The 300SS is CFMoto’s sportier entry into the small-displacement sportbike category. (CFMoto/)

Ups

• Aggressive styling
• Standard 5-inch TFT display
• Affordable MSRP

Downs

• Uncomfortable riding position
• Awkward mirror placement
• Smaller-displacement engine compared to some competitors

Verdict

As far as entry-level sportbikes go, CFMoto’s 300SS is a powerhouse of value and performance. With a range of features and attractive styling, the 300SS is a worthy competitor in the US market, especially considering the bike’s modest $4,299 price tag.

The 300SS is available in Nebula White and Nebula Black color options. Not only is it an affordable entry into the sportbike category, but it also looks good, with a modern and stylish design. (CFMoto/)

Overview

Chinese manufacturing has historically been clouded by such things as poor-quality metals, imprecise castings and engine tolerances, poor quality control, and lackluster reliability, but even in 2022, is that still the case? If CFMoto’s new lineup of motorcycles is any indicator, it’s safe to say that these once-plausible claims are more of a fallacy in the current day and age.

Hailing from Hangzhou, China, CFMoto opened the doors to its Plymouth, Minnesota–based US headquarters in 2007 and hasn’t looked back. The brand originally specialized in ATVs and side-by-sides. However, upon noticing a massive gap in the motorcycle market that’s been long dominated by the Japanese Big Four and European manufacturers, CFMoto launched its line of bikes, including the top-selling 300SS.

This entry-level 300SS sportbike is nothing short of impressive, especially when considering the low price tag, peppy 292cc single-cylinder DOHC engine, standard TFT display, and stout build quality. Time will tell if the company has what it takes to change the market’s perception of Chinese motorcycles, but bikes like the 300SS have certainly started a shift in opinion.

There might be more performance-oriented models in the small-displacement sportbike category, but that doesn’t mean the 300SS isn’t capable of fun days in the canyons. (CFMoto/)

Updates for 2022

As this is the first year of production for the 300SS, there are no updates to be found.

Pricing and Variants

The 300SS is offered alongside CFMoto’s similarly spec’d 300NK naked bike, which could be considered a variation of the platform. However, for those looking for a fully faired, small-displacement sportbike the 300SS is CFMoto’s sole option. Colors are the only notable options, the 300SS being offered in Nebula White and Nebula Black.

There is a slight cost increase over the 300NK thanks likely to the added costs of bodywork. While the NK is priced at $3,999, the 300SS crosses the $4,000 mark with an MSRP of $4,299.

Competition

There are no shortage of options in the small-displacement sportbike category, with nearly every manufacturer offering a beginner-friendly entry into the world of motorcycling.

Options include the Honda CBR300R ($4,899), Yamaha YZF-R3 ($5,499), Kawasaki Ninja 400 ($5,299), Suzuki GSX250R ($4,999), and KTM RC 390 ($5,799). If BMW’s G 310 RR comes to the US, that will be part of the competition as well.

With similar specifications and a significantly lower price tag, CFMoto’s 300 series isn’t designed to just compete in the current market but to undercut other bikes in its class. After all, why spend an extra $1,000 on a bike with similar features and a warranty? That’s CFMoto’s concept.

One thing to keep in mind is that each manufacturer takes a slightly different approach to the category, with bikes like the KTM RC 390 and Kawasaki Ninja 400 designed to offer a little extra performance for riders who may want to hit the racetrack.

The 292cc single-cylinder engine uses a counterbalancer for reduced engine vibrations. CFMoto claims 29 hp at 8,750 rpm and 18.7 lb.-ft. torque at 7,250 rpm. (CFMoto/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 300SS is equipped with a 292cc DOHC single-cylinder engine with a Bosch EFI handling fuel management. All 29 hp and 18.7 lb.-ft. of torque are routed through a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch, piloting the bike to a moderate top speed of 87 mph.

While not blisteringly fast, the bike has plenty of pep for cruising around town and having some fun on backroads; gearing is also effective for any riding style, making the 300SS a versatile and enjoyable entry-level machine.

In terms of displacement, the 300SS is closer to the Honda CBR300R and Suzuki GSX250R, which take a more modest approach compared to the larger-displacement Kawasaki Ninja 400 and even KTM’s RC 390.

There are some borrowed design cues, but overall, the 300SS has a very unique look that helps it stand out from the mainstays in the sportbike space. (CFMoto/)

Chassis/Handling

Comfort and predictable performance are the name of the game in the lightweight category, where there’s less emphasis on an ultra-rigid chassis more suited for racing. CFMoto’s uniquely designed steel trellis frame takes that into account, balancing things like weight and rigidity. This is not the only steel trellis frame in the class, but it still stands out among the competition.

Similar emphasis is placed on the suspension, which CFMoto claims was designed to be lightweight but rigid, with a progressive-rate springs in the fork. The shock uses an IFP (Internal Floating Piston) and has five-click preload adjustability.

There’s a decent blend of sporty stiffness and comfortability out of the box. However, the 300SS’s clip-on handlebars make managing quick turns more difficult and clumsy than the naked offering.

Front brake package consists of a 300mm disc and four-piston caliper. Notice the design touches on the wheel. (CFMoto/)

Brakes

Braking on the 300SS is more than satisfactory, especially when coupled with the bike’s low 364-pound curb weight (though 31 pounds more than the naked 300NK).

The SS sports a four-piston caliper and 300mm disc up front, and a 245mm single-rotor setup at the rear, providing plenty of clamping force to control the bike through corners and harsh braking. With the addition of standard, dual-channel ABS, braking is controlled and predictable in all conditions.

Fuel Economy

There is currently no Cycle World real-world fuel economy data.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

Due to the low height of the clip-on handlebars and the long reach between them and the seat, the 300SS forces riders into an uncomfortable seating position. Coupled with the awkwardly spaced mirrors, the everyday drivability of the 300SS leaves a bit to be desired.

One of the standout items across CFMoto’s 300 lineup is the 5-inch TFT display that comes standard. (CFMoto/)

Electronics

The CFMoto 300SS is no stranger to technology, as it comes standard with everything from factory dual-channel ABS to a full-color, 5-inch TFT display. LED headlights, taillights, and signal lights are standard, providing crisp and accurate light output.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

The 300SS comes standard with CFMoto’s two-year factory warranty.

A closer look at the 300SS bodywork highlights the modern design CFMoto was aiming for. For $4,299, this really is a good-looking motorcycle. (CFMoto/)

Quality

Quality is impressive across CFMoto’s entire on-road lineup, and the 300SS is no exception. Precision welds line the entirety of the steel trellis frame, plastics are robust and neatly molded, and the bike’s overall feel rivals the current top contenders in its class.

For nearly $1,000 less than its competitors, the 300SS is certainly a considerable offering in the entry-level streetbike class.

2022 CFMoto 300SS Claimed Specifications

MSRP:	$4,299
Engine:	292cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder; 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke:	78.0 x 61.2mm
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery:	Bosch EFI
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate slipper clutch
Frame:	Tubular steel w/ aluminum alloy swingarm
Front Suspension:	Inverted fork
Rear Suspension:	Monoshock, 5-click preload adjustable
Front Brake:	Radial-mounted 4-piston caliper, 300mm disc w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	1-piston floating caliper, 245mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Aluminum alloy; 17 x 3 in. / 17 x 3.5 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	110/70R-17, 140/60R-17
Rake/Trail:	25.0°/4.1 in.
Wheelbase:	53.5 in.
Ground Clearance:	5.9 in.
Seat Height:	30.7 in.
Fuel Capacity:	3.2 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	364 lb.
Contact:	cfmotousa.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

CFMOTO’s 650NK sports minimalistic styling and a classic, upright riding position for around-town riding. (CFMOTO/)

Ups

• 5-inch full-color TFT display
• Well-sorted chassis
• Low MSRP compared to competition

Downs

• Heavier than the comparable 700CL-X
• Lacks some midrange grunt

Verdict

The Chinese-manufactured CFMOTO 650NK combines premium features with excellent riding characteristics. Although not as punchy as CFMOTO’s 700CL-X, the 650NK is a well-optioned package that’s ideal for around-town riding and the occasional spirited backroad session.

As with many CFMOTO models, you can see some design influences in the body panels, but also how designers have tried to add their own flair to the overall look. (CFMOTO/)

Overview

Hangzhou-based CFMOTO is well aware of the negative stigmas hovering over Chinese-manufactured motorcycles; instead of affirming the harmful stereotypes, it has devised a business model to storm into the US motorcycle market and change the perceptions of Chinese manufacturing once and for all.

The game plan is simple: Introduce a line of high-quality, feature-packed bikes that rival the quality of comparable Japanese and Euro machines, all for a price tag that undercuts the current market by $1,000–$2,000.

The 650NK is one such model—an impressive middleweight naked bike with a peppy, 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine, dual-disc front brakes, a full-color TFT display, and modern styling to appeal to the new generation of riders.

Sharp lines and bold colors are a staple of the CFMOTO lineup. (CFMOTO/)

Updates for 2022

As this is the CFMOTO 650NK’s first year on the market, there are no updates to report.

Pricing and Variants

CFMOTO’s 2022 lineup contains two different 650 models sharing the same basic components, including the chassis, 649cc engine, suspension, and brakes. However, the 650NK and 650 Adventura models are marketed toward different environments: city versus more remote destinations. There are enough changes to consider them two separate models, rather than variations of the same.

This being said, if you prefer the aesthetics and riding style of an adventure-style bike over the minimalist, naked styling of the 650NK, feel free to take a look at the buyer’s guide for the CFMOTO 650 Adventura.

The standard 650NK retails for a modest $6,499 and is available in two trim colors: Nebula White and Nebula Black.

The 650NK is available in two colorways: Nebula White and Nebula Black. MSRP is $6,499, and the bike comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty. (CFMOTO/)

Competition

The 650NK fits nicely in the ultracompetitive midweight naked class, going head-to-head against notable options like the Suzuki SV650 ($7,399), Yamaha MT-07 ($8,199), Kawasaki Z650 ($7,749), Triumph Trident ($8,395), and Aprilia Tuono 660 ($10,499).

The Ducati Scrambler lineup is comparable, at least on a non-cost basis; other manufacturers like Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha have cafe-styled options that should be considered, such as the Honda CB650R ($9,299), Kawasaki Z650RS ($9,099), and Yamaha XSR700 ($8,899).

With its 649cc parallel-twin engine, technology, and impressive quality, the CFMOTO 650NK is a worthy addition to the class.

The 649cc parallel-twin engine is factory-built by CFMOTO. The company claims 60 hp at 8,750 rpm and 41 lb.-ft. at 7,000 rpm. (CFMOTO/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

CFMOTO’s 650NK is powered by a spry 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine. With a 50cc drop in displacement versus the 700CL-X, the 650NK is slightly down on power in the midrange. However, that’s not to suggest that CFMOTO’s middleweight naked is a slouch. Compared to the company’s higher-powered 700 models, the 650 realistically only falls behind on long straights; besides that, the bike gets up to speed quickly and smoothly thanks to the Bosch EFI system.

The claimed 60 hp and 41.3 lb.-ft. of torque are routed through a six-speed transmission with a cable-driven slipper clutch that opens the door to smooth and crisp shifts in all conditions. The clutch also features an incredibly light pull, a feature that new and veteran riders alike will enjoy.

The 650NK chassis is well-sorted and feels planted when the riding turns spirited. (CFMOTO/)

Chassis/Handling

Not only is the 650NK’s drivetrain crisp and enjoyable, but the chassis is as well, the 650NK sporting KYB adjustable suspension front and rear. Front damping is handled by a telescopic, rebound-adjustable KYB fork, while the rear is suspended by an offset KYB damper with rebound and preload adjustment. While handling is smooth and controlled out of the box, overall damping is softer than CFMOTO’s 700CL-X lineup, leaving a bit to be desired during spirited riding. However, the KYB adjustable suspension allows riders to tune damping to their characteristics and riding style for a personalized experience.

Steering is smooth and direct thanks to the 650NK’s short 55.7-inch wheelbase and standard handlebar.

J.Juan brakes are standard equipment. While there’s no Brembo upgrade, as is the case with the 700CL-X Sport, overall stopping performance is overall good, with good feel and power from the J.Juan calipers. (CFMOTO/)

Braking

The 650NK’s J.Juan brakes are one of the bike’s shining features, providing excellent braking feel and performance in all conditions. Front braking is handled by dual 300mm discs and two-piston calipers, while rear braking consists of a single 240mm rotor and single-piston caliper.

Although not as impressive on paper as the 700CL-X or Brembo-equipped CL-X Sport, the J.Juan brakes on the 650NK are extremely balanced and predictable, performing flawlessly even after countless spirited laps around CFMOTO’s private Minnesota track.

The 650NK also comes with factory dual-channel Continental ABS, which our test riders found works well in wet and dry conditions.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

There is currently no Cycle World fuel economy data for this platform.

A relatively low, 30.7-inch seat height makes the 650NK an easy bike to feel in control of in around-town riding. (CFMOTO/)

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

With a standard handlebar and low 30.7-inch seat height, the 650NK places riders in a comfortable, upright position ideal for riding around town, touring, or the occasional spirited ride. The short distance between the bar and seat also aids in the upright feel, a characteristic that touring riders will certainly appreciate. There is, of course, little to no wind protection from the headlight casing, and this is where the 650 Adventura offers more in terms of long-range comfort.

Electronics

The 650NK comes with two electronically controlled riding modes—eco and sport. Drive modes are displayed on the moto’s crisp and attractive 5-inch TFT display, justifying the bike’s identical price to the larger-displacement 700CL-X models. Other features include standard dual-channel ABS and full LED lighting.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Like the majority of models in CFMOTO’s new seven-model lineup, the 650NK comes with a two-year factory warranty.

A 5-inch, full-color TFT display highlights CFMOTO’s commitment to using quality components. (CFMOTO/)

Quality

Continuing the trend of well-built and affordable motorcycles, the CFMOTO 650NK boasts impressive levels of quality. From clean and properly penetrated welds on the trellis frame to tried-and-tested suspension and brake components to precisely molded plastics, the overall quality of the 600NK assuredly rivals its Japanese and European counterparts. Fit and finish is excellent as well, especially when considering the $6,499 price tag.

2022 CFMOTO 650NK Claimed Specs

MSRP:	$6,499
Engine:	649cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke:	83.0 x 60.0mm
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel System:	Bosch EFI
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate slipper
Frame:	Tubular steel w/ aluminum alloy swingarm
Front Suspension:	KYB telescopic fork, rebound damping adjustable; 4.7 in. travel
Rear Suspension:	KYB monoshock, side aligned/cantilever, rebound and preload adjustable
Front Brake:	Radial-mounted 2-piston J.Juan caliper, 300mm disc w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	1-piston floating J.Juan caliper, 240mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Aluminum alloy; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 4.5 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	Pirelli Angel GT; 120/70R-17 / 160/60R-17
Rake/Trail:	24.5°/4.0 in.
Wheelbase:	55.7 in.
Ground Clearance:	5.9 in.
Seat Height:	30.7 in.
Fuel Capacity:	4.5 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	454 lb.
Contact:	cfmotousa.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com

The 300NK is marketed toward newer riders. A stylish design, affordable price tag, and premium features help increase the draw. (CFMOTO/)

Ups

• Comfortable, upright ergonomics
• Reasonable price point
• 5-inch TFT display

Downs

• Smaller-displacement engine than some competitors

Verdict

CFMOTO’s entry-level naked sportbike, the 300NK, is an impressive machine marketed as a direct competitor to the small-displacement motorcycles from the Japanese Big Four and European companies. The 300NK features comparable specs, features, and performance at a lower cost, potentially swaying consumers to rethink their biases toward the long-standing contenders in this space.

The 300NK has some unique lines, but doesn’t veer too far from traditional naked-bike design, which keeps the bike from sticking out like a sore thumb in a competitive category. (CFMOTO/)

Overview

Enthusiasts have long overlooked Chinese-manufactured motorcycles due to their reputation for mediocre quality, performance, and reliability, especially when compared to their Japanese and European counterparts. Until recently, few motorcycles hailing from the middle empire have been able to break into the US market; enter CFMOTO’s wide-ranging lineup of on-road motorcycles.

With a US headquarters based out of Plymouth, Minnesota, CFMOTO is doing its part to offer budget-friendly, well-optioned, high-quality bikes that’ll significantly undercut the current market. With a strong showing from the company’s all-new line of bikes, CFMOTO is posed to once and for all silence the negative stigmas associated with Chinese manufacturing.

The entry-level 300NK is a force to be reckoned with in the small-displacement naked-bike category. This model features a 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine pumping out 29 hp, modern tech, and convenience features that’ll surely trick you into thinking you’re riding a machine with a significantly higher price tag.

One thing to consider is engine displacement, as many of the options in this space have increased in size over the years and outclass the 300NK.

Upright, comfortable ergonomics are traditional naked bike. There’s of course no denying this is a small-bore bike, with dimensions that might not suit taller riders. (CFMOTO/)

Updates for 2022

As this is CFMOTO’s first iteration of the 300NK, no updates can be found across the platform.

Pricing and Variants

The CFMOTO 300NK comes in at a reasonable $3,999 and is available in two colors: Athens Blue or Nebula Black.

CFMOTO also offers a similarly spec’d 300SS, a fully faired small-displacement sportbike featuring the same chassis and drivetrain.

Comfortable, upright ergonomics and nimble handling make the 300NK a great option for city riding. (CFMOTO/)

Competition

The small-displacement sportbike category has grown rapidly over the past decade and now features a wide range of bikes from nearly every manufacturer. Naked bikes from Europe include the BMW G 310 R ($4,995), Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 ($5,399), and Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 ($5,399). Competition from Japan includes the Honda CB300R ($5,049), Kawasaki Z400 ($5,399), and Yamaha MT-03 ($4,999).

The 292cc single-cylinder engine might be outclassed by some of the larger-displacement competition, but does offer smooth, predictable power. (CFMOTO/)

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

While you can’t expect blistering speed from any entries in the small-displacement, entry-level category, the 292cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine stuffed into the 300NK’s trellis frame provides decent performance in nearly all riding conditions. One important consideration is that, aside from Honda’s 286cc CB300R, the 292cc 300NK is smaller in displacement compared to much of the competition.

As the bike only weighs a claimed 333 pounds, the 29 hp single-cylinder engine still has plenty of oomph to get the 300NK to a top speed of 87 mph, while a Bosch EFI system produces a smooth and linear powerband.

The engine transfers power through a six-speed transmission and slipper clutch that keeps things under control at corner entry. There’s plenty of gearing whether running around town or engaging in mildly spirited riding. Another nice feature is the counterbalance shaft, which helps quell vibrations while cruising down the highway.

The steel trellis frame looks good but also strikes a nice balance between weight, cost, and performance. (CFMOTO/)

Chassis/Handling

The 300NK uses a steel trellis frame that looks relatively high-end but, more importantly, helps CFMOTO find a nice balance between weight, cost, and on-road performance. The fork uses a progressive-rate springs while the shock has five clicks of preload adjustment.

Thanks to a low curb weight and wide, one-piece handlebar that offers good leverage, the 300NK feels lightweight and fun regardless if you’re cutting through town or cruising down a tight section of canyon road. Steering is direct and easily controllable, and the suspension promotes a sporty, yet comfortable ride.

Lightweight, predictable handling is important in the world of entry-level bikes and the 300NK manages the task well.

Front brakes consist of a 300mm disc and four-piston caliper. (CFMOTO/)

Brakes

Stopping is handled by a four-piston caliper biting on a single, 300mm brake disc. Said disc is bigger than what’s found on the Honda CB300R (296mm) and Yamaha MT-03 (298mm), but smaller than what’s found on the Kawasaki Z400 (310mm) and Husqvarna 401s (320mm). Dual-channel antilock brakes (ABS) are standard.

With such a light overall curb weight, the 300NK’s brakes are capable of slowing things down with relative ease. Brake feel is respectable, and while the initial pull isn’t aggressive, that’s a common trait among entry-level bikes.

Fuel Economy

There is no Cycle World recorded fuel economy data for the 300NK.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

Compared to CFMOTO’s fully faired 300SS sportbike, the 300NK features a taller, 31.2-inch seat height and standard handlebar for a comfortable and upright seating position that lends itself to around-town riding.

The bike is comfortable for most riders, though remember that small-displacement machines are going to force taller riders to make some sacrifices in terms of comfort.

A 5-inch full-color TFT display on a bike costing under $4,000. Credit CFMOTO for finding ways to incorporate modern technology into an affordable package. (CFMOTO/)

Electronics

Continuing with CFMOTO’s “bang-for-your-buck” mentality, the entry-level 300NK is equipped with a slew of electronics that rival similar entry-level bikes, including a 5-inch full-color TFT display and factory-equipped dual-channel ABS. Lighting is all LED too.

Warranty and Coverage

The 300NK comes with CFMOTO’s two-year factory warranty.

A closer look at the 300NK frame and bodywork highlights the relatively high fit and finish of CFMOTO’s bikes. (CFMOTO/)

Quality

From what we can tell, the CFMOTO hit the nail on the head with its 300NK, offering a quality motorcycle for an affordable price. Welds on the trellis frame are clean and even, materials seem premium, coatings are robust and neatly applied, and everything functions precisely as intended. You’ll be hard-pressed to point out notable flaws, even with the low, $3,999 price tag.

2022 CFMOTO 300NK Claimed Specs

MSRP:	$3,999
Engine:	292cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder; 4 valves/cyl.
Bore x Stroke:	78.0 x 61.2mm
Transmission/Final Drive:	6-speed/chain
Fuel Delivery:	Bosch EFI
Clutch:	Wet, multiplate slipper
Frame:	Steel trellis w/ aluminum alloy swingarm
Front Suspension:	Inverted fork
Rear Suspension:	Monoshock, 5-click preload adjustable
Front Brake:	Radial-mounted 4-piston caliper, 300mm disc w/ ABS
Rear Brake:	1-piston floating caliper, 245mm disc w/ ABS
Wheels, Front/Rear:	Aluminum alloy; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 4.5 in.
Tires, Front/Rear:	110/70R-17 / 140/60R-17
Rake/Trail:	25.0°/4.1 in.
Wheelbase:	53.5 in.
Ground Clearance:	5.9 in.
Seat Height:	31.2 in.
Fuel Capacity:	3.3 gal.
Claimed Wet Weight:	333 lb.
Contact:	cfmotousa.com

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com