CFMOTO 700CL-X trio sees Chinese brand take on modern retro segment

Chinese firm CFMOTO has revealed its updated motorcycle range for 2020 at this year’s EICMA show with the all-new CFMOTO 700CL-X range taking centre stage in Milan.

Sitting above the existing NK, SR, GT and MT ranges, the 700CL-X represents a new flagship model that debuts a newly-developed twin-cylinder engine and is available in three distinct styles – CL-X Sport, CL-X Adventure and CL-X Heritage.

The ‘vintage appearance’ is underpinned by its retro modern café racer style and reveals a new design language set apart by its X logo, which can be seen across all three machines in the LED lighting arrangement within the distinctive circular headlamp cowl.

The CFMOTO CL-X Sport is the most poised of the trio, with its tapered fairings and stripped back detailing, while the more versatile CL-X Adventure offers a more rugged take on the base design.

Finally, the CFMOTO CL-X Heritage is distinguished by its gold detailing and tanned leather seating and is intended for more laid-back riding.

At its heart is a new 692cc engine, the latest evolution of the existing 150/250/400/650 platforms featuring a split-type connection rod, forged piston, electronic throttle and sliding clutch. Performance figures are quoted at 55kw/67Nm (around 73bhp).

Though CFMOTO commands a large market share into the ATV sector, it has begun making significant strides in the two-wheel market, spurred on by its joint venture with KTM, with the CFMOTO CL-X range targeted at cracking the European market.

Sold under the WKBikes brand in the UK, it is understood the company will adopt the CFMOTO branding in future.