CF Moto3 Track Bike – A Rising Contender in the Racing World

Introduction to CF Moto3 Track Bike

CFMoto, a brand once known mainly for its ATVs and budget motorcycles, is now making serious waves in the world of Grand Prix racing. With its bold entry into the Moto3 class under the name CFMoto Racing PruestelGP, this Chinese manufacturer has demonstrated it's no longer content to sit on the sidelines.

CFMoto’s collaboration with KTM and Pierer Mobility Group has enabled it to harness proven racing technology while branding and tweaking the platform for its own development goals. The CF Moto3 bike isn’t just a rebadged KTM—it’s a gradually evolving machine that reflects CFMoto’s ambitions on the global racing stage.

Design and Aerodynamics

Fairing and Bodywork Layout

The CF Moto3 track bike shares its aerodynamic DNA with KTM’s RC 250 GP, offering a sharp, low-drag fairing that slices through the air with precision. Every panel is meticulously designed to optimize airflow while maintaining downforce during high-speed cornering.

Carbon Fiber Usage

Weight-saving is a priority at this level of racing. Carbon fiber is extensively used in the body panels, subframes, and even in small components like the fender brackets, making the bike not only lighter but also structurally rigid.

Wind Tunnel Testing and Rider Ergonomics

Rider position is optimized through wind tunnel testing to reduce frontal area. CF Moto3 bikes are custom-fitted to riders, ensuring maximum control and comfort during grueling race sessions.

Engine Specifications and Performance

Displacement and Horsepower

The CF Moto3 engine is a 250cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine that punches out roughly 60 horsepower, in line with class regulations. It’s tuned for high RPMs, with peak performance above 13,000 RPM.

Fuel Injection and Mapping

Using sophisticated fuel mapping and electronic throttle control, the engine delivers consistent power throughout the rev range. This allows riders to maintain competitive corner exits and rapid straight-line speed.

Rev Range and Top Speed

With a rev limit close to 14,000 RPM, and top speeds exceeding 235 km/h (146 mph), the CF Moto3 is a potent weapon in the hands of skilled riders on technical circuits.

Chassis and Suspension Setup

Frame Materials and Geometry

The bike features a lightweight aluminum beam frame optimized for stiffness and feedback. It strikes a fine balance between agility and stability.

WP Suspension Components

Just like its KTM sibling, the CF Moto3 uses WP Apex Pro suspension, both front and rear. These are fully adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping, providing riders with a customizable setup.

Ride Adjustability

Team engineers can tailor ride height, fork rake, and rear swingarm angle depending on track characteristics, rider preference, and weather conditions.

Braking System and Tyre Setup

Front and Rear Braking Hardware

The bike comes equipped with single large-diameter front disc brakes with a radial Brembo caliper and a smaller rear disc. This setup provides exceptional stopping power without excessive weight.

Brembo Brake Components

Brembo’s race-calibrated master cylinders and calipers ensure fade-free braking even during the most demanding races.

Dunlop Moto3 Spec Tyres

Dunlop provides Moto3 with a dedicated tyre set that ensures grip, durability, and consistency across race weekends, tailored for the CF Moto3 chassis.

Electronics and Rider Aids

Data Logging Systems

Modern racing is all about data, and the CF Moto3 track bike comes equipped with a comprehensive data logging system. This includes sensors for throttle position, brake pressure, suspension movement, and lean angle. Teams use this data to fine-tune the bike’s performance for every corner and straightaway.

Traction Control (If Available)

While full-blown traction control is limited in the Moto3 category to maintain rider skill development, there are minimal electronic aids that help manage wheel spin in extreme conditions. These systems are subtle but can make the difference in wet or low-grip races.

Quickshifter and Launch Control

The bike features a seamless quickshifter, allowing riders to shift up through the gears without using the clutch or rolling off the throttle. This ensures faster acceleration and less mechanical stress. Some variants also include launch control, which optimizes power delivery off the line during race starts.

Performance on the Track

Acceleration and Lap Time Analysis

Riders on the CF Moto3 track bike report blistering acceleration through the lower gears. Lap time data from recent Moto3 races shows that CF Moto machines are often within 0.5 seconds of the front-runners, indicating serious competitiveness.

Rider Feedback

Riders like Joel Kelso and Xavier Artigas have praised the bike’s mid-corner stability and predictable braking performance. Many have noted how “planted” the bike feels, especially in high-speed turns—a trait critical for Moto3 competitiveness.

Handling and Cornering Behavior

Due to its lightweight design and balanced geometry, the CF Moto3 bike flicks effortlessly through switchbacks. The refined chassis setup gives it strong feedback at lean angles, allowing racers to push harder with confidence.

CF Moto3 vs. Other Moto3 Bikes

KTM RC 250 GP vs. CF Moto3

Although CF Moto uses the same KTM platform as a base, they have begun developing proprietary components and tuning strategies. The chassis feel, electronics strategy, and even visual design now set CF Moto apart from KTM.

Honda NSF250RW Comparison

Honda’s NSF250RW has long been a dominant force in Moto3. While Honda excels in corner exit speed and consistency, the CF Moto3 offers a higher top-end and slightly better braking feedback, according to comparative test data.

Key Advantages and Trade-Offs

Advantages:

  • Competitive top speed

  • Advanced electronics package

  • Aggressive price-to-performance ratio

Trade-offs:

  • Slightly less refined setup support than legacy teams

  • Less availability of spare parts globally (still growing)

Team and Rider Lineup

Racing Team Partnerships

CFMoto Racing competes under the CFMoto Racing PruestelGP banner in Moto3, backed by a solid infrastructure of European racing expertise.

Notable Riders (2024 Season)

In 2024, standout riders like Xavier Artigas and Joel Kelso have helped propel CF Moto up the championship ladder. Both have achieved top-10 finishes, with Kelso securing a pole position early in the season.

2024 Performance and Podiums

While not yet dominating the podiums, CF Moto has steadily moved up the rankings with multiple top-five finishes, signaling serious progress and potential for future race wins.

Development and Technology Transfer

R&D Collaborations with KTM

Thanks to its strategic partnership with KTM, CF Moto has direct access to some of the best motorsport R&D in Europe. This synergy accelerates learning curves and helps CF Moto refine its race machines faster than standalone manufacturers.

Use of Race Data for Street Bikes

Insights from the Moto3 bike's telemetry and rider feedback are now influencing the design of CFMoto’s high-performance street bikes, like the CFMoto 450SR and the 700CL-X Sport.

Innovation Pipeline

Expect to see a growing number of tech transfers from track to street, including improved ECU mapping, suspension tuning, and aerodynamic touches on future production motorcycles.

CF Moto3 Bike Availability for Privateers

Can Enthusiasts Buy One?

The official Moto3 bikes are not sold to the public, but CFMoto is expected to release track-only replica versions for privateers and racing schools in select markets.

Limited Production Replicas

Rumors point to a limited run of CFMoto Moto3-inspired bikes being released in the near future, possibly using detuned engines but similar chassis setups.

Price and Ordering Process

While not officially confirmed, such replicas would likely cost around €20,000 to €30,000, placing them in competition with other high-end track bikes from KTM, Aprilia, and Yamaha.

CF Moto's Broader Motorsport Strategy

Expansion into MotoGP or WorldSBK

Industry insiders suggest that CFMoto is exploring possibilities to enter Moto2 or even World Superbike (WSBK) as part of its long-term motorsport strategy.

Chinese Manufacturing and Racing Pedigree

As one of the first Chinese brands in Grand Prix racing, CFMoto’s involvement marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Chinese motorsport engineering on a global scale.

Future Roadmap

With continuous investment in R&D and talent, CFMoto plans to expand its factory team, broaden its racing class participation, and ultimately develop its own prototype racing engine.

Market Impact and Global Recognition

CF Moto in International Motorsports

Participation in Moto3 has not only elevated CFMoto’s brand image but also increased its credibility among performance bike enthusiasts globally.

Perception Among European and Asian Markets

CFMoto is quickly gaining respect in Europe and Southeast Asia, especially among younger riders seeking high-performance alternatives at a more accessible price point.

Sponsorship and Branding Evolution

Backed by sponsors like Liqui Moly and stylized in a bold red-and-white livery, the CF Moto3 team is establishing itself as a sleek and modern player on the grid.

Pros and Cons of the CF Moto3 Track Bike

Pros:

  • Cutting-edge engine performance

  • Lightweight, agile chassis

  • Affordable compared to rivals

  • Backed by KTM tech and infrastructure

Cons:

  • Limited availability for private use

  • Still new to top-tier racing development

  • Spare parts and service may be regionally restricted

Media Reviews and Rider Impressions

Journalistic Coverage

MotoGP analysts and racing journalists have started to take note of CF Moto’s consistency and rapid improvement. Technical breakdowns in publications like Crash.net and Motorsport.com are increasingly giving CFMoto high marks.

Quotes from Professional Racers

Rider Joel Kelso said in an interview:

“The bike is super responsive—especially in fast corners. I can really push it to the edge and still feel in control.”

Ride Quality and Control Analysis

Experts agree the CF Moto3 track bike provides stable braking, agile corner entry, and surprising top-end speed—traits essential for race-winning machinery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the CF Moto3 bike just a KTM rebrand?

No, while it shares a platform, CFMoto is developing unique components and tuning strategies tailored to its team and riders.

2. Can I buy a CF Moto3 race bike?

Not directly, but track-only replicas or similar spec bikes may become available for private purchase.

3. Who rides for CF Moto in Moto3?

Notable riders include Xavier Artigas and Joel Kelso for the 2024 season.

4. Is CF Moto competitive in Moto3?

Yes, the team has secured multiple top-10 finishes and is progressing rapidly.

5. Does CFMoto plan to enter MotoGP?

While not confirmed, CFMoto has expressed interest in expanding its motorsport footprint beyond Moto3.

6. How does the CF Moto3 bike compare to Honda and KTM?

It’s highly competitive, with strong top-end speed and braking characteristics, though still catching up in development depth.

Conclusion: Why the CF Moto3 Track Bike is Worth Watching

The CF Moto3 track bike represents more than a racing machine—it's a symbol of a brand on the rise. With support from KTM, talented riders, and a growing presence in Moto3, CF Moto is proving it has both the engineering and the ambition to compete at the highest levels.

For racing fans, track-day enthusiasts, or simply those curious about the future of Chinese innovation in motorsports, CF Moto’s Moto3 program is a story worth following—lap by lap.