CFMoto's MT-X Concept machine hints at a more serious adventure model for the Chinese brand
CFMoto has had a standard pattern in recent years of showing concept bikes at EICMA in Milan that transform into production offerings within a few months. It happened with the 450SR and the 800NK and now it’s all but certain that the company’s latest concept – the MT-X – will take the same route.
Based on the firm’s 800MT adventure tourer, which is built around the KTM-designed 799cc parallel twin engine that CFMoto manufacturers for use in the KTM 790 Adventure and 790 Duke as well as its own 800NK and 800MT models, the MT-X’s underpinnings are already production parts. That engine, as used in the 800MT, makes a class-competitive 67kW.
Compared to the 800MT, the MT-X is a much more serious off-road machine. Where the 800MT uses a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel, the MT-X has a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear with Dunlop Trailmax rubber. It also adopts the KTM 790 Adventure’s approach when it comes to the fuel tank, with a low-mounted tank on each side of the engine instead of a large one ahead of the rider, allowing for a lower-fronted, flatter, motocross-style seat without sacrificing fuel capacity.
Long-travel KYB suspension and Brembo brakes are par for the course, and the steel chassis and aluminium swingarm are straight from the 800MT, making the MT-X relatively easy to put into production – something that CFMoto has confirmed will happen ‘very soon’.
Key Features of the MT-X CONCEPT:
- Full LED headlight on a muscular front end.
- A vertical 8″ TFT touchscreen – inspired by rally bike navigation towers.
- Floating side wings reminiscent of iconic adventure bikes.
- 21″ front wheel, high ground clearance, and increased suspension travel for conquering obstacles.
- Rear panels, a flat rider’s seat, and a slim tail showcasing its off-road DNA.
- A lower-positioned fuel tank for improved balance and riding experience.
Ben Purvis