Over 2000 kilometers, the Custom Tour team put the all-new CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 through its paces. Introduced last year in two versions (Sport and Touring), the new vintage brings an even better-equipped version. It’s the Explore! As an added bonus, it’s more off-road-oriented. Will it be able to carve out a place for itself in this booming market segment? We invite you to find out with us.
Style that says: Adventure
First of all, the look of the CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 leaves no doubt as to its adventurous aspirations. Its high front end reveals its long-travel fork, side guards and engine cowling. Generous ground clearance, fog lights and aluminum suitcases are just some of the features that don’t lie. So, everything points to an “adventure”. In passing, it’s worth noting the excellent attention to detail.
Powerful, reliable mechanics
In order to bring the CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 to life, we can count on the same engine architecture as the KTM 790s. At this point, an aside is important. In 2017, CFMOTO made a commercial agreement with KTM. From now on, the manufacturers share industrial secrets and certain components. With this info, we’re not surprised to see that the engine cases are identical between the two companies.
This motorcycle features a parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine with electronic fuel injection and a displacement of 799 cm3. Performance figures include 94 horsepower and 57 lb-ft of torque.
From now on, it’s safe to say that the Chinese manufacturer has stopped offering less powerful engines. It is on an equal footing with the competition in this respect. Another point worth mentioning is that the electronics allow you to choose between four driving modes (RAIN, SPORT, OFF-ROAD and ALL-TERRAIN). These modes adjust available power, throttle response and electronic aids such as ABS.
Suspension and shock absorbers
In terms of suspension, the CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 features a long, adjustable KYB inverted front fork. With 6.3” (160 mm) of travel, it’s about average for this range of bikes.
At the rear, you can rely on a KYB monoshock mounted on the swingarm. This gives you 6” (150 mm) of travel. Combined, these suspensions provide what’s needed to effectively dampen bumps. What’s more, you benefit from generous ground clearance of 7.5 in (190 mm). That’s all you need to venture off asphalt trails with confidence.
Overall, you’ll notice that the damping is calibrated to be fairly firm from the outset. You can always adjust it to make it more supple and more suited to off-road driving. However, you’ll have to come to terms with the fact that this bike is still designed for on-road riding.
Wheels and brakes
The same applies to the Michelin Anakee Adventure tires fitted as standard on the CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024. With a tread pattern considered to be 80% road, they provide excellent handling on winding asphalt roads. They also offer a quiet ride thanks to their low-impact grooves. On the other hand, you’ll need to be wary of off-road conditions, as a lack of grip will quickly set in.
So, you can venture out on some “soft” dirt and gravel sections without overdoing it. When you want to push harder, lack of traction quickly comes into play. At this point, it’s best to have good balance and techniques to avoid falls.
The bike’s braking system is efficient, with twin 320 mm discs at the front. At the rear, a 260 mm disc comes as standard. Calipers are supplied by J. Juan. A manufacturer less present in North America, but one that does very good work. In fact, Brembo is behind this company, which is reassuring. Braking is powerful and easily modulated. Special mention should be made of the ABS system. It’s well dosed and leaves room for a few controllable skids.
Ergonomics and standard equipment
As you climb aboard, you quickly notice the rather high seat height (32.5″) and, above all, the very generous dimensions. A large fairing gives an impression of robustness, but also of being on a large-displacement adventure bike. The controls are well laid out, with a huge 8” display in the middle. All the information you need is there, plus a Bluetooth connection to take full advantage of the available options.
Standard equipment on the Explore version, the most opulent, stretches over a very long list. From the many protective elements, the essential set of aluminum suitcases, a quickshifter… to heated handles and even the seat. Really, there’s hardly an option missing, and the retail price will obviously be impacted.
On-road impressions
Last year, I enjoyed my first few thousand kilometers aboard the IBEX 800 Sport version. This new, more sophisticated version enhances the overall experience, with more options to make the ride more comfortable.
I can already reiterate how much I enjoy riding this bike. The many components add up to allow the CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 to shine on road sections. The engine is well adapted to the task, and you’ll appreciate having it revolutionized to make the most of it. High torque from low revs ensures sustained acceleration and constant acceleration. Cornering is exciting and driving precision is certainly a strong point.
Another feature worth mentioning is the famous quickshifter, which allows you to shift the transmission’s six well-spaced gears on the fly. This device still lacks a little finesse, but is greatly appreciated in sporty driving. And what a beautiful sound this twin-cylinder makes under full acceleration!
How is it in off-road driving mode?
The road is undoubtedly its playground, but it has to be tested off-road. Sections of gravel, dirt, puddles, technical sections and even a sand pit. What better way to put it through its paces than at La Classique in Lachute ?
All in all, the bike can handle off-road sections that could be characterized as up to intermediate. Overall balance, engine torque and protection are strong points from an off-road perspective. On the other hand, you’ll soon find yourself limited by the following factors:
- The IBEX 800 Explore’s overly generous dimensions and, above all, its heavier-than-competition weight limit its capabilities. There’s always a heavy steering feel and a front end that wants to glide over soft terrain.
- The shocks are calibrated far too firm for off-road use. Even if you adjust them for suppleness, you can’t get it where you want it.
- Tires are also a negative point off-road. They greatly limit excesses due to their lack of traction.
In short, you’ll need to budget time and money to push it further off-road. Like most adventure bikes. In the end, most people don’t need a super-competent bike off-road. So why compromise? Simply to focus on on-road riding… I think CFMOTO understands this.
Highlights
- Powerful, proven chassis with Austrian architecture… The joint venture with KTM is bearing fruit.
- A distinctive lighting signature and comprehensive standard equipment. Even a heated seat.
- The 8” touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity and a visually pleasing appearance.
Areas for improvement
- A mechanical system that produces very “metallic” and sometimes harsh sounds at certain engine speeds. We have the impression that there’s a lack of finesse in the injection mapping and when starting from cold. Its Austrian cousin has the same tendencies, and probably the engine architecture is the main cause.
- Generous dimensions and weight. These are two aspects that greatly diminish its off-road abilities.
The final word
This all-new version takes the IBEX riding experience up a notch. The CFMOTO IBEX 800 Explore 2024 is highly competent on the road. With permission to leave asphalt for gravel with a certain ease. A situation where it offers a great deal of pleasure at the handlebars and delivers great performance.
Custom Tour thanks CFMOTO for this test ride. For more info, visit the manufacturer’s website.
Equipment used during the test
- Helmet: CKX Atlas
- Coat: Oxford Montreal 4.0
- Pants: Oxford Montreal 4.0
- Boots: Falco Ranger Falco Ranger
- Gloves: Oxford Oxford
Photo credits: Steve Maillet
