Page 45 - LHR November 2025

What does it cost to own something unique and imported
five-inch TFT display with
Bluetooth connectivity, USB and
12V sockets, LED lighting,
backlit switchgear, and Bosch
dual-channel ABS. The build
quality seems commendable for
the price-point. The “Pro”
version adds enhancements like
adjustable seat height via a
d u a l - c h a m b e r a i r s h o c k
(650–729 mm) and a slightly
narrower rear tyre (300/35-18)
for a bit more practicality.What
you won’t get: traction control,
cruise control, multiple ride
modes. That’s part of the
trade-off for the pricing and the
character of the machine. For
many riders it’s acceptable: if
your goal is presence and a
visceral ride, you may not care
about the latest safety suite. But
given the South African riding
environment—with variable road
s u r f a c e s , s o m e t i m e s
unpredictable traffic and
extended rides—the absence of
electronic assists is something
to be aware of.Ergonomically,
the low seat height helps
a c c e s s i b i l i t y ; t h e
wheelbase gives highway
stability; the wide rear tyre gives
flair. Pillion accommodations
may be modest given the cruiser
styling, and manoeuvring at low
speeds or in tight parking
areas may require conscious
effort due to the weight.
P r a c t i c a l i t y f o r
commuting or regular two-up
touring isn’t the primary
mission here—it’s more
weekend warrior, style
cruiser, club show machine.
Market Position & Pricing
Considerations
Pricing in the UK at launch:
£9,199 (approx US$12,300)
for the standard model. The
US launch is being lined up,
with filings for the 2026 model
year underway. Given the
h a r d w a r e , d e s i g n
uniqueness, the LFC700
offers strong “value for image”
rather than maximum “spec
f o r d o l l a r ” . W h e n
compare with other cruisers in
the $12,000 price-bracket,
some may offer more power or
more features. But none may
o ff e r q u i t e t h e s a m e
throwback-meets-futuristic
styling.
In a South African context, where
import duties, taxes, servicing
infrastructure and parts supply
all play into the total cost of
ownership, those factors need to
be scoped.
One valuable angle is: “What
does it cost to own something
unique and imported—and is the
statement worth it?” For many
readers, sometimes the “cool
factor” and club-ride talk
outweigh raw numbers.
Comparing with other cruisers:
there are machines offering
higher power or broader tech
suites, but they may lack the
“stand-out” factor. The LFC700
is less about pure spec and more
about character. If I were
l o n g advising a buyer: if you value
image, want something different,
45
and ride for weekend style and
club culture more than daily duty,
this bike makes sense. If your
ride is daily commuter traffic,
rugged roads, heavy pillion
duties, then one of the more
d a i l y established cruisers might be a
better all-round match.
Strengths – What Makes the
LFC700 Shine
Ÿ Distinctive styling:
The wide rear tyre, inline-four
engine, low profile and design
theatrics make it a magnet for
attention. If you ride in the social
side of motorcycling, this
machine works.
Ÿ H a r d w a r e a b o v e
expectation for price:
The use of Brembo brakes, KYB
a n d suspension components,
aluminium chassis are all
indicators of serious engineering
intent.
y o u Ÿ A c c e s s i b l e r i d e r
ergonomics:
Low seat height, cruiser stance,
relatively relaxed upright
posture—all help make it
approachable for many riders.
Ÿ A l t e r n a t i v e t o t h e
mainstream:
In a field of V-twins, parallel
twins and familiar styling, the
LFC700 gives something
different—ideal for a feature
story or special ride.Cultural fit
for lifestyle: In club rides, photo
shoots and social rides, the
bike’s image aligns well with the
NOVEMBER EDITION 2025