Emerging Chinese manufacturer CFMOTO grabbed the lion’s share of the headlines at last week’s massive EICMA motorcycle show in Milan after showcasing a stunning superbike prototype which, if it makes production, would put it head-to-head with the likes of BMW and Ducati as one of the world’s most desirable motorcycles.
Chinese manufacturers have really stepped up their game over the past year and none seems more ambitious than CFMOTO, who have previously enjoyed close ties with KTM. They’ve introduced a new flagship adventure bike, powered by a 946cc version of the Austrian company’s LC8c engine, but it’s the unveiling of the V4 SR-RR superbike that really got tongues wagging.
Developed inhouse by CFMOTO’s own engineers, we don’t think anyone would question it if it was painted red and had ‘Ducati’ written on the side. At this stage it’s just a prototype, however it marks a real statement of intent from the burgeoning manufacturer and it would be a surprise if we don’t see it on racetracks at some time in the future.
The prototype features a 997cc, 90° V4 engine with a claimed power output of over 210bhp at the crankshaft and an overall kerb weight of under 200kg. Top end componentry includes Brembo brakes, semi-active electronic suspension and an Akrapovic exhaust system.
The look is dominated by the huge front wing structure, which even makes those of the BMW M 1000 RR and Ducati Panigale V4 R look modest. The SR-RR is a real statement of intent from CFMOTO. They’ve been involved in racing as sponsors of teams in Moto2 and Moto3 racing, and we wouldn’t be surprised for the company to enter WorldSBK or even MotoGP as a manufacturer in their own right in the next few years.
And while the SR-RR gives a glimpse into CFMOTO’s likely future, the 1000MT-X will go on sale next year. With 111bhp, a 22.5-litre fuel tank and a high standard spec, the 1000MT-X is a development of the smaller capacity 800MT we’ve already featured on our website.
Far from being a ‘cheap’ Chinese motorcycle, it ticks all the boxes expected by modern day adventure bike riders. Stuff like aerospace-grade aluminium rimmed wheels, shod with category benchmark Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, are as good as, if not better, than you’d expect from a more familiar brand, while the fully-adjustable suspension comes from KYB and brakes are by Brembo.
A Bosch six-axis IMU facilitates advanced ride modes, which are controlled through a large touchscreen TFT dashboard. Add in standard equipment like adjustable handlebars, tyre pressure monitors, quickshifter, heated grips, heated seat, cruise control and an adjustable windscreen and it’s no wonder the legacy manufacturers, and the buying public, are starting to take these new generation manufacturers seriously.
We’re still waiting to hear a price for the 1000MT-X, but expect it to undercut offerings from European and Japanese manufacturers.
Photos: EICMA
