How does the CF Moto 675R-R compare to the Yamaha YZF R7?

The 600cc sportbike class is still highly competitive, with legacy brands struggling to remain relevant under the weight of quality incoming bikes from China. How does the upstart brand CF Moto compare to one of the big four?

Lawrence Minnie

11 Aug 2025 · 13:03Buying a Bike2 min read

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Middleweight sportbike battle

The 600+cc sportbike segment, often referred to as the middleweight class, has long been a favourite among motorcycle enthusiasts for its blend of performance and agility. These bikes offer a significant step up in power from smaller-displacement machines while retaining a lighter, more nimble feel than their 1000+cc counterparts. However, the class has evolved, and it's not as simple as it once was.

Related: What is the difference between a Honda NX500 and a CF Moto 675NK?

Chinese manufacturers have been making inroads into the segment over the last few years, but have been largely dismissed until now. With its KTM stamp of approval, CF Moto has been taking down traditional motorcycle manufacturers from Japan and Europe, not only by price but also by offering competitive, reliable technologies: the CF Moto 675R and its Japanese competitor from Yamaha, the R7.

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Specifications

	CF Moto 675R-R	Yamaha YZF R7
Engine	675cc Inline 3-cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC	689cc inline twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC
Transmission	6-speed sequential, wet, multiplate, CF-SC slipper assist clutch	6-speed multiplate wet clutch with Assist & Slipper clutch
Power figures	70kW / 70Nm	54kW / 67Nm
Top speed	220km/h	224km/h
Frame	High-strength chromium-molybdenum steel frame	High-strength steel frame, rigid-mount aluminium centre brace
Suspension Front	KYB ⌀41mm upside down, fully adjustable	KYB ⌀41mm upside down, fully adjustable, 130mm travel
Suspension Rear	KYB Monoshock, adjustable preload & rebound	Link type monocross, adjustable preload & rebound, 130mm travel
Brakes Front	Dual 300mm discs, J.Juan four-piston radial callipers	Dual 298mm hydraulic disc with ABS
Brakes Rear	Single 240mm disc, J.Juan single-piston sliding calliper	Single 245mm hydraulic disc with ABS
Fuel Tank (litres)	15	12.8
Tech & Features	5-inch curved colour TFT dash with app connectivity	High-contrast LCD screen, quickshifter
Fuel Consumption(claimed)	7.6 L/100km	4.2 L/100km
Weight	189kg	187kg
Seat Height	810mm	835mm
Price	R 164 900	R 184 950
Warranty	2 Years	2 Years

Verdict

The CF Moto makes a compelling case for itself. It is significantly cheaper than the Yamaha, bristling with tech and features, and comparable in every way in terms of standard equipment on offer. It is also considerably more powerful with its three-cylinder layout. Since consumers are buying more on value proposition now than ever, Yamaha seemingly has an uphill battle as a legacy brand.

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more