The CFMoto 650MT, with its adventure-touring styling and attractive price point, has carved a niche for itself in the motorcycle market. However, like any machine, it's not without its quirks and potential issues. Understanding these problems can help you make an informed purchase decision, maintain your bike effectively, and address any issues proactively. Let's dive into the common concerns and how to navigate them.

So, What Are People Actually Complaining About?

The 650MT, while generally regarded as a reliable and affordable option, faces some recurring criticisms. These aren't necessarily deal-breakers, but being aware of them allows you to be prepared. We'll look at everything from the engine's characteristics to the sometimes-questionable quality of certain components.

Common complaints often revolve around:

  • Suspension performance, particularly for heavier riders or when carrying luggage.
  • Build quality of certain components, like plastics and fasteners.
  • Engine vibration, especially at higher RPMs.
  • Fueling issues and occasional stalling, particularly at low speeds.
  • Availability and cost of specific replacement parts.

Suspension Blues: Is It Too Soft?

One of the most frequent gripes about the 650MT is its suspension. The factory settings tend to be on the softer side, which can lead to a wallowy feeling, especially when riding two-up or with luggage. This can affect handling and overall confidence, particularly on uneven surfaces or during spirited riding.

Here's what you need to know:

  • The front forks often lack sufficient damping, causing them to dive excessively under braking.
  • The rear shock can feel underdamped and struggle to control the bike's movement over bumps.
  • Heavier riders will likely find the stock suspension inadequate.

What can you do about it?

  • Adjust the preload: Both the front and rear suspension typically offer preload adjustment. Experiment with increasing the preload to stiffen the ride and reduce sag. This is the simplest and cheapest solution.
  • Upgrade the fork springs: Replacing the stock fork springs with stiffer ones can significantly improve front-end control and reduce diving.
  • Consider aftermarket shocks: A higher-quality aftermarket shock can dramatically improve the rear suspension's performance and overall ride quality. Options from brands like YSS are popular choices.
  • Fork cartridge kits: For a more sophisticated solution, consider installing fork cartridge kits. These replace the internal components of the forks with adjustable dampers, offering fine-tuned control over compression and rebound damping.

Build Quality Concerns: Where Are They Cutting Corners?

While the 650MT offers excellent value for money, some aspects of its build quality have been criticized. This doesn't mean the bike is inherently unreliable, but it does mean you might need to pay closer attention to certain areas.

Areas of concern often include:

  • Plastic components: Some plastic parts, like the side panels and fairings, can feel flimsy and prone to scratching.
  • Fasteners: Some owners have reported issues with rust or corrosion on certain fasteners.
  • Paint quality: The paint finish, while generally acceptable, may not be as durable as on more expensive bikes.
  • Wiring: Inspect wiring harnesses for proper routing and protection to prevent chafing.

How to mitigate these concerns:

  • Regular cleaning and maintenance: Washing your bike regularly and applying a protectant to plastic parts can help preserve their appearance and prevent deterioration.
  • Use quality cleaning products: Use products specifically designed for motorcycles to avoid damaging paint or plastic.
  • Replace corroded fasteners: If you notice rust on fasteners, replace them with stainless steel alternatives.
  • Apply protective film: Consider applying a clear protective film to areas prone to scratching, such as the tank and side panels.
  • Inspect and protect wiring: Regularly check the wiring harness for any signs of wear or damage. Use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to protect exposed wires.

Engine Vibrations: Is It Just Part of the Character?

The 650MT is powered by a parallel-twin engine, which is known for its simplicity and affordability. However, parallel-twins can sometimes suffer from noticeable vibrations, and the 650MT is no exception.

Here's what you might experience:

  • Vibrations at higher RPMs: The engine tends to vibrate more noticeably at higher RPMs, particularly above 6,000 RPM.
  • Vibrations through the handlebars and footpegs: These vibrations can be felt through the handlebars and footpegs, which can become tiring on long rides.

What can you do to reduce vibrations?

  • Check engine mounts: Ensure that the engine mounts are properly torqued and in good condition.
  • Use handlebar weights: Adding heavier handlebar weights can help dampen vibrations transmitted through the handlebars.
  • Wear comfortable gloves: Padded gloves can help absorb vibrations and reduce hand fatigue.
  • Consider a gel seat: A gel seat can help absorb vibrations and improve overall comfort.
  • Accept it as part of the bike's character: While you can mitigate the vibrations, it's important to acknowledge that they are inherent to the engine design.

Fueling Issues: Is It Running Lean?

Some 650MT owners have reported experiencing fueling issues, particularly at low speeds. This can manifest as stalling, hesitation, or a jerky throttle response.

Potential causes include:

  • Lean fuel mixture: The engine may be running lean, especially at low speeds.
  • Throttle position sensor (TPS) issues: A faulty TPS can cause incorrect fuel delivery.
  • Idle speed adjustment: The idle speed may be set too low.

Troubleshooting and solutions:

  • Check the idle speed: Ensure that the idle speed is set to the manufacturer's specifications. Adjust if necessary.
  • Reset the TPS: A mechanic can reset the TPS to ensure accurate throttle position readings.
  • Consider a fuel controller: A fuel controller, such as a Dynojet Power Commander, allows you to fine-tune the fuel mixture and improve throttle response.
  • Check for vacuum leaks: Inspect vacuum lines for leaks, which can cause erratic engine behavior.
  • Clean the fuel injectors: Clogged fuel injectors can restrict fuel flow and cause poor performance.

Parts Availability: Can You Get What You Need?

One of the challenges with owning a less mainstream motorcycle like the CFMoto 650MT is the potential for parts availability issues. While common maintenance items are generally readily available, finding specific replacement parts can sometimes be a challenge.

What to be aware of:

  • Limited dealer network: CFMoto's dealer network is smaller than that of major manufacturers like Honda or Yamaha.
  • Longer lead times: Ordering parts may take longer than for more common brands.
  • Higher parts costs: Some parts may be more expensive than comparable parts for other bikes.

How to prepare:

  • Establish a relationship with your dealer: Build a good relationship with your local CFMoto dealer to ensure they can assist you with parts orders.
  • Explore online resources: Online retailers and forums can be valuable resources for finding parts.
  • Keep a stock of common maintenance items: Consider keeping a stock of common maintenance items, such as oil filters, air filters, and spark plugs.
  • Be patient: Be prepared to wait longer for parts than you might for other bikes.

Other Minor Annoyances

Beyond the major issues, some owners report a few smaller quirks:

  • The instrument cluster can be difficult to read in direct sunlight.
  • The stock tires are adequate but not exceptional. Upgrading to a better set of tires can improve handling and grip.
  • The seat can become uncomfortable on long rides. Consider an aftermarket seat or a gel seat pad.
  • The side stand can be difficult to reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the CFMoto 650MT reliable? The 650MT is generally considered reliable, but it may require more frequent maintenance than some other bikes.
  • Is the suspension adjustable? Yes, the front and rear suspension both offer preload adjustment.
  • Does the 650MT have ABS? Yes, most models of the 650MT come standard with ABS.
  • What is the fuel economy like? The 650MT typically gets around 55-65 MPG, depending on riding conditions.
  • Is it a good bike for beginners? While not overly powerful, the 650MT's weight and height might be challenging for some beginners.

The Bottom Line

The CFMoto 650MT offers a compelling package for riders looking for an affordable and versatile adventure-touring motorcycle. While it has some known issues, understanding these problems and taking proactive steps to address them can help you enjoy a reliable and rewarding ownership experience. By being informed and prepared, you can make the most of what the 650MT has to offer.