CFMoto, arguably the most popular Chinese motorcycle manufacturer in America has been demonstrating for some time now that the “Made in China” stereotype is simply that: A stereotype. Since 2022, CFMoto has been expanding its motorcycle lineup with models that are unique, aggressively styled, and competitively priced in their class. Although the bikes initially offered by the brand, like the twin-cylinder 450SR, were more oriented toward the beginner rider, the new 500SR and 675SR-R aim to capture market share from big name motorcycle manufacturers in a highly saturated, yet segmented middleweight class. We’ll be taking a look at the specifications of the new machines, the position they fill in the market, and identifying their competition.
500SR
Specifications
- 500cc in-line four cylinder
- 12,000 RPM redline (estimated)
- 80hp (estimated)
- 33lb-ft (estimated
Styling
History always repeats itself, and the CFMoto 500SR, just like Yamaha’s new XSR900GP, makes it clear that the 90’s are back. With dual round headlights, a rounded front end, and clean lines, this motorcycle embraces the design language of 90’s era sport bikes like the Honda CBR900RR, Kawasaki ZXR750, and Yamaha FZR750R. Attractive neo-retro styled bodywork and functional design pay homage to the era that popularized small in-line fours and sets this bike apart from others in its class.
Market Position
The 500SR is clearly intended to compete directly with the Kawasaki ZX-4RR and it becomes the second bike to compete in the low displacement four cylinder segment despite increasing emissions restrictions and requirements. The revival of the low displacement in-line four creates a unique stratification in the middleweight market and brings a welcome change of pace from the torquey parallel twins that have become so commonplace in motorcycles today. Although the two-cylinder has increased in popularity because it’s more efficient and delivers power in a more “sensible” way, some people still love four-cylinder screamers.
Competitors
- Kawasaki ZX-4RR
- Yamaha YZF-R7
675SR-R
Specifications
- 675cc in-line three cylinder
- 12,300 RPM redline (estimated)
- 100hp (estimated)
- 74lb-ft (estimated)
Styling
The 675SR-R features aggressive and muscular bodywork similar to their own 450SR. Winglets, spoilers, brake ducts, sleek LED running lights,
Market Position
The 675SR-R follows behind several new entries for the middleweight sport bike category as manufacturers accept the end of the race replica era and consumers demand more practical, yet sporty machines. With the recent trend toward parallel twin powered bikes it is refreshing to see a manufacturer commit to something different. However, the 675SR-R will be competing heavily with the Triumph Daytona 660, both being three cylinder sport bikes with similar power figures.
Competitors
- Triumph Daytona 660
- Suzuki GSX-8R
- Honda CBR650R
Leave a Reply