CFMoto’s MT800 Shown in Actual Photos

[Hugh Janus]

CFMoto’s new, soon-to-be-launched MT800 will come in two distinct variants, including this adventure-biased version. (CFMoto/)

It might not be due for launch until early 2021 but details of CFMoto’s upcoming MT800 adventure bike have emerged early thanks to Chinese vehicle-approval paperwork that includes both photos and specifications of the new machine. For those with the idea that Chinese-made bikes are cheap and nasty, the MT800 looks like it could break some preconceptions. Not only does CFMoto already manufacture several KTM models, offered both in Asia and elsewhere, but it makes many of the engines that are destined for KTMs sold worldwide.

The more road-oriented trim features alloy wheels, but both models have the same KTM-sourced frame. (CFMoto/)

KTM’s most recent investor presentation revealed there will be a “massive increase of cooperation level” with CFMoto in the months to come, and that cooperation starts with the MT800. The bike’s engine is the 799cc LC8c parallel twin that was previously used in KTM’s 790 Duke and 790 Adventure models. Both those bikes have become 889cc “890” machines now, leaving a space for the slightly less powerful CFMoto. The type-approval documents confirm that the MT800 makes 95 hp, the same as the old 790 Adventure. It’s enough to give the MT800 a rated top speed of 118 mph.

The frame also appears to be straight from the KTM 790, albeit with CFMoto’s own swingarm design. It appears to be a longer arm than KTM used, as the CFMoto’s wheelbase is longer than the 790 Adventure’s—rising from 59.4 inches to 60.3 inches.

While it’s not certain which markets the bike will be sold in at the moment, it’s worth noting the machines seen here wear Europe- and US-required elements like side reflectors on the fork—a clear indication the design has been created with global sales in mind.

Both versions will have the option for fitting luggage; shown is the road version with bags. (CFMoto/)

Although it’s an adventure-style bike, the MT800 doesn’t tread on KTM’s toes—it has a much more road-oriented design than the 790 or 890 Adventure. The wheels are smaller diameter, with a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear (the KTM wears 21-inch and 18-inch hoops, respectively), covered by 110/80 rubber at the front and a 150/70 at the back. It’s also a heavier machine, coming in at 509 pounds wet, or 529 pounds with the aluminum cases fitted.

Along with the luggage option, the bike will be sold in two distinct model variants. The more road-biased version features cast alloy wheels and has the lower section of the engine exposed, while the more adventurous model uses wire wheels—still the same size as the alloys—and has an aluminum bash plate to protect the exhaust and engine cases. The suspension and brakes on all versions are the same, including radial-mount calipers and Bosch 9.1MP ABS.

The adv-oriented model gets a skid plate and wire-spoked wheels, but otherwise looks very similar. (CFMoto/)

The MT800 isn’t the only CFMoto/KTM-related model we should expect in months to come. The Chinese firm has already shown its 1250 tourer, which uses a highly modified version of KTM’s V-twin engine, and KTM’s investor presentation earlier this year said that CFMoto will be tasked with making a whole range of “750cc” KTM models for global markets, including a 750 Duke, 750 Adventure, and 750 Supermoto T.

It’s possible, and even likely, that the CFMoto-made “750” KTMs will actually use the same 799cc engine seen in the MT800, simply understating their capacity to distance the models from the Austrian-made 890 Duke and Adventure machines. It’s a trick BMW uses on the F 750 GS, which actually has the same 853cc capacity as the F 850 GS but is simply detuned to make less power.

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