CFMoto CLC-V250: China’s First Small-Displacement V-Twin Targets the Cruiser Market

• New 250 cc V-twin with 20 kW (27 hp), long-stroke design optimized for torque
• Only the second V-twin engine in CFMoto’s history after the KTM-based unit in the 1250TR-G
• Classic cruiser design with modern features like TFT display and LED headlight

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto has been relatively cautious in the cruiser segment until now. With the CL-C450 and its parallel-twin engine, as well as the single-cylinder CL-C250, previous offerings were solid but conventionally powered. The CLC-V250 now marks a significantly more ambitious step. Chinese type-approval documents reveal that CFMoto has brought an entirely new V-twin cruiser to the path of series production, one that clearly sets itself apart from existing models both visually and technically.

What Powers the New V-Twin Engine in the CFMoto CLC-V250?

The CLC-V250 carries only the second V-twin engine in CFMoto’s entire corporate history. The first V-twin is found in the large tourer 1250TR-G and is based on KTM technology. The new 250 cc unit, however, is a complete in-house development. With a bore of 53 mm and a stroke of 56.6 mm, it features an undersquare design where the stroke exceeds the bore. This configuration prioritizes torque in the low and mid-range over pure peak power, which suits a cruiser character well.

According to the type-approval documents, the engine produces a maximum of 20 kW (27 hp). This places the CLC-V250 slightly above the existing single-cylinder CL-C250, which delivers 18 kW (25 hp) at 9,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 20.5 Nm at 7,000 rpm. Exact torque figures for the new V-twin are not listed in the documents, but the long-stroke design suggests a noticeably stronger pull in the lower rev range.

How Does the CLC-V250 Differ From the Existing CL-C250?

The difference between the two 250 cc cruisers goes far beyond the engine. The existing CL-C250 uses a 249 cc single-cylinder with a Gates belt drive, weighs 165 kg (364 lbs), and has a wheelbase of 1,470 mm. The new V-twin CLC-V250 is significantly heavier at 178 kg (392 lbs) curb weight and achieves a longer wheelbase of 1,510 mm, suggesting an overall larger machine than one might expect from 250 cc.

The chassis also shows differences. Where the CL-C250 combines a conventional telescopic fork with a belt drive, the CLC-V250 uses an upside-down fork. However, CFMoto has fitted covers at the lower end of the stanchions that mimic a classic telescopic fork. The rear rests on a conventional twin-shock suspension setup. Both wheels measure 16 inches in diameter and carry wide, high-profile tires in dimensions of 130/90 at the front and 150/80 at the rear.

What Design Approach Does the CFMoto CLC-V250 Follow?

The V-twin layout enables a more traditional cruiser appearance than would be possible with a single-cylinder or parallel-twin. The CLC-V250 presents itself with a compact tank, straight handlebars on medium-height risers, and a low seat position. The round headlight combines a small rectangular LED main beam with a ring of daytime running lights. Above it sits a single round TFT instrument display.

Bar-end mirrors provide a clean look. The alloy wheels feature machined rims and spokes that add a premium accent to the overall appearance. Compared to the CL-C250, which already comes equipped with a round TFT display, traction control, and ABS, the CLC-V250 places greater emphasis on classic cruiser design without sacrificing modern technology.

Where Does the CLC-V250 Fit in CFMoto’s Cruiser Offensive?

CFMoto is expanding its cruiser portfolio at a rapid pace. The brand has only been in the cruiser market since 2024, when the CL-C450 and CL-C450 Bobber were introduced. In March 2026, type-approval documents already surfaced for a 550CL-C, representing a further development of the 450 parallel-twin with 526 cc and 39 kW (53 hp). The 550CL-C is expected to become a permanent part of the model range in 2027.

The CLC-V250 complements this strategy at the lower end of the lineup. While the CL-C450 and the upcoming 550CL-C rely on parallel-twin engines, CFMoto takes an independent path with the V-twin in the CLC-V250. This creates a cruiser line that will cover three different engine concepts in the medium term: the single-cylinder of the CL-C250, the V-twin of the CLC-V250, and the parallel-twin family from 450 to 550 cc.

When Will the CFMoto CLC-V250 Hit the Market?

CFMoto has not yet communicated an official launch date. Experience shows, however, that new CFMoto models are typically officially unveiled a few months after appearing in Chinese type-approval documents. The presentation is therefore expected as part of the model year 2027 announcements, which typically take place in the second half of 2026.

There is no confirmation yet for the European and North American markets. However, CFMoto has consistently worked in recent years to make new models available on the most important international markets in a timely manner. In the United States, the existing CL-C450 is priced at 5,799 USD (approximately 5,350 EUR) for the 2026 model year.

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