2022 CFMOTO 700CL-X Sport

CFMOTO are trying their best to change our minds about what it means to own a Chinese motorcycle. Their latest ruse, in the fight against far-east-phobia, is this, the 700CL-X Sport. It’s a slightly sportier, slightly tricker version of their 700CL-X, and they’re in the dealerships as of today.

Priced at £6,999, they’re not placing the ‘Sport at the budget and of the spectrum. It’s the same price as a Yamaha MT-07 and a Suzuki SV650X, it’s bit more than a Kawasaki Z650 (£6,949), and it’s a bit less than a Honda CB650R (£7,399). Pricewise, it’s in the same ballpark as it’s oriental brethren.

But can it match the Japanese performance? Well with 75hp (@ 8,500rpm) and 68Nm of torque (@ 6,500rpm), on paper, yes it can.

And with twin Brembo Stylema brake calipers, fully adjustable KYB suspension, cruise control and LED lights, it’s got a reasonable amount of spec too. I mean, there aren’t many other bikes for £7k that have Brembo Stylemas. In fact there probably aren’t any.

It’s certainly one of the most aggressive and striking looking bikes in the middleweight category, if you’re into that. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, isn’t it, but I think it looks trick.

It comes in two colour schemes, Nebula White and Velocity Grey.

Now, there are certain things going on in China at the moment that upsets us westerners, I understand that. But I don’t think you can hold that against CFMOTO. And whilst, historically, some Chinese bikes have been absolute tat, that’s not to say that they all always will be. You’d have to say CFMOTO are putting their money where their mouths are anyway, with the 4-year parts and labour warrantee included with every bike.

So if you’re in the market for a middleweight naked bike that’s a match for the Japanese stuff (at least on paper), maybe give the CFMOTO 700CL-X Sport some thought. Or don’t. It’s up to you.

Boothy