Launched afresh in 2023, the 450SR makes a visually striking statement the moment you clamp eyes on its wind tunnel-developed fairings, MotoGP-inspired wings, and menacing stance. "More fun" and "Play to win" decals leave no room for doubt about the 450SR's sporty intentions. Notable features include an inverted fork, preload-adjustable rear shock, FCC slipper clutch, ABS-infused Brembo M40 front brake, T-Box connectivity and a full suite of LED lighting.
The 450SR’s design exudes sporting prowess, and the 450cc engine lives up to expectations set by the bike’s aggressive looks. Housed in a Chromoly frame, the water-cooled parallel-twin engine features a 270-degree crank, forged pistons, and split connecting rods, and produces a claimed 34.5kW of power at 10,000rpm and 39.3Nm torque at 7750rpm. The parallel twin’s big-bang firing order produces a meaty note exhaust although the 450SR would sound delicious with an aftermarket pipe on it.
On the road, the 450SR offers a smooth ride with sporty, well-balanced handling and class-leading braking performance, all backed by the parallel twin's glorious soundtrack. Even with minimal suspension adjustability on offer, the factory settings at both ends will keep all but the fastest or heaviest riders satisfied, and there is plenty of ground clearance, so you’re in little danger of dragging the footpegs. Suspension performance is on the firm side without being uncomfortable in real-world conditions. The 450SR has the potential to be a serious weapon on your favourite set of corners but make no mistake; it has more than enough ability to be a realistic option for riders looking to hone their skills on the track.
Despite the 450SR’s compact size, it has a very comfortable seating position that even taller riders will appreciate. The seat is firm but fair, and the tank is well-shaped, especially for sports riding - moving around on the 450SR is a slick and easy affair. I did my fair share of time riding in the rain on the 450SR and the fairing offers surprisingly good protection from the elements.
An additional standout feature is the full-color, five-inch TFT dash that welcomes riders. The bright and user-friendly display provides essential information and offers device connectivity through CFMOTO's T-Box technology. The CFMOTO RIDE App provides features such as navigation, a lap timer, ride history and statistics, remote vehicle status, over-the-air software updates, and security features like a movement sensor, vehicle location, and a virtual electric fence to alert against movement or theft.
The CFMoto 450SR will suit those riders looking for a good-looking, affordable, and versatile entry-level machine who demand better-than-average levels of sporting prowess. Its low 179kg wet weight and low 795mm seat height mean that the 450SR is incredibly accessible to a wide range of riders, and at $8290 ride away, it represents a bang-for-buck factor that few, if any, can match.
Specs:
- 449.9cc parallel twin, DOHC, 270° crankshaft, liquid-cooled
- Maximum power: 34.5kW (46hp) at 10,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 39.3Nm at 7,750rpm
- Top speed: 190km/h
- 0-100km/h: < 5 seconds
- Power-to-weight ratio: 0.193
About the Author
Pete Vorst, aka 'Vorsty,' has been immersed in the world of motorcycles since he was just a pup. A dedicated enthusiast, he lives and breathes two-wheelers and has had a career in the motorcycle industry that spans more than two decades. Vorsty has contributed his expertise to various facets of the motorcycle industry, including the retail, wholesale, and rider training sectors and has spent the last handful of years as the Road Test Editor for Australian Motorcycle News, providing him with the opportunity to ride and assess a multitude of bikes at home and abroad.
Pete ‘Vorsty’ Vorst has lived and breathed motorcycles since he was just a pup. Vorsty’s career in the motorcycle industry spans more than two decades, with the last handful of years spent working as the Road Test Editor for Australian Motorcycle News.
