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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
euphonius
I think this also says good things about the future of motorcycling in China. I don't think CFMoto would investing in this bike and the domestic market if they felt it were being choked off. Perhaps they know something?
Would be a great time to interview the heads of CFMoto to ask that question. With cities banning bikes left and right, and bikes effectively firewalled from most expressways, meaning these bigger bikes have little room to run, why launch this bike now?
cheers
CFMoto don't have any intent to focus on the domestic market, nor any illusion as to the opposition that they face on multiple sides. While they do have principle dealers in most Chinese provinces and there are domestic dealers that carry or can order their stock, CFMoto are focused elsewhere in so much as they see the globe as the potential market, and I must say that just from my personal impressions they seem to be doing fairly well at it. Inevitably there have been a few hiccups along the way (i.e. newly arrived stock being was held by the American Authorities last year which CFMoto is pursuing for civil damages in the American courts, as one example) but they are committed to the European, Eastern caucuses, and Americas, less so in the Asia Pacific region (given that the market is exponentially smaller). As for the CFMoto presence in the domestic market, it's a pity at least round these parts that they don't have a dedicated domestic dealership network - but then given that the domestic market isn't their focus it's to be expected. The domestic market is a consequence of the global marketing strategy.
Given time, and a maturing of the market and motorcycling in China (and so to the automotive sector in general in PRC), there is bound to be some changes that are likely to bode well for motorcycles and two wheelers, not least being the significant increases in the cost of oil and getting it to market, and the possibility of scarcity - this can surely only be good for biking in general.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Lao Jia Hou
Great update Macieq. Lots of eye candy on that second link. :thumbsup:
A couple of Beijing dealers have started advertising mid-June delivery.
Not a bad price, it seems. I don't really follow this style of bike, but my guess is it will be a big hit in Beijing. At least two thirds the illegal big bikes are sport bikes, selling for around this price. Hence, a legal bike will be more attractive to many.
Lao Jia Hou,
The question is, is it really a legal bike. It seems like they have started a sales campaign on the domestic market. But I could not find a 100% proof so far. Did you talk to the dealers in question in Beijing? I have sent an email to CF Moto's sales asking this question (plateable) and to pay them a visit for a test ride, by the way. But no answer so far...
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
felix
Really? 72hp is exactly what the ER6 makes, i wonder if they just copied and pasted.
Either way it seems like a nice bike and the price is pretty fair. I think it actually looks nicer than the kawa! Who's gonna be the guinea pig then?
Felix,
Since I still have not ordered the JH600 yet, I started to hesitate about the CF now. I spoke to Ulli, who is a German engineer having a R&D shop for motorbike engines at the Tian Ma circuit in Shanghai (he was quoted in this forum already by somebody in another thread). Anyway, he supposed to have a kind of cooperation with CF or giving them some support, especially in respect to the fuel injection system. He told me the test ride with this bike was really fun. I asked him about the power. He said if 72HP or not, it does not matter on Chinese roads, but it was for sure more than 60HP. As he has a long term experience in the racing sport I would believe that he can judge it by feeling. Furthermore he said he thought the bike is realiable and easy to ride, also having good suspension and brakes. Maybe softer than the Japs racer bikes, but this is just fine for Chinese roads. He ment every Harley or even my old "rubber cow" BMW are better for that. OK, saying "easy to ride" is maybe not 100% the same for him and for me. I am familiar with a riding position of the JH600 rather than of a kind of a "street fighter". So, this is something for a test ride. An advantage for me in Shanghai could be the location of CF Moto in Hangzhou, which is so to say, in front of the house door. So, just in case if something went wrong with the bike...
But there are still some doubts:
- the JH600 is a kind of a proven bike in China as tested by some forum members since 2 years. The CF in contrary seems still in the prototype stage.
- what about the license plates? They did not answer my inquiry related yet.
- for my personal taste I rather prefer a dual sport than a sport bike from the point of view of riding comfort. For that reason the importance of a test ride.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
bikerdoc
Couldn't agree more, nice bike (alternative) & some stunningly nice eye candy.
Eye candy :) That's where they're still better than in technology... Yes, nice pictures. Hopefully the bike will be as nice alternative as the pics are.
As I mentioned below I am not so sure if they have obtained the certificates required already. I let a Chinese colleague of mine call Xingyue (XY400...) and Qingqi (QM250GY) and they all admitted not having them yet due to the new emission requirements (at least for engines above 150 cc). They said they were waiting for that since 6 months and the only brand in China which has fulfilled the standards already before due date was Jialing! They said it on their own will, without asking about the competition. But the JH600 is extremly "underpowered" with 40HP. Can the CF claiming 72HP fulfill the standard?
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
macieq
....But the JH600 is extremly "underpowered" with 40HP. ...
Dear Macieq,
Needless to say I'm biased, but I find it pretty hard to understand why anyone would want more power than what the JH600 delivers. Your preference for a dual sport style of bike over a sport bike is not just practical; it's prudent and wise. There's just way too f**king much happening on China's roads, and much of it is unprincipled and dangerous. Being top-dead-center upright with your head and eyes positioned to scan all but about 90 degrees of the horizon (directly behind your head) is a strategy for survival. Leaning forward on a sport bike, even just 15 or 20 degrees, substantially decreases your ability to scan the horizon and also reduces your ability to see over passenger cars. Adding horsepower and the ability to accelerate faster and ride at higher overall speeds will certainly give an adrenaline boost, but I'd argue that it substantially decreases your chances of avoiding calamity.
Sometimes I wish I'd opted for a lighter and more maneuverable bike like the Galaxy 250, which respond better to emergency evasion moves despite having maybe half the horsepower even of the Jialing.
It's not a jungle out there. It's a maelstrom. China is a chaotic developing country, where speed kills. A strategy for survival is one that gives you the best possible chance of seeing what's about to cream you, traveling at a safe enough speed that leaves you with a margin for error and quick adjustment, and pulling it all together with an attitude of respect and humility toward the dangers and risks that we take when we throttle into that maelstrom.
A final word of (unsolicited) advice from an admitted novice with only two years' experience as a rider: I would take the views of any trackside wrench jockey with a huge grain of salt. They are thinking about bikes in absolute terms -- the terms of winning on a track -- and not in the prudent, life-preserving relative terms that I've described above. And talk is cheap when it's not your own ass in the sling.
good luck!
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
bikerdoc
I don't think that CFMoto have any intent to focus on the domestic market, nor any illusion as to the opposition that they face on multiple sides. While they do have principle dealers in most Chinese provinces and domestic dealers that carry their stock, CFMoto are focused elsewhere in so much as they see the globe as the potential market, and I must say that just from my personal impressions they seem to be doing fairly well at it. Inevitably there have been a few hiccups along the way (i.e. newly arrived stock being was held by the American Authorities last year which CFMoto is pursuing for civil damages in the American courts, as one example) but they are committed to the European, Eastern caucuses, and Americas, less so in the Asia Pacific region (given that the market is exponentially smaller). The domestic market is a consequence of the global marketing strategy.
Given time, and a maturing of the market and motorcycling in China (and so to the automotive sector in general in PRC), there is bound to be some changes that are likely to bode well for motorcycles and two wheelers, not least being the significant increases in the cost of oil and getting it to market, and the possibility of scarcity - this can surely only be good for biking in general.
As to the intentions of CF's management, the Ulli I quoted in a post above told me, he convinced the general manager of CF not to give up the Chinese market with this middle size bike some months ago. He said the future market here for real motorcycles is huge in his opinion. Maybe he impressed them with his speech. I do not know in how far this information is serious. Just quote what he told me.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
euphonius
Dear Macieq,
Needless to say I'm biased, but I find it pretty hard to understand why anyone would want more power than what the JH600 delivers. Your preference for a dual sport style of bike over a sport bike is not just practical; it's prudent and wise. There's just way too f**king much happening on China's roads, and much of it is unprincipled and dangerous. Being top-dead-center upright with your head and eyes positioned to scan all but about 90 degrees of the horizon (directly behind your head) is a strategy for survival. Leaning forward on a sport bike, even just 15 or 20 degrees, substantially decreases your ability to scan the horizon and also reduces your ability to see over passenger cars. Adding horsepower and the ability to accelerate faster and ride at higher overall speeds will certainly give an adrenaline boost, but I'd argue that it substantially decreases your chances of avoiding calamity.
Sometimes I wish I'd opted for a lighter and more maneuverable bike like the Galaxy 250, which respond better to emergency evasion moves despite having maybe half the horsepower even of the Jialing.
It's not a jungle out there. It's a maelstrom. China is a chaotic developing country, where speed kills. A strategy for survival is one that gives you the best possible chance of seeing what's about to cream you, traveling at a safe enough speed that leaves you with a margin for error and quick adjustment, and pulling it all together with an attitude of respect and humility toward the dangers and risks that we take when we throttle into that maelstrom.
A final word of (unsolicited) advice from an admitted novice with only two years' experience as a rider: I would take the views of any trackside wrench jockey with a huge grain of salt. They are thinking about bikes in absolute terms -- the terms of winning on a track -- and not in the prudent, life-preserving relative terms that I've described above. And talk is cheap when it's not your own ass in the sling.
good luck!
Dear Euphonius,
at least 90% or more of what you said are also my thoughts and opinions. And I am not as crazy as it seems at first glance. I just wanted to share my findings on the current situation about the CF 650NK. As I said I m in doubt about her for some reasons. As for the HP of the JH600 I do not mean it is too little for the current riding environment in China (therefore i was also thinking about the XY400 and QM250GY as an option). I rather mean it is too little for a 600 cc engine, water cooled, DOHC, developed in 2009. This ratio of HP to displacement got my old BMW lady and even the models before, i.e. almost 40 years ago without DOHC, water cooling and fuel injection. But I still think it is good or rather the best choice in China nowadays.
BTW: I just went for a walk after dinner and saw a black JH600 in front of the Starbucks close to the Science & Technology Museum in Shanghai, Pudong. waiting 5 mins, the rider did not come back, I left finally. Who of you guys was that?
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Yes, I can sense you are not a loose cannon kind of rider, which is a good thing. Yes, the power to displacement ratio is not too impressive with the Austrian-designed AVL power plant on the Jialing, and the bike's weight makes here a bit of a boat. But she's a blast to ride, and for my money is just right for slipping in and out of Shanghai and for longer tours.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
macieq
....I just went for a walk after dinner and saw a black JH600 in front of the Starbucks close to the Science & Technology Museum in Shanghai, Pudong. waiting 5 mins, the rider did not come back, I left finally. Who of you guys was that?
Wasn't mine, which I just checked moments ago in my compound. Perhaps Milton's, as he lives in Pudong. So far as I know there are only five or six of us in Shanghai.
cheers!
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
1) Is it legal/registrable/C-3?
In Beijing, yes. In Shanghai, no idea. Each city seems to be its own little empire. Several examples of inconsistent "legality" between cities (JH600B, sidecar, case in point). My suggestion would be to put a deposit on one, and pay the balance after the plate is on. No plate? Get your deposit back.
2) JH600?
[rant]I really have no idea why people need to diss this bike, aside from the fact that it is Chinese and not one of the big name brands (aka "status"). I own a JH600, along with several other types of bikes, and have NEVER found it to be lacking in power. It is my "go to" bike 95% of the time for riding outside of Beijing. I also own a BMW 650GS (in Canada), and although there is a small "on paper" edge in HP by the BMW, practically, there is no difference. None, zilch, zero! The big difference is that I can buy five JH600s for the price of one 650GS in China. And anyone who tries to tell you that BMWs are more reliable ... hahahaha ... have some more Kool Aid.[/rant]
3) Safety?
I agree 1,000% with Euphonius about riding position. The upright poston of a dual sport is infinitely safer in this crazy Chinese traffic. But it always comes down to personal preference (whatever floats your boat). If you like sport bikes, and countless people love them (just not me), the CF Moto product looks good (and I think CF Moto makes a decent product). If you like enduro-style, the Galaxy 250 is very nice. I just sold one (which I regret), but I might try the new Qingqi 250 (see ChinaV's review).
4) Traffic / cruising / errands
Inside Beijng city, among the traffic, I always use a scooter ... MUCH safer, easier, quicker, convenient ... I love the little Suzuki 125. Except if I am cruising from Starbucks to Starbucks, being "super cool" - a job for my super-obnoxiously loud Victory (it actually sets off car alarms as I ride past!).
If I want to pack 500 kgs of junk, do a lot of shopping, etc., I use a sidecar (JH600B).
Bottom line for me is ... if I was into sport bikes (which I'm not), I would probably buy the new CF 650. But first I'd see if there was something available in the 250 to 400 cc range.
Cheers
Richard
PS: (one more rant about the JH600) A friend (who will remain "unnamed" ... but plays bass in our band ... and owns several Ducatis, a Yamaha R1, etc - and is probably a definitive racing guy with oodles of track experience) borrowed my JH600 for a weekend. The following week, he was negotiating with the dealer to buy one.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Interesting discussion going on here, so I'm going to chime in on it if you'll all allow me to do so.
For the neigh-sayers let me set the record straight, the new CF650NK CAN BE LEGALLY PLATED/LICENSED in those cities where motorcycles ARE NOT BANNED. I know this to be factual after having confirmed this by phone directly with my contact at CFMoto Hangzhou 2011-05-18 while I was ordering some consumable parts for my Jetmax.
As I stated earlier in this thread, CFMoto are not into the domestic market, so the fact they have bothered to get this model certified and available for China at all should be applauded. By doing so they hopefully encourage the other motorcycle manufacturers to lift there game! Also this gives those of us in China a little more option too, which given the state of motorcycling affairs in China is only a positive. Actually if a few more Chinese motorcycle manufacturers were to invest as much R&D, time and effort into the local scene as CFMoto has done (despite CFMoto not focused on the domestic market) then we might get to have some advantage in gaining some political muscle to correct some of the biased discriminatory anti-motorcycling policies that abound in China (city motorcycle bans & equitable expressway use).
As stated, the CF650NK isn't the most ideal motorcycle for China, though to be fair one could argue that there is no ideal motorcycle for China! given the state of the affairs here. At least by CFMoto adding to what is legally available we might just get to have some realistically priced choices over and above the low end models that abound here already and the few locally manufactured mid sized machines. One of the things that lets CFMoto down (and possibly other manufacturers) is they don't have a great dedicated dealer network, that is service orientated. Just yesterday, I tried to order my Jetmax parts via the Zhejiang dealer using the official Jetmax parts list schematic complete with drawings of every part and the corresponding part numbers. The Zhejiang dealer (principle dealer for the entire province) replied with a request that I take a photo of which parts I wanted. What a f^&%*# joke! So I rang CFMoto domestic sales manager to complain!
I've had a close up view of the CF650NK and am suitably impressed, and I'm hoping to arrange a test ride at CFMoto Hangzhou soon, to determine if it's something I want to add to my collection.
While it may be overpowered, to road-sport orientated etc. it will join a long list of other motorcycles that also aren't best suited to the local China conditions, but are bought and ridden here in abundance. Guess the other point is, at least here in Zhejiang there are lots and lots of nice motorcycling roads to be had/ridden.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
macieq
BTW: I just went for a walk after dinner and saw a black JH600 in front of the Starbucks close to the Science & Technology Museum in Shanghai, Pudong. waiting 5 mins, the rider did not come back, I left finally. Who of you guys was that?
Wow, it's such a small world. It was me last night meeting a friend at the said Starbucks. I live in the apartment compound right behind JinYan Road 锦研路。 Ordinarily I'd park my bike in the compound before going to Starbucks, but I was late so I just pulled over there directly. Looks like you are somewhat close to that spot as well. PM me if you are interested to see me about the bike or even test ride it.
Cheers!
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
A new CF650NK sold to a local guy in Nanjing, here's his report at motofans- taking delivery of the bike, then riding Nanjing-Shanghai-Nanjing (Tianma race circuit), adapting a Honda VTR1000 screen to his CF650NK complete with photos.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
milton
Wow, it's such a small world. It was me last night meeting a friend at the said Starbucks. I live in the apartment compound right behind JinYan Road 锦严路。 Ordinarily I'd park my bike in the compound before going to Starbucks, but I was late so I just pulled over there directly. Looks like you are somewhat close to that spot as well. PM me if you are interested to see me about the bike or even test ride it.
Cheers!
Milton, what a small world, indeed. I live in the same compound! But I have never seen your bike in there. Probably another corner. I have noticed you've got an A plate, so suitable for the downtown. Most of the bikes in Pudong have C plates (if they have any :icon10:).
Great, I'll PM you, of course!
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
"Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
A new CF650NK sold to a local guy in Nanjing, here's his
report at motofans- taking delivery of the bike, then riding Nanjing-Shanghai-Nanjing (Tianma race circuit), adapting a Honda VTR1000 screen to his CF650NK complete with photos."
Bikerdoc,
You mention this is Nanjing. Any idea where? I am still looking for local mechanic for my JH600. I have a pretty good guy for the CJ750 but have had to bring in outside factory help for the JH600. You may well remember the guys I first tried broke the oil filter bolt off not even knowing the lefty loose righty tight rule. I am sure there is a capable JH600 mechanic somewhere here but I have not found him. Maybe this is my lucky break.............
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Here's a promo video of the CF650 - more pleasant eye-candy and a couple of great trick riders (amazing skills)
http://v.youku.com/v_show/id_XMjcxMDM1ODg4.html
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Great trick riding indeed -- especially the Keystone Kops bit where the bike gets away from him. How does the bike stay up on its own? One of those Taiwan-made gyro systems that Felix told us about?
Very cool, but probably not the best strategy for promoting safe, responsible riding.....
thanks for sharing.
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2 Attachment(s)
Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
I wasn't overly impressed with this CFMoto 650 at first glance, but i still keep finding myself going back to the dealer on Wuzhong Lu to have another peek. :naughty:
A few guys from Motor Fans are raving about this bike, and they assure me that it IS registerable in Shanghai. I was even told CFMoto enlisted the experience of Ducati when designing this bike which seems a bit far fetched, but nontheless, it's nice to know there's a legal, mid-range bike out there should i decide to upgrade.
This touring verson might be more suitable for the Chinese roads. Due for release soon. Apparantly. I reckon it looks similar to the BMW R1200, not really my cup of tea though.
Attachment 4296
But this on the other hand is something worth saving for...
Attachment 4298
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
dewsnap, There is just something sexy about her having that naked look. Maybe that I refer to the bike as she and naked in the same sentence :lol8:
Definitely a good looking bike
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
The ex-BMW engineer 'Ulli' based out at TianMa circuit was involved in the mechanical/transmission design, and has by all accounts, had only positive things to say about the overall design & quality of the CFMoto 650NK. I will be catching up with him this weekend when I hit SH for the day or two. As for input from Ducati, me thinks thats just an urban legend that flies on Motofans.cn and other Chinese moto websites/forums. I will check and report back.
I've also been invited by the Taizhou based Zhejiang agent to head down for a test-ride of the said 650NK as I'm considering adding it to the stable, and can avail myself of the offer of a test-ride without any obligations.
Will report back on my thoughts and impression after that takes place sometime next week.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Look forward to your impressions after the test drive then Doc. How come you're considering this bike? You've already got plenty of power in your stable and a nice commuter.
I'm heading out of Shanghai this weekend, it's a shame, it'd have been nice to meet up.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
dewsnap
Look forward to your impressions after the test drive then Doc. How come you're considering this bike? You've already got plenty of power in your stable and a nice commuter.
I'm heading out of Shanghai this weekend, it's a shame, it'd have been nice to meet up.
I'm looking forward to it myself actually, even though I'd planned to head down to Taizhou for the test ride today - this has been postponed until sometime next week.
I've been fairly impressed overall with CFMoto products since my CF250T-F 'Fashion VIP' scoot (Honda Helix) which seems to have a cult following in the USA, which is surprising considering the super size me mentality that generally exists there.
I'm considering the 650NK for a variety of reasons, first and foremost it's two wheels, and I'm a sucker for moto's especially two wheeled engine variety, though I do own one or two with pedals. I'm also fairly happy with what CFMoto are manufacturing of late, and have been pleasantly surprised with the Jetmax maxi, that's not to say it couldn't do with a few changes, some of which CFMoto have taken heed of.
The price for the 650NK is reasonable given the input in engineering and design, and the similarities to the Kwaka ER6N, though one could argue that it's still a Chinese designed and made motorcycle and therefore is inferior (as some Chinese moto fans have done), and actually costs just under an equivalent ER6N does in many overseas markets. One commentator was complaining about the price on motofans.cn arguing that the price compared to the Kwaka which is a proven product from a Japanese manufacturer (ie. better quality and standards etc) so the poster was questioning why CFMoto was pricing on the Chinese domestic market so high!
It's a reasonable capacity motorbike (I really like 1000cc plus) that can be plated legally, with parts that can for now be sourced easily and if the Jetmax is any example then the parts are a steal (very affordable), that I've ordered quite few parts for the Jetmax to keep my own inventory - just in case.
I've to say that I'm also happy to support a CFMoto product having seen their facilities first hand (which I'm aware I've yet to write about and post up photos). I also believe that by supporting CFMoto it will benefit all of us in many different ways, and motorcycling/motorcycles in China and all that entails in general. To be honest I like both the 650NK (rawness, masculine clean lines) and the fully faired RS650 or 650RS (functional, weather protection etc). So I may end up buying both - but this hinges on how I find the ride next week! The police version of the same bike; 650TR was on display at a few motorcycle shows locally see here or at CFMoto-club.
I'm also looking at a TMax too, so I might just buy one of the CFMoto. I also got to get the bikes into the garage (where space is getting a little tight already - and without wifey noticing!
One thing is riding in China, one gets dirty real quick, covered in a layer of dirt even in the mountains I can end up home in the evenings and taking wash find a layer of dirt on the flannel even wearing all the gear and a face mask (complete with paper filter). Having ridden the Fashion and now Jetmax some 60000km between them, I've found have a fairing makes for a more cleaner and more refreshed ride overall as compared with my 1100 Dragstar, even with screen and air deflectors.
Convenience also rates higher with luggage carrying ability thus my bias towards the full fairing RS650. Oh, and having a centre-stand also rates high on my list of road side conveniences.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
TexasAggie
"Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
A new CF650NK sold to a local guy in Nanjing, here's his
report at motofans- taking delivery of the bike, then riding Nanjing-Shanghai-Nanjing (Tianma race circuit), adapting a Honda VTR1000 screen to his CF650NK complete with photos."
Bikerdoc,
You mention this is Nanjing. Any idea where? I am still looking for local mechanic for my JH600. I have a pretty good guy for the CJ750 but have had to bring in outside factory help for the JH600. You may well remember the guys I first tried broke the oil filter bolt off not even knowing the lefty loose righty tight rule. I am sure there is a capable JH600 mechanic somewhere here but I have not found him. Maybe this is my lucky break.............
Hey TexasA... sorry I missed this one, so apologies for the delay in replying to you.
I don't know the Chinese guy who's bought the 650NK in Nanjing so I can't advise you in regards to where he's getting his work done. Seems though that the place he had the Honda VTR1000 screen adapted and fitted to the 650NK did a pretty stand-up job. Not sure though if that was done in Nanjing or Shanghai though?
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
bikerdoc
The ex-BMW engineer 'Ulli' based out at TianMa circuit was involved in the mechanical/transmission design, and has by all accounts, had only positive things to say about the overall design & quality of the CFMoto 650NK. I will be catching up with him this weekend when I hit SH for the day or two. As for input from Ducati, me thinks thats just an urban legend that flies on Motofans.cn and other Chinese moto websites/forums. I will check and report back.
I've also been invited by the Taizhou based Zhejiang agent to head down for a test-ride of the said 650NK as I'm considering adding it to the stable, and can avail myself of the offer of a test-ride without any obligations.
Will report back on my thoughts and impression after that takes place sometime next week.
Yes, Ulli told me the same about the bike. Furthermore he said (free translation from German): "why do you make it so complicated? Just fire an email to them and ask about the registerability and ask for a test ride at their facilities". It was 1 month ago. no reply from CFMoto so far. I think the bike is not bad. But I doubt, they have C 3 for it already.
Anyway, a test ride is most important. So, I am excited to hear about your test ride to come. BTW 1000 thanks to Milton for giving me the oportunity to try the JH600! I do not know which bike I should buy right now. It makes me crazy! My current idea is something lighter than the JH600. I think, first I will go not too far away... A lot of city traffic in Shanghai. Thought about a supermoto, lightweight bike. There is an outdated QM200GY at a dealer in pudong. Stored there since more than 1 year. Model 2009. The guy said it is C 2 still plateable in Shanghai (as in stock for long time, can be back dated). He promissed to call me back after he knows how and how much guanxi qian to obtain a Shanghai license plate for a lao wai without Shanghai hukou (he said, in general it does not work - is that true?). No call back so far. i am frustrated.
Another issue is the seat height of the enduros / supermotos - Qingqi, Galaxy, Shineray. I can't believe. Is it really about 940 mm? That means no way for me. I am 173 cm only. The said JH600 of Milton was the Asian version, means 780 mm? The feeling on her (regarding the height) was exactly as my old BMW (dont know what is the theoretical seat height of the R65 Year Built '79). If the seat height is 940mm the rider must be at least 190 cm, doesn't he? I have tried to sit on the QM200GY-B supermoto - no problem, it was lower than my BMW and Milton's JH600! What's wrong about the specs?
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2 Attachment(s)
Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
The CFMoto CF650TR and possibly the 650RS which might just be the civilian version of the 650TR (police moto) will not be available until 2012. I tried to put my order in for one yesterday (Friday 3 June 2011) after I was initially told it was available but just not with the rear top-box (supposedly the top box would be available later) which I thought was odd, since the top-box is likely from another manufacturer me thinks. Turns out there was a miscommunication or misunderstanding between the Taizhou CFMoto agent and CFMoto company, TIC!
So I will have to wait until 2012 for the full-fairing model of the 650.
Attachment 4331
Attachment 4330
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
I'd buy the police version! :lol8:
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Gorgeous bike. China's cops have good taste!
I'd have to say, that's much less of a sport bike in that "public security" configuration, and more of a grand tourer. As such, it's going to be a strong competitor to the JH600 if they can get the bugger out the door. Looks like it would be fine for two-up riding, too.
Nice.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
Lao Jia Hou
I'd buy the police version! :lol8:
I'm going to have to check if it's possible if I could buy the 650TR model if it's available now, just so I don't have to wait. What can I say, I'm itching to buy another set of two wheels, the money must be burning a hole in my pocket - me thinks! LOL.
I'd be happy enough with the colour of the TR version, but I was informed by the Taizhou agent that the civilian version will be available in the same colours as the 650NK. I'll let you guys know.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Quote:
Originally Posted by
euphonius
Gorgeous bike. China's cops have good taste!
I'd have to say, that's much less of a sport bike in that "public security" configuration, and more of a grand tourer. As such, it's going to be a strong competitor to the JH600 if they can get the bugger out the door. Looks like it would be fine for two-up riding, too.
Nice.
Actually Euph. the standard 650NK is not really a sport bike, in the pure sense. It's a naked bike, but the seating position is almost upright or as I probably tend to do on the Jetmax, slouch! If you look/watch some of the videos on youku of the 650NK being ridden (when the guys actually stay on the seat that is!) you will notice as I did from the get go, how upright they are sitting. Then figure the normal stature of the average westerner/foreigner - think, arm length & in-seam and one might then appreciate just how much of an upright riding position will likely be in.
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
Yes, I did notice that about the NK, and find this an encouraging feature of the bike.
The litmus test for me would be whether you can comfortably stand on the bike and ride for a sustained period, as is normal on any GS-style bike. On my JH600 I can stand for basically as long as I like, and do not need to lean forward to retain solid command of the bars and controls. I'd like to install 2cm bar risers to make things even more comfortable. For me, standing is essential for shaking out the cobwebs during a long ride, and of course is essential on a stretch of nasty pavement or unpaved road/trail. I would hate being restricted to a sitting position, as I assume is the case with most cruisers and true sport bikes.
And to avoid any misunderstandings, what I mean by " standing" is standing on the pegs and gripping the tank with my knees/thighs, and not standing on the seat or the rack or the tank or the fenders or the handlebars...
Keep us posted on your progress!
cheers
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Re: CF Moto CF650 sport bike
CF650TR
The manufacturers info outlines a few items that are interesting. One is that CFMoto have provided technical training so there will be authorised repair/maintenance personnel/dealer around the country. I can confirm this as I discussed this very subject (maintenance/warranty issues) with the Taizhou agent yesterday. I voiced a concern over buying the 650TR or civilian equivalent via the agent versus my local shop that stocks CFMoto products (and where I've bought quite a few moto's over the past 5-6 years). The agent advised that some of his staff have just completed training in a special CFMoto 650 technical/mechanical course held by CFMoto - photos of a 650 training course (ignore the dates on the photos, seems likely the dates are in error)
The agent also elaborated that should I have any issues with the 650 then he would send one of his trained tech's to me to sort any problems, though if it was a simple problem then I would be free to take it to my local dealer who have not had the training (hell, I do most of my own wrenching anyways but it's a nice to know). This further fits into the items outlined on the CFMoto website above, that there will be a national emergency breakdown service supported by a national hotline number (00-679-0020).
Such a stance might just be a game changer, something that the motorcycling industry needs in PRC going some way to all help sort out the better Chinese motorbike manufacturers and cause other to raise their game to meet increasing expectations. Yet, some will fall by the wayside.
I also read that the 650TR police version enjoys a 2 year unlimited kilometer warranty. I wonder if this will role over to the civilian version. I'll have to check on that.
