The ambitious new CFMoto 700 CL-X has only just begun hitting the dealerships but the Chinese is already preparing a more accessible version fitted with its 250cc powerplant.
Part of a new strategy to give the Asian company - which has close ties to KTM - a more convincing competitor in the fiercely contested European markets, the 700 CL-X range offers a triumvirate of options on a platform based around the ageing but proven KTM 690 platform.
To date buyers have the option of a Yamaha XSR-rivalling neo-retro roadster known as the Heritage, though this will be joined soon by a more dynamic Sport variant, plus an Adventure version to take on the incoming Triumph Tiger Sport 660.
In the meantime, CFMoto is developing a smaller version of the handsome Heritage utilising its 250cc architecture for sale in Asian markets.
This will bring it into line with CFMoto’s other 249cc offerings, including the NK naked and SR sportsbike, which is now offered in the UK using a more appealing 292cc engine.
As such, it is more than likely it will be adapted for the roadster under the CFMoto 300 CL-X nameplate.
With a look that remains true to the larger original version - shown here in Sport guise - a 300 CL-X would represent an enticing offering for the firm in a market where Chinese-badged models have a greater foothold against their Japanese and European competitors.
With the 700 CL-X Heritage coming in at £6,299 - well below the £7,699 for the equivalent Yamaha XSR - the 300 CL-X Sport will likely reflect this with prices in the region of £3,500-£4,000.
