CFMOTO 450 NK – My Honest Thoughts After Riding It in 2025
So I’ve been riding the CFMOTO 450 NK, and yeah—I’m happy with it overall. It looks sharp, feels light, and fits me well. I’m 5'4", and being able to flat-foot this bike is a big win. That alone makes riding in the city or parking in tight spots so much easier compared to heavier bikes like the XJR 400.
Performance and Feel
Performance-wise, the 270-degree crank gives it strong torque and a nice, deep growl. It’s got that raw speed and pull I want when I twist the throttle. And the sound? It reminds me a bit of a Yamaha R7—that aggressive twin-cylinder punch. Definitely sporty, and it has presence.
But if I’m being honest, something still feels like it’s missing. Maybe it’s because I came from riding an inline-4. The XJR 400 gave me that high-revving, screaming top-end and raw character that’s hard to match. That’s a sound and feel that sticks with you. Once you ride an inline-4, you kinda crave that every time. Of course, that’s all subjective—but for me, it’s real.
Technology and Ergonomics
One thing I love about the 450 NK is the digital dash—it looks clean and modern. I’ve seen online that you can switch between classic and sporty modes on the display. Just hold the button on the switchgear (usually the “mode” or “select” button) for a few seconds while the bike is on, and it should cycle through the layouts. I prefer the classic one personally—feels more symmetrical and easier on the eyes when riding.
Comfort: Room for Improvement
Now for the downside—the seat comfort. My girlfriend rode pillion with me and gave it the full verdict. Her words? “Tiis pogi” and “tiis ganda.” The seat’s really not that forgiving, especially for longer rides. It looks great, but after a few kilometers, the discomfort starts creeping in—especially for the back rider.
If you’re planning to use this as a daily or with a passenger, I’d definitely suggest adding some foam padding or even getting it reupholstered locally. Nothing fancy—just enough to soften the ride a bit while keeping the clean look. Your OBR (backrider) will thank you for it, and so will your butt after an hour on the road.
Final Thoughts
Would I buy the 450 NK? Yes. It’s stylish, nimble, and has the right amount of torque for city and light highway use. But if you’re coming from an inline-4, be prepared—it’s a different feel. The sound and soul are different. Still, for what it is, and especially for shorter riders like me, it’s a solid and fun machine.
Just don’t forget that foam mod for the seat. Comfort is cool, too.