Chinese man chases TV crew for 100km to show motorcycle skills, now owns US$99 million firm
Determined lover of two-wheeled vehicles who was born into rural poverty chases dream by becoming mechanic, stunt rider
From chasing a TV crew for 100km to showcase his motorcycle skills, a once-poor young man from central China has built a thriving motorcycle empire, raking in 700 million (US$100 million) yuan a year.
Born into a rural family in Hunan province, Zhang Xue grew up in a shabby home made of bricks and wooden boards with his younger sister after his parents divorced.
During one of her visits, his mother gave him a bicycle, sparking his lifelong love for two-wheeled vehicles.
After finishing secondary school, Zhang began work as an apprentice at a motorcycle shop, learning repairs and riding skills.
Despite his passion for motorcycles, his financial struggles kept him from pursuing formal training.
At the age of 19, Zhang saw an opportunity when the Evening programme crew from Hunan TV came to town to film. He approached them and asked if he could showcase his skills.
“Your programme has a wide audience. If I get exposure, I might have a chance to join a professional motorcycle team. Once I am in, I can do anything, fix bikes, cook and clean,” he told them.