As someone who’s always been a road rider but looking to make the transition to more adventure riding, I was keen to check out the CFMOTO 800 MT-X. The 800MT-X’s blend of modern technology, rugged looks, and competitive price is really impressive. While I haven’t yet taken it off-road, my time on the road has already provided plenty of insight into its performance, comfort, and overall feel.
Design and Comfort
Right off the bat, the CFMOTO 800MT-X has a striking presence. The sharp lines and aggressive design give it a commanding look that definitely stands out. A noticable change is the low slung fuel tank which helps keep the weight lower for better balance. The build quality is impressive for a bike in this price range, with a solid, well-constructed feel.
On the road, the bike’s comfort really impressed me. The riding position is upright, making it easy to maintain for longer stretches, and the seat provides just the right amount of padding. Whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or cruising at highway speeds, it feels comfortable and very balanced. The ergonomics are well thought out, and the handlebars fall naturally in my hands, which makes navigating tight spaces or long rides feel more effortless.
Performance and Handling
As for performance, the 800MT-X truly shines. The KTM derived 799cc parallel-twin engine (LC8c) delivers a solid amount of power, with smooth acceleration that feels both responsive and controlled. This version of the LC8c is tuned to handle better at low revs without the need to change down gears to avoid the dreaded engine shutter. On highways, the engine maintains a strong, steady pull, and the bike never feels underpowered.
The handling is a pleasant surprise. For a bike of its size, it feels surprisingly nimble, especially when weaving through traffic. The suspension works well to absorb most bumps and rough patches, ensuring a smooth ride, even on roads that aren’t in the best condition. It’s clear this bike is designed to handle a variety of road conditions with ease. A cruise through the mountain corners showcased decent handling although the distribution of the weight (possibly with the fuel tank extending out low and wide) seemed to make the bike pick up a little heavy when leaning aggressively. It must be noted that this is an Adventure bike, not a sports bike, so it isn't really really designed around aggressive lines into corners.
Technology and Features
One of the standout features on the 800MT-X is the full-colour TFT display. It’s bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and provides all the essential information, like speed, fuel level, and riding mode. The bike also comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, which lets me pair my phone to take calls or listen to music—super convenient when riding for extended periods. Standard you also get cruise control which works really well and a quick shifter.
I also appreciated the safety features, particularly the cornering ABS and traction control. These systems provide a reassuring layer of confidence, especially on twisty roads or when navigating slick spots. It’s clear that CFMOTO has put a lot of thought into both performance and rider safety.
A Couple of Downsides
While my time with the 800MT-X on the road has been overwhelmingly positive, there are a couple of areas worth mentioning. The first is the wind protection. The stock windscreen does a decent job but isn’t perfect. At higher speeds, I found myself battling quite a bit of wind resistance, particularly around the sides of my helmet. On long highway runs, it became a little tiring, and I can see why some riders might opt for an aftermarket screen to improve comfort.
Another minor issue I encountered was the bike’s idle around 60 kph in 3rd gear. It is hard to explain but I believe it may be related to a fuel mapping issue so might be easily resolved. The engine seems to surge at this speed that’s noticeable, but it’s not enough to ruin the ride. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but I’d prefer a smoother cruising experience and hopefully an engine map update can resolve the issue.
Final Thoughts
So, after my first look and on-road review, the CFMOTO 800MT-X impresses in many ways. It combines solid power, comfortable ergonomics, and modern technology, making it a fantastic option for anyone seeking an adventure bike that’s equally at home on the road. The performance is top-notch for the price, and the features, like the TFT display and Bluetooth connectivity, provide a premium feel without the premium price tag.
While the wind protection could use some work and the idle at 60 kph might be a little for some, these are relatively minor issues in the grand scheme of things. Overall, the 800MT-X delivers a rewarding ride that’s comfortable, capable, and fun. I’m looking forward to taking it off-road soon, but for now, it’s already proving to be a solid on-road performer.