Motorcycle specifications CFMOTO700 MT 2023 The Chinese SUV

Can today's trail bikes be summed up in a single definition? Probably not, given the number of different interpretations offered by manufacturers. What was the trail bike? Originally, a dirt bike. Nowadays, there are touring and on-road iterations.

The new CF Moto 700 MT falls into the latter category. A kind of motorcycle that's good at everything, but not particularly good at anything. And do you know what MT stands for? Multifunction Touring!

In fact, it's a bit like a car: we've gone from 4x4 to SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle). The road trail (a fine oxymoron) is a kind of motorcycle that perches higher up so you can see well, is relatively comfortable and can still go (a little) everywhere..

kiska for design

In fact, the new 700 MT is a major update of the 650. The latter was designed by Kiska Design, which works extensively for KTM. So you won't be surprised to find a few similarities with an Austrian motorcycle. In terms of styling, there are many points in common with the 650 MT, such as the full LED optics. On the other hand, the brand has taken care to extensively modify the side fairings to improve protection of the upper legs. And while we're on the subject of protection, the bubble can be adjusted to two levels, and looks rather generous. Hands will also appreciate the fixed protectors on the handlebars.

and while we're on the subject of comfort, the saddle isn't too high up, at 820 mm from the ground. Taller riders will appreciate that CF Moto also offers an 840 mm version. An attention to detail to enhance ergonomics at the handlebars.

The instrument panel features a 5-inch TFT color display, replacing the 650's aging LCD unit. The new instrument panel offers a wide range of functions, including instantaneous fuel consumption, ambient temperature (in addition to engine temperature), fuel gauge, kickstand indicator and a Bluetooth connection to your phone. Your phone will be delighted to know that it has a USB-a and USB-c socket for recharging.

Chassis: nothing new, still with that Kawasaki Versys feel

Like its 650 sibling, the 700 MT uses a tubular steel chassis, contrary to what the large side plates would lead you to believe. No aluminum perimeter frame. From its shape, to the style of its aluminum swingarm, to the anchoring of the shock absorber, a good look at this bike tells you that CF Moto's engineers must have stripped a Kawa 650 Versys to the bone. It has to be said that the Japanese Swiss army knife was seductive for its road-holding qualities.

The front suspension is a 43 mm inverted hydraulic fork, with adjustable preload and rebound damping and 140 mm travel. At the rear, a monoshock shock absorber, also adjustable for preload and rebound, gives it the edge. Its travel is 45 mm. Ground clearance is 170 mm.

braking is handled by J.Juan (Brembo's Chinese subsidiary). The front is equipped with a 300 mm double disc, bitten by 2-piston calipers with ABS. The rear makes do with a 240 mm disc, clamped by a single-piston caliper with ABS.

The tires are also Chinese, CST Ride Migra S1s, totally unknown to the public. They are mounted on 17-inch rims, 120 at the front and 160 at the rear. Their profile is very road-like, with not a single stud to be seen!

The overall weight is announced at around 218 kg, comparable to that of competitors such as the Suzuki V-Strom and Kawasaki Versys. The fuel tank capacity is 18 liters.

Engine: power under control

At the heart of this 700 MT is a 693 cm3, 180° parallel twin. To achieve 67 hp at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 68 Nm at 6,500 rpm (sharp), CF Moto has increased the 650's engine by 43 cm3. While the increase in displacement may seem marginal, the power output jumps by 10 hp. This extra power will be very useful for busy trips or cruising on the freeway. Of course, this engine complies with Euro5 standards, and is claimed to have an average fuel consumption of 4.9L/100km. Transmission is via a 6-speed gearbox, with final drive via a chain.

behind its modern styling, this trailer is driven the old-fashioned way. There are no electronic assistants (traction control, etc.), no mapping of driving modes, and the gas pedal is connected to the engine by cable. The aim is to keep the price down.

Price-wise!

At 6,990 euros, there's no point sparing any suspense. The major advantage for the career of this 700 cm3 motorcycle (remember) is its price, which defies all competition for this level of comfort and performance. The scarecrow of the category, the Yamaha Tracer 7, retails for 9,299 euros, which shows the gulf between these two bikes in terms of price, and perhaps not so much in terms of sensations on the handlebars... CF Moto strikes hard to reassure modest budgets that are fearful of the second-hand market. What's more, the bike comes with a 5-year warranty (up to 60,000 km).

Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos