CFMoto 450CL-C: A Cruiser with a Racer Engine

The CFMoto 450CL-C is the latest addition to the company’s growing 450 family. It is a lightweight (181kg) cruiser (the C part) with old world styling (CL for classic).

Powering the Bobber is a modern liquid-cooled parallel twin with dual balancer shafts and a 270-degree crank. Output falls compared with that of the 450 SR mill on which it’s based, down from 37 to 33kW. However, peak torque rises from 39 to 44Nm, the latter at 6250rpm. There’s also belt final drive instead of the usual chain affair.

The frame is tubular steel, and a centrally mounted monoshock attaches to a double-sided swingarm. Up front are inverted forks, 37mm in diameter. Stopping duties are handled by a 320mm disc slowed by a J. Juan four-piston radial-mount caliper. Wheels are both 16 inches in diameter.

Special features of the Bobber include a shiny fuel tank cap, a classic round headlight, matte paint for the muffler and frame, and a leather seat (690mm in height) with a pinstripe. Figure also on a 9cm round TFT display that supports navigation. This has built-in ‘shift and flameout reminders’, one of which we understand. 

Electronic safety items include ABS and a traction control system (TCS). A CFMoto Ride app enables vehicle to phone connectivity, providing functions like over-the-air updates, security features, track recording, and real-time viewing of vehicle information.

The CFMoto 450CL-C launches in black and red hues, and goes on sale mid-May in Europe. When it comes here it will compete with the Honda CMX 500 that kicks off from $12,145 so expect pricing to undercut that comfortably.

Meantime, its 450MT adventure big sibling launches here in June, with pricing set at $9990 plus on road costs.