- Powered by tweaked version of KTM 799cc parallel twin, producing 95bhp at 8,500rpm and 87Nm of torque at 6,750rpm.
- Low-slung fuel tank keeps weight low, while the 21-inch front wheel is great for off-road adventures.
- Affordable way to get a mid-capacity adventure machine that can handle a bit of rough stuff.
CFMoto’s rise in the adventure bike scene isn’t slowing down. With the success of the 450MT, the Chinese brand has doubled down with the larger CFMoto 800MT-X—an off-road-focused, mid-capacity machine that packs serious spec for a price that’s hard to ignore.
KTM DNA, Budget Price
At the heart of the MT-X is a familiar engine: KTM’s 799cc parallel twin, now with CFMOTO tweaks. The result is a solid 95bhp at 8,500rpm and 87Nm of torque at 6,750rpm—plenty for touring, trail work, or anything in between. The powerplant carries over that aggressive KTM vibe, with lively throttle response and a strong midrange, though it’s not without a few quirks.
Fueling still needs refinement. Maintaining a steady throttle at cruising speeds can be fiddly—likely due to mapping that hasn’t yet been updated like some other recent CFMOTO models. It’s manageable, but not perfect. Thankfully, ride modes help smooth it out: Rain mode softens delivery, while Off-Road mode is ready for looser surfaces.
Feature-Loaded, On a Budget
The MT-X is seriously well-equipped, especially for a $15,990 (+ ORC) machine. There’s a six-axis IMU governing lean-sensitive ABS and traction control, ride-by-wire throttle, cruise control, up/down quickshifter, and multiple ride modes. Switchable rear ABS and traction control are included for off-road fun, and there’s even a built-in tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)—rare at this price point.
The 7-inch vertical TFT is a highlight. It’s bright and easy to read, showing revs, speed, gear position, tyre data, and more. It’s also smartphone-connectable via the CFMOTO RIDE app, and there’s a USB port for charging devices.
One small gripe: the indicator switch is a bit too close to the multi-function button on the left cluster, making it awkward to use without looking down. It’s not a dealbreaker but could use a design tweak.
CFMoto 800MT-X: Ready for Real Adventures
CFMOTO didn’t just kit the MT-X out with electronics—it’s built to ride, too. The suspension is from YU’AN, with 48mm fully adjustable USD forks and a piggyback rear shock, both offering 230mm of travel. There’s a generous 240mm of ground clearance, spoked 21/18-inch wheels with tubeless tyres, a bashplate as standard, and even an onboard air pump for adjusting tyre pressure trailside.
The stock CST Ambro A4 tyres are fine but not great. While they mimic the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR pattern, grip on tarmac and trail is average. Dropping pressures improved off-road confidence significantly, but if you’re serious about dirt, an upgrade would be worth it.
The brakes—J.Juan units with 320mm front discs—get the job done, though the front requires a firm squeeze. Off-road, they’re well balanced, but two-up or fully loaded riders might want more bite.
Ergonomics & Ride Feel
At 870mm, the one-piece rally seat is tall. Mounting can be tricky on uneven terrain, and shorter riders may find it a stretch. But once you’re seated, the ergonomics feel natural. The wide bars, upright stance, and narrow midsection make for a confident off-road posture, and it’s easy to transition between sitting and standing.
The manually adjustable windscreen is a nice touch—simple to tweak on the fly, though its height is minimal compared to more road-oriented screens. Handguards are standard, but basic. For serious adventuring, beefier protection is recommended.
The firm seat isn’t ideal for long stints, echoing the KTM donor’s characteristics. But in fairness, adventure bikes are built to be ridden standing up when the going gets rough.
BRM Verdict
The CFMOTO 800MT-X punches way above its price point. It’s not perfect—throttle mapping and stock tyres could be better—but the value is undeniable. With fully adjustable suspension, a comprehensive electronics suite, and a proven powerplant, it’s ready to tackle everything from adventure rides to backroad tours.
At $15,990, there’s nothing else quite like it. For riders upgrading from the 450MT or looking for a capable midweight adventurer without a $30k investment, the MT-X is a compelling option. Expect to see a lot more blue bikes on the trails in the near future—and that’s no bad thing.
CFMOTO 800MT-X Specifications
Price: $15,990 + ORC
Engine
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, DOHC, four-stroke parallel twin
Capacity: 799cc
Bore & stroke: 88mm x 65.7mm
Compression ratio: 11.5 :1
Fuel system: Bosch EFI
Maximum power: 95hp (70 kW) at 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 87Nm at 6,750rpm
Gearbox: Six-speed with power assisted slipper clutch & bi-directional quickshifter
Ride modes: Sport, Rain, Off Road
Chassis
Frame: Tubular steel frame
Front suspension: YU’AN Ø48mm USD fork, fully adjustable, 230mm travel
Rear suspension: YU’AN single rear shock, fully adjustable, 230mm travel
Front brakes: J.Juan 4-piston radial calipers, dual Ø320mm floating discs
Rear brakes: J.Juan twin-piston caliper, Ø260mm disc
ABS: BOSCH Cornering ABS, rear-wheel switchable for off-road use
Traction control: BOSCH traction control (Switchable)
Wheels/Tyres
Wheels: Wire-spoked
Front tyre: 90/90 R21
Rear tyre: 150/70 R18
Size / Weight
Wheelbase: 1530mm
Length x width x height: 2288mm x 945mm x 1426mm
Seat height: 870mm
Ground clearance: 190mm
Fuel capacity: 22.5L
Fuel consumption: 5.6lt/100km
Curb weight: 220kg
Other
Colour: Nebula Black or Zephyr Blue
Warranty: 2 Year Warranty
Contact: www.cfmoto.co.nz
