Something special or overhyped? CFMoto 450MT review on & off road (IBEX 450)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ก.ย. 2024
- #chroniclesofsolid #advnews
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The CFMoto 450MT or IBEX 450 really impressed me. I was lucky enough to get the bike for the day to test on and off road to see what this little adventure motorcycle is all about. Overall I think this is going to be a very popular bike that is going to make the big boys take notice as it has so many great features. Lets get into the good and the bad of the 450MT as well as if the hype is real?
Thanks for watching,
COS
ADV MEDIA
This was the Ibex 450 review I've been waiting to see. Thanks, Solid. CF Moto definitely got a lot right in this bike, and they deserve special kudos for doing their best to deliver the lightweight off road ADV bike we've been begging to have for decades. I wish it was a bit lighter, even knowing that would drive up the cost. My greatest hope is that the Ibex 450 will force the other motorcycle manufacturers to provide similar products.
Thanks mate, I think you're right. This will make the big boys sit up and take notice.
The question is, for what price they will do ist 😂
I think Versys 500 is coming out next year.
@@charliequach6399 yep, or maybe Aprilia hop on that train first with their twin 270 degree crank 457cc.
@@Liberty4Ever Adam Riemann has some good tips on how to make the T7 lighter, maybe adapt his style. ✌️
Ridden this bike twice now on and off road and your comments are on point. I own a T7 world raid currently and riding side by side you can definitely appreciate what you get for the money and whether you can live with that. I’m 57 now, something like this might appeal to me more in 5 years time and by then we will know if they are a quality item. I suspect they are.
Ordered mine on Saturday just gone (21/9) here in Brisbane. I was able to test ride with the high/rally flatter seat offered by CFMoto, and it's great, plus it's only $199, not $600+, like my custom DRZ seat was. At 95Kg the suspension felt good on the road, both solo and with my 75Kg pillion, as well as having enough get up and go, to get us to 100kph comfortably for the HWY part of the test. Like others may say it's 80% T7 for 50% of the price. Add that to the aftermarket accessory list on offer and affordability overall, I don't see how many consumers can go wrong. CFMoto seem to have nailed it with older long time riders and newer riders alike. Keep the great vids coming mate.
Congrats mate, enjoy 👍
Sold my 1050XT and got a 450MT.
The little CF is a way more useable bike offroad. Loving it so far!
Sold my 1050XT was a punish to sell.
Great review, mate. There's A LOT of hype around these at the minute. We currently have one in the work shop that we've been developing some aftermarket parts for and it is quite impressive to say the least.
People thought the 360 cameras would be a gimmick, but over the years they've added a lot of unique content to channel videos
yeah surprised it's not that popular in other parts of the world. funny i thought it's banned when i was in singapore because people were giving me the looks when i was using it while having a stroll in the city 🤣. I just wish the stitching is more refined, also my x4 having some flickering sometimes.
A few thoughts after test driving one: For the last few years my only bike was a CRF300L. I take it to work, to small trips, and mainly to explore off road paths. I just LOVE the bike, its extremely fun. However, I would like just a bit more power for powersliding in the dirt (I'm 105kg) and for overtaking cars on the road, and just a bit more comfort while driving from A to B on the highway and so on. On paper the IBEX 450 seemed perfect. The 450 looks extremely good, sounds awesome, and is really comfortable ( standing position for me personally was even more comfortable than my stock CRF300L (i'm 190cm)). The only let down was the power of the bike - I was hoping for a notable power difference between my CRF and the IBEX. While it's notable, it's nowhere near what I was expecting, 0-100 seemed really similar to the CRF. After 100km/h of course, the IBEX pulls better. Considering the IBEX weighs 50kg more than the Honda, its understandable. All in all, decided to keep the CRF and just mod it to get some more power and comfort out of it. Cause after the test drive, once I got back on the CRF, the lighweight of it, the flickability just put a massive smile on my face. Either than that, the IBEX is awesome, would definitely buy it, it's just that the little Honda suits me better.
Thank you for this comment. I have a CRF300L and use it in much the same way. I'm also similar size/weight. It's a great bike in many ways, but needs a bit more grunt. I've been wondering how the 450MT compares, and whether a bit more power is worth it for the extra weight. Cheers
it's crazy how much Chinese bikes have evolved in the past 5 years. If they keep this pace, it will really interesting to see what they produce in 5 years from now.
Looks like a T7 mini. I think for the price point and equipment levels it’s great value and just another reason the big manufacturers need to lift their game in this category. Good video Solid👍
Yamaha should do a T3
Exciting to see the continued development of lower weight bikes across the entire market.
I bought the CFMoto 450NK back in March after seeing it at the London Motorcycle show, and after 45 years away from motorcycling. Love the looks of it and surprised just how willing that 450 motor is to get up and go. I now have an order in for the 450MT, but won't get it until February 2025 here in the UK. Haven't ridden one yet, wasn't able to get a test ride at the ABR festival as everyone wanted to ride it. So have had to rely on just sitting on one and reviews on youtube. Really looking forward to getting it and loved your review. No bike is ever going to be perfect for everyone.
This is a bike that is greater than it specs. Love mine.
A German has ridden the bike for 10.000km, mostly offroad. He has an English channel called "Luke Hilby" where he talks about his findings concerning longevity.
Just watched the "Luke Hilby 10,000 km damage report" that is actually 11,000 km. Nothing but praise for the bike despite pushing it very hard in a variety of everyday to very extreme conditions and dropping it multiple times. Zero breakdowns. Sounds like a winner!
10.000 km is nothing, bike is still brand new at that point, aside from maybe abused suspension but even that. a bike reliability shows in 50-60-70000 km, 4-5+ years, then we will see
@@LiviuXSA garbage, 10,000k all off road is like 30,000 on road, stop making stupid statements ....Most people NEVER own a bike for 50-70 Km, apply that ridiculous logic to all modern bikes and they'll have problems....
@@MickH60 wrong. a lot of people buy old bikes that have 50+ k km, touring fjr1300s for example sell with 80,100k, thats why Japanese are famous for reliability, lets see a china bike after 10 years and 50-80k km!!!
When you have a bike you love, its so hard to watch these videos and stop myself from going "yeah but my bike is so awesome and cool everyone should get one!" xD
Love or hate the origin of this bike, if it sells well it’s going to push other major manufacturers in the same direction. I do think it’s a part of the market that has been completely slept on for a long time. I think Yamaha would have done a mini tenere if they had an engine for it but cf beat them to it.
Aprilia has the engine. Now all they have to do is shrink their Tuareg.
I’ve had many many motorcycles and I’ve had several adventure bikes, including the GS BMWs I put my deposit on this one three weeks ago.
I’m 💯 with you. The looks need to be on point before I even consider a bike.
Same
A very accurate review, I have owned my 450MT since July and absolutely love it, I have the high (bench seat) which is very very comfortable, but even the lower seat is very good, way better than my T7 seat, the only thing I would disagree with is the mirrors, I think they are great, no problem with them at all.
Thanks for sharing!
We just spent 3 days over the long weekend, riding & camping down south (Collie area) and the MT450 is just great. It is a full sized bike so you can actually carry all the gear, while you have wind protection and comfort like on a big bike - without the 230kg weight tag. We drowned it in a few puddles and did all the stupid things you would with your DR650 or whatever bike you're on when you're traveling and carrying all your gear for a few days. So far we can't fault it. -Let's not forget the super easy clutch! Its sooo easy feather the clutch for a long time without fatiguing your fingers when you do some single trail...
2300km on mine so far. The springs do soften somewhat as you go. Very happy.
Maybe adding one extra tooth on the front sprocket would help those that do more highway and not quite as technical off road ?
Definitely or maybe even 2 extra teeth. Off road gearing has always been very different from road gearing. Real off road gearing 13/52 won't even get you past 55mph 14/43 will probably get you over 90mph.
Thats music..nobody's going to regret getting one,,twin 4fidy in the bush 💪
It’s great bike, i really love it. Didn’t expect chinese bike will give me so much fun. Greetings from Poland!
I test rode one today and paid a deposit Dealer says I should have it in a couple of weeks. I'm 95KG and found the suspension very stiff odd road and will soften it for my tastes. Funnily enough the one I ordered (blue) is the least popular and therefore easier to get. It is by far the better looking to me. Great review.
Congrats 🥳
@@chroniclesofsolid Thanks
Remember when KTM was developing a twin cylinder 450 adventure bike? It was called off a while ago. Perhaps this is that bike built by KTM production partner CF Moto. The new 450 twin is a welcome addition to the market and will bring new riders into the sport due to the affordable pricing. The three year warranty sure beats a KTM warranty.
Yes there was such rumor some time ago. There was probably some kind of deal between KTM and CFM or KTM didnt like it? We will never know.
As someone who is 85kg, it would be nice not to have to put in stiffer springs for a change.
I saw a review very recently saying they're actually pretty stiff on this bike.
Wish I could remember who...
Proofs in a personal test I guess, I'm over 100kg so I do share that sentiment tho.
But what about the lighter riders ?
Yes, I have one. Brisbane. Just due for first service. I congratulate you on an excellent review. I think you captured its main features and strengths very well, and most importantly, accurately. I am a returning rider in my 70s. I had a motorcycle licence before I could drive a car. My best bike in years past was a Triumph Bonneville. Some feedback:
1/ Like you, I find the suspension a bit jarring on the bumps. I find the hard hits disrupt my control just a little bit occasionally. I am 183cm and 95kg. I have not had a bike with front adjustable suspension before so have not touched it yet. I think I would benefit from a ride that absorbed the hits a bit better. Maybe adjustment will fix that. As an Adventure Tourer bike I feel the suspension is just a tad too harsh.
2/ I have had quite bad throttling issues, despite having the first update. It is quite snatchy at slow speed. Idles beautifully, but try to hold the revs steady at 3000rpm in neutral it sputters up and down from 2700 to 3300. When in traffic the throttle is either on or off. You go from decelerating with engine braking to instant acceleration. I cannot get it to ride smoothly around 15 to 30 kph. The throttle cannot be 'cracked open' gently. This can be quite problematic at roundabouts where I have to feather the clutch when opening the throttle after slowing. In my view, this is actually a bit of a safety issue. Stalls easily too. This will be horrible when in the bush where I will not be riding it like a dirt bike. The one you were on was a LOT smoother than mine. I wonder if the different exhaust played a part? Back pressure can be critical. I am looking forward to getting this fixed.
3/ Having noted the above throttling issue, when I do open the throttle and the revs are up over 4000 the engine is an absolute little cracker. Can't wait for the run-in period to be over.
4/ After clocking up 900km (I don't ride every day) I booked my bike in for its first service at the dealer. I have to wait three weeks! It's a good thing I am not relying on it to commute. Let's hope I don't have a warranty issue that stops the bike.
5/ The bike is not small but I find it very nimble when under way at all speeds, and very stable at 110. In my view the gearing is fine. I find it a bit tottery when not moving and inclined to overbalance easily. But that is probably just the height and large front wheel, and my getting used to an adventure bike.
6/ The 450MT seems to be very well designed and made, with excellent finish. Equipment levels for the price are amazing. I love the dash. As for the national maker? Well, I believe they are actually made in Thailand, and isn't competition supposed to be good?
7/ How would I describe it? As a very well mannered, good looking bike - with a hooligan motor. I am very pleased I bought it.
Great summation
i just did 600km day, about 250km of those were offroad, and when i got back home after like 12hrs+ on bike, i wasnt feeling that im about to die, the bike is perfect do it all thing, try stuff like that on some 690 or hard enduro. Fits my needs perfectly, yes its underpowered on asphalt, but i got other fast bikes to compensate for that.
I have cf 800 explore. 10k miles on. Verry good bike. Build quality verry good. 5 year warranty here in EU. Will buy 450 too.
Not in every country. Most offer 2 years.
Nice report keep up the good work,Martin Thailand 😎
Congrats on the sponsorship, you've definitely earned it
Thanks 👍
Don't think I have ever seen you out of your office . More interesting format. Hope you do more videos like this. Back in the 80s had a Suzuki DR 400 & DR 500. Both were very good on & off road. Obviously the 450MT is far better than either of those. Just bought a 2009 KTM 990. To be quite honest I don't want to go back to smallert capacity bikes.
It's a travesty that none of the Japanese manufacturers have made this bike as a rider from the US. This is what we need. Singles don't cut it on an interstate
I was fully onboard with buying one when it was released. Then thought “reliability, longevity and dealer support”… UK expat living in Philippines, its a 2hr ride to a dealer for this bike. So parked the idea for a while and bought a CRF300L - dealers in every town (5 in mine!) … maybe in a couple of years I’ll revisit it once we see the real world feedback. Thanks for the review! 👍🏻
Looks awesome as always your commentary is spot on
Even though CF Motto and Royal Enfield 452 are both motorcycles that raised the benchmark in the ADV 400 class . Bit I went for the Royal Enfield 411 . I don't want technology on any bike . Fly by wire, keep it . Radiators keep it . Less is better . I'm gonna lift the 411 with a stage 2 with a cam with a big bore kit . There is just a special something about those 411 Himalayan that just can't be reproduced . It's a great bike that needs to be uplifted just a tad .
I reckon the CEO and Directors at KTM would be shitting their collective pants right now. This could have been the KTM 490 Adventure!! CF Moto have nailed it and good on them. The very fact that they allowed you to test the bike Solid with no restrictions and the fact that it comes with a 3 year warranty bodes well for the longevity. The engine has been out now in the NK and SR for over 2 years now with no issues so what's not to like! Yep, its the 450cc T7 alright!!
Doesn't CFMoto make the KTM 790 engine???
Yup, they could’ve come out with the 490 Adv. well, hope they do now and especially hope that Japan doesn’t ignore this bike. That would be arrogance if they did. People seem interested. I probably would not buy it, a bit of a snob for Japanese quality. But others should and I hope they have fun
@@Tritamer I am of the same mindset. This is what the NX500 should have been. Right?
@motoshark5847 NX500 should of at least had wire wheels
@motoshark5847 right!
From a 450 Himalayan owner, good review.👍
I test rode one recently, although wasn't able to ride on any dirt whatsoever. It felt a little cramped with the standard seat fitted and I found the motor, while adequate, just a little too linear or flat for me. I rode to the dealer on my AT 1100, so to be fair, that heavily influenced how it felt. If I'd jumped off my previous DR-Z400E onto the MT, chances are I would've loved it. Regardless, a lot of bike for the money and a great intro for a big slice of the market, it'll suit so many riders perfectly. I thought the suspension was great as was the note from the little twin.
It seems like a bargain for the money. A great beginner bike. Reminds me of a Versys 300 I had.
To be honest though if your riding fire roads and gravel roads just about any bike can do that. Once you get into a single track trails that has some roots and rocks anything over 300lbs can be a handful for an avg rider.
Very much appreciate the effort you've gone to. Great review, cheers.
Thanks mate 👍
More off-road oriented than the Himalayan? Would be interested in how they compare. CFMoto a player for sure - thanks for the review👍
Yesterday CFMoto had another big official store opening and test ride event in my country. All their key bikes were there to freely test ride. I have never ridden an adventure bike. I'm 170cm and felt these bikes too tall for me. I have read reviews about CFMoto's being comparatively heavy too. I saw people a little shorter than me testing out the bikes so I went ahead and gave it a go. I was glad to find out that I could put my toes down both sides. That was enough to give me confidence to test ride. The 450 felt quite nice. You don't feel the weight. I also tried the 800, same feeling. Although I did think the 450 throttle response was smoother than the 800. Adventure bikes still won't be my bread and butter, but If I wanted one without having to pay a tons of money, these could be considered.
I just put a deposit down for one on the weekend, here in the UK they're only shipping the next batch to order so I figured I'd get my name down. Still got to wait another 6 months until it arrives, but really looking forward to seeing how it compares to my T7, DRZ and WR.
I would read / watch that review!
Solid 💪!
I was looking forward to that motorcycle arriving as more than video hype... And I still have a purchased a camera to record my rides 😄 Thanks your video was helpful
Great review Solid. Now I'm really thinking going to the closest CFmoto dealer an give it a go. Thanks and greetings from NZ.
I own one, and Love it !!!
Have you ridden the Sherpa 452 yet ? (Himalayan). I laid down a deposit last December, then waited till May before it arrived, wasn't in the first batch of deliveries. The CFM 450 was released at the same price before I took delivery.
I then went through the anguish of choice. Had been hanging out for a 270deg twin, late last year I looked for a low km F800gs. Had missed a few good buys (they went so quick) and then the 452 released at a price I could not resist. I knew of the Himalayan through Itchy Boots, so I had a good idea what was coming, & stuck with my initial choice.
But, even though I don't want to send more $ to China than I already do, I still wonder whether I made the right choice. I does fit the bill, also has the under seat fuel, but like you seating in the bike doesn't look right for me. Furthermore, I rarely travel above 95-100kph except in dirt I might have a quick blast, but on tar I stick just under speed limits, & avoid freeways where I can, so vibes are not so worrisome.
Time will tell & I'm sure I will get the chance to take one for a spin. It is tempting & should be that unicorn for a few.
Cheers
Good luck. I was toying with the thought of the new Himmy, but when the 450MT came out I bought it instead. I didn't want a dedicated dirt bike, I wanted an all-rounder go anywhere machine and off-road will be secondary for me. I think a single is better off-road and a twin is a better all- rounder. From what I have seen on You-Tube I suspect the Himmy absorbs the bumps better and has much steadier engine control at low revs. The MT motor is a bit of a hooligan with temperamental throttling at low revs. The dirt-blaster riders don't care about that because they only use two throttle settings anyway. Like you, If the Himmy had a 270crank twin with stable throttling, I think that probably would have been my preference as well. The Himmy 450 looks like a great machine and I hope you enjoy it. Have fun.
@@lawrieyoutube4375 I did buy this for roads, dirt & tar, I have my KLZ400r for trail & track. Neither these bikes are for slogging it out on single trail or supper rutted tracks. I'm no spring chicken, but I'm learning to lean a bit more towards being chicken as the years go on 🥺
Great to have these bikes as options. 👍Cheers
RE suspension. I imagine when someone puts 15kg of luggage and camping gear on, that spring rate will feel just fine. Plus, if they are targeting the western world and not the global rider, 85kg rider weight is spot on.
I bet they end up being as reliable and cheaper to service (over a year or two) than all competitors
I’ve got a WR250R and would love one for the perfect compliment to its more dual sporty nature, definitely a challenger to the iconic DR650.
Same here!
I can't really ride off road anymore ( sciattica) but your test came up in the suggesteds so I had to check it out. Thanks mate. I would love to get one and give it my usual diet treatment. I think it may be a lot easier to de-pork than most.
Im planning for the next month a 4000kms trip on mine, 12 days exploring north Argentina 💪
Has the Unicorn finally arrived 🎉
Nope. Just a cheaper, slower heavy adventure twin.
Cool review, I started that actual bike in store & was sold. Didn't even ride it & put money down. Waiting on the shipment. 😎
Hope you enjoy it!
Hello, this is a very good and comprehensive bike review, This bike will suit a lot of Riders. 800 mm low seat setting not bad! I think if people can get past the Made in China syndrome and it will become popular. For the average road and dirt road adv rider, why not? Thanks. David....Adelaide....Triumph Scrambler 1200X... and...Speed 900 Scrambler.....
Already sold out everywhere
You’re actually the first to complain about the mirrors in all the reviews I’ve watched, and it’s been dozens!
The stiff suspension shows it’s not a beginners bike, it’s very good at high speed and landing!
I am on the fence on this bike here in the US they call them ibex450. Tge weight seems a little high it has steel rims not aluminum wich adds weight. I haven't seen any maintenance information yet. And reliability is also an issue. I may wait until next year. Thank for another great video Solid.. keep it shiny side up
Neat Post-It note placement LOL
😝
Great review Solid 👍
Test rode one last week around Mt Pleasant SA and agree with your comments re the suspension and I’m closer to 100kg 😮.
Solid review 👌🏼
Optional
• front mud guard
• higher rally seat
NZ riders are sceptical of Cfmoto because of the quad bikes (farming).
I have seen a Kiwi criticise Kiwis of being xenophobic.
What most people need to understand is KTM's only option was to join Cfmoto to make sales in China.
Also, top engineers from Rolls Royce etc have uprooted and moved to China.
Keep that in mind.
Very good review. Are you going to review the Aprilia Tuareg, if you haven’t already?
Respect to cfmoto for letting you take it off road for tests
Agreed 😎
verry nice review from a man who appreciate real quality like CRF300. will look at it as a second bike with my CRF300Rally
All I want is that engine in a true Enduro frame... 🤤
What are those cops doing in the middle of the forest? Isn't there anything more useful they could be doing? Very good review btw :)
Uncle Wangs has everything you want including the tall rally seat
Uncle Wang is probably having a hard time keeping up...very capable and legit shop. One of the best things about these higher quality and content Chinese machines is the plethora of reasonably inexpensive options in the aftermarket..and many more to come.
I am selling my 2016 africa twin to buy this bike . Looking forward to the Victorian high country on it nimble weight and agility. Great review thanks
In a lot of ways it’s like a mini AT
I hope so I understand a lot less power but I use a quarter of the AT power on dirt but its sooooo heavy on tight turns and steep hills
@@JamieBroughton70 Apparently they can be tuned to about 55hp, that would be better again if possible. Worth looking into...
Amazing the rapid rise of the chinese motor cycle and the explosion of the adventure class there really is now something for everyone and if I was a young beginner to the genre this is the direction id be going
Super cool bike if you do a lot of off-roading tho.. my buddy has a V-Strom 650 & I have the '19 cb500X non-abs & he was surprised at how good I keep up with the little 500 also my other buddies have some Harley-Davidsons & one of the guys I just met said "we'll see if you can keep up we ride fast"... The guy that I know looks over at him and says that little Honda can run 90 mph on the 🛣️ & all I did is add 1 🦷 bigger ⚙️ I think the cb500x is mostly street orientated
I love those mirrors, I put a set of "FAR" brand on every dual sport I've owned. YOu just flop them in for the dirt, flop them out for the road. (I hate double takes, I have to adjust them every time they get moved.
She’s a little ripper of a bike✌🏽Mirrors are great! High seat is available! $200
About available options for reducing the weight:
1. the handlebar is made of steel?
2. the battery is a traditional lead-based battery, yes?
Don't know about the handlebars but i don't believe there'll be great saves there. For the battery yes.
Lithium battery on a motorcycle is still a bit rubbish. I'm more worried about the charging system of the bike getting damaged than anything else. And the cost is just silly. Instead of 14ah for £32 it's 6ah or often 4.5ah and £130+ antigravity do a nice one but they are more like £350. And I'm still not 100% how well they work in the cold.
@@chrishart8548 they don't work well in the cold. But this worries only 1/3 of the planet.
I have a gel battery and my bike starts with the 1st push of the button even after months of no use. And the battery is 3 years old.
@@lefterisbampaidis5446 Gel is the best. I'm never having a flooded led acid again just don't see the point and they don't last well either hate the breather pipe and all those little caps. AGM minimum. Or gel is definitely better.
@lefterisbampaidis5446 I still fancy one eventually but I don't trust them yet. If it does go flat you can't even do a jump start either, and the can't be charged below a certain temperature. Lead acid work down to -50. Not sure if lithium even works at 0°
lets go cos 👋
💪
Great review Solid. The only question that remains is.... Is it going to be better than the New 390adv from KTM? We'll find out soon.
Now Honda, and Yamaha should emulate this CFmoto, but I doubt they can beat the price.
The Japanese do seem to be asleep at the wheel lately. It's sad to see, because they used to be the biggest innovators in the industry. Guess they got fat and happy selling all those cars and keyboards and don't care about motorcycles anymore.
@@jakeviolet2195 True!
@@jakeviolet2195 They don't have any trouble selling all the CFL's and Rallys they can build..very hard to come by here in USA
Front fork also has adjustable preload
I seem to read lot of good reviews of the MT 450 from Australia. Is the RE Himalayan 450 not available yet or not comparable? I would think that would be the closest competitor.
A little disappointed at the weight, but other than that, a great bike for the money. Great review, Solid!
👍. Now let’s see Suzuki bring out a drz 400adv bike. lol.
What is your helmet & goggles combo please?
This guys defiantly paid by the Chinese government.
Chinese bike. Chinese camera, Insta360. Chinese equipment, Dji.
So enthusiastic.😂
I have it all too. Great products
I am very curious to see your thoughts when you compare it with your own 300L and the new Himalayan. I did a quick test ride of the MT450 in the dirt (much more rocky terrain and a lot of bumps), so it had this "surprisingly light" feeling and I was able to turn the bike just as I was doing with my old DRZ - using the side stand as pivoting point. However, I still haven't had the chance to test ride the Himalayan for more than 300 meters (the dealer had only one without plates back in May), so was constantly in the vicious circle of 300L/300L Rally/MT 450/Himalayan 452....until the last week when I saw your video about FI DRZ...so I will need to wait until EICMA to see what has been cooking in Japan.
The 'big 4' in Japan ought to be furiously working overtime preparing a concept bike for exhibit at EICMA, in response to the global success of the Himalayan and MT 450.
@@DF-sq3mw Unfortunately, I doubt it because we see only the "developed countries" market. It was an interesting comment that you made, so I did a quick research and it appears that in 2023 the total sales of motorcycles in the largest European market were in Italy (340 000 new motorcycles) and for the first 5 months of 2024 there were 1.21 million new registered motorcycles for the 38 countries in Europe(all kind of brands and models). At the same time only Honda Wave 110i sales in Thailand in 2023 were 511 000. I would guess that Honda is making much more money in ASEAN countries compared to whole Europe, so they are not in a hurry to come up with new models and follow the desires of the customers like in the period 1960 - 1990. Will we have some Japanese alternative to the MT 450? Probably, yes but the question is when the small adventure motorcycle market would become significant enough to worth investing into. It took quite a lot of years for the Transalp 750 to appear on the stage and it was a result of the uprising "middle-weight adventure market" becoming more and more popular. Basically, the main significance of the MT 450 would be in his "messenger" role - getting again to the concept that less is more and making the people attracted into this displacement. Only time and people's desires will tell...
They stole the look of the Yamaha T7...but i can't blame them... both are very sexy
I love my 300l otherwise I would buy one, CFmoto have served me well as I own two quads 520 and 625 as well as a u600 side by side not one fault so far!
Yea great review man. I’m definitely leaning towards one of these bad bois . Oh and don’t you guys in WA have smaller number plates for motorcycles . Them full size plates look ridiculous hehe 👌
Looks a bargain but time will tell, and longevity will be the key especially here in the UK 🇬🇧 what with our drab and dreary wet weather all year round.
Will be keeping an eye but for myself it’s going to be the mighty T7 with a few mods to suit
Its a great bike and price, looks awesome in that grey too. Glad CF did this. But the biggest problem is these "Unicorn" bikes is they are anything but. Iv been there, bought and built several. What happens is u get a bike too small, not enough wind protection to travel longer distances on highway comfortably. And anything over 400lb's isnt really good offroad no matter what u do. Then the bike gets sold in a year or two cuz u started doing more highway, or more offroad. Then there is the selling point of "better offroad" than a bigger bike when reality is all u are riding is dirt roads, that bigger bikes can handle no differently. What happens then is people will sell for a AT or T7, or KLX/DR that they can truck to trails.
Not bad logic about some riders going from smaller to larger displacement and weight. But for many riders they are doing just the opposite as they get a little older but still like dirt and adventure...become less inclined to wrestle the big bike weight and the more exhausting dirt naps. And the CF will still get you to the dirt at a brisk enough pace on the motorway...
@@normananderson2583 10 years ago I bought the Hype Bike, Tiger 800XC. Same suspension and weight as this, 100hp. I fell for the Offroad Unicorn glaze. Im thinking this Ibex is going to get guys thinking that buying it, buys offroad skill. After that it took a while of enduro riding to get comfortable riding ADV on serious offroad. Right now I see it as competition to CRF Rally, and KLR but both being better at offroad or ADV than the Ibex. Or a budget option to the 790R, which for that Im all about. I know CF's history well and have ridden several of their ATV's. But for now, the twitchy throttle and stiff suspension needs to be talked bout more cuz for the average rider that is going to a huge issue and can wreck a ride.
@@tieoneon1614 The 300L/Rally with a good aftermarket suspension fix is definitely better for off-road than the new CF...the much lighter weight ensures that. I've noticed the capable off-road rider reviews all say the CF suspension is jarring at slow speeds but much more capable at more pace...even to the point they don't consider it a novice bike for the dirt.
People often talk about J.Juan brakes affiliation to Brembo, but they’ve been a reputable European brake manufacturer for ages
Sold out in the UK.
More due in next February at the same price, too.
They've listened to what the customer wants. The Japanese haven't. They might now!
I'm seeing more Himmy 450's but that might be because of availability. Not sure.
I'm loving my Himmy. This size abd price point might re-energise the bike market over here.
The 400 scrambler is also selling out.
Japan, take note.
Good work, solid.
Ride safe 👍
Also got a Himmy 411 & can't fault it for all I do.
Been out looking at other midweight adventure bikes recently & not been able to even see a MT450 at any dealers. As you say, Feb before next available, yet these are pre order only I've been told by dealers.
The Voge 525dsx has caught my eye & comes with loads of worthy extras, looks great & has a fantastic engine. For £6,249 on the road with luggage included, it seems amazing value & reviewers are loving it.
Not as capable off road as the MT450, but more capable on the road.
Then again, I'm still thinking what can't my 411 do, that the MT450/Voge 525dsx do...nothing other than slightly higher top speeds & they just do it a little quicker, I guess.
Your thoughts?
@@keepitreal1547 Yeah me too own a 411,,,its a great bike and took me to Romania this year,,but that trip I learned the issues of this bike touring Europe .. It will travel the world off road no problem,but in Europe you may try to stay away from motorways but it ain,t always possible and my goodness do you suffer on a motorway... So I am looking at the CF 450 MT,,,not for next year but a few years hence (or when my bike is 10yrs old),,all the issues should be sorted and more accessories will be on the market and the Himmy will be just about worn out (got 40 000 now) regarding the Voge ,,I just do not fancy one,,maybe its the name ,,not sure,,but not for me ....Why not a RE 450? Well Again not sure ,,the engine really does not appeal or maybe crap styling but mmainly my dealer has gone titsup ! regards
@@keepitreal1547
Funnily enough my Enfield dealer also does Voge.
The 525 looks to me what the CB500X should be. And I've had a half Rally Raid 500x, and loved it.
Fir me the 450 Himmy is a modern Yamaha xt500, with what you would add to an xt500 to travel on. That's what I want as opposed to a slightly smaller T7. But that's just me.
I like the 411, too. But I travel a lot with management on the back and the extra horses are necessary .
Ride safe 👍
This bike frame was reference from many bikes, the design goal was to be agile and not like the old school stable on highway. ktm 390 adventure and Tenere were reference frames. This bike was extensively tested in China desert and also in US. It is tuned by a very famous old school dude for the european market.
Hi, you said that they should have set the suspension softer for people who are lightweight
Because they might not realise they can adjust the suspension,
But if they did what you say, then the people above that would think it's too soft
AND WOULD NOT KNOW THEY CAN ADJUST THE SUSPENSION.
I'm a short fat bastard so it might be perfect for me 🤔
@@MidlifeNoob
I am not short, but the rest describes me to a T.
Adventure latte 😂…hey that’s for the BMW GS elite super troopers.😊
Flat white for us Japanese bike riders.
The black and grey looks ok , as a Transalp owner who bought the flashy Tri colour , I actually prefer the black combined with silver crash bars on adventure bikes , they look the business , not show ponies.
Great review Solid, If CF moto were to set up the suspension at the dealer for each individual beginner I think that would go down well, but if they were to come up with a torquey 350cc single cyl dual sport around the 130kg wet, I'd probably buy one to go with the heavy Twin cyl adventure bike I already have
No bike is set up for any individual, I set up every bike i've owned {over 40, lucky i'm a suspension specialist !}, to suit myself and so should everyone else, it's a complete revelation to ride well set up bikes....
@@MickH60 Yes Mick, I've also set up all my bikes over the years, I'm not sure you got what I was saying. If they showed a beginner what to do while setting it up for their weight to start with, that would give a dealer a good name.
I haven't had a chance to test one but I am curious to know how it compares to the 500cbx on and off road. I was looking to downsize from my old gs800 and tried out the honda and was disappointed all around. I have a transalp on order, but all hoohah about the MT450 has made me curious.
Hey Solid mate! There is a 50mm tall seat available directly through cf moto. Well at least here in Europe that is. Keep it up
Thanks for the info!
3000 mile or six-monthly service intervals show there is no confidence in the mechanics, meanwhile Honda offer 8,000 mile or 12 months.
if you don't ride your bike and it sits in the garage except on sunny summer days, the CF moto is great, if you ride your bike and actually go on adventures you will be servicing it every month to keep the warranty, and that will soon add up to the price difference of the competition.
but yes it looks great, i wish the honda had spoke wheels tbh, but that service schedule isnt for me...
3000 mile for a minor service (ie oil change). The major service (valve check) is 24,000 miles, best in the business. I am buying one partly FOR the service interval. I can perform an oil change, but valve checks are a different ball game. And most people will not go 8000 miles between oil changes, even on a Honda.
@@twowheeladventures63 if you're riding in harsh environments then no, you should service earlier. but equally that will turn your 3k service interval even shorter too
np with servicing it yourself, but it will void your warranty, meanwhile going 8000 miles without changing the oil wont void your warranty.
i've no issue with doing the servicing myself on a used bike, valve clearances and all, but if im buying a new bike im buying into the warranty too so they can have the bike back if it breaks, as lets face it any major problems will come up in the first 30k miles.
Its a good thing. These service intervals look just about right. Extended time between service will shorten potential engine life. Most manufacturers are extending service intervals to make their bike/car more appealing for customers and make it more environmental friendly = pay less tax for each vechicle sold.
Solid, compared to your 300L the 450MT seems to be able to do 90% of the off-road and is an improvement on-road, so acid test - would you consider swapping them? Why?
Great question, will put this in the next Q&A 👍
Be interesting to see if CFmoto follows what KTM did with their 790 and step up the cc capacity... say 450 to 500? May Help with hwy speed and power slides. Power slides are fun! Thx
So, 20 pounds lighter than a t7, and about 60% of the horsepower. Other than price, not seeing a compelling “ must buy” here. Thanks for the good review.
I hope bikes likes these will push Honda to make something similar.
This is going to be the bike that people buy and just ride and ride and ride i recon.
I’ll be buying one when my Suzuki reaches its use by date, but that could be a while😎
If the big guys are smart they will jump on board this train quick smart otherwise they will get left behind imo.
That’s the feeling I got. It’s affordable enough that you don’t feel precious about it.