that they are, and i think once they gain a little more credibility they'll be right up there with the big 4 as far as popularity. right now i'm fighting against a stupid stigma that these bikes aren't built well and things of that nature, it's all bullshit. this bike has given me no problems whatsoever, and i don't anticipate it ever would as long as it's properly maintained. as far as entry-level sportbikes are concerned, i don't think there's a better deal on the market.