When the CF Moto 800 NK debuted, many assumed it would be a budget pretender in the fiercely contested middleweight naked category. Instead, Riders have been buzzing: could this Chinese-backed challenger really go toe-to-toe with BMW’s roadster royalty?
At its core, the 800 NK borrows KTM’s 799 cc parallel-twin engine, tuned to 100 hp at 9,000 rpm and 59.7 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm, delivered through a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch for crisp shifts. Weighing in at 186 kg kerb, it undercuts the BMW F 900 R’s 208 kg by 22 kg and sits just below the Triumph Street Triple’s 186 kg dry weight, making it exceptionally nimble.
| Model | Engine | Power | Wet Weight | Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CF Moto 800 NK | 799 cc parallel-twin | 100 hp @ 9,000 rpm | 186 kg | $8,699 |
| BMW F 900 R | 895 cc parallel-twin | 105 hp @ 8,500 rpm | 208 kg | $11,099 |
| Triumph Street Triple 765 | 765 cc triple-cycl. | 123 hp @ 11,700 rpm | 186 kg | $10,199 |
The Entire Motorcycle community has erupted with amazement at the 800 NK’s spec sheet versus price. One post celebrated its “KTM DNA” chassis and quickshifter—features usually reserved for premium European bikes—calling it “an absolute no-brainer for value seekers.” Yet others warned: “You get what you pay for,” citing potential long wait times for parts and uncertain long-term reliability.
“I own an R1200R, but if I were buying today, it’d be the 800 NK—proven platform, solid components, and unmatched price,” confessed one rider with 15k kms on BMWs in Argentina.
Rider Impressions
Enthusiasts rave about that usable midrange surge. Unlike some high-strung triples, the 800 NK delivers torque from 4,000 rpm with addictive urgency, ideal for back-road blasts. Riders note its flickable handling—thanks to the chromoly-steel frame and KYB suspension—mirrors KTM’s famed agility, making corner entries feel light and precise.
Equipped with J.Juan radial calipers and Bosch ABS, the braking setup inspires confidence, though some feel initial bite is less aggressive than Brembo-equipped rivals. The absence of a steering damper on the base Sport model draws mild criticism, but the Advanced trim adds that stability bonus.
Reddit discussions are split between two camps:
- Value Advocates celebrate the 4-year warranty, modern TFT display with RideSync, quickshifter, and three riding modes—amenities rare at sub-$9k.
- Brand Purists question long-term support and resale, reminding that a BMW badge often ensures global dealer networks and stronger aftermarket values.
According to data from a leading spec aggregator, the average UK resale for an F900 R after two years is ~75% of the MSRP, whereas Chinese-brand resales hover near 60%—a gap that some say offsets the initial savings.
Red Flags & Reservations
Critics on forums emphasize:
- Fit-and-finish isn’t as refined as BMW or Triumph.
- Suspension tuning, while capable, lacks the premium WP or Öhlins feel.
- Dealer networks remain sparse, potentially elongating service waits and part sourcing.
Yet, no major mechanical failures have surfaced in owner reports up to 15,000 km, suggesting faults are more anecdotal than systemic.
Motorcycle journalist Sarah Johnson of Cycle World lauds the 800 NK as “a silent disruptor—it may not carry European prestige, but its performance fundamentals are impossible to ignore”.
The CF Moto 800 NK has ignited passionate debates by delivering a KTM-sourced engine, premium features, and nimble handling at a disruptive price. Whether it dethrones BMW’s F 900 R or Triumph’s Street Triple remains a personal verdict: take one for a test ride, join the online discussion, and decide if this bold challenger truly punches above its weight.
