Sport bikes used to have great rear seats. Just before they all started being aimed at being track tools with a plate. Try an early Fireblade if you want to see what I mean. One of the best all around bikes ever yet it seems no one does that kind of thing now. Nice to see CFmoto coming along. I was at their stand at the bike show a few years back and the quality was utterly atrocious. Some welds looked great - others like they have been done by Ray Charles. Using his toes. Bare wires all over the place, handlebars that didn't line up on one bike - no idea how they managed that one - and loads of other stuff that made me walk swiftly away. So far they are one of only two makers I've seen who have had rust on the bikes at the show - the other being Harley at the same show, funnily enough. Watching you ride this seemed like it was behaving as it should though. I mean its obvious even from the footage the suspension is nothing special but on a cheap bike it almost never is. I'm not a fan of screens and I wish there were options where you could just go for the usual two/four clock layout with idiot lights or maybe a small screen to do the rest. I'm not keen on the sound either but thats not the bikes fault - its that great big can to meet some nimby's noise limits. If you still have the bike can you take that nonsense off so we can hear what it really sounds like? One point that does stand out and might be worth a thought though - being able to track your bike sounds great - theft deterrent, forgot where you left it, friend pushed it away somewhere for a joke, etc. Unfortunately because of the way businesses are licensed in China that also means the CCP can track your bike should they want to. That may seem like a small or non issue but data like that is valuable for a reason. Depending who you are and what you do for a living (military, government, etc) it could be a bit of a larger issue too. Serpentza did a good video on the subject titled "why China is banning Teslas". It wouldn't stop me getting the bike but it would mean I would be making it GPS silent on arrival. If you work in a sensitive field it may be worth considering a different bike.
So ive bought one (450SR) about a month ago. It really puts a big smile on my face, when going through the twisty roads. I get plenty of positive comments (looks wise), and it sounds amazing with a slip on exhaust. For smile per dollars value, its up there. Update: OK this just happened today. Girl at the gym sees me getting on my 450sr. She ask me to rev, of course I did (slip on exhaust btw). Got the biggest smile from her, and I rode away feeling like a total badass
@agentnacho2029 the ease of access is limited. A lot of oem maintenance parts are on back order like the oil filter. America support isn't there yet. All aftermarket is bought from the China market like aliexpress. Shouldn't be too long before we get better support for cfmoto
Hi. I have been riding for nearly 2 decades and use this to daily comute. I just bought the CF Moto 450 because of its drop dead gorgeous looks and its ultra smooth engine and gearbox. As a 50 year old, I thought that the more aggressive riding stance (especially coming from a upright naked Duke) might be too much for me, but I have not had any issues with any back or wrist pains (even on long days out in the country). I use to own a triumph thruxton nearly 10 years ago, and I had really bad back and wrist pains after 1 hour of riding it. The fact that I don't get pains on this bike is a big plus. I will start with the bad points I've experienced so far. This one is not a huge problem, but one to note. The sat navigation has taken me to places that I've not entered once or twice when I've gone out to the country side. It also couldn't find a popular town that a lot of people go to. So while I like that it has in built turn by turn nav, I wished they had installed Google maps instead of their own system, but since I don't use the navigation (except to try it out that day), it's not a problem for me. Second, and more of an issue for me... I think the fuel economy is high for a 450. I know it's still in the breaking in period, but at 4.6L per 100k's (what I'm getting so far), it's pretty bad, especially since I'm quite careful with it during run in. That's nearly what a Hornet 750 or a Duke 790 gets. Lastly, and this is a minor gripe, but I wish that the kick stand was around a cm longer. It feels like the bike wants to go over when you stop on anything but a flat surface. Another really bad thing about this bike is the preconceived ideas people have about the brand. While I would not recommend cfmoto's earlier bikes, their collaboration with KTM and its in-house designers have paid off and has been proven in all the great reviews this bike has been getting. Even so people will come up to you and ask what make and brand the bike is. Then you have to explain.. it's CF Moto. , oh... they'll say. Then you have to let them know t's a Chinese company. They really need to change the name of CF Moto to something else, something that rolls off the tongue easier. It's hard to justify and explain who they are and what the CF in CF moto means. I think that we are all use to other big brands being made from China, but saying that name Cf Moto, doesn't bring pride to the ownerships even if this is a top of the class bike. I mean, look at the other up coming Chinese brand Kove (pronounced Kove'), it sounds fancy and more a kin to a top quality/premium bike. Cf Moto should follow suit so that they can increase their brand loyalties. Even though I like this bike, I would not wear any of their merch. Am I worried about the fit finish and reliability? Not at all. CF Moto has been around for a long time in Australia. This bike is solid and put together very well. It has a 3 year factory warranty which is longer than nearly all the established makes. Also considering CF Moto makes the engines for the Ninja 400, it would not suprise me if this is the same engine bored out to 450cc with a 270° crank shaft instead of 180 and they've called it their own. May be this the exact engine that KTM and cfmoto were working on before KTM pulled out of building the Duke 490 range. Thats it for the bad stuff. What I love. The looks. The front a rear winglets are a first to market in class and give it an aggressive and unique look to a otherwise mundane cbr-r sport bike template. I also like that it has a nice big, bright tft with optional 2 display layouts and lots of features, some of which include rev shift alert, over speed alert so you don't speed too much over and loose your licence, the forementioned sat navigation, from phone to Bluetooth call with music controls from the switches, a bike tracker with geo fencing alert. You can also track your bike if your friend borrows it, or it gets stolen and moved anywhere in the world. This has a greater advantage for owners because when I told the insurance company that It has it, they lowered my insurance premiums, all of which is not on the Ninja 400... yeay!!! It does have a bigger bike feel and you do feel it when you throw your legs over it to start, but the bike does shrink around you when you move at normal paces, but when you push it, I do feel that the bike feels like it's bigger than what it actually is again, which is really wiered but not in a bad way. Not a sensation I've felt before. I love how sure footed this bike is at any speed. It always feels really planted, stable and grippy. Pulls from 3800 rpm comfortably. The slightly more tucked in hunkered down position is comfortable as long as your not over 5 10-11". A really big thumbs up. It's really manuvrable and easily threads through tight and heavy peak hour bumper to bumper traffic (even with those big long mirrors out which was a big suprise). And have I mentioned how smooth it is. The engine is silky smooth, It also sounds good from factory. I like the pops and burble sounds it makes when down shifting. Almost like a softer quieter C63 merc. Like the C63, I wish the muffler also had the quiet and loud pass through valve to really give it a bit more rumble on the road and a quiet mode so the neighbours don't get angry option at 5am start up. For people who say it's only a beginners bike, I would urge you to think twice. You can only go as fast as the speed limit these days, so anything over a 500 to 600cc is posturing. This bike has more than enough power to get you out of trouble, it does also allow you to have fun while being much safer. It has a much lower rego and insurance cost compared to a big bike and much, much, much cheaper to buy. While I think beginners will love it, it is a great real world conditions bike for everyone under 5.10". The price. For what you get, it's a hell of a deal.
Really perfect write up, and hugely appreciated as a supplement to Zach's commentary. I have considered a Kaw 400 but honestly they sell quickly here in Kentucky. Also think our Kaw dealer would rather sell more Kaw 650s anyway because they sell for nearly $3k more than the 400. The dealer also sells another Chinese competitor by the name of QJ Motors. It looks great on first appearance and is also a 400. I can't help but feel like it would fall apart after a short amount of time, it just has some cheap feel to it, but it also looks really fun. It sells for the same price as the CF Moto too, so it's extremely tempting. I will have to really consider a CF as a possibility for my first bike after 26 years of not riding. Thanks for your excellent overview!
"anything over a 500 to 600cc is posturing" I would agree, sort of. Larger displacement can make for more relaxed manners cruising on the highway or for better reliability, and may not even bring extra horsepower. The Honda NC750, Suzuki C50T, and Kawasaki KLR 650 come to mind as examples of low horsepower bikes with bigger displacement, each for a different reason. For sure over 1200cc is really hard to justify for any type of motorcycle, though perhaps it is justifiable if you're riding two up, loaded with saddle bags, and towing a trailer with a Goldwing.
I love that Zack is always polite on the street and can not help himself picking up others trash .He is always ready to make the world a better place . I always learn something on these rides ..THanks from New England ...
Just a slightly off topic comment to say that, with the amount of negativity that sometimes exists online, I just want to personally say a big thank you to everybody involved in the production of these videos and thank you all for the entertaining and informative videos that you all produce. They're pretty much always well worth watching and make great companionship when I'm working out in the gym.
Back in 60s the Brits laughed at the Japanese motorcycle companies. The 10yrs later they were trouble! It John Bloor to go to Japan and check out how they did it before making the 1st Triumphs. Competition is always a good thing, keeps people honest
In the 70s/80s Japans economy was having a boom/bubble which lead to their great stuff. China is doing better these days but not as good as Japan was when you consider their size and what markets they where in at the time.
@@lovelessissimoExactly. People always act as if we don't buy stuff from china because it's from china. We don't buy it because it always seemed to be worse in quality and reliability compared to it's competition. If chinese products start to go up in quality (even more than in the past few years), we will see the same boom as with japan.
Many know that CFmoto and KTM are production partners; the 790 and 890 KTM bikes are all produced in CF’s factory in Hangzhou. What people may not know is that this platform is essentially what KTM were considering for the 490 Duke and ADV bikes which were eventually scrapped. But CFmoto went on to develop the platform and it’s really taking off here in China. There’s already a 450 naked version for sale in China as well, with an adv version probably on the way. CFmoto also has a 900 “Duke” with the KTM 890 engine.
@@aluisious Most bikes don't last. The variable that lets people tolerate short lived bikes is spare/preowned parts market that allows people to replace and repair. Because the 450 is new to the US market, theres no actual telling what it's ease of repair will be because that market doesn't exist yet. You'd have to import from Europe. You can however, look at the 450SR in Europe as it's been there for a while already, and we'd know that they do in fact, last.
@@Smootierwould argue people tolerate short lived bikes because of performance or character. It will be interesting to see if cfmoto has either in their lineup.
Depending on one’s attitude toward KTM, it can definitely be either positive or negative. In the OP above I mistakenly wrote 900, it’s the 800 motor CF is using for the big naked. 450NK and 800NK are their names if anyone wants to look them up. Styling on them will definitely not appeal to everyone.
I think there’s a HUGE misunderstanding of what’s Chinese quality. People are used to buying dirt cheap crap on Amazon and assume everything made in China is crap. Your iPhone is high quality and is made in China. Your chips running everything are made in China. I wouldn’t call them cheap quality. Just like all my life I’ve been programmed to think that Harley Davidsons are pieces of junk, once I rode a few, I immediately knew it was a high end premium motorcycle brand. I’m currently visiting China for the first time in my life and I’m blown away by the diversity (in vehicles and everything else) here. There’s everything you can imagine wanting to buy and there’s so many EVs it’s absolutely unbelievable. They have at least a dozen domestic EV car brands and once I had a ride in them I was blown away. Tesla who..?! And they’re so AFFORDABLE in China..! Also I don’t have the issue with navigation switching to inches when u get close in metric. Maybe that’s just an imperial thing
You’re definitely right but nearly all of the Chinese motorcycles prior to this have been junk. The Cfmoto’s, however, seem like really good bikes for the money! If they keep moving in the direction they are they are going to be a major player before long!
Also, we would like to see you some more benelli's on dailyRider. Maybe start with the TNT 135. If anyone else would like to see that, please feel free to give this comment a thumbs up.
I have never seen a CFMOTO in the wild yet, but it sure feels like the 1970's and 80's when the Big 4 took over the world. CFMOTO has so many features that the big 4 can not ignore like the start up menu and headlights, LED's, blutooth, and all the other cool features. If the welds aren't crap and the parts are descent, then I don't see why CFMOTO wouldn't take a huge bite out of the competition.
@@SonOfDrogo They are saying the MSRP might be as high as 7k though. That's the price of like middleweights from CFMoto and Japan. I think the 457 is a cool bike but it's probably not directly competing
I just bought one of these 2 months ago and I'm having a damn good time riding it. I also just bought a 22 suzuki M109R BOSS. I guess I can't make up my mind but that CF MOTO 450SS is it if the reliability is on point. Its going to crush the comp if they nail this.
i disagree with the ranking imo, bikes should be ranked based on performance and not on the pedigree that supports them and aftermarket support i have followed this thing since its release in china with scepticism and it has outshined the ninja 400 in pretty much every way from all other reviews that I have watched. i kind of feel like their was some negative biast against this bike from the get go but it was good enough to sway your opinion. i think if there was a yamaha badge on this bike it would have gotten a flawless review as the flaws pointed out while fair, its being compared to a higher class of bike than the ninja would be. good video though, great to get your opinion on the bike
I test rode it back to back with a Ninja 400 & a R3 for a comparison video on my channel and had a similar reaction. It is surprisingly good and makes me look at CFMoto optimistically. As always, Zach’s enthusiasm and personality always shine through. Great work!
This is a sexy looking bike! Really tempted to buy one as my first learner bike. Considered the Ninja 400/500 and Yama R3, but I like the extra capacity of this bike and 3 years warranty is fantastic! Great value for money!
@@Private-420 Unfortunately that won’t be available in Australia until later this year, so I’ve bought the 2024 450SR-S instead. Single swing arm with Traction control.
Really nice to see the Chinese manufacturers getting it right. I think it should have placed above the Ninja 400 🙂 270 degree parallel twin which sounds soooo much better than the 180 degree versions, upside down forks, radial Brembo brakes, a slick 5" TFT dash, and way better looks just edge out the benchmark without losing out in all the things that work. It definitely puts Kawasaki on notice.
What if CFMoto slapped that engine into a modern-retro chassis so it could do double duty as a standard or a scrambler? That could be a great entry-level competitor to the Royal Enfield Hunter 350... with double the power! 🤔 --QM
@alphavishal9197 Thanks! A new steed will be joining my stable soon, so that's why I'm curious about these "entry-level" bikes from CFMoto. Cheers! 😉👍 --QM
I watched your video about the Yamaha MT 10 before trading my Hayabusa in to get it. I'm a little too old for sporty ergonomics. I love the MT10, it's fun and easy on my body for commuting to work and longer group rides. Sometimes I miss the freeway dominance of the Buss, but the MT10 is better everywhere else for me. Thank you for doing these great reviews Zack.
Competition is always good and the likes of the Ninja400 is in need of an update, even if it's just upgraded fairings and digital display. I know that zx4rr is the better equipped bike but you're gonna have to pay quite a bit more for it so would love to see more trickle down to the cheaper bikes to make them more appealing.
Back in the day I owned a 1972 Honda 450c hellcat which was changed to a race type front front quarter fairing full on down bars and a full fibreglass monocoque seat and tail section. With a dark and light brown flame paint job. I rode with a 650 kawi and a 750 Suzuki. Other than top end runs I always kept up on it great fun and reliable as all get out. Thanks for bringing those memories back ahhhh the speed wobbles just shy of full tank slappers lmao. Keep that right hand cranked and ride safe bro.
Im generally not a fan of parallel twins, especially in sports bikes, but I love the 270deg crank. Paired with sharp looks I think this is a great motorcycle, especially for that price
Regarding mpg ratings, this could be due to how the bike was programmed. There is more than 1 version of a gallon and it is possible the bike uses the one more common internationally rather than the US Gallon. US Gallon = 3.785 liters. Imperial Gallon = 4.54 liters.
Triumph needs to take notes on dash layouts from this bike. CF Moto took a lot of the triumph elements and totally beat triumph over the head with their layout designs. Compare it to the UNREADABLE rpm meter on arguably the best middle weight sports bike in the market : Street Triple 765RS : and this dash walks all over it, at least in terms of design, layout etc. Great stuff!
I hear you greyanaroth. I have a Tiger 850 sport. It has the engaging 270 crank like this bike. I like most everything on Tiger. But then there is the dash GUI. Four of them in fact. They are equally horrible. Triumph's dash designers need to be sacked yesterday. With prejudice. They are gawdawful.
@@marcusaurelius9736 ikr! They fixed the 1200 (tiger and speed triple) dash layouts a fair bit. But even then, some functionality is just lame. Contrast it to the 1st gen tft dash layouts which they NAILED. Sometimes, progress is really not progress.
I wish i could buy stuff from revzilla here in India as i absolutely adore Zach and greatly admire Ari but not so.....All i can do to support is like every video you make and even in isolation of all it, every video you do make, deserves a like anyways.
I'm just excited to see the on board GPS tracking and good navigation system. If manufacturers start adding those features built into the ECU rather than relying on us adding after market trackers that can be found and removed would be a huge win for motorcycle safety.
The nav on the 450SS is kinda trash, honestly. It takes some weird routes sometimes, and he mentioned in the video it goes from miles to inches, which can be very confusing in an area you aren’t familiar with. It’s easily my biggest complaint with the bike. The rest of the bike is absolute rock solid and I love it.
@@LaneAtomichow does the plastic and exterior seem, does it seem cheap or is it good quality. I’m just concerned with how good the plastic would look after a few years
yall acting like this bike's from AliExpress CFMoto's been in the industry for a long time. They have already set up everything. Parts, service, and pedigree. Reminder that my beloved Kawasaki Z400 is made in India and the Ninja 400 in Thailand. I've heard more Horror stories from KTM owners than CFMOTO owners! Bad Chinese bike manufacturers exist. It's a fact. But CFMoto has lived long enough to have pedigree and a reputation
I do have to say though that it’s a very cool looking bike and for a stock exhaust it’s got a really nice bark to it. Too many bikes now days sounds like a damn vacuum cleaner from the factory.
My shop that I've purchased almost every bike I've owned sells these CF Moto's. I asked the guys if I should buy one. Their response was, "We'll sell you one.". I said that's not what I asked. They said, "Exactly!".
Thanks, Zack. This daily ride is fun (as always) and really encouraging to motorheads like me. It's good to see an outlier like CFMOTO say "look what I can offer at a low enough price for buyers to take a chance.... I'm getting bigger in your rearview mirror."
As always Zachary, thank you for your honest and comprehensive thoughts. I'm glad the Chinese bikes are out there to keep the other bikes on their toes.
Saw one of these the other day at the dealer. Absolutely gorgeous styling and really nice design details. You need to see it in person. For around $6000 a better deal than similar bikes.
I found it a very nice bike. It just felt it was a little under powered, yet I can overlook that since my other bike is a tuned GSXR 1000. For the money it is a really great buy.
Frankly, CFMoto should put that engine in an ADV frame, and with an upgrade to the suspension it could compete with the Honda 500X and Kawa’s Versys 300 (which should have gotten the Ninja 400’s engine 5+ years ago). If they’re worried about it cannibalizing sales from their 650, so be it. Dump the 650, and run with a 450cc ADV with a more appealing engine as far as it will take you. You’ve stumbled on to something distinctive here. Exploit that. (Or, design a 650-800cc version of this 270-crank.) The most impressive thing to me is that they got the most important and arguably most difficult thing right: the engine. It sounded great and looked fun.
I'm hoping they put this motor in an ADV bike along the lines of the Tenere and Taureg. Wonder if this was the "490" motor that was floating around the KTM rumor mill last year? The rumored 490 Adventure was supposed to have a 270 degree twin.
Sir! You have the most unique way of wording things and the verbiage you use to get the feeling of some thing across is unmatched. Every video, and I have watched them all, you say something super weird that makes all the sense in the world. Now give me a high side low side T-shirt😊
I had one of these pass me a while back, and it had an aftermarket pipe on it. I only saw the color/shape and heard the engine, and I swore it was an Aprilia. That little engine makes a fantastic noise.
My first street bike was a '19 Z400. Of the CFMOTO's amenities I'd appreciate the seat (Kawasaki's was too downhill into the tank as Zach describes, and difficult to comfortably scoot back on without holding yourself up with your legs) and the Brembo front brake/lines. Everywhere else I prefer the Kawi.
I pulled the trigger and got a CFmoto adventure and I loved it.. sadly I had to sell it because of a back injury that I’m still recovering from. Just happy I can walk and whip my own ass. Hopefully one day I will ride again, but with that said for the price of the CFmoto it’s 100% worth it. I had no issues with my adventure CFmoto I took that thing off road in some rough terrain and she held up perfectly no issues. My buddy bought it off me and he still giving her lots of love off roading. It just comes down to… if you have a low budget and want a decent bike go with a CFmoto, but if you have the extra cash just go with the ninja 650.
Cf moto are coming out with a 500 and a 675 ss and sr soon (according to leaks) so they're definitely not going anywhere an in pretty happy they're sticking around
One big issue with CFmoto, especially compared to Kawasaki, is their dealer network. Where I live it's also the same price as a ninja 400, and those extra features are good selling points, but having a dealer nearby vs having to cross half the country to get to the dealership would make me lean towards the Ninja 400.
Much like the previous commenter, local "powersport" dealers carry the CFMoto 4-wheel off road ATV's, so I was surprised how wide the dealer network already was. Although in the US, a 450 is considered relatively small, this is a higher-revving engine that will be as least as quick as stock 900cc-class V-twin cruisers* or the 650 Royal Enfields. As shown in the video, this 450 is perfectly able to deal with highway speeds. I think that the naked version of this motorcycle will be good for beginner and even experienced riders who just want a two-wheeled toy for Sunday rides. *900cc cruisers like the Yamaha Bolt and HD 883 might produce a little more power, but the extra 150 lbs reduces "quickness" a bit to over 5 sec 0-60mph, according to Cycle Word. The 650 Royal Enfields produce less power and are heavier as well with a roughly 5.5 sec 0-60 vs Kawasaki 400's at well under 5 sec (4.6, again according to Cycle World).
@@HistoryofLies-d8v Thanks. CFoto builds some motors for KTM, so they have the knowhow and the few tests I have seen compared it favorably to the Kawasaki 400's. I have no doubt that performance is decent. One of the largest indicators is that Kawasaki has developed their own 450 to compete with it. The Honda 500's are a curious case because they are essentially de-tuned to stay A2-compliant (47 hp, max at the crank) and for extreme durability. This is pretty much Industry practice these days. It is now unusual for a non-US motorcycle manufacturer to tweak its products for the US, but it seems that CFMoto bumped the 450's power up slightly for our market (and probably some others).
the same people that say these aren’t reliable and should be avoided are the same people that will happily buy an italian bike or a harley for triple the price.
I think you guys are in a unique position and I was wondering if you could add luggage fitment. So people could get a better idea of whatever the top selling tank or tail bag would look like on all the motorcycles you review. It is the daily Rider and I do need to keep my rain gear with me.
There are some places that show it to be a Chinese bike. The app doesn’t quite work as it should. The navigation search is funky and sometimes can’t find places that you’d expect it to, and if you want to unbind a bike from the app, you have to contact support. I have never had the verification code work. Build and ride quality are good, and though I’m not a sport bike fan, I do enjoy riding the 450SS. One thing Zach didn’t show is that you can control your music playing in your helmet from the bike if your phone is bluetoothed to the bike. Best idea in the world? Probably not. But cool. My favorite quirk of the 450SS is that when it’s low on fuel, it says, “The Fuel Shortage!” in yellow letters in the top left.
I'm so smitten by the ninja 400. Originally the wife bought it as a learner bike, I steal it every chance I get. It is one of my favorite bikes to commute on, I'd rank it higher than the SV650, and I've owned several of those in street and track form.
It's on my radar as a bike to buy for my return to riding aftwr 10 years and luckily I know someone who has ordered one so I can wait and see their experience with it.
Would be cool if you can buy one of these online and shipped to your house..it’s about time..would remove a big barrier of dealing with dealers and buying second hand!
Unfortunately they ship them in crates just like everybody else and there is some assembly required. You will never get a motorcycle delivered to your house that is not used
@@captainthruster9484 they come 95% preassembled. Most manufacturers completely assemble and ship in a crate. Even if some assembly req it would transform the industry.
The 1199 and 1299 Panigale are the closest modern equivalents. Even though a 1200cc twin is still an eligible motor, pretty much every competitor in Superbike around the world runs 1000cc fours so there's no reason to make a v twin Superbike anymore. And the SV1000 is not the same kind of motorcycle as the RC51 and TL1000R.
@@Zeggawong V4 liter bikes have already been on the market for years. He's talking about an extremely niche category of V twin Japanese Superbike developed to compete against Ducati's twins during the 750cc era of Superbike racing.
Hi Zack enjoyed hearing your feedback and like that you gave it a fair review. Looking forward to your feedback on the 800nk. Please ride a KTM 790 prior to testing.
in melbourne, there's tons of cfmoto bikes trundling around; the american market won't be where these bikes explode, with their practiced disdain of anything manufactured in china and smaller than a 600, but I see this genuinely stealing a huge number of new bike sales from the other brands here and, i imagine, in other markets too. I've seen a few with full exhaust systems, and they sound GREAT 😩
I would hesitate to call it a "practiced disdain" so much as prior experience leading to such a belief. It is all too often that you see Chinese knock off's for cheap in the camping, hunting, and fishing markets. It stems from companies like Wal-Mart trying to get more market share and turning to cheap Chinese products made for companies they own to push a bottom line. I love the sound and look of this bike, as well as the side by sides made by CFMoto, but I worry about the quality because of past negative experiences. I think only time will tell when it comes to something like this, but hopefully people can see past their own noses and give this little bike a chance to prevent market stagnation with some healthy competition.
David Lee Roth. It's sometimes not how good you do it. It's sometimes how good you look doing it. Yamaha, KTM, Royal Enfield, and now Honda, Suzuki and CFMOTO with their 450SS with their parallel twins mimicking the 90 degree twin engine sound. Just driving home the fact that a motorcycle really only needs two cylinders.
I like what I see, I like what hear(albeit does seem to need new tires already)question all I need to know is now... reliability 8-12 months now as a daily rider. I'd love to hear from someone who's riding this exact bike even 2 years now...I think Kawasaki should be taking notes, especially with rising prices or should I say dealers currently trying to get 8-9 grand for a Ninja 400 out the door which is absolutely ridiculous, but Kawasaki should be listening because after being on a Ninja 400 group for a year now, definitely see some improvements the 400 could use i.e. better clutch for one.
This is designed and built to a price, the lower cost of entry will introduce more riders to the sport but the issue for some that may experience problems down the road will be the accessibility to parts and those willing to work on such a bike. I have been asked to work on numerous bikes / scooters like this one that are new to the US market and even just obtaining a clutch cable is problematic.
Normally, I’d agree with this. But CFMoto has already established themselves in the ATV and UTV segment, and there are a number of dealerships that already carry parts and service the brand. Also, they’ve been making these bikes overseas for longer than they’ve been available in the states. They’re also making a factory in Mexico, so I think CFMoto is here to stay, and hope to see more good bikes roll off their assembly lines.
Another excellent review, been waiting for your take on this bike (450SR) over my side of the pond, toying with idea of getting one love the exhaust note of the 270 crank although couldn't give a toss about the high tech dash be just as happy with the good old analog gauges.
The Ibex was a fun demo, but that they install tracking devices they can use at the Corporate Office to locate your bike, running or not, was kind of sketchy. Especially after they explained they can pull metrics remotely off the bike like: top speed, avg speed, etc. Perfect for a subpoena.
You know KTM we’re working on a 490 twin then changed their mind for the small new duke and adventure. This is the same engine as CF own part of the KTM group.
270-degree crank on parallel twins is becoming normal. It seems like all the adventure bikes come that way. They are compact, but I like the look of the desert sled motor and no counter balance shaft needed on 90 degree L twin
biggest question for me is the long-term reliability and survivability (since beginners will most likely be riding it) of the bike, I'd like to see someone do a 20-30k miles review
That's a question for every motorcycle. A lot of Kawasaki and Honda bikes have had terrible reliability over the years, even from a manufacturer that's been around for a long time. This happens with cars too. That said, the 450SR has already been in Europe for a while now and there have already been long distance/long term reviews. It holds up fine. The only difference is that the 450SS/SR requires oil changes slightly more often than the R3/N400, but it beats them in everything else.
@@enricohagn From what I've found, the weird transition between hardware and digital for some brands like Kawasaki, Yamaha and funnily enough, BMW during the 2009-2011 led to a lot of electrical problems in motorcycles of those years. Coincidentally the same years of bikes people love to overcharge on facebook marketplace for. I know it's almost impossible to find a GXSR-600 that hasn't been crashed, beaten, or broken. Ruined clutches, or shredded gears like you'd find on a pre-owned Hyabusa. Theres a cost for being rated one of the "most reliable brands" when it comes to motorcycles. Everyone treats the bike like complete shit.
@@Smootier what bike do you personally ride? I've owned 4 Kawasakis and I've done everything from trackdays to week long road trips on them. Considering the experiences I've had with other things from China, I'll stick with the tried and tested
@@jongun78 Currently nothing. I've been passively waiting for the Gen 2 release of the CFmoto 450SS/SR. The single sided swing arm and the ABS additions coming to the model are enough for me to open the wallet and give it a go. Theres certainly nothing wrong with going with what you know works. There is a valid hesitation for anything you don't know anything about, but CFmoto isn't "new" to the scene like a lot of US youtubers like to claim. They've been around in Asia and Europe for years. They're as tried and true there as Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki is here. As they say, the greatest equalizer is "time", right? CFmoto is only just now choosing to import to the US, which makes a lot of US consumers nervous given the general stereotype regarding most Chinese products. The thing people aren't processing though, is that a lot of the "cheap products" from China that get imported to the US are knock-offs, intentionally made cheap to offer an alternative to something that already exists on the market. CFMOTO's motorcycles aren't knockoffs of anything. They're legitimate products that have been sold to Asia and Europe for years at this point. Not that I'd try to convince you of anything. Just explaining that the anti-Chinese stigma that I've been seeing a lot regarding the bike really isn't backed up by anything other than racism.
Pricing is right if they sold direct. Unfortunately once you add the stealership fees you’re playing with a lot of used proven higher displacement Japanese sport and naked bikes with strong residuals, more power, larger availability of aftermarket add ons and known build quality. If they sold direct I’d consider this brand as I think this would be a nice undercut to a lot of the bikes in this category
the 270 crank is the biggest selling point for this bike.the big question is when is kawasaki gonna make the 270 crank ninja 450 and yamaha the 270 crank r4.5
The only (and big) downside preventing me from getting this as my first bike is the fact that finding a dealership or even parts to maintain this bike is going to be difficult. CFMoto isn't a common motorcycle brand in my area.
You're wearing those Sedici gloves that you endorsed in the review. Maybe mine were a bit too small; I ordered 3XL but they were still a bit challenging to get in and out of. The interior lining ripped out after about three months, and I'm not wearing them anymore. Wasted a bit of cash on that. I just bought the RevIt Dirt3 in 4XL and they're also challenging to get in and out of, but they feel a lot better fit once I get them on.
IMO the only valid argument from this video (apart from personal preference) for the Ninja 400 seems to be in the parts availability/community/aftermarket. And that area will be lacking for every new platform. Yet you still try to make it sound, like the cf moto is not quite there yet, saying stuff like "it's a step in the right direction" etc. If it won't prove to be unreliable, then what else is it lacking that you just call it, a step on the way to build a proper small sport bike? It has a cool engine (sounds like a bigger bike), brembo brakes, a sportier position (so feels closer to a proper sport bike, right?), upside down fork and great TFT dash. Even without considering the price, it looks like it outright outperforms the japanese small sport bikes. The only other serious small/cheap sport bike in the feature department seems to be the KTM, but it's reliability is questionable.
The discrepancy you noted on fuel consumption may be due to the bike calculating miles per British gallon (4.55 litres) rather than US gallons (3.78 litres).
I think if I were to invest into this bike/brand. I would need to make sure....someone local is able to work on this bike. Yes I can learn to do it myself...but its so perfect...wouldn't want to mess it up.
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Sport bikes used to have great rear seats. Just before they all started being aimed at being track tools with a plate.
Try an early Fireblade if you want to see what I mean. One of the best all around bikes ever yet it seems no one does that kind of thing now.
Nice to see CFmoto coming along. I was at their stand at the bike show a few years back and the quality was utterly atrocious. Some welds looked great - others like they have been done by Ray Charles. Using his toes.
Bare wires all over the place, handlebars that didn't line up on one bike - no idea how they managed that one - and loads of other stuff that made me walk swiftly away.
So far they are one of only two makers I've seen who have had rust on the bikes at the show - the other being Harley at the same show, funnily enough.
Watching you ride this seemed like it was behaving as it should though. I mean its obvious even from the footage the suspension is nothing special but on a cheap bike it almost never is.
I'm not a fan of screens and I wish there were options where you could just go for the usual two/four clock layout with idiot lights or maybe a small screen to do the rest.
I'm not keen on the sound either but thats not the bikes fault - its that great big can to meet some nimby's noise limits.
If you still have the bike can you take that nonsense off so we can hear what it really sounds like?
One point that does stand out and might be worth a thought though - being able to track your bike sounds great - theft deterrent, forgot where you left it, friend pushed it away somewhere for a joke, etc. Unfortunately because of the way businesses are licensed in China that also means the CCP can track your bike should they want to. That may seem like a small or non issue but data like that is valuable for a reason. Depending who you are and what you do for a living (military, government, etc) it could be a bit of a larger issue too.
Serpentza did a good video on the subject titled "why China is banning Teslas".
It wouldn't stop me getting the bike but it would mean I would be making it GPS silent on arrival.
If you work in a sensitive field it may be worth considering a different bike.
So ive bought one (450SR) about a month ago.
It really puts a big smile on my face, when going through the twisty roads. I get plenty of positive comments (looks wise), and it sounds amazing with a slip on exhaust.
For smile per dollars value, its up there.
Update: OK this just happened today. Girl at the gym sees me getting on my 450sr.
She ask me to rev, of course I did (slip on exhaust btw). Got the biggest smile from her, and I rode away feeling like a total badass
What about reliability? Ease of access to parts?
If it puts a smile on your face, that’s all that matters when it comes to riding!
And everybody clapped
next time take her on the passenger seat
@agentnacho2029 the ease of access is limited. A lot of oem maintenance parts are on back order like the oil filter. America support isn't there yet. All aftermarket is bought from the China market like aliexpress. Shouldn't be too long before we get better support for cfmoto
Hi. I have been riding for nearly 2 decades and use this to daily comute. I just bought the CF Moto 450 because of its drop dead gorgeous looks and its ultra smooth engine and gearbox. As a 50 year old, I thought that the more aggressive riding stance (especially coming from a upright naked Duke) might be too much for me, but I have not had any issues with any back or wrist pains (even on long days out in the country). I use to own a triumph thruxton nearly 10 years ago, and I had really bad back and wrist pains after 1 hour of riding it. The fact that I don't get pains on this bike is a big plus.
I will start with the bad points I've experienced so far. This one is not a huge problem, but one to note. The sat navigation has taken me to places that I've not entered once or twice when I've gone out to the country side. It also couldn't find a popular town that a lot of people go to. So while I like that it has in built turn by turn nav, I wished they had installed Google maps instead of their own system, but since I don't use the navigation (except to try it out that day), it's not a problem for me.
Second, and more of an issue for me... I think the fuel economy is high for a 450. I know it's still in the breaking in period, but at 4.6L per 100k's (what I'm getting so far), it's pretty bad, especially since I'm quite careful with it during run in. That's nearly what a Hornet 750 or a Duke 790 gets.
Lastly, and this is a minor gripe, but I wish that the kick stand was around a cm longer. It feels like the bike wants to go over when you stop on anything but a flat surface.
Another really bad thing about this bike is the preconceived ideas people have about the brand. While I would not recommend cfmoto's earlier bikes, their collaboration with KTM and its in-house designers have paid off and has been proven in all the great reviews this bike has been getting.
Even so people will come up to you and ask what make and brand the bike is. Then you have to explain.. it's CF Moto. , oh... they'll say. Then you have to let them know t's a Chinese company. They really need to change the name of CF Moto to something else, something that rolls off the tongue easier.
It's hard to justify and explain who they are and what the CF in CF moto means. I think that we are all use to other big brands being made from China, but saying that name Cf Moto, doesn't bring pride to the ownerships even if this is a top of the class bike.
I mean, look at the other up coming Chinese brand Kove (pronounced Kove'), it sounds fancy and more a kin to a top quality/premium bike.
Cf Moto should follow suit so that they can increase their brand loyalties. Even though I like this bike, I would not wear any of their merch.
Am I worried about the fit finish and reliability? Not at all. CF Moto has been around for a long time in Australia. This bike is solid and put together very well. It has a 3 year factory warranty which is longer than nearly all the established makes. Also considering CF Moto makes the engines for the Ninja 400, it would not suprise me if this is the same engine bored out to 450cc with a 270° crank shaft instead of 180 and they've called it their own. May be this the exact engine that KTM and cfmoto were working on before KTM pulled out of building the Duke 490 range.
Thats it for the bad stuff. What I love. The looks. The front a rear winglets are a first to market in class and give it an aggressive and unique look to a otherwise mundane cbr-r sport bike template.
I also like that it has a nice big, bright tft with optional 2 display layouts and lots of features, some of which include rev shift alert, over speed alert so you don't speed too much over and loose your licence, the forementioned sat navigation, from phone to Bluetooth call with music controls from the switches, a bike tracker with geo fencing alert. You can also track your bike if your friend borrows it, or it gets stolen and moved anywhere in the world. This has a greater advantage for owners because when I told the insurance company that It has it, they lowered my insurance premiums, all of which is not on the Ninja 400... yeay!!!
It does have a bigger bike feel and you do feel it when you throw your legs over it to start, but the bike does shrink around you when you move at normal paces, but when you push it, I do feel that the bike feels like it's bigger than what it actually is again, which is really wiered but not in a bad way. Not a sensation I've felt before.
I love how sure footed this bike is at any speed. It always feels really planted, stable and grippy. Pulls from 3800 rpm comfortably. The slightly more tucked in hunkered down position is comfortable as long as your not over 5 10-11". A really big thumbs up. It's really manuvrable and easily threads through tight and heavy peak hour bumper to bumper traffic (even with those big long mirrors out which was a big suprise).
And have I mentioned how smooth it is. The engine is silky smooth, It also sounds good from factory. I like the pops and burble sounds it makes when down shifting. Almost like a softer quieter C63 merc. Like the C63, I wish the muffler also had the quiet and loud pass through valve to really give it a bit more rumble on the road and a quiet mode so the neighbours don't get angry option at 5am start up.
For people who say it's only a beginners bike, I would urge you to think twice. You can only go as fast as the speed limit these days, so anything over a 500 to 600cc is posturing. This bike has more than enough power to get you out of trouble, it does also allow you to have fun while being much safer. It has a much lower rego and insurance cost compared to a big bike and much, much, much cheaper to buy. While I think beginners will love it, it is a great real world conditions bike for everyone under 5.10".
The price. For what you get, it's a hell of a deal.
Really perfect write up, and hugely appreciated as a supplement to Zach's commentary.
I have considered a Kaw 400 but honestly they sell quickly here in Kentucky. Also think our Kaw dealer would rather sell more Kaw 650s anyway because they sell for nearly $3k more than the 400. The dealer also sells another Chinese competitor by the name of QJ Motors. It looks great on first appearance and is also a 400. I can't help but feel like it would fall apart after a short amount of time, it just has some cheap feel to it, but it also looks really fun. It sells for the same price as the CF Moto too, so it's extremely tempting.
I will have to really consider a CF as a possibility for my first bike after 26 years of not riding.
Thanks for your excellent overview!
"anything over a 500 to 600cc is posturing"
I would agree, sort of. Larger displacement can make for more relaxed manners cruising on the highway or for better reliability, and may not even bring extra horsepower. The Honda NC750, Suzuki C50T, and Kawasaki KLR 650 come to mind as examples of low horsepower bikes with bigger displacement, each for a different reason. For sure over 1200cc is really hard to justify for any type of motorcycle, though perhaps it is justifiable if you're riding two up, loaded with saddle bags, and towing a trailer with a Goldwing.
CF is short for “Chun Feng”, which means spring breeze in Chinese.
this is such a comprehensive user feedback! Thank you so much
You need to apply for jobs at a motorcycle publication 😂. I read every word. What an awesome review.
I love that Zack is always polite on the street and can not help himself picking up others trash .He is always ready to make the world a better place . I always learn something on these rides ..THanks from New England ...
Just a slightly off topic comment to say that, with the amount of negativity that sometimes exists online, I just want to personally say a big thank you to everybody involved in the production of these videos and thank you all for the entertaining and informative videos that you all produce. They're pretty much always well worth watching and make great companionship when I'm working out in the gym.
Back in 60s the Brits laughed at the Japanese motorcycle companies. The 10yrs later they were trouble! It John Bloor to go to Japan and check out how they did it before making the 1st Triumphs. Competition is always a good thing, keeps people honest
The Japanese government weren’t committing genocide in the 1960s.
In the 70s/80s Japans economy was having a boom/bubble which lead to their great stuff. China is doing better these days but not as good as Japan was when you consider their size and what markets they where in at the time.
Well, Japan makes solid and reliable products.
Triumph is still garbage.
@@lovelessissimoExactly. People always act as if we don't buy stuff from china because it's from china. We don't buy it because it always seemed to be worse in quality and reliability compared to it's competition. If chinese products start to go up in quality (even more than in the past few years), we will see the same boom as with japan.
Many know that CFmoto and KTM are production partners; the 790 and 890 KTM bikes are all produced in CF’s factory in Hangzhou. What people may not know is that this platform is essentially what KTM were considering for the 490 Duke and ADV bikes which were eventually scrapped. But CFmoto went on to develop the platform and it’s really taking off here in China. There’s already a 450 naked version for sale in China as well, with an adv version probably on the way. CFmoto also has a 900 “Duke” with the KTM 890 engine.
Being associated with KTM is not a big plus. KTMs don't last.
@@aluisious Most bikes don't last. The variable that lets people tolerate short lived bikes is spare/preowned parts market that allows people to replace and repair. Because the 450 is new to the US market, theres no actual telling what it's ease of repair will be because that market doesn't exist yet. You'd have to import from Europe.
You can however, look at the 450SR in Europe as it's been there for a while already, and we'd know that they do in fact, last.
@@aluisious 390 maybe. but 390 is manufactured in india. i think the 790 and 890 are pretty reliable.
@@Smootierwould argue people tolerate short lived bikes because of performance or character. It will be interesting to see if cfmoto has either in their lineup.
Depending on one’s attitude toward KTM, it can definitely be either positive or negative. In the OP above I mistakenly wrote 900, it’s the 800 motor CF is using for the big naked. 450NK and 800NK are their names if anyone wants to look them up. Styling on them will definitely not appeal to everyone.
If it keeps looking like this after a year of riding, then indeed have they nailed the styling.
A friend of mine has the 300sr and it still looks nice except for the giant scratch it got when he overshot a corner. He bought it early 2021.
I service these and they're decent bikes for the price. Pretty easy to work on as well
@@samuelswihart4285I’m just worried about it Ina Few years; how it will perform and look.
You can thank the Italian they stole from Aprilia and MV Agusta to design their bike.
@@SmootierI think you mean the design firm Kiska who also does the styling for KTM. Remember everything is derivative.
I think there’s a HUGE misunderstanding of what’s Chinese quality. People are used to buying dirt cheap crap on Amazon and assume everything made in China is crap. Your iPhone is high quality and is made in China. Your chips running everything are made in China. I wouldn’t call them cheap quality. Just like all my life I’ve been programmed to think that Harley Davidsons are pieces of junk, once I rode a few, I immediately knew it was a high end premium motorcycle brand. I’m currently visiting China for the first time in my life and I’m blown away by the diversity (in vehicles and everything else) here. There’s everything you can imagine wanting to buy and there’s so many EVs it’s absolutely unbelievable. They have at least a dozen domestic EV car brands and once I had a ride in them I was blown away. Tesla who..?! And they’re so AFFORDABLE in China..!
Also I don’t have the issue with navigation switching to inches when u get close in metric. Maybe that’s just an imperial thing
You’re definitely right but nearly all of the Chinese motorcycles prior to this have been junk. The Cfmoto’s, however, seem like really good bikes for the money! If they keep moving in the direction they are they are going to be a major player before long!
Two totally different markets 😂
Also, we would like to see you some more benelli's on dailyRider. Maybe start with the TNT 135. If anyone else would like to see that, please feel free to give this comment a thumbs up.
I have never seen a CFMOTO in the wild yet, but it sure feels like the 1970's and 80's when the Big 4 took over the world. CFMOTO has so many features that the big 4 can not ignore like the start up menu and headlights, LED's, blutooth, and all the other cool features. If the welds aren't crap and the parts are descent, then I don't see why CFMOTO wouldn't take a huge bite out of the competition.
Dude, they just announced 2 more models for 2024. A 500cc 4 cylinder supersport and a three cylinder 675 "Daytona" I'm fr geeking
I own the sr300 and all I can say a bang for buck motorcycle.
The RS 457 will send CF Moto packing when its sales start.
@@SonOfDrogo They are saying the MSRP might be as high as 7k though. That's the price of like middleweights from CFMoto and Japan. I think the 457 is a cool bike but it's probably not directly competing
They have so many features but they trade that for build quality, everything I’ve seen from owners say they are a POS after a year or so.
I just bought one of these 2 months ago and I'm having a damn good time riding it. I also just bought a 22 suzuki M109R BOSS. I guess I can't make up my mind but that CF MOTO 450SS is it if the reliability is on point. Its going to crush the comp if they nail this.
Can you put a fork stem mount on it?
Is it still reliable?
@@JorgeSantos-bz8kz Saw someone put a quad lock stem in it 👍🏿
i disagree with the ranking imo, bikes should be ranked based on performance and not on the pedigree that supports them and aftermarket support
i have followed this thing since its release in china with scepticism and it has outshined the ninja 400 in pretty much every way from all other reviews that I have watched.
i kind of feel like their was some negative biast against this bike from the get go but it was good enough to sway your opinion.
i think if there was a yamaha badge on this bike it would have gotten a flawless review as the flaws pointed out while fair, its being compared to a higher class of bike than the ninja would be.
good video though, great to get your opinion on the bike
I’m getting mine this weekend can’t wait !!
I test rode it back to back with a Ninja 400 & a R3 for a comparison video on my channel and had a similar reaction. It is surprisingly good and makes me look at CFMoto optimistically. As always, Zach’s enthusiasm and personality always shine through. Great work!
This is a sexy looking bike! Really tempted to buy one as my first learner bike. Considered the Ninja 400/500 and Yama R3, but I like the extra capacity of this bike and 3 years warranty is fantastic! Great value for money!
@@Private-420 Unfortunately that won’t be available in Australia until later this year, so I’ve bought the 2024 450SR-S instead. Single swing arm with Traction control.
Really nice to see the Chinese manufacturers getting it right. I think it should have placed above the Ninja 400 🙂 270 degree parallel twin which sounds soooo much better than the 180 degree versions, upside down forks, radial Brembo brakes, a slick 5" TFT dash, and way better looks just edge out the benchmark without losing out in all the things that work. It definitely puts Kawasaki on notice.
Totally agreed. The ninja 400's exhaust note is almost embarrassing. Absolutely love the sound of a 270 twin.
Well Kawasaki is a reliable brand with good after sales. It's parts are also easily accessible
Zach allowed "social media tenor" to influence his ranking for some reason.
What if CFMoto slapped that engine into a modern-retro chassis so it could do double duty as a standard or a scrambler? That could be a great entry-level competitor to the Royal Enfield Hunter 350... with double the power! 🤔 --QM
Hey quasi love your videos.
@alphavishal9197 Thanks! A new steed will be joining my stable soon, so that's why I'm curious about these "entry-level" bikes from CFMoto. Cheers! 😉👍 --QM
@@QuasiMotard waiting for the hunter 350 videos.
@@QuasiMotard So far the quality of CFMoto bikes we've sold has been excellent. I'm hoping the 450 engine ends up in the KTM 390 Adventure chassis.
That'd be fantastic. A new lineup of small 270° parallel twins would be very intriguing.
I watched your video about the Yamaha MT 10 before trading my Hayabusa in to get it. I'm a little too old for sporty ergonomics. I love the MT10, it's fun and easy on my body for commuting to work and longer group rides. Sometimes I miss the freeway dominance of the Buss, but the MT10 is better everywhere else for me. Thank you for doing these great reviews Zack.
Thanks so much for your input, you have a completely different take comparing these bikes !
Competition is always good and the likes of the Ninja400 is in need of an update, even if it's just upgraded fairings and digital display. I know that zx4rr is the better equipped bike but you're gonna have to pay quite a bit more for it so would love to see more trickle down to the cheaper bikes to make them more appealing.
I've been pleasantly surprised by CFmoto... looking forward to seeing more from them.
Back in the day I owned a 1972 Honda 450c hellcat which was changed to a race type front front quarter fairing full on down bars and a full fibreglass monocoque seat and tail section. With a dark and light brown flame paint job. I rode with a 650 kawi and a 750 Suzuki. Other than top end runs I always kept up on it great fun and reliable as all get out. Thanks for bringing those memories back ahhhh the speed wobbles just shy of full tank slappers lmao. Keep that right hand cranked and ride safe bro.
Im generally not a fan of parallel twins, especially in sports bikes, but I love the 270deg crank. Paired with sharp looks I think this is a great motorcycle, especially for that price
Regarding mpg ratings, this could be due to how the bike was programmed. There is more than 1 version of a gallon and it is possible the bike uses the one more common internationally rather than the US Gallon. US Gallon = 3.785 liters. Imperial Gallon = 4.54 liters.
This more than anything makes me dream of a Yamaha R5, with a sub 500cc 270 degree twin. Although I have doubts it will ever happen.
You know the MSRP would be 7 or 8 grand.
Yea I wouldn't be surprised to see that. Luckily motorcycles can hold their value pretty well.@@bk83082
well, doesn'tt that make this the one to buy then? They will be second hand and depreciate soon
Perhaps. It'll be interesting to see their long term reliability.@@chrispekel5709
Triumph needs to take notes on dash layouts from this bike. CF Moto took a lot of the triumph elements and totally beat triumph over the head with their layout designs. Compare it to the UNREADABLE rpm meter on arguably the best middle weight sports bike in the market : Street Triple 765RS : and this dash walks all over it, at least in terms of design, layout etc. Great stuff!
I hear you greyanaroth. I have a Tiger 850 sport. It has the engaging 270 crank like this bike. I like most everything on Tiger. But then there is the dash GUI. Four of them in fact. They are equally horrible. Triumph's dash designers need to be sacked yesterday. With prejudice. They are gawdawful.
@@marcusaurelius9736 ikr! They fixed the 1200 (tiger and speed triple) dash layouts a fair bit. But even then, some functionality is just lame. Contrast it to the 1st gen tft dash layouts which they NAILED. Sometimes, progress is really not progress.
I wish i could buy stuff from revzilla here in India as i absolutely adore Zach and greatly admire Ari but not so.....All i can do to support is like every video you make and even in isolation of all it, every video you do make, deserves a like anyways.
I'm just excited to see the on board GPS tracking and good navigation system. If manufacturers start adding those features built into the ECU rather than relying on us adding after market trackers that can be found and removed would be a huge win for motorcycle safety.
The nav on the 450SS is kinda trash, honestly. It takes some weird routes sometimes, and he mentioned in the video it goes from miles to inches, which can be very confusing in an area you aren’t familiar with. It’s easily my biggest complaint with the bike. The rest of the bike is absolute rock solid and I love it.
@@LaneAtomichow does the plastic and exterior seem, does it seem cheap or is it good quality. I’m just concerned with how good the plastic would look after a few years
yall acting like this bike's from AliExpress
CFMoto's been in the industry for a long time. They have already set up everything. Parts, service, and pedigree.
Reminder that my beloved Kawasaki Z400 is made in India and the Ninja 400 in Thailand.
I've heard more Horror stories from KTM owners than CFMOTO owners!
Bad Chinese bike manufacturers exist. It's a fact. But CFMoto has lived long enough to have pedigree and a reputation
I do have to say though that it’s a very cool looking bike and for a stock exhaust it’s got a really nice bark to it. Too many bikes now days sounds like a damn vacuum cleaner from the factory.
The fact it has a 270 crank is really cool. I still don’t 100% trust Chinese made bikes, but this one is pretty tempting tbh.
Pull the trigger it worth it 💯def won't be disappointed
@@snondo219lol, dude really says KTM engines built by CFmoto are reliable 😂
@@LEuler-wl1jp not even KTM made KTM engines are reliable LoL
@@dcxplant^i read and hear ktm breaks down all the time
KTM made their engine overenginered then thats not reliable than japanese.
but this cf moto just detuned it so that can be last long
My shop that I've purchased almost every bike I've owned sells these CF Moto's. I asked the guys if I should buy one. Their response was, "We'll sell you one.". I said that's not what I asked. They said, "Exactly!".
Quite a story...
I went to go buy a mt07 and left with the 450. It just felt right for me and makes me happy. Loads of fun on this bike
Thanks, Zack. This daily ride is fun (as always) and really encouraging to motorheads like me. It's good to see an outlier like CFMOTO say "look what I can offer at a low enough price for buyers to take a chance.... I'm getting bigger in your rearview mirror."
As always Zachary, thank you for your honest and comprehensive thoughts. I'm glad the Chinese bikes are out there to keep the other bikes on their toes.
Looks like the coolest best value bike out there! Hard to find also. No wonder for $5500!!!
Saw one of these the other day at the dealer. Absolutely gorgeous styling and really nice design details. You need to see it in person. For around $6000 a better deal than similar bikes.
I found it a very nice bike. It just felt it was a little under powered, yet I can overlook that since my other bike is a tuned GSXR 1000. For the money it is a really great buy.
Frankly, CFMoto should put that engine in an ADV frame, and with an upgrade to the suspension it could compete with the Honda 500X and Kawa’s Versys 300 (which should have gotten the Ninja 400’s engine 5+ years ago). If they’re worried about it cannibalizing sales from their 650, so be it. Dump the 650, and run with a 450cc ADV with a more appealing engine as far as it will take you. You’ve stumbled on to something distinctive here. Exploit that. (Or, design a 650-800cc version of this 270-crank.)
The most impressive thing to me is that they got the most important and arguably most difficult thing right: the engine. It sounded great and looked fun.
So the 800 MT Touring isn't enough?
I'm hoping they put this motor in an ADV bike along the lines of the Tenere and Taureg. Wonder if this was the "490" motor that was floating around the KTM rumor mill last year? The rumored 490 Adventure was supposed to have a 270 degree twin.
@@PeterOekvist A fair point, but does it have a 180 crank, the 285 of the KTM it's based on, a 270, or something else?
This engine is from a 675 3 cylinder engine.The 675sr and adv version is coming next year.
With their new teasers... That 450 adv is probably coming to life.
Sir! You have the most unique way of wording things and the verbiage you use to get the feeling of some thing across is unmatched. Every video, and I have watched them all, you say something super weird that makes all the sense in the world. Now give me a high side low side T-shirt😊
Please make more content on the 450ss. Commuting, cross country, track, etc. Thanks
I had one of these pass me a while back, and it had an aftermarket pipe on it. I only saw the color/shape and heard the engine, and I swore it was an Aprilia. That little engine makes a fantastic noise.
My first street bike was a '19 Z400. Of the CFMOTO's amenities I'd appreciate the seat (Kawasaki's was too downhill into the tank as Zach describes, and difficult to comfortably scoot back on without holding yourself up with your legs) and the Brembo front brake/lines. Everywhere else I prefer the Kawi.
Took mine home yesterday and I’m in love so far. Cant wait to see how it holds up
And?
@@English_MoFo still absolutely love the bike, got 2500 miles on it and 0 issues whatsoever
@@brentshallenberger another and?
@@cb_b6833 loved the bike and had zero issues until I sold it 2 months ago and upgraded. Only had it 6 months but zero issues in that time
Update cfmoto powertrain 1 year review crash gone wrong in the hood with grimace Bigfoot pulled up in a 911 singer [no kizzy]
Incorporating the frame sliders into the design is a nice touch. Most first bikes will be dropped at some point.
I pulled the trigger and got a CFmoto adventure and I loved it.. sadly I had to sell it because of a back injury that I’m still recovering from. Just happy I can walk and whip my own ass. Hopefully one day I will ride again, but with that said for the price of the CFmoto it’s 100% worth it. I had no issues with my adventure CFmoto I took that thing off road in some rough terrain and she held up perfectly no issues. My buddy bought it off me and he still giving her lots of love off roading.
It just comes down to… if you have a low budget and want a decent bike go with a CFmoto, but if you have the extra cash just go with the ninja 650.
Front suspension is NOT "housemade" . It's KYB. What are you on about?
At least, that is true for the EU model, named 450SR
Cf moto are coming out with a 500 and a 675 ss and sr soon (according to leaks) so they're definitely not going anywhere an in pretty happy they're sticking around
I’m interested for the 675, coming from a R3
One big issue with CFmoto, especially compared to Kawasaki, is their dealer network. Where I live it's also the same price as a ninja 400, and those extra features are good selling points, but having a dealer nearby vs having to cross half the country to get to the dealership would make me lean towards the Ninja 400.
I have the opposite. 2 cfmoto dealer's within 50 miles. The local kawi shop only carries off road.
Aftermarket and resell value too are on Kawa side. Though resell can be a positive if you getting used.
Much like the previous commenter, local "powersport" dealers carry the CFMoto 4-wheel off road ATV's, so I was surprised how wide the dealer network already was. Although in the US, a 450 is considered relatively small, this is a higher-revving engine that will be as least as quick as stock 900cc-class V-twin cruisers* or the 650 Royal Enfields. As shown in the video, this 450 is perfectly able to deal with highway speeds. I think that the naked version of this motorcycle will be good for beginner and even experienced riders who just want a two-wheeled toy for Sunday rides.
*900cc cruisers like the Yamaha Bolt and HD 883 might produce a little more power, but the extra 150 lbs reduces "quickness" a bit to over 5 sec 0-60mph, according to Cycle Word. The 650 Royal Enfields produce less power and are heavier as well with a roughly 5.5 sec 0-60 vs Kawasaki 400's at well under 5 sec (4.6, again according to Cycle World).
@@HistoryofLies-d8v Thanks. CFoto builds some motors for KTM, so they have the knowhow and the few tests I have seen compared it favorably to the Kawasaki 400's. I have no doubt that performance is decent. One of the largest indicators is that Kawasaki has developed their own 450 to compete with it.
The Honda 500's are a curious case because they are essentially de-tuned to stay A2-compliant (47 hp, max at the crank) and for extreme durability. This is pretty much Industry practice these days. It is now unusual for a non-US motorcycle manufacturer to tweak its products for the US, but it seems that CFMoto bumped the 450's power up slightly for our market (and probably some others).
cfmoto has dealership every where now but mostly for atv's n sidebyside
the same people that say these aren’t reliable and should be avoided are the same people that will happily buy an italian bike or a harley for triple the price.
I think you guys are in a unique position and I was wondering if you could add luggage fitment. So people could get a better idea of whatever the top selling tank or tail bag would look like on all the motorcycles you review. It is the daily Rider and I do need to keep my rain gear with me.
There are some places that show it to be a Chinese bike. The app doesn’t quite work as it should. The navigation search is funky and sometimes can’t find places that you’d expect it to, and if you want to unbind a bike from the app, you have to contact support. I have never had the verification code work.
Build and ride quality are good, and though I’m not a sport bike fan, I do enjoy riding the 450SS. One thing Zach didn’t show is that you can control your music playing in your helmet from the bike if your phone is bluetoothed to the bike. Best idea in the world? Probably not. But cool.
My favorite quirk of the 450SS is that when it’s low on fuel, it says, “The Fuel Shortage!” in yellow letters in the top left.
I'm so smitten by the ninja 400. Originally the wife bought it as a learner bike, I steal it every chance I get. It is one of my favorite bikes to commute on, I'd rank it higher than the SV650, and I've owned several of those in street and track form.
It's on my radar as a bike to buy for my return to riding aftwr 10 years and luckily I know someone who has ordered one so I can wait and see their experience with it.
Would be cool if you can buy one of these online and shipped to your house..it’s about time..would remove a big barrier of dealing with dealers and buying second hand!
Unfortunately they ship them in crates just like everybody else and there is some assembly required. You will never get a motorcycle delivered to your house that is not used
@@captainthruster9484 they come 95% preassembled. Most manufacturers completely assemble and ship in a crate. Even if some assembly req it would transform the industry.
Dealerships are needed for warranty work as well and test rides before pulling the trigger.
Test rode one during Daytona Bike Week this year, and I had a blast. I would love to get one and turn it into a track bike.
I was wondering if they went to bike week. I was there before COVID but I haven't made it back.
I wish some one would bring back the big v twin liter bikes. I loved the RC51 and the Tl1000r
have you comsidered ktm duke 1290 or 1390s(next year j guess)? if you really want clip ons then they can be added aftermarket...
Suzuki!? Hello!!! SV1000S ex owner here. SV1200 would be awesome.
The 1199 and 1299 Panigale are the closest modern equivalents. Even though a 1200cc twin is still an eligible motor, pretty much every competitor in Superbike around the world runs 1000cc fours so there's no reason to make a v twin Superbike anymore. And the SV1000 is not the same kind of motorcycle as the RC51 and TL1000R.
Cfmoto will have a v4 next year which might have a similar feeling
@@Zeggawong V4 liter bikes have already been on the market for years. He's talking about an extremely niche category of V twin Japanese Superbike developed to compete against Ducati's twins during the 750cc era of Superbike racing.
This bike looks so good. ❤❤❤
Hi Zack enjoyed hearing your feedback and like that you gave it a fair review. Looking forward to your feedback on the 800nk. Please ride a KTM 790 prior to testing.
in melbourne, there's tons of cfmoto bikes trundling around; the american market won't be where these bikes explode, with their practiced disdain of anything manufactured in china and smaller than a 600, but I see this genuinely stealing a huge number of new bike sales from the other brands here and, i imagine, in other markets too. I've seen a few with full exhaust systems, and they sound GREAT 😩
i do hope you can remove the winglets though, they're kind of embarrassing 😅
I would hesitate to call it a "practiced disdain" so much as prior experience leading to such a belief. It is all too often that you see Chinese knock off's for cheap in the camping, hunting, and fishing markets. It stems from companies like Wal-Mart trying to get more market share and turning to cheap Chinese products made for companies they own to push a bottom line. I love the sound and look of this bike, as well as the side by sides made by CFMoto, but I worry about the quality because of past negative experiences. I think only time will tell when it comes to something like this, but hopefully people can see past their own noses and give this little bike a chance to prevent market stagnation with some healthy competition.
David Lee Roth.
It's sometimes not how good you do it.
It's sometimes how good you look doing it.
Yamaha, KTM, Royal Enfield, and now Honda, Suzuki and CFMOTO with their 450SS with their parallel twins mimicking the 90 degree twin engine sound.
Just driving home the fact that a motorcycle really only needs two cylinders.
bought the 650nk and have not been disappointed.
Nice. 👍🏻
I like what I see, I like what hear(albeit does seem to need new tires already)question all I need to know is now... reliability 8-12 months now as a daily rider. I'd love to hear from someone who's riding this exact bike even 2 years now...I think Kawasaki should be taking notes, especially with rising prices or should I say dealers currently trying to get 8-9 grand for a Ninja 400 out the door which is absolutely ridiculous, but Kawasaki should be listening because after being on a Ninja 400 group for a year now, definitely see some improvements the 400 could use i.e. better clutch for one.
This is designed and built to a price, the lower cost of entry will introduce more riders to the sport but the issue for some that may experience problems down the road will be the accessibility to parts and those willing to work on such a bike. I have been asked to work on numerous bikes / scooters like this one that are new to the US market and even just obtaining a clutch cable is problematic.
Normally, I’d agree with this. But CFMoto has already established themselves in the ATV and UTV segment, and there are a number of dealerships that already carry parts and service the brand. Also, they’ve been making these bikes overseas for longer than they’ve been available in the states. They’re also making a factory in Mexico, so I think CFMoto is here to stay, and hope to see more good bikes roll off their assembly lines.
Another excellent review, been waiting for your take on this bike (450SR) over my side of the pond, toying with idea of getting one love the exhaust note of the 270 crank although couldn't give a toss about the high tech dash be just as happy with the good old analog gauges.
Always appreciate that shop look around, Zack!
You're going to have to review the new Aprilia rs457 !!!!!!!
The Ibex was a fun demo, but that they install tracking devices they can use at the Corporate Office to locate your bike, running or not, was kind of sketchy. Especially after they explained they can pull metrics remotely off the bike like: top speed, avg speed, etc. Perfect for a subpoena.
It's working. I'm thinking of RevZilla first when I think about parts and accessories. Well done, Zack.
How is the frame slider going to do any good when there is that big fin poking out the side?
You know KTM we’re working on a 490 twin then changed their mind for the small new duke and adventure. This is the same engine as CF own part of the KTM group.
Yeah dropped it for a 399single a 390 upgrade
was at cota track day this weekend - the windshield fell of a cfmoto someone had out there.
Now I'm waiting to see your thoughts on the Ibex!
Resale value... still ZEEERRRROOO.
So
270-degree crank on parallel twins is becoming normal. It seems like all the adventure bikes come that way. They are compact, but I like the look of the desert sled motor and no counter balance shaft needed on 90 degree L twin
It sounds super sweet. Idk why companies think that just because a bike is quiet they can’t spend effort making it sound dope aye eff yo
Put that motor in a dual sport and they will have a complete lineup!
You might have seen by now- CF Moto 450MT iscoming in 2024 and I am here for it.
I'd be about that. Drz400 needs a successor for simple reliable affordable tractor
That 270 crank is so appealing compared to the opposition
biggest question for me is the long-term reliability and survivability (since beginners will most likely be riding it) of the bike, I'd like to see someone do a 20-30k miles review
That's a question for every motorcycle. A lot of Kawasaki and Honda bikes have had terrible reliability over the years, even from a manufacturer that's been around for a long time. This happens with cars too.
That said, the 450SR has already been in Europe for a while now and there have already been long distance/long term reviews. It holds up fine. The only difference is that the 450SS/SR requires oil changes slightly more often than the R3/N400, but it beats them in everything else.
@@Smootierwhich bikes you mean by "lots Kawasaki and Honda bikes with reliability problems", though?
@@enricohagn
From what I've found, the weird transition between hardware and digital for some brands like Kawasaki, Yamaha and funnily enough, BMW during the 2009-2011 led to a lot of electrical problems in motorcycles of those years. Coincidentally the same years of bikes people love to overcharge on facebook marketplace for. I know it's almost impossible to find a GXSR-600 that hasn't been crashed, beaten, or broken. Ruined clutches, or shredded gears like you'd find on a pre-owned Hyabusa.
Theres a cost for being rated one of the "most reliable brands" when it comes to motorcycles. Everyone treats the bike like complete shit.
@@Smootier what bike do you personally ride? I've owned 4 Kawasakis and I've done everything from trackdays to week long road trips on them. Considering the experiences I've had with other things from China, I'll stick with the tried and tested
@@jongun78 Currently nothing. I've been passively waiting for the Gen 2 release of the CFmoto 450SS/SR. The single sided swing arm and the ABS additions coming to the model are enough for me to open the wallet and give it a go.
Theres certainly nothing wrong with going with what you know works. There is a valid hesitation for anything you don't know anything about, but CFmoto isn't "new" to the scene like a lot of US youtubers like to claim. They've been around in Asia and Europe for years. They're as tried and true there as Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki is here. As they say, the greatest equalizer is "time", right? CFmoto is only just now choosing to import to the US, which makes a lot of US consumers nervous given the general stereotype regarding most Chinese products.
The thing people aren't processing though, is that a lot of the "cheap products" from China that get imported to the US are knock-offs, intentionally made cheap to offer an alternative to something that already exists on the market. CFMOTO's motorcycles aren't knockoffs of anything. They're legitimate products that have been sold to Asia and Europe for years at this point. Not that I'd try to convince you of anything. Just explaining that the anti-Chinese stigma that I've been seeing a lot regarding the bike really isn't backed up by anything other than racism.
I own a 2020 cbr500r, and im digging this bike. If my credit were good enough I'd try to finance one!
Pricing is right if they sold direct. Unfortunately once you add the stealership fees you’re playing with a lot of used proven higher displacement Japanese sport and naked bikes with strong residuals, more power, larger availability of aftermarket add ons and known build quality. If they sold direct I’d consider this brand as I think this would be a nice undercut to a lot of the bikes in this category
Theres a new 450SS-R with a single sided swing arm, a 4 cyl 500SS, 3 cyl 675SS from cf moto.
i'll hold out for the 450NK. if it has the same dash, I'm in!
Looks better than any on the market.
Was waiting for you to do this one after the other bike channels had been singing its praise.
I’d buy the CF over the Ninja just for the engine sound.
I love your daily rides I look forward to them.
the 270 crank is the biggest selling point for this bike.the big question is when is kawasaki gonna make the 270 crank ninja 450 and yamaha the 270 crank r4.5
Probably no time soon, The Kawi 400 owns the market, Yamaha might make something bigger to compete with the Kwakasaki.
I have one of these bikes and I had my upholstery guy put saddlemen gel inside of mine and that helped tremendously with the comfort
The only (and big) downside preventing me from getting this as my first bike is the fact that finding a dealership or even parts to maintain this bike is going to be difficult.
CFMoto isn't a common motorcycle brand in my area.
Chinese stuff is everywhere just buy it online
Great review! Unbiased and fair, always keeps me coming back to buy gear at Revzilla, if only to support and keep content like this alive!
I've been waiting for this video so long!
You're wearing those Sedici gloves that you endorsed in the review. Maybe mine were a bit too small; I ordered 3XL but they were still a bit challenging to get in and out of. The interior lining ripped out after about three months, and I'm not wearing them anymore. Wasted a bit of cash on that.
I just bought the RevIt Dirt3 in 4XL and they're also challenging to get in and out of, but they feel a lot better fit once I get them on.
It looks like the CFMoto is reporting fuel mileage in miles per imperial gallon instead of miles per US gallon.
Really like the wy the bike looks and the mirror looks great sound dfrent
Set over speeding @ 25mph to b.a. cruising across town 😎
IMO the only valid argument from this video (apart from personal preference) for the Ninja 400 seems to be in the parts availability/community/aftermarket. And that area will be lacking for every new platform. Yet you still try to make it sound, like the cf moto is not quite there yet, saying stuff like "it's a step in the right direction" etc. If it won't prove to be unreliable, then what else is it lacking that you just call it, a step on the way to build a proper small sport bike? It has a cool engine (sounds like a bigger bike), brembo brakes, a sportier position (so feels closer to a proper sport bike, right?), upside down fork and great TFT dash. Even without considering the price, it looks like it outright outperforms the japanese small sport bikes. The only other serious small/cheap sport bike in the feature department seems to be the KTM, but it's reliability is questionable.
The discrepancy you noted on fuel consumption may be due to the bike calculating miles per British gallon (4.55 litres) rather than US gallons (3.78 litres).
I agree with you Zack, Reputation is for respect
I think if I were to invest into this bike/brand. I would need to make sure....someone local is able to work on this bike. Yes I can learn to do it myself...but its so perfect...wouldn't want to mess it up.