability concerns, repair inconveniences, and a potentially disappointing ownership experience—a gamble that most discerning buyers would think twice about taking.