Those who know me personally will know that I love all motorcycles, with a special appreciation for the little ones. In fact, “mini-trails” were the beginning of my passion for motorcycling, and I still have a special place for them. The CFMOTO PAPIO SS 2024 perfectly embodies the mini-bike trend. It really won us over with its neo-retro design, just-enough mechanical components and attractive price. Let’s take a closer look.
Look
First of all, we can’t overlook its eye-catching design. Just sporty enough, with a nostalgic touch that reminds us of the days of mini-trailers and mini-sportives. We can see some similarities and roots with the Honda CT 70 or the Yamaha YSR80.
An asymmetrical light signature and a face that’s just special enough to make you love it. We have to congratulate the designer behind these exhilarating and distinctive lines. Here’s the secret to awakening the senses and passion in the hearts of all motorcyclists. All that remains is to overcome the prejudices of certain purists who don’t want to consider a Chinese motorcycle… for ”x” and ”y” outdated reasons.
“Miniature” mechanics
We’ve often presented you with big engines that amaze you with their excessive power… Today it’s the complete opposite with the 2024 CFMOTO PAPIO SS. Although the powertrain is “mini”, it’s still a lot of fun. In short, the mechanics are well suited to its small size.
We’re treated to a single-cylinder, air-cooled, electronically injected 126 cm3 engine from Bosch. It produces 9.4 horsepower and 6.8 lb*ft of torque. This may not sound like much at first, but it’s a good match for a mini-format motorcycle.
As an added bonus, there’s a well-spaced six-speed transmission, so you can have fun pushing the bike through the rev range. One gear more than the Japanese equivalents (Honda Grom or Kawasaki Z125). This gives it a distinct advantage over the competition. Another noteworthy feature is the engine’s 126 cm3 capacity, making it legal for highway use… Compared to a motorcycle of 125 cm3 or less, like these other rivals.
Suspensions, tires and brakes
The CFMOTO PAPIO SS 2024 features an inverted front fork and a single shock absorber on the swingarm at the rear. Overall, it’s comfortable and gets the job done. We shouldn’t have expected any technical feats either, given that this is more of an entry-level bike. Nonetheless, it’s fun to ride, and the handling is quite precise.
As for the wheels, we’re treated to small 12-inch aluminum rims. As a result, the driving dynamics are quite nervous, and you can feel all the imperfections of the road. On the other hand, this contributes greatly to the “fun factor”. The original tires offer good grip on asphalt and very little on gravel roads. It’s worth noting that we had a lot of fun on dirt roads.
Braking is via a single disc at both front and rear. ABS is standard for added safety. Its calibration is just present enough without detracting from the feel when stopping. As a result, braking distances are optimal and you feel in full control.
Driving impressions
As you take your place on the CFMOTO PAPIO SS 2024, you notice a rather sporty driving position. Leaning forward, without putting too much pressure on the wrists. This is very pleasant for such a small motorcycle, but its compact design has one major drawback for taller riders… You need to be very tucked in at hip level, and aches and pains set in quickly. So you’ll need to plan short trips if you’re 5’8” or taller.
It’s easy to get to grips with, and this bike invites you to have fun. You start the engine, which is just vigorous enough to push it through the gears. Although acceleration isn’t blistering, the PAPIO SS delivers hours of unpretentious fun. We quickly resign ourselves to using it in urban areas or on secondary roads because of its cruising speed. In fact, its top speed of around 100 km/h is clearly not a speed you’ll enjoy in the medium term. It’s best to drive at speeds of 50 to 70 km/h. That way, it will still have a little reserve for acceleration, and we won’t feel like we’re at full throttle.
The PAPIO SS is a real pleasure to push around tight bends or explore the city. A smile clings to our faces as the kilometers roll by (relatively slowly).
Highlights
- Undeniably successful neo-café racer styling and design.
- A real pleasure to ride in urban areas or on secondary roads.
- One of the only mini-motorcycle options that can legally go on the freeway (126 cm3).
Points for improvement
- A retail price that makes beginners think of going straight for a bigger bike.
- High depreciation, given the limited resale market.
- Strong vibrations at certain speeds/engine revs.
Conclusion
To conclude on the 2024 CFMOTO PAPIO SS, there’s no denying its driving pleasure. And above all, the fun factor at the handlebars. Its fabulous neo-café racer styling and compact size are enough to give anyone you meet on the road a stiff neck. A sign that CFMOTO has hit the nail on the head with this adorable little bike. It’s an excellent first bike, or a great addition to your collection of urban touring bikes.
Photo credits: Steve Maillet and Vincent Bourque-Veilleux
