How does the CF Moto 1000 MT compare to the Suzuki V Strom DL1050?
It is no secret that Chinese motorcycle manufacturers rule the roost when it comes to small-displacement bikes, but what of their aspirations in large-displacement machines? This is how a new upstart compares to an established player.
Comparing the CFMOTO 1000MT-X and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE pits a tech-heavy, aggressively priced newcomer against a legendary, ultra-reliable Japanese staple.
Related: Suzuki DL1050DE V-Strom (2024) Review
These two bikes represent two fundamentally different philosophies in the large-displacement adventure segment. While both feature 21-inch front wheels aimed at dirt capability, their engineering choices set them apart. Here's how they stack up.
CF Moto introduces its two-wheeled lineup
The Core Differences at a Glance
| Feature | CFMOTO 1000MT-X | Suzuki V-Strom 1050 / DE |
| Engine Type | 946cc Parallel-Twin | 1 037cc V-Twin |
| Front Wheel Size | 21-inch | 19-inch (Standard) / 21-inch (DE) |
| Kerb Weight | ~222 kg | ~236 kg (Standard) / ~252 kg (DE) |
| Suspension | Fully adjustable 48mm KYB (230mm travel) | Fully adjustable 43mm KYB (160mm travel / 170mm DE) |
| Brakes | Brembo radial callipers | Tokico monoblock radial callipers |
| Tech Highlight | Wireless Apple CarPlay, OTA updates, huge TFT | Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS), highly refined traction control |
1. Engine & performance
CFMOTO 1000MT-X: Utilises a highly energetic, fast-revving 946cc parallel-twin (sharing DNA with CFMOTO's KTM partnership). It is incredibly punchy and gives the bike a sporty, aggressive character. However, it can feel a bit grabby with minor load changes at very low speeds.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050: Powered by the iconic 1 037cc V-twin. It is the definition of linear, smooth, and predictable power delivery. It lacks the frantic energy of the CFMOTO but offers massive low-end torque, legendary mechanical reliability, and a deeply satisfying rumble.
2. Off-road capability & handling
CFMOTO 1000MT-X: Purpose-built for serious off-roading. With a 21-inch front wheel, a massive 230mm of suspension travel, and a significantly lower curb weight (222 kg), it feels much more nimble, agile, and poised when the pavement ends.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050: The standard model is a street-biased tourer (19-inch front). The DE variant brings a 21-inch front wheel to the dirt, but the bike is noticeably heavier (252 kg) and bulkier. It is fantastic for gravel highways and flowing trails, but it feels much more unwieldy in tight, technical off-road sections.
3. Technology & electronics
CFMOTO 1000MT-X: Wins on paper with modern features. It boasts premium hardware, wireless Apple CarPlay, built-in navigation, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The Catch: The software calibration is still a work in progress—reviewers note the traction control and riding modes can feel unrefined compared to European or Japanese rivals.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050: Takes a "less is more" approach. The interface is more traditional, but the software's execution is flawless. The cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, and "Gravel Mode" (on the DE) work seamlessly and intuitively, without requiring constant menu fiddling.
4. Comfort & Touring
CFMOTO 1000MT-X: Great standing and sitting ergonomics for active riding, though the stock wind protection is somewhat manageable rather than exceptional. It features a larger 22.5 litre fuel tank for greater range.
Suzuki V-Strom 1050: A masterclass in long-distance asphalt devouring. The wind and weather protection are top-tier, the seat is plush for all-day touring, and the overall stability at highway speeds—especially when loaded down with a passenger and luggage—is excellent.
Verdict
Choose the CFMOTO 1000MT-X if: You want a hard-edged, tech-packed adventure bike with serious off-road chops, high-end hardware (Brembo/KYB), and a highly competitive price tag, and you don't mind a few software quirks.
Choose the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 if: You prioritise bulletproof reliability, smooth V-twin touring comfort, highly refined electronics, and a bike that will confidently run for hundreds of thousands of miles with basic maintenance.
