The S2000CT models were revealed prior to their official presentation at the Chinese motorcycle fair CIMAMotor on September 19 through registration documents and teaser images. Despite the current lack of export plans, there are already indications of international ambitions, such as the presentation of the tourer at CES 2025 in Las Vegas.
Model variety under the LH2000 designation
A total of four versions of the cruiser were registered under the designations LH2000-3 to LH2000-6. While the S2000ST and S2000GL tourers were previously listed as LH2000-1 and LH2000-2, the new models are designated “S2000CT” – the ‘CT’ obviously stands for “Cruiser Touring.”
The differences between the four variants are primarily visual and equipment-related:
- LH2000-3: The most purist model, a single-seater without luggage option. The design is clearly based on the 2003 Honda Rune, including a striking slash-cut exhaust system.
- LH2000-4: Identical to the “3,” but equipped with an extended seat and passenger footrests.
- LH2000-5: Bagger version with hard-shell cases and modified exhaust routing for better heat dissipation.
- LH2000-6: Technically identical to the “5,” but without a windshield.
Chassis with aluminum frame and Hossack-like front wheel suspension
Technically, the S2000CT is based on the same basic structure as the S2000 Tourer. The aluminum frame encloses the engine and leads to a Hossack-like front suspension. This consists of two forward-facing wishbones and a central monoshock, which is concealed beneath the tank. For the cruiser models, the front fairing has been redesigned to resemble a classic telescopic fork, although the Hossack principle remains unchanged. The handlebar connection is striking: the handlebars do not sit directly on the fork, but are connected to it via horizontal linkages – an unusual but functional design.
Dimensions and weight: no lightweights
All models share the same wheelbase of 1812 mm (71.3 inches). The overall length varies: the reduced LH2000-3 and -4 variants measure around 2550 mm (100.4 inches), while the LH2000-5 and -6 excavators measure around 2690 mm (105.9 inches). The weights are correspondingly generous:
- LH2000-3: 404 kg (891 lbs)
- LH2000-4: 406 kg (895 lbs)
- LH2000-5: 425 kg (937 lbs)
- LH2000-6: 427 kg (941 lbs)
Premium ambitions despite Chinese origins
Although Souo is a new brand, it belongs to Great Wall Motor Company (GWM), one of China’s largest automobile manufacturers. The motorcycle division is considered a prestige project of GWM CEO Wei Jianjun. The S2000 tourer is already on sale in China and is also being delivered. Prices for these models range from approximately €28,000 ($30,000) to €37,500 ($40,000) in their home country, depending on the equipment. The new cruisers are likely to be in a similar price range.
GWM is pursuing an international expansion strategy with various sub-brands and has already established a joint venture with BMW to produce electric Minis. It is therefore likely that Souo will also become active outside China in the long term – although high import tariffs, for example in the US, currently still pose an obstacle.
