CFMOTO MT-X: Their First Big-Bore ADV That’s Built For Dirt

CFMOTO has been teasing the MT-X adventure bike in dribs and drabs ever since the EICMA show in 2023, but what’s so great about it? According to the marketeering (as seen above), this is going to be their first full-sized bike with proper offroad rideability.

The MT-X originally debuted at EICMA with a laser show that appeared straight from the 1990s, and a graphics package to match. But this ain’t no retro; it’s no Moto Guzzi V85 TT or similar. It’s based on CFMOTO’s existing MT 800 platform, known in Canada as the Ibex 800. And that bike is based on KTM’s LC8c platform; it’s very similar to the 790-series adventure bikes, which CFMOTO builds for KTM.

That means you can also expect an electronics package similar to KTM’s. But for the past few years, CFMOTO’s 800-series bikes were only available with a 19-inch front wheel. Some people might like the sound of that—these machines were effectively the “790 Adventure S” models that KTM itself would not build. But other people wanted more offroadability.

Here’s what the YouTube video description says we can expect with the new MT-X:

With its striking Zephyr blue or Nebula black colors, the 800MT-X stands out. Its streamlined design features a floating silhouette and a muscular front, and it’s enriched by a 7-inch vertical TFT display with smartphone connectivity.

The 800MT-X is CFMOTO’s first bike equipped with a 21-inch front wheel and a powerful 799cc liquid-cooled inline twin-cylinder engine. Its low fuel tank and 240mm ground clearance enhance stability and rider confidence. Whether navigating rugged terrains or slicing through the wind with the sleek windshield, the 800MT-X delivers a streamlined, powerful ride.

Engineered for adventure, the 800MT-X includes a 22.5L fuel tank, a comfortable rally seat, and advanced electronic controls with three riding modes and cruise control.

Top-tier rider aids like a slipper clutch, ABS, quick shifter, and traction control, supported by Bosch’s 6-axis IMU, ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

With the new 450 Ibex and this machine, CFMOTO’s small-but-growing adventure bike lineup covers the bases. And it leaves us wondering what’s coming next—could a big-bore ADV machine be around the corner? CFMOTO’s CFLITE subsidiary is already exploring the entry-level dual sport market in other countries. Maybe we’ll see those machines eventually make their way to Canada too?