Let’s talk about CFMoto for a second. What started out in Hangzhou, China in the late ‘80s as a humble manufacturer of engines and parts is now one of the fastest-growing motorcycle brands in the world. These days, they’re not just playing catch-up—they’re competing head-on with the big names. With design help from Kiska (the same Austrian firm that works with KTM) and ever-improving quality, CFMoto is steadily shaking off the stigma that once came with Chinese-made bikes.
Their lineup has matured fast. From high-performance nakeds like the 800NK to stylish retro bikes like the 700CL-X, CFMoto has shown it can deliver performance, design, and tech at a price that undercuts the competition. In the US, they’ve quietly built a strong foothold, especially with their growing range of ATVs and side-by-sides, and now with their full-sized motorcycles.
But globally? Especially in Southeast Asia and Latin America? CFMoto is going for domination. And that’s where CFLite comes in.
CFLite is CFMoto’s new spin-off brand focused entirely on small-displacement bikes. Think sub-400cc motorcycles designed for the millions of riders out there who want something reliable, affordable, and stylish, but don’t need big horsepower or electronic wizardry. These are bikes made for the real world, especially in markets like the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and parts of South America where small bikes rule the streets.
And at the 2025 Makina Moto Expo in the Philippines, CFLite rolled out three key models that are already generating quite a buzz. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?
Dual 230
A no-frills, go-anywhere dual-sport that’s all about rugged simplicity. It’s powered by a 223cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with—you guessed it—a carburetor. That means easy fixes, even in the middle of nowhere. It rides on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup, giving it legit off-road capability. You also get disc brakes, a telescopic fork, monoshock rear suspension, a digital dash, and a halogen headlamp. It retails for P99,900 (around $1,800 USD).
250NK Lite
This is your barebones commuter with an aggressive, sporty twist. The 250NK Lite features a 249cc liquid-cooled engine. It keeps things simple with conventional suspension, an upright riding position, disc brakes front and rear, and CST tires that offer decent grip for urban riding. A clean LCD dash rounds it out. At P131,900 (approx. $2,370 USD), it’s a budget-friendly upgrade from a scooter without jumping into big bike territory.
250SR Lite
The 250SR Lite delivers sportbike looks without the intimidating size or price. It’s built for newer riders who want to dip their toes into the sportbike world, and comes equipped with clip-on handlebars, aggressive bodywork, and a race-style riding stance giving it serious presence. Under the fairings is a 249cc liquid-cooled engine that’ll hit over 130 kilometers per hour (around 81 miles per hour). LED lighting and front and rear disc brakes come standard. Price? Just P138,900, or around $2,500 USD.
So… could these bikes ever make sense in the US?
It’s a fair question. In a market obsessed with 1,000cc supersports, massive cruisers, and big adventure bikes, CFLite might seem out of place. But with traffic worsening, fuel prices rising, and more riders realizing that a smaller, lighter bike might actually be better for everyday use, maybe there’s room for something like this.
But there’s a catch. If the Trump administration’s proposed tariffs on Chinese-made motorcycles go through, it could kill any chance of CFLite hitting American showrooms anytime soon. But politics can change fast. And if they ever do? Well, bikes like these could be just what the US entry-level market needs.
Because let’s be honest—do you really need 150 horsepower to do a grocery run?
Source: CFMoto Philippines
