CFMOTO 550MT and 550MT-X revealed with new 527cc engine
CFMOTO has expanded its adventure range with two new 527cc models, offering a road-focused tourer and a more off-road-oriented machine based around the same parallel-twin engine.
CFMOTO is adding two new models to its MT adventure range with the arrival of the 550MT and 550MT-X, two motorcycles that share the same engine but take rather different approaches to adventure riding.
Both bikes are powered by a new 527cc parallel-twin engine producing 54hp at 8,500rpm and 52Nm (38.4lb-ft) of torque at 6,000rpm. However, while the standard 550MT has been developed with touring comfort and electronic rider aids in mind, the 550MT-X takes a more focused approach to off-road riding, with longer-travel suspension, larger wheels and a lighter overall package.
The new engine represents a sizeable step up from the 450MT's 449cc unit, with CFMOTO claiming around 30 per cent more power. Both new models also feature a bi-directional quickshifter, although the standard 550MT goes a step further with an electronic clutch system designed to make everyday riding and gear changes easier.
CFMOTO 550MT-X: the off-road option
Of the two new arrivals, the 550MT-X is clearly the more dirt-focused machine. It uses a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel combination, alongside fully adjustable KYB suspension offering 230mm of travel at the front and 220mm at the rear. Ground clearance is set at 250mm, giving it the necessary dimensions for tackling more demanding terrain.
CFMOTO claims a dry weight of 172kg and a ready-to-ride figure of 183kg, making it 3kg lighter than the 450MT despite the larger-capacity engine. The braking setup also differs from the standard model, with a single 320mm front disc used to help reduce unsprung weight.
Its bodywork has been kept relatively compact, with a narrow waist and one-piece seat intended to make it easier for riders to move around when standing on the footpegs. These are all fairly conventional ingredients for a more serious adventure bike, but they give the 550MT-X a noticeably different brief to its road-oriented sibling.
Electronics include selectable power modes and an Off-Road setting that allows traction control and rear-wheel ABS to be switched off. A standard bi-directional quickshifter is also included, alongside a vertically mounted 6.2-inch display with MotoPlay connectivity.
CFMOTO 550MT: built for the road
The standard 550MT uses the same 527cc engine but takes a more touring-friendly approach to its chassis and equipment. Its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are more suited to predominantly road-based riding, while KYB suspension is fitted to provide a balance between comfort and everyday versatility.
It also gets a more comprehensive electronics package, including three riding modes, IMU-based cornering ABS and traction control, cruise control and a Rear Detection System (RDS). The latter adds another layer of rider assistance, while an 8-inch MMI 2.0 display brings Apple CarPlay connectivity to the cockpit.
The standard 550MT also gets an electronic clutch, Smart Key functionality and electronic access features, positioning it as the more convenience-focused of the two motorcycles.
Touring practicality has been considered, too, with a 23-litre fuel tank and a two-piece seat. Seat height is adjustable between 800mm and 820mm, giving riders some flexibility when setting the bike up to suit their needs.
Pricing, availability and full UK specifications for both motorcycles have yet to be confirmed.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
