CFMoto announce superbike plans with 209.2bhp V4 engine concept at 2024 EICMA trade show in Milan

Chinese brand CFMoto are a growing force to be reckoned with in Europe, with new models such as the £5699 twin-cylinder 450MT not only undercutting the established competition on price, but out-performing them in recent rigorous MCN tests.

Now, the Hangzhou firm look to be setting their sights on the large-capacity superbike market – using the recent EICMA trade show in Milan to tease a new 90-degree V4 engine and sportsbike concept model, known simply as the V.04 Master of Speed.

• Related: CFMoto launch 675SR-R triple sportsbike

Displayed in a clear case alongside a concept motorcycle model, the motor featured cross-sectional cut outs to reveal some of the internal workings.

Not much is yet known about the engine or the eventual motorcycle it will power, however a small information plaque did confirm a claimed 209.2bhp at 14,500rpm, and 84.1lb.ft of torque at 12,500rpm – figures that could upset the European and Japanese competition.

It’s also said to weigh 61.5kg dry – only 7.1kg more than Ducati’s new V2 engine that powers the 2025 mid-size Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2 models, despite having two more cylinders.

The final nugget of information available is that the motor features a counter rotating crankshaft. A technology derived from MotoGP racing, the benefit of this is it reduces the gyroscopic effects of the crank and the wheels turning – improving the eventual bike’s ability to turn – allowing for faster lap times.

CFMoto themselves have been causing quite a stir within the grand prix racing paddock, with their rider, David Alonso taking the 2024 Moto3 world title with the Aspar Team.

The motor was shown alongside a concept model that appears to still be a long way from reality. As is the way with modern sports motorcycles, it features large pair of front winglets for high-speed stability (likely to be shaved down for production), plus a single seat, and protruding lower aero bodywork that may have to be scaled back to avoid issues of ground clearance.

At the rear end sits a pair of Akrapovič exhaust tips – suggesting CFMoto are working in partnership with the Slovenian brand.

A raised rear end forces the rider in over the cockpit, with the front fairing featuring a familiar LED lighting pattern mimicking sporty models already on sale.