In early 2023, CFMoto confirmed its intention to develop a V-4-powered superbike, with the release of its V.04 engine offering more concrete details about the project. The engine is designed to produce over 200 horsepower, with a peak output of 209 hp at 14,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 84 lb-ft at 12,500 rpm. Weighing just 135.6 pounds dry, the V.04 engine is engineered for high-performance racing applications, incorporating advanced features like a counterrotating crankshaft and dual injectors per cylinder, which enhance stability and agility, similar to top-tier racing bikes like the Ducati Panigale V4.
CFMoto’s V.04 engine design was initially teased in a patent filed in February 2023, which outlined a 1,000cc engine and a target of 200 horsepower. While the finished engine deviates slightly from the original design—most notably with a shift from the planned 78-degree V-angle to a more standard 90-degree configuration—it still retains key elements from the patent. The engine also features a cutting-edge cooling system and sophisticated components such as finger followers between the camshafts and valves, contributing to its high-performance potential.
Though it will still take some time before the full superbike reaches production, CFMoto has given a glimpse of its future design with a full-size motorcycle sculpture titled “Master of Speed.” This sculpture serves as a stylized preview, highlighting features like LED headlights paired with a ram-air intake, a fuel tank with deep knee cutouts, and a sleek single-seat unit. The design also emphasizes the V-4 engine, suggesting that it will be a significant structural element in the final bike. The sculptural representation hints at the bike’s aerodynamic direction and overall look.
In terms of aerodynamics, the final superbike is expected to incorporate GP-inspired features, although the exaggerated winglets seen on the sculpture will likely be toned down for production. The sculpture’s large biplane winglets are more stylistic than practical, but the finished bike will likely still feature functional aerodynamic elements. Additionally, the bike is likely to include a MotoGP-style upside-down swingarm, which improves racing performance by better-managing forces on the rear wheel. Although such a design is rarely seen on production models, high-performance motorcycles like the BMW S 1000 RR and Aprilia RSV4 use similar setups.
Following the success of its 675cc three-cylinder engine, which CFMoto introduced a year ago, the company is expected to show the finished V-4 superbike, likely called the 1000SR-R, in about 12 months. Production of the bike is anticipated to begin in 2026, marking CFMoto’s continued push into the high-performance motorcycle market with its powerful V-4 superbike.
