The czech company Blata, a huge name in mini motos is stepping up the battle against cheaper replicas of their bikes.
The company has official backing from three continents. Some of the cheap Chinese copies infringe European and world-wide resgistered designs and trademarks.
Blata are also arguing that the copies are cheap quality and when purchased do not come with the guarantee that the Blata bikes do.
This is true however the copies are more affordable as Blata B1 origami water cooled bikes retail at around £1500 whereas the copies can be bought fo as little as £250 in some cases, from this it is obvious to see why members of the public are buying the replicas rather then the originals.
'Blata has now worked with European, American and Chinese Trading Standards offices, customs & excise departments, internet companies and hosts and local government agenices to combat the problem, with many internet sites targetted. The Chinese government is working closely with Blata, and firms being targetted range from dealers to manufacturers.' _www.motorclenews.com_
So it could be bad news for the company producing these bikes in the future so prices may soon be rising. This will be bad news for all riders who want a cheaper, yet equally enjoyable ride on the little bikes.
