The Voge DS900X middleweight Adventure Bike Turning Heads and Minds.

Introduction.

The Voge DS900X is a breath of fresh air in the middleweight Adventure market. The relatively new brand is making quite a noise amongst bikers with its ability to produce competitive machines and retail them at much lower prices. Jeremy Webb takes a spin on the DS900X, taking in some green lanes of West Sussex.  

When an offer appears almost too good to be true, it often raises a red flag. Upon examining the specifications of the Voge DS900X in relation to its price, the standard package boasts an impressive array of features, including fully adjustable KYB suspension that promises optimal handling and comfort, high-performance Brembo brakes for superior stopping power, and Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres designed for versatility on various terrains. Additionally, the bike comes equipped with a suite of advanced electronic technologies and practical accessories, including blind spot detection for enhanced safety, sturdy crash bars for protection in unforeseen mishaps, and a complete luggage set for those who love to travel. All of this is available for an appealing price of just £9,199 OTR.

Engine.

The price tag on this model is bound to turn heads, but let's momentarily overlook the extraneous features and luxurious embellishments to focus on what truly matters—the engine, which is the very essence of this machine. Nestled at the heart of the DS900X is a formidable 8-valve, 897cc parallel twin engine that promises an exhilarating ride.

If this engine looks familiar, it's because it shares a lineage with the powertrain used in the esteemed F900 from BMW, which was crafted by Voge's parent company, Loncin. This powerhouse engine delivers an impressive output, generating 93.8 brake horsepower at a thrilling 8,250 revolutions per minute (rpm).

It produces about 10 horsepower less than the BMW but compensates beautifully with a slight edge in torque, delivering 70 pound-feet at 6,000 rpm. The harmonious blend of power and torque makes the Voge DS900X an enticing option for riders who crave a balanced and invigorating performance on the road.

A 270° crank gives the Voge DS900 X its distinctive character at idle, thanks to an uneven firing order. When you blip the throttle, the bike seems eager to get moving. It features electronic rider aids, including four power modes: Road, Sport, Rain, and Enduro, as well as a quick shifter.

In Road mode, the fly-by-wire throttle feels comfortably connected to the engine, allowing for smooth control while riding in the city. However, when accelerating off a roundabout with any enthusiasm, the traction control system interrupts progress, suggesting that its threshold is set too low. Switching to Sport mode alleviates this issue, but introduces a new problem: at low revs, the throttle response becomes overly sensitive, resulting in a jerky ride and making slow-speed manoeuvring difficult. Additionally, switching between modes can only be done while the vehicle is at a standstill, which can be frustrating as riding conditions change.

Handling.

The Vogue DS900X surprisingly excels on twisty roads, a feat attributed mainly to its expertly tuned KYB shock. This shock is fully adjustable, which adds an element of personalisation to the ride, though I suspect a bit of luck played a role in finding the perfect settings. Regardless, it strikes a commendable balance, providing a firm enough ride to carve precise, confident lines through corners while still delivering the plushness necessary to absorb those pesky bumps in the road.

The motorcycle features a 21" front wheel, paired with relatively soft upside-down (USD) forks. While this setup bestows a comfortable ride, it can compromise front-end precision on less-than-perfect surfaces. However, the tyres consistently maintain a grip that defies the expectations of the traction control system, ensuring that the Voge remains stable and composed throughout the ride, even on challenging terrains such as gravel or mud.

When it comes to braking, a firm squeeze of the lever reveals the capabilities of the Brembo calipers, showcasing a robust 198mm of travel. The feel and feedback from the braking system are impressive, lending a sense of control that allows for nuanced stopping. You won't need to engage the full range of motion each time you come to a halt, as the setup promotes smooth and manageable braking, enhancing overall ride confidence.

The riding position is expertly designed to excel in long-distance, transcontinental journeys. It promotes a slight forward lean that not only enhances comfort but also optimises the effectiveness of the adjustable windscreen, ensuring a smooth ride no matter the weather. To further elevate the riding experience, features such as heated grips and a heated seat ensure warmth and comfort, making any season a delightful time to ride.

Adding to its practicality, the motorcycle comes equipped with a three-piece, quick-release luggage set, which is fully lined to protect your belongings and offers ample space for all your travel needs. Powering through the upper half of the rev range allows the engine to truly shine, transforming the ride into an exhilarating experience, especially on winding roads where smooth, enjoyable progress is easily achieved. And despite its spirited performance, the Voge DS900X maintains a respectable fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for long-distance journeys.

The thrill is heightened by a well-engineered quickshifter, allowing your feet to glide seamlessly up and down through the gears with precision. Meanwhile, the slipper clutch prevents the rear wheel from skittering during aggressive deceleration, ensuring confidence in every manoeuvre.

Despite its spirited performance and ample power, the engine exhibits a notable lack of refinement when compared to its BMW-branded counterpart. It can feel overly vibrational at the handlebars and footpegs, emitting a somewhat clattering sound that detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, the throttle response in Sport mode can be frustratingly erratic at lower revs. However, many of these quirks could be resolved with a software update, paving the way for an even smoother ride.

Reliability

As for maintenance, the Voge DS900X is designed with ease of service in mind, with straightforward access to key components and a manageable maintenance schedule. This, coupled with its competitive pricing, makes the Voge DS900X a cost-effective choice for adventure bike enthusiasts.

Some areas require improvement, such as the fueling system and traction control, both of which could benefit from some fine-tuning to enhance overall performance. Additionally, a little polish in execution would further elevate the experience. Nevertheless, for those seeking exceptional value for their investment, the Voge delivers an impressive amount of features and capabilities that truly make it a standout option.

BMW's entry-level F900GS model has a starting price of £ 11,999 before you add any additional features, so the Voge DS900X, priced at a more accessible £9,199, emerges as an enticing option. While it may lack the seamless integration and refined handling that BMW offers, and it is 20kg heavier, these trade-offs could be well worth it for many riders. The Voge compensates for its shortcomings with a range of electrical accessories that significantly enhance the riding experience. Imagine journeying over long distances with the convenience of cruise control, which allows you to relax and enjoy the ride without constantly adjusting your speed. In cooler climates, the heated grips and seats provide a comforting warmth, making those brisk rides far more enjoyable.

Safety and awareness are also prioritised with features such as a built-in dash cam, allowing you to document your journeys and bolster your security on the road. Moreover, the advanced RADAR system offers blind spot warnings, ensuring that you remain vigilant about your surroundings and can navigate with confidence. All these features come together to make the Voge a compelling alternative for those seeking a reliable and well-equipped motorcycle without the hefty price tag of its BMW counterpart.

In terms of hard components, the bike boasts a versatile three-piece luggage set designed for practicality, a sturdy centre stand for easy maintenance, and robust crash bars that provide extra protection during unexpected tumbles.

The DS900X is equipped with a striking 7” TFT display that reflects a hint of BMW's design influence. This dashboard is not only sleek but also highly functional; its clarity and straightforward navigation make it a pleasure to use. The backlit switches are a nice touch for nighttime rides, though they could be improved with a more premium feel in hand.

When it comes to performance, the bike features fully adjustable KYB suspension, ensuring a smooth ride on diverse terrains. With generous travel of 194mm in the front and 198mm in the rear, coupled with a ground clearance of 190mm, this big Voge is more than capable if you choose to venture off the beaten path.

Technology.

The Voge DS900X is thoughtfully equipped with a state-of-the-art dash cam integrated into the front fairing, allowing you to capture every moment of your ride through the dedicated Voge app. To further enhance your riding experience, a convenient ‘shutter’ button located on the right-hand switchgear enables you to take high-quality still images effortlessly while on the move. Safety is prioritised with advanced RADAR technology that provides blind spot warnings, clearly displayed in the corresponding mirror. Additionally, the responsive cruise control system is designed to make quick adjustments, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride that adapts perfectly to real-world conditions.

Summary.

Increased Dealers selling Voge has meant a lot more exposure to the public, and more bikers test-riding models rather than reading about them. The ability for someone to sit on a machine and get a feel for it is invaluable, and once they do this, and then compare prices against rivals, the Voge DS900X and other models in the brand's range become viable choices. For nine grand, you get an excellent middleweight Adventure bike that will provide plenty of smiles on and off-road, which is what biking is all about, and you won't be bothered by what badge is on the bike.

£9200