The CFMOTO 1000MT-X was officially launched in South Africa in May 2026, following its global debut at the International Motorcycle and Accessories Exhibition in Milan, Italy, and has quickly become one of the most talked-about motorcycles in the adventure riding community.
Priced aggressively at R199 900, the 1000MT-X enters the large-capacity adventure touring segment as a serious contender, creating considerable interest in the local market.
To find out whether the excitement surrounding the new model is justified, Farmer’s Weekly spoke to CFMOTO brand ambassador and founder of the Proudly Meerkat Adventure Rider group, Henri du Toit, who recently put the motorcycle through its paces on both tar and gravel roads in Eswatini.
This review is based primarily on his riding experience.
“My test bike was finished in Tactical Green, but it is also available in Aerolite Grey, while Nebula Black will be introduced soon. The black really suits the 1000MT-X,” he says.
A head-turner on the road
First impressions count, and according to Du Toit, the 1000MT-X certainly attracts attention.
“It is a real head-turner. Everywhere we stopped, people wanted a closer look. The build quality is excellent and the attention to detail is immediately noticeable.”
Most of the journey through Eswatini was completed on tarred roads. After adjusting the suspension’s rebound and compression settings to suit both his weight and the riding conditions, Du Toit found the motorcycle exceptionally comfortable.
The combination of a 21” front wheel and an 18” rear wheel also provides the ideal configuration for an adventure motorcycle intended to spend time off the beaten track. Power comes from a liquid-cooled, 946cc parallel-twin engine producing 112hp at 8 500rpm and 105Nm of torque at 6 500rpm.
“The throttle response is immediate, and the engine delivers more than enough power and torque for any situation, whether you’re riding on tar or gravel.”
Other riders also commented on the smooth throttle response compared with several competing motorcycles in this category. Rather than feeling overly aggressive, the power delivery is progressive, making the motorcycle more approachable for a wider range of riders.
The 1000MT-X is fitted as standard with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres.
Du Toit says they inspired confidence through the winding mountain roads of Eswatini. He also praised the motorcycle’s low-mounted fuel tank, which lowers the centre of gravity and contributes to excellent balance and handling.
With a fuel capacity of 22,5ℓ, CFMOTO quotes consumption at 4,6ℓ/100km. Riders have reported even better fuel economy under certain conditions, making a range of approximately 400km on a single tank achievable.
Built for adventure
Weighing just 222kg wet, the 1000MT-X combines relatively low weight with impressive off-road capability.
“The power-to-weight ratio is excellent. The bike feels incredibly manageable both on and off road and, in many ways, reminds me of riding a large motocross bike,” says Du Toit.
Its off-road credentials are supported by fully adjustable KYB suspension, offering rebound, compression, and preload adjustment at both ends. The 48mm front forks and 230mm of suspension travel front and rear provide the capability expected from a serious adventure motorcycle.
Technology is equally impressive. The 8” colour TFT touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay, allowing riders to use Google Maps directly from a connected smartphone without installing additional navigation software.
“The rider modes can be changed while riding. I also really like the steering damper, which is mounted on top of the handlebars and can easily be adjusted to suit your preference,” he adds.
Du Toit’s only notable criticism is the standard equipment. He would have preferred a slightly taller windscreen and a centre stand as standard, particularly as the motorcycle is chain- driven. Nevertheless, the adjustable windscreen can be repositioned with one hand while riding and still provides adequate wind protection.
At home on gravel
According to Du Toit, the motorcycle truly comes into its own once the tar ends.
“Off road, this bike is incredible. It handles everything with ease. We rode on hard-packed gravel, rocky sections, ruts, loose gravel, sand, and erosion humps. Every kilometre was enjoyable and left me wanting to spend even more time on gravel. The 1000MT-X is light, nimble, punchy and powerful,” he says.
The traction control and ABS settings can both be adjusted to suit riding conditions. Du Toit was particularly impressed by the off-road ABS, while the Brembo braking system, featuring twin 360mm front discs and a single 260mm rear disc, delivers strong, consistent stopping performance.
“Emergency braking is excellent, and the bike is great fun when sliding under control.”
Although Du Toit experienced no problems during his test ride, several international online reviews have highlighted concerns regarding the current calibration of the off-road traction control system. Some reviewers suggest that the software does not yet fully match the quality of the motorcycle’s hardware.
Riders have the option of selecting different off-road traction control settings or switching the system off completely.
Reports suggest that, on particularly steep or loose gravel, selecting the all-terrain mode delivers the best results. Fortunately, CFMOTO is aware of the issue and is working on a solution.
