The CFMOTO 450MT has attracted attention in the motorcycle market, especially due to its affordable price.
I first saw the bike at a motorcycle show in the winter. Even then, based on the specs, the MT seemed interesting.
Since then, I've been thinking about taking a test drive of MT and now I had the opportunity to do so at RM Heino in Tampere. Thanks to Heino for the great service!
Features
The motorcycle has a 450 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 31 kW (42 hp) of power and 42 Nm of torque, which is more than enough for me for both off-road and on-road riding. The suspension was not adjustable on the test bike and was perhaps a bit harsh for me. At least on paper the suspension works, long-stroke, adjustable KYB suspension and 220 mm of ground clearance.
The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel work well on gravel and off-road. I don't plan on riding anything hard.
The bike has a sufficient level of equipment and is finished and looks stylish. Strong influences from the Tenere are noticeable.
The bike has a five-inch color display panel. The panel has all the essential information at a glance and works well in the sun.
Other equipment
- TCS anti-snoring,
- ABS (rear wheel can be switched off with a button)
- Adjustable rally-style windshield
- Handle guards, plastic (not very durable)
Grip warmers were not available, which is a clear minus, meaning you have to install them yourself. For a 175 cm tall rider, the wind was directed into the visor of the ADV helmet annoyingly. So the windshield requires a small additional visor, so that the airflow would go over the helmet and riding at speeds over 100 km/h would be comfortable. A larger visor is also available as an accessory.
Test drive
The test ride went from Tampere to Nokia and from there via a gravel road back to Tampere. Thanks to its agility and compact size, it is well suited for city driving. The twin-cylinder engine was surprisingly torquey. The bike was broken in, so revving was not possible this time. I would argue that the bike works quite well when riding long distances. The speed of 110 km/h was quite ok. The wind does affect when riding on open roads. But the bike is at home on small gravel and back roads. In Bike magazine, the editor remarked on the front brake. This does have its flaws, but compared to my own 2011 bike, the front brake is quite good. The clutch is pleasant to use and its feel is also good. The riding position when standing up was also good!
Summary
My own specs and wishes for the bike
- Works on gravel and small roads -> works
- Works as a city bike and commutes can be done on a motorbike -> works
- Speed and distance are not the main thing, let's enjoy ourselves -> works
- Comfortable driving position, also when standing. Driver 175cm/77kg –> works
The bike meets these requirements straight away, and it looks very strong that the bike might go on order. The current bike is a BMW G650GS v11, the MT is different compared to it, but in a good way!
T
