Motorcycle specifications CFMOTO700 CL-X Heritage 2023 Well inspired

Following in the footsteps of the Japanese brands that broke through at the dawn of the 1970s, dethroning the British motorcycle industry, Chinese manufacturers are gradually establishing themselves on the world motorcycle scene. Founded in 1989 in the Shanghai region, CF Moto benefits from over thirty years' experience in the field.

In the mid-2010s, it began collaborating with Austrian manufacturer KTM, going so far as to seal a joint venture with the latter in 2017. The following year, CF Moto entered the French market with three motorcycle models, the 400 and 650 NK and the 650 MT. Today, this Chinese brand continues to grow and boasts a range of eight motorcycles.

Designated in Italy, the 700 CL-X Heritage reveals a plasticity perfectly in tune with the times. Its lines catch the eye at first glance, recalling those of two famous Italian motorcycles: the Ducati Diavel, for its rear end and seat design, as well as that of the headlight; and the Ducati Scrambler, for the engine and fuel tank assembly and overall geometry. Slim and elegant, this machine is nevertheless quite attractive.

Let's take a look at the mechanics and the vertical twin that powers it. This is the same engine block that powers CF Moto's MT, GT and NK models, but with a stroke lengthened from 60 to 64 mm, increasing displacement from 649 to 693 cm3. It develops 70 hp at 8,500 rpm and 68 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. It is of course equipped with a six-speed gearbox. Despite its low price - €6,990 at launch - the CL-X Heritage offers two driving modes, Sport or Eco, thanks to its ride-by-wire electronic throttle connected to a Bosch ECU. With a fuel tank capacity of just 13 liters, the Eco mode may sometimes be welcome..

richly endowed for a motorcycle in its class, the CL-X Heritage comes with cruise control as standard, a feature usually found on higher-end bikes, and sometimes even as an option. Ready to do anything to seduce, it features a circular backlit LCD display that shows all the necessary information. Modern, it also features an under-seat USB socket and all-LED lighting.

As for the chassis, the CL-X Heritage uses a classic tubular steel frame. KYB suspension is used front and rear, with a fully adjustable 41 mm inverted fork and a monoshock with adjustable spring preload and hydraulic rebound damping. Their travel is 150 mm.

With a seat height of 800 mm and a kerb weight of 198 kg, it should make the vast majority of bikers feel at home behind the wheel.

Michael Levivier - Manufacturer's photos