SECOND OPINION I grew up in an era when my father referred to Japanese cars as“ Jap crap.” He loved his American V8s and was a man of his time. However, time has proven that theory to be nonsense, although I’ m still fond of a V8. I’ ve heard similar talk about CFMOTO for being Chinese. My first real experience with a CFMOTO was a few years ago on a 800 MT touring. Frankly, it was a terrific bike, exceptionally well-priced with high spec levels, great build quality, attractive looks and it was a great ride. Since then, the CFMOTO 450MT has taken the NZ adventure market by storm because it’ s a fabulous machine at an exceptional price. Which brings me to the new 800MT-X and hopefully the ending of anti-Chinese bike sentiment- permanently. The mid-sized adventure market is a tough one with plenty of choice. I see the 800MT-X slotting in just under the KTM 890R and Aprilia 660 for real off-road work and more or less line-ball with the Norden 901, Triumph 900, Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE, Honda Transalp and Yamaha T700 for general adventure riding. Okay, so some are more powerful than others, some heavier or lighter or more capable in different areas, but all largely do the same job. However, the CFMOTO is by far the cheapest and certainly very competent. The MT-X looks cool, has a great list of features and is very nicely put together. There is a huge
TFT screen which is very clear, easy to read and imparts lots of information. The package is very complete with hand guards, radiator guards, a nice rear luggage rack and a large bashplate integrated nicely with the KTM style drop side fuel tank. Ergonomically it is about right for most riders. The seat is comfortable, as is the reach to the well bent bars. Leg room is good No medium or large sized adventure machine is small and they are a challenge for short riders in tricky spots. At 220kg wet, the 21-litre fuel tank full, the 800 is on the money with its rivals. The engine produces 95hp and 87Nm of torque, through a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. The top end is freshly designed for greater oil supply and distribution, but, above all, the engine makes excellent power with a thoroughly useable delivery. It has all the smart electronics from Bosch, controlling ABS and TC and power modes. Both ABS and TC can be switched off although rear ABS can only be switched off in Offroad mode and not in Standard mode( the most powerful), which is a little disappointing when in a hurry. Interestingly, in Offroad mode with the TC off, the 800 gets fantastic traction on gravel even with the standard 80 / 20 road tyres. Okay, so it wasn’ t very exciting, for these old dirt riding hands, with bugger all wheel spin, but progress was still brisk, thus offering an effective yet less intimidating option for less experienced off-
40 KIWI RIDER