China-based CFMoto is all set to re-launch its range of bikes in India, partnering with the Bangalore -based AMW Motorcycles. The brand was expected to launch the range today but due to heavy rains in Mumbai, the event has been delayed further. CFMoto has not revealed its range of models for India yet, however, test mules of the nakeds- the 300NK, 650NK and even the adventure tourer – 650MT have been spotted testing in the country suggesting these could be the first bikes to be launched. Interestingly, another bike mentioned on the brand’s social media page is the 650GT- a sports tourer.
The 650NK, 650MT and the 650GT are powered by the same liquid-cooled, parallel-twin 649.3cc engine and will take on the likes of Kawasaki Z650, Versys 650, Ninja 650, Benelli TRK 502 and TNT 600i. The 300NK is powered by a 292.4cc, twin-cylinder engine and will compete with the likes of Benelli TNT300, KTM 250 Duke, BMW G 310 R, Honda CB300R and even the Bajaj Dominar. The bikes are likely to follow the CKD route but will be priced aggressively.
It may seem so, but you can’t really dismiss CFMoto as a Chinese rip-off of the KTMs. Kiska Designs, the studio behind KTM also partners CFMoto and hence, the motorcycles look similar to a large extent. CFMoto’s assembly line in China is also used by KTM to manufacture 200 Duke and 390 Duke. CFMoto also manufactures the LC8 engine that can be found in the KTM 790 range.
This isn’t CFMoto’s first endeavour in India. Few years back, the company partnered with Eider motors to bring their products in the country. However, due to legal issues, Eider was forced to shut down its operations. For its second innings in the country, AMW will handhold the Chinese brand. Would it be able to beat KTM at its own game? Let’s wait and watch.