Two years after the launch of the 700 CL-X, CFMoto has expanded its new ‘700’ platform with the 700 MT. The 700 MT succeeds the 650 MT as an entry-level model for the mid-range segment.
Of course you could have felt it on your own that CFMoto would apply the completely newly developed 693cc parallel twin to several models after the launch of the 700CL-X, logically with one of the existing of NK (Naked), MT (Mult- Touring) and GT (Grand Touring) families as successor to the 650 variant.
That is exactly what the Chinese have done. The 700MT is the successor to the 650MT, the ‘high pot’ that was also developed entirely in-house and that had a lot in common with the Versys 650 from a technical point of view (and especially the engine block).
So much so that when CFMoto started targeting the European market, many private importers even stated that the block was built under license, which even led to Kawasaki Europe issuing an official statement invalidating that collaboration.
As mentioned, the 700MT succeeds the 650MT and is therefore technically derived from the six and a half. The same design, but fresher, with sharper lines, multi-layered side panels, LED lighting all around and a beautiful 5-inch TFT color display. Two USB ports are provided in the display: a Type-A and a Type-C.
CFMoto has also leveled up on the 650MT in terms of chassis, with a similar double-perimeter tubular frame made of high-strength steel, a KYB upside down fork and slanted KYB monoshock, dual discs with J.Juan 2-piston calipers at the front and a single disc with single-piston J.Juan rear caliper.
The wheelbase has become a fraction larger at 1,425 mm, while the overall dimensions (length x width x height) have remained exactly the same at 2,180x835x1,332 mm, as has the tank capacity of 18 litres. That ‘exactly equal’ does not apply to its weight, which with 218 kg ready to drive is no less than 12 kg higher than that of the 650.
In terms of drivetrain, CFMoto has increased the displacement to 693cc by increasing the crankshaft stroke length by 4mm to 64mm over the 650, while keeping the bore at 83mm. CFMoto claims peak power of 75PS at 8,500rpm and maximum torque of 68Nm at 6,500rpm, which is quite a level up from the 650MT, which had to make do with just 60PS and 62Nm. Like the 650, the 700 also comes with riding modes as standard.
When the 700MT will make its appearance in Europe and how much it will cost in the Benelux is not yet known.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.