2022 CFMOTO 650NK

The Chinese-manufactured CFMOTO 650NK combines premium features with excellent riding characteristics. Although not as punchy as CFMOTO’s 700CL-X, the 650NK is a well-optioned package that’s ideal for around-town riding and the occasional spirited backroad session.

Hangzhou-based CFMOTO is well aware of the negative stigmas hovering over Chinese-manufactured motorcycles; instead of affirming the harmful stereotypes, it has devised a business model to storm into the US motorcycle market and change the perceptions of Chinese manufacturing once and for all.

The game plan is simple: Introduce a line of high-quality, feature-packed bikes that rival the quality of comparable Japanese and Euro machines, all for a price tag that undercuts the current market by $1,000–$2,000.

The 650NK is one such model—an impressive middleweight naked bike with a peppy, 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine, dual-disc front brakes, a full-color TFT display, and modern styling to appeal to the new generation of riders.

As this is the CFMOTO 650NK’s first year on the market, there are no updates to report.

CFMOTO’s 2022 lineup contains two different 650 models sharing the same basic components, including the chassis, 649cc engine, suspension, and brakes. However, the 650NK and 650 Adventura models are marketed toward different environments: city versus more remote destinations. There are enough changes to consider them two separate models, rather than variations of the same.

This being said, if you prefer the aesthetics and riding style of an adventure-style bike over the minimalist, naked styling of the 650NK, feel free to take a look at the buyer’s guide for the CFMOTO 650 Adventura.

The standard 650NK retails for a modest $6,499 and is available in two trim colors: Nebula White and Nebula Black.

The 650NK fits nicely in the ultracompetitive midweight naked class, going head-to-head against notable options like the Suzuki SV650 ($7,399), Yamaha MT-07 ($8,199), Kawasaki Z650 ($7,749), Triumph Trident ($8,395), and Aprilia Tuono 660 ($10,499).

The Ducati Scrambler lineup is comparable, at least on a non-cost basis; other manufacturers like Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha have cafe-styled options that should be considered, such as the Honda CB650R ($9,299), Kawasaki Z650RS ($9,099), and Yamaha XSR700 ($8,899).

With its 649cc parallel-twin engine, technology, and impressive quality, the CFMOTO 650NK is a worthy addition to the class.

CFMOTO’s 650NK is powered by a spry 649cc liquid-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine. With a 50cc drop in displacement versus the 700CL-X, the 650NK is slightly down on power in the midrange. However, that’s not to suggest that CFMOTO’s middleweight naked is a slouch. Compared to the company’s higher-powered 700 models, the 650 realistically only falls behind on long straights; besides that, the bike gets up to speed quickly and smoothly thanks to the Bosch EFI system.

The claimed 60 hp and 41.3 lb.-ft. of torque are routed through a six-speed transmission with a cable-driven slipper clutch that opens the door to smooth and crisp shifts in all conditions. The clutch also features an incredibly light pull, a feature that new and veteran riders alike will enjoy.

Not only is the 650NK’s drivetrain crisp and enjoyable, but the chassis is as well, the 650NK sporting KYB adjustable suspension front and rear. Front damping is handled by a telescopic, rebound-adjustable KYB fork, while the rear is suspended by an offset KYB damper with rebound and preload adjustment. While handling is smooth and controlled out of the box, overall damping is softer than CFMOTO’s 700CL-X lineup, leaving a bit to be desired during spirited riding. However, the KYB adjustable suspension allows riders to tune damping to their characteristics and riding style for a personalized experience.

Steering is smooth and direct thanks to the 650NK’s short 55.7-inch wheelbase and standard handlebar.

The 650NK’s J.Juan brakes are one of the bike’s shining features, providing excellent braking feel and performance in all conditions. Front braking is handled by dual 300mm discs and two-piston calipers, while rear braking consists of a single 240mm rotor and single-piston caliper.

Although not as impressive on paper as the 700CL-X or Brembo-equipped CL-X Sport, the J.Juan brakes on the 650NK are extremely balanced and predictable, performing flawlessly even after countless spirited laps around CFMOTO’s private Minnesota track.

The 650NK also comes with factory dual-channel Continental ABS, which our test riders found works well in wet and dry conditions.

There is currently no Cycle World fuel economy data for this platform.

With a standard handlebar and low 30.7-inch seat height, the 650NK places riders in a comfortable, upright position ideal for riding around town, touring, or the occasional spirited ride. The short distance between the bar and seat also aids in the upright feel, a characteristic that touring riders will certainly appreciate. There is, of course, little to no wind protection from the headlight casing, and this is where the 650 Adventura offers more in terms of long-range comfort.

The 650NK comes with two electronically controlled riding modes—eco and sport. Drive modes are displayed on the moto’s crisp and attractive 5-inch TFT display, justifying the bike’s identical price to the larger-displacement 700CL-X models. Other features include standard dual-channel ABS and full LED lighting.

Like the majority of models in CFMOTO’s new seven-model lineup, the 650NK comes with a two-year factory warranty.

Continuing the trend of well-built and affordable motorcycles, the CFMOTO 650NK boasts impressive levels of quality. From clean and properly penetrated welds on the trellis frame to tried-and-tested suspension and brake components to precisely molded plastics, the overall quality of the 600NK assuredly rivals its Japanese and European counterparts. Fit and finish is excellent as well, especially when considering the $6,499 price tag.