CFMoto 700CL-X Sport Top Speed and Upgrades
Are you in the market for a café racer-style motorcycle that combines vintage aesthetics with modern performance? Look no further than the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport. This head-turning bike packs a powerful 693cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, capable of reaching blistering top speeds while delivering an exhilarating riding experience.
Today, in this guide we are going to dive into the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport top speed, exploring its design, features, performance, and everything you need to know about this thrilling café racer.
First Impressions: A Head-Turning Blend of Vintage and Modern
The moment you lay eyes on the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport, it’s impossible not to be captivated by its striking design. This motorcycle beautifully blends retro café racer styling with modern performance and technology. Its muscular stance and aggressive styling cues, including the sculpted fuel tank, clip-on handlebars, and sleek tail section, create a compelling visual that turns heads wherever it goes.
Design and Features that Set the 700CL-X Sport Apart
While the 700CL-X Sport’s design is undoubtedly eye-catching, it’s the bike’s features that truly set it apart. This café racer is equipped with top-of-the-line components, ensuring a thrilling and confidence-inspiring ride.
Highlights of the model include:
- Adjustable KYB suspension (front and rear) for optimized handling and comfort
- Powerful Brembo brakes for precise and reliable stopping power
- Selectable ride modes (Sport and Eco) to match your riding style
- LED headlight and lighting for improved visibility
- Slipper clutch for smoother downshifts and reduced rear-wheel hop
Unleashing the Power: The 700CL-X Sport’s Blistering Performance
At the heart of the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport lies a potent 693cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 74 horsepower and 50.2 lb-ft of torque. But what truly sets this bike apart is its top speed capabilities.
According to CFMoto, the 700CL-X Sport can reach a top speed of 112 miles per hour (180 km/h). However, some reviews have reported even higher top speeds, with some owners claiming to have seen readings of around 125 mph.
In terms of acceleration, the 700CL-X Sport can go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds, making it a true performer in both straight-line speed and overall responsiveness.
Complementing its impressive power and speed is the bike’s exceptional handling and suspension setup. The 700CL-X Sport features a 41mm upside-down front fork and a link-mounted single rear shock, both by renowned suspension manufacturer KYB. This setup not only provides a smooth and comfortable ride but also ensures precise handling and stability, even at high speeds.
Specifications and Technical Details
To give you a comprehensive understanding of the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport, here’s a table listing its key specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 693cc liquid-cooled parallel twin |
| Power | 74 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 50.2 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, wet multi-plate slipper clutch |
| Front Suspension | KYB 41mm upside-down fork, adjustable |
| Rear Suspension | KYB link-mounted single shock, adjustable |
| Front Brakes | Brembo Stylema 300mm dual disc, radially mounted 4-piston calipers |
| Rear Brake | Single disc |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 83 x 35 x 47 inches |
| Seat Height | 31.5 inches |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.4 gallons |
| Curb Weight | 451 lbs |
In addition to these key specs, the 700CL-X Sport features an electronic throttle, anti-lock braking system (ABS), cruise control, and self-canceling turn signals, among other modern amenities.
Real-World Experiences: What Owners Have to Say
While specifications and technical details are essential, it’s also crucial to understand how the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport performs in the real world. Here’s what some owners have to say about their experiences with this café racer:
“The 700CL-X Sport is an absolute blast to ride. The power delivery is silky smooth, and the bike feels incredibly planted and stable, even at high speeds.” – John, California
“I was a bit skeptical about CFMoto at first, but this bike has completely won me over. The build quality is impressive, and the performance is on par with much more expensive motorcycles.” – Sarah, New York
“The only downside I’ve found is that the front brake can feel a bit numb and experience some fade after repeated hard stops. But overall, this bike is an absolute joy to ride.” – Mike, Texas
Upgrades and Modifications: Unlocking the 700CL-X Sport’s Full Potential
While the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport is a potent machine straight from the factory, some riders may want to further enhance its performance and top speed capabilities. Here are a few popular modifications and upgrades to consider:
- Power Kit: This kit increases the bike’s power output to 77 horsepower and boosts torque, ensuring even more thrilling acceleration and top-end performance.
- GPR Exhaust: A high-performance exhaust system like the GPR can not only improve sound and aesthetic appeal but also potentially unlock additional power and top speed.
- ECU Tune: An ECU tune from reputable providers like Team MSC can optimize the engine’s performance, delivering smoother power delivery and increased horsepower.
Of course, it’s essential to consult with experienced professionals and follow proper installation guidelines when considering any modifications to ensure safety and reliability.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
Like any motorcycle, the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a balanced look at some of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Impressive top speed and acceleration for its class
- Striking café racer styling with a blend of vintage and modern elements
- High-quality components, including Brembo brakes and KYB suspension
- Selectable ride modes for different riding styles
- Relatively affordable price point compared to competitors
Cons:
- Front brake can feel numb and experience fade under heavy use
- Comfort may be compromised due to the café racer riding position
- Limited aftermarket support compared to more established brands
- Some owners report minor issues with the Bosch EFI at higher RPMs
Overall, the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport offers excellent value for money, especially considering its performance capabilities and top-notch components.
Pricing and Availability: Where to Find the 700CL-X Sport
The CFMoto 700CL-X Sport is currently available at various authorized dealers and retailers across the United States and other markets. The starting price for the 2023 model is $7,199, although some retailers may offer discounts or promotions.
Here are a few authorized dealers where you can find the 700CL-X Sport:
- Classic Powersports of Rockwall, Texas
- ATV Wholesale Outlet
- Grapevine Powersports, Texas
- Richs Yamaha
It’s always recommended to check with your local dealers for the latest pricing and availability information.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the 700CL-X Sport
The CFMoto 700CL-X Sport is an excellent choice for riders who appreciate a blend of vintage styling and modern performance. It’s an ideal fit for:
- Café racer enthusiasts seeking an affordable and capable option
- Riders looking for a bike with impressive top speed and acceleration
- Those who value high-quality components like Brembo brakes and KYB suspension
- Riders seeking a unique and head-turning motorcycle design
However, the 700CL-X Sport may not be the best fit for:
- Riders prioritizing long-distance comfort over performance and styling
- Those seeking a more upright and relaxed riding position
- Inexperienced riders who may find the bike’s power and aggressive styling intimidating
For riders who fall into these categories, alternative options like sport-touring motorcycles or more beginner-friendly naked bikes may be better suited.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips
Like any motorcycle, the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport can experience certain issues and requires regular maintenance to keep it running at its best. Here are some common problems and their fixes, along with maintenance tips:
Common Issues and Fixes:
- ABS Control Module Recall: CFMoto issued a recall for 2022 and 2023 model years due to a potential issue with the ABS control module software. Affected owners should contact their dealer for a fix.
- Front Brake Fade: As mentioned earlier, some owners have reported front brake fade after repeated hard stops. Upgrading to higher-quality brake pads or rotors may help mitigate this issue.
- Bosch EFI Refinement: A few owners have noted that the Bosch EFI system can feel slightly unrefined at higher RPMs. An ECU tune or software update could potentially address this.
Maintenance and Repair Tips:
- Follow the recommended service intervals in the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport manual, including regular oil and filter changes, valve adjustments, and air filter replacements.
- Use high-quality lubricants and parts specifically designed for the 700CL-X Sport to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Consider investing in a full service kit, which includes all the necessary filters, fluids, and gaskets for a comprehensive maintenance routine.
- Regularly inspect the bike for any signs of wear or damage, and address any issues promptly to prevent further complications.
By staying on top of maintenance and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure that your CFMoto 700CL-X Sport continues to deliver thrilling performance and reliable service for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 700CL-X Sport
To help address some common queries, here are answers to frequently asked questions about the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport:
How does the 700CL-X Sport’s top speed compare to its competitors?
With a claimed top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h), the 700CL-X Sport’s top speed is on par with or slightly higher than many of its direct competitors in the middleweight naked/café racer segment, such as the Kawasaki Z650 and Yamaha MT-07.
Is the 700CL-X Sport suitable for beginner riders?
While the 700CL-X Sport’s power and performance capabilities make it an exciting option, its aggressive styling and café racer riding position may not be the most suitable for complete beginners. It’s generally recommended for riders with some prior experience.
What is the fuel efficiency of the 700CL-X Sport?
According to CFMoto, the 700CL-X Sport has an estimated fuel efficiency of 41 mpg (5.5 liters per 100 km), which is quite respectable for a motorcycle of its performance caliber.
Is the 700CL-X Sport available in different color options?
For the 2023 model year, the 700CL-X Sport is available in two color options: Nebula White and Velocity Grey.
How does the warranty coverage for the 700CL-X Sport compare to other brands?
CFMoto offers a two-year factory warranty on the 700CL-X Sport, which is standard for many motorcycle manufacturers.
Conclusion
The CFMoto 700CL-X Sport is a compelling choice for riders seeking a café racer-style motorcycle that delivers blistering performance and head-turning style. With its powerful 693cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine and claimed top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h), this bike offers an exhilarating ride that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Beyond its impressive top speed capabilities, the 700CL-X Sport boasts a host of desirable features, including high-quality components like Brembo brakes and KYB suspension, selectable ride modes, and a striking design that seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern technology.
While the bike may not be the ideal choice for long-distance touring or complete beginner riders, it’s an excellent option for experienced riders seeking a thrilling and unique café racer experience. Combine its performance with a relatively affordable price point, and the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport emerges as a compelling value proposition in its class.
Overall, we rate the CFMoto 700CL-X Sport highly and recommend it to riders who appreciate a blend of vintage styling and modern performance, coupled with a healthy dose of adrenaline-pumping acceleration and top-end speed.
