CFMOTO NK 650 (2017-2020): A Modern Middleweight Naked Bike That Punches Above Its Weight

Introduction

The CFMOTO NK 650 represents a bold statement in the middleweight naked bike segment. Produced from 2017 to 2020, this Chinese-built machine combines accessible performance with surprising sophistication. As part of CFMOTO's strategic push into global markets, the NK 650 emerged as a compelling alternative to established Japanese and European rivals. Let's explore what makes this bike tick – from its rip-roaring parallel twin to its surprisingly competent chassis.

---

Design & First Impressions

The NK 650's styling walks a fine line between aggressive streetfighter and mass-appeal practicality. The angular LED headlight cluster gives it a contemporary edge, while the muscular fuel tank (17L capacity/4.4 US gal) hints at the power within. At 795mm (31.3"), the seat height accommodates most riders comfortably, though the optional TT Edition's race-inspired seat adds extra padding for those craving premium comfort.

Standout design elements include: - Neon yellow accents on the TT Edition (limited to 70 units) - Carbon-fiber styled body panels - Minimalist tail section with integrated LED lighting - Dual 300mm front brake discs with Continental ABS

The 206kg (454 lbs) wet weight feels substantial at standstill, but clever mass centralization helps it carry its bulk well once moving.

---

Engine Performance: A Twin That Thrives on Revs

The 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin is the star here. With its 180° crankshaft and single counterbalancer, it delivers: - 69.7 HP @ 8,500 RPM (51 kW) – nearly 10% more than base models - 62 Nm torque @ 7,000 RPM (45.7 lb-ft) - Smooth power delivery thanks to EFI with 38mm throttle bodies

The engine character surprises with its willingness to rev. Below 5,000 RPM, it's docile enough for city commuting. Crack the throttle past 6,000 RPM and the bike comes alive with a throaty exhaust note, pulling hard to its 10,000 RPM redline. The 6-speed transmission shifts with positive engagement, though the clutch lever could be lighter for stop-and-go traffic.

---

Handling Dynamics: Confidence Meets Agility

CFMOTO's chassis engineers deserve applause. The steel diamond frame teams with: - 41mm KYB telescopic forks (120mm/4.7" travel) - KYB monoshock (45mm/1.8" travel, 7-stage adjustable) - Lightweight 17" alloy wheels (120/70 front, 160/60 rear)

At 1,415mm (55.7") wheelbase, the NK 650 strikes a perfect balance between stability and flickability. The steering responds eagerly to bar inputs, yet remains composed during hard braking. The Continental ABS system (dual 300mm front discs, single 225mm rear) provides strong stopping power with excellent modulation.

Ground clearance of 150mm (5.9") allows respectable lean angles, though hardcore canyon riders might crave stickier rubber than the stock CST tires.

---

Competition: How It Stacks Up

The middleweight naked category is fiercely contested. Here's how the NK 650 compares:

1. Kawasaki Z650
   Similar power (67 HP) but lighter at 187kg (412 lbs). The Z650 feels more nimble at low speeds, but the CFMOTO counters with superior mid-range punch and premium KYB suspension.

2. Yamaha MT-07
   The MT's 689cc CP2 engine dominates with torque (67 Nm), but the NK 650 fights back with better wind protection and a more sophisticated electronics package.

3. Honda CB650R
   Honda's inline-four delivers silky smooth power at the cost of complexity. The NK 650's twin is simpler to maintain and offers comparable real-world performance below 160km/h (100mph).

Where the CFMOTO shines:
- Best-in-class standard features (ABS, LED lighting) - Aggressive pricing positioning - Unique TT Edition exclusivity

---

Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Happy

As MOTOPARTS.store's in-house expert, here's my maintenance cheat sheet:

Critical Fluids
- Oil Changes: 2.2L with filter (SAE 15W-40, API SG+) - Coolant: 1.6L of ethylene glycol mix - Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (flush every 2 years)

Wear Items
- Chain: Standard 525 pitch – upgrade to DID VX3 for longer life - Spark Plugs: 0.7-0.9mm gap – NGK CR9EKB works best - Tires: Match OEM sizes for ABS calibration

Pro Tips
1. Use a torque wrench for the 28Nm front axle nut 2. Clean air filter every 5,000km (3,100mi) – K&N replacement available 3. Check valve clearance every 12,000km (7,500mi)

For DIY enthusiasts, the NK 650's simple architecture makes tasks like oil changes and chain adjustments straightforward. Our store stocks all OEM-spec parts including: - High-flow oil filters - Brake pad kits (sintered metal upgrade recommended) - Complete chain/sprocket kits

---

The Riding Experience: Where It Truly Shines

Swing a leg over the NK 650 and you're greeted by a surprisingly premium feel. The digital dash provides all essential info with optional gear indicator – a nice touch in this segment. Vibration is well-controlled thanks to the counterbalanced engine, making 100km/h (62mph) cruising at 6,000 RPM perfectly tolerable.

Urban warriors will appreciate: - Tight 10.7m (35ft) turning circle - Responsive low-RPM fueling - Narrow profile for lane filtering

Weekend warriors get: - 180km/h (112mph) top speed capability - Stable high-speed manners - Enough ground clearance for spirited cornering

The upright riding position strikes a perfect balance between sporty aggression and all-day comfort. After two hours in the saddle, my only complaint was wind blast above 130km/h (81mph) – easily fixed with our store's aftermarket windscreen options.

---

Customization Potential

The NK 650's growing aftermarket support makes personalization easy:

Performance Upgrades
- DNA air filters (+3% airflow) - Arrow exhaust systems (4kg weight savings) - ECU flash kits for optimized fueling

Comfort Add-Ons
- Heated grips (plug-and-play harness available) - Gel seat inserts - Adjustable levers

Style Mods
- Anodized brake reservoirs - CNC-machined footpegs - Smoked LED turn signals

---

Conclusion: An Underdog Worth Considering

The CFMOTO NK 650 defies expectations. While it lacks the brand cachet of Japanese rivals, it compensates with robust engineering and surprising attention to detail. The 2017-2020 generation proved Chinese manufacturers could compete in the premium middleweight class – offering 90% of the performance at 80% of the cost.

Is it perfect? The mirrors vibrate slightly at idle, and the switchgear feels basic compared to European bikes. But as an affordable, entertaining daily rider with character to spare, the NK 650 deserves serious consideration – especially when paired with MOTOPARTS.store's extensive upgrade catalog.

Final Verdict: A value-packed naked bike that rewards open-minded riders. Whether commuting through city streets or attacking backroad curves, the NK 650 delivers grins per dollar in spades.

---

Specifications sheet

---