Benda LFC 700: Failed?

The LFC 700 model from the Chinese brand Benda attracts a lot of attention from bikers due to its design, but testers criticize its performance and handling.

Hardly known in Switzerland

The Chinese motorcycle brand Benda is virtually unknown in Switzerland; it's a real niche product that receives little attention. According to Motosuisse statistics, only a single unit was sold in 2024, and 11 in 2025. So, it's hardly one of the major brands. And the fact that Benda's media representatives are so difficult to reach certainly doesn't help matters. We were contacted in February about the trade fair in Zurich, but our emails went unanswered, and we couldn't reach the responsible parties by phone. The situation is similar with their dealer network in Switzerland: not a single Swiss motorcycle dealer is listed on Benda's website. This isn't exactly reassuring; if something goes wrong with the new motorcycle, who will help? And, of course, such questions remain unanswered.

Design based on American and European models

The design of Benda motorcycles appears to be copied and inspired by brands like Harley-Davidson and Triumph. Asian manufacturers are never shy about copying ideas and offering the resulting products at lower prices to attract customers. We've seen this before with the Japanese, who flocked to European and American factories to learn how things were made, only to then offer them at a lower price. For the Japanese, it was primarily consumer electronics. The same thing is happening in the automotive and motorcycle industries with the Chinese. But whether you like it or not, the design of Benda motorcycles feels familiar and appealing. And the design of the Benda LFC 700, thanks to its massive 31 cm wide tire, has a real wow factor. The hefty tank and the robust aluminum frame look impressive, but what about the handling?

Performance and handling are not convincing

We weren't able to test the Benda LFC ourselves, as we were never able to reach anyone at Benda's European headquarters in Salzburg, as mentioned before. Therefore, I was curious to see what was being said about the brand and the model. The well-known German magazine "Motorrad" (https://www.motorradonline.de/) gave the model a complete and utter failing. Tester Jens Kratschmar, in his report from July 20, 2025, minces no words when he describes it as having "3 flops": Firstly, it seems the tires, due in part to their (overly) large dimensions, contribute to very difficult cornering. Secondly, Motorrad criticizes the fuel injection system and the resulting abrupt throttle response, which leads to a "bumpy ride." Finally, the reviewer also criticizes the rear brake, which makes crucial corrections while cornering impossible. Many thanks to Jens Kratschmar for this honest report. Reports like this are truly helpful to bikers. Unfortunately, so many reviews are full of flattery and hypocrisy, solely aimed at providing the manufacturer with a favorable review in exchange for paid advertising. But on to other reviews. The 1000PS portal also criticizes the handling and throttle response, but praises the motorcycle's appearance. The Austrian motorcycle magazine expresses similar criticism regarding cornering.

Prices and all the rest of the bells and whistles

Benda scores points with its prices, which is the fundamental basis of the success of Chinese and its industry. Anyone who imports clothing from China will also appreciate the significant price advantages, but one should never forget the substantial quality differences between China and Europe. The Benda LFC 700 is priced at €11,499.00. You certainly get a lot for your money. However, it's important to remember that it has the look of a large Harley, but with 86 hp and a top speed of only 160 km/h, it has the power of a small motorcycle. More style than substance?

We'll probably have to wait and see how the market develops for Benda. If Benda wants a future, they can't just offer a beautiful design paired with questionable handling. European and American motorcycle brands deliver bikes that are thoroughly thought out and function flawlessly from start to finish. A cheap approach is unlikely to bring them much success in the developed world. Let's see if someone from Benda gets in touch. Perhaps then we'll be able to say more.

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