CFMOTO 550MT and 550MT-X 2027: Tourer meets off-road

Commuting, hitting the twisties at the weekend, or heading to where the tarmac ends? For 2027, CFMOTO is expanding the MT family with two different answers. The 550MT aims to combine everyday use and long-distance touring, while the 550MT-X focuses on off-road riding and a rally-inspired design. The fundamental difference isn't down to horsepower. Both get a new twin-cylinder engine; CFMOTO sets the priorities through chassis, ergonomics and features.

The common basis is a 527 cc parallel twin, for which CFMOTO quotes 54 hp at 8,500 rpm and 52 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Both models get a bi-directional quickshifter, which is explicitly described as standard on the 550MT-X. The touring-oriented 550MT adds an electronic clutch. The combination is intended to simplify gear changes and increase riding comfort. So identical performance figures don't automatically mean identical features when it comes to shifting.

On the 550MT, the road focus is already evident in the wheel sizes: 19 inches at the front, 17 inches at the rear. Add to that KYB suspension. CFMOTO promises stability and confidence in a variety of riding conditions. The 23-litre tank and two-piece seat suit the targeted versatility between commute, weekend outing and big tour. The seat height can be adjusted between 800 and 820 mm. With this package, the manufacturer puts the emphasis on accessibility, comfort and practical usability.

The tourer's electronics list is extensive too. Three riding modes, IMU-based cornering ABS and traction control are included, as are a Rear Detection System, RDS for short, and cruise control. For display and connectivity, CFMOTO relies on an 8-inch display with MMI 2.0 and Apple CarPlay. Smart Key and electronic access functions are meant to make everyday life even easier.

According to CFMOTO, the 550MT-X follows on from the 450MT and shifts the focus further towards performance, agility and control off-road. To that end, it gets its own off-road chassis with a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel. The fully adjustable KYB suspension offers 230 mm of travel at the front and 220 mm at the rear. The manufacturer also quotes 250 mm of ground clearance. Up front, a single 320 mm brake disc handles braking duties. This solution is intended to reduce unsprung mass.

CFMOTO quotes two weight figures: 172 kg dry weight and 183 kg wet weight. Compared to the 450MT, the newcomer is said to be 3 kg lighter and offer roughly 30 percent more power. Compact bodywork, a slim waist and a one-piece seat are meant to support freedom of movement and control when riding off-road. So here the ergonomics also follow the off-road focus.

The X's electronic features include selectable power modes and an off-road mode, in which traction control and rear ABS can be deactivated. CFMOTO pairs this with a portrait-oriented 6.2-inch display and MotoPlay connectivity. This means the two siblings also differ in the cockpit: the 550MT relies on the larger MMI display with Apple CarPlay, the 550MT-X on the vertical display with MotoPlay.

CFMOTO does not state prices or market launch dates in the documents provided. According to the manufacturer, technical data and features are also still subject to final confirmation. The basic split, however, is already clearly defined: touring features with electronic clutch, cruise control and a large tank on the 550MT, bigger wheels and long suspension travel on the 550MT-X.

How much power do the CFMOTO 550MT and 550MT-X have? According to the manufacturer, both models get a 527 cc parallel twin with 54 hp at 8,500 rpm and 52 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

What's the difference between the 550MT and the 550MT-X? The 550MT is geared towards everyday riding and touring, with 19/17-inch wheels, a 23-litre tank and an electronic clutch. The off-road-oriented X relies on 21/18-inch wheels, fully adjustable KYB suspension and 250 mm of ground clearance.

How heavy is the CFMOTO 550MT-X? CFMOTO quotes a dry weight of 172 kg and a wet weight of 183 kg. The documents contain no weight figure for the 550MT.

Can the ABS on the CFMOTO 550MT-X be switched off? In off-road mode, the rear ABS and traction control can be deactivated.

How much do the CFMOTO 550MT and 550MT-X cost and when will they arrive? Prices and market launch are not stated in the available press information.