CFMOTO 650GT Review: An Affordable Grand Tourer with Premium Features
Introduction to the CFMOTO 650GT
The CFMOTO 650GT has carved out a niche for itself as a well-rounded sport-touring motorcycle that offers great performance, modern features, and impressive value. Coming from the Chinese manufacturer CFMOTO—known for engineering quality, affordability, and KTM partnerships—the 650GT is designed for riders who crave long-distance comfort without stepping into superbike pricing.
Blending European design influence with practical touring features, the CFMOTO 650GT is quickly becoming a favorite for riders seeking a capable, stylish, and budget-friendly grand tourer. With a 649cc parallel-twin engine and a range of comfort-oriented features, this bike stands as a testament to how far the Chinese motorcycle industry has come.
Detailed Specifications of the CFMOTO 650GT
Specification | Details |
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Engine | 649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin |
Power Output | 56 HP @ 8,250 RPM |
Torque | 54.4 Nm @ 7,000 RPM |
Transmission | 6-speed manual |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 liters |
Weight (Curb) | 226 kg |
Front Suspension | Telescopic forks |
Rear Suspension | Mono-shock |
Brakes | Dual disc front, single disc rear, ABS |
Tires | 120/70 R17 (front), 160/60 R17 (rear) |
Instrumentation | 5" TFT display with two display modes |
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
649cc Parallel Twin Engine
The 650GT draws power from a 649cc parallel-twin engine shared with the CFMOTO 650NK. Tuned for a smoother, more linear torque curve, it delivers 56 horsepower and 54.4 Nm of torque—making it ideal for both relaxed touring and occasional spirited riding.
The engine is liquid-cooled and fuel-injected, ensuring consistent performance across various terrains and climates. It's refined, reliable, and surprisingly peppy in the mid-range.
Gearbox and Ride Smoothness
The 6-speed transmission offers slick shifts with a light clutch pull, making city rides less tiresome. Gear ratios are spaced for both torque-driven acceleration and relaxed highway cruising, allowing the bike to sit comfortably at 100–120 km/h without feeling stressed.
Real-World Performance
On the road, the 650GT offers smooth throttle response, decent pull through all gears, and an engine that feels neither underpowered nor intimidating. Whether you're tackling urban traffic or taking on long winding roads, it handles both effortlessly.
Touring Comfort and Ergonomics
The GT in its name stands for Grand Touring, and it lives up to that promise.
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Rider Seat: Wide and plush with ample support for long rides.
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Pillion Seat: Slightly raised, with integrated grab rails and comfort padding.
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Handlebars: Slightly raised to provide an upright, relaxed riding position.
Adjustable Windshield and Riding Posture
One standout feature is the manually adjustable windshield that helps reduce wind buffeting on highways. Combined with the upright seating and strategically placed footpegs, the 650GT minimizes rider fatigue on long-distance rides.
Technology, Features, and Electronics
Tech lovers will appreciate that the 650GT is loaded with:
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TFT Instrument Cluster with two themes: Touring and Sport
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Dual USB Charging Ports for gadgets on the go
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LED Lighting All Around for enhanced visibility
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ABS Braking System for added safety
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Gear Position Indicator and real-time fuel consumption display
Handling, Suspension, and Ride Quality
Though it’s designed as a tourer, the 650GT handles city traffic and twisty mountain roads with confidence. The suspension is plush enough for highway cruising, yet stable enough to hold its line through corners. It doesn’t feel overly soft or stiff—just right for long hauls.
Braking System and Tire Performance
The CFMOTO 650GT comes equipped with a reliable braking setup:
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Front Brakes: Twin 300mm discs with J.Juan calipers
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Rear Brake: Single 240mm disc
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ABS: Dual-channel Bosch ABS for added confidence in sudden braking
The braking feel is progressive, and the bite is strong enough for quick stops without being too aggressive. Paired with CST or Metzeler tires (depending on the market), the grip is commendable across dry and wet conditions.
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Range
Touring motorcycles require a decent tank range, and the 650GT delivers here:
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Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 liters
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Mileage: Approximately 22–26 km/l in mixed riding conditions
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Estimated Range: Around 400–500 km on a full tank
This makes it an excellent companion for long road trips, reducing the need for frequent refueling stops.
Design, Build Quality, and Aesthetics
Visually, the CFMOTO 650GT is an eye-catcher. Designed in partnership with KISKA (the same design firm behind KTM), it blends aggression with elegance.
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LED Headlamp Cluster resembles sport-tourers in higher price brackets
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Color Variants: Often available in Nebula Black, Sky Blue, and Matte Silver
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Build Quality: High-grade plastic panels, tight fit and finish, and a solid feel
Every panel and edge on the bike feels intentional, suggesting premium craftsmanship well above its price point.
Pricing and Ownership Value
One of the 650GT’s most compelling aspects is its affordability. In many markets, it undercuts its Japanese and European counterparts by a significant margin.
Region | Estimated Price (Local Currency) |
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India | ₹5.80 – ₹6.20 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Europe | €6,400 – €6,700 |
Southeast Asia | $6,500 – $7,000 |
With such pricing, the CFMOTO 650GT presents a tremendous value proposition, especially for new tourers or riders upgrading from smaller capacity bikes.
Competitor Comparison in the Segment
Feature Comparison Chart
Feature | CFMOTO 650GT | Kawasaki Ninja 650 | Benelli 502C | Honda NC750X |
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Engine Displacement | 649cc | 649cc | 500cc | 745cc |
Power Output | 56 HP | 67 HP | 47.5 HP | 58.6 HP |
Seat Comfort | Excellent | Moderate | Good | Excellent |
Wind Protection | Adjustable | Fixed | Minimal | Adjustable |
Price | Lower | Higher | Similar | Higher |
The 650GT offers a unique middle ground—blending affordability, comfort, and tech—making it a serious rival to more established brands.
User Reviews and Real Owner Experiences
Owners of the CFMOTO 650GT frequently highlight the following in reviews and forums:
Pros:
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Comfortable for both rider and pillion on long journeys
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Well-balanced engine with good low-end torque
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Great highway stability
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Eye-catching design
Cons:
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Slightly heavy for newer riders
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Limited availability of spare parts in some regions
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Not as agile in tight city traffic
Still, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, especially for riders using it primarily for inter-city touring or weekend getaways.
Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability
CFMOTO’s growing global presence has led to more robust service networks and parts availability. Key maintenance aspects include:
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Service Interval: Every 5,000–6,000 km
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Spare Parts: Becoming more accessible through official dealers and online stores
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Common Issues: Minor electrical bugs, but rare mechanical failures
With proper upkeep, the 650GT proves to be a reliable long-term companion.
Ideal Rider Profile: Who Is It For?
The CFMOTO 650GT is best suited for:
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Touring Enthusiasts seeking comfort over raw aggression
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Riders Upgrading from 300–400cc segments
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Professionals or daily commuters who want weekend touring capability
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Value-focused buyers looking for premium features at a modest cost
If you prioritize ride quality, technology, and comfort without diving into superbike costs, the 650GT checks all the boxes.
Expert Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The CFMOTO 650GT makes a compelling case for itself with its:
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Comfortable ergonomics
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Refined engine
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Loaded features
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Elegant design
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Budget-friendly price
While it's not the most aggressive or fastest bike in its class, it delivers exactly what a tourer should: stability, comfort, and capability. If you're looking for a serious touring machine on a mid-range budget, this bike is definitely worth considering.
Final Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.3/5)
FAQs About CFMOTO 650GT
1. Is the CFMOTO 650GT good for beginners?
Yes, although slightly heavy, it offers a smooth power delivery and relaxed ergonomics, making it manageable for confident beginners.
2. Does the CFMOTO 650GT have riding modes?
No, but it features dual display modes on the TFT dash (Touring and Sport).
3. What is the top speed of the CFMOTO 650GT?
It can reach a top speed of around 170–180 km/h under optimal conditions.
4. Is CFMOTO a reliable brand?
Yes. With partnerships like KTM and growing dealer support, CFMOTO has established a solid reputation for reliability and quality.
5. Can you tour long distances on the 650GT?
Absolutely. It is designed as a sport-tourer and excels in highway cruising and long-distance comfort.
6. Is the CFMOTO 650GT available worldwide?
Yes, it’s available in Asia, Europe, and some parts of North and South America. Check with your local dealer for availability.
Conclusion
The CFMOTO 650GT represents a new wave of motorcycles that combine style, tech, and comfort at a wallet-friendly price. With its well-rounded performance, ergonomic design, and thoughtful features, it’s not just a budget option—it’s a bold statement in the sport-touring category.
For riders seeking value without compromise, the 650GT proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy premium motorcycling.
🔗 Recommended External Link: CFMOTO Official Website – 650GT Page