CF Moto 450 MT vs The Rest (an overview of my A2 test fleet)
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ก.ย. 2024
- A simple rundown of the bikes I have in the fleet of small capacity adventure bikes, using the new CF Moto as the reference point.
For dates to come down and try the bikes head to:
www.dorothysspeedshop.com
THE cheapest performance upgrade you can buy for your bike, is rider training. The key thing is, you can transfer this improvement when you buy a different bike!
Totally agree. And definitely the most overlooked performance upgrade!
losing weight is also free and a massive performance upgrade. people keen to complain about a bike's wet weight when they're carrying an extra 20kg themselves lmao
🎯🎯
@@pitchwife7573 Like i do carry 30kg too mich. but these bikes are the ones my setup is getting lighter and lighter every day! ;)
I have zero interest in a small cc off/on road bikes.
However this guy is THE best bike reviewer on Utube (or anywhere else).
No frills HONEST and KNOWLEDGEABLE - un like others, he doesn’t have to borrow bikes from dealers to review so he’s not worried about upsetting anyone.
If I was anywhere near Devon, I’d be beating a pathway to Dorothy’s speed shop and trying out the bikes on offer.
He’s a motorcycling gem…….thank you Nathan👌
He knows what he's talking about, and he's no frills.
They're not small, world average is 150cc
@@christopherpekel6096 spot on - I am sick of hearing `small` describing these 400`s. Pushy marketing has driven new riders to believe a 650 is a bike to tide you over till you become a real man and get a 1200
@@christopherpekel6096 That's one way of looking at it.
@@christopherpekel6096 It's all relative isn't it. Yes, in India these will be big bikes. But in the context of the UK they are small bikes and I'm not of significance enough to start labelling them medium sized bikes, or plus size one bikes or anything. The UK market knows them as small bikes.
Essential viewing for anyone who wants an adventure - trail bike.
Nathan is the voice of knowledge and experience. Really good content👌👍
Seeing your initial videos on the 450 MT and 450 Himalayan I went to a dealer and rode them back to back. Himi all day long, as the sitting and standing position was more to my liking, better front brake, and much nicer road handling, and no snatchy throttle. Like you said here: Get on the bike, and you will find out quickly what suits you. And spending money in training your skills is more effective than buying the more "capable" bike.
It’s a refreshing change to find an honest bike channel there few and far between that doesn’t have their head up the backsides of BMW and KTM.😎
Thanks Joe
I still think that for most average riders, the original Himalayan is more than enough.
No silly car type "tech", cheap as chips, easy to service on the road, tough as bootz.
The bike for the riders with zero ego and more sense than ££s.👌
Totally agree. Still a great bike.
And a great bike to learn some basic maintenance on...
KLR 650 no nonsense
@@Ramenscooter KLR 650 is similar to the new himalayan than it is OG one
I’ve had my BMW GS310 for 3 years now and done 15,000kms on a mixture of tar and dirt roads. It’s been a great little bike, and I enjoy riding it very much. However as Nathan said a bit more power would be good and I think better brakes and suspension would make it a really good all-round small adventure bike. I will be taking a test ride in the CF Moto 450 very soon.
On the 3rd year with my GS as well. The new bikes in the category are really tempting. The weight increase could he beneficial on the motorway, but not sure how it would affect everything else. Also, still 2 years of warranty on the BMW, and no issues so far.
Totally agree. Moving from decades of riding big road bikes but with my teenage years spent riding dirt on trail bikes, I opted for the KTM 390 Adventure when I decided to get an adventure bike last year. No regrets. The lighter weight has allowed me to save myself from a fall any number of times - its small enough to be wrangled! Its still a pig in heavy going on the dirt compared to dedicated dirt bikes - the extra 60kg and 19"vs 21" front wheel is the compromise you make when going adventure but I keep up with my dirt bike mates when I hit the bush on a Sunday without too much trouble, unless the going gets tight and heavy. On the highway the KTM is great -fitted with cruise control and a sheepskin layer on the seat its super cruisy for long distances - I've done 800km in a day, half tarmac, half dirt. Thanks for this sensible post - there's too much crazy hype about big ADV bikes out there. Smaller is definitely the way to go if you actually want to ride dirt roads and stay upright.
The Light and Lower description of the BMW G 310GS is spot on. I'm 5'5" and over 60 years old so this bike suits me fine. It's the perfect daily commuter and a great weekend trail bike. It's as close to a 50/50 bike you can get. Thanks for the honest and descriptive reviews Nathan, you have a new subscriber...
Thanks Bruce. Glad to hear you're getting on well with the GS!
'More talent, rather than more speed'. I concur! I often ask myself if I am the limiter, or the bike. I know the answer, and that's why I'm more than happy with capabilities of my 411.
I think most of us are the limiting factor. All these bikes will go faster than we can ride them!
Fantastic insight from a man with no bias who owns all his bikes. Furthermore, has a business to help allow others to make up their own opinion. Especially referencing you prefer the 450MT but the guy testing for himself preferred the Himi.
Like Nathan I also prefer small capacity adventure bikes. My 2 canvas’ are a 10 year old crf250l and a newer versys x300. Both have been transformed into exactly what I want out of a small adventure bike. Both the 450MT and Himi have my attention, but I will be holding off for 3 reasons. 1. I really like my current 2 bikes. 2. I try not to buy first year bikes. 3. I try to stick with Japanese made bikes.
My Crf250l has had suspension upgrade, screen, fuelling programmer, full exhaust system, concept seat, the capacity to carry double the amount of fuel that was intended, D606 tyres, screen, bark busters, skid plate and many more items to perfect going on multiple day tour off road. Reliability and buy in is important to me. Personally, as mentioned, I try to purchase Japanese and when the price is too high compared to another brand I simply buy second hand. We know the build quality of bikes made in Japan, there’s no guessing. Each to their own.
The versys x300 I believe you don’t get in the UK? I use this bike as my adventure (90% on road) bike. It has all the comfort mods making it a delight to take anywhere.
The secret I found after decades of riding is light weight, small engine engagement, chassis for fun going through bends. But for adventure riding it’s the costs associated. Smaller adventure bikes are cheaper in every way and there are the bike you will be putting the miles on. They are the bike you will drop etc. meaning if you lack in ego like myself, especially after owning many ADV bikes, then I don’t see a better option. It feels to me more for filling touring a small bike, even though I’m the only one who has a small ADV in my friend group.
I have owned the Crf rally, Wr250R and X and KTM 390 Adventure. Along with 650’s and 1000’s and this is where I ended up.
I definitely subscribe to all sports bike should have more poke as they generally don’t do many K’s and are used for that speed addiction. I own 4 bikes the other 2 are a Suzuki GSX-8S and Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx. I like variety genres which does make me appreciate jumping from bike to bike. Having the right style for what I’m intending to do.
The ninja is not for sport touring, purely a comfortable sport bike. The GSX-8S is for sitting in the wind and tight quick switch back curves. Both with fantastic acceleration. Purely for 30 to an hour and a half fun.
I’ll stop my rambling, thank you for the fantastic video.
As usual, another very intelligent review, no dogmatic opinions, understands the different priorities and perceptions of different riders.
Another great informative video again Nathan. Wisdom and maturity beyond your years, as always.
Ace video as always :) Being an NX500 owner think I can chime in with a long reply comparing what we’ve bought from a very different perspective, having tried green laning as an experienced track and roads rider but green laning novice, an the ownership experience of a few of the other bikes.
utterly loving the NX500 an I’ve owned everything from ex iom tt bikes to 1920s Nortons and GSA’s which have all been ridden, I think when choosing a bike you have to be objective about your own needs and choose what’s right for you,
an if green laning isn’t your idea of adventure you might find this comment a bit interesting, its a different set of bikes that start to really be the thinking choice while everyone else is chasing down the endurofication of adventure / green lane route personally we’ve gone in a different direction having just bought a Honda Nx500 and about to buy a 2nd one.
Always enjoy your vids Nathan as it’s interesting to see a completely different perspective on them coming from an alternative view of what Adventure is.
On the smaller stuff owned 2x Ktm 390s
Rejected at 147 and 269 miles riddled with issues, Ktm were the worst company to deal with regarding problems washed there hands an left is to fight it out with the dealer, something to bear in mind,
Two bikes had drastically different levels of vibration between them.
Handled well though.
Problems with none sealing rims, condensation damaging the displays, corrosion when the bikes arrived new requiring replacement parts, side panel found to have a missing lug,
Displays were a major issue in winter.
Ktm have now put in there warranty book that they don’t cover the displays, we actually looked at the larger Ktms but they have the cam issue.
Anything can go wrong with bikes or anything that’s made, the problem is how the companies deal with it anyone who’s used to BMW level of service when things go wrong won’t enjoy the Ktm experience.
It was a real shame as it was just so darn enjoyable to ride lotta fizz to it on the road thirsty though.
Himalayan 411 - 500 miles found ourselves in the same boat full of issues, twisted forks, seized swing arm, still wasn’t convinced on the chassis after the first service, I know a friend of mine also had issues with an out of line/twisted chassis from new, then failed brake light switch x2, missing clips on breather lines, an a few other issues, dealer agreed shouldn’t have happened and refunded with no issue.
Biggest problem with the Enfield is they couldn’t get the parts to sort it at the time. A friend of mine has been after a part for his meteor for 12 months under warranty.
Issues an parts availability are always my biggest concern when weighing up any brand on the yam I had stuff next day compared to the Enfield.
Honda 300 rally sold to get my 1150gsa which I love. 300 rally was great road toured over wales for legal speeds not loaded up, personally found it better than the Himmy, seat was a torture device same as Enfield, with road riding as the compromise Honda would be my choice of the above if I was totally focused on green laning, with the rally raid stage 1 rear shock. Stock shock was rubbish, wind protection and mpg surprisingly good.
Tenere 700 was great for me no good for dad. Although to compromised towards trail riding if you weren’t doing it. (We had got it for a trail riding trip that’s now out of the window) I found it very manageable to move about even on the trails. A few mates of mine that have the ability can really make use of those.
If I was to choose between those for trail riding I’d take the 300 rally as you can never have a light enough bike for that, throw road work on though and it’s quite evenly matched, especially when riding to the TRF code of conduct I never dropped any of them on the lanes so can’t comment on pickup ability an our lanes up here are a lot different to your muddy ones.
Which leads me onto the ‘unimaginative’ nx500 or the thinking persons choice 😉 if trail riding isn’t your bag, just stuck 1000 miles on it and bearing in mind we have had ex iom tt race bikes it’s still heaps of fun.
The engine is fun and engaging, beautiful gear box, seat height sensible the clutch is featherlight amazingly so, engines grunty low down for a 500 surprisingly nice exhaust note, an revs it loves revs, which makes for an engaging ride, suspension is easily a match for the Ktm on the front end feel wise. As with all a back shock would transform it.
Biggest thing is its road holding after riding lots of 21” wheels it’s like it’s glued to the ground an on rails.
Where it has the legs on the other options for me is the travel aspect smooth, composed, great wind protection sure footed and feels like a complete package. Superb seat height to an amazing mpg and sharp brakes.
It has a level of refinement to it of a bike with development behind it and it’s a proven rtw choice in the previous cb500x guise.
Very light of the stand like pushing a push bike around compared to the GSA so utterly perfect for dad. Easier than a T7 to.
A brilliant choice For those of us that where green laning isn’t our idea of adventure I completely get where it wouldn’t fit what you want hence your comments.
Much more manageable than a vstrom 650xt we had that I loved an did a few 600 mile days on
As what I see as strengths for our sort of riding is the other side of the coin to what you green lane peeps are looking for :)
Another aspect is insurance I found the NX500 to be a fraction of the cost for me than the 300 rally and the Ktm 390 with the Honda hiss system, when I was deciding what to replace the T7 with for dad.
I think from a managability point of view dads done quite a bit of miles on the Honda Nx500 a few 3 hour rides an that’s after him having major surgery for his stage 3b/4 prostate cancer an he’s been having a few rides through his current radio therapy an in love with it.
His last bikes were a GSXR 750 K9, RD350LC an a Ktm 390 adv.
Bikes like the Honda Nx 500 an the GS’ still make a tremendous lot of sense as they just don’t fatigue you in the way a single does.
Another aspect is I’ve never had an issue with over 20 Japanese bikes I’ve had (used to do massive miles so would change every year)
I actually decided against selling the 1150gsa when I thought about it an just how much sense it still makes for me and my riding, also managed to insure it for 40 quid for a year on my classic insurance! Can’t beat that. In 3 years the insurance difference from when it was on the modern insurance is gonna pay back all the expenditure in parts I spent bringing her up to scratch.
Thought provoking video as always Nathan.
Anyways off to plan the next trip on the 1150 gsa to Starbucks 😋 I also had a 1200gs te Rallye a found that just as manageable on the travel stuff as some of the smaller stuff when you take the green laning out of the equation.
I'm actually torn in between buying CB 500X 2023 OR a BNEW NX 500 or Himalayan 450
@@baldomeroh the Nx has really impressed from the suspension engine and as something as simple as the tft not filling with condensation because of the design of it an how easy it is to read :) well worth a test ride ultimately buy whatever pulls your heart Nx, cb the bikes Nathan superbly reviewed or something else. After my dad and I have finished our move to Devon I’ll be buying a 2nd nx500 so we have one each :) to compliment my 1150gsa
I’ve not had a cb500x so can’t comment on that only from the perspective of the Nx500 but it feels a really nice well thought out package for the reasons I described above, the problems we had with the 411 put me off buying the 450 along with the mentions of top heaviness which the nx500 doesn’t have at all. Everyone’s take is always different which is why I think Nathan’s days are such a good idea.
Very very impressed with it and I’ve learnt I prefer twin cylinder bikes every time parallel vtwin or boxer for my style of adventure riding. Although I do ride a 1927 Norton 16h flat tanker 500cc single but that’s another story :)
Hope this helps :)
Editing is your friend 😅
@@user-hv3xv4xs6j I’m severely dyslexic takes a long time to type stuff out 👍 it is what it is :) if someone finds it useful great if not lots of other comments :)
@adaptableadventurerider Love your thinking born out of miles and years of experience. I keep hearing stories about bad KTM support/reliability: some people have trouble-free miles, others garage-only decorative queens waiting for parts and endless troubleshooting. Betting on risk/probabilities KTM is not worth it for me. Your praise for the R1150 I note, maybe I will look into a low-miles R1200 sometime. Most of all, your praise of NX500 caught my attention--maybe that will become my daily ride. Sorry about your dyslexia. Your willingness to struggle through to write such a lengthy comment says good things about your character. !!!
We are very fortunate that the Suzuki DR 650 is still available in North America. Mod it to your style of riding and it will crush any of the bikes in this comparison.
I agree. I really don’t understand why anyone would buy any of these bikes brand new when you can buy a used 650 class or a Tenere 700.
Not so unfortunately. The DR is an amazing bike I have one modified for remote heavy going off road travel here in Australia nearly 100000 ks on it with no issues except for burning a very small amount of oil. Unbelievably still on the original clutch despite being loaded regularly with 55 litres of fuel 12 litres of water and food for 10 days in some of our toughest 4x4 tracks. I still have it and will never get rid of it. Too many good memories. The 300 rally that has replaced though is simply amazing. Very similar to the DR in many ways but so much easier to ride fully loaded when the trail gets tough. As a straight dual sport that you usually ride unloaded yep the there is no reason to change but as a long range remote Adv bike ridden fully loaded, it is far superior.
@@tonyrdr7207 I don’t even know what you’re trying to say. Are you agreeing with me or disagreeing? I the CRF300 is a fantastic bike which I agree with. The CF moto is not
@@IRLtrolls was talking about the comment that it would crush any of these bikes as you said including the 300rally. I love the DR but the 300 rally is far superior and easier to set up as an adv bike. Not sure about the CF as I have not risen it on tight trails,but I expect it to be closer to a KLR simply because of the weight.
I had a 390 Adventure for about a year but in the end those big single vibrations just wore me down on longer road rides. Sold it and kept the bike it was going to replace, which is the good old Versys X-300! The CF Moto does look interesting but seems a bit on the big side to me at 5'7"
Good vid. I've been saying for ages that the big manufacturers ar missing a complete sector of the market CFmoto & RE identified exactly what is needed
Sold a BMW GS and a T7 for the reasons you are saying.
Still riding a ktm 390 adventure for all the reasons you mentioned.
Difficult to imagine a more comprehensive review of this class of bike. Good stuff
Cheers James
Really enjoyed the video some very interesting points to consider im quite excited to see finally more manufacturers competing at this level but feel there needs to be more to come hopefully 👍👍👍
Brilliant video Nathan, thanks for taking the time to put it together. Very knowledgeable and honest delivery as always.
Thanks mike
The 450 MT is a very good-looking bike for its type. I prefer singles in the under 500cc category., though. The Moto Morini doesn't half look good. Heavy, though. The KTM's engine begs you to go faster. I like the Triumph's low-down grunt. Low gearing? Shame the BMW isn't 100cc bigger. Shame the CCM didn't take off. 19:58 Wow! That Kove is stunning. Too revvy, by the sound of it. The 300 Rally is way too expensive. I remember the KLE500. I don't like the sound of the Himalayan 450.
What a good video. Nick
Brilliant video thank you so much even convinced my wife she don’t need to replace her cb500x for a tiger 900. On my cb500x I commute to work and we done 3 week tours and both these bikes have been fantastic I do prefer a bike which if I have to will cope with unsealed roads and give me confidence.out all these bikes I really feel the cf moto 450mt would be a good improvement on my current Honda as the nx500 just doesn’t hit the mark in my opinion over what cf moto are offering
Amazing video. All bikes back to back and without the unnecessary road documentary of typical group tests. Got my KTM 390 ADV a month ago and love it.
Thanks for the great comparison between bikes! Mentioning the KLE500 reminded me of the fickle nature of motorcycle fashion and past attempts at producing the unicorn. The first generation Honda Transalp of 1987 has almost identical specs to the 450 MT in terms of weight, power and suspension travel. Nobody in the UK or USA wanted it back then. Would they want it now? The human condition seems to be the desire to have something that isn't available. Everybody now wants a Kawasaki Versys 400 with 21" front wheel or similar bike from Honda. Good on CF Moto for getting their timing right!
Awesome video Nathan 💯, the only bike missing at Dorothy's is a Fantic caballero rally 🏁⚡
I always come away from your videos wanting to go for a ride on my 411 Himalayan! You should be on commission for small adventure bikes! 😊
Rain..😠or shine.. 😎.. I've got'a get out on 411 tomorrow..
It would be great to see these bikes compared to bikes from 20 years ago, bikes like the DR650, F650Gs, XT660 etc, there doesn't seem to have been much evolution apart from less power/torque without a corresponding loss in weight.
Yes, to be honest that's exactly the direction I had in mind. I was looking at picking up a KLE500 to begin with. Then go through some of the back catalogue.
@@nathanthepostman A good and underated starting point.
Excellent, concise comparison. Re. Himalayan, I thought the brakes were pretty feeble.
Yeah I saw that in your vid. I've found mine ok. The back is pretty bitey, though the lever sits high so I find it hard to modulate. The front is ok. Definitely sharper than the 411, which isn't difficult!
Best/most thorough comparison of mid weight bikes, which are my class. I am so done with the big heavy adventure bikes. Thank you for such a great video.
Thanks eye. Appreciate thar
Hi Nathan. Have to agree with everything you say. I think as more CF Motos Himalayans etc become available the market is going to be swamped with the bigger bikes from owners down sizing who have seen the light.
I think you could be right. I've just been touring down in France with riders on all sorts of bikes - big and small. And the small ones did the same job as the big ones; just with 93mpg and not needing three people to turn it on a campsite.
Don't think so, many will buy the 1300gsa straight without looking at the competition just for the show
@albertserramontmany is a R1300gs really the same market as the 450MT. Must admit though the massive adventure bikes are a bit hard to handle especially when we get older. That one reason I won't get one now. I'm not ready for a 450cc though yet. My bike gets 80mpg anyway could probably get 90mpg if I tried a bit harder.. But chasing smaller cc for mpg seems pointless I mean how poor are we.
In America, the aging population with money is just going to keep aging, I've already seen one guy in my local group who wants to get a 250. He sold his 890 because of the weight. And as inflation continues around the globe, it is just going to get harder for people to be able to afford a bike. I think within 5 years the 400-650 category is going to be huge. And hopefully cruise control will migrate down with it.
Ha ,my thoughts too ,seems I'm ahead of the curve ,sold my big heavy bike now have a CB500X
Fantastic video, such clear, sensible and unbiased opinions about the pros and cons of these bikes from someone who actually knows the bikes well. Thank you Nathan.
Great review for those of us who aren't expert riders wanting to rip down the hardest of trails. I've looked at most of these bikes, as I would like to move on to a small ADV bike mainly for street riding, but one that I would be comfortable taking down a modest forest road or county dirt road. Most of these feel too big, too heavy, or just too old school. The CF Moto does seem to offer me the best combination of characteristics that I want, so I have a deposit down for when they arrive in the U.S. As you note, when you sit on a bike or put a few miles on a bike you'll know real quick whether it works for you or not, so I'll see when one comes in here. However, whether or not the CF Moto is for any given rider or not, I really appreciate the features and value for the money that they are offering - I hope (and believe) they will be pushing the other heritage manufacturers to do more.
Thanks Terry. Hope you get on with it ok
Nathan, you and Stu Fillingham are the current sound of reason regarding the current motorcycle world. Your balanced views always tempered with reason, intelligence and the proviso that it is ‘just your opinion’ instil respect from your followers here and abroad. Your logic in this particular summary will only see your following increase for motorcyclists wanting balanced, unbiased reviews of real world bikes in the ADV market. If I was closer I’d head down your way to try some of your bikes, though I’ve ordered a 450MT after sitting on one - that’s how impressed I was with how it felt without even getting a chance to ride it. Convinced this segment is going to be huge in the future and will see a sea change in how and what people ride.
Great real world content as usual Nathan. I'm curious why you brought up the CCM which lets face it is a bit of a rare item when bikes like the DRZ400 are still widely available on the second hand market. Everybody seems to have forgotten about the DRZ. 145kg wet weight. Quality long travel suspension and loads of aftermarket add ons. Its a TET bike rather than an adventurer but falls in the same category as the CRF and Voge. What do you think?
Hi Nathan, if you're interested check out (both in google and youtube) the "power flow" for the Voge 300 Rally. It is a small device made by some Spanish mechanics that acts kind of as an ECU repro, but it's simpler and cheaper. It basically sends 5% extra fuel to the mix, gaining a couple of HP and diminishing the vibrations.
Installing the power flow + changing the front&rear sprockets to something like 15-46... I think you have a much better bike there for very little money, able to cruise at 70-75 mph, and also even more responsive and quicker (bc of the power flow).
I'm about to buy one 300 Rally here in Argentina and try those mods, we'll see how it goes
Sweet Lamb had 2 ktm 390s I believe but ktm is heavily pushing the 890 adv. I own a 390 adv. My views is that the paintwork is thin as it easily scratches, however i have had a constant giggle every time i have rode it on road and off road. The stance is a bit strange when standing up. The kick stand makes it stand rather upright and I always feel like its going to fall over. Im planning to use it for the next few years to get into rally racing as its the bike i own. Maybe if I do more longer trips, i might go up in size but im slightly put off by the weight and power of the larger bikes when it comes to off road and trail riding. That and the larger bikes cost more to buy and replace parts if you fall over which im expecting to have as a novice off road rider.
Bummer, sounds like i'm 'over-biked' then with my ego & no talent! Lucky I also have a small bike too when I come to Devon otherwise I'll be stopped at the border😄. Good summary as usual Nathan and I do agree with your philosophy but sometimes your heart wins over your head & a bigger bike makes you feel good. To be completely honest the Desert X is the first bike i've ever owned where I look back in the garage and get emotional over the look of the thing & it is just awesome to ride on the road (& a bloody handful off road but I haven't dropped it........yet!)
Thanks for this great video! Unfourtunately most of these bikes are not avaolable in Brasil, what a shame.
That's a real shame that Carlos. Sorry to hear that!
I agree with the last part wholeheartedly. The right bike for you is the one that suits your needs, your riding style, your priorities, your budget.
I have been living with a very lightly modified Versys x300 for 6 years, I can't complain about the bike off road, i could complain about my skills off road because I'm not that gutsy, neither i want to get that overconfident. What i need from a bike is better cruising speeds for the most part(my bike is already running with 15-45 sprockets, i can make it any longer than that), and a little more of off-road capabilities wouldn't hirt me at all, i would not feel comfortable with sacrificing off road performance just for getting a bigger bike, and the 450 MT checks those boxes really really well.
I work with my bike, but i like to enjoy the ride as i get to the different places i have to go to, once i started using that twin cyl engine on and off road, i fell in love with the smoothness and the lack of vibrations, I can't go back to a single cyl, even if the KTM is a 390 Duke playing dress up, i don't like how it looks and how limited it might feel on harsh terrain, i used a Bajaj NS200 for work for about 2 years and i went to hell and back, but i was shitting my pants every time i had to tackle very technical terrain.
No demos available for the CF Moto, and my nearest dealer won't have any until next May! I work in engineering and have seen the poor quality of Chinese parts, and the lead times are ridiculous.
My dealer wants a no refundable deposit on a bike I can't even see let alone test, no way I'll wait for them to come to me
Great job on the comparison! It's really detailed and professional. I've been on a lot of the bikes you reviewed, and I ended up keeping the CRF 300 Rally with some aftermarket upgrades. CF Moto has definitely stepped up their game. I can't wait for EICMA 24 to see how the Japanese brands respond to CF Moto's success. Thanks again! Gianluca from Italy."
The seat height rules quite a few out even on the “smaller” bikes. A great review of the fleets pros and cons. Ultimately as you say it the mix of rider, bike, invented use, budget etc. I wanted to like the 452 but enough issues to put me off. I liked the Triumph engine look etc when I rode it. The GS I didn’t like so much as I found the front end a bit vague. The Vogue was too tall for me. I should have given the KTM a go but again it felt too tall. The 411 was like wearing your favourite jogging pants but I’ve got 20,000 miles on my 411 so to be expected. It’ll be interesting to see how many 450mt’s start arriving second hand next year after buyers remorse ….the Himmy 452’s are starting to appear second hand and the show rooms seem quite full of them as imho they aren’t selling to match the over hyped lead up to the launch. Good review than you.
One of the most down to earth reviews out there! Btw this looks like a DREAM garage- a perfect showroom didnt think existed :)
Thanks Musique. Always a few bikes to add!
I'm facing the choice of one of the presented motorcycles and your film, among dozens of other films on TH-cam brought me closer to making a decision. Great job:)
Great review. Very insightful and to the point. The keywords are what are you going to use it for as you said. One thing I would like to bring to the attention of people contemplating the 300 is its unexpected ability to work as a long range adv bike. It has to be the easiest adv bike out there to handle with full loads for extended very remote touring. Part of this is its amazing fuel efficiency. It will do the 530 Ks desert trail we have here called the Simpson with over 1000 sand dunes with 21 litres of fuel where my DR 650 which is also a great remote adv bike will need 36. It also is just so much easier to handle fully loaded and has more then enough power to do very steep trails and sand dunes loaded like this, which was a surprise to me. Agreed it is overpriced and basic but it just works in this role. The one I have now has autonomy of just over 1000 ks with my setup which we need here for some of the trails.
Totally agree about the crf. It just does the job and far more capable than most riders.
Hi Nathan another great video you explained it all very well thank you. I am still waiting to get my CRF300 rally back from having the engine repaired under warranty been 3 months now. I bought a new Transalp 750 just as it went in to be fixed. I know you say it’s too big and heavy but it’s only 208kgs wet Claimed I haven’t weighed mine but to me it feels fairly light about the same as my Himalayan 411 was and seems to have a low centre of gravity. Which makes it not much heavier than the CF Moto 450MT. It has a low seat height and the suspension is good enough stock for me. I find it to be the easiest gravel road bike I have had. I would call it a great all road touring bike very comfortable plenty of power and great handling for long highway stints. A skilled rider could take it in your green lanes (not me). I have to decide what to do with my CRF300 when I get it back. I spent the money and got RallyRaid level 1 suspension front and rear. It is a good bike but I have lost faith in the reliability which is why I sold my Himalayan 411. The CF Moto wasn’t available in Australia when I bought my Transalp and are fairly expensive over here $9500. AUD. I thought I would just add my thoughts. I love my bike and haven’t ridden the CF Moto party because I don’t want to find out that it’s better than what I have already bought.
Ive ridden both recently on a testride. The transalp has heaps more power, but to me felt bigger and more top heavy vs the 450MT. The lack of tubeless rims is a buzz kill for me though. 90% of the time i want tubeless, and if I am going on a hardcore trip and need tubes, I can pop them in to the tubeless rims on the 450MT. Why honda refuses to offer tubeless is so silly
@@slakk5093 I think you are right but for me the CFMoto hadn’t been released here in Australia when I bought my Transalp. The tubeless rims aren’t an issue for me because I have never had an issue with having tubes in 45 years of riding in Australia. I have made a very conscious effort not to add lots of extra weight to the Transalp no engine bars or pannier racks etc. and keep as much weight as low as possible. I have added a sump guard and keep my tool bag between the sump guard and engine. The only other additions are barkbusters and a small plastic topbox just big enough to lock up my helmet. And obviously the Transalp is a bigger bike but the extra size and power for me probably makes the little extra weight worthwhile because where I am in Western Australia I do a lot of kms on country highways to get to the interesting places. For example I did a 3 day 2 night camping trip and did 1500kms. Also the only CFMoto dealers are in the city at the moment.
Obviously I am trying to justify my purchase but I am very happy with it. I still have my CRF300 rally which I will probably sell soon.
Awesome take on this segment. Viewer from the southern tip of the Philippines here, and I for one have always had a thing for smaller displacement "big-bikes." Luckily due to financial and time constraints, I haven't subscribed to the adage that bigger/more expensive is always better. This video of yours just sums that up really well. Cheers mate and ride safe.
Thanks j. Appreciate that. See you in the Philippines some day
Nathan, as always, you nailed it! I drove with my Voge Rally to a local CF Moto dealer to test the 450 MT. Fortunately, here in germany there was still one to test ride. I liked it, engine wise feels on par with my old vstrom 650, similar performance but could be the weight difference, and it's been a while since I drove the 650. Otherwise, it is a shockingly low bike. Way to low for me (189cm/6.2"), the seat must be a lot higher and the pegs a little lower. In stock, not very comfortable for a taller person, compared to the Voge.
Dealer told me there is an optional high seat that is more a bench seat. But he don't think he gets one not until next year. The same goes for high fender, all the parts and bikes in general. Sounded very frustrated. I think it will be an upgrade from the Rally in a couple of years when CF Moto figured their delivery problems out.
The stock seat is a bit low. Uncle Wang has the taller seat listed. Maybe that'd be a quicker delivery
Had a baby gs but found out am more on the road not trails ,now have a Honda cb 500 x great wee bike
Excellent - insightful, honest and loved the straight-talking about the bikes! Still love my 2018 Honda 250 Rally, but you're so right about Honda being conservative as the 300 Rally is not much of a step forward and we're 6 years on!
I enjoyed your common sense down to earth with no bullshhit video.
Well done 👏
Thanks Stephen.
I would say the bike weight is relative to the riders ability - I have a CRF450L, which I would say is the unicorn bike, sits at 70 on the road no problem, quiet as well, 45hp, 130kg, bags of torque, I race it in the Brit Rally Champs, great at enduros, yet you could ride it to Morocco and have a total blast round there. However, I have a T7 and I ride that way more, it's super good on the road, simple, bombproof, bags of grunt, super dreamy engine, very modable so you can make it your own, and as yet it's gone everywhere with ease where Ive taken it off-road, never once seen it as top heavy. Weight is all about the riders ability when it comes to suitability and I think that is a key point for sure for novice riders when buying a bike if they intend to take it off road, but it's not key for everyone. Thanks for this Nathan
Thanks for the video.
It might pay to mention the Brand/model more than once. I replayed that first bike name a couple of times and still didn't catch it.
The @&$#* Rally... it's not a bike we get in Australia.
Love the whole MT450 deal. I've been riding exclusively off road Enduro stuff in single track and forest for years, but the CF Moto might just tempt me out onto the tar as well 🙂
17:45 Unfortunately the BMW engine let the CCM down, in part due to CCM wildly over estimating the service intervals and partly due to already known BMW issues with the 450 engine. Those being a small sump capacity of 1150ml AND the poor engine breather design which puked the engine oil into the air filter. (Best mod is to relocate the breather to the cylinder head)
Another easily avoided failure is the weak factory stator screws which fall out and destroy the stator (a part which is no longer available)
Replace the screws ASAP with grade 12.9 M6x12 cap screws and torque to 15Nm using high strength Loctite.
Thanks Dangermouse. Yeah it's a shame about the CCM. Those two fixes have been done on mine so hopefully it lasts, but the problem is parts for it. There aren't any and CCM no longer support the bike. The second bike was a Voge 300 Rally. Surprised you've not had them down in OZ. Made by Loncin
@@nathanthepostman
Thanks for the reply, I'll check out the Voge, we've had Loncin pit bikes here in Oz before, but not aware of the bigger unit.
Good to hear you've done the mods to the CCM, you might even have one of my DMD breather kits on there.
David is my name 🙂.
Keep those oil changes up, and the CCM should serve you well. They did ride well as I recall. Tested one many years ago here in Australia and was surprised how similar it was to my TE449.
Brilliant video mate. I have an NX500 currently which I am really pleased with but it will cost a great deal in aftermarket parts to get it to the level of going off road like the 450MT. I have placed an order for the 450MT at the same place you got your from I think in Swindon. Bike treads was it and yes confirmed for around February / March time.
Yes that Rieju 500 is interesting as well - spoked wheels, big suspension - but too niche. The CF Moto is bordering on the mainstream so I think it'll squeeze the NX out quite a bit. Honda needs to up the ante a bit. But then where's Zuzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha et al!
Agreed. The Japanese bikes manufacturers have been caught napping here. Watching your videos since I downsized from a 1200 a few months ago has made me interested in a bit of off road. The CB500X / NX500 has been a revelation quite honestly as the bike is so well sorted but they missed a trick and should have shod it with a 21 front / 18 rear and and 200mm. For about 2.5k you could sort that albeit with 19/17 but spoked but Honda really should have seen this coming surely.
Enjoyed your review. What a great selection of bikes to have ready access to.
... I bought the 450MT in April this year, it was delivered by end of June. It was surprising to me how off-road capable this bike is, as faster you ride on off-road trails as better it is, especially the expansion and the trottle reaction. Its almost perfect for fast off-road travels. Only two little things I find strange; first thing, it seems there is no outside temperature display (like 450NK or 450SR), which is needed especially for an adventure bike while you ride in various circumstances. The second thing is, the electric start works as well, even the engine is running, that is a little bit tricky because its a combi-switch "kill-start" and it could be mixed up - something else, a chain slider for the sprocket of the rear wheel is missing, even there are fixing points under the swing arm already, I used a an aftermarket one for the Yamaha T700 and built an adapter to make it fit. The front ABS sensor is on risk to get damaged by stones or branches, the number-plate holder is ugly - both I just bought from Ali-Express (ABS guard and short plate holder) ..
Good observations Jan. Thanks for the input
Hi im giving you a nickname"HAMMER" because you nail it every time......
Haha. MC Hammer like my dance moves
What a smart, entertaining review! I like the way you wheel every unit into the frame. Damn the Triumph is pretty, but like many….the CF Moto has the big allure. Not sure I’m ready for 4 bikes though ha! 😅
Hi Nathan I have the new Himalayn as you say it feels a bit top heavy off the side stand but when you have 50mm block of wood under it the lean looks correct and it feels fine. I am thinking about lowering the bike ( I can flat foot it seated ) I see That Coperb in conjunction with Rally Raid are making a lowering link for the rear suspension. Sliding the forks up in the yokes in conjunction with the lowering link could make footing easier on the lanes. But then the centre stand will be too long. I have pottered around the back lane on Eco mode and I thought it made the motor feels a bit smoother.
RE seem to be working on a side stand as well. They have changed it on the new Guerilla.
It might be available in the near future.
Great comparison! I appreciate you adding the CCM to the mix. As you noted, it represents bikes like the Kove and the PR7 versus the CFMoto MT. As a Kove owner, I agree with your reasoning - a good rider will get a lot more out of the Kove than the CF Moto MT. Unfortunately, I'm not that talented, and would probably be better off with the CF Moto. Tubeless tires! Lower seat! Too bad my wife won't okay another bike purchase. I'll meddle along. My hope is to one day sign up for one of your tours. Too bad Devon is so far from my Seattle home.
I would have loved to include the Fantic Caballero 500 Rally in your "familiy". It is a bike which I keep on my radar for a while and it would really match the lot. I really appreciate your opinion, which is down to earth and reflects the real life.
Fantastic summary and very wise advice as usual Nathan!
fantastic video Nathan, tested the cfmoto 450mt, it is the unicorn we have been waiting for, just waiting on Mansells here in Jersey to get their hands on some now, hopefully they will have two around Oct/Nov, my name is already down for one, cash is ready and waiting
Cheers Nathan, great video!
The point that you make in the end is in my opinion the most important one. Deciding what kind of riding you are going to do, narrowes down your choice in bikes.
But if you're a brand new rider, looking out for your very first bike that's easier said than done.
Personally, I've always eyed those more off road capable bikes (like the Voge, CRF etc) as I've heard that learning on dirt improves ones skills onroad as well. Yet i can't help but think that if I buy a bike I will want to use it for commuting eventually and probably travelling too. So I usually end up trying to find a do-it-all kind of bike... (To be honest I'm trying to convince myself that I will be able to do everything on a Voge and enjoy it)
All in all, I'd like your take on the subject of this very nice video you made from a perspective of a first time rider. Obviously if you can spare some time. (That goes for anyone willing to share some useful info here in the comment section)
Many thanks and keep up the good work, I hope one day I'll find my way to Devon.
Alex from Athens, Gr
Hi Alex. Good question. It's a tricky one to answer as it's like asking what food will I like before you even ever tasted any food. You've just got to get in there and try it. And see what you like. Whether you like the off road or not. Or distances or commuting. There's no right or wrong answer. just get the voge and see what it does that you like and what it does that you don't like. And then when you come time to swap it you'll have a much better grounding in which bike will suit you better. It's all a learning curve and you've just got to get on it.
@@nathanthepostman Indeed! I appreciate your response.
Have a nice day!
Ive had my 450 mt for a couple of weeks now still running it in and other than the snatchy throttle it's pretty much hard to beat , it's now fitted with a 15 tooth front sprocket and it now it will cruise happily on the motorway , cracking bike
Will have to try the 15
On Australia there is an official update that they do with their mobile phone through cfmoto app (not sure the precise name) to their bikes.
@@nathanthepostman just makes it less revy on our English roads , so easy to change aswell mate 😍
Great comparsion from a guy who actually uses his motorcycles for what they were designed for. My pick and sympathy would be always with japanese classics, old DR-Z 400 or DR650, WR250, XL250 etc. From, the new bikes, what about Kawasaki KLX 300? How does it compare to Voge 300 or Honda CRF 300 Rally?
Hi jak. Unfortunately we don't get the klx300 in the UK. The 250 was discontinued a few years back. From everything I heard it was a good bike and I suspect the 300 is even better. Just a shame they never did a rally version as it could have done well, although the voge does use a copy of the 300 klx engine so I suppose in some ways it is a klx 300 rally. I don't think you can go wrong with any of them to be honest
Great and very complete video! I'm a senior rider and want to downgrade to an easy and light ADV bike, all of them showed in your video, thanks!. My sort list are the KTM390 and the CF MOTO . Theorically I'm more road oriented and as you said it can be better the KTM but I'v owned singles and twins and the smoothness and wide range of rpm of a twin moves me to the CF MOTO. Seat heigh is also in favour of the MT since I'm not very tall. Weight is in favor of the KTM but reviews said the difference with MT is not dramatical. Hope to test ride both and decide. All of this could have been avoided if KTM didnt quit their 490 twin project many of us where waiting for! I guess KTM will reconsider that in a while...
In my experience the KTM has an incredible and powerful motor and the chassis seems beaut albeit smallish. The ergonomics however are not ADV. Found that footpegs are forward mounted and you sit on top of the bike rather than in it- a feeling of being exposed. Longer rides for me produced fatigue.
I have owned both the 390 Adventure and currently own a CF Moto 450MT, in my opinion the 450MT is hands down a much better bike, one thing that doesn't really get mentioned, the small windscreen on the 390 ADV is awful, created buffeting on any helmet I wore, I went through the aftermarket screens before sorting it, the 450MT is the complete opposite, smooth, no buffeting and adjustable. The seat height on the 450 is very confidence inspiring and comfortable, the 390 is not a high seat but was wide yet less comfortable, everyone is different and has different ideas of what they want in a bike, I recently sold a Tenere World Raid as it was way behind my skill level, a brilliant bike in the hands of a not so brilliant rider, the 450MT is different in it helps develop confidence and is 80% of the T7 with less weight and half the price.
@@davidz8 thanks very much for your advice! Cannot be more convinient since I'm thinking about this two bikes. Another point for the MT! 👍👍
My wife had the 390 and found I was taking it out more than my GSA. However, we had many issues with the bike. Initially dealer support was good in sorting stuff. However, on the 6th (of 9) returns to the dealer we were told that the issue was down to the rider. The issue was that the bike kept cutting out on a trailing throttle….ended up getting rid of it and will never darken KTMs door again.
@@mac22011964 I bought my 390 from my local KTM dealer in Birmingham DMC Moto, they were an absolute joke, when it came to the first service I asked them to do the software update that gave the bike the off road mode, they had no idea and kept telling me the 390 did not have rider modes, I was there for 3 hours (after the service) before they came out and said "oh yeh we found it, it was under ABS, they and KTM UK were useless. I bought my 450MT from Redline in Loughborough another KTM dealer, they are fantastic, they truly care about their customers and reputation, I wouldn't take the bike anywhere else and they are an hour away from me. The only thing that irks me with the 450 are the 3000 mile service intervals, it should be more like 6000 miles. After a year, if there are no warranty issues I may well just get it serviced at Redline every 6000 miles and do the 3000 mile oil change myself.
Fantastic video. Great collection. Proof that 1 bike cant do it all. But some get very close.
I'm a bit bias. I've had a 411 himi as my only form of transport for last 3 years. It basically does it says on the tin. Cheap to run easy to service . It lives in the garage next to a 35 year old Enfield 350 bullet which gave the same service..
Love my 390 not gonna lie, spoked tubeless is so nice.
Nice overview Nathan. The thing that appeals to me with the CF Moto is it's a twin. Its got to be smoother than a single. I know the thumb is appealing to some but my arse doesn't agree.
Excellent comparo and advice! I'd also be interested in hearing about
your maintenance experience with the CFmoto - parts/service, reliability, etc.
Too early to say. Only 500 miles on it. I suspect parts will be as available as those for KTM (probably). Also lots of direct from China options online (Uncle Wang etc)
I am an onwer of the ktm 390 adv, and I am planing to get the 450 MT, to get more smothness of the twin and less horoble vibrations from the single, and also the heat coming from the ktm is not tolerable anymore.
I hope I will get the same power delivery and the solution of these points mentionned.
Very nice video. I have had a CRF 250 Rally, then a KTM 390 Adventure and currently a CRF300L (which I prefer to the rally). I have to admit I am very intrigued by the MT450.
Great, straight to the point, review.
Well done Nathan spot on as usual, there's more capable Bikes coming to the market in this class, yet not out of Japan.
Beta Alp something in the mix..!
At 65+ and the 70's Kawasaki was my preferred.. last a 81 KE175.. had not it been Life's new commitments..!
I'd of liked to made this return with Kawi KLX250/300.. sadly dropped from UK Market..
How come the RE 411 ticked all the boxes.. other than, but time/fitness wise, weight is not such an issue.. I'll not be making a change.
How you view CF Moto supply and delay on not having Bikes being delivered, could likewise parts/spares be as limited..!
I run a 300 rally which I mostly trail ride in Wales with the TRF, once the suspension is done its very capable in the tough lanes and stays with bigger stuff on open tracks, My DR350SE is for when things are going to be tough.
I fancied longer legs so I went for a TTR600 now a 620 with higher compression and a 20 litre tank.
It'll sit on 70, trail ride well and is about the same weight as my rally.
The shock was lowered so it fits me.
Loads of go, Brembo brakes, Ohlins shock, it's a great bike, lighter than most of bikes here with 45bhp
Suzuki and Yamaha should remake bikes like the DR650, XT660 etc for the present day with fi, abs etc but sadly they dont.
390 should have had 21/18 or 21/17, maybe the next foray , just maybe - great video Nathan - oh and on the CCM, had one in the past and it is a damn shame they never kicked off, so few and far between out there
Looking forward to trying them all out. See if my decision to order a Kove was a good one 👀😅
A little while back you test rode a green fanatic Caballero Rally, where do you think this might sit in your view of the bikes shown?
Love the honesty in your reviews and thoughts on adventure touring. 👍
A few people ask about the Fantic. I think it'd do ok. It's quite niche. I've never been totally convinced by their durability and back up from the factory. I had a guy who was going to come to Iceland on his but swapped it for a CRF250L which I think was the right decision. It'd be closest rival to the Triumph, which it will be lighter than, and have better suspension. But I'm not sure I'd buy one over the Triumph. I probably wouldn't to be honest. But others might...
Great analysis. I’ll give the CF Moto a year to get some reliability info. In the meantime, looking at tubeless wheels for the 411 which I really enjoy.
Big adventure bikes sell well in the US, mostly to older riders and the dealers will tell you they never go offroad. In the last 20 years I've had three of them: 2003 V-Strom 1000, 2015 Multistrada 1200S (POS came to hate it) and a 2020 1290 SAS. What's the appeal? Compared to my FJR1300, for instance, the more upright riding position means that I can put more hours in, and I like the lighter weight. At 76, every little helps.
Nathan I just looked at your website and on the page where the bikes are you've made a bit of a booboo on the prices. From what you've told us on various reviews the MT450 is by far the better bike for all round everything, but £57,500 new.
WHOAAAA, what you say!! Check it out mate.
Gracias por el video. Especialmente me ha gustado que hables de los intervalos de mantenimiento. Dato muy importante y a veces poco valorado.
La CFMoto MT 450, posee potencia, buen equipamiento de serie, larga autonomía, actualizaciones vía app de móvil, tubeless, buena ergonomía, pantalla ajustable, tomas de energía, escape alto, capacidad de carga, subchasis desmontable, estriberas, cambio, y espejos retráctiles, suspensiones Kayaba largas solventes y adecuadas para uso mixto, electrónica comedida, altura de asiento polivalente desde solo 80 a 87 centímetros, filtros fácilmente accesibles, me parece bonita y sobre el papel buenos materiales y acabados honestos.
Es casi perfecta. Solo le falta ofrecer Quickshifter y color verde que me encanta para moto trail. 😀Incluso los dormidos japoneses, tendrían que tomar ejemplo en cuanto a diseño y equipamiento de serie. Los fabricantes occidentales y japoneses, ya no quieren fabricar motos así de buenas y sencillas. (KLEs, XTs, DRMs-Zs, DRs, Pegasos, GSesitas monocilíndricas, etcétera).
Creo que solo la KTM 390 Adventure, la Honda CB500X y la RE Himalayan II, están a la altura de la MT, aunque con distintos enfoques.
En mi opinión, salvo por su, para mí, excesiva altura de siento, la KTM 390 es la reina de la categoría y la CFMoto digna sucesora con biciíndrico y refinado funcionamiento.
Funny the CFMoto is pretty much a copy of Yamaha Tenere 700 with smaller engine.
KTM 390 adventure is taken from the road vehicle KTM RC 390. It feels more comfy at roads rather than off road.
@@billumandal Así es. Es como una pequeña Teneré. Pero la chispa, la agilidad y la ligereza que tiene la 390 Adv, con el monocilíndrico, junto a frenos y suspensiones buenos y eficaces la hacen muy divertida para los que hemos tenido muchas motos. Es verdad que nada más comprar la 390 Adv, tuve que colocarle alzas de manillar y mi conducción de pie, es cada vez más escasa.
Soy de los que piensan que, para disfrutar por campo, menos kilos siempre es mejor y ahora con 61 años, por campo lo único que hago es pasear y pocas motos te permiten disfrutar por carreteras secundarías, rotas, retorcidas y curvosas como lo permite la pequeña 390 Adventure.
Esta CFMoto 450 MT, ya estaría en mi garaje si pesara 10 kilos menos y rindiera 10 caballos más. Por lo demás, para mí, es perfecta.
No obstante, creo que será mi próxima moto. Un saludo desde España. ✌
Great vid again. Interesting comments about Honda's attitude which I'd also wondered about. Given every review I've seen by US and European reviewers has commented on the suspension being too soft for us larger humans, why haven't they just done a Euro/US version with a stiffer set up? It would be extremely simple to do at the factory and it wouldn't cost much. Throw in a bigger bore version to make 70mph cruising more realistic and the price wouldn't seem so unrealistic. The rise of Voge and CF Moto does make you wonder how long Honda have before they go the way of the old British bike industry.
Yes, I think for the money Honda shouldn't let it out with such sloppy suspension. Feels like they couldn't care less about the quality.
smashed it again, Nathan. As an aside - do you have any theory as to why I cannot convince a neighbour, who has had his ducati multistrada for over a year, to even find out what his tyre pressures should be, never mind check them ?
One of the Best video on 2024❤❤❤
Yes I really think and believe that triumph could build a very good road endurance motorcycle 🏍️ with this engine of triumph you have showed us. And also the enfield Himalayan as well ! It’s a shame that they could crack it right now!
So it's a case of leave your ego at the door and be realistic about your abilities and intentions. I think this is exactly what is missing from most of the reviews and promotional media we see around motorcycles. People need to think carefully about what exactly will make them happy and deliver an enjoyable experience.
At my local RE dealer, sat on the 450 Himmy and struggled to lift it from the side stand. The bike felt heavy and intimidating and I am coming from a old 90's Transalp 400 that rode for 10 years with more weight on paper for the Alp.
The scram 411 felt just right, the Himmy 411 don't know.. On paper is the same as the scram but felt a lot different to me.
The 300 Rally.. Test rode it from Honda few years ago, was alright but as you said - expensive bike that needs expensive suspention work of you want more the chugging along.
I don't trust CF moto as a brand, not for reliability but as sourcing out parts fast as easy .. But that price.. Is the same money as the scram 411 where I live and that is very cheap for the speck you get and the bike reminds me of my own Transalp 400, minus some weight.
Which one do you like more to ride: RE 411 or RE 450?
Great stuff Nathan. My date is booked 👍
Great review Nathan...Thanks for the information....
I love this MT450. But I still can’t call it the Unicorn. You say it will do the trails as well as the 300s, but you don’t live in the southern US where mud plays a big factor. And I don’t want to be fighting more than 350lbs off road. I think a lighter bike can be engineered, and still be able to deliver the power we need for the Hwy. Great bike, very good looking, sounds amazing, performs ok, but not quite a Unicorn.
It's a personal thing isn't it. What's the perfect bike for one person isn't going to be the same for another. Why it's a 'unicorn' for me is that I can use it for doing long road riding including motorway, and I can use it for trails. Of course, a lighter bike is going to be better for the trails, but it's not going to be the bike for just getting there on the road. But again, we're all different.
Love the look of the CF Moto but the water in frame issue has me concerned. Might wait and see what comes of that.
Yes I've seen that. To be fair it's not on the frame, just the two struts that the bashplate to bolt onto. It's not ideal they take on water, but the fix is simple and hopefully there's no more gremlins of the same nature. Time will tell.
Great review, thanks for the pointers 🤗
Superb as always.
Try to get on the kove, a lot of people coming from more off-road bikes said that is quite gentle/sleepy down low and stable on the road. It will be interesting to see what you feel like.
Yeah definitely keen to try one.
Really good descriptive video, bang on.