French motorcycle racer Valentin Debise meets fans in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou, during his first trip to China. [Photo/Tide News]

French motorcycle racer Valentin Debise met fans in Hangzhou on Aug 14 during his first visit to China.

The 34-year-old has gained a growing following in China after joining Chinese motorcycle brand ZXMOTO's factory team in early 2026.

Riding the ZXMOTO 820RR-RS, Debise has claimed six WorldSSP race victories in the World Superbike Championship this season, including wins in Portugal, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

At a fan event in Xiaoshan district, Debise met motorcycle enthusiasts, university students and young riders. A six-year-old rider presented him with a hand-drawn portrait, while students from Zhejiang University's Formula Student team showed him a model of their self-developed race car.

Debise also shared his impressions of China and his experience racing for a Chinese team. His visit to Hangzhou was part of a multi-city trip that also included Nanchang and Shanghai.

Debise was scheduled to travel next to Chengdu, where he planned to meet ZXMOTO founder Zhang Xue and ride with him on Aug 16.

A six-year-old motorcycle enthusiast presents Debise with a hand-drawn portrait at a fan event in Hangzhou. [Photo/Tide News]